ScreenStrong Families

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 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 remain—like ensuring all platforms comply—this episode highlights a bold step toward reclaiming childhood from the grip of social media.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! 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 Wireless—Smartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount) Production Team: Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin

In this powerful episode, Melanie Hempe sits down with Michael Rainer, a father of six, to discuss his inspiring journey of transforming his family's screen habits. After hearing a ScreenStrong talk that deeply resonated with him, Michael decided to remove iPads, limit screen time, and even pack away the Nintendo Switch gathering dust in his home. The result? A happier, more connected household—without the battles many parents fear.Michael shares what sparked his passion for tackling the screen problem and offers practical advice for parents struggling to set limits. He tackles common myths, explains why screens often replace valuable social and developmental time, and provides actionable tips for creating screen-free alternatives. Michael also discusses the unique challenges dads face when setting screen boundaries and offers encouragement for fathers looking to take a leadership role in this area.From recharging family connections to rediscovering the joy of siblings playing together, Michael’s story is a testament to the power of small changes that lead to big results. Tune in to hear his heartfelt advice and learn three steps you can take right now to reclaim your family’s time and well-being.This episode is a must-listen for parents ready to make meaningful changes and create a home where kids can thrive—without the constant pull of screens.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! 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 Wireless—Smartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount) Production Team: Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin

For this special holiday ENCORE episode, Melanie is joined by her son Evan to discuss practical holiday gift ideas—and encourage people to skip smartphones and video games as gifts this season. Evan, a senior in high school, gives his perspective on the highs and lows of wanting a smartphone in middle & high school and shares some of his favorite childhood gifts.Grab your copy of our Non-Tech Gift Guide discussed in this episode! Exclusively available in our Connect Plus subscription.Evan's digital piano recommendation: Yamaha Clavinova CSP-170 Home Digital Piano | Guitar CenterSupport 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! 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 Wireless—Smartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount) Production Team: Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin

Every year, we talk about Christmas gifts, but this year we're getting ahead of the game with a plan for a Screen-Free Christmas.In this episode, Melanie Hempe and ScreenStrong Ambassador, Liz Breen, unwrap the magic of "real" toys—the ones that spark creativity, inspire imagination, and build lasting memories. They explore why video games and smartphones are not true toys and discuss the loss that comes when these screens replace traditional childhood gifts. Melanie shares personal stories, including a surprising realization from a friend's experience, showing how today's kids may be missing out on meaningful holiday traditions and the joy of unwrapping a gift that shows parents truly know them.This heartfelt conversation covers everything from the disappearance of iconic childhood toys and stores to the impact of screen-based gifts on kids' mental health and social development. Plus, they reveal why giving non-tech gifts nurtures connection, empathy, and a sense of belonging.Tune in for practical ideas on making this Christmas screen-free and creating gift traditions that support a healthier, happier childhood. And don’t miss their "vintage gift" suggestion: bring back a favorite toy from your own childhood to spark joy and imagination in the next generation.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! 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 Wireless—Smartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount) Production Team: Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin