Is social media stealing our time, our focus, and even our childhood? In this powerful conversation, I sit down with poet, storyteller, and social media reformer Max Stossel. From building one of the early apps designed to hook attention, to now leading a global movement for mindful tech use, Max brings a rare insider’s perspective on how technology shapes our behavior — and how we can reclaim our lives.

We explore:

This is a profound, honest, and inspiring conversation that will change the way you view your phone — and yourself.

Episode Breakdown (Chapters):

00:00 – Introduction to Max Stossel01:00 – Building Ocho & designing addictive app features02:30 – The slot machine psychology of social media04:30 – Practical steps to reclaim attention & mindfulness06:40 – Who is Max Stossel? Poet, storyteller & reformer08:40 – Parenting tips: protecting kids from early smartphone addiction10:50 – Teens, social media & finding healthier habits13:30 – The NC-17 world of social media & its risks15:00 – AI, misinformation & the future of human connection18:00 – Critical thinking, bias & navigating an AI-driven world23:30 – Max’s journey from tech to poetry & social impact27:00 – The story behind his viral “Life After Delivery” poem33:30 – How to become a better storyteller40:00 – Rituals, boundaries & finding daily beauty48:00 – Poetry on self-doubt, anxiety & imposter syndrome55:00 – Max’s message to every teenager in the world56:30 – How to connect with Max & his work58:30 – Closing thoughts: good vs harmful content on social media

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MaxStossel/