ADHD Essentials

In this episode, I continue the tradition of dragging a bunch of people into my room to reflect on the day's events of the ADHD Conference.  There were a bunch of us - Members of the Men's ADHD Support Group, Inger Shay Colzie, ADHD Nerd Dad, Teresa Taylor, ADHDruid, and Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells - we had pizza.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

In today’s episode we talk to Suchi Deshpande.  Suchi is the founder of Learnfully, a digital learning platform, balanced with insights from machine learning and expert human interaction. that connects specialists and caregivers to gain a deeper, more accurate, and actionable understanding of the learning needs of their kids.

Suchi talks to us about how Learnfully helps neurodiverse kids access education.  She discusses the importance of figuring out your kid’s learning profile, the role anxiety plays in education, why support has to work for both the family and the kid, the power of getting diagnosed as an adult, and the importance of trying differently rather than harder.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Suchi and her work at https://learnfully.com/

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

In today’s episode of ADHD Essentials, we talk to Rebecca Rolland.  Rebecca is an author, speech language pathologist and lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. 

She talks to us about her book, “The Art of Talking with Children”.  We discuss the Zone of Proximal Development, the role of temperament in conversation, the principles of social talk, and boundary setting.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Rebecca and her work at https://rebeccarolland.com/
• Buy Rebecca's book here

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

In today’s episode, we talk to Cris -a web developer and software engineer who has created Focus101.com, an outstanding virtual body-doubling tool.

Cris talks to us about how Focus 101 works, the power of co-working and bodydoubling, and the importance of playing with your own creations.  

Guest Links:

• Check Out Focus101.com here!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

It's just me for this episode.  I'm sharing some reflections and lessons on helping that I've learned after the trials of the COVID pandemic, caring for a son with OCD, and supporting a dad with cancer.  And stay to the end for a special announcement about my latest project!

Links to the Friends and Colleagues I Thanked in this Episode:  

• Jessica McCabe
  
  • Her upcoming book - "How to ADHD"
    
    
• Jordan Harbinger
  • His podcast - "The Jordan Harbinger Show"
    
    
• Caroline Maguire
  • Her book - "Why Will No One Play With Me?"

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

In today’s episode, we talk to Ying, a Chinese immigrant to the United States who has ADHD who goes by the handle, ADHD Asian Girl on Twitter.

She talks to us about how Asian cultural expectations affect her ADHD, cultural and neurodiverse masking, how ADHD increases challenges of being an immigrant, as well as mindfulness and the calming power of shaking and dancing.

>>>Learn About Both ADHD Conferences Here<<<

Guest Links:

•  Follow Ying on Twitter!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Jessie is an ADHD influencer who goes by the handle ADHDJesse, and the author of “Extra Focus: The Quick Start Guide to Adult ADHD”.

Jesse talks to us about his new book, “Extra Focus, and shares some tips from it.  We discuss the modern view of ADHD, Jesse’s four Cs of motivation, and juggling chainsaws.

Guest Links:

Learn more about Jesse and his work here!

Get Jesse's book, "Extra Focus" here!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

In today’s episode, we talk to ADHD creator and friend of the show, Dani Donovan!  (Dani has created the Anti-Planner, a phenomenal tool for helping folks with ADHD get stuff done.)

Dani talks to us about the Anti-Planner, and why it it such a powerful tool for folks with ADHD. She shares some of the strategies in it.  Strategies that she actually used in creating it!  (Like letting yourself bounce from one strategy to another, paper football decision-making, KanBan boards, even strategies for meal planning!)

Guest Links:

Check Out Dani's work here!

And buy the Anti-planner Here! 

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

In today’s episode, we talk about the Men’s ADHD Support Group with founders Marc Almodovar and Kristian Moton.  Marc and Kristian discuss the reason they started the group, and the needs they’re meeting with it. 

They talk about the shame that ADHD and similar mental health struggles can create for men, how the cultural resistance to male vulnerability both impedes healing and leads to anger, the power of self-talk, the importance of community, and their goals for the Men’s ADHD Support Group.

Guest Links:

Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Here

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

This is the 250th episode of the ADHD Essentials Podcast. For those of you who have been wondering why the show has been inconsistent for the last little while, this is your answer.  I hope you find meaning and comfort in our story.  

In today’s episode, my family and I share the mental health struggles that have affected our lives over the past four years, as well as the things we did to address, and eventually, overcome them.  This episode is mainly about my son Nathan’s struggle with severe Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, but the lessons hiding inside it related to compassion, family, and perseverance apply to all mental health challenges, ADHD included.

A few notes: 

I did not propose the idea.  My kids did.  They wanted to do this for the 250th episode.  

Also, we talk pretty frankly about Nate’s OCD, and even joke about some of the events it caused.  None of that was done with resentment or ill will.  The entire conversation was based in love and acceptance.  If anyone, especially Nate, had appeared uncomfortable or distressed by the conversation at any point, I would have ended it and not posted this.  

Finally, this was recorded in January.  The boys finished 8th grade two days prior to posting, and did so with great success.  I’m proud to say that in the time since we recorded, our entire family has moved from a place of healing to a place of growth growth.

OCD Resource Links:

• International OCD Foundation:
  https://iocdf.org/
• McLean Hospital's OCD Programs:
  https://www.mcleanhospital.org/treatment/ocd-institute
  
• NOCD:
  https://www.treatmyocd.com/
  

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Today, we’re talking to Seoniadh Jameson.  Seoniadh is a fitness professional with ADHD and the author of “Why You Skipped Your Workout”.

Seoniadh talks to us about her book, and exercise in general.  She discusses the mind-body connection and how exercising can help our brains, the nature of making changes in our lives, the power of self-talk, and the emotional side of ADHD and exercise.

>>>  Learn About the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups

Lynn is a psychotherapist, author, and speaker in private practice for over 30 years.  She specializes in treating anxiety disorders in adults and children.

Lynne talks to us about her book “The Anxiety Audit”, and anxiety in general.  She discusses the differences between stress, anxiety, and worry, how accommodations play a different role treating ADHD than they do with anxiety, where many parents go wrong with their kid’s anxiety, all or nothing thinking, and how anxiety affects us physiologically.

>>>Get Your ADHD Essentials Merch Here!!!

It's just me for this episode.  I'm sharing my thoughts on neurodiverse masking - what it is, why we do it, and the need for a more nuanced conversation in that area with regard to what I'm seeing online.

Today, we’re talking to author Caroline Maguire.  Caroline is the author of “Why Will No One Play With Me?”, as well as a social skills and ADHD coach.  She recently did a TEDx Talk about her social spy approach to improving our interpersonal skills.   

Caroline talks to us about being a social spy during the holidays.  She shares how (and what) to observe when we first enter into social situations, why it’s so important to read the room, helping sensitive kids manage their sensitivity, and ways to gamify the teaching of social skills.

David talks to us about burnout. We discuss causes of burnout, different kinds, including professional and caregiver burnout, and David gives us tips for both managing and avoiding it.

Alright, let’s get rolling.

>>>Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups

Today, we're continuing our annual episodes from the International ADHD Conference.  This episode, as well as the previous and the next are all quick, minimally edited group debriefs of ADHD Con 2022.  My guests for this chat are numerous, honestly, I'm toasted from the conference.  But among them are ADHD luminaries Dani Donovan, Jessica McCabe, Caroline Maguire, Eric Tivers, and Cate Osborn, as well as past show guests Dr. Caroline Lentzsch-Parcells and Chris from NASA.  That's a lot of names.  I didn't even mention everyone.  We may have had a pizza party.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified

Today, we're continuing our annual episodes from the International ADHD Conference.  This episode, as well as the previous and the next are all quick, minimally edited group debriefs of ADHD Con 2022.  My guest for this chat are Lollie Weeks, Kate Barrett, Marc Almodovar, Elizabeth Kilmer, John Hazelwood, and Michelle Buzgon.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified

Today, we're beginning our annual episodes from the International ADHD Conference.  This episode, and the following two are all quick, minimally edited group debriefs of ADHD Con 2022.  My guest for this chat are Anne Marie Nantais, Keith Gelhorn, Keith Griffin, and Zach Gershon.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified

Dr. Russell is a former psychology professor, and the founder and owner of Russell Coaching for Students.  Russell Coaching is one of the largest student coaching practices in America, and works with complex students to help them develop executive functioning skills and social emotional skills.

Norrine talks to us about lying and ADHD.  She shares reasons why our kids might lie to us (and themselves), and why it’s not as offensive as we might think.  She also shares how the core deficits of ADHD relate to lying, and things to do to reduce and even prevent lying. 

>>>Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups

Shane is an ADHD coach, sits on the board for the Inattentive ADHD Coalition, and moderates the largest men’s ADHD group on Facebook. 

Shane shares his ADHD diagnosis story, and the role his son played in it.  He talks about how his parenting journey - the ways that our parents, for good or for ill, set the bar for us as parents, and why owning our mistakes as parents can be both incredibly hard and incredibly important. He also discusses his involvement with both the Men’s ADHD Support Group on Facebook (and how they help their members move beyond toxic behaviors so they can have healthy, supportive interactions), and the Inattentive ADHD Coalition (which seeks to help raise awareness of Inattentive ADHD).

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Shane at https://www.creatingorderfromchaos.com/
  
  
• Find the Men's ADHD at https://www.facebook.com/groups/mensadhdsupportgroup/members
  
  
• Learn more about the Inattentive ADHD Coalition here: https://www.iadhd.org/

Where's Brendan?

• November 7th– I’m part of the Putting Mama First Virtual Summit where I’ll be talking about why setting boundaries is part of self-care, and how to set them.
  
  
• November 7th– I’m also part of the See Beyond ADHD Virtual Summit.  This one is a more free ranging interview where I talk about everything from the foundations of ADHD management, to homeschooling, to why we should give ourselves more credit.
  
  
• November 17th– I’ll be at the International Conference on ADHD in Texas sharing a workshop on for ADHD professionals on how to be a good podcast guest.
  
  
• November 18th– I’ll still be at the ADHD conference, and I’ll be hosting a panel of ADHD influencers featuring Jessica McCabe, René Brooks, John Hazelwood, and Dani Donovan.
  
  
• December 3rd - I'm on a panel at the board gaming convention, PAX Unplugged in Philly, talking about the relationships between ADHD and Dungeons and Dragons.
  
  

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified

Today, it's just me.  I'm discussing a metaphor I've been sharing for years in my workshops, but somehow haven't brought to the podcast yet.  It's a way to pay more attention to the things that are going smoothly, rather than the things that are getting in the way and causing trouble.  It's an important skill to develop, so we can reinforce the things we want, and have a better outlook on our lives.  And it's especially critical with ADHD in the mix.

Where's Brendan?

• November 1st– I'll be doing a live webinar for ADDitude on how teachers and parents can help lonely teenagers who are dealing with peer rejection.
• November 7th– I’m part of the Putting Mama First Virtual Summit where I’ll be talking about why setting boundaries is part of self-care, and how to set them.
  
  
• November 7th– I’m also part of the See Beyond ADHD Virtual Summit.  This one is a more free ranging interview where I talk about everything from the foundations of ADHD management, to homeschooling, to why we should give ourselves more credit.
  
  
• November 17th– I’ll be at the International Conference on ADHD in Texas sharing a workshop on for ADHD professionals on how to be a good podcast guest.
  
  
• November 18th– I’ll still be at the ADHD conference, and I’ll be hosting a panel of ADHD influencers featuring Jessica McCabe, René Brooks, John Hazelwood, and Dani Donovan.
  
  
• December 3rd - I'm on a panel at the board gaming convention, PAX Unplugged in Philly, talking about the relationships between ADHD and Dungeons and Dragons.
  
  

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re talking to Dr. Elizabeth Kilmer. Dr. Kilmer is a licensed clinical psychologist and the director of education and training at Game to Grow. 

In this outstanding interview Elizabeth shares a brief exploration of the ways Dungeons and Dragons supports social growth, and then for the bulk of the interview we examine the SPARK model from Game to Grow’s Critical Core program, and how parents can use this guide for good game mastering to improve their parenting. 

I recognize that this interview might seem a bit niche and geeky.  But I promise, even if you have zero interest in Dungeons and Dragons, you’ll find it the information useful.  Throughout, we’re essentially looking at the similarities and metaphorical interconnections between being and game master and being a parent and leader.  Besides, it’s been a few years since I last did a D&D episode. 

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Dr. Elizabeth Kilmer at https://gametogrow.org/about/staff/elizabethkilmer/
  
  
• Learn more about Game to Grow at https://gametogrow.org
  
  
• Learn more about Critical Core at https://gametogrow.org/essentials/
  Use the code "essentials" for a 10% discount!

Where's Brendan?

• November 1st– I'll be doing a live webinar for ADDitude on how teachers and parents can help lonely teenagers who are dealing with peer rejection.
• November 7th– I’m part of the Putting Mama First Virtual Summit where I’ll be talking about why setting boundaries is part of self-care, and how to set them.
  
  
• November 7th– I’m also part of the See Beyond ADHD Virtual Summit.  This one is a more free ranging interview where I talk about everything from the foundations of ADHD management, to homeschooling, to why we should give ourselves more credit.
  
  
• November 17th– I’ll be at the International Conference on ADHD in Texas sharing a workshop on for ADHD professionals on how to be a good podcast guest.
  
  
• November 18th– I’ll still be at the ADHD conference, and I’ll be hosting a panel of ADHD influencers featuring Jessica McCabe, René Brooks, John Hazelwood, and Dani Donovan.
  
  
• December 3rd - I'm on a panel at the board gaming convention, PAX Unplugged in Philly, talking about the relationships between ADHD and Dungeons and Dragons.
  
  

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re talking to Alex Gilbert of Capeable Consulting.  Alex is a New Yorker (Go Mets), a yogi, and a brunch enthusiast.  After spending her career in leadership development, Alex has moved into the coaching and consulting with people with learning disabilities and ADHD.

In this excellent, wide ranging episode, Alex talks to us about ADHD and careers.  She shares what our favorite games can tell us about the careers we should pursue, how to navigate our weaknesses at work, the roles boredom and excitement play for ADHDers at work, how to distinguish between things that are hard and things that are challenging, ways to help our kids get jobs, and why extracurriculars are so valuable.  

>>>CHECK OUT THE ADHD SUMMIT OCTOBER 17-20

Today, we’re talking to Holly Blanc Moses.  Holly is a psychologist who helps neurodiverse kids, adults, and families.  She’s also one of the hosts of the upcoming ADHD Summit that I mentioned earlier.  You can find my link in the show notes.

In this episode, Holly talks to us about ADHD in girls. We discuss how cultural expectations influence the way ADHD symptoms affect girls, the importance of nature of girls’ social relationships, and the prominent role that anxiety can play in the life of girls with ADHD.

>>>CHECK OUT THE ADHD SUMMIT OCTOBER 17-20

Today, we’re talking to Cathy Rashidian of Ready Set Choose Coaching.  Cathy is an executive and ADHD coach to emerging leaders, and the host of the Proudly ADHD podcast.

In this episode, we discuss the importance of moving beyond structure, routine, and productivity when it comes to managing ADHD, why we should take more care in looking at home much time we actually have to do things, menstruation and ADHD, and the relationship between production, emotions and processing styles.

Side note, this episode is overdue.  It was recorded back in February before things went off the rails for me.  So, some of the examples might be a little out of season.  Sorry about that, but it’s good to be back!

>>>Register for a free call about my parenting groups here!

Today, it's just me, your host in abstencia.  In today’s episode, I share a little bit about the family stuff I've been going through that led to the podcast being so intermittent of late, pledge to return to weekly posting moving forward, and share a lesson of two about parenting (and just being human) that I've learned as a result of all this.

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

• ADHD reWired
• ADHD Essentials
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re talking to Amanda Morin. Amanda works in print and digital media as a writer and editor, empowering parents and educators to affirm the pivotal roles they play in children’s education. She played an integral role in launching Understood.org in 2014.

In today’s episode, we discuss what Understood.org is and why it’s so valuable, learning loss during the pandemic, masking, and the importance of acceptance for neurodiversity.

• Learn more about Amanda and her work at https://www.amandamorin.com
  
  
• Explore Understood.org

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

• ADHD reWired
• ADHD Essentials
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re talking to Brandon Tessers of Effective Artistry.  Brandon is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), trained professional actor, amateur singer/songwriter, former schoolteacher, and a self-described “enthusiastic if sometimes ill-prepared husband and father”. He’s been helping children and adults with their executive functioning for over a decade, and has been doing so as a licensed therapist for the last five years.

In this wide ranging episode, Brandon shares his Accomplishment Equation. He talks about motivation as resource management, ways to recover energy, negative vs positive aims, and why change requires discomfort.

• Learn more about Brandon Tessers at https://centerforeffectiveartistry.com

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

• ADHD reWired
• ADHD Essentials
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

In this episode we’re talking to therapist and author, Claire Bidwell Smith.  Claire is a grief expert, and her latest book is “Anxiety: The Missing Stage of Grief”. 

In this episode, Claire talks to us about grief.  She discusses the interconnections between anxiety and grief, a few different models and perspectives on the subject, it’s cyclical nature, the importance of making space for grief, how to handle it with kids, and why grief is around us more than we might think.

Learn more about Claire and her work at https://clairebidwellsmith.com

Get Claire's books at https://clairebidwellsmith.com/books/

•  ADHD reWired
• ADHD Essentials
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Today, we’re revisiting an episode from May of 2020 with Richard Tedeschi.  Richard originated the concept of posttraumatic growth with his colleague Lawrence Calhoun during their years at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. More recently, he has been applying the posttraumatic growth concept in the development of innovative programs for combat veterans and first responders. The success of which is leading to their implementation at a number of venues across the country. His new book about the growth experiences of military families is Transformed by Trauma: Stories of Posttraumatic Growth (2020).

In Today’s Episode, Dr. Tedeschi talks to us about trauma, PTSD, and Post traumatic growth as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic.  We discuss how getting clear on our beliefs can help us more effectively navigate this crisis, the importance of taking action for our mental health - especially actions that help others, and how parents can help their kids better handle difficult and challenging times.

Find Dr. Teschi's books:

• Transformed by Trauma: Stories of Posttraumatic Growth (2020)
• The Posttraumatic Growth Workbook (2016) 

• ADHD reWired
• ADHD Essentials
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

In this episode we're talking to Alex Gilbert of Capeable Consulting.  Alex has ADHD and dyslexia.  And after spending her career working in leadership development, she decided to start a consulting and coaching business to help adults with learning disabilities and/or ADHD who are struggling in their careers. 

In this episode, Alex talks to us about navigating jobs, careers, and employment with ADHD.  She discusses what your favorite game has to do with picking a job, navigating boredom and imposter syndrome, the fact that interview questions are a two way street, and why things can be challenging but not hard.

Today, host Brendan Mahan explores why ADHD is poorly named in response to some of the things talked about in the recent episode featuring René Brooks, Inger Colzie, and Stacey Machelle.

In this episode of the podcast we are talking to my friend Coco Stanback.  Coco is an ADHD and parenting coach whose family is, unsurprisingly, affected by the disorder.

In this episode, Coco discusses effective co-parenting.  She talks about why we should first seek to understand when things get challenging, the importance of knowing and honoring each others’ skill sets, and her three core C’s of parenting.

This episode of the podcast was commandeered by René Brooks of Black Girl Lost Keys.  I thought we were going to have one-on-one interview and catch-up, but René had other plans and brought along some friends!  So it’s me, René, ADHD coach and mental health clinician Inger Shay Colzie, and the Stacey Machelle of ADHD is the New Black on YouTube.

In this episode, we discuss and demonstrate the importance of singing people’s praises and the supportive nature of the ADHD Community, the power of planting seeds, finding humor in ADHD, the importance of diverse voices in ADHD, and some excellent Ending Essentials. 

Cindy is a mental health counselor and ADHD coach who has been working in the field for over 15 years.  She is the author of two books on parenting children with ADHD, and books and training programs have been translated into multiple languages.  In addition to working with parents, Cindy also trains ADHD coaches and other professionals. 

In this episode, we discuss ways to distinguish between supporting and enabling, Cindy’s three N’s of praise, and the importance of connection and setting appropriate expectations in managing family dynamics.

• Connect with Cindy at https://ptscoaching.com
• Buy her book here!

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

In today's episode, I share how I responded to a guy who didn't like my supportive, and encouraging approach to parenting.  He tried to crush my positivity by saying, "I don't believe that everyone deserves a trophy".  So, I thought about it and came back to him with a clearer perspective.  The gist of which is that ADHD is a developmental disorder, so kids with ADHD might not meet the same standards as other kids their age.  We should meet them where they are. Then teach them to do better moving forward.  This episode will teach you how to do that.

In today’s episode, we’re revisiting a conversation I had with Monica Hassell.  Monica is an ADHD coach based in Australia.  She and her husband Jon make up ConnectADHD.  Monica has presented at the International Conference on ADHD several times, and her work is outstanding!

In today’s episode, we discuss Executive Function, why ADHD rarely travels alone, and the various layers that underlie problem behaviors through Monica’s outstanding Volcano model of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.  The image for the volcano will be in the show notes.

Renee is a veteran ADHD coach who works with adult clients both one-on-one and in groups.  She sits on the board of directors for ADDA and is the chair of their virtual support groups.  She also teaches for RenaFi, a financial education program for ADHDers, and trains coaches as part of the faculty of the ADHD Coach Academy.

In this episode, Renee shares her story and discusses how her struggles with ADHD led to her leaving teaching and becoming an ADHD coach.  Along the way we discuss why clear expectations matter so much, how prioritization struggles can affect performance, the importance of standing up for ourselves, why ADHDers so often take on too much, the power of planting seeds, and the healing hidden of helping others.

In today's episode, I share a strategy I use to help kids get their homework done.  (I use it to help adults get stuff done, too!)  

It involves assessing in advance the time and effort/energy required to do each homework assignment (or part of the task) and then using the information to make decisions about prioritization and sequencing.  So, not only dies it help kids attack the task at hand, but it build executive functioning skill, too!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

In today’s episode, we’re talking to Dr. Sharon Saline.  Dr. Saline is a friend of the pod, a licensed, clinical psychologist, and the author of “What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew”.

In this episode, Dr. Saline and I talk about the effects of the pandemic on children and families.  We discuss the data on mental health pre- and post-pandemic, moral injury, the effect it is having on social skills, and ways to manage the anxiety we're all experiencing.

• Connect with Dr. Saline at https://www.drsharonsaline.com
• Buy her book here!

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

In today’s episode, we’re talking to Dr. Randy Kulman.  Dr. Kulman is the founder and president of LearningWorks for Kids. He coordinates their team of psychologists, educators, and digital designers in a quest to make video games good for kids. As a licensed clinical child psychologist, Dr. Kulman has been working directly with kids and families for the past 30 years, and has become a leading expert on the use of digital technologies for improving thinking skills in children.

In this episode, Dr. Kulman joins us to discuss all things screen time.  We explore screen time as play time and what makes a healthy play diet, the difference between neurotypical and neurodiverse screen use, how screens can teach executive functioning skills, the various types of screen time and why not all of them equal, what makes games good for kids, how tech companies have worked to make screen time irresistible, and five rules for limiting screen time.

Robert is the director of his school district’s gifted and talented program.  He has been assessing and teaching gifted children for nearly two decades, and has been a public educator for even longer.

In today’s episode, we discuss ADHD and giftedness through the lens of an academic expert in the field.  We talk about the various components of giftedness, and where they overlap with ADHD, the social emotional side of giftedness, how twice exceptional kids are affected by having both ADHD and giftedness, and how to help kids with ADHD, giftedness, or both, manage the challenges they face.

In today's episode, I'm talking about children's stress, parental stress, and the interplay between the two.  And, I have a present for you!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re talking to Aurora Remember Holtzman.  Aurora is a school psychologist, neurodivergence coach, and host of the Embracing Intensity podcast.  And her focus is giftedness and twice exceptionality.

In today’s episode, Aurora discusses just that – giftedness and twice exceptionality!  She talks to us about the challenges of twice exceptionality, how ADHD and giftedness can mask each other, executive function fatigue and burnout, common  challenges for the gifted, and why giftedness should not be confused with achievement. 

Today, we’re talking to ADHD Jon-Jon.

Jon is a minority black male and men’s health advocate with ADHD.  I’ve been following him on twitter for a while now, and am excited to finally have him on the show!

In today’s episode, John and I talk about having ADHD and learning how to live! We discuss working at thriving rather than just surviving, the importance of taking action, vulnerability, being mindful rather than just having a mind that is constantly full, and managing anxiety.

In today's episode, I share a tool I've been using for a few years now to help me reframe my thoughts in order to gain distance, depersonalize the thoughts I don't want to be having, and better see the role unhealthy cultural systems play in those unwanted thoughts.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re revisiting a conversation with to Cindy Jobs about holiday planning.

Cindy is an expert in the field of organization, and an Associate Certified Coach.  She helps people with ADHD simplify their lives through education, structure, and support. 

In today’s episode, we talk about setting reasonable expectations around the holidays, the importance of clear, honest, early, and open communication, managing the various holiday pressure cookers, and using traditions to foster connection.

• Find Cindy Jobs  https://www.cindyjobs.com

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re talking to Denise Thomas.  Denise helps equip parents to take an active role in supporting their children to live a life of greater financial freedom by teaching them how to reduce or eliminate their kid’s college debt. Her mission is to FLIP the student debt statistic in the U.S!

In this episode, Denise talks about how she sent her kids to college debt-free, and shares strategies for you to do the same.  She tells us about how her family’s financial hardship forced her to find alternative ways to fund her children’s college, the three things colleges look for in their applicants, why it’s never too early to look into scholarships, and importance of story-telling and marketing.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Denise and her work at https://www.getaheadoftheclass.com

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

It's Day 3 of the Annual International Conference on ADHD, and it's virtual again for 2021!  We're still doing the rough cut debriefs, but today os the last day!  Each day, I've grabbed some folks to do a quick, unedited reflection on the conference.  For day 3, I'v got Alan Brown, Roxie Martin, Moira Maybin and Jessica McCabe!  Check it out!

>>>REGISTER FOR ADHD CON 2021!!!  GET 15% OFF!!!

The Annual International Conference on ADHD is virtual again for 2021!  And we're still doing the rough cut debriefs!  Each day, I'll be grabbing some folks to do a quick, unedited reflection on the conference.  For day 2, I grabbed Will Curb, Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parecalls, Kate Barrett, Lollie Weeks, and Jon Hassall!  Check it out!

>>>REGISTER FOR ADHD CON 2021!!!  GET 15% OFF!!!

The Annual International Conference on ADHD is virtual again for 2021!  And we're still doing the rough cut debriefs!  Each day, I'll be grabbing some folks to do a quick, unedited reflection on the conference.  Today, I grabbed Tamara Rosier, Inger Shaye, Monica Hassall, and Jeff Copper!  Check it out!

>>>REGISTER FOR ADHD CON 2021!!!  GET 15% OFF!!!

In today's episode, I share a tool I've been using for a few years now to help me get emotional space, and be more empathic and compassionate when I'm supporting people (including my kids!) who are going through a challenging time.

>>>REGISTER FOR ADHD CON 2021!!!  GET 15% OFF!!!

Today, we’re talking to Phyllis Fagell, author of Middle School Matters.  Phyllis is a school counselor, and author of the book Middle School Matters.

In this episode, Phyllis talks about ten key life skills through the lens of middle school. She discusses the importance of good friend choices and the influence of peer presence, reasons why we want to help our kids get clear on their values, the effects of the pandemic on kids as well as ways to mitigate those effects, navigating teacher/student mismatches, the imaginary audience, and the value of identifying emotions.

NOTE:  This episode was recorded over the summer.  So a few of the examples are a little dated.  Podcast Time is weird.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Phyllis and her work at https://phyllisfagell.com
• Buy her book, "Middle School Matters" here.

Webinar Links:

• The ADHD Awareness Expo
  http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=1686079

• On The Right ADHD Trail Summit
  https://ontherightadhdtrail.com
• ADHD Simplicity at Home Summit https://ve.whatnowadhdsummit.com/BMahan

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

He's the founder of FireUpYourBrain.com, and creator of the Brain Speedball.  Trent became a professional dancer after rehabilitating his own severe movement restrictions caused by a brain injury at birth, and has continued to work on understanding how the mind-body connection and neuroplasticity can be used to address challenges in attention, emotional regulation, and movement.

In today’s episode, Trent shares his story, and talks to us about his work with physical movement and the senses to address neurodiverse and development challenges. We discuss failing first grade, cerebral palsy, the importance of engaging our senses, why clear goals and measuring outcomes matter, and the power of play.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Brent and his work at https://www.fireupyourbrain.com

Webinar Links:

• The ADHD Awareness Expo
  http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=1686079

• On The Right ADHD Trail Summit
  https://ontherightadhdtrail.com
• ADHD Simplicity at Home Summit https://ve.whatnowadhdsummit.com/BMahan

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Leanne is a school psychologist working with elementary school students.  I really enjoyed this conversation.  It was both wide ranging, and insightful.

In today’s episode, Leanne talks about how school testing works.  She shares the basic things we should, as well as things that don’t show up on tests and rating scales, the difference between private testing and school testing, and the importance of looking at the whole student to determine what’s best for your child.

Webinar Links:

• The ADHD Awareness Expo
  

  http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=1686079

• On The Right ADHD Trail Summit
  https://ontherightadhdtrail.com

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Anthony is an instructional technology specialist in Northbridge, MA, as well as a former music teacher and school administrator.  He also has a website called edupowertools.com that provides resources related to using technology in education.

In this episode Anthony talks to us about technology education.  He discusses the way the use of technology is changing in schools – from worksheets to more creative and collaborative projects, ways parents can support their kids through technology - setting boundaries for technology as well as talking about digital citizenship, the power of teacher and district websites, and the Northwestern Tree Octopus.

>>>Register for Free Parent Coaching Groups Info Call

Today, we’re talking to friend of the pod, Tamara Rosier!  Tamara is an ADHD and Leadership coach, founder of the ADHD Center of West Michigan, author of the new book, “Your Brain’s not Broken”, which was released this week! 

In this episode Tamara and I talk about her new book, “Your Brain’s not Broken”.  We discuss managing the basic things in life, the interplay of anxiety and imagination, convergent vs divergent thinking, ADHD as an at-risk population, and ways to manage our emotions.  

>>>Register for Free Parent Coaching Groups Info Call

Aimee is the CEO and Chief Academic Officer of the online tutoring platform, Study Help Inc as well as a full-time special education teacher of mild to moderate students with 25 years of experience, and the adoptive mom of a neurodiverse daughter.

In today’s episode Aimee talks to us about using understanding rather than patience to manage frustrating behaviors and situations, looking at issues as problems to solve rather than moralizing them, the benefits of impulsivity, being solution-focused, behavioral strategies that help at home, and the effervescence of ADHD!

>>>Register for Free Parent Coaching Groups Info Call

Today, we’re talking to Ashleigh.  She’s an ADHD mom, and previous member of the ADHD Essentials Parent Coaching Groups.  Ashleigh contacted me a little while ago and said she wanted to help support the groups.

In today’s episode she does just that.  She asks to me about my vision for the parent groups, and tells me about the things got from them.  I share how my background contributes to the parenting philosophy and the skills that I teach during the eight weeks of the parenting groups, Ashleigh shares how meaningful it was for her to connect with other ADHD parents, and some of the lessons she found most important.  This episode is basically a free sample of what goes on in the groups, you get a little bit of the content and, hopefully, a little of the connection as well.  I’m sure you’ll find something valuable in it.  (Like anxiety smiley faces!  Because we talk about those, too!)

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re talking to me!  For the 100th Episode of the ADHD Essentials Podcast, my friend Cameron Gott, offered to flip the script, and interview me about what I learned over the course of doing 100 episodes.  Well, we’re doing it again for episode 200! 

Cameron is a phenomenal ADHD coach, who’s been doing it for over two decades, as well as the co-host of the Translating ADHD podcast with Shelly Collins.

In today’s episode Cam interviews me about the past present and future of the ADHD Essentials podcast.  I talk about my goals for the show, why the second hundred was so much harder than the first (hint:  It’s COVID), and the value of  connecting, and how I posted 200 episodes of a podcast in a row without missing a week, despite having ADHD.

Dr. Beurkins is a child psychologist who has appeared in Good Housekeeping, The New York Times, The Washington Post and has been featured on both NBC, CBS, and ABC, including The Today Show.

In today’s episode, Dr. Beurkins discusses ADHD and integrative health.  She talks about her neurodiverse-friendly approach - she is focused on helping people not changing them.  She also talks about why our starting points should be simple and doable, and digs deep into the ways the mind can affect the body and vice versa, and the importance of sleep, nutrition, and movement in ADHD management.

In today's episode, I share my thoughts on cleaning a room.  Among these are a way to avoid panic-cleaning, the Five Box method, the Job of the Space method, using timers and clipboards, what to do once it's clean,  and the power of self-forgiveness.

>>>Register for TEFOS HereADHD reWired Podcast Network Live Q&A! Register Here

Gail is an Educational Consultant, Counselor, and one of my old College Professors.  She runs Five Points Counseling in Lunenburg, MA.

In today’s episode, we discuss the internal struggle of ADHD, how systemic & cultural realities get in our way, the power of teaching our kids ways to talk about their challenges, and harnessing incremental change.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about  Gail and her work at https://www.gailokerman.com

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re talking to Keri Wilmot.  Keri is a pediatric occupational therapist with over twenty years of experience in the field, a consultant to the toy industry as the “Toy Queen”, and the author of “Wired Differently: A Teacher’s Guide to Understanding Sensory-Processing Challenges”.

Keri talks to us about the important role sensory processing plays in the lives of the neurodiverse.  She tells us about the role of an occupational therapist, reveals that we actually have eight senses - not five, illuminates the difference treatment and woo when it comes to sensory integration, and shares the role that a healthy sensory diet plays in self-regulation. 

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Keri and her work at https://toyqueen.com
• Order her book, “Wired Differently: A Teacher’s Guide to Understanding Sensory-Processing Challenges”

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Jessica is the creator and host of the “How to ADHD” YouTube Channel where she shares her toolbox of ADHD tips, techniques, information, and strategies to help us work with our brains rather than against them. 

This is an incredibly wide-ranging interview in which Jessica shares some of the lessons she’s learned while working on “How to ADHD”, and goes into her personal experiences with ADHD.  She talks about being surprised by just how much of her life was affected by ADHD, how ADHD traits can be a blessing and a curse, how to be successful without being neurotypical, navigating para-social relationships, the long-term impact of the core beliefs we develop about ourselves, making invisible challenges more visible, dealing with imposter syndrome.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Jessica and her work at https://howtoadhd.com.
• And check out How to ADHD on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/howtoadhd!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

In today's episode, I reflect on the lessons I've learned during the ongoing COVID19 pandemic including (but not limited to) why focusing on connection is key, the importance of time alone how exhausting transitions can be, that if you want it to happen you have to MAKE it happen, and the fact that both kids and adults need to feel like they’re contributing, and accomplishing something.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Will is an inventor, tech entrepreneur, and music producer. He was the founding member of the band Londonbeat, whose hit song “I’ve Been Thinking About You” reached #1 on the Billboard charts in the early 90s.  His latest endeavor, Fous@Will is a science-based music streaming service designed to help people work more efficiently and reduce distractions. 

In this episode, Will talks about how music affects the brain.  We discuss why it can be used to reduce our anxiety and help us focus, how music affects the limbic system of our brain, and Will even shares a few non-musical productivity hacks toward the end of the show!

Alright, let’s get rolling.

Today, we’re talking to Dr. Raffael Boccamazzo, otherwise know as Dr.B.  Dr.B is the clinical director at TakeThis.org, an organization working to decrease the stigma and increase support for mental health in the game enthusiast community and inside the game industry.   

In this episode, Dr. B talks about the three characteristics of burnout, the difficulties of not being taught how to be neurodiverse in a neurotypical world, the six causes of burnout, and the importance of supporting our children’s independence.

Joe is an autism and neurodiverse communication consultant, and co-author of “Is That Clear? Effective Communication in a Neurodiverse World”.

Joe shares effective strategies for communicating with our neurodiverse kids, spouses, co-workers, students and friends.  She talks to us about  pausing and pacing, the importance of connection when communicating, the nonsensical nature of our language around time, respecting other people’s priorities, and the challenges of figurative language.

Today, we’re talking to my friend, Andrea Goulet.  Andrea is an author, an empathy driven software developer, and an ADHD mom.

In this episode, Andrea discusses the patterns of emotions and communication.  She talks about the value of recognizing what we say about ourselves, the limits of binary thinking, paying attention to messaging, and the importance of empathy.

 
Holidays, especially religious holidays are intended as a break, and often as a time of reflection.  But they can also be unwelcome speed bumps in our week/month/year, if we aren't ready for them when they come.  So, we're looking at the calendar as a whole and exploring when some of of these holidays will occur, and how they can disrupt things if we fail to be mindful of them. 

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re talking to Erin.  Erin is a teacher, and an ADHD mom of two boys.  She’s also an alumna of the ADHD Essentials Parent Groups.

In this episode, Erin shares some of the lessons she’s learned along her ADHD journey.   She talks about how learning about herself and her imperfections made her a better teacher and parent, how being a teacher made her a better parent (and vice/versa), the importance of clear communication, and the things she loves about her ADHD kid.

JOIN our Facebook Community

Be a part of the SCAVENGER HUNT!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we revisit a conversation with James Garrett of Brain By Design.  James has been studying and teaching about the brain for over a decade. He’s passionate about turning this academic knowledge about the brain into practical tools that anyone can use.  And today, he’s doing it through the lens on ADHD!

In this episode, James discusses the four qualities of restorative activities, managing the pull of our of our phones, the important role rest plays in performance, and nutrient rich boredom.

JOIN our Facebook Community

Be a part of the UPCOMING CONTEST!

Guest Links:

• James can be found at https://www.brainbydesign.com.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re talking to Rick Webster.  Rick is the CEO and leader of Rena-Fi, a practical, research-based financial education platform.  He is also an ADHD Coach, and long-time associate of the ADHD organizations ADDA, and CHADD.  And he has ADHD.

In this episode, Rick talks to us about financial literacy.  We discuss the role emotion and The Wall of Awful plays in people’s financials, money as if relates to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the importance of having a reservoir of savings for when problems arise, the power of doing good for others, ADHD meltdowns, and how automation allows overseeing which is better than doing.

JOIN our Facebook Community

Be a part of the UPCOMING CONTEST!

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Rick and his work with Rena-Fi at https://rena-fi.com.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Today, we’re talking to Mary Dibinga, M.Ed.  Mary is a high school English teacher, and an ADHD parent.

In this episode, Mary reflects the effects COVID has had on her students and her teaching.  She discusses what being  a parent during COVID taught her about teaching, learning loss and huge leap forwards, why we should intentionally teach our kids how to face hard things, and the significant differences in the challenges faced by her students during the global pandemic.

JOIN our Facebook Community to be a part of the UPCOMING CONTEST!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Ilyse is a strengths-based coach and expert in the use of the Clifton/Gallup Strengths-Finder Program.

In this episode, Ilyse talks to us about the power and importance of focusing on strengths.  She discusses the Clifton/Gallup Strengths-Finder Program, the importance of playing to our strengths and our kids’ strengths, identifying what our kids are good at and not letting what they aren’t good at get in the way, how to use a strengths approach to parenting to improve our family roles, why the overuse of our strengths might hold us up, and how discovering the Clifton/Gallup Strengths-Finder Program has changed her. 

JOIN our Facebook Community to be a part of the UPCOMING CONTEST!

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Ilyse and her work at https://www.ilysegreenbergcoaching.com

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

We're talking about transitions, as well as how video games can make them harder.  Specifically we look at transitions through two lenses - the physical/mental/emotional lens, and the into/out of lens.  I'm sure you'll find this episode useful!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Jeff is the executive director of the International OCD Foundation, and author of The Perfectionist's Handbook. 

In this episode, Jeff tells us about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, a disorder that is com-morbid with ADHD.  Jeff talks about what OCD is and isn’t, what it’s like to live with the disorder, and methods of treatment - many of which are just great anxiety management and self-improvement strategies in general, including self-compassion, why facing adversity and confronting our fears is so important for all of us, and the power of doing hard things.

A brief disclaimer.  OCD can sometimes be accompanied by pretty grim thoughts that are diametrically opposed to the values of the person who has it.  We do spend a few minutes discussing what that might look like, so this episode is a bit darker than our norm.   I know some of you listen to the show as a family.  Please preview this one before listening to it with your kids.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Jeff and his work at the International OCD Foundation at https://iocdf.org.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• ADHD Diversified
• ADHD Friendly Lifestyle 

Hilary is an ADHD mom, and an ADHD coach at ADHD Advance.

In this episode, Hilary talks to us about her work in education, how her son’s ADHD diagnosis changed things for her, seeing ADHD as an explanation rather than an excuse, the difference between intelligence and executive function, how her son’s ADHD diagnosis helped him understand himself better, and navigating big emotions.

Guest Link:

• Learn more about Hilary and her work at https://www.adhdadvance.com

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Palo is a dad with ADHD and dyslexia who basically grew up in a Mark Twain novel. 

In this episode, Palo shares his experiences growing up with ADHD.  He tells stories of being raised by hippies, living an unfettered childhood, getting kicked out of every school he attended, (including kindergarten for not pledging allegiance!), his love of history, frustration with English, how his past challenges affected him when his child started to struggle, and backtracking his wandering thoughts.    (Fair warning, there’s lots of tangents along the way!)

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

In addition to being an academic/life coach for teens and college students, Leslie is the creator of the award-winning  Academic Planner: A Tool for Time Management®, writes the weekly Dear ADHD Family Coach® column for ADDitude Magazine, and is the author of several books.

In this week’s episode, Leslie talks to us about her new book, and shares her thoughts on procrastination.  We discuss, the role skills deficits play in procrastination, the importance of choice and control, the trouble with “oh, by the ways” and “don’t forgets”, and why it’s important to allow space for forgiveness.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Leslie and her work at https://www.orderoochaos.com.
• Pick up Leslie's latest book, How to Do It Now Because It's Not Going Away here.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Brendan finally shares his "Wall of Awful"model!  He discusses an overview of the model, and ways to get past it.

Shelly is an ADHD coach, and, along with friend-of-the-show Cameron Gott, hosts of the Translating ADHD podcast.

In this week’s episode, Shelly talks about the relationship between ADHD and time.  She discusses why ADHDers don’t really procrastinate, the difference between big brain mode and fast brain mode, the time horizon, the importance of understanding the ADHD causes of our challenges, and ways to solve email drama.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Shelly and her work at https://shellylcollins.com

• Check out Translating ADHD at https://www.translatingadhd.com!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

In this week's quick and actionable episode, Brendan shares his thoughts on self-talk, walking us through his the Cs of self-talk model.

Register for the latest season on Eric Tivers's ADHD reWired Adult Coaching and Accountability Groups!!!  

>>>Go to coachingrewired.com for more info!

And to celebrate, I’m turning the show over to my friend MJ.  MJ was on two episodes back, and talked about her then upcoming show, ADHD Diversified. Well, ADHD Diversified is here, and I am honored to share her first episode with you.  It’s fantastic! 

In her premier episode,  MJ talks about why she started the podcast, the expectations and cultural norms that come with being visibly Asian, how those expectations don’t always allow for talking about weakness or struggles, and what it has meant for her to navigate undiagnosed ADHD while being grouped into a stereotype. 

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Melissa talks to us about the effects the COVID pandemic is having on schools.  Wed discuss the way it has changed school pacing, the heightened importance of technology and technology instruction, the positive changes she seeing, the areas of struggle for her students, the politics of educating during a pandemic, and why we should take time for ourselves.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

In today’s episode, MJ shares her experiences growing up as a gifted Asian Canadian kid with undiagnosed ADHD.  She tells us about being caught in the push/pull clash of Asian culture and White culture and how having ADHD made it harder for her to meet the expectations of both, how her parents separation led to her dropping out of school in her senior year, and why academia isn’t the only road to success. 

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Dusty is an ADHD Coach based in Vancouver, British Columbia.  She has a passion for helping people better understand their ADHD, and an interest in the effects pregnancy has on the ADHD experience.

In today’s episode, Dusty talks to us about just that – ADHD and pregnancy.  We discuss the importance of having a good care provider, the risk/benefit analysis of medication during pregnancy, post-partum executive function struggles, the role of ADHD understanding inn emotional stabilization, and the pregnancy bubble.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Dusty and her work at https://www.vancouveradhdcoaching.com
• Follow her on Twitter: @dustychipura

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Gabriel is an ADHD coach, as well as a strength and conditioning coach, and the owner of Lost Boys Strength and Conditioning, and ADHD Counseling in the Roanoke Valley of Virginia.

In today’s episode, Gabriel talks to us about using exercise as part of our ADHD Treatment Plan.  We discuss how exercise affects the brain in ways that help us manage ADHD symptoms, the importance of having a plan, ways to get moving more during COVID, and giving kids more credit.

Where's Brendan?

Tuesday, February 2nd - The Time to Thrive Summit!!

Topic:  Improving Communication with Logic and Emotions

Friday, February 5th - Webinar for ADDitude

Topic: When Teen Stress Ignites Strong Emotions: Teaching Anger and Frustration Management

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Gabriel and his work at https://roanokeadhd.com

• Find his ebooks here!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Todd is a licensed mental health counselor, and the author of Team Positive.

In today’s episode, Todd talks to us about managing the psychological pain of the COVID pandemic.  Todd discusses the importance of accepting and riding out emotions, ways to understand our observing minds, how to develop psychological flexibility, the critical role that context plays in our experiences, and why getting clear on our values can help us during this challenging time.

Where's Brendan?

Tuesday, February 2nd - The Time to Thrive Summit!!

Topic:  Improving Communication with Logic and Emotions

Friday, February 5th - Webinar for ADDitude

Topic: When Teen Stress Ignites Strong Emotions: Teaching Anger and Frustration Management

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Todd and his work at https://www.toddschmenk.com

• Buy Team Positive here!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Shell Mendelson.  Shell is an ADHD and career counselor and coach with nearly 35 years of experience.

In Today’s Episode, Shell talks to us about job hunting, whether because you’ve lost a job due to COVID, or just because you’re looking to make a lateral move.  Shell tells us about informational interviewing, the importance of getting clear on what you want, why research and networking are so important, and why it’s critical to have a clear plan and a solid understanding of yourself when looking for a new job.

Registration For the  Parenting Groups Closes Monday, January 18!  

>>>Learn More Here!

In today's episode, I interrupt your regularly scheduled interview episode to share ways to manage ourselves, and our kids, when the events of the world become troubling and upsetting.    

Useful Episode Links:  

Lasagna Love:

• https://www.lasagnalove.org

Articles that may be useful:

• How Much News Coverage is OK for Children?
• Parenting While Shocked

• Talking to Kids About the Violence at the US Capitol

   

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Eric is a licensed clinical social worker, coach, consultant and entrepreneur.  He is the founder of ADHD reWired which encompasses a podcast network, adult ADHD coaching groups, as well as an alumni support network for those groups. 

In Today’s Episode, Eric talks about how he plans his year.  We discuss how he uses theming to set his priorities, ways he segments his year to make things more manageable, the importance of anticipating a post-COVID pivot, and why its ok to leave some things on your to-do list. 

Guest Links:

• Learn more about  Eric and his work at https://www.adhdrewired.com.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

As the title says, it's my personal reflection on 2020.  I'll let the show speak for itself in all its unedited glory!

Moira is a mom, and an educator in British Columbia, Canada and she’ll be adding her show to the ADHD rewired Podcast Network in the coming months.

In Today’s Episode, Moira shares her story about literally falling off the cliff of perfectionism.  She talks about being driven as a kid in school, how her son and daughter both contributed to Moira realizing she had ADHD, the binocular vision disorder - vertical heterophoria, and how she learned to take care of herself, and let herself rest.

Episode Links:

• Vertical Heterophoria Article by René Brooks mentioned in this episode.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

AJ Jacobs is an author, lecturer, and human guinea pig.  He’s written four New York Times bestsellers that combine memoir, science, humor, with a dash of self-help.  In addition to his books, he has written for The New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, New York Magazine, and Dental Economics – one of the top five magazines about the financial side of tooth care.  He has appeared on Oprah, The Today Show, Good Morning America, Conan, and The Colbert Report.

In today’s episode, AJ shares his journey as a writer, and dad with ADHD, and how his lifestyle experiments have affected both himself, and those around him.  AJ talks about how the way we behave can affect the way we think, the power of gratitude, as well as how his ADHD affects him, and the strategies he has developed to manage it, where he gets his ideas, and talking spoons.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about AJ Jacobs and his work at https://ajjacobs.com

• Find his books at https://ajjacobs.com/books/

• Check out his TED Talks at https://ajjacobs.com/videos/

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Mary Jo Levand.  Mary Jo is the director of the acadeic support center at Notre Dame College.

In Today’s Episode, Mary Jo talks with us about the kinds of supports available at the college level. We discuss the importance of personalized guidance, why kids pick the wrong majors, and some of the awesomes hiding in the awful of COVID19.

If you kid is younger, this episode will give you an idea of what to look for when college comes, and if they’re college age, hopefully it’ll help you and your kid navigate the challenges they’re facing now.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Mary Jo and her work at https://www.notredamecollege.edu/faculty/mary-jo-levand/

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Stephen Duetzmann, the founder of Engaged Family Gaming.  He has made it his mission to support parents who want to play games with their kids by providing them with the information they need to make the process of finding and exploring new video and board games as easy as possible. 

In Today’s Episode, Stephen talks about using video games and board games to engage with our families. We discuss whether or not video games are really a problem, how they can give our kids the opportunity to be experts at something, the over use of the word addiction, as well as using board games as an alternative for family connection.  Throughout, Stephen shares specific games we might try out, as well as possible pitfalls to avoid.  This one is excellent!

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Stephen and his work at http://engagedfamilygaming.com
• And check out the Engaged Family Gaming podcast!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Today's Episode is a quick one on swearing.  How to talk to your kids about it, how to do it more effectively, and why it's such a valuable clue to how people around us are doing.  

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Keith Gelhorn.  Keith is the founder and CEO of ADDvocacy, where he provides one on 0ne and group coaching & training for neurodiverse youth and adults struggling with Executive Function.

In Today’s Episode, Keith shares his story.  It is a story of filled with struggle, heartache, mental health challenges, and ultimately, growth and success. Keith uses his story to explore topics ranging from anger, to Adverse Childhood Experiences, trauma, and the power of resilience, personal development, ADHD Coaching, and asking for help.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Keith's work at https://www.addvocacy.org

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

WELCOME BACK!!!!!  It's Day 3 of the Annual International Conference on ADHD. (Now, with Virtual Wonderment™!  

The rough cut debriefs started last year, and now it's a tradition!  Each day, I grab someone to do a quick, unedited reflection on the conference.  Today, I grabbed four someones!  Check it out!

• Cameron Gott  Translating ADHD Podcast
• Brittany Smith  Conquer Consulting
• Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells GTW Health
• Will Curb  Hacking Your ADHD Podcast

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

It's Day 2 of the Annual International Conference on ADHD, and it's still virtual for 2020!  As you know, we're continuing the rough cut debriefs from last year!  Each day, I'll be grabbing someone to do a quick, unedited reflection on the conference.  Today, I grabbed four someones!  Check it out!

• Keith Griffin This ADHD Life
• Evan Kirstien Progressing Growth Coaching
• Inger Shaye Colzie Alchemy Coaching
• Jon Hassell Connect ADHD

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

The Annual International Conference on ADHD is virtual for 2020!  But we're still doing the rough cut debriefs!  Each day, I'll be grabbing someone to do a quick, unedited reflection on the conference.  Today, I grabbed three someones!  Check it out!

• René Brooks Black Girl Lost Keys
• Kate Barrett CoachingCville
• Lollie Weeks Fast Brain Coaching 

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to my friend, Dr. Noor Ali.  Noor is the principal of Al Hamra Academy, and an assistant professor at Worcester State University.

In Today’s Episode, we look at the effect COVID is having on schools, and how they’ve been planning around a crisis that no one could have been trained for, and trying to create the best-case educational scenario given the current circumstances.  Noor and I discuss the challenges of leading during a pandemic, such as managing the logistics of the crisis for teachers, parents, and students (including those with executive functioning challenges), while also being cognizant of the anxieties of everyone involved, and hopefully keeping a level head the whole time.

Upcoming ADHD Events featuring Brendan:

• TEACHER WORKSHOP:  ADHD in the Era of COVID sponsored by the Massachusetts School Administrator's Association   (Thursday, November 5th & Friday, November 6th) 

• The 2020 Virtual International Conference on ADHD
  (Thursday, November 5th - Saturday, November 7th)

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Dave and Ted from Nerdarchy!  Dave and Ted are two dads with a passion for Dungeons and Dragons that have turned that passion in to a thriving website and YouTube channel.

In Today’s Episode, we talk about using Dungeons and Dragons and similar roleplaying games to create quality time with family.  Dave and Ted discuss how roleplaying games can help us bond as a family, how they can improve executive function and social skills, the best games to get younger kids started playing (It’s not D&D), why role playing games make great educational tools, and what to do if you don’t want to play, but think your kids would.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Dave and Ted's work at Nerdarchy!
• Explore the Nerdarchy YouTube Channel.
• Check out Megan Hardy's D&D games on Outschool (as mentioned by in today's episode.)

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking my friend Veronica MacDonald Ditko, author of “A Rock Solid History of Hawthorne New Jersey”. 

In Today’s Episode, Veronica and I discuss the fascinating mysteries of history that can be found in our own backyard.  We talk about how watching her kids play in the park led her to get curious about the rocks in her town, and how that led to her learning about her town’s history.  We also discuss how we can use her experience to encourage our kids curiosity and find fascinating, family-friendly adventures to get us out of the house, and keep us entertained during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Veronica and her work.

• Buy “A Rock Solid History of Hawthorne New Jersey”

• Veronica's Weird NJ article about the mysterious building in the lake

Upcoming ADHD Events featuring Brendan:

• Parenting ADHD Summit
  (Monday October 19th - Thursday October 22nd)

• The 2020 Virtual International Conference on ADHD
  (Thursday, November 5th - Saturday, November 7th)

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Today, it’s just me, mainly because I’m burnt out and just don’t have enough bandwidth to edit another episode.  This COVID pandemic is lame.  So, in today’s episode, we’re going to talk about how to S.H.R.E.D. your ADHD, exhaustion and burnout to improve your bandwidth so you can get more done.

Those Summits I Mentioned:

• The ADHD Awareness Expo
  (October 1st - 31st)

• Parenting ADHD Summit
  (Monday October 19th - Thursday October 22nd)

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Links:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Today, we’re talking to Diane McLean.  After a 25 year career as an educator and school counselor, Diane is now an ADHD and executive function coach, and has committed herself to providing coaching services to help children, adolescents, and adults overcome executive functioning challenges, and acquire the skills and knowledge needed to experience success.

In Today’s Episode, Diane talks about being the mother of an adult son with special needs, and how she navigated the challenges that presented.  We discuss the power of networking and building a community, the importance of doing the leg work, some of the hard decisions she has had to make, and what she has learned from her son.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Diane and her work here.

All Those Summits:

• The ADHD Awareness Expo (October 1st - 31st)

• Natural ADHD Solution Summit (October 5, 9, 12, and 16)

• Parenting ADHD Summit (Monday October 19th - Thursday October 22nd)

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Dr. Tom Pedigo.  Tom is a board certified medial psychologist specializing in ADHD., And he is a co-founder of the Esteem app.  Esteem is a free, busy parent, ADHD friendly app that helps parents better monitor their kid’s ADHD progress.

In Today’s Episode, Tom and I talk about the importance of communication when managing ADHD with the support of a medical team, typical conflict flashpoints at home, including a great tip for cleaning a room, and the Esteem app.  We discuss how Esteem helps parents communicate more effectively with their pediatricians and mental health clinicians about their child’s ADHD, gain insight into the needs of their children, and focus on specific areas of need with regard to their children.  And we also talk about the aspects of Esteem that make it easy to use.

Guest Links:

• Learn more about Tom and get the Esteem App here

All Those Summits:

• The Happy Child with Special Needs (Beginning September 28th)

• The ADHD Awareness Expo (October 1st - 31st)

• Natural ADHD Solution Summit (October 5, 9, 12, and 16)

• Parenting ADHD Summit (Monday October 19th - Thursday October 22nd)

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization

• Join Our Facebook Community

• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 

• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage

• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:

• ADHD reWired

• Hacking Your ADHD

• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Debbie Reber.  Debbie is a parenting activist, New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, and speaker who has been inspiring and sparking conversations for parents, women, and teens for twenty years. She has inspired tens of thousands of parents around the world through TiLT Parenting, her top podcast, community, and educational resource for parents raising, as Debbie calls them, “differently wired” kids. 

In Today’s Episode, Debbie and I talk about what got her into parent advocacy, her observations on parenting during COVID19, homeschooling and being flexible, why it’s important to realize that we’re not alone as parents of atypical children, avoiding getting caught up in our kids emotional storms, and the good stuff about parenting a differently wired kid. 

• Learn more about Debbie and her work 
• Check out TiLT Parenting 
• Get Debbie's book, "Differently Wired" 

• Unleash Your Kid’s Genius Masterclass  (Now through September 24th)

• The Happy Child with Special Needs (Beginning September 28th)
• Natural ADHD Solution Summit (October 5, 9, 12, and 16)
• Parenting ADHD Summit (Monday October 19th - Thursday October 22nd)

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Elaine Taylor-Klaus.  Elaine is a certified co- active coach, public speaker, educator, the cofounder of Sanity School, and Impact ADHD, and the author of The Essential Guide to Raising Complex Kids.   

In Today’s Episode, Elaine and I talk about how parents of complex kids are handling the pandemic, the importance of verbalizing the unspoken, and of course her new book.  We discuss the value of the book’s intentional, user-friendly design, the 6 areas of challenge parents face in raising their kids, the power of using a coach approach to raising our kids, and how to avoid taking things personally. 

Today, we’re talking to Caroline Maguire.  Caroline is the author of “Why Will No One Play With Me?”, and an expert in ADHD, Executive Function, and Social Skills.

In Today’s Episode, Caroline and I talk about the social challenges of COVID19.  We discuss the need for small social interactions, the importance of clear communication when planning to socialize with others, ways to strengthen social skills weakened by COVID, and why we need to collaborate more with our kids.

A former special education director, and founding head of student support at Bentley Academy in Salem, MA, Victoria is an educational consultant with a relentless passion for helping children and their families. 

In Today’s Episode, Victoria and I talk about the complexity of public education.  This one’s got a lot packed into it, folks!  We discuss the many facets and stakeholders involved in reopening schools during COVID, the many and varied expectations that we put on schools in order to address society’s ills, what Victoria does as an educational consultant, Home Schooling Pods, and why effective reading instruction is so important. 

Today, we’re talking to returning guest, Dani Donovan!  Dani is an artist who creates cathartic illustrations and a community of validation and solidarity for adults with ADHD!

In Today’s Episode, Dani and I discuss how we can harness the power of doodling to help us attend and learn while attending virtual meetings both for our kids at school, and for ourselves in our jobs.  But first, Dani tells us what it’s like to quit your job just before a global pandemic.  The ADHD abounds in this one, folks!

Today, we’re talking to my friend, Dr. David Nowell.  Dr. Nowell is an ADHD expert, and clinical neuropsychologist who works with his clients to identify areas of cognitive strength and weakness and relate those patterns to known profiles of brain-behavior relationship. 

In Today’s Episode, David and I talk about the rejection sensitivity that so often accompanies ADHD.  We discuss what rejection sensitivity is, the controversy surrounding it, it’s relationship to The Wall of Awful, how social competency factors into rejection sensitivity, things we can learn from the therapeutic models of CBT and DBT, and the mom/friend override.

• Learn about Dr. David Nowell and his work at www.drnowell.com

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected] 

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Today, it's just me.  I haven't yet addressed the puzzle of the upcoming school year, and I feel like I should.  So that's what we're doing, even though I don't have a guest to do it with. It's not my place to tell you what to do here, but I can give you a tool for how to address the decision.

In this episode, I walk you through a decision-making approach I use that involves looking at the values which undergird an issue in order to figure out how best to address it.  In this case, the issue is how to approach the 2020-2021 school year for our children, but this approach can be used in lots of areas.

Register for The Executive Function Online Summit (TEFOS)!

Register for the ADHD reWired Live Q&A!

Register for the a pre-registration call about the  ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected] 

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Eddie Martucci.  Eddie is the Co-Founder & CEO of Akili Interactive, a digital medicine company.  That prescription video game for treating ADHD that you’ve been hearing about?  That’s the work of Eddie and Akili.

In Today’s Episode, we talk about Endeavor RX, the aforementioned prescription video game.  We discuss how it came about, the thinking that went into it, how it’s different from other video games, what it does, and doesn’t do, whether it works for adults, and whether or not it can be used by kids with video game addiction.

• Learn about Eddie and his team at Akili at https://www.akiliinteractive.com/people 
• Sign-Up to be one of the first to hear when EndeavorRX can be prescribed at https://www.akiliinteractive.com/get-endeavor

• Want proof that EndeavorRX is the real deal?  Here's a link to an FDA article about it: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-permits-marketing-first-game-based-digital-therapeutic-improve-attention-function-children-adhd

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected] 

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Today, it's just me.  We're revisiting perfectionism, because the last episode clearly resonated with a lot of you, and I got a good amount of feedback and questions about it.  

We're talking about the roles that inconsistency, judging ourselves based on our best performance, and asynchronous development play in the perfectionism of folks with ADHD, as well as ways to address it!

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected] 

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to my friend, Denise Roadman.  Denise is a middle school wellness teacher who helps her students better manage their stress, and cut out their perfectionism. 

In Today’s Episode, Denise and I discuss the causes, and detrimental effects of perfectionism (and ways to reduce it), stress management techniques, why you should train your mind like a horse, and the effects of social media on our kids and ourselves.

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected] 

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Juliana Chen and Tai Katzenstein. 

Juliana is a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Newton-Wellesley Hospital (NWH), and a part-time clinical instructor at Harvard Medical School. 

Tai is also a clinical psychologist at Newton Wellesley Hospital (NWH), and the former Director of Certification at Think:Kids at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH).  Together, they serve as co-directors of The Resilience Project Parents Program, an innovative community outreach program based out of Newton-Wellesley Hospital. 

In Today’s Episode, Tai, Julianna and I discuss ways to develop the skill of resilience, how to ask our kids better questions, the importance of unconditional love, the challenges of checking-in, and Parental Self-care.

• Find the Resilience Project on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/NWHResilienceProject/

•  Tai and Juliana's Resilient Parenting blog at Psychology Today:

  https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/resilient-parenting/202006/managing-parent-anxiety-in-the-age-covid-19

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected] 

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Seth Perler. In fact, this episode was also shared on Seth’s YouTube vlog!  Seth is an executive function and 2e coach who works tirelessly to help outside-the-box kids succeed.

In Today’s Episode, Seth and I discuss trauma, self-compassion, building our kids’  Executive Function skills during the summer, and the opportunity cost of screen time.

• Learn about Seth at https://sethperler.com
• Check Out Seth's Vlog version of this conversation at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQwOsjYxBrM&t=41s

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected] 

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Joyce Kubik and Robin Nordmeyer.  Joyce and Robin are ADHD coaches who have created a program to help ADHD/nonADHD couples better manage their relationships.

In Today’s Episode, Joyce, Robin and I discuss managing blame, excuses, and defensiveness in relationships, the importance of being able to slow down & pause, improving our communication, and how couples can support each other.

• Learn about Robin and Joyce’s upcoming Marriage Uncomplicated Workshop:  https://centerforlivingwellwithadhd.org/marriage-uncomplicated---couples-study.html
• Learn about Robin and her work at: https://centerforlivingwellwithadhd.org/adhd-coach-robin-nordmeyer---minnesota.html
  • Email Robin: [email protected]
•  Learn about Joyce and her work at: https://www.joycekubik.com/
  • Email Joyce: [email protected]

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected] 

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

Today, we’re talking to Sarah Chayette.  Sarah is a pediatric neurologist, and an expert in both ADHD and Autism.  She is the co-author of two books on ADHD, and her blog 1-2-3 ADHD is featured in Psychology Today.

In Today’s Episode, Sarah and I discuss ADHD and the nervous system.  And then shift into the intersection of ADHD and Autism.  We talk about their similarities and differences, the challenges with diagnosis, why kids with ADHD and autism might both miss social cues, but miss them for different reasons, the roles anxiety and sensory challenges play in both disorders, and why symptoms matter more than diagnosis.

• Learn more about Sarah and her work at https://sarahcheyette.com
• Read her blog at https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/1-2-3-adhd

ADHD Essentials Links:  

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected] 

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

In this week's episode, I share ideas for managing the Summer of 2020 - one that, for many of us, is likely to be mostly at home, for both us and our kids.

I talk about the importance of prioritizing and communicating with our kids, helping the set goals for the summer,  and then planning the summer around the things they want to learn, make and do.  I also break summer ideas down into 7 categories, and share how I will be addressing each to get your brains going!  

Those categories are:  

Today, we’re talking to Romanza McAllister.  is a Psychotherapist and ADHD Coach in Brooklyn NY.  She works with Adult who have ADHD.  Her work centers on racial identity, codependency, and acceptance of the ADHD diagnosis. She serves on the board of the Attention Deficit Disorder Association, and leads their African American /Black Diaspora + ADHD Virtual Peer Support Group. 

In Today’s Episode, Romanza shares with us the challenges that black Americans who have ADHD face in our culture.  We discuss the ways COVID19 and civil unrest are affecting her daily life in Brooklyn, New York, the reality of police interactions for Black Americans and how having ADHD affects them, shared trauma, nonviolent ways to resist systemic racism, and who gets to have ADHD.

This episode was challenging for me as an interviewer.  My first question is awful.  It framed things well enough, but I should have phrased it better.  Also, I if I could do it again, I would talk less and listen more. 

I imagine this episode may be challenging for some listeners of this show.  It’s not the first time we’ve talked about race and racism ion this show, but I’ve never covered it when things were as charged as they are right now, following the death of George Floyd. I hope you find meaning in it.

• Learn more about Romanza and her work at http://mcallisterpsychotherapy.com/ 
• Learn more about the African American /Black Diaspora + ADHD Virtual Peer Support Group
• Read her articles:
  • Catch 22: ADHD, Work, and the "Black Tax"
  • Black like Me with ADHD: Voices from the Intersection COVID-19 Red Alert - Toward Cultural Curiosity and Engagement

Today, we’re talking to Chandler Creedon.  Chandler is a retired school psychologist, a former professor of mine, and a returning guest! 

In Today’s Episode, Chandler and I talk about teaching our kids at home, using uniforms to set roles, creating vs. consuming, and being emotional scientists.

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials 

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Today, we’re talking to Bruce Sabian, M.A., LMHC.  Bruce is the co-founder, owner, director, and clinical supervisor of Academy MetroWest in Natick, Massachusetts. The Academy MetroWest team runs weekly social skills groups, and Bruce, himself, provides individual counseling and executive functioning coaching services to children, adolescents, and young adults.  

In Today’s Episode, Bruce and I talk about how his usual hands-on, in person work at Academy Metro West has changed since things went virtual, and the ways he and his staff are supporting the kids they work with.  We discuss how reducing competition can make it easier for kids to receive feedback, the power of cooperative games and where to find them online, why virtual schooling has made things easier  for some kids by reducing variables, and the challenges of changing family dynamics.

• Learn more about Bruce and Academy MetroWest at http://academymetrowest.com.

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected] 

Today, we’re talking to Inger Colzie MSW, LSW of Alchemy Coaching and Counseling Inger is an ADHD coach, as well as an ADHD mom of an ADHD kid. She brings her 15 years of expertise as a psychotherapist to her work with individuals, families and organizations to help them experience deeper connection, community, and authentic communication. 

In Today’s Episode, Inger and I discuss ADHD and the African American experience.  We discuss the cultural challenges to mental health support for black Americans, wearing a mask of normalcy as an ADHD person, code switching, and Inger shares what it’s like to be a parent with ADHD of a child with ADHD.

• Find Inger at https://www.ingercolziecounseling.com

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Today, we’re talking to Richard Tedeschi.  Richard originated the concept of posttraumatic growth with his colleague Lawrence Calhoun during their years at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. More recently, he has been applying the posttraumatic growth concept in the development of innovative programs for combat veterans and first responders. The success of which is leading to their implementation at a number of venues across the country. His new book about the growth experiences of military families is Transformed by Trauma: Stories of Posttraumatic Growth (2020).

In Today’s Episode, Dr. Tedeschi talks to us about trauma, PTSD, and Post traumatic growth as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic.  We discuss how getting clear on our beliefs can help us more effectively navigate this crisis, the importance of taking action for our mental health - especially actions that help others, and how parents can help their kids better handle difficult and challenging times.

Find Dr. Teschi's books:

• Transformed by Trauma: Stories of Posttraumatic Growth (2020)
• The Posttraumatic Growth Workbook (2016) 

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Today, we’re talking to Stephanie Letourneau.  Stephanie is a 3rd grade teacher, and a return guest, though it’s been a while!  She was on about two years ago, in the early days of the pod to talk about how she was adding mindfulness to her classroom curriculum. 

In Today’s Episode, we talk about distance learning from the teacher perspective, how her continued use of mindfulness in her virtual classroom is helping her students and their parents, and how the current COVID crisis is shining a light on inequities in our education system.

• Email your questions about mindfulness to Stepahie at [email protected]
• Learn more about mindfulness at mindfulschools.org
• Or at mindful.org

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

I met him at the International Conference on ADHD last year, and was struck by his passion and intelligence.  When he told me he worked at NASA, I knew I had to get him on the show.

In today's episode, Chris tells us about his journey from grocery store clerk to NASA employee.  Along the way, we dig into his passion for STEM, the importance of supporting our kids' passions, and the power of a wide and varied skillset!

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Today, we’re talking to Alicia.  Alicia is an ADHD mom of ADHD kids, and a member of the ADHD Essentials Facebook Community.  

In Today’s Episode, Alicia shares her story with us.  She talks about her initial misdiagnosis, and how things have changed since receiving a new diagnosis of ADHD.  She also shares how having ADHD has affected her finances, and the strategies she’s used to get them back on track.

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Today, we’re talking to Melissa Orlov.  Melissa is a marriage consultant, specializing in helping ADHD-affected couples rebalance their relationships. She is a cum laude graduate of Harvard College and an award winning author of The ADHD Effect on Marriage and The Couple's Guide to Thriving with ADHD.

In Today’s Episode, Melissa and I talk about ADHD in family relationships.  We discuss how status within the relationship affects ADHD marriages, why the parent-child dynamic doesn’t work, why it happens, and how to get out of it.  We also discuss Melissa’s three legged conceptual model for ADHD treatment, the power of verbal cues and silos, ADHD as a reward deficiency syndrome  - meaning punishment just isn’t an effective way to parent our kids, and why knowledge is power when it comes to ADHD.

• Learn more about Melissa's work at https://www.adhdmarriage.com 

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Today, we’re talking to my friend Alan Brown.  Alan is an entrepreneur, former marketing executive, and president of Crusher Solutions where he creates the ADD Crusher videos, tools, and Crusher TV.  He’s also created a guide called “Stop Making Your ADD Worse”, which can be found on www.addcrusher.com.

In Today’s Episode, Alan and I talk about taking care of our brains and ways to do it - how visual clutter impacts us, the importance of paying attention to what we are paying attention to, and why simple carbs, though tasty and comforting, are not a good plan.  We also talk tools we provide kids to manage their emotions.

• Learn more about Alan's work at www.addcrusher.com!
• Check out Crusher TV.
• The "Just Breathe" video Alan discusses in today's show.

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Today's episode features Lollie Weeks of Fast Brain Coaching and Kyra Todd of Northern Virginia Coaching Solutions.  Lollie and Kyra joined me for an impromptu Q&A to help us better manage the challenges that COVID-19, learning and working from home are causing for families.  I hope you find it useful. 

• Learn more about Lollie at https://fastbraincoaching.com
  
  
• Learn more about Kyra at https://www.northernvirginiacoaching.com

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

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As promised, as normal episode.  :)

In today’s episode, we’re talking to Roxanne Jarrett.  Roxanne is a coach, educator, multi-disciplined artist, and mother with ADHD. Who believes that consistent creativity can be a powerful affirmation of our own unique contributions to the world, and evidence of our self-worth. Her mission is to help people build and maintain feelings of self-value through creative accomplishments. 

Today, Roxanne and I talk about the benefits of understanding the needs of the people we are caring for, why  we should push our kids in the directions of their passions (even when it’s hard), how short-term goals fuel our pursuit of long-term goals, why putting our adult ambitions on our kids is inappropriate, and the power of theater arts.

• Learn more about Roxanne and her work at www.swellhead.com or www.roxannejarrett.com.

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

• ADHD reWired
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Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parecalls is a pediatrician based in Texas who is confronting COVID-19 full on in her practice.   She's one of the most intelligent, driven, and determined people I know.  So, I was overjoyed when I found out she wanted to come on the show to talk about the virus and its fallout.

In today’s episode, Dr. Lentzsch-Parecalls gives us an overview of the COVID-19 Pandemic.  We discuss where to get reliable information, why social/physical distancing matters, way to maintain support for your mental health (including medication), maintaining our social relationships, the impact of the virus on our medical infrastructure, and medical community, and a lot more.  It's a fairly quick episode, but it's packed with ideas and information.

P.S.  The promised Q&A will likely post this weekend, so there's still time to get questions to me.  Send them to:  [email protected].

• Learn more about Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parecalls and her work at http://www.gtw-health.com. 

• ADHD reWired
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• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

What's Up Team!?!

There are a lot of different ideas in my head.  Lots of topics to address.  My skill set, professional experience, and educational background make me uniquely qualified to handle some of the problems we’re facing right now in the shadow of COVID-19.  Obviously, I’m not a doctor, but the challenges around maintaining our mental health, homeschooling, working from home and parenting during this time?  Those I can handle.

I think the most important place to start, though, is to remind all of us (me included) that self-care matters. Take the time to care for yourself and your family.  That matters more than school, or work, or cleaning out your closets.

• Watch an extra episode of your favorite TV show together.
• Go for a walk.
• Call a friend. (Or Skype with them!)
• Eat the cookie.

Also, set healthy boundaries around your social media and news consumption.  It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the information available to us.  Especially because we’re at home, with easy access to it, and little pressure to avoid the rabbit holes. 

• Limit how much time you spend on social media
• Remember that when you are on there, you’re seeing other people’s highlight reels. Don't compare other people’s highlight reels to your blooper reel.  They have a blooper reel, too.  It’s just not on Facebook.  (And it’s definitely not in Instagram!)
  
  That post your friend shared about the amazing project their kids did this week?  It didn’t happen.  Not like you think.  Those kids got a ton of help, and mom’s fried because of it.  She’s as burnt out as you are.  You just can’t tell because she keep smiling in all the pictures.
• Also, remember that the news is for profit. It’s designed to get ratings. And the best way to keep you watching is to elicit strong emotions.  Fear, anger, concern, that sort thing.  Those emotions aren’t helping you.  Turn off the news, and be targeted in your consumption.  Pick a few reliable, well-established news outlets, like NPR, the Associated Press, the Wall Street Journal, or the New York Times, and visit their sites once or twice a day at most to get updates.  Don’t overwhelm yourself with constant monitoring.

And speaking of boundaries, set some for you expectations of yourself and your kids, too.  Your kids are just as anxious as you are, if not more so.  That means they’re going to make mistakes, and get frustrated and sad, and angry.  Don’t take it personally, but help them bounce back.  And frame social distancing so they know it’s not a time to be scared.  Social distancing right now is like looking both ways before you cross the street.  We don’t do it because we’re scared, we do it because it’s a strategy to keep us safe. 

As for yourself, set reasonable expectations.  You’re not going to do all the things you think you’re going to do. 

You don’t need to be all things to all people.  You don’t have to be a great spouse, and a great friend, and a great parent, and a great homeschool teacher, and a great housekeeper. Allow yourself to be thoroughly ok at some of them, the important ones, and crappy at the rest.  Support those who need it if you can, but pace yourself to keep some gas in your tank. 

If I’m honest, this is a lesson I’ve had to learn over the last few days.  Because I know ways to navigate this situation, I feel very much like I should be helping everyone else.  And because it feels urgent, I want to help everyone RIGHT NOW!  I want to post a podcast episode every day, and start a YouTube channel to share tips and strategies that I know will help.  But to do that, I would have to ignore my own family.  I just can’t drop the ball on my kids to help everyone else with theirs, and then claim I know how to be a good parent.  I have to prioritize the important over the urgent. 

So, here’s how I’m going to do that.  I’m wrapping this episode here.  But I will post at least twice next week – somewhere in the middle of the week, I will post a COVID-19 tip show for those who want the help.  And on Friday, I will post an interview episode like usual for those that want a break from all this.

If you’re anything like many of the folks I’ve been in contact with, you probably fall into both of those groups.  If there’s anything specific about maintaining our mental health, homeschooling, working from home, or parenting during this time you want me to address, send an email to [email protected], and I’ll address your concern on the mid-week show.

 That said, this is going to pass.  Things will be okay.  Take care of yourselves, and each other.  And give yourselves and each other the grace to make mistakes, feel uncertain, and be not-quite-good enough.  That’s where ADHD lives, after all.  Our comfort in that space might just help us navigate this uncertain time more effectively than others.

Again, email me at [email protected] if you have any questions you want me to address in the mid-week show.  I’m here to help.   I love you all, I believe in you.  We can handle this.  Together.

Today's episode starts with my thoughts about COVID-19, and how to respond to it.  (Like ordering a bidet!)  I hope you find them useful, and maybe even a little reassuring.

After that, we’re talking to my friend, Dr. Sharon Saline.  Dr. Saline is a licensed, clinical psychologist specializing in ADHD, and the author of “What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew”.

In today’s episode, Sharon and I are talking about what to do when your kids are cooped up at home.  We did the interview through the lens of a snow day, but it works for quarantine and social distancing, too!  There’s a lot of really good information and ideas in here.  I hope you enjoy it, and I hope you’re able to navigate the current pandemic with as much ease and grace as possible.

• Connect with Dr. Saline at https://www.drsharonsaline.com
• Buy her book here!

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• Register our the monthly live Q&A!

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
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• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]

Today, we’re talking to Brittany Smith of Devise and Conquer!  Brittany is a cognitive neuroscientist, coach, and computer enthusiast. She specializes in helping people get their work done: better, more efficiently, and more enjoyably.

In today’s episode, we’re talking about the pitfalls and benefits of smartphones for people with ADHD.  We look at ways to determine what your goals are for your smartphone, managing notifications to increase our available willpower, the importance of turning off autoplay, the affect social media can have on our mood, and best practices for setting up your phone.

• Connect with Brittany Smith at https://conquer.consulting
• Check out Voice Dream Reader at https://www.voicedream.com

• ADHD reWired
• Hacking Your ADHD
• ADHD Essentials
• Register our the monthly live Q&A!

• Contact Brendan about booking a workshop for your organization
• Join Our Facebook Community
• Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups 
• Check out the ADHD Essentials Homepage
• Contact Brendan at [email protected]