The Digital Diet

Has the rapid growth of AI changed your boss’ expectations of you at work? Do you feel under pressure to deliver more and deliver faster than before? In this episode, I explore the evolving role of AI in the workplace, focusing on its impact on workloads, productivity and employee wellbeing. I discuss the disconnect between managerial expectations of increased productivity and the reality of employees feeling unskilled, overwhelmed, burned out, and ready to quit their jobs. I also share tips to help you alleviate stress, boost your confidence with AI, and work with your organisation to ensure AI is implemented in a way that leverages its full potential, while avoiding any negative personal impacts.

Is your email inbox overflowing? Does receiving email stress you out? In this episode, I explore the evolution of email from an exciting new way to communicate to a constant source of stress and overwhelm in our daily lives. I explain why email has become such a problematic tool, from managing multiple accounts and sifting through marketing emails, to battling data privacy breaches and poor email etiquette, and share a step-by-step plan to help you get your inbox in order. Discover the tips, tricks and tools to help you manage email flow better and maintain a stress-free experience long-term. Trust me, inbox nirvana is just a few clicks away!

Would your life be simpler without a smartphone? In this episode, I dive into the growing trend of swapping your smartphone for a “dumbphone” and examine why we’re suddenly so excited about technology moving backwards. I explore why so many people are consciously choosing simpler devices, from avoiding the stress and privacy issues caused by smartphones, to the nostalgia of retro tech and the rising popularity of digital minimalism. I also share practical steps to help you assess if a dumbphone might be right for you and offer a challenge to test your own ability to disconnect.

Could banning mobile phones in schools help boost kids’ wellbeing and performance? In this episode, I delve into the contentious issue of mobile phone use in schools as the new academic year begins. Following UK government guidance recommending a ban on mobile phones during the school day, I explore the potential impact of a ban on children’s learning environment, academic results, and overall wellbeing. I discuss concerns raised by critics who believe that the focus should be on regulating tech companies instead of policing schools. I also share practical advice for parents on how to navigate new school policies, from understanding school rules and communicating with teachers about any necessary adjustments, to having open discussions with children to ensure a smooth transition.

Is social media giving you nightmares? In this episode, I explore the findings from a new study revealing the surprising connection between social media use, nightmares, and poor mental health. I explain how even moderate social media use could be causing you to have distressing dreams more often, with themes including anxiety over access to social media, disruptions to relationships with other users, and negative experiences while using online platforms. I discuss how nightmares could be a mediating pathway, helping to explain the relationship between intense social media use and the negative mental health outcomes that result from poor sleep. I also share practical advice to help you reduce your social media consumption and avoid nightmares, while boosting your overall wellbeing.

When was the last time you had a good night’s sleep? In this episode, I delve into the science of sleep and what’s really happening inside of your brain and body when your eyes are closed at night. I explore the importance of sleep for your mental and physical health, and how poor sleep can impact everything from your emotional stability to your lifespan. I discuss how much sleep you should be getting each night and share 5 tips to help you reset your sleep habits and improve your sleep hygiene, from ditching digital devices before bed to dropping the temperature in your bedroom. Whether you struggle with sleep or simply want to improve your sleep quality, this episode is packed full of actionable advice that you can start putting into practice tonight!