The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast

Why can a child with ADHD know exactly what they need to do and still feel unable to start? Homework, chores, schoolwork, and everyday responsibilities can quickly turn into procrastination, avoidance, frustration, or conflict. But what if there is something happening beneath the behavior? In this episode of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast, Kate Brownfield, ACC, ADHD Parent Coach, talks with ADHD and executive function expert Brendan Mahan, author of Overcoming the Wall of Awful, about the emotional barriers that can make it difficult for people with ADHD to start, continue, or complete tasks. Brendan created the concept of the Wall of Awful to describe the emotional barrier that can build from repeated experiences of failure, disappointment, rejection, frustration, and shame. He explains five ways people try to get past the Wall of Awful and why some approaches work better than others. Kate and Brendan also explore practical ways parents can help, including creating a “door” through the wall, climbing it, body doubling, scribing homework, reducing pressure, and gradually fading support as a child builds confidence and independence. For parents who find themselves asking, “Why won’t my child just do it?”, this conversation offers a different way to understand what may be happening beneath the struggle. Instead, we might ask: “What is making this task feel so hard, and what support would help my child move forward?” Learn more about Brendan Mahan and Overcoming the Wall of Awful:https://brendanmahan.com/the-wall-of-awful-book/ FREE ADHD Parent Reset7 Things to Do Differently When What You’re Trying Isn’t Working Get the free guide here and learn practical ways to reduce power struggles and better support your child with ADHD. For more ADHD parenting support, visit ADHDKidsCanThrive.com.

ADHD, academic pressure, homework stress, executive function struggles, and the pressure to succeed can leave kids overwhelmed and parents wondering when to push and when to step back. What does success really look like for a child with ADHD? In this episode of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast, ADHD Parent Coach Kate Brownfield, ACC, talks with Dr. Denise Pope, Senior Lecturer at the Stanford Graduate School of Education and co-founder of Challenge Success, about ADHD and school stress, student well-being, academic pressure, and redefining success for kids who may not thrive on a traditional path. Dr. Pope explains why some students are simply “doing school” rather than truly engaging in learning, what happens when academic demands exceed a child’s coping skills, and how parents can support executive function, emotional regulation, belonging, and motivation without adding unnecessary pressure. You’ll also hear practical insights on homework overwhelm, playtime, downtime, and family time, different learning paths, screens and social media, and how AI may affect students with ADHD. Most importantly, Dr. Pope reminds parents to look beyond grades and achievement and keep seeing the whole child in front of them. Learn more about Dr. Denise Pope and Challenge Success:https://challengesuccess.org/ ADHD Parent Coaching + Resources:https://adhdkidscanthrive.com/

Episode Summary A brain-based roadmap for ADHD beyond “attention.” Dr. Rebecca Jackson explains how sensory, motor, and cognitive development shape attention, executive function, and emotional regulation, and how targeted, non-medication interventions (movement, sensory input, nutrition) can build lasting change. We cover bottom-up readiness before top-down strategies, practical daily routines, and assessments that reveal measurable gaps, enabling parents to help kids thrive at school and in life. Guest Dr. Rebecca Jackson, brain health expert, board-certified cognitive specialist, and former chiropractor known for her work at Brain Balance, is the author of Back on Track. She focuses on how sensory-motor development underpins attention, executive function, and emotion regulation, translating neuroscience into everyday tools for families. Episode Overview ADHD often reflects uneven development across systems—not just lapses in focus. Dr. Jackson walks through a bottom-up approach: strengthen sensory pathways and motor control first, then layer academics and behavior strategies. You’ll learn why movement is medicine (heart-rate spikes, balance, coordination), how sensory inputs raise a child’s tolerance threshold, and what nutrition tweaks (protein-forward mornings, whole-food swaps, lower inflammation) can do. We also discuss screen use with intention and how to start with assessments that identify strengths and track progress. What We Talk About (Highlights) ADHD is more than attention: sensory, motor, and cognitive systems develop unevenly Bottom-up vs. top-down: build brain readiness before piling on strategies Movement as medicine: heart-rate spikes, balance/coordination, frequent micro-breaks Emotional regulation: mature sensory pathways (sight, sound, touch) to raise tolerance Nutrition basics: reduce inflammation/“brain fog,” protein-first breakfasts, whole-food swaps Screens with intention: entertainment time can crowd out sensory-motor input Getting started: assessments that reveal strengths and measurable developmental gaps Resources & Links Dr. Rebecca Jackson’s book, Back on Track: https://drrebeccajackson.com/ About Your Host Kate Brownfield, Certified Whole Person & ADHD Parent Coach; author of How We Roll: A Parent’s Journey Raising a Child with ADHD; host of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast. Every child with ADHD is unique—so are their strengths and struggles.Website & coaching: ADHDKidsCanThrive.com Free Download Get the first 3 chapters of How We Roll free: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters Need Support? Schedule a free consultation: https://adhdkidscanthrive.com/appointment/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast Share with a parent who needs encouragement today Leave a quick rating/review, as it helps other ADHD families find the show

Episode Summary Licensed clinical social worker Ryan Wexelblatt (“ADHD Dude”) shares a practical, skills-first playbook for parents: coach over correct, step into calm parental authority, and build real-world social skills through practice, not lectures. We cover when CBT actually helps ADHD kids, why consistent home routines beat reminders, and how to create momentum without shame or power struggles. GuestRyan Wexelblatt, LCSW, ADHD-CCSP, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified School Social Worker, and founder of ADHDDude.com. Ryan trains parents to help their children build skills, improve behavior, and feel better about themselves. He’s also a father to a son with ADHD and learning differences. Episode OverviewMost families are working hard but on the wrong levers. Ryan explains how parent-led coaching, clear expectations, and warm authority transform everyday friction points (mornings, transitions, homework). We dig into timing CBT so it sticks, designing social practice that isn’t awkward or punitive, and shifting from “try harder” to “build the skill.” Goal: fewer battles, more progress, and a kid who sees themselves as capable. What We Talk About (Highlights) Coach > correct: teach the skill, don’t repeat the reminder Parental authority: firm + kind (clear expectations, consistent follow-through) CBT timing: works best after regulation and core skills are in place Social growth through reps: real contexts, short practices, no lectures Routines that reduce conflict: prompts, transitions, and predictable scaffolds Common parent pain points—and what to do instead of “try harder” Inside ADHD Dude Camp: structure, community, and practical wins Ryan’s words of wisdom for exhausted parents Resources & Links ADHDDude: https://adhddude.com/ About Your HostKate Brownfield, Certified Whole Person & ADHD Parent Coach; author of How We Roll: A Parent’s Journey Raising a Child with ADHD; host of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast. Every child with ADHD is unique—so are their strengths and struggles.Website & coaching: ADHDKidsCanThrive.com Free DownloadGet the first three chapters of How We Roll free: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast Share with a parent who needs encouragement today Leave a quick rating/review—it helps other ADHD families find the show

Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of my book for FREE here:https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters ----------------------------------------------------------- Join host Kate Brownfield from ADHDKidsCanThrive.com in an enlightening conversation with Cassie Korbfort, MSEd, a Child Development Specialist and early childhood special education expert at the Center for Developing Minds (Devminds.com). This episode delves into the complexities of raising and educating neurodiverse children in preschool and elementary settings. Discover valuable insights into how parents can effectively advocate for their children, the importance of teamwork with educators, and the impact of external factors like COVID and screen time on child development. Kate and Cassie discuss common challenges parents face, such as handling behavioral issues in school, addressing the stigma attached to neurodiversity, and the significance of allowing children to overcome small challenges for long-term success. This episode serves as a helpful guide for parents aiming to support their children's unique learning needs while fostering an environment of growth and resilience both at home and in school. Thank you for listening! Connect with Cassie Korbfort: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassie-korbfort-145193203/ Connect with Kate of ADHD Kids Can Thrive: Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/ #adhd #adhdkid #adhdparent #adhdkidscanthrive #adhdparentsupport #adhdsupport #specialed #parenting #ADHDkidhealth #brainhealth #anxiety #depression #learningdisabilities #dyslexia #executivefunctioning #neurodiverse #ADHDchild

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 In this episode of ADHD Kids Can Thrive, host Kate Brownfield speaks with Dr. Tamara Rosier, an ADHD expert, coach, and author, about parenting children with ADHD and how ADHD affects family dynamics. Dr. Rosier shares her knowledge from her book "You, Me, and Our ADHD Family", immersing into the emotional challenges, parenting strategies, and key mindset shifts needed to create a healthier family environment. From dealing with big emotions to setting boundaries and building resilience, this conversation is packed with valuable guidance for parents dealing with the ADHD journey. Expect to Learn: Why punishments and rewards don’t work for children with ADHD and what does. The "Pool Metaphor" for handling emotional outbursts effectively. How to debrief with your child after a meltdown to teach accountability and resilience. Strategies for avoiding parent burnout while raising ADHD children. The importance of focusing on character development over daily struggles. In Today’s Episode: [00:39] - Welcome & Introduction to Guest, Dr. Tamara Rosier [02:47] - Why Dr. Rosier Wrote "You, Me, and Our ADHD Family" [03:42] - How ADHD Traits Impact Family Dynamics [06:27] - Why Parents Must Understand Their Own ADHD First [10:37] - Managing Big Emotions & Defiant Behaviors in ADHD Kids [12:42] - The "Pool Metaphor" for Emotional Regulation [16:31] - How to Keep ADHD Kids Safe During Emotional Outbursts [22:13] - Do Consequences Work? What ADHD Kids Actually Learn [26:03] - Preventing Parent Burnout & Managing Energy Levels [28:05] - Focusing on Character Development Over Perfection [32:12] - Final Reflections Connect with Dr. Tamara Rosier: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamara-rosier-phd/ Books 1: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Brains-Not-Broken-Strategies/dp/0800739426 Book 2: https://www.amazon.com/You-Our-ADHD-Family-Relationships/dp/0800745353 Website: https://adhdcenterofwestmichigan.com/ Follow your Host Kate Brownfield LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-wedlock-brownfield-b0b139 Follow the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on: Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive Email: [email protected]

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 In this episode, Kate Brownfield interviews Judy Delaware, a pediatric occupational therapist, feeding specialist, and co-founder of Feeding Littles, along with Julie Abrams, an occupational therapist and ADHD parent coach. They examine the challenges of picky eating in children with ADHD, how neurodiversity impacts eating habits, and practical strategies for helping children build a healthier relationship with food. Judy shares her expertise on how early intervention, sensory sensitivities, and parental modeling influence children’s eating behaviors. They also discuss mealtime routines, strategies for expanding food variety, and when to seek professional help. Whether you’re a parent struggling with mealtime battles or looking for evidence based strategies to help your child overcome food aversions, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Expect to Learn: How picky eating and ADHD are connected. The role of sensory sensitivities and rigid thinking in food choices. How early intervention and parental modeling impact eating habits. Strategies to introduce new foods without resistance. When to seek help from an occupational therapist or feeding specialist. How to make mealtimes less stressful for children and parents. In today’s Episode: [01:44] - Meet Judy Delaware and Julie Abrams [03:07] - What is picky eating? Defining the basics [03:49] - How common is picky eating among neurodiverse children? [05:18] - The importance of early intervention in feeding challenges [07:07] - How parental modeling impacts a child’s eating habits [09:42] - Mealtime power struggles: Should parents push or let go? [12:20] - The difference between picky eating vs. selective eating disorder [14:44] - How ADHD medications affect appetite and eating patterns [18:14] - Preventing after school hunger crashes [20:08] - How to tell if a child’s nutrition is a serious concern [24:01] - Helpful resources for parents & screening tools [26:04] - Avoiding mealtime conflicts and stress [30:31] - Screen time during meals [34:09] - Fun food exposure games to expand a child’s diet [40:14] - Can teenagers and adults still improve their eating habits? [43:06] - Judy’s book, Feeding Littles Lunches, and how it helps parents Connect with Judy Delaware: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judy-delaware-otrl-clc-clipp-9011012a/ Books 1: https://www.amazon.com/Feeding-Littles-Lunches-No-Stress-Everyone/dp/0593797450 Book 2: https://www.amazon.com/Feeding-Littles-Beyond-Baby-Led-Weaning-Friendly-Recipes/dp/0593419243 Website: https://feedinglittles.com/ Connect with Julie Abrams: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-abrams-536a03154/ Follow your Host Kate Brownfield LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-wedlock-brownfield-b0b139 Follow the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on: Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive Email: [email protected] #ADHD #PickyEating #FeedingLittles #Parenting #ChildNutrition #MindfulEating #SensoryProcessing #FeedingTherapy #Neurodiversity

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------------------------------------------------------------------ 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