#135: Why Adult Dysregulation Looks Like Resistance (And What to Do About It) Artwork

Coaching the Whole Educator

Coaching the Whole Educator is a podcast for instructional coaches, teacher leaders, and school leaders who want to strengthen their educators’ effectiveness and resilience, especially the ones who need it most. Each week, you’ll hear quick tips, proven strategies, and coaching mindsets designed to keep you on top of your coaching game.

This show is rooted in a human-centered approach, where we get things done through people’s humanity, not around it. Whether you’re new to instructional coaching or a seasoned instructional coach or leader looking for fresh perspective, you’ll learn how to focus on the mindsets and motivations driving unproductive behaviors. By getting to the root of resistance, you’ll discover how to build stronger relationships, lead with clarity, and create lasting impact in your school.

All Episodes

Coaching the Whole Educator

#135: Why Adult Dysregulation Looks Like Resistance (And What to Do About It)

May 04, 2025 • Becca Silver • Season 3 • Episode 135

Send us a text

What looks like resistance is often dysregulation in disguise—showing up as avoidance, blame, or burnout.

We talk all the time about helping kids manage their emotions, but what about adults? When adults become dysregulated, their brains shift from thoughtful decision-making to fight-or-flight mode, sabotaging effective communication and clear thinking. Kim Hall breaks down exactly what's happening during these moments and shares a simple, powerful strategy to hit the “calm the heck down” button—helping you move from knee-jerk reactions to intentional responses.

Because as coaches and leaders, we can’t effectively support our beautiful educators and students until we've regulated ourselves first.

The Whole Educator is now booking for the 2025–2026 school year—keynotes, PD, and our Human Centered Academy are all designed to turn resistance into real progress. Check out the options at https://bit.ly/WholeEdPrograms and let’s make next year the one where things finally shift.

🌐 Explore Kim’s work:

Lots of free tutorials on YouTube

Find all of her classes and courses on the Flourish Teaching Platform