Left to their own devices with Jo Robertson

In this episode of Untidy, Matilda and Hannah are joined once again by returning guest and fan fav, sex and relationships therapist, Jo Robertson, this time to talk about the very real dangers children are facing online.

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions around child grooming and online sexual exploitation. Listener discretion is advised. Please listen with care for yourself and others around you.

With nearly two decades of professional experience in sexual health, child development, and trauma, Jo brings deep expertise to the table as she breaks down the alarming trends in online harm. From predatory contact on social media platforms to the rise of self-generated sexual content among children, Jo reveals what’s really happening when kids are left to their own devices.

She shares her insights from working with the Before 16 campaign, which is lobbying to raise the legal age of social media access from 13 to 16. Jo explains why current laws and parental controls aren't enough, why big tech isn’t keeping pace with predators, and how New Zealand is falling far behind other nations in digital safety policy.

But this episode isn’t just about problems, it’s packed with practical advice. Jo outlines how to start tricky but essential conversations with children, and how parents can use both control and influence to keep their kids safe in the digital world.

This conversation is a must-listen for any parent or caregiver navigating the online world with kids.

Links as mentioned in the show:

• Before 16 Campaign & Petition
• Tricky Chats Parenting Course
• Yoti Age Verification Info
• RNZ Article: The teens saying no to social media (and yes to brick phones)

If you want to hear more from Jo, listen to her previous episodes on Untidy called, ‘Navigating New Sexual Landscapes with Jo Robertson’, ‘Sex and relationships Q&A (Part one) with Jo Robertson’, ‘Sex and relationships Q&A (Part two) with Jo Robertson’, on your favourite podcast app. 

You can find Jo and a lot of resources via her website https://www.jorobertson.org/, and on Instagram @jorobertson.therapy. You can also sign up for her parenting course @trickychatsparenting by visiting the Tricky Chats Parenting website.

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