In a world where you can generate a partner, clone a voice, and simulate intimacy on demand… why are so many people lonelier than ever?

This Valentine’s episode, “AI Relationships, Digital Clones & the Loneliness Economy,” dives into the fast-rising culture of AI girlfriends, chatbot companions, and algorithmic intimacy.

As technology makes connection more convenient, customizable, and frictionless, more people are quietly outsourcing emotional needs to machines. The result? Instant attention, zero conflict… and a deeper kind of isolation.

Our host, Matt Vandrick, breaks down the psychology behind why AI relationships feel easier than real ones — and why that ease might be costing us presence, depth, and true human connection.

From digital clones to parasocial bonds to the business of engineered loneliness, this episode explores how the internet is monetizing our desire to be seen, heard, and loved.

But this isn’t an anti-tech rant. It’s a call back to reality.

A reminder that real connection requires friction.
Presence requires effort.
Depth requires vulnerability.

If we’re not careful, we’ll build perfect digital partners while becoming more absent in our real lives.

This conversation urges listeners to log off emotionally, show up physically, and choose depth over reach. To stop performing connection and start practicing it.

And most importantly — to be honest with yourself first about what you’re using technology to avoid.

Because in the loneliness economy, attention is easy.
But presence is rare.

#aigirlfriends #loneliness #valentinesday #airelationships #newpodcast #aichatbots #relationshipadvice