What we consume doesn’t just affect our bodies. It shapes our hearts, minds, and even our souls. On The Drew Mariani Show, Drew explored the growing impact of digital media and social media on modern life with Dr. Eugene Gan of Franciscan University of Steubenville.
Drew compared media consumption to junk food. Too much unhealthy input leaves us spiritually sluggish, angry, fearful, and divided. “You become what you consume,” he warned, pointing to how endless scrolling and partisan media can slowly form the way we see others and ourselves.
Dr. Gan agreed, explaining that constant, uncontrolled media use makes it difficult to hear God’s voice. “We need that space to listen,” he said, reflecting on how saints like St. Patrick encountered God in silence and solitude rather than constant distraction.
The conversation also highlighted the dangers of algorithms that reinforce anger, tribalism, and ideological extremes. Dr. Gan reminded listeners that online platforms profit from our attention. “We’re the product,” he said, encouraging Catholics to think carefully about how much time and focus they surrender online.
Both Drew and Dr. Gan proposed a practical spiritual remedy: fasting from media. Just as fasting from food brings clarity and self-control, stepping away from screens can restore peace, attention, and openness to God’s presence.
Dr. Gan encouraged listeners to pray before going online, set healthy limits, and intentionally create moments of silence throughout the day. “When we say yes to something,” he explained, “we’re saying no to something else.”
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