Regulation Revolution

This lighthearted episode dives into how our pets—especially cats and dogs—help (or sometimes don’t help 😅) us regulate our emotions. From unconditional dog love to the unpredictable moods of cats, Amy and Barry share stories, laughs, and insights into how animals mirror and influence our nervous systems.👉 Cast your vote: Are you Team Cat 🐱 or Team Dog 🐶?Listen now and let us know your thoughts on Spotify or in the comments!

In Part Two of our three-part series, we dive into the influence of media on mental health with "Clicks, Views, or Votes: What is Your Motivation?" This episode unpacks how media consumption affects our anxiety, self-perception, and decision-making. From doomscrolling to influencer culture, we explore the psychological impact of seeking validation online, the motivations behind media narratives, and how we can maintain emotional balance in an overwhelming digital world. Join us as we discuss the fine line between staying informed and staying regulated. This episode builds on Part One and sets the stage for Part Three, where we explore strategies for managing media influence and protecting mental health. Stay tuned for the final installment!

In Part Two of our three-part series, we dive into the influence of media on mental health with "Clicks, Views, or Votes: What is Your Motivation?" This episode unpacks how media consumption affects our anxiety, self-perception, and decision-making. From doomscrolling to influencer culture, we explore the psychological impact of seeking validation online, the motivations behind media narratives, and how we can maintain emotional balance in an overwhelming digital world. Join us as we discuss the fine line between staying informed and staying regulated. This episode builds on Part One and sets the stage for Part Three, where we explore strategies for managing media influence and protecting mental health. Stay tuned for the final installment!

In this special three-part series of the Regulation Revolution Podcast, hosts Amy and Barry dive into the impact of media on mental health. They explore how movies, TV, social media, and books shape perceptions of mental health conditions, often reinforcing harmful stereotypes. In Part 1, they discuss resilience and self-efficacy, looking at how media representations influence our confidence and understanding of mental health. With personal insights and expert perspectives, they aim to shed light on the complexities of mental health beyond the extremes often shown in popular media. Stay tuned for deeper dives in the upcoming episodes!

In Rules of the Roost – The Couples Nervous System Dance, this episode of Regulation Revolution dives into the intricate interplay of emotions within relationships. Discover how partners' nervous systems interact, influencing communication, connection, and conflict. The discussion unpacks strategies for navigating emotional patterns, fostering mutual understanding, and creating harmony. Whether you're looking to deepen your relationships or better understand the dynamics at play, this episode offers valuable insights to help you thrive.

In this episode of Regulation Revolution, we explore The Play Zone and the concept of Blended States. Emotional regulation isn't just about managing reactions—it's about finding a space where curiosity, connection, and calm coexist. Join us as we dive into the nuances of these states, offering insights on navigating complex emotional landscapes and fostering resilience in both personal and professional spaces.

In this episode of Regulation Revolution, Amy and Barry dive into the concept of "Tiger Taming Drills" – a practical approach to help children (and adults) manage their emotional dysregulation. Drawing a parallel with fire drills, Amy explains how to create a plan for dysregulated moments, emphasizing the importance of practice in maintaining emotional control. The episode offers creative strategies for parents and educators to help kids safely channel their "tiger" energy, from using pillows for pounding to setting up designated areas for releasing built-up frustration. Listeners will learn how to: Identify the triggers and responses of a child’s dysregulated state. Tailor “tiger taming drills” to suit individual needs, whether it's punching, running, or shutting down. Teach and practice emotional regulation techniques in calm moments to ensure they’re accessible when emotions run high. Provide empowering alternatives to destructive behavior, without focusing on "fixing" the child, but instead, supporting their journey toward greater emotional control. Amy also highlights the importance of small successes, the patience required in the process, and how to avoid overwhelming the child by focusing on one manageable goal at a time.

Join Amy and Barry in this insightful episode of Regulation Revolution as they welcome Sgt. Robbie Reamer, a retired law enforcement officer with over 31 years of experience. They dive deep into the role of emotion regulation in policing, exploring how officers manage their own nervous systems while interacting with the public. Robbie shares gripping stories from his career, including a harrowing encounter with an individual in crisis, highlighting the importance of co-regulation and the balance between instinct and empathy in law enforcement. Tune in for a profound discussion on the intersection of trauma, regulation, and the realities of policing.

Join hosts Barry and Amy as they explore the often-overlooked topic of regulation in the workplace. In this episode, they share personal stories about navigating conflicts, managing emotions, and understanding the dynamics of power in professional relationships. Discover how to stay regulated amidst the challenges of working with diverse personalities and triggers. Tune in for insights that can transform your work environment!

In this engaging episode of Regulation Revolution, hosts Amy and Barry sit down with Robyn Gobbel, author of Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors, to explore the vital role of silliness as a protective mechanism in children. Together, they discuss how humor and play can serve as powerful tools for emotional regulation and connection. Robyn shares her unique metaphors for understanding nervous system states and functioning, helping parents and caregivers navigate the complexities of their children’s behaviors. The conversation highlights the importance of supporting parents without judgment, focusing on compassion rather than accountability for factors beyond their control. Tune in for a rich discussion filled with practical strategies, insightful anecdotes, and a refreshing perspective on parenting. Join Amy, Barry, and Robyn as they empower listeners to embrace silliness, foster understanding, and build a supportive community around the challenges of raising children with big emotions!

In this exciting episode of Regulation Revolution, hosts Amy and Barry dive into the new Disney Pixar film Inside Out 2! As Riley embarks on the tumultuous journey of adolescence, they explore how the movie beautifully illustrates the complexities of growing up and the evolving roles of our emotions. Amy and Barry discuss how all emotions are ultimately trying to help us, even when it doesn’t feel that way. With the introduction of new, complex emotions in Riley's life, they reflect on how this expansion mirrors the significant brain and body changes that come during adolescence. Sharing their own reactions to the film, Amy and Barry connect its themes to emotion regulation, drawing parallels with other movies that convey similar messages about feelings and growth. Join the conversation as they unpack the insights and takeaways from Inside Out 2, and share your own thoughts on how this film resonates with your experiences. Don’t miss this engaging exploration of emotions in a time of transformation!

In this thought-provoking episode of Regulation Revolution, hosts Amy and Barry tackle the intricate relationship between lying, authenticity, and boundaries—and how these elements play a crucial role in our ability to regulate emotions. Join them as they unpack the psychological motivations behind lying and the impact it has on both personal integrity and emotional health. Amy and Barry share compelling stories and research that illustrate the importance of authenticity in fostering genuine connections and promoting emotional resilience. They delve into the significance of setting healthy boundaries, discussing how clear limits can protect our emotional well-being and encourage honest communication. Through insightful dialogue and practical strategies, they explore how cultivating authenticity and establishing boundaries can empower listeners to enhance their emotion regulation skills. Whether you’re looking to improve your relationships or deepen your understanding of yourself, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating the complex terrain of honesty and emotional regulation. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that could transform the way you approach your emotions and interactions!

What made Fred Rogers to impactful in children's television? How was able to speak to and impact children through a television screen? Amy and Barry discuss the Mister Rogers effect in the context of regulation/co-regulation.

We’re thrilled to welcome our very first guest on Regulation Revolution: infant mental health expert Dr. Janet Courtney! Since we began with the foundation of regulation, it’s perfect to dive into how regulation starts in the womb and the crucial role of those early years. Dr. Courtney will explore topics like touch, infant communication, co-regulation, and much more. This episode will resonate with parents, teachers, and therapists alike. We didn’t cover everything, so stay tuned for more from Dr. Courtney in future episodes. Feel free to send us your questions or let us know what you’d like to hear more about!

No one likes to feel like they are "too much". What makes us feel "too hot to handle" and how can we support our loved ones and let them know it's ok. They aren't too much for us.

So how do we get back to the top of the ladder? How do we settle down our Tiger and get the Owl to come back? We have talked a lot about what wakes up Tigers, etc. Now we are going to talk about getting them back together again.

"Don't Yuck My Yum"

Physical signs that your Tiger may be in Ice mode more than the other states. What the body is doing, what it means and how we respond to it. Learn more about what your nervous system is doing in dorsal vagal and how your body is impacted by it when you are in collapsed/withdrawn mode on a regular basis - making your Ice Tiger your home away from home. 

Physical signs that your Tiger may be in Fire mode. What the body is doing, what it means and how we respond to it. Learn more about what your sympathetic nervous system is doing and how your body is impacted by it when you are in fight or flight or mode on a steady basis.

In this episode of "Regulation Revolution," Barry Vassar and Amy Reamer explore the role of the hippocampus, or "hippo," in memory and emotional responses. Amy introduces her hippo toy and discusses how this part of the brain affects learning and trauma. They share personal stories and practical insights on how the hippocampus interacts with the amygdala and prefrontal cortex to shape our reactions to stress. Tune in for valuable knowledge and tips on managing trauma and engaging with your emotional brain. Don't forget to help name Amy's hippo!

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Regulation Revolution! In this episode, hosts Barry Vassar and Amy Reamer dive deep into understanding the "Owl" – our logical brain, also known as the prefrontal cortex. Discover how this vital part of our brain helps us think logically and process language, and why it sometimes "flies away" when emotions run high. Amy explains the fascinating interplay between our "Owl" and the "Tiger" (emotional brain) and shares practical tips for bringing the Owl back when it's needed most.

Get acquainted with your inner Tiger, aka the amygdala, in this insightful episode. Delve deeper into understanding this primal part of your brain, including its fascinating inability to differentiate between past, present, and future. Did you realize that babies are born with a fully developed Tiger? Tune in to discover more intriguing facts about your Tiger and gain a better understanding of its role in your daily life.

Join Amy and Barry as they open up about their experiences with dysregulation, reminding viewers and listeners that they are not alone in their struggles. (Hear about Amy's freakout during a snorkeling trip and Barry's triumph over the Tiger on a rope ladder)

Join Amy and Barry in a deep dive into classroom dynamics as they explore the intricacies of regulation and co-regulation. Discover how teachers navigate their own regulation alongside the needs of their students' 30 unique nervous systems. From strategies for maintaining a balanced classroom environment to the impact of emergency drills on student anxiety and regulation, this episode sheds light on the challenges and strategies of being the main co-regulator in the room. 

How do I do relationship with a teenager, when it doesn't work the same way it did as a kid? Join us in talking about regulation in the teen and young adult years - and how do we survive this time period as adults in relationship with young people during this tumultuous period. We all think the teens are going through the growth spurt but this is an extremely difficult time period for many parents as well. Amy often says "give me a dirty diaper any day - much easier than this transition to adulthood thing!"

Join Amy and Barry in an insightful discussion about emotion regulation in school-age children. In this episode, we explore what regulation and dysregulation look like in kids aged 3-12, as they navigate preschool, elementary, and middle school years. Discover what children need from adults during this critical developmental stage and explore common triggers that challenge adult regulation. Share your examples of signs of dysregulation and gain valuable insights into supporting children's emotional well-being.

So what is co-regulation? Who do we co-regulate with? How does it impact a child's development - our relationships? Co-regulation is a lot about how our nervous system is talking with another nervous system - maybe our partner, a friend, a pet - or it could be with the rhythm of a song - or the sounds of the ocean or nature. The more co-regulation we receive growing up - the better our self-regulation tends to be. Check it out - let us know your thoughts - what do you want to hear more about? If you prefer video - want to see who's doing all this talking - check out and subscribe to our youtube channel in addition to following us on your favorite podcast app!

**This is a new corrected audio file - the original upload was cut short - we apologize." We continue discussion on co-regulation and how we support children's emotional regulation abilities which serve as a foundation for achieving success in areas like relationships, work and happiness - which is usually the #1 goal we have for children! Let us know your thoughts - what would you like to hear more about? We want to help everyone be OK even when things are not OK! If you enjoy video versions, want to see who's talking etc visit our youtube page for the video version of this podcast!

This is a corrected file - we apologize the first upload of this episode the file was cut short by 11 minutes - so if you listened before and want to try it again - it's all here this time! We are discussing children being born into generation Alpha and Beta recently or coming up and how we as parents and caregivers and other adults influencing the emotional development of children can best support that important - early foundation!

Part 2 - a continuation of looking at the impact caregivers can have on setting up their infants and young children for success in regulating their world.

Let's start in the beginning - regulation is born before the baby! Did you know babies are born with full grown Tigers? Want to know more about how regulation is started - how we set a good foundation for children to have good emotion regulation? Listen to this episode and then go on to part 2 - They've Arrived - to hear more about after babies are born. PS - the quote at the beginning of this episode is from Marion I van den Heuvel (2022) we failed to give her name - so sorry Marion - thank you for your research on babies!

Join us for Regulation Revolution, a podcast that focuses on the importance of emotional regulation in all aspects of life. Our mission is to empower our listeners to recognize dysregulation, build emotional intelligence, and lead a fulfilling life. Through our podcasts, you'll gain insight into the science of emotional regulation, learn techniques for recognizing dysregulation in yourself and others and receive tools for co-regulation. Tune in and join us on this exciting journey!