Creating Tech-Free Spaces (Part 2): Building Rhythms That Last

What does it actually look like to build a tech-wise home in real life?

In Part 2 of our conversation on Smart Tech Use, Andy and Kelly sit down with Rachel Medefind, Director of the Institute for Family-Centered Healing & Health at the Christian Alliance for Orphans.

Rachel holds a Master of Science in Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health from King’s College London, with a focus on children who have experienced early adversity, and is the author of When There Is Crisis. She is also a bio mom, foster mom, and adoptive mom raising five children ranging from teens to young adults.

Rachel shares how her family built rhythms over time — not overnight — to protect what matters most. From delaying smartphones to creating screen-free mornings and evenings, she offers a hopeful, practical vision rooted in one foundational idea:

Technology decisions must flow from your family’s values — not fear.

If you’ve ever thought, “We’re too far gone,” this episode will remind you: it’s never too late to reset.

Episode Highlights

[08:00] Why parents feel overwhelmed — and how fear can paralyze leadership

[11:30] Starting with your family’s “big rocks” before setting tech rules

[15:30] Why parents’ device habits must change first

[17:45] Delaying smartphones and matching tools to actual needs

[19:30] Having teens write and sign their own phone agreements

[20:00] Screen-free mornings: prayer, chores, movement before devices

[22:30] No devices in bedrooms and protecting sleep

[24:30] Baby steps vs. drastic resets — how to make meaningful change

[27:00] Why technology is a spiritual formation issue, not just a behavior issue

[34:00] Life beyond screens — from reading aloud to 25 days on the John Muir Trail

Resources Mentioned

📖 When There Is Crisis — Rachel Medefind

📖 The Anxious Generation — Jonathan Haidt

📖 You on Purpose — Dr. Stephanie Shackelford

📖 The Common Rule — Justin Whitmel Earley

🌐 Christian Alliance for Orphans

https://cafo.org

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You don’t have to navigate modern parenting alone.

Let’s move from desperation to hope — together.