The Motion of Gratitude®

Rethinking Social Media: Connection, Reflection & Digital Well-Being with Dr. Lee Humphreys

Shannon Missimer Season 4 Episode 12

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In this thought-provoking conversation, Shannon sits down with Dr. Lee Humphreys—professor at Cornell University, researcher, and author of The Qualified Self—to explore how our digital habits reflect deeper human needs for connection, identity, and meaning. Together, they unpack the emotional weight of social media, how platforms shape our lives, and what it really means to engage with technology intentionally.

Dr. Humphreys offers a powerful reframe: what if social media isn’t inherently good or bad—but simply a mirror? A tool we can use mindfully, just as we've used diaries, scrapbooks, and photographs for generations.

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by digital life or simply curious about how to use media more consciously, this episode offers grounding insights, practical guidance, and a refreshing reminder that presence is always possible—even online.

In this episode, we explore:
• 🌱 The historical roots of social sharing and why they matter today
• 💡 The role of social media in identity, memory, and connection
• 🧠 Mindful media use as a tool for well-being (not comparison or overwhelm)
• 📱 AI, communication, and how to stay human in a digital world

Links & Resources:
The Qualified Self by Lee Humphreys
– Learn more about Lee’s work at Cornell University
– Follow @themotionofgratitude on Instagram

🎧 Listen now and reclaim your relationship with the digital world.

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Looking forward to connecting with you!