Soaring Child: Thriving with ADHD

Picky eating is not something parents simply have to "deal with." There are strategies they can use to help expand the diets of their children. In this episode of the Soaring Child podcast, Dana Kay sits down with ADHD Thrive Institute coach Andrea Daigle to unpack what's really behind picky eating. You'll learn why some kids rely on "safe foods," how texture sensitivity and digestion issues can drive food resistance, and why forcing bites may actually make things worse. You'll also discover that many children with ADHD who struggle at the dinner table are actually responding to deeper biological signals. Andrea shares simple, practical strategies parents can start using immediately—including the powerful "add, don't subtract" method and the easy-to-implement cheese grater strategy that helps expand your child's diet without triggering overwhelm. If mealtimes feel like a daily battle, this episode will give you a new perspective and a clear, compassionate path forward. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/meet KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:00] The emotional reality of mealtime struggles [04:00] Picky eating as a nervous system and gut signal [05:42] Why pressure and forcing bites backfires [07:44] "Add, don't subtract" strategy explained [09:26] Cheese grater strategy for texture sensitivity [12:00] When picky eating becomes a red flag [12:47] Gut health and digestion as foundational drivers [13:57] Sensory issues and nutrient deficiencies [15:40] One simple action parents can start today [16:15] Why repetition (15–20 exposures) matters MEMORABLE MOMENTS "Picky eating is rarely ever just a behavior problem." "It's their nervous system saying, this just doesn't feel safe right now." "Even the slightest pressure like just try one bite can trigger a defensive response." "Instead of taking foods away, let's start upgrading what they're already eating." "When you barely change that texture, the nervous system does not react." "We can't change picky eating for a child whose body is uncomfortable." "Zinc deficiency… changes the way that you taste food." "We want to look at all the pieces of the puzzle." "It can take 15 to 20 times for a kid to accept a new flavor." Schedule a free call with Andrea and the team of ADHD Thrive Institute - https://bit.ly/3X5ZVvT DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitutehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: https://hubs.la/Q042HrjF0 ⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS: https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdhttps://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

Most parents walk into IEP or 504 meetings hoping to advocate for their child, but unfortunately, many of them walk out feeling unheard, overwhelmed, and unsure of what just happened. In this episode of The Soaring Child podcast, Dana sits down with attorney and licensed clinical mental health clinician Paula Yost to break down exactly why these meetings feel so difficult and what you can do to change that. Paula brings a rare and deeply valuable perspective, combining legal expertise with real-life experience as a mom navigating the system herself. She is the author of Tumbleweeds: How to Be an Advocate for Your Children and Yourself in a Failing System. You'll learn the critical differences between IEPs and 504 plans (and why many children with ADHD are often placed in the wrong one), how to recognize when your child isn't truly being supported (even if their grades look "fine"), and what to say in the moment when you feel dismissed or unheard. This conversation is packed with practical strategies, real scripts you can use immediately, and empowering insights to help you walk into your next school meeting with clarity and confidence. Most importantly, it will remind you that you have the right to advocate for your child every step of the way. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW https://paulayost.comhttps://amzn.to/3O2ej9y CONNECT WITH PAULA YOST https://paulayost.comhttps://www.instagram.com/paulajyostauthorhttps://www.facebook.com/paulayostauthor KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:01] Why parents often leave school meetings feeling unheard [04:34] The real reason IEP meetings feel so difficult [06:08] The mismatch between parent and school goals [06:47] What FAPE means and why it matters [07:17] Key difference between IEP and 504 [09:13] Why IEPs matter long-term for your child [10:20] High IQ masking ADHD struggles [13:00] Signs your child isn't properly supported [16:18] Common mistakes parents make in meetings [19:36] What to say when you're not being heard [21:11] What to do if your child doesn't qualify [24:13] Why after-school crashes matter [26:39] 3 things to prepare before a meeting [27:47] Emotional reality of advocacy [29:31] You always have the right to another meeting MEMORABLE MOMENTS "It's not a fair fight." "That IEP is a legal document that follows you all the way through your life." "The height of the IQ is masking the ADHD." "I feel like I'm not being heard." "We have to let them fail until they're nine." "You are paying for your attorney and their attorney." "I have never left anything as upset as I was when I have left an IEP meeting." "Some days are just going to be like that." "You always have the right to another meeting." DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitutehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: https://hubs.la/Q042HrjF0 ⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS: https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdhttps://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

What do EMFs and EMRs have to do with ADHD? Find out in this Soaring Child podcast interview. Dana Kay sits down with Beverly Jensen, Ph.D., to unpack the hidden impact of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from everyday devices like phones, Wi-Fi, tablets, and baby monitors. Beverly shares how this constant, invisible exposure may be affecting children's developing brains, nervous systems, sleep, and behavior, often without parents realizing it. Together, they explore the science behind EMFs (electromagnetic fields), including emerging research showing potential effects on neurodevelopment, even at levels far below current safety standards. Beverly also explains why children are more vulnerable, how modern homes have become "hotbeds" of exposure, and why this conversation isn't more widely discussed. Most importantly, this episode gives parents practical, doable steps they can start today. From simple changes like turning off Wi-Fi at night to creating device-free spaces in your home, you'll walk away feeling empowered, not overwhelmed. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW https://www.kidsandemf.com/ https://www.10millionmoms.org KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:01] Invisible environmental exposures affecting children's brains [04:43] EMRs defined as invisible pollution [09:07] Devices emitting radiation and human electrical systems [11:06] Impact on nervous system, brain, and sleep [15:58] Yale study on neurodevelopment and EMR exposure [16:58] Bluetooth vs Wi-Fi radiation comparison [23:40] Screen use and parenting challenges [31:02] Router as primary source of exposure [33:26] Number of EMF-emitting devices in homes [36:11] Creating a device-free "communication center" [39:00] Small steps create meaningful long-term change MEMORABLE MOMENTS "There's something affecting your child's brain that you can't see…" "It is a pollutant that we can't see…" "If a device sends radio signals… it's dangerous." "We are all electrical beings." "It affects the nervous system… the brain and the heart." "It interfered with the neurodevelopment…" "Bluetooth is seven times the amount of radiation as Wi-Fi." "The industry calls it the 'shut up toy.'" "The router is usually the most consistently… emitter." "It's going to be up to the moms to change this." DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitutehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: https://hubs.la/Q042HrjF0 ⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS: https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdhttps://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

What if it's not just ADHD getting worse, but the world your child is growing up in? In this week's episode of The Soaring Child podcast, Dana Kay sits down with licensed therapist Logan McIlwain to unpack what's really happening to kids' brains in today's digital world. From constant notifications to endless scrolling, today's children are growing up in an environment of nonstop stimulation, and for kids with ADHD, that impact can be intense. You'll hear why screens don't create ADHD but can absolutely amplify symptoms like inattention, emotional dysregulation, and impulsivity. Logan breaks down what's happening in the brain with dopamine, why kids struggle to "just turn it off," and how devices can quietly become a child's primary coping tool. Together, they also tackle one of the biggest challenges parents face today: setting boundaries without triggering meltdowns. If taking the phone away feels like a full nervous system explosion in your home, this episode will help you understand why and what to do instead. Most importantly, you'll walk away with practical, realistic strategies you can start using right away. From creating consistent guardrails to helping your child build real-life regulation skills, this conversation is about supporting your child in the digital age. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW https://loganlcsw.comhttps://amzn.to/41vDzbahttps://amzn.to/4taYzAj KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:01] Modern childhood overstimulation explained [02:10] Screens amplify ADHD symptoms [06:10] Environment vs diagnosis debate [09:32] Difference between distraction and ADHD [13:03] Dopamine and addictive screen loops [14:48] Loss of boredom tolerance [17:01] Screens as emotional coping tools [19:15] Importance of consistent boundaries [22:10] How to reset screen habits [25:34] Monitoring apps and content [29:43] Externalizing executive function [31:10] Small changes reduce nervous system overload MEMORABLE MOMENTS "When did childhood get so loud?" "There is absolutely no way my brain could have handled this much input." "Phones don't create true ADHD, but they absolutely create ADHD-like symptoms." "It's like this slot machine effect." "Our kids in this generation don't know how to be bored at all." "These devices have become their emotional regulation tools." "You can exercise your boundary muscle over and over again." "Don't ask a struggling brain to do everything internally." "We handed our children these tiny slot machines." DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitutehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: https://hubs.la/Q042HrjF0 ⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS: https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdhttps://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

What if your child's meltdowns, impulsivity, and focus struggles weren't behavioral problems but signs of a dysregulated nervous system? In this episode, Dana Kay sits down with licensed professional counselor Dana Hargus to explore a powerful and often misunderstood tool: biofeedback. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Dana explains how we can train the brain to regulate itself, helping children feel calmer, more focused, and more in control of their emotions. You'll learn how biofeedback works in simple, practical terms, what it looks like during a session, and why many families start seeing changes in sleep, emotional regulation, and behavior sooner than expected. Dana also shares how this approach supports nervous system dysregulation (which can exacerbate ADHD), rather than just managing symptoms on the surface. This is a hopeful, eye-opening conversation for parents who feel stuck in daily meltdowns, constant dysregulation, or the feeling that their child just "can't shift gears." You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of what's really happening in your child's brain and what you can start doing today to support them. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW https://eeginfo.com 📒 Show Notes and Resources 📒 📘 Connect with Dana Hargus ➡️Website: https://restoreofada.com/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restoreofada ➡️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/restoreofada KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:00] ADHD behaviors are often regulation issues, not behavior problems [04:28] Biofeedback explained as "exercise for the brain" [07:48] How real-time feedback trains the brain automatically [09:07] Physical signs your child's nervous system is calming [13:36] How frequency training supports calm and focus [18:54] Real-life transformation using biofeedback [22:09] Sleep is often the first and most important improvement [25:31] Biofeedback can support all ADHD presentations [27:57] Long-term effects and when maintenance is needed [30:21] How to choose the right provider [34:13] Simple parenting strategy to support regulation MEMORABLE MOMENTS "Why can't they just calm down?" "We can exercise our brain." "You're basically showing the brain, don't do that, do this instead." "The brain will do it on its own." "Without sleep, everything is worse." "Once the brain learns something new… it should not go away." "Connection is the foundation for all mental health." DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstituteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://hubs.la/Q042HrjF0 ⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS: ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

Many children with ADHD know exactly what they're supposed to do but still struggle to do it. That frustrating gap between knowing and doing is one of the most misunderstood parts of ADHD, and it can leave parents feeling confused, exhausted, and questioning their child's behavior. In this episode, Dana Kay sits down with ADHD parenting expert and coach Cindy Goldrich to unpack what's really happening in the ADHD brain when children don't follow through on simple requests. Cindy explains why ADHD is not a problem of knowledge, but a challenge with executive function, and how factors like working memory, hyperfocus, processing speed, and transitions can all impact a child's ability to act. Throughout the conversation, Cindy shares practical strategies that help parents move away from constant reminders and power struggles and instead support their child's developing executive function skills. She encourages parents to shift from seeing behavior as defiance to recognizing the underlying skills that may still be developing. When parents understand the brain behind the behavior, it creates space for more patience, better communication, and stronger connection with their child. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW Free Gift: First Chapter + Parenting Resources- https://ptscoaching.com/soaringPTS Coaching Website - https://ptscoaching.comCindy Goldrich Substack - https://adhdparentandteacherexpert.substack.com 📒 Show Notes and Resources 📒 📘 Connect with Cindy Goldrich Website - https://ptscoaching.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/PTScoachingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/PTScoachingSubstack - https://adhdparentandteacherexpert.substack.comFree Gift - https://ptscoaching.com/soaring KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:00] The everyday parenting scenario where a child agrees to do something but doesn't follow through. [03:56] Parents often feel confused when kids know what to do but still don't do it. [04:26] ADHD is explained as the gap between knowing and doing. [06:48] Hyperfocus can prevent kids from shifting attention to a new task. [08:41] Multiple brain-based factors can explain why kids don't follow through. [12:57] Processing speed challenges can make kids appear resistant. [16:20] Understanding executive function helps parents shift their expectations. [18:14] Misinterpreting behavior as defiance can damage connection. [22:55] Parenting mindset plays a major role in how kids respond. [26:28] Instead of labeling weaknesses, parents should look for ways to support skills. [30:18] Executive function development is similar to learning any other skill. [31:37] Kids improve with practice, structure, and guidance. MEMORABLE MOMENTS "You ask your kid to put their shoes on. They say okay… and then they don't." "What if the problem isn't defiance, but executive function?" "ADHD is not a problem of knowing what to do. It's a problem of doing what you know." "Maybe this kid is so hyper-focused on what he's doing that his mind is nowhere near what you're asking." "They're basically saying, slow down. I can't process this fast enough." "When we assume our kids are being difficult, we miss the opportunity to understand what their brain actually needs." "It's not about labeling the weakness. It's about asking, how are we going to support this?" "Why would this be any different than learning any other skill?" "These are skills that develop with support and practice." DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstituteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: Free...

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 You know what I wish someone had told me years ago when my son was diagnosed with ADHD? That ADHD isn't one neat little story. ADHD isn't one problem. It's often driven by five biological stressors stacked inside the same child. And depending on the day, a different stressor shouts loudest. In this powerful solo episode, Dana Kay reframes ADHD in a way that instantly relieves shame and confusion for parents. If you've ever felt like you're parenting a different child by 4 p.m. than you were at 8 a.m., this episode explains why. Dana walks listeners through the five biological stressors inside the ADHD Thrive framework: blood sugar dysregulation, gut-brain dysfunction, food reactions, poor detox pathways, and the nutrient deficiencies. Instead of asking, "Why are they doing this?" she teaches parents to ask a better question: "Which layer is loud today?" If your child's symptoms fluctuate, if some days feel manageable and others feel impossible, this episode will help you understand the biology underneath the behavior. Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:00] ADHD is not one story — it's five layers. [00:23] Parenting a "different kid" by 4 p.m. [00:50] The wrong question vs. the right question. [02:10] Introduction to biological stressor layers. [04:30] Blood sugar dysregulation explained. [07:15] Gut-brain dysfunction overview. [10:40] Food reactions layer. [13:20] Detox overload layer. [16:30] The final layer connecting impulsivity and picky eating. [19:45] Identifying which layer is loud. MEMORABLE MOMENTS "ADHD isn't one neat little story." "It's five stories all squashed into the same kid wearing the same jumper." "Depending on the day, you're parenting a different kid in the same body." "By 4 p.m. you're Googling boarding schools in Switzerland…" "We end up asking the wrong question." "Which layer is loud today?" DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitutehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: https://hubs.la/Q042HrjF0 ⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS: https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdhttps://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

What if picky eating and impulsive ADHD behavior aren't separate problems at all—but signals coming from the same biological root? In a special milestone for the podcast — our 200th episode of The Soaring Child Podcast — Dana Kay explains how nutrient deficiencies can directly affect the brain systems responsible for focus, emotional regulation, impulse control, and sleep. Iron supports dopamine production. Magnesium and B6 calm the nervous system. Zinc shapes taste perception. Omega-3s carry the brain's messages. And vitamin D helps regulate serotonin and sleep cycles. When these nutrients are depleted, the brain struggles to function properly. The result can look like impulsivity, hyperactivity, emotional outbursts, sleep struggles, and extreme picky eating. Dana shares the story of a young boy expelled from four preschools whose behavior transformed after severe nutrient deficiencies were identified and supported. This episode helps parents understand how what looks like "behavior" may actually be a biological signal. Dana walks listeners through the nutrients most commonly involved in ADHD regulation, the signs that the brain may be running on empty, and how parents can begin identifying which biological stressors may be affecting their child. If you're trying to understand the biological drivers behind your child's symptoms, start here: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 The ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit helps parents translate symptoms into biology and identify which underlying stressors may be affecting their child. Get the Decoder Kit here to learn more about how ADHD symptoms connect to biology here: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:00] Picky eating and impulsive ADHD behaviors may come from the same biological root. [01:15] Case story of a child expelled from four preschools due to extreme behavior. [02:10] Severe nutrient depletion revealed through lab testing. [03:40] The concept of the "starving brain." [05:00] Iron's role in dopamine production and emotional regulation. [06:10] Magnesium and B6 supporting nervous system calm and sleep. [07:00] Zinc deficiency affecting taste perception and picky eating. [08:10] Omega-3s and brain communication. [09:00] Vitamin D and its connection to serotonin and sleep. [10:45] The Ferrari fuel analogy for brain nutrients. [12:15] Signs that the brain may be running low on nutrients. [14:30] Introducing the ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit MEMORABLE MOMENTS "Picky eating and hyperactive and impulsive behavior are not two separate problems. They're the same conversation happening in different rooms." "What if the brain isn't being difficult? What if it's just hungry?" "A brain that's running on empty cannot do manners, patience or waiting turns." "When the brain is starving, no amount of behavioral strategies will actually feed the brain." "These nutrients are literally the wiring for the brain." "You can parent beautifully, but if that fuel is not there, their system stalls." "You're asking a Ferrari to run on cordial." "A hungry brain cannot be polite." "Feed the brain and the behavior follows." DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstituteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass -...

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 If you're raising a child with ADHD and sleep feels like a nightly argument, nobody wins. What if bedtime isn't a parenting problem at all? What if your child isn't resisting sleep… but their body is trying to take out the trash? In this powerful solo episode, Dana Kay reveals one of the most overlooked biological stressors impacting children with ADHD: poor detoxification. Sleep is not just rest. It is the brain and body's nightly cleanup crew. When detox pathways are sluggish, overloaded, or genetically compromised, children can wake between 1–3 a.m., feel wired but exhausted, experience red cheeks, itchy skin, anxiety, sensory overload, and morning meltdowns before the day even begins. Dana walks through three major detox systems — liver, gut, and lymphatic system — and explains how genetic mutations like MTHFR, GSTT1, GSTM1, and GSTP1, combined with oxidative stress and environmental toxin exposure, can create internal pressure that looks like ADHD behavior. Through the story of Dara and her daughter Reese, she shows how supporting detox pathways changed sleep first, and regulation followed. If sleep plans work for other kids but not yours, this episode will help you understand why. Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:00] Sleep reframed as the "nightly cleanup crew." [03:10] The three detox systems explained. [04:42] Genetics: MTHFR, GSTT1, GSTM1, GSTP1. [05:10] Heavy metals & oxidative stress research. [06:15] "Carrying yesterday's load." [07:00] Liver most active between 1–3 a.m. [08:35] Red flags: itchy skin, red cheeks, night waking. [09:50] Neuroinflammation & frontal lobe impact. [10:40] Why routines fail when detox is overloaded. [12:30] How supporting detox shifted Reese's sleep. MEMORABLE MOMENTS "If you're raising a child with ADHD and sleep feels like a nightly argument, nobody wins." "Sleep is your child's nightly cleanup crew." "Translation, their system is already carrying yesterday's load when today even starts." "It's not your child that they're resisting sleep. It's actually the body sending a red alert." "They're biological red flags." "No amount of meds or bedtime routines or behavioral therapy will fix a full bin." "We stop asking why won't they just sleep? And we start asking, what is their body trying to clear?" DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstituteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://hubs.la/Q042HrjF0 ⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS: ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 Sometimes it's not your child having a bad day. Sometimes it's that you are parenting a completely different nervous system, depending on what went into their mouth yesterday. In this eye-opening episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, Dana Kay unpacks one of the most overlooked biological stressors driving ADHD symptoms: delayed, invisible food reactions. If you've ever felt like your child's behavior shifts overnight — same child, same house, same rules — this episode explains what may actually be happening beneath the surface. Dana walks you through the full biological chain reaction: trigger foods, IgG-mediated immune flares, cytokine release, gut inflammation, intestinal permeability, and how inflammation travels upstream to the frontal lobe. She explains how symptoms like meltdowns, rigidity, emotional volatility, and impulse control struggles often begin days before the behavior appears. You'll also learn about opioid-like food peptides formed from gluten and dairy (gluteomorphin and casomorphin), how artificial dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5 have been shown in studies to worsen hyperactivity, and why guessing at food changes often leaves parents exhausted and confused. This episode introduces Biological Stressor #3 inside the ADHD Thrive Decoder framework: Invisible Food Reactions. Most importantly, Dana helps you shift from "What's wrong today?" to "What touched their system yesterday?" — a mindset change that can quietly change everything. Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:00] Parenting a different nervous system depending on what was eaten yesterday. [02:42] Personal story: raspberries triggering delayed immune reactions. [05:06] IgG reactions are slow, quiet, and delayed. [06:35] Cytokines traveling to the frontal lobe. [07:02] Symptoms today often started yesterday. [08:40] Research on gut inflammation and intestinal permeability in ADHD. [10:08] Opioid peptides from gluten and dairy. [11:35] Artificial dyes and double-blind research. [13:12] "We test, we don't guess." [15:44] Parenting the same child but a different internal weather system. [17:30] Behavior decoding vs food journaling. [19:10] Introducing the ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit. MEMORABLE MOMENTS "Sometimes it's not your child having a bad day. Sometimes it's that you are parenting a completely different nervous system." "Once you see it, you can literally trace meltdowns backwards through to their lunchbox." "The symptoms or the behavior that you're dealing with today, that did not start today." "These are actual compounds that bind to opioid receptors in the brain." "You've basically built a nervous system hand grenade in a lunchbox." "We test, we don't guess." "Your parenting didn't suddenly stop working. The biology underneath them shifted." "Instead of asking what on earth is wrong today, we start asking what touched their system yesterday." DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitutehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: https://hubs.la/Q042HrjF0 ⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS: https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdhttps://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 Over 90–95% of serotonin and nearly half of the body's dopamine are produced in the gut, not the brain, and that one fact explains why so many ADHD meltdowns seem to come out of nowhere. In this episode, Dana Kay breaks down how gut inflammation, immune activation, and nervous system overload can drive ADHD symptoms long before behavior ever appears. This is Part 2 of a 5-part series unpacking the biological stressors behind ADHD. After decoding blood sugar dysregulation in the previous episode, Dana explains why the gut functions as a control panel for emotional regulation, focus, and impulse control and how the vagus nerve sends stress signals straight from the gut to the frontal lobe. Parents will learn why many children show no digestive symptoms despite significant gut dysfunction, how altered gut bacteria affect neurotransmitters, and what questions to start asking when behavior doesn't make sense. Dana also shares a powerful client story and introduces a practical tool designed to help parents stop guessing and start supporting the systems asking for help. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:00] The physical signs before meltdowns begin [03:29] ADHD symptoms often start in the body, not behavior [03:48] Serotonin and dopamine production in the gut [05:15] The vagus nerve and frontal lobe shutdown [06:22] Neuroinflammation vs. misbehavior [07:18] Research linking ADHD and altered gut bacteria [08:05] Why gut symptoms are often invisible [09:48] Questions parents can ask starting today [11:22] Introducing the ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit [13:22] Reframing meltdowns as nervous system overload MEMORABLE MOMENTS "There is a very specific look that kids get right before everything goes sideways." "That moment doesn't start in their brain. It starts in their body." "Over 90 to 95% of serotonin is made in the gut." "The frontal lobe basically goes offline." "Your child isn't being defiant. They're neurologically flooded." "The gut isn't a side issue. It's the control panel." "Once you can see which system is driving behavior, you stop guessing." DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitutehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: https://hubs.la/Q042HrjF0 ⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS: https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdhttps://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

Grab your ADHD Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 (It's FREE! You just pay shipping!) Mornings before school and afternoons after school pickup aren't chaotic by accident. They follow a predictable biological pattern that almost no one explains to parents of children with ADHD. In this solo episode, Dana Kay breaks down why the most intense meltdowns, hyperactivity, irritability, and emotional shutdowns tend to show up at the same two points every day — and why it's not about willpower, discipline, or "bad behavior." It's about blood sugar, stress hormones, and a nervous system running on empty. Drawing from both personal experience and her work with over 1,600 families, Dana explains how overnight fasting, carb-heavy school lunches, and skipped protein create the same internal crash twice a day. She translates the science in a parent-friendly way and shares one simple, doable rule that can immediately reduce chaos without overhauling your entire diet. This episode also introduces a brand-new resource (available right now at http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123) designed to help parents finally understand what's driving their child's ADHD symptoms beneath the surface and how to start addressing biology instead of just managing behavior. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 KEY TAKEAWAYS [01:23] Why mornings and afternoons are predictable meltdown windows [03:48] Morning and afternoon behaviors share the same biological cause [06:49] Overnight fasting, cortisol, and morning blood sugar crashes [07:42] How school lunches create afternoon blood sugar crashes [08:41] What blood sugar instability does to focus and emotions [09:48] The "no naked carbs" rule [10:29] Practical food pairings that stabilize blood sugar [11:14] Why small changes calm the nervous system [12:15] Introduction of the ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit [15:08] Why biology — not parenting — is the starting point MEMORABLE MOMENTS "The behavior you're seeing in the morning and at 3:30 PM is the same biological pattern wearing two different outfits." "You didn't get their worst — you got their empty." "Your child's brain is like a fancy electric car." "It's not them being difficult — it's biology running the show." "No naked carbs." "Small biological shifts stack up into massive changes." DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitutehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: https://hubs.la/Q042HrjF0 ⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS: https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdhttps://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

Some children can skip meals, miss sleep, or fight off a cold and barely flinch — while others spiral into meltdowns after the smallest stressor. In this episode, Dana Kay uncovers the hidden biological reason behind that difference: glutathione — the brain's primary antioxidant and stress buffer. Joined by world-renowned naturopathic physician and researcher Dr. Gina Nick, this episode breaks down glutathione (or "Vitamin G") in a way parents can finally understand. You'll learn how glutathione protects the brain from toxins and inflammation, why modern kids are more depleted than ever, and how low levels can drive ADHD symptoms, emotional dysregulation, and stress sensitivity. Drawing on decades of research, clinical practice, and formulation expertise, Dr. Nick explains detox pathways, NAC vs glutathione, safe supplementation, and why small daily detox actions matter more than extreme protocols. If your child's nervous system feels constantly overwhelmed — even when you're doing everything right — this episode fills in a critical missing piece. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW https://vitaming.comhttps://bestdailyever.com/ref/294/ KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:01] Why some kids melt down faster than others [04:08] What glutathione actually is [06:31] How toxins deplete brain resilience [10:19] Silent brain inflammation explained [13:45] Genetic detox vulnerabilities [17:07] NAC vs glutathione [18:32] Oral glutathione challenges [23:09] Safe daily glutathione support [28:23] Signs glutathione is working [29:51] One daily detox action MEMORABLE MOMENTS "Glutathione is the mother of all antioxidants." "That's when the brain becomes vulnerable." "That one extra neurotoxin can put things over the edge." "Brain inflammation is often silent." "Some kids accumulate toxins faster." "I want glutathione to be a household name." DANA KAY RESOURCES 🔗 WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋 SOCIALS: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitutehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻 FREE MASTERCLASS: https://hubs.la/Q042HrjF0 ⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS: https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdhttps://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

Most parents are told ADHD lives only in the brain, but what if the real issue starts much deeper? In this episode, we explore a powerful and often overlooked driver of ADHD symptoms: mineral depletion at the cellular level. You'll hear why calm, focus, sleep, and emotional regulation are literally built from minerals and how many kids are trying to regulate big emotions while running on empty batteries. Dana Kay is joined by Caroline Alan, co-founder of Beam Minerals and author of The Mineral Reset, to break down complex biology into parent-friendly language. Caroline explains how minerals fuel the mitochondria — the tiny "campfires" inside every cell — and why children who lack proper mineral support can appear anxious, wired, exhausted, or stuck in fight-or-flight, even when they eat a "healthy" diet. This conversation helps parents understand why food quality, soil depletion, filtered water, and modern stressors have created a widespread mineral gap — and what gentle, practical steps families can take to support their child's nervous system without overwhelm. If your child struggles with meltdowns, sleep issues, anxiety, or focus, this episode offers a new lens grounded in biology, not behavior. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW https://beamminerals.com/adhdthrivehttps://mineralresetbook.com Connect with Caroline Alan www.carolinealan.comhttps://www.instagram.com/carolinealan.official/https://www.youtube.com/@carolinealan.official KEY TAKEAWAYS [00:00] ADHD symptoms as signs of depletion [03:48] Why minerals matter beyond bones and teeth [08:41] Mitochondria, energy, and brain function [11:05] Low energy cells and nervous system stress [21:10] Soil depletion and food mineral loss [23:31] How filtered water worsens deficiency [30:22] Humic vs. fulvic minerals explained [38:05] Minerals as spark plugs for the brain [44:51] One simple step parents can take today MEMORABLE MOMENTS "Our kids are not being difficult — they're depleted." "Calm is built from minerals." "Minerals are the spark plugs for the brain." "That equals a kid who cannot sit down." "You cannot eat your way out of mineral deficiency." "This isn't ADHD behavior — it's biology." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: ▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ ▶ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: ▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ ▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute ▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ ▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: ▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS ▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

Many parents worry that talking about sex, boundaries, consent, or online exposure will open doors too early—but real-world clinical experience shows the opposite. In this episode, Logan McIlwain explains why ongoing, everyday conversations actually reduce risky behavior and help kids feel safer turning to their parents instead of the internet. Dana Kay brings a deeply personal perspective as a mom of a teen and a tween, naming the fear so many parents quietly carry: "Am I too early… or already too late?" Logan gently dismantles the pressure to get it perfect and replaces it with a more sustainable truth—presence matters more than perfection. You'll learn how to use everyday "micro-moments" to build trust, how to respond calmly to sensitive questions, and how to reset conversations even if you feel behind. This episode is especially meaningful for parents of neurodivergent kids, where impulsivity and online exposure can make these conversations feel even heavier. LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW https://loganlcsw.com/https://amzn.to/4b2R1cD KEY TAKEAWAYS [03:00] Why this episode isn't about biology—but real-world parenting [05:46] How inherited discomfort shapes today's parenting fears [07:16] Why parents don't need all the answers [08:30] What happens when parents stay silent [12:30] Why micro-conversations beat "the big talk" [16:15] The myth that talking leads to risky behavior [19:27] Handling unexpected, sensitive questions calmly [28:50] Resetting conversations when you feel behind [29:26] Logan's one actionable parenting tip MEMORABLE MOMENTS "If you don't talk about these things with your children, Instagram will." "We don't have to be perfect." "Kids feel like parents talk at them." "Circle back. That matters." "You don't have to be perfect. You just have to be present." "Understanding comes before teaching." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: ▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ ▶ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: ▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ ▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute ▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ ▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: ▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS ▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

A child can appear calm on a screen and unravel seconds after it turns off. That reaction isn't bad behavior or poor discipline — it's a nervous system crash driven by dopamine, overstimulation, and an abrupt loss of regulation. In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, Dana Kay sits down with Sondra Bakinde and Mariana Gordon, co-founders of Mindful Mantis, to unpack what's really happening in a child's brain and body during screen time. They explain why screens activate the sympathetic nervous system, how dopamine crashes trigger fight-flight-freeze responses, and why kids with ADHD feel these shifts even more intensely. You'll learn how to spot early signs of dysregulation before meltdowns erupt, why restriction alone often backfires, and how simple transitions can support a child's nervous system instead of overwhelming it. Sondra and Mariana share practical, realistic tools — including bridging the dopamine gap, predictable transitions, connection before direction, and their Pause & Play Method — all designed for real families, not perfect ones. If screen time feels like a daily struggle in your home, this episode will help you reframe what's happening and respond with more calm, clarity, and confidence. Links Mentioned in the Show https://www.themindfulmantis.comhttps://www.instagram.com/themindfulmantisinc Key Takeaways [01:21] Why parents immediately blame themselves [02:13] Why this isn't a discipline issue [04:39] How screens pull energy out of the body [06:04] The dopamine crash explained [08:27] Fight, flight, or freeze in kids [11:16] Why ADHD intensifies screen reactions [14:42] Early warning signs parents often miss [18:11] Recovery vs restriction after screens [20:06] Bridging the dopamine gap [29:56] The Pause & Play Method introduced [36:53] One grounding step parents can try today Memorable Moments "I am literally dealing with a feral raccoon in a human body." "Screens pull energy outward into the eyes, the mind, the nervous system." "That sudden shift can feel very threatening." "The body whispers before it shouts." "We focus less on restriction and more on recovery." "Urgency feels like danger. Slowness feels like safety." "Never end stimulation without grounding." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: ▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ ▶ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: ▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ ▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute ▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ ▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: ▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS ▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

Imagine sitting on your front porch, enjoying a quiet moment after school drop-off, only to suddenly find yourself in the grip of a panic attack—not because something went wrong, but because nothing went wrong. For Lara, this was the reality of parental PTSD. After years of daily phone calls, school expulsions, and crisis management, her nervous system had forgotten how to feel safe in the calm. In this emotional episode, Lara shares her family's incredible journey from "survival mode" to thriving. She opens up about her son Oliver, who was once on three different medications and struggling with severe meltdowns and aggression. Lara candidly discusses the turning point that occurred during a family vacation, the step-by-step nutritional changes that transformed their lives, and the joy of finally taking a family trip to a museum without fear of a public incident. Listen in to learn how Lara weaned her son off medication with doctor support, how she and her husband navigated their own healing, and why the silence after the storm can sometimes be the hardest adjustment of all. Key Takeaways [04:45] Early Signs of Dysregulation - Lara describes the extreme rage cycles and daily meltdowns that began when Oliver was just two years old. [06:12] School Struggles - The heartbreaking reality of being dismissed from multiple preschools and eventually a public school due to severe behavioral challenges. [12:14] The Medication Load - Oliver was on three medications—Abilify, Celexa, and various stimulants—yet the family was still "drowning in emotional roller coasters." [13:57] The Turning Point - How a YouTube video discovered during a desperate family vacation in Florida shifted everything for Lara and her husband. [18:27] Tackling Overwhelm with Baby Steps - Why eliminating one food group at a time—and not striving for perfection—was the key to making dietary changes sustainable. [28:57] Feeling Again - The powerful moment when Oliver verbally expressed anger for the first time after coming off numbing mood stabilizers. [31:03] New Freedom as a Family - The family's ability to travel to Washington D.C. and visit museums without fear of elopement, aggression, or major dysregulation. [33:33] Parental PTSD - Lara shares her "porch story," describing a panic attack triggered simply because the school didn't call with an emergency. [39:01] A Mindset Shift That Helps - Lara reminds parents that children are born with all the emotions—but not yet the skills to manage them. Memorable Moments "We ran into several mothers along our path and that was the best support for me because I could talk to them about what was going on and they didn't look at me like, what are you doing wrong?" "We tried everything else. This makes sense to me… This is our chance." "I remember the first time he said, 'I feel so mad'… This poor kid was so numbed and dulled that he had all these things going on, but he wasn't able to say how he felt." "I was just there and I felt a panic… I really thought I was gonna die… I experienced a panic attack, and I don't know why. There's nothing to worry about. My son is doing great." "Lara, your nervous system is in fight or flight, and your brain still thinks you need to fight or flight." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: ▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ ▶ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: ▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ ▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute ▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ ▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: ▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS ▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ▶ ADHD Parenting Course –...

What if the biggest struggle your child faces isn't motivation at all, but a hidden set of brain-based skills that help them start tasks, stay organized, manage time, regulate emotions, and follow through? These are executive function skills and for kids with ADHD, they can feel nearly impossible to access. In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, Dana Kay welcomes executive function expert Hannah Bookbinder, a licensed social worker and educator with almost 30 years of experience helping ADHD kids build these skills in practical, meaningful ways. Hannah explains what executive function really is, how ADHD derails it, and why even the brightest, most capable kids often feel defeated by daily routines. Together, Dana and Hannah break down simple, real-world strategies families can begin using right away, from training time awareness, to using visual cues, to building routines that actually stick. Hannah also shares the story behind her new book and the MyToad App, a tool designed to teach time management, organization, accountability, and focus in one supportive space. If your child struggles with getting started, staying organized, remembering steps, or managing overwhelm, this conversation will leave you feeling understood, encouraged, and equipped with practical tools to help your child thrive. Links Mentioned in the Show ▶ MyToad App: https://mytoadapp.com ▶ ADHD Symptom Reduction Tool: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/tool Connect with Hannah ▶ Website: https://mytoadapp.com ▶ Facebook: @mytoadapp ▶ Instagram: @mytoad_llc ▶ Pinterest: @mytoadllc Key Takeaways [00:45] Invisible executive skills can make or break daily routines. [02:07] Hannah's 30-year journey supporting ADHD kids. [02:57] What executive function is — and isn't. [04:59] Understanding age appropriateness and expectations. [07:37] Validating kids' emotional exhaustion and defeat. [09:59] "Now vs. Not Now" — ADHD and urgency. [11:15] Working memory breakdowns explained. [12:23] Simple strategy: time-estimation training. [13:27] Sticky notes and mirror cues for daily routines. [18:08] Why MyToad App was created. [20:38] How the app personalizes executive function support. [23:18] Partnership and curiosity in parenting ADHD. Memorable Moments "Every morning... shoes were missing, homework was not done, panic attacks at the door." "What exactly are executive function skills…? How they don't show up in kids with ADHD." "Emotionally, they often walk in my door very defeated." "It's either now or not now." "Put your phone in airplane mode… no pings, no dings, no bloops." "Make your own shower podcast…" "This is a partnership — especially when your child has a special need." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: ▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ ▶ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: ▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ ▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute ▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ ▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: ▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS ▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

If you're trying to support your child with ADHD naturally and feel overwhelmed by where to start, this episode is for you. ADHD health practitioner Dana Kay shares the three podcast episodes every parent should listen to first. She explains exactly where she would send you if you were sitting together over coffee asking one simple question: "Where do I even start?" Dana breaks down why understanding what's really driving ADHD is the foundation, why traditional ADHD treatments don't always lead to lasting change, and why hearing another parent's real journey can shift everything. These three episodes help parents stop chasing every new solution, start seeing patterns instead of isolated problems, and finally feel grounded in what actually helps their child thrive. If you're new to The Soaring Child Podcast or feeling stuck, confused, or exhausted, this episode gives you clarity, direction, and a starting point that actually makes sense. Dana also shares a glimpse of what's coming in the new year and why it may change how you see your child and their ADHD journey. Links Mentioned in the Show 3 of the Best Soaring Child Podcast Episodes: ▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-166/ ▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-111/ ▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-178/ Key Takeaways [00:49] Why more information doesn't always bring clarity [01:06] The power of focusing on the "right three" resources [02:07] Why this episode avoids hacks and protocols [02:26] What's happening beneath ADHD behaviors [02:58] Why this episode is the foundation for everything else [03:02] How understanding root causes brings steadiness [06:27] Seeing patterns instead of isolated problems [06:48] Why this perspective changes where parents put their energy Memorable Moments "More information does not equal more clarity." "Sometimes you need just the right three." "No hacks, no protocols, no checklist." "That explains so much." "This is the foundation episode." "Things start lining up in a way that feels really steady." "You start seeing patterns instead of isolated problems." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: ▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ ▶ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: ▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ ▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute ▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ ▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: ▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS ▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

Let's be honest, public school wasn't designed for kids with ADHD. Too often, these kids are labeled, misunderstood, and pushed into systems that don't fit how their brains learn best. But what if the problem isn't your child, but the system itself? In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay, ADHD health practitioner and founder of the ADHD Thrive Method for Kids speaks with Leslie Dernberger, founder of Aspire Education, mom of four, and one of the nation's leading experts in K–12 education for neurodiverse learners. Drawing on her legal background and over a decade of experience helping families, Leslie unpacks why traditional schooling often fails ADHD kids and what parents can do about it. From understanding homeschool laws and navigating deschooling, to structuring the day and busting common misconceptions, this episode is filled with practical guidance and encouragement. Whether you're curious about homeschooling, exploring hybrid options, or just want to better support your child's learning, this conversation will give you hope and actionable tools. Links Mentioned in the Show: ▶ Aspire Education: https://aspireducation.us ▶ Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA): https://hslda.org Key Takeaways: [00:00] Public school isn't built for many ADHD learners andwhy fit-the-mold systems backfire. [02:37] Meet Leslie Dirnberger (Aspire Education): mom of four, homeschool veteran, legal background, supports thousands of families. [04:23] The "catalyst event": what finally pushes parents to seek alternatives. [06:03] Spotting the signal: "the spark is gone" and nothing at school is fixing it. [07:16] First steps legally: understand your state's rules; public vs. private education; where homeschooling fits. [10:05] Deschooling 101: reset the parent first; museum/nature learning to reconnect. [13:38] Foundation step: define "a good education" as a family; ask kids what learning should look like. [15:24] Myth-busting socialization: why homeschoolers often get better real-world social practice. [18:30] Colleges love homeschoolers: time management, self-advocacy, executive function. [26:27] Standardized tests miss the mark, especially for ADHD, focus on mastery instead. Memorable Moments: "The truth is, your child doesn't need to be fixed. They need an education that actually fits their brain." "There is a catalyst event that has occurred that creates a situation that the parents go, wait a second, let's take a step back here." "The spark has gone out, the light has gone out of their eyes and the parents know something's wrong." "The hardest part of homeschooling? Looking myself in the mirror and challenging my own beliefs." "What does a good education look like for your family and for your children?" "Nothing could be further from the truth — homeschoolers are often better socialized." "Colleges love homeschoolers because they know how to manage their time and advocate for themselves." "Accreditation is a game. It is absolutely garbage. It doesn't mean a thing." "Everything is geared towards standardized testing in government schools. And that's why they're in a box and they ram it through, which is terrible for ADHD kids." "Your children can own their own education and advocate for themselves at school." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: ▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ ▶ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: ▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ ▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute ▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ ▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ ▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: ▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS ▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES &...