Beautifully Complex

Is college really the only path to success? Not even close.In this episode, I sit down with Hannah Maruyama, co-founder of Degree Free, to challenge the outdated idea that college is the ultimate goal for every kid — especially for neurodivergent kids who may thrive outside traditional systems. We get deep into how redefining success, focusing on real-world needs, and shifting the career conversation can change everything. Learn why starting with your child's unique lifestyle goals leads to a far more satisfying and successful future, and why the old "college = success" formula just doesn't add up anymore.Ready to rethink what your child’s future can look like? Listen now and empower your family to build a life by design, not by default.You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/312Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

What if your child’s “overexplaining” isn’t defiance, but a deep need to be understood?In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Sol Smith — autistic adult, author, life coach, educator, and dad of four neurodivergent kids — to talk about the inner world of autistic individuals. From masking and sensory differences to building friendships and finding identity through passion, Sol walks us through what self-discovery really looks like for autistic kids… and how we can better support it as parents.We also dive into the hard stuff: the social exhaustion of masking, the difference between “traits” and diagnostic persistence, and why trusting your child’s path — even if it looks different — is the most loving move you can make.Sol’s insights are real, relatable, and refreshingly hopeful. If you’ve ever wondered how to support your child in being their true self while also preparing them for “the real world,” this episode is your new roadmap.🎧 Don’t miss it — press play and get ready to see your child through a brand-new lens.You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/311Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

What if we stopped calling kids “attention-seeking” and started calling them “connection-seeking?”In this heart-opening episode, I sit down with veteran educators and authors Erika Bare and Tiffany Burns to rethink how we approach behavior in schools — especially for neurodivergent kids. From eliminating power struggles to building culture through connection, they break down practical strategies that teachers and parents can use right now to shift from correction to connection.You’ll hear why traditional behavior charts often do more harm than good, how to “care out loud” in everyday interactions, and what it really means to co-create emotionally safe spaces for all kids. We explore how small changes in mindset and language can spark massive change for kids who struggle.Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or anyone who works with kids, this episode is a breath of fresh air for modern education.👉 Tune in and start building the connection-first culture our kids deserve.You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/310Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

What if the big feelings your child has aren’t a problem — but a clue?In this comforting conversation, I sit down with Janine Halloran, LMHC — therapist, mom, and author of Coping Skills for Kids — to talk all things anger, coping, and emotional regulation for neurodivergent kids and their families.We dig into why some kids explode, what to do in the moment (spoiler: it starts with YOU), and how to teach your child the coping strategies that actually work for their unique brain and nervous system. Plus, Janine shares real-life stories, tools, and ways to create a home environment that supports emotional growth — without trying to force your kid to “just breathe.”Whether your child resists every strategy you suggest or you’re just trying to stay calm during the chaos, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and hope.Tune in now to learn how to help your child (and yourself) walk through big feelings with more connection, confidence, and calm.You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/309Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Wait, ADHD is more than attention issues? Yep — and this episode will blow your mind.In this special episode, I’m sharing the first episode of the must-listen new series Climbing the Walls by Understood.org. This story-driven episode dives into the rise of ADHD diagnoses in women — especially during the pandemic — and how emotional regulation, executive function, and misunderstood symptoms have kept countless women undiagnosed for decades.I reflect on the shock of hearing things I wish I’d known when my child was first diagnosed. This episode isn't just about women with ADHD — it’s about the ripple effects of missed diagnoses, how emotions show up in unexpected ways (hello, rage and rejection sensitivity!), and why recognizing the full picture of ADHD is crucial for parenting neurodivergent kids.If you’ve ever questioned why your child explodes or struggles to meet deadlines, or if you've felt unseen yourself, this one’s going to hit home.Don’t miss this compelling episode — hit play now and prepare to see ADHD through a new lens.You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/308Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

✨ What if your child’s “daydreaming” on the sidelines was actually self-regulation in action?In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m joined by Shawna Rosenzweig, CEO of Campfire, for a real-talk conversation about rethinking success and valuing our kids for who they are, not what they do.We unpack how our cultural obsession with productivity often misses the mark — especially for neurodivergent kids. From challenging perfectionism to navigating sensory overwhelm and learning to follow our kids’ lead, this episode is a must-listen for any parent ready to shift from performance to personhood.Whether your kid is struggling with school, friendships, or emotional regulation, this episode offers insight, hope, and practical tools.Listen now and let’s reimagine childhood together.You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/305Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Ever wish your kid would just stop yelling?This episode of Beautifully Complex will make you rethink that wish — in the best way. Inspired by the timeless wisdom of Mr. Rogers, I explore one deceptively simple question: “What do you do with the mad that you feel?”In this solo episode, you’ll discover how anger shows up in the nervous system, why our kids often can’t think their way through it, and how to help them feel safe in their emotions, instead of ashamed. From compassionate scripts to body-based strategies, this is your go-to guide for turning meltdown moments into connection and growth.Whether your child is autistic, has ADHD, or just struggles with big feelings, this episode is a must-listen.🎧 Tune in to learn how to support your child’s emotional regulation — without control, shame, or power struggles.You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/306Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I am joined by resilience coach Barb Fletcher to explore empowering strategies for building parent resilience — an essential tool for those of us navigating the unique journey of raising neurodivergent kids.We discuss the balance of control over stress, the pivotal role of heart-focused breathing, and the impact of shared energy between parent and child. Listen in to learn about redefining stress management, adjusting our lens on resilience, and the actionable steps we can take today to show up for ourselves and our children with authenticity and strength.Join us as we support your journey with practical, step-by-step advice to cultivate a loving, neuro-affirming environment that benefits your entire family. Let’s build resilience together to nurture a brighter future for our beautifully complex kids.You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/305Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I sit down with expert Polina Shkadron to explore the incredible power of play in supporting emotional regulation. Discover how co-regulation — a crucial component of nurturing a healthy parent-child bond — can become a natural part of your routine. We dive into how letting go of control during playtime and embracing your child's creativity can lead to breakthroughs in self-regulation and problem-solving.You'll receive warm guidance on striking the right balance between encouragement and independence, teaching your child how to navigate challenges while building strong executive functioning skills. We'll address your parental capacity, providing practical tips on integrating play into your family life without additional stress.Tune in and equip yourself with actionable strategies to cultivate a neuro-affirming environment that empowers your child's growth and emotional resilience. Join us for a conversation that promises not just hope, but a roadmap to nurturing your child's unique brilliance and potential. Listen now for step-by-step advice that's rooted in empathy and expertise. Your beautifully complex family can thrive, and it starts here.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

School meetings can stir up a lot of emotions for parents — including overwhelm, confusion, anxiety, and uncertainty. You’re worried about your child's rights, accommodations, and educational success in an ever-changing landscape. In this episode of the Beautifully Complex podcast, I’m sharing some practical and hard-won wisdom on setting the foundation for successful school meetings.Join me as I share personal stories and insights, exploring the importance of submitting your parent input ahead of time, understanding the structure of these meetings, and cultivating a collaborative mindset. These strategies are not just about surviving the meeting but turning them into a platform where your child's strengths are celebrated and their needs are understood.Listen in for step-by-step advice on creating a neuro-affirming environment that promotes success and confidence for your child. I'll guide you through the crucial elements that foster teamwork between you and the school, all while reinforcing a sense of hope and progress.With experience as a parenting coach and mindset advocate, I am devoted to helping parents like you build a supportive, understanding ecosystem for your neurodivergent kids. Tune in and let's work towards transforming challenges into pathways for success together.Subscribe now to ensure you never miss an episode filled with empathy, understanding, and actionable tips for your beautifully complex journey.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.