#284 | What We Look Like Without Our Phones: What the ‘Removed’ Photo Series Reveals About Us with Eric Pickersgill

Have you ever wondered what you really look like when you’re lost in your phone?In this thought-provoking conversation, Michael sits down with photographer Eric Pickersgill, creator of the viral photo series Removed, which shows everyday people holding invisible phones — a haunting reflection of our relationship with technology. Eric shares the story behind his work, how it began with a single moment in a café, and what it reveals about connection, awareness, and the cost of constant distraction. Together, they explore how mindfulness, intention, and small acts of awareness can help us reclaim presence in a screen-saturated world.Discover the origin and deeper meaning of the Removed photography project.Learn how our devices are reshaping human connection — and what we can do about it.Gain practical insight into building healthier digital habits and creating intentional space for real connection.Press play to hear an inspiring and eye-opening conversation about presence, awareness, and the art of disconnecting — so you can reconnect with what truly matters.Discover more about Eric, his TEDx, and Removed on his website: https://www.ericpickersgill.com/You can also find his photos on IG at @ericpickersgill and don't forget to get your copy of Removed here: https://www.ericpickersgill.com/news/removed-elsewhere-everywhere-nowhere-artist-book-announcementReceive one of my FREE Pause Breathe Reflect Stickers via this link sticker.Sign up for My RIPPLE EFFECT newsletter by clicking Ripple Effect or finding me on Substack. We can also connect on LinkedIn. Download the Pause Breathe Reflect App with Microdose EQ by clicking App on your smartphone. Subscribe to be sure you don’t miss any of the micro-meditations, wellness tips, and guidance that I publish every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7:11 am. With Whole Again: A Fresh Approach to Healing, Growth & Resilience after Physical Trauma through Kintsugi Mindfulness, listeners explore resilience through personal stories of trauma, scars, and injury while learning to overcome PTSD, imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and perfectionism with self-compassion, self-love, and self-worth. Through insightful discussions on building resilience, fitness, and stress management, as well as mindfulness practices and digital wellness, the show offers practical tools such as breathwork, micro-dose meditation, grounding techniques, visualization, and daily affirmations for anxiety relief and stress reduction. Inspired by the art of kintsugi, the podcast embodies healing as a transformative process, encouraging a shift in perspective from worry and overwhelm to gratitude and personal growth. By exploring the mind-body connection, micro-dosing strategies for emotional well-being, and holistic approaches to self-care, this podcast empowers listeners to cultivate emotional resilience and live with greater balance and intention.