Why do some kids respond to guidance while others push back? In this episode of The Safe Space Podcast, I, Malakai explore a simple but powerful truth: real change begins with connection.

This episode breaks down why correction often fails without relationship, how disconnection shows up as behavior, and what it actually means to build trust with kids without losing boundaries. You’ll hear practical ways to create emotional safety, strengthen relationships, and guide behavior in a way that feels supportive instead of controlling.

If you work with kids and want your guidance to land with impact, this episode will remind you that connection isn’t optional — it’s the foundation for growth.

All music provided by the insanely gifted "TheBarneyDesk" on YouTube!

No adult gets it right all the time — and that’s okay. In this episode of The Safe Space Podcast, I, Malakai, talk about what truly matters after a hard moment with a child: repair.

This episode explores why repair is more powerful than perfection, how unaddressed moments can affect a child’s sense of safety, and how simple, sincere apologies can restore trust. You’ll learn what healthy repair looks like, what it is not, and how modeling accountability teaches kids emotional responsibility and resilience.

If you’ve ever walked away from a situation wishing you’d handled it differently, this episode will remind you that growth doesn’t come from never making mistakes — it comes from how we return, reconnect, and rebuild.

All music provided by the insanely talented Matthew Goldstein!

Kids experience emotions just as deeply as adults — they just don’t yet have the tools to manage them. In this episode of The Safe Space Podcast, I, Malakai, explore why children often react with big emotions and how adults can help them learn emotional regulation in healthy, supportive ways.

This episode breaks down what emotional regulation really looks like, why emotions aren’t the enemy, and how calm, connected adults can model the skills kids need. You’ll hear practical strategies for helping children name their feelings, release emotions safely, and recover after emotional outbursts — without shame or punishment.

If you work with kids and want to guide them through big feelings with patience and purpose, this episode will help you teach emotional skills that last far beyond childhood.

All music heard is credited to the amazingly talented Matt Goldstein and JG'S Barney Musical Arena!