Rachel Wood | Ep 15

Rachel Wood | Ep 15

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AI and the Future of Work and Society.

In this episode, I chat with Rachel Wood, a speaker, researcher, writer, educator, and therapist.

We talk about Generative AI and Mental Wellbeing in the future workplace.

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Rachel Wood

Rachel is a speaker, researcher, writer, educator, therapist, and PhD candidate, researching the intersection of psychology, AI and the future of work, education and relationships.

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In this episode we explore the fascinating intersection of psychology, AI, and the future of work and relationships.

Rachel shares her unique journey from music education to counselling and finally to her current research in cyberpsychology. She discusses her PhD studies, which focus on the psychological impact of artificial intelligence on professionals, the workplace, and educational systems. Her insights on the rapid evolution of AI and its implications offer a fresh perspective on how we can adapt to the challenges and opportunities of emerging technologies.

Key Takeaways:

Psychological Skills for Navigating AI in the Workplace
Rachel introduces the concept of “psychosocial and vocational plasticity,” emphasising skills like cognitive flexibility, curiosity, and grit to help us adapt to rapid AI advancements. She provides practical exercises, such as arguing the opposite side of a disagreement, to enhance these skills.

Addressing AI Ambivalence
Mixed feelings towards AI—both excitement and hesitation—are natural, but they can be barriers to adoption. Rachel highlights the importance of open dialogue in workplaces to address these emotions and facilitate smoother integration of AI tools.

Generative AI and Human Relationships
The conversation delves into the potential of generative AI as artificial companions and its impact on relational dynamics. While AI can help isolated individuals, Rachel warns of the risks of unidirectional relationships eroding essential interpersonal skills like compromise and empathy.

Therapeutic Applications of AI
Rachel explores groundbreaking therapeutic applications, such as AI-generated future selves to reduce anxiety and AI tools for “self-parenting” younger selves. These tools could help individuals process trauma, find hope, and gain agency in healing.

The Future of Work and Vocational Identity
AI will likely redefine vocational identities, providing opportunities to focus on meaningful work and explore purpose beyond repetitive tasks. Rachel sees this as a chance to redesign work-life balance and foster creativity.

Thought-Provoking Moments:

  • AI in Debating and Cognitive Flexibility: Could algorithms that expose us to opposing viewpoints reshape how we engage with diverse ideas?
  • Bidirectional Relationships vs AI Companions: Are we at risk of losing critical relational skills in the age of always-agreeable artificial companions?
  • AI and Future Self Therapy: Can visualising a hopeful future self help us overcome current anxieties and break negative habits?

Rachel’s insights underscore the importance of intentionality in embracing AI. By equipping ourselves with adaptive skills and fostering meaningful human connections, we can shape a future where technology enriches rather than diminishes our lives. 🌐

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