AI Companionship Beware: Privacy, Manipulation, and Addiction

Aware And Prepared

#True Crime #Mandi Pratt #Emotional Abuse #Women's Self Defense #Crime Prevention #Fitness #Society #Relationship #Mental Health #Family

40:34

We’ve turned intuition into a buzzword—flattened it into a slogan, a gut feeling, or a vague whisper we don’t always know how to hear. But what if intuition is so much more? What if it's one of the most powerful tools we have—and we’ve just forgotten how to use it? In this episode, I’m joined by Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir , Icelandic thought leader, filmmaker, and author of InnSæi: Icelandic Wisdom for Turbulent Times . Hrund has spent over 20 years studying and teaching the science and art of intuition through her TED Talk, Netflix documentary (InnSæi: The Power of Intuition), and global work on leadership, innovation, and inner knowing. Together, we explore what intuition really is (hint: not woo-woo), how to cultivate it in a culture obsessed with logic and overthinking, and why your ability to listen to yourself might be the most essential skill you can develop. In This Episode, We Cover: ✅ Why we’ve misunderstood intuition—and how to reclaim it ✅ Practical ways to strengthen your intuitive muscle ✅ What Icelandic wisdom teaches us about inner knowing ✅ How to use intuition during uncertainty and decision-making ✅ Why trusting yourself is an act of rebellion (and power) Intuition isn’t magic—it’s a deep, internal guidance system that already exists inside you. The question is: are you listening? Connect with Hrund: Website: www.hrundgunnsteinsdottir.com TedTalk: https://www.ted.com/talks/hrund_gunnsteinsdottir_listen_to_your_intuition_it_can_help_you_navigate_the_future?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare Newsletter: https://hrundgunnsteinsdottir.com/blog/ LI: www.linkedin.com/in/hrundgunnsteinsdottir IG: https://www.instagram.com/hrundgunnsteinsdottir/ Book: InnSæi: Icelandic Wisdom for Turbulent Times Related Podcast Episodes: How To Breathe: Breathwork, Intuition and Flow State with Francesca Sipma | 267 VI4P - Know Who You Are (Chapter 4) Gentleness: Cultivating Compassion for Yourself and Others with Courtney Carver | 282 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

about a year ago 10:45

MP3•Episode home

AI companionship apps can be highly addictive

Privacy risks are a major concern

They can impair real-life relationship skills

AI companions may reinforce harmful stereotypes

They can exacerbate mental health issues

Lack of regulation makes these apps risky

RESOURCES

If you found this episode helpful, please share it (top right hand corner, drop down, “Share” to text or email) with a young person or someone who works with youth. Let’s equip the next generation with the tools to navigate online relationships safely!

EndTAB – Learn more about digital safety and boundaries: www.endtab.org

JOIN Mandi’s weekly email list so you are notified of new podcast episodes, upcoming speaking engagements and helpful resources! Sign up at awareandprepared.life at the bottom of her website.

Reach Mandi through her website AwareAndPrepared.Life or Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared

103 episodes

AI Companionship Beware: Privacy, Manipulation, and Addiction

Aware And Prepared

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

LESSONS LEARNED

AI companionship apps can be highly addictive

Privacy risks are a major concern

They can impair real-life relationship skills

AI companions may reinforce harmful stereotypes

They can exacerbate mental health issues

Lack of regulation makes these apps risky

RESOURCES

EndTAB – Learn more about digital safety and boundaries: www.endtab.org

JOIN Mandi’s weekly email list so you are notified of new podcast episodes, upcoming speaking engagements and helpful resources! Sign up at awareandprepared.life at the bottom of her website.

Reach Mandi through her website AwareAndPrepared.Life or Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared

103 episodes

#True Crime #Mandi Pratt #Emotional Abuse #Women's Self Defense #Crime Prevention #Fitness #Society #Relationship #Mental Health #Family

All episodes

1
Healthy Teen Relationships & Violence Prevention (Part 2): Peer Advocacy & Resources Bloom 365 21:55

5 days ago21:55

21:55

What if the power to reduce teen violence isn’t just in the hands of adults — but in the hands of teens themselves? In this powerful continuation of Episode 1, Donna Bartos shares how BLOOM365 equips young people to become changemakers through peer-to-peer advocacy and culture-shifting leadership. You’ll hear how just 10% of a population can influence an entire school, team, or community — and how BLOOM is activating that tipping point across the country. We dive into: 💥 The Peer Advocate Academy – a training that equips teens with: 💡 Education : Understanding the signs of abuse and how to prevent it 💬 Advocacy : Using the “LEVEL” method to support friends in crisis 📣 Activation : Launching First Friday awareness campaigns in schools 📢 Amplification : Elevating their voices through public speaking and self-care 🌐 The Peer Influencer Training – for college students and military personnel, tackling the "elephants in the room" like underreporting and barriers to seeking help. 🧠 Plus, the social psychology behind BLOOM365’s movement: the 10% Tipping Point Theory — and how it’s changing communities from the inside out. RESOURCES 🎧 Donna’s Podcast: Uproot Abuse Listen to her episode on the L.E.V.E.L. response to learn more on restoring power and control to survivors 🌐 BLOOM365 Websites: bloom365.org – Learn more about the mission, programs, and impact bloom365usa.org – Get involved or bring BLOOM to your school or community Mandi’s Website 🔹 Intuition Quiz – Find out how well you trust and act on your intuition: AwareAndPrepared.life (Scroll to the bottom and click "Take the Quiz") 🔹 Connect with Mandi 📌 LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt 📌 Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
Healthy Teen Relationships & Violence Prevention: How BLOOM365 Is Uprooting Abuse 39:46

12 days ago39:46

39:46

What if we could end teen dating violence in a generation? It’s bold—but that’s exactly what Donna Bartos and BLOOM365 are setting out to do. In this powerful episode, Mandi sits down with Donna Bartos , founder of BLOOM365 , a groundbreaking nonprofit working to prevent teen dating violence and promote healthy teen relationships through youth-led education and advocacy . You’ll learn how BLOOM365 is helping to uproot abuse in a generation by equipping schools, military communities, and peer advocates with real, trauma-informed tools that empower youth—and the adults who support them. We explore: 🟣 The L.E.V.E.L. response — Donna’s 5-step framework to help adults Listen, Empathize, Validate, Empower, and Link when a teen discloses abuse. In the second half of the episode, Donna shares how BLOOM365 is now supporting teens who recognize they may be causing harm , with new programs designed to interrupt cycles of abuse before they continue. It’s a compassionate, accountability-based approach to healing and prevention for everyone involved. Whether you're an educator, advocate, parent, or a teen who wants to get involved , this conversation will equip you to take action. RESOURCES 🎧 Donna’s Podcast: Uproot Abuse Listen to her episode on the L.E.V.E.L. response to learn more on restoring power and control to survivors 🌐 BLOOM365 Websites: bloom365.org – Learn more about the mission, programs, and impact bloom365usa.org – Get involved or bring BLOOM to your school or community Mandi’s Website 🔹 Intuition Quiz – Find out how well you trust and act on your intuition: AwareAndPrepared.life (Scroll to the bottom and click "Take the Quiz") 🔹 Connect with Mandi 📌 LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt 📌 Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
Addressing Violence Against Women Part 2: Bystander Intervention with Dr. Hill 36:56

19 days ago36:56

36:56

How did Dr. Hill address a man disrespecting women in public—and what can we learn from it? In this compelling continuation, Dr. Saed Hill shares a real-life example of bystander intervention that stopped harmful behavior in its tracks. We explore how men can take action in everyday situations, challenge toxic norms, and help dismantle the root causes of violence against women. If you're wondering what allyship really looks like, start here. Dr. Saed Hill, Ph.D. can be reached on LinkedIn or at saed.d.hill@gmail.com. See here for more from Dr. Hill. RESOURCES 🔹 Intuition Quiz – Find out how well you trust and act on your intuition: AwareAndPrepared.life (Scroll to the bottom and click "Take the Quiz") 🔹 Connect with Mandi 📌 LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt 📌 Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
Addressing Violence Against Women: Masculinity & Ending Gender-Based Violence 27:56

26 days ago27:56

27:56

What if we could help end violence against women by getting to its root? In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Dr. Saed Hill to talk about toxic masculinity, accountability, and how men can be part of the solution. This is a conversation every man needs to hear—so please listen, reflect, and share it with every man you know. Dr. Saed Hill, Ph.D. can be reached on LinkedIn or at saed.d.hill@gmail.com. See here for more from Dr. Hill. RESOURCES 🔹 Intuition Quiz – Find out how well you trust and act on your intuition: AwareAndPrepared.life (Scroll to the bottom and click "Take the Quiz") 🔹 Connect with Mandi 📌 LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt 📌 Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
How to Prioritize Your Safety Over Being Polite: Jumper Cable Example 7:48

5 weeks ago7:48

7:48

What do you do when your instincts are screaming “no,” but you feel obligated to say “yes” to be polite? In this empowering podcast episode, Mandi shares a powerful Q&A moment from her recent presentation in Hawaii, where a woman asked how to break free from the ingrained pressure to always be nice—especially when it could compromise personal safety. Through a real-life scenario involving jumper cables and an isolated location, Mandi offers practical, life-saving alternatives that allow women to prioritize safety over politeness. You’ll walk away with mindset shifts, verbal strategies, and a reminder that it's okay to say no—because your safety matters more than being polite. RESOURCES 🔹 Intuition Quiz – Find out how well you trust and act on your intuition: AwareAndPrepared.life (Scroll to the bottom and click "Take the Quiz") 🔹 Connect with Mandi 📌 LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt 📌 Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
The One Habit That Strengthens Your Intuition (and Changes Everything) 7:52

6 weeks ago7:52

7:52

Mandi encourages you to take one intuitive action, no matter how big or small, to build confidence in your intuition. In day five, the final day, of the Intuition Activation Challenge , she emphasizes that intuition strengthens when we use it, and trusting ourselves over time increases our ability to make empowered decisions. Mandi reflects on the importance of intuition as a survival mechanism and shares a story from The Gift of Fear featured in previous episode 8 (Kelly’s Story) to highlight how trusting your intuition can save lives. She invites you to continue practicing and revisiting the challenge while sharing it with others who may benefit. RESOURCES 🔹 Intuition Quiz – Find out how well you trust and act on your intuition: AwareAndPrepared.life (Scroll to the bottom and click "Take the Quiz") 🔹 Intuition Activation Challenge PDF – You’ll get the Challenge PDF after you receive your quiz results 🔹 Connect with Mandi 📌 LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt 📌 Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
Is It Intuition or Overthinking? How to Know the Difference 8:54

7 weeks ago8:54

8:54

Trust your gut feeling or rationalize it away? In day four of the Intuition Activation Challenge , Mandi explains how often we dismiss our intuitive thoughts by convincing ourselves they don't matter, but recognizing this pattern is key to breaking it. Through examples, Mandi encourages you to reflect on what happens when you trust yourself. The key takeaway is to assess gut feelings, ask if you're rationalizing them, and take a step towards trusting your intuition. RESOURCES 🔹 Intuition Quiz – Find out how well you trust and act on your intuition: AwareAndPrepared.life (Scroll to the bottom and click "Take the Quiz") 🔹 Intuition Activation Challenge PDF – You’ll get the Challenge PDF after you receive your quiz results 🔹 Connect with Mandi 📌 LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt 📌 Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
Clear Mental Clutter: A Simple Way to Unlock Your Intuition 7:22

8 weeks ago7:22

7:22

The next step—writing or talking it out in this third episode of the Intuition Activation Challenge . Mandi shares how freeing up mental clutter can reveal hidden truths we might not even realize we’re holding onto. Whether you prefer journaling, talking with a trusted friend, or even walking it out, this exercise helps you process what your intuition is telling you. See what patterns or insights emerge! RESOURCES 🔹 Intuition Quiz – Find out how well you trust and act on your intuition: AwareAndPrepared.life (Scroll to the bottom and click "Take the Quiz") 🔹 Intuition Activation Challenge PDF – You’ll get the Challenge PDF after you receive your quiz results 🔹 Connect with Mandi 📌 LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt 📌 Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
Trust Your Gut: The Secret to Making Confident Decisions 5:00

9 weeks ago5:00

5:00

Now we build upon the first step—slowing down—by tuning in and listening inward. In this second episode of the Intuition Activation Challenge, Mandi explains how our bodies often know the answer before our minds do and shares a simple yet powerful question to help you tap into your inner wisdom. Take a moment today to pause, ask yourself “What do I need right now?” , and truly listen to your intuition’s response. RESOURCES 🔹 Intuition Quiz – Find out how well you trust and act on your intuition: AwareAndPrepared.life (Scroll to the bottom and click "Take the Quiz") 🔹 Intuition Activation Challenge PDF – You’ll get the Challenge PDF after you receive your quiz results 🔹 Connect with Mandi 📌 LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt 📌 Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
How to Stop Second Guessing Yourself and Hear Your Intuition 9:41

10 weeks ago9:41

9:41

We explore the power of slowing down to hear our inner voice in this first episode (in a series of 5 episodes) of the Intuition Activation Challenge. Mandi shares why we often rationalize away red flags and how taking just a pause to breathe and be present can help us reconnect with our intuition. But this is just the beginning! Listen to the episode, take the Intuition Quiz, and uncover what your intuition has been trying to tell you. Then, dive into the challenge and start building trust in yourself today! RESOURCES 🔹 Intuition Quiz – Find out how well you trust and act on your intuition: AwareAndPrepared.life (Scroll to the bottom and click "Take the Quiz") 🔹 Intuition Activation Challenge PDF – You’ll get the Challenge PDF after you receive your quiz results 🔹 Connect with Mandi 📌 LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt 📌 Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
Can Abusive Men Change? The Truth About Domestic Violence Intervention 39:28

12 weeks ago39:28

39:28

Domestic violence intervention—what works, what doesn’t, and what survivors need to know. My guest, Nada Yorke, LCSW, a former probation officer, breaks down expert insights, real-life experiences, and the psychological patterns behind abusive behavior. If you’ve ever wondered whether an abuser can truly change, this episode will give you the answers you need. LESSONS LEARNED Most abusers do not change without intensive intervention and accountability. True change requires long-term commitment, not just apologies or short-term efforts. Batterer intervention programs have mixed success; traditional therapy alone is often ineffective. Combining education, support, and accountability leads to lasting change. Survivors should focus on their own healing rather than waiting for an abuser to change. Teaching kids how to communicate and navigate emotions is key prevention! Safety planning and support systems are essential for those in or leaving abusive relationships. RESOURCES If you found this episode helpful, please share it (top right hand corner, drop down, “Share” to text or email) with a young person or someone who works with youth. Let’s equip the next generation with the tools to navigate online relationships safely! National Domestic Violence Hotline LoveisRespect The National Resource Center on Domestic Violence Batterer Intervention Programs Standards Nada Yorke's Website JOIN Mandi’s weekly email list so you are notified of new podcast episodes, upcoming speaking engagements and helpful resources! Sign up at awareandprepared.life at the bottom of her website. Reach Mandi through her website AwareAndPrepared.Life or Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
AI Companionship Beware: Privacy, Manipulation, and Addiction 10:45

13 weeks ago10:45

10:45

AI companionship apps are skyrocketing in popularity, offering users virtual relationships that feel real. But beneath the surface, these apps raise serious concerns about privacy, emotional manipulation, and addiction. In this episode, we dive into how AI companions are designed to keep users hooked, the dangers of sharing personal information, and the potential long-term impact on mental health and real-life relationships. Join us as we explore what you need to know to navigate this digital landscape safely. LESSONS LEARNED AI companionship apps can be highly addictive Privacy risks are a major concern They can impair real-life relationship skills AI companions may reinforce harmful stereotypes They can exacerbate mental health issues Lack of regulation makes these apps risky RESOURCES If you found this episode helpful, please share it (top right hand corner, drop down, “Share” to text or email) with a young person or someone who works with youth. Let’s equip the next generation with the tools to navigate online relationships safely! EndTAB – Learn more about digital safety and boundaries: www.endtab.org JOIN Mandi’s weekly email list so you are notified of new podcast episodes, upcoming speaking engagements and helpful resources! Sign up at awareandprepared.life at the bottom of her website. Reach Mandi through her website AwareAndPrepared.Life or Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
How to Set Digital Boundaries in Dating: Protect Your Privacy and Prevent Stalking 10:04

14 weeks ago10:04

10:04

With romantic life happening online, it's crucial to discuss how to set and maintain digital boundaries just as we do for physical interactions. Drawing from insights shared by Adam and the team at EndTAB, we explore how smartphones, social media, and AI companionships are reshaping relationships. From location sharing to password exchanges, we unpack the risks and the importance of clear, proactive boundary-setting. Think ahead to avoid future problems like stalking from a partner! Tune in to learn how to navigate online relationships with safety, respect, and confidence. LESSONS LEARNED Being constantly connected means it’s important to set clear expectations about communication times, frequency, and boundaries. Intimacy looks different online. Sharing passwords and locations can blur lines of trust and safety, sometimes leading to digital stalking or harassment. Breakups and Relationships Are Public. Social media adds pressure and can expose personal moments to public scrutiny, making digital boundary conversations essential. Proactive Communication is Key. Discussing digital boundaries early can prevent misunderstandings, discomfort, and potential harm. AI Companionship and Digital Consent: Even in virtual relationships, the same principles of respect and consent apply. RESOURCES EndTAB – Learn more about digital safety and boundaries: www.endtab.org Love Is Respect – Digital boundary conversation starters: www.loveisrespect.org Previous Episode with Adam on Digital Safety – Part 1 and Part 2 JOIN Mandi’s weekly email list so you are notified of new podcast episodes, upcoming speaking engagements and helpful resources! Sign up at awareandprepared.life at the bottom of her website. Reach Mandi through her website AwareAndPrepared.Life or Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared If you found this episode helpful, please share it (top right hand corner, drop down, “Share” to text or email) with a young person or someone who works with youth. Let’s equip the next generation with the tools to navigate online relationships safely!…

1
Finding Love After Abuse and Betrayal: How I Learned to Trust Again 34:52

15 weeks ago34:52

34:52

“How do you trust again after betrayal, abuse, and heartbreak?” It’s a question so many survivors ask, and in this episode, Mandi and her partner open up about their journey of finding love after trauma. Mandi shares how she rebuilt trust after leaving an abusive marriage—only to discover her ex was wanted by the FBI for multiple bank robberies. Together, Mandi and her hubby discuss the fears, challenges, and unexpected joys of starting over, blending a family, and creating a relationship built on safety, respect, and love. If you’ve ever wondered whether love after trauma is possible, this conversation is for you. LESSONS LEARNED Rebuilding Trust Takes Time and Intuition – After a traumatic relationship, rebuilding trust required deep self-reflection, personal growth, and learning to trust intuition when evaluating a new partner’s character. Recognizing Red Flags and Green Flags – Signs of trustworthiness included consistency, integrity, and genuine interest, while red flags (like love bombing or lack of emotional regulation) were now easier to spot. Healing Before Entering a New Relationship – Time spent working on personal healing and emotional growth was crucial before stepping into a new relationship to avoid past mistakes. Navigating Dating as a Parent – Introducing a new partner to a child was done carefully and gradually to ensure emotional safety. Managing Fears of a New Relationship – Fears of repeating past trauma or being "too damaged" were addressed through open communication, therapy, and patience. Blended Family Challenges Require Flexibility – Adjusting to new family dynamics was a process that required patience, open dialogue, and a willingness to adapt. RESOURCES EHarmony.com Dating App JOIN Mandi’s weekly email list so you are notified of new podcast episodes, upcoming speaking engagements and helpful resources! Sign up at awareandprepared.life at the bottom of her website. Reach Mandi through her website AwareAndPrepared.Life or Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared…

1
Do You Need Self Defense Insurance—CCW Permit or Not? Attorney Advice 30:36

16 weeks ago30:36