logo
episode-header-image
Sep 10
46m 24s

Raising Teens Outside the Anxious Genera...

Melanie Hempe, BSN
About this episode

What really happens when kids grow up without smartphones, video games, and social media? In this eye-opening episode, Melanie Hempe sits down with Dr. Adriana Stacey to explore the powerful changes families see when they step off the screen-saturated path.

From more creativity and deeper conversations at the dinner table to stronger confidence, healthier friendships, and greater resilience, Dr. Stacey shares both personal stories and professional insights that prove life beyond screens is not only possible—it’s better.

You’ll discover:

  • The two big myths most parents believe about kids and screens
  • What kids actually do with their time when they aren’t glued to devices
  • How screen-free teens grow into more confident, capable, and connected young adults
  • Why raising the bar with a ScreenStrong culture is easier—and healthier—than negotiating with kids about toxic tech

If you’ve ever wondered whether your child will “miss out” without a smartphone or gaming console, this episode will show you the truth: when you remove toxic tech, you make room for freedom, growth, and joy.

You’re not alone—and you’re not crazy. You’re just ahead of the curve.

Support the show

Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!

ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations

  • Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount)

Production Team:

  • Host: Melanie Hempe
  • Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin
Up next
Oct 1
Unplugged and Thriving: Lessons from the Maine Coast Semester with Sarah Rebick (#245)
In this episode, Mandee Hamann sits down with Sarah Rebick to explore the unique qualities of the Maine Coast Semester at Chewonki and how they align with ScreenStrong’s mission of raising healthy, well-balanced kids in a screen-heavy world. Together, they discuss how the program ... Show More
38m 39s
Sep 24
Phone-Free Classrooms: A Teacher’s Firsthand Report with Beth Pannenberg (#244)
In today’s episode, Melanie sits down with Beth, a high school teacher, to hear her firsthand experience with the new phone-free classroom policy this school year.Beth shares the contrast between last year’s inconsistent approach—where teachers set their own phone rules, leading ... Show More
35m 37s
Aug 27
Kids, Screens, and the Rise of A.I. with Aaron Plaat (#242)
On this episode, host Mandee Hamann sits down with Aaron Plaat (aaronplaat.com) to unpack one of the most pressing questions for parents today: What does the rise of artificial intelligence mean for our kids?From AI-driven apps and chatbots to personalized digital companions, Aar ... Show More
53m 50s
Recommended Episodes
May 2025
The Follow-Up: How Phones and Social Media Impact Kids
In this insightful follow-up episode, Dr. Mona is joined by Bill Brady—CEO of Troomi Wireless and a father of five—for a powerful conversation about the realities of kids and phones. They discuss the benefits of tech, the very real risks of social media, and how parents can intro ... Show More
14m 59s
May 2025
Digital Heroin and the Battle for Our Children’s Brains with Dr. Kardaras, Episode#130
What are screens really doing to our kids’ brains—and what can we do about it? In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, we sit down with Dr. Nicholas Kardaras, bestselling author of Glow Kids, to unpack the neurological, emotional, and social toll of growing up in a screen- ... Show More
43m 21s
Dec 2024
Screen time vs Play time in kids under 5 with Tammy Schamuhn
Send us a textIn this conversation, Cindy Hovington chats with Tammy Schamuhn, Registered Psychologist, Best-Selling Author, Co-Founder of the Institute of Child Psychology and the Executive Director of Family Counselling Centres discuss the importance of parental involvement in ... Show More
50m 3s
Jul 2024
Understanding the Highly Sensitive Child with Michael Pleuss, Episode #89
Dr. Pleuss is a leading researcher on High Sensitivity in Children. In this fascinating interview, he breaks down his work to explain what a highly sensitive child is, the role of genetics, how caregiving influences a child's sensitivity, and how environment plays a highly signif ... Show More
34m 30s
Oct 2024
Navigating Burnout: Strategies for Emotional Well-Being with Dr. Jessi Gold
Send us a textIn this conversation, Dr. Jessi Gold, Author of "How do you Feel?" discusses her book on mental health and burnout, particularly in the healthcare sector. She shares her personal experiences and insights on the subtlety of burnout, the cultural perceptions surroundi ... Show More
50m 58s
May 2025
Why Play is so Crucial for Development & The Science Behind it with Dr. Tina Payne Bryson
In this powerful and refreshingly playful conversation, Dr. Tina Payne Bryson returns to talk about The Way of Play—her newest book and a much-needed reminder that play isn't just fun, it's foundational. We dive into the science and soul of play—from its impact on brain developme ... Show More
1h 2m
Jan 2024
Why your own emotional intelligence matters as a parent with Genny Rumancik
Hang tight for a cozy chat that's like catching up with your parent BFF – we're spilling the beans on emotions and parenting with Jenny from EQ School. No fancy talk, just a laid-back convo packed with aha moments.From decoding our emotions to setting real, self-care bo ... Show More
50m 13s
Jan 2025
Ep. 263: From Dry January to Sober Living: Is It Time to Make Sobriety Permanent?
In this episode, we delve into the journey of sobriety with Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, author of Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want. Chris shares her inspiring story, from recognizing her own drinking problem to the pivotal moment that led her to seek help. S ... Show More
38m 5s
Jun 2024
Managing Intense Feelings for Kids and Grownups with Lindsey Kealey (Replay) – (238)
School is out and the kids are home – let’s revisit the “Three C” method: collect, calm & collaborate As our schedules shift for summer, we think revisiting this episode with expert Lindsey Kealey is the perfect reminder. The warmer weather is great for vacations or some weekend ... Show More
59m 8s
Dec 2020
Taking Your Kids Back from Their Screens with Arlene Pellicane
It has been extremely difficult during lockdown and virtual schooling to limit screen time for our kids. That is why we have Arlene Pellicane back on the show to talk about Screen Kids, the latest book she’s co-written with Gary Chapman. Arlene Pellicane tells us what too much sc ... Show More
51m 49s
Listen to millions of songs and podcasts on Anghami