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 directions
• How to co-regulate without self-abandoning
• Why shame and punishment backfire in the long run
• Tools for supporting kids (or partners, or clients) through big emotions
• What emotional safety actually feels like in a relationship
• How 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 Emotions
• Instagram: @kidswithbigemotions
• Free: 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™ community
• Attend a live retreat or apply for 1:1 coaching