Unplugged: An ex-tech executive with a new mission

Jenna Poste, a former tech executive, was once at the forefront of innovation at Blackberry, helping to build products during the rise of the “always on” movement – a time that felt brimming with excitement and productivity. However, as engagement metrics and data collection became the true engines of tech growth, Big Tech extended its reach beyond businesses and into childhood. The consequences are now all too clear: addiction, isolation, anxiety, depression, and more.

With deep insight into how these platforms are designed, Jenna has made a deliberate choice to keep her young children offline and prioritize real-world connections. As a co-founder of the Nova Scotia chapter of Unplugged Canada, she’s advocating for healthier childhoods by delaying smartphone use and encouraging mindful technology habits–for kids and parents alike. “If I am on my phone in front of them, I tell them why…like, ‘I’m looking up a recipe for dinner or answering an important work call’.”

In this episode, Jenna and Nicki of Scrolling 2 Death share their perspectives on raising kids in a hyper-connected world, why they chose a different path, and how families can reclaim balance in their lives.

About Jenna Poste

Jenna Poste is a tech executive, mom of two and co-founder of the Nova Scotia chapter of Unplugged Canada—a national parent-led movement working to raise awareness about the impacts of smartphones and social media on kids' mental health and development and advocating for parents to delay.

With nearly two decades of experience in the tech industry, Jenna has built products at BlackBerry, led safety initiatives in social media and developed tools focused on well-being. Today, she's using that experience to advocate for healthier childhoods - delaying smartphones, promoting real-world connection, and pushing for policy change across Canada.