Best Highfunctioning Podcasts (2024)

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EP 296: Anna Rahe on Fascia Therapy, Trauma Healing, and ADHD 59:37

34m ago59:37

59:37

Can trauma be stored in the body? And if so, could understanding fascia - the connective tissue enveloping our muscles and organs - be key to unlocking healing? Join us as we explore these questions and delve into the often overlooked world of fascia with expert Anna Rahe. Anna Rahe, founder of GST Body, has dedicated over 25 years to the study and…

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EP. 295: Building a 7-Figure Business with ADHD: Insights from Molly Claire 41:19

7d ago41:19

41:19

From feeling lost to running a 7-figure business: Is it possible with ADHD? Molly Claire's journey shows it can be done. As a coach trainer and founder of The Masterful Coach Collective, Molly has built a 7-figure coaching business while navigating the challenges of ADHD. She's a mom of three, hosts a popular podcast, and wrote "The Happy Mom Minds…

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EP. 294: Ditching the Self-Sabotage Squad by Mastering Two Important Networks in Your Brain 20:19

7d ago20:19

20:19

Why does our ADHD brain get stuck on those annoying negative thoughts? It's all about two parts of our brain: the Task Positive Network (TPN) and the Default Mode Network (DMN). The TPN is our "get stuff done" network - it lights up when we're in the zone, laser-focused on a task. The DMN, on the other hand, is our "daydream/worry" network. It's wh…

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EP. 293: What is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria? 33:53

14d ago33:53

33:53

Do you ever feel like your emotions are too much to handle? Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is a powerful yet often overlooked aspect of ADHD, particularly in women. If you've ever wondered whether your emotional turbulence is more than just "in your head," you're not alone. Many people with ADHD experience RSD, but it's frequently misunderstoo…

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EP. 292: The ADHD Workbook for Teen Girls: A Conversation with Dr. Catherine Mutti-Driscoll 46:29

21d ago46:29

46:29

"I thought I was just lazy and stupid." These words from Dr. Catherine Mutti-Driscoll hit hard. At 37, with a PhD in education, she discovered she had ADHD - after her son's diagnosis. Tracy sits down with Dr. Mutti-Driscoll to explore ADHD in women, from feeling like an imposter to navigating social interactions. They discuss her groundbreaking wo…

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EP. 291: Mastering Your Mind: How Thoughts Shape Your Life 44:57

28d ago44:57

44:57

Your thoughts create your feelings. For women with ADHD, negative thoughts and emotions can be particularly challenging. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity for personal growth and mental mastery. By recognizing that our emotions stem from our thoughts, we can better manage our actions and achieve our goals. Mindfulness plays a cru…

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EP. 290: Getting Diagnosed 39:43

1M ago39:43

39:43

How do you effectively prepare for a meeting with an ADHD clinician to seek a diagnosis? Many women feel anxious about seeking an ADHD diagnosis, fearing encounters with professionals who lack expertise in how ADHD presents in women or who may doubt their intentions. As someone who has been through this process for both myself and my son, I underst…

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EP. 289: Designing with Empathy: Nikki Kuhn's Accessibility Journey 58:31

1M ago58:31

58:31

The digital landscape can pose challenges for individuals with unique needs—a challenge Nikki Kuhn is passionate about addressing. As an advocate and entrepreneur in the accessibility field, Nikki shares her journey of overcoming hurdles and fostering change in digital accessibility. She discusses her experiences with ADHD and dyslexia and the impo…

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EP. 288: Inspiring Photographers Worldwide: Michelle Harris's ADHD Journey 37:01

2M ago37:01

37:01

Harnessing hyper-focus, effective prioritization, and community support are the ADHD traits that Michelle Harris credits for her success. Initially, her signs of ADHD were overlooked due to cultural misunderstandings, but she has since embraced her unique abilities. This episode highlights how unexpected life changes can bring lifelong conditions i…

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EP. 287: Cleaning for Mental Health: Sarah McGlory’s Adaptive Approach to Chronic Pain 56:08

2M ago56:08

56:08

Imagine homeschooling five kids, battling chronic pain, and navigating life with ADHD—all during a pandemic. That's the incredible journey of our guest, Sarah McGlory. After years of dismissal by doctors, she finally received an ADHD diagnosis in her 40s, bringing much-needed validation. Her story is one of resilience and innovation. Sarah's ingenu…

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EP. 286: Heather Florio: Transforming Women’s Health and Wellness 1:06:47

2M ago1:06:47

1:06:47

Heather Florio's journey is one of resilience and growth. Her advice? Do overwhelming things one step at a time. Diagnosed with ADHD in high school and discovering she was autistic at age 41, Heather turned these traits into sources of strength and creativity. Growing up in a military family in Germany, she embraced her unique perspective and devel…

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EP. 285: Laura Key: How Successful Women with ADHD Mask Their Struggles 52:32

2M ago52:32

52:32

Struggling with perfectionism? Feeling like there's always more to achieve? You're not alone! Join us as Laura Key, host of the ADHD AHA podcast, shares her journey from an anxiety disorder diagnosis to discovering her ADHD. She talks about the moments that led to her diagnosis, including a discovery in her childhood journals. Laura reflects on her…

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EP. 284: Unlocking Productivity: Alexis Haselberger's ADHD-Inspired Techniques 1:06:28

3M ago1:06:28

1:06:28

Managing time with an ADHD brain can be tough, but what if there were ways to make it easier? Join us as Alexis Haselberger shares her story of being diagnosed with ADHD in her 40s and how it changed her life for the better. She talked about practical strategies for coping with ADHD, tips for managing digital communication, and the benefits of usin…

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EP. 283 Kris Jones: Simplifying Writing for ADHD Brains 56:24

3M ago56:24

56:24

Can creativity and chaos coexist to create brilliance? Let’s unlock the secrets to mastering storytelling and entrepreneurship with Kris Jones in this week’s episode of the ADHD for Smart Ass Women. Kris Jones is a pioneer in storytelling and entrepreneurship. She founded Red Door Stories in 2003 after overcoming significant challenges, including a…

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EP. 282: The Power of Persistence: Arielle Paul’s Story 1:01:51

3M ago1:01:51

1:01:51

Teachers once said, “She’ll never amount to anything academically,” but Arielle proved them wrong. This podcast episode celebrates the resilience and brilliance of women with ADHD, featuring Arielle Paul's remarkable journey. Her story is a powerful reminder that with the right support and strategies, such as neurofeedback and tailored education, t…

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EP. 281: True Crime: The Lori Vallow & Chad Daybell Story with Author, Lori Hellis 51:43

3M ago51:43

51:43

Do you love true crime stories and want to see how ADHD plays a role in them? Then, this episode is for you! Lori Hellis is a former lawyer turned true crime author. Her journey from law to writing is driven by her restless mind's need for new challenges and constant stimulation. Lori's impressive background includes working as a prosecutor, public…

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EP. 280: Dr. Sharon Saline: The Stress-Anxiety-ADHD Nexus 1:01:55

4M ago1:01:55

1:01:55

Did you know there's such a thing as productive anxiety and toxic anxiety? One can give you a boost, while the other can drag you down. Managing ADHD, anxiety, time management, and social expectations can be tricky, but they also open doors to self-discovery and growth. Dr. Saline, with over 30 years of experience and a strengths-based approach, of…

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EP. 279: From Anxious Ground to Blooming Minds: Kendall Platt's Mindful Gardening Revolution 57:05

4M ago57:05

57:05

Is it possible that the vibrant energy of ADHD can harmonize beautifully with the serene practice of mindful gardening? Kendall Marie Platt, who was diagnosed with ADHD at 36, is living proof that it can. She shares how this diagnosis transformed her life, channeling her dynamic energy into the calming rhythms of gardening. Throughout our conversat…

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EP 278: Author Allison Larkin on 'The People We Keep' and Thriving with ADHD 53:17

4M ago53:17

53:17

What makes us different can be the very thing that makes us shine. For writers with ADHD, navigating the creative process is both a challenge and a fascinating opportunity. Bestselling author Allison Larkin has turned the unique challenges of ADHD into the fertile ground from which her successful writing career has blossomed. Join us as we explore …

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EP. 277: Linda Karanzalis: A Pioneer's Approach to Nonverbal Learning Disorder and ADHD 37:26

4M ago37:26

37:26

Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) bring unique strengths and opportunities, showcasing the extraordinary capabilities and resilience of those who experience these conditions. In our latest podcast episode, Linda Karanzalis, a board-certified cognitive specialist, shares her enriching personal and…

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EP. 276: Embracing ADHD and Autism: The Mindful Misfit's Guide to Movement and Magic for Every Body 1:01:18

5M ago1:01:18

1:01:18

Recognizing the importance of self-care and body connection is crucial for those with ADHD, which is what makes Caitlin Doherty’s work with Mindful Movement for Misfits so significant. As a therapeutic yoga and movement practitioner, Caitlin not only offers guidance but also embodies the vibrant possibilities of living with ADHD and autism. Her per…

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EP. 275: From Soft Bones to Solid Laughs with Comedian Ellie Hino 49:53

5M ago49:53

49:53

Get ready to crack up and nod in agreement as the hilarious Ellie Hino, a Minneapolis gem in the stand-up comedy realm, joins me, Tracy Otsuka, for this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women. llie's candid recount of her diagnosis following the trials of motherhood, her journey through emotional regulation, and the quest for effective coping strategi…

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EP. 274: Embracing Diversity at the Dinner Table: Transforming ‘Picky Eating’ with Stephanie Sorrentino Mulholland 1:06:25

5M ago1:06:25

1:06:25

In a world where ADHD and neurodiversity often complicate the seemingly simple task of eating, Stephanie Sorrentino Mulholland brings a refreshing and enlightening perspective to the table. As a pediatric speech-language pathologist and a neurodivergent individual herself, Stephanie delves deep into the heart of 'picky eating,' transforming it from…

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EP. 273: Empowerment Beyond Misdiagnosis with Alyssa Fontaine 58:44

5M ago58:44

58:44

Alyssa Fontaine's life story highlights the crucial need for mental health diagnosis and care accuracy. Misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder as a teenager, she faced the challenges of ADHD and medication mismanagement, which set her on a path to self-advocacy and profound change. This experience fueled her passion to support women entangled in cycles…

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EP. 272: Grieving and Healing through ADHD Perspective with Laurie Peterson, Anita Robertson, and Sandra Centorino 1:23:10

6M ago1:23:10

1:23:10

Navigating grief can be a challenging and emotional journey, especially when coupled with the complexities of ADHD. However, it can also be an opportunity for growth and resilience. In this upcoming discussion, we'll hear from a group of remarkable women, including Sandra Centorino, the beacon of positivity, Laurie Peterson, an authority on ADHD an…

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EP. 271: Navigating ADHD and Public Service with Dulce Vasquez 1:03:28

6M ago1:03:28

1:03:28

In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, I have the pleasure of chatting with Dulce Vasquez, who's not only making waves in the political arena by running for California State Assembly District 57 but also reshaping the conversation around ADHD and mental health. At 36, Dulce's life took a transformative turn with her ADHD diagnosis, providing …

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EP. 270: The ADHD Toolbox: Brooke Schnittman's Strategies for Success 58:19

6M ago58:19

58:19

Brooke Schnittman worked closely with ADHDers for years providing disability support, not realizing she had ADHD herself until she moved to virtual coaching and was suddenly unable to focus and stay on top of administrative tasks like she was before. Getting a diagnosis gave Brooke the tools and understanding to take her services and self-care to t…

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EP. 269: How to Feel Good with Taylor Elyse Morrison 55:50

6M ago55:50

55:50

The term “self-care” has become synonymous with bubble baths and meditation classes, but for ADHDers who are already overwhelmed by endless to-do lists, the last thing we need is to pile more “shoulds” onto our plates. Taylor Elyse Morrison always felt overwhelmed by the idea of self-care until she realized that, in her words, “self-care is listeni…

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EP. 268: Dissecting RSD, People Pleasing, Neurofibromatosis and Pet Nutrition with Priscilla Tollin 1:04:25

7M ago1:04:25

1:04:25

Priscilla Tollin was born with neurofibromatosis (NF), a neurological disorder that causes tumors to form on nerve tissue and can impact mobility. Priscilla’s physical limitations meant that any hyperactivity she experienced growing up was turned inwards, and her ADHD flew under the radar until finally getting a diagnosis at 32. Once Priscilla unde…

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EP. 267: Harnessing EMDR and Polyvagal Theory for Stress Mastery with Gabrielle Juliano-Villani 1:13:00

7M ago1:13:00

1:13:00

Many people know I'm a gusher, meaning that when I find something I really believe in, I want the whole world to know about it. I truly believe that the bottom-line goal with ADHD is to master our nervous systems, which is why I'm so delighted to sit down with clinical social worker and coach, Gabrielle Juliano-Villani. Gabrielle began her career i…

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EP. 266: ADHD in the C-Suite: Katy McFee's Blueprint for Women in Leadership 1:06:13

7M ago1:06:13

1:06:13

Katy McFee spent the bulk of her career undiagnosed and struggled for years until she learned how to work with her ADHD and not against it. After 18 years in the corporate world, she founded her company, Insights to Action, which is on a mission to help close the gender gap in senior leadership. Katy discovered through her entrepreneurship journey …

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EP. 265: Harnessing Your ADHD Superpower: A Chat with Jessica McCabe from How to ADHD 58:20

7M ago58:20

58:20

After being diagnosed with ADHD at age twelve, Jessica McCabe struggled with a brain she didn't understand. Determined to understand her challenges, Jessica reached out to experts, read articles, and decided to share her findings with others. This determination and curiosity set her on the incredible path she's on today. Jessica is now the founder …

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EP. 264: Doing Veterinary Medicine Her Way with Dr. Ashley Portmann 1:06:23

8M ago1:06:23

1:06:23

Dr. Ashley Portmann had always dreamed of becoming a veterinarian ever since she was a little girl, but like with many fast-paced careers in the medical field she soon found herself hitting burnout from the chaos of general practice. Ashley attended a conference on home hospice care and realized that maybe she wouldn’t have to leave the profession …

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EP. 263: Melinda Shepherdson's Odyssey from World Explorer to Adventure Bush Therapy 1:08:38

8M ago1:08:38

1:08:38

Melinda Shepherdson’s sense of adventure has led her up mountains, down rivers, and across the world. Her long list of travel destinations is impressive, but what Melinda cares about most on these adventures is her connection with nature. The outdoors provides her with regulation, energy, positivity, and helps to calm her ADHD mind–all benefits she…

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EP. 262: Navigating Relationships: Understanding Coercive Control, Trauma, and ADHD with Maya Ann 1:21:46

8M ago1:21:46

1:21:46

In the latest episode of "ADHD for Smart Ass Women," I sit down with Maya Ann, a geotechnical engineer, to discuss her journey of navigating relationships with ADHD and understanding coercive control. Maya shares her experiences, insights, and the strength she's found post-separation. This powerful conversation covers a wide range of topics, includ…

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EP. 261: From Our Pages to Their Lives: 4 More Stories of ADHD and Insight 45:20

8M ago45:20

45:20

Last episode, I had the pleasure of introducing you to five brilliant women who were all in different stages of their own ADHD journey, and what I discovered is they found reflection and resonance within our book. All of these women shared their personal stories that showcase the unique paths they've walked, and they discuss the impact that our boo…

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EP. 260: From Our Pages to Their Lives: 5 Stories of ADHD and Discovery 1:10:45

8M ago1:10:45

1:10:45

For this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women and the next episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with 9 real women who are in different stages of their ADHD journey and have also found reflection and resonance within our book. You're going to meet 5 of them and then in our next episode you'll meet 4 more of these wonderful women. They've generousl…

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EP. 259: Exploring the Heart of ADHD Women An Interview of Tracy Otsuka by Dr. Christine Li 47:02

9M ago47:02

47:02

This is going to be a very different episode than anything we've ever done here. I have invited my good friend, Dr. Christine Lee, to the podcast to interview me about my new book, ADHD for SMART ASS WOMEN. Christine is a procrastination coach, a seasoned clinical psychologist, and was the first ever guest on my podcast, which makes her the perfect…

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EP. 258: The Power of Hope: Rewriting the ADHD Narrative 34:13

9M ago34:13

34:13

Doing this kind of work, I often feel like I'm going up against an industry that sees ADHD only as a weakness. But not only is there science and research to refute these negative misconceptions, there's also you, the thousands of ADHD women that I've had the privilege of meeting. And I just know after meeting all of you that they're getting it wron…

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EP. 257: The Challenges of ADHD and Aging in Women with Dr. Kathleen Nadeau 1:04:59

9M ago1:04:59

1:04:59

We’ve known for quite some time that ADHD doesn’t just “go away” with age, yet only about 4% of boomers have a diagnosis. So why the huge discrepancy, what are the impacts, and most importantly, what can we do about it? Dr. Kathleen Nadeau has been working to answer these questions for the last few decades. Along with many other accomplishments, sh…

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Ep. 256 Cults, Child Marriage and ADHD Optimism with Dr. Tamara MC 1:26:24

9M ago1:26:24

1:26:24

Dr. Tamara MC is a cult, child marriage, and human trafficking Lived Experience Expert who advocates for girls and women to live free from gender-based violence worldwide. Married off at 12, Tamara has firsthand experience with fundamentalist cults, giving her valuable insight into how these organizations operate. She now uses her experience combin…

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EP. 255: Emotional Resilience in ADHD: Building a Happier Brain 46:05

10M ago46:05

46:05

Since tomorrow is Thanksgiving, I thought the topic of ADHD and gratitude couldn’t be more perfect. Gratitude is so important for every single human to feel good, but for those of us with ADHD, it's crucial. With our dopamine deficiency, we can't get anything if we’re not in positive emotion! Positive emotion has been shown to increase dopamine, wh…

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EP. 254: In the ADHD/Autism Trenches with Dr. Nanci Smith 1:06:40

10M ago1:06:40

1:06:40

When Dr. Nanci Smith realized her neurodiverse childrens’ needs weren’t going to be met by the public school system, she knew she had to try a different approach to education. Luckily, Nanci has a background in psychobiology and is motivated by a challenge, so the transition to homeschooling was a no-brainer. Nanci learned how to support her childr…

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EP. 253: When You Feel Unexplainably Unwell: Your Nervous System and ADHD with Pharmacist & Patient Advocate, Kalin Johnson 1:21:07

10M ago1:21:07

1:21:07

For years, Kalin Johnson was operating with a dysregulated nervous system and putting her body through unnecessary stress, and it was only once she started listening to her body’s needs that she realized how much easier things could be. Kalin now combines her personal experience with her professional training as a healthcare provider to help others…

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EP. 252: ADHD in the Workplace with Lisa Lewis 1:19:59

10M ago1:19:59

1:19:59

Lisa Lewis's skill of talking to anyone and everyone has taken her on unexpected adventures around the world, from the Scottish Highlands to the running of the bulls, and now she's here to talk to us about her ADHD journey. For the last twelve years Lisa has worked as an HR professional who focuses on diversity, equality, and inclusion in the workp…

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EP. 251: What Happens When We Learn How to Lead with Alice Gendron 1:05:49

11M ago1:05:49

1:05:49

When Alice Gendron entered the workforce, she struggled to manage the workload of a nine-to-five job and also stay on top of the endless demands of adulting. When she was diagnosed with ADHD at 29, it all finally made sense. Alice started making doodles about her ADHD experience, a skill she had been honing since grade school. Before she knew it, h…

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EP. 250: Coaching Yourself with Executive Leadership Coach Antonia Bowring 1:00:53

11M ago1:00:53

1:00:53

Antonia Bowring is a top executive coach who works with founders, C-Suite executives, and leadership teams. One of Antonia's areas of expertise is helping neurodiverse leaders create the necessary scaffolding to leverage their gifts and maintain their focus. She is a frequent speaker to companies and groups on topics ranging from mindfulness, ADHD …

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Bonus EP: Are We Really Stubborn, Irreverent, and Oppositional? 28:02

11M ago28:02

28:02

Resources: Visit: Tracy Otsuka: Instagram: @tracyotsuka Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Understand your ADHD brain with Tracy Otsuka’s AOK Academy—personalized strategies, community, and coaching. Learn more at spyhappy.me/earlybird.By Tracy Otsuka

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EP. 249: Adieu Beautiful Mama: ADHD and Grief 1:13:01

11M ago1:13:01

1:13:01

This is the hardest episode I've had to record to date. In truth, I've been avoiding it like the plague, which means procrastinating everything so I don't have to go there, but I knew I had to do it for my beautiful mother. Since starting this podcast back in 2019, many of you have asked for an episode on grief. Just like my episodes on trauma that…

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EP. 248: Educating Neurodivergent Students with Former NYU Professor and Author Sivan Hong 55:02

11M ago55:02

55:02

Growing up, Author Sivan Hong struggled to focus on reading long enough to connect with the text, until she discovered audiobooks and a whole new world opened up for her. Years later Sivan was diagnosed with ADHD and she finally understood why visual reading had been such a challenge for her and had caused so much unnecessary shame. Sivan's diagnos…

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