It’s no secret; there is an epidemic of loneliness in the United States. In recent years, about one in two Americans reported experiencing loneliness. Today, we welcome David Bosnak, the CEO of Attune Media Labs, an organization that combats loneliness and anxiety with empathetic AI companions that enhance human connections through state-of-the-art technology.
David began his career as an electrical engineering undergraduate with a passion for storytelling, eventually moving to Los Angeles to pursue acting and writing. Blending his engineering background with his storytelling skills, David launched Attune Media Labs, where he now focuses on leveraging the power of emerging technologies. In an era of disconnection, David’s work emphasizes technology’s potential for positive social impact while tackling the challenges of building ethical boundaries in AI development, especially within the creative fields and copyright considerations.
In today’s conversation, David shares insights from his recent book, AI for Your Real Life, a practical guide empowering readers to harness generative AI tools like ChatGPT in their everyday lives. In the book, David suggests that AI should be viewed as a tool that enhances creativity and problem-solving rather than a replacement for human ingenuity. He underscores the necessity of ongoing dialogue about AI ethics, particularly as technology continues to evolve and influence various industries. Our conversation is packed with insights, laughter, and a few puns—because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good dad joke to ease their anxiety?
Listeners interested in receiving a free month's trial of Attune Media Labs’ emotional support companion, MiM, should email David here using “NOT REAL ART” for the subject line.
Quotes From This Episode
“In 2020, the pandemic was going on, and my father, who is a psychoanalyst, started working on this idea of computer-assisted therapy using nonverbal biometrics at the MIT Media Lab. In the ’90s, it proved to be possible, but the computers were way too slow to do anything in real time.” — David Bosnak [08:35]
“Efficiencies are off the chart, but there's only so much efficiency you really can put in... that part where human ingenuity and human creativity that is irreplaceable will always win out.” — David Bosnak [20:27]
“You've got things like Canva and Figma and all these really, really advanced tools that allow for you to deposit ideas into a visual format. If you don't have the ability to actually draw it yourself, this just accelerates that first step that you would normally be struggling over.” — David Bosnak [29:02]
“[Artists] aren't going to be able to claim royalties after the fact, but they will be able to sell into the data sets… people have to own their creations. There's no question about that.” — David Bosnak [34:34]
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Attune Media Labs on Instagram
About Attune Media Labs and David Bosnak
Attune Media Labs stands at the forefront of mental health innovation, blending cutting-edge technology with human empathy to create impactful solutions. Founded by David Bosnak, a seasoned engineer and storyteller, the company focuses on developing empathic AI companions that transcend conventional interactions. With a background that includes a Master’s in Materials Engineering from USC and a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering from GWU, David combines technical expertise with a passion for fostering meaningful connections. Under his leadership, Attune Media Labs has created MiM, a personal empathic companion designed to understand users' emotions through their tone, expressions, and language. The platform is backed by four patented technologies and has shown promising results in reducing loneliness, anxiety, and stress among users. David's unique journey—from an actor and writer to an award-winning engineer—reflects his commitment to making technology more human. He understands the urgency of addressing the mental health crisis and believes that everyone deserves access to compassionate support. With a deep dedication to user privacy and psychological safety, Attune Media Labs is paving the way for a future where technology and empathy go hand in hand.
These show notes have been edited for length and clarity. All photos published with permission of David Bosnak and Attune Media Labs; featured graphic: David Schwartz.