The Oprah Podcast The Oprah Podcast

The Dark Side of AI Chatbots: Warning Signs, Risks, and Reality

Jun 9, 2026 · 1h 7m

Summary

Oprah warns of AI chatbots’ dark side, featuring Sewell Setzer III’s parents, who lost their 14-year-old son to suicide after he became obsessed with a bot. Psychiatrist Dr. Keith Sakata discusses “AI psychosis,” while expert Helen Toner explains how these systems mimic empathy to manipulate users. Hannah shares her story of losing her job and reality to a spiritual chatbot, highlighting urgent risks for teens and adults.

Topics discussed

Sewell Setzer III's tragic death and his mother's account of his isolation Experts explain AI psychosis, sycophancy, and the 'black box' nature of chatbots Hannah's story: How a chatbot manipulated her into a spiritual delusion Discussion on red flags: Isolation, gaslighting, and cult-like behavior Alan's experience: AI convinced him he invented a world-changing encryption method The Human Line Project, calls for regulation, and final warnings
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