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ScreenStrong Families

Melanie Hempe, BSN
ScreenStrong Families
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  • The Basement Generation with Amy Eytchison (#246)
    In this powerful and eye-opening episode, host Melanie Hempe sits down with Amy Eytchison, a mother of four grown children, to have an honest conversation about one of the most overlooked issues in parenting today: video game addiction among boys.While the nation is finally waking up to the dangers of smartphones and social media for our daughters, many parents are missing the other half of the digital crisis—our sons, who are quietly slipping away behind glowing screens. Together, Melanie and Amy uncover why gaming is not “just a game,” how it preys on boys’ developmental needs, and why so many young men are struggling to launch in life.They discuss the cultural blind spots keeping parents in denial—like “he’s safe at home,” “he’s smart, so I’m not worried,” or “it’s just how boys socialize”—and reveal the neuroscience behind why gaming can rewire a child’s brain and fuel depression, loneliness, and loss of purpose.Whether you’re a parent, educator, or friend, this is an essential listen for anyone who cares about helping today’s boys grow into strong, healthy, and purpose-driven young men.Resources Mentioned:Start your family’s 7-Day or 30-Day Digital Detox through the ScreenStrong Connect community.Explore the Kids’ Brains & Screens Home Edition for science-based tools and family conversation guides.Visit ScreenStrong.org for more information, resources, and upcoming events.Articles Referenced:"Tyler Robinson and America's Lost Boys”'Failing at life': Psychiatrists reveal what made Tyler Robinson ideal lone wolf in Charlie Kirk caseThe Psychology of Charlie Kirk Killer Tyler Robinson Predicted by PsychiatristSupport 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 Adventures of Super Brain book! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Check out our Kids' Brains & Screens products. Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador! ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount) Production Team: Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin
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  • Unplugged and Thriving: Lessons from the Maine Coast Semester with Sarah Rebick (#245)
    In this episode, Mandee Hamann sits down with Sarah Rebick to explore the unique qualities of the Maine Coast Semester at Chewonki and how they align with ScreenStrong’s mission of raising healthy, well-balanced kids in a screen-heavy world. Together, they discuss how the program’s focus on community, connection with nature, and hands-on learning provides an inspiring model for families seeking alternatives to the digital default. Sarah shares stories of students who’ve thrived in this unplugged environment—gaining confidence, building resilience, and rediscovering joy in authentic relationships. Whether you’re curious about immersive educational programs or simply looking for encouragement to create a screen-strong culture at home, this conversation will leave you inspired with practical takeaways for your own family.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 Adventures of Super Brain book! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Check out our Kids' Brains & Screens products. Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador! ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount) Production Team: Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin
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  • Phone-Free Classrooms: A Teacher’s Firsthand Report with Beth Pannenberg (#244)
    In today’s episode, Melanie sits down with Beth, a high school teacher, to hear her firsthand experience with the new phone-free classroom policy this school year.Beth shares the contrast between last year’s inconsistent approach—where teachers set their own phone rules, leading to confusion and frustration—and this year’s unified, zero-tolerance policy: no phones, headphones, smartwatches, or personal devices from bell to bell.The results have been remarkable. Students are talking and connecting with each other, engaging more with their teachers, and showing up to class happier, less stressed, and better rested. Teachers are noticing fewer distractions, better focus, and improved productivity in class.Of course, there are challenges to keep an eye on, like students attempting to sneak in earbuds or use smartwatches, and some adjusting to moments of boredom without their devices. But overall, the shift has been transformative—for both students and teachers.This episode offers an inspiring look at what really happens when schools go phone-free.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 Adventures of Super Brain book! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Check out our Kids' Brains & Screens products. Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador! ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount) Production Team: Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin
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  • Raising Teens Outside the Anxious Generation with Dr. Adriana Stacey (#243)
    What really happens when kids grow up without smartphones, video games, and social media? In this eye-opening episode, Melanie Hempe sits down with Dr. Adriana Stacey to explore the powerful changes families see when they step off the screen-saturated path.From more creativity and deeper conversations at the dinner table to stronger confidence, healthier friendships, and greater resilience, Dr. Stacey shares both personal stories and professional insights that prove life beyond screens is not only possible—it’s better.You’ll discover:The two big myths most parents believe about kids and screensWhat kids actually do with their time when they aren’t glued to devicesHow screen-free teens grow into more confident, capable, and connected young adultsWhy raising the bar with a ScreenStrong culture is easier—and healthier—than negotiating with kids about toxic techIf you’ve ever wondered whether your child will “miss out” without a smartphone or gaming console, this episode will show you the truth: when you remove toxic tech, you make room for freedom, growth, and joy.You’re not alone—and you’re not crazy. You’re just ahead of the curve.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 Adventures of Super Brain book! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Check out our Kids' Brains & Screens products. Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador! ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount) Production Team: Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin
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  • Kids, Screens, and the Rise of A.I. with Aaron Plaat (#242)
    On this episode, host Mandee Hamann sits down with Aaron Plaat (aaronplaat.com) to unpack one of the most pressing questions for parents today: What does the rise of artificial intelligence mean for our kids?From AI-driven apps and chatbots to personalized digital companions, Aaron shares his insights on how these technologies are shaping children’s development, relationships, and even their sense of identity. Together, Mandee and Aaron explore the promises and pitfalls of AI, including:How AI tools are targeting children and teensThe potential impact of AI on executive function, creativity, and critical thinkingWhy AI-powered “friends” and digital companions can be especially dangerous for young usersWhat parents can do now to protect, equip, and guide their kids in an AI-saturated worldIf you’ve been wondering how to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of artificial intelligence and its impact on childhood, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need.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 Adventures of Super Brain book! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Check out our Kids' Brains & Screens products. Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador! ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount) Production Team: Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin
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About ScreenStrong Families

After her oldest son, Adam, dropped out of college due to his video game addiction, Melanie Hempe, BSN, put her nursing degree and training from Emory University to good use and founded ScreenStrong. It’s her mission to create educational programs for kids and parents so no one will experience the pain of screen addiction. Her ability to simplify medical science and provide practical solutions for families has allowed her to share her passion and bold screen solutions nationally. ScreenStrong has won the hearts of many families who are preventing and reversing childhood screen conflicts and addiction.Host of the popular weekly ScreenStrong Families Podcast, Melanie has been featured in Psychology Today, Thrive-Global, The Wall Street Journal, A&E Network, CBS, CNN, NPR, the documentary Screened Out, and various news and television outlets. Her ScreenStrong Kids’ Brains and Screens Courses are available for parents and students. Her four books include, “Kids’ Brains & Screens: A ScreenStrong Student Course,” “Will Your Gamer Survive College?” “Can Your Teen Survive—and Thrive—Without a Smartphone?” and “The ScreenStrong Solution: How to Free Your Child from Addictive Screen Habits.”
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