Episode 99: Dopamine vs. Date Night (Part 1) : How Tiny Tech Habits Erode Intimacy (and Fixes That Work)

A true confession kicks this episode off: we accidentally lost half our date night to our phones. That slip becomes today’s lesson on technoference (little device interruptions) and phubbing (phone-snubbing your partner)—and why even “just a second” can quietly lower connection, satisfaction, and trust.

We break down the brain science (hello, dopamine loop), the common bias that makes your scrolling feel harmless but theirs feel hurtful, and simple fixes that work: no-phone zones, joint (not parallel) screen time, playful repair, and our 10-Minute Tech Check you can try tonight. Plus, a few tech-for-good ideas (card decks, sweet midday texts, shared playlists) to boost intimacy.

Part 2 drops Friday: social media’s impact on you—and your marriage. Follow, share with a friend, and leave a review to help other couples find Marriage IQ.

✨EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT:

We are sponsoring a big DATE NIGHT GIVEAWAY: We’re gifting five $100 date-night gift cards (use it for dinner, a concert—your call).

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Entries close November 18, 2025

🔥Winners announced November 28, 2025

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