When Intelligence Isn’t Human: Helping Kids Hold Onto Their Identity in an AI World | Ben Peterson (Bonus Episode)

Artificial intelligence is becoming part of our everyday lives - but where should we draw the line?

In this thought-provoking conversation, Diane sits down with Ben Peterson, Army veteran, founder of Engage Your Destiny, and author of When Intelligence Isn't Human, to explore the growing role AI is playing in our relationships, mental health, and sense of identity. Drawing from his military experience, years of mentoring service members, and his work helping others navigate trauma and purpose, Ben challenges listeners to see AI for what it is: a powerful tool - but a poor substitute for human connection, wisdom, and community.

Together, they discuss why so many young people are turning to technology for emotional support, how social media and AI are designed to capture our attention, and why the ability to think critically, wrestle through discomfort, and build real-life relationships may be more important than ever.

Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube ChannelBen's Resource: The Intentional Father: A Practical Guide to Raise Sons of Courage and CharacterConnect with BenFacebookInstagramYoutubeWebsiteBook: When Intelligence Isn't Human: Navigating Your Faith in the Age of AI

About Ben |Ben Peterson is the founder and driving force behind Engage Your Destiny, the most impactful movement bringing faith and the Gospel to the U.S. military. He served in Iraq during the 2008–2009 Surge as a Chaplain’s Assistant, where he lost seven brothers in combat during his first week deployed. Carrying trauma, addiction, and deep brokenness, he turned to God and emerged with a mission to transform the most powerful fighting force in the world through the hope of Christ.

Over the last decade, more than 300,000 service members, veterans, and families have heard Peterson’s message. He has been trusted to train and speak across elite units including the 101st Airborne, 3rd, 5th, and 10th Special Forces Groups, the 75th Ranger Battalion, Navy SEALs, Recon Marines, Space Force, the 11th Arctic Airborne, and the 4th Infantry Division. In 2022, he produced the Heroes Honor Festival - which drew more than 40,000 attendees and became the largest Gospel outreach to veterans in American history. He has personally raised more than $15 million for nonprofit causes and advises nonprofits, companies, churches, and senior leaders on building cultures of emotional intelligence, resilience, a