I had the pleasure of sitting down with actress, singer, songwriter, and filmmaker Bethany Joy Lenz to discuss her journey with ADHD. Bethany opened up about how she went undiagnosed until adulthood and the relief she finally felt once she understood how her brain worked differently.In our conversation, Bethany opens up about living undiagnosed for so long, pushing through challenges on willpower alone, and the incredible relief she felt once she understood how her brain worked differently. Even with a packed schedule juggling acting, music, a lifestyle newspaper, podcast, and motherhood, Bethany has found more peace and success by learning how to manage her ADHD. She shares her story so others may see themselves and know they are not alone. There is light at the end of the tunnel.Bethany Joy Lenz is best known for playing Haley James Scott on One Tree Hill. Since the show, she has continued acting while also pursuing music and creative projects like her lifestyle newspaper Modern Vintage News. Episode Highlights[01:52] - How Bethany discovered she likely had ADHD.[03:16] - The relief of diagnosis after years of feeling something was wrong.[04:46] - Bethany got an official diagnosis 6 months after self-diagnosing.[05:30] - How medication helped Bethany's focus and feeling overwhelmed.[07:19] - Playing to strengths and not beating yourself up over weaknesses.[08:39] - Being careful with medication due to addiction history.[09:30] - Managing friend expectations and communicating neurodivergence.[13:00] - ADHD symptoms can look so different yet still recognize each other.[15:30] - Never struggled to memorize scripts thanks to hyperfocus.[18:37] - Remembering facts/data hard because of dyscalculia.[19:52] - Timers, limits, scheduling help juggle everything.[22:26] - High control groups prey on neurodivergent people.[27:55] - Hard to distinguish narcissist traits vs ADHD challenges.[31:57] - Brooke’s EMDR experience and feeling emotions.[35:35] - Compartmentalizing emotions when acting vs everyday life.[38:07] - What Bethany's cooking: Modern Vintage Newspaper and ‘Strawberries’ Song. Connect with Bethany Joy Lenz:·         Modern Vintage News Lifestyle Newspaper: https://www.modernvintagenews.com/ ·         Drama Queens Podcast·         Strawberries Song·         Instagram: @msbethanyjoylenz and @modernvintagenews Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Successful with ADHD. If you enjoyed this conversation, please +FOLLOW the podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

Trigger Warning: this episode discusses sensitive topics about suicide and traumatic injuries.I had the honor of speaking with Andrew “Sully” Sullivan, a retired Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator Navy SEAL. Andrew shared his incredible story of being diagnosed with ADHD in high school but not letting that stop him from pursuing his dream of becoming a Navy SEAL.Andrew completed the notoriously grueling SEAL training and went on to have a nearly 20-year distinguished career full of combat tours and commendations. Andrew explained how the high-intensity, team-focused environment of special operations was perfectly suited for someone with ADHD. He never felt the need to disclose his diagnosis because his teammates naturally complemented each other’s strengths and weaknesses.We also discussed the mental health challenges many veterans face after transitioning out of service. Andrew now runs a nonprofit (503c) called the Community First Project that ensures the quality and integrity of the nation's law enforcement agencies. Timeline Summary:[01:07] - Andrew's distinguished military career, awards, and current ventures.[03:32] - Andrew’s decision to serve in the military and how he approached it with ADHD.[05:42] - Taking medication while serving.[07:33] - Follow through is easier with a purpose.[09:01] - The mental and physical toughness of SEALs training and the prime age for it.[11:32] - How the Special Ops environment caters to ADHD strengths.[14:32] - The struggle while exiting service and losing that community.[15:14] - Adderall medication struggles to help study in college and a surprising way to focus.[16:32] - Sneaky ways to get the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for ADHDers.[17:45] - Andrew’s most difficult time in service and how he sought help.[20:15] - The power of community in supporting mental health and breaking the stigma.[22:18] - Providing peer support for law enforcement officers after traumatic events.[25:42] - How the Seals compartmentalize, problem solve, and suppress just like ADHDers.[26:33] - Mental toughness and dealing with traumatic loss. Nobody is alone.[27:28] - Explosives brain injury comparison to professional football players.[31:58] - Andrew found his purpose driving him to serve others through the military and his non-profit.[34:21] - How to connect with the Community First Project. Connect with Andrew Sullivan and the Community First Project:Please consider donating to the Community First Project on their website, every bit helps! Please connect through the website or Instagram if you are with law enforcement and would like to get further information about the program.·         Community First Project website: https://c1p.org/ ·         Community First Project on Instagram: @community_first_project·         Andrew “Sully” Sullivan on Instagram: @sully_c1p Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Successful with ADHD. If you enjoyed this conversation, please +FOLLOW the podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

Tana Amen, trauma survivor, talks about overcoming childhood adversity and adult struggles. She shares her journey with ADHD, PTSD, and eating disorders. Tana discusses strategies for success, healing from trauma, and the importance of self-compassion.

In this vulnerable episode, I talk with therapist Paulina Siegel (LCSW/CAS) about using Internal Family Systems (IFS) to understand and improve your relationship with the different parts that make up your ADHD. Paulina explains how IFS views humans as made up of multiple parts including wounded parts and protector parts. She shares how identifying these parts and building compassionate relationships with them can lead to self-growth and harmony. We have an enlightening discussion on common parts that show up with ADHD like shame, procrastination and rejection sensitivity. They also do an IFS exercise together live on air to give listeners a first-hand experience of the powerful technique.Paulina Siegel is a licensed clinical social worker and certified addiction specialist. She is also a trained mindfulness practitioner who works with teens and young adults struggling with mental health and addiction. Paulina launched her own counseling practice Courageous Paths Counseling in Colorado and Illinois where she serves individuals ages 15-43 using a range of techniques including IFS and EMDR.Timeline Summary:[02:22] - What is Internal Family Systems (IFS)?[04:59] - Does everyone have wounded parts?[06:09] - Paulina’s ADHD journey[08:22] - The role of curiosity [11:22] - Enemies vs allies in IFS parts[14:40] - Common wounded parts that show up with ADHD[18:35] - Common allies in IFS parts[22:02] - Live IFS exercise example[30:28] - How IFS and EMDR work together[32:25] - How long IFS results last[34:44] - Treating anxiety and dissociation with IFS[38:05] - Parting words of wisdom for listeners[42:13] - Where to find Paulina and learn more Connect with Paulina Siegel:Paulina Siegel Counseling ServicesShit Talking Shrinks PodcastBook: No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz, Ph.D.Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Successful with ADHD. If you enjoyed this conversation, please +FOLLOW the podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

On this episode, I am being interviewed by my podcast producer, Marc Ronick, about my new book “Activate Your ADHD Potential: A 12-Step Journey From Chaos to Clarity for Adults with ADHD”.Through the interview I share my own ADHD diagnosis journey and how it led me to write this book to help others struggling with ADHD overwhelm and underwhelm. I provide insights into my writing process and how I use the tools from my book to push through obstacles.Marc and I discuss the book’s main themes of managing ADHD overwhelm and underwhelm through awareness, values alignment, and building momentum through small actions. We outline the 12-step program from the book and how it guides readers to gain control, clarity and confidence. The book is also a benefit to loved ones to help understand ADHD. Timeline Summary:[01:02] - Reintroducing my podcast producer Marc Ronick.[01:15] - Introducing my new book, “Activate Your ADHD Potential”.[01:57] - Marc takes over as host! [03:07] - Receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult after already coaching individuals with ADHD.[05:36] - Realizing ADHD impacted my entire life after getting married and having kids.[06:25] - Defining my value based on how much I worked, and the costs involved.[07:22] - Tricking myself into thinking I could write the book overnight.[08:57] - How to get over the overwhelm.[09:45] - Taking a break from writing but holding myself accountable to the deadline.[11:18] - Executive functioning with the book cover.[12:52] - When the book is done, but I am not.[14:29] - Imposter syndrome and perfectionism.[16:00] - How to get into a book as someone with ADHD.[18:16] - The book’s theme of overcoming the overwhelm and underwhelm disruption cycle.[21:38] - Discussing the “F Trauma” responses - freeze, fight, flight, fawn, and fib.[23:00] - Productivity isn’t about doing more.[24:45] - Seeking coaching to address both overwhelm and underwhelm.[25:30] - Aligning goals with values and motivations to gain clarity.[28:42] - Recommending the book to loved ones of those with ADHD.[31:41] - Client stories of new awareness and thriving after the program.[34:34] - Where to find the book.[36:24] - Get out of the chaos and thrive with a highly functioning life. Order the Book!Order my book: Activate Your ADHD Potential: A 12-Step Journey from Chaos to Confidence for Adults with ADHD Vote for the Podcast!Please VOTE for SUCCESSFULL WITH ADHD for a Podcast Signal Award: http://bit.ly/CWBSignal  Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Successful with ADHD. If you enjoyed this conversation, please +FOLLOW the podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

In this inspiring episode, I interview Justin Pasha, founder and CEO of The Cupbearer, a premier cocktail catering company. Justin shares his difficulties with ADHD in school and how he overcame them to build a successful business doing what he loves. Despite constant struggles with the school system, Justin trusted his passions and strengths to create an innovative mobile bar service from scratch. He discusses the realities of entrepreneurship and offers advice for others with ADHD who want to follow their own path. Justin proves that those who don’t thrive in traditional academic settings can still achieve great success by playing to their strengths. Timeline Summary:[01:37] - Justin provides overview of his journey founding The Cupbearer, a cocktail catering company.[03:49] - Justin shares being diagnosed with ADHD and put on medication at age 6.[05:09] - Discussing misconception relating ADHD to low intelligence.[06:01] - Justin describes difficulties focusing in school with ADHD.[08:02] - School felt like jail, stifling Justin’s natural curiosity.[09:06] - Questioning whether school prepares kids like Justin for the real world.[12:26] - Need for differentiated learning styles, not one-size-fits-all.[14:05] - Clarifying Justin’s time spent in resource room vs general classes.[15:41] - Justin deciding to become an entrepreneur much later in life.[19:14] - Starting The Cupbearer with only $800 initial investment.[20:46] - Being on time easier when you own the business vs working for others.[22:50] - Obsessing over your own business doesn't feel like work.[23:47] - Many paths can lead to pride and confidence in oneself.[24:30] - Making your own niche despite no existing demand.[25:55] - Justin’s small wins motivated him more than money at first.[27:46] - Advice for new entrepreneurs - be ready to work hard without pay.[28:36] - Justin learning about himself and building confidence through business. Connect with Justin Pasha:Justin's cocktail catering business The CupbearerInstagram: @the_cup_bearerCome see the company at work: Greenwich Polo Club Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Successful with ADHD. If you enjoyed this conversation, please +FOLLOW the podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

I sat down with my dear friend Dr. Christina Seamster, the Area Head Director at Fusion Academy in Boca Raton and Palm Beach, to discuss how Fusion Academy serves students with ADHD through personalized learning. As a former special education teacher and administrator myself, I used to think private schools like Fusion were only for students who couldn't make it in public school. But after hearing Christina share her insights, I realized the traditional school system simply isn't built for all students, especially those with ADHD who think differently.Christina has over 20 years of experience working with students of all ages, including teaching teachers, and is passionate about helping students with ADHD thrive. We covered so much in this interview including:Christina and I also gave a preview of our FREE 5th annual ADHD EdCamp 2023 event coming up on October 7, 2023 online or in-person in South Florida at Fusion Academy Boca Raton. I'll be doing a book signing of my upcoming book “Activate Your ADHD Potential”. Timeline Summary:[03:21] - Discussing the challenges students with ADHD face in public schools and how the system is not built for them.[05:45] - Looking for signs your child is disengaging and tips for advocating within their current school.[10:53] - Non-traditional school environments are becoming normalized.[12:45] - Understanding district funding and using state voucher programs.[14:55] - Making enrollment changes - risks with inconsistency.[16:41] - The lifelong impact of one bad school year.[21:04] - Allowing students to start the day with their passions.[23:50] - Info on our ADHD EdCamp upcoming in October – it’s FREE![26:10] - Fusion Academy's approach to personalized learning and scheduling. Connect with Dr. Christina Seamster:To connect with Christina about Fusion Academy or to attend ADHD Edcamp virtually or in-person, visit the links below:·         Fusion Academy Website·         ADHD EdCamp 2023 Event Page·         Email: cseamster@fusionacademy.com ·         Phone: 561-953-9365 ext 2178 Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Successful with ADHD. If you enjoyed this conversation, please +FOLLOW the podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

Attention coach Jeff Copper shares his strategies for success with ADHD and dyslexia. Topics discussed include overcoming traditional methods in tutoring, using dictation software, and the importance of self-advocacy. Find out Jeff's tips for success with ADHD and dyslexia on his website and podcasts.

In this heart-to-heart episode, I sat down with the insightful Brittany Modell, an intuitive eating dietitian, to delve deep into the complexities of ADHD and its intersection with binge eating. We shed light on the often misunderstood nuances of binge eating, highlighting how it's not just about "eating too much" but often has its roots in restrictive eating disorders. Brittany opens up about her personal journey, the role of compassion in overcoming challenges, and how opening up can dissipate the shadows of shame. Brittany Modell is not just an advocate but also someone who has walked the path, gaining invaluable insights into the world of ADHD, binge eating, and the healing power of self-awareness and communication. Timeline Summary:[02:02] - ADHD and the challenges Brittany faced in her educational journey.[04:41] - The lasting impact of teachers' words.[05:22] - The common issue in school getting diagnosed with ADHD.[07:09] - Columbia Prep classes and how they equipped Brittany.[10:15] - Unintended restrict-binge cycle due to medication and its repercussions.[11:10] - Brittany's journey as a registered dietitian.[12:09] - Reading comprehension and math difficulties.[13:02] - The impact of medication on hunger signals.[13:37] - Intricate connections between generalized anxiety disorder and ADHD.[15:44] - Brittany shares her experience with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).[17:13] - How Brittany is currently managing her ADHD without stimulants.[19:19] - The nuances of handling ADHD while in a professional setting.[23:08] - The importance of having a reliable scheduling system.[25:08] - How Brittany overcame binge eating.[25:15] - The correlation between ADHD and body image.[31:49] - The importance of connecting with one's body and food in a non-judgmental way. [32:22] - The pitfalls of striving for perfection.[32:28] - The significance of compassion and not pushing oneself to extremes.  Connect with Brittany Modell:brittanymodellrd.com @nofoodfears @foodtherapypod Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Successful with ADHD. If you enjoyed this conversation, please +FOLLOW the podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

In this week's episode, I chat with Chris Nowicki about his journey living with ADHD. Chris shares so openly about the challenges he's faced over the years and the different treatment methods he's tried, from medication to therapy techniques like EMDR and neurofeedback. Chris has been in the aerospace defense industry for over 16 years, overcoming his own ADHD challenges along the way. He is currently pursuing a new career as a software engineer.  Timeline Summary:[00:39] - Getting diagnosed with ADHD in 6th grade[05:20] - Hyperfocusing in college without meds[08:42] - How Chris found success in a long-term career[13:19] - Misdiagnosis before finding the right psychiatrist[18:19] - The complexity of medication management[20:35] - Name and tame your emotions[23:05] - Neurofeedback for balancing brain waves[23:05] - Re-mapping memories with EMDR[31:56] - Keeping it simple - reduce the to-do apps![33:45] - Starting a podcast for neurodivergent coders Connect with Chris Nowicki:Chrisnowicki.io Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Successful with ADHD. If you enjoyed this conversation, please +FOLLOW the podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to let us know your thoughts.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd