Behave: The podcast to unlearn behaviour

Every Behaviour Specialist’s favourite question… and for good reason.In this episode, we’re getting underneath it all — unpacking the why behind behaviour. Because every behaviour serves a function. And when we skip the why, we miss the whole point.We break down behaviour as communication (yes, even the ones that make you want to pull your hair out), and why surface-level responses often do more harm than good.This one’s for anyone who’s been told to “just follow through with consequences” or “set firmer boundaries” — but know it ain’t working! And yes, we might have a few thoughts on things like suspension being called a “consequence.” (Spoiler: sending someone away doesn’t teach them how to stay.)Because when we understand the why, we stop reacting and throwing bandaids on things — and we start responding in a way that is ACTUALLY going to change things.Learn more about the hosts!!Eleanor Brink - MEd., BCBA, Advanced/Specialist BSPErika Gleeson - OAM, Speaker, Advanced/Specialist BSP

Complex autism isn’t a checklist. It’s not a neat label. And it definitely doesn’t come with a clear roadmap.In this episode, we go there — unpacking what “complex” autism (and other complex diagnoses) actually looks like in real life. The co-occurring conditions, the constant decision-making, the systems that don’t quite fit, and the emotional load families are carrying behind the scenes.We’re also joined by a guest with lived experience, bringing a perspective that cuts through theory and straight into what it’s like to actually live it.This one’s for the parents in the thick of it — navigating risk, advocating hard, and making a thousand micro-decisions a day that no one else sees.Because complex autism isn’t just complex on paper. It’s complex to liveLearn more about the hosts!!Eleanor Brink - MEd., BCBA, Advanced/Specialist BSPErika Gleeson - OAM, Speaker, Advanced/Specialist BSP

Regulated = calm.Or at least… that’s what we’ve all been taught.But what if that’s not actually true?In this episode, Erika and Ellie (aka the Regulation Queen) unpack regulation in a way that will likely flip what you thought you knew on its head.We get into why “calm” isn’t the goal, how behaviour is deeply connected to the nervous system, and why regulation is not one-size-fits-all (despite what Instagram might tell you). We also unpack what dysregulation actually looks like, what recovery really involves, and why so many traditional responses to behaviour completely miss the mark.There’s a bit of myth-busting, a bit of calling things out, and a lot of “oh… that makes sense”.If you’ve ever wondered why some strategies “work” for one person and completely fall flat for another, this one’s for you.We cover:• Why regulated and calm are not always the same thing • The nervous system–behaviour connection• Why regulation is deeply individual• What dysregulation actually looks like (and what it doesn’t)• How people respond to triggers (and why)• Why punishment doesn’t teach regulation• The impact of modern life on already stretched nervous systemsLearn more about the hosts!!Eleanor Brink - MEd., BCBA, Advanced/Specialist BSPErika Gleeson - OAM, Speaker, Advanced/Specialist BSP

Before we can support behaviour… we need to talk about the way we talk about behaviour.In this episode, we unpack some of the biggest misconceptions floating around in parenting, education and disability spaces; from “behaviour management” to the obsession with consequences and punishment.Because the language we use isn’t just semantics. It shapes how we see people, how we respond in hard moments, and ultimately whether we support behaviour… or just try to control it.We explore:• Why behaviour isn’t something to “fix”• The difference between behaviour management and behaviour support• Why punishment is still everywhere (even when we say it isn’t)• What actually works insteadIf you’ve ever been told someone is “attention seeking”, “manipulative”, or just “needs firmer boundaries”… this episode might challenge a few things you thought you knew.And that’s kind of the point.

Episode 1: Why Behave? (And Why Us?)Two behaviour nerds walk into a podcast…In our very first episode, we answer the obvious questions: Who the heck are these two women, and why did they start a behaviour podcast?After years working in disability, education and behaviour support, we’ve watched the conversation about behaviour get louder… and less accurate. Quick fixes. Compliance culture. Oversimplified advice. Burnt-out families. Under-resourced systems.So we decided to do something about it.In this episode, we talk about:Our backgrounds & credentialsThe moments that changed how we see behaviourWhat “relearning behaviour” actually meansWhy neuroaffirming practice isn’t a trend — it’s a necessityAnd what you can expect from this podcastIf you’ve ever felt stuck, judged, overwhelmed, or quietly thought “surely there’s a better way” — this is for you.Welcome to Behave.Let’s unlearn a few things.