Cyber Safety, Vapes, and the Real Consequences w/Crime Stoppers, Cally Conklin

In this eye-opening episode, we’re joined by Cally Conklin, Statewide Education Specialist and lawyer with Crime Stoppers of Houston. Cally breaks down the real dangers kids are facing today, from cyberbullying and sextortion to the rising addiction to vaping. We talk about the difference between peer conflict and bullying, the impact of David’s Law, and how parents can start tough but necessary conversations about online safety, sexting, and substance use. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the digital world your kids are growing up in, this conversation is a must-listen.

A proud native of Dripping Springs, Texas, Cally earned her BA in English from the University of Texas at Austin before going on to graduate from Texas A&M University School of Law. Mother of three she knows first hand the difficult decisions and guidelines we as parents need to enforce to keep our kids safe.

https://crime-stoppers.org/

www.suburbanburnout.com

Takeaways

• Cally Conklin transitioned from law to nonprofit work.
• Cyber safety is a top concern for parents and educators.
• Bullying is defined as intentional, repeated harm.
• David's Law mandates schools to investigate cyberbullying.
• Parents play a crucial role in empowering kids against bullying.
• Open conversations about expectations are vital for families.
• Monitoring tools can help parents keep kids safe online.
• Private profiles limit strangers' access to children.
• Traffickers often pose as peers to exploit minors.
• It's never too late for victims to seek help. Parents should lean into uncomfortable conversations with their teens.
• Discussing sexting is crucial for understanding its implications.
• Legal consequences of sexting can affect minors significantly.
• Vaping devices are often disguised to evade detection by parents.
• Nicotine in vaping products is highly addictive and more concentrated than in cigarettes.
• Open dialogue about vaping can empower teens to make informed choices.
• Schools are implementing strict policies against vaping to deter usage.
• Parents should be aware of the potential dangers of digital communication.
• Encouraging teens to share their experiences can foster trust.
• Parents are doing better than they think by seeking information and having conversations.

Chapters

00:00Cally Conklin's Journey to Crime Stoppers

02:58Understanding Cyber Safety Concerns

06:01Defining Bullying vs. Peer Conflict

12:00The Impact of David's Law

14:57Empowering Kids to Be Upstanders

19:56Navigating Online Safety and Privacy

27:57Understanding Human Trafficking and Sextortion

40:50Navigating Difficult Conversations with Teens

44:27Understanding Legal Implications of Sexting

51:39Addressing the Vaping Epidemic

01:01:43Empowering Parents in Digital Conversations