Hey, Community Padawans!
Big news: this week, we’re trying something different.
Our first-ever video post on Substack. It’s a conversation with Hector Hughes, co-founder and CEO of Unplugged.
Now, Unplugged is redefining what it means to disconnect in a hyper-connected world. They’re giving people the chance to completely disconnect from their tech for three days. No phones. No screens. Just pure offline time to reset.
In our chat, we dive deep into why it’s so important for brands to create real, transformational experiences (and not just push products). We also talk about the mental toll of being always on, and how founders like Hector think about building brands with purpose.
But first, let’s break down the biggest insights.
🛠️ Feature Story → The power of perspective shifts
Most businesses focus on changing habits.
But here’s where Unplugged flips the script: instead of changing habits, they change perspectives.
Why? Because once people experience three days completely offline, they realize something profound:
📵 The world doesn’t end when you step away.
🌿 You feel calmer, more present, more human.
🧠 Your brain starts working differently. More focused, more creative.
Hector calls this “unlocking a new perspective.” It’s not about forcing people to change. It’s about showing them what’s possible.
Case Study: The transformational power of going offline
People look younger after just three days offline. (Yes, seriously. Hector noticed guests returning from a retreat looking noticeably more relaxed like they’d shed 10 years of stress.
Many customers return and start implementing digital detoxes in their daily lives, like leaving their phone at home once a week.
Unplugged isn’t just renting cabins. It’s creating a cultural shift around our relationship with technology.
It’s a simple idea: Lock your phone. Unlock your mind.
But it’s proving to be life-changing.
📈 The trend to watch → The rise of “digital detox” Brands
We all know the online world is getting noisier.
More content, more notifications, more distractions.
That’s why a counter-trend is emerging:
🔹 Brands built around intentional disconnection.
🔹 Experiences that help people step away from screens.
🔹 A shift from constant engagement → to meaningful presence.
Examples of brands tapping into this:
✅ Unplugged → Simple, offline retreats with a clear promise: 3 days, no phone, full reset.
✅ DB’s Creative Retreats → Bringing customers into real-life creative spaces.
✅ The Offline Club → Hosting in-person, phone-free events to deepen connections.
The takeaway: Building a brand isn’t just about grabbing attention. It’s about creating moments so valuable, people want to unplug for them.
💡 Tactical tip → design a phone-free experience for your brand
Every brand today is fighting for attention. But what if you changed the game?
This week’s challenge: Create one moment where customers engage with your brand. Without a screen.
Some ideas:
➡️ If you run events, try a “phone-free” zone.
➡️ If you have a product, design a ritual that encourages presence
(e.g., grinding coffee, journaling, stretching before use).
➡️ If you run a community, host a live experience where digital distractions are removed.
People are craving real connection. How can your brand deliver that?
That’s it for this week.
Make sure to check out the full conversation with Hector. It’s a deep dive into disconnection, founder challenges, and building a brand that actually changes lives.
Quick question: Could you go offline for three days? Drop your thoughts below and let’s talk about it.
See you next week,
Francisco
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