Operation Unplugged: Q&A with Cat LeBel
Catherine “Cat” LeBel
Show handle: Cyber Hound
Age: 26
Hometown: Ottawa, ON
Studies: Biomedical psychiatric sciences
Favourite websites: Boing Boing and Facebook
Why did you want to be on Operation Unplugged?
I was kind of stuck in a tech rut, really obsessing over my dramas and just surfing. I felt stuck and needed to switch gears and this was the perfect opportunity for that. I wanted to get outside and go to some parks, which I’d never been to.
What was the hardest part of being away from it all?
It was difficult at first—like when you’re away from your drug of choice—but after a while it felt good to be able to focus on one thing at a time. I’m the kind of the person who has a million tabs open in Firefox, so it felt good to be able to focus.
What was the most difficult part of being on the show?
For me it was about staying focused, especially during stressful situations. That’s what I have to work on the most. Whenever I’m stressed I get brain fog and it happened to me a few times during the show.
Did being out there help?
Oh yes. I brought meditation back from there and use it regularly. Especially in traffic.
Did you bring anything else back from the show?
I tried to do some cross-country skiing, which I’m horrible at, but plan to do a bit more, Most of my sports are done during the summer. [During the show] I’d write everyday in my journal and I’m forcing myself to do it. Well, at first I was forcing it, but now I like it and do it every day.
What was the best part of being on the show?
The people. The cast, we had so much fun. Being with brave people in new places really made it what it was.
What’s your favourite park?
Riding Mountain National Park because I rode a horse for the first time.
What would be your advice for others who are too plugged-in?
Going cold turkey was hard but I recommend it. Do a little trip and don’t bring your cellphone or laptop. We prepared by telling our friends not to contact us, and I’d say do the same thing. Warn everyone around you and go somewhere nice. Go to the parks, we have beautiful parks!
Operation Unplugged premieres Tuesday February 21 at 9 p.m. EST on Travel + Escape.
