252 - The Lost Art of Listening in a World of Endless Noise

Oct 21, 2025

The podcast delves into the lost art of active listening in our noisy, hyper-connected world. It highlights how constant information overload fragments our attention and weakens emotional connections. Anecdotes reveal that loved ones, including pets, can sense when we’re disengaged. The host shares practical tips for becoming a better listener, emphasizing the importance of pausing, reflecting feelings, and asking open questions. Listeners are encouraged to try a 'listening fast' to strengthen their skills and engage more deeply in conversations.

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INSIGHT

Attention Overload Undermines Listening

Listening is an endangered skill as people consume massive amounts of fragmented input daily.
Jill argues this overload fragments attention and reduces capacity for deep, personal listening.

INSIGHT

Semi‑Presence Erodes Empathy

Smartphones create semi-presence that interrupts empathy and connection when notifications pull attention away.
Jill says even brief blips out of conversations damage emotional connection and make people feel ignored.

ANECDOTE

Kids Notice When Adults Aren't Present

Jill recounts a restaurant scene where a child excitedly tells his dad about a gold star while the father is distracted.
She uses the story to show how semi-presence from devices makes people feel unheard.

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The Lost Skill: How to Truly Listen in a Noisy World

In this episode, we explore the powerful, yet often forgotten skill of active listening. With so many voices competing for our attention, it’s easy to forget how much listening really matters. From relationships to leadership, personal growth to mental health, being fully present with another person can change everything.
I talk about why listening is disappearing in our hyper-connected world, how technology has both enabled and undermined our attention spans, and share stories that illustrate the real-life cost of inattentiveness. I also give actionable tools and techniques for becoming a better listener, even if you're busy, distracted, or naturally talkative.

Why Listening Feels Impossible Today:
We live in an era of constant input. Podcasts, texts, videos—our minds are flooded. This makes deep, personal listening feel like a lost art. I discuss how attention is fragmented, and how this affects our relationships and emotional connections.
The Myth of the Good Listener:
Most people believe they’re good listeners, but research shows otherwise. I explore the science behind poor listening and why memory and attention are often at odds with perception.
Technology's Role in Half-Presence:
I share examples of how smartphones and smartwatches create semi-presence in conversations and how even our pets can detect when we aren’t fully there.
Practical Steps for Active Listening:
Learn simple, concrete steps to build the muscle of listening: pausing before replying, reflecting feelings back, asking open questions, and using affirming body language.
Key Takeaways:
Listening is a powerful skill, but one we often ignore. By choosing to pause, reflect, and ask instead of speak, we create space for real connection. Active listening is not just about being quiet—it’s about showing up with intention and presence. You don’t need to overhaul your personality to become a better listener—just pick one or two small habits and grow from there. In a distracted world, being someone who truly listens is a gift—to others and to yourself.

https://startwithsmallsteps.com/252-the-lost-art-of-listening-in-a-world-of-endless-noise/

Jill’s Links
https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com

https://www.youtube.com/@startwithsmallsteps
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
https://twitter.com/schmern
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.