In this episode, Dr. Rena Malik, MD is joined by sociologist Dr. Ken Hanson to explore the surprising realities of sex tech, including sex dolls and AI companions. Together, they unpack who is really using these technologies, how they're reshaping intimacy, and the emotional bonds that can form between humans and artificial partners. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the motivations, implications, and future trends in sexual technology and relationships. Become a Member to Receive Exclusive Content: renamalik.supercast.com Schedule an appointment with me: https://www.renamalikmd.com/appointments ▶️Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:02 Who Really Uses Sex Tech 00:04:03 Sex Dolls 00:06:24 From Dolls to Sex Robots 00:24:30 AI Companions, Replica, Attachment 00:41:00 Gen Z, Loneliness, Community 00:54:06 Doll Brothels and Industry Ethics 01:02:10 Sex Dolls, Porn, and Fantasy 01:03:26 How Academia Sees Sex Tech 01:04:05 Why Sex Research Matters 01:09:01 Conclusion Go to https://www.cozyearth.com and use code RENA to get an additional 40% off Try Creatone https://tonetoday.com get 20% OFF with discount code: RENA Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code RENA at https://branchbasics.com/Rena #branchbasicspod Check out my free e-book Better Sex, Better Life https://www.renamalikmd.com/morepleasure Stay connected with Dr. Kenneth Hanson on social media for daily insights and updates. Don’t miss out—follow him now and check out these links! BLUESKY - https://bsky.app/profile/kenhanson.bsky.social X - https://x.com/Ken_R_Hanson Dr. Hanson’s book is currently under contract and being written, probably not coming out until 2027 or 2028—but keep an eye out! Let's Connect!: WEBSITE: http://www.renamalikmd.com YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@RenaMalikMD INSTAGRAM: http://www.instagram.com/RenaMalikMD TWITTER: http://twitter.com/RenaMalikMD FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/RenaMalikMD/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renadmalik PINTEREST: https://www.pinterest.com/renamalikmd/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/RenaMalikMD ------------------------------------------------------ DISCLAIMER: This podcast is purely educational and does not constitute medical advice. The content of this podcast is my personal opinion, and not that of my employer(s). Use of this information is at your own risk. Rena Malik, M.D. will not assume any liability for any direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of information contained in this podcast including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices