Can tech really get you off your phone and into real life?

How many times have you picked up your phone to check one thing and found yourself still scrolling 30 minutes later? I know I've done it.

Our phones make it incredibly easy to stay connected.

Yet something interesting seems to be happening at the same time.

Many people are looking for more reasons to put those phones down and spend time with other people in the real world.

Run clubs are growing.

Local gatherings are drawing attention.

Phone-free events are popping up.

People seem hungry for experiences that feel a little less like another feed.

That raises an interesting question: Could the same technology that keeps pulling us online also help get us back into real life? That idea is behind NewTree Social, an early-stage community events app from 29-year-old founder Maddy O'Connor.

She wants people to use their phones to discover something happening nearby, make a plan and then go experience it.

And the timing may be right.

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