Digital Missions Podcast with Justin Khoe

068 - Identifying Healthy vs Unhealthy Tech use with Nathan Sutherland

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Digital Missions Podcast, host Justin Khoe engages in a profound discussion with Nathan Sutherland, the co-founder of Gospel Tech, a ministry dedicated to helping young families navigate the intersection of faith and technology. Justin explores his own moral dilemmas as a content creator, while Nathan offers insights into how technology can be both a gift and a challenge. Nathan shares his journey from being a middle school teacher to starting Gospel Tech, giving practical advice on distinguishing between 'tool tech' and 'drool tech,' using the RESET framework to evaluate tech usage, and providing strategies for setting healthy boundaries around technology. The conversation extends to real-life applications, especially in parenting, helping children understand the impact of tech on their lives, and forming a healthy relationship with it from a faith-based perspective. Nathan emphasizes the importance of equipping children and parents alike to use technology responsibly without compromising their spiritual growth.

Episode Notes

Learn More about Gospel Tech here: https://www.gospeltech.net/

Gospel-Centered Tech (Book): https://amzn.to/3VckQPl

The Graceful Disconnect: https://amzn.to/40GzKk7

00:00 Introduction: The Moral Dilemma of Social Media 

00:10 Meet Nathan Sutherland and Gospel Tech 

01:13 Justin's Personal Journey with Tech 

03:50 The Concept of Healthy Tech 

06:14 Tool Tech vs. Drool Tech 

11:09 The RESET Framework for Tech Use 

13:25 Practical Tips for Parents 

27:12 The Role of Self-Awareness in Tech Use 

31:39 The Impact of Social Media and Pornography on Youth 

31:57 A Testimony of Faith in a Second Chance School 

32:40 Understanding the Journey and Identity of Young People 

33:06 Parenting Strategies: Setting Boundaries with Technology 

34:12 The Role of Tech in Education and Accountability 

35:35 Navigating Tech Use with Teenagers 

43:41 Building Healthy Tech Habits for Young Children 

56:17 Resources and Final Thoughts on Gospel Tech