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Learn more.

Due to road closures along Highway 1 to our north and south, Esalen is closed through April 11.
Esalen Institute is open! However, Highway 1 to the south is closed — please review the current travel advisory.
past workshop

The Future We Choose: Human Empowerment in the AI Age

October 23–25, 2026

Sam Stern and Cecilia Callas

What does it mean to remain human in the new age of artificial intelligence? In this immersive weekend workshop, we’ll explore this profound question together, journeying from awareness to empowerment to integration as we discover how to shape our relationship with AI while preserving what matters most.

Through hands-on AI demonstrations, creative labs, and experiential exercises, we’ll witness firsthand both the remarkable capabilities and profound implications of this technology. We’ll experiment with AI as a creative collaborator, experimenting with the technology in conscious ways. With somatic practices, guided meditation, and time in nature, we’ll envision the future we want, free from tech industry narratives about what’s “inevitable.”

Each session will blend practical exploration with deep reflection. Through live talks and demonstrations, group dialogue, and creative experimentation, we’ll explore AI’s current capabilities while staying grounded in embodied practices. Throughout the experience, we’ll integrate insights through authentic sharing and meaningful connection with one another, and with ourselves.

You’ll have the opportunity to develop your personal AI Code of Practice, create conscious engagement with technology, and forge genuine connections with fellow participants. This workshop offers resources and perspectives to support you in bringing these meaningful conversations to your own communities, helping others find empowerment rather than overwhelm in our rapidly changing world.

Sam Stern

Sam Stern is a Senior Content Creator at Esalen and host of the million-download podcast Voices of Esalen. He speaks about and teaches human-centered AI at Esalen, exploring how emergent technologies can be engaged with curiosity, critical thinking, and play.

Full Bio

Cecilia Callas

Cecilia Callas works at the frontier of AI, creating events and experiences that champion safety and human-centered development. She co-founded The AI Salon, a 6,000+ member global community exploring AI's societal impact, and hosts the RemAIning Human podcast.

Full Bio