Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

Can paracetamol during pregnancy increase the risk of autism or ADHD? Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack four provocative studies challenging what we think we know about pregnancy, relationships, gender differences and rising neurodevelopmental diagnoses. From a major study examining paracetamol use during pregnancy to the possible reasons autism and ADHD diagnoses are increasing, this episode separates research findings from assumptions and explores what the evidence actually tells us.
KEY POINTS
• What a large study found about paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism or ADHD risk.
• Why men and women may appear to multitask differently.
• How pessimism about relationships may affect young women's expectations for happiness.
• Whether broader diagnostic criteria help explain rising autism and ADHD diagnoses.
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“Science isn't about convenience.”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
• Prenatal Acetaminophen or Paracetamol Use and the Risk of Autism and ADHD Among Sibling-Matched Cohorts, published in JAMA Internal Medicine.
• Research published in Psychological Research on gender differences in multitasking.
• Suzanne Venker's discussion of heteropessimism on the Modern Wisdom podcast with Chris Williamson.
• Institute for Family Studies article on heteropessimism and relationship outcomes.
• Changes in Genetic Contributions to ASD and ADHD by Year of Diagnosis, published in JAMA Psychiatry.
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
• Look at the research behind controversial health claims before accepting or dismissing them.
• Discuss questions about medication during pregnancy with your healthcare professional.
• Focus on finding healthy relationships built on kindness, trust and mutual support.
• Remember that research findings are part of an evolving evidence base, especially when it comes to autism and ADHD.
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When school leaves your child overwhelmed, anxious and struggling to learn, is pushing through really the best option? Justin and Kylie Coulson share their experience with homeschooling, the emotional toll of traditional schooling and how to decide what your child needs most. They explore social skills, independence, learning and the importance of helping children feel safe enough to thrive.
Key Points
How to recognise when traditional schooling isn't working for your child
Why emotional regulation matters for learning and friendships
The social opportunities children can find outside traditional school

The realities of homeschooling for parents, finances and work

How time at home can help children rebuild confidence and return to school

Quote of the Episode
“How on earth is a child whose emotions are so highly strung in that moment going to learn anything?”
Resources Mentioned
Happy Families: https://happyfamilies.com.au

Action Steps for Parents
Listen to what your child’s behaviour may be telling you about their school experience.

Look into local homeschooling groups and alternative learning options.

Consider your child’s emotional wellbeing alongside their academic and social development.

Build a supportive community where your child can develop friendships, independence and confidence.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if all our talk about mental health is making it harder for kids to cope with life?
Dr Justin Coulson sits down with educational and developmental psychologist Claire Rowe to unpack the rise of therapy speak, the dangers of labelling normal emotions as mental health problems, and why constantly checking in on how our kids feel might not be helping them. Discover how to support children through difficult feelings without teaching them to fear every bump in the road.
Key Points
How therapy speak on social media is changing the way we see ourselves and others

Why labelling children as anxious or sensitive can shape their identity

When mental health labels help and when they go too far

Why taking action and helping others can be more useful than constantly focusing inward

How to build resilience without dismissing children's feelings

Quote of the Episode
“You can do hard things.” Claire Rowe
Resources Mentioned
Claire Rowe Psychologist on Instagram

Rowe and Associates, Sydney

Lucy Foulkes, psychologist and researcher

Sami Timimi, psychiatrist

Abigail Shrier, author

Action Steps for Parents
Talk about feelings using everyday words like worried, sad or disappointed rather than turning every emotion into a label.

Remind your child that difficult feelings are normal and that asking for help is okay.

Encourage them to take small steps through challenging situations instead of automatically avoiding them.

Help them connect with others through family, friendships, sport, hobbies and community.

Let your child know you are there to support them, even when they have a hard day.

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What matters most when you walk through your front door? Justin Coulson has spent years helping families build happier lives, and his work has now earned him a University of Queensland Vice-Chancellor's Alumni Excellence Award. But the moment that mattered most wasn't the trophy. It was the reminder that strong families change lives, and the most important work we do often happens at home.
Justin and Kylie share the story behind the award, the sacrifices that shaped his career, a hilarious university confession, and the acceptance speech that left a room full of people in tears.
KEY POINTS
Why strong family relationships shape happier, healthier lives

The unexpected path from struggling dad to parenting expert

The people and sacrifices behind Justin's achievement

What research tells us about the lifelong impact of loving caregivers

Why the most important work often happens at home

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“The most important work many of us will ever do is not in the office. It's waiting for us when we walk back through our own front door.”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
University of Queensland Vice-Chancellor's Alumni Excellence Awards

Happy Families books and resources at happyfamilies.com.au

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
Make time for connection with your children, even on busy days.

Think about the example you're setting through your relationships.

Recognise the small, everyday things that help your family feel safe, loved and supported.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Worried your teenager is falling behind or has no idea what they want to do after school? You’re not alone, and their future is bigger than their grades.
Dr Justin Coulson chats with educator and careers expert Dr Jo Winchester about career pressure, gap years, alternative pathways and the changing world of work. They explore how to support neurodivergent kids, take the pressure off big decisions and help young people find a path that fits who they are.
KEY POINTS
Why your child’s ATAR doesn’t define their potential

When a gap year might be the right choice

How to explore careers in a rapidly changing world

Supporting neurodivergent kids without focusing on grades

Helping teenagers make decisions without passing on your anxiety

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“The thing that I want you to concentrate on more is, is your child happy? Are they being supported in a loving environment at that school?”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Dr Jo Winchester for career guidance and free resources

Range by David Epstein

Dark Horse by Todd Rose

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
Take the pressure off choosing a lifelong career right now.

Explore university open days by focusing on the environment and teaching staff, not rankings.

Help your teenager identify their interests, strengths and skills.

Set small, achievable goals if school is a struggle.

Remind your child that their grades are not a measure of their intelligence or future success.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.