

ADHD for Smart Ass Women with Tracy Otsuka
Tracy Otsuka
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*I have NEVER met an ADHD woman who wasn’t truly brilliant at something! This podcast, with nearly 7 million downloads, is for smart, high-ability ADD/ADHD (diagnosed or suspecting) women who see their symptoms as more positive than negative. If you want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and discover where your brilliance lies, this podcast is for you!**ADHD for Smart Ass Women is globally ranked in the top one-tenth of one percent of all podcasts in the world on any subject. It’s streamed in more than 160 countries and is downloaded by more than 150,000 listeners every month. My book of the same name, published by HarperCollins/William Morrow, was recently honored by Amazon Editors as a Top 20 Best Nonfiction Book of 2024.**I’m Tracy Otsuka, your host. I’m a lawyer, not a doctor, a lifelong learner, and a certified ADHD coach. I’m on a mission to change the conversation around ADHD because I believe it’s time to focus on the strengths that come with our unique brains. When I was diagnosed eight months after my son, my entire life finally made sense, yet all I read and heard about ADHD focused on what I should struggle with. What I discovered, though, was that my ADHD was responsible for some of my greatest strengths.**Another thing we constantly hear is all the success stories about ADHD men, but no one talks about the women. This podcast is here to change that. ADHD women are my people, and I’m here to acknowledge, support, and cheer them on. My experience as an adult living with ADHD, along with my expertise, is regularly sought out by top-tier media, including Bloomberg, Forbes, CBS Mornings, ABC News Live, Inc., Prevention Magazine, Verywell Mind, ADDitude magazine, and The Goal Digger Podcast, etc.**adhdforsmartwomen.com**The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not constitute medical or professional advice. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of anything you have seen or heard from Tracy Otsuka, her guests or this podcast.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 27, 2024 • 59min
EP. 273: Empowerment Beyond Misdiagnosis with Alyssa Fontaine
Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Alyssa Fontaine's life story highlights the crucial need for mental health diagnosis and care accuracy. Misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder as a teenager, she faced the challenges of ADHD and medication mismanagement, which set her on a path to self-advocacy and profound change. This experience fueled her passion to support women entangled in cycles of incarceration and addiction and to lead a transformative cheerleading program in her hometown, demonstrating the power of empathy and proper care.In her current roles, Alyssa combines her journey with professional dedication. As a Community Support at Crossroads for Women and a Cheerleading Coach in Highland Hornets, she empowers women and children from her community to overcome mental health challenges and social barriers. In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, Alyssa and I put highlight on the impact of self-advocacy and community support, offering practical wisdom for those navigating similar struggles.This episode showcases triumph over misdiagnosis and advocates a relentless drive to empower others facing mental health challenges and social obstacles.Resources:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssafontaine89 Highland Hornets: https://www.instagram.com/highlandhornetscheerleading Crossroads for Women: https://crossroadsabq.orgSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message 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/book2Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://tracyotsuka.com/aok Visit our website: https://tracyotsuka.com

Mar 20, 2024 • 1h 23min
EP. 272: Grieving and Healing through ADHD Perspective with Laurie Peterson, Anita Robertson, and Sandra Centorino
Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Navigating grief can be a challenging and emotional journey, especially when coupled with the complexities of ADHD. However, it can also be an opportunity for growth and resilience. In this upcoming discussion, we'll hear from a group of remarkable women, including Sandra Centorino, the beacon of positivity, Laurie Peterson, an authority on ADHD and educational assessments, and Anita Robertson, the insightful psychotherapist, as they share their personal experiences of loss and how they have found ways to cope with the unique challenges of ADHD. Through their candid stories, we'll gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate executive function issues during times of crisis and find hope and resilience in the face of adversity.Laurie Peterson is the founder of Diagnostic Learning Services and eDiagnostic Learning. She helps students and adults with learning disabilities such as Dyslexia and ADHD.Anita Robertson is a licensed psychotherapist who specializes in Attachment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. She developed the ADHD Relationship Boot Camp and authored "ADHD & Us: A Couple’s Guide to Loving and Living with Adult ADHD."Sandra Centorino is a digital veteran with two decades of experience. She's known for her vibrant energy and kindness and has built a loyal following on platforms like Snapchat and TikTok. She assists others, particularly in the ADHD community, and shares her talents in live video and podcasting.This episode is an homage to those we've loved and lost, a testament to the power of honoring their wishes, and a beacon of hope for anyone seeking support and understanding in the aftermath of grief.Follow these amazing ladies here:Laurie Peterson:Website: https://www.ediagnosticlearning.com/ Podcast: https://ltldpodcast.com/ Anita Roberston:Webinar: https://www.lifewithanadhdspouse.com/adhd-midlife-sandwich-replayWebsite: https://wSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message 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/book2Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://tracyotsuka.com/aok Visit our website: https://tracyotsuka.com

Mar 13, 2024 • 1h 4min
EP. 271: Navigating ADHD and Public Service with Dulce Vasquez
Dulce Vasquez, a transformative figure reshaping the ADHD and mental health conversation, shares her journey from ADHD diagnosis to political aspirations. She discusses challenges of living with ADHD and PTSD, medication struggles, and her advocacy work in public service and LGBTQ+ communities. Vasquez's story highlights vulnerability, resilience, and empowerment, underscoring the significance of personal narratives in driving societal change.

8 snips
Mar 7, 2024 • 58min
EP. 270: The ADHD Toolbox: Brooke Schnittman's Strategies for Success
Discover how Brooke Schnittman's ADHD diagnosis led to transformative tools for success, breaking down chaos into manageable steps with executive functioning skills. Learn about her book 'Activate Your ADHD Potential' and strategies for conquering overwhelm. Explore the journey from self-discovery to empowerment, navigating boundaries, boosting dopamine levels, and embracing personal growth.

Feb 28, 2024 • 56min
EP. 269: How to Feel Good with Taylor Elyse Morrison
Discover how self-care can be redefined beyond traditional norms as Taylor Elyse Morrison shares her journey from overwhelm to empowerment with ADHD. Explore the importance of community, movement, and individualized well-being for neurodivergent individuals. Learn about coaching practices, mindfulness, and the transformative power of listening within for personal growth.

Feb 21, 2024 • 1h 5min
EP. 268: Dissecting RSD, People Pleasing, Neurofibromatosis and Pet Nutrition with Priscilla Tollin
Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___This podcast is for smart, high-ability ADD/ADHD (diagnosed or suspecting) women who see their symptoms as more positive than negative.When I was diagnosed eight months after my son, my entire life suddenly made perfect sense but all I heard about was everything that my ADHD brain SHOULD be struggling with when in fact I would come to learn that my ADHD is responsible for some of my greatest superpowers.Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message 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/book2Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://tracyotsuka.com/aok Visit our website: https://tracyotsuka.com

Feb 14, 2024 • 1h 13min
EP. 267: Harnessing EMDR and Polyvagal Theory for Stress Mastery with Gabrielle Juliano-Villani
Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Many people know I'm a gusher, meaning that when I find something I really believe in, I want the whole world to know about it. I truly believe that the bottom-line goal with ADHD is to master our nervous systems, which is why I'm so delighted to sit down with clinical social worker and coach, Gabrielle Juliano-Villani.Gabrielle began her career in child protective and victim’s services and eventually started her own private practice working with older adults, folks with chronic pain and illness, and trauma. After hitting her own ADHD burnout in 2021, she sold her practice and made it her mission to educate others on the impact stress has on our everyday lives.Gabrielle pulls from her experience as an EMDR and polyvagal-informed therapist to utilize mind/body approaches to help others implement everyday strategies to manage stress and live their best lives. During our conversation she provides an easy-to-digest breakdown of what EMDR is and how it works, the basics of Polyvagal Theory, what it means to “map” your nervous system, and how these somatic therapy approaches can help us to get out of our heads and back into our bodies.______________Resources:Instagram: @gjvconsultingTiktok: @gabriellejulianovillaniYoutube: @gabriellejulianovillaniWebsite: Gabriellejulianovillani.comMedicareconsultingfortherapists.comGJVConsulting.Etsy.comLinkedIn: Gabrielle Juliano-VillaniRetreat discount code is ADHDSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message 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/book2Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://tracyotsuka.com/aok Visit our website: https://tracyotsuka.com

Feb 7, 2024 • 1h 6min
EP. 266: ADHD in the C-Suite: Katy McFee's Blueprint for Women in Leadership
Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Katy McFee spent the bulk of her career undiagnosed and struggled for years until she learned how to work with her ADHD and not against it. After 18 years in the corporate world, she founded her company, Insights to Action, which is on a mission to help close the gender gap in senior leadership.Katy discovered through her entrepreneurship journey and ADHD diagnosis that we can all thrive as our authentic selves once we are ready to accept ourselves for who we are. She is passionate about empowering women and helping more women break into senior leadership and thrive as leaders without burning out, a passion that shines through in everything she does.Join my insightful conversation with Katy to hear about her personal ADHD journey, how she sets herself up for success each day with an energizing morning routine, everything she’s learned about leadership in the corporate world, and all the work she’s doing to help other incredible women like herself make meaningful changes in male-dominated industries.______________Resources:LinkedIn: Katy McFeeInstagram: @katy.mcfeeWebsite: insightstoactioncc.comSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message 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/book2Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://tracyotsuka.com/aok Visit our website: https://tracyotsuka.com

Jan 31, 2024 • 58min
EP. 265: Harnessing Your ADHD Superpower: A Chat with Jessica McCabe from How to ADHD
Jessica McCabe, founder of How to ADHD, shares her personal journey with ADHD, including challenges and triumphs. Topics addressed in the podcast include recognizing the value of past experiences, navigating expectations in the entertainment industry, and parenting a child with ADHD.

Jan 24, 2024 • 1h 7min
EP. 264: Doing Veterinary Medicine Her Way with Dr. Ashley Portmann
Tired of ADHD strategies that don’t work? Here’s what actually does. FREE training here: https://programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup___Dr. Ashley Portmann had always dreamed of becoming a veterinarian ever since she was a little girl, but like with many fast-paced careers in the medical field she soon found herself hitting burnout from the chaos of general practice. Ashley attended a conference on home hospice care and realized that maybe she wouldn’t have to leave the profession she loved so much after all, maybe she could pivot in a new direction that would work for her ADHD brain and allow her to dig her way out of burnout instead of contributing to it.In early 2018 Ashley decided to start her own practice, Home Together Veterinary Services, offering in-home care for senior pets and their people. This style of practice allows her to form genuine connections with her patients and take a more holistic approach to veterinary medicine, which has reignited her self-confidence and her passion for the field.The services Ashley offers and the empathy and comfort she brings to families during a difficult time are so crucial, and I hope Ashley’s story of finding her niche inspires you to start thinking about how you could make a meaningful pivot in your own life.______________Resources:Website: https://www.hometogethervet.com/Facebook: Home Together Veterinary ServicesInstagram: @hometogethervet (business); @abportmann (personal) IAAHPC website: https://iaahpc.org/Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message 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/book2Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://tracyotsuka.com/aok Visit our website: https://tracyotsuka.com