The Aro Podcast - SoundSage

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Join host Joey Odom on the Aro Podcast as he sits down with psychologist and author Dr. Amy King to explore the art of creating connected, resilient families. Dr. King goes beyond theory, offering practical strategies that any parent can implement to strengthen their relationships and raise thriving children. Joey and Dr. King delve into the crucial roles of connection and resilience, discussing how to effectively manage the challenges of technology and screen time. They also highlight the importance of fostering safe, stable, nurturing relationships (SSNRs) for building resilience. This episode is a must-listen for any parent feeling overwhelmed by technology, concerned about its impact, or simply seeking to deepen bonds within their family.

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Have you ever considered going a full year without your smartphone? Tommy Short, today’s guest on the Aro Podcast, embraced this challenge, and the results were life-changing. As a former NCAA basketball referee who managed over 750 high-pressure games, Tommy was no stranger to stress, but choosing to disconnect for 365 days required unprecedented courage and commitment. In this conversation with host Joey Odom, Tommy shares his experience with profound personal and spiritual growth, increased presence in his relationships, and a deeper connection with himself. Tommy’s story is a testament to the freedom that intentional disconnection can bring. Tune in to hear how he walked the talk on reclaiming attention and living fully in the present moment.

Tommy Short Website | LinkedIn | Instagram

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Bestselling author and advocate for intentional living, Hannah Brencher shares her personal journey of unplugging from social media and technology in this episode of the Aro Podcast. She sits down with Joey Odom to share how disconnecting helped her reclaim creativity, presence, and deeper family connections. Based on on her latest book, 'The Unplugged Hours,' Hannah discusses practical strategies for integrating unplugged hours into daily life, emphasizing small, achievable goals to foster consistency and truly meaningful engagements. Tune in to learn how you too can reclaim your time and rediscover yourself—one unplugged hour at a time.

Hannah Brencher Website | Instagram
Order The Unplugged Hours, available now

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How has social media intensified the teenage struggle for self-acceptance? Joey Odom sits down with Sandra Stanley and Allie Cooney, authors of 'Meet Me in the Middle', to talk about the challenges teenage girls face in the digital age and what parents can do to stay connected. From the pressure to project perfection to the pitfalls of constant comparison, the conversation offers insights on fostering open communication, empathetic listening, and leveraging personal strengths to navigate these digital dilemmas with grace and intentionality.

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Reflecting on his childhood, host Joey Odom shares a deeply personal story of belief, presence, and the powerful influence of family. Joey recounts his father's unwavering dedication and its profound impact on his own approach to parenting. This episode takes us back to Aro's starting days with co-founder Heath Wilson, born from a shared commitment to combat phone addiction and enhance family connections.

From its beginnings as a physical box to its evolution into the innovative 'Aro Flip' software, you'll learn how Aro has grown to help users average two hours a day of meaningful, phone-free time. Joey champions Aro as a tool for fostering multi-generational change and cultivating deeper family relationships. Tune in for an inspiring look at how one company is turning personal conviction into a movement for more present, intentional living.

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Courtney and Brent Carrigan were already conscious of their phone usage, but with Aro, they have been able to redefine family time entirely, while setting a positive example for their son. Joey Odom speaks with the Carrigans about the benefits of setting boundaries through features like the 'Aro flip,' which tracks phone-free time. With a blend of competition and commitment, they've improved their own relationship, enhanced their communication, and created more intentional time together. Tune in to hear how Aro can transform even tech habits into deeper, more intentional connections.

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In today’s digital world, balancing work and personal life isn't easy. Join host Joey Odom and guest Randy Gravitt, author of 'Winning Begins at Home' and coach to elite teams like the Buffalo Bills, as they tackle managing technology's impact on family life. This episode explores the art of disconnecting to strengthen relationships, the role of storytelling in leadership, and how these intentions can shape societal norms and personal well-being.

A committed 'girl dad' and scratch golfer, Randy shares strategies on leading with integrity, prioritizing self-care, and ensuring professional pursuits don't overshadow precious family moments. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills while upholding strong family values in a digital age.

Randy Gravitt Website | LinkedIn | X
Read Winning Begins at Home

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Are you a champion for your spouse? Host Joey Odom sits down with Mistye Wilson, the wife of Aro Co-Founder Heath, to talk about the transformative power of positive words and how what we say can influence not only our own relationship but also model positive interactions for others around us.

Joey and Mistye emphasize the importance of resolving issues directly, advocating against the pitfalls of passive aggressiveness and the dangers of venting to others about marital problems. Tune in to learn valuable strategies for using language to build up your relationship, resolve conflicts effectively, and create a legacy of positive communication.

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In this special edition of The Aro Podcast, join host Joey Odom to revisit a conversation with Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson and her husband, Andrew East. This powerhouse couple breaks down the complexities of balancing a public life with personal priorities, from managing a prominent social media presence to nurturing their relationship and family dynamics.

Shawn and Andrew share their strategies for intentionality in marriage, the critical importance of regular relationship check-ins, and how they tailor their parenting to meet the unique needs of each child. They also discuss the concept of planned generosity—deliberately creating moments to give within their community and beyond.

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Are you prepared to have the talk? Host Joey Odom is joined by Megan Michelson, co-founder of Birds & Bees, to discuss the pivotal role of open communication and age-appropriate sex education for children in our tech-saturated world.

Megan explains why it's time to move beyond the 'big talk' and instead advocates for initiating conversations early and maintaining them often, using honest yet age-appropriate language. You'll learn how to teach children about body boundaries, preventing sexual abuse, and the risks of excessive screen time leading to exposure to inappropriate content.

Tune in to discover practical strategies for confidently engaging in ongoing discussions that foster a safe, trusting environment at home. For a discount on the Birds & Bees Online Course, use code ARO20!

Megan Michelson Birds & Bees | Online Course | Podcast | Instagram

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Are your devices bringing you closer together, or pulling you apart? In this Voices of Aro episode, Abby and Brian McIntyre share their journey toward tech-life balance through the power of alignment, communication, and self-awareness.

Abby and Brian discuss the benefits of storytelling and mentorship in inspiring others to navigate the complexities of technology in family life. They also explore the role of external motivation, sharing how a fun, competitive app helped their family form healthier digital habits together.

Tune in to hear how Abby and Brian transformed their home environment and strengthened their relationships through intentional tech use, offering practical tips and heartfelt advice for others looking to do the same.

If you're an Aro member and interested in sharing your own Aro story, please reach out to us at stories@goaro.com. We'd love to hear from you!

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What is it like to challenge one of the world's biggest tech giants? Host Joey Odom sits down with Frances Haugen, the whistleblower who exposed how the pursuit of profit at Facebook jeopardized user safety - especially among teens.

In her memoir, ‘The Power of One,’ and through her initiative, Beyond the Screen, Frances champions a movement towards technology that honors human well-being over algorithms.

Hear from Frances about the devastating impacts platforms like Facebook have on our kids, and her bold vision for reforming Big Tech to make online spaces safer for all. Frances offers data and insights that urge a reevaluation of our digital priorities.

Follow Frances on X
Visit her website

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How can we cultivate presence and deepen relationships in a world that constantly pulls at our attention? Join Joey Odom in this enlightening conversation with bestselling author Andy Crouch, who shares his hard-won wisdom on navigating technology with intention to live a life rich in love.

Drawing from his extensive background in divinity and his tenure at Christianity Today, Andy provides invaluable insights from his influential books, including The Tech-Wise Family and The Life We're Looking For. He also brings personal experiences of parenting in the digital age into the discussion, offering deep philosophical perspectives on leading a meaningful life amid today's digital distractions.

From the complexities of AI isolation to the essential role of love and emotional maturity, this episode explores the delicate balance between embracing technology and maintaining human connections. You'll leave with thought-provoking perspectives and practical steps to reclaim your humanity in this distracted age.

Andy Crouch Website | Instagram

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When it comes to encouraging creativity with our kids, how does screen time fit into the picture? This week on The Aro Podcast, we revisit Aro Co-Founder Joey's conversation with Ryan Tedder, frontman of OneRepublic and a celebrated songwriter and producer, about how he sets boundaries and positive examples with his family.

A longtime friend of Joey’s, Ryan recounts his formative years from his first piano lessons to his covert practice sessions in his college’s piano room. You'll hear about the crucial turning points of his career, the trials OneRepublic endured, and their innovative comeback via MySpace after a setback with their record label.

Beyond his professional journey, Ryan shares the role of his parents in fostering his creativity and how he’s guiding his own children today. Plus, why he became an investor in Aro and his personal strategies for managing technology use at home.

Ryan Tedder Instagram
OneRepublic Instagram | Website | Spotify | Apple Music
But First, Coffee Aro Review on Youtube

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I Wish My Husband Knew is back on The Aro Podcast with Aro Co-Founder Joey and Mistye Wilson, the wife of Aro Co-Founder Heath! This week, Mistye opens up about her struggle with identity, particularly as a stay-at-home mom with two kids about to head off to college. Mistye explains that identity struggles are an ongoing process that occur at every stage of a child's life—from elementary to high school. Joey asks Mistye to share how her identity has shifted throughout these stages, leading her to recount how she discussed these struggles with her husband and how he responded. They then dive into the concept of ruminating on feelings and the reality that our feelings can sometimes deceive us. Mistye wraps up the episode by highlighting the impact of finding an external life coach or mentor as a mom and the power of saying who you are.

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Aro Co-Founder Joey is joined by Brook and Elizabeth Mosser, leaders of Intentional and hosts of "The Intentional Parents Podcast" this week on The Aro Podcast. In this episode, Brook and Elizabeth share their personal story of their daughter being diagnosed with a severe form of epilepsy at just six months old, turning their lives upside down. They discuss what they learned about fear, suffering, and grief during this challenging period and explain the concept of "grief in the meantime." The Mossers also reveal how they supported their marriage through their daughter’s medical journey and continue to do so today, emphasizing the importance of constantly re-learning your spouse. They offer their advice on how to stay intentional parents during difficult times and managing phones and distractions at home, including their approach of letting their kids act as their "phone police."

Intentional Parents on Instagram | YouTube | Website
Brook Mosser on Instagram
Elizabeth Mosser on Instagram
Phil Comer on Instagram
Diane Comer on Instagram

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey sits down with Erin Loechner, founder of the global tech-free movement The Opt-Out Family. Erin shares her personal journey from being a social media influencer to embracing a low-tech lifestyle, which inspired her new book, The Opt-Out Family. They discuss the Loechner family's motto, "be more engaging than the algorithm," and what it means to be an opt-out family—a household that intentionally minimizes technology use based on evidence of its developmental harms. Erin offers practical advice for parents on discussing the opt-out lifestyle with other families and stresses the importance of doing it together. She and Joey explore what we can provide our kids that technology can't, the impact of algorithms on our behavior, and the five critical areas where technology is most detrimental. They clarify that opting out isn’t about being anti-tech, but about being pro-living. The episode wraps up with Erin's tips on how to simplify and depersonalize your smartphone, along with a message for those considering the opt-out lifestyle.

Learn more about The Opt-Out Family: Website | Buy the Book

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey sits down with Jon Acuff, New York Times bestselling author of nine books, including his latest, All It Takes Is a Goal. Jon and Joey dive into Jon's journey of writing ten books and explore recurring themes across his work. They discuss concepts from Jon's book Soundtracks, which focuses on overthinking, and draw parallels between overthinking and distraction, highlighting how overthinking can be a major source of internal distraction. The discussion then shifts to technology and phones, with Jon revealing his own eye-opening experience of spending 13 hours on Instagram. Joey and Jon get candid about the challenges faced by the first generation growing up with smartphones and social media, and Jon shares how he manages these issues with his two daughters. Emphasizing that age isn’t a one-size-fits-all measure for giving kids phones, Jon offers valuable insights on the intentionality and investment required from parents. They wrap up the episode with Jon's parenting philosophies and advice for parents transitioning their kids from high school to college.

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Welcome back to another episode of Voices of Aro! This month, Aro Co-Founder Joey sits down with Stephanie Blunt, a wife and mom of 4, originally from Canada, but now living in Florida with her family. In this episode, Stephanie shares a little bit about herself and her family, along with the moment she realized her phone was stealing her time and provide an escape from reality. Stephanie goes on to share the true turning point to reassessing her relationship with her phone, particularly when feelings of resentment towards her children surfaced during interruptions while scrolling. She and Joey discuss the harsh reality that it is really hard to put down your phone, and how Aro has helped with that in her own home, including some of the positve things she has noticed since becoming an Aro member. We wrap up the episode with Stephanie sharing some advice for new moms feeling the struggle of seeking IRL connection apart from phones and social media.

If you're an Aro member and interested in sharing your own Aro story, please reach out to us at stories@goaro.com. We'd love to hear from you!

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We've got a little twist this week with our I Wish My Husband Knew series on The Aro Podcast! Aro Co-Founder Joey is taking the reins and letting the wives know what their husbands wish they knew. Joey is joined by Mistye Wilson, the wife of Aro Co-Founder Heath, to discuss how wives may not realize the weight their words carry for their husbands. They tackle everything from the five love languages to nagging, and even how this topic can apply to communicating with our children. Joey and Mistye also dive into the concept of rebuke and encouragement, exploring how it can impact the cultivation of healthy communication in a marriage. Be sure to stick around until the end to hear Mistye's key takeaways from this discussion!

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey sits down with Mary Marantz, bestselling author of Dirt: Growing Strong Roots in What Makes the Broken Beautiful and host of The Mary Marantz Show. They dive into Mary's life story as portrayed in her book, sharing insights from her journey growing up in rural West Virginia to attending Yale Law School. Mary opens up about the process of writing her story, emphasizing the importance of authenticity over originality. Throughout the episode, they explore themes of reconciliation and understanding, particularly in the context of parent-child relationships, underscoring the significance of extending grace to our parents. Mary offers valuable reflections on personal growth, emphasizing that we can appreciate our past selves while embracing change. As the conversation unfolds, Mary shares wisdom on resilience, highlighting how challenges contribute to our strength and empathy.

Mary Marantz Website | Instagram | The Mary Marantz Show | Dirt: Growing Strong Roots in What Makes the Broken Beautiful | The Achiever Quiz

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey sits down with Liz Forkin Bohannon, the founder of Sseko Designs, a purpose-driven fashion brand creating employment opportunities for women globally. Liz shares the journey of how Sseko Designs emerged to address a significant problem, bringing positive impact to young women in Uganda. Transitioning from her entrepreneurial story, Liz and Joey dive into another passion of Liz's —loneliness. Liz provides insightful perspectives on how loneliness manifests in people's lives, emphasizing how modern American culture often glorifies independence, inadvertently contributing to the loneliness epidemic. The conversation explores the influence of smartphones on the rise of loneliness, disrupting real-life connections and fostering a fake sense of connection called parasocial connections. Liz leaves us with valuable insights and practical tips on designing a life where real-life connections triumph over the allure of our phones.

Liz Bohannon Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Plucking Up Podcast

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Welcome back to another episode of Voices of Aro! This month, Aro Co-Founder Joey sits down with Stephanie Christensen, a wife and homeschooling stay-at-home mom of 4 living in Gadsden, Alabama. In this episode, Stephanie shares a little bit about herself and her family, along with the moment she realized that her phone was getting in the way of her relationships. Stephanie recounts the all-too-relatable experience of intending to do something important on her phone, only to find herself mindlessly scrolling and engaging in less meaningful activities. She then reflects on the changes she's noticed in her household since becoming an Aro member, even outlining ten specific improvements. We wrap up the episode with Stephanie sharing some advice for the parents feeling the struggle of managing phones and technology in the home.

If you're an Aro member and interested in sharing your own Aro story, please reach out to us at stories@goaro.com. We'd love to hear from you!

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I Wish My Husband Knew is back on The Aro Podcast with Aro Co-Founder Joey and Mistye Wilson, the wife of Aro Co-Founder Heath! This week, Mistye emphasizes the importance of partners working together as a team not only for the success of their marriage but also for their children. Mistye and Joey discuss how it's easy to fall into certain 'roles' within the family dynamic and offer advice on managing expectations and showing appreciation for each other's roles. They also dive into the evolution of marriage roles over the years. Joey shares insights from a husband's perspective on acting as a team, and both he and Mistye agree that each spouse's attitude is vital in a partnership. Stick around until the end of the episode to hear Mistye's key takeaway for listeners.

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey is joined by Alexa von Tobel, Founder and Managing Partner of Inspired Capital, and New York Times-Bestselling Author. Alexa shares her journey of building LearnVest, a groundbreaking financial planning company - from leaving Harvard Business School to the company's eventual acquisition. Joey and Alexa dive into the age-old question of whether money can buy happiness, with Alexa drawing from her experience researching happiness at Harvard to highlight the importance of community and connectedness.

Alexa shares her household's happiness routines and discusses her latest book with Rebel Girls, Money Matters, aimed at empowering the next generation of women with financial literacy. She also emphasizes the significance of "money memories" and offers practical tips for making money enjoyable for kids while redefining the purpose of allowance. You don't want to miss this conversation packed with insights on money, happiness, and parenting.

Alexa's Instagram | LinkedIn | For Starters Podcast | Money Matters Book

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This week on The Aro Podcast, we're doing something a little different by bringing you an episode from the I Needed That podcast, hosted by Chris Powell and Mathew Blades. In this special episode, you'll find Aro Co-Founder Joey in the interviewee's seat, where he dives into how our relationship with our phones directly influences our relationships with others. You'll learn about the origins of Aro, how it functions, and the experience that made Joey realize how his phone was getting in the way of the relationships with the people he cared about most. Plus, Chris, Mathew, and Joey share their experiences navigating difficult conversations with their children. It's a candid and relatable conversation you don't want to miss!

I Needed That Podcast
Chris Powell on Instagram
Mathew Blades on Instagram

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey sits down with Dr. John Delony, a seasoned crisis responder, speaker, and host of The Dr. John Delony Show. John shares his unique journey from avoiding the internet to amassing over a million followers, to the challenges of seeking validation and the importance of valuing approval from close relationships rather than those online. Joey and John dive into the most common advice sought on The Dr. John Delony Show, touching on the pressing issue of loneliness in today's world. John goes on to share principles from his latest book, Building a Non-Anxious Life, emphasizing the power of choosing reality. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the impact of phones on parent-child relationships, sparked by John's viral Instagram post advocating for prioritizing children over screens. Tune in for a conversation that navigates the complexities of modern life, mental health, and meaningful connections.

John Delony Website | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | X
Watch The Dr. John Delony Show
Listen to The Dr. John Delony Show
Order Building a Non-Anxious Life

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Welcome back to another episode of Voices of Aro! This month, Aro Co-Founder Joey sits down with Sam Hess, a husband and father of two living in Northern California. In this episode, Sam shares about how he was noticing his phone getting in the way of his relationships, mostly in what he called the "mini moments" of the day. He shares the importance of being present around your kids to truly notice what they need, because sometimes they don't always express it verbally. Sam goes on to share that he tried putting down his phone in every way you could think of, finding that none of them were as effective as Aro has been for him. We wrap up the episode with Sam sharing things he has noticed since having Aro in his home and his advice for parents dealing with phones and technology in the home.

If you're an Aro member and interested in sharing your own Aro story, please reach out to us at stories@goaro.com. We'd love to hear from you!

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Aro Co-Founder Joey is joined by Darren Whitehead, the founder of Church of the City and author of The Digital Fast. Originally from Australia, Darren has spent over 25 years in the United States and brings a unique perspective to the impact of technology on our lives. In this episode, Darren and Joey explore the impact of smartphones on our lives, from the evolution of these devices to the effects of carrying them 24/7. The duo discusses the surprisingly positive response from teenagers who have participated in Darren's digital fast and the importance of giving yourself grace as a parent navigating technology. They explore the shift from play-based to phone-based childhoods, and Darren outlines his four-stage digital fast, drawing parallels between phone use and habits like smoking or eating fast food. You don't want to miss Darren's insights on reclaiming control over technology and fostering a more intentional family life.

Darren Whitehead Instagram | Facebook | X | The Digital Fast Book

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'I Wish My Husband Knew' returns to The Aro Podcast with Aro Co-Founder Joey and Mistye Wilson, the wife of Aro Co-Founder Heath! This week, Mistye brings up a topic that both spouses can appreciate: the significance of family dinners. Mistye shares her perspective on how, as a mom, family dinner isn't always simple — it can take up a lot of time and is truly an act of love. She emphasizes the importance of each spouse prioritizing family dinners and suggests that the spouse who may not take charge of family dinners support and help when they can. The conversation then shifts to Joey and Mistye discussing the value of laying the groundwork for prioritizing family dinners from a young age so that, as the children grow older, it becomes a natural rhythm in the household. Mistye even provides tips for families working to prioritize family dinners, including choosing a specific day of the week, meal planning, and ways to get family members excited. At the end of the episode, Mistye gives The Aro Podcast listeners a little homework for spouses to spark a phone-free conversation about family dinner.

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey is joined by Kyle Wester, a licensed professional counselor and Parenting Coach with over two decades of experience working with children. Kyle, along with his wife Sara, co-hosts the podcast "The Art of Raising Humans," where they share insights from their parenting journey. In this episode, Kyle gives us insights into how to gain confidence as a parent and walks us through his unique parenting quadrant, explaining various parenting styles and how they can be applied not only to raising children but also to marriage and navigating technology use. He highlights how conflicts with children often stem from parental expectations and shares his experience giving a phone to his oldest child, along with his tips for introducing a phone to your children. The conversation wraps up with Kyle and Joey discussing the normalization of distracted parenting, its impact on children, and strategies for cultivating intentionality at home in the digital age.

The Art of Raising Humans Podcast | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

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Welcome back to another episode of Voices of Aro! This month, Aro Co-Founder Joey is joined by Odette Cressler, a wife and mother of two living in San Diego, CA. In this episode, Odette shares her 'aha' moment when she realized her phone was getting in the way of the person she wanted to be. Odette goes on to express her realization about living in a world where we don't yet know the full impacts of phones and technology on us. Despite this uncertainty, she emphasizes the importance of not demonizing technology, recognizing both its positive and negative aspects. We wrap up the episode with some encouragement from Odette for parents in her same stage of parenting when it comes to technology and phones.

If you're an Aro member and interested in sharing your own Aro story, please reach out to us at stories@goaro.com. We'd love to hear from you!

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey is joined by award-winning science writer David Robson to unravel concepts from his book 'The Expectation Effect.' From the placebo effect vs. nocebo effect to the impact of catastrophizing thoughts and the setback effect, David provides insights into how our mindset shapes our lives. Joey draws parallels between 'The Expectation Effect' and the parenting experience, diving into how parents' thoughts and expecatations can impact their children. The conversation moves on to the role of social media in children's brains, exploring both its negative and positive aspects. David also shares a sneak peek of his upcoming book, 'The Laws of Connection,' which sheds light on the importance of social connections and the steps we can take to build better relationships for a more fulfilling life.

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey sits down with personal finance expert Rachel Cruze to delve into the emotional landscape of money. Rachel emphasizes that at the core of understanding how we handle our finances is understanding ourselves, diving into how our upbringing and personality shape our financial behaviors. Joey and Rachel explore the emotional ties we have with money and discuss the shifting expectations of needs and wants in today's society. They also dissect the communication dynamics of money within households and unravel the influence of the comparison trap, especially in the age of social media. Rachel shares practical insights on creating a financial plan, incorporating some Ramsey Solutions practices, and offers a glimpse into her new children's book, I'm Glad for What I Have, which she hopes will be just as impactful to parents as it is kids. The conversation wraps up with Rachel sharing her family's approach to managing technology and her experiences with digital detox.

Rachel Cruze Website | Instagram | Tik Tok | FaceBook | Twitter
The Rachel Cruze Show YouTube
Smart Money Happy Hour Podcast
The Ramsey Show
Every Dollar App
I'm Glad For What I Have

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Doug and Jamie Hehner, known for meeting and marrying as strangers on season 1 of Lifetime TV’s Married At First Sight, join Aro Co-Founder Joey this week on The Aro Podcast. They open up about overcoming personal obstacles before meeting, with Jamie taking custody of her sister and dealing with her mother's addiction, and Doug sharing his journey through addiction, including a near overdose. Reflecting on their experience on Married at First Sight, they share how it has shaped their ongoing efforts to nurture their marriage. Jamie offers valuable advice for couples facing challenges, emphasizing the potential for stronger love on the other side of the adversity they may be experiencing. The show wraps up with Doug and Joey discussing how the Hehner's are managing phone use and technology in their home.

Jamie's Instagram
Doug's Instagram
Hot Marriage Cool Parents Instagram
Listen to the Hot Marriage Cool Parents podcast

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey has an insightful conversation with Heather MacFadyen, the host of the widely popular Don't Mom Alone podcast, which has reached over 21 million downloads. Heather shares the story behind her podcast and opens up about her personal journey in motherhood, sharing how she struggled and isolated herself. Heather and Joey navigate the stages of childhood, discussing the isolating feelings mothers may encounter, and Joey poses the question of what practical advice could Heather give to a mom working to build adult friendships. Heather also highlights a profound insight—that a child's resilience is tied to a parent's resilience, which, in turn, depends on the support they receive. With a subtle touch of Christian faith throughout, she highlights the importance of working through internal struggles to be the best version of yourself for your kids.

Heather MacFadyen Website | Instagram | Facebook
Don't Mom Alone Podcast

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Welcome back to another episode of Voices of Aro! This month, Aro Co-Founder Joey is joined by Mike Genovese, a husband of 11 years and father of two. In this episode, Mike shares the two stories he tells his friends when they come over and see his Aro box, both having 'aha' moments where he realized his phone was getting in the way of important things in his life. Mike even makes a statement that 'everything is better with Aro,' and our whole team experienced a pinch-me moment when we heard that! Towards the end of the episode, Mike shares his advice for parents in his same stage of parenting when it comes to technology and phones.

If you're an Aro member and interested in sharing your own Aro story, please reach out to us at stories@goaro.com. We'd love to hear from you!

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey is joined by Erin Loechner, author of Chasing Slow and Founder of the Opt-Out Family movement. Erin, a former social media influencer with over a million followers, shares her journey in the early days of the influencer industry and explains why she decided to step back from the online world to embrace a slower, more intentional life for her family. Joey and Erin discuss the essence of slow living, and how it allows you to truly be present for and around the people in your life. They also touch on Erin's concept of living a life of margin and Erin offers practical tips on how to build this into daily routines. She also gives a sneak peek into her upcoming book, Opt Out Family, and shares valuable advice for parents looking to slow down or opt-out of a technology-dominated world.

Erin Loechner Website
Purchase Chasing Slow
Other Goose

Chasing Slow: Courage to Journey Off the Beaten Path

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey is joined by Dr. Felicia Wu Song, a sociologist who studies the impact of technology on modern life. Felicia challenges the idea of what's "natural" about technology, sparking a conversation with Joey about whether resisting technological changes is worth it. They dive into the generational differences in today's world and the necessity of empathizing with the experiences of younger generations. Felicia even paints a nostalgic picture of life before cellphones, that our kids haven't gotten to experience. The discussion extends to the pressures of constant availability in the digital age and the subtle ways habitual phone-checking shapes our behavior. Felicia shares insights on how technology provides us with a perceived sense of control and hinders our ability to just be present. The episode wraps up with Felicia offering advice on building resilience against the negative impacts of technology, especially for parents looking to shape a healthier tech trajectory for their kids.

Dr. Felicia Wu Song Website
Restless Devices by Felicia Wu Song

Restless Devices: Recovering Personhood, Presence, and Place in the Digital Age

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Aro Co-Founder Joey sits down with the incredibly talented Ryan Tedder, the frontman of OneRepublic, and a renowned songwriter and producer who's also a long-time friend of Joey's. In this episode, Ryan takes us on a journey from his early piano lessons to sneaking into the piano room in college. He shares pivotal moments that shaped his musical career, including the challenges OneRepublic faced and how they used MySpace to rebound after being dropped by their record label. Ryan and Joey discuss how his parents supported his passions, and Ryan offers insights into how he is nurturing his children's passions today. They also dive into why Ryan decided to invest in Aro and explore his approach to technology within his family, including the boundaries they've set.

Ryan Tedder Instagram
One Republic Instagram | Website | Spotify | Apple Music
But First, Coffee Aro Review on Youtube

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This week on The Aro Podcast, we’re honored to have Ron Clark, known as “America’s Educator,” share insights from his teaching journey and the evolution of Ron Clark Academy. Ron dives into his unique philosophy of bringing learning to life, sharing what sets RCA apart from traditional education. Joey and Ron discuss the delicate balance between overscheduling and challenging kids, exploring what parents might be doing right or wrong in this tug-of-war. Their conversation also touches on the impact of technology on children’s behavior inside and outside the classroom, with Ron offering practical advice for parents. Ron shares wisdom on nurturing kids’ self-esteem with intentionality rather than generic praise and gives a sneak peek into the future of Ron Clark Academy. Don’t miss Ron’s parting advice for parents, offering a simple yet powerful way to make a positive impact on their children.

Ron Clark Acadamey Website | Instagram | Youtube

Ron Clark Instagram | Facebook

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We're bringing back one of our top episodes from The Aro Podcast this year, featuring our dear friend, Justin Whitmel Earley. In this episode, Justin and Joey dive into the powerful influence of habits, emphasizing how our individual habits not only shape us but profoundly impact our children—a theme explored in Justin's book, Habits of the Household. Justin also shares insights from his latest book, Made for People: Why We Drift Into Loneliness and How to Fight for a Life of Friendship, emphasizing the significance of prioritizing friendships in adulthood. Don't miss the chance to revisit one of our most popular episodes of the year!

Learn more about Justin Website | Instagram
Habits of the Household | The Common Rule | Made for People

Made for People: Why We Drift into Loneliness and How to Fight for a Life of Friendship

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Welcome back to another episode of Voices of Aro! This month, Aro Co-Founder Joey is joined by Megan Lewin, a wife, homeschool mom of four, and Aro Ambassador! In this episode, Megan gives us a glimpse into her life and family, sharing her a-ha moment when she realized her phone was affecting her connections with her kids. She and Joey discuss how she discovered Aro and how it has become an integral part of her family's culture. Megan even shares sweet stories of her kids noticing their mom and dad being present with them!

If you're an Aro member and interested in sharing your own Aro story, please reach out to us at stories@goaro.com. We'd love to hear from you!

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'I wish my husband knew' is back on The Aro Podcast with Aro Co-Founder Joey and Mistye Wilson! This week Mistye introduces a topic that many moms can relate to: the significance of time away. Mistye candidly shares her perspective on how, as a mom, it's easy to feel like your identity is solely tied to being a parent. She discusses why women may struggle to prioritize their needs and Joey seeks advice for ways husbands can encourage and support their wives in taking time for themselves. Their conversation touches on the value of meaningful getaways for moms, daily rhythms as mini getaways, and the reality of mom guilt. Mistye also shares a reassuring message for young moms and emphasizes the importance of dads stepping up to stay with the kids when mom takes a break. Make sure to tune into one of our favorite series on The Aro Podcast!

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In this week's episode, Aro Co-Founder Joey sits down with Mathew Blades, former award-winning radio host and creator of the Learn From People Who Lived It podcast. Mathew opens up about his battle with panic attacks at the peak of his career and how it affected his relationship with his wife. He and Joey discuss the significance of addressing trauma, especially experiences from childhood, through inner child work. Mathew shares how doing this personal work has made a big difference in how he shows up as a father and husband. You'll gain valuable strategies and tools from Mathew on how to navigate and heal from trauma, including the importance of settling the mind and trusting your instincts when something feels off. Tune in for an authentic and insightful discussion on mental health and self-awareness.

Mathew Blades Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | Youtube

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In this episode of The Aro Podcast, Aro Co-Founder Joey is joined by 20-year-old Seán Killingsworth, the Founder of the Reconnect Movement. Seán talks about why he started the movement, aiming to create in-person communities that counteract the overwhelming influence of social media on our connections. He shares his experiences of noticing, during high school and college, that many kids spent a lot of time on their phones, impacting how they interacted with each other. These experiences led Seán to the realization that kids are growing up in a social 'wasteland,' lacking real connections due to technology. Joey and Seán also discuss how technology is changing the way young people experience dating. Join the conversation for critical insights into what kids are experiencing and how parents can help change this narrative.

The Reconnect Movement Website

Watch Seán's 10-minute presentation about the social wasteland here

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We're so excited to introduce another new series on The Aro Podcast that we hope you love as much as we do! Every month, Mistye Wilson, wife of Aro Co-Founder Heath and longtime friend of Aro Co-Founder Joey, will join the podcast to delve into various topics, offering insights into what wives sometimes wish their husbands knew. Here's the twist: Joey will be in the dark about the discussion until they hit the record button. We hope these episodes empower listeners to bring up challenging topics with their spouses or share these episodes when words may be hard to find. If there's a topic you'd like Joey and Mistye to explore, don't hesitate to send us a direct message on Instagram!

This week's episode focuses on the significance of eye contact. Mistye dives into how the absence of eye contact from a spouse can trigger feelings of rejection. Joey asks Mistye how a husband can tell when his wife wants eye contact and when it may not be necessary in a conversation. They also discuss the game-changing act of putting away your phone when spending quality time with your spouse. Mistye and Joey even touch on the importance of eye contact for young children. Stay tuned until the end of the episode when Mistye shares a practice that all our listeners can try with their spouse.

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In this week's episode, we dive into a crucial conversation with Gayle Cheatham, Co-Founder of Look Up Nonprofit. Gayle shares the story behind Look Up, and their mission to empower families to look up from their digital devices and truly connect with the world around them. She and Joey explore the common pressures parents face when contemplating giving their child a phone, shedding light on the addictive nature of these devices and the potential negative impact on children, especially young children. Their discussion even touches on the loss of real-life interactions for kids due to the nature of the screen's role in today's environment. Gayle even draws a striking parallel between the effects of smartphones and the early days of the tobacco industry. She also offers valuable insights for parents considering a phone for their child, emphasizing the importance of aligning with your spouse on tech boundaries and modeling healthy habits. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that may have you deciding to hold off on getting your child a phone for the holidays.

Look Up Nonprofit Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

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Voices of Aro is back with Annie Grassi, a wife, mom of two, mindfulness coach, podcast host, and Aro Ambassador! In this month's episode, Annie opens up to Joey about her experiences with feelings of resentment towards her kids, which she realized stemmed from times she was on her phone. She shares how she used to blame the lack of 'time' for her unfinished tasks, and on the flip side, how having Aro helped her recognize the time she actually has. Annie also provides valuable advice for parents on navigating the challenges of smartphones in their homes, emphasizing the importance of truly noticing your kids.

If you're a member and interested in sharing your own Aro story, please reach out to us at stories@goaro.com. We'd love to hear from you!

Annie Grassi Instagram
Unrefined Joy Instagram | Podcast

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Ginny Yurich, the founder of 1000 Hours Outside, joins Aro Co-founder Joey on this week's episode of The Aro Podcast. During their conversation, Ginny shares the story behind the 1000 Hours Outside movement and why it's crucial to be intentional about ensuring your children spend time outdoors, including the profound benefits of extended outdoor play on kids' development and why deep play is so vital. Joey also asks Ginny about her upcoming book, 'Until the Streetlights Come On,' and delves into the changing landscape of play over the last 30 years. Ginny shares the science of what happens in kids' brains during free play and the downside of overscheduling. She also highlights the startling contrast between the time kids spend outside versus on screens and the underestimated value of boredom for both children and adults. Their discussion even touches on child prodigies and how the pressures of college acceptance are impacting not only kids but parents as well.

1000 Hours Outside Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube
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Check out Joey on the 1000 Hours Outside Podcast

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In this week's episode, Aro Cofounder Joey is joined by Mark Miller, former Vice President of High-Performance Leadership at Chick-fil-A to talk all things company culture. He and Joey unpack the significance of the culture within an organization and why it holds more weight within a company than most may realize. Mark shares his insights into the definition of culture and the true essence of leadership, emphasizing that it's not limited to executive titles. You're going to receive practical tips and strategies from Mark on how leaders can cultivate and amplify their desired company culture. And for all of our parents out there, Mark and Joey even explore how these principles can extend beyond the workplace and enrich your family culture. You don't want to miss this one!

Lead Every Day Website

Mark Miller Facebok | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter | YouTube

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This week on The Aro Podcast, host Joey Odom sits down with Bill Brady, father of 5 and CEO of Troomi Wireless, a mobile phone company designed for children. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by families in the realm of kids and technology, Bill shares his passion for addressing the effects of tech on our society. In this episode, he and Joey discuss the prevalent feelings of overwhelm and confusion experienced by parents raising their kids in this digital age. They explore important questions like the right age for introducing phones to kids and the right reasons for doing so. Joey and Bill also emphasize the significance of intentional parenting when it comes to fostering a healthy relationship with technology for children and why parents simply can’t afford to be lazy about it. Don’t miss out on this episode where intentionality meets technology, helping families navigate the complexities of raising kids in a digital world.

Use code ARO at Troomi's checkout for $50 off your purchase.

Troomi Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

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We're super excited to introduce Voices of Aro to you!

Voices of Aro was created through incredible stories the Aro team would hear from members that we wanted to shout from the rooftops. Once a month, Aro cofounder Joey will sit down with a member of the Aro community, who will share their personal stories about the "aha" moment when they realized their phone was getting in the way of their relationships, the challenges of smartphones within families, how they use Aro at home, and more.

In our very first episode, we have Becca Daniel as our guest. Becca is a wife, a homeschool mom of four, and an Aro Ambassador! Joey and Becca have a deep-dive conversation about Becca's journey to becoming an Aro member, how her family incorporates Aro into their daily routines, and the amazing things she has observed since they started creating space from their phones. So, be sure to tune in to Becca's episode and mark your calendar for the last Thursday of each month to hear from Aro members all across the United States!

If you're a member and interested in sharing your own Aro story, don't hesitate to reach out to stories@goaro.com. We'd love to hear from you!

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In this week’s episode of The Aro Podcast, therapists David Thomas and Sissy Goff join Aro Co-founder, Joey. With over three decades of experience at Daystar Counseling Ministries, David and Sissy have dedicated their lives to helping families through their counseling, books, podcast, and speaking engagements. During the episode, they delve into the immense amount of pressure children face in today’s world, and how technology can exacerbate that anxiety and pressure. They also explore the crucial role of available and present parents as predictors of a child’s learning. David and Sissy provide valuable insights on identifying anxiety symptoms specific to boys and girls, emphasizing that girls are twice as likely to deal with anxiety, but boys are more likely to be taken in to get help. They also touch on topics from Sissy’s new book Worry-Free Parenting, including the concept that anxious parents will often produce anxious children. This trio's conversation offers practical help and hope to families navigating the challenges of modern parenting.

Raising Boys and Girls Website | Instagram | Facebook | Podcast

Sissy Goff Instagram

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This week we have the incredible Shawn Johnson and Andrew East join us to talk about intentionality with your spouse, parenting, and friendship. They share their journey of navigating the unique challenges and rewards that come with having an online presence, both as individuals and as a family. This experience led them to create Family Made, a media network and community centered around the joys and realities of family life.

Throughout the episode, Joey sparks some entertaining games that put Shawn and Andrew's knowledge of each other to the test. Beyond the games, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Learn from Shawn, Andrew, and Joey as they discuss the importance of regular relationship check-ins for spouses, the significance of individualized parenting for each child's growth, and the secrets to maintaining meaningful friendships in adulthood.

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Join Aro co-founder, Joey Odom, this week as he sits down with Titania Jordan, the Chief Parent Officer and Chief Marketing Officer at Bark Technologies, an internet safety solution. They dive right into the trials and tribulations faced by kids growing up in a digital world, especially shedding light on the mental health effects that many young women face in the "comparison trap." Titania also shares how Bark can help parents protect their kids in our technology-dominated world. In addition to discussing screen time, Joey poses the tough question of when it's the right time to give a child a smartphone. Their conversation also bravely tackles the topic of kids' exposure to pornography, offering valuable insights and guidance. This episode is sure to deepen your understanding of navigating the digital landscape as a parent and creating a safe environment for your children.

Bark Technologies Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Facebook

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On this week’s episode of The Aro Podcast, Joey is joined by Rod Richard - a father, coach, and entrepreneur. Rod, a life and mindset coach, is dedicated to helping men become the best versions of themselves. He and Joey discuss the four pillars for fit fatherhood: faith, family, finance, and fitness. Rod shares his personal journey of becoming a dad, opening up about the challenges he faced and the uncertainty he experienced in defining his role as a father. Through his own story, Rod offers valuable insights and guidance for dads who may be navigating similar challenges. This episode is a must-listen for all fathers looking to make a positive impact in their families and lead fulfilling lives.

Rod Richard Website | Instagram | Podcast

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Get ready for an insightful episode of The Aro Podcast as we welcome Jay Kim - an author, pastor, podcast co-host, and dedicated dad. Jay and Joey discuss the challenges of navigating the digital world with your children as Jay opens up about his goal of helping his kids develop a healthy balance and appetite for things beyond technology. He emphasizes the importance of scheduled time away from screens, allowing intentional connections with others. Jay shares his wisdom and offers valuable insights on how to foster meaningful relationships in the midst of a digital age. This episode is a must-listen for parents who are navigating the challenges of incorporating technology into their children's lives, offering valuable insights and guidance to help find a balanced approach.

Learn more about Jay Kim
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Books

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We have a powerful episode of The Aro Podcast this week with guest Dexter Sullivan - the founder of Dexter Sullivan Enterprises, chair of the Black Legacy Advancement Coalition, and Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Allyship at Lambert & Co. Joey and Dexter engage in a heartfelt conversation about Dexter's mission to make a meaningful impact on people's lives through connection, love, and community. As an advocate for various communities, Dexter has had countless conversations that have shaped his understanding of the world. He emphasizes the vital importance of unity and learning from others, even when engaging in conversations about topics where disagreement exists. This episode will empower you to make a positive difference in your own community, harnessing the transformative power of love, friendship, and empathy.

Dexter Sullivan Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

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In this week's episode of The Aro Podcast, we have Tony Di Giacomo, Founder of Novella Prep on as a special guest to talk all things back to school. With Tony's extensive experience in admissions, teaching, and research, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Tony and Joey discuss how parents can instill responsibility in their children and create routines that will shape their habits throughout high school. Tony also shares valuable insights on navigating the different academic transitions from elementary to middle school and then to high school. And don't miss out on their discussion about college applications and selection, where Tony offers guidance and shines a light on the often-overlooked benefits of standardized testing. Joey and Tony also tackle the topic of the ideal level of parental involvement in their child's academics. Plus, Tony shares some invaluable advice for families gearing up for the back-to-school season. From establishing effective routines to managing digital habits, this episode is packed with practical insights to set your children up for a successful school year.

Novella Prep Website

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We're diving into the fascinating world of the Enneagram with Jackie Brewster on this week's episode of The Aro Podcast. Jackie, an Enneagram expert, will enlighten us on how understanding your spouse's Enneagram type can transform your relationship. Whether you're already an Enneagram enthusiast or completely new to it, this episode will leave you craving to learn everything there is to know. Jackie shares personal stories about her own journey with her husband, revealing how learning each other's personality types led to a deeper understanding of their behaviors and motivations. You'll be captivated by Jackie's insights and inspired to explore this valuable tool for self-discovery and connection. Don't miss out on this conversation that will leave you eager to read Jackie’s book The Enneagram and Your Marriage.

Website | Instagram | FaceBook | Book

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On this week’s episode of The Aro Podcast, we welcome Tom Kersting - an author, educator, family counselor, and licensed psychotherapist. Join us as Tom shares his unique insights into the changes he witnessed as a public high school counselor when children started using smartphones and how technology has impacted our brains. Joey and Tom explore practical strategies for parents to raise children in the digital age. Tom offers advice and guidance to help parents and kids achieve mental freedom and develop healthy habits in their relationship with technology. His wealth of knowledge will allow parents to gain valuable parenting techniques that will empower them to raise resilient and balanced teenagers. Don't miss this opportunity to navigate the complexities of the digital world with confidence and create a healthy environment for your family.

Tom Kersting
Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

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Justin Forsett - former NFL running back, successful entrepreneur, and co-founder of Hustle Clean, joins us this week on The Aro Podcast to talk about family, football, and success. Justin shares his inspiring personal journey, from humble beginnings living in a motel to the pinnacle of professional football, and now, his entrepreneurial success. In this engaging conversation, Justin and Joey dive into the role of faith in Justin's life, discussing how it provided stability during some of his toughest moments. Justin offers his insightful perspective on greatness as he challenges the notion of compartmentalizing success and emphasizes the importance of excelling in all areas of life, not just one. Listen in as Justin opens up about his experiences and offers valuable wisdom for pursuing greatness while maintaining balance and integrity. This episode will motivate you to strive for excellence in every aspect of your life, grounded in faith and resilience.

Justin Forsett- Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter | Hustle Clean

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We're super excited to welcome Justin Whitmel Earley back to The Aro Podcast for his second appearance. In this episode, Justin and Joey delve into the themes of his latest book, "Made for People: Why We Drift Into Loneliness and How to Fight for a Life of Friendship." They have a candid conversation about the art of building and maintaining meaningful friendships, the power of habits that nurture a friendship-focused lifestyle, and the significance of covenant friendship. Both Justin and Joey share their personal stories of friendship, emphasizing the role of vulnerability as the foundation of genuine connections. Justin even offers his perspective on what defines a good friend and provides insights on fostering a culture of seeking authentic friendships from a young age. This episode is true gold, and if you enjoy it, you'll find even more to love in Justin's new book.

Justin Whitmel Earley: Instagram | Website | Made For People

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This week on The Aro Podcast, we welcome Christian Bevere - an author, podcast host of "Dear Future Husband," wife, and mother. Join Joey and Christian as they dive into her upcoming book, "Break Up With What Broke You," set to release on August 15th. Christian shares her passion for writing and dedication to empowering the younger generation of women. She even shares the personal experiences that influenced her journey and led her to write this impactful book. While Christian and Joey are in two different stages of parenting, they are able to discuss the importance of modeling love in front of their kids. Joey believes Christian's upcoming book holds immense value for all parents with young daughters. Listen in to gain a greater sneak peek of her upcoming book and inspiration to stop letting your past define you.

Christian Bevere Instagram | YouTube | Website | Break Up with What Broke You

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Get ready to dive into the intriguing topic of attention and distraction on this week's episode of The Aro Podcast with special guest Nir Eyal, renowned author and expert in the psychology of technology and business. Nir challenges the notion of our attention being hijacked and instead explores the idea that we willingly give it away. He and Joey discuss the importance of fighting distraction and making intentional choices about how we spend our time. Nir introduces the concept of traction versus distraction, emphasizing the need to identify what truly distracts us. He also shares his insightful three life domains framework, highlighting the significance of yourself, your relationships, and your work. Make sure to tune into this episode as it will leave you with valuable insights and inspiration to regain control of your attention.

Nir Eyal Website | Twitter | Podcast
Nir Eyal's Free Resources Habit Tracker | Schedule Maker
Nir Eyal's Books Indistractable | Hooked

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Join us on this week's episode of The Aro Podcast as we bring you an incredible guest, the renowned Dr. Josh Struab - an inspirational speaker, author of three books, and podcast host. In this captivating conversation, Josh and Joey talk about the true meaning of being "famous at home." Josh opens up about the common challenge of not knowing how to effectively lead our families. He offers solutions such as changing the posture of your parenting rather than solely relying on parenting techniques to create emotional safety for your family in your home. Discover how changing our approach and focusing on building genuine connections can truly make a difference in family dynamics. You'll leave with a refreshed perspective and a strong desire to cultivate a "famous at home" environment where love, understanding, and emotional well-being flourish.

Dr. Josh Struab Website | Instagram | Facebook | Books

Tanner Clark Instagram | Speaking Form | Second of Strength Podcast

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On this week’s episode of the Aro Podcast, we welcome Adam Tarnow, a respected leadership and professional development consultant, podcast host, and author. In this conversation, Adam shares valuable insights on how to shift your mindset while working in the middle management of an organization, which he refers to as “the valley.” Adam provides practical strategies to navigate the complex dynamics of reporting to both superiors and subordinates. He emphasizes the importance of a mindset shift, which includes viewing oneself as a leader rather than just a manager, embracing personal agency, and recognizing that key skills are rooted in relationships, not transactions. Prepare to be inspired by Adam’s wealth of knowledge derived from his leadership consulting, personal experiences, and his book, "The Edge."

Adam Tarnow Website | LinkedIn | Podcast | Book

Family Tech Giveaway

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On this week’s episode of The Aro Podcast, we welcome the incredible Manda Carpenter. Manda is an author, podcast host, teacher, advocate, and speaker and a dedicated mother on a mission to create a longer table. Join us as Manda opens up about her personal stories and the powerful impact she strives to make in the lives of the vulnerable. Through her everyday life, she advocates for redemption and empowers those in need. You'll be captivated by her experiences and how her perspective was transformed through her journey of discovering that everything she thought she knew could be changed by embracing curiosity and getting close to the stories of others. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation that will inspire you to make a difference in your own life and the lives of those around you.

Manda Carpenter Website | Instagram | Facebook
Buy Soul Care to Save Your Life

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This week's episode of The Aro Podcast is all about leveraging technology for good, with our special guest, Blake Canterbury, founder of Purposity. In this episode, Blake shares the inspiration and story behind Purposity and how his company uses the habit loop to foster generosity and bridge the gap between those in need and those who can help. Blake also provides valuable insights on poverty, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness of it and sharing how he instills this awareness within his own family. Additionally, he opens up about his personal approach to phone usage around his kids, emphasizing the significance of being fully present when spending time with them. Tune in to this episode for a refreshing perspective on using technology for social good and creating meaningful connections in our communities.

Blake Canterbury | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter

Kyles Curation | Website | Instagram | Download App

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Join us on this week's episode of The Aro Podcast as we welcome special guest Clay Scroggins, a highly regarded pastor, keynote speaker, and author of three impactful leadership books. In this insightful conversation, Clay and Joey dive into the common struggle of feeling inadequate and disqualified to lead, offering valuable insights to overcome these challenges. Through Clay's wealth of knowledge and wisdom in the realm of leadership, you'll gain a fresh perspective on your own abilities and potential and will leave this podcast feeling empowered and equipped to lead with confidence.

Clay Scroggins on Website | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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This week we have a heartfelt conversation with Nicole Zasowski, licensed marriage and family therapist, speaker, and author. Nicole shares valuable insights on parenting and celebrating our children for who they are, emphasizing the importance of timing and expanding our opportunities for celebration. We also delve into the topic of joy and vulnerability, exploring why we sometimes shield ourselves from experiencing joy and the power of embracing it fully. Nicole opens up about her latest book, "What if It's Wonderful," and offers advice on embracing our pain instead of avoiding it. This conversation is authentic, inspiring, and will be sure to touch your heart.

Nicole Zasowski Website | Instagram | Facebook | What if it's Wonderful

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This week on The Aro Podcast, we take a break from our usual topics and dive into the ins and outs of startups and the world of product-driven companies with our special guest, Ben Foster. As an advisor to Aro and the co-founder of Prodify, Ben brings a wealth of insights and experiences from his work with top tech companies. This episode is a must-listen for business leaders and entrepreneurs, as Ben and Joey discuss behind-the-scenes details of the business side of Aro and how their paths crossed. Ben opens up about his career journey, including his time at Whoop, and the inspiration behind his book, Build What Matters, which unveils his methodology for building a product-driven company. Prepare to be inspired as Ben shares his disciplines for goal achievement, and don't miss his powerful statement on the value of time as a precious commodity.

Ben Foster on LinkedIn
Build What Matters Book

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Join Joey and special guest Jamie Ivey, host of The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey podcast and author, for a captivating and insightful conversation on this week's episode of The Aro Podcast. Jamie opens up about her personal journey, reflecting on how her experiences during her late teens to early 20s have shaped her into who she is today, highlighting the power of redemption. Together, she and Joey dive deep into the joys and challenges of parenting, exploring how these experiences can profoundly shape our personal growth and how we navigate our roles as parents. In particular, they delve into the importance of having meaningful and open conversations with our children about sex, offering valuable insights and practical advice for both boys and girls. Jamie's perspective and wisdom on this sensitive topic are truly enlightening. Throughout the episode, Jamie's vulnerability shines through as we explore how she authentically connects with her large audience. Her genuine and relatable approach leaves a lasting impact, making this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking valuable wisdom and inspiration.

Jamie Ivey Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube
The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey

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This week on The Aro Podcast, Joey sits down with Paul Angone, a sought-after national keynote speaker and best-selling author. They delve into Paul's latest book, Listen to Your Day, which explores how we're losing the battle for our own attention due to the allure of technology and social media. They discuss the inspiration behind the book, and how to turn the mundane into magic. The conversation covers how what you pay attention to is what you become and ultimately, how paying attention to our purpose is worth the effort. Tune in to join the conversation between these fast friends and learn about the importance of listening to your day!

Paul Angone Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube

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Join us on this episode of the podcast as we chat with Jamie Taylor, the Founder of the I Am Mom Summit and cofounder of the Family Is Awards. Jamie shares her purpose behind the I Am Mom Summit, the power of having tools in your back pocket, and the importance of finding your people. Joey and Jamie also delve into tech habits, discussing how it's not just a struggle for kids but also for parents. Tune in to hear Jamie's insights and overarching goal as a mom, and be inspired by her passion surrounding mother's influences positively impacting the next generation of leaders, mothers, and fathers.

I Am Mom Summit Website | Instagram | YouTube
Family Is Awards

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Get ready for a heartwarming, deep, and inspiring episode with our guest Chris Powell, transformation specialist and host of the hit TV show "Extreme Weight Loss." Chris joins Joey for a rich conversation about his life journey, including his struggles with addiction, and how he found his calling in fitness transformation. Chris also opens up about his past mental health struggles, divorce, a rough patch in his relationship with his kids, and how he has overcome them to be in a great place in life. Plus, he shares the incredible story behind his latest project, Move One Million, a nonprofit that brings movement and mindfulness to people all over the world. Tune in to this episode of the podcast to learn, and lean in with Chris and Joey as they explore all aspects of transformation, from physical to mental to social health. You won't want to miss it, and make sure to check out The I Needed That podcast on 5/22 to check out Aro cofounder, Joey as a guest.

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Join us for an inspiring episode of the podcast with special guest, Scott Hamilton. Scott is a legendary figure skater, Olympic gold medalist, cancer survivor, and founder of the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation. In this episode, Scott shares his remarkable life story - from a life altering diagnosis as a child to becoming an Olympic gold medalist, to then becoming a cancer survivor and turning into an activist. Scott also speaks about being a serial optimist, finding the silver lining in all things, and how we should live in the present as if it's the only time we have. Tune in for this powerful conversation between Scott and Joey.

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On this week's episode of The Aro Podcast, Joey sits down with Rebekah Lyons, a national speaker, podcast host, and bestselling author. Rebekah's latest book, "Building a Resilient Life: How Adversity Awakens Strength, Hope, and Meaning," is set to release nationwide today, May 2, 2023! In their conversation, Rebekah shares the inspiration behind her new book and the importance of having a community to rely on during hardships. She also emphasizes the value of not running away from pain, but instead, running toward it. Rebekah even shares her five rules for building a resilient life and unpacks the meaning behind each one. You don't want to miss this inspiring conversation with Rebekah Lyons.

Rebekah Lyons Facebook | Instagram | Podcast | Website

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Get ready for a great conversation on this week's episode of The Aro Podcast! Joey sits down with the inspiring Jeanne Stevens, one of the lead pastors of Soul City Church in Chicago's vibrant West Loop neighborhood. As a sought-after speaker, leader, and author, Jeanne shares her secrets to success, including how James Clear's "Atomic Habits" inspired her. Joey and Jeanne also explore the power of gratitude, the importance of living in the present moment, and how to combat negative emotions like blame, shame, guilt, and worry. Plus, don't miss hearing about Jeanne's latest book, "What's Here Now?" which quickly became a bestseller after its release in May 2022.

Jeanne Stevens Instagram | Website | Facebook

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Join us on The Aro Podcast this week as we sit down with stand-up comedian Andrew Stanley! Andrew and Joey discuss his journey from pursuing a corporate career to making the bold decision to follow his passion for comedy. Andrew candidly shares how his personal experiences and upbringing have influenced his unique comedic style, offering listeners an inside look at the mind of a successful comedian. He also talks about what it was like to pursue a career in comedy as the son of a well-known pastor. With a great story and valuable insights, this episode is worth a listen.

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In this week's episode of The Aro Podcast, Joey sits down with Dr. Maxi Heitmayer, an expert in smart device and technology use, a lecturer at the University of the Arts London, and a teaching fellow at the London School of Economics and Political Science. Joey and Maxi dive deep into our relationship with our devices, particularly our phones, and explore why we're so tethered to them. Maxi shares fascinating insights on how we interact with our devices and how this influences our decision-making processes, particularly regarding the use of our time and direction of attention. He also shares some hopeful insights into why we don't necessarily have an addiction to our phones, but rather a set of bad habits that we can change over time. You don't want to miss the valuable, science-backed, insights about our phone use in this episode!

Dr. Maxi Heitmayer on LinkedIn

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In this week's episode of The Aro Podcast, Joey talks with Nicole Unice, a coach, communicator, and author who brings 20 years of leadership, pastoral, and counseling experience to her work. Nicole's honest and relatable approach to speaking and coaching resonates with audiences in both faith and leadership environments. During the episode, Nicole shares insights on why change is challenging but achievable, and how adults often need more help with change than they realize. She also explores the three common areas where humans tend to get stuck and offers practical tips on overcoming them. Whether you're looking for personal growth advice or want to gain a unique perspective from Nicole, this episode is a must-listen.

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Get ready for an inspiring episode of The Aro Podcast featuring David Pollack, a former NFL linebacker turned College GameDay Analyst, who is also an intentional husband and father.

In this episode, David shares his personal story of how a career-ending injury ultimately led him to where he is today. He also opens up about his parenting philosophy and the importance of supporting your children on their personal journeys without controlling them. David has a wealth of wisdom to share, and his insights on parenting are both practical and motivating. Don't miss out on this conversation where you can gain valuable takeaways from David's story and perspective!

David Pollack Instagram | Twitter
Family Goals Podcast Instagram | Twitter
Pollack Family Foundation Instagram

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Join us this week on The Aro Podcast as we chat with the legendary Daymond John, CEO and founder of FUBU, star on ABC’s Shark Tank, and former Presidential Ambassador for Global Entrepreneurship. Daymond has accomplished so much in his career, but nothing compares to his role as a father. He's also a New York Times bestselling author, and his first children's book, Little Daymond Learns to Earn, releases today - March 21st! Daymond shares with us the inspiration behind the book and how it's not just for kids, but for the whole family to enjoy and learn from.

Daymond John Website | Instagram
Little Daymond Learns to Earn

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Kellie Henry is a digital creator who's most known for creating family-friendly content on Tik Tok with her husband and four kids. She takes us on their journey of amassing over 700,000 followers on Tik Tok while still balancing their relationship with social media and phones. Kellie's story is not just about fame and followers, but also about the challenges she's faced in her personal life. She opens up about a difficult time in her marriage when she and her husband considered divorce, and how they were able to work through it. This conversation is raw, real, and highly relatable. Whether you're a content creator yourself, a fan of Kellie's work, or just someone interested in hearing about navigating the ups and downs of life and social media, this episode is for you.

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Justin Whitmel Earley is a lawyer, author, speaker, husband, father, and a great friend of ours over at Aro! He frequently speaks at businesses and legal events on habits, technology, and mental health; and at churches and conferences on habits, spiritual formation, and parenting.

Justin brings a wealth of knowledge to our conversation and dives deep into modeling good habits in front of your kids, as well as prioritizing friendships. We even had the opportunity to discuss his upcoming book Made for People: Why We Drift Into Loneliness and How to Fight for a Life of Friendship, which is all about why human connection is so important and how friendships can shape our lives in incredible ways.

In This Episode:

Justin Whitmel Earley Website | Instagram | YouTube

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Micah Folsom does it all! She runs multiple successful businesses, hosts the Do Your Crap podcast, raises cattle alongside her husband, and homeschools her 5 children - all while being an intentional wife and mom. She’s a huge believer that women can live multi-passionate lives and still honor their family values. She talks about why it’s important to give your kids the best of you, not the rest of you, and that each of your heart tugs is paving the way for you to live out your fullest potential.

In This Episode:
Micah Folsom Instagram | Website | Podcast
Folsom Farm Beef Website

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Tanner Clark is a motivational speaker who believes that teens really can live their best life and reach their potential. Our conversation dives into his message of hope that, even though teenagers are facing difficult challenges, whether anxiety, depression, or feelings of comparison, they can overcome them by finding their “one second of strength.” Tanner also talks practically about the opportunity parents have to show their kids how much they love them by being fully present without the distraction of their phones. Drawing on his experience speaking to thousands and also as a Dad at home, he offers an inspiring challenge for parents and a hopeful message to kids.

In This Episode:
Tanner Clark Instagram | Speaker Info

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Welcome to the Aro Podcast hosted by Joey Odom, co-founder of Aro.

This podcast is going to be a series of conversations with people who strive to live intentionally. We all know that as wonderful as our phones are, they're the single greatest sources of distraction in our lives.

On this show, we will talk about screens and putting down your phone. But more than that, we will talk about the life that happens after you put down your phone. We will have authors, coaches, breathwork, guides, influencers, musicians and a bunch of other interesting people who all strive to live intentionally.

Join us every other Tuesday starting January 31st!

The Aro Podcast: Recent Episodes

Joey Odom