ADHD Experts Podcast

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.

Dr. William Dodson, a board-certified psychiatrist and ADHD expert, dives into the complexities and stigma surrounding ADHD. He clarifies persistent myths, emphasizing that ADHD is a recognized diagnosis despite the lack of lab tests. Dodson discusses the importance of understanding emotional dysregulation, particularly in adults, and how to effectively engage skeptics. He also addresses the rising ADHD diagnoses, the effectiveness of stimulant medications, and strategies for better management. His insights empower listeners to advocate for proper ADHD recognition and treatment.

Diann Wingert, a former psychotherapist turned coach, shares her expertise in managing ADHD and emotions at work. She discusses why workplace pressures can intensify emotional reactions and introduces the SPACE framework for emotional regulation. Diann provides practical strategies, like micropause moves and covert tactics for calming down in meetings. She emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance after workplace incidents and offers advice on handling difficult situations with coworkers and bosses, all aimed at transforming stress into productivity.

Join Ann Dolin, a former special-education teacher and founder of Educational Connections, as she unveils expert strategies to help tweens and teens with ADHD tackle homework independently. Discover how to build effective routines, use calendars for better time management, and adapt study techniques like the stoplight highlighting method. Ann emphasizes the importance of trust and rapport with resistant students, while introducing innovative tools like AI and timers to enhance motivation. These insights promise to turn homework into a growth opportunity!

Dr. Anna C. Wilson is a pediatric psychologist and author focused on children's chronic pain, while Dr. Gloria T. Han specializes in chronic pain neurobiology in neurodivergent youth. They discuss why chronic pain disproportionately affects autistic youth with and without ADHD, highlighting unique presentations and daily impacts. The conversation includes effective strategies for managing pain, addressing sensory overwhelm and co-occurring conditions, and practical advice for caregivers on advocating within clinical and school settings.

Beverley Holden Johns, a seasoned learning and behavior consultant, shares insights on time management challenges faced by students with ADHD. She discusses personal time styles and the significance of effective workspace organization. Johns emphasizes the importance of time estimation skills and explores cognitive overload as a root cause of procrastination. She offers practical tools like analog clocks and checklists to support students. Listener Q&A addresses accountability and strategies to combat perfectionism, making this conversation a treasure trove of tips for educators and parents.

John Kruse, MD, PhD, is a seasoned ADHD expert who has spent over 30 years treating adults in San Francisco. He shares insights on the nuances of ADHD medications, comparing stimulants and non-stimulants while discussing their side effects. Kruse emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment, especially for older adults. He also highlights the intersection of ADHD and OCD, explores alternative treatments like supplements, and clarifies common misconceptions about medication risks. His depth of knowledge sheds light on navigating the complexities of adult ADHD.