Folgen
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This episode deals with mature topics (suicide, cyberbullying, sextortion). Listener discretion is advised.
In this powerful and deeply moving episode, Melanie is joined by Brian Montgomeryâa devoted husband and father of fourâwho bravely shares the heartbreaking story of his son, Walker. Walker tragically lost his life to the devastating effects of sextortion on Instagram, and Brianâs raw transparency is a courageous gift that offers hope and awareness to families everywhere.
Through this emotional conversation, Brian reflects on the painful lessons learned and offers critical insights every parent needs to hear. His mission is clear: to prevent other families from experiencing the same unimaginable loss. Join us as we honor Walkerâs memory and uncover essential truths that can help protect our children in todayâs digital world.
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Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
Why do smart, caring kids get stuck in harmful digital habitsâand why do even the best parenting strategies sometimes fall flat? In this compelling conversation, Melanie Hempe sits down with psychologist and author Dr. Richard Freed to discuss his groundbreaking new book and the manipulative force shaping youth culture today: Persuasive Design.
Dr. Freed explains how powerful tech companies use behavioral science to keep kids scrolling, gaming, and glued to screensâoften at the expense of their mental health, relationships, and futures. They dive into the research behind screen addiction, the myth of âsafeâ screen time, and the science that parents must understand to protect their kids.
Youâll walk away from this episode informed, empowered, and equipped with practical steps to reclaim your childâs attentionâand your familyâs connection.
In This Episode:
What persuasive design isâand how it targets your childWhy traditional parenting advice often fails in the digital ageThe role of Silicon Valley psychologists in youth screen addictionReal-life solutions for pushing back against Big Techâs influenceWhy family connection is the antidote to persuasive techThis is a conversation every parent needs to hear.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
Fehlende Folgen?
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In this deeply personal and sobering episode, Melanie Hempe and Mandee Hamann unpack the haunting Netflix film Adolescence, a raw portrayal of the modern teenage experience and how easily even âgood kidsâ can spiral when left alone with the wrong influences online.
Together, Melanie and Mandee walk through the filmâs most powerful moments, examining the disconnection between parents and teens, the normalization of harmful online behavior, the secret digital languages kids use, and the heartbreaking reality of kids who are more connected to their screens than their families.
They ask the tough questions: What does real family attachment look like in the digital age? How can parents intervene before itâs too late? And are we leading our kids out of the online fireâor just watching it burn?
This isnât just a film reviewâitâs a wake-up call. The stories in Adolescence reflect whatâs happening in real families every day. But there is hope. At ScreenStrong, we believe these tragedies are preventable. Join us to learn how to reclaim your influence, reconnect with your child, and start leading them to safetyâtoday.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
Big news! In this episode, Melanie Hempe and Mandee Hamann share an exciting announcementâKidsâ Brains & Screens now has a Home Edition! After the incredible success of the Student Edition in classrooms, ScreenStrong is making the same science-backed content more accessible for families. Designed for easy home discussions, book clubs, and personal use, this compact, streamlined resource brings powerful education straight to parents and kids.
Melanie and Mandee break down the key differences between the Student Edition and the new Home Edition, explaining how both versions equip families with the âwhyâ behind screen limits. They share inspiring testimonials from teachers, highlight how the curriculum is transforming classrooms, and discuss how parents can take this knowledge into their own hands.
If youâre serious about eliminating screen struggles at home and reclaiming your childâs brain, this episode is for you. Education is the key to real change, and itâs never too late to start!
Get your copy of the Home Edition today!
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
In this powerful episode, Mandee Hamann sits down with Andrea, ScreenStrong Ambassador, and her 8th-grade son, Colin, to share their eye-opening journey through screen addiction. Colin once watched over 16,000 YouTube videos in class, trapped in a cycle of digital distraction that left him disengaged and overwhelmed. But everything changed when his parents took action, guiding him through the Kidsâ Brains & Screens curriculum and removing personal tech devices from his life.
Now, Colin is not only thrivingâhe's advocating for change, writing to his local legislature to push for removing personal tech in schools. He eloquently describes the struggles of digital detox, the transformation he experienced, and the newfound clarity and connection he now enjoys. This episode is an inspiring testament that itâs never too late to reclaim childhood from the thrall of the online world.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
In this episode, Melanie speaks with author and therapist Tom Kersting, diving into the profound impact of technology on childrenâs social and emotional development. Together, they explore the challenges many parents faceâkids prioritizing gaming over real friendships, emotional dysregulation, and the growing disconnect between generations.
Tom unpacks key insights from Disconnected, offering practical strategies to help families break free from screen saturation. He and Melanie discuss actionable steps to rebuild meaningful connections, foster independent thinking in children, and encourage mindful tech use.
Tune in for expert advice and tangible solutions to help your family reclaim balance in the digital age.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
In this eye-opening episode, host Mandee Hamann sits down with Aleda Renter from Protect Me Project to discuss the alarming connection between screen use and child exploitation. Aleda shares her expertise on how traffickers use social media, gaming platforms, and other online spaces to groom and exploit young victims. She and Mandee explore the critical role that screens play in making children more accessible to predators and how seemingly innocent online interactions can escalate into dangerous situations.
Drawing from Protect Me Projectâs work in prevention and ScreenStrongâs mission to help families reclaim childhood from screens, this conversation provides parents with practical tools to safeguard their children online. Tune in to learn how to recognize the warning signs, educate your kids about online dangers, and take proactive steps to keep them safe.
This episode is for mature audiences.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
In this episode, Melanie welcomes back Dr. Victoria Dunckley, an integrative psychiatrist and author of Reset Your Childâs Brain: A Four-Week Plan to End Meltdowns, Raise Grades, and Boost Social Skills by Reversing the Effects of Electronic Screen Time. This conversation, taken from a previous interview, focuses on the practical steps parents can take to successfully implement the screen-time reset. Dr. Dunckley shares strategies for preparing the whole family, including how to engage a reluctant spouse, tips for single parents, and what to expect from children as they adjust. She also debunks common myths about screen use, such as the fear of lost friendships or the belief that early tech exposure is necessary for future success. Describing the reset as a transformational process, Dr. Dunckley explains how reducing screen time strengthens a childâs brain, improves self-discipline, and fosters deeper connections.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
In this episode, Melanie welcomes Dr. Victoria Dunckley, an integrative psychiatrist and author of Reset Your Childâs Brain: A Four-Week Plan to End Meltdowns, Raise Grades, and Boost Social Skills by Reversing the Effects of Electronic Screen Time. This conversation, taken from a previous interview, highlights how Victoriaâs early work with troubled children and adolescents led her to research the profound effects of screen time on young minds. She introduces the concept of Electronic Screen Syndrome and explains how excessive screen use impacts children's emotions, behavior, and cognitive function. With her hands-on experience and medical expertise, Victoria provides valuable insights into why reducing screen exposure is critical for a child's well-being.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
Melanie Hempe welcomes Dr. Stacey to discuss the recent pushback against phone-free school initiatives and social media regulations. A recent Wall Street Journal article claims parents are overreacting and that social media isnât the real culprit behind the teen mental health crisisâbut is that true?
In this episode, Melanie and Dr. Stacey break down the common arguments against limiting social media use, including:
The myth that parents are fearmongeringWhy moderation isnât the solution we think it isHow delaying access to social media is no different from other safety measures, like seatbelts and driving lawsThe truth about social mediaâs impact on teen mental healthRather than accepting social media as inevitable, we must empower parents with real solutions to protect childhood and build resilience in the real world. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that will help you stand firm in your decision to delay social media in your home.
Resources: Donât forget to check out our free Phone-Free Schools Guide.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
Host Mandee Hamann engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Erin Loechner, former social media influencer and founder of The Opt-Out Family movement. Erin shares her journey of stepping away from a digital-centric lifestyle to embrace a low-tech approach, focusing on genuine family connections and intentional living.
Drawing from her book, The Opt-Out Family: How to Give Your Kids What Technology Can't, Erin discusses practical strategies for parents aiming to reduce their family's reliance on screens and foster a tech-free culture at home. Tune in to discover how opting out of pervasive technology can lead to a more fulfilling and connected family life.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
In this thought-provoking episode, host Mandee Hamann sits down with Andrew Liddell, a career federal courts litigator, technology attorney, and passionate advocate for youth digital civil rights. Together, they dive into educational technology (EdTech) and explore why it may not be as beneficial for children and learning as many believe.
Andy shares his insights on the hidden dangers of EdTech, including issues related to data privacy, screen overuse in schools, and the commercialization of childhood education. Drawing from his extensive legal background and advocacy work, he discusses how Big Tech companies have prioritized profit over student well-being and why parents and educators should be concerned about the growing presence of digital learning tools in classrooms.
If you're a parent, educator, or policymaker questioning the role of technology in schools, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for a critical conversation that challenges the status quo and empowers families to rethink how kids learn in the digital age.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
Melanie Hempe is joined by Laura Wurzburger to tackle some of the most pressing screen-related parenting questions from our Facebook group. From managing screen-free boredom to motivating kids without video games, we dive into real struggles faced by families just like yours.
Topics include:
Helping an only child (11) learn to entertain herself without screensFinding effective motivation strategies beyond screen timeTransitioning teens (14-16) to a screen-free lifestyleâsuccess stories and challengesSetting limits on internet access without damaging trustSupporting a neurodivergent child (9, ASD/ADHD/gifted) through screen-time changesMelanie and Laura provide practical tips, expert insights, and encouragement for parents looking to set healthy digital boundaries. Whether you're just starting this journey or rethinking your approach, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to lead your family toward a balanced screen life.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
In this inspiring episode of the ScreenStrong Families Podcast, Mandee Hamann sits down with Gabriela and Kaylee, the Founder and Vice President of APPstinent, a Gen Z-led student organization dedicated to helping individuals, especially Gen Z, redefine their relationship with social media and technology.
Kaylee and Gabrielaâs contrasting experiences with technology growing up offer a powerful lens into the challenges their generation faces. Kayleeâs parents avoided introducing smartphones and social media early, while Gabrielaâs parents, influenced by Big Tech and social pressures, allowed her access from a young age. Despite this, Gabrielaâs father instilled early seeds of tech skepticism, which ultimately inspired the creation of APPstinent.Gabriela and Kaylee share their honest perspectives on the impact of social media and screens on their generation, offering candid insights into how constant digital engagement affects mental health, relationships, and personal growth. They discuss APPstinent's mission to empower young people to embrace a lifestyle of freedom and peace by recognizing that social media use is optional.
From practical tips to thought-provoking conversations, this episode is a must-listen for parents looking to understand the realities of screen culture from a Gen Z perspective and learn strategies to help their kids thrive in the digital age.
Resources Mentioned:
Visit APPstinent.org to learn more about Gabriela and Kaylee's mission.Explore the ScreenStrong movement for additional resources to help your family.Tune in and discover how Gen Z leaders are paving the way for a healthier, screen-free future!
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
This episode is shared with permission from Dr. Johann D'Souza and the Virtuous Leaders Podcast.
In this episode, Dr. Johann DâSouza talks with Melanie Hempe, RN, founder of ScreenStrong, about her personal journey to combat screen addiction after her sonâs struggle with video games. Melanie shares practical tips for parents, including delaying access to social media and smartphones, using tools like Canopy for content filtering, and encouraging offline activities and face-to-face connections.Learn how early education and simple strategies can help protect your childâs mental health and foster a balanced, screen-free lifestyle.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
Thank you all for listening and engaging with the podcast this year. Here are just a few highlights from our 2024 episodes, and we look forward to continuing to see you in 2025!
Dad of 6 Shares Advice for Removing Screens with Michael Rainer (#218)A Psychologistâs Perspective on Screen Addiction with Tom Heidrich (#178)Understanding Dopamine in Developing Brains with Dr. Anna Lembke (#211)Australia Raises Social Media Age to 16: A Conversation with Dany Elachi (#219)From Chaos to Strength: Navigating ScreenStrong Parenting with Christina Rahm (#180)LIVE Teen Q&A on Growing Up Without Addictive Screens (#179)
Happy New Year!
Episodes Featured (in order of appearance):Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
Happy New Year! In this special encore episode, Melanie and Dr. Stacey help you start the year off right by debunking common screen myths and offering practical tips to establish healthier screen habits for your family. Discover strategies to reclaim connection, restore balance, and make this year your best ScreenStrong year yet!
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
Got questions? We've got answers!
In this episode, Melanie and Mandee tackle some of the most pressing holiday concerns from our ScreenStrong Families Facebook Group. From managing screen time during the holidays to the benefits of a holiday screen detox and creative ways to keep only children entertained, this episode is packed with practical advice to help your family stay connected and screen-free this season!Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
The holidays are here, and many parents are contemplating whether to gift their middle schoolers a smartphone. In this episode, Melanie and Amy, who together have raised eight middle schoolers, dive into why smartphones are the most regretted parenting gift. They explore the science behind middle school brain development, the risks of increased dependence and peer pressure, and the long-term effects on social skills and mental health.
Learn why phones should never be given as gifts, how they can lead to stress and arguments, and practical alternatives that will spark joy without the screen-time battles. Plus, Amy and Melanie share ideas for big-ticket, non-tech gifts that will light up your childâs Christmas morning while encouraging creativity, connection, and growth.
If youâve already purchased a phone, donât worryâthereâs still time to make a better choice! Tune in for advice, encouragement, and actionable tips to navigate this challenging decision and keep your holidays ScreenStrong.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin -
In this episode, co-host Mandee Hamann is joined by Dany Elachi, co-founder of the Heads Up Alliance, to discuss Australiaâs historic move to raise the minimum age for social media access to 16. This game-changing draft bill, which recently passed the Senate, positions Australia as a global leader in protecting children from the harmful impacts of early exposure to social media.
Together, Mandee and Dany explore the details of the new law, including why the age of 16 was chosen, how it will be implemented, and what challenges lie ahead. They address tough questions, such as whether this law undermines parental autonomy, how kids might attempt to bypass the rules, and what critics are saying about the bill.
Most importantly, they celebrate the victory for children and families, reflecting on the greater time for play, connection, and learning this law affords kids. While challenges remainâlike ensuring all platforms complyâthis episode highlights a bold step toward reclaiming childhood from the grip of social media.
Support the show
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!
Get your copy of the BRAND NEW KBS Home Edition! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, the 30-Day ScreenStrong Challenge, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations
Gabb WirelessâSmartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) CanopyâDevice Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:
Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin - Mehr anzeigen
