In this episode of "Make It Mindful," Seth Fleischauer delves into the transformative power of AI in supporting students' mental health. With Lauren Pinto on break, Seth welcomes Brenda Peña and Scott Freschet to discuss the groundbreaking Alongside app. Scott, a co-founder of Alongside and a seasoned EdTech professional, outlines the app's role as a 24/7 mental health tool that offers an AI chatbot named Kiwi. This bot engages students with interactive features such as mood trackers, mindfulness exercises, and instant support for severe mental health issues.

Brenda, as Director of Social Work at Chelsea Public Schools in Massachusetts, shares how Alongside has made mental health resources accessible to students who might shy away from traditional counseling due to stigma or discomfort. This episode explores how Alongside not only supplements existing mental health services by filling gaps but also empowers students by providing immediate, judgment-free support in a format they are comfortable with.

The conversation also touches on the broader implications of AI in education, discussing the potential risks and rewards of relying on technology for emotional support. Scott emphasizes the app's design, which encourages real-world application of coping strategies, ensuring that AI is a gateway to human interaction rather than a replacement. This episode offers a critical look at how technology is reshaping the approach to student wellness and educational support.

Guest Links:
Alongside.care

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/