Scrolling 2 Death

On this episode of Scrolling 2 Death, host Nicki Petrossi is joined by Clare Morell, author of The Tech Exit and fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center.  Together, they tackle one of the biggest questions parents face today: Do kids really need smartphones and social media to thrive?Clare reveals why the conventional wisdom—just add parental controls or screen-time limits—is a lie parents have been sold. She introduces The Tech Exit, a bold but practical roadmap for families who want freedom from addictive digital technology. Drawing from expert research, stories of families who've gone tech-free, and her own policy work, Clare paints a hopeful picture: children can grow up happier, healthier, and more connected without smartphones in their pockets.This is a must-listen for any parent searching for a way out of the digital trap.Get your copy of The Tech Exit.

The Heat is On is a new investigative series by Scrolling 2 Death, in partnership with The Heat Initiative. Sarah Gardner, Founder and CEO of The Heat Initiative, joins Nicki (S2D) to expose the truth Big Tech doesn't want you to hear – and our next episode is all about Snapchat.In Part 1, we revealed how Snapchat built its empire by marketing a sexting app to kids, fueling addiction, exploitation, and harm.Today, in Part 2, we uncover what happens inside Snapchat when employees raise the alarm. The truth: executives routinely dismiss internal warnings and ignore grieving parents. The company hides behind ineffective parental controls that almost no one uses: fewer than 1% of parents activate them. And it's not because employees didn't try. Internal emails show trust and safety staff had “little contact with upper management” and faced pushback whenever they proposed in-app safety features because CEO Evan Spiegel “prioritized design.According to Snap's own internal documents, proactively identifying and protecting minors from sexual content or predators would “overburden moderators,” “create disproportionate admin costs,” and should not be Snap's responsibility.Snapchat isn't just failing to prevent harm; it resists cooperation even after tragedies occur. In this episode, you'll hear how the company obstructs law enforcement and leaves devastated families without support.This episode isn't just about what Snapchat has done—it's about what they refuse to do, and what it will take to force change. Lawsuits and legislation matter, but real progress requires collective action and public pressure.Here are three simple steps parents can take to demand child protections from Snapchat:1.     Join our email list for real-time actions you can take.2.     Set a family rule: no Snapchat for minors—and don't use it yourself. So basically, no Snapchat ever.3.     Share what you learned with one friend or family member.This episode was expertly edited by Jacob Meade.Thank you to our incredible guests:Laura Marquez-Garrett - Attorney, Social Media Victims Law Center Amy Neville - Parent survivor, founder of Alexander Neville FoundatonJonathan Haidt - Author of The Anxious Generation Paul Raffile - Sextortion expert (featured in Part 1)Aaron Ping - Survivor parent and host of the Superhuman podcastJim & Kate Sullivan - Survivor parent Anna McAdams - Affected parentPaul Solotaroff of Rolling Stone Sarah Gallagher Trombley, ex-Snapchat executive and founder of Digital Mom Media

Ava Smithing, Advocacy Director at the Young People's Alliance, returns to Scrolling 2 Death to share an exciting new project. If you missed her previous episodes, Ava is a leading youth voice for nonpartisan policy solutions for safer technology development. Growing up in the early days of social media, she experienced firsthand how harmful algorithms can shape young users' lives - even contributing to her own struggle with an eating disorder. Now, she's turned that experience into a mission to raise awareness and drive change.In this episode, Ava dives into two key concerns:The dangers of engagement algorithms and the harmful content they amplify.The erosion of privacy, as tech companies quietly collect and share user data across apps and sites to influence what we see and buy online.To elevate youth perspectives, Ava has launched a new podcast, Left to Their Own Devices, which explores the real stories of young people navigating life online. But the show doesn't just highlight the harms; it imagines what a healthier, more ethical digital world could look like.Tune in as Nicki from Scrolling 2 Death and Ava discuss why young people shouldn't just be consulted about technology's future -  they should be guiding us all

The Heat is On is an investigative series by Scrolling 2 Death, in partnership with Heat Initiative. Sarah Gardner, Founder and CEO of Heat Initiative, joins Nicki (S2D) to expose the truth Big Tech doesn't want you to hear – and this episode is all about Snapchat.From a disappearing-nude app in 2011 to a social media giant in 2025, Snapchat's story is one of innovation, imitation, and controversy. When it comes to digital harms and kids, Snapchat ranks among the worst—which is why this story expands two parts. In Part 1, we're exposing how Snapchat's “innovations” have put profits ahead of our children's safety. Snapchat's culture was flawed from the start. The FTC sanctioned the company early on for misleading users about how ‘private' disappearing snaps really were. Since then, features like Discover and AR filters have been designed to keep kids endlessly engaged, regardless of the consequences.Today, nearly half of all U.S. teens use Snapchat. Yet the platform continues to enable drug poisonings, connect minors with predators, and drive addictive use. As psychologist Jonathan Haidt warns, Snapchat is harming children on an industrial scale - and insiders admit the company knows but fails to act.Online drug dealing, especially fentanyl-laced pills, has fueled a 350% rise in teen deaths over the past three years. Snapchat's Quick Add feature helps dealers find young users, exposing an estimated 700,000 people to drug content daily. Even when dealers are reported, only one in four accounts is removed.Sextortion is another growing crisis. Snapchat receives about 10,000 reports each month— numbers employees say barely scratch the surface. Predators exploit the app's disappearing messages, and with Snap Map, digital threats increasingly turn into real-world harm.Rather than designing for safety, Snapchat keeps doubling down on engagement. Features like Snapstreaks drive compulsive use; 45% of teens now use the app “almost constantly.” Your child's attention keeps them profitable.In this episode, Sarah and Nicki hear from parents and experts who've seen the damage firsthand. Their message is clear: these aren't accidents - they're design choices. The question is...can Snapchat fix this? Or is Snap a lost cause?Video Editing expertly provided by Jacob Meade.Thank you to our featured guests:Laura Marquez-Garrett - Attorney, Social Media Victims Law CenterAmy Neville - Parent survivor, founder of Alexander Neville Foundation‍Jonathan Haidt - Author of The Anxious GenerationPaul Raffile - Cyber-analyst and worldwide sextortion expertAaron Ping - Survivor parent of Avery Ping and host of the Superhuman podcastJim & Kate Sullivan - Survivor parent of Jack SullivanAnna McAdams - Online safety advocate and mom of EllistonPaul Solotaroff - Senior Writer at Rolling StoneMike Neff - Attorney, Neff Injury LawSarah Gallagher Trombley - former Snapchat Exec and Founder of Digital Mom Media

This episode discusses youth suicide and social media harm; listener discretion is advised.London was bright, goofy, empathetic, brilliant. She played soccer year-round, read nonstop, danced through the kitchen, and filled her Michigan home with laughter. But during the pandemic, when she was just eight, a smartphone and social media entered her life. What followed was a years-long battle with algorithmic addiction that Charay—like millions of parents—never saw coming.In this raw and devastating interview, London's mom Charay Gadd shares the truth no parent should ever have to live through: TikTok pushing self-harm and suicide content when London searched for harmless topics… Snapchat teaching her to hide messages… multiple secret accounts… emotional manipulation from streaks and scores… and a child who didn't understand the permanence of death because of what she saw online.Charay takes us through London's hospitalizations, the cries for help, and the night everything changed. Her message is one every parent must hear: This wasn't London. This was addiction. This was social media.Today, Charay fights for justice—alongside more than 1,000 families in the national lawsuit against Big Tech—and honors London's life through a scholarship that empowers teens to make a difference in the world.This episode is not entertainment.It's a warning.And it will save lives.You can donate to a scholarship program in London's name, here.

Have AI companies lost control of their bots — or are the bots designed to harm?In this episode, Sarah Gardner and Nicki Petrossi dive deep into the disturbing rise of AI chatbots gone rogue — and the tragic human cost. From teens who formed emotional bonds with bots that later encouraged suicide, to lawsuits against OpenAI, Character.AI, and others, we expose how Big Tech's newest frontier of “AI companions” is already devastating families.You'll hear how chatbots like Character.AI, ChatGPT, Meta AI, and Snap's MyAI blurred the lines between fiction and reality, leading kids to isolation, self-harm, and even death. Former tech insiders, grieving parents, and attorneys share evidence that these bots aren't just broken — they're built this way.We ask the urgent questions:

What happens when a tech-savvy parent — someone who's been sounding the alarm about online dangers for years — realizes she could have made safer choices for her child?In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Nicki Petrossi sits down with Titania Jordan, Chief Marketing Officer at Bark Technologies & author of the new book Parental Control— but more importantly, mom to a teenage son — for a raw conversation about regret, resilience, and redefining what it means to protect our kids in the digital age.Titania opens up about the choices she'd make differently if she could go back: the early video games that seemed harmless, the slow creep of screens becoming the default, and the moment she realized tech had gained more influence in her home than she ever intended. Together, Nicki and Titania unpack the emotional burden parents carry — the shame, the confusion, and the fear that you're “too late.”But this isn't just a cautionary tale. It's a roadmap and a rallying cry.You'll learn:• The hidden ways tech rewires childhood — and family dynamics• The warning signs parents often miss when screens start taking over• How AI and chatbots complicate modern parenting in ways we're only beginning to understand• Practical boundary-setting strategies for kids and teens• Why tech companies must be held legally accountable — and why parents should not shoulder the blame aloneThrough honest reflections and hard-earned wisdom, Titania reminds every parent: it's never too late to course-correct. And it's definitely not your fault that billion-dollar companies engineered these tools to be addictive — but it is our collective responsibility to fight back, reshape the narrative, and protect the next generation.Whether your child is still preschool-age or already a teen with a phone, this episode will leave you more informed, more empowered, and ready to parent with conviction in a world designed to overwhelm you.Press play to hear a mother's wake-up call — and find hope, strategy, and solidarity in the struggle we're all facing.This episode is sponsored by Bark Technologies:‍Learn about the Bark Phone.‍Learn about the Bark App for iPhones and Androids.  *Use code SCROLLING2DEATH FOR 10% OFF‍Learn about the Bark Watch.

This is not a hypothetical. This is not science fiction.This is happening right now.Today, multiple families across the U.S. and Canada filed lawsuits against OpenAI, alleging that ChatGPT triggered psychosis, isolated vulnerable users from loved ones, and—even worse—encouraged suicide.Four families lost their sons.A 17-year-old. A 23-year-old. A 26-year-old. A 48-year-old.All believed they were talking to a supportive companion, a lifeline. Instead, they found themselves pulled deeper into darkness.In this emergency episode, Nicki Petrossi speaks with attorney Laura Marquez-Garrett from the Social Media Victims Law Center about:Why these families are blaming ChatGPTHow a tool used for schoolwork evolved into a psychological companionThe chilling transcripts from the final hours of 23-year-old Zane Shamblin's lifeWhat happens when AI stops saying “I can't help with that” — and starts saying “I love you, see you on the other side”This is the conversation tech hoped you wouldn't hear.Parents, lawmakers, and educators must listen.Because if this is the future of AI — no one is safe.Visit this link to access the legal complaints.

In Part 1 of The Heat is On Apple, we exposed how Apple's ecosystem puts kids at risk — from iMessage to iCloud to the App Store.In Part 2, we're asking the only question that matters: What could Apple do to protect children — and how do we get them to do it?We break down real solutions Apple could deploy tomorrow: device-based age verification, real App Store safeguards, proactive CSAM detection in iCloud, global reporting tools in iMessage, and parental controls that actually work. And we examine the growing pressure forcing Apple's hand — lawsuits, new laws, global regulators, and parents demanding accountability.Finally, we share what families can do right now: don't rely on Apple defaults, consider kid-safe devices, talk to another parent, and get involved in the movement pushing Apple to protect children instead of profits.Subscribe to The Heat is On movement to receive real action steps you can take to force companies like Apple to do better. Sign up here: https://www.scrolling2death.com/heatUp next: we turn up the heat on Snapchat.

In Part 1 of The Heat is On Apple, we exposed how Apple's ecosystem puts kids at risk — from iMessage to iCloud to the App Store.In Part 2, we're asking the only question that matters: What could Apple do to protect children — and how do we get them to do it?We break down real solutions Apple could deploy tomorrow: device-based age verification, real App Store safeguards, proactive CSAM detection in iCloud, global reporting tools in iMessage, and parental controls that actually work. And we examine the growing pressure forcing Apple's hand — lawsuits, new laws, global regulators, and parents demanding accountability.Finally, we share what families can do right now: don't rely on Apple defaults, consider kid-safe devices, talk to another parent, and get involved in the movement pushing Apple to protect children instead of profits.Subscribe to The Heat is On movement to receive real action steps you can take to force companies like Apple to do better. Sign up here: https://www.scrolling2death.com/heatUp next: we turn up the heat on Snapchat.

On October 1, 2023, one family woke up to every parent's nightmare — their daughter's phone was blowing up with messages from friends. Someone had taken innocent photos from her Instagram, run them through an AI app called DNGG, and created fake, nude images that quickly spread through her high school.This chilling episode of Scrolling 2 Death exposes the disturbing rise of AI-powered nudify apps that can “digitally undress” anyone in seconds. Though DNGG has been taken down, countless others have replaced it.You'll also learn of the surprising role that Snapchat plays in this story; how Snap completely ignored both the families affected and also police warrants from investigators.We unpack how these apps work, the devastating emotional impact on victims, and what parents, platforms, and policymakers must do to protect teens from this new form of digital abuse.Thank you to Anna McAdams for sharing this vulnerable yet empowering story.Take it Down Service by NCMECSupport for Child Sexual Abuse Survivors by RAINNCertifyAI Service

The Heat is On is a new investigative series by Scrolling 2 Death, in partnership with Heat Initiative. Co-hosts Sarah Gardner, Founder and CEO of Heat Initiative, and Nicki Petrossi, Host of Scrolling 2 Death, are exposing the truth Big Tech doesn't want you to hear – and this episode is all about Apple.‍Apple revolutionized personal computing and their products didn't just change technology — they changed childhood: putting powerful, addictive devices directly in kids' hands. 88% of teens now own an iPhone. Apple has convinced us that parental controls keep iPhones and iPads “safe”, but that is an illusion. In this episode, Sarah and Nicki dig into the core apps and platforms available to children through Apple devices: iMessage, Screen Time, The App Store, and iCloud.Disclaimer: This episode includes discussion of child sexual abuse and online child exploitation. If you or someone you know is a victim of exploitation, contact the CyberTipline at NCMEC: report.cybertip.org. Or text Hello to 741741 for immediate assistance.Here's what you can do to put pressure on Apple:Sign up for our campaign updates at scrolling2death.com/heat.Share this episode with a friend and family member. Choose a child-safe device.In Part 2, you will learn about changes that Apple can make to better protect kids, and how we pressure Apple to act.‍ Thank you to our expert guests:Jonathan Haidt - Author of The Anxious GenerationPaul Raffile - Cyber analyst and sextortion expertChris McKenna – Digital safety advocate and founder of Protect Young EyesVideo Editing by Jacob Meade

Today, Character.AI shocked the world by announcing a ban on users under 18 from using its chatbots. But when you read the fine print, the story gets murky. Is this real protection for kids — or another Big Tech PR spin? Nicki Petrossi breaks it down with Sarah Gardner of Heat Initiative and attorney Laura Marquez-Garrett from the Social Media Victims Law Center.Parents can join us in putting pressure on Big Tech by signing up here: scrolling2death.com/heat

In a world where screens have taken over classrooms, one superintendent decided to push pause. Dr. Mike Swan, leader of Burke County Public Schools, joins us to share how his district took a bold, low-tech approach to learning — and what happened next. From teachers rediscovering the joy of teaching to parents seeing calmer, more focused kids, Dr. Swan opens up about the wins, the backlash, and the lessons learned along the way. This conversation is a roadmap for every community wondering: What if we put education — not technology — back at the center of our schools?Burke County: A RESOLUTION ENCOURAGING BALANCED INSTRUCTION THROUGH REDUCED SCREEN USETech-Safe Learning: Resources for parents to help engage with your school districtReach out to Dr. Mike Swan with questions at his email: mswan@burke.k12.nc.us

What happens when a parent discovers that video games aren't just a harmless pastime—but a trap that can derail a child's future? In this powerful conversation, ScreenStrong founder Melanie Hempe shares her personal journey of watching her oldest son spiral into video game addiction, and how that painful experience reshaped her parenting choices for her three younger children.Melanie explains why screen addiction isn't just “too much screen time” but a chemical dependency that rewires a child's brain. She unpacks the hidden dangers of smartphones, excessive gaming, and constant digital entertainment—and why parents must understand the science behind it.But this episode isn't about fear—it's about freedom. Melanie offers practical steps for breaking free from the screen trap, building resilience, and fostering healthy development through real-life experiences, critical thinking, and independence. She also highlights the importance of community, reminding parents they're not alone in the fight to raise kids who thrive without screens.If you've ever worried about your child's relationship with technology—or questioned whether “everyone has a phone” is a good enough reason to give in—this is an episode you can't afford to miss.You can get access to all of the resources by ScreenStrong at: https://screenstrong.org

In this Q&A episode, Nicki brought in Titania Jordan — Chief Parenting Officer at Bark Technologies — to tackle your biggest tech parenting challenges. From first phones to firewalls, social media to screen time, Titania shares honest, practical advice every parent needs right now.This episode is sponsored by Bark Technologies, the best option for kid-safe devices. ‍Learn about the Bark Phone.‍Learn about the Bark App for iPhones and Androids.  *Use code SCROLLING2DEATH FOR 10% OFF‍Learn about the Bark Watch.

Today on Scrolling 2 Death, Meta whistleblower and dad Arturo Bejar joins me to expose the truth about Instagram's so-called “Teen Accounts.” From his years inside Facebook and Instagram leading safety efforts, to his 2021 warning to leadership that went ignored, Arturo reveals what Meta doesn't want parents to know. We're also joined by Sarah Gardner of The Heat Initiative, who brings new insights from teens themselves.Teen Accounts: Broken Promises (the full report published September 25, 2025)Heat Teen Safety ReportTIME Magazine: Instagram Promised to Become Safer for Teens, Researchers Say It's Not WorkingArturo Bejar's Written Senate Testimony (November 7, 2023)BBC Report: Instagram Eating Disorder Content "Out of Control"

When the pandemic pushed school into our homes, screens became the new classroom and we never went back. But what has this shift cost our kids? In this episode, Nicki Petrossi sits down with writer and parent Lila Byock to talk about the hidden consequences of remote learning, the influence of EdTech companies, and the mental health toll of too much screen time. Lila shares her personal journey navigating her children's experience with tech at school, and why she believes parents must speak up to demand real safeguards. Lila Byock is an Emmy-winning television writer and the founder of Schools Beyond Screens, a grassroots coalition of parents and teachers fighting for safer tech in LA's public schools. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, two tween boys, and one scruffy rescue mutt.Resources and templates for parents by Schools Beyond Screens can be found here.

It's not too late to reset the screen-time limits and boundaries you've set for your kids—and the reasons to take action are becoming increasingly clear.In this episode, Dr. Carrie Mackensen joins host Nicki Petrossi to unpack the science behind interactive screens and short-form media and how they impact children's brain development. Her clear, accessible approach helps parents understand what's happening neurologically and how to make informed choices.Our brains operate using two key systems: the emotional center, which rewards us with dopamine when something feels good, and the thinking brain, where we analyze, reflect, and make decisions. Activities like riding a bike or climbing a tree provide healthy dopamine boosts through effort and engagement. But scrolling social media or watching endless YouTube Shorts floods kids' brains with 100 to 200 times the dopamine—without any effort—bypassing the thinking brain entirely. Over time, this leads to an underdeveloped thinking brain and an overstimulated emotional center.The result? Kids who are increasingly anxious, withdrawn, emotionally dysregulated, and lack critical thinking skills. The good news: It's not too late to make a change. Thanks to the brain's neuroplasticity, you can help rewire these patterns and restore balance at home. Dr. Mackensen, a clinical psychologist, parent coach, and mom of two boys, shares her proven approach in conversation with Nicki from Scrolling 2 Death. Together, they offer practical tools and clear screen-time guidelines to help families create healthier digital boundaries.This is an episode every parent needs to hear.Dr. Carrie Mackensen is a clinical psychologist turned parent coach, author, and founder of Successful Parent. With a PhD in Individual, Family, and Child Psychology and experience as an attending psychologist at Cedars-Sinai and later as Clinical Director of a high-end residential addiction treatment program in Beverly Hills, she now helps families navigate the challenges of raising kids in a digital world. Drawing on both her clinical expertise and her own journey as a mom of two boys, Dr. Carrie blends neuroscience, attachment theory, and practical tools to empower parents to set healthy tech boundaries and strengthen family connection.

On September 22nd, a landmark court ruling allowed expert testimony exposing the harm social media products cause children. From Meta to TikTok, Snap, and YouTube, these companies have long argued it's content—not their addictive designs—that hurts youth. But experts in psychiatry, neuroscience, and tech safety say otherwise. In this episode, I break down their testimony, revealing how features like infinite scroll, likes, notifications and algorithms exploit adolescent development, contribute to addiction, and harm mental health. This is a monumental moment for families demanding accountability—and a crucial listen for any parent navigating the digital world.

Live from Central Park, NYC!This week on Scrolling 2 Death, attorney Laura Marquez-Garrett from Social Media Victims Law Center (SMVLC) joins Nicki to unpack a major legal battle unfolding against AI chatbots. Laura's firm just filed three new lawsuits on behalf of families whose children were harmed by the app Character.AI—while Congress simultaneously held a Senate hearing on the dangers of these bots. We dig into what happened to these kids, why Google is also being sued, what lawmakers might actually do, and what every parent needs to know right now about protecting their children from abusive AI.Resources mentioned in the episode:Interview with Megan Garcia, mom of Sewell Setzer IIIInterview with a Texas mom whose son was harmed by Character.AIPublicly-filed complaints against Character.AI and GoogleVideo recaps of the newly-filed complaints here and hereLink to hearing: Examining the Harm of AI Chatbots‍PARENTS: Contact your Senators (senate.gov) and House Rep (house.gov). Tell them about your concerns related to AI chatbots and social media harms. Tell them you want protections for your children!

"Together, we can get our kids back."We live in a world where childhood is being rewritten by screens—and the consequences are showing up in our kids' mental health, sleep patterns, and ability to thrive in the real world. In this episode, psychologist and researcher Dr. Jean Twenge joins us to unpack her groundbreaking book 10 Rules for Raising Kids in a High-Tech World.Dr. Twenge doesn't sugarcoat the truth: social media is rewiring our children's brains, devices are stealing the very sleep they need to grow, and parents are often left feeling powerless against Big Tech's grip. But she also brings hope—and a plan. Through ten clear, practical rules, she explains how parents can reclaim their authority, set boundaries that actually stick, and raise kids who are grounded in real-world experiences instead of lost in endless scrolling.This is more than just a parenting guide—it's a call to action. Because no parent can fight this battle alone. Our children's future depends on a collective stand: saying no to predatory platforms, demanding safer technology practices, and prioritizing human connection over algorithms designed to addict.If you've ever wondered how much tech is too much, if you've seen your child slip into the black hole of social media, or if you're simply worried about what kind of world we're handing the next generation—this conversation will give you both the urgency and the tools you need.JEAN M. TWENGE, PhD, a professor of psychology at San Diego State University, is the author of more than 190 scientific publications and several books based on her research, including 10 Rules for Raising Kids in a High-Tech World, Generations, iGen, and Generation Me. Her research has been covered in Time, The Atlantic,Newsweek, The New York Times, USA TODAY, and The Washington Post. She has also been featured on Today, Good Morning America, Fox and Friends, CBS This Morning, Real Time with Bill Maher, Meet the Press, and NPR. She lives in San Diego with her husband and three daughters. Please visit her at: www.JeanTwenge.com  and X: @jean_twenge.

We spend so much time stressing about our kids' screen time — but have you ever stopped to ask, what about mine? The truth is, our kids are watching us way more than we realize. Every time we pick up our phones at the dinner table or scroll while they're talking to us, we're showing them what “normal” tech use looks like.In this episode, I brought in Titania Jordan from Bark Technologies to have an honest, eye-opening conversation about how our habits shape theirs. We swap personal stories, dig into the latest research, and share what we've both learned (sometimes the hard way) about modeling balance with our devices.This isn't about guilt-tripping parents — because let's be real, we're all figuring this out as we go and no one's perfect. It's about awareness. It's about realizing that the little things we do every day add up, and that we actually have the power to set a different tone at home. If you've ever wondered how to raise kids with healthier relationships to tech, this episode will give you some hope, perspective, and maybe even the nudge you've been needing to put your own phone down first.This episode is sponsored by Bark Technologies, the best option for kid-safe devices. ‍Learn about the Bark Phone.‍Learn about the Bark App for iPhones and Androids.  *Use code SCROLLING2DEATH FOR 10% OFF‍Learn about the Bark Watch.

What happens when your child chats with an AI “friend”? You might think it's harmless fun—but new research shows otherwise. In this gripping conversation, Sarah from The Heat Initiative uncovers disturbing findings about Character AI and its impact on teens. The evidence is chilling: AI bots are exposing kids to sexual grooming, violent content, and other dangers at an alarming rate.Find the full report here, created by Heat Initiative and Parents Together.We also dive into the legal gray zone of AI using celebrity likenesses, the urgent need for regulation, and—most importantly—what parents can do right now to protect their kids. Sarah makes it clear: awareness is power, and collective action is our only way forward.If you've ever wondered how safe these new AI tools really are for your child, this episode is the wake-up call you can't afford to miss.

The digital age has brought incredible conveniences for modern parents—but along with them come some unintended consequences. If screens are your go-to for tantrums or boredom, you may be interfering with your child's ability to regulate emotions and develop essential coping skills.With over two decades of experience in education, Shona Schwartz has emerged as a crucial voice addressing technology's impact on children's development. In this episode, she invites parents to start by looking inward. The first steps?Monitor your own screen habitsEmbrace the discomfort of parenting—tantrums, boredom, and messiness are part of the process.Next, Shona emphasizes the importance of creating a personalized family blueprint—a values-based agreement that guides screen habits at home. She provides age-specific guidelines for children ages 0–6, 6–12, and teens, helping parents make informed choices tailored to their child's developmental stage. Her three keys to making these plans work?  Communication. Connection. Consistency.In this episode, Nicki of Scrolling 2 Death and Shona offer practical tips and insights for parents navigating the challenges of raising kids in a digital world. Whether you're just beginning to rethink your family's screen habits or looking for new strategies, this conversation is a must-listen.Purchase Shona's book here: Always On: A Guide to the (Dis)Connected Generation.Visit Shona's Substack here: Always On Substack

By now, most people have heard of the “Anxious Generation” — but Laura Morton is expanding Jonathan Haidt's narrative. As the creator of the award-winning documentary Anxious Nation, Laura believes it's not just youth who are struggling — it's all of us.A little anxiety is natural – even helpful for performance – but we're seeing a sharp rise in the chronic, debilitating kind. In 2019, as a single mom to her own anxious teen, Laura set out to uncover the root causes of America's mental health struggles – and its impact on families. One powerful takeaway from her research: anxiety is energy. And that energy can be redirected — into creativity, passion, and purpose. We can reclaim our power, and we can teach our kids to do the same.In this episode of Scrolling 2 Death, host Nicki sits down with Laura to unpack the anxiety epidemic from every angle — including technology's growing role. Whether you're a parent trying to support your child or someone managing anxiety yourself, this conversation offers key insights, hard-earned wisdom, and tools for navigating today's anxious nation.Watch The Anxious Nation here.

“This is the first generation in a millennium to be worse off than their parents.”Neuroscientist, educator, and author Jared Cooney Horvath issues a powerful warning: the rapid rise of technology in education is contributing to a sharp decline in intelligence across key metrics—including IQ, memory, critical thinking, creativity, and more. For generations, we've seen steady progress in IQ from one cohort to the next. That upward trajectory ends with Gen Z. The data traces the downturn back to the early/mid 2000s, when technology was first introduced in classrooms. Currently the Director of LME Global, Jared brings cutting-edge brain and behavioral science directly to educators and students. He's not surprised by the decline, given how the brain is wired to learn. His stance is clear: we're not meant to learn everything through screens. While screens have a role in teaching digital skills like typing or Excel, they are not a tool for deep learning.When it comes to AI, Jared is equally blunt. Used after expertise is developed, AI can be powerful. But using it in place of learning is a dangerous shortcut—one that the government and EdTech platforms seem all too ready to promote.In this thought-provoking conversation, Nicki of Scrolling 2 Death and Jared unpack the science of learning, the data that challenges the EdTech narrative, and a roadmap for parents and schools to reclaim control. It's a must-listen for anyone concerned about the future of learning or the success of our children.

In this eye-opening episode of Scrolling 2 Death, host Nicki Petrossi sits down with Titania Jordan of Bark Technologies to unpack the high-stakes decision many parents face: what should your child's first phone be? From the hidden risks of iPhones to the powerful parental controls offered by alternatives like the Bark phone, they dive into the pressures, misconceptions, and cultural norms driving families toward unsafe choices. Why do so many parents give in to the iPhone hype—and what's really at stake when they do? This candid conversation exposes how Apple prioritizes privacy over child safety, how peer pressure fuels early tech adoption, and why it's time for a new standard in kids' digital wellbeing. If you're a parent wondering what phone is truly safest for your child, this episode is your guide.March 2024 Episode: Safer for kids? iPhone or Bark PhoneThis episode is sponsored by Bark Technologies.‍‍Learn about the Bark Phone.‍Learn about the Bark App for iPhones and Androids.  *Use code SCROLLING2DEATH FOR 10% OFF‍Learn about the Bark Watch.

We've talked about the devastating impact of social media and how tech companies' “profit over people” mindset has harmed countless families. This powerful new documentary, Can't Look Away, delivers the wake-up call the world needs: the time for industry reform is now.In this episode of Scrolling 2 Death, host Nicki speaks with Can't Look Away directors, Matthew O'Neill and Perri Peltz, about what drove them to make the film, what impacted them most, and what they learned. “We thought the dangers of social media were already well known,” they say. “But what we discovered was far worse than we imagined. That's when we knew this story had to be told."Matthew and Perri also share practical advice for parents on how to help keep kids safe online—insights gained from their deep dive into the world of youth social media use.Based on Olivia Carville's investigative reporting for Bloomberg, Can't Look Away follows the Social Media Victims Law Center in its fight for justice on behalf of families devastated by social media's dark side.Watch the film here.

Dr. Mary Pulido, Executive Director of World Childhood Foundation USA, joins Scrolling 2 Death to talk about the evolving fight against child sexual abuse in the digital age.There was a time when parents only worried about their children's safety while they were out. But now, even at home, danger can reach them through screens. Social media, gaming platforms and chatrooms have become hunting grounds for predators. Even more disturbing, a recent survey revealed that online algorithms are actually creating predators by serving them illicit content before they even seek it out.Tech companies have the power to remove this harmful content, but they continue to avoid accountability. As new threats like AI and deep fakes emerge, it's more important than ever for parents to take action through education, vigilance, and open communication.Tune in to hear Mary and Nicki of Scrolling 2 Death dive deeper. This episode is a must-listen for anyone raising kids in the digital world.

Over 1,500 parents spoke up — and the results are in. In this episode, Scrolling 2 Death host Nicki Petrossi breaks down brand-new national survey data that reveals what parents really think about technology, screen time, and AI in K–12 schools. From overwhelming concerns about excessive screen use and digital safety to a stunning 91% of parents saying they don't want their kids using AI at school, the findings are impossible to ignore. Nicki covers it all: data privacy, inappropriate content on school-issued devices, and the growing disconnect between parent values and EdTech policy. If you've ever felt powerless watching your child glued to a Chromebook or iPad— this episode will inform, empower, and equip you to start changing the conversation at your school.Full survey summary + email template for school outreach available here.

Why are kids using so much tech at school?A hint: the year was 2020.It started when COVID shut the world down and EdTech became an emergency measure. One-to-one devices kept learning going while schools were closed. It was necessary. But the pandemic ended- and the screens stayed.At first, digital learning seemed full of promise. In a tech-driven world, it felt like the future. But now, the harms are becoming harder to ignore.British actress and children's advocate, Sophie Winkleman, noticed how agitated her kids became after hours of screen-based learning. She gave them permission to read books instead. Her instinct was right – and the research backs her up: too much screen time in schools is harming students' focus, memory, and academic performance. Sweden has become the first country to reverse its digital-first education policy– replacing screens with printed textbooks and handwriting, especially for young learners. Sophie hopes more countries will follow.In this episode of Scrolling 2 Death, Sophie joins Nicki to explore the data behind screen harm and why parents need to start asking schools tough questions: Is EdTech really helping our kids learn? Or is it putting them in danger?

Jenna Poste, a former tech executive, was once at the forefront of innovation at Blackberry, helping to build products during the rise of the “always on” movement – a time that felt brimming with excitement and productivity. However, as engagement metrics and data collection became the true engines of tech growth, Big Tech extended its reach beyond businesses and into childhood. The consequences are now all too clear: addiction, isolation, anxiety, depression, and more.With deep insight into how these platforms are designed, Jenna has made a deliberate choice to keep her young children offline and prioritize real-world connections. As a co-founder of the Nova Scotia chapter of Unplugged Canada, she's advocating for healthier childhoods by delaying smartphone use and encouraging mindful technology habits–for kids and parents alike. “If I am on my phone in front of them, I tell them why…like, ‘I'm looking up a recipe for dinner or answering an important work call'.”In this episode, Jenna and Nicki of Scrolling 2 Death share their perspectives on raising kids in a hyper-connected world, why they chose a different path, and how families can reclaim balance in their lives.About Jenna PosteJenna Poste is a tech executive, mom of two and co-founder of the Nova Scotia chapter of Unplugged Canada—a national parent-led movement working to raise awareness about the impacts of smartphones and social media on kids' mental health and development and advocating for parents to delay.With nearly two decades of experience in the tech industry, Jenna has built products at BlackBerry, led safety initiatives in social media and developed tools focused on well-being. Today, she's using that experience to advocate for healthier childhoods - delaying smartphones, promoting real-world connection, and pushing for policy change across Canada.

The Big Tech Gut Check is a weekly update for parents on all things social media and Big Tech. Updates for this week: Meta AI Wants to Access Your Camera Roll, Analyze Pics You Haven't UploadedLeaked Documents Show Meta is Training Chatbots to Message You First, Remember Chats, Keep You TalkingFormer Facebook CEO says Site Should be Banned for ChildrenMIT Study Shows Weakened Cognitive Capacity with AI UseANGELQ: A Kid-Safe Web BrowserPARENT SURVEY: AI and EdTech in SchoolUtah Sues Snapchat for Harming ChildrenSnapchat Sues Utah Over Age Verification LawTHORN: State of Sextortion in 2025Rolling Stone: Inside Snapchat's Teen Opioid Crisis

Don't feel guilty—get angry. And then turn that anger into action.In this powerful episode, law professor and Unwired author Gaia Bernstein joins Nicki from Scrolling 2 Death to talk about the growing crisis of tech addiction—and how it's impacting our kids. Gaia studied law and technology in the early 2000s, a time marked by great optimism about the promise of global connectivity.  As social media gained traction, Gaia grew suspicious. She began raising alarms in 2017, long before most people realized the toll constant screen time and social media would take on mental health. Today, those warnings have become reality: teen depression has doubled, and suicide rates among young girls have quadrupled.Now, instead of fixing the problem, Big Tech is pushing even more addictive tools, like AI chatbots, into our kids' lives.Gaia wants to remind parents that we're not powerless and we're not to blame. Real change won't come from Silicon Valley. It starts with us: parents, educators, and communities acting from the ground up. Tune in to hear why the time to act is now—and how you can help protect the next generation.

Summer's here—and that means more sunshine, more free time… and a lot more screen time. In this episode, Nicki Petrossi sits down with Titania Jordan to talk about the ups, downs, and everything-in-between of parenting through summer break. They swap stories, explore why boredom is actually a gift, and share practical ways to help kids unplug, get outside, and build independence. From setting healthy tech boundaries to using kid-friendly tools that actually work, this is a real talk on how to survive—and enjoy—summer with your kids (without letting devices take over).This episode is sponsored by Bark Technologies.Learn about the Bark Phone.Learn about the Bark App for iPhones and Androids.  *Use code SCROLLING2DEATH FOR 10% OFFLearn about the Bark Watch.

What happens when a Big Tech insider turns child advocate and parent educator? In this powerful conversation, Sarah Gallagher Trombley — former Snapchat executive — joins Nicki Petrossi to pull back the curtain on the hidden dangers kids face on social media. From Snapchat to TikTok, YouTube to Instagram, no platform is safe. Sarah shares the uncomfortable truth about what parental controls can't fix, why smart devices are riskier than most parents realize, and how platforms are failing our kids. If you're a parent, this episode has the facts you can't afford to miss.Sarah Gallagher Trombley is digital parenting author, speaker and thought leader. Her mission is to help parents navigate the digital world with and for their kids by providing insight, advice and practical tips. Sarah helps parents with the “how” - how to manage parental controls, social media, choosing devices, video games & more.Sarah has reached thousands of parents through her popular newsletter, Thoughts From A Digital Mom, as well as through speaking events and social accounts. She has two award winning on-demand courses for parents: Tweens and Tech: How to Deal with Group Chat, Social Media and Devices and All About Apple: How To Set Up Parental Controls For Any Apple Device.Sarah currently holds a strategic advisor role on the Board of Wait Until 8th.Connect with Sarah on her website and Substack.

Lavanya Gupta, CEO and Founder of Silana Learning and a former Meta employee, is raising awareness about the hidden dangers of tech. With insight into the inner workings of Big Tech, she made the deliberate choice to keep her young daughters offline. But when the pandemic hit and remote learning became a necessity, she realized the inescapable - and often harmful - role that digital platforms can play, even in the classroom.Many parents assume that school-approved apps are safe, but Lavanya warns otherwise. Her top concern? Data privacy. “Schools are consenting on behalf of parents without considering long-term consequences,” she says. Invited by her children's school to help shape tech policies, she found her mission: empowering parents to protect their kids online.Lavanya shares practical strategies for digital safety, rates apps based on the strength of their parental controls, and offers guidance on age-appropriate media use - all backed by research and real-world insights.Don't miss this conversation with Nicki from Scrolling 2 Death and Lavanya Gupta - packed with tips, best practices, and must-know advice to keep your kids safe online.Hindenburg Research Report

The Big Tech Gut Check is a super quick, weekly update on all things social media and Big Tech.‍Social Media & Big Tech highlights for this week:Snapchat Launches on Apple WatchSnapchat Partners with McDonalds to Promote Snapchat+Sign the Petition to Urge McDonalds to End Partnership with SnapchatTeenage girls' TikTok skincare regimes offer little to no benefit, research showsNew Study by AngelQ Uncovers: Technology is stealing precious moments from familiesWSJ: Apple's Role in the Teen Sextortion Epidemic (and interview with Sarah Gardner of Heat Initiative)New Screen Time Study Links to Mental Health Struggles (and highlights gaming as especially problematic)‍Parent Resource: Why you can't have InstagramDownload AngelQ in the App Store.

We often hear the most extreme stories - eating disorders, overdoses, suicides – linked to social media.  But in reality, many kids are struggling in silence, even while appearing to be okay. Gabriela Nguyen, a recent Harvard graduate and founder of Appstinence, is working to shed light on this issue.  Raised in the Silicon Valley during the rise of social media, Gabriela was hooked from a young age. Her father, shaped by his experiences during the Vietnam War, warned her of the power of media to manipulate and control. His words stuck – especially when he asked, “I understand that you want to take hundreds of selfies for Snapchat, but do you want to want that?  She soon realized how social media was distorting her sense of self.It took six years to fully quit, a testament to how addictive these platforms are, but now she's given up social media and doesn't even use a smartphone.  Every part of her life has improved - and she wants others to know they can step away too.Tune in as Nicki from Scrolling 2 Death and Gabriela discuss how Appstinence, a Gen Z–led initiative, is helping people understand the subtle harms of social media and how to take steps towards a healthier digital life.

Sextortion scams targeting teen boys are on the rise — and they're happening through platforms parents trust, like Instagram, Snapchat and even Apple's iMessage. In this eye-opening conversation, Scrolling 2 Death host Nicki Petrossi and Sarah Gardner of Heat Initiative expose the devastating impact of these scams and the chilling truth about Apple's inaction.Why hasn't Apple built better protections? Why are predators thriving in their ecosystem? Why is Apple ignoring the CSAM stored in iCloud? And what can parents do right now to safeguard their children? This is a must-listen for anyone who believes Big Tech should be held accountable for child safety.Wall Street Journal: 'Sextortion' Scams Involving Apple Messages Ended in Tragedy for These BoysAbout Sarah GardnerSarah Gardner is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Heat Initiative. Prior to launching Heat's campaign to hold Apple accountable, Sarah spent 10 years at Thorn, an organization that builds technology to combat online child sexual abuse, where she was integral to its growth from a small, start-up effort to a multi-million dollar nonprofit. As Vice President of External Affairs, she helped develop a plan to eliminate child sexual abuse material from the internet which spurred a $63M investment in the organization through the TED Audacious Prize. Sarah also worked at Free the Slaves, an organization empowering local organizations to end modern forms of slavery.

"I'm convinced they hate us," says Luke Richey, co-founder of Gravity Jack, referring to gaming giants like Roblox and Fortnite - companies he believes knowingly endanger children for profit. His wife and co-founder, Jennifer Richey, adds that 63% of human trafficking involving Gen A and Gen Z now originates through gaming platforms. In 2023 alone, Roblox reported over 13,000 child exploitation incidents - a figure they admit is likely just the tip of the iceberg.Maybe it's not hate, but indifference that leads kids to trafficking and suicide feels like total disregard for human life.Luke, one of the pioneers of augmented reality for Pokémon Go, recalls how early AR games helped lower suicide rates as kids went outside and connected in real life. But instead of building on that positive impact, many gaming companies adopted Big Tech's “engagement at all costs” model, prioritizing time spent and revenue over safety.Now, we're left with games and chat platforms rife with violence, profanity, and harm.It's a grim reality that Gravity Jack is determined to change. As Jennifer and Luke build safer alternatives, they offer three key guidelines for parents:No chat is safe without live, active moderation (something they're actively developing). If a game is “freemium” with in-app purchases, it's likely predatory.Play the game yourself before letting your child in.Resource: Family Gaming DatabaseIn this episode, we dive into virtual reality, AI's role in gaming, and more. Don't miss this vital conversation with Jennifer, Luke, and Nicki from Scrolling 2 Death.Connect with Jen & Luke at Gravity Jack.About Jen & LukeJennifer Richey is a tech entrepreneur, strategist, and co-founder of Gravity Jack, where she helps brands like Ford, Intel, and NASA create cutting-edge augmented and virtual reality experiences. With over a decade of leadership in emerging technologies, Jennifer is passionate about innovation, storytelling, and building solutions that connect people in new ways. She also holds multiple patents in the AR space.Outside of work, Jennifer is a wife, mom, and proud grandma to three amazing grandchildren. She believes the best innovations come from a life filled with family, adventure, and a bit of fearless creativity.Luke Richey is a veteran entrepreneur, technologist, and innovator.He began coding at 14, including early work with NASA, and went on to co-found multiple successful startups, including OpenEye (acquired by Alarm.com). As co-founder of Gravity Jack, he helped pioneer augmented reality and AI applications for Fortune 500 companies and major game brands like Pokémon GO and World of Tanks. With over two decades of experience and multiple exits, Luke now focuses on building new technologies that connect and empower the next generation.

In this powerful conversation, Nicki Petrossi and Rick Lane dive into the latest legislative moves to make the internet safer for kids. They break down the Take It Down Act, a critical step in fighting back against non-consensual explicit content and AI deepfakes. But the work isn't done. Parents must continue the pressure to pass additional bills like The DEFIANCE Act, NO FAKES Act and the Kids Online Safety Act.Nicki and Rick stress the vital role of parents, communities, and advocates in pushing these protections forward. They also tackle the growing threats posed by AI, highlighting how new tech can be exploited in harmful ways if left unchecked.The conversation wraps with a clear and urgent message: Parents need to stay alert, get involved, and be a powerful force in shaping a safer digital world for their kids.Contact your Representative in the House and your Senator.*Tell them you support the NO FAKES Act and DEFIANCE Act. *Tell them you do not support the moratorium on AI regulation that was included in the budget reconciliation bill.Letter from 40 Attorneys General Opposing moratorium on AI regulation.

In this explosive episode, I connected with Kelly Stonelake, a former Meta insider who spent 15 years at the company witnessing firsthand how the tech giant prioritizes growth at the expense of user safety. From early roles shaping the Facebook product to leading teams behind major launches, Kelly shares what finally pushed her to speak out. Most recently, she was involved in the development of Horizon Worlds, Meta's flagship VR game. Despite internal concerns over safety risks and product readiness, Kelly reveals how the company steamrolled ahead, driven by its relentless race to dominate the metaverse. This conversation is a sobering look at the human cost of tech ambition—and why insiders like Kelly are risking everything to tell the truth.Content Warning: Includes discussion of internal company misconduct and safety failures affecting vulnerable users.Substack: Overturned by Kelly Stonelake

The Big Tech Gut Check is a super quick, weekly update on all things social media and Big Tech.Social Media & Big Tech highlights for this week:President Trump Issues Executive Order to Advance AI Education for American YouthTAKE IT DOWN Act Signed Into LawSnapchat Test Account Shows Sexual Content Pushed to Teen Within 5 MinutesTikTok Expands Meditation FeatureDEA 2025 National Drug Threat Assessment

In this honest and heartfelt conversation, Nicki Reisberg sits down with Titania Jordan—chief parent officer at Bark—to talk about the emotional realities of navigating families changes and prioritizing mental health for both parents and children. Together, they unpack the pressures families face today, including rising rates of anxiety and depression among teens.From personal stories to professional insights, Nicki and Titania explore the power of therapy, the importance of normalizing mental health conversations, and practical coping strategies that can truly make a difference. They also spotlight Bark's new partnership with Talkspace, which is helping expand access to affordable, convenient mental health resources for families across the country.Whether you're a parent going through a tough season or someone who cares deeply about the mental well-being of kids, this episode offers both comfort and concrete tools for support.Learn about the Bark Phone.Learn about the Bark App for iPhones and Androids. *Use code SCROLLING2DEATH FOR 10% OFFLearn about the Bark Watch.

Fifteen-year-old and co-founder of Lookupp, Atiksh Bhan, remembers when life was better. He and his friends would spend their afternoons biking, exploring the woods and playing games outside. But then, smartphones came along. =Instead of adventures, they'd spend their time sitting around, scrolling through TikTok. "We'd be huddled around one phone, looking over someone's shoulder. It just wasn't fun anymore," Atiksh says. And even though they were ‘connected' through technology, he felt lonelier than ever. Atiksh and his brother only had basic flip phones, but they started to notice a shift in their peers who had smartphones: increasing anxiety, depression and eating disorders. Adding phones to typical teen dilemmas, like breakups and friend drama, was like throwing gasoline on a fire. Determined to make a change, they created LookUpp – an app that rewards you for staying off your phone when you're with people you care about. The longer your screen is off, the more points you earn. And they're teaming up with parents, communities, and local businesses to translate points into real-life rewards. Tune in to hear directly from Atiksh, a teen navigating the digital age, as he and Nicki from Scrolling 2 Death talk about rebuilding connections, before it's too late.

Tim Estes of AngelQ shares eye-opening new research on the growing screen time crisis—and introduces AngelQ as a powerful solution for families.In this episode, we're diving into the everyday tech battles parents know all too well—screen time struggles, endless scrolling, and the constant worry about what kids are seeing online. We break down some surprising new research on how tech is reshaping family life and why so many parents are worried about screen addiction.But it's not all doom and gloom! We're excited to introduce AngelQ, a fresh, AI-powered solution that helps kids explore the internet safely, learn smarter, and have fun—all while giving parents real peace of mind. We'll chat about how personalized content filters, smarter screen time management, and ethical tech can make a huge difference. Plus, why staying involved and working with your kids is the real game-changer in today's digital world.Download AngelQ.Angel is offering the first 1,000 users one year free of Angel. Limited time offer. 

In this episode, Nicki Reisberg sits down with Vermont State Representative Angela Arsenault to talk about her groundbreaking Phone and Social Media Free Schools Bill. They explore how removing digital distractions from the classroom can support students' academic growth, social development, and mental health. Rep. Arsenault opens up about navigating tech use with her own kids and addresses the common concerns from parents and educators about safety and communication. They also dig into the legislative side of things—how schools can implement healthier tech policies, why student data privacy matters, and what role parents can play in driving change. It's an honest, insightful look at what it really takes to make schools safer and more focused in a digital age.If you would like to join a weekly Zoom meeting to learn more about bringing Phone-Free Schools to your state, register here.Review the specifics of the Phones and Social Media-Free Schools bill here.

This week, I break down why I've filed a lawsuit against Seesaw, one of the most widely used EdTech apps in K–6 classrooms—and what every parent needs to know about how their child's personal data is being harvested, stored, and shared without their consent.Seesaw claims to help track student learning progress. But what I discovered when I requested access to the data they'd collected about my children left me physically sick: thousands of files, photos, videos, audio clips, journal entries, even AI-generated assignments—much of it deeply personal, intimate, and shockingly invasive.Joining me is Attorney Andy Liddell from the Ed Tech Law Center, who walks us through the legal violations at play, how edtech companies are bypassing federal law, and how schools are unintentionally (or knowingly) exposing kids to serious data privacy and safety risks.If you think this couldn't happen to your child—you need to listen. Because if they use school-issued iPads, Chromebooks, or apps like Seesaw, it already is.If you're a parent, teacher, or school leader who wants to understand your rights—and your child's rights—don't miss this episode.Contact Andy and Julie Liddell of EdTech Law Center here.

Are phones ruining school?  One high school principal says yes, and he did something about it.At Bullard High in Fresno, California, students wandered the halls like zombies, glued to their screens. Lunchtime was silent. Classrooms were battlegrounds for attention. Test scores dropped. Anxiety soared.Principal Armen Torigian, a Bullard alumnus, took pride in his community and remembered a very different high school experience. He knew times had changed, but he couldn't shake the feeling that students deserved better—high school should be better than this.So he made a bold move: a bell-to-bell phone ban.It wasn't easy. Parents pushed back. Students threatened him and his family. But he held the line, convinced it was the right thing to do. Was it?Join Principal Torigan and Nicki of Scrolling 2 Death as they unpack the ban, the fallout, and the promising changes unfolding on campus. His experience makes us reconsider: what role should phones play in our classrooms and our daily lives?