This parent-focused podcast series explores what it means to support young people growing up in a digital world. Through expert insights, real-life experiences, and practical guidance, each episode unpacks the challenges and opportunities families face online - from social media and screen time to online harm, wellbeing, and emerging technologies like AI.
Designed to complement youth voices, the series bridges the gap between generations - helping parents and caregivers better understand how young people experience the internet, what risks they face, and how to build trust, communication, and digital resilience at home.
Grounded in everyday realities, this series offers clear, relatable advice to help whānau feel more confident navigating online life together.
Ep 1 - When Things Go Wrong Online: Responding with Calm and Compassion
What should you do when something goes wrong online for your child, and how can you respond in a way that actually helps?
In this episode of the Digital Guardian podcast, Netsafe explores how parents and caregivers can support young people through difficult online experiences like cyberbullying, image-based harm, and peer conflict. Learn why your first reaction matters, how to stay calm under pressure, and how to create a safe space for your child to open up. This conversation focuses on practical, trauma-informed strategies that build trust, strengthen communication, and support your child’s digital wellbeing—without escalating the situation.
Explore more tools and support at https://digitalguardian.guide
Featuring: Lucy Thomas (Project Rockit), Linda Bowden (Te Aho), and Karla Sanders (Netsafe)
11 May 2026
Ep 2 - In a Distracted World: Staying Connected within the Whānau
Are screens really damaging family connection, or is there more to the story?
In this episode, Netsafe unpacks screen time, distraction, and digital wellbeing, exploring what real connection looks like for families in a tech-filled world. Instead of guilt and unrealistic expectations, this conversation focuses on practical ways to strengthen relationships with your child. Learn how small, everyday moments of connection matter more than perfect parenting, how “technoference” impacts family life, and how to set realistic boundaries that actually work.
Discover how to support your child’s wellbeing while navigating screens with confidence at https://digitalguardian.guide
Featuring: Dr Cara Swit (University of Canterbury), Anna Mowat (Real Collective/Real Parents)
11 May 2026
Ep 3 - More Than Just a Game: Understanding Online Gaming
Why is online gaming so powerful for young people, and when should parents be concerned?
In this episode, Netsafe explores the world of online gaming, esports, and digital play, helping parents understand why games are so engaging and what young people are really getting from them. Learn about the social, cognitive, and emotional benefits of gaming, alongside risks like overuse, in-game spending, and persuasive design. You’ll also hear practical tips for setting boundaries, supporting balance, and staying connected, without needing to be a gaming expert.
Support safer, healthier gaming at https://digitalguardian.guide
Featuring: Jonathan Jansen (New Zealand Sports Federation)
11 May 2026
Ep 4 - Beyond Fear: Having the Conversations That Matter
How do you talk to your child about pornography, identity, and AI, without fear shutting the conversation down?
In this episode, Netsafe tackles some of the most challenging topics parents face in the digital world, including online sexual content, image-based abuse, identity, and AI companions. Learn why fear isn’t the best guide, how to create open and non-judgmental conversations, and how to support your child to make sense of what they encounter online. This episode offers practical guidance to help you build trust, confidence, and connection—even when the topics feel uncomfortable.
Find support for digital parenting at https://digitalguardian.guide
Featuring: Nikki Denholm (The Light Project), Dr Claire Meehan (University of Auckland), Shannon Novak (Safe Space Alliance and AI Safety Forum)
10 Apr 2026
Digital Guardian Podcast Trailer
This parent-focused podcast series explores what it means to support young people growing up in a digital world. Through expert insights, real-life experiences, and practical guidance, each episode unpacks the challenges and opportunities families face online - from social media and screen time to online harm, wellbeing, and emerging technologies like AI.
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