Screen time isn’t the only activity that can keep you hooked. With neuroscientist Dr. Samantha Yammine, discover the distinction she sees between getting absorbed in a puzzle and getting pulled through your phone, and what it means for choosing your downtime.

You meant to call your mum. Somehow, you’re watching TikTok instead. Sam recognises that detour herself. What changes between deciding to do something and finding yourself somewhere you never intended to go?

A book, a puzzle, something to colour: an analog stack offers alternatives within reach. But does stacking them have specific scientific support? Sam separates what has been studied from her own reasoning about why a little variety might make those options more inviting.

Topics: screen time, analog activities, brain stacking, autonomy, novelty

GUEST: Dr. Samantha Yammine, @science.sam samanthayammine.com

Originally aired on 2026-11-10

Screen time isn&rsquo;t the only activity that can keep you hooked. With neuroscientist Dr. Samantha Yammine, discover the distinction she sees between getting absorbed in a puzzle and getting pulled through your phone, and what it means for choosing your downtime.
You meant to call your mum. Somehow, you&rsquo;re watching TikTok instead. Sam recognises that detour herself. What changes between deciding to do something and finding yourself somewhere you never intended to go?
A book, a puzzle, something to colour: an analog stack offers alternatives within reach. But does stacking them have specific scientific support? Sam separates what has been studied from her own reasoning about why a little variety might make those options more inviting.
Topics: screen time, analog activities, brain stacking, autonomy, novelty
GUEST: Dr. Samantha Yammine, @science.sam samanthayammine.com
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-11-10

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.