Episode 15
Interoception: The missing link in emotional and behavioural health

In this episode with Kelly Mahler, a leading expert on interoception, we dive into what interoception really means and why it’s such a game-changer. Kelly explains how interoception is about tuning into the signals inside our bodies — like hunger, thirst, heart rate, and emotions — and how understanding these can totally change the way we relate to ourselves and others.

We hear about how this awareness is especially powerful for kids and families, helping them move away from traditional compliance-based approaches that can feel controlling or punitive. Instead, Kelly champions a gentler, collaborative way where kids learn to recognize what their bodies need to manage challenges and build resilience.

The conversation also touches on some of the resistance people face when trying to shift away from old methods, but Kelly reminds us that it’s not about chaos — structure and expectations are still super important, just balanced with empathy and curiosity about what’s really going on beneath the surface.

One exciting highlight is Kelly’s upcoming kids’ book series on interoception, co-written with her daughter, that invites kids to explore their body signals through experiments and stories, making the science of interoception accessible and engaging.

Overall, the interview leaves us with a fresh perspective on how paying attention to our internal experiences can lead to healthier relationships, better emotional regulation, and a more compassionate approach to parenting and teaching.

Important Messages

• Interoception = Internal body awareness: It’s the sense of what’s happening inside your body — hunger, temperature, emotions, and more. Interoception-based approaches promote safe, collaborative boundaries, so instead of blaming kids for difficult behavior, by asking “What’s going on inside your body?” we can help open a door to understanding and support.

• Moving beyond compliance: Traditional “follow the rules” approaches can miss what kids really need; listening to their body signals helps build resilience and cooperation. Structure still matters, it’s not about “no rules,” but about flexible expectations that respect a child’s bodily experiences.

Resources Mentioned

• Learn more about Kelly’s work

Kelly Mahler (she/her)

Kelly Mahler is an award-winning occupational therapist, author, and interoception groupie known for her boundless curiosity and empathetic approach. Holding a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy, she has served school-aged children and adults for over 22 years. Kelly is author of 12 resources including The Interoception Curriculum, now used in over 30 countries worldwide. She enjoys speaking internationally on interoception, neuro affirming practices, and playful strategies for inner exploration using a lens of curiosity, validation and empathy.