I’m one of those little freaks who doesn’t feel guilty about my phone habits. What can I say?! I love using multiple screens at once, reading the comment section is entertaining and a good mindless scroll sparks joy. My screentime report is slightly embarrassing (don’t ask), but overall I’m at peace with my tech use.
I approached this Life Kit episode on information overload with some light skepticism. Were they going to tell me to delete Instagram, or worse, buy a flip phone? Thankfully host Marielle Segarra’s conversation with Manoush Zomorodi (TED Radio Hour host and Body Electric author) wasn’t shame-inducing. It was a fascinating look at what happens when our brains are asked to process too much at once.
Even as a devoted screen enthusiast, it hit home. Manoush cited research showing that nearly half of our daily interruptions are self-inflicted. Breaking your own focus? Yikes, that’s definitely me. While I may not be upset about it, my phone is likely overstimulating my brain, which could explain my nighttime cognitive fog and difficulty winding down.
I really liked how the conversation – in classic Life Kit fashion – offered strategies to incorporate into your own philosophy. One in particular that really stuck with me: setting an information goal before you get on your phone (or screen of choice). As Manoush explained,
“You don't just walk into a room, you're looking for something. It has to be the same thing with the phone. It is a big room, ultimately an infinite room. But go in knowing what you're there for, enjoy what you find and get out.”
Sometimes my goal, genuinely, is a mindless scroll (as a treat)… but that definitely doesn’t need to be a 90-minute thing. What is it they say? Moderation is the spice of life? 😉
P.S. My advice for actually enjoying Instagram more? Ruthlessly block every celebrity you come across.
The week’s best episodes
…to share with your internet friends
🍄 Secret foraging spots make the best family heirlooms
I love stories like this. You’ve got a secretive Michigan mushroom hunter sharing family lore that goes back generations. Immediate yes! Huge shout out to Interlochen Public Radio for this episode of Points North — who knows, maybe I’ll go looking for morels this spring.
📺 Why does the White House press secretary still matter?
Karoline Leavitt is leaving her post at the end of August, so it’s the perfect moment to ask... wait, what does the president’s top spokesperson actually do? The NPR Politics Podcast has a great rundown of Leavitt’s 2-year tenure and the modern role of the White House press secretary.
🎵 Cutting-edge electronica in Mexico
Let the chisme begin! Alt.Latino is always a good listen, but this episode is a real treat. Hosts Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre shared what they’ve been listening to lately, which includes electronic music fresh from Mexico, a cumbia jam band and much more.
⚖️ Women's earning power is growing. How is that shaping straight relationships?
In this special bonus episode of Consider This, Hannah Horvath, a financial planner and personal finance journalist, talks about the balance (or lack thereof) of responsibility in heterosexual relationships where women out-earn men. To get access to this bonus episode — and sponsor-free listening — sign up for NPR+.
One to Watch
Colman Domingo loves being in his 50s — he calls it his “truth-telling season.” His conversation with Fresh Air’s Tonya Mosely is equal parts inspiring and charming. 10/10 recommend.
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