The internet brought connectivity unlike anything we'd ever experienced. But by making so much of our communication instant and effortless, has it actually eroded everything we need to truly connect with each other?

We're joined by Dr Maria-Elena Lukeides - clinical psychologist specialising in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapies, drawing on neuroscience, behavioural design, and evolutionary psychology - who understands better than most what genuine human connection actually requires, and what the digital world is quietly stripping away.

Welcome to Ruined By The Internet? - the show where we examine how technology is shaping modern life - whether we want it to or not.

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In this episode we investigate how digital communication has changed the nature of relationships, examine the neuroscience behind why online validation feels like connection but isn't, explore the battle between dopamine and oxytocin in a world optimised for instant gratification, and ask whether AI is the most dangerous substitute for human connection yet - or simply the most convenient.

00:00 - The internet's impact on human connection

02:34 - The illusion of connection in a hyper-connected world

06:03 - What online communication can and can't replicate

10:37 - How the internet is eroding our patience for real relationships

13:30 - Why we avoid unpleasant emotions - and what that costs us

17:14 - Dopamine vs oxytocin: the chemistry of real vs digital connection

20:53 - The quest for meaningful relationships in a fast-paced world

24:17 - How digital habits are bleeding into real-life connections

28:23 - AI as a substitute for human connection: comfort or catastrophe?

33:43 - The challenges facing modern relationships

38:07 - Building resilience in relationships in a distracted world

41:00 - Psychedelic therapy and its role in rebuilding connection

Guest links - Dr Maria-Elena Lukeides

Website: https://www.drmariaelenalukeides.com.au

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmariaelena_lukeides/

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-elena-lukeides-270379a5