Achieving the Good Life: Going Game-Free with James Good, Former Gamer (#52)

In this episode of the ScreenStrong podcast, Melanie talks to James Good, whose young life was overtaken by video game addiction. James describes how as he moved through high school and into university, his healthy hobbies, interests, and friendships were slowly replaced by gaming until he began to struggle socially, emotionally, and academically. One of James’ key realizations as he beat his gaming problem was that he had never learned how to “do hard things”–he has since built his ability to concentrate and deal with boredom through meditation, exercise, journaling, and goal-setting. James learned that although gaming felt like an easy escape, it actually made real life feel more difficult. Melanie notes how common James’ story is, since her own son and many others have followed the same path from a normal (and even gifted) childhood to a crippling gaming addiction. James also describes exactly how he quit gaming for the first time at nineteen, inspired by others’ stories of fulfilling accomplishments and pursuing fascinating hobbies, and spurred by the realization that video games are truly designed to be addictive to young men.Hear more from James Good on his YouTube channel. Support the show______________________________________________________The "Kids' Brains & Screens" paperback is NOW AVAILABLE! Please subscribe, rate, and share this podcast to help spread the word. Stay Strong! Start your ScreenStrong Journey today! Become a Connect Member to get access to our exclusive online forum, LIVE webinars with medical experts, and the entire ScreenStrong library of videos, audio clips, interviews, e-books, handouts, and more! Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador! ScreenStrong Tech Recommendations Gabb Wireless—Smartphone Replacement (use code STRONG for discount) Canopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount) ______________________________________________________Production Team: Host: Melanie Hempe Producer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin

Om Podcasten

Melanie Hempe, BSN, received her bachelors of Nursing from Emory University. Her mission is to create educational programs for kids and parents so no one will experience the pain of screen addiction. Her ability to simplify medical science and provide practical solutions for families has allowed her to share her passion and bold screen solutions nationally. ScreenStrong has won the hearts of many families who are preventing and reversing childhood screen conflicts and addiction and are thrilled to experience a newfound freedom in their lives.Melanie hosts the popular weekly ScreenStrong Families Podcast. She has been featured in Psychology Today, Thrive-Global, The Wall Street Journal, A&E Network, CBS, CNN, NPR, Screened Out (documentary film), and various news and television outlets.