From Digital Distraction to Human Connection with Shannon Algeo

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Technology has transformed nearly every aspect of modern life, but at what cost to our relationships, creativity, and inner well-being? Psychotherapist Shannon Algeo invites us to examine our relationship with our devices through the lens of attachment theory, revealing how smartphones can become surrogate attachment figures that promise comfort while drawing us away from authentic human connection. Rather than promoting guilt or rejecting technology, he offers a compassionate path of accountability and grace that helps us become more intentional in how we use these powerful tools. Through practical exercises, nature-based practices, creative expression, and renewed community, Algeo demonstrates that reclaiming our attention is ultimately an act of reclaiming our humanity. This rich dialogue explores how we can move from unconscious digital habits toward greater presence, relational security, and a more fully lived life. (Hosted by Travis Glen Sebera)

Bio

Shannon Algeo is an American and Irish writer, psychotherapist, researcher, poet, and Yoga Nidra teacher based in California. Shannon is on the faculty of the Esalen Institute and the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, where he leads digital liberation workshops and offline retreats that help participants reclaim their attention, creativity, and relationships in an increasingly digitized world. Named one of Wanderlust's "35 Under 35 in Wellness to Watch," Shannon has spoken at the United Nations and the Museum of Contemporary Art. His work integrates attachment theory, neuroscience, mindfulness, poetry, and depth psychology to help people cultivate greater presence, resilience, and authentic human connection in the digital age.

Shannon is the author of:

• Trust Your Truth: Heal Self-Doubt, Awaken to Your Soul’s Purpose, and Live Your Badass Life ( New Harbinger Publications 2021)
• The Power in Your Hands: Liberate Yourself from Attachment to Technology (Broadleaf Books, 2026)

To learn more about Shannon Algeo's work, visit www.shannonalgeo.com/book

Topics explored in this dialogue include:

• How attachment theory explains our relationship with smartphones
• Why technology can become a surrogate attachment figure
• The four attachment responses: secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized
• How secure attachment develops through both co-regulation and self-regulation
• Why addiction can be understood as an attempt to recover a sense of wholeness
• How technology companies compete for and monetize our attention
• The importance of curiosity over shame when examining digital habits
• Shannon's personal journey from influencer to psychotherapist
• What the experience of seeing the Mona Lisa revealed about modern attention
• How to recognize signs of compulsive smartphone use
• Why creating "friction" helps interrupt unconscious digital habits
• Practical ways to reduce compulsive phone checking
• How new neural pathways are formed through intentional practice
• Why creativity is essential in replacing unhealthy digital habits
• The healing relationship between the inner child and the inner artist
• How spending time in nature restores presence and relational awareness
• The importance of engaging all five senses beyond the screen
• What Shannon calls the "window of presence"
• Why community is essential in overcoming technology addiction
• How parents can model healthier relationships with technology for their children
• Why the goal is not to reject technology but to use it consciously in service of our humanity

Host: Travis Glen Sebera    Interview Date:  6/5/2026   Program Number: 3864

Music Playlist

Album: Celtic Aire
Artist: Dordan
Track 11 Ridente La Calma