Joe Hollier: He Built the Light Phone to Save You from Your Smartphone (And It’s Working)

Joe Hollier didn’t set out to start a phone company. But after years as an artist, designer, and creative technologist (with work commissioned by the Smithsonian) he co-founded the Light Phone: a minimalist, distraction-free device that’s become a quiet rebellion against the always-on world.

In this episode, Joe shares the design philosophy behind the Light Phone (“designed to be used as little as possible”), and why stepping away from our devices might be the most productive thing we can do. From rewiring your brain for presence to the illusion of social media productivity, he breaks down how to reclaim your time, your attention, and even your memory.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, over-connected, or just craving real focus again — this one will stick with you.