GenFree: Unplugging 2 Connect

Kathleen Barlow ~ Swimming UpScreen
  • 5.0 (2)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Calling all Gen Z and their families! If you're tired of spending endless hours glued to a screen and want to reclaim real-life connections, you’re in the right place. Ever feel like persuasive design engineers are manipulating your screen time? Not sure what that even means? We’re here to explore how to break free from excessive digital use and find fulfilling alternatives. Whether you're ready for big changes or just small steps, this podcast will help you navigate the journey. Hosted by Kathleen Barlow—a mother, grandmother, former French teacher, and advocate for healthier screen habits!

  1. Harrison Hayne's Journey: From Victim to Advocate

    FEB 21

    Harrison Hayne's Journey: From Victim to Advocate

    Harrison Haynes was the victim of online harm as a teenager, beginning when he was only 12 years old. He has courageously turned this difficult experience into advocacy and is the founder of DIM (Digitally Intentional Movement). He also serves as the chair of the end OSEAC (Online Sexual Exploitation and Abuse of Children) Survivors Council. Harrison and I were able to chat about his studies at James Madison University, his ambitions to become a social worker, his new role of husband, and even about a recent chronic illness that he refuses to let keep him down. Despite some of the difficult content that we discussed, I found this to be an inspiring conversation with Harrison, and hope that you'll join us!

    51 min
  2. Gen Alpha Second Grader Talks About His Waldorf Charter School

    JAN 20

    Gen Alpha Second Grader Talks About His Waldorf Charter School

    Bradley is an 8-year-old second grader and a member of Gen Alpha, who had a conversation with his Lolli (aka his grandmother, Kathleen), about what it's like attending his Waldorf-inspired charter school. Whether it's learning to knit, gardening, or reading in the school's cozy library (which even boasts a fireplace!), Bradley is enthusiastic about school and engaged in the learning process there. Screens are not a part of the curriculum, other than mandatory state testing, and Bradley does not hesitate to weigh in on his feelings about it all. Please enjoy Kathleen's conversation with her oldest grandson, and see if you agree that the benefits of focusing on the whole child, while limiting digital technology in schools, are undeniable!

    36 min
  3. Ryan Huh: Filmmaker ~ Photographer ~ Storyteller

    JAN 6

    Ryan Huh: Filmmaker ~ Photographer ~ Storyteller

    Ryan Huh is a director and photographer based out of the NYC metro area. He is fascinated by the power of stories to inspire the collective imagination, starting from a single moment passed down through generations. He holds a BFA from NYU Tisch School of the Arts in Film/TV Production. His recent documentary, Starting Over, was awarded the Lookup.Live grant. He is currently in post-production on his debut narrative short film, Profile.

    31 min
  4. Elianajoy's Story of Connection & Purpose through Intentional Living

    12/30/2025

    Elianajoy's Story of Connection & Purpose through Intentional Living

    Elianajoy Volin is a senior at Kenyon College, majoring in English with a Creative Writing emphasis, a concentration in Gender and Sexuality Studies, and a minor in Neuroscience. She is passionate about living an intentional, low-screen lifestyle. From spending her childhood without a TV, to a year abroad studying at the University of Exeter in Devon, England, to spending a few days living at a monastery in France, Elianajoy is practicing the art of human connection. She is interested in researching and working in the fields of mental health, public health, writing, and queer joy, and is deeply committed to enacting positive change in her own communities.

    1h 7m
  5. From Addiction to Advocacy: Liddy's Story

    10/29/2025

    From Addiction to Advocacy: Liddy's Story

    In this episode, Kathleen engages in a heartfelt conversation with Liddy and Corinne Johnson about the challenges of navigating digital technology and social media. Liddy, a 17-year-old advocate against social media addiction, shares her personal journey from addiction to recovery, while her mother, Corinne, discusses her advocacy for parental rights and digital safety. Together, they explore the generational differences in digital technology use, the importance of real-life connections, and the legislative efforts to protect children from harmful digital content. The episode emphasizes the need for open communication between parents and children, the significance of setting boundaries with digital technology, and the power of advocacy in creating positive change.

    1h 1m
  6. Hillary Kimball: High School Cheerleader & Journalist

    09/25/2025

    Hillary Kimball: High School Cheerleader & Journalist

    Hillary Kimball is a 16-year-old high school student who was published in the Salt Lake Tribune for an editorial based on the challenges of growing up in the age of digital technology. Hillary enjoys cheerleading at her school and loves to travel.

    35 min
  7. Ngozi Edema: Children's Book Author & Time Management Coach

    09/23/2025

    Ngozi Edema: Children's Book Author & Time Management Coach

    Ngozi Edema is a children’s book author and time management coach who helps busy moms, writers, and entrepreneurs reclaim their time and turn minutes into milestones. With nearly two decades of writing experience, she’s passionate about storytelling and believes productivity should feel purposeful, not overwhelming. Through her coaching, books, and podcast, she empowers others to create space for their goals and finishwhat matters most.

    50 min
  8. Michael Perrone: Build The Village

    08/08/2025

    Michael Perrone: Build The Village

    Michael Perrone resides with his wife and 6 children in the PNW. He’s a consultant who helps fathers lead in their home, their work and in their community. His mission is to help 1 million fathers unleash their leadership potential.

    43 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Calling all Gen Z and their families! If you're tired of spending endless hours glued to a screen and want to reclaim real-life connections, you’re in the right place. Ever feel like persuasive design engineers are manipulating your screen time? Not sure what that even means? We’re here to explore how to break free from excessive digital use and find fulfilling alternatives. Whether you're ready for big changes or just small steps, this podcast will help you navigate the journey. Hosted by Kathleen Barlow—a mother, grandmother, former French teacher, and advocate for healthier screen habits!

Information

  • Creator
    Kathleen Barlow ~ Swimming UpScreen
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Kathleen Barlow ~ Swimming UpScreen
  • Show Website
    GenFree: Unplugging 2 Connect