Aro founders Heath Wilson and Joey Odom

See the personal stories that inspired Aro.

devious Semikoli

We started Aro for our own families and we want to help yours.

It’s no secret that screen time is one of the biggest issues facing families today. And we’re not just talking about the kids! Joey and I both struggle with this amazing, captivating, infinitely-powerful tool that we call a smartphone.

We knew something had to change. We wanted to be better for our families and we wanted our families to be better.

So we created Aro. Aro leverages the science of habit formation and motivational design to ensure parents and kids don’t miss out on what’s most important by helping reclaim time spent on their phones.

We've seen the benefits in our own families, and now we want you to experience Aro in yours.

Sincerely,
Heath Wilson & Joey Odom

Aro Ambassador

Julie Ericksen

Wife | Mom of 2

Spokane, WA

Julie Ericksen
About
Julie

We are a family of four who have always lived in the Pacific Northwest. My husband, Ryan, and I are celebrating our 20th anniversary this June. Our son, Isaac, is a hardworking lifeguard who will be turning 16 next week! Our daughter, Abby, whose name means “Father’s Joy,” lights up a room and will be turning 14 this summer. With our kids getting their first iPhones a couple of months ago, we're learning how to balance life with modern technology. For family fun, we enjoy skiing and boating, and the kids love anything that involves their friends.

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Q&A with
Julie

Do you have a moment when you realized your phone was getting in the way of what’s important to you?‍

For me, it was overnight. For the family, it was during dinner.

What attracted you to Aro?

I was drawn to Aro as a positive way to establish healthy habits, especially with my teens getting their first iPhones.

What is the greatest piece of advice you have ever received?

Oh my, that's quite the question! I'd say it's from John 16:33.

What’s your favorite book?

Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan.

What are some of your favorite activities to do when you put down your phone?

Take a bath, cook a delicious meal with all the ingredients, and a glass of wine nearby, and spend time with my family outdoors.

A woman wakes up in bed. The Aro is in the foregound on a low table.A medium shot of a woman reading in bed. The Aro is on a night stand beside her.

Give yourself some
digital space.

Find better phone-use rhythms so you can focus on a world outside of your phone.

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