

The Baffling Behavior Show {Parenting after Trauma}
Robyn Gobbel
Formerly the Parenting after Trauma podcast, internationally recognized children's mental health expert Robyn Gobbel decodes the most baffling behaviors for parents of kids with vulnerable nervous systems. If you're parenting a child who has experienced trauma or toxic stress or a child with a neuroimmune disorder, sensory processing, or other nervous system vulnerability, this show will let you know you are not alone. You can stop playing behavior whack-a-mole because Robyn offers you tools that actually work. You can become your child's expert, feel more confident as a parent, and bring more connection and clarity into your family.Educators, therapists, coaches and consultants- you too can learn all about what behavior really is and become more effective at helping the families you support. You can love your work again!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 10, 2025 • 31min
EP 225: How to Stay Curious When Behavior Makes No Sense
Discover the transformative power of curiosity in parenting, especially when faced with perplexing behaviors. Learn how to shift your mindset from 'what’s wrong?' to 'what's needed?' Curiosity acts as a guide for understanding your child's hidden needs, promoting emotional regulation and compassion. Delve into why baffling behaviors like lying or stealing may hold clues to deeper issues. Engaging in reflective exercises can aid both personal growth and your child’s success, fostering a safer and more empathetic environment.

11 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 34min
EP 224: Is Behavior Change the Goal?
Is behavior change really the first priority when dealing with challenging kids? It turns out, focusing on the nervous system might be key to long-term solutions. Discover why even baffling behaviors make sense when you dig deeper. The discussion highlights the significance of creating a safe and regulated environment for children. Plus, learn about vital resources and community support that can aid parents and professionals navigating this journey together. It's all about connection and understanding!

8 snips
May 27, 2025 • 39min
EP 223: What a Trigger REALLY Is
Discover the fascinating science behind triggers and why they can suddenly take over our emotions. The discussion reveals how unresolved memories impact our parenting responses. Learn practical strategies to ground yourself and reconnect with your children amidst challenging moments. Dive into the ripple effect of parenting challenges and their positive influence on society. Plus, explore a supportive community designed for parents, packed with resources to navigate the complexities of raising children with unique needs.

4 snips
May 20, 2025 • 39min
Ep. 222: Lying, Stealing, Regression & Baby Talk
Discover the intriguing connection between regression, lying, and stealing, all examined through the lens of neurobiology. Delve into state-dependent functioning to understand how a child's nervous system influences their behavior. The discussion highlights the complexities of time perception and its effects on decision-making and impulse control. Additionally, learn about new resources and a professional training program designed for those facing complex behavioral challenges, fostering safety and emotional regulation for children.

May 13, 2025 • 30min
Ep. 221: A Brain-Based Way to Understand Baffling Behavior
Dive into the fascinating world of children's behavior through the lens of the nervous system! Discover what the 'owl,' 'watchdog,' and 'possum' brains mean for your child's actions. Learn how to recognize which brain state is at play, and understand why calming these protective responses is essential. Instead of fixing behavior, the focus is on providing connection and safety. With practical insights and strategies, this discussion offers parents valuable tools to nurture their child's growth and emotional well-being.

May 6, 2025 • 20min
EP 220: Mini Pep-Talk for When You Feel Like You’re Failing
If you’ve clicked on this episode because you’re feeling like you're failing—at parenting, at keeping it together, at helping your child—I'm really glad you’re here.Because first, I want you to know this: you’re not failing. You’re doing something incredibly hard. Parenting a child with a vulnerable nervous system, whether your child has been impacted by trauma, or has sensory differences, or just has a brain wired a little differently, is extremely intensive parenting. I created this episode so you can:Easily return to it when you need a ‘mini pep talk’Listen in a short period of time- I know I’m usually a little long-windedBe reminded as often as you need: this isn’t your fault. You’re not failingResources mentioned in this podcast:All Behavior Makes Sense infographicEpisodes to listen to if you are in burnoutRead the full transcript at: RobynGobbel.com/peptalkTeaching kids about their owl, watchdog, and possum brain is one key piece of growing their owl brain and calming their watchdog and possum brain!Register for this once-a-year webinar on September 4, 2025 at RobynGobbel.com/TeachKidsTheBrainYou'll get access to the recording and OODLES of resources.Club Members- you do NOT have to register!!!*** :::Grab a copy of my book Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors robyngobbel.com/bookJoin us in The Club for more support! robyngobbel.com/TheClubApply for the Baffling Behavior Training Institute's Professional Immersion Program (formerly Being With) robyngobbel.com/ImmersionFollow Me On:FacebookInstagram Over on my website you can find:Webinar and eBook on Focus on the Nervous System to Change Behavior (FREE)eBook on The Brilliance of Attachment (FREE)LOTS & LOTS of FREE ResourcesOngoing support, connection, and co-regulation for struggling parents: The ClubYear-Long Immersive & Holistic Training Program for Parenting Professionals: The Baffling Behavior Training Institute’s (BBTI) Professional Immersion Program (formerly Being With)

Apr 29, 2025 • 49min
Ep 219: 20 Non-Therapy Therapeutic Interventions
If your kid refuses therapy, what other options are there?Or maybe they don’t refuse therapy, but you’d still like to increase the therapeutic support for your child and family.Here are 20 different non-therapy therapeutic supports based on Dr. Perry’s work of ‘moments of healing’ and experiences that are rhythmic, repetitive, relational, and somatosensoryOver on my website, you can download a handout that lists them all out (and was generated with the help of AI) so you don’t have to take notes!Resources mentioned in this podcast:Moments of Healing PodcastHow the Brainstem Heals {EP 49}Equine-Assisted Trauma-Informed Psychotherapy {EP 51}Read the full transcript at: RobynGobbel.com/therapeuticinterventionsFollow Me On:FacebookInstagramOver on my website you can find:Webinar and eBook on Focus on the Nervous System to Change Behavior (FREE)eBook on The Brilliance of Attachment (FREE)LOTS & LOTS of FREE ResoTeaching kids about their owl, watchdog, and possum brain is one key piece of growing their owl brain and calming their watchdog and possum brain!Register for this once-a-year webinar on September 4, 2025 at RobynGobbel.com/TeachKidsTheBrainYou'll get access to the recording and OODLES of resources.Club Members- you do NOT have to register!!!*** Check Out All Robyn's Free Resources!You can download all sorts of free resources, including webinars, eBook, and infographics about topics such as lying, boundaries, and co-regulation!RobynGobbel.com/FreeResources Applications for the 2026 cohorts of the Baffling Behavior Training Institute's Professional Immersion Program are now open! You MUST be on the waiting list to apply! Get on the waiting list at RobynGobbel.com/immersion :::Grab a copy of my book Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors robyngobbel.com/bookJoin us in The Club for more support! robyngobbel.com/TheClubApply for the Baffling Behavior Training Institute's Professional Immersion Program (formerly Being With) robyngobbel.com/ImmersionFollow Me On:FacebookInstagram Over on my website you can find:Webinar and eBook on Focus on the Nervous System to Change Behavior (FREE)eBook on The Brilliance of Attachment (FREE)LOTS & LOTS of FREE ResourcesOngoing support, connection, and co-regulation for struggling parents: The ClubYear-Long Immersive & Holistic Training Program for Parenting Professionals: The Baffling Behavior Training Institute’s (BBTI) Professional Immersion Program (formerly Being With)

18 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 53min
Ep 218: Questions to ask a Potential Therapist
Discover essential questions to ask potential therapists, focusing on understanding behaviors through the nervous system. Learn about crucial red flags and what qualifications signal a therapist's trauma-informed approach. Get tips for fostering a relational atmosphere that emphasizes connection and safety during therapy. Explore how to integrate therapeutic moments into everyday life, making the process more engaging for reluctant children. Access valuable resources and downloadable handouts to aid in finding the right fit for your family's needs.

4 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 33min
Ep. 217: Co-Regulating? Or Masking?
Exploring the balance between co-regulation and masking, the discussion reveals how parents of children with vulnerable nervous systems can experience both good and bad exhaustion. Self-compassion emerges as crucial in this parenting journey. Listeners learn that co-regulating their child also requires their own need for connection. Resources for parents aiming to navigate these challenges are highlighted, along with an invitation to join a supportive community for ongoing engagement and professional development.

16 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 38min
Ep. 216: "On Purpose" Behavior
Explore the mysterious world of 'on purpose' behaviors in children, discovering that they stem from deeper emotional experiences rather than simple defiance. The discussion emphasizes the importance of empathy, regulation, and connection when addressing these challenging behaviors. Gain insights on how to respond effectively, ensuring that safety and understanding guide your approach. Plus, learn about valuable resources to assist in navigating these baffling behaviors in parenting!