"It's so easy to become vulnerable online. Your face and name aren't involved; you can hide behind a user name, an avatar."

I begin this powerful and profoundly moving episode of Chatter That Matters by sharing a personal story of narrowly escaping a predator during my youth, setting the stage for a meaningful conversation about online safety. I then invite my guest, Harrison Haynes, a brave young advocate who recounts his harrowing experience of being manipulated by an online predator as a teenager. He reveals the emotional toll, the subtle manipulative tactics used, and how this experience impacted his family and personal growth.

Harrison's story is a testament to resilience. He shares his journey to forgiveness, the importance of disconnecting from technology, and his mission to help others navigate the dangers of the digital world. He emphasizes the need for open conversations about mental health, self-worth and community in the face of the challenges posed by social media and online predators.

Later in the episode, Margot Denomme, a former Crown Attorney with twenty-five years of front-line experience and the author of The Family Smartphone Guide, joins the show. Margot offers practical advice for parents on navigating the digital landscape safely, emphasizing the importance of boundaries, digital literacy, and the concept of a "family smartphone contract."

Key Takeaways:

1. The Reality of Online Predators: Harrison sheds light on the manipulative tactics predators use to lure vulnerable youth and the devastating consequences.

2. The Power of Community: Despite his painful journey, Harrison found healing through forgiveness and introspection, advocating for a life less tethered to technology.

3. Creating Safe Digital Spaces: Margot Denomme provides parents with actionable tips to protect their children from online dangers, including delaying smartphone access and fostering self-esteem.

4. A Call to Awareness: Harrison and Margot stress the need for open dialogue between parents and children about digital safety, mental health, and the risks of an unfiltered online world.

To connect with Harrison Haynes, [email protected]

To purchase Margot Denomme's book, https://www.amazon.ca/Family-Smartphone-Guide-Navigate-Smartphones/dp/0992034043