Digital Overwhelm: Staying Human in a Tech-Saturated World

Send Let’s Think About It a textCoach Mo welcomes author and communication professor Craig Mattson for a thoughtful exploration of our collective digital overwhelm and how we can reclaim our humanity in technology-saturated environments.From the moment Craig shares his story about discovering an electronic "buzz in the line" during podcast recordings, we recognize our own experience - that persistent, low-grade distractedness that characterizes modern professional life. His recently published book "Digital Overwhelm" tackles this universal challenge with refreshing honesty and practical wisdom.What makes this conversation particularly valuable is Craig's balanced perspective. He acknowledges the genuine difficulty of managing our digital lives while offering hope through "communicational flexibility" - developing multiple approaches to workplace technologies rather than relying on a single rigid strategy. Drawing from extensive interviews with millennial and Gen Z professionals, Craig provides insights that benefit everyone from tech-native youth to baby boomers feeling left behind by rapid technological change.The discussion takes fascinating turns as we explore parenting in digital spaces, helping older professionals adapt to technological shifts, and finding the right relationship with emerging AI tools. Craig's recommendation to "be the human in the loop" with artificial intelligence accredited by author Ethan Mollick, addresses one of today's most pressing workplace concerns with practical, actionable advice.Whether you're struggling with email overload, concerned about your children's screen time, or wondering how to integrate AI into your professional life without losing your humanity, this episode offers both validation and strategies to move forward. As Craig wisely suggests, try treating digital communication as a gift - an opportunity to slow down, be mindful, and connect authentically despite the technological barriers.