In this heartfelt episode of And We Feel Fine, Beth Rudden and Katie Smith dive deep into what it means to belong, to care, and to be human in an age of artificial intelligence. From personal stories of caregiving to the systemic challenges of modern healthcare, this conversation explores how community, ritual, and resilience shape us—and how AI could support rather than replace the emotional intelligence that caregiving demands.

With humor, insight, and empathy, Beth and Katie unpack the evolution of caregiving, the intersection of tech and tenderness, and why the economy of the future must prioritize connection. Whether you’re a caregiver, a technologist, or someone craving more meaning in this digital age—this episode is for you.

🔑 Topics Covered:

• Creating belonging through caregiving
• How AI can support human connection
• Self-care and emotional intelligence
• Cultural competence in healthcare
• The future of tech in caregiving and mental health
• Personal rituals and professional resilience
• Puppies, parenthood, and taste (yes, really)

📌 Key Takeaways:

• Belonging is foundational for personal growth.
• Caregiving, though hard, can be transformative.
• AI should enhance—not replace—human connection.
• The future of caregiving is deeply communal.
• Emotional literacy is just as vital as technical skill.

⏱️ Chapters (Timestamps):

• 00:00 Navigating Caregiving and Community Support
• 14:36 Understanding the Human Experience
• 31:52 Financial Impacts on Care and AI Solutions
• 43:35 Socioeconomics and Quality of Life
• 49:41 The Importance of Taste in AI and Life