ADHD Experts Podcast

Diane Gold, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of PDA North America, dives into the intriguing world of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in children. She discusses how PDA manifests through extreme sensitivity to demands and the common misdiagnoses associated with it. Diane shares impactful strategies for parents, highlights the overlap between PDA and ADHD, and emphasizes the importance of understanding kids' fluctuating capacities. With insights into neurodiversity and effective support approaches, this conversation unveils a compassionate perspective on parenting neurodivergent kids.

Join Amy Kempe, a licensed professional counselor specializing in ADHD and trauma, as she dives into the complexities of adult friendships. She discusses why maintaining connections can be tough for adults with ADHD. Amy outlines key friendship ingredients and practical ways to make and sustain friendships, emphasizing authenticity over masking. Learn about managing social energy, coping with rejection sensitivity, and the importance of community. Her insights will help you navigate relationships more confidently and meaningfully.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Samuele Cortese, an expert in ADHD and neurodevelopmental disorders, delves into the complex relationship between heart health and ADHD stimulant medications. He shares groundbreaking findings on the long-term impacts of these medications, including potential cardiovascular risks and the importance of monitoring. The conversation also touches on the benefits of stimulant use in reducing various risks like accidents and mortality, offering a nuanced perspective on balancing treatment efficacy with heart health considerations.

Sharon Saline, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist and ADHD expert, shares valuable insights for parents navigating the challenges of ADHD. She discusses how to effectively communicate about ADHD with kids, focusing on empathy and self-regulation. Listeners learn about the Five C's of parenting—control, compassion, collaboration, consistency, and celebration. Sharon provides practical tools for building resilience and advocating for children in school, while also addressing handling conflicts and supporting emotional growth. This conversation empowers parents to foster understanding and strength in their children.

Join Julia C. Basso, Ph.D., an expert on how music and movement influence brain function, as she discusses the transformative power of dance for neurodivergent individuals. She explains how movement enhances mood, focus, and emotional regulation while addressing ADHD and ASD. Discover practical techniques such as breath work and specific movement patterns to foster social connections and reduce anxiety. Basso also shares insights from a theater intervention study that improved self-esteem and social dynamics. Tune in for accessible ways to integrate movement into daily life!

In this engaging discussion, Ari Tuckman, Psy.D., MBA, a psychologist specializing in ADHD, highlights the social costs of productivity struggles. He explores how ADHD impacts relationships and expectations, encouraging listeners to set realistic goals. Tuckman emphasizes the importance of saying 'no' to avoid overcommitting and advocates for transparent communication to build trust. He also provides practical exercises for identifying personal productivity challenges, promoting self-awareness, and fostering healthy work habits.

In this engaging discussion, Penn and Kim Holderness, content creators and co-authors of 'All You Can Be with ADHD,' share their insights on uplifting kids with ADHD. They delve into the importance of recognizing strengths, using their book to navigate diagnoses, and creating safe spaces for children to thrive. They highlight key messages like 'you're not alone' and the need for strength-based praise. With a blend of personal stories and practical strategies, they inspire parents and educators to foster resilience and creativity in children who think differently.

Todd Love, Psy.D., JD, a therapist and researcher specializing in ADHD and behavioral addictions, dives deep into how ADHD can heighten the risk of addictions like gambling, gaming, and pornography. He discusses the neurobiology behind these behaviors, revealing how reward systems in the brain are manipulated, similar to substance use disorders. Todd also shares practical strategies for recovery, emphasizing the importance of environment modification and peer support, while addressing the impact of screen time on impulsivity and attention.

Saskia van der Oord, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and advocate for neurodiversity, joins Michael Meinzer, Ph.D., an expert in CBT for ADHD. They discuss how to empower individuals with ADHD through tailored cognitive behavioral therapy. Topics include the shift from deficit-focused approaches to understanding neurodiversity, the risks of masking behaviors, and practical CBT skills like prioritization and time management. They also highlight the importance of personalizing therapy goals and integrating lived experiences into treatment.

This roundtable features Shane Thrapp, an executive function coach; Jesse J. Anderson, an educational content creator; Kyrus Keenan Westcott, a humorous digital storyteller; and Marc Almodóvar, a men's mental health advocate. They dive into the unique challenges men with ADHD face, such as emotional expression, societal expectations, and the stigma around masculinity. The discussion covers the importance of safe spaces for men, the struggles with isolation, and the complexities of intimacy and emotional dysregulation. Insights on redefining masculinity and fostering supportive communities are truly thought-provoking.