In this episode of the Earth Monster podcast, we connect with Jacob, a man who has escaped the digital world through living in his van without a smart phone for nearly 5 years. Jacob shares the realizations that led to him changing his life and how ditching his smartphone and stepping away from the internet has led to profound personal growth, deeper relationships, and a renewed sense of self. But it has also challenged him greatly in the areas of his family, friendships, and sense of belonging in modern society.

Through candid storytelling, Jacob explores the hidden costs of digital life: the erosion of attention, the outsourcing of our cognition, and the loss of authentic human connection. He also discusses the unexpected benefits of isolation, the importance of truth-seeking, and how living offline has strengthened his marriage and sharpened his mind.He also unexpectedly stumbles on the origin of his necessary delusion, which reveals WHY he feels these sacrifices are so necessary.

Listen along and find a piece of yourself in his story as we celebrate vulnerability, question the true impact of technology, and uncover the stories that shape or misshape our lives. If you’ve ever wondered what life is like beyond the screen, this episode is for you.