Rob Reiher and Wayne Yercha are long-time friends who have worked together on a number of projects over the past 15 years. They share the belief that technology can be a powerful and positive tool when used to support deeper human values – but that escalating NOISE (distraction, distortion, disruption, overload) is disempowering our families and children and weakening the connections and qualities that bring us lasting happiness, meaning and fulfillment. Together, they’ve created LIVE ABOVE THE NOISE – THE CHOICE-FULL FAMILY PODCAST to help families develop the new tools, skills and strategies they need to thrive in our increasingly uncertain, Age of Noise.
Dr. Rob Reiher
Rob is a highly respected developmental and educational psychologist. He is a media expert who studies the escalating impact of tech, media and consumerism and it’s accompanying “noise” (distraction, distortion, disruption and overload) on children, families and society. Rob has decades of experience working at the top levels of the media and entertainment industries. His many clients have included CBS, Warner Bros., Lucasfilm, Spielberg, Marvel, Mattel, Fisher-Price, Discovery Kids, Nike and more. .
In addition, he has extensive experience as a researcher, counselor, speaker, consultant, and educator. As an adjunct professor of Psychology at Woodbury University in Burbank California, Rob created and taught the first INNERTAINMENT course in the country. He has also taught at Sober College in Woodland Hills, California and Art Center College of Design in Pasadena.
Rob has written two books and is the co-author (with Daniel Acuff Ph.D.) of Kidnapped: How Irresponsible Marketers Are Stealing the Minds of Your Children. In this illuminating book, Dr. Reiher and Dr. Acuff discuss the developmental parameters for creating enriching entertainment and media. They offer extensive insights and advice on how parents can determine and evaluate positive consumer products for their children.
Rob lives in the Los Angeles area.
Wayne Yercha
Wayne is a podcast communication specialist, product development expert, and entrepreneur. He has developed multiple new products, including games, toys, sporting goods and consumer products. Along with LIVE ABOVE THE NOISE, his primary focus is creating enriching children’s INNERTAINMENT. Wayne’s latest project is ShieldStar Knights, a compelling space fantasy adventure (for ages 8-12) that integrates the three components of CHOICE-FULLNESS (awareness, ability and control) into its characters, communication and storyline.
Wayne is also currently part of a team working on a clinical research project with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. He lives in Victoria, B.C. Canada