“Everyone with access to a smartphone and technology today has access to the global library of entertainment twenty-four seven—and we all have to build self-control around it, or we’re going to develop bad habits.”

• Ian McCready

In this powerful episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Ian McCready, founder of SelfCtrl, to tackle a challenge nearly everyone faces today: technology addiction. From video games to cell phones, Ian shares his personal story of how digital devices took over his own life and what he did to change for the better. Now, he’s helping others across Northwest Arkansas and beyond find hope, healthy routines, and true connection outside of screens.

Randy and Ian break down why technology is so addictive, how it affects both kids and adults, and what practical steps families, schools, and individuals can take to reclaim their attention and mental well-being. Ian gives honest advice about meaningful digital detoxes, setting boundaries, and building healthier habits at any age. Whether you’re a parent struggling to limit screen time or an adult hoping to break free from scrolling, this episode is full of tips and encouragement for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Awareness is the First Step: Admitting technology has become a problem is key. You don’t have to call it an “addiction”—just a habit that isn’t helping you.
• Dopamine Demand: Games and apps are designed to keep you coming back. As tolerance builds, it takes more and more time on screens to feel the same excitement.
• Detox is Possible: Even short breaks from digital devices—like a 30- or 60-day digital detox—can help your brain reset and bring back lost joy and motivation.
• It’s Not Just for Kids: Adults of all ages, not just teens, are struggling with technology overuse and its impact on work, relationships, and happiness.
• Replace, Don’t Just Remove: Find healthy activities to fill the time you get back—walks, conversations, reading, or family games—to make new habits stick.
• Support Matters: Be open with friends and family about your goals for change, and ask for their support. Accountability makes a huge difference.
• Self-Control is Learnable: These changes are challenging but possible, and Northwest Arkansas can be a model for positive change around healthy screen use.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

• SelfCtrl—Website, resources, and upcoming courses: selfctrl.com
• Dr. Jonathan Haidt’s Book: “The Anxious Generation”
• SelfControl on Instagram & Facebook: @buildselfctrl
• Recommended Reading: “Atomic Habits” by James Clear
• FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory
• PodcastVideos.com – Rogers, AR – Podcast video production partners

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.

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*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

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