Claim OwnershipSmart Social Podcast: Keeping students safe so they can Shine Online
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The Smart Social Team teaches parents, educators, and students how to stay safe on social media so they can Shine Online. We show you how to audit your Google results and use your social media accounts as a portfolio of positive accomplishments. We keep it tactical and practical with tips you can use to better understand how to navigate the digital world as a parent, student, and educator. Learn more at SmartSocial.com
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AI toys look like harmless gifts, but many of them work like a kid-friendly chatbot with a microphone attached. In this episode, we unpack why that matters for real families: how a child can start trusting a “friendly” toy voice, what that can lead to, and why privacy settings and data policies are not optional details. You’ll also hear a simple, realistic plan parents can use right away, including where these toys should (and should not) be used at home, what to check in the settings, and how to spot the red flags when a company’s privacy language feels intentionally confusing.
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs sits down with Dr. Mitch Young, Superintendent of Schools in Forsyth County, Georgia, to discuss the critical role of AI as a thought partner in education and the challenges schools face in maintaining digital safety. They cover a wide range of topics, including the impact of screen time on students, dealing with social media trends, the importance of building a culture of safety, and effective ways to collaborate with parents on digital safety. Tune in for practical strategies, insights from real students, and expert advice for keeping kids safe and successful online.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the Smart Social.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs converses with Brookie B. Ferguson, the Assistant Superintendent of Harnett County Schools. They discuss critical strategies for online safety, engaging students productively with technology, and managing screen time and smartphone addiction among students. The episode covers prevalent issues such as hidden direct messages, dangerous TikTok challenges, and the impact of social media trends on student behavior. Ferguson shares insights on implementing effective policies, promoting digital education among parents and students, and how AI can be used ethically to enhance learning. The episode also features actionable advice for parents to help their children manage digital risks and foster a positive online footprint.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs sits down with TJ Strain, Director of Teaching and Learning for Davis School District in Farmington, Utah. They discuss the importance of educating students about digital safety from an early age, both in schools and at home. TJ shares insights from his experience working with at-risk youth and his current role overseeing curriculum for nearly 70,000 students. Key topics include the impact of hidden direct messages, TikTok challenges, screen addiction, and the role of AI in education. The conversation also emphasizes the need for parental involvement and the benefits of restricting phone use during instructional time. Tune in for actionable strategies to keep students safe and help them build healthy habits online.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com podcast, host Josh Ochs talks with Dr. Bernard Frost, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction in Orangeburg, SC. They discuss the challenges and successes of integrating AI in lesson planning, managing screen time, and addressing social media issues among students. The episode explores how rural and urban districts share similar digital safety challenges and emphasizes the importance of effective communication between parents, teachers, and school staff. Dr. Frost also shares insights on using AI in education, managing screen time addiction, and ensuring students' online safety.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs sits down with Robert Smith, Superintendent of the Alpine School District in Utah, to discuss the evolving landscape of digital safety in schools. They delve into various online threats such as cyberbullying, screen time addiction, and inappropriate content. Rob Smith shares his unique perspective as a non-traditional superintendent with a background in accounting and management. They also explore how AI can be a supportive tool for learning, the importance of modeling healthy screen habits for children, and effective strategies for parental and community engagement in online safety.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs engages in a detailed conversation with Eric Turman, the Superintendent of the Central Dolphin School District, about the role of AI in education. They discuss the importance of using AI to enhance rather than replace student learning, the challenges posed by digital safety including hidden direct messages, dangerous TikTok challenges, and screen time addiction. Superintendent Turman shares his experiences and insights into how schools can create a balanced approach to technology use, and the importance of parental involvement and clear policies to navigate the digital landscape. Tune in for practical advice and strategies to keep students safe and successful online.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the Smart Social.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs talks with Dr. Sandra Rodriguez, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services for the San Bernardino City Unified School District, about the importance of promoting digital safety and wellness among students. They discuss various challenges such as social media addiction, TikTok challenges, AI interactions, and inappropriate online content that schools and parents face in today's digital age. Dr. Rodriguez emphasizes the need for social-emotional learning, strong parent-student-school relationships, and structured screen time to foster a safe and thriving environment. They also explore the use of AI in education and the importance of family engagement in preventing future online issues.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this engaging episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs sits down with Dr. Luke Clamp, Deputy Superintendent of Charleston County School District, to discuss the importance of instilling healthy digital habits in students. With extensive experience as a high school chemistry teacher, principal, and now a district leader, Dr. Clamp shares valuable insights into the challenges and strategies of managing digital safety in education. The conversation highlights the importance of parental involvement, the impact of screen time and phone addiction, and practical advice for educators and parents on navigating the evolving landscape of technology and social media. Tune in to learn more about developing safe and responsible digital footprints for the next generation.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs sits down with Dr. Rick Surrency, Superintendent of Schools from Putnam County School District, to discuss crucial digital safety tips for students. The conversation covers a range of topics including the dangers of compromising photos, social media challenges, hidden direct messages, and screen time addiction. Dr. Surrency shares insights into the recent legislation in Florida to curb phone usage in schools, and stresses the importance of parental involvement in monitoring online activities. The episode also features advice on recognizing red flags in online interactions and emphasizes the importance of maintaining open communication between parents and children.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this engaging episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs discusses the importance of digital citizenship with Julie Garcia, Senior Director of Future Ready Learning, and Derek Suzuki, Program Manager for Instructional Technology, both from the San Diego Unified School District. They delve into topics such as online interactions, AI usage in education, screen time issues, and proactive strategies for fostering digital safety in schools. The conversation includes practical tips for parents and educators to enhance students' online experiences while mitigating risks associated with social media, AI, and excessive screen time.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs interviews Dr. Dennis Willingham, Superintendent of the Walker County Schools, and Patrick Gann, District Technology Director. They discuss the integration of AI in education and strategies to ensure digital safety for students. Topics covered include the benefits of AI for learning, trends in social media challenges, the impact of new legislation on student screen time, and the importance of parent engagement in monitoring online activities. Key insights are shared on how educators can use AI to enhance learning without replacing teachers and the effectiveness of Alabama's Focus Act in limiting device use during school hours. The episode also provides practical advice for parents to support their children's digital safety and emphasizes the significance of communication between parents, students, and schools.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs talks with Dr. Scott Rowe, Superintendent of High School District 214, and Dr. Katie Page, Instructional Technology Coordinator, about how schools and families can adapt to rapid shifts in technology, AI, and student screen time habits.They explore how artificial intelligence is changing classroom instruction, the rise of “AI-proof” assignments, and how districts can maintain academic integrity while embracing innovation. The conversation also dives into social media’s ongoing challenges—from disappearing messages on Snapchat to secret Instagram accounts—and the importance of parent-school collaboration in building students’ digital resilience.Dr. Rowe and Dr. Page share actionable ideas for creating healthy screen habits, building stronger parent engagement, and preparing students for a world where technology evolves faster than ever.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the Smart Social.com podcast, host Josh Ochs sits down with Dr. Francisco Duran, superintendent of Arlington, Virginia schools, to discuss key challenges and strategies for managing student screen time and social media use. They delve into issues like phone addiction, mental health impacts of social media, and AI in education. Dr. Duran shares insights from his district's successful implementation of policies to reduce screen time, including eliminating cell phones during school hours. They also discuss the importance of parent engagement and provide practical tips for maintaining an ongoing dialogue with children about their online activities. The episode underscores the value of fostering real-world connections and community involvement for student well-being and success.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs interviews Kelly Rivers, the Deputy Superintendent of Richland One School District in Columbia, South Carolina. The discussion centers on the benefits and challenges of AI in education, the impact of social media on students, and strategies for improving digital safety for children. Key topics include managing student screen time, understanding social media trends and challenges, and the importance of parent involvement in digital safety. The episode provides valuable insights for educators, parents, and district leaders on how to keep children safe and successful online.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs sits down with Dr. Neil Gupta, Superintendent of Oakwood City Schools, to discuss the importance of preparing students for a world that includes AI and other digital technologies. They emphasize the need for responsible use of technology and open lines of communication between parents and educators. Together, they explore the challenges schools face with social media, screen time, and digital safety, and offer practical advice for parents to better support their children's online experiences.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs sits down with Superintendent Dr. Dan Hornick, Superintendent of Orange County Public Schools in Virginia, to discuss the pressing issues related to student screen time, social media addiction, and online safety. They delve into the role of artificial intelligence, the pitfalls of social media, and the importance of educating students and parents on digital citizenship. The conversation highlights specific challenges like hidden direct messages, dangerous TikTok challenges, and the influence of devices on student behavior. Superintendent Dr. Hornick shares the importance of parental engagement and collaboration with schools to tackle these issues. The episode also provides practical advice on how parents can initiate dialogues with their children about online safety and managing screen time, and introduces valuable resources for both parents and educators.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:In this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs discusses digital safety strategies with Dr. Mike Kimbrel, Superintendent of the Park Hill School District in Kansas City, Missouri. They emphasize the importance of establishing strong, open relationships between parents and children to keep kids safe online. They also address the challenges presented by hidden direct messages, excessive screen time, phone addiction, and the rapid advancement of social media apps and AI technologies. The discussion includes practical advice for parents on fostering dialogue with their children about online safety and cyberbullying. Tune in for expert insights and valuable tips to help protect students in the digital age.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsEpisode Summary:Join host Josh Ochs on the SmartSocial.com Podcast as he sits down with Dr. John Armstrong, Chief Officer for Technology and Innovation at Joliet Public Schools District 86. In this episode, they discuss proactive strategies for online safety, the impact of social media on students, and the importance of early digital literacy education. Dr. Armstrong shares practical advice for parents and educators on managing screen time, setting boundaries, and understanding the nuances of digital privacy.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
Protect your family with our 1-minute free parent quiz https://www.smartsocial.com/newsletterJoin our next weekly live parent events: https://smartsocial.com/eventsIn this episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs interviews Superintendent Dr. Gregg Slate of Davidson County Schools in Lexington, North Carolina. The discussion revolves around the importance of monitoring student screen time, the impact of social media on student learning, and the rise of misinformation among children. They explore key online safety issues like hidden messages, dangerous challenges, and cyberbullying. Dr. Slate shares insights on implementing a cell phone ban in schools, the benefits of early digital education, and the role of AI in learning. Parents are encouraged to engage in meaningful dialogues with their children and to participate in SmartSocial.com's free weekly events to stay informed and involved in their children's online safety and success.Become a Smart Social VIP (Very Informed Parents) Member: https://SmartSocial.com/vipDistrict Leaders: Schedule a free phone consultation to get ideas on how to protect your students in your community https://smartsocial.com/partnerDownload the free Smart Social app: https://www.smartsocial.com/appdownloadLearn about the top 190+ popular teen apps: https://smartsocial.com/app-guide-parents-teachers/View the top parental control software: https://smartsocial.com/parental-control-software/The SmartSocial.com Podcast helps parents and educators to keep their kids safe on social media, so they can Shine Online™
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loved this. we will be joining