In this special episode, we’re focusing on one of the biggest challenges for parents today — navigating the digital world with their children. Recently, we surveyed parents about their top concerns and the questions they most want to ask experts about online safety, wellbeing, and resilience. Their honest, anonymous responses highlight both the struggles families face and their deep commitment to protecting and supporting their children. We’ve brought these questions to a panel of experts who share practical advice, insights, and solutions to help families thrive in the online space. Join us as we learn, share, and work together to make the digital world safer for every child. Panel of experts: Tim Houston is Manager of the Digital Child Exploitation Team (DCET) at New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs. Since 2014, he has led investigations into child sexual exploitation material (CSEM), victim identification, and major domestic and international operations, including the largest in New Zealand’s history. A former Customs Officer and founding member of the Child Exploitation Operations Team. Tim is a dedicated child protection advocate. As well as his DIA role, he’s a member of the board of Safeguarding Children, and a member of the Thorn Law Enforcement Advisory Council. Nikki Denholm MNZM, is Director of The Light Project, founded in 2017 by sexual and public health professionals to address the changing online porn landscape and the lack of resources for young people in Aotearoa. Nikki specialises in emerging sexual health and gender issues and works to equip young people, their families / whānau, and communities to build porn literacy and foster healthy sexuality and relationships. Sean Lyons is Netsafe’s Chief Online Safety Officer, media spokesperson and head of Netsafe Lab, the organisation’s innovation arm. From 2022-2024, he served as Vice President of INHOPE, the global network of helplines combatting the distribution of child sexual exploitation material. With a background in both IT and education, including time as a classroom teacher and school leader, Sean brings deep expertise on online safety challenges and leads Netsafe’s work to prevent and respond to child sexual exploitation material.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

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