Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families
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Titre
Date
Durée
When School Isn’t Working, Find a Better Path [a Listener Q&A]
05 oct. 2026
00:17:23
What do you do when your 17-year-old refuses to go to school, skips classes and has no idea what he wants to do instead?
Justin and Kylie tackle a tricky question from a parent whose son is struggling with Year 11. They explore vocational schools, apprenticeships, TAFE, distance education and the idea that education doesn’t have to mean sitting in a classroom until Year 12. The goal is to help young people keep learning, contributing and moving forward without forcing them into a path that clearly isn’t working.
KEY POINTS:
Why school isn’t the only way to get an education
Vocational schools and hands-on learning
School-based apprenticeships and TAFE
Why “earning or learning” is a useful family expectation
Helping teenagers build character, reliability and practical skills
Why a 17-year-old doesn’t need their whole future figured out
Finding purpose through contribution and solving real problems
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “You need to be either full-time earning or full-time learning.”
The Real Mrs Happy Families (Happy Birthday Kylie!)
04 oct. 2026
00:15:46
It’s Mrs Happy Families’ birthday week, so Justin puts Kylie on the spot with questions she hasn’t seen before. There are childhood confessions, a $2 garage sale bargain, a surprising celebrity crush, competitive board games, laundry, parenting wisdom and one deeply meaningful question about how she hopes her six children will remember her.
Kylie also opens up about setting herself a big goal, learning to value the progress rather than just the number, and the moment she realised she could be proud of herself.
It’s funny, honest and unexpectedly moving.
KEY POINTS:
Why Kylie thinks her daughter Abby is most like her
The $2 garage sale find that became a handmade baby quilt
Why laundry is Kylie’s favourite household job
Kylie’s surprising running anthem
The competitive streak Justin insists she has
The parenting moment that made Kylie most proud
What Kylie hopes her children remember about her
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “I would rather be 10 kilos lighter at the end of the year and not reach my goal of 20 kilos than to be sitting where I was at the beginning of the year without any hope or a desire to make the changes necessary.”
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:
Ask yourself what you hope your children will remember about you when they are adults.
Notice the progress you are making instead of focusing only on whether you have reached the goal.
Ask your children what they love most about you. Their answers might surprise you.
The Digital Duty of Care Is Coming [with Anika Wells]
01 oct. 2026
00:20:49
More than eight in ten Australian kids were still using age-restricted social media platforms months after the under-16 law came into effect. So is the legislation working?
Justin speaks with Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells about what has happened since the social media minimum age law began, why compliance has been slower than expected, and what the new Digital Duty of Care could mean for families.
The proposed laws go much further than social media. They cover AI chatbots, online games, messaging platforms and other digital services, with new responsibilities for tech companies to identify and reduce risks to children.
They also tackle harmful content, addictive design features, algorithmic feeds and the growing challenge of keeping kids safe from pornography and other dangerous material online.
KEY POINTS
Why more than 80% of children were still using age-restricted platforms
Why enforcement against big tech takes time
What the Digital Duty of Care would change for parents
How AI chatbots, gaming and messaging platforms could be covered
The harmful content platforms would have to address
What "safety by design" could mean for kids
How algorithmic feeds could change
The challenges created by VPNs and children accessing pornography
Why group chats and private sharing are harder for parents to monitor
What the government says is changing for young Australians
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"We want you to be able to say, this is the law and you can point to the law to try and address these daily fights that people are having in their home."
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
Talk with your kids about what they are seeing online, including content shared privately in group chats.
Check which social media, gaming, messaging and AI platforms your child is using.
Look at the feed settings on platforms your family uses and understand whether algorithmic recommendations can be changed.
Keep talking about pornography and harmful online content before your child encounters it.
Use Australia's changing online safety laws as a starting point for conversations about what is and isn't acceptable online.
What if improving your wellbeing was far simpler than you thought?
In this Doctor’s Desk episode, Justin and Kylie unpack a huge new scientific review published in Nature that analysed 183 wellbeing studies involving nearly 23,000 people worldwide. The conclusion? You don’t need the perfect routine, expensive programs, or hours of free time to feel better.
You just need to do something.
From exercise and mindfulness to yoga, gratitude, therapy, and simple self-awareness practices, the research shows that consistent small actions have a powerful impact on mental health and happiness. Justin and Kylie also share their own honest experiences of trying to prioritise wellbeing in the middle of busy family life.
If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to take care of yourself, this episode is your reminder that small steps still count.
KEY POINTS:
A major Nature study reviewed 183 wellbeing interventions
Exercise combined with psychological support had the strongest results
Mindfulness, gratitude, yoga, and compassion practices all improved wellbeing
Consistency matters more than perfection
Small actions done regularly can create major emotional shifts
Parents don’t need hours of free time for self-care to work
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “Don’t overthink the perfect wellbeing routine. Just do something.”
Raising Kids Who Can Handle Hard Things [with Ant Williams]
29 sept. 2026
00:15:15
What if protecting our kids too much is actually holding them back?
In this powerful conversation, Dr Justin Coulson sits down with extreme athlete, sports psychologist, and author Ant Williams to unpack why so many kids struggle with pressure, discomfort, and resilience — and what parents can do differently.
From diving beneath Arctic ice to coaching elite athletes under extreme stress, Ant shares the mindset shifts that help people stay calm, capable, and courageous when life gets hard. Together, they explore the parenting habits that unintentionally weaken resilience, the fine line between support and overprotection, and why kids need opportunities to struggle, fail, and recover.
If your child avoids hard things, melts down under pressure, or constantly says “I can’t”, this episode will change the way you respond.
KEY POINTS
Why resilience is built through challenge — not comfort
The difference between being a safety net and a shield
How parents accidentally reinforce anxiety and avoidance
Why kids need evidence they can handle hard things
The long-term risks of wrapping children in cotton wool
How your reactions to stress become your child’s template
The simple “fish hook” strategy for staying calm under pressure
Why modelling courage matters more than preaching confidence
The Hidden Cost of Fighting the Wrong Battles (a Q&A)
28 sept. 2026
00:14:23
You’re worried. They don’t care. And somehow, headphones have become the hill your relationship might die on.
When one mum fears Bluetooth is harming her teen’s brain—and he flatly refuses to listen—this episode unpacks what’s really going on beneath the conflict.
Because this isn’t just about radiation. It’s about teenage psychology, risk, independence… and knowing which battles are worth fighting.
KEY POINTS
Why “I don’t care, I’ll be fine” is peak teenage brain development
The surprising truth about Bluetooth and radiation risk
What actually is harming teens’ hearing (and why it matters more)
Why logic and research rarely change teen behaviour
How pushing too hard can quietly damage your relationship
The mindset shift that instantly reduces conflict with teens
A simple compromise that teens are far more likely to accept
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“‘I don’t care, I’ll be fine’ is the most accurate summary of a teenage boy’s brain.”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
World Health Organization (2023 review on wireless device exposure)
BMJ Global Health study on youth hearing loss risk
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
Let go of battles that don’t have strong evidence behind them
Focus on connection before correction
Shift the conversation from “danger” to “practical impact”
Set boundaries where it matters most—and hold those consistently
Talk about volume, not just device use
Offer compromises your teen can realistically agree to
Your child can spend hours on screens without being asked… but getting them to empty the dishwasher feels impossible. So what’s really going on with motivation?
In this episode, Justin and Kylie unpack the psychology of motivation and reveal why rewards, punishments, nagging, and bribery often backfire. You’ll learn the “motivation continuum” — the simple framework that explains why some kids resist everything while others willingly pitch in, help out, and take responsibility.
This conversation will completely change the way you think about chores, homework, screens, sibling conflict, and parenting cooperation.
If you’re tired of constantly cracking the whip, this episode offers a better way.
KEY POINTS
Why rewards and punishments only work short-term
The hidden downside of paying kids for chores
The difference between external and internal motivation
How children move from resistance to ownership
Why “identified motivation” is the parenting sweet spot
The powerful role values play in behaviour
How motivation shifts depending on stress, sleep, and emotions
Practical ways to help kids genuinely want to contribute
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“The question isn’t how motivated your child is. The question is how your child is motivated.”
What happens when your child knows they did the wrong thing but immediately reaches for an excuse?
The Lachie Neale tribunal story gives parents a surprisingly useful way into a bigger conversation about responsibility, consequences and healthy masculinity. Justin and Kylie unpack what happens when kids blame others, deny what happened or expect an exception because the circumstances feel unfair.
They also explore the difference between standing up for someone and getting even, why anger can lead to poor choices, and how parents can support their kids through consequences without rescuing them from the discomfort.
KEY POINTS
Helping kids move from blame, excuse and denial to ownership, accountability and responsibility
Why rules need to apply even when someone is talented, popular or important
The difference between loyalty and retaliation
Why parents often want to rescue kids from consequences
How to support your child without taking responsibility for their choices
What healthy masculinity looks like when things go wrong
Why the way someone responds after a mistake tells us a lot about them
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “I'm not here to rescue you. I care, but I can't carry you.”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
The OAR framework: Ownership, Accountability and Responsibility
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Ask your kids:
What would you do if you saw a friend getting shoved?
Should the best player get different rules?
What's the difference between sticking up for someone and getting even?
When your child makes a mistake, resist the urge to fix the consequence. Help them own what happened, understand the impact and work out what they can do differently next time.
Friendship drama is one of the biggest sources of stress for kids — and heartbreak for parents. In this episode, Justin and Kylie unpack the six powerful habits that create strong, lasting friendships and explain how parents can help children build healthier relationships from the very beginning.
From loyalty and inclusion to emotional support and trust, these simple but profound friendship skills can shape your child’s confidence, wellbeing, and sense of belonging for years to come.
If your child is struggling socially, feeling left out, or constantly caught in friendship ups and downs, this conversation will help you guide them with clarity and compassion.
KEY POINTS:
The six friendship habits linked to stronger relationships
Why loyalty matters more than popularity
How gossip quietly destroys trust
The difference between emotional support and “fixing”
Why belonging at school impacts lifelong wellbeing
How small acts of kindness deepen friendships
What parents can teach kids about inclusion and empathy
SIX ELEMENTS TO MAKE FRIENDSHIPS FLOURISH:
Standing up for a friend in their absence
Sharing important news
Providing emotional support
Trusting and confiding in each other
Volunteering help when required
Making an effort to make the other person happy
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “Kids who understand that friendships require active care are far better equipped to keep them.”
The Hidden Breathing Problem That Can Look Like ADHD
22 sept. 2026
00:12:25
Your child’s behaviour problems might start with the way they breathe.
Dentist Dr Jason Leung joins Justin to explain why mouth breathing can affect sleep, concentration, emotional regulation and behaviour, and why some of the signs can look remarkably similar to ADHD.
They unpack the clues parents often miss, including snoring, teeth grinding, waking tired and breathing through an open mouth. Jason also explains why jumping straight to mouth taping, expanders or other devices may not fix the underlying problem, and what parents should check first.
KEY POINTS
How mouth breathing can interfere with quality sleep
Why poor sleep can show up as hyperactivity, poor concentration, grumpiness and meltdowns
The possible connection between sleep-disordered breathing and ADHD-like behaviour
Signs to watch for, including snoring and teeth grinding
Why children need to be able to breathe freely through their nose before trying to change their breathing habits
The role of the tongue, lips and diaphragm in healthy breathing
Why mouth tape and airway devices aren't always the answer
When Jason recommends having a child’s breathing and oral function assessed
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“If you don't have good sleep, what happens for a child? They're not concentrating. They're hyperactive. They're waking up tired.”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Dr Jason Leung, Oral Myology Perth
Breath by James Nestor
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
Notice how your child breathes when they’re relaxed and asleep.
Look for regular mouth breathing, snoring or teeth grinding.
Pay attention to whether they wake tired, grumpy or poorly regulated despite getting enough hours in bed.
Don’t use mouth tape if your child cannot comfortably breathe through their nose.
If you’re concerned, seek professional assessment of their airway, breathing and oral function.
Raising Responsible Readers [a Q&A About Inappropriate Books]
21 sept. 2026
00:12:41
Your child loves reading… but now the books feel too mature. Do you step in, or risk shutting it down altogether?
This episode tackles the tricky middle ground between protecting your child and preserving their love of reading. Discover how to set boundaries without constant battles, why pushing back can backfire, and how to guide your child toward better choices—without losing connection.
Plus some great book recommendations below!
KEY POINTS:
Why boundary-pushing is a normal (and necessary) part of growing up
The tension between encouraging reading and managing content
The risk of shutting down a child’s love of reading
How to guide without controlling—and reduce power struggles
When to hold firm boundaries—and when to soften
Shifting from protecting kids to preparing them
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “Get curious, not furious—because the moment you push, they pull away.”
When life gets overwhelming, even good people become hard to live with.
In this deeply honest episode, Justin and Kylie open up about the pressure, stress, snapping, guilt, and emotional overload that can quietly take over family life — especially when the mental load becomes too heavy to carry well.
From impossible deadlines and overflowing to-do lists to the simple reset strategies that actually help, this conversation is a powerful reminder that productivity means nothing if it costs you your relationships.
If you’ve ever felt short-tempered, emotionally unavailable, constantly “on edge,” or like your family gets the worst version of you… this episode will hit close to home.
KEY POINTS
Why overwhelm makes us less patient, kind, and emotionally available
The hidden cost of “pushing through” stress
How emotional bandwidth affects family relationships
Simple ways to reset when you’re close to breaking point
Why movement, sleep, connection, breathing, and nutrition matter more than we think
The surprising productivity boost that comes from slowing down
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“Stop being a human doing and remember how it feels to be a human being.”
The harder we push, the more our kids can push back.
Fresh from a free-diving trip in the Philippines, Justin shares an unexpected parenting lesson from 20 metres underwater: staying calm can get you further than forcing your way through. Kylie brings it back to the village around our kids and the power of adults who stop, listen and make a child feel like the most important person in the room.
KEY POINTS
Why force often creates resistance with kids
What freediving taught Justin about staying calm under pressure
How regulating ourselves can change a difficult parenting moment
Why kids need trusted adults beyond their parents
The impact of giving children your full attention
How ordinary moments can help rebuild the village around our kids
Location tracking. Checking a partner’s phone. Constantly asking where they are and who they’re with. For some teenagers, controlling behaviour is becoming so normal they may not even recognise it as a red flag.
Justin and Kylie share three simple questions sparked by Victorian Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny’s conversation with her teenage son: Do you know that’s wrong? Do you know that’s a red flag? What do the girls think?
They unpack consent, coercive control, rejection and the messages boys are absorbing about what it means to be a man. Most importantly, they explain why these conversations need to start long before our kids begin dating.
KEY POINTS
Why jealousy, phone checking and location tracking can be mistaken for love or devotion
Three questions that help teenagers recognise controlling behaviour
Why conversations about consent should start when children are young
Teaching kids to trust the feeling that says, “I don’t like this”
Helping boys understand that rejection should be met with grace
How online culture and unhealthy models of masculinity can shape boys’ ideas about relationships
Why healthy relationships should leave people feeling safer and stronger
Keeping conversations open so kids come to you when something doesn’t feel right
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“Healthy males help the people around them feel safer and stronger.”
Ask the three questions: When relationship behaviour comes up, ask, “Do you know that’s wrong?”, “Do you know that’s a red flag?” and “What does the other person think?”
Start consent conversations early: Teach younger children that they can say no to unwanted affection, scary play or anything that makes them uncomfortable.
Talk about what healthy masculinity looks like: Ask your child when they saw a boy or man help someone feel safer and stronger today.
Talk about the opposite: Ask when they saw someone leave another person feeling smaller or weaker, then discuss what made the behaviour different.
Keep talking: Make relationships, consent, pornography, online influences and red flags normal topics of conversation rather than one big awkward talk
Screens, Kids & the Hijacked Brain: Dr Wayne Warburton on Beating Screen Addiction
15 sept. 2026
00:15:09
Is your child’s screen time spiralling—and every conversation about it ends in a fight? Professor Wayne Warburton, leading psychologist and researcher, reveals how apps and games are deliberately engineered to hook young brains. He explains the hidden neuroscience of addiction, what excessive screen use does to a child’s emotional regulation and attention, and how parents can reclaim calm without all-out war. If you’ve ever wondered why your tween melts down when you say “time’s up,” this episode is a must-listen.
KEY POINTS
Why modern apps use gambling-style tactics and AI to keep kids scrolling.
How heavy screen use weakens the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain that manages focus, planning, and emotional control.
Simple, science-backed steps to reset family screen habits and return kids to the “driver’s seat.”
Practical advice for conversations that don’t turn into shouting matches.
Why social connection doesn’t have to mean social media.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “It’s not your child’s fault—or yours. These products are built to be addictive. The goal is to put your child back in the driver’s seat, not the screen.” — Dr Wayne Warburton
When Your Child Hates the School You Chose [a Listener Q&A]
14 sept. 2026
00:13:53
You’ve chosen the school you believe is best for your child. There’s just one problem. They absolutely refuse to go.
When an 11-year-old is threatening to cut up his uniform and stay home rather than attend the high school his parents have chosen, pushing harder is unlikely to help. Justin and Kylie explain why force creates resistance, what might really be underneath a child’s refusal, and how to have the conversation that could change everything.
KEY POINTS
Why trying to convince your child you’re right can make them dig in harder
The three needs driving your child’s response: connection, competence and autonomy
Why feeling heard needs to come before problem-solving
How to listen without adding your own interpretation
Why writing your child’s concerns down can take the heat out of the conversation
How to explain your reasons once your child knows you understand theirs
Using trial days and agreed expectations to move forward
Why the school that looks best on paper may not be the school where your child thrives
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“Force creates resistance. The harder you push, the harder your kids push back.”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Self-Determination Theory
Basic Psychological Need Theory
Autonomy-supportive parenting
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
Stop trying to win the argument. Shift the goal from convincing your child to understanding them.
Ask what you’re missing. Give them space to explain every concern without correcting or defending.
Write it down. Take their concerns seriously enough to make notes, then repeat them back without adding your interpretation.
Wait for the “yes, you get it”. If they’re still correcting you, keep listening.
Explain your why. Once they feel understood, share the two or three reasons behind your preferred school.
Look for a workable next step. Consider an experience day, trial period or clear agreement about what giving the school a genuine chance will look like.
Some of the most well-intentioned things we say to our kids can backfire.
From “Good job, you’re so smart” to “You’ll be fine” and “Why can’t you be more like your sister?”, Justin and Kylie unpack five common phrases that can undermine confidence, shut down emotions and create distance between parents and kids.
More importantly, they share what to say instead to help kids feel understood, capable and connected.
KEY POINTS
Why too much praise can make kids depend on external validation
The hidden cost of saying “I’m disappointed in you”
Why “You’ll be fine” can leave a struggling child feeling alone
How comparing siblings can fuel conflict and self-doubt
Why saying “I was never good at maths either” can create a limiting mindset
Simple phrases that build connection without trying to fix everything
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“You need to know that we love you no matter what.”
The best Father’s Day had almost nothing to do with presents.
Justin and Kylie share the unexpectedly beautiful family dinner that turned into stories, tears, terrible dancing and a powerful reminder of what children really take from their dads. As each daughter shared what she loved about Justin, one message kept coming through: the way a father loves his partner can shape what his children expect from love for years to come.
KEY POINTS
Why gifts and big expectations can make special days fall flat
The simple dinner-table tradition that changed the whole night
Why telling family members what you love about them matters
How old family songs brought childhood memories flooding back
The relationship lesson Justin and Kylie’s daughters have absorbed from watching their parents
Why strong family bonds can add to our lives rather than restrict them
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“The greatest legacy you as their dad have given them already is the way you love me.”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
“Blue Hotel” by Chris Isaak
“Cinderella” by Steven Curtis Chapman
“We Will Rock You” by Queen
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
Tell your partner and children something specific you love about them.
Bring back a song, ritual or tradition your family has let slip.
Create time together that isn’t centred around buying things.
Consider what your children are learning about relationships by watching yours.
More choice should make us happier. Turns out, it often does the opposite.
Whether it’s choosing a movie, buying a pair of jeans or helping your child pick school subjects, searching for the absolute best option can leave us anxious, regretful and less satisfied with what we eventually choose.
Justin and Kylie unpack the psychology of maximising versus satisficing and what the research reveals about decision-making. They explore why “good enough” can sometimes make us happier, how too many choices affect kids, and how to know when a decision deserves serious thought and when it’s time to stop searching.
KEY POINTS
The difference between maximisers and satisficers
Why finding the “best” option doesn’t always make us happier
How too many choices can increase regret and dissatisfaction
Why kids often benefit from fewer options
How to decide what “good enough” looks like before you start searching
Which decisions deserve more time and which ones don’t
How parents can model confident decision-making
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“If you can decide what’s going to be good enough before you start the search, then once you find it, you can stop the search.”
Parents have more advice, information and expert guidance than ever before. So why are so many feeling stressed, isolated and burnt out?
More than 10,000 Australian parents took part in the Parenting Today study, revealing a worrying decline in wellbeing, self-compassion and connection. Justin speaks with Derek McCormick, Director of Raising Children Network, about what's putting parents under so much pressure and whether the constant stream of parenting advice is part of the problem.
They unpack information overload, social media, AI, loneliness and the one simple shift that can help when parenting feels like too much.
KEY POINTS
What more than 10,000 Australian parents revealed about parenting today
Why having more parenting information hasn't necessarily made parenting easier
How social media and influencers can leave good parents feeling like they're getting it wrong
Why trusted information matters, but information alone isn't enough
The importance of real-world connection and peer support
Why keeping communication open with your kids matters more than pushing them to talk
How AI is changing where parents go for advice
Why self-compassion is a practical tool for overwhelmed parents
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"Do I talk to myself the way I would talk to a good friend?" Derek McCormick
Why Restricting Party Treats Can Backfire [a Listener Q&A]
07 sept. 2026
00:14:00
Your child is standing in front of a party table loaded with cake, lollies and soft drink. Do you step in or let them go for it?
Justin and Kylie’s answer might surprise you: let the party be the party.
Research suggests that tightly restricting treats can make kids want them even more. Instead of policing every mouthful, this episode explores how parents can help kids build genuine self-control, trust around food and the ability to notice when their body has had enough.
KEY POINTS
Why restricting treats can make them more desirable
The problem with policing what kids eat at parties
Why healthy food habits are built at home, not beside the lolly table
How trust helps kids develop their own self-control
Why parents can decide what food is offered while kids decide whether and how much they eat
How to help kids recognise their body's signals
Why the best teaching moment may come after the party
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“The child who is calm around the lolly table got there by being trusted around food when it wasn't a big deal.”
Let parties be parties. One afternoon of cake and lollies isn't going to determine your child's health.
Build everyday habits at home. Offer nutritious options without turning food into a constant battle.
Take the drama out of treats. Avoid making sugary food forbidden, precious or unusually exciting.
Give your child some control. Let them practise deciding how much they want to eat.
Talk afterwards. If they come home feeling sick or uncomfortable, help them connect how they feel with what they ate rather than lecturing them at the party.
Teach body awareness. Help them notice hunger, fullness and how different foods make them feel.
What Your Child Is Being Taught About Gender at School [with Clare Rowe]
06 sept. 2026
00:23:51
Do you actually know what your child is being taught about gender and identity at school?
Child and adolescent psychologist Clare Rowe says many parents have no idea what is being introduced in classrooms, particularly in the early primary years. She joins Justin to unpack what she believes is a growing gap between what children are being taught and what they are developmentally ready to understand.
They discuss gender identity education, the role of schools versus parents, what Clare is seeing in her psychology practice, and why she believes parents need greater transparency about classroom content.
Most importantly, Clare explains how parents can find out exactly what their school is teaching without starting a fight.
KEY POINTS
Why Clare believes some gender concepts are being introduced too early
The difference between teaching inclusion and introducing complex ideas about identity
Why young children can struggle with abstract concepts
What Clare is seeing among children presenting with gender distress
The concern around moving young people quickly towards medical interventions
Why parents may not know what outside providers are teaching at school
How to ask your school for lesson plans and curriculum information without becoming confrontational
What if trying to create the perfect family moment is the very thing getting in the way?
After a week away with three of their daughters, Kylie realised she’d arrived with a clear picture of how their time together should look. The reality was completely different. And it turned out to be better. Justin and Kylie unpack the pressure parents put on themselves to get the “recipe” right, why our kids need room to make their own choices, and how letting go of control can create more connection.
Justin also shares what happened when Kylie left him juggling work and parenting, including one spectacular diary fail, and why simple, low-pressure time together can be some of the best parenting we do.
KEY POINTS
Why parenting doesn’t come with a guaranteed recipe for happy, successful kids
How expectations can turn good family experiences into disappointments
Why giving kids space can lead to more openness and connection
The power of simple, unstructured time with your child
Why presence, patience and understanding often matter more than elaborate plans - Justin’s lesson in juggling work and parenting when Kylie went away
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“It’s the simple stuff that makes our families work the best.”
AI never gets annoyed with you. It rarely pushes back. And it’s very good at telling you exactly what you want to hear.
New research suggests that this constant validation may come with a cost. After just three weeks of interacting with sycophantic AI, people were more likely to seek personal advice from AI and reported feeling less satisfied with their real-world relationships. Many preferred the agreeable AI because it made them feel understood.
Justin and Kylie unpack what this means for kids growing up with AI as a confidant, adviser and sounding board. Real relationships involve disagreement, compromise and uncomfortable conversations. If AI removes that friction, are our kids missing the chance to learn how to handle it?
KEY POINTS
Why AI is designed to feel validating, agreeable and supportive
How constant affirmation can reinforce our existing point of view
Why people may start preferring AI advice to conversations with family and friends
The risk of using AI as a therapist during relationship conflict
Why disagreement and friction are important relationship skills
How parents can help kids use AI without outsourcing their thinking or relationships
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“Sycophantic AI is making our human interactions harder and less satisfying.”
Gaming & Neurodivergence: How to Make Gaming Healthier at Home [with Andrew Kinch]
01 sept. 2026
00:17:18
Gaming can be a source of connection, competence and joy, especially for neurodivergent kids. But when switching off leads to arguments, anxiety or explosive behaviour, parents need more than another screen-time rule.
Justin speaks with Game Aware founder Andrew Kinch about why some kids are drawn so strongly to gaming, how neurodivergence can shape that relationship, and what parents can do when gaming starts crowding out sleep, school, movement and family life. They unpack the difference between gaming for enjoyment and gaming for escape, why timers can make transitions harder, and how understanding your child's favourite game could reduce conflict at home.
KEY POINTS:
Why gaming and general screen time aren't the same thing
The particular role gaming can play for neurodivergent kids
How gaming meets needs for competence, autonomy and connection
Why using games to escape stress, bullying, anxiety or other struggles can become problematic
Why countdown timers can increase anxiety around switching off
How a stopwatch can encourage kids to practise self-regulation
The value of a calming "buffer" activity after gaming
Why parents should spend time learning how their child's favourite game actually works
How understanding what your child gets from gaming can change the conversation at home
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: "What job is the game doing for them?" Andrew Kinch
Get curious about what gaming gives your child before focusing on how long they're playing.
Notice whether they're gaming for fun and connection or using it to escape something difficult.
Try replacing a countdown timer with a stopwatch that helps them monitor their own gaming time.
Plan something enjoyable or calming for immediately after gaming rather than expecting an abrupt switch into chores or family demands.
Sit beside your child and learn their game. Understand what they're trying to achieve, when a round ends and why stopping halfway through can feel so frustrating.
If gaming is seriously affecting sleep, school, relationships, physical activity or safety at home, seek specialised support.
How to Handle Dating in the Tween Years [a Listener Q&A]
31 août 2026
00:14:42
Your 12-year-old announces they’re dating someone. There’s hand-holding, constant texting and plenty of “love you” messages. Do you shut it down, set rules or stay out of it?
Justin and Kylie unpack early teenage romance and why keeping your child talking to you matters more than trying to monitor every interaction. They explain what “dating” often means at this age, how to protect friendships and school life, and how to set boundaries without pushing the relationship underground.
KEY POINTS
Romantic interest commonly ramps up around ages 11 to 12.
Before reacting, ask your child what “dating” actually means to them.
Open disclosure from your child is more valuable than trying to monitor everything they do.
Watch whether the relationship starts replacing friendships, activities or school responsibilities.
Trying to ban the relationship completely may simply push it underground.
Talk about what respectful relationships look like, including helping the other person feel safe and strong.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“As long as you can have an open dialogue, then you have influence.”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Developmental psychology research on early adolescent romantic relationships
Research by Stattin and Kerr on parental monitoring and child disclosure
Happy Families website and podcast question submission
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
Get curious first. Ask what “dating” means to your child before deciding how worried you need to be.
Keep them talking. Protect the relationship that makes your child comfortable telling you what’s happening.
Set clear expectations. Explain your family’s boundaries around dating without turning the conversation into command and control.
Watch the bigger picture. Notice changes in friendships, schoolwork, extracurricular activities and family life.
Talk about respect. Teach your child what it means to make another person feel safe, respected and valued.
Try side-by-side conversations. A walk, drive or other low-pressure moment can make sensitive conversations easier.
We put laptops and tablets into classrooms with a promise that technology would improve education. Nearly two decades later, parents and teachers are asking a confronting question: Did we get it wrong?
Justin speaks with Danny Alachi, founder of the Heads Up Alliance, and Victorian high school teacher Steph Challis about the push to reduce screen use in Australian schools. They unpack classroom distraction, declining literacy, the value of handwriting and physical books, and why teaching digital skills doesn’t require kids to spend every lesson behind a screen.
They also explain a new national petition calling for no one-to-one devices in primary schools, books and paper to become the default in high school, a pause on generative AI in classrooms, safer evidence-based educational apps, and a renewed focus on reading and handwriting.
KEY POINTS
Why one-to-one devices may be doing more harm than good in primary classrooms
The distraction problem teachers are seeing when laptops are open
Why books, handwriting and paper still matter for learning
The difference between teaching digital literacy and teaching through a screen
Why technology should have to prove it improves learning before schools adopt it
The five changes the Heads Up Alliance wants Australian schools to make
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“Schools need to remember what they're for. They're there to teach children how to learn.”
What if trying to create the perfect family moment is the very thing getting in the way?
After a week away with three of their daughters, Kylie realised she’d arrived with a clear picture of how their time together should look. The reality was completely different. And it turned out to be better. Justin and Kylie unpack the pressure parents put on themselves to get the “recipe” right, why our kids need room to make their own choices, and how letting go of control can create more connection.
Justin also shares what happened when Kylie left him juggling work and parenting, including one spectacular diary fail, and why simple, low-pressure time together can be some of the best parenting we do.
KEY POINTS
Why parenting doesn’t come with a guaranteed recipe for happy, successful kids
How expectations can turn good family experiences into disappointments
Why giving kids space can lead to more openness and connection
The power of simple, unstructured time with your child
Why presence, patience and understanding often matter more than elaborate plans - Justin’s lesson in juggling work and parenting when Kylie went away
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“It’s the simple stuff that makes our families work the best.”
One in three babies is using a phone or tablet by six months old. By age two, almost one in ten is averaging around four hours of screen time a day.
New research into screen use during the first years of life has landed with a confronting warning for parents. Justin and Kylie unpack what researchers call “digital soothing”, why screens can crowd out the interactions babies need for healthy development, and what parents can do when zero screen time feels almost impossible.
KEY POINTS
16% of Australian three and four year olds had recently used TikTok, YouTube or Instagram.
More than half of children are using phones or tablets by their first birthday.
Why researchers are concerned about using screens to soothe, comfort and entertain babies.
How screens can replace the face-to-face “serve and return” interactions that build language and thinking skills.
Higher screen exposure in the early years is linked with poorer sleep, delayed language and cognitive development, weaker social skills and poorer later school performance.
Why watching together is different from leaving a young child alone with a device.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“The first thousand days build the brain. Work hard to get that right.”
What Every Girl Needs to Know About Porn [with Kristen Jenson]
25 août 2026
00:17:16
Pornography isn’t just a boys’ issue. Girls are seeing it too, often before their parents realise they need to talk about it.
Kristen Jenson, founder of Defend Young Minds and author of Good Pictures, Bad Pictures Guide for Girls, joins Justin to explain why girls need to be part of this conversation. They unpack accidental exposure, curiosity, body image, objectification and the shame that can stop girls from asking for help.
Most importantly, Kristen gives parents a simple way to prepare kids before pornography finds them: give them a definition, a warning and a plan.
KEY POINTS
Why treating pornography as a boys-only problem leaves girls vulnerable
How shame around girls’ curiosity can make the problem harder to talk about
Why accidental exposure can happen before kids actively seek explicit content
The impact pornography can have on girls’ body image and self-worth
Why parental controls and filters can’t replace conversations
Kristen’s simple three-part approach: a definition, a warning and a plan
Why your reaction matters if your child tells you they’ve seen pornography
How to start the conversation even if your child is already a teenager
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“It’s never too late to give your kids a defense.” Kristen Jenson
Why Kids Lie and What to Do About It (a Listener Q&A)
24 août 2026
00:16:01
Your five-year-old tells a whopping great lie at Show and Tell. Do you correct them, call them out, or let it go?
Lying can push every parental button, but for young kids, stretching the truth can be a surprisingly normal sign of cognitive development. Justin and Kylie explain why kids lie, what their tall tales might be trying to tell us, and why cracking down can make children better at hiding the truth.
The goal isn't to catch your child out. It's to understand what they need and make honesty safe.
KEY POINTS
By age four, around 80% of children will lie in experimental settings.
Convincing lies require "theory of mind", the ability to understand what another person thinks or believes.
Sometimes exaggeration is less about dishonesty and more about wanting connection, belonging, competence, or status.
Punitive responses can encourage children to become better at lying rather than more honest.
Avoid fact-checking or embarrassing your child in the moment.
Give kids an "off-ramp" from a lie by asking curious questions instead of accusing them.
Build the skills and relationships underneath the story so your child doesn't need to exaggerate to feel valued.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"Kids tell the truth when it's safe to tell the truth."
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Theory of mind and children's cognitive development
Enhanced Games (and Why Failure Might Be Your Child’s Best Teacher!)
23 août 2026
00:15:27
Everyone wants the shortcut. Better results, less effort, faster success. But what happens when the shortcut fails?
The Enhanced Games promised superhuman athletic performances through performance-enhancing drugs. Instead, the results offered a surprising lesson for parents and kids. Justin and Kylie unpack our obsession with hacks, optimisation and instant success, and explain why real achievement is usually built through something far less exciting: repetition, mistakes, patience and showing up again.
KEY POINTS
Why the Enhanced Games became a lesson in the limits of shortcuts
The growing culture of hacks, optimisation and instant results
What elite athletes understand about boredom, repetition and mastery
Why failure is part of becoming genuinely good at something
How online influencers sell boys shortcuts to looks, wealth and status
Why doing the work matters as much as reaching the goal
What parents can teach kids about consistency when progress feels slow
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“It’s not actually about getting there, it’s about who you become while you’re getting there.”
One in three Australian kids is struggling to read at the expected level. In a classroom of 30, that’s 10 children falling behind.
Justin speaks with Rachel Amorosakra from Reading Out of Poverty about what poor literacy looks like for kids, why access to books in the first five years matters so much, and the confronting reality for children in remote communities who may not own a single book.
With Book Week approaching, they look at a practical way families can help put culturally appropriate books into the hands of children in East Arnhem Land.
KEY POINTS
One in three Australian children is not meeting grade-level expectations in reading.
Struggling to read affects far more than English. It can make maths, science and other subjects harder too.
Falling behind can leave children embarrassed, disengaged and believing they simply aren't smart.
The first five years are critical for building vocabulary, imagination and early literacy skills.
Books create connection between children and caregivers, not just reading skills.
Many children in remote East Arnhem Land communities have little access to books.
Reading Out of Poverty is providing culturally appropriate literacy packs to children this Book Week.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“Books aren't just about the reading itself. It's about building connection with parents and caregivers.”
Firstborns tend to earn more, study longer and experience better mental health than their younger siblings. For decades, researchers have struggled to explain why.
A huge study following 1.2 million Danish children has uncovered a surprising piece of the puzzle. It may have less to do with personality or favouritism and more to do with germs, early illness and the extra time firstborns get with their parents.
In this episode, Justin and Kylie unpack what birth order research actually tells us, why the first six months matter so much, and the simple things parents can do to help level the playing field.
KEY POINTS
Firstborns show small but consistent advantages in earnings, education and mental health across large population studies.
Younger siblings are more likely to be exposed to respiratory illnesses during their first year, often brought home by older siblings.
Early illness may explain a significant portion of the birth order gap.
Firstborns can receive thousands more hours of reading, talking and playing with parents by age 13.
Birth order is not destiny. These findings describe population averages, not what will happen to an individual child.
Parents can reduce some of these differences through illness prevention, connection and intentional one-on-one time.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“Your youngest child is not doomed, your eldest is not blessed.”
The Friendship Skills Every Child Needs [with Michelle Mitchell]
18 août 2026
00:18:57
Friendship isn't just part of childhood. It shapes confidence, mental health and whether kids feel they belong. So why does it seem harder than ever?
Michelle Mitchell joins Dr Justin Coulson to unpack the biggest friendship mistakes parents make, why today's kids need more than "just go and play", and the simple framework that helps children build healthier, stronger relationships. If your child is dealing with friendship drama, loneliness or constant social ups and downs, this conversation will change the way you guide them.
KEY POINTS
Why friendship struggles sit behind so many school and wellbeing issues.
What's changed for today's kids and why friendships feel more complicated than ever.
Michelle Mitchell's three-part friendship framework: safety, chemistry and effort.
How to help children recognise healthy, one-sided and situational friendships.
Why parents shouldn't feel guilty for staying involved in their child's friendships.
Practical advice for supporting neurodivergent children to build meaningful connections.
The surprising research about bullying that every parent needs to hear.
How technology is quietly changing what children expect from friendships.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"Friendships are founded on safety. They gather energy through chemistry. They're sustained through effort."
Talk about one friendship with your child this week using three questions. Does it feel safe? Is there real connection? Are both people putting in effort?
Help your child see that not every friendship needs to be equally close.
Look beyond school for friendships through family, neighbours, hobbies and community groups.
Notice when technology is shaping your child's expectations of friendship and talk openly about what healthy relationships look like.
Remind your child that strong friendships grow over time through trust, kindness and consistency.
Why Trying to Fix Your Child Backfires [a listener Q&A]
17 août 2026
00:15:02
Nothing seems to work.
You model gratitude. You talk about growth mindset. You ask what went well each day. Yet your child still expects the worst, finds the problem first, and drains every exciting moment.
So should you keep trying to make them more positive?
In this episode, Justin and Kylie answer a question from a mum of 11-year-old twins who worries one daughter always sees the glass half empty. They unpack why some children naturally think this way, why forcing optimism often backfires, and the simple shift that helps children become more resilient without feeling like they're being fixed.
If you've ever wondered how to support a child who always seems negative, this conversation might completely change how you see them.
KEY POINTS
Why temperament isn't something parents can change
The surprising downside of pushing gratitude and positivity
What defensive pessimism is and why it can actually be protective
How to acknowledge feelings without making them bigger
Why autonomy matters more than getting the "right" answer
The hidden pressure that can exist between siblings and twins
Small ways to build optimism without forcing it
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"The fastest way to have a more positive child is making peace with the negative one."
Most relationships don't fall apart because of one big moment. They drift because of hundreds of tiny missed moments.
In this episode, Dr Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack five surprisingly simple weekly habits that relationship therapists see again and again in happy, long-lasting couples. None of them require expensive date nights, grand romantic gestures or endless free time.
From weekly check-ins to repairing arguments, these small rituals help couples stay connected through the chaos of work, parenting and everyday life. If you've ever felt like you're living alongside your partner instead of with them, this conversation offers practical ways to find your way back.
I Blew It With Our Daughter Then Asked One Question
13 août 2026
00:13:54
Sometimes the biggest parenting breakthroughs come right after we completely blow it.
Justin admits he let protective-dad mode take over when he confronted his daughter about a boyfriend he didn’t trust. The conversation went badly. Hours later, he tried again with one simple question: “What don’t I know?”
Her response changed the conversation.
Justin and Kylie unpack what happens when parents stop assuming they have the full story, how to repair things after getting it wrong, and why listening can give teenagers the space to make thoughtful choices without shutting their parents out.
Plus, Kylie’s crochet habit is taking over the house, and she prepares for a special overseas trip with three of their daughters as they head towards some big life changes.
KEY POINTS
Why telling a teen what to do can shut down the conversation
The powerful question that helped Justin see the situation differently
How curiosity can get you further than criticism
Why apologising to your child doesn’t weaken your authority
Helping teens make safe, healthy choices without trying to control them
Why parenting mistakes matter less when we know how to repair them
Celebrating older kids as they become more independent
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“What don’t I know?”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Happy Families resources and parenting support
Justin’s parenting workshops
The family practice of using dinner-table conversations to notice bravery, consideration, healthy relationships and gratitude
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
When you feel yourself jumping to conclusions, ask: “What don’t I know?”
If you handle a conversation badly, own it and apologise.
Ask your child to explain what you’re missing before offering advice.
Listen without preparing your rebuttal.
Once you understand their perspective, talk together about choices that are considerate, wise, safe and healthy.
Create small family rituals that celebrate your kids as they grow and become more independent.
Your child wants to join the game. You want to join the coffee group. Your teenager wants to be part of the weekend plans. So why does asking feel so impossible?
New research reveals that most of us get one crucial social prediction completely wrong. We assume people don't want us there when the opposite is often true.
In this episode, Dr Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack the surprising psychology behind "self invitation hesitation", why adults and kids both hold themselves back, and how one simple question can open the door to stronger friendships, greater confidence, and a deeper sense of belonging.
KEY POINTS
Why we assume we're not wanted, even when we usually are.
The surprising research showing most people are happy to include us.
How fear of rejection keeps adults and children isolated.
Why young children ask to join in without hesitation and what changes as they grow.
How to help kids handle rejection without taking it personally.
Why parents should model asking to be included.
Small ways to teach children that belonging starts with courage.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"Most people are far more pleased that you asked than you ever imagine."
The Screen Mistake Parents Don't See Until It's Too Late [with Madonna King]
11 août 2026
00:18:45
You banned social media. You set the rules. You thought the biggest danger was over.
It isn't.
Award-winning journalist Madonna King has spent more than a year speaking with hundreds of children, parents, teachers, psychologists and researchers. What she uncovered will change the way you think about every screen in your home.
This conversation goes far beyond social media. From AI doing our kids' thinking for them to the quiet loss of patience, creativity and resilience, Madonna explains why the biggest risks are often the ones no one is talking about. Most importantly, she shares practical ways to reset your family's relationship with technology without constant battles.
If you've ever wondered whether screens are changing your child, this episode will leave you seeing them differently.
KEY POINTS
Why banning social media doesn't solve the bigger problem.
The hidden risks inside gaming platforms and AI.
How AI is teaching children to stop thinking for themselves.
Why instant gratification is reshaping behaviour, resilience and learning.
Simple ways to reset screen habits without creating daily conflict.
The small family rituals that build patience, connection and confidence.
Why your own screen habits matter more than you think.
The shocking amount of data already collected about the average teenager.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"Parents really want their children to grow up kind, curious and clever. Yet we're risking that by allowing strangers and algorithms to shape who they become." — Madonna King
The constant bickering is exhausting. One child is breathing too loudly. Someone looked at someone the wrong way. Another toy has been touched. If you're breaking up the same tiny arguments every day, this episode will change the way you respond.
Justin and Kylie explain why stepping in too quickly often makes sibling conflict worse, and share a simple strategy that helps children solve problems themselves. It's practical, realistic, and designed for the everyday squabbles that slowly wear parents down.
KEY POINTS
Why low level sibling conflict is completely normal.
The hidden reason refereeing arguments often backfires.
How parents accidentally train children to depend on them to solve every disagreement.
Why family meetings work better than punishment and reward charts.
The importance of teaching relationship skills when everyone is calm.
Simple questions that help children find their own solutions.
How celebrating small wins builds lasting family change.
The surprising power of noticing and naming positive interactions between siblings.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"Teach relationship skills in peacetime, not wartime."
Your child could be having deeply personal, romantic conversations tonight and not with another teenager.
A new wave of AI companion apps is attracting young people by offering constant attention, endless validation and conversations that never end. They remember everything, say exactly what users want to hear and create the illusion of a real relationship.
In this episode, Justin and Kylie explain why these chatbots are so appealing, why traditional parental controls don't stop them, and how to start the conversation without shame, panic or punishment. If your child has access to a smartphone, this is one conversation you can't afford to skip.
KEY POINTS
The three AI companion apps every parent should know about.
Why AI relationships feel safer and easier than real friendships for many teens.
How these apps use loneliness, curiosity and validation to keep young people engaged.
Why confiscating devices often drives the behaviour underground.
Practical conversation starters that build trust instead of fear.
The simple reminder every child needs to hear: a bot is a what, not a who.
Why strong real world relationships are still the best protection.
What if your child's sex education class wasn't teaching what you think it is?
In this episode, Dr Justin Coulson sits down with teacher representative Ed Schuller to discuss claims about explicit sexual education materials being used in Australian schools. They unpack where the resources come from, why many parents never see them, and the questions every family should be asking.
Whatever your views, this conversation is about one thing. Helping parents understand what their children are being taught and encouraging them to be active partners in their child's education.
KEY POINTS
Why many parents don't know what is included in some sex education programs.
The role of third party organisations in delivering lessons.
The difference between teaching puberty, consent, and more explicit content.
Practical questions parents can ask their child's school.
How to stay informed without creating conflict with teachers or principals.
Why parent involvement matters when sensitive topics are taught.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"You cannot be passive. You need to know exactly what your child is being taught."
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Teacher's Professional Association of Queensland (TPAQ)
Teachers Professional Association of Australia (TPAA)
Sexual and Reproductive Health Australia (SRHA)
Happy Families
Respectful Relationships education
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
Ask your school who delivers sex education lessons.
Request to see the teaching materials before lessons begin.
Talk with your child about what they learned in class.
Approach your child's principal with curiosity and specific questions.
Stay involved in conversations about topics that matter to your family.
The Connection Every Child Needs [with Prof. Nicholas Epley]
05 août 2026
00:16:16
A heartbreaking family loss changed the way Professor Nicholas Epley understood his own research. In this episode, he shares how grief, adoption and decades of social science reveal a simple truth that can help every parent raise more connected, confident children.
You'll also discover why crowded rooms can still feel lonely, how to create more meaningful conversations, and the simple daily habit that strengthens every relationship.
KEY POINTS
Why children don't have to wait for someone else to include them.
How parents can model confident, genuine connection.
Simple ways to create opportunities for friendships outside school.
Why meaningful conversations matter more than small talk.
How to recognise easy opportunities to connect every day.
The surprising reason happiness depends on regular social habits.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"Once you start looking for opportunities to connect, you realise how many you've been missing."
RESOURCES MENTIONED
A Little More Social by Professor Nicholas Epley
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
Show your child how to start conversations instead of waiting to be invited.
Create easy opportunities for friendships through playdates, neighbourhood activities or shared interests.
Ask one deeper question instead of sticking to small talk.
Look for one simple opportunity each day to reach out, encourage someone or reconnect with an old friend.
Make connection part of your family's daily routine, not something that only happens when life slows down.
The Missing Ingredient in Childhood Friendships [with Prof. Nicholas Epley]
04 août 2026
00:17:24
Your child doesn't need better social skills. They need more chances to use them.
University of Chicago behavioural scientist Professor Nicholas Epley explains why we're wired for connection but keep avoiding it. His research reveals one surprising mistake almost all of us make and how parents can help children build stronger friendships by changing one simple habit.
This conversation will make you think differently about strangers, screens and the small moments that shape confident, connected kids.
KEY POINTS
Why we consistently underestimate how much people want to connect with us.
The surprising experiment that changed Nicholas Epley's research career.
What today's children are missing, despite being more digitally connected than ever.
How parents accidentally teach children to avoid social interaction.
One simple way to help children become more confident in social situations.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"If you're a parent who never reaches out to others, your kids won't either. If you do, they will."
Watching your child be ignored hurts. You want to step in, fix it and make it stop.
Before you do, listen to this conversation.
Justin and Kylie answer a question from a mum whose young sons are being shut out by older neighbourhood kids. They share practical ways to help children handle rejection, build confidence and develop friendships that last.
KEY POINTS
Why children grow when they're part of solving the problem.
Questions that help kids think through social challenges.
How changing the play environment can stop exclusion.
Why big age gaps often lead to younger children being left out.
Simple ways to build stronger relationships with neighbouring families.
Why avoiding difficult situations can make them harder over time.
How to help your child invest in the friendships that matter.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"The answer isn't always fixing the problem for our children. Sometimes it's helping them discover that they can help solve it themselves."
Seven million school days were missed in Victoria last year. Is this a sign of a growing problem, or are parents finally putting their families first?
A new report has sparked fierce debate about school attendance. Should children ever miss school for a holiday, a family celebration or a mental health break?
Dr Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack what the numbers actually tell us, why so many families are choosing term-time travel, and whether chasing perfect attendance comes at a cost.
They explore what children gain from school, what they gain from time with family, and why the best decision isn't always the obvious one.
If you've ever wondered whether it's okay to pull your child out of school, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.
KEY POINTS
What the seven million missed school days really represent.
Why more families are travelling during school term.
The pressure schools place on perfect attendance.
How COVID changed the way many parents think about school.
What children can learn outside the classroom.
When missing school can be the right choice.
Why every family needs to weigh the trade-offs for themselves.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"If you need to have some time off, if you want to take the kids out of school, do it."
You finish the day exhausted. Work's done, dinner's over and the last thing you want is another thing to do.
But the moments your kids remember rarely come from expensive holidays or perfectly planned activities. They happen on a walk around the block, over a board game or while you're side by side with no phones in sight.
Justin and Kylie share how an after-dinner walk became the place where their daughters finally opened up. They explore why kids often talk more when they're moving, why screens get in the way, and how small choices can strengthen your relationship without adding more to your to-do list.
If you've been feeling stretched too thin, this episode will help you find connection in the time you already have.
KEY POINTS
Why children often open up more when you're walking together.
How one simple after-dinner walk became an hour of honest conversation.
The hidden cost of reaching for a screen instead of each other.
The difference between saying "I can't" and asking "What can I do?"
Small habits that make children feel seen, heard and valued.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"When we push past the excuses and make the effort, it's almost always worth it."
Australia banned social media for under-16s. It hasn't stopped kids from using it.
New research shows most young people are still logging on, creating fake accounts and finding easy ways around age checks. Dr Justin Coulson explains why the law isn't delivering what parents hoped for and why families still have the biggest influence on their children's online lives.
Then the conversation turns to something far more hopeful.
Dutch children are the happiest in the world. It's not because Dutch parents have all the answers. Their families spend more time together. Their children have more independence. Their communities are built around connection. Justin and Kylie unpack what Australian parents can borrow, even if we can't recreate the Dutch system.
KEY POINTS
What the first research on Australia's social media ban found.
How children are getting around age verification.
Why parents still need to lead screen time at home.
The habits that help Dutch children report the highest levels of happiness.
Why friendships, family time and independence matter more than expensive programs.
Simple ways to create stronger community around your own family.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"The legislation can't do the parenting for us. We still have to do the job."
The Energy Game: Stop Running on Empty! [with Amantha Imber]
28 juil. 2026
00:17:19
You're not imagining it. Parenting really does feel harder when you're running on empty.
If you've caught yourself wishing for just one day where nobody needs you, this episode will feel uncomfortably familiar.
Organisational psychologist and bestselling author Dr Amantha Imber joins Dr Justin Coulson to explain why so many parents feel exhausted and what actually helps. No impossible morning routines. No guilt. Just practical, science-backed strategies you can use in minutes.
You'll learn why scrolling leaves you more tired, how to spot the type of fatigue you're dealing with, and the simple habits that can help you feel more like yourself again.
KEY POINTS
Why so many parents feel permanently exhausted.
The burnout fantasy that more people have than you'd expect.
The three types of energy that shape your day.
Fast, science-backed ways to boost energy in under a minute.
Why social media drains your brain instead of helping you recharge.
How better boundaries protect your energy without letting people down.
Small changes that leave you with more patience for your family.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"We don't just have one energy account. We have three. The key is working out which one needs your attention first." – Dr Amantha Imber