The Gaming Trap: Reward Systems and Real-Life Consequences

This might be the most important episode we’ve ever released. Dr. Richard Freed, psychologist and author of Better Than Real Life, pulls back the curtain on persuasive design—the hidden psychological science used by tech companies to keep kids glued to their screens. These technologies aren't just entertaining—they’re engineered by neuroscientists to exploit children's deepest instincts and hijack their brains. Most parents have never heard of this, yet it’s quietly reshaping childhood as we know it.

We talk about the ethics of manipulating kids, why screen time guidelines have mysteriously disappeared, and how AI is supercharging the problem. From children who won’t get off devices to teens forming relationships with AI bots, Dr. Freed explains how we got here—and what we must do to reclaim real life for our kids. If you’ve felt like you're losing your child to a screen, this episode will help you understand why.

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Get your copy of Better Than Real Life here

Learn more about Dr. Richard Freed here

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