THE NON-OBVIOUS SHOW · EPISODE 48

The Future of Boredom [LIVE] - What Happens When It Is Harder To Do Nothing?

with Dr. Joanne Orlando and Dan Ilic

Episode 48 · August 19, 2025 · 34 min

In this episode, the conversation explores the often-overlooked value of boredom in our hyper-connected world. The guests discuss how boredom can foster creativity, the impact of digital technology on our ability to be bored, and the societal implications of our relationship with boredom. They also delve into the future of boredom, suggesting it may become a sought-after experience as people seek to disconnect from constant stimulation.

Listen Now Spotify Apple Podcasts RSS

Listen To This Episode

Episode Summary

FULL EPISODE SUMMARY NOT YET WRITTENPlaceholder for a longer paragraph-length summary, once that copy is sourced

Key Takeaways

01Boredom is becoming a premium product as people seek to disconnect.
02Creativity often flourishes in moments of boredom.
03Digital technology is diminishing our ability to be bored.
04Boredom can lead to self-reflection and personal growth.
05Mindfulness practices are often seen as more acceptable than boredom.
06Boredom is linked to feelings of loneliness in the digital age.
07Parents often feel pressured to fill their children's time to avoid boredom.
08Boredom can inspire innovative ideas and projects.
09The future may see a rise in digital detox camps and boredom retreats.
10Understanding boredom can help us reclaim our time and attention.

What We Cover

00:00The Value of Boredom
02:59Boredom and Creativity
10:00Boredom in the Digital Age
19:29Defining Boredom
24:06Boredom and Loneliness
27:39The Future of Boredom

About The Guest

Dr. Joanne Orlando and Dan Ilic

Joanne Orlando: Digital wellbeing researcher, Western Sydney University; Dan Ilic: Australian satirist; host of A Rational Fear

Joanne Orlando is an associate professor at Western Sydney University and the author of Life Mode On and Generation Connected. She researches digital wellbeing and is a frequent Australian commentator on how screens shape attention, learning and family life. Dan Ilic is an Australian comedian and producer who hosts the satirical podcast and live show A Rational Fear. He has been executive producer of ABC programs including Tonightly with Tom Ballard, and senior satire producer at Al Jazeera's AJ+.

joanneorlando.com.au / danilic.com ↗