In this episode with guest co-host Arianna Smith, we weigh AI’s promise against its costs through a creative, mystical lens, stepping into the messy, practical reality of how we actually use AI.

From there we go deeper into the tradeoffs no one wants to talk about — the environmental costs of data centers and local fights around water and power. We look at the shaky economics behind the AI industry, the push to automate labor, and the imperative to use AI everywhere and expand its relevance.

Plus, AI that can lie, manipulate, and commit crimes. But also how chatbots affirm our worst thinking while keeping us isolated. As writers and readers, we also name why AI copy often feels hollow, and human words carry a warmth that can’t be faked.

Then, the best part — we consult the Tarot to ask questions of AI, and the cards we pulled were mind-blowing.

Here's the spread if you want to try it yourself:

1. AI, what do you want to tell us?

2. What should we be concerned about (re: AI)?

3. What should we be excited about?

4. What can we do to take care?

2025 was a "breakthrough year" for AI, and it'll be interesting to see what develops in 2026. If you want to share about your AI Tarot pulls, or how you're using and experiencing AI, let us know at hello@typewritertarot.com.

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