Johann Hari: Is Everything We’ve Been Told About Addiction Wrong?

The average office worker can now focus for just 43 seconds on a single task.
Bestselling author Johann Hari joins Roxie to explain why our ability to concentrate is collapsing...and how technology, diet, modern work culture, and social media algorithms are quietly rewiring our brains.

But attention is only part of the story.

In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore the rising epidemics of loneliness, anxiety, addiction and burnout, the surprising science behind addiction and connection, and why so many people feel disconnected in a hyper-connected world. Johann also shares insights from his research into weight-loss drugs, what they reveal about cravings and compulsive behaviours, and what they might teach us about addiction more broadly.

Through powerful stories and research from around the world, Johann challenges the way we think about mental health, arguing that healing often begins not with medication alone, but with rebuilding connection, purpose, and community.

If you’ve ever struggled to focus, felt overwhelmed by modern life, or wondered why so many people feel lost today, this conversation will change how you see your mind.

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of sexual abuse, addiction, and trauma, which some listeners may find distressing.
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