

Doing Tech Right
ConnectSafely
We’re updating our name—and our focus. We’re moving from the first season of our podcast, where we asked, “Are We Doing Tech Right?” to a new title: Doing Tech Right.While we’ll still meet and challenge people who work in technology, we’re also leaning into our own expertise - and that of our community. Expect more tips and conversations about making sure technology works for us, not against us. This episode marks a fresh chapter, with a deeper focus on actionable advice and tips that make parenting and educating with technology easierWe invite parents and educators to join us. By sharing experiences, challenges, and triumphs, we can collectively make informed decisions that benefit our children. And if you know someone who would be a great guest, send an email to our producer at vu@connectsafely.org.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 8, 2025 • 29min
Truth Unchained: A Young Leader Making a Stand Against Trafficking and Exploitation
In this episode of Doing Tech Right, host Larry Magid converses with Katelynn Nguyen, a high school senior and advocate for digital wellbeing, about the pressing issues of online trafficking, and sextortion.Katelynn, a member of Snapchat's Teen Council and founder of Truth Unchained, shares her personal experiences and insights into combating gender-based violence and promoting safe online practices.They discuss the common misconceptions about trafficking, the nuances of sextortion, and the importance of educating youth on digital risks. The episode also highlights the delicate balance between creating awareness and instilling fear, emphasizing the necessity of candid conversations on these critical topics.00:00 Introduction to Doing Tech Right00:28 Meet Katelynn: Youth Advocate01:14 Katelynn's Personal Story and Motivation02:25 Understanding Gender-Based Online Violence03:12 The Reality of Human Trafficking in the U.S.03:39 Misconceptions About Trafficking05:26 The Subtlety of Trafficking and Manipulation08:28 Grooming and Sextortion: A Closer Look17:30 The Risks and Realities of Sexting22:08 Balancing Awareness and Fear25:38 The Importance of Youth Voices27:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Sep 12, 2025 • 29min
Special Episode on Countering Digital Hate feat. Imran Ahmed
Larry Magid hosts Imran Ahmed, founder and CEO of the Center for Combating Digital Hate, on the 'Doing Tech Right' podcast. They discuss the prevalence and amplification of hate on social media platforms, the algorithms that drive engagement through controversial content, and the impacts of online hate and conspiracy theories on children.Imran shares insights into how social media algorithms target vulnerable users and the urgent need for regulatory reform. He emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in children's online experiences and supports measures like the Kids Online Safety Act to protect young users.00:00 Introduction to Doing Tech Right00:29 A Timely Episode on Digital Hate01:47 Interview with Imran Ahmed02:02 The Business of Hate on Social Media03:50 The Evolution of Free Speech Perspectives11:56 The Impact of Hate Speech on Children15:13 The Role of Algorithms in Spreading Harmful Content19:31 The Need for Systemic Reform25:52 Protecting Kids Online28:31 Conclusion and Credits

Sep 3, 2025 • 31min
Insights on Preventing Child Exploitation
Larry Magid hosts Erin Williamson, Chief Program & Strategy Officer at Love146, to discuss child trafficking, exploitation, and the role of trauma-informed care, prevention, and education.They delve into the distinction between online and offline predators, effective parental strategies, and the portrayal of trafficking in media versus reality. The episode also covers the impact of online rumors, proactive communication with children, and the importance of resilience and open dialogue in preventing exploitation.00:00 Introduction to Doing Tech Right00:29 Meet Erin Williamson: Advocate Against Child Trafficking01:10 Understanding Child Trafficking and Exploitation03:34 Online Predators and Child Safety05:45 Teaching Kids About Online Safety07:39 Sex Trafficking vs. Other Exploitations08:52 Recognizing Signs of Exploitation17:44 Debunking Internet Rumors and Conspiracies21:08 Resources and Hotlines for Help23:20 Addressing Sextortion and Its Impact27:23 Empowering Children and Moving Forward29:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Aug 18, 2025 • 28min
Getting that First Device: Phones, Tablets, and Timing
We’re moving from the first season of our podcast, where we asked, “Are We Doing Tech Right?” to a new title: Doing Tech Right. This episode marks a fresh chapter, with a deeper focus on actionable advice and tips that make parenting and educating with technology easier.Navigating First Devices: Phones, Tablets, and TimingLarry Magid, CEO of ConnectSafely, is joined by our education director, Kerry Gallagher. They dive into the big question: When is the right time to get your child their first device, and how can you help them stay safe while building those critical thinking skills that will last a lifetime?

May 19, 2025 • 24min
The Argument for Arguing Better
Larry speaks with Maya Whitaker of the Bay Area Urban Debate League about how debate fosters critical thinking and respectful dialogue. They discuss how learning to argue both sides of an issue can help students navigate social media, avoid echo chambers, and better understand complex, often divisive topics.

Apr 26, 2025 • 15min
Crossing Borders: Legal Insights on Immigration and Technology
Kate Lincoln Goldfinch, CEO and founding attorney of Lincoln Goldfinch Law, joins us to discuss how technology impacts immigration policy and enforcement.She shares the challenges and complexities faced by immigrants, particularly under heightened enforcement, technology's role in tracking and detaining individuals based on social media activity, and the spread of misinformation.Additionally, Kate explores the positive aspects of technology, such as enabling communication and money transfers for immigrants. The episode highlights tensions between free speech and surveillance, as well as the difficulties immigration attorneys face in disseminating accurate information online.

Mar 12, 2025 • 20min
Unlocking Sound Sleep for Children and Teens
In the latest episode of the ConnectSafely podcast, Larry speaks with Dr. Anil Rama, founder of Sleep and Brain and adjunct assistant clinical professor at the Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine. Dr. Rama shares his insights into how sleep impacts general and mental health, especially among children and adolescents.

Feb 26, 2025 • 29min
Safety & Other Reasons for an Internet "Land Line" with Ooma CEO Eric Stang
In this episode of 'Are We Doing Tech Right?' hosted by Larry Magid and produced by ConnectSafely, Larry interviews Eric Stang, the CEO of Ooma, a company that provides internet phone services for homes and businesses using traditional or modern cordless phones. The discussion covers the declining use and quality of conventional POTS (Plain Old Telephone System) lines and Ooma's services, including emergency response reliability, cost-effectiveness, and additional features like call blocking and mobile app integration.They emphasize the safety benefits of landlines, especially for emergencies, children, and elderly family members.

Jan 23, 2025 • 26min
How An Over-the-Counter Continuous Glucose Monitor Can Improve Your Health
Larry speaks with Dr. Thomas Grace, head of advocacy and outcomes for Dexcom, the maker of both prescription and over-the-counter continuous glucose monitors including Stelo, which anyone can buy.

Jan 14, 2025 • 30min
Inside Roblox's Mission to Make Gaming Safer
Larry speaks with Tami Bhaumik, Vice President of Civility & Partnerships at Roblox about safety, civility and parental controls on the popular gaming platform.