Episodes

  • “We Were Never Built to Carry This Much: The Hidden Weight of the Online World”
    Oct 13 2025

    In this episode of Protect Our Kids, Kristi Bush explores how social media has turned us into witnesses of every global tragedy, heartbreak, and crisis... all before we finish our morning coffee. Drawing from neuroscience, parenting insight, and decades of experience, she explains why neither adults nor kids are built to absorb this constant emotional load, how it impacts mental health, and what we can do to help children set healthy emotional and digital boundaries.


    www.knbcommunications.com

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    18 mins
  • Why Scaring Kids Doesn’t Work (And What Does)
    Sep 29 2025

    Remember those Driver’s Ed videos? Supposed to teach us to drive safe, but really they were just low-budget horror films with cars. Did it work? Nope. We walked out of class, grabbed our keys, and tested the laws of physics on the way home. Driver’s Ed: scaring us straight since never.

    Scare tactics have never worked on teens. They may find the movies interesting (as we did) or the "scary" stories about online interesting...but it never seems to be an effective way to get kids to stop what they are doing. However, giving them tools they can rely on in the moment is proven to be incredibly effective.

    In this episode Kristi not only takes you down drivers ed memory lane, but also discusses the tools we can teach our kids to help protect them online. This includes using the three no's. An easy, actionable way for kids to set protective boundaries.


    www.knbcommunications.com


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    14 mins
  • Why Teens Are Not as Lonely as We Think (and Why That Nuance Matters)
    Sep 24 2025

    In this episode, Kristi challenges the idea that all teens are lonely in today’s digital world. While research highlights serious concerns about youth isolation and the role of social media, it’s just as important to recognize the nuance: not every teen is struggling. Some are finding meaningful connections online, building resilience, and even thriving.

    We’ll explore:

    • Why the media focuses on extreme loneliness.

    • The risks of using “all-encompassing” language about kids.

    • Real stories of teens who are finding support and identity through online communities.

    • How parents and professionals can hold both truths—that loneliness is real for many, but not universal.

    This conversation is about balance, hope, and better ways to support our kids in a digital age.

    www.knbcommunications.com

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    21 mins
  • Preparing Our Kids for an AI Future…we gotta pull our head outta the sand
    Sep 3 2025

    In this episode of "Protect Our Kids," host Kristi Bush delves into the rapidly evolving world of AI and its implications for our children's future. Inspired by insights from AI pioneer Dr. Geoffrey Hinton, Kristi explores the challenges and opportunities that AI presents, emphasizing the importance of empathy, adaptability, and human connection. As AI continues to advance, how can we equip our children to thrive in a world where technology and humanity must coexist? Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on preparing the next generation for an AI-driven future.


    Key Takeaways:

    AI will surpass human intelligence in the near future.

    Parents need to prepare their kids for an AI-driven world.

    Empathy is crucial in a future dominated by technology.

    Human connections will set us apart from AI.

    Adaptability is a key skill for future generations.

    Children must learn to pivot in the face of challenges.

    AI can be perceived as more empathetic than humans.

    The job landscape will change significantly due to AI.

    Teaching kids about empathy is essential for their future roles.

    Good stewardship in AI development is important for society.


    www.knbcommunications.com

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    22 mins
  • No phones at school...our kids are thriving!
    Aug 18 2025

    A new "no phones at school" law went into effect in Alabama this year. Join our host Kristi Bush as she gives a follow up on how our students...and educators... are doing.


    www.knbcommunications.com

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    21 mins
  • AI therapist or human therapist: what world are we living in?
    Aug 14 2025

    In this episode of "Protect Our Kids," host Kristi Bush dives into the growing debate between AI and human therapists. As AI technology becomes more prevalent, many are turning to AI therapists for quick, accessible support. However, Kristi highlights the critical differences between AI and human therapists, emphasizing the importance of human connection, ethical standards, and the ability to read body language. Tune in to explore why choosing a human therapist is vital for navigating life's challenges and ensuring safety, especially for our children. #AI #Therapy #MentalHealth

    https://knbcommunications.com/contact

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    20 mins
  • Unplugged: Thriving in School Without Cell Phones
    Aug 7 2025

    In this episode of "Protect Our Kids," Kristi Bush delves into the challenges parents face with new device restrictions in schools, particularly in Alabama. As students return to classrooms without their cell phones, Kristi addresses the fears and concerns of parents about staying connected with their children. She shares insights from her 12 years of experience working with parents, educators, and kids, highlighting the positive outcomes of these restrictions, such as increased student interaction and focus. Tune in to explore how these changes impact families and how parents can continue to support their children in navigating the digital world responsibly. #ParentalConcerns #DeviceRestrictions #SchoolSafety


    https://www.knbcommunications.com

    knbcommunications@yahoo.com

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    8 mins
  • For the love of landlines...
    Jul 30 2025

    Quick bytes...snack sized stories that make us laugh, think or empower us. Todays topic....let's throw it back to the land lines.

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    5 mins