ADHD for Smart Ass Women with Tracy Otsuka

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Our ADHD brains are driven by interest, not importance, meaning that boring tasks can feel almost physically painful to us. On the flipside, when we find something that sparks our interest, we have the power to become unstoppable forces. Pastry chef and food blogger Rebecca Eisenberg felt this spark with cooking and baking and, to even her own surprise, turned it into a full-time career through her blog The Practical Kitchen.

Not only does Rebecca’s ADHD give her insight into how to structure her recipes in a way that will keep neurodivergent brains focused and engaged, but she also considers it to be the driving force behind making her business sustainable: “The amount of work that goes into a food blog, I don’t know that I could’ve sustained it without my ADHD really driving me to learn more and to do more and to just be excited about it even when it’s really hard.”

Join us this episode as Rebecca Eisenberg shares her best tips for managing ADHD in the kitchen, her personal approach to simple meal planning, and how she works around her ADHD by working with it.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @the.practical.kitchen; @ryeisenberg
• Twitter: @practicalkitch
• Blog: The Practical Kitchen | Creative Recipes & Baking Blog

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

I always say that ADHD has the potential to be our greatest superpower if we can learn how to harness it, and my guest in this episode, recording artist Devyne Bean, is the living embodiment of that. At a young age, Devyne figured out that if she could channel her hyperactivity and add structure to her days, her entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic would allow her to follow her passions wherever they led her, and she hasn’t looked back since.

Now 17, Devyne already has an impressive list of accomplishments under her belt, from graduating high school early to starting three businesses in her passion areas of music and fashion. Her drive and determination are remarkable, but ultimately she credits patience and baby steps for her success: “Be patient with yourself. You may have those days where you may not achieve every single thing that was on your list, but if you achieved something, you did something right.”

Devyne’s wisdom and insights blew me away during our conversation, and I know that no matter your age, her words will make you feel inspired to follow your own dreams, one small step at a time.
______________

Resources:

• Webpage: unitedmasters.com/d-vyne
• Instagram: @iamdvynee
• @mooshoobeatzproductions
• @lussograndeur

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

DISCLAIMER: SIW'S PROGRAM IS NOT COMPLETE SO DO NOT PURCHASE IT. WE HAVE REACHED OUT TO HER BUT HAVE RECEIVED NO RESPONSE BACK. WE'VE HEARD THAT SHE IS ILL. THIS EPISODE IS SO GOOD, HOWEVER, THAT WE DIDN'T WANT TO REMOVE IT AS THERE'S SO MUCH TO LEARN FROM IT.

Curiosity is one of our most powerful ADHD strengths, but it can also be one of our greatest hindrances if the people around us see our curiosity as a challenge to authority rather than a genuine interest in understanding the world. When my guest, Siw Slevigen, was growing up, she always had her strong curiosity met with either excitement or disdain by teachers, and—surprise, surprise—it always impacted her ability and willingness to learn.

Rather than shrink herself in shame, Siw leaned into her curiosity and let it guide her down a path of joyfulness and self-acceptance. Now a money management coach, Siw believes that the only way to change our relationship with money is by accepting ourselves exactly where we are and infusing curiosity and excitement into everything we do. Siw’s positive approach to economics has completely changed my own attitude toward money and my ability to save it, and I know our wonderful conversation will give even the most impulsive spenders out there a fresh perspective.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: English: @happy.penger.money.magic
• Norwegian: @happy_penger
• TikTok: @happy_penger

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

ADHD and politics have been at the top of my ‘topics I want to cover’ list for quite some time now, but given the extreme political division within the United States and around the world, I wanted to wait until I had something to share that could possibly make things better and wouldn’t add more fuel to the fire.

Well, I recently read the book *The Molecule of More* by Dr. Daniel Lieberman and Michael Long, and I was inspired to finally tackle this topic in a way that I thought my listeners especially would be able to understand: with biology. What if, just like with ADHD, we could connect the differences in how we see the world to our brains, rather than character flaws or a moral failing?

I’m hoping that by answering this question, I can give you a new, gentler lens through which to view those on the other side of the political spectrum. The only way we’re going to bridge the political gap is by trying to understand those who are different from us. If we can find an understanding through biology, rather than shaming and blaming, perhaps we can let down our guards enough to come together and start doing the work.
______________

Resources:

• The Molecule of More: How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity – and Will Determine the Fate of the Human Race By Daniel Z. Lieberman, MD, and Michael E. Long.

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Last episode, I did a solo overview of imposter syndrome to lay the foundation for my wonderful conversation with my guest this episode, Danielle House. Danielle is a shining example of how imposter syndrome can weasel its way into the lives of even the most accomplished ADHD women. At 30, she became the CEO of a medical device company, yet, up until recently, she held the belief that her success was due to luck, a mistake—anything but her own intelligence and ability.

Danielle says the biggest factor in tackling her imposter syndrome has been finally understanding how her brain works: “The imposter syndrome is still very much there, but I’m starting to recognize and be able to come to terms with my success and how I got here, not despite my ADHD but because of it.” Imposter syndrome doesn’t have to be a lifelong sentence, and Danielle’s story gives me hope that we can all learn to see ourselves as the badasses we truly are.
______________

Resources:

• Website: OCTOdent Dental Aerosol Suction Unit
• Linkedin: Danielle House

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

In this episode, I'm covering the basics of imposter syndrome–what it is, why it develops, and why I believe it impacts so many ADHD women especially–and giving some tips for changing the internal narrative that you aren't good enough. Imposter syndrome relies on shame and self-doubt to thrive, and when we can step out of that shame and into our most authentic selves, that's when we take back our power.

Every day I meet amazingly brilliant ADHD women who cannot see their own brilliance. These women may have an impressive list of accomplishments, but because they struggle to keep up with the behind-the-scenes tasks that society tells us are a measurement of our value, all they can focus on are those struggles.

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

If you got a puppy during the COVID lockdown like I did, you've probably seen some weird and frustrating social behaviors and anxieties crop up as a result of missing out on crucial socialization time. Between the nightmarish vet appointments and the anxiety-fueled barking, my dog is driving me bonkers and I've been at a loss for what to do about it.

Luckily, canine behavior consultant Rene Smith is here to help us take a closer look at the purpose behind our dog's behaviors and reevaluate our approach to intervention. Being ADHD herself, Rene understands that strict training schedules will never work for her mostly ADHD clients, nor do they need to. Instead, she focuses on building trust and connection between dogs and their humans by giving dogs agency over their space and providing humans with the tools and know-how to interpret communication attempts and reinforce healthy behaviors.

Rene's passion for helping a population that's often misunderstood is inspiring (not to mention, so ADHD!), and I'm delighted to have you join our wonderful eye-opening conversation.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @streetdogrehab
• Website: Street Dog Rehab
• Facebook group: Human End of the Leash
• Podcast: Dog Life with No Spoons
• Organization/Cleaning coaching: Fresh Starts Detailers
• Discount code for listeners: NOSPOONS

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

We ADHDers are often unfairly labeled as "flaky" in the workplace, but in my experience, if you find the right ADHD person who's motivated by an interest and investment in the work, there is truly no one better for the job. I believe I've found the cream of the ADHD crop in my podcast producer, Grace Bourey, who has reorganized everything for me and put systems in place that keep the podcast running smoothly, leaving me with the mental energy to focus on the work that matters most to me.

Beyond her organizational skills, Grace has a clever sense of humor that comes in handy on her own podcast, Weirds of a Feather, which she and her childhood best friend created to provide a shame-free space for ADHDers to laugh about the challenging, incredible, and absurd aspects of life with ADHD. This episode, we're talking about the importance of embedding creativity and fun into anything you do, the challenges of trying to follow a linear career path when you have non-linear thinking, and more. Like me, Grace isn't afraid to march to the beat of her own weird drum, which is key to discovering your bravest and most authentic self.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @graceminna; @weirdsofafeather
• Facebook: Weirds of a Feather
• Podcast: Weirds of a Feather on Apple Podcasts

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Of all my ADHD gifts, interpersonal intuition is the one that I consider my ultimate superpower. I've always had this ability to walk into a room and know what's going on without hearing one word, it's like I can read the energy of everyone around me and determine who's happy, who's pretending to be happy, who's struggling, who cares about others and who doesn't.

'Intuition' may sound like a woo-woo concept to some, but at the most basic level it's simply a subconscious level of thinking; it's that automatic "gut feeling" you get when you know what to do but can't explain why. Our intuition has the power to guide us in the right direction, but only if we can learn how to listen to and honor it.

In this episode I'm diving into what intuition is, why it's so strong in ADHDers, and how to tune into your intuition and use it as your decision-making rudder. My interpersonal intuition is so important to me because it allows me to see gifts in others before they can see them in themselves, and I believe you, too, can hone your intuition into one of your greatest strengths.

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

At this point in the podcast, I've covered just about every ADHD topic under the sun, but one area I've always tiptoed around has been sexuality and ADHD; I've never been quite sure how to approach it, or whether my listeners even wanted to hear me talk about it for that matter!

Luckily, sex educator, journalist, author, and podcaster, August McLaughlin, isn't afraid to run head-on into the scary and taboo. She offered to hold my hand this episode as we slowly wade into the tricky but wonderful world of sex and ADHD, from self-connection and masturbation to rejection sensitivity and relationships, to even 'girl boners'–yup, you read that right.

If you've ever wondered how ADHD impacts your own relationship with sexuality but have felt embarrassed or unsure of where to start, August's brilliance, empathy, and passion for this work will give you the perfect jumping-off point and may even empower you to go on a self-discovery journey of your own.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @augustmclaughlin
• Podcast: Girl Boner Podcast
• Website: augustmclaughlin.com

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

ADHD women have heard every excuse under the sun for why their doctors won’t consider an ADHD diagnosis or take their concerns seriously; everything from the classic “it’s just anxiety,” to “you’re too smart to have ADHD,” to even “you just think it’s cool to have ADHD and that’s why you want a diagnosis.” Seriously, what the hell?!

Being gaslit, misdiagnosed, and dismissed by medical professionals can prevent us from getting a proper diagnosis and accessing treatment for years, even decades, because of the shame and self-doubt that follows these appointments. In this episode, I’m sharing misdiagnosis stories from members of the Facebook group to highlight just how often it happens. I’m also giving you some tips and tools for pushing back against the ADHD stereotypes that still very much exist in the medical community.

We know our brains best and we know ADHD is real, and my hope is to empower you to keep advocating for yourself and your health until someone finally listens.
______________

Resources:

• Help With ADHD Diagnosis: Symptom Evaluation Mistakes (additudemag.com)
• Was ADHD to Blame All Along? 8 Reasons Symptoms Are Mistaken (additudemag.com)
• ‘If you can pay attention, you do not have ADHD’ — and 9 other misperceptions about the disorder - The Washington Post
• ADHD Signs Hidden in Plain Sight: Overlooked Symptoms (additudemag.com)
• ADHD Misdiagnosis Stories: Symptom

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

There’s nothing quite like the ‘aha’ moment of realizing you have ADHD after a lifetime of trying to understand yourself, but after the initial shock wears off, many of us are left wondering: okay, so what comes next? I’m frequently asked how to pursue a diagnosis and find a team of medical and mental health professionals who actually understand ADHD, which is why I’m so excited to invite Kalin Johnson onto the podcast to answer these questions and more.

Kalin, a clinical pharmacist, healthcare advocate, and neurodivergent mentor, recognized a huge gap in supports for neurodivergent people trying to navigate the complicated medical world after struggling to find the right medications and treatments herself. So, like the Smart Ass woman she is, she decided to do something about it. Kalin now uses her medical knowledge and personal experience living life as a queer person and late-diagnosed ADHD and autistic individual to help others create sustainable, individualized healthcare plans with a team of neurodivergent-affirming providers who will take a whole-person approach to treatment.

For those of you who are ready to take the next steps on your ADHD journey but are apprehensive about starting, you won’t want to miss this encouraging and informative conversation with the delightful Kalin Johnson.
______________

Resources:

• Website: https://www.kalinjohnson.com/
• Instagram: @kalinpharmd
• TikTok: @kalinpharmd
• Book an Initial Consult: https://www.kalinjohnson.com/get-started
• Upcoming free class: Unmasking Your Health

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

I always love talking with ADHD women who are making waves in positions traditionally held by men, so when my guest in this episode, Danyell DiLena, mentioned she was kicking ass in not one but two male-dominated fields, I knew I had to have her on to share her story.

Danyell’s journey hasn’t been easy—she’s had to deal with sexism both in her career as a medic and on the literal field as a baseball coach—but her determination, creativity, and resiliency have made her an unstoppable force when she sets her mind to something. For the past 5 years, she has served as the first female Coach Coordinator for District 33 in San Diego, where she’s in charge of thousands of baseball teams. Even since recording this conversation, she has been offered a new position managing an all-girls U-16 baseball team to take to the Nationals Tournament; seriously, she’s unstoppable.

Danyell is passionate about empowering women and girls to feel like they can succeed in any area they choose, gender barriers be damned, and I know her words will empower you too.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @CoachDiLenaBaseball
• Youtube: Coach DiLena Baseball
• Facebook: Coach DiLena

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Those of us with ADHD brains know that no matter how vigilant we are, slip-ups are bound to happen, especially when sleep deprivation is thrown into the mix. We can only do so much to prevent mistakes, but we can control how we react to them. In this episode, I'm joined by ADHD coach and reformed people-pleaser, Leslie Robbins, who took an embarrassing ADHD moment and turned it into a brilliant teaching opportunity.

Like me, Leslie believes that what we pay attention to grows, good or bad, so we might as well learn to focus on the good. Besides, there's no such thing as mistakes anyway, right? We either get what we want or learn something even more important. Join us as Leslie shares her late diagnosis story, some ways to stop from spiraling into rejection-sensitive dysphoria, and the importance of not taking ourselves too seriously.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @leslierobbins_adhdcoaching
• Facebook: Robbins Life Coaching
• Email: leslie.robbins.adhdcoach@gmail.com
• Website: leslierobbinscoaching.com
• Gas pump story: My Gas Pump Debacle
• VIA Character Strengths Survey: www.viacharacter.org

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Since starting this podcast, I've been able to help thousands of ADHD women around the world discover their true selves and lean into their strengths. None of this would be possible, however, without the ADHD for Smart Ass Women Facebook group–the place where it all began–and the help of Catheryn Wreford-Holden, our lead Facebook group administrator. What makes our group different is the seventeen moderators who approve all posts.

Catheryn leads this team of volunteer moderators and administrators, now known as the Mod Squad, and ensures that the 65K members of our Facebook group are focused on their strengths and have a positive place to find community and feel inspired to seek out solutions. Catheryn herself is a source of inspiration and strength; despite facing unimaginable hurdles throughout her life, she makes a conscious choice every day to focus on the good.

Our Mod Squad is as strong as it is today because she empowers each member to find their gifts and let them shine through. I'm so excited to finally have Catheryn share her story with you.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @essentially_cathie
• Facebook: Essentially Cathie

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Dr. Grace Esan, now a pediatrician in Indiana, grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, where it was the cultural norm to show up to parties and events fashionably late. It wasn't until she moved to the United States, where time is taken much more seriously, that she realized she had difficulty with time management and procrastination that extended beyond cultural differences. Once Dr. Grace connected these traits to ADHD she also realized that ADHD was also responsible for her unique way of seeing the world.

Since her diagnosis, Dr. Grace has been on a mission to create awareness around ADHD and destigmatize the diagnosis within the medical community, particularly for girls and women, who are often overlooked. Join me for a conversation with this wonderful doctor as she shares her diagnosis story, the workarounds she used to get through school, how she challenges the status quo in medicine, and so much more.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @thrivewithdrgrace
• Website: Thrivewithdrgrace.com

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Many people who know me would describe me as a tough critic–just ask my kids–but I like to think of it as valuing excellence. This means that when I do recommend a product or service, it's only because I believe in it so much that I want to shout it from the rooftops.

In this episode, I'm sharing my list of rooftop-worthy ADHD hacks that have completely transformed my life. From organization to productivity to home care, these resources have helped me manage the more difficult aspects of my ADHD, leaving me more time and energy to focus on my strengths. At this point I truly couldn't make it through the day without them, they've had such a positive impact on my ADHD brain, and I think they'll make a big difference to yours too.
______________

Resources:

• Buy Apple Watch Series 9
• adhdforsmartwomen.com/kajabi

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

As a dentist's daughter, I have to admit I was always spoiled when it came to my dental health. That is, until a terrible root canal (is there any other kind?) made me realize I had to start taking my dental health more seriously, even if that involved wearing the dreaded night guard I had cast aside many years before. It also got me thinking: 'Wait, is this another thing that is somehow related to my ADHD?'

After diving into the research and taking a poll in our Facebook group, I discovered that an overwhelming number of ADHDers have experienced dental problems at some point in their lives, and there are some explanations as to why.

Join me for a solo episode, where I break down the causes of this correlation, and share helpful suggestions from our Facebook group members, and hopefully convince you to learn from my mistakes and wear your damn night guard!
______________

Resources:

• https://chadd.org/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
• https://decisionsindentistry.com/
• https://friscokidsdds.com/
• https://dental.washington.edu/
• https://www.nicklauschildrens.org/
• https://www.researchgate.net/
• https://www.plackers.com/ and yay! The

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

As Smart Ass women, we know ADHD varies wildly in how it presents compared to the stereotypes, but what do we do when the rest of the world hasn't caught up? After a lifetime of having our symptoms dismissed by teachers, parents, and even medical professionals, it can feel terrifying and futile to pursue a diagnosis. My guest in this episode, April Kane, was so worried about having her ADHD suspicions invalidated that she put off getting an official evaluation for years, despite being a clinical psychologist herself.

April finally got assessed and received the affirming diagnosis of ADHD she had been hoping for, but she knows not everyone is so lucky, especially in cases of inattentive ADHD when symptoms are internalized and easier to miss. April Kane emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, gives a breakdown of the lesser-known signs of ADHD that are frequently missed in girls, women, and those with inattentive type, introduces me to schema therapy, and more.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @greatmindstherapyadhd
• Website: www.greatmindstherapy.com.au

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

I always say our best purposes give meaning to our past, and my guest this episode, Dr. Abbey Weinstein, proves just how true this is. Abbey struggled with school for most of her life, so she surprised even herself when she not only turned it around and started getting straight A's in college, but went on to get her Master's degree and Ph.D. in Special Education. Now an Educational Diagnostician, Abbey has found her purpose in making learning more accessible for others and getting students the support they need to be successful in school.

Join our conversation to hear the inspiring Dr. Abbey Weinstein share how she was able to go from academic probation to completing her doctorate, some of the ADHD strategies she used to get herself through her dissertation (truly a feat of strength!), her tips on feeling good about yourself every day, and so much more.
______________

Resources:

• Podcast: Let's Talk Learning Disabilities
• Instagram: @weinsteinabbey
• Website: Dr. Abbey Weinstein - EDiagnostic Learning

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Dating has changed quite a bit since I was last single–for one, dating apps have replaced personal ads and handwritten letters–but no matter how you're approaching it, dating can feel overwhelming and impossible. My guest, Jackie Newman, is passionate about empowering people to face the challenges of the dating world, so she gave herself the challenge of going on 100 first dates to figure out how to make the whole process as easy as possible.

Through trial and error, Jackie developed an ADHD-friendly guide to dating to help others find someone worth their time and hopefully avoid having to go on 100 first dates themselves–an invaluable gift to women if you ask me. Join us for this marathon episode to hear Jackie's tales from the dating world, her insights, and strategies for efficient online dating, and she even pulls a few dating stories out of me that I'm not sure I've ever shared on the podcast before.
______________

Resources:

• Dating Instagram: @the100datechallenge
• Personal Instagram: @jackienewm

Resources mentioned:

• Women with ADHD by Sari Solden
• The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown
• Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari
• West Elm Caleb story
• The Science of Sex Appeal

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

ADHD women constantly amaze me with their brilliance and fearlessness, and my guest this episode, atmospheric scientist Natalia Bliankinshtein, is no different. Natalia works in a flight research laboratory in Canada, where she collects data for climate research by flying a 'flying laboratory' aircraft directly into storms and treacherous weather–talk about fearless!

Natalia may refer to her risk-taking as 'craziness,' but I call it a huge ADHD strength and one of the keys to her success. Join our conversation to hear how Natalia went from being a gifted kid to hitting a wall in her early 20s, and how understanding and working with her ADHD helped her to get un-stuck and discover a career and life she's passionate about.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @prosto_blank
• Facebook: Natalia Bliankinshtein
• Linkedin: Natalia Bliankinshtein
• Website: brenebrown.com
• gettingthingsdone.com

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) such as skin picking and nail biting can feel like a bad habit we need to break, but these behaviors go beyond just a habit; it's actually a complex condition that causes people to repeatedly touch their body in a way that results in physical damage. For years, BFRBs were thought to be part of the OCD family, but new research shows they're commonly co-morbid with ADHD as well, which shouldn't surprise too many ADHDers including myself.

In this episode I'm hoping to lessen the shame many of us have surrounding these behaviors by sharing some of my own experiences and looking into the physiological reasons behind why we do them and why we often can't stop doing them with willpower alone. I'll also provide some helpful strategies for stopping or lessening BFRBs that were shared with me by our amazing Facebook group members, many of whom have struggled with BFRBs themselves. Remember, the more we can understand why we do the things we do, the more power we have to change them.

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Reading is everywhere and in everything we do, but most reading curriculums taught in schools aren't aligned with the current research on the most effective way to teach reading. Kathleen Germs, a second-grade teacher and Instagram educator, is on a mission to change not just the way reading is taught, but the entire dynamic between teachers and students in the classroom–starting with asking kids what they need to learn best.

Unsurprisingly, Kathleen's students adore her because she makes learning as easy as possible and helps them feel empowered and valued in the classroom. Join our conversation as Kathleen explains how she adjusts her lessons to meet her students' needs, the importance of bringing mental health into the classroom, and how her ADHD makes her the phenomenal teacher that she is.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @kathleengerms

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

If you've been listening to the podcast for any length of time, you know that I'm a huge proponent of using Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), or tapping, to manage and alleviate ADHD symptoms. Kate Moryoussef, a wellbeing/lifestyle coach and EFT practitioner, shares my passion for tapping and helping ADHD women, so I knew I had to invite her onto the podcast to tell us more.

Kate uses tapping with her clients, many of whom are ADHD women, to help them feel calmer, reduce overwhelm and anxiety, accept themselves, and step into their potential. Join me this episode as Kate provides an overview of what EFT is and why it works, describes how she uses tapping to clear negative beliefs and manage her own ADHD in moments of chaos, and much more.

Please excuse any mic issues on my end, I know it's a little annoying but I promise the episode is worth it!
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @kate_moryoussef
• Business Instagram: @adhd_womenswellbeing_pod
• Website: coachingbykate.me.uk
• Podcast: ADHD Women's Well-Being Podcast

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Many of our ADHD traits like curiosity, fearlessness and creativity mesh well with entrepreneurialism. Other aspects of ADHD, however, like perfectionism and something I call "procrasti-learning", combined with outside influences telling us what we "should" be doing, can cause us to get in our own way. Entrepreneur and business coach, Jessi Romero, is here to remind us that ADHD women have all the skills necessary for starting and growing successful businesses, we just need to approach it in a way that works for our brains and aligns with our values, nervous systems, and even our circadian rhythms.

In this episode, Jessi gives some of her best tips on structuring your business to fit your needs while avoiding burnout, shares how her approach to teaching sets her apart from other business coaches, and explains why changing your expectations for yourself can make all the difference in your business's longevity. Plus, she has some valuable information about a little-known eye condition called Irlen Syndrome that changed her life and just may change yours too.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @adhdowned
• Website: Adhdfemaleentrepreneurs.com
• Irlen Syndrome website: irlen.com

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Reading is everywhere and in everything we do, but most reading curriculums taught in schools aren't aligned with the current research on the most effective way to teach reading. Kathleen Germs, a second-grade teacher and Instagram educator, is on a mission to change not just the way reading is taught, but the entire dynamic between teachers and students in the classroom–starting with asking kids what they need to learn best.

Unsurprisingly, Kathleen's students adore her because she makes learning as easy as possible and helps them feel empowered and valued in the classroom. Join our conversation as Kathleen explains how she adjusts her lessons to meet her students' needs, the importance of bringing mental health into the classroom, and how her ADHD makes her the phenomenal teacher that she is.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @kathleengerms

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Hypnosis is often thought of as a sensational magic trick used for controlling minds and embarrassing people on cruise ships, so I admit I was a bit skeptical when I heard about hypnotherapy being used in ADHD management. However, I always try to keep an open mind when it comes to alternative treatments, which is why I wanted to sit down with hypnotherapist Meggie Houle to discuss the science and research behind it.
Meggie, now a certified hypnotherapist and self-hypnosis teacher, and author of "Finish What You Start: Breaking out of the 'Busy Mind, Restless Body' Trap to Create a Life You Love Even with ADHD," first discovered the benefits of hypnosis after experiencing a life-altering paragliding accident. She found that self-hypnosis not only reduced her stress and PTSD symptoms after the accident, but it also helped her manage her ADHD for the first time. In this episode Meggie gives us an introductory lesson into what hypnotherapy is exactly, the growing research behind it, and how she uses it to calm her nervous system in moments of stress.
______________

Resources:

• Website: meggiehoule.com
• Her book: Finish What You Start: Breaking out of the "Busy Mind, Restless Body" Trap to Create a Life You Love Even with ADHD
• Instagram: @meggie.houle
• www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• med.stanford.edu
• montreal.ctvnews.ca

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

ADHDers are often drawn to entrepreneurship, and not only because we have difficulty working for someone else! When we have room to follow our creativity and work within our flow, that's when our superpowers shine through.

My guest today, Jennifer Zahourek, was working as an ER nurse when she discovered that her unique way of learning (due to ADHD and dyslexia) meant she also had a unique way of explaining complex medical concepts to patients in simple language they could easily understand.

Jennifer realized she could use her simplifying skills to fill a need and help her fellow nursing community lessen the struggles she herself faced in nursing school. She got to work figuring out how to turn her idea into a business, and voila´ she is now the founder and CEO of RekMed, a company that makes educational planners for nurses.

Join me this episode as the innovative Jennifer Zahourek takes us through her ADHD and dyslexia journey, shares the aspects of her ADHD that make her an unstoppable entrepreneur, and makes a case for planners that's so convincing, you just may decide to give them another try.
______________

Resources:

• Website: Rekmed.org
• Instagram: @studentnurseplanner
• Tiktok: @JennRekMed
• Jennifer's personal Instagram: @JennRekMed

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

I'm sure you've heard me say a million times that our best purposes give meaning to our past, we become incredible teachers when we're driven by passion and personal connection. My guest in this episode, Dr. Susan Varaghese, knows firsthand just how important that personal connection is for living her purpose.

Dr. Varghese is a General Practitioner and Family Physician who first discovered she has ADHD when perimenopause started to wreak havoc on her previously manageable symptoms. As far as Susan could tell, no one in the medical community was talking about how much perimenopause and menopause can exacerbate the mental and physical symptoms of ADHD, so, being the leader she is, she decided to do it herself.

Join me this episode for an insightful conversation with the incredible Dr. Susan Varghese, where she breaks down the role estrogen plays in our ADHD symptoms, the overlaps between ADHD and menopause (some of which even surprised me!), and so much more.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @drsusanvarghese
• Website: www.drsusanvarghese.com

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Many ADHD women are known for being bold, outspoken, and strong-willed, but in a society where those attributes are often reserved for men it can leave us feeling like we're "too much." My guest in this episode, author Andrea Owen, used to let this fear of taking up space prevent her from letting her stand out. In her mid-30s when she started to embrace her "too-muchness" she realized just how much she had been diminishing herself for the comfort of others.

Since then, Andrea has taught hundreds of thousands of women tools and strategies to empower themselves and live their most kick-ass life. Her most recent book, Make Some Noise: Speak Your Mind and Own Your Strength, felt like I was reading something I myself had written; the things Andrea struggled with are exactly the things that I and many ADHDers struggle with as well. Join us for an insightful conversation where we discuss the impact people-pleasing has on ADHD women, the importance of taking up space with our emotions and voice, how to have compassion for ourselves and more.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @heyandreaowen
• Website: andreaowen.com
• Her book: Make Some Noise: Speak Your Mind and Own Your Strength
• Workbook link: andreaowen.com/msn

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Well before I was diagnosed with ADHD I was using exercise as a form of self-medication; it's a way to start the day out right and it helps me to think more clearly and work off my excess energy. All my life I've known that exercise helps with focus and self-regulation, but I was curious to find out why that is. After all, if we know the 'why' behind something, we're much more likely to do it.

In this episode I break down some of the research into why exercise has such a huge impact on the ADHD brain, the connection between exercise and learning, and the importance of finding a form of movement you enjoy.

Incorporating exercise into my daily routine has been the key to managing my ADHD, which is why if you were to choose only one goal to focus on for 2022 I believe it should be this: find a way to move that generates positive emotion and just focus on that. There is no brain function that exercise doesn't affect in a positive way. When you're exercising you are literally growing your brain, and if that's not motivation to exercise more, I don't know what is.

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Like many ADHDers, I hate doing the same things everyone else is doing, and New Year's resolutions are at the top of that list. A few years ago, instead of writing out a long list of unrealistic goals (and then losing that list a couple of days later), I started choosing one word and one word only to set the intention for my new year. Each year my word sums up who I want to be, it's my compass when making decisions, and it shapes not only my year, but it shapes me as a person.

Using a single word to guide my decision-making changed me in more ways than I ever could've imagined; in fact, this podcast never would've started if I hadn't chosen 'nervy' as my first word back in 2018.

Join me in this episode for some ideas on brainstorming your own word of the year, tips on how to use your word as your compass, and I'll tell you my new word for 2022! Setting an intention for the year using a single word has had a huge impact on my life and I think it'll have a huge impact on yours too.

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Can you tell that dyslexia is my current hyper-focus? This will be the last episode on the subject for a while (I promise!) but I couldn't pass up an opportunity to speak with my extraordinary guest today, Jennifer Knopf. Jen is the Founding Director of REED Charitable Foundation, which is committed to putting an end to the literacy crisis and ensuring all children learn to read, write, and spell by providing financially accessible, best-in-class structure literacy training - known as Orton-Gillingham - to all teachers.

Jen first learned about dyslexia when her son Reed was diagnosed after a long, emotional struggle to figure out why reading was so difficult for him. As she dove deep into the research to find her son the right kind of intervention, Jen discovered there was a literacy training program that was not only ideal for dyslexic students but also the best instruction for all kids learning to read, only for some reason it was not being used in schools. Ever since this discovery, Jen has made it her mission to provide this literacy training to as many teachers as she possibly can, something she knows firsthand has the power to transform lives. In the process, she discovered not only her son's ADHD but also her own ADHD.

Join our conversation to hear about Jen's inspiring story, the incredible work of her foundation, and much more.
______________

Resources:

• Foundation website: REEDcharitablefoundation.org
• Instagram: @reedcharitablefoundation
• Email address: info@reedcharitablefoundation.org

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

I've wanted to talk about navigating ADHD emotions for a while now, but like many other great topics, it has sat untouched on my list, waiting for the perfect guest. When I read the incredible book 'Your Brain is Not Broken: Strategies for Navigating Your Emotions and Life with ADHD' by Dr. Tamara Rosier, I not only immediately added it to the ADHD for Smart Ass Women book list, but I also knew I had to have Tamara on the podcast.

Dr. Tamara Rosier is the founder of the ADHD Center of West Michigan, where she leads a team of coaches, therapists, and speech pathologists to help individuals, parents, and families develop an understanding and learn effective skills to live with ADHD effectively. Tamara has gained an impressive amount of knowledge from working with ADHDers and those who support them across a variety of settings, but just as importantly, she explains complex topics like divergent vs. convergent thinking in a way that sticks in my brain. The analogies she uses in the book and during our conversation are brilliant; among many others, Tamara likens the neurotypical brain to a pleasant butler and the ADHD brain to an angry neighbor. It's simple and made me laugh and explains in real-world language how the prefrontal cortex and limbic system impact our brain's ability to function.

We'll also talk about the role anxiety and emotion play in our motivation, and why it's critical to work on our emotions before introducing executive function strategies!

You won't want to miss this insightful and laughter-filled conversation.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @dr.tamararosier
• Book website: tamararosier.com
• ADHD Center website: miadhd.com

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Here's the text formatted properly:

Ever since we discovered that my son Markus has dyslexia--a diagnosis he now wears with pride--I've been on a mission to talk to everyone I can about ADHD and dyslexia, which is exactly why I wanted to have a conversation with my guest this episode, the incredible Melanie Florsheim.

Melanie Florsheim is an ADHD Family Life Coach, Certified Academic Language Therapist, and Licensed Dyslexia Therapist in Texas. She has dyslexia and ADHD herself, which gives her a deep connection to her work and allows her to relate to her students and clients on a personal level. Melanie knows firsthand just how life-changing dyslexia therapy can be, so, like me, she's also on a mission to increase awareness about the high co-morbidity rate between ADHD and dyslexia and encourages people to look deeper if they feel something else may be going on beyond ADHD.

Join us as Melanie provides a comprehensive overview of what dyslexia is, gives some signs of dyslexia to look for even before children hit reading age, and explains how dyslexia therapy can rewire the circuitry of the brain and increase language processing speed. As for whether adults with dyslexia can benefit from dyslexia therapy, Melanie says, "The plasticity of the brain is a real deal, so there's no age limit in teaching your brain how to read, write, and spell, how to re-circuit your brain to do it better."
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @melanieflorsheim1
• Website: gatewaygrowth.net
• Email: Melanie@gatewaygrowth.net

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

It's December 1st - the start of the holiday season - and WHAT I KNOW FOR SURE is that in this season of light and laughter there are a lot of people who aren't feeling holly or jolly.

This is exactly why I'm inviting YOU to join me in giving 29 gifts in 29 days.

It's more difficult for us Smart Ass ADHD women to get out from under the overwhelming pile of gift lists, cookie making, and magic creating.

We need something to help us change course.

Enter the 29 Gifts Challenge (based on the book by Cami Walker).

Beginning today, I'm going to give away a gift every day for the next 29 days and I want you to join me! The more Smart Ass ADHD Women who get on this giving train, the more fun it will be!

I know you have a list that rival's Santa's, but these gifts are different.

The gift can be a compliment given, a phone call to someone you haven't talked to in a while, time volunteered, a thank you note written.

The only "rules" are that it must be INTENTIONAL, and you have to WRITE IT DOWN (putting it in the comments counts!).

The 29-day prescription also involves noticing the gifts that you receive from others every day.

You can keep track of the gifts you give and the gifts you receive in our 29-day journal. Download it at

What we focus on gets BIGGER, so let's focus on JOY, GRATITUDE, & MEANING.

Are you in?

So we can see each other's generosity in action, be sure to:

Tag me in or on my

Use #29SmartAssGifts

I'm going to be highlighting some of your gifts in my stories over the next 29 days!

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Here's the text formatted properly:

No matter how much we learn about our ADHD, there is always somehow more to uncover. One of my personal ADHD blind spots has always been social skills; for some reason, I was convinced that I didn't have any difficulties with social skills and had escaped this ADHD trait. That is, until social skills expert and my guest this episode, the wonderful Caroline Maguire, brought me back down to Earth when she told me the areas of social intelligence that she likes to talk about and I realized I actually struggle with every single one. Who knew!

Luckily, Caroline is the founder of a revolutionary social-emotional learning methodology that helps teach social skills to children, teenagers, and young adults, so she came ready with some helpful insights on why we struggle with things like giving TMI and hating small talk and what we can do about it while remaining true to ourselves. Her work may be designed for children--her book Why Will No One Play With Me? was awarded Best Family and Parenting book of 2020--but all of her concepts and learning materials are just as applicable to adults. In her words, "It's all the same dilemma, it's just whether or not you're 5 and you can't articulate it or you're 60 and you know darn well what's going on."

Caroline doesn't want us to change or hide who we are, rather, her goal is to help ADHDers of all ages learn how to be present in each moment in order to demonstrate the greatness that we all possess.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @authorcarolinem
• New seminar starting Dec 7th: Adults with ADHD Social Skills Training: How to Get Along with Everyone carolinemaguireauthor.com
• Free download: Calming Intrusive Thoughts at carolinemaguireauthor.com

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

The role of motherhood constantly shifts as our children grow up and move through different stages of life, and then when they leave the nest that shift becomes more like a giant leap. My guest in this episode, the wonderful Patricia Sung, has two young children who are still very much "in the nest." Patricia reached out to me with an interesting question that I knew had to become the topic for our conversation: "When you're looking back and your kids are out of the house, what really mattered?"

Patricia is a podcaster herself and her work is aimed at helping other ADHD mothers get their "crap" together (as she puts it). She has built a supportive community of women, something she says has been integral to her own motherhood journey. Join us as we chat about our different perspectives on parenthood and Patricia shares her thoughts on how to let go of perfectionism and start seeing ourselves as the amazing mothers we already are.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @motherhoodinadhd
• Website (with free resources): motherhoodinadhd.com
• Courses: ADHD Courses for Moms

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

No matter how many extraordinary ADHD women I meet, I'm still constantly blown away by the incredible things they're capable of, especially once they start to understand their own brains. I first met my guest, therapist Emerald May Rubio, when she took my program Your ADHD Brain is A-OK; within only a few days of classes Emerald had determined that she was interested in activism and started taking steps toward making it happen. Embracing her ADHD unlocked a new level of understanding in herself and ignited a passion for working with those in the BIPOC community with complex trauma and ADHD.

Emerald has a deeply personal connection to her work and uses her experiences to help others heal from their trauma and re-write their own stories. She brings so much creativity, light, and awareness into her practice. Hearing Emerald speak gives me hope that therapy is shifting to encompass a wider range of needs and communities.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @healwithemerald
• Email: erubio@trihealing.com
• Website: trihealing.com

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Many listeners and A-OK students have suggested I invite author Lisa Woodruff onto the podcast, and after this incredible conversation with her, it's clear why they were so insistent. Lisa is an author, former teacher, and parent who has spent the last 20 years researching ADHD and applying solutions to support executive functions in our home life. Not only are her ideas about home organization unique, such as organizing by the stages of life and a time-saving "Sunday Basket" system, but her approach to teaching contains so much kindness and understanding that home organization starts to feel possible.

In this episode, Lisa takes us through her systems and why they work so well for ADHDers, shares the script she taught her own children to use when they're feeling overwhelmed by where to start, and explains why we need to stop using our incredible computer brains as to-do lists. Lisa believes we should all be spending as little time as possible doing household work so we can live our unique callings in life and I couldn't agree more.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @organize365
• Website: Organize 365
• Podcast: Organize 365 Podcast
• Book mentioned: Phases of Life by Neil Howe

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Normally (and ironically) there's nothing that makes me fall asleep faster than talking about proper sleep hygiene. However, the more I learn about sleep's impact on our overall health and our ADHD symptoms specifically, the more I realize how crucial it is for ADHDers to make good sleep a priority. Most of us know what we should be doing to get better sleep--keeping a consistent sleep schedule, no naps during the day, no technology at least an hour before bed--but actually putting these habits into action is easier said than done, especially when our ADHD is fighting us every step of the way.

In this episode, I cover not only the latest research behind why sleep is so important to our functioning and learning, but I also provide some concrete sleep strategies that are geared toward the ADHD brain, such as connecting positive emotion with getting into bed on time. Like all things ADHD, once we know why we're struggling with these habits we can start to find workarounds and implement sustainable systems that allow us to be successful.

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

My guest this week, Juliana Hock, gives a whole new meaning to the word 'resilient'. Seriously, this woman does not give up on herself; Juliana recently fulfilled her dream of becoming a realtor after 12 attempts at the Real Estate exam. Her difficulty with written tests is something I know many ADHDers can relate to, but where many people would have given up Juliana pushed through, knowing that once she overcame the hurdle of passing that exam she would thrive in the job itself.

Juliana credits her resilience to a strong support system, a passion for everything she does, and a positive mindset, among many others. She wakes up every morning saying, "This is going to be the best day ever!" and then goes forward to make it so. My conversation with Juliana is a great reminder that prioritizing fun, passion, and self-determination is so important to living a fulfilling life.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @Juliana.Evolves
• Email: easyadhd@gmail.com
• Website: www.easyadhdcoaching.com
• David & Goliath, Malcolm Gladwell

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

In our last episode, we discovered why our ADHD brains struggle with time so much. Understanding this 'why' provides us with a foundation for building long-lasting time management skills, so make sure to listen to Episode #145 first if you haven't already!

Now that we have our 'why,' the next step is to figure out how to develop a more effective and less stressful relationship with time. In this episode, I'll give you some concrete strategies to help you work with your brain's natural flow rather than struggling against it.

When we learn how to pause, check in with our bodies, stare down our discomfort, create a plan based on history, and celebrate our accomplishments, we can stop waiting for the perfect time to feel inspired and instead, we can start creating it ourselves.

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

What is it about our ADHD brains that causes so much difficulty with time and what can we do about it? Executive function plays a role, but like most of our ADHD challenges, there are also other factors that, when combined, can make time awareness feel downright impossible.

In this episode, I'll take you through the contributors to time blindness, such as emotional regulation and working memory, because the more we understand why we do what we do the more successfully we can tackle the problem.

Then, next week I'll talk about what we can do to improve our relationship with time and share some of the strategies that have really worked for me. I still haven't mastered time, but I have gotten so much better at it the more I learn how my brain works. I hope I can do the same for you.

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

Why is it that a single negative comment can ruin my entire day, even amongst a sea of otherwise positive feedback? Our ability to hyperfocus is one of our greatest ADHD strengths, but if that hyperfocus gets ahold of a negative thought it can send us into a spiral of shame and self-doubt that feels impossible to break out of.

In this episode, I'll give you 7 unusual, research-based strategies to help you tune into your body, get out of your head, and calm your nervous system when you find yourself ruminating on thoughts that don't serve you.
______________

Resources:

• www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• spiky massage balls for feet
• healthline.com
• integrishealth.org
• www.urmc.rochester.edu
• anxietycontrolcenter.com
• pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• Center Shock
• pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• MOXE Breathe

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

My son Markus has always been incredibly introspective and self-aware, so when he took an especially difficult calculus class and announced that there was something else going on beyond ADHD, I believed him. For years Markus and I had suspected that dyslexia was the underlying cause of his inconsistent gaps in learning, yet whenever he was evaluated these gaps were overlooked or attributed to his ADHD. Learning challenges such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia are very common comorbidities with ADHD, so why weren't these evaluators ever digging deeper?

Enter: the incredible Laurie Peterson, a brilliant Educational Diagnostician who you may recognize from Episode 61 of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, and my guest this episode. Laurie evaluated Markus a third time, and to his relief, his suspicions were confirmed--it was dyslexia all along. Having the complete picture of his brain finally allowed Markus to advocate for his needs, which is exactly why Laurie does the work she does.

Join me for another wonderful conversation with Laurie as she provides an overview of the different learning disabilities that can co-occur with ADHD, explains why whole-picture interventions are so important, and dispels some common myths surrounding learning disabilities. Hint: It has nothing to do with intelligence.🐿⭐️
______________

Resources:

• Website: Ediagnosticlearning.com
• Diagnostic-learning.com
• Email: laurie@diagnostic-learning.com
• Apps mentioned: Snap Type; Mod Math

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

'Intuitive eating' is a term we hear more and more these days, but in a culture where restrictive diets are king, the concept of listening to your own body may seem foreign and even "woo woo." My guest this week, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Becca King, admits that she also thought intuitive eating was pretty "woo woo" when she first heard about it, but after closer examination, she discovered that intuitive eating wasn't too out there at all. In fact, it was quite the opposite: intuitive eating helped Becca heal her relationship with food and her own body and started her on a path to help others, specifically those with ADHD, heal those relationships too.

Whether you're curious to learn more or you still need some convincing, in this week's episode, Becca will teach you the basics about intuitive eating and provide you some helpful eating tips for the ADHD brain.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @adhd.nutritionist
• Website: adhdnutritionistllc.com

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

When licensed professional therapist, author, and speaker KC Davis first began a self and home-care TikTok account, she didn't intend to make ADHD content. In fact, she didn't even know she had ADHD at the time, she just knew her unique brain required equally unique systems in order for her to stay on top of home care tasks. When KC's content inevitably ended up on the ADHD side of TikTok, her number of followers exploded. So many people with ADHD related to her content and found success with her systems that KC decided to get an evaluation and confirmed that she does indeed have ADHD.

Since receiving her diagnosis KC's content has expanded to include creative ADHD-specific systems and solutions for care tasks, but the underlying message in her work has always remained the same: "Care tasks are morally neutral. They have nothing to do with being a good or bad person, with failing or succeeding in life."

Join me this week as KC Davis explains why thinking of care tasks as 'morally neutral' is so important for our mental health, teaches us her 'condiments in the produce drawer' ADHD fridge hack, and gives us the tools to implement a no-fold laundry system that saved her sanity.
______________

Resources:

• Instagram: @strugglecare
• TikTok: @domesticblisters
• Website: Strugglecare.com
• Book: How to Keep House While Drowning

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com  

Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup

___

This week I break my cardinal rule of only interviewing women with ADHD on the podcast, which should tell you just how strongly I believe in author and marriage consultant Melissa Orlov's work. Melissa may not have ADHD herself, but her daughter does, which is exactly what prompts Melissa to learn as much about ADHD as she possibly can. She dove deep into the research, even working alongside renowned ADHD expert, Dr. Edward Hallowell, one of my only other guest to break the podcast rule (go back to Episode 106 to listen to his insightful interview).

All of Melissa's research led her to the surprising realization that her own husband had ADHD as well. Hello, rabbit ---> bunny! Suddenly, all of the disagreements that they'd been having for years around their relationship suddenly made sense. With this realization came a new level of compassion and understanding for each other. Together Melissa and her husband were finally able to find solutions and create systems that worked for both of them.

Since this marriage-saving discovery, Melissa has been researching and writing about how ADHD impacts relationships and marriage with the goal of providing others with the roadmap she and her husband wish they'd had sooner. Whether you're in a relationship with a neurotypical or another ADHDer, Melissa has some helpful tips and insights that may just end that argument about emptying the dishwasher for good.
______________

Resources:

• Melissa's website: adhdmarriage.com
• Her couples' seminar: The ADHD Effect In-Depth
• Her book: The ADHD Effect on Marriage: Understand and Rebuild Your Relationship in Six Steps

Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

If this podcast helps you understand your ADHD brain, Shift helps you train it. Practice mindset work in just 10 minutes a day. Learn more at tracyotsuka.com/shift

Instead of Struggling to figure out what to do next? 

ADHD isn’t a productivity problem. It’s an identity problem. 

That’s why most strategies don’t stick—they weren’t designed for how your brain actually works. Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy is different. It’s a patented, science-backed coaching program that helps you stop fighting your brain and start building a life that fits. 👉Learn more here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/aok-academy

Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://tracyotsuka.com/book

Visit our website:  https://tracyotsuka.com