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.

KEY POINTS
Why happy couples schedule weekly relationship check-ins.
The simple conversation that builds connection instead of just swapping information.
How one sentence can completely change the way you handle conflict.
Why repairing arguments matters more than avoiding them.
The surprising power of everyday touch with no expectations attached.
Why therapists say connection matters more than traditional date nights.
Small weekly habits create stronger relationships over time.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

"Happy couples don't do more. They schedule more."

RESOURCES MENTIONED
Stylist magazine article featuring relationship therapists.
The Gottman Institute's six-second kiss concept.
Happy Families family meeting framework.

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
Set aside 20 minutes each week to talk about family logistics before they become arguments.
Spend five to ten minutes each day checking in beyond "How was your day?"
When conflict arises, begin with, "The story I told myself was..." before sharing your feelings.
Add more everyday affection with hugs, hand holding or a quick kiss that doesn't have to lead anywhere.
Replace the pressure of a perfect date night with one simple activity you both enjoy every week.

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.
KEY POINTS
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>Why happy couples schedule weekly relationship check-ins.</li>
<li>The simple conversation that builds connection instead of just swapping information.</li>
<li>How one sentence can completely change the way you handle conflict.</li>
<li>Why repairing arguments matters more than avoiding them.</li>
<li>The surprising power of everyday touch with no expectations attached.</li>
<li>Why therapists say connection matters more than traditional date nights.</li>
<li>Small weekly habits create stronger relationships over time.</li>
</ul>
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
"Happy couples don't do more. They schedule more."
RESOURCES MENTIONED
<ul data-spread="false">
<li><a href="https://apple.news/ABe_ImwCKSqO_5uAtjFmM3A">Stylist magazine article</a> featuring relationship therapists.</li>
<li>The Gottman Institute's <a href="https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-six-second-kiss/">six-second kiss</a> concept.</li>
<li>Happy Families <a href="https://happyfamilies.com.au/podcast/episode/1045-the-art-science-of-family-meetings-2">family meeting framework</a>.</li>
</ul>
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>Set aside 20 minutes each week to talk about family logistics before they become arguments.</li>
<li>Spend five to ten minutes each day checking in beyond "How was your day?"</li>
<li>When conflict arises, begin with, "The story I told myself was..." before sharing your feelings.</li>
<li>Add more everyday affection with hugs, hand holding or a quick kiss that doesn't have to lead anywhere.</li>
<li>Replace the pressure of a perfect date night with one simple activity you both enjoy every week.</li>
</ul>

Deciding which parenting advice to follow? Join the thousands of mums and dads who turn to Australia’s most downloaded parenting podcast.

Dr Justin Coulson and his wife Kylie bring real parenting solutions every day, cutting through the noise of modern advice with clear, practical guidance for every step of parenting.

From early childhood challenges to the complexities of the teenage years, each daily episode offers simple, evidence-based strategies to help you feel more confident in your decisions and more connected to your kids.

Deciding which parenting advice to follow?&nbsp;Join the thousands of mums and dads who turn to Australia&rsquo;s most downloaded parenting podcast.
Dr Justin Coulson and his wife Kylie bring real parenting solutions every day, cutting through the noise of modern advice with clear, practical guidance for every step of parenting.
From early childhood challenges to the complexities of the teenage years, each daily episode offers simple, evidence-based strategies to help you feel more confident in your decisions and more connected to your kids.

The Happy families podcast with Dr. Justin Coulson is designed for the time poor parent who just wants answers now.

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

5 Things Happy Couples Do Weekly

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/fa326977-3de5-4283-9b8b-af3500c58607/clips/45b738b9-db90-4e0f-8156-b49a00afd6e4/transcript