Podcast
nextTalk with Mandy Majors
Hosted by nextTalk · EN
How do we keep our kids safe in a digital world? Technology has transformed childhood. Even if your child doesn’t have a phone, today’s highly sexualized culture overexposes kids to harmful content and conversations.
Join award-winning author Mandy Majors (TALK and Keeping Kids Safe in a Digital World) for honest, practical conversations at the intersection of technology, culture, and faith.
There are plenty of tools to control technology — but at nextTalk, we go deeper. We help parents build the kind of trusting relationship where kids actually come to them when something goes wrong.
nextTalk is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to keeping kids safe by fostering a culture of open communication in families, churches, and schools.
21episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
18-Year-Old Son’s Honest Take on My Parenting
3w ago00:31:28Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWhat actually helps teens talk openly with their parents? In this special episode, Mandy sits down with her 18-year-old son, Carter, before he leaves for college to hear his honest perspective on parenting, communication, phones, boundaries, and growing up in a digital world. Together, they reflect on what helped build trust in their relationship, why creating a safe space matters, and how parents can balance rules, accountability, and connection with their kids. They also discuss: • Why rewarding honesty helped communication early on • The downside of overthinking and constantly asking “what if” • Why parents apologizing matters more than we realize • Phones, social media, and earning trust gradually • Why short conversations often work better with teen boys • Family traditions, games, and staying connected • Why parents should stay curious about their child’s world This episode is honest, funny, practical, and encouraging for parents navigating the teen years. RESOURCESWhat my parents got right … and wrong - nextTalk The first nextTalk kid: an interview with Mandy’s 20-year-old daughter - nextTalk Teach Red Flag Reporting - nextTalk Avoid Crazy-Parent Mode - nextTalk Four reasons I kept screens out of my kid’s bedroom and bathroom - nextTalk Parent Question: This world is so sexualized. How do I approach these conversations with my son? - nextTalk Free Guide: Red Flag Reporting (Faith-Based) - nextTalk Support the showKEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINEConnect with us...www.nextTalk.orgFacebookInstagramContact Us...admin@nextTalk.orgP.O. BOX 160111 San Antonio, TX 78280
Transcribe →How To Help Kids Navigate Risky Friendships
4w ago00:29:38Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWhat should parents do when a child’s friend starts making unhealthy choices? When kids open up about what their friends are watching, saying, or experimenting with, many parents instinctively want to immediately end the friendship. But reacting too quickly can shut down communication and teach a harsh kind of “cutoff culture” instead of wisdom, discernment, and healthy boundaries. In this episode, we share five practical ways to help kids navigate risky friendships with both love and truth. We talk about how to respond when friends introduce inappropriate language, pornography, vaping, hookup culture, and other unhealthy influences—and how to help your child process those situations without fear-based parenting. You’ll also learn: Why there is no perfect friend How to avoid “level four” reactions to “level one” problems Biblical conflict resolution from Matthew 18 The difference between inner-circle and outer-circle friends One-way vs. two-way friendships How your own friendships model relationship habits for your kids This episode will give parents practical language and biblical tools to help kids build healthy relationships, set wise boundaries, and navigate friendships in today’s culture. RESOURCESTeach Red Flag Reporting - nextTalk Develop Moral Compass and Default to Love - nextTalk Look in the Mirror - nextTalk Build a Safe Place - nextTalk Adopt a No-Secrets Family Policy - nextTalk Your family is the most important team you will ever lead. - nextTalk Parenting Advice with Pastor Robert Emmitt - nextTalk A kid is confiding in me. Do I tell the parent? - nextTalk Is this Gossip? - nextTalk My kid is telling me everything. Do I speak up? - nextTalk FOMO is real. How do I parent it? - nextTalk TALK: A Practical Approach to Cyberparenting and Open Communication Free Guide: Red Flag Reporting (Faith-Based) - nextTalk Free Guide: Family Pact Teen Version (13+) - nextTalk Free Guide: nextTalk10 - nextTalk Support the showKEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINEConnect with us...www.nextTalk.orgFacebookInstagramContact Us...admin@nextTalk.orgP.O. BOX 160111 San Antonio, TX 78280
Transcribe →A Mom Put This in Her Phone Contract—Was It a Good Idea?
May 500:25:25Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailA mom asked a question at one of our live events that sparked a conversation on our team. She created a phone contract with her kids that included mutual phone checks—meaning she could look at their phones, and they could look at hers. Then she asked: “Is that ok?” In the moment, Mandy said yes—affirming the mom’s desire to build trust and model openness. But afterward, our team kept talking. Should phone rules go both ways? Are there situations where that might not be the best approach? In this episode, Mandy and Merideth unpack both perspectives—exploring the balance between trust and leadership. They discuss real-life considerations like privacy, spouse conversations, work-related information, and the kind of content that can unexpectedly show up on a parent’s phone. They also zoom out to digital safety—why “deleted” doesn’t always mean gone, the risks tied to sharing images, and how AI is changing the conversation for families. You’ll walk away with practical guidance on creating a phone contract, involving your kids in the process, and adjusting boundaries as they grow. Create Guidelines - nextTalk Random Phone Checks? - nextTalk Free Guide: Phone Contract (Faith-Based) - nextTalk Is my kid ready for a phone? - nextTalk Free Guide: Family Pact Kid Version (5+) - nextTalk Free Guide: Family Pact Teen Version (13+) - nextTalk My kid has a phone with no guidelines. How do I go back? - nextTalk Something Is Off with My Teen—Now What? - nextTalk Build a Safe Place - nextTalk Support the showKEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINEConnect with us...www.nextTalk.orgFacebookInstagramContact Us...admin@nextTalk.orgP.O. BOX 160111 San Antonio, TX 78280
Transcribe →One Simple Parenting Habit That Builds Trust
Apr 2800:11:47Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWhat’s one simple parenting habit that builds trust? In this episode, Mandy shares why saying what you mean—and following through—can shape how your kids see you for years to come. When parents are consistent with their words, it builds credibility, respect, and a sense of security in the home. She also shares two additional thoughts for parents in the early years, including staying connected in your marriage and staying grounded in your faith. This conversation is a reminder that small, everyday moments matter more than we think. Look in the Mirror - https://nexttalk.org/podcast_episode/look-in-the-mirror/We Read the Comments on our Viral Parenting Post - https://nexttalk.org/podcast_episode/we-read-the-comments-on-our-viral-parenting-post/3 Things Not to Do if you want to Stay Married - https://nexttalk.org/podcast_episode/your-family-is-the-most-important-team-you-will-ever-lead/Music: https://www.purple-planet.comSupport the showKEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINEConnect with us...www.nextTalk.orgFacebookInstagramContact Us...admin@nextTalk.orgP.O. BOX 160111 San Antonio, TX 78280
Transcribe →We Read the Comments on Our Viral Parenting Post
Apr 2100:48:36Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailLast year, we shared a parenting story that went viral. It was a simple moment—but it sparked a wide range of reactions. In this episode, we go back and read real comments from that post and respond. Some were encouraging. Some were critical. Some made big assumptions from a single moment. We talk through what those responses reveal about parenting, marriage, and communication—and why moments like this matter more than we think. At nextTalk, we believe one honest conversation can make a real difference. Website Title: We Read the Comments on Our Viral Parenting Post Website Description: A parenting moment we shared last year reached millions—and the comment section told a bigger story. In this episode, Mandy and Matthew revisit that moment and read real responses from the internet. Together, they unpack what people saw, what they assumed, and what it reveals about how families communicate—especially in tense situations. This episode offers a thoughtful look at parenting, marriage, and the role each parent plays in helping conversations move forward. RESOURCESLook in the Mirror - nextTalk Your family is the most important team you will ever lead. - nextTalk Three things NOT to do if you want to stay married. - nextTalk Fighting for Our Marriage with Matt and Mandy Majors - nextTalk Marriage Advice with Pastor Robert Emmitt - nextTalk Parenting Advice with Pastor Robert Emmitt - nextTalk Parenting High Schoolers into Young Adults - nextTalk Something Is Off with My Teen—Now What? - nextTalk Putting Your Life on the Line - nextTalk Build a Safe Place - nextTalk 3 Things Every Kid Needs (From a Youth Pastor) - nextTalk Body Changes and Attitude - nextTalk When I hijack the moment… - nextTalk Free Guide: nextTalk10 - nextTalk Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Support the showKEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINEConnect with us...www.nextTalk.orgFacebookInstagramContact Us...admin@nextTalk.orgP.O. BOX 160111 San Antonio, TX 78280
Transcribe →Tori Hirsch (NCOSE): Parents Were Right About Social Media—What These Court Cases Revealed
Apr 1400:29:19Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailParents have been raising concerns about social media for years—and now the courts are starting to catch up. In this episode, we’re joined by Tori Hirsch, legal counsel at the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), to break down two major court cases involving Meta. We unpack the New Mexico case, where the company was found liable under consumer protection laws, and the California bellwether trial examining social media addiction through product liability. Along the way, Tori explains why these cases matter, why Section 230 didn’t block them, and how platform design is becoming a key legal battleground. We also discuss what came out in court about algorithms, infinite scroll, internal warnings, and the gap between parental control tools and what families can actually use. And we address the question parents hear all the time: “Where are the parents?” These cases reinforce what many families already know—parents matter, but they were never meant to carry this alone. RESOURCESLegislative Work to Keep Kids Safe Online - nextTalk 16 Year Old’s Suicide from Sextortion.How do we protect our kids? - nextTalk Mason’s Mom Warns of Social Media Challenges - nextTalk Cyberbullying - nextTalk Talking to your Kid about Grooming - nextTalk My child is ready for social media. Where should I start? - nextTalk Parenting YouTube - nextTalk Walker’s Promise - nextTalk CBS Article Support the showKEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINEConnect with us...www.nextTalk.orgFacebookInstagramContact Us...admin@nextTalk.orgP.O. BOX 160111 San Antonio, TX 78280
Transcribe →Kristina Fields, LMFT: The “iPad Kid” Trend and Reducing Screen Time
Apr 700:35:24Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIf you’ve ever relied on a screen to get through a busy moment, you’re not alone—and you’re not a bad parent. In this episode, Mandy Majors is joined by licensed marriage and family therapist Kristina M. Fields, MS, LMFT, to talk about the growing “iPad kid” trend and what it means for young children. Together, they unpack how early screen habits impact brain development, emotional regulation, and behavior—and why giving kids their own device can quickly turn screens into the default. You’ll walk away with practical, realistic strategies you can use right away, including: A simple “activity table” idea that replaces screens in the morning Easy, low-prep activities for home, restaurants, and waiting rooms How to scale back screen time without overwhelming your child Why consistency (even when it’s hard) pays off long-term How your own screen habits influence your kids This episode is full of encouragement, not guilt—and offers real help for parents navigating screens in everyday life. Breaking the Fast Dopamine Cycle with Kristina FieldsCaller asks, “How do I keep my kids from playing on screens all summer?” - nextTalk Four reasons I kept screens out of my kid’s bedroom and bathroom - nextTalk Are Screens Changing Your Family Culture? - nextTalk “Anxious Generation” Book by Jonathan Haidt - nextTalk Teach Red Flag Reporting - nextTalkFree Guide: Red Flag Reporting (Faith-Based) - nextTalk Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Support the showKEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINEConnect with us...www.nextTalk.orgFacebookInstagramContact Us...admin@nextTalk.orgP.O. BOX 160111 San Antonio, TX 78280
Transcribe →Online Gambling and Teens: What Parents Need to Know
Mar 3100:31:48Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailOnline gambling is growing fast—and it’s reaching kids through their phones, games, and social feeds. In this episode, we break down why sports betting has exploded, how gaming mechanics like loot boxes can mimic gambling, and why young men are especially vulnerable. We also share practical, preventative conversations to start early, plus clear red flags to watch for if your teen is already struggling. You’ll learn: • how the 2018 Supreme Court decision changed sports betting • the connection between gaming and gambling behavior • why prop betting is spreading quickly • warning signs like secrecy and chasing losses • simple guardrails for money, access, and apps • how to approach your teen with empathy and clarity We’re learning together how to keep kids safe online—one honest conversation at a time. RESOURCESHow a 2018 Supreme Court decision paved the way for meteoric growth in legal sports betting | AP News Commercial Gaming Revenue Hits $78.7 Billion in 2025, Driving Record $18.1 Billion in Gaming Taxes Nationwide - American Gaming Association Dave Ramsey Warns: DraftKings and FanDuel Are ‘Destroying a Generation of Young Men’ - Michael Foust | Crosswalk.com 2025 Sports Betting and Debt Survey National Survey Finds Widespread Gambling Participation Before Age 21 Amid Public Concern About Youth Exposure Risk - National Council on Problem Gambling How Loot Boxes In Children’s Video Games Encourage GamblingMy kid is addicted to screens. Help! - nextTalk Screen Addiction - nextTalk My 12yo is spending all his money on V-Bucks. Should I be concerned? - nextTalk Pornography - nextTalk Face Your Fears - nextTalk Build a Safe Place - nextTalkAvoid Crazy-Parent Mode - nextTalkHow do we talk to our kids about Money? - nextTalkSupport the showKEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINEConnect with us...www.nextTalk.orgFacebookInstagramContact Us...admin@nextTalk.orgP.O. BOX 160111 San Antonio, TX 78280
Transcribe →Something Feels Off with My Teen… Should I Be Worried?
Mar 2400:11:59Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailParent Question: Something Is Off with My Teen—Now What? When your teen suddenly seems different, it’s easy for your brain to jump to the worst-case scenario. New clothes, new friends, sharper attitude—and suddenly you’re wondering if something is seriously wrong. In this episode, we talk about what to do when something feels off with your teen and how to take that concern seriously without jumping straight to panic. We introduce the “chapter 10 parent vs. chapter 3 kid” framework and share practical ways to stay curious, check devices, and keep kids safe online. We discuss: • trusting your gut without spiraling into fear • separating urgent self-harm risk from normal teen changes • understanding how social media algorithms can influence teens • asking curious questions instead of accusing or shaming • doing random phone checks with clear expectations • checking influencer feeds and algorithm recommendations • staying calm and engaged when attitude shows up If there are signs of self-harm or immediate danger, involve medical or mental health professionals right away. For everything else in the gray zone, this episode will help you respond thoughtfully instead of reacting from fear. To support our work helping families navigate the digital world, visit nextTalk.org. RESOURCESRandom Phone Checks? - https://nexttalk.org/podcast_episode/random-phone-checks/What would you tell your 9th grade self? - https://nexttalk.org/podcast_episode/what-would-you-tell-your-9th-grade-self/3 Things Every Kid Needs (From a Youth Pastor) - https://nexttalk.org/podcast_episode/3-things-every-kid-needs-from-a-youth-pastor/Influenced - https://nexttalk.org/podcast_episode/influenced/How do I get my kids to tell me what they’re seeing online? - https://nexttalk.org/podcast_episode/how-do-i-get-my-kids-to-tell-me-what-theyre-seeing-online/How do I get my kids to talk? - https://nexttalk.org/podcast_episode/how-do-i-get-my-kids-to-talk/Build a Safe Place - https://nexttalk.org/podcast_episode/build-a-safe-place/It feels like I’m losing my kid. Why is my kid pulling away? - https://nexttalk.org/podcast_episode/it-feels-like-im-losing-my-kid-why-is-my-kid-pulling-away/Music: https://www.purple-planet.comSupport the showKEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINEConnect with us...www.nextTalk.orgFacebookInstagramContact Us...admin@nextTalk.orgP.O. BOX 160111 San Antonio, TX 78280
Transcribe →Tall Cop: Kratom, 7-OH, and Hidden Gas Station Drugs
Mar 1700:34:05Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailKratom and 7-OH are showing up in gas stations across the country, sometimes in energy-drink style bottles teens can easily access. Drug trend expert Jermaine Galloway (“Tall Cop Says Stop”) joins the nextTalk Podcast to explain what parents need to know about kratom, 7-hydroxy, and other hidden gas station drugs.Parents may assume these products are safe because they are legal or labeled “natural,” but that assumption can be dangerous. Jermaine breaks down how these substances are marketed, why mixing substances increases risk for teens, and how parents can start important conversations at home.In this episode we discuss:• What kratom and 7-OH actually are• Why “natural” does not mean safe• How these substances are being sold in gas stations• Why mixing substances increases risk for teens• Practical talking points for parentsGuest:Jermaine Galloway (“Tall Cop Says Stop”)Drug trend educator and national speakerSupport the showKEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINEConnect with us...www.nextTalk.orgFacebookInstagramContact Us...admin@nextTalk.orgP.O. BOX 160111 San Antonio, TX 78280
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