Ep 270: Parenting Beyond Social Media

CJ Casciotta, author of The Forgotten Art of Being Ordinary,
joins us to discuss parenting beyond social media and finding
real community. We talk about how to guide teens to separate
online fiction from truth, why ordinary existence is profoundly
meaningful, and how to foster raw, personal connection.


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Full Show Notes


In today's social media saturated world, it can feel impossible
to raise teens without the influence of the metaverse. Kids are
constantly comparing themselves to unrealistic standards set by
influencers and celebrities online. The temptation for teens to
create a sort of fictional version of themselves for social media
is huge.


So how do we parent teens beyond the vortex of social platforms?
How can we model authenticity and real human connection for kids
distracted by the digital realm?


To help make sense of it all, we spoke with CJ Casciotta, author
of The Forgotten Art of Being Ordinary: A Human Manifesto in the
Age of the Metaverse. As a media professional himself, CJ has an
inside look at the social technology teens are using. But as a
parent, he's concerned about the way online personas are
replacing real identities.


In our conversation with CJ, we discussed moving beyond the
virtual world to find meaning in ordinary human existence. We
also talked about the importance of modeling authentic offline
experiences for teens.


Escaping the Comparison Trap


Social platforms tempt us to create the best possible versions of
ourselves to display to others. But as CJ explains, teens feel
pressure to make their lives seem extraordinary in the process.
They often feel inadequate when comparing their realities to the
fake realities shown by influencers online.


CJ stressed that parents need to clarify the line between truth
and fiction for kids. We should have open conversations about the
fact that what teens see online is often more acting than real
life. As parents, we can model embracing ordinary existence for
teens, showing them that a normal life is beautiful too.


CJ suggests that we guide teens in using technology to create art
and community that celebrates ordinary humanity. We can prompt
them to appreciate the simple miracles of human connection,
instead of chasing inflated social media success.


Building True Community


Real community requires showing up authentically, embracing
imperfection. As CJ explains, this means resisting the urge to
document and publicize every gathering. True connection happens
when we put down our devices and engage sincerely with those
around us.


CJ is modeling this for his own kids by recently moving to a new
city to be closer to genuine friends. He realized his family felt
isolated and numb despite living in a crowded urban area. Now
they are remembering what real community feels like.


As parents, we can push teens to value in-person experiences over
digital ones. We can also limit their technology use at times so
real connection isn't constantly competing with the virtual
world. Building spaces for teens to bond beyond devices needs to
become an intentional priority.


In the Episode...


Diving beyond the world of screens is crucial for families today.
On top of the topics above, CJ and I also discussed:


Why teaching kids to separate fact from fiction matters

How to parent the first generation of digital natives

Why poets and artists will be key leaders in the coming age

How parents can model authenticity for teens



If you want to learn more, visit CJ's Substack
(bycj.substack.com) or check out his book The Forgotten Art of
Being Ordinary. As always, don't forget to subscribe!





Sponsored by Equip: Eating disorder treatment
that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more
information, and a free consultation.