113. When Funerals Make You Rethink Everything: Phones, Family & What Matters Most

Beyond The Crops

In this deeply personal and reflective episode, Jena and Mary Pat share a conversation sparked by recent life events that have them thinking about legacy, the passage of time, and the ever-present challenge of managing screen time in a hyper-connected world. After the loss of both of her grandmothers just eight days apart, Jena shares the poignant realization that it often takes a funeral to bring the whole family together, leading to a heartfelt discussion about being truly present with the ones we love.

📌 What We Cover in This Episode:

✅ Jena shares the recent loss of her two beloved grandmothers.
✅ Reflecting on the legacy of their screen-free grandmothers' generation.
✅ Modeling healthy tech boundaries for our children.
✅ The challenge of having a phone-based job while parenting young kids.
✅ Actionable tips for reducing your own screen time
✅ Startling statistics on how often we really check our phones.
✅ The addictive, intentional design of social media and video games.
✅ Encouragement to be more intentional, even when it's hard.

💡 Key Takeaways:

✨ The time we have with loved ones is finite. Being present is a choice we must actively and intentionally make every day.
✨ Our relationship with our phones is what our children will model. Healthy boundaries and intentional disconnection start with us.
✨ Small, practical changes—like turning off notifications or moving apps off your home screen—can significantly reduce mindless scrolling and create space for real life.
✨ Meaningful memories are often built in the simple, screen-free moments—cooking in the kitchen, playing outside, or just being fully together.
✨ Don't wait for a major life event to prioritize family. Put the phone down, be present, and "call your grandma."

This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.

🙌 Join the Conversation!
This episode is a powerful reminder for all of us. What's one boundary you're setting with your phone to be more present with your family this week? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_.

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