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About this episode
AI is getting better at sounding human. Better at conversation. Better at reassurance. Better at knowing exactly what we want to hear.
So what happens when our kids start building relationships with machines designed to remove friction?
In this conversation, Dr. Becky talks with former Wall Street Journal tech columnist Joanna Stern about AI toys, chatbot companions, creativity, learning, and the surprising role frustration plays in healthy human development.
Together, they explore why “helpful” technology can potentially short-circuit the skills kids most need to build: patience, resilience, independent thinking, and real connection.
Joanna also shares what happened when she spent time building a relationship with an AI chatbot herself... and why it left her more concerned about kids and companion bots than ever before.
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From the newborn days to the teen years, Good Inside now supports parents through every stage of childhood — with practical guidance for the moments that matter most.
Thank you to our partners for making this episode possible:
- Play-Doh: Shop Play-Doh at Walmart for a summer of imaginative play
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Get every episode summarized
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