Protect Our Kids With Kristi Bush

The erosion of truth is a significant driver of our current cancel culture. Misinformation spreads rapidly online, often re-shared as fact, igniting emotional reactions among those who fail to verify the information before broadcasting it. This cycle not only fuels cancel culture but poses a serious risk to our collective discourse and social fabric. What lessons are we imparting to our children in this environment? How can we shift our focus to instill critical thinking and responsible communication instead? It's imperative that we equip the next generation with the tools to discern fact from fiction, fostering a culture of inquiry rather than reaction. www.knbcommunications.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

What if we said we are done. What if we said no to any devices til age 13. What if we have our kids their childhood back. What if we took the stress out of our relationship with them for 13 years? You can. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Have you ever said to your kid or teen "Well when I was a kid or teen we did this...." And did your kids roll their eyes and say "you don't understand. Things are DIFFERENT now." And they are exactly right. Devices and social media has transformed the relationship landscape for our kids. The only thing that seems to be the same is we have always had big feelings about those first relationships. Everything else...well...it's different. In this episode I help youth make sense of the apples and oranges.. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

X released a new updated policy allowing pornography.What does that look like? What does that mean when it comes to safe guarding our kids? A birthdate stands between your kid and access. I discuss what we should do. Insta: Protect_ourkids https://www.facebook.com/socialmedianavigation/ https://www.knbcommunications.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

It is essential for consumers of social media to exercise critical thinking when evaluating information shared by influencers.  Instead of blindly accepting their recommendations, it is crucial to verify facts, seek other expert opinions and consider multiple perspectives before taking an influencers advice.  We know that experts are individuals that dedicate their time, education and experience to a particular field.  They possess in depth knowledge, skills and qualifications that allow them to provide accurate and reliable information.  One of the best things we can do as a consumer is to recognize the vast difference between influencers and experts.  We can make informed decisions based on reliable sources of information, rather than being swayed solely by the popularity or charisma of influencers.  In other words, be damn careful of the snake oil swillers of today's generation.  They are the same as they were 100's of years ago…just dressed in prettier clothes and they no longer have to knock on your door to get in to your home.   http://www.knbcommunications.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

I took 30 days off of social media.  Feeling overwhelmed and exhausted I decided to take what felt like a bold step and disconnect.  No research.  No scrolling.  Zero “connecting”.  For 30 days. Little did I know that this break would transform my perspective and make me question whether I wanted to return at all.   www.knbcommunications.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

According to the Child Rescue Coalition based in the US, the average parent posts 1500 pictures of their child on the Internet before the child turns five, and 90% of children appear in pictures or videos posted online before they reach the age of two. How much sharing is too much? Where do we draw the line? And by violating our child's privacy, by using their image...does it step into a form of child abuse? www.knbcommunications.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Why do we not want an algorithm feeding us only the same stuff?  It provides an insanely narrow view of the world.  It is restrictive, repetitive… at best monotonous…and at worst narrow-minded.  We should desire diversity and new perspectives.  A singular algorithmic diet limits our understanding and growth.  It confines us to a small bubble that prevents us from exploring the complexities of the world.  The narrow lens distorts reality, and hinders our ability to be able to embrace differences and variety.  In all things.  www.knbcommunications.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

I stopped following social media influencers that are consistently using their young children on their page. I feel we have a duty to protect our young children online. Until they have a voice and can say they want their image shared, I feel we need to protect their image. If we are raising our boys and girls to think that the way they get attention is by performing on social media for mom and dad, then we can not be surprised when they get older and "perform" on their own platforms for attention. Our kids are entitled to a life of privacy until they decide they no longer want it to be private. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

You can take away your child's social media/gaming/devices...even if they did not do anything to "deserve" it. The minute you feel your child is in danger on any platform, for whatever reason, you have the right as a parent to remove them from that space. It will not be easy. I discuss in this episode why you may do this...and ideas on how. www.knbcommunications.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Parents…you get to choose how much work you want to do when it comes to learning new apps. You are in the drivers seat! Do not add more work than is necessary…I tell you how and why you can make your life easier in this episode ! www.knbcommunications.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

What I learned about kids and tech in 2023 might surprise you…and it will also give us a great indicator of where we need to focus when it comes to 2024! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

After every presentation I give kids the opportunity to ask questions. Elementary age students always have the BEST, most heartfelt…and at times heartbreaking…questions. I chose a few for you here. And we chat a bit about my answers. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Does AI scare you? Do you think of it as this foreign idea that really will not effect you or your family for years to come? It is here. Now. Teach your kids how to use AI today. Do not wait. We have an awesome opportunity to shape what AI will look like in the future. With AI in its infancy we can teach our kids how to use it ethically. Responsibly. This will shape how it interacts with us as it learns and grows. We can model positive ethical behavior for them to emulate. The same as we do for all social media. Only this time they are a part of a team, a larger goal of creating something that will in fact effect the entire world. As we join the narrative on the front end around what we want AI to look like now....and 20 years from now...the work starts today. Micro moments of positive use combined to have a very large, lasting impact. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Should educators teach students social media safety? Should there be a specific curriculum? Should educators be expected to have conversations with students about what they are doing outside of a set curriculum? These are all good questions...and ones that we must address as social media issues continue to create challenges within the classroom. In this episode we discuss the educators role...and how the answers maybe found in the micro-moments of the day. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

School is back in session! Summer flew by and now we will be entering classrooms with a new group of students. And those little cyber stalkers are going to immediately do an online check to see who they will be spending the next 9 months with. So how do you protect yourself? Should you have an online or social media presence? In this episode we chat about what we can do to be able to have an online presence while making sure you and your students are protected. www.knbcommunications.com knbcommunications@yahoo.com 770-558-9931 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

In todays episode Allana Chris joins us to discuss human and sex trafficking. Allana Chris is the Founder and Executive Director of Little Tree Project, an anti-human trafficking organization headquartered in South Alabama with the mission of combating human trafficking through prevention, rehabilitation, and restoration. She has over 6 years of experience in the counter trafficking field conducting domestic and international rescue and aftercare services. Her experiences and conversations with survivors of modern slavery lead her to start Little Tree Project with a model that is survivor-driven and solution-focused, filling in the gaps expressed by survivors themselves. Little Tree is currently offering community awareness and prevention services, referrals to survivors, and more while they fundraise for their anticipated residential facility.  In this episode Allana provides us with incredible insight around sex and human trafficking. Among MANY things we discuss, she explains the two ways that traffickers have access to their victims...through hunting & fishing. 83 percent of these cases now originate from online. Every child /teen that has access to online is at risk of potentially having contact with one of these predators. Allana does a beautiful job not only discussing the risks, but what we can look for as parents, how we can protect our kids and how we can help protect others from potential harm. If you would like to support The Little Tree Project or if you know...or suspect someone is a victim of...trafficking... you may contact her at any of the places listed below. allana@thelittletreeproject.org volunteer@thelittletreeproject.org www.thelittletreeproject.org 251-283-2810 Instagram: @_littletreeproject --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Me Camp....Jen Hatmaker coined this phrase and it is brilliant! Her time away for her...and only her...is her Me Camp....and I could not love it more. I have been doing Me Camp for 12 years now. It started out as an hour away and this month I took a WEEK! I chat about why it is so important to fill your cup up for you, why you shouldn't feel guilty about this (not one little bit), and how it can help you come back a happier, centered, filled up version of the best you! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

My son recently graduated. He also turned 18 two days before graduation. I feel there should be a rule somewhere that says those two things can not co-exist in the same month. But the dust has settled...and left me with several thoughts. 18 things I know to be true after 18 summers...and one graduation. Need support or have questions: www.knbcommunications.com knbcommunications@yahoo.com . --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

What if technology disappeared tomorrow? What if all the little parts that allow us to function everyday...from our phones to our cars to your fancy coffee pot...what if we could not get access to those parts? These parts also control our computers that run our everyday lives. Would we survive? More importantly....would our children? I fully believe that if you are north of 30, you have a running chance of things working out. But our youth today do not know life before social media. Before tech. So I think it begs the question...are we preparing our kids for the basics? Do they know how to take care of themselves, and their community without tech? www.knbcommunications.com knbcommunications@yahoo.com (insta) protect_ourkids --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

As adults we know the signs of a healthy versus an unhealthy relationship. The former is supportive, safe, trusting. The latter is not supportive, can be unsafe or even manipulative. I work with kids and teens on a regular basis helping them to navigate the friendships in their life. While it is natural during pre-teen and teen years for friends to come and go, for there to be some contention and subsequent "make up"...it is incredibly important that we help our kids to develop the skills to recognize healthy and unhealthy relationships. Skills they can use not only now, but that will grow with them as they form new friendships in the future. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

I woke up angry. While I am immensely thankful for the surgeon generals advisory on social media protection for our children, it feels a bit late in the game. Our children have been struggling for going on at least a decade. I have watched them spiral year after year....left to their own devices while facing the worlds most brilliant minds in the social media space.....that prey on our kids and keep algorithms in place that perpetuate the constant online cycle. I am disgusted by it. And frustrated. But we are NOT helpless. WE can put parameters in place. I give you tips and tools that are free that you can begin to use immediately to protect your kids. If you need help navigating this space...whether it is learning how to device checks or how to have hard conversations...I am here to help. knbcommunications@yahoo.com www.knbcommunications.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

In this episode I talk about how my dads “comment” about my kids bio-hazard of a bedroom... led me to thinking about the battles I pick with my kids…versus the ones he picked with me. And some of them are REALLY different. And that's ok. :) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Do you feel like your kid/teen is addicted to their phone and social media? Do YOU feel addicted to your social media? Have you ever considered that your child maybe bingeing their social media? What does all of this mean when it comes to our kids and their mental health? Most importantly what can we do to help? In this episode we take a look at these behaviors, and the implications for healthy tech navigation going forward. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Amy Robbins, an Atlanta-based LPC, ACS, CPCS, and Certified EMDR therapy clinician, has been providing therapeutic services to Atlanta area children, teens, adults, couples, and families since 1999. She is the owner of Amy Robbins Counseling which is located in Atlanta. Clients are seen in office and/or virtual for therapy. There are 5 therapists that are full time and work with Amy. Amy leads workshops, webinars and events for therapists locally and nationally. Amy provides clinical supervision to therapists across the nation and has done so since 2003. On the therapy side, Amy see adults for a variety of reasons including divorce, relationships, grief, depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, trauma, parenting and the list goes on. Amy is certified in EMDR Therapy, a trauma-based tool that provides fast results. Many clients seek Amy out for her trauma work and for EMDR Therapy. Amy also sees couples for therapy as well and utilizes the Gottman Method as well as Relational Therapy, highlighting Esther Perel and Terry Real. Read Us by Terry Real to get a good grasp on your relationship and to see the foundation that Amy operates from. Amy Robbins LPC, CPCS Clinical Director | EMDR Certified 706-406-3404 amy@amyrobbinscounseling.com www.amyrobbinscounseling.com 1986 Hosea L Williams Drive NE Suite C, Atlanta, GA 30317 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

As parents we want to protect our children from harm. I get the question a lot, am I a bad parent for giving my child social media? We see the dangers associated with social media, gaming and devices....but we are also faced with most every child having a device. So when that time comes as a parent to make the decision to give our child one...we then become faced with "Did I do the right thing?" "Am I a bad parent?" Parent guilt is the absolute worst. You...we...are not bad parents. I walk you through these feeling...and hopefully give you permission to give yourself a bit of grace. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

A vulnerable episode about navigating “lasts” and missing the little moments with my kids. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Does your child have a "right to privacy" when it comes to their device and social media? As parents are we invading their privacy by checking their phones and what they are doing on social media? This is always a sensitive topic, and one that gets brought up frequently when I work with parents...and kids. Parents tend to be on the fence with their answers...and kids unanimously agree that it is an invasion of their privacy. The problem lies in that they are putting information on a device in which the information does not stay there...it is typically shared with others in a very public format. I chat about the idea of privacy, are we invading it...and my thoughts after working closely with parents and kids and in this space. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

When your child brings you something that they saw on social media, that maybe they should not have seen...do you immediately have the freak out face? Do you get upset? Do you take the device away? Do you take the social media away? This is fear based parenting. Our knee jerk reaction is to protect our kids. This is hard to do online. So when our kids share something hard with us, we immediately want to remove it to protect them. In this episode I talk about why that can be harmful, and how we can flip the script to form closer relationships with our children by leading with curiosity and thankfulness. I also give specific responses when faced with various situations. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Social Media platforms have become a place for one big popularity contest. How many videos can you push through? How much content can you create? Is it GOOD enough? Only to fall victim to an algorithm that not only decides if it will push your information through but it also forces us into "liking, commenting and following" in hopes of seeing that account again....and it forces the account owner to constantly beg for these likes, comments and follows in hopes that their info stays within the feed. It removes all organic communication which is what fb, insta and tik tok continue to say they encourage. I am a huge proponent of why we should not attach our feelings of self worth to a digital algorithm. I discuss this and what we can do to make sure we not only protect ourselves but our children as well. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Did you know that screen time can effect your child's speech? We tend to think about devices when it comes to older children and what they are experiencing, but the reality is that children are exposed to screens at a very young age. And this exposure, even in small increments, but consistently throughout the day...can lead up to not just alot of screen time, but concerning physical issues as well. Dr. Nancy Wood discusses various physical development issues, such as problems with speech, as well as psycho social/emotional health issues. I learned so much from my conversation with her and I know you will as well! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

I am so excited to introduce our guest for todays episode. Her name is Erin Schwant. She has a masters degree in marriage and family therapy and worked in private practice in Jackson Mississippi before moving home to Mobile, which is where she grew up. In 2012 she was hired to develop a preschool at St. Paul's Episcopal Church. That school, St. Paul's Early Education Center, is now 10 years old and serves 140 families a year. Erin and her husband husband, Troy, have five boys Jack, 15, Charlie 12, Sam 11, Robert 7, and William 5. Erin and I chat about how screen time is effecting the development of our young children. If you have kids ages 1-5...you do NOT want to miss this. You will be surprised, and maybe a bit shocked to hear how screen time can affect your child's developing brain. She also provides beautiful tips to help you navigate this space and form a closer relationship with your child. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Words matter. They are the cornerstone of our every day lives. What we say, how we say it. It has so much impact on our lives and the lives of others. They are an inexhaustible resource that have started…and stopped…wars. They influence how we think and what we believe. No matter the language, they hold more power than any weapon ever created. This is a topic of conversation that I will always be passionate about. Especially when it comes to educating our youth. During this episode I talk about why it is so important that we educate our children about how much their word matter. I also provide a few tips on how to have this conversation...as well as tips to help your children have a better understanding of what their online behavior should look like. If you need help or extra support in this area...please do not hesitate to reach out...I am always here! knbcommunications@yahoo.com 770-558-9931 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

In this episode I provide you with free, easy, actionable steps you can take right now to protect your kids in the online space. We are all incredibly busy. As parents we do not want another expensive long program with difficult answers when it comes to protecting our kids. This episode will quickly provide you several options you can start using today. We also discuss...where is the BEST place to have a conversation with your child. You might be surprised where...and also surprised by my rule for these conversations. Do you find yourself overwhelmed in navigating your child's social media? Are they continuing to have mis-steps in this space? I am always here to help. I provide one on one coaching for parents and kids/teens. You may reach me at: 770-558-9931 knbcommunications@yahoo.com www.knbcommunications.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

We talk alot about removing devices as a consequence for mis-steps either with the device or through social media/gaming. But what happens when your child's reaction to the device removal becomes frightening? Today I discuss why your children are so attached to their devices/social media/gaming. I also talk about severe reactions that can occur...sometimes even leading to suicidal behavior. I feel it is important that we understand the possibility of Therese behaviors...and then what to do if the occur. If your child threatens you with harm due to device removal or threatens to harm themselves, please contact the local police department. The national suicide hot line is now 988. You may dial this and receive help in the US. If you need coaching support for your child/teen, your family or for you as a parent...please do not hesitate to reach out to me at knbcommunications@yahoo.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Candra Gerorge is a mother and business owner. In this episode she tells her family's incredibly personal story about how, despite all of her efforts to protect her 9 year old son from accessing inappropriate information online...he was able to access pornography. She tells her story in hopes of educating other parents on not just the important of device monitoring but also the importance of having open early conversations with your child about what they are viewing. Her story will tug at your heartstrings as a parent, but also give you hope that even in the midst of hard conversations beautiful relationships can be formed and strengthened. Candra George, founder of The OWEL , has been working in the photography industry since 2007 and her work has been featured in multiple media outlets and publications worldwide. The OWEL Foundation is a 501C3 aimed at helping those girls with foster care background and/or in danger of aging out of the system. Currently, they are in partnership with Jame's Samaritan Louisiana and The Northlake Pregnancy Crisis Center. Together they are "adopting" those girls who are pregnant, providing them with supplies and support services, all aimed at keeping their babies out of the foster care system. They will have served approximately 48 girls in a year. When Candra isn't working, she spends her days in south Louisiana, with her husband Wes, 9-year-old son, Wesley Brooks, and dogs Magnolia and Daisy. Most days she's able to outsmart the latter three. https://www.theowelproject.com https://www.knbcommunications.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

We talk so much about how social media can hurt our kids. But what are the consequences from withholding social media from our kids? This episode takes a look at the challenges from both sides. www.knbcommunications.com knbcommunications@yahoo.com FB: Crack the Code FB: KNB Communications, LLC --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Our youth are facing a lot right now. Anxiety and depression is at an all time high. Life's challenges can feel incredibly overwhelming. Kaysha Clark, LPC, M.A. joins us to chat about how we as parents can help our children navigate these waters. Kaysha has over 20 years experience as a counselor working with children, teens, and adults dealing with OCD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-injurious behaviors, conduct and attachment disorders, eating disorders, hoarding, and personality disorders. She leads us through a discussion on how she feels today's pandemic, online news, peer relationships, and social media in general is effecting our kids. She also provides some amazing tools that we can use at home if we have children that are facing anxiety or depression. Kaysha recommends several resources as support for parents. They are as follows: Dr Wagner with the Anxiety & Wellness Center. (The Four C's Method) https://www.anxietywellness.com Suicide Prevention Hotline 1-800-273-8255. Carepoint through Altapoint for local listeners in the Baldwin County area. Kaysha's website is https://www.kayshalittleclarklpc.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

My greatest hope with this podcast is to inform and empower you. To give you the tools and information so we can do better, so we can be better. I have always believed that open, honest, thoughtful conversations can lead to meaningful, lasting change. I do not always have the right questions, or know the best answers. But I do know when it is important to listen. And learn from others. I am so incredibly honored to have Ivie Hixon join us for this episode. Ivie and her husband are the parents of five beautiful children. She is Puerto Rican and her husband is African American. In this episode Ivie speaks her truth about what they have experienced as a family in relation to racism. We discuss several incidents that have occurred over the years. And while Ivie will tell you, this is not something she likes to talk about...or has ever talked about...she does feel that now is the time to have these conversations. My hopes are as she bravely leads us through the experiences that her family has had, that it will encourage us to take a deeper look at race, race inequality and racism. I hope that her courage in sharing her truth will encourage us to explore deeper, open, more meaningful conversations with one another and with our children. And that these conversations can lead us to do better. To be better. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Right now it can feel like the entire world is falling apart. Everywhere you look, it feels like there is chaos. Do you feel it in your family? We have two teenage boys, 13 & 15, and I know they are feeling it and seeing it everyday. They see so much of it through social media. And it just feels extra loud. I find myself having to discuss with them pandemics, rioting, protesting, human rights, race issues. All of these things feel heavy. And I never feel like I have the right words. But I do know that it is important to continue to have open conversations, to listen...and it is ok if we struggle in the process. In this episode I share a bit of my heart. I may not have all of the answers, but I do know social media and I do know parenting. And I know there are so many influencers-influencing our kids thoughts everyday. The news is loud, These voices are loud. But are we taking the time to discover who our children are allowing to influence their lives. And then are we really listening to what our kids have to say? I hope this episode will encourage you to dig in, remain open and listen. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Nichole Malone is a resident of Fairhope, Al, but she spent her teenage years growing up in Spanish Fort, Al. She is married to Matt Malone of Fairhope and they have three children ages 17,15 & 3. Two boys and a girl. In the month of July 2019 her oldest son called Nichole into his bedroom to talk about a person who was approaching him online requesting him to model for a clothing company. Her protective instincts kicked in and upon further digging, they were sure we were dealing with an online child predator. Her son's openness and honesty, she is positive, saved him from a situation that could easily have caused him to become a victim of child sex trafficking. She is sharing their story to hopefully bring awareness to parents and children about a domestic crisis that is on our doorstep. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

We're all navigating this brave new world folks...and man does it look so different for our kids getting ready for college! As Covid 19 threw us into lock down, our teachers had to pivot quickly. Graduations happened, and are happening virtually. We know college will be waiting, but what will it look like? If you have a child in high school, Tracey Childs is your go to. In this episode she chats about how she did not miss a beat when she moved her Class 101 business virtually. She shifted all course work and information to a virtual platform to help make sure her students needs were met. Tracey also chats with about what we need to be doing as parents to prepare our kids for college...and this starts as early as 9th grade! We also touch on social media...how she believe it is assisting our kids in a time where they could feel disconnected. ___ Tracey Childs has served as the owner and operator of Class 101 Mobile, a college planning franchise that holistically assists high school students and their families in the college admissions process, since December 2018. In addition, she is a part-time faculty member in the Leadership and Teacher Education department at the University of South Alabama. Previously, she served as an Assistant Professor and Director of Student Success At Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama. She earned a Doctor of Education degree in Higher Education Leadership from the University of South Alabama (2016). She received a Master's of Education degree in secondary education from Auburn University(2000) and earned a Bachelors of Arts degree from Auburn University (1998). Tracey is married to Andy Childs, and they have a fourteen year-old daughter, Katelyn. If you would like to reach out to Tracey for assistance, you can reach her at 251.450.8141 . tchilds@class101.com www.class101.com/mobileal --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Drunk bear on a unicycle...this is how Jennifer Thomas describes how she is balancing her life right now. You will find her refreshing humor throughout this podcast! She is a single mom and a nurse. Like so many of us she has been thrust into trying to figure out a way to balance working(while staying safe), parenting, and navigating distance learning with her two teen/pre teen kids. Jennifer talks about her struggles but she also talks about how she chooses to focus on the positive in the midst of it all. __ Jennifer earned her Master's degree in nurse anesthesia from UAB. She has worked for 13 years as a CRNA in Mobile, AL. She is a single mom to a 13 year old daughter and an 11 year old son. Co-parenting them respectfully with their very involved father is one of her greatest sources of pride. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Let's be honest...times are just weird. And hard right now. Most mornings feel like we are waking up as actors in some bad germ crazy movie. We all experience and react in different ways. If you are feel like your shoulders are grabbing your ears before you get out of bed in the mornings, if you feel you are moving through quick sand all day, if you feel you want to run and hide, if you are feeling like you are failing....these could all be signs of burnout. While burnout is not new, what we are collectively having to shoulder is. Tarah Keech is a burnout prevention and recovery expert. As the CEO of BurnoutSurvival.com and creator of The Burnout-Proof System, Tarah helps leaders burnout-proof their businesses and their lives. She has training and a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology and has been a consultant in Fortune 500 organizations since 2011. In this episode you will hear Tara talk about how to recognize the signs, giving yourself permission to FEEL these emotions, and then what to do to support you and your family during an uncertain time. If you're a leader who wants to equip your team to thrive, The Burnout-Proof System will guide you and your team to prevent and recover from the costly risk of burnout so that you can show up as your best selves, do work you're proud of, and live a life you love. Learn more and download your copy of The Leader's Overwhelm Antidote Guide at burnoutsurvival.com. Connect & Follow: Gifted resource, The Leader's Overwhelm Antidote Guide: http://bit.ly/overwhelmantidote Web: burnoutsurvival.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/burnoutsurvival/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/tarahkeech.burnoutsurvival Email: info@burnoutsurvival.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Leslie is an assistant principal at Spanish Fort Middle School and public speaker...but most importantly a mom to four amazing kids. Like so many of us she was thrust into distance learning, homeschooling, and navigating working from home...all while managing four kids! She shares with us some of the challenges, as well as the positives, she has noticed that came with being quickly placed in the distance learning/virtual world. She also talks about the struggles she has noticed with device time among teens (and related issues) not just in the past within her school, but currently what she sees as some of the challenges as device time continues to rise. Leslie is open, honest and transparent in her own struggles as a parent, but incredibly encouraging for other parents to keep going, stay positive and most importantly check in with your kids. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Bored. Are your kids bored during lockdown? Are they making you want to crawl out of your skin? I GET it. I really do. However, I am going to tell you how that boredom...while making you crazy today is shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Have you read Glennon Doyle's book Untamed? It is eye opening and motivating and beautiful. As I was reading, a particular chapter spoke to me. I mean DEEPLY RESONATED with me so much that I had to share it. And by share it I mean I got up immediately after reading and recorded this for you guys. I decided to do a bonus episode for you! She talks about her son, and how having a phone changed him. And then what they decided to do as a family. She talks about how boredom and allowing our kids to be "itchy" in their own skin is actually a good thing. Most importantly how we as parents do not need to give our kids devices to keep up with other kids, or cure boredom, or fix their itchiness. That is their sweet spot. When we allow our kids to work through that uncomfortable feeling instead of numbing it with distractions....this is where kids find themselves. Where they discover their passions. This is where leaders are born. "It is about how when we know what our children need, we don't pretend not to know." This statement. It is good. I mean....really REALLY good. It has shifted how I think about my kids devices and changes I will be making going forward. I hope you enjoy this bonus episode and that it touches you as it did me. You can grab a copy of Glennon's book here https://www.amazon.com/Untamed/dp/B07Z44CWFM/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=untamed&qid=1587950270&sr=8-1. Loving the podcast? Be sure to like, subscribe and share with your friends and family! Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Join me as I chat with Joshua Wayne, youth and parenting expert. Joshua speaks to teens about mental well-being, how to say "no" without losing face and building healthy relationships. He also speaks to adults about getting kids to both "listen up" and "open up", warning signs of deeper issues, and healthy technology use. During this episode he provides helpful tips and tools to guide parents through their children's emotions, possible uncertainties and social media habits through lockdown and beyond. We also discuss Joshua's latest project, a new book titled The Simple Parenting Guide to Technology. This book is a simple, easy to understand, step by step process that helps parents navigate their child's social media. You can find the book here: https://www.joshuawayne.com/tech --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Todays health care landscape looks much different than it did just 4 weeks ago. Kristi chats with attorney Christina Bolin about the measures we can take to keep our (virtual) medical information private. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support

Join Kristi as she chats about why she decided to start Protect Our Kids. She chats about the event that happened in her family, that was the catalyst for kicking off her passion for helping parents & professionals navigate our kids social media. She then dives into what to expect from Protect our Kids...hint...think super casual conversations with your closest...yet most honest... parent friend! Each episode promises to be full of information that will empower you! Join her in the fight to keep our kids safe online. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kristi-bush/support