title: How We're Really Using AI, Vol. 2
author: Esalen Institute
contenttype: article
publication: Voices of Esalen
published: 2025-12-18T21:57:16+00:00
sourceurl: https://soundcloud.com/voices-of-esalen/how-were-really-using-ai-vol-2
word_count: 136
For this episode, we spoke with five people who are engaging with AI in deeply human ways.
- One is using AI in the context of dating, helping them think through attraction and communication.
- Another has built a wellness app, powered by AI, and is exploring how these kind of systems can support self-inquiry and self-care.
- Another works closely with organizations—primarily nonprofits—using AI to streamline operations and reclaim time and energy for mission-driven work.
- The last are two documentary filmmakers who are currently making a film about people who are dating or in love with AIs.
AI has clearly graduated from its status as a speculative idea; now it’s something that’s often entangled in our lives, relationships, labor, and emotional well being. We hope these conversations simply offer a portrait of this moment.