Big Emotions with Your Kids Aren’t the Problem... Disconnection Is with Andi Clark

What if “bad behavior” is actually a cry for connection? In this powerful and soul-level conversation, George sits down with Andi Clark, a certified parent coach and educator who helps parents, caregivers, and leaders support kids with big emotions. But this episode goes beyond parenting — it’s a masterclass in how to show up with empathy, presence, and emotional regulation in every relationship, including the one with yourself. Whether you’re raising a child, leading a team, or healing your own inner world, this episode is a mirror, a map, and a lifeline. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The real root of “difficult behavior” in children (and adults)Why emotional regulation is contagious — in both directionsHow to co-regulate without self-abandoningWhy shame and punishment backfire in the long runTools for supporting kids (or partners, or clients) through big emotionsWhat emotional safety actually feels like in a relationshipHow Andi went from parenting rock bottom to global impact   Key Takeaways: ✔️Behavior is communication. Always. ✔️You can’t regulate someone else if you’re dysregulated yourself. ✔️Your nervous system is the most powerful parenting tool you have. ✔️You don’t need to fix your kid — you need to support their safety. ✔️Shame shuts down connection. Curiosity invites healing. ✔️Consistency > Perfection. Every time. ✔️Kids don’t need perfect parents. They need present ones.   Timestamps & Highlights: [00:00] – George introduces Andi and why this episode matters [04:40] – Andi’s story: From parenting crisis to community leader [10:22] – What’s actually behind “bad behavior” [14:35] – Nervous system 101: why regulation matters more than rules [20:40] – Co-regulation vs. self-abandonment [26:18] – The shame trap and how to avoid it [31:05] – How kids mirror your nervous system [36:50] – Real-life examples from Andi’s coaching [42:12] – Why “repair” is more important than never messing up [47:00] – The hidden cost of punitive discipline [52:55] – Andi’s personal healing journey [58:10] – What every child (and inner child) needs [1:05:00] – Final thoughts and where to connect Connect with Andi Clark:Website: https://andiclark.com/Podcast: Kids With Big EmotionsInstagram: @kidswithbigemotionsFree: The Big Emotions Self-Assessment   Your Challenge This Week: Did this episode shift how you see your child—or yourself? Tag @itsgeorgebryant and @kidswithbigemotions with your biggest takeaway. Want more support?Join George’s Relationships Beat Algorithms™ communityAttend a live retreat or apply for 1:1 coaching