Living Well with Technology. In this episode, Anne Trager and Fabrice Neuman dive into the challenge of maintaining focus in our hyperconnected, distraction-filled world. They explore how modern technology—from incessant notifications to smartphones—competes for our attention. The hosts discuss the balance between necessary interruptions and deep work, the science behind our natural focus cycles (including the 90‐minute rhythm and techniques like the Pomodoro method), and how historical practices like mindfulness and monastic discipline offer valuable insights. They also share practical tech tips, such as using focus modes and even experimenting with a phone in black and white mode, to help reorient our attention toward what matters most.

Key topics:

• The impact of constant notifications and distractions on focus

• The struggle between being reachable and protecting your focus time

• The benefits of single-tasking and creating habits (like writing things down)

• Understanding natural focus cycles and techniques to harness them

• Historical perspectives on focus—from medieval monks to modern minimalists

• Practical tips for using technology (e.g., focus modes, reduced-color displays) to boost productivity

Useful Links & Resources

The Pomodoro Technique

https://www.pomodorotechnique.com/

The Wandering Mind by Jamie Kreiner

https://wwnorton.com/books/9781631498053

Jamie Kreiner Bio on UCLA Meyer and Renee Luskin Department of History

https://history.ucla.edu/person/jamie-kreiner/

Reach out:

Anne on Bluesky

Fabrice on Bluesky

Anne on LinkedIn

Fabrice on LinkedIn

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Chapters

(00:00) Introduction

(00:26) Energy, Sleep, and Focus

(00:48) The Distraction Dilemma

(03:39) The Wandering Mind

(09:25) Single-Tasking & Interruptions

(13:04) The Rhythm of Focus

(13:39) Anti-Distraction Tactics

(16:46) Balancing Availability

(18:59) Historical Perspectives: Monks, Mindfulness, and Minimalism

(23:03) Tech Evolution & AI

(25:18) Practical Tech Tips

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