S2 EP 19 - Anger & Reactivity: Under Pressure

Anger feels fast. Powerful. Loud. But what’s really underneath it?

In this special, kid-requested episode, Suzanne M. Swain, EDS, LMSW — child therapist, educational specialist, and veteran middle school teacher — talks directly to tweens and teens about anger in a world that feels a little… charged.

Why does anger rise so quickly? What’s actually happening in your brain when you react? And how can choosing calm make you stronger — not weaker?

Suzanne breaks down:

• Why anger is often a “cover emotion” hiding fear, embarrassment, hurt, or feeling out of control
• Why you are not responsible for adult stress
• How to stop reactivity before it takes over
• What it means to regulate instead of react
• Simple, science-backed tools to reset your nervous system (hello, Lemonheads and the 90-second rule)

This episode is especially supportive for neurodivergent kids and sensitive hearts who feel overwhelmed by loud energy. Suzanne reminds listeners that peace isn’t flashy — it’s steady. And steady is powerful.

You don’t have to match someone else’s storm.
 You can be the anchor.

Perfect for middle schoolers, teens, and the grown-ups who love them.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

Special thanks to our producer, StellaMix podcast productions, another Palm Beach County School of the Art collaboration. Need a podcast? Stellamix.com

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

Support the show

If this episode helped your family or your classroom, you can support the work behind Middle School Mary Poppins by visiting msmarypoppins.com and clicking Support the Show.

Your support helps  keep the podcast free, research-based, and focused on emotional health for kids—especially neurodivergent tweens and teens.

Thank you for being part of this community. 💛