ADHD Essentials

In today's episode, I talk to my friend Tamara Rosier.  Tamara runs the ADHD Center of West Michigan, she is also the author of two books - “Your Brain's Not Broken”, and her new book, “You, Me, and Our ADHD Family”, as well as the workbooks that accompany both.  Tarama and I discuss her new book, and explore how ADHD affects family communication patterns, over-functioning and under-functioning, triangles, and ways to mend relationships.   Guest Links: Learn more about Tamara and her work here:  https://www.tamararosier.com/ https://adhdcenterofwestmichigan.com/   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com Find Dr. Carolyn at: http://drcarolynparcells.com/ https://www.instagram.com/the.adhd.md/   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community     

It's the end of 2024, so Dr. Carolyn and I are talking about goal-setting and how we view New Year's Resolutions.  Along the way, we dabble in the importance of working with our brains rather than against them, the power of feeling seen, and why staying true to our values is important.   Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com Find Dr. Carolyn at: http://drcarolynparcells.com/ https://www.instagram.com/the.adhd.md/   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community

Today, we're joined by executive function and leadership coach Frankie Berkoben.  She shares why our executive function capacity can be so variable and the importance of being able to accept that variance, as well as the seven types of bandwidth, and why executive function coaching is helpful for leaders. Guest Links: Learn more about Frankie and her work here: https://www.franklyquiteadhd.com/ Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links:   Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community

Today, we're joined by Dr. Patrick LaCount, the research officer for the “How to ADHD” YouTube channel. Patrick talks to us about ADHD in young adulthood. We discuss the importance of taking a long view for both parents and young adults, tips for making friends, and the value of mindfulness.     Guest Links: Learn more about Dr. LaCount and his work here: https://practicalpsychservices.com/   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community 

Our friend Dr. Caroyn, the ADHD MD is back! We talk about the importance of community to ADHD, how those communities allow us to embrace different parts of ourselves, and why the ADHD Conference is so meaningful to so many.     Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com Find Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells at: http://drcarolynparcells.com/ https://www.instagram.com/the.adhd.md/   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community   

In today's episode, we're joined by Julie Kliers.  Going undiagnosed until age 46 and not wanting to see her sons repeat her own struggles, Julie embarked on a crusade to learn all she could about ADHD, and became the person she needed.  Now, she helps adults and students with ADHD embrace their unique and unlock their full potential! Julie talks to us about the power of diagnosis, overwhelm, and boundaries.  We discuss the ADHD trap of thinking we should be doing things in a neurotypical way and then beating ourselves up when we can't, how executive function challenges lead to overwhelm, the struggle of black-and-white thinking, and ways to get into action.   Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   Guest Links: Learn more about Julie and her work here: https://www.julieadhdcoach.com/   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community 

In today's episode, we're joined by Kyrus Keenan Westcott of The Vibe with Ky. Ky talks about behaving truthfully under imaginary circumstances, the power of the stories we tell ourselves, masking, being an introvert, and the growth he's gained from doing The Vibe with Ky.   Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   Guest Links: Learn more about Ky and his work here:  https://thevibewithky.com/   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community 

Dr. Carolyn is back!  Carolyn is a pediatrician with ADHD who can talk about the disorder from any number of directions! You can find her on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as the ADHD MD. In today's episode, Dr Carolyn Lenszch-Parcells shares some good news, and we finish up our conversation about ADHD meds.  This time, we discuss non-stimulants, and a bit about the med shortage.     The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups    Learn more about Dr. Carolyn and her work here:  http://drcarolynparcells.com/ https://www.instagram.com/the.adhd.md/   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community   

In today's episode, we talk to friend-of-the-pod, and New York Times Best-Selling author AJ Jacobs.  AJ is an editor at large for Esquire, as well as a journalist, author, and lecturer best known for writing about his lifestyle experiments.  He's also a fellow ADHDer.  AJ talks to us about his latest book, The Year of Living Constitutionally.  We discuss: How his year of living like a colonial American affected AJ's mental health (mostly in good ways) Why flexible thinking matters and how to support it Lifestyle lessons from Benjamin Franklin And election cakes Guest Links: Learn more about AJ Jacobs and his work here:  https://ajjacobs.com/     Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join the ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community 

Today's episode features Alan Brown, the ADD Crusher!  And it's a little different from the norm because it was recorded live at the 2023 ADHD Con during my Lunchtime Q&As with ADHD experts and dignitaries. Alan and I discuss his principles for success with ADHD.   Managing our outlaw brain Doing what we didn't want to do Not relying on motivation The importance of baby systems Learning vs. Execution   The episode was produced by Stephen Tonti and Benj Welmond of Attention Different.  Guest Links: Learn more about Alan and his work here:  https://addcrusher.com/ https://www.alanpbrown.com/   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community 

Today, Dr. Carolyn, the ADHD MD returns to the show!  We discuss: Overwhelm Work/Life Balance The risks of tasks that help us activate, but aren't what we need to do Being a person on the internet The importance of having a team  The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups REGISTRATION CLOSES FRIDAY!    Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Brendan Goes "Live" every Friday at 11am EST. Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com Find Dr. Carolyn at: http://drcarolynparcells.com/ https://www.instagram.com/the.adhd.md/   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community 

Content Warning - brief mention of suicide. Today, I'm joined by Tracey Otsuka author of ADHD for Smart Ass Women. In this episode Tracy talks to us about ADHD and women.  We discuss: Gender norms and ADHD The lack of formal research on women with ADHD The connection between estrogen and dopamine Women and trauma Imposter Syndrome Procastivity ADHD & Perimenopause    Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here     Learn more about Tracy and her work here:  https://www.tracyotsuka.com/   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community   

Today, I'm joined by Dr. William Dodson.   Now semi-retired, Dr. Dodson is a Board-Certified adult psychiatrist and was one of the first clinicians to specialize in adults with ADHD over 25 years ago. He has been on the faculties of Georgetown University and the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center.  He was the recipient of the national Maxwell Schleifer Award for Distinguished Service to Persons with Disabilities in 2006, and was named a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association in recognition of his clinical contributions to the field of ADHD in 2012.  He has written more than 120 articles and book chapters designed to help a lay audience better understand ADHD and its treatment. In this episode Dr Dodson shares his “Interest-Based Nervous System” approach to ADHD.  We discuss: The changes he's seen in ADHD treatment over the course of his career How the ADHD nervous system differs from the neurotypical one, and how that causes confusion and challenges when it comes to motivation. Key Questions to ask about ADHD  The 5 general areas that support ADHD engagement The dangers of creating urgency & catastrophe in order to activate    Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   Guest Links: Learn more about Dr Dodson here: https://www.dodsonadhdtreatment.com/   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group

Today Talli Dolge and Amanda Morin join the pod.   Talli is a national mental health strategic advisor and executive consultant, and the Founder and CEO of Mindful Workplace LLC.  Amanda is a neurodivergent neurodiversity activist, award-winning author, certified educator, and nationally-known speaker.  Tallia and Amanda have recently launched the Empathic Edge Podcast, where they have intimate conversations with inspiring leaders with the aim of shattering preconceived ideas and providing actionable items to help listeners understand and work with different personalities and new ideas in the ever-changing work environment.  In this episode Talli, Amanda, and I talk about leadership.  We discuss  The difference between bosses and leaders Leadership as more art than science The interplay between leadership and professionalism The importance of trust in the workplace How the workplace is changing   Check Out the ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups Here!!!    Guest Links: Learn more about Talli Dole, Amanda Morin, and their new podcast "The Empathic Edge" at:  https://theempatheticedge.com/   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com Find Dr. Carolyn at: http://drcarolynparcells.com/ https://www.instagram.com/the.adhd.md/   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community 

Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells joins us again! That's right, it's a rock-block of Dr. Carolyn!  Carolyn is a pediatrician with ADHD who can talk about the disorder from any number of directions! You can find her on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as the ADHD MD. In an episode that is long overdue, Dr. Carolyn talks about ADHD medication - primarily stimulants.  We'll cover non-stimulants in a future episode.  Carolyn discusses the role of medication as part of a gold-standard treatment plan, meds as a protective factor for both kids and adults, medication and substance use, and the importance of factoring a risk/benefit ratio when deciding whether or not to take medication.   The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups    Learn more about Dr. Carolyn and her work here:  http://drcarolynparcells.com/ https://www.instagram.com/the.adhd.md/   Learn More about Brendan and his work at:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community   

Today's episode is a bit of a departure from the norm.  In it, I'm joined by my friend Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells, the ADHD MD!  Carolyn is a pediatrician with ADHD who can talk about the disorder from any number of directions!  She's been on the show a few times, and will be joining me periodically to explore ADHD, and related topics.    In a more personal conversation, Carolyn and I talk about how ADHD affects our lives, the importance of just getting started, and how being busy can cause an ADHD cascade.       ADHD Essentials Links:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community 

In today's episode we talk to Peter Shankman.  Peter is an entrepreneur, a keynote speaker, the best-selling author of six books, founder of the neurodiversity consultancy firm Mental Capital, and he's a dad.  Peter talks to us about parenting, the power of getting out of your own element to get work done, and his recent children's book, “The Boy with the Faster Brain”, and why ADHDers have to learn how to use the faster brain that they have, rather than the neurotypical brain that they don't have.  Also, his dog might have the best timing in the whole world.  But you'll have to listen to find out why.   Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   Guest Links: Learn more about Peter and his work here:  https://www.shankman.com/ Buy “The Boy with the Faster Brain” here.     ADHD Essentials Links:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community 

In today's episode we talk to Anita Robertson, LCSW.  Anita is an ADHD and relationship therapist.  Her goal is to help individuals and couples understand ADHD and find the right systems that work for them.    Anita talks to us about navigating the challenges of being in the sandwich generation while having ADHD.  We discuss the challenges of caring for neurodiverse children and ailing parents - the impact it takes on our executive function, how it affects our relationships, and the toll it can take on our well-being.  As well as the need for social supports and understanding for adults in this uniquely challenging period.  Of course, we also talk about tools and strategies for navigating this time in our lives! Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   Guest Links: Learn more about Anita and her work at https://www.anitarobertson.com/ Follow her on social media here: https://www.facebook.com/anitarobertsonlcsw https://www.instagram.com/strengthinyourmind/ https://www.tiktok.com/@strengthinyourmind https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitarobertson   ADHD Essentials Links:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community

In today's episode we talk to Mark Smeets.  Mark is a neurodiversity advocate out of British Columbia, and the host of the “We are the ADHD Family” podcast. Mark talks to us about his family's experience with ADHD.  We discuss the journey to his son's ADHD and autism diagnosis, how it led to his and his wife's ADHD diagnoses, generational trauma, mental health advocacy work, and being on with where you are. Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   Guest Links: Learn more about Mark and his work here:  https://linktr.ee/wearetheadhdfamily   ADHD Essentials Links:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com

In today's episode we talk to Jessica McCabe! Jessica is the creator and host of How to ADHD on YouTube and author of a new book that came out yesterday! Jessica talks to us about that very book, aptly titled “How to ADHD”.  We discuss her new book, as well as the importance of accessibility for ADHD folks, divergent vs convergent thinking, why trying harder is not the answer, and how ADHD affects us socially. Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   Guest Links: Order Jessica's book at https://howtoadhdbook.com/ Learn more about Jessica and her work at https://howtoadhd.com/ Check out How to ADHD on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@HowtoADHD   Register for the Event with Dr. Dodson Here   ADHD Essentials Links:   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups  Join The ADHD Essentials Facebook Community Check out the ADHD Essentials Website Contact Brendan at brendan@ADHDessentials.com Men's ADHD Support Group Links: Learn more about the Men's ADHD Support Group Join the Men's ADHD Support Group's Facebook Community 

In today's episode we talk to Dr. Roberto Olivardia.  A Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Instructor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Olivaria specializes in ADHD, Executive functioning issues, and OCD, as well as Body Dysmorphic Disorder and eating disorders.   Dr. Olivardia talks to us about ADHD and eating.  We discuss the executive function challenges that underpin healthy eating, the eating disorders most common to ADHD, the social nature of eating, and how the things we eat can affect our ADHD.   Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   Guest Links: Learn more about Dr. Olivardia's work here.   Check out 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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com

In today's episode we talk to Julie Skolnick, founder of With Understanding Comes Calm.   Julie guides parents of gifted and distractible children, mentors 2e adults, trains educators and advises professionals on how to bring out the best in, and raise self-confidence of, the 2e people in their lives. Julie talks to us about her new book, "Gifted and Distractible".  She talks to us about what 2e means, her Cycle for Success model, the overexcitability of gifted folks, asynchronous development, and how to advocate for ourselves and others.   Guest Links: Buy "Gifted and Distractable" Here!!! Learn more about Julie and her work at https://www.withunderstandingcomescalm.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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com

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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com

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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com

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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com

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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com  

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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com

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

In today's episode, we talk to Jesse Anderson! 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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com

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!)   Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com    

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.   Register for the ADHD Essentials Parenting Groups Here   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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com  

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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com

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

Today, we're talking to Lynne Lyons.  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.   >>> Book your free information call about the  ADHD Essentials Parent Coaching Groups!

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.   >>> Book your free information call about the  ADHD Essentials Parent Coaching Groups!

Today, we're talking to David Greenwood, author of "Overcoming Distraction", and "Overcoming Burnout". 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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com   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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com   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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com   ADHD reWired Podcast Network Plugs: ADHD reWired Hacking Your ADHD ADHD Essentials ADHD Diversified

Today, we're talking to Dr. Norrine Russell. 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

Today, we're talking to Shane Thrapp of “Creating Order from Chaos”.  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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com   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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com   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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com   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. Learn about & Register for the 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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com   ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs: 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. Guest Links: Learn more about Amanda and her work at https://www.amandamorin.com Explore Understood.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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups    ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs: 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. Register for a Free Consult for the Summer Parent Coaching Groups   Guest Links: Learn more about Brandon Tessers at https://centerforeffectiveartistry.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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com   Learn about & Register for the The ADHD Essentials Online Parent Coaching Groups    ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs: 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. Register for a Free Consult for the Summer Parent Coaching Groups   Guest Links: Learn more about Claire and her work at https://clairebidwellsmith.com Get Claire's books at https://clairebidwellsmith.com/books/   ADHD Rewired Podcast Network Plugs:  ADHD reWired ADHD Essentials Hacking Your ADHD ADHD Diversified ADHD Friendly Lifestyle    Learn about & Register for the 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 brendan@ADHDessentials.com