Brave Parenting: Recent Episodes
Brave Parenting
We are a network of brave parents who empower & equip others to intentionally develop & train children to have strong character & integrity. We believe brave parenting is doing the right thing even when it is hard. While it seems our children would rather be raised by the internet, the truth is they need strong and courageous parents who will invest in their character.
In this six-part podcast series, we walk through Freya India’s book GIRLS: Gen Z and the Commodification of Everything, examining how online culture has shaped young women and how Christian parents can respond with biblical truth.
In this fourth episode on Chapter 4, “Disconnected,” Kelly summarizes how Freya India describes the redefinition of friendship and community by online platforms and social media networks. Can an AI pendant named “Friend” be our answer? The problem is that the new definition of friend (along with the terms and conditions that apply) leaves only feelings of disconnection and loneliness. Today, the solutions offered are online communities and AI companions – neither of which fit the biblical model for human connection and community.
Through Scripture, Kelly explains the fundamental human need for community and relationships and how Christians are called to love one another, forgive, serve, and endure all things. Christian parents have a responsibility to model, teach, guard, and guide true community and friendships.
In case you missed: Episode #230 Filtered, Episode #231 Diagnosed, and Episode #232 Documented.
Articles/Books/Podcasts referenced:
Girls by Freya India
Girls Substack
Ep. 139: AI Chatbots part 1
Ep. 130: AI Chatbots part 2
BP Guide to Replika
BP Guide to CharacterAI
The Best Thing for Your Brain is Other People – Even Annoying Ones
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 2:18
Psalm 25:16
Proverbs 17:17
Proverbs 18:24
Proverbs 27:6
Proverbs 27:9
Psalm 127:3-5
Ephesians 6:1-4
Exodus 20:12
Acts 2:42-47
Hebrews 10:24-25
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
1 Kings 19:1-8
Matthew 26:36-46
Luke 4:1-13
John 15:3-15
Colossians 3:12-14
Matthew 18:15-17
NEW!! The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. This is the study every youth group/student ministry needs to be doing!
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible.
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
In this six-part podcast series, we walk through Freya India’s book GIRLS: Gen Z and the Commodification of Everything, examining how online culture has shaped young women and how Christian parents can respond with biblical truth.
In this third episode on Chapter 3, “Documented,” Kelly examines the way smartphones and social media have trained young people to turn daily life, relationships, drama, opinions, and even children into content. This episode considers how documentation shifted from memory-keeping to performance, curation, voyeurism, and public approval. Kelly offers a biblical response rooted in living Coreum Deo (before the face of God), and encourages parents to guard and guide their children in quiet faithfulness.
In case you missed: Episode #230 Filtered, and Episode #231 Diagnosed
Articles/Books/Podcasts referenced:
Girls by Freya India
Girls Substack
Peter Gray’s Benefits of Smartphone Ownership for Kids
Like Follow Subscribe: Influencer Kids and the Cost of a Childhood Online by Fortesta Latifi
The House of My Mother by Shari Franke
The Weight of Glory C.S. Lewis
Scripture references:
Matthew 6:1
Galatians 1:10
Hebrews 4:13
Psalm 139:7-8
Luke 2:19
Matthew 5:16
1 Peter 4:15
1 Timothy 5:13
Matthew 18:6
2 Corinthians 12:14
Psalm 127:3
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
Matthew 28:19
1 Chronicles 28:20
NEW!! The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. This is the study every youth group/student ministry needs to be doing!
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible.
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
In this six-part podcast series, we walk through Freya India’s book GIRLS: Gen Z and the Commodification of Everything, examining how online culture has shaped young women and how Christian parents can respond with biblical truth.
In this second episode on Chapter 2, “Diagnosed,” Kelly unpacks Freya’s evidence of how “the market” began to profit off of the anxiety and distress of adolescents. Also, considering how mental health influencers, therapy apps, telehealth, medication culture, and peer contagion have taught girls to find their identity in their anxiety, depression, and diagnostic labels. Kelly offers biblical support for these concerns, rooted in lament, suffering, identity in Christ, and parents’ responsibility to guard against harmful voices while guiding children toward biblical categories for emotions.
Girls by Freya India
Girls Substack
Scripture references:
Matthew 6:27
James 1:2-4
1 Peter 4:13
Philippians 3:10
Lamentations 3:17-24
Matthew 26:38
Romans 5:3-5
2 Peter 1:3
1 Chronicles 28:10
1 Corinthians 6:19
NEW!! The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. This is the study every youth group/student ministry needs to be doing!
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible.
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
In this six-part podcast series, we walk through Freya India’s book GIRLS: Gen Z and the Commodification of Everything, examining how online culture has shaped young women and how Christian parents can respond with biblical truth.
In this first episode on Chapter 1, “Filtered,” Kelly considers how Freya India’s argument that filters, FaceTune, beauty influencers, selfies, and algorithmic feeds have trained girls to inspect, alter, and display themselves for approval. The evidence makes it clear that this is not merely a beauty trend; it is a discipleship system rooted in an anti-Christian anthropology. Parents are encouraged not only to think biblically about beauty, but to shepherd their children with both loving boundaries and biblical guidance, teaching daughters that their worth is not found in beauty, attention, or online approval, but in the God who created, knows, and redeems them.
Girls by Freya India
Girls Substack
Scripture references:
Romans 1:16
Psalm 23:1
John 10:11-15
Genesis 1:26-27
1 Peter 5:2-4
Psalm 139:13-14
2 Corinthians 5:17
Romans 12:2
JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum!
Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology.
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible.
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
There is a growing trend of “friction-maxxing” and going analog, especially among Gen Z. People are seeking slower, more friction-intensive technology so they can spend less time on it. And it appears that the market is responding accordingly. In this episode, Kelly reviews the increasing range of frictional products on the market. From turning your smartphone dumb to apps that take 2 weeks to deliver a message via carrier pigeon, all the way to boomboxes and bookstores, the trend is clear: we want to make tech slow again!
We believe that behind the trendiness of analog life lies a spiritual conviction and a pre-commitment not to be manipulated by media and technology.
Articles/Products referenced:
Brave Parenting Podcast #174: Adding Friction to Your Phone
5 ways to add a little inconvenience to your day — and improve your brain
Roost app
Slowly app
This app turns your iPhone into a tiny iPod-style dumbphone, case and all
Dumbphone app
Dumbify app
Screen Zen
Clearspace
Unplulg app
One Sec app
Blank Spaces app
Brick
Kitchen Safe
Cat Gatekeeper
Unhook
Newsfeed Eradicator
Cold Turkey
Freewrite
CampSnap
Polaroid Analog Summer
Fewer People are Reading, But Bookstores are Making a Comeback Anyway
Costco is Selling 1980s-Style Boomboxes. It’s Yet Another Sign of the Analog Renaissance
Friction-Maxxing Could Be the Secret to a Simpler, Better-Designed Home
Scripture references:
Galatians 5:22-23
Titus 2:11-12
1 Peter 5:8
Romans 12:2
1 Corinthians 6:12
1 John 2:15-17
Ephesians 6:4
Esther 4:14
Ephesians 2:10
JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum!
Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology.
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible.
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
The Switch 2 and the Steam Deck handheld gaming devices are growing in popularity as people recognize the convenience of playing anywhere, anytime. In today’s episode, Kelly explains the basics of the Switch 2 and the Steam Deck, while exploring the similarities and differences between these personal gaming devices and a smartphone. A growing narrative surrounding these personal gaming devices is how they allow parents to continue gaming during the fragmented time of parenting.
How should Christians think about handheld gaming – or any other personal screen time in front of kids?
Articles referenced:
Switch 2
Steam Deck
History of the Handheld Game Console
The Steam Deck Is The Perfect Device, For The Busy Parent.
Sorry Valve, But the Steam Deck Outgrew My Need for a Steam Machine
How Fatherhood Redefined My Gaming Passion
Reddit: Is the Steam Deck beneficial when you have babies/little kids?
Reddit: Managed to clear my backlog playing over 200 hours, only while having my newborn sleeping on my lap during his first 6 months.
Reddit: Steam Deck saved gaming for parents
YouTube: The Steam Deck is the BEST gift for Gamer Parents!
Are Parents to Blame for Children’s Phone Addiction?
Scripture referenced:
Ephesians 6:4
1 Corinthians 11:1
Ephesians 5:1-2
Ephesians 5:15-16
Ephesians 5:8
JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum!
Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology.
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible.
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
Apple and Google both announced new parental controls for their iOS and Android devices within days of each other. Ironic? Probably not. Will these new controls be revolutionary? Probably not. In this episode, Kelly highlights the pressure these companies face to prove they can protect children. Meanwhile, Apple’s press release shows that they are still positioning themselves as the authority on what children need, while continuously pointing back to parents, saying, “This is your job – you can limit, you can control, you can approve, you can monitor…”
Should new and improved parental controls be a permission slip to allow your child to have an iPhone? Should a new (and easier) Screen Time interface with expert recommendation change how you limit and monitor? How can parents think biblically about screen time? How big a deal is screen time anyway?
All these things and more in today’s show.
YouTube: How We Spend Our Day (1920-2026)
Articles referenced:
Apple previews new child safety features
New expanded Android parental controls to support families around the world
Scripture referenced:
1 Thessalonians 5
Proverbs 22:6
Matthew 22:37
James 1:27
Upcoming Events:
Great Homeschool Convention – Round Rock, Texas July 9-11
Kelly & Ryan will both be leading workshops and Brave Parenting will have an exhibitor booth
JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum!
Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology.
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible.
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
Toy Story 5 is capitalizing on a truly devastating part of our culture: the loss of childhood to technology. In this briefing, Kelly highlights some of the most important aspects of the movie to help parents grasp the weight of what it depicts. Can a tablet be the problem with kids no longer playing, and the solution to making more friends? What does it mean to grow up too fast? Is gaming the same as playing? Is the age of toys really over?
Articles referenced:
Plugged In: Toy Story 5
Scripture referenced:
Proverbs 22:6
Upcoming Events:
Great Homeschool Convention – Round Rock, Texas July 9-11
Kelly & Ryan will both be leading workshops and Brave Parenting will have an exhibitor booth
JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum!
Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology.
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible.
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
We live in a culture where it seems that the generations are at war with one another, families are falling apart – some going no contact, and children are increasingly without skills, purpose, and hope. Perhaps this is because we’ve lost sight of the benefits that intergenerational relationships bring. What children need to learn and experience is not what the internet offers. They need the slow, offline activities that grandparents can teach. They need to be reminded of their roots and to receive a heritage of faith, traditions, memories, virtue, and skills.
In today’s podcast, Kelly argues for the essential role grandparents play in children’s lives. Both parents and grandparents listening will receive encouragement and practical steps to restore relationships, establish screen-free relational time between grandparents and grandchildren, persevere with kids who may resist slow, character-building activities, and understand why this is part of God’s design for the family.
Articles referenced:
The Troubling Rise of Family Estrangement
Effects of grandparents’ involvement on young children’s resilience
Socioemotional Engagement with Grandchildren: Associations with Loneliness and Quality of Life
Grandparents Can Teach What the Internet Cannot
Scripture referenced:
Deuteronomy 4:9
Psalm 78:4-7
Proverbs 17:6
Psalm 127:3
Proverbs 13:22
Ephesians 2:10
Ruth 4:14-17
Upcoming Events:
Great Homeschool Convention – Round Rock, Texas July 9-11
Kelly & Ryan will both be leading workshops and Brave Parenting will have an exhibitor booth
JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum!
Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology.
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible.
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
AI tools can perform incredible feats of computation. They can also displace human relationships, outsource learning, distort reality, and pretend to have wisdom. Christian families have a responsibility not to conform to the patterns of this world (Rom 12:2) but to test everything, hold on to what is good, and reject what is evil (1 Thes. 5:21). In this episode, Kelly provides a four-pillar biblical framework for evaluating AI tools and whether they are appropriate or beneficial for children. The four pillars are (1) Imago Dei, (2) Attributes of God, (3) Truth, and (4) Formation. Each pillar offers a preventative or protective measure and a practical application question parents can use to disciple children in the age of AI.
Articles referenced:
Here’s why graduates are booing commencement graduation speakers this year
There is Already a Word for the Deep Moral Failures of AI
Scripture referenced:
Psalm 8:4-5
Isaiah 40:25-28
Proverbs 9:10
James 1:2-4
Romans 5:3-4
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Resources referenced:
Foundation Worldview Webinar: AI, ChatGPT, and Your Kids: A Biblical Framework for New Technology
Foundation Worldview Attributes of God Curriculum
Upcoming Events:
Great Homeschool Convention – Round Rock, Texas July 9-11
Kelly & Ryan will both be leading workshops and Brave Parenting will have an exhibitor booth
JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum!
Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology.
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible.
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
The Enhanced Games took place over Memorial Day weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada. The founders boasted they were making history and redefining what the human body is capable of. What was the evidence for this? Performance-enhancing drugs and bio-hacking in the name of becoming ‘superhuman.’
In this briefing, Kelly explains why stories like this matter and are valuable opportunities to talk to kids about what it means to be human. Kids are bombarded with messages to ‘enhance themselves’ with everything from skin care rituals to looksmaxxing. It is critical for parents to start this conversation.
Articles referenced:
Enhanced Games claim ‘we changed the world’ but only one record broken and three clean athletes win
Welcome to sport’s ultimate taboo where athletes risk it all for millions in Las Vegas
Scripture referenced:
1 Corinthians 6:19
Genesis 2:18
Psalm 139
2 Corinthians 12
Genesis 3:4
Romans 1:25
JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum!
Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology.
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible.
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
When it comes to a kid having their own smartphone, trust is a much more complex issue than Peter Gray alludes to. Allowing a smartphone requires a parent to trust the child, their own parenting, Big Tech, the attention economy, and the whole of sinful mankind with access to the internet. In today’s episode – Part 10 of 10 – Kelly counters the benefit of “being trusted” as a benefit to smartphone ownership. In reality, trust can be given and earned in many ways that do not involve persuasive and personalized design features. Scripture gives so much wisdom on how and who we are to trust.
Articles referenced:
Helping Kids (and Ourselves) Use Smartphones Safely
On Being a Trustful, Autonomy-Supportive Parent
How Much Work Are You Doing for Your Kids’ Happiness? (Dopamine Kids Book Review)
Books referenced:
Dopamine Kids: A Science-Based Plan to Rewire Your Child’s Brain
Extremely Online
Scripture referenced:
Romans 11:35
Proverbs 27:12
Proverbs 1:16
Jeremiah 17:7-8
Proverbs 3:5
Matthew 6:25-27
Psalm 20:6-7
Ephesians 6:4
Proverbs 22:15
Ephesians 6:1
John 17:14-18
Romans 12:2
JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum!
Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology.
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
Recent Barna research revealed that teens spend an average of 4.8 hours a day on social media. In this time, are they learning critical digital skills essential for success in life? When kids play games on iPads or watch YouTube videos, are they learning essential skills? In today’s episode, Kelly continues the examination of Peter’s Gray list of benefits for kids’ smartphone ownership: Developing Digital Skills.
What exactly are digital skills? Are they learned by swiping, tapping, and watching? And most importantly, what is God’s purpose for childhood – is it to master skills or to grow in wisdom and faith?
From a pragmatic standpoint, this benefit seems legit. From a biblical standpoint, digital skills look a whole lot like digital devotion.
Articles referenced:
Helping Kids (and Ourselves) Use Smartphones Safely
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 2:15
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Proverbs 22:6
Proverbs 2:1-8
Exodus 35:10, 26, 30-35
Acts 4
Romans 11:36
Colossians 3:23
Matthew 25:14-30
JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum!
Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology.
Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
Summer is an amazing time of rest and refreshing. Because screen time is a central part of so many students’ lives, this detail often feels most important. But beyond screen time, we want to encourage parents to take a different approach and ask the question: “What kind of character will be formed in my child this summer?”
Discipleship is teaching and reinforcing Christ-like Character in every aspect of life – and that doesn’t get a summer vacation.
Scripture referenced:
Romans 12:2
James 1:15
ANNOUNCING: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide!
An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum!
Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology.
Get your copy of the Student Study Guide today!
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
We all know that friendship and connection to peers are a critical part of what it means to be human, especially during childhood. The question parents must contend with is what kind of peer connection do children need, and how does that connection shape a child’s character, faith, and worldview? Because we all know the smartphone is the most convenient tool for this connection, but at what cost and with what risk?
In Part 9 of our series evaluating the proposed benefits of smartphones for kids, as described by Dr. Peter Gray on his Substack, “Play Makes Us Human,” Kelly challenges the claim that adults have ruined childhood in the physical world and that children have wisely recreated it in the virtual world.
Articles referenced:
Helping Kids (and Ourselves) Use Smartphones Safely
The Culture of Childhood: We’ve Almost Destroyed It
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 2:18
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Proverbs 27:17
Romans 1:19-20
Proverbs 22:15
Proverbs 15:5
Proverbs 30:17
Proverbs 22:6
Proverbs 10:1
Exodus 10:12
Proverbs 13:20
1 Corinthians 15:33
Galatians 5:19-21
Ephesians 4:29
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Ephesians 6:4
Ephesians 2:8-9
Romans 12:1-2
Products referenced:
Tin-Can “home” phones
Pinwheel “home” phones
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
Enjoyment and entertainment are not inherently sinful, but because smartphones are engineered to capture time and attention, entertainment can grow to master a person’s life. And this is true for any age! In today’s episode, we are evaluating the benefit of smartphones for “amusement” as described by Dr. Peter Gray. Is this a real benefit for kids? Is it a biblically faithful way to raise kids? What is lost when airpods are always in? When distraction is always available? When ‘not thinking’ becomes the goal?
Resources referenced:
Episode #162 “The Problem with Music”
Episode #200 “The Dangers of Hyperpersonalization”
BP Approved Media & Tech for Kids Under 12
Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman
Scripture referenced:
1 Corinthians 6:12
Psalm 46:10
Ephesians 5:15–17
1 Thessalonians 4:3
Proverbs 4:23
1 Corinthians 15:33
Philippians 4:8
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!
How did kids creatively express themselves before digital screens and the internet? Do smartphone kids “build” and “express” themselves in ways that are beneficial – or biblical? In this episode, Kelly continues her series countering the beneficial claims Dr. Peter Gray cites in his Substack, Play Makes Us Human. This week, the claim is that the smartphone is a beneficial tool for creative self-expression. Kelly argues that biblical creativity is meant for God’s glory and the edification of others, rather than the self-promotion and audience-driven validation that occurs when sharing one’s creativity online.
Articles referenced:
Helping Kids (and Ourselves) Use Smartphones Safely
Is Online Self-Expression a Necessary Part of Childhood? (Ep #212)
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 1:27
Exodus 31
Psalm 127:1
Luke 6
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Romans 14:19
Ephesians 4:29
1 Corinthians 8:1
Luke 6:45
Proverbs 4:23
Jeremiah 17:9
Proverbs 29:11
James 1:19
1 Corinthians 6:19–20
Galatians 2:20
Colossians 3:1–3
Proverbs 31:30
1 Peter 3:3–4
1 John 2:16
Proverbs 26:18–19
James 3:9–10
Ephesians 5:4
Galatians 1:10
Proverbs 29:25
Philippians 4:8
1 Thessalonians 2:8
John 12:43
Philippians 2:3
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
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What does it say about the online world when a 20-year-old cybercriminal feels relieved to be caught? This Brave Briefing looks at Matthew Lane’s repentance, the consequences he is now willing to bear, and the sobering reality that tech savvy and tech intelligence are not the same as tech wisdom or spiritual maturity. There is an important lesson and hope for parents in this story.
Articles referenced:
‘Addicted to Hacking’: Young hacker behind historic breach speaks out for 1st time, before reporting to prison
Scripture referenced:
Hebrews 12:11
Proverbs 22:6
Matthew 5:29
James 5:20
Is the smartphone the greatest educational tool ever created? In today’s episode, Kelly counters Dr. Peter Gray’s claim, arguing that smartphones provide information and convenience, which are not the same as education. Even if you don’t define education as structured, systematic instruction by adults, the smartphone still isn’t a tool that positively shapes a child’s character, work ethic, and spiritual wisdom.
Books referenced:
The Digital Delusion: How Classroom Technology Harms Our Kids’ Learning and How to Help Them Thrive Again
Product referenced:
Leap Frog Magical Adventures Globe
Articles referenced:
Helping Kids (and Ourselves) Use Smartphones Safely
Self-Directed Education: What Is It and How Does It Work?
What does the Bible say about Education?
Cambridge Dictionary: Education
Scripture referenced:
Proverbs 1:7
Proverbs 18:15
1 Corinthians 8:1
Acts 22:3
Acts: 17:28
Titus 1:12
1 Timothy 1:16
2 Timothy 3:7
Psalm 1:2
James 1:5
Jeremiah 17:9
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
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A smartphone lets you document life with an ever-present camera and note-taking capabilities. Is this something beneficial for kids? Will it build character? Will it help them be present and more aware of their reality? On the other hand, what does growing up not having access to these smartphone features lead to? Will they be worse off? Have less documented memories?
In today’s episode, Kelly evaluates this claimed benefit of “documentation” from both Dr. Peter Gray’s perspective and historical and biblical perspectives.
Articles referenced:
Helping Kids (and Ourselves) Use Smartphones Safely
Mobile Photography Stats for 2026
What Selfies are Doing to Self-Esteem
Junk Journaling
Camp Snap Camera
Camp Snap Video Camera
Scripture referenced:
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Matthew 6:1
Galatians 1:10
1 Peter 3:3-4
1 Corinthians 10:31
John 13:34
Galatians 5:13
Romans 12:10
Colossians 3:16
1 Corinthians 13:6
Proverbs 6:16-19
Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite!
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The smartphone is an undeniable benefit to adult drivers navigating in their vehicles. But is it equally beneficial for kids who cannot drive yet? Would using smartphone navigation displace formative and fundamental lessons a child is meant to learn while growing up? Even more, are God’s “directions” and “way” missed when reliance rests on technology?
In today’s episode, Kelly evaluates this claimed benefit of “navigation” from both Dr. Peter Gray’s perspective and historical and biblical perspectives
Articles referenced:
Helping Kids (and Ourselves) Use Smartphones Safely
Scripture referenced:
Hebrews 5:14
Proverbs 22:3
Psalms 119:105
Psalms 119:133
Psalms 32:8
Psalms 1:1
Jeremiah 6:16
Isaiah 30:21
Deuteronomy 5:32-33
Proverbs 4:27
Luke 15:4-7
Isaiah 53:6
Psalms 119:176
Ezekiel 34:11-16
Matthew 7:1-14
Proverbs 14:12
Galatians 5:16
Ephesians 4:1
Colossians 2:6
Proverbs 16:9
Proverbs 20:24
Psalms 37:23-24
1 Corinthians 10:23
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Does having a smartphone during childhood make a child “safer” when they are outdoors? Is having access to a flashlight, GPS, and a phone to call 911 an essential addition to a child’s outdoor play? What are the downsides or detriments to having a smartphone while playing outdoors? Will children play outdoors as much if they have a smartphone?
In today’s episode, Kelly evaluates this claimed benefit from both Dr. Peter Gray’s perspective and historical and biblical perspectives.
Articles referenced:
Helping Kids (and Ourselves) Use Smartphones Safely
Why Did Teen Suicides (Especially for Boys) Decline Sharply from 1990 to 2005?
The Age Four Transition into Responsible Childhood
The Many Benefits of Video Games
Risky Play: Why Children Seek it and Need it
Scripture referenced:
Psalm 119:89
1 Thessalonians 5:21
Matthew 5:45
Proverbs 22:3
1 Corinthians 6:12
Romans 5:3-4
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The verdict of the landmark social media addiction/harms trial came back GUILTY. For more than a decade, those who spoke out against social media and its harm to children were accused of “moral panic.” While there was always an urgency to warn others, it was never fear or panic. But the persuasive and personalized design features embedded in social media platforms remain a moral problem in our society. Now, finally, we are starting to see some moral accountability.
Articles referenced:
What did jury decide in social media case against Meta and Google?
Jury Finds Instagram and YouTube Liable in a Landmark Social Media Addiction Trial
What is tech addiction? A court ruling makes it Big Tech’s next big problem
Scripture referenced:
Ezekiel 14:3
Ecclesiastes 1:9
1 John 2:15-17
Colossians 3:5
Proverbs 4:23
Romans 12:2
John 8:44
John 10:10
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Many tech advocates and secular experts believe and promote the idea that children should have their own smartphones. They tout the benefits of self-expression (Ep. 212), education, and outdoor safety. Are these benefits really beneficial? Or, are they just convenient? Because Brave Parenting recommends delaying smartphones until age 16, there’s a full decade gap between their recommendations and ours.
This episode is the INTRODUCTION to a series of 10 podcasts evaluating whether the claimed benefits are beneficial from a biblical and discipleship standpoint. While there are many voices promoting that kids have their own smartphones, Kelly will evaluate the list published by Dr. Peter Gray in his Play Makes Us Human Substack titled “Helping Kids (and Ourselves) Use Smartphones Safely.” In this article, he lists “9 Benefits for Kids of Smartphone Ownership.”
Today, we’ll cover how the secular world aims to desensitize kids to online content, the background and beliefs of Dr. Peter Gray, and his views on the potential risks or harms of smartphone ownership. Kelly evaluates each potential harm so that we can all begin to think biblically (rather than “scientifically”) about what smartphones do to children. Ultimately, it is about understanding that what “experts” and “scientists” conclude will always be skewed because they do not see humans as Image-bearers who are with sinful hearts.
Articles referenced:
Helping Kids (and Ourselves) Use Smartphones Safely
Children Should be Outside for 4-6 Hours Every Day
Scripture referenced:
Psalm 19:1-3
Galatians 5:16-17
James 1:14-15, 12
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A landmark social media addiction trial is happening in California. Meta (Instagram) and Google (YouTube) versus a child who got captured by the content-driven life, which drove her to mental illness and suicidal thoughts. When YouTube VP Chrisos Goodrow took the stand, he noted that they don’t want people addicted to YouTube any more than they’re addicted to reading….”
Is YouTube neutral? Sure, it can be used as a utility for learning, but in the hands of kids who want to be seen, heard, validated, and viral – is this platform actually in the same category as books?
Articles referenced:
YouTube Exec Says Goal Was Viewer Value Not Addiction
Scripture referenced:
1 Corinthians 6:12
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There is a short walk between video games and gambling. The risk-reward and microtransaction economy mirrors casinos. Now, with the rise of sports betting apps and prediction market platforms like Kalshi, teens are falling into “get rich quick” gambling schemes. They are being fed a lie that the modern economy and market no longer reward prudence and delayed gratification. Of course, this issue runs much deeper than apps and games – it’s a worldview and anthropological issue about what it means to be human. In this episode, Kelly explains the growing and concerning trend of gablification and offers wisdom and next steps for parents.
Articles referenced:
Brave Parenting Guide to Sports Betting Apps
Gen Z is Playing the Economy Like a Casino
Financial nihilism: Gen Z gambling meme stock options (Recently Renamed: Why My Generation is Turning to Financial Nihilism)
Common Sense Media: Understanding Gambling Among Adolescent Boys
Hooked and Hustled: The Predatory Allure of Gamblified Finance
Articles that are worthy of reading that were released after this episode was recorded:
Women Wanted: Kalshi Pushes to Expand Far Beyond Sport Bets
Wanna Bet? How Polymarket and Kalshi are Gamifying Truth
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 2:3
Genesis 3
Proverbs 8:12
Proverbs 27:12
Proverbs 13:16
Proverbs 21:25
2 Thessalonians 3:10
Colossians 3:23
Ecclesiastes 5:10, 14, 18
Ecclesiastes 8:7
Proverbs 1:7
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Flowing from the idea that children need to express themselves online to form an identity, video game avatars serve as an introductory and primary portal for this. The cosmetic economy of avatar customization generates billions in revenue for game makers, while users pay and play their way into discovering their identity.
The ability to customize your appearance in the game isn’t just a fun feature. As we reveal in this episode, avatar customization can shape children’s real-world identities. But identities are not created or curated – they are given by God. This is one more way video games disciple children away from the gospel and into a self-above-all-else, unbiblical worldview.
Listen in as we inform and equip parents to know about and act against this unseen evil.
Article references:
Avatars in Gaming: How Roblox and Fortnite are redefining digital identity
The Joy and Liberation of Customizing Your Avatar
The Art of Avatar Creation
Understanding Children’s Avatar Making in Social Online Games
Young People and Gender Identity: Subverting the ‘body’ in massively multi-player online role-playing games
The Role of the Avatar in Gaming for Trans and Gender Diverse Young People
The Impact of Avatars on Self-Perception and Identity in Gaming
“I am the character, the character is me”: A thematic analysis of the user-avatar relationship in videogames
Gaming Disorder: A systematic review exploring the user-avatar relationship in videogames
Scripture References:
Genesis 1:27
2 Corinthians 5:17
Colossians 3:3
Romans 1:21
1 Corinthians 6:20
Jeremiah 17:9
Proverbs 4:23
Matthew 5:28
Mark 7:21-23
Galatians 6:8
John 17:17
John 8:32
Luke 12:15
Hebrews 13:5
1 Timothy 6:17-19
Genesis 2:15
Mark 9:42
Genesis 1:28
Psalm 139
Proverbs 3:5
Psalm 5:5
Psalm 11:5
Galatians 2:20
Romans 12:2
Acts 17:26
Ephesians 2:10
Esther 4:14
John 16:33
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The freedom of self-expression has become a catch-all justification for everything done online. Why should children be allowed to have social media at a young age? Because they need to express themselves! Mark Zuckerberg even used this justification of ‘self-expression’ under oath in the landmark social media addiction trial. In this episode, Kelly exposes how ‘self-expression’ has been hijacked to exploit children and steal childhood. What was once “play” is now “performance,” and what used to be “creativity” is now “content.”
This is a foundational episode that helps parents understand the larger cultural narrative at play. Also, upcoming episodes build on this idea that ‘self-expression’ is a necessary part of childhood.
Articles referenced:
Different Creative Playgrounds: Use Social Media for Creative Development
Kids Mental Health Foundation: Kids and Social Media
What kids are actually doing on social media and why that matters
How Online Communities Can Help Children
The New Era of Self-Expression: How the next generation are tackling social media, creativity, and authenticity
Social Media and Mental Health in Children and Teens
Unlock the Power of Self-Expression
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 1:27
Ephesians 2:10
Deuteronomy 6:5-7
Proverbs 22:6
Matthew 6:1
Acts 2
Proverbs 22:15
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Meta Ray-Ban Smart glasses have exploded in popularity. They allow people to film strangers without consent or even their awareness, which means that ordinary public interactions can now be turned into social media content.
How are Christian parents to think about this latest tech gadget? And strangers becoming content?
Articles referenced:
Pranksters and pickup artists are using Meta Ray-Ban glasses to harass strangers for content
So-called ‘manfluencers’ are filming themselves trying to pick up women. Smart glasses are their perfect tool
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 1:26-27
Genesis 9:6
James 3:9
Matthew 22:37-40
Philippians 2:3-4
Romans 2:10
Matthew 6:1-6
John 12:43
Galatians 1:10
1 Peter 1:14-16
Romans 12:1-2
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Generative AI apps such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Grok, and Claude have rapidly become the go-to parenting sages. Every type of parenting question can be answered efficiently and with (what sounds like) expertise. Undoubtedly, these apps offer parents help during stressful times. But is this the way God intends for us to receive parenting advice and practical wisdom? What is lost when human relationships and struggle are removed from the parenting equation?
Articles referenced:
OpenAI CEO Can’t Imagine Parenting Without AI
I Co-Parent with ChatGPT – I love turning off my brain and letting AI help raise my child
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 3
Deuteronomy 32:7
James 1:2-4
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Often, apps begin with noble intentions of “connection” or “education.” While they promise to be different, they inevitably resort to classic tactics for maximum engagement: streaks, coins, leaderboards, FOMO, and notifications. In this episode, Kelly uncovers this trend using Duolingo and Zigazoo as examples. This trend of app devolution is important for parents to understand. You may not be able to keep track of every app update, but you know your child, and you can recognize when something has changed.
Articles referenced:
Brave Parenting Guide to Duolingo
Brave Parenting Guide to Zigazoo
TED Talk: How to Make Learning as Addictive as Social Media
How Machine Learning Supercharged Our Revenue by Millions (Duolingo Blog)
Scripture referenced:
1 Thes 5:4-6
1 Thes 5:19-21
1 Peter 5:8
Matt 18:8-9
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After years of doing nothing, Big Tech social platforms started releasing new “teen safety” and “parental controls” to show how much they care about and prioritize children’s safety. The problem with these new safety features is that they are not enough. It’s the design of social media and games that creates spaces of chaos where everyone does what is right in their own eyes.
Articles referenced:
Time Limits for YouTube Shorts Scrolling
Deeper Insights with Snapchat’s New Family Center Features
Roblox’s AI-Powered Age Verification
TikTok to Tighten Age Checks in Europe
Meta Pauses Teen Access to AI Characters
Instagram is Testing a New Definition of ‘Friends’
Scripture referenced:
Judges 21:25
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In today’s Brave Briefing, Kelly reviews the new book, The Amazing Generation by Jonathon Haidt and Catherine Price. Written for a Gen Alpha audience, this book aims to inspire rebels who don’t let technology use them. This book serves almost as a hopeful sequel to The Anxious Generation, which highlighted the harms done to Gen Z by online media and technology. Listen in to this brief episode to get our take on this book.
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Lots of companies promise solutions for taming screen time (for kids and adults). Joining Kelly today on the podcast is Heather Wilkinson, sharing her personal story about excessive screen time, parenting, and the most powerful force for change: The Brick.
The Brick is a physical device you tap in order to unlock the phone restrictions you’ve set up for yourself. Kinda like tap-to-pay, but better! It still requires intentionality and self-discipline but it may just be what can help you as well! Check out The Brick for yourself.
Books referenced:
12 Ways Your Phone is Changing You
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LifeWise Academy has created an incredible program to enable kids in public schools to receive Bible education during school hours! In this episode, Kelly sits down with Aaron Braswell, a Texas director for LifeWise, to hear more about the ministry’s amazing work.
Listen to learn how kids, families, and communities are being changed and how to help bring LifeWise Academy to your public school. There may already be a program started that you can help launch!
Visit LifeWise Academy
Watch the documentary Off School Property for FREE on Angel Studios – NOW AVAILABLE
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Every organization and business in the Media and Technology landscape offers parents ‘Peace of Mind.” They promise peace that only their app or service can deliver: “Peace starts with us.” They offer parents peace as an apology: “We didn’t care about your kid’s safety before, but we do now, and here are some safety features to prove it.”
And why is everyone offering parents peace? Because screens and the internet are the greatest source of stress for parents. In this episode, Kelly gives many examples of the ever-so-common promise that specific, better, or new media and technology can give parents the peace of mind they need to allow their kids to use it. Can these products and services actually give peace?
Of course not, because peace is a Person named Jesus.
WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE
Articles referenced:
RightasRain UW Medicine: 4 Reasons Your Kid Isn’t Ready for a Smartphone (Yet)
AngelQ in App Store
Life360
I Think of You (Dying)
Qustodio
Brave Books
TiKTok Supporting Parents
Instagram Teen Accounts Announcement
Google: New digital protections for kids, teens, and parents
Wearable panic buttons
Scripture referenced:
John 16:33
Proverbs 22:15
Proverbs 10:1
Proverbs 17:21
Luke 2:48
Matthew 15:21-28
John 4
Mark 5
Mark 19
Matthew 11:28
Isaiah 26:3
Romans 5:1
Philippians 4:6-7
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Kelly and Ryan answer the most common questions you’ve asked in 2025.
- Don’t my children need to learn technology to stay relevant and get a job?
- How can restricting Snapchat and keeping kids from talking to their friends be the best choice?
- What is the right age for a child to get a phone?
- What punishments work when taking their phone away doesn’t phase them?
- How do I explain that screen time rules are rooted in Scripture and not my desire for control?
- How do I keep my kids from using ChatGPT on their homework?
- Can video games really be used for educational purposes
[and for fun….] - What media & tech defined the year 2025?
- What do you think will define 2026?
- What was your favorite book this year?
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A new app has emerged over the last few years, gaining popularity among preteens. No doubt because the app markets itself as “Gen Alpha’s social media.”
Coverstar has the feel of TikTok, but with stricter community guidelines for content, zero tolerance for violations, and no direct messages. While it is perhaps “safer” than TikTok, what does an app that encourages young girls to put themselves on public display and compete for likes and follows actually do for their developing self-worth? Or for their future integrity?
In this episode, Kelly digs into the influencer economy and culture, and how this, specifically, is the crux of social media’s harm. Tragically, this economy of harm is thriving on Coverstar.
Articles referenced:
Brave Parenting Guide to Yope
Brave Parenting Guide to Coverstar
Reddit: r/apps
Pew Research: High School Seniors and Marriage
The Dark Side of Social Media Influencers: A Research Agenda for Analysing Deceptive Practices and Regulatory Challenges
The influencer effect: Current findings and future directions for research on social media influencers and body image
The Impact of Following Instagram Influencers on Women’s Body Dissatisfaction and Eating Disorder Symptoms
New Research on Church Attendance: Decline of Women or the Rise of Men?
Scripture referenced:
Galatians 5
Galatians 6:14
Philippians 3:3
2 Corinthians 10:12
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It’s Deactivation Week!! On December 10th in Australia (which is really December 9 in the US), the first-ever social media ban will take effect. The major platforms are required by law to deactivate the accounts of children and teens under 16. Kelly reviews the details of the new law, the pushback from Big Tech, advocacy groups, parents, and teens, and why all of this is so important.
While we watch and see how this works in Australia, here are some takeaways:
- Do not wait for the government to save your kids from social media.
- Social Media is optional for you, too, parents!
- The burden is on Big Tech, but the opportunity is still on you.
- Expect pushback, but persevere.
- Fill the void with real life.
Brave Parenting Guides to Lemon8 and Yope (Where Australian kids are rumored to be heading.)
Articles referenced:
Is This the End of Kids on Social Media?
Social Media Ban: Everything You Need to Know Before Deactivation Day
Australia says world will follow social media ban
Australia is banning social media for teens – others could follow
How Australian Teens Plan to Get Around the Social Media Ban
Meta Starts Kicking Australian Children Off Instagram and Facebook
TikTok to Comply with Australia’s ‘Upsetting’ Social Media Ban
YouTube Says it Will Comply With Australian Social Media Ban
Australia wants to end the era of kids on social media with international ban hailed as “first domino” in global movement
Scripture referenced:
2 Corinthians 11:14
Romans 12
Psalm 82:3-4
Jeremiah 17:9
Ephesians 2:1-3
Romans 1:18-32
Ephesians 6:12
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
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Today, we talk about the connection between sleep (or lack thereof), screens, and spiritual apathy. Kelly walks through five ways screens contribute to sleep deprivation and how children and teens who are sleep deprived are more likely to experience poor mental health, among other negative outcomes. More important for Christian parents is the spiritual apathy that arises in kids who are sleep-deprived. In this episode, you will learn how sleep is both biblical and necessary for children’s and teens’ spiritual health. Armed with this knowledge, you will be encouraged and equipped to make changes to your family structure to reprioritize sleep, remove screens from the bedroom, and reinforce the biblical importance of getting enough rest.
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Articles referenced:
Teens & Sleep: The Hidden Cost of Sleep Deprivation
How to help your child get enough healthy brain-boosting sleep
Teens with insomnia who lack sleep may be at risk for high blood pressure
The Critical Connection between Teens’ Sleep and Mental Health
Contemporary Screen Time Modalities among Children 9–10 years old and Binge-Eating Disorder at One-Year Follow-Up: A Prospective Cohort Study
Sleep in High School Students
Maybe the teen mental health crisis is actually a sleep crisis
Scripture referenced:
Psalm 121:3-4
Genesis 2:2-3
Mathew 11:29
Psalm 62:1
Psalm 23:2-3
Psalm 116:7
Psalm 46:10
Psalm 3:5
Psalm 4:8
Psalm 127:2
1 Peter 1:13, 4:7, 5:8
2 Samuel 11:2-3
Luke 22:45-46, 50, 52
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Before you start Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping for the latest and greatest tech gadgets, toys, and tools, it is important to have a biblical approach to gift-giving. In this episode, you’ll learn:
- The biblical nature of gift-giving and gift-receiving
- The call for Christians to give sacrificially
- What Scripture considers “good” gifts
- The top tech gifts promoted as “what teens want” this year, along with the top tech you should reject buying
- Why you shouldn’t give tech tools as a gift (for Christmas or Birthdays)
- The importance of communicating a “no tech toys preference” with extended family
As a bonus, there is a deeper dive into AI toys that are saturating the toy market. One AI-powered bear has been shown to provide sexual fetish information for kids! There is one great takeaway:
- Do not allow your children to come into contact with any AI-powered toy, robot, or chatbot.
Check out BRAVE PARENTING MERCH!! Our wristbands make for great stocking stuffers!
Articles referenced:
China’s New AI Toys Are Headed For American Shelves
AI-Powered Stuffed Animal Pulled From Market After Disturbing Interactions With Children
The ChatGPT-powered teddy bear is officially on ice
Do Not, Under Any Circumstance, Buy Your Kid an AI Toy for Christmas
Teens Need More Friction – Not the iPhone 17
BP Podcast #142: AI Robots for kids
Brave Parenting Guide to AI Robots for Kids
Media & Tech for Kids under 12 (for gift ideas)
Scripture referenced:
John 3:16
John 15:13
James 1:17
Luke 6:38
Matthew 7:9-11
Matthew 6:19-21
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Snapchat released a digital safety course helping teens navigate the bullying, illicit drug activity, nude and intimate images, and sextortion found on their platform. Some may consider this altruistic, but it reveals a deeper problem with Snapchat’s very design. In this episode, Kelly walks through five points of contention with Snapchat’s design and the so-called “safety” options offered. Snapchat’s recent design upgrades further reveal that this is not an app for basic communication with friends. It’s an app that will do anything to make a profit – even if that means addicting them or exposing them to harmful content.
The difference between digital safety courses and biblical discipleship is wisdom. This episode provides parents with the facts about Snapchat’s current operations – an apologetic for prohibiting its use, to be used in discipling children to navigate a world that demands they use social media to connect and communicate
Articles referenced:
The Keys to Snapchat Safety
Snapchat’s CEO Outlines Difficult Path Forward for the App
Snapchat Adds Infinite Retention and Group Streaks
Metricool 2025 Study Unveils 70% Surge in Short-Form Video
Snap and Perplexity Partner to Bring Conversational AI Search to Snapchat
Snapchat rolls out ‘Topic Chats’ for public conversations
Snapchat and Instagram are starting to chase the same growth strategy
Scripture referenced:
Proverbs 25:28
1 Peter 5:8
John 14:27
Hebrews 12:3
Isaiah 30:21
Galatians 6:6-8
Documentary referenced:
Can’t Look Away
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Today, Kelly interviews Michelle Lazor of Mud Hen Mama. Michelle has ten biological children and a mission to provide books that support the biblical worldview for families. At Brave Parenting, we are so passionate about children reading – but not just any reading, it should be quality, enriching stories. That is what her website, Mud Hen Mama, provides: books vetted for Christian families. Not only is she providing a wonderful resource, but her story is inspiring, and you’ll love hearing from a fellow brave parent.
Go to Mud Hen Mama to do your booking shopping this year! Support a Christian, family-owned business and use the discount code: BRAVE PARENTING to save 10% off your order!
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In a world where Netflix, Spotify, and Amazon tailor everything “just for you,” convenience quietly and subtly reshapes our kids’ worldview, identity, and habits. In this 200th episode, Kelly & Ryan unpack how hyper-personalization works, why it feels so good, and where it becomes dangerous. From echo chambers to the illusion of control (and even AI-generated media), we explore the risks and offer practical, biblical responses for families.
Five Tech Rules for Kids 12 & Under Article and Approved Technology for Children Under 12 Podcast
Articles Referenced:
How Target Figured Out A Teen Girl Was Pregnant Before Her Father Did
Spotify “Wrapped” Campaign
Artwork Personalization at Netflix
The Psychology of Hyper-Personalization
The Problem with Hyper-Personalization in Online Learning
Alpha School: AI Powered Private School
Parents Fell in Love with Alpha School’s Promise. Then They Wanted Out.
Google Gemini Storybooks
Billboard Says at Least One AI-Generated “Artist” is Charting Every Week Now
Books Referenced:
Mood Machine: The Rise of Spotify and the Cost of the Perfect Playlist by Liz Pelly
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How are parents to handle their kids’ insatiable desire for more stuff? Today, Elizabeth Urbanowicz from Foundation Worldview is here to talk about how we fight consumerism in our family. This is an urgent issue, for if it isn’t corrected when they are young, consumerism and materialism are magnified during the teen years. From iPhones and airPods to every trending item they see online, consumerism and coveting cripple young people. Kelly and Elizabeth talk about biblically faithful ways families can fight the sin of covetousness from taking over.
They also discuss Elizabeth’s newly published book, Helping Your Kids Know God’s Good Design: 40 Questions and Answers on Sexuality and Gender. This book is an excellent resource for anyone involved in the lives of children today.
Use promo code: BRAVE10 to receive $10 off a family license of any Foundation Worldview curriculum.
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This week, Kelly responds to OpenAI’s decision to allow ChatGPT to create “erotic” content and Sam Altman’s defense to pushback against this decision, saying, “We are not the elected moral police of the world.”
Kelly covers the Moral Argument for God and why God’s moral law is objective and universal. This decision is indicative of the future of AI. Sam Altman’s response is indicative of their moral relativistic worldview. All of which matters to parents, even if you aren’t using AI chatbots in your home. Knowing how Big Tech rebels against God’s moral law (and the collateral damage that causes), along with how deeply they want our children’s attention and affection, REQUIRES a fresh evaluation of our parenting and online access. Parental controls mean nothing to these companies. Our best defense is knowing God’s word.
Articles referenced:
A Teen Was Suicidal. ChatGPT Was the Friend He Confided In.
Introducing Parental Controls
OpenAI promises parental controls for ChatGPT amid lawsuit over teen death
Altman on X: “We’re going to allow erotica”
Altman on X: “We are not the elected moral police of the world.”
Cleo Abram interviews Sam Altman: “At least we haven’t created a sexbot avatar in ChatGPT yet!”
NBC: Sam Altman says OpenAI isn’t ‘moral police of the world’ after erotica ChatGPT post blows up
Spicy ChatGPT Is One Way to Make More Money
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 1:1
Colossians 1:17
Hebrews 13:8
Romans 13:1-5
Romans 2:15
Romans 2:14
Romans 1:18-20
Romans 1:28-32
Book recommendation:
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
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Sora is a new short-form video social platform solely for AI-generated videos. In this episode, Kelly explains the app, its features, its dangers, and why parents have to keep kids off of this app!!
That means you’ll have to restrict their access to the personal devices, the app stores, and the internet in general. It may seem like a high cost, but as Kelly discusses in the show, the cost of allowing the truth of reality to become distorted is much higher.
DOWNLOAD the Family Discussion Guide for Sora.
READ our Brave Parenting Guide to Sora
Articles referenced:
Sora 2 Is Here
Launching Sora Responsibly
The Sora Feed Philosophy
Introducing Parenting Controls
Fake Videos of Dead Celebrities are Going Viral. Many of their families are horrified.
Jake Paul invites users to fake him on Sora, so they immediately use it to make him gay and obsessed with make-up
“People need to get a life”; Jake Paul responds to influx of deepfake videos of his likeness
Scripture referenced
Genesis 1:1, 3
Genesis 1:27-28
Genesis 25:24-34
Romans 1:18-32
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Every parent wants to believe “my child would never _________.” But what happens when your child does something unthinkable? What is our response when we find out? Recently, parents in Utah were faced with this devastating question. What we know about their response can serve as a valuable example for all parents.
In this podcast, Kelly discusses how parents can mentally and spiritually prepare themselves to respond to children’s unthinkable actions.
Articles referenced:
Time: Prosecutors Reveal Texts Sent By Charlie Kirk Suspect
‘Shock factor’: Washington County Sheriff describes taking Charlie Kirk shooting suspect into custody
Scripture referenced:
Ephesians 6:12
1 Samuel 2:12, 17, 22
1 Samuel 4:11-14
Jeremiah 17:9
Romans 3:10, 23
Ecclesiastes 12:13
Romans 1:32
James 1:22
1 Corinthians 10:13
Galatians 5:22
James 1:5
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How much media & technology can you allow for young kids? If “zero” is impossible, how much and what kind of tech is good for kids to benefit from while avoiding harm? Kelly answers these questions by walking you through the types of media and technology that Brave Parenting approves of for kids under 12 years old. The five key rules for kids this age are: (1) No personal devices, (2) offline, (3) communal spaces, (4) parent present, (5) purpose-driven.
Check out our full guide to Brave Parenting Approved Tech Under 12
Scripture referenced:
Proverbs 22:6
Galatians 5:21-22
Book a Speaking Event!!
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Why does Brave Parenting not approve online platforms, games, and apps for kids? Are we anti-technology?
No, we’re not anti-technology at all; we’re just very discerning about what we use and are unapologetically pro-childhood. Our goal is to advance the kingdom of God by using media and technology for God’s glory.
Scripture referenced:
Ephesians 5:15-16
John 1:3
Hebrews 11:3
Genesis 1:28
James 1:17
1 Corinthians 6:12
1 Corinthians 10:31
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In this week’s episode, Kelly unpacks Roblox’s slogan, “Reimagining how people come together,” and how it reveals the platform’s ultimate goal for young people to spend their entire lives in the virtual world. It’s the techno-optimistic worldview on steroids.
BONUS DOWNLOADS:
Roblox Family Conversation Guide
Why We’re Saying No to Roblox
What it Means to Be Human: SCRIPTURE vs. ROBLOX
Articles referenced:
Roblox: Reimagining How People Come Together
Roblox: Dedicated to Building a Safer and More Civil Online World
Tech Talks: Update on our Safety Initiatives
Roblox: What We Announced at RDC 2023
Roblox: Introducing Party on Roblox
Roblox: Our Vision for the Roblox Economy
Roblox Announces Rewarded Video Ads, Partners with Google to Scale Immersive Advertising
Roblox Unlocks Next-Generation Commerce With In-Game Shopping for Physical Items
Roblox: Where Learning Happens
Roblox Launches Learning Hub to Spotlight Educational Experiences
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 1:27
Jeremiah 17:9
Ezekiel 36:26
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
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Roblox is back in the news, and in this episode, we are reviewing what Roblox is (in case you don’t know) and why it’s facing so much backlash. They boast new parental controls and safety initiatives in the midst of legal cases alleging they neglected to protect children from predatory exploitation. Should parents trust Roblox to be a safe platform? Kelly walks through how the design of Roblox reveals a techno-optimistic worldview that opposes God’s Word and any effort a parent makes to protect their child on the platform.
Articles referenced:
National Center on Sexual Exploitation: Roblox, A Mainstream Contributor to Sexual Exploitation
Average Daily Time Spent by Children in the U.S. on Leading Apps
Louisiana AG sues Roblox, calling it ‘the perfect place for pedophiles
Lawsuit against Roblox alleges sexploitation of 10-year-old Michigan girl on platform
YouTube Video: What are experiences?
Tech Talks – An Update on Our Safety Initiatives
“Pedophile Hellscape for Kids”
Is Roblox Getting Worse?
Roblox, Take a Seat
Scripture referenced:
Hebrews 13:8
Isaiah 40:8
Psalm 119:89, 42:1
Genesis 1:27, 2:18
Ephesians 4:29
Proverbs 18:21
Matthew 12:34-36, 6:33
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7:14
2 Peter 2:19
Galatians 5:1
Romans 12:2
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
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AI chatbots promise “safe” learning, entertainment, and companionship, but how do these artificial agents distort childhood as God intended childhood?
In this episode, Kelly unpacks the worldview behind AI technology, contrasts it with biblical discipleship, and explains why children and chatbots are terrible playmates. Using the example of AngelQ, the children’s app offering a kid-safe chatbot for children to explore their curiosities, Kelly explains how apps like this fundamentally distorts human childhood.
Scripture referenced:
Hebrews 13:8
Ephesians 2:10
Genesis 2:18, 1:27
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Proverbs 1:8, 2:1, 3:21, 22:6
Ephesians 6:4
John 13:12-15
Proverbs 1:7
1 Corinthians 8:1
Psalm 13:1-2, 5-6
Ecclesiastes 1:8, 1:2
Romans 5:3-4
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Book a Speaking Event!!
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In this episode, Kelly and Nathan discuss the pros and cons of the AngelQ app after 3 weeks of hands-on testing. AngelQ advertises itself as a kid-safe internet browser (“superbrowser”) through the use of an AI chatbot interface. While its safety is greater than anything else available, do its other features make the app a net benefit or a net loss for children?
Check out the Brave Parenting Guide to AngelQ on our website.
Watch this episode on YouTube.
References:
AngelQ website
AngelQ: Building a Better Digital Future for Our Children
Scripture references:
Ephesians 2:11
Check out the Foundation Worldview curriculum that Kelly & Nathan mention in the show!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Book a Speaking Event!!
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AI tutors and personalized learning programs are poised to take over the classroom. With new partnerships between AI companies and teachers’ organizations, this is coming to public schools whether parents want it or not. Today, we’re restating the obvious reasons why AI does not have to be learned or used in elementary school and what you can do to ensure it isn’t.
Articles referenced:
The AI Industry is Funding A Massive AI Training Initiative for Teachers
Microsoft, OpenAI, and a US Teachers’ Union Are Hatching a Plan to ‘Bring AI Into the Classroom’
Apple ConnectED
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The largest toy manufacturer has just joined forces with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT. Mattel and OpenAI have not disclosed exactly what they will be creating. Still, considering Mattel’s history with Hello Barbie, it’s a likely guess that it’s a generative AI conversational toy, such as Barbie or Thomas the Train.
Parents must think critically and biblically before allowing their children to engage with any AI, especially in toys.
Articles referenced:
Barbie Gets ChatGPT: Why Parents Should Pay Attention
Child Welfare Experts Horrified by Mattel’s Plans to Add ChatGPT to Toys After Mental Health Concerns for Adult Users
Mattel and OpenAI have partnered up – here’s why parents should be concerned about AI in toys
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
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TikTok has banned the popular hashtag #skinnytok from its platform due to being linked with “unhealthy weight loss content.” Does this mean TikTok cares about the content it hosts? Or is this just virtuous P.R. for them? Considering that similar hashtags are still popular, we can assume nothing has actually changed. Unrealistic beauty standards still pervade every corner of social media.
Teens who aren’t on social media platforms like TikTok are not exempt from the wildly influential dieting and restricted eating trends that saturate culture. While restricting your daughter’s access to such harmful content is important, there are other protective actions you can take that are often neglected.
Articles referenced:
TikTok Banned the “SkinnyTok” Hashtag. It’s Only a Matter of Time Until a New Insidious Diet Trend Replaces It
TikTok Just Blocked Search Results for ‘SkinnyTok’
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Today, Kelly is joined by Nathan, a Brave Parenting ambassador, parent, and internet security expert, to discuss the video gaming app TruPlay. This app offers Christian video games that the company promotes will nurture your child’s faith and teach them biblical wisdom. Those are strong claims, so we spent weeks researching every aspect of the app, playing the games, and watching the videos. Kelly and Nathan unpack the great and the not-so-great aspects of TruPlay so that parents can wisely decide if this game is better than no game at all.
Be sure to check out the Brave Parenting Guide to TruPlay Christian Games on our website. The guide offers a more comprehensive overview of the app, complete with screenshots and images, to help parents make an informed decision.
TruPlay website
Brave Parenting Guide to TruPlay
Scripture referenced:
Matthew 5:44
Luke 6:28
Romans 12:17
Ephesians 6:4
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In this cultural update for Christian parents, Kelly examines the trend of Gen Z opting for dumb phones and embracing Blackberry phones. News outlets are reporting this but are teens and young adults actually getting tired of their iPhones and boldly embracing dumb phones? This sounds amazing….and totally too good to be true.
Articles referenced:
Gen Z is swapping their smartphones for this retro alternative: ‘Need a social media detox’
Who Wants a Blackberry? Apparently, Gen Z.
Scripture referenced:
Proverbs 14:12
Matthew 11:28
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Today, we continue in our series of testimonies from those who have boldly decided to quit social media. Joining Kelly on the podcast is Lucy Staples. Lucy’s story is representative of many teens we have spoken to, whose parents restricted their social media use throughout most of high school. When Lucy was finally able to get Instagram and TikTok, she experienced what only wisdom and maturity can provide: doubt that it was good for her and regret for the time she’d already lost inside the apps.
Parents do not want to miss this conversation. It will motivate you to hold strong despite the pushback! No parent ever wished they had given their teen access to social media earlier in life, but many regret allowing too much, too soon.
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In this episode, Kelly talks with Pearson Segina, a 23-year-old student pastor who felt the conviction by God to not just stay off Instagram, but to delete his account altogether. The faith and obedience of this young man will so inspire parents!
Also in this episode:
- Is it possible to use social media to the glory of God?
- Youth Pastors on social media
- The importance of physical Bibles in the church
Watch Pearson’s original sermon on “Radical Freedom.”
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Today, Kelly and Chelsea speak with Reagan Rose from Redeeming Productivity about what he has learned and, more importantly, what he has gained from quitting social media. As someone who leads an online ministry, it seems counterintuitive for him to quit. Still, his reflections after one year reveal the beauty of what is possible for anyone who commits to leaving the social media sites for good.
Check out Reagan’s original YouTube video reflecting on quitting social media and his theology of leisure.
Redeeming Productivity
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Today’s episode continues the review of Common Sense Media’s 2025 Consensus: Media Use by Kids 0-8. This week, we are reviewing the parents’ concerns regarding media use. Kelly unpacks the reasons given for allowing screen time at these young ages and how the concerns parents reported in the survey do not seem to match the allowances given.
This episode is so important as it highlights the deception so many parents of young kids are under. Parents of Gen Z must come alongside these younger parents and graciously warn them of the consequences of living a content-driven life.
Articles referenced:
Common Sense Media 2025 Consensus: Media Use by Kids 0 to 8
Book referenced:
Shepherding Your Child’s Heart by Tedd Tripp
Scripture referenced:
Deuteronomy 6:7
Proverbs 29:25
1 Corinthians 6:20
Book a Speaking Event!!
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Today, we review Common Sense Media’s 2025 Consensus Report on Kids’ Media Use in ages 0-8 where they reveal that society’s youngest are consuming 2.5 hours of media every day. We talked about this briefly in Tablets Are Taking Over Toddlerhood, but in this podcast, Kelly reviews several of the report’s key findings and examines them through the lens of scripture and parental discipleship.
Articles referenced:
Common Sense Media 2025 Consensus: Media Use by Kids 0 to 8
Scripture referenced:
Matthew 11:28
Proverbs 22:6
Book a Speaking Event!!
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In this Brave Briefing, Kelly addresses the ever-present plea of kids to have their own phone to connect with friends. Is the only real option to give them a smartphone? We do not believe so and therefore present the simple and powerful alternative: The Home Smartphone.
Resources referenced:
Pinwheel Kid-Safe Phones
Corded handset for Smartphone
Articles referenced:
How Parenting and Self-Control Mediates the Link between Social Media and Youth Mental Health
Common Sense Media Consensus: Media Use in Tweens & Teens
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
Get the newly published Managing Media Creating Character STUDY GUIDE & WORKBOOK!
SIGN UP for our Brave Bullet Points Newsletter
GET the Revised & Updated book Managing Media Creating Character
In this Brave Briefing, Kelly asks whether we are loving our neighbor or ourselves in response to an article published by The Telegraph in the UK lamenting how smartphones have caused us to lose all sense of common decency. The reference is to selfies taken with Pope Francis’ open casket at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Not only does the article’s author have a valid point, but Scripture also speaks clearly to the respect due to others and the command to love our neighbors.
Articles referenced:
Smartphones are Destroying Our Common Sense of Decency
Why the Phone-Free Atmosphere of the Masters Still Matters
Scripture referenced:
2 Timothy 3:1-4
Matthew 22:39
Philippians 2:3
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
Get the newly published Managing Media Creating Character STUDY GUIDE & WORKBOOK!
SIGN UP for our Brave Bullet Points Newsletter
GET the Revised & Updated book Managing Media Creating Character
The popular Netflix series Adolescence can easily bring about fear for the future of today’s children because of the content of the internet. The show is generating a lot of conversation about misogyny and the “manosphere,” but few are evaluating it biblically. In this episode, Kelly and Brave Parenting Ambassador Mandy consider and discuss what Scripture offers in understanding the themes of Adolescence:
- The parents’ role in training and discipling children
- How modern public education is equally shaping adolescents
- The many dangerous ideologies perpetuated on social media that shape worldview
- How human’s sinful nature could lead any adolescent down this dark path
Learn how you can be a Brave Parenting Ambassador like Mandy here!
Articles referenced:
Do Parents Actually Want Kids Watching Adolescence in School?
American Worldview Inventory 2024: Millions of Americans Embrace Common Unbiblical Perspectives
Scripture referenced:
Romans 5:12
Exodus 20
Genesis 4:6-8
Proverbs 29:25
Proverbs 4:23
Ephesians 2:10
Deuteronomy 6:7
Ephesians 6:4
Jeremiah 17:9
Romans 3:23
Romans 3:10
Genesis 3
Romans 12:2
1 Peter 5:8
Proverbs 22:15
2 Timothy 1:7
Hebrews 12:11
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
The popular Netflix series Adolescence is raising many questions about the online content kids consume. Media and technology are often blamed for stealing kids’ childhood, but in light of this show, we have to consider why parents willingly hand their child over to isolation behind a screen.
In this Brave Briefing, Kelly considers the role of the parents in the show Adolescence. Rather than brew over the toxic content available for kids to see, parents have the opportunity to respond with action. Doing something different, preventative, and brave is the only way to change the trajectory of modern adolescence.
Scripture referenced:
Deuteronomy 6:7
Proverbs 22:6
Romans 12:2
Articles referenced:
How Parenting & Self-Control Mediate the Link Between Social Media Use and Youth Mental Health
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
Get the newly published Managing Media Creating Character STUDY GUIDE & WORKBOOK!
SIGN UP for our Brave Bullet Points Newsletter
GET the Revised & Updated book Managing Media Creating Character
Today, Kelly and Ryan give a synopsis and review of the new Minecraft movie, which just opened in theaters nationwide.
They discuss the overall plot, the quality of the language and content, and what type of conversations you can have with your kids after seeing the movie.
Be sure to check out our new Brave Parenting Guide to Minecraft (the game – not the movie)!
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 3:17-19
Proverbs 22:6
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
Today, Kelly responds to a series of articles published by The Stylist asking the question, “What is it like to be a girl in 2025?”
Are we, as a society, failing girls? If the picture they paint is true, how can it be remedied? What is the parent’s role in all of this?
Articles referenced:
Is 2025 The Scariest Time to Be a Girl?
Nowhere Feels Safe – What its Like to be a Girl in 2025.
Scripture Referenced:
Proverbs 31:25
1 Peter 3:4
1 Corinthians 6:18
Get the newly published Managing Media Creating Character Study Guide & Workbook!
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
SIGN UP for our Brave Bullet Points Newsletter
GET the Revised & Updated book Managing Media Creating Character
TikTok wants you to believe they care deeply about your kids’ safety and well-being. Last week, they announced new parental controls allowing parents to see who their kids are following and who follows them. Additionally, they will begin “Wind down” mode for users under 16 years old. Are any of these ground-breaking? No. Could they do so much more? Absolutely.
In this episode, Kelly passionately reviews the latest with all things TikTok, including the impending deadline to be sold or banned in the U.S., the new parental controls, and how one university football coach took it upon himself to ban dancing on TikTok to preserve his team’s image.
Previous Episodes referenced:
Should Christians Use Meditation Apps?
Articles referenced:
TikTok’s mood music will tell teens to ‘wind down’ after 10PM
TikTok’s Guardian Guide
TikTok Is Harming Children at an Industrial Scale
Will TikTok’s new parental control features really work?
West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez bans TikTok dancing
Scripture referenced:
Colossians 1:15-17
John 1:3
Hebrews 1:2-3
Matthew 6:24
Romans 12:3
Romans 1:21-23
Galatians 6:8-9
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
Tablets are taking over toddlerhood. Common Sense Media’s 2025 Consensus on media usage by kids zero to eight years old reveals staggering numbers of the youngest and most vulnerable of society on internet-connected devices for upwards of 3.5 hours per day on average. Two-thirds of parents admit to allowing the screen to “get stuff done,” but is anyone considering anything other than convenience? It seems parents want to outsource parenting just as they outsource many other tasks nowadays.
How should Christian parents think about the convenience of a digital babysitter?
Articles referenced:
Common Sense Media 2025 Consensus
Scripture referenced:
James 1:5
Proverbs 3:13
Matthew 7:13
Get the newly published Managing Media Creating Character Study Guide & Workbook!
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
SIGN UP for our Brave Bullet Points Newsletter
GET the Revised & Updated book Managing Media Creating Character
Marvel Rivals is the latest gaming craze, drawing 40 million players with its fast-paced action and free-to-play model. But behind the fun lies a culture-shaping platform that hooks kids with addictive design, in-game purchases, and exposure to toxic online interactions.
In this Brave Briefing episode, Kelly unpacks what parents need to know—how the game influences kids’ social identity, gaming habits, and motivation. Are video games just entertainment, or something more?
Articles referenced:
NTY: Censoring Games
Marvel Rivals Has Earned An Estimated $130 Million In Its First Month
Marvel Rivals Monetization Explained: Free-to-Play Model, Currencies, and Battle Pass Details
Get the newly published Managing Media Creating Character Study Guide & Workbook!
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
SIGN UP for our Brave Bullet Points Newsletter
GET the Revised & Updated book Managing Media Creating Character
Online video games share quite a few features with social media platforms. As lawmakers push to create legal restrictions surrounding social media, we wonder why there is no conversation about online video game restrictions. Are they that different? If online video games share some of the same concerning features, shouldn’t they share the same restrictions?
Articles referenced:
Roblox is still trying to convince lawmakers it’s not social media
Censoring Games
Get the newly published Managing Media Creating Character Study Guide & Workbook!
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
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Today, we’re reviewing three research reports about TEENS and SOCIAL MEDIA that prove parents need to be brave! By looking at all three together, we can get a clear picture of what is happening with teens. The growing amount of time spent on a screen and the growing mental health issues among young people is partially a result of parents unwilling or uncaring enough to enforce social media and screen time restrictions. The parents who bravely do restrict have kids with far better outcomes.
Articles referenced:
Pew: Teens, Social Media, and Technology 2024
Gallup & IFS: HOW PARENTING AND SELF-CONTROL MEDIATE THE LINK BETWEEN SOCIAL MEDIA USE AND YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH
Common Sense Media: Unpacking the Grink Culture
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
Education is suffering under the weight of phones in schools. While schools worldwide are banning phones to improve learning and mental health, many parents are fighting to keep 24/7 access to their kids.
Why? Because modern parenting has shifted from stewardship to ownership—and it is harming our children in massive ways.
Articles referenced:
Do Yondr Pouches Really Work?
JAMA: Adolescent Smartphone Use During School Hours
Scripture referenced:
Psalm 139:13,16
Ephesians 6:4
Get the newly published Managing Media Creating Character Study Guide & Workbook!
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
SIGN UP for our Brave Bullet Points Newsletter
GET the Revised & Updated book Managing Media Creating Character
APPLY to be a Brave Parenting Ambassador
Meditation and prayer apps have increased in quantity and popularity, but should Christians use them? Promising peace, focus, sleep, emotional regulation, and spiritual growth, these apps make great boasts that must be evaluated before downloading.
In this episode, Kelly & Chelsea unpack how the algorithms, the behavior modification tactics, the quantification of prayers, and the promoted streaks actually impact mental health, much less someone’s spiritual development.
Articles referenced:
What is Secular Meditation? A Guide to Mindfulness Without Spirituality
Biblical Meditation vs. Eastern Meditation
Christian Meditation: What practices are New Age and what is biblical?
There’s an app for that: Christian mindfulness, meditation apps find their moment
Meditation Apps and the Gospel of Self-Optimization
What is mindfulness?
What is contemplative prayer?
Medium: Soultime
Launching a Christian Social Media Network: Mark Wagner of Soultime
Banned by China, Backed by Mark Wahlberg: The Christian Prayer App Changing the World
Hallow’s Rise: How a Former Atheist Built the World’s Largest Christian Prayer App
Scripture referenced:
Psalm 1:2
Psalm 119:15
2 Timothy 3:16
Romans 5:1
John 14:27
2 Corinthians 2:17
2 Corinthians 4:2
1 Thessalonians 2:3
1 Corinthians 14:14-15
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups.
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
Everyone wants an easy and convenient parenting hack to teach reading, but what is that hack? What gives parents and kids a win in reading?
Educational apps? Reading to them? Is it really even a question we have to ask?
Articles referenced:
American Children’s Reading Skills Reach New Lows
These Toys Actually Get My Kindergartner Excited About Learning to Read
Testing Theories of Why: 4 Keys to Interpreting US Student Achievement Trends
Scripture referenced:
John 1:1
Get the newly published Managing Media Creating Character Study Guide & Workbook!
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
SIGN UP for our Brave Bullet Points Newsletter
GET the Revised & Updated book Managing Media Creating Character
APPLY to be a Brave Parenting Ambassador
Location tracking is now part of the written code for effective modern parenting. In this episode, Kelly examines the widespread technological convenience of parents tracking their kid’s location. Parents argue it’s about keeping kids safe – but does it actually? Kelly unpacks the common reasons why parents insist on location tracking and how Scripture informs and instructs us differently. Does a child’s spiritual location matter more than their physical location?
Articles Referenced:
Safety and Surveillance Software Practices as a Parent in the Digital World
Some Parents Struggle to Stop Tracking Their Kid’ Every Move – Even in College
How Often Are Parents Spying on Their Kids Online?
Life360 Blog: Tips for Family Tracking Without Becoming a Helicopter Parent
Scripture Referenced:
Luke 2:41-59
Psalm 127:1
2 Corinthians 5:7
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
On the brink of the TikTok ban, TikTok Influencers admit to their own lies. Will their professed dishonesty in attracting views change their influence on people?
This should awaken parents to the lies that kids are building their lives on when they believe the influencer narrative.
Scripture referenced:
Matthew 7: 24-27
John 14:6
Get the newly published Managing Media Creating Character Study Guide & Workbook!
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
SIGN UP for our Brave Bullet Points Newsletter
GET the Revised & Updated book Managing Media Creating Character
APPLY to be a Brave Parenting Ambassador
Today, Kelly discusses the recent Supreme Court hearing of oral arguments in the Free Speech Coalition v. Paxton case. It’s a big deal for parents because, if upheld, it will set a precedent for the protection of children from accessing online pornography under the age of 18.
Nevertheless, while the law gets settled what should parents be doing in the meantime?
Referenced articles:
Brave Parenting Guide to VPNs
The Supreme Court Considers Most Important Online Child Protection Case in 20 Years
Referenced Scripture:
Ephesians 2:10
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
SIGN UP for our Brave Bullet Points Newsletter
GET the Revised & Updated book Managing Media Creating Character
APPLY to be a Brave Parenting Ambassador
The Brave Briefing is a weekly technology and cultural update for Christian parents.
This week, we discuss Mark Zuckerberg’s announcement that fact-checkers and complex algorithms will no longer censor Meta platforms Facebook and Instagram to filter content. What does this mean for parents and teens? Also, with TikTok facing a potential ban in the U.S., we look at new evidence of the harms of TikTok to children and offer ways to intentionally disconnect from the app now rather than wait to see if it gets banned.
WATCH the Brave Briefing on YouTube
SIGN UP for our Brave Bullet Points Newsletter
GET the Revised & Updated book Managing Media Creating Character
APPLY to be a Brave Parenting Ambassador
This episode evaluates the Top 20 Free Apps on Apple’s App Store in 2024. We consider the contrast between apps that serve as a tool and apps that aim to manipulate our behaviors and essentially addict us. We look at the idol maker in Isaiah 44 in order to ask ourselves, “Is not this thing in my right hand a lie?”
Articles referenced:
Apple’s Top Free Apps in 2024
Scripture referenced:
Isaiah 44:12-23
Proverbs 14:12
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
Every year, Apple releases its list of the top free apps. Today, we are discussing the ten top gaming apps in the U.S. in 2024. What kind of games are these and should your kids be playing them? Kelly provides alternative, real-life games that can (and should) be played instead.
Articles referenced:
Apple reveals 2024’s most downloaded apps and games
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
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Kelly & Chelsea recap the year 2024 for Brave Parenting and for the Media and Technology trends that shaped the year. Everything from AI to iPad Kids and how they will impact 2025.
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
Smartphones and all their apps are not neutral. To build healthy smartphone habits (something every parent – but really every human – must strive for), we must add a little friction to our phones. Friction helps make one-tap purchasing a little harder and mindlessly scrolling time-limited. In this episode, Kelly presents 14 ways to add friction to our phones so we can be more present, less distracted, and have time to pursue God’s purposes.
Need a written version of these ways to add friction? Check out the blog post.
Books referenced:
Managing Media Creating Character, Chapter 5: Self-Control
How to Break Up with Your Phone
Articles referenced:
How Do I Resist “Time Thieves”? Through Friction
Manipulate Friction to Control Your Phone Rather than Letting It Control You
Teens Say Social Media is Stressing Them Out. Here’s How to Help Them.
Resources referenced:
Aro Box: The Screen Time Solution for Families
Freedom
AppBlock
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 11: The Tower of Bable
Numbers 22:21-35: Balam’s donkey
2 Corinthians 12:7: Paul’s thorn in the flesh
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
Would you allow your 13-year-old to order Uber rides to take them to their friend’s house when you can’t drive them? Uber now offers Teen Accounts to help teens get where they need to be (and keep them fed with seamlessly connected Uber Eats). This can feel like an allowance that fosters independence in a world encouraging parents to stop sheltering and hovering over teens. But is this really what teenage independence looks like? What are the bigger concerns that parents need to be aware of?
Articles referenced:
A Brief History of Teenagers
Economically Worthless and Emotionally Priceless?
Food Delivery Apps: Usage & Demographics
Restaurant Industry Sales
50+ Food & Alcohol Delivery Stats and Trends for 2024
What is Uber All About? Fun Facts From Uber’s History
Uber Family Profiles
Uber’s Teen Accounts Now Have Spending Limits, Monthly Budgets
What to Know About Teen Accounts on Uber
Uber Tweaks Its Teen Accounts to Allow Parents to Book Rides
Scripture referenced:
Proverbs 22:6
Philippians 4:19
Matthew 6:25-33
2 Thessalonians 3:10
Genesis 1:27
Romans 12:16
1 Peter 1:6-7
1 Thessalonians 4
Ephesians 6:4
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
In this episode, Kelly is joined by Pastor Chris Lynch to discuss how to think biblically about entertainment. Starting with a broad definition of entertainment and seeing it as a gift from God gives a foundation parents can build upon when deciding how much and what kind of entertainment to allow. Chris offers a terrific depth of insight and practical next steps to take and apply today.
Articles referenced:
Entertainment, the Bible, and Your Kids Part 1
Entertainment, the Bible and Your Kids Part 2
Resource referenced:
Growing Fathers
Scripture referenced:
1 Peter 1: 13-16
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Philippians 1:6,
2 Corinthians 5:17
Romans 8:29
Romans 3:14
Psalm 119:9-11
Luke 2:52
1 Timothy 4:12
Deut 6:4-9
Ephesians 5:10, 15-16
Jeremiah 17:9
2 Corinthians 4:1-2
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
We continue to examine Bible-based entertainment for kids by examining popular apps that promote biblical learning and fun. As always, we consider these apps and Bible-based play through the lens of Scripture and the biblical worldview. We seek to answer the question, ” Isn’t Bible-based content better than everything else?”
Articles referenced:
The Ultimate List of Bible Apps by MinistrySpark
Children’s Ministry: From Entertainment to Biblical Teaching
Bible-Based Apps Reviewed:
Bible App for Kids
God for Kids
SunSchool
Guardians of Ancora
Greatest Journey
The Superbook Bible
Mentioned but not reviewed: David & Goliath – A Righteous Tale
Scripture referenced:
John 6:25-27
1 Corinthians 10
Romans 12:2
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
In this episode, Kelly unfolds her research into the current Bible-based (Christian) streaming entertainment services for kids and families. She also gives parents a way to think biblically about consuming streaming entertainment.
Streaming Services Reviewed:
Minno
YippeeTV
PureFlix
TweenXstream
FaithLifeTV
Faith Channel
RedeemTV
Up Faith & Family
Scripture referenced:
Philippians 4:19
2 Corinthians 12:10
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
In today’s episode, we discuss intelligence and learning. Is AI going to take over education? If so, when and what are parents and students to do in the meantime? We consider AI homework help apps, learning amongst kids, and what the AI leaders are saying about the future of education.
Previous podcasts referenced:
Ep. 138: ChatGPT & Education
Ep. 139: Chatbots & Relationships Part 1
Ep. 140: Chatbots & Relationships Part 2
Articles referenced:
Sam Altman says that if you’re afraid of AI taking your job, you should get good with AI
How ChatGPT Boss Sam Altman’s New AI Predications Affect Education
Generative AI in Classrooms: Cheating or the Future of Education?
Coursera CEO: AI won’t replace teachers—but it will transform education
88% of Parents Say AI Is Crucial but Worry Schools Aren’t Teaching It
How Will AI Like ChatGPT Change Education for Our Children?
Common Sense Media: The Dawn of the AI Era
‘No escaping it’: As S.A. school systems think hard about AI, teachers are plunging right in
Texas Alpha School Teaches Students with AI
Sam Altman Blog Post: The Intelligence Age
Scripture referenced:
Jeremiah 17:9
Romans 6:6
Colossians 3:23
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
As the 2024 Presidential election draws near, anxiety is at an all-time high. And not just for adults! Children, too, are absorbing the stress, rhetoric, and divisiveness they see in media and the adults in their lives.
In this episode, Kelly reviews God’s sovereignty over nations and kings and how peace can be found in trusting God’s faithfulness throughout generations. This peace is much needed—peace that is achieved with less media and more Scripture.
Download the PDF version of the three steps, along with Scripture references.
Articles referenced:
We asked 10-year-olds about the election. Here’s what we learned
CNN study finds Democrat-leaning kids 5 times more likely to say they wouldn’t visit pro-Trump family’s house
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
In today’s episode, we consider the use of Bible apps during church worship services. Kelly and Chelsea survey the crowd at the Women in Apologetics conference about this topic, and they unpack the issue, looking at the benefits and detriments for ALL ages.
Articles referenced:
YouVersion Bible
BlueLetter Bible
Sexual Predator Uses YouVersion Bible App to Target Teen Girls in Church Youth Group
YouVersion Bible App Child Vulnerability Exposed
Other illuminating articles:
YouVersion Bible app hires former Facebook exec to fuel growth
When the Bible Turns Into Instagram
Why You Should Ditch Your Digital Bible
Scripture referenced:
John 4:24
Hebrews 12:28-29
Psalm 46:10
1 Corinthians 8:9-13
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
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Today, we are unpacking the immanent and unhealthy social media culture of competition and comparison and the ‘Momfluencer’ movement. There is a growing norm of learning how to parent from so-called “experts” on social media. As always, Kelly & Chelsea evaluate this through the lens of Scripture. If we start with God’s word, how do we love our fellow parents in Christ and neighbors in light of the online comparison and parenting expertise culture?
Articles/Books referenced:
The New Parenting Gurus are the Mom Experts on Instagram
Social Media Said I Could Become the Perfect Mother, It Was a Lie.
Survey Shows that More than 70% of Moms Compare Themselves to Momfluencers on Social Media.
Momfluenced: Inside the Maddening Picture-Perfect World of Mommy Influencer Culture by Sara Petersen
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 4, 16, 29-30, 37
Galatians 6:3
James 3:14-16
Philippians 2:3-4
James 1:5
1 Thessalonians 4
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In today’s episode, we examine whether Youth/Student Ministry Pastors should be friends with or follow their students on social media. We’ve been investigating this question, and we asked the attendees at the Women in Apologetics conference for their take on it. We biblically unpack the three most common reasons why Christians believe Youth Pastors should be friends/follow students.
Articles referenced
Youth Ministry in America (2014)
How Do Youth Leaders Disciple in a Media-Formed Generation?
Scripture referenced
Matthew 11:29
Galatians 5:17-18 (MSG version, in particular)
2 Corinthians 6:14-18
Romans 12:2
James 4:4
Ephesians 5:11
Book a Speaking Event!!
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Today, we are discussing the newly announced Instagram “Teen Accounts,” which will automatically restrict teens under 18 to a private account, offer more strongly filtered content, and prevent them from being DM’d unless they are already connected. Is this praiseworthy news?? We give our two cents. And we’re discussing the Toronto Zoo’s problem with patrons allowing the gorillas to have too much screen time.
Articles referenced:
Meta: Introducing Instagram Teen Accounts
Instagram Makes Teen Accounts Private As Pressure Mounts on the App to Protect Children
Instagram Launches “Teen Accounts” As Child Safety Scrutiny Mounts
Instagram Teen Accounts Aren’t Really for Teens
Zoo Bans Phone Screens After Gorillas Become Addicted
Zoos Concerned as Gorillas Become Hooked on Smartphone Videos
Scripture referenced:
Jeremiah 17:9
Mark 7:20-23
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
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We’re so thrilled you’re here, WOULD YOU TAKE A MINUTE AND LEAVE US A 5-STAR REVIEW??
In today’s episode, Kelly discusses the U.S. Surgeon General’s most recent advisory about parental stress in America. Dr. Murthy presents it as a serious public health issue, but Kelly walks us through the stress of parenting through the lens of Scripture. Why are parents so stressed and what can be done about it? Kelly has a few ideas.
And this episode has two surprise announcements!
Articles referenced:
Parental Stress is a Significant Public Health Issue, Surgeon General Advisory says
A Half Century of Surgeon General Warnings
Parental Stress is so Debilitating, the Surgeon General Declared it a Public Health Issue
Surgeon General Prescribes Much Bigger Government
Scripture referenced:
The Book of Genesis
Job 1:4-5
The Book of Proverbs
Luke 2:41-50
Luke 15:11-32
Matthew 21:28-31
Matthew 11:28-30
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated)
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview with Foundation Worldview!
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Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
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In today’s episode, we discuss the norm of listening to music all day long and through earbuds/airpods. Is there such a thing as too much music? How does music impact someone’s mood? What about shutting the world out through airpods – is that healthy? And most importantly, what does Scripture have to say about music, its purpose, and its function in our lives?
Brave Parenting will be at the Women in Apologetics (WIA) Conference in Nashville, TN, Sept 13-14, and we have a ticket to giveaway!! If you are interested in attending, sign up HERE** to win!
Articles Referenced:
Can Too Much Music Be Bad For Your Mental Health?
Why I’m Taking a 30-Day Break From Music
The Harmful Side of Music: Understanding the effects of rumination on adolescent mental health
Does Music Affect Your Mood?
Music Use for Mood Regulation: Self-Awareness and Conscious Listening Choices in Young People With Tendencies to Depression
Is Music Addiction Possible? Here’s What To Know
Do We Listen to Too Much Music?
Earbuds, Hearing Loss, and Social Isolation
The Lonely World of Earbuds
It’s hard to find a person not wearing headphones in San Fransisco
Headphones Everywhere
Scripture Referenced:
1 Sam 16:23
Deut 6:4-5
Deut 18:15
Matt 17:5
Psalm 81:8
John 10:27
Psalm 46:10
1 Kings 19
Exodus 14:14
Matt 11:28-30
Phil 4:6-7
1 Pet 5:7
Psalm 92
Col 3:16
Eph 5:18-19
James 5:20
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
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We have heard many parents refer to YouTube content, such as Ms. Rachel, as “early childhood education.” Parents tell us how much their babies and toddlers love watching Ms. Rachel (and shows like Cocomelon). In this episode, we address this common trend of infant and toddler screen time with what both science and the Bible have to say about it.
Articles referenced:
JAMA: Screen Time at Age 1 Year and Communication and Problem-Solving Developmental Delay at 2 and 4 Years
Scripture referenced:
Phil 2:3-15
Book a Speaking Event!!
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In the final week of our apologetic (defense) on why phones should be banned in schools (from the first bell to the last), we look at the justification that kids need phones because of “mass shootings” in schools. Kelly unpacks a greater threat that students face every day – one that gives far greater credence to school-wide phone bans.
Articles referenced:
California Joins Growing National Effort to Ban Smartphones Use in Schools
This Florida School District Banned Cellphones. Here’s What Happened.
How a Connecticut middle school won the battle against cellphones
School Cellphone Bans Gain Steam as Los Angeles Unified Signs On
Schools don’t want kids on cellphones. Is banning them the solution?
Alberta to ban cellphones in K-12 classrooms starting in fall
Smartphones are Damaging Our Kids
Will the Phone-Free Movement Work?
How Schools Can Help End the Phone-based Childhood
Cell Phones and Text messaging in schools
School Shooter Database from the Washington Post
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
National Center on Sexual Exploitation
Scripture Referenced:
Phil. 4:4-18
2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
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This week, we continue our apologetic (defense) on why phones should be banned in schools – not just during class instructional time, but from the first bell to the last bell! In part 2, Kelly provides a counterargument for the common defense made for keeping phones in the classroom, hallways, and cafeteria: “Students need to learn proper use.”
Articles referenced:
California Joins Growing National Effort to Ban Smartphones Use in Schools
This Florida School District Banned Cellphones. Here’s What Happened.
How a Connecticut middle school won the battle against cellphones
School Cellphone Bans Gain Steam as Los Angeles Unified Signs On
Schools don’t want kids on cellphones. Is banning them the solution?
Alberta to ban cellphones in K-12 classrooms starting in fall
Smartphones are Damaging Our Kids
Will the Phone-Free Movement Work?
How Schools Can Help End the Phone-based Childhood
Scripture Referenced:
Jeremiah 17:9
Mark 7:21-23
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
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This week, we are laying out the case for banning phones in schools – not just during class instructional time, but bell-to-bell! Several states are now legislating policies requiring this, but not all parents (or students) are in full support. In part 1, Kelly lays out where the movement is headed and identifies the largest hindrance to school districts putting bans in place.
Articles referenced:
California Joins Growing National Effort to Ban Smartphones Use in Schools
This Florida School District Banned Cellphones. Here’s What Happened.
How a Connecticut middle school won the battle against cellphones
School Cellphone Bans Gain Steam as Los Angeles Unified Signs On
Schools don’t want kids on cellphones. Is banning them the solution?
Alberta to ban cellphones in K-12 classrooms starting in fall
Smartphones are Damaging Our Kids
Will the Phone-Free Movement Work?
Scripture Referenced:
James 3:5-12
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
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In this episode, Kelly talks about the U.S. Surgeon General’s opinion piece in the New York Times, calling for government warning labels for social media. Dr. Vivek Murthy points to the need for adolescents and parents to understand the risk, but this should be a warning label for all of society! Kelly expounds on 2 Cor. 6:14-17 as a call for Christians of all ages to reconsider their partnership with social media and their witness to the watching world.
Articles referenced:
Surgeon General: Why I’m Calling For a Warning Label on Social Media Platforms
What a Social Media Warning Label Can’t Do
The Surgeon General Proposed Warning Labels On Social Media For Teens, And Experts Have Thoughts
Big News: The Surgeon General Calls for a Warning Label on Social Media
Scripture referenced:
1 Peter 1:14-16
2 Cor. 6:14-17
Eph 2:1-2
1 Peter 5:8
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
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Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s new without social media – a win for everyone!
This week, we are discussing the recent New York Times article “The Internet’s Final Frontier: Remote Amazon Tribes.” After the internet was introduced to the Indigenous people in September, the members of the tribe had to grapple with the same ills American parents have been plagued with for fifteen years. Their story provides an object lesson for Christian parents on the importance of delaying access to the internet/smartphones/social media/games for the purpose of discipleship.
Scripture referenced:
Matthew 4:1-10
Matthew 28: 19-20
Phone Free Friday Challenge – sign up with this link
Brave Parenting Guide to Old School Summers
Books referenced:
Christian Heroes: Then and Now
The Faithful Spy: Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
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In this week’s episode, Kelly interviews Kenzie Cates, a recent high school graduate who completed a senior research thesis on lgbtq content in children’s media and entertainment. How much content is out there in children’s media? Is it blatant or is it so subtle it would be overlooked by children? What is the motivation for promoting lgbtq to children? And, of course, why does it matter for Christian parents, and what can they do?
References:
Daily Wire’s subscription-based Children’s Media: Bentkey
Common Sense Media celebrating pride in children’s media
Business Indsider’s database of lgbtq characters and growth tracking in media
Scripture references:
Genesis 1:27-28
Matthew 19:4-6
Romans 1:18-32
Leviticus 18:22
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
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In today’s episode, Kelly and Chelsea offer a practical case for embracing the DVD player as an alternative to personal screens and media consumption. The technology may seem antiquated, but it is not obsolete and can provide families with much-needed sanity for summer screen time!
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
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In today’s episode, Kelly unpacks her most recent conclusions about Snapchat. For years, she has maintained that Snapchat was the worst social media platform for teens. Is Snapchat still the worst – or has it been dethroned?
Related episodes:
Ep. 133: Constant Companion
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
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A decade ago Facebook’s internal motto was “Move Fast and Break Things.” The broken pieces are all around us and Big Tech and now AI has not learned.
In today’s podcast Kelly & Chelsea talk through some recent AI and Big Tech headlines through the biblical worldview. It is clear to see that “Move Fast and Break Things” is still the general mantra. Brave Parenting recommends the alternative: Move Slow and Protect Things (such as childhood, human creativity, sacredness, marriage, etc.).
Articles referenced:
Catholic AI Priest Stripped of Priesthood
Catholic Group Defrocks Priest After it Gave Strange Answers
Meet Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang
Videos referenced:
Figure 01 (Humanoid Robot Demonstration)
Apple iPad Commercial
Scripture referenced:
Hebrews 13:8
Romans 2:15
Romans 1:20
Book a Speaking Event!!
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
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Social Media is a hot mess – which is making young people a hot mess of mental health, lack of purpose, and a failure to flourish. Everyone knows this, but how can social media be reformed? Change must come. Will it be voluntarily through Big Tech, legislatively through Government, or wisely and bravely through Parents?
In this episode, Kelly & Chelsea evaluate the present federal and state legislative initiatives to reform social media. By explaining the almost (but not completely) insurmountable obstacles, they demonstrate to parents where the hope of change really lies.
Articles referenced:
Senate Judiciary Hearings
U.S. Department of Justice Report calling for Section 230 reform
Bloomberg’s excellent video explaining Section 230
Florida Legislation to Protect Children
Privacy Concerns Rise – NPR Interview with Carl Szabo
Scripture referenced:
Romans 13
Galatians 5:13-23
1 Corinthians 10:13
Previous Episodes referenced:
Episode 141: Why 41 States Are Suing Meta
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
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It is time for our review of the 2024 Dirty Dozen List! This is the Top 12 Entities contributing to sexual exploitation as identified by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE). To no surprise, BIG TECH leads the way. In this episode, Kelly & Chelsea review the six that most impact parents raising kids. This content is so important to know! Maybe one of our most important episodes all year long.
Warning There are a lot of references to CSAM, nothing explicit but probably too much for young kids to listen along.
Be sure to check out the entire Dirty Dozen list, review their evidence, and consider responding to their call to action!
Episodes referenced:
Episode 107: Preparing Your Devices, Home, & Kids’ Heart for Summer
Episode 109: NCOSE Dirty Dozen List 2023
___________________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Teach your kids how to have a biblical worldview!
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Today, we have Foundation Worldview Founder Elizabeth Urbanowicz joining us to expertly answer questions regarding how to best handle concerns around entertainment media our kids want to watch/read/listen to.
We discuss fantasy books/movies like Harry Potter, music such as Taylor Swift, Netflix binging, and viral social media trends. Elizabeth has a wealth of wisdom in training kids to think biblically – this is practical wisdom you don’t want to miss!
Foundation Worldview has offered a discount code for Brave Parenting listeners!
Use promo code: BRAVE to save $10 on any curriculum purchase.
___________________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
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When you think about AI, how often do movies like Terminator or The Matrix come to mind? Futuristic and dystopian depictions of how AI will influence mankind has been a theme in the entertainment industry for almost a century! In this episode, Kelly & Chelsea review five portrayals of AI in the movies and consider each through the lens of our Biblical worldview. The goal is to help parents consider what is true and what is false about these portrayals in order to help kids think critically about the role AI will play in reality.
Articles referenced:
Could the Terminator Really Happen? Experts Assess Hollywood’s Visions of AI
The SAG-AFTRA Strike in Hollywood, Explained
From a Threat to Humanity to Savior of Mankind: AI Movies Then and Now
How Target Figured Out a Teen Girl Was Pregnant Before Her Father Did
What Does Coram Deo Mean?
Scripture referenced:
Matthew 6:25-34
Genesis 2:18-25
1 Corinthians 6:15-19
Romans 1:21-25
John 16:7
Hebrews 13:6
Book recommendation:
Knowing God by J.I. Packer
___________________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
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In this episode, producer of the podcast Ryan Newcom joins Kelly in unpacking how Artificial Intelligence is allowing for more sophisticated scams. They review phishing attempts, voice cloning, and deep fake scams that are on the rise. Children and the elderly are common targets for internet scams making this an essential conversation to be had with the entire family!
Articles referenced:
10 Ways ChatGPT Shook Up the World in 2023
AI Robcalls Impersonate Joe Biden in an Apparent Attempt to Suppress Votes in New Hampshire
Political Consultant Behind Fake Biden Robocall Says He Was Trying to Highlight a Need for AI Rules
Finance worker pays out $25 million after video call with deepfake ‘chief financial officer’
‘Mom, these bad men have me’: She believes scammers cloned her daughter’s voice in a fake kidnapping
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 25:30-34
Genesis 27:1-30
Genesis 29:18-25
___________________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
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In today’s episode we are breaking down Generative AI Images and Art. After a brief lesson in engineering, we talk about the main concerns for kids when it come to AI generated images. Some are minor concerns like copyright and displaced careers but others are of serious concern such as deepfakes! As we walk through the different implications for kids (versus adults) we offer practical ways parents can ask questions and engage with their kids in new conversations in order to start shaping their worldview around AI – because if you don’t, their friends or the school will!
Articles referenced:
10 Unbelievable Ways ChatGPT Shook Up the World in 2023
AI is Now Accessible to Everyone: 3 Things Parents Should Teach Their Kids
The A to Z of Artificial Intelligence
New Jersey Teen Sues Classmate for Spreading Fake AI Nudes
The Best AI Image Generators of 2024
AI Models Spit Out Photos of Real People and Copyrighted Images
-> Beginners Guide to Stable Diffusion Models (this is the website with all of the mathematical equations!)
Scripture referenced:
Psalm 24:1-2
Gen 1:1
Exodus 35:35
Isaiah 30:18
Romans 12:19
John 17:17
Psalm 18:30
Psalm 119: 60
Isaiah 40:8
John 14:6
Psalm 13:5
___________________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
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Today we interview Tim Nixon, retired pastor of 39 years and ACBC Biblical counselor and fellow. Tim offers insight to the state of the parent-teen relationship, how AI could worsen an already lacking bond, and the importance of connection and engagement! We talk about chatbot therapy, social media, and teen mental health crisis within the context of biblical parenting.
____________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
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AI influencers are ostensibly benign, but when you pull back the curtain of AI-generated “magic” avatars and the aesthetic of perfection that AI creates, these AI influencers actually represent a dangerous and deeper theological and philosophical issue. What does it mean to post online under your likeness? Who really owns your likeness? Does it matter to anyone if AI takes over the modeling and influencing jobs of the world?
The bottom line (spoiler alert) is is that this impacts kids WAY more than it impacts adults – and this is precisely why EVERY parent needs to listen.
Scripture references:
Exodus 32
Matthew 22:39
Genesis 1-2
1 Cor. 6:19-20
Ps. 19:1
Articles referenced:
This AI Fitness Model Makes $11.000/month
AI Influencers are Missing The One Thing Companies Hire Humans For
Parents Worry AI Influencers Promote Unrealistic Beauty Standards
Virtual Influencer: Meet the AI-Generated Figures Posing as Your New Online Friends as They Try to Steal Your Stuff
The Top 10 AI Influencers on Instagram
Books referenced:
Francis Shaffer “How Shall We Then Live”
____________________________
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Today we are joined by Dr. Jacob Shatzer, professor, parent, and author of the book, Transhumanism and the Image of God. If you’ve never heard the term “transhumanism” before, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss! Transhumanism is the idea that humans can evolve to a post-human state with the aid of artificial intelligence. Seems crazy, right?! Our conversation will help explain it all and, best of all, Dr. Shatzer is a father of four and has great practical wisdom to share with parents!
Dr. Shatzer’s bio
Get his book: Transhumanism and the Image of God
____________________________
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To no surprise, advancing AI technologies have lead to the production of AI toys for babies and toddlers in order to capture their dependence. In this episode, Kelly reviews some of the “top” AI Robots for Kids in order to help you evaluate their marketing propaganda and see through their lies. It will be easy to cave to their persuasive ploys so it is essential you listen and learn now – because these robots will be next big thing.
Articles referenced:
12 Best Smart Robots to Gift Your Kids
Would You Let Your Kids Play With AI Robots?
Kids Robot Moxie Get AI Upgrade and Tutoring Features
Transparent Robots: How Children Perceive and Relate to a Social Robot
Children-Robot Friendship, Moral Agency, and Aristotelian Virtue Development
Child Robot Interaction
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 2:15
1 John 4: 2-6
Helpful articles for further reading:
The A to Z of Artificial Intelligence
What Does it Mean to be Human?
____________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
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The Artificial Intelligence industry seems to be single-mindedly set on advancing the human-chatbot relationship. To no surprise, this has expanded into the mental health arena with new apps poised to meet the growing demand for providers. If research has shown that humans can develop relationships with chatbots – does this provide validity for therapy chatbots, or is it a grave concern? It’s imperative that parents have grounded convictions on this topic because it will likely become the norm of society.
In today’s episode, Kelly & Chelsea (a licensed ACBC Biblical Counselor) analyze the purpose, effective practices, and goals of counseling and compare those with what AI-powered therapy chatbots can offer. They review the horizon of therapy apps available, ranging from human teletherapy to mindfulness to chatbots trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, all in an effort to guide parents in the BEST option for their child or themselves.
Articles referenced:
Can AI Chatbots Ever Replace Human Therapists?
America Has Reached Peak Therapy: Why is Our Mental Health Getting Worse?
What Powers Woebot
Artificial Intelligence Could Help Solve America’s Impending Mental Health Crisis (2019)
AI Chatbots Could Help Provide Therapy But Caution is Needed
Chatbots for Mental Health Care Are Booming, But There’s Little Proof That They Help
Therapy by Chatbot? The Promise and Challenges in Using AI for Mental Health
Apps With Maps: Anxiety and Depression Mobile Apps With Evidence-Based Frameworks
Youth Suicide Rates Rose 62% between 2007 and 2021
Evidence of Human-Level Established With Digital Conversational Agent: Cross-Sectional, Retrospective Observational Study
Five AI Chatbot Mobile Apps That Aim to Put a Therapist in Your Pocket
Podcasts referenced:
Episode 108: APA Recommendation for Adolescent Social Media Use
Episode 105: The Content Driven Life
Episode 94: The Heart and Online Influence
Scripture referenced:
2 Timothy 3:16
Galatians 6:1-3
Galatians 5:13
James 5:16
1 Thessalonians 5:11
HOW TO FIND A BIBLICAL COUNSELOR
Helpful articles for further reading:
The A to Z of Artificial Intelligence
What Does it Mean to be Human?
____________________________
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In today’s PART 2, examining AI chatbots and the relationships that people can develop with them, we dive into the deep waters of AI companion (or AI girlfriend/boyfriend) apps like Replika. As parents and Christians, there is much to be warned about and be discerning with regarding apps like these. And don’t worry, we did all the research needed for you! Kelly talks about her experience on Replika for one week and her AI ‘friendship,’ so you don’t have to test this one out to see if it is safe.
Check out our Brave Parenting Guide to Replika as well!
And Part 1 of this conversation if you haven’t listened.
Articles referenced:
The Man of Your Dreams
Everyday AI Chatbots are Changing How We Live and Work Today
Common Sense Media poll on AI
Parental Advisory: This Chatbot May Talk to Your Child About Sex and Alcohol
You Need to Talk to Your Kids About AI: Here Are Six Things You Should Say
When it Comes to AI, Let’s Move Fast and Fix Things
How AI Can Lead to Verbal Abuse and Unhealthy Attachments
AI Is Now Accessible to Everyone: 3 Things Parents Should Teach Their Kids
How Does AI Affect Kids? Psychologists Weigh In
The New Bing Told Our Reporter it ‘can feel or think things’
Kids Are Using ChatGPT to Socialize – and Parents Are Worried
Snapchat Tried to Make a Safe AI: It Chat With Me About Booze and Sex
AI-Human Relationships Are Flourishing-And This is Just the Beginning
AI Girlfriends Are Here-But There is a Dark Side to Virtual Companions
Books referenced:
The Benedict Option by Rod Dreher
Digital Liturgies by Samuel D. James
Scripture referenced:
Ezekiel 36:26
Hebrews 8:10
Matthew 9: 37-38
2 Timothy 4
Helpful articles for further reading:
The A to Z of Artificial Intelligence
What Does it Mean to be Human?
____________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
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In today’s episode, we begin the discussion of AI chatbots and the relationships people can have with them. The conversational “chat” nature of informational generative AI like ChatGPT and Copilot or relational generative AI such as Replika can deceive just about anyone with their human-like qualities. In Part I, we look at informational chatbots and consider the particular ways they feel human and consider their safety in the hands of kids (and adults).
Articles referenced:
Everyday AI Chatbots are Changing How We Live and Work Today
Common Sense Media poll on AI
Parental Advisory: This Chatbot May Talk to Your Child About Sex and Alcohol
You Need to Talk to Your Kids About AI: Here Are Six Things You Should Say
When it Comes to AI, Let’s Move Fast and Fix Things
How AI Can Lead to Verbal Abuse and Unhealthy Attachments
AI Is Now Accessible to Everyone: 3 Things Parents Should Teach Their Kids
How Does AI Affect Kids? Psychologists Weigh In
The New Bing Told Our Reporter it ‘can feel or think things’
Kids Are Using ChatGPT to Socialize – and Parents Are Worried
Snapchat Tried to Make a Safe AI: It Chat With Me About Booze and Sex
1 in 10 Teens Already Use ChatGPT For School – Here’s How to Guide Them
Scripture referenced:
Psalm 89:10
Numbers 6:25
James 4:14
Hebrews 11:3
1 Peter 4:8
Genesis 2:8
Helpful articles for further reading:
The A to Z of Artificial Intelligence
What Does it Mean to be Human?
____________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
Check out the Pinwheel phone – it’s our favorite not-as-smart kid-safe smartphone on the market.
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After ChatGPT’s release in November 2022, the educational world went from a panicked ban of the chatbot to now embracing it as an educational tool. In this episode, we examine what aspects of ChatGPT can actually be used to enhance learning and what aspects weaponized it against learning. We look at how parents can approach this widely popular app with middle school and high school students, as well as how to think biblically about it as a family.
Articles referenced:
ChatGPT is Going to Change Education (Not Destroy it)
Despite Cheating Fears, Schools Repeal ChatGPT Bans
How ChatGPT and Similar Will Disrupt Education
How to Use ChatGPT as a Learning Tool
1 in 10 Teens Already Use ChatGPT for School; Here’s How to Guide Them
10 Unbelievable Ways ChatGPT Shook Up the World in 2023
Chatbots Sometimes Make Things Up
Chatbots May Hallucinate More Often Than Many Realize
Unexplainable Answers of ChatGPT (according to Open AI)
Scripture referenced:
Galatians 6:7-8
Ephesians 4:28
1 Timothy 5
2 Thessalonians 3
Helpful articles for further reading:
The A to Z of Artificial Intelligence
What Does it Mean to be Human?
____________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
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Today, we begin our series unpacking AI (Artificial Intelligence) by defining many of the terms, acronyms and general jargon surrounding all things AI. What is Artificial General Intelligence? What is the big deal about quantum computing? What does GPT stand for? Kelly and her husband, Ryan walk through the basic terms that will help serve as a foundation for the series of podcasts forthcoming to help parents navigate the nuances of AI through a biblical worldview and while raising and discipling kids.
Also, check out Ep. 131: “Ethical” AI Porn
Helpful articles for further reading:
The A to Z of Artificial Intelligence
What Does it Mean to be Human?
____________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
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Sports betting has been a long-standing practice, but now that it is legal in 37 states and apps have made it easier than ever to place a bet on your favorite team, it has woven itself into teen culture. In this episode, Kelly discusses the whole scope of the sports betting issue, the apps, the ads, and addiction. And a point that cannot be overlooked – how video games set teens up for problematic gambling.
Also, check out our Brave Parenting Guide to Sports Betting Apps
Articles referenced:
History of Sports Bettting
These are the Real Dangers of the Sports Betting Boom for Young Men
As Legal Gambling Surges, Some States Want to Teach Teens About the Risks
How To Protect Kids From Online Gambling Addiction
Teens are Developing ‘Severe Gambling Problems’ as Online Betting Surges
It’s Like an Addiction – American Teenagers Fall Victim to Online Sports Betting Apps
NCAA Sports Betting Activity Survey April 2023
Scripture Referenced:
Matthew 6:24
Matthew 18:6
Proverbs 22:6
Joshua 1:9
____________________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life!
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Shopping has not only moved from malls to the internet, it has also evolved from being a pattern of socialization to a game-show-style transaction. As Brave Parenting continues to evaluate the ways media and technology have changed how people live, communicate, and relate, today’s look at shopping and the massively popular app Temu provides excellent context. Be sure to check out our Brave Parenting Guide to Temu at braveparenting.net for more information.
Articles referenced:
Why the Death of Malls is About More Than Shopping
One of China’s most popular apps has the ability to spy on its users, say experts
How China took over the world’s online shopping carts
Addictive, absurdly cheap and controversial: the rise of China’s Temu app
TEMU AND SHEIN: A DEEP DIVE INTO THEIR DIFFERENCES
________
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We are living in a global loneliness epidemic. Headlines saturate media news surrounding the growing problem – we collected at least ten published within twenty-four hours. In today’s episode, we highlight some of the first solutions offered by the new global initiative to combat loneliness by the World Health Organization, co-led by the U.S. Surgeon General. Like always, we look at them through a biblical worldview and the lens of Scripture. Naturally, we provide a few Brave Parenting solutions that are both pragmatic and biblical.
Articles referenced:
‘Everybody has experienced loneliness’: US Surgeon General talks mental health with ASU students
Sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer appointed New York state’s first loneliness ambassador
WHO makes loneliness a global health priority with new Commission on Social Connection
Chris Murphy Wants to Make America a Little Less Lonely
‘You live in your own bubble’: Swedish city takes on loneliness with a simple hi
Feeling Lonely? Your Brain May Process the World Differently
U.S Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community
Scripture referenced:
James 1:27
Genesis 2
Ephesians 2:1
Galatians 5:19-21
Hebrews 10:25
Romans 12:10
Hebrews 10:24
John 14:6
______________________
Buy the book: Managing Media Creating Character
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life! Consider giving a year’s subscription as a gift for Christmas – it’s the best investment you can make in someone’s life.
Use PROMO CODE: BRAVE to receive your first month free!
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Common Sense Media published research about a week in the life of a young person’s smartphone use, and they named it “Constant Companion.” In today’s episode, Kelly and Chelsea review the key findings in the study as well as unpack the implications of a smartphone as a “constant companion” in the lives of young people today. As always, we look at these findings through the lens of Scripture and provide suggested solutions.
Articles referenced:
2023 Constant Companion Report
Scripture referenced:
Gen 2:18-22
1 Peter 2:9-11
Galatians 5:19-22
Mark 8:36-37
Get your Aro box to help motivate more 0ff-screen time in your life! Consider giving a year’s subscription as a gift for Christmas – it’s the best investment you can make in someone’s life.
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In this episode, Kelly and Chelsea discuss the recently filed lawsuit against Facebook and Instagram’s parent company, Meta. Currently, the attorney generals of forty-one states have united against one common enemy in order to protect and preserve the well-being of one common victim: children. Is this legitimate? Why are the states taking action instead of the parents? What harm is actually done by algorithm-driven social media platforms? Brave Parenting has identified five core ways social media leads to the demise of mental health and well-being among young people today. These should help motivate you to wait and limit social media until after age 16.
Articles referenced:
Meta’s Instagram linked to depression, anxiety, insomnia in kids – US states’ lawsuit
Here’s Why States Are Suing Meta for Hurting Teens with Facebook and Instagram
‘Social Dilemma’ star says Meta lawsuit will have ‘lasting impact’ compares Facebook to Big Tobacco
Scripture referenced:
Ezekiel 13:8
John 14:6
John 6:22
John 8:12
Matthew 6:24
________________
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November is the month that we shine a light on the dark reality of online pornography. And today, we specifically highlight the newest debate on the ethics of AI porn. Is it now “ethical” since it doesn’t exploit people in the making of it? We provide clear definitions for you to understand the intricacies and an apologetic (defense) for you to use when dealing with this topic.
Articles referenced:Women’s Health Magazine: Ethical Porn
Tech Crunch: As AI Porn Generators Get Better the Stakes Get Higher
NCOSE: Why Ethical Porn is a Myth
Fight the New Drug: Would AI Generated Nudes Solve the Ethical Problems of Porn Sites
Fight the New Drug: Exposing the New Wave of Extreme Hentai Animated Porn
Inside Edition: Meet Milla Sofia the AI Influencer
Influencer Creates AI Version of Herself That You Can Rent as a Girlfriend
AI Porn is Colloding With Human Sexuality and Raising Some Ethical Red Flags
Wired: Deepfake Porn is Out of Control
Viewing Porn Increases Unethical Behavior
Scripture referenced:Isaiah 5:20
1 Corinthians 6:18
Romans 1:18-32
Resource Recommendation:Brain Heart World by Fight the New Drug
Check out last year’s No Porn November podcasts for more on this topic: Episodes 79, 80, 81, and 82
and our No Porn November Resource Guide
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Have you ever answered someone’s “How are you?” question with “Busy”? Today, we aim to define the difference between busyness and productivity and seek to honestly answer how much of that would change if our media/screen/entertainment time went down (or away completely). The word of God tells us we are to “be careful how we live, not as unwise but wise, making use of every opportunity because the days are evil” (Eph 5:15-16). Therefore, our “careful” approach to living should involve scrutiny of where and how we spend our time.
This episode was a requested topic by a Youth Pastor who recognized all of the church’s families were becoming too “busy” for church.
Articles referenced:
BlueLetter Bible
BetterUp – What is productivity?
Scripture referenced:
Ephesians 5:15-16
1 Peter 1:13
Genesis 1:26
Genesis 1:12
Habbakuk 3:17-18
Matthew 7:18
John 15
Deuteronomy 6:7
Ephesians 6:4
Matthew 22:37-39
1 Corinthians 16:14
Genesis 3:15
Galatians 5:22
Matthew 28:19-20
______________________
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Today we are talking about some recent news headlines surrounding social media and the culture it breeds. How do parents handle Snapchat? Do you know what the new research reveals about teens notifications? Why are Gen Z young adults so lonely? Should I got to college to be an influencer? All of this from a biblical worldview.
Articles Referenced:
Should I let my kid use Snapchat?
Kids and Teens Are Inundated With Phone Prompts Day and Night.
Cell Phone Shocker as 97% of Kids Use Their Device During School
Photo-Sharing App Lapse Hits Top of the App Store By Forcing You to Invite Your Friends
Gen Z Loneliness is So Bad That Some Young Adults Are Spending Thousands to Make Friends Through Gym Memberships and Social Clubs
Many in Gen Z Hope to be Influencers. There’s Now a Degree For It.
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Continuing our conversation about baby and toddler screen time, today we have Dr. Vivian Carlin providing her expert insight as a pediatrician. We discuss the potential benefits and detriments of consistent screen time at young ages (whether that be television, iPads, smartphones, or video games). Dr. Carlin explains the nuances of research out there and provides practical ways parents can navigate the ubiquity of screens while raising young children.
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In today’s episode, we’re reflecting on and wading through the murky waters of screen time for our youngest kiddos. We look at the pros and cons of screen time for babies and toddlers and discuss the nuanced nature of scientific research surrounding this topic. As online media and screen technology continue to advance at a rapid speed, this topic isn’t as black and white as we’d like it to be, but the word of God is sufficient to help us.
Overall, we want to encourage every parent to simply consider whether the screen time is a Win-Win for you and the child or a Win-Lose (where you win, but they lose).
Scripture referenced:
Ephesians 6:4
Matthew 16:24-26
Matthew 4:1-11
Matthew 14:13-21
Philippians 2:3-4
Articles referenced:
World Health Organization recommendations
American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations
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This week, we are sharing our best practices for giving kids smartwatches. Are they appropriate? At what age? What type of watch is best for kids? We’ve got answers to all these questions and more. We also analyze the narrative surrounding smartwatches on parenting websites and blogs through a biblical lens.
Scripture referenced:
Psalm 119:11
Proverbs 22:6
1 Cor 7:35
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What does the Bible tell us about applying boundaries and restrictions around media and internet-connected devices? More than you might think! Parents, if you cannot find a "WHY" you should enact limits and restrictions or you just don't know what to do...listen in!
Don't let eyerolling and heavy sighs keep you from discipling your kids at home! Sam Langenbahn shares his perspective on growing up learning the Bible and theology and how it shaped his faith.
Every small, next, right step parents take to help raise their children in the knowledge and discipline of the Lord makes an impact. If that’s prayer, if it’s family devotionals, Bible reading, or if that step is private school or home curriculum on worldview or theology – every bit of that adds to the foundation of a child’s faith.
Today, our Gen Z ambassador Mary Katherine is back talking about how God used her parent’s faith and dedication to the Church, as well as taking theology classes in high school shaped her strong Christian faith. You don’t have to wait until your child is an adult to move away from Bible “stories” to doctrinal truths and theological training!
Books referenced:
You’re Not Enough (And That’s Okay) by Allie Beth Stuckey
Holiness Day by Day and The Pursuit of Holiness by Jerry Bridges
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Looking for the best kid-safe smartphone on the market? Check out PINWHEEL – we love it!
As Christian parents raising children in the knowledge and discipline of the Lord, student and youth ministries serve as a vital adjunct to our kids’ discipleship. What happens, though, when their smartphones and online media content become a stumbling block during student ministry? How can the youth pastor do his job if the phone constantly vies for the kid’s attention? Today we are talking to a youth pastor who has successfully made his youth ministry PHONE FREE. This is a great conversation and it will equip you with immediate action steps to help both your student and your pastor.
Scripture referenced:
A private school headmaster's perspective on how SCREEN TIME at home impacts a kid's readiness, willingness, and ability to gain wisdom through education.
What public middle school principals wish parents knew about how the family's HOME SCREEN TIME impacts kids' ability and willingness to learn.
What does theology have to do with parenting? Theology Mom, Krista Bontrager, joins us to discuss the impact online media and technology on parents' faith, and most importantly, on the faith and life of children and teens.
Kicking off our SET UP FOR SCHOOL series is a gifted teacher and blessing to the Christian community, Elizabeth Urbanowicz. We will discuss with her the importance of a Biblical Worldview: when and how to start teaching it and how online media and entertainment impact it.
Today Kelly introduces the upcoming series of Set Up for School. We have an amazing lineup of interviews to help parents keep them grounded in a Biblical worldview as the new school year begins. Before the episodes kick-off, however, Kelly gives Biblical encouragement to do this brave, hard work of teaching, admonishing, disciplining, and discipling your kids. What good is it to get straight A's if they deny Jesus along the way?
Scripture referenced:
Ephesians 6:4 Mark 8:36 Matthew 16:26 Luke 9:25 Colossians 2:8 James 2:18 James 1:2 James 1:12 John 15:18 Romans 5:3 John 1:1 2 Corinthians 5:21
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In this episode, Kelly and Chelsea overview the new Threads app connected to Instagram that aims to be a better option than Twitter. As with all social media apps, there is much to consider when creating an account, and even more so if your child desires a presence on the app. After highlighting 5 FACTS parents need to know about Threads, they look at some popular news outlets' take on Threads.
Check out the full App Review on Brave Parenting's website: https://braveparenting.net/brave-parenting-guide-to-threads/
Scripture referenced:
Jeremiah 17:9 Romans 1:18-32 Ephesians 5:11 2 Timothy 3
Articles referenced: What we love and hate about Threads, Meta’s new Twitter clone The Missing Threads Features Adam Mosseri Says Are ‘On The List’ What Threads Needs to Beat Twitter Instagram’s Threads app reaches 100 million users within just five days Scoop: Branded content tools coming to Threads Zombie Twitter Has Arrived Threads is all the Worst Parts of Twitter and Instagram in One Very Bad App Threads Review: Twitter Without the Rough Edges or News
Today we have a conversation with Reagan Rose, Bible teacher, ministry leader, and author of the book A Student's Guide to Gaming. Regan has so much wisdom and insight to share with parents about what Scripture says about addictive/obsessive entertainment as well as practical tips for parents to help navigate gaming.
Reagan's Ministry: Redeeming Productivity Reagan's Book: Student's Guide to Gaming
Scripture referenced:
Ephesians 6:4 Romans 7 Hebrews 10:22-25
Artificial Intelligence has enabled the creation of dedicated beauty filtering apps as well as filters built into social media apps. These have given rise to increased demand for plastic surgery as patients desire to look like their filtered selfies. Tragically, there has also been an increase in Body Dysmorphic Disorder. Kelly & Chelsea take a look at this topic from the Biblical point of view of false witness, idolatry, and covetousness.
Articles referenced:
Picture Perfect - The Hidden Consequences of AI Beauty Filters From 'Instagram Face' to 'Snapchat Dysmorphia': How beauty filters are changing the way we see ourselves Plastic Surgery Inspired by Filters and Photo-editing Apps isn't Going Away Plastic Surgeons Are Worried About a Condition Called Snapchat Dysmorphia ‘Snapchat Dysmorphia’ Points to a Troubling New Trend in Plastic Surgery Snapchat Dysmorphia and the Real Dangers of Perceived Flaws Snapchat Dysmorphia’: Is the Stress of Social Media driving young people to plastic Surgery? Beauty filters face legislation to protect mental health NHS: Body Dysmorphic Disorder Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry: Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Reflections on the last 25 years Prevalence of BDD TikTok's Bold Glamour Filter
Scripture referenced:
Romans 5:12-14 Galatians 2:20 Luke 9:23 Matthew 6:33 Galatians 1:10 Genesis 1:31 Genesis 29:16-20 1 Samuel 16:7 Psalms 31:30 Isaiah 55:8 Proverbs 10:9 Galatians 6:5-6 Romans 12:2
Today we are joined by recent high school graduate Mary Katherine. After her parents restricted her from social media at age 13, she made the radical (and amazingly wise) decision at 16 to abstain from social media altogether. Kelly & Mary Katherine talk about the impact that has had on her life: how she maintains friendships without Snapchat, relevance without Instagram, and news without everything else. This is an inspiring and joyful conversation that will give every parent SO MUCH HOPE!
Books referenced:
Who Are You Following? Pursuing Jesus in a Social Media Obsessed World by Sadie Robertson Huff Why Social Media is Ruining Your Life by Katherine Ormerod You're Not Enough (And That's Okay) by Allie Beth Stuckey
Today's Worldview Wednesday episode discusses the TikTok trend #dopaminedetox. Time magazine has noted the "moment" dopamine detoxing is having on social media platforms. At the core, the idea is to create better, healthier habits. However, this social media trend also provides great lessons for learning discernment with online media. How can we ourselves and our kids critically think about the content promoted: is it true? What is their motivation for sharing the content? And how can we take what is good and leave behind what is wrong?
Articles referenced:
The 'Dopamine Detox' is Having a Moment What is a 'Dopamine Detox'? I Tried the 'Dopamine Detoxing' Trend to Find Peace Again
Scripture referenced:
Ephesians 4:22-24 1 John 1:8-9 Galatians 5:16-17 Colossians 3:1-2 Romans 7:14-25 Colossians 2:8
Today, Kelly and her husband, Ryan, discuss the new mixed reality headset, Vision Pro, announced at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference on June 5, 2023. What is this device exactly? How will it be used? And what are the implications for the future?
Ryan is enamored with advancing technology, while Kelly is cautious about its impact on personal relationships. Their common ground is found only in the Word of God and their hope in Christ.
Articles referenced:
Introducing the Apple Vision Pro (9 min YouTube video) Apple Vision Pro: I Tried the New Mixed Reality Headset Hands On With Apple Vision Pro: The Opposite of Disappearing Apple's 'Vision Pro' Wants to Be the $3499 Anti-Metaverse Apple Vision Pro is Apple's New $3499 AR Headset
Scripture referenced:
Hebrews 10:24-25 Genesis 1:26-27 1 Cor 6:12 Eph 2:10 Isaiah 43:7 1 Cor 10:31
Sponsor:
Aro: goaro.com/brave and use promo code: BRAVE for first month subscription for free.
In today's episode, we look at four major news headlines over the past two weeks. The Surgeon General's advisory on social media and kids, Early smartphone ownership linked with greater mental health issues, Montana bans TikTok, and Stephen & Ayesha Curry's social media regret. This episode is great to listen to as a family, and Kelly & Chelsea give thought-provoking questions you can begin with your kids.
Articles referenced:
Surgeon General Fears Social Media is Harming the Well-being of Our Children Surgeon General's Advisory Smartphones Take a Toll on Teenagers: What Choice Do Parents Have? Age of First Smartphone/Tablet and Mental Well-being Outcomes Report by Sapien Labs Montana Governor Bans TikTok Ayesa Curry Admitted She Regrets Overexposing Her Daughter on Social Media When She Was a Toddler
Scripture referenced:
Mark 9:42 2 Tim 1:7 Romans 12:2 Matthew 12:36 Psalm 141:3 1 Peter 2:16 Luke 9:23
Sponsor
Aro - Spend more time intentionally away from your phone this summer. Use promo code: BRAVE
Every year the National Center on Sexual Exploitation researches and compiles a list of the twelve mainstream entities that facilitate, enable, and even profit from sexual abuse and exploitation. This campaign is called the Dirty Dozen list, and on today's episode, Kelly and Chelsea discuss the twelve and what parents are to do with information like this. Do you boycott? Do you advocate for change? Do you use it to train others? The short answer: Yes.
Articles referenced:
NCOSE 2023 Dirty Dozen List NCOSE Victories
Scripture referenced:
Psalm 34:14-16 Psalm 97:10 Psalm 119:101 Proverbs 4:14 Proverbs 8:13 Proverbs 14:6 Isaiah 5:20 Romans 12:9 1 Thes 4:3 1 Peter 3:17
On May 9, 2023, the American Psychological Association released its first Health Advisory Report on adolescents’ use of social media. Parents everywhere await expert organizations like the APA to guide and direct their decisions and even affirm their concerns regarding the risks of kids’ use of social media. Unfortunately, this report provides nothing of value that the everyday non-psychological scientist parent doesn’t already know. Kelly and Chelsea walk through the recommendations provided in this report and counter them with the truth and sufficiency of Scripture.
Articles referenced:
Full APA Health Advisory Report (PDF)
Should kids use Social Media? US psychology experts share their do’s and don’ts -Popular Science
American Psychological Association released its 10 science-backed recommendations for social media use for teens. – DigitalWellbeing.org
How Parents Can Actually Help Their Teens Navigate Social Media – The New York Times
Can Too Much Screen Time Harm You?
Scripture referenced:
Hebrews 10:24
Romans 1:18-32
Matthew 6:21
1 Peter 3:3-4
Romans 16:17
Philippians 3:17-19
Romans 16:19-20
Sponsor:
Aro – The best way to decrease your family’s screen time! Use code: BRAVE to get one month free subscription!
Summer is upon us and in this episode, Kelly & Chelsea help you prepare for the desire and propensity for extra screen time! First, they discuss the general boundaries every family needs in their home, and based on that, they discuss the common ways kids get around boundaries and parental controls. Frustrating, but it is the reality. Finally, Kelly & Chelsea look at preparing your kid’s heart for the boundaries and limits by demonstrating obedience to Christ through God’s word.
Scripture referenced:
Matthew 5:1-7:29 (The Sermon on the Mount)
Articles referenced:
Best Home Routers with Parental Controls
Brave Parenting Guide to VPN apps
Podcasts to be sure to check out!
The Heart & Online Influence
The Content Driven Life
This week’s Worldview Wednesday covers three recent headlines of young people who are bullied and then take their own lives. If bullies have always been a part of every generation – what is so different about bullying today that it leads to such tragic ends? Even more, why is suicide now the go-to solution for kids? Kelly and Chelsea look at scripture to find answers to these questions.
Articles referenced:
In His Final Moments, Indiana Middle Schooler Blamed His Bullies
New Jersey school suicide: Mother of 11-year-old discovers ominous cellphone recording
New Jersey school superintendent resigns after 14-year-old student’s suicide.
Veteran teacher breaks down why teachers are quitting
Scripture referenced:
John 10:7-15
2 Cor 1:3-4
Psalms 6:5-7
James 1:2
2 Corn 4:8-9
Isaiah 61:1
Hebrews 10:23
Jeremiah 6:16
This week Kelly & Chelsea tackle what it means to grow up living a “Content Driven Life.” This refers to the online content consumed or created that shapes their thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs. More specifically, we address the Social Contagionsthat take hold in a content driven life and how dangerous that is.
Articles Referenced:
Psychology Today: Nihilism
Psychology Today: Social Contagion
Dove Commercial: Mary’s Story
Scripture Referenced:
Proverbs 4:23
Phil 2:3-5
Mark 12:31
Romans 12:10
Galatians 6:10
Matthew 23:12
James 4:10
Ephesians 6
Book References:
Not Enough Faith to be an Atheist Teen/Young Adult edition
This week we are looking into the reality of alcohol delivery to minors through apps like UberEats and DoorDash. It’s a growing problem that these delivery services are trying to navigate, but as we know, teens have a lot of time and a lot of tech savviness to find workarounds. As always, we look at this issue through the lens of Scripture.
Articles referenced:
Investigators Find Delivery Service Apps Getting Alcohol to Underage Students
Will Delivery Services Let Your Kids Order Alcohol
Home Delivery Companies Aren’t Checking IDs When Dropping Off Booze
Parents Sue Snapchat Parent Company After Drug Delivery Deaths
Here’s How Drug Dealers Use Snapchat & Instagram to Reach Kids
DEA Emojis Decoded
Scripture referenced:
Galatians 5:19
Ephesians 5:18
Proverbs 23:29-35
Romans 14
Proverbs 28:13
Proverbs 4:23
Nothing Safe About Secret Sin
To live in the world but not be of the world can be a challenge for every Christian. In the age of social media it is all too easy to slowly slip into believing lies. Whether that be bad or false ideologies or that social media itself poses no risks to you.
Today, Kelly & Chelsea discuss 5 common myths Christians often believe about social media and their presence on it. This episode might set your defenses up but we pray that the Holy Spirit would reveal to you whether you believe these myths and restore a holy and kingdom-centered mindset. All for the glory of God!
Scripture referenced:
Ephesians 5:1-21
Romans 10:17
Resources mentioned:
John MacArthur Study Bible
Face-to-Face Relationships
What is the impact on kids when their parent is (or wants to be) an online influencer? What about when the kids are the content?
In this Worldview Wednesday episode we look at headlines surrounding what is known as Sharenting: the sharing of kids pictures, videos, and lives by parents. What are the long term benefits (if any)? What are the unseen consequences? Most importantly, what does God’s word say about this issue?
Articles referenced:
Influencer Parents and The Kids Who Had Their Childhood Made Into Content
‘Sharenting’: Why is France trying to stop parents from oversharing their children’s images online?
French MPs examine bill on children’s right to privacy on social media
Who Know What About Me?
Mommy Influencer Announces Bizarre Meet-and-Greet Tour for 3 Year Old Daughter
Scripture referenced:
1 Tim 5:8
Prov 4:23
Eph 6:4
Ezekiel 18:4
1 Cor 10:23
1 John 1:9
Brave Parenting is always looking for like-minded organizations that passionately care about the effect media and technology have on children, adults, and relationships. Today we are talking with Joey Odom, co-founder of Aro, the first in-home digital wellbeing solution designed for families. You are going to love this interview with Joey, Aro’s mission, and their product!
CHECK OUT ARO – GET 1 MONTH FREE WITH BRAVE PARENTING
www.goaro.com/brave
We are so excited to share our 100th episode with you! Joining Kelly & Chelsea today are the husbands behind Brave Parenting: Ryan Newcom & Zach Hezel. They are the technical equipment support crew and production team that keeps us running. But more than that, they are Fathers doing the hard work of waiting and limiting with an end goal of holiness, not happiness. We ask serious questions and then quiz the men on their media and cultural savviness. We finish with a look into where Brave Parenting is headed.
In this Worldview Wednesday, we look at recent investigative reports regarding the pinboards created on Pinterest by adult men of young girls. We look at three different articles surrounding the growing problem of child sex abuse material through a biblical worldview in order to help parents make wise and God-honoring decisions regarding their child’s use of social media platforms.
Articles referenced:
“Men on Pinterest are Creating Sex-themed Image Boards of Little Girls: The Platform Makes it Easy.”
Child sex abuse content is exploding online. We’re losing the fight against it.
Senators seek answers from Pinterest after NBC News investigation.
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 3
Mark 7:22-23
1 Peter 5:8
1 John 4:1-3
Ecclesiastes 2:11-12
This week we are aiming to answer the question, “What exactly is a Biblical worldview?” and, more importantly, “Do I have a Biblical worldview?” When we consider how secularism and materialism can become subtly absorbed worldviews just by living in Western society, it becomes obvious that it intentionality is required to decipher how the Bible should inform our views. Our special guest, Pastor Logan Talamas, provides awesome conversation on these topics.
Articles referenced:
Worldview Research
Scripture referenced:
In today’s episode, we look at the recent headlines about TikTok’s announcement that users under 18 will soon have a default time limit of 60 minutes. Summarizing five different articles, we apply a Biblical worldview to the reality of unhealthy habits (such as multiple hours of TikTok per day), how to stop, and whether or not it is sinful to continue doing what your conscience tells you is wrong.
Articles referenced:
TikTok announces 60-minute daily screen time limit for users under 18
TikTok to limit the time teens can be on the app. Will safeguards help protect them?
Will TikTok’s New Screen Time Limit Actually Change Anything?
TikTok Admits It’s as Clueless on Teens as the Rest of Us
TikTok restricts screen time for teens: Hour limit after White House ban
Scripture referenced:
Proverbs 4:23
Romans 7:15
Romans 7:19
Romans 14:14
Romans 14:23
Romans 7:23-24
Resources referenced:
John MacArthur New Testament Commentary: Romans 9-16
Brave Parenting Podcast: Episode 88
Brave Parenting Podcast: Episode 90
Brave Parenting Podcast: Episode 92
TikTok Screen Time Help Center
Today’s episode is an app review of ‘BeReal’. Voted the 2022 iPhone App of the Year, this app aims to give users a realistic glimpse into what their friends are doing, seeing, and experiencing. What do parents need to know? What age is it appropriate? Listen in!
If you prefer to read about BeReal, check out our app review on BraveParenting.net
This week’s Worldview Wednesday highlights headlines that swept the nation on February 13, 2023. The CDC released its most recent Youth Risk Behavior Survey for 2021, and the results show teen girls and lgbtq+ youth are in a major crisis and at risk. Kelly & Chelsea walk through the results, the proposed action steps, and how ridiculously insufficient they are. They provide five alternative reasons to explain the crisis – all of which parents can take action on immediately.
Articles referenced:
2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey Results
2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey Results
2011-2021 Data Summary and Trends Report
CDC data shows U.S. teen girls ‘in crisis’ with unprecedented rise in suicidal behavior
Teens, especially girls, are experiencing more violence, suicidal thoughts, and mental health challenges, CDC survey finds
CDC Report on Teen Mental Health is a Red Flag
Podcast referenced:
Brave Parenting #73: Modern Marijuana Use
Brave Parenting #79: It’s Time to Do Something About Pornography
Brave Parenting #80: No Porn November Worldview Wednesday
Brave Parenting #81: Sugar Dating
Brave Parenting #82: OnlyFans and Digital Sex Work
Scripture referenced:
Gen 1:27
Romans 1:19-32
Books referenced:
American Girls: The Secret Life of Teenagers by Nancy Jo Sales
iGen: Why Today’s Super-Connected Kids are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy – and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood by Jean Twenge
In this Valentine’s Day episode, Kelly & Chelsea take a biblical look at the HEART and how it is impacted by media and technology. Proverbs 4:23 says to “guard your heart above all else, for everything you do flows from it.” How do we guard our hearts against negative online influence? What happens if our hearts are left unguarded? Today, we get to the HEART of all these questions.
Scripture referenced:
Matthew 22:37
Proverbs 4:23
Luke 6:45
Jeremiah 17:9
Ezekiel 36:26
Matthew 9:4
Mark 8:17
Luke 12:34
Luke 16:22
John 14:1
Matthew 5:28
Colossians 3:1-2
Philippians 4:8
In this Worldview Wednesday episode Kelly and Chelsea tackle just one headline. The veteran school communication monitoring software company Gaggle has deemed it now irrelevant and unnecessary to alert school administration when words falling under the LGBTQ banner are used in student communications. The company’s stated goal is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of every student but one must ask, based on statistics of mental health and wellbeing of LGBTQ youth, if their change in ethics actually serves their goals? And, how does all of this impact a Biblical worldview?
Articles referenced:
Gaggle Drops LGBTQ Words From Student Surveillance Tool Following Bias Concerns
CDC statistics on sexual violence based on orientation
Scripture referenced:
John 19:1-16
Eph 5:11-12
Books referenced:
Knowing God by J.I. Packer
One Perfect Life by John MacArthur
and yes, Elephant & Piggie: The Complete Collection by Mo Willems
A Practical Guide to Culture by John Stonestreet and Brett Kunkle
In this episode we tie up our summary of some of the the intricacies of TikTok and its use by children and teens. Kelly & Chelsea cover 5 talking points parents can use to begin conversations around the value and dangers of the app. Kids will start asking for the app at young ages, so if you haven’t been asked yet – it’s coming. Prepare yourself with this episode!
Five Talking Points:
- TikTok Challenges
- Explicit Content on TikTok
- Government and Privacy Concerns
- TikTok Hashtags
- Co-Viewing TikTok Content
Articles referenced:
TikTok Challenges
TikTok Ban on Government Devices and on University Campuses
TikTok Mascara Controversy
How does the pervasive influence of media and big tech companies impact childhood development and worldview? You probably aren’t surprised to learn the impact is huge and (too often) destructive! This is precisely what Kelly & Chelsea address as they look at news headlines through the lens of Scripture in this week’s episode of Worldview Wednesday.
Articles referenced:
Childhood Obesity
Big Tech Wants Birth Dates
M3gan Challenges Tech Reliance
Seattle Sues Big Tech
Scripture referenced:
1 Cor 6:19-20
Rom 12:1
Phil 4
Rom 8:13
Prov 12:17
Prov 12:19
Prov 14:25
2 Cor 6:14
Heb 10:19-25
Ecc 2:10
Eph 4:22-24
Col 3:12
Commentaries referenced:
Expositor’s Bible Commentary
John MacArthur Study Bible
Having established the power of TikTok’s algorithm in Episode 88, Kelly and Chelsea discuss the gravity of the impact Influencers on TikTok have on the hearts and minds of kids. They discuss the reality of the Dunning-Kruger Effect as young people with low knowledge but high confidence have the time, energy, and creativity to propagate their ideologies as influencers.
Articles referenced:
“Champagne Problems”
The Dunning-Kruger Effect
Resources referenced:
The Dynamic Heart in Daily Life
Foundation Worldview
Scripture referenced:
Ecc 1:2
2 Cor 11 and 12
Eph 4:22-24
Rom 12:1-2
Rom 8:13
1 Pet 5:5
2 Cor 11:14
1 John 2:15
Mat 11:28
Mat 18:6
Our first headlines of 2023: Establishing values for the New Year, UK woman arrested for ‘thought crime,’ Sports are important until they aren’t at all, and Louisiana enacts law for age verification on pornography websites. Kelly and Chelse look at these news pieces through the lens of Scripture and parenting.
CLARIFICATION: It is stated that OnlyFans requires age verification – this is true only for the OnlyFans creators*, not the fans.
Articles referenced:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/for-the-new-year-figuring-out-what-matters-most-11672415574
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11571487/Catholic-woman-arrested-charged-PRAYING-outside-Birmingham-abortion-clinic-buffer-zone.html
https://www.pcmag.com/news/louisiana-law-requires-id-to-view-porn
Scripture referenced:
Phil 2:4
Rom 15:1
Rom 12:1-2
Gen 3:1
Ps 119:9-11
Mark 8:36
Ecc 2:10-11
John 5:44
1 Cor 4:16
1 Thes 1:6
Gal 1:10
Just how powerful is the algorithm which determines what videos TikTok users will see? In this episode we discuss the recent push for algorithm transparency and TikTok’s response. All of that to help answer the question: how does this algorithm impact us as Christians? How should Christians approach an app like TikTok for ourselves or our children with what we know about the algorithm? We look at two major areas of concern regarding the content pushed: CONSUMERISM and FAME, and what God’s word has to say about this.
Articles referenced:
https://www.vice.com/en/article/4axmzq/tiktok-self-harm-eating-disorder-teens-algorithm
https://www.dazeddigital.com/life-culture/article/57833/1/demystifying-algorithm-social-media-tiktok-eating-disorder-self-harm-twitter
https://blog.hootsuite.com/tiktok-algorithm/
https://newsroom.tiktok.com/en-us/new-studies-quantify-tiktoks-growing-impact-on-culture-and-music
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/dec/15/tiktok-self-harm-study-results-every-parents-nightmare
https://www.legalreader.com/tiktok-algorithms-are-exposing-preteens-to-self-harm-eds/
https://www.theverge.com/2021/7/21/22587113/tiktok-algorithm-wsj-investigation-rabbit-hole
https://9to5mac.com/2022/12/20/how-tiktoks-algorithm-works/
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/interactive/2022/tiktok-popularity/
https://uxdesign.cc/i-was-on-tiktok-for-30-days-it-is-manipulative-addictive-and-harmful-to-privacy-9e25445a9122
Scriptures referenced:
James 1:22
Phil 4:8-9
Luke 12:15
1 Tim 6:6-8
Phil 3:20
1 Cor 10:31
1 Tim 6:9
John 6
James 4:3
James 4:10
James 4:1-4
Psalm 139
Phil 2:1-5
*Use when discussing with children.
Documentary referenced:
Generation Wealth (Rated ‘R’)
In today’s Worldview Wednesday Kelly & Chelsea talk about some popular headlines from December and how to think about them through the lens of Scripture. From the 2022 Word of the Year to AI image-generating app Lensa, climate change fear, and a Navy SEAL detransitioning are analyzed with a Biblical Worldview so that parents and young people can learn to think Biblically about the news of the world.
Articles referenced:
‘Goblin mode’ is Oxford’s word of the year. What does it mean?
The Cut’s definition of Goblin Mode
The Dead Sea is dying. These beautiful, ominous photos show the impact
‘Magic Avatar’ App Lensa Generated Nudes From My Childhood Photos
Retired Navy SEAL made famous after coming out as trans announces detransition: ‘Destroyed my life’
Scripture referenced:Gen 2:15
2 Thes 3:10-12
Prov 15:19
Prov 10:4
Prov 26:15
Col 3:23-24
Rom 1:18-32
Gen 3:17-18
Isa 51:6
Mat 24:35
Rev 21:1-7
Rom 8:22
Ps 24:1
Ps 46:1-3
Deut 6:7
Luke 8:15
Rom 8:25
Col 3:12
Jam 5:7
2 Tim 4:2
Rev 4:11
Ps 66:4
Jam 3:16
Documentary referenced:Dysconnected
In today’s podcast, Kelly & Chelsea are joined by our resident technology expert, Ryan Newcom, to talk about Open AI’s public release of ChatGPT. We aim to answer the question of what this type of advancing technology means for parents, children, careers, and especially students – both now and in the future. If AI can write your essay for you, what will stop students from using it?
Articles referenced:
Atlantic OpEd: The End of High School English
In today’s Worldview Wednesday we look at headlines about (1) Pastors countering ‘Drag Queen Story Hour’ with gospel-centered local library reading hour, (2) a new Virtual Reality therapy app for peer counseling, and (3) the drama associated with Balenciaga, their ad campaign with children and BDSM gear, and Kim Kardashian questioning her relationship with the company. Kelly and Chelsea think Biblically about these news stories in order to help parents apply God’s truth to parenting.
Articles referenced:
“Pastor Story Hour”
https://thefederalist.com/2022/07/07/the-epidemic-of-fatherless-boys-is-unraveling-our-society
https://ifstudies.org/blog/life-without-father-less-college-less-work-and-more-prison-for-young-men-growing-up-without-their-biological-father
“Virtual Reality App Focuses on Mental Health”
“Kim Kardashian ‘re-evaluating’ Balenciaga relationship over child images”
Podcasts referenced:Breakpoint: Fashion World Embraces Pedophilia
Relatable w/ Allie Beth Stuckey: The Balenciaga Story is Even Worse Than You Think
Documentary referenced:Dysconnected
Scripture referenced:
1 Timothy 5:8
Genesis 2:18
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Hebrews 10:24-25
We are talking all things FIRST smartphone in this episode. We distinguish between a child wanting and needing a smartphone, the difference between needing to use a smartphone and full smartphone ownership, and the wrong reasons to give a child a smartphone. We dive deep into the responsibility and readiness that demonstrates a child is ready for smartphone ownership and how as a parent, you can set your child up for successful smartphone use. Finally, we review which smartphones are out there and how you can choose the best one for your child.
PDF to set up iOS ScreenTime
PDF Comparison Guide to Kid-Safe Phones
Books Mentioned:
Managing Media Creating Character
Scripture Mentioned:
Proverbs 1:7
Galatians 5:22-23
This is a special edition of Worldview Wednesday – all good uplifting stories that remind us of the importance of family, friendships, humility, and forgiveness. We still look at these stories with a Biblical Worldview but it’s definitely an episode with “all the feels”.
Articles mentioned in this episode:
Football Player Gives Homecoming Crown to More Deserving Student
Kentucky coal miner goes viral over a picture of him at son’s basketball game
A 95-year-old woman who survived Auschwitz and became a psychologist says having a happy family has brought her healing
Adorable Grandmother Took Notes During 30 Marvel Superhero Films so She Can Relate to her Grandkids
Scripture referenced in this episode:
Romans 5:6-8
Phil 2:3
1 Cor 9:19-23
Duet 4:9
A bonus episode to put a bow on our “No Porn November” Series. This episode is definitely one you SHOULD listen to with your kids! This is the audio from Kelly’s exegetical teaching assignment on Proverbs 7 for her Master’s class. There is also a video if you’d rather watch the 20-minute teaching.
By the way, I cannot recommend The Master’s University more highly!
Continuing in our "No Porn November" series this episode exposes the app and platform "OnlyFans" and its role in pornography and sex work. Kelly and Chelsea walk through a few testimonies from college girls on the platform and their reality in light of Scripture. OnlyFans highlights the movement towards desensitizing "sex work" in our culture, which explains why both TikTok and Twitter have announced they will begin allowing "Adult Content" on their platforms for a fee.
Articles referenced in this episode: "Bella Thorne on OnlyFans" "Cardi B on OnlyFans" "The Naked Truth" "College OnlyFans Creator Says Sex Work Isn't the Best Creative Outlet" "Living in a Fancy Prison" "OnlyFans Bans Porn" "OnlyFans Says Porn is Here to Stay" "TikTok Introduces Adult Content" "Twitter Introduces Adult Content"
Resources: https://www.covenanteyes.com/ https://accountable2you.com/ https://www.joinfortify.com/
Scripture References: Romans 1:18-26 Isaiah 44:9-20 Proverbs 4:4-9
This episode could be confusing to children and adolescents, please listen first before inviting your kids into the conversation. Kelly and Chelsea dive into the growing trend of Sugar Dating, exposing the lies that are fed to young women on social media and looking at the topic Biblically from the perspective of Christians, parents, and spouses.
We can no longer look at fringe trends around sex in our culture and expect them to never impact our lives. With social media - they always will.
Articles referenced in this episode: Glamour Magazine What is Sugar Dating? Students Finding Sugar Daddies to Pay Skyrocketing College Costs Sugar Dating is No Easy Way to Improve Finances, I've Seen the Murkier Side of it. Sugar Babies' Whose 'Daddies' Die Want Their Grief Taken Seriously A Sugar Date Gone Sour History of Sugar Dating 60 Minutes Australia on Sugar Dating
Resources: Covenant Eyes Accountable2You Fortify
Scripture References: Proverbs 7:21-23 2 Timothy 3 1 Cor 6:16 Ephesians 4:17-24 1 John 2:16 1 Thessalonians 4:3–5 1 Peter 5:7-9
Books Referenced: Strange New World by Carl Trueman Love Thy Body by Nancy Pearcey
This episode could be confusing to children and adolescents, please listen first before inviting your kids into the conversation. Kelly and Chelsea take a biblical look at recent news headlines surrounding pornography culture. In this episode, they discuss accountability apps deemed "Shameware," deep fake pornography on Twitter, and Pornhub getting kicked off Instagram for the second time.
Articles referenced in this episode: https://www.wired.com/story/covenant-eyes-anti-porn-accountability-monitoring-apps/ https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-62821117 https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/instagram-takes-down-pornhub-second-221640917.html
Resources: Covenant Eyes Accountable2You Fortify
Scripture References: John 8: 1-10 Psalm 51 2 Cor 7:9-11 1 John 1:9 Proverbs 4:23 23 1 Thessalonians 4:3–5 1 Cor 6:18 Acts 15:20 Romans 13:13 1 Cor 10:8 Colossians 3:5 James 1:18
This episode is for our adult, Christian audience. Kelly and Chelsea take a biblical look at God's design for purity, what Scripture says about masturbation, and the cultural reality of online pornography's use of violence and children for the entertainment of the masses - and how this grieves God's heart. This episode will also equip every listener with at least ONE thing they can do today for the prevention and treatment of pornography use.
Articles referenced in this episode: Covenant Eyes Pornhub Stats 2021 Truth in Love Podcast: Masturbation Meta-Analysis of Aggression in Pornography Children and Pornography Research Exodus Cry Pornography stats BBFC Research Pornhub Disdains Age Verification Raised on Porn Documentary Barely Legal Documentary NCOSE Dirty Dozen List: Etsy Moral Revolution Fight the New Drug Allie Beth Stuckey Ep 674 Find a Biblical Counselor
Scripture References: 1 Cor 6:15-20 1 Timothy 4:1-2 Romans 11:36 Heb 4:12-14 Matthew 5:28 James 1:22 1 Corinthians 6:18 1 Corinthians 7:5 Gal. 5:22 Proverbs 6:27 Romans 2:14-15 Hebrews 3:12-14 Isaiah 6:10 Romans 12:1-2 Col 3:2 Ezekiel 36:26 Rom. 8:6 Phil. 4:7-8 2 Corinthians 7:1 Lamentations 3:22 1 John 4:9
Book Mentions: "Christ's Call to Reform the Church" by John MacArthur "Finally Free: Fighting for Purity with the Power of Grace" by Heath Lambert "Rescue Skills: Essential Skills for Restoring the Sexually Broken" by Deepak Reju "Rescue Plan: Charting a Course to Restore Prisoners of Pornography" by Deepak Reju and Jonathon D. Holmes "The Attributes of God Vol. I" by A.W. Tozer
Today we think Biblically about headlines about McDonald's "Adult Happy Meals", Sara Michelle Gellar's comments regarding not allowing her kids to use social media, and common misbeliefs about adolescents and sleep.
Articles referenced in this episode: https://www.chicagotribune.com/dining/ct-food-adult-happy-meal-20221007-dznvzrtpbjampic4pasyje4jye-story.html https://www.yahoo.com/news/sarah-michelle-gellar-likens-kids-225036074.html https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2022/09/parents-are-so-wrong-about-teenage-sleep-and-health/
Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 13:11 Proverbs 22:15 Proverbs 1:7 James 1:5 Hosea 8:7 Psalm 127:2 Romans 12:1 1 Tim 5:23 James 5:15
Book Mentions: "The Good News We Almost Forgot" by Kevin DeYoung
In this episode, we discuss how COPPA deems 13-year-olds to be "internet adults" and the implications of this 1998 policy on parenting. We highlight recent research that shows a frighteningly large percentage of kids under 13 who are regularly using social media apps as well as recent TikTok-challenge deaths in kids under 13.
Articles referred to in the show: https://mottpoll.org/reports/sharing-too-soon-children-and-social-media-apps https://www.theverge.com/2022/7/7/23199058/tiktok-lawsuits-blackout-challenge-children-death COPPA 2.0 basics: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/featured-content/files/coppa_2.0_one_pager_2021.pdf COPPA 2.0 in depth: https://www.ftc.gov/sites/default/files/documents/public_comments/2010-childrens-online-privacy-protection-act-rule-review-547597-00052%C2%A0/547597-00052-54901.pdf
Scripture referenced: John 8:44 1 Corinthians 11:14 2 Corinthians 4
Today we think Biblically about headlines about Beyonce's popular song 'Church Girl,' the NYU professor fired for his Organic Chemistry class being too hard, the state of theology in America, and Google offering a service to clear your personal information from their search engine. Our conversation circles around the need for parents to be actively living out their Christian faith in practical ways so that today's young people can discern the relativistic teaching of culture versus that of Scripture. We pray that you find practical application and encouragement from today's discussion.
Articles referenced in this episode: https://www.gsgmedia.co/beyonce-church-girl https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/what-beyonce-church-girl-means-to-black-christian-women_uk_62ea4c4be4b09d09a2bf5e3c https://nypost.com/2022/10/04/nyu-professor-allegedly-fired-after-students-say-class-was-too-hard/ https://breakpoint.org/what-the-state-of-theology-tells-us/ https://gizmodo.com/google-search-results-scrub-phone-number-address-1849603859
Scripture References: John 7:24 Philippians 1:9 2 Corinthians 13:5 Colossains 3:17 Colossains 3:23 Romans 5:3 Proverbs 6 Proverbs 7
Book Mentions: "The Good News We Almost Forgot" by Kevin DeYoung "Why the Word Matters" by Dave Jenkins
Literacy rates are dropping and new data shows that children's reading level is the lowest it has been in 20 years. In today's episode, Kelly and Chelsea discuss the lack of reading of books compared to the abundance of screen media among children and adults today. What does Scripture say about reading? Why is reading essential for the Christ-Follower? And, most importantly, what role do screens play?
Brave Parenting's Character-Driven Booklist
We also recommend Foundation Worldview's free monthly book club recommendations
Chelsea's Counseling point of reflection: Are you parenting out of the love you have for your children or out of the love you have for God? Reflect on Deut 6:4-7 to ensure your heart is properly ordered.
This week we are looking into news headlines about cyber-flashing, self-harm on Twitter, deciding the world is too scary to have kids, and Pornhub's Instagram account. Whether or not your kids read these headlines, chances are that they are absorbing some of the ideas that surround these news headlines. It's so important to have conversations with your child in order for them to think critically about what is truth, what is good, and what is right.
Articles cited this week: https://www.yahoo.com/video/southwest-airlines-pilot-reprimands-passenger-203719010.html https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2022/08/30/self-harm-hastags-twitter/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/gen-z-millennials-speak-out-on-reluctance-to-become-parents/ https://www.theverge.com/2022/9/5/23337535/instagram-removes-pornhub-official-account
Scripture discussed: Ephesians 5:5-14 Psalm 53 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Genesis 1:28 Psalm 127, 128, & 139 Proverbs 17:6 Matthew 19:14
Other resources discussed: Fight the New Drug at fightthenewdrug.org NCOSE (National Center on Sexual Exploitation) at endsexualexploitation.org
In this episode we discuss the increased legalization of recreational marijuana in the U.S. and the shockingly high potency of THC in modern marijuana compared to that of 30 years ago. These two factors have led to increased mental health concerns as well as psychosis diagnosis, especially in young people. Social media is vocal on its approval of recreational marijuana use while the Bible is silent on the topic of "drugs". Therefore Brave Parents must stand in the gap and begin having conversations with their kids about today's use of marijuana. We dive into these issues and help you open the door to conversations with your children.
Articles/Reports referenced in this show:
Cannabis Policy: Public Health and Safety Issues and Recommendations
Highly Potent Weed Has Swept The Market, Raising Concerns About Health Risks
Marijuana and the Pediatric Population
Psychosis, Addiction, Chronic Vomiting: As Weed Becomes More Potent, Teens Are Getting Sick
Highly potent weed creating marijuana addicts worldwide, study says
In today's episode, we are looking at a few recent news headlines and processing them through a Biblical worldview. We highlight children influencers and their online exploitation, Bhad Bhabie's Scholarship Fund, Instagram's new "less" feature for those under 16, and the growing trend of "#quietquitting". We also throw in a bonus headline about research that defines what makes you a "bad" parent.
Today's headlines: https://www.wired.com/story/child-influencers-exploitation-legal-protection/ https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/bhad-babie-danielle-bregoli-scholarship-fund-trade-school-170016711.html https://news.bloomberglaw.com/tech-and-telecom-law/instagram-introduces-kid-safety-measures-after-congress-pressure https://www.npr.org/2022/08/19/1117753535/quiet-quitting-work-tiktok https://www.femalefirst.co.uk/bizarre/bad-parents-spend-much-time-smartphones-1364078.html
Disney has made lots of headlines this year as they have made their intentions to push the LGBTQ+ agenda in all their programming very clear. Everything from the theme park to the Marvel movies are impacted by their ideological stance. So in this episode Kelly and Chelsea help parents think Biblically about Diseny and how much influence you allow Disney to have in the home and family.
Worldview Wednesday is where we take news headlines and stories and evaluate how to think Biblically, consider the impact on worldview, and how to discuss these hot topics with our children. This week's episode reviews the following new stories:
TikToker says he severed a major artery and 'almost died' while making a video about how to open a coconut because he was too focused on 'looking good'
Tom Holland: Spider-Man actor steps back from 'overwhelming' social media
NC Courage defender Jaelene Daniels refuses to play on Pride Night
Kmart has launched a toy vlogger set to get kids ready for being social media influencers
‘Designer vagina’ surgery doubles in 2022 thanks to tight leggings
Kelly and Chelsea provide their favorite resources for helping you establish a Biblical Worldview. Everything from podcasts, to books, websites, documentaries, and curriculum are suggested to help equip you to bravely parent. A full resource list is available in a PDF linked below.
Resource List
After a one year hiatus, Kelly and long time Brave Parenting parter, Chelsea, jump straight into hot topics impacting parents today. In a new segment called "Worldview Wednesday" Kelly and Chelsea review recent headlines in the news and discuss how to think biblically and consider how this information helps shape worldview. In this episode we talk about Pew Research's new screen time research, Hamilton (the musical) in the church, and Disney Drag Queens.
Percentage of Teens Who Say They're 'Almost Constantly' on Social Media Has Doubled in Survey From woke to woker: Disney casts drag queen in new Marvel series Alexander Hamilton Raps His Way to Jesus at Texas Church
Our culture is full of myths that attempt to satiate our need for a savior. If you've ever tried to convince yourself "I am enough!" but still feel like you fall short - you've fallen prey to the toxic world of "self-love". In this episode we'll be reviewing the book, "You're Not Enough (and that's okay)" by Allie Beth Stuckey. Joining Kelly on the show will be Ashlyn & Brenna, high school sophomores who will give their take on the self-love culture surrounding teens today. This is a great episode to listen to with your daughters (and even your sons).
You're Not Enough book on Amazon
Allie Beth Stuckey's Podcast: Relatable
How does what we watch and consume online impact our thoughts (and thus our character and beliefs)? In this episode we're looking at how God's word instructs us to exert control over the online content we consume every day. Most importantly, we'll discuss what that control looks like and how to implement it.
Scripture references:
"Do not love the world or anything in the world." 1 John 2:15 (NIV)
"In this world you will have troubles. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33 (NIV)
"For you created by inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb." Psalm 139:13 (NIV)
"Brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things." Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
"...knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, "Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts?" Matthew 9:4 (NIV)
"For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander." Matthew 15:19 (NIV)
"For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly." Mark 7:21-22 (NIV)
"Above all else, guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life." Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)
"Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice." Philippians 4:9 (NIV)
6 Steps Toward Content Control PDF
New York Time article: "The Messy Truth About Kids' Screen Time"
The greatest commandment given by Jesus is: Love the Lord your God with all your hearth, soul, and mind (Mat 22:36-40). Anything we love more is an idol. So it's safe to say anything that consumes 7-12 hours of your day (screen time) could definitely be the object of your worship. Kelly and Chelsea look into what idolatry looks like in our modern culture and how parents can apply the truth of scripture in raising and discipling kids.
Book References:
Counterfeit Gods by Tim Keller A Practical Guide to Culture by John Stonestreet and Brett Kunkle
It's back to school time around the country so we are tackling the vital topic of smartphones and the classroom. And today, we're not just talking "theory". We have the one and only technological brains behind Brave Parenting and public High School teacher, Kelly's husband, Ryan Newcom on the podcast. Ryan will give us all educator insight, wisdom, and motivation to still care about whether or not your high schooler is on their phone during school.
Bonus Download:
QUESTIONS TO ASK TEACHERS PDF
After two years of podcasting and helping to keep parents educated and equipped to raise kids who are more tech savvy, we feel called to change the podcast up a bit. Here's an overview of where we've been and where we are going.
In this episode we review the 2021 "Dirty Dozen List" put out by The National Center on Sexual Exploitation. This list complies some of the largest mainstream entities contributing to sexual exploitation and abuse. We cover seven of the twelve: Amazon, Google Chromebooks, Netflix, Twitter, Reddit, Discord, and Wish. Those which we believe are most impactful for families today.
In this episode we are talking about the wildly viral game Among Us. Giving us some on-level explanation of the game is Kelly's teenage son, Edward. Reviewing the game and its potential pitfalls, Edward provides our Brave Parenting standard for how to use the game successfully.
In a culture of "Cuties" on Netflix and "WAP" on YouTube, it feels almost impossible to keep our daughters valuing modesty. In this episode we're talking with fellow brave parent Sarah Shanks about the over-sexulization of girls in media. Sarah talks about the notion of "sex sells" and its impact on younger, more innocent children. We discuss how parents can set a standard for modesty in their family.
The Reface app is an entertainment app allowing users to swap their face into popular memes. A fun way to pass the time but is it safe? We'll give you all the facts you need to know about the Reface app.
The Wizz app is a new social networking app your kids may be asking for. In this episode we'll give you the facts you need about Wizz in order to decide whether it's right for your kids.
Video games are a major player in the arena competing for our attention. Many would classify themselves or someone they love as "addicted" to online gaming. In this episode we will explore online gaming disorder and how to know if your child is "addicted" or overusing video games - and what to do next!
Often times obsessive social media usage is justified by the claim it's "communicating with friends" - but how much is too much? And what is the potential problems associated with spending too much time on social media platforms. Join us for the episode as we explore Social Media Addiction.
Smartphones are an intricate part of our life, but how do you know if yours or your child's usage is truly problematic? In this episode we'll take a deep look into "smartphone addiction" and give parents tools to address the problem.
We talk Teens & Money with Brave Parent and Financial Advisor, Chris Van Stavern. Do we allow them to spend hundreds on Fortnite? What's the right age for money-sharing apps like Venmo? We give parents practical wisdom to encourage wise money management in a culture of overindulgence and instant gratification.
Download Teens & Money Best Practices: https://braveparenting.net/teens-money-takeaways/
For the moms who loved reading the Babysitter's Club books as children, it's easy to gravitate towards the new G-Rated Netflix series of the modern day Babysitter's Club. In this episode Kelly and her 14 year-old daughter will give their Brave Parenting review for parents.
Stranger Things is the most binge-worthy Netflix series for adolescents and teens. The sci-fi horror phenomenon draws viewers in through 80's nostalgia and a suspenseful storyline. We look at this series from a Brave Parenting perspective and shed light on some underlying themes in order to determine whether it's appropriate for you and your teens.
13 Reasons Why is one of the most popular Netflix series to date. Originally created bring real life hard topics to the screen in order to address them head on, the fourth season released this month shows just how much over-dramatization directs viewership. We look at this series from a Brave Parenting perspective and shed light on some underlying themes in order to determine whether it's appropriate for you and your teens.
A candid interview with Molly, a recent high school graduate, looking at how smartphones and technology has impacted the Class of 2020.
Summertime is here and we have expert advice for parents on how to approach learning activities. Special guest, Mrs. Lori Riehle, an elementary school principal in Cincinnati, Ohio has wisdom, ideas, and encouragement to share with us that is sure to produce hope!
Kids and video chatting, although more normal now, can still pose some danger. Add anonymity, livestreaming, Snapchat and Tinder to the video chat and we have the host of apps we'll be discussing in this episode. This "new wave of social media" is growing in popularity so don't miss this valuable review on Anonymous Video Chat apps.
How much do you know about PC gaming? In this episode we'll be talking about Steam the online video game distribution platform. It's where a lot PC gamers get their games so we'll share with you everything you need to know about Steam.
Generation Z teens are at the prime age for babysitting. Many parents of young children, however, are concerned about Gen Z's character and screen time habits. In this episode we interview Dinah Hutson of Hutson Nannies to gain insight on what standards and boundaries hiring parents must establish. Additionally we look at how parents of teens can promote character, balanced screen time and integrity in order to be high quality and sought after sitters.
Whisper is an anonymous app allowing users to post their secrets, thoughts, and questions online without identifying themselves. Despite its 17+ rating there are lots of younger teens using this app. We'll give you the inside scoop on whether Whisper is appropriate and worthwhile.
It's easy to choose the convenience of a screen to entertain a young child and not realize - or recognize - the impact on the child's speech and language development. In this episode we talk to speech pathologist, Marie Bowers, about this topic and cover ways that parents can make intentional choices to avoid delays or deficits in speech and language. You'll be surprised how easy it can be!
Episode is a popular role-playing app that lets the reader direct the story. Aimed mainly at girls 13 and older - is this app worthwhile? We look into the nuances of the story telling platform to see if it depleted more than just time and money.
Messenger Kids is growing in popularity due to the social distancing and quarantine directives in place at the time of this recording. Owned and created by Facebook, many parents wonder if this messenging app is safe for their young kids to use. We'll answer that question and give the details every parent needs to know about Messenger Kids.
YouTube is ingrained into the fiber of our kids lives - even our young kids know and crave YouTube! So is YouTube Kids a safer alternative? Is it worth setting up accounts for our kids here or just letting them use the standard YouTube. We'll answer all these questions in this episode as we review the YouTube kids app and website.
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 crisis, children and parents finds themselves both working and schooling from home. In this episode we talk with long-time homeschool and work-from-home Mom, Chelsea Hezel, who will lead us how we can best adjust to our new roles at home.
TikTok has been at the #1 free app for nearly all of 2020 and as more kids join we learn more about its influence on culture and character. We cover the basics of the app as well as the controversies and what parents need to know before allowing the app on a child's phone.
YouTube is a powerful force and influence in our children's lives. In this episode we discuss the importance of ongoing conversations about YouTube with your children no matter what their age. We also review facts the YouTube Music app and whether or not YouTube music is the best streaming music app for your children to use.
Snapchat: so many nuances and potential issues/dangers with this app. In this episode we cover Snap's announcement to roll out a mental health feature of the app. We also review the recently popular app Hoop., which serves as an adjunct app to Snapchat enabling Snap users to "meet new friends".
Today, our teenage children's culture tends to blend social media and social life together. Can one help improve the other - or - is one be a detriment to the other? These are important questions we'll examine as we look at the IRL - Social Calendar app and discuss what it means to have a social life in a social media driven world.
Innovative ideas are springing up across the country as schools try to balance education and smartphones. Today, we highlight one principal in Iowa's successful new 'No Phones, New Friends Friday' lunchtime tradition. Our app of focus is on AMINO and we'll share a story from this past summer about one 10 year-old's experience on Amino. We also discuss what it means to be passionate - and what to do if your kids are ONLY showing passionate behavior towards video games and screen-related activities.
In this episode we discuss the app Houseparty, the new trend of OK Boomer, the character focus of Empathy, and the Common Sense Media 2019 Census.
This week are all about Facebook. The social media giant who boasts 2.7 billion users worldwide is regularly in the news and often in negative light. We're going to take a look at recent news about paid political advertising and give you a refresh overview of the app. We'll also focus on the virtue and value of discernment - especially when it comes to social media advertising.
Fortnite: The cultural phenomenon that has captivated millions of children and has frustrated an equal amount of parents. We talk about the details of the game (available for smartphone, PC, or game console) every parent needs to know. We also talk with Mike Jacobus of Reset Summer Camp, a month long gaming/internet addiction camp for teens.
In this week's episode we talk about new research aiming to answer the question of which comes first: Depression or Dependency on a smartphone. With survey results showing average weekly allowances of $30 we look closer into family chores and earning money. We focus on the app and website Reddit and whether it's appropriate for kids. Also, the character focus is on tolerance and how parents can help kids respect and understand differences.
Chore Menu (Microsoft Word) Chore Menu (PDF Document)
In this episode we discuss the App GroupMe, how to teach your children to be efficient, and the power of producing over consuming.
In this episode we dive into VSCO girls and the new celebrity-like thinking of today's teens. Rightfully so, we discuss the virtue of self-confidence (especially when trying to resist a pop-culture trend like VSCO girls), and the photo-editing and sharing app VSCO. Finally, we talk about Vaping and how parents need to be brave!
In this episode we give our news, character, and app focus a 22 year-old perspective with our guest Evelyn Fernandez. We talk about the prevalence of unsolicited nudes and the difference between a "selfie" and a "posie". We dive into what it means to be sensible online and Evelyn gives a behind the scenes look at the dating app Bumble.
In this episode, we discuss Olivia Jade being back in the news, the character trait of Educated, and Google Classroom: the pros, the cons, and how it is used.
In this episode we talk with Austin & Kate Mackintosh about their journey to becoming missionaries in Ireland while pregnant with triplets and how they used social media to connect with others around the world.
To learn more about Austin & Kate Mackintosh: https://www.facebook.com/khmackintosh https://www.instagram.com/katemackintoshrn/ https://www.facebook.com/austin.mackintosh.5 https://www.instagram.com/acmackintosh/
If you would like to support Austin and Kate, you can donate to Commission to Every Nation at the link below: https://cten.org/austinmackintosh/
In this episode we discuss YouTube ending private messages, high schools going phone free, VPN access and children, and access to porn and the consequences of the porn culture.
As technology advancements creep into every aspect of our life, it's important to pause and consider what could be lost as we adapt. Technology isn't bad but is it all beneficial - especially for our children growing up. We'll look at the pros and cons of incorporating technology and media into classrooms, learning, reading, and home life.
In this episode we discuss the Monkey App, how to develop a courageous child, and the value of face to face relationships in teens and children today.
In this episode, Dr. Margaret R. Mauze joins us again to discuss the effects of screens on sleep.
In this episode we discuss the character trait of being passionate, smart diapers, the game/app Roblox, and the Fortnite World Cup.
In this episode of the Brave Parenting Podcast we interview Dr. Margaret R. Mauze, a board certified pediatric psychologist, on the use of technology in schools and questions you should ask your school and teachers.
Top 5 Tech Questions to Ask Your School
In this episode we discuss FaceApp, Wish, developing resourcefulness, and the murder of a social media influencer.
In this episode we discuss Pinterest, Creativity, Screen-Free Parent Coaches, and the Value of Boredom
In this episode we discuss a recent study showing that sexting might be "good" for teens, texting apps, and how to be more reliable.
This episode is all about Instagram. The photo and video sharing platform is used by more than 75% of teens and is redefining many aspects of parents and teens lives. The virtue of authenticity and the power of influence are two crucial areas of focus when considering allowing Instagram for your child, which we discuss in depth. We also cover the basic facts of Instagram, including the security and privacy settings you can use as a parent, and recent news headlines with Instagram.
In this episode we discuss Google Integrating Food Delivery, Deepfakes, Developing Independence, DoorDash, and Controlled by Convenience.
In this episode we discuss the effects of Social Media, Gabb Wireless, Hard Work, Netflix, and Binge Watching.
In Episode 10, we discuss the YOLO App, Fortnite Bullying, Moderation, Twitch, and the Dirty Dozen
https://braveparenting.net/fortnite-problems/
https://braveparenting.net/5-reasons-why-no-child-needs-snapchat/
https://endsexualexploitation.org/dirtydozen-2019/
Dirty Dozen 2019 Download
In this episode we discuss the Red Sox baseball team banning Fortnite, streaming games via Twitch, the immense popularity of mobile gaming apps, and how to develop the character trait of moderation.
Atlantic Article - When Kids Realize Their Whole Life Is Already Online
In this episode we go over Apple removing parental control apps from the App Store, Ever App, Trustworthiness, Find My Family App, and we compare third party parental control vs. iOS Screen Time.
iOS Screen Time Guide
In episode 7, we cover Scrubbing Social Media, Self Control, Discord, Video Game Screen Time
In this episode, we cover the College Basketball Phone Ban, Instagram Inappropriate Content, Loyalty, Tinder, and Teenage Dating
In episode 5, we cover the Cheese Challenge, Uber, Gratitude, Venmo, Earning, Saving, and Spending Money
Gratitude Journal Teaching Financial Responsibility
In this episode, we will cover Faking Rich on Instagram, Unplanned Twitter Account, Honesty, Twitter, and App Ratings.
Famous Tweets Led to Firing Fix App Ratings Fix App Ratings Press Release Twitter Privacy & Safety Settings
In this episode we discuss Instagram Checkout, CoParenter, Respect, Spotify, and Listening to Music.
Top songs through the decades
In this episode we discuss Varsity eSports, Olivia Jade, Perseverance, Photomath, and Digital Cheating.
Parent's Guide to Digital Cheating
In Episode 1 we talked about the #trashchallenge, pedestrian texting lanes, a $5.7 million Coppa breach, our character focus is on the virtue of patience, our app focus is TikTok, and our family focus is the new rules for communication. Resources Text Talk Defined Parent's Guide to Building Patience