In this episode of Conversations for Couples, Julie and David Bulitt sit down with Andrea and Brian Ward for an insightful discussion on parenting, marriage, and balancing it all. Brian, a Marine Corps veteran and host of The Dad Up Podcast, and Andrea, a dedicated teacher, share their journey of raising two boys, building a strong marriage, and how Brian’s decision to quit drinking reshaped their family.

The couple opens up about how they maintained a strong connection through the busiest years of parenting, their approach to communication and self-care, and why investing in their marriage—including working with a marriage coach—has made all the difference. Whether you’re in the thick of raising kids or navigating the empty nest phase, this episode is packed with wisdom on maintaining a healthy, thriving relationship.

🔗 Topics Discussed:

✨ Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

The Dad Up Podcast: Available on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, iHeart & more

Follow Brian on Instagram: @DadUpPodcast

Email Brian: [email protected]

🎧 Chapters:

00:00 Introduction: Meet Julie & David Bulitt

00:30 Welcome Andrea & Brian Ward

02:45 What It Means to Be an All-In Dad

06:30 Brian’s Decision to Quit Drinking for His Family

10:15 Balancing Parenting Responsibilities as a Couple

15:00 The Importance of Scheduling & Communication in Marriage

18:45 Carving Out Time for Self-Care & Personal Space

22:30 Transitioning to the Empty Nest Phase

26:45 The Role of a Marriage Coach in a Healthy Relationship

30:30 How The Dad Up Podcast Started & Its Impact

35:00 Where to Find Brian & Final Thoughts

🎙️ Hosted by Julie & David Bulitt: Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Divorce and Family Lawyer

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