Episode 1 of Digital Generation; Sharenting 101: Knowing Your Kid

Special Summer Series, Episodes #1-3:

A Filter-Free Conversation on Parenting the Digital Generation

In this special book club edition of the podcast, The Winnetka Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kelly Tess and Dr. Devorah Heitner, bestselling author of Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World, have a candid conversation about helping kids navigate today’s complex digital landscape. From privacy and 'cancel culture' to AI, sexting, going viral, and the nonstop cycle of sharing and comparing, Dr. Heitner offers practical, research-backed advice to guide children toward thoughtful, responsible use of technology.

This episode centers on Chapters 1–3 of Growing Up in Public, unpacking how our culture became obsessed with going viral, building personal brands, unboxings, “Get Ready With Me” videos, and more. Dr. Heitner explores how these digital trends shape kids’ social lives—creating space for both connection and anxiety. What does it mean to 'sharent' in an age where children are growing up in the public eye? The key takeaway: 'You have to know your kid,' says Dr. Heitner.