Lab Coat Optional (https://labcoatoptional.asu.edu) is the show where research is made relatable. Each episode, we dive into the research, the people behind it and why it matters. Tune in for smart, accessible conversations on the latest research from Arizona State University when our next season launches on Sept. 23!
We are a production of Knowledge Enterprise at ASU. Learn more at research.asu.edu. (https://research.asu.edu/)
Teen AI use goes far beyond homework. Young people are increasingly turning to chatbots with deeply personal questions about love, relationships and body image. So what happens when teenagers start turning to machines for the advice they once sought from other people?
Arizona State University developmental psychologist Thao Ha explains why adolescence is such an important period for learning healthy relationship skills and explores the potential dangers of replacing messy human interactions with artificial ones.
Learn more about Thao's work:
Check out the HEART Lab on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asuheartlab)
Participate in the CIELO Study (https://www.instagram.com/cielo_research_study/)
Learn more about the Department of Psychology (https://psychology.asu.edu/) and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (https://thecollege.asu.edu/) at ASU.
Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/asuresearch/) and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/asu-knowledge-enterprise/) or visit us at research.asu.edu. (http://research.asu.edu)
Love the show? Give us a five star review on the podcast app of your choice!
Get in touch with us at ke.podcast@asu.edu (mailto:ke.podcast@asu.edu).
Episode credits
Executive produced by Kate Howells
Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka
Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka
Shot and edited by Alexander Chapin
Original music from Patrick Cheung
Motion graphics by Andy Ramos
Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz
Editorial support from Diane Boudreau
Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson
Disclosure:
Lab Coat Optional is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This show does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the information provided is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.
24 Jun 2026
LCO presents: The Ongoing Transformation
Something a little different this week!
While we're busy getting our next season ready, we're bringing you an episode of a podcast we all enjoy: The Ongoing Transformation (https://issues.org/podcast/).
The Ongoing Transformation is a show from Issues in Science and Technology (https://issues.org/), a quarterly journal published by the National Academy of Sciences and Arizona State University.
Find the Ongoing Transformation on Apple (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ongoing-transformation/id1596786993), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2NRvvlDtBMdxMB4GKL6Wyj) or wherever you get your podcasts.
10 Jun 2026
LCO presents: Ten Across Conversations
As a summer treat, we are sharing an episode of Ten Across Conversations (https://10across.org/category/podcast/), another podcast from Arizona State University.
This episode features two ASU researchers on the frontlines of a growing problem: extreme heat.
Find more Ten Across Conversations on Apple (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ten-across-conversations/id1582715331?uo=4), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2NPKV4nAArPPknNEIGx0Zx) or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Apple Podcasts (US)
4.6 / 5
14 ratings
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