Digital Discernment

Dr. Randa speaks with Dean Theophilos, a licensed mental health therapist and addictions counselor, about technology addiction vs bad habit. Dean explains some of the complexities around tech addiction and how it is different from a bad habit. He offers much hope for help and change regardless of the severity of the problem. *Note–This podcast is for educational purposes only and not meant as a su...

Dr. Randa speaks with Yianni Hahalis, the Relationship Coordinator for the CrossRoad Institute. As a digital native, he shares his experiences with technology, both struggles and rewards.

Dr. Randa speaks with Dan O’Brien, a marketing executive, about how social media operates to engage users and ultimately usurp their time and money.

Dr. Randa speaks with Joanna Mamalakis, a nurse and CrossRoad alum who shares her story of how her group of friends supported each other through a Lenten digital fast, and the transformation they felt by doing so.

Dr. Randa speaks with Dr. Roxanne Louh about social media’s impact on our mental and spiritual health.

Dr. Randa speaks with Fr. Michael Tishel, former CrossRoad Director and current priest at Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church in Marietta, Georgia. He shares additional reflections into the meaning of “discernment” from an Orthodox perspective, painting metaphorical pictures that reveal deep insights.

Psychologist Dr. Ary Christofidis shares with Dr. Randa his professional insights regarding the impact of excessive tech use on family dynamics. And he has plenty of advice for parents on how to handle challenges and conflicts with their children and adolescents. Resources: St. Theophan the Recluse, Raising Them Right: A Saint’s Advice on Raising Children St. Paisios of Mt Athos, Spiritual Counsel...

Dr. Randa speaks with Nico LaLiberte, a parish youth ministry worker in Canada, who incorporates a 10 minute practice of silence at each youth group meeting. Nico shares why and how they’ve taught their youth to love this experience of quiet and stillness. Dr. Randa and Nico then discuss why the practice of silence is important for growing closer to God, and how silence can be an antidote to our n...

Listen as Dr. Randa speaks with Anastasia Friesen, a young adult who works for the Orthodox Volunteer Corps. Anastasia shares her insights on growing up as a “digital native” as well as working with youth entranced by social media. She offers new and creative ideas for keeping her tech use to a minimum. Resources mentioned in this episode: 1. https://orthodoxvolunteercorps.org/ 2. Newport, Cal (20...

Dr. Randa and Michelle Moujaes, Executive Director of Faithtree Resources and mother of 4 children, talk about the challenges of parenting children in the digital age. Michelle shares her and her husband’s intentional approach, involving open communication, clear purpose, and the courage to resist cultural norms around tech use. Resources mentioned on the show: www.faithtree.org. Other resources f...

In this episode, Dr. Randa speaks with Fr. Nicholas Louh of AFR’s show “Live with the Louh’s.” He shares his insights on how to use digital media thoughtfully to bring people to Christ and His Church. With his strong online presence and a thriving parish, Fr. Nicholas is the ideal person to discuss “Digital Discernment” and the positive side of using technology in ministry. Note his fervent desire...

In this episode, Dr. Randa speaks with Elizabeth Ayoub, a homeschooling mom and parish leader in education and youth ministry. Elizabeth has approached technology use with her child very thoughtfully, and she’s made courageous choices that buck the trends. She’s read many books and reflected deeply on how to engage technology with intention and in ways that align with Orthodox values. Books mentio...

In this episode of Digital Discernment, Dr. Randa speaks with Panos Coufos, the Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries and the Metropolis of Boston Camp for the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Boston. Focusing on the NYT best selling book, “Atomic Habits,” by James Clear, Panos shares how the principles he learned from the book about breaking bad habits and building healthier new ones have led...

In this episode, Dr. Randa Anderson and Fr. Panagiotis Boznos discuss the deep meaning of “discernment” from an Orthodox perspective, including how to develop that discernment through specific practices of the Orthodox Church. Exploring the teachings of St. John of the Ladder in a straightforward and relevant way, Fr. Panagiotis gives fresh insights that inspire listeners to become more discerning...

In this introductory episode, Dr. Ann Bezzerides, Executive Director of the CrossRoad Institute, details her inspiration to offer this podcast on Digital Discernment. She shares the context for offering stories of “everyday” people who’ve made courageous and creative decisions around ways to manage their tech use. She also sets up the frame for interviews with experts from psychology and theology...