This week, Amber sits down with digital producer and internet culture veteran Matt Silverman for a real talk about algorithms, slop, screen addiction, and why being a little bit skeptical online might be the most important skill a kid can have right now.

Matt has spent decades covering how the internet works — and more importantly, how it works on us. He breaks it all down in a way that actually makes sense, whether you're 10 or your parent is 45.

In this episode:

Why the internet shifted from connecting people to feeding you content, and who profits from that
What "digital literacy" actually means (hint: it's three questions)
The difference between harmless scrolling and content engineered to manipulate you
What AI-generated "slop" is and why it's getting harder to spot
Why being bored might actually be good for your brain
The screen-free comedy podcast made 100% by humans, for kids

The 3 questions to ask before you like, share, or believe anything online:

Who made this?
Why did they make it?
Why is this platform showing it to me?

Check out this week's newsletter on Tuesday for a screen-free activity that relates to these three questions.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Matt Silverman
Tales from the Cloud Sea: The completely improvised, screen-free comedy adventure podcast for kids.
Locket: The low-key, non-algorithmic photo-sharing app Matt recommends as a healthier social option for kids.

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