What happens when a high-achieving mum, running two businesses and parenting three kids, discovers that the chaos in her life isn’t just “normal”—it’s undiagnosed ADHD? In this powerful and relatable conversation, Justin chats with former psychologist and ADHD advocate Jane McFadden about her late diagnosis, parenting in a neurodiverse family, and why understanding is the first step towards connection. KEY POINTS: Jane McFadden was diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood—after years of burnout, high-functioning chaos, and parenting struggles. ADHD can often be masked by achievement, especially in women. Many children and adults use “scaffolding,” or complex routines, to hide difficulties with executive function. Diagnosis isn’t about labels—it’s about understanding and unlocking connection. Neurodiverse families can thrive when support and insight replace shame and confusion. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “If you don’t want to label your child, they’ll label themselves—and it’ll be far worse than any diagnosis.” RESOURCES: ADHD Mums podcast by Jane McFadden Happy Families Membership – happyfamilies.com.au Help For the ADHD Parent [Article] Parenting ADHD [The Course] Parenting an ADHD Child [Article] ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: If you suspect neurodiversity in yourself or your child, seek a qualified assessment—it can offer clarity and hope. Explore resources and communities like ADHD Mums to connect with others on a similar journey. Approach parenting with empathy—ask your child why something is hard instead of assuming they’re being defiant. Recognise the signs of burnout in yourself and prioritise support. Focus on connection first—diagnosis is a tool to deepen relationships, not define them. Find us on Facebook Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you've ever asked your child to do something—only to be met with silence, eye-rolls, or outright refusal—this episode is for you. Justin and Kylie dive into five surprising reasons why kids ignore us and share five powerful strategies to help them want to listen. With equal parts insight and humour, this episode offers real-world parenting advice that makes connection—not control—the goal. KEY POINTS: Kids often don’t listen because they don’t care about the task or see it as relevant to them. Developmentally, children are egocentric and lack adult-level perspective. Parents often forget to get their child’s attention before making a request. Screentime, distractions, and habits of non-compliance can reduce responsiveness. Being fun, patient, and involved can transform how children respond. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “Be the kind of person your kids want to pay attention to.” RESOURCES: Happy Families Membership – happyfamilies.com.au How to Get Your Kids to Really Listen [PDF download] ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Get your child’s attention before speaking—use touch, eye contact, and a calm tone. Be involved—where possible, do the task together rather than directing from afar. Use gentle reminders and accountability instead of repeating or yelling. Be patient—allow time between request and response before following up. Make it fun—add humour, creativity, and playfulness to your interactions to boost connection. Find us on Facebook Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should we be making our children apologise when they do the wrong thing? What does a sincere apology look like? In this episode: Parental Guidance (S1): “Forcing children to apologise is teaching children to lie” Victim mentality People pleasing Ruptured relationships The Parenting Revolution, by Dr Justin Coulson Motivation Continuum - extrinsic, introjected, identified, integrated, intrinsic Is It Wrong to Tell Kids to Apologize? | The Atlantic Theory of Mind Why do children apologise under coercion? Feeling seen, heard, and valued Repairing relationships Why don't kids want to apologise? 4 components of a sincere apology Related links:  Should we Force our Children to Say 'Sorry' Carrots & Sticks: How Rewards and Punishments Hurt Our Kids, and What to do Instead [Webinar] Doors are now open to the Happy Families Membership  NEW weekly kids’ ‘Print & Play’ subscription FELT (Fostering Emotional Learning Together) Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.