Ep. 402 Parenting in the Age of Screens: How to Keep Kids Safe from Digital Dangers with Ben the screen guy

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe dives into a conversation every parent needs to have — how to protect your kids in today’s wild digital jungle. She’s joined by Ben Gillenwater, aka The Family IT Guy — a 30-year cybersecurity pro, former NSA analyst, and dad on a mission to keep families safe online. They unpack the hidden hazards of tech, from social media traps and online predators to the rise of sextortion, all while keeping it real and doable. Ben shares practical, no-fluff strategies for setting screen-time boundaries, creating tech-safe homes, and teaching kids to thrive offline — because yes, kids can survive (and flourish) without being glued to a screen. This episode arms parents with the confidence, tools, and savvy to raise children who are secure, smart, and resilient in a digital world that doesn’t always play fair. No fear-mongering here — just clear, actionable advice to protect your family and reclaim some sanity. Guest Bio: Ben Gillenwater is a cybersecurity expert with over 30 years of experience, including work with the NSA. As the founder of The Family IT Guy, he helps parents protect their children’s mental health and safety in an increasingly digital world. Blending deep technical expertise with a dad’s perspective, Ben empowers families to set healthy tech boundaries, navigate online risks, and build safer, more mindful relationships with technology. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with Ben on IG  BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone! LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.familyitguy.com Here’s a link to Ben’s article, The Digital Danger Zone: https://www.familyitguy.com/digital-danger-zone.html Seiko clock company: https://seikousa.com/ Officer Gomez’s Facebook Page? https://www.facebook.com/deputygomez/ Get Ben’s family technology agreement here: https://www.familyitguy.com/assets/downloads/family-internet-safety-agreement.html Listen to Ben’s episode with Conrad Woodall https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/25-years-fighting-predators-what-every-parent-needs/id1831912044?i=1000721914372 ICAC website: https://www.icactaskforce.org/   Looking for gifts that aren’t screen related?  Check out Lalo, use code HEHE at MeetLalo.com to save on kids toys that are sure to boost creativity and keep everyone off screens!