#1157 - 3 Conversations Your Family Needs to Master

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

Understanding the right type of conversation can transform family communication and deepen connections with our children. Justin and Kylie explore insights from Pulitzer Prize winner Charles Duhigg's book "Super Communicators".

Key Points:

• Understanding the three types of conversations: practical, emotional, and social
• Why fixing problems isn't always what our children need
• How to identify which conversation your child wants to have
• The importance of asking "Why am I talking?" (WAIT)
• When connection matters more than correction

Quote of the Episode: "We tend to remember the conversations that are connection as opposed to just information exchange." - Charles Duhigg

Key Insights:

• Most memorable conversations are ones where children do the talking
• Parents often default to "fix-it" mode when children need emotional support
• Simple questions can reveal what type of conversation is needed
• The power of asking "How can I help?" or "What do you need?"

Personal Stories Shared:

• Justin's "professor moment" with his daughter walking up the hill
• The powerful feedback: "I don't need you to be my psychologist. I need you to be my dad."
• Examples of transforming typical parent-child interactions

Action Steps for Parents:

1. Ask what type of conversation your child wants to have
2. Practice the WAIT principle (Why Am I Talking?)
3. Focus on listening more than solving
4. Learn to identify practical vs. emotional vs. social conversations
5. Create space for connection rather than correction

Resources Mentioned:

• "Super Communicators" by Charles Duhigg
• Full interview available in Saturday's episode
• happyfamilies.com.au

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