Shows
ScreenStrong FamiliesOffline and Intentional: A Conversation with Tin Can Founder Chet Kittleson (#235)In this inspiring episode, Mandee Hamann sits down with Chet Kittleson, entrepreneur and founder of Tin Can, a company on a mission to help kids and families connect offline—without the interference of screens. Chet shares the story behind Tin Can's creation, the challenges of raising kids in a hyper-digital world, and how meaningful connection can be reclaimed through intentional, tech-free moments.From the inspiration behind the simple-yet-powerful Tin Can to the importance of curiosity, trust, and communication in parenting, this conversation is full of encouragement and practical insight. Whether you’re just starting your screen-free journey or l...2025-04-3032 min
ScreenStrong Families“He Was a Good Kid”: The Truth Behind the Netflix Show "Adolescence" (#233)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 “good kids” can spiral when left alone with the wrong influences online.Together, Melanie and Mandee walk through the film’s 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 r...2025-04-0944 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesIntroducing the "Kids’ Brains & Screens Home Edition" (#232)Big news! In this episode, Melanie Hempe and Mandee Hamann share an exciting announcement—Kids’ 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 “why” behind s...2025-04-0234 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesFrom 16,000 Videos to Real Life: Colin’s Screen Detox Story (#231)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 Kids’ Brains & Screens curriculum and removing personal tech devices from his life. Now, Colin is not only thriving—he's advocating for change, writing to his local legislature to push for removing personal tech in schools. He eloquently descr...2025-03-2633 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesGet There Before The Trafficker: A Wake-Up Call for Parents with Aleda Renter (#230)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 Project’s work in prevention and ScreenStrong’s mission to help families reclaim childhood from screens, this...2025-03-1244 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesThe Opt-Out Movement: Simplifying Family Life in the Digital Age with Erin Loechner (#226)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 f...2025-02-1233 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesProtecting Kids in the Digital Classroom: An Honest Look Into "Ed-Tech" with Andrew Liddell (#225)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...2025-02-0546 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesThe Gen Z Perspective: Honest Truths About Social Media and Screens (#223)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 Gabriela’s contrasting experiences with technology growing up offer a powerful lens into the challenges their generation faces. Kaylee’s parents avoided introducing smartphones and social media early, while Gabriela’s parents, influenced by Big Tech and social pressures, allowed her access from a young age. Despite this, Gabriela’s father instille...2025-01-2238 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesAustralia Raises Social Media Age to 16: A Conversation with Dany Elachi (#219)In this episode, co-host Mandee Hamann is joined by Dany Elachi, co-founder of the Heads Up Alliance, to discuss Australia’s 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 la...2024-12-1142 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesFrom World Records to Screen Limits: Thriving Beyond Tech with Rob McLeod (#215)Join Mandee Hamann and special guest Rob McLeod—known as Frisbee Rob—for an inspiring episode of the ScreenStrong Families Podcast, one you can listen to with your kids and teens! Rob, a Guinness World Record holder and newly certified ScreenStrong Ambassador, has spent over a decade traveling to schools, engaging over 200,000 students, and encouraging healthy screen habits and active lifestyles. In this episode, Rob shares his journey, offers a mini-version of his school assembly, and answers important questions about balancing technology with real-life activities. From discussing what kids really want to the importance of movement, Rob’s insig...2024-11-0640 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesA Learning Specialist’s Tips to Teach Executive Function Skills with Jamie Seibert (#206)In this enlightening episode, host Mandee Hamann sits down with learning specialist Jamie Seibert (Enrichment Therapy and Learning Center) to explore the essential strategies for teaching and developing executive function skills in children and teens. Jamie, with years of experience working with young learners, shares her top tips for fostering skills like organization, time management, and self-regulation—crucial for academic success and personal growth. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or anyone invested in helping the next generation thrive, this episode offers practical advice and actionable insights to empower children and teens with the tools they need to na...2024-08-2836 min
ScreenStrong Families"Good Pictures Bad Pictures"—A Conversation with the Author, Kristen A. Jenson (#203)CONTENT WARNING: Discussions around pornography and sexual material. Not suitable for anyone under 18 without parental approval.One of the hardest challenges in parenting today is managing exposure to pornography. At ScreenStrong, we take this issue very seriously and understand that for many parents, this is a major reason for removing toxic screen platforms. We include pornography on our list of the three toxic screens we guard against, alongside video games and social media.In this episode, we have the immense honor of speaking with Kristen Jenson from Defend Young Minds. Many of you...2024-07-311h 02
ScreenStrong FamiliesUnplugged Adventures: 30 Screen-Free Activities for Road Trips with Heather Franklin (#202)In this episode, we’re diving into the world of ScreenStrong travel! Join Mandee Hamann as she interviews ScreenStrong Ambassador, Heather Franklin, about her recent screen-free road trip. Heather has compiled a list of 30 exciting and engaging activities to keep everyone entertained and make your journey unforgettable. Whether it’s playing classic car games, exploring nature, or sparking meaningful conversations, there’s something for everyone.For parents planning a road trip, we've got some heartfelt encouragement and practical tips to make your screen-free adventure a success. Tune in to learn how to create lasting memories, strengt...2024-07-2429 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesWhen Dads Play: The Influence of Parental Gaming on Kids with Lt. Col. Dave Grossman (#200)In this episode, Melanie is joined by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, public speaker and author of "Assassination Generation," to tackle one of the biggest challenges facing families today: the division between parents when it comes to video games. Often, dads see no harm in playing or letting their kids play, but this can lead to significant issues.Together, they explore the detrimental effects and bad habits that modern games can create, discussing how true play is free from aggression and violence, and how excessive screen time deprives children of vital physical and social interactions. They delve into...2024-07-1050 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesWhat Are the Benefits to a Screen Detox? with Dr. Victoria Dunckley (#193)Join Melanie Hempe and Dr. Victoria Dunckley, author of Reset Your Child's Brain, as they delve into the pervasive issue of Electronic Screen Syndrome (ESS) and its impact on children's health and well-being. From sleep disturbances to mood swings, ESS encompasses a range of symptoms triggered by excessive screen time, affecting millions of kids worldwide.Drawing from her extensive research and clinical experience, Dr. Dunckley sheds light on the neurological effects of screen exposure. Discover the surprising medical benefits of a screen detox and the transformative outcomes it can bring to children's lives.This episode...2024-05-0840 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesTips on How to Create a ScreenStrong Classroom with Dory Suttmiller (#191)Join Mandee Hamann as she chats with Dory Suttmiller, an experienced educator and ScreenStrong Ambassador, about the changing role of technology in classrooms. Dory shares insights into fostering better student-teacher interactions and offers practical tips for creating a healthy learning environment amidst digital distractions. Whether you're a teacher or a parent, this episode provides valuable advice for navigating technology's impact on education. Tune in to learn how Dory was able to establish a ScreenStrong Classroom and improve the learning environment for her students.Support the showDon't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a...2024-04-2443 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesENCORE: TikTok: It’s All In The Algorithm with Dr. Leonard Sax (#102)Melanie is joined once again by Dr. Leonard Sax, an American psychologist and a practicing family physician. Dr. Sax has spoken on child and adolescent development issues in schools and communities worldwide since 2001. He is the author of numerous books and publications, including The Collapse of Parenting, one of ScreenStrong’s most recommended books.Did you know that TikTok is the #1 most visited website in the U.S. and Worldwide today? One billion TikTok videos are viewed daily, and its popularity has spread with astonishing speed, affecting all that engage with it. Melanie and Dr. Sax take a...2024-04-031h 04
ScreenStrong FamiliesUnplugged Upbringing: Pornography Exposure Without Screens with Isaac Carroll (#188)Join host Mandee Hamann in an intimate conversation with Isaac Carroll as they delve into the complexities of growing up without screens yet still facing the influence of pornography. Isaac shares his raw and unfiltered journey, reflecting on the unexpected encounters with explicit material and the ensuing struggle with shame and vulnerability.In this episode, Isaac courageously opens up about the internal turmoil he grappled with, shedding light on the challenges of reconciling his upbringing with the pervasive presence of adult content. He explores the nuances of communication within the family unit, emphasizing the crucial role of...2024-03-2031 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesTips for Detoxing Your Older Teen (#184)Join hosts Melanie Hempe and Mandee Hamann in an enlightening discussion as they share invaluable insights and practical tips for guiding older teens through a screen detox. In today's digital age, excessive screen time can significantly impact teenagers' mental and emotional well-being, affecting their relationships, productivity, and overall health. Drawing from their expertise in parenting and their work with ScreenStrong, Melanie and Mandee provide actionable strategies to help parents support their teens in reclaiming a healthy balance with technology. Whether you're grappling with concerns about excessive device usage or seeking guidance on fostering healthier screen habits, this p...2024-02-2151 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesThe Relationship Between ADHD & Addictive Screen Time with Dr. Victoria Dunckley (#182)In this episode, host Melanie teams up with Dr. Victoria Dunckley, MD, to tackle the pressing questions parents have about ADHD and its relationship with addictive screens. Together, they answer YOUR questions and discuss how excessive screen time can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, shedding light on the intricate connections between digital overstimulation and attention challenges. However, it's not all bleak! Learn about the transformative power of a screen detox in resetting your child's brain, paving the way for improved outcomes and healthier tech habits. Join the conversation to discover practical solutions for navigating the complex terrain where ADHD i...2024-02-071h 07
ScreenStrong FamiliesWhat Parents Need to Know About Roblox, Sleepovers, and Snapchat with Officer Gomez (#168)Join us in this episode as we dive into the world of Roblox, sleepovers, and Snapchat with invaluable insights from our friend Officer Gomez, a School Resource Officer (SRO) and sworn Deputy of the Boise County Sheriff’s Department. Discover what parents need to know to keep their children safe and informed in today's digital age. From the challenges of online gaming to the issues of sleepovers and the nuances of Snapchat, Officer Gomez shares expert advice to help you navigate these crucial aspects of your child's life. Support the showDon't forget to s...2023-10-111h 10
ScreenStrong FamiliesScreenStrong Teen: "We think we know it all, but we don't" with Hallie Kate (#160)Today is an exceptional episode! Hallie Kate joins Mandee Hamann to talk about her experience with screen addiction and the aftermath of her parents deciding to take away the devices. Wise beyond her years, HK offers poignant observations about her generation based on personal experiences and encourages parents from a teen perspective. Her poem about her screen-addicted generation at the end of the episode will leave you in tears.Support the showDon't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the...2023-08-0936 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesScreens In The Classroom: A School Counselor's Perspective with Janine McKenna (#157)In this episode, Mandee Hamann is joined by ScreenStrong Ambassador Janine McKenna. Janine is a credentialed school counselor and teacher who has worked with middle school students in Los Angeles County for more than a decade. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts and a master’s degree in Counseling. Janine shares her experience as an educator, counselor, and mom of two in discovering the ScreenStrong Lifestyle and how technology has changed the field of education.Support the showDon't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the e...2023-07-0552 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesWhat's A ScreenStrong Ambassador? (#152)On today’s episode, Mandee Hamann and Olivia Kernekin share personal screen stories and talk about why everyone should be a ScreenStrong Ambassador.Support the showDon'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 li...2023-05-2430 min
Trending with Timmerie - Catholic Principles applied to today's experiences.Why the Bud Light Boycott SucceededMandee Hamann from ScreenStrong.com shares her family's story as a mother who cut back toxic screen use for her kids (2:18) Why was the Bud Light boycott a success and what can we learn from it? (23:46) What happens when a medical professional treats someone who identifies as trans? (35:08) Resources mentioned : Gabb Wireless talk text only phones https://gabb.com/ https://www.christianpost.com/news/twitter-ebay-on-list-of-entities-profiting-from-sex-exploitation.html Can your Teen Survive and Thrive without a Smartphone? https://screenstrong.myshopify.com/products...2023-05-0651 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesPrevent Screen Problems With Neuroscience with Sarah Hendrix, RN, MSN (#149)Mandee Hamann—our Ambassador Liaison—interviews Sarah Hendrix, a Senior Director in corporate healthcare and a Master’s Degree prepared Registered Nurse with specialty experience in Neurosciences. She is also a new ScreenStrong Ambassador. Sarah shares her screen journey with her preschool son and encourages parents wherever they are on their own journey.This is part of a series of episodes getting to know our ScreenStrong Ambassador team. If you want to become an Ambassador, please visit our website or email mandee@screenstrong.org.Support the showDon't...2023-05-0337 min
ScreenStrong FamiliesUnder the Radar: A ScreenStrong Family's Story with Gretchen Heinen (#85)In today’s episode, Mandee Hamann welcomes Gretchen Heinen, a mom of three, multi-entrepreneur, and creator of Dreams Over Screens, a 5-day challenge to reduce screens for adults in business. Gretchen shares her ScreenStrong story of overcoming “blind spots” when it came to screen use by her own kids and how screens used to influence her family’s culture and habits.Join Gretchen as she takes us on the journey of changing her family culture and habits by implementing a ScreenStrong lifestyle. You’ll find inspiration in how she used the ScreenStrong Families Podcast as a way to educate...2022-01-1930 minScreenStrong FamiliesBuilding First Impressions and People Skills with Kirt Manecke (#78)Mandee Hamann welcomes Kirt Manecke, a marketing, fundraising, and business development specialist and author of Smile & Succeed for Teens: Must-Know People Skills for Today’s Wired World.Kirt shares the change in teens' development of social skills that inspired him to write his book in order to help teens and young adults build skills and become successful. He perfectly highlights basic tips for teens such as how to interview and get a job, develop customer service skills, volunteer successfully to aid in the development of leadership skills, and build self-esteem and confidence that teens and young adults ar...2021-11-2431 minScreenStrong FamiliesA Place to Belong with Melanie Hempe (#77)Today, Mandee Hamann welcomes our own founder, Melanie Hempe, to talk about ScreenStrong’s new initiatives launching next month. She introduces ScreenStrong’s new Member Portal which will ultimately strengthen our community and help families create positive change.Melanie shares her passionate vision and hard work over the last eight years that's accumulated into offering the exclusive content to our members. It’s been her goal to create a safe place to grow ScreenStrong and establish a culture of belonging. She describes the newly revised Kids’ Brains & Screens Online Course, our new 30-Day Challenge, and bonus content of e-boo...2021-11-1728 minScreenStrong FamiliesSocial Media: A Teen’s Perspective with Noah Reid (#63)Today, guest host, Mandee Hamann interviews Noah Reid, a 17 year old High School student and Competitive Debater and Public Speaker. Noah shares the back story on how he, at the age of 15, wrote a persuasive speech about Age Restricting Social Media. He credits his parents’ continued open communication about Social Media and how their wisdom influenced the development of his speech and his perspectives. Noah encourages parents to talk openly with their teens and for teenagers to question their use of Social Media by asking simply, “How is this benefiting you?” and “What is the purpose [b...2021-08-1224 minScreenStrong FamiliesKids Are Our Greatest Resource with Tom Hayes (#62)Today, guest host, Mandee Hamann, introduces Tom Hayes, who is a nationally recognized comedian, speaker, entrepreneur, writer, and creator of an animation titled Beantown Pals. Tom shares his personal story of being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer at 13-years-old—learning that adversity leads to character development. Mandee and Tom discuss how the evolution of screens in our culture has changed how we parent, and Tom cautions parents that by taking away their child’s pain, it may be at the cost of their child’s character development. He urges families to consider that devices not only ro...2021-08-1133 min