

The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast
Kate Brownfield
Join Kate, ADHD Parent Coach, Author, and host of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast, as she interviews experts and advocates in ADHD for parents who are raising a child with ADHD. She explores many different ADHD-related aspects for parents to consider along their journey to create a better life for their child and family. Learn more at https://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 3, 2025 • 31min
Why ADHD Kids' Organizational Skills Take Longer to Develop with Dr. Damon Korb
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters
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In this episode of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast, host Kate Brownfield welcomes Dr. Damon Korb, a developmental and behavioral pediatrician, founder of the Center for Developing Minds, and author of Raising an Organized Child.
Dr. Korb shares his expertise on executive functioning, ADHD, and how parents can foster organization, planning, and time management skills in their children. He also introduces OrganizedStudent.com, an online tool designed to help students build executive function skills through structured lessons.
Whether your child struggles with time management, organization, motivation, or emotional regulation, this episode provides practical findings and science-backed strategies to support their growth.
📚 Expect to Learn
✅ Why ADHD Kids Struggle with Organization – The science behind executive function delays.
✅ Building Executive Function Skills – A step-by-step approach for parents.
✅ Time Management & Motivation Hacks – Teaching kids to plan ahead and stay engaged.
✅ The Power of Struggle – Why letting kids work through challenges is essential.
✅ Screen Time & ADHD – How digital habits impact attention and brain development.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:01:31] - Introduction to Dr. Damon Korb
[00:02:55] - Why ADHD Kids Struggle with Organization
[00:04:48] - Introducing OrganizedStudent.com – A Tool for Students
[00:06:51] - The Parent’s Role in Building Executive Function Skills
[00:11:16] - Time Management Strategies for ADHD Kids
[00:14:30] - Keeping ADHD Kids Motivated Without Battles
[00:18:30] - Handling Anxiety, Meltdowns & Emotional Dysregulation
[00:27:31] - The Impact of Screen Time on Executive Functioning
[00:30:55] - Final Advice & Where to Find Dr. Korb’s Resources
Connect with our guest Dr. Damon Korb:
👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damon-korb-5152ba8/
🌍Website: https://www.devminds.com/
👉Online Tool to build skills in students: Home | Organized Students
Follow the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
🔗 Subscribe now and share your thoughts in the comments below!
#ADHDKids #HealthAdvocacy #ParentingTips #Neurodiversity #adhdkidscanthrive

Feb 24, 2025 • 32min
The Neurodiversity Playbook for ADHD, 2E and Autistic Kids with Dr. Matt Zakreski
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters
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In this episode of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive, the host Kate Brownfield sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Matthew Zakreski, an expert in neurodivergence, to discuss ADHD, autism, and how the education system impacts children with different learning needs.
Dr. Zakreski, author of The Neurodiversity Playbook, Sheds light into the neuroscience of ADHD, the impact of reduced recess and unstructured time in schools, and strategies to help children thrive. He explains why traditional school environments can fail neurodiverse kids and how parents can advocate for better support.
Whether you're raising a child with ADHD, autism, or other neurodivergent traits, this episode will give you practical strategies and a fresh perspective on how to support their growth.
📚 Expect to Learn
✅ The neuroscience behind ADHD and why it’s often misdiagnosed.
✅ How reduced recess, art, and unstructured play are harming children’s development.
✅ Why executive functioning challenges are common across neurodivergent diagnoses.
✅ Strategies to help neurodiverse kids navigate a world built for neurotypicals.
✅ How parents can advocate for their child’s learning needs and find supportive environments.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:02:20] – Meet Dr. Matthew Zakreski [00:03:04] – The Science of Neurodiversity [00:07:24] – Diagnosis the ADHD Correctly & it’s Labels [00:9:38] – Understanding the “Code” [00:16:30] – The Impact of No Child Left Behind [00:22:31] – Environmental Impact on ADHD & Autism [00:25:15] – Advocating for Your Child’s Education [00:28:47] – Final Advice for Parents [00:31:35] – Conclusion
Connect with Dr. Matthew Zakreski:
👉 Website: https://www.drmattzakreski.com/
📖 His book “The Neurodiversity Playbook” Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Neurodiversity-Playbook-Neurodivergent-People-Neurotypical/dp/195336036X
Follow the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
🔗 Subscribe now and share your thoughts in the comments below!
#ADHDKids #HealthAdvocacy #ParentingTips #Neurodiversity #adhdkidscanthrive

Feb 17, 2025 • 33min
Sensory Diets for Kids with ADHD and Autism to Improve Focus and Regulate Behavior with Julie Abrams
Julie Abrams, an occupational therapist and ADHD parent coach from Colorado, brings over 20 years of experience in supporting neurodiverse children. She shares valuable insights into sensory processing challenges in children with ADHD and autism. Julie explains how sensory systems impact everyday activities and offers practical strategies for parents to create sensory-friendly environments. Key topics include the importance of sensory diets, the role of movement in focus and regulation, and recognizing when to seek professional help for children’s development.

Feb 10, 2025 • 22min
The Challenges and Solutions for Living with ADHD with Dr. Sarah Cheyette
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters
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In this episode, host Kate Brownfield welcomes Dr. Sarah Cheyette, a pediatric neurologist specializing in ADHD. They explore ADHD diagnosis, treatment strategies, emotional regulation, and the impact of screen time on focus. Dr. Cheyette also introduces her upcoming book, the first ADHD guide published by the American Academy of Neurology, set for release in late summer 2025. If you're a parent, caregiver, or someone navigating ADHD, this episode is packed with practical awareness to help you or your child thrive.
Dr. Sarah Cheyette is a pediatric neurologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, specializing in ADHD and brain health. She has dedicated her career to helping children and adults understand and manage ADHD. Her upcoming book, published by the American Academy of Neurology, will provide a comprehensive guide to living with ADHD.
📚 Expect to Learn
✔ What ADHD really is—understanding focus, distraction, and brain function.
✔ How to properly diagnose ADHD—who to go to and what tests may be needed.
✔ The role of emotional regulation and why it’s critical in ADHD management.
✔ The impact of screen time on focus and how to create a healthy balance.
✔ Actionable strategies to help children and adults with ADHD thrive.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
📌 [00:01:33] - Introduction to Dr. Sarah Cheyette
📌 [00:02:41] - Dr. Cheyette’s upcoming book on ADHD
📌 [00:04:14] - Common misconceptions about ADHD in the medical community
📌 [00:07:29] - How ADHD is diagnosed and where to seek help
📌 [00:08:57] - Defining ADHD and understanding focus vs. distraction
📌 [00:11:33] - Recognizing ADHD symptoms in children
📌 [00:13:12] - The impact of screen time on ADHD and brain function
📌 [00:15:16] - The rise in ADHD and autism diagnoses—environmental and diagnostic factors
📌 [00:18:01] - Dr Sarah’s Book Comprehension 📌 [00:19:26] - Emotional dysregulation and its role in ADHD
📌 [00:21:26] - Final thoughts
Connect with our Guest Dr. Sarah Cheyette:
👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcheyettemd/ 🌍Website: https://sarahcheyette.com/
Follow Host Kate Brownfield at the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
🔗 Follow ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast now and share your thoughts in the comments below!

Feb 3, 2025 • 22min
The ADHD Porcupine Approach to Handle Oppositional Kids and Build Emotional Safety with Dr. Christie Rogers
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Christie Rogers-Larke, founder of Outside of the Box Therapy, shares her journey with ADHD and the inspiration behind her book, The ADHD Porcupine and the Bunny. She emphasizes re-framing oppositional behaviors as communication, advocating for collaboration over punishment. Listeners will learn practical strategies for nurturing emotional safety and resilience in neurodiverse children. Dr. Christie also encourages recognizing each child's strengths and fostering motivation through understanding and compassion.

Jan 27, 2025 • 36min
The ADHD System That Helped Our Son Thrive and Inspired a Movement with Tony and Cassi
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters
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In this heartfelt episode, host Kate Brownfield speaks with Tony Bellezza and Cassi Bellezza, the founders of the nonprofit Anthony's Way-The Road to Kindness. The foundation was born out of their personal experiences raising a child with ADHD and is dedicated to providing comprehensive, hands-on support for children with ADHD and their families. This episode explores their journey, the struggles faced by ADHD families, and the vision behind their impactful organization.
Tony and Cassi are parents, advocates, and the founders of Anthony's Way, a nonprofit organization committed to helping children with ADHD find their passions and thrive. Drawing from their late son Anthony's inspiring legacy of kindness and resilience, they have developed a roadmap to offer hands-on support for ADHD families. Their mission is to provide resources and a community where every child can grow with confidence and kindness.
📚 Expect to Learn
How Tony and Cassi transformed their personal tragedy into a mission to help ADHD families.
The components of a comprehensive care program for children with ADHD.
Practical advice for parents navigating the challenges of ADHD.
The importance of addressing self-esteem in ADHD children early.
How Anthony's Way is reshaping ADHD support through kindness and innovation.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:00:00] - Opening Remarks
[00:02:45] - The Journey Begins
[00:06:32] - Early Challenges with ADHD
[00:10:25] - Transformative Moments
[00:16:17] - A Legacy of Kindness
[00:22:48] - Building Anthony's Way
[00:27:00] - The Vision for Change
[00:30:55] - Kindness in Action
[00:34:32] - Words of Wisdom
[00:35:50] - Conclusion
Connect with our Guests Tony and Cassi on:
👉 Website: https://www.roadtokindness.live/
Check out more information on their February 13th live donation event and the Walk for Kindness initiative.
Follow Kate Brownfield at ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: https://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
🔗 Subscribe now and share your thoughts in the comments below!

Jan 20, 2025 • 33min
How Fixing My Son’s Gut Health Eliminated His ADHD Symptoms with Emma Tekstra
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters
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In this compelling episode of ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast, host Kate Brownfield speaks with Emma Tekstra, a global health consultant, actuary, and author of How to Be a Healthy Human. Emma shares her inspiring journey of advocating for her son's health after he was diagnosed with Asperger’s and ADHD alongside other health challenges. This episode dives into Emma’s practical strategies for improving children’s health and offers hope to parents navigating similar challenges.
Emma Tekstra is an actuary turned global health consultant and author. Her passion for health advocacy began 15 years ago when her son was diagnosed with Asperger’s and ADHD. Armed with her scientific background, Emma pursued alternative approaches to improve her son’s overall health, leading to transformative outcomes. She now champions parental empowerment and proactive health strategies for children and families.
📚 Expect to Learn
The pivotal role of nutrition and gut health in managing ADHD and Asperger’s symptoms.
Practical strategies for parents to advocate for their child’s health with pediatricians and specialists.
The impact of occupational therapy, neurofeedback, and sensory interventions in holistic health plans.
Insights on managing screen time and technology use among neurodiverse children.
How Emma’s experience influenced her two books and her work in global health advocacy.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:00:00] - The Gut-Brain Connection
[00:00:54] - Podcast Introduction
[00:02:35] - A Life-Changing Diagnosis
[00:05:00] - Connecting the Dots
[00:06:35] - Partnering with Pediatricians
[00:08:30] - Results from Dietary Changes
[00:14:00] - Addressing Mood and Sensitivities
[00:16:00] - Therapies and Interventions
[00:21:30] - Managing Technology Use
[00:26:45] - Teenage Rebellion and Returning to Health
[00:28:30] - Writing to Empower Others
[00:30:45] - Advice for Parent
Connect with our Guest Emma Tekstra on:
👉 Website: https://emmatekstra.com/
👉 Her Book "How to Be a Healthy Human" - https://emmatekstra.com/books/
Follow Kate Brownfield at ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: https://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
🔗 Follow the show now and share your thoughts in the comments below!

Jan 13, 2025 • 34min
Parenting A Child With ADHD: Insights from a Parent Advocate
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters
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In this episode, host Kate from ADHDKidsCanThrive.com is joined by Jennifer Gay Summers, an esteemed author and writer. Jennifer, a mother of a neurodivergent child, shares her personal journey from initial denial to becoming an empowered advocate for her child.
Jennifer offers valuable insights drawn from her experiences, providing guidance for parents on supporting children with ADHD. The conversation delves into the challenges of addressing sensory processing disorders, the importance of self-advocacy, and how to empower children by focusing on their strengths. Jennifer also discusses the impact of parenting a transgender child and emphasizes the significance of unconditional love in embracing unexpected life journeys.
Join Kate and Jennifer as they discuss overcoming obstacles, educating oneself, and nurturing a supportive environment for ADHD children to thrive. Whether you're starting or already on this journey, this episode aims to bring understanding, advice, and a sense of community to parents navigating similar paths.
Learn more from my guest: https://jennifergaysummers.com/
👉 Join Kate's Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
Learn more from Kate at: http://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
Sign up to get the first 3 chapters of Kate's Book here: Link to read
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#neurodiverse
#ADHDchild

Nov 11, 2024 • 23min
Sleep Solutions for Kids with ADHD with Dr. Brown
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters
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My guest is Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown, a triple-board-certified sleep medicine physician. Dr. Brown obtained sleep medicine training at the University of Pennsylvania and was a faculty member at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia until recently. Join us for an enlightening conversation about the importance of sleep for children with ADHD. Dr. Brown shares her expertise on how prioritizing sleep can help children and adults thrive, achieve optimal health, and reach their fullest potential.
In this episode, Kate and Dr. Brown delve into the common sleep challenges faced by children with ADHD and explore strategies to improve sleep quality. Dr. Brown explains the complex relationship between ADHD and sleep and how behavioral, medical, and 24-hour factors play a role in sleep struggles. The discussion also highlights the impact of a child's sleep issues on family dynamics and the importance of addressing these challenges early on.
Dr. Brown offers practical advice on maintaining healthy sleep habits, such as establishing consistent routines, managing screen time, and improving nutrition. She also emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help when necessary and guides parents on supporting their children's sleep journey while caring for their own well-being.
Tune in to discover valuable insights and actionable tips to help your ADHD child—and your family—sleep better and live healthier lives.
Learn more: https://www.therestfulsleepplace.com/
👉 Join Kate's Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
Stay connected to Kate at ADHDKidsCanThrive.com: http://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
Sign up to get the first 3 chapters of Kate's Book here: Link to read
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#autism
#neurodiverse
#ADHDchild

Nov 4, 2024 • 38min
Smart But Scattered: From Childhood to Empowerment with Colin Guare
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters
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My guest is Colin Guare, a renowned behavioral analyst and co-author of the bestselling "Smart But Scattered" series. Smart But Scattered: Second Edition, available November 2024. Colin shares his journey growing up with ADHD, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs experienced along the way.
The conversation delves into Colin's work with children and adults, highlighting his passion for motivation and behavior change. He discusses the impact of COVID-19 on children's school readiness and the evolving challenges faced by parents and educators. Kate and Colin explore the benefits and pitfalls of technology, especially for kids with ADHD, and share practical advice for balancing its use.
Colin also introduces the concept of motivational interviewing, offering parents a new approach to communicating with their children. With humor and wisdom, he encourages listeners to embrace the journey of raising children with ADHD, emphasizing the ever-evolving nature of life and the importance of celebrating small successes along the way.
Learn more about Colin's books here: https://www.guilford.com/author/Colin-Guare
👉 Join Kate's Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
Stay connected to Kate at ADHDKidsCanThrive.com: http://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
Sign up to get the first 3 chapters of Kate's Book here: Link to read
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#autism
#neurodiverse
#ADHDchild