ADHD for Smart Ass Women with Tracy Otsuka

Imagine trying to visualize something in your mind, only to be met with a blank canvas. This is the reality for people with aphantasia, a condition where the mind's eye struggles to conjure images. In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, I'm joined by Dr. Chelsea Twiss, a licensed psychologist from Colorado with an impressive background. She specializes in ADHD, women's health, chronic pain, and relationships, and conducts psychological testing with a focus on adult ADHD. As if that wasn't enough, she's also a talented musician and artist, holding a doctorate in counseling psychology from New Mexico State University. Interestingly, Chelsea experiences hyperphantasia, the opposite of aphantasia, where mental imagery is remarkably vivid and detailed. Her research delves into the fascinating connections between ADHD, trauma, and brain function, particularly in relation to visual memory and identity. Our conversation explores how cognitive differences like aphantasia and hyperphantasia can significantly influence the ADHD experience, especially for women who often face unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Twiss and I discuss the ways in which ADHD can alter how we perceive and process visual information, highlighting the importance of understanding these nuances when diagnosing and treating ADHD, particularly in women who are frequently misunderstood and underdiagnosed. Resources: Website: https://www.drchelseatwisscounseling.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healththruconnection/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-twiss-755092196/ Eastwood & Holly - https://open.spotify.com/artist/3iyNkncezKr61GX7GVMHvN?si=yN4oLcwFRwyVvKf4jKb9lQ Russick Smith - Cello Trees 🌲 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnNvvMVcy_Y ___ Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Celebrating the 300th Episode with a Special Guest—My Son, Markus For this milestone episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, I wanted to do something meaningful and personal. So instead of interviewing a high-profile guest, I invited my son, Markus. While we usually only feature women, there have been a few exceptions—like Dr. Ned Hallowell, my husband, and Markus, who has been on twice before. Now, Markus is at a different stage in life. He’s just graduated from college after navigating a challenging academic journey with ADHD and dyslexia, including attending three high schools and changing majors multiple times. Despite being told he wasn’t “college material,” Markus has proven that those labels mean nothing in the long run. He’s thriving in his first job in recruitment consulting and has gained a lot of wisdom along the way. In this episode, Markus shares advice that blew me away. He talks about what it means to take risks, to stay hungry in a fast-paced career, and how to push through setbacks with resilience. His story is not just about overcoming challenges, but about thriving and finding success on his own terms. Join us for this special conversation, filled with lessons on embracing discomfort, managing ADHD in academic and professional settings, and building resilience in both life and work. You may even catch a glimpse of yourself or your children in Markus’s story. ___ Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Do you have PCOS and ADHD? Struggling with anxiety and fertility too? Kristyn Hodgdon’s story might sound a lot like yours. Kristyn discovered her ADHD and PCOS while navigating fertility treatments and the challenges of motherhood. Balancing her role as co-founder of Rescripted with the emotional toll of trying to conceive, heightened ADHD symptoms eventually led to her diagnosis. In this episode, Kristyn opens up about how understanding her ADHD has reshaped her life, particularly in parenting and self-care. The conversation also addresses broader women’s health issues like anxiety, depression, and the link between ADHD and conditions such as PCOS and endometriosis. Kristyn highlights the importance of time management, advocating in medical settings, and the need for more research into women’s health. Her story empowers women to embrace their unique health challenges and find strength in their journey. Kristyn Hodgdon is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Rescripted, a global media platform for women's health. After discovering she had PCOS and ADHD in adulthood, she became a fierce advocate for women's health. Kristyn lives in Long Island, NY, with her husband, twins Brooke and Charlie, and their dog Nash. Kristyn’s journey is a reminder that understanding your health is key to personal empowerment. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about navigating ADHD, fertility treatments, and the complexities of women’s health. Resources: Website: https://rescripted.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristynwithawhy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristyn-hodgdon Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

**A new version of the epsiode is uploaded** If you're using Apple Podcast, follow these steps to get the new version of the blends: Remove a downloaded episode: Download the new version of the episode If you're using Spotify, this Blend should already be uploaded. _ What if you could draw your way out of a scattered mind? For Brandy Agerbeck, drawing became the key to turning her chaotic thoughts into something clear and manageable. Long before she was diagnosed with ADHD, Brandy used her visual skills to take control of her fast-paced brain, translating abstract ideas into organized visuals. In this episode, she shares how drawing helped her make sense of the world and how it’s become her go-to tool for managing ADHD—and empowering others to do the same. From childhood, Brandy learned that drawing wasn’t just an artistic outlet, but a way to visually organize her thoughts and reduce overwhelm. We discuss how she honed this skill, growing up in a creative family, and found her community of neurodiverse thinkers in college. Brandy also talks about choosing self-employment to avoid the friction of traditional jobs, building a career she could thrive. In this episode, Brandy walks us through her practical strategies for managing ADHD using visual tools—breaking down tasks with sticky notes, mapping ideas with diagrams, and creating flow states through drawing. We also explore the common challenges of ADHD, like time blindness and staying organized, and how visual thinking offers a way to navigate these issues. Brandy’s story shows that for those who think visually, drawing can be more than an artistic skill—it can be a way to bring clarity and structure to even the most scattered thoughts. Resources: Envision: http://loosetooth.com/smartass Website: https://www.loosetooth.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loosetoothcom/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agerbeck Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Do you often feel swamped by money decisions? Or find yourself wondering how to make your spending really reflect what matters most to you? Money management isn't just about crunching numbers - it's deeply personal, shaped by who we are and how we think. In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, we explore the complex relationship between personal identity and financial behavior with Ellyce Fulmore, a 29-year-old queer and neurodivergent financial educator, content creator, and best-selling author of "Keeping Finance Personal: Ditch the 'Shoulds' and the Shame and Rewrite Your Money Story." Ellyce is the founder of Queerd Co., a financial literacy company that takes an innovative approach to money matters. Ellyce's had a late ADHD diagnosis at 25, discovered through TikTok during the pandemic. This transformed her understanding of financial behaviors and led her to develop a unique approach to financial literacy. With an online community of over half a million, Ellyce is dedicated to helping people find the right tools, strategies, and perspectives to create a life where financial stability and joy coexist. Her expertise has been recognized by major platforms including The New York Times, CBS News, Vogue, The Globe and Mail, and The Financial Post. Ellyce shares insights from her journey - from post-university struggles to becoming a financial educator and author. Ellyce shared how factors such as neurodiversity, gender, race, and past experiences can profoundly influence our financial decisions and overall well-being. Elise offers tips from outsourcing tasks to creating spending systems that work for neurodivergent individuals. Her insights are valuable whether you're trying to better understand your own financial habits or looking for new ways to approach money management. Resources: Website: https://queerdco.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellyce.fulmore/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@queerd.co Get my book: https://queerdco.com/book Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/dopamine-dollars/id1747386954 Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Can trauma be stored in the body? And if so, could understanding fascia - the connective tissue enveloping our muscles and organs - be key to unlocking healing? Join us as we explore these questions and delve into the often overlooked world of fascia with expert Anna Rahe. Anna Rahe, founder of GST Body, has dedicated over 25 years to the study and practice of fascia health and wellness. Born in the US and raised in Hobart, Australia, Anna's journey includes a personal history with ADHD, diagnosed at age 21. Her experiences with learning differences and trauma therapy significantly influenced her path toward fascia care. Now based in Boulder, Colorado with her family, Anna has established a successful business teaching fascia health, working with a diverse clientele including athletes, medical professionals, and figures from the entertainment industry. In this episode, we explore the connections between fascia, frozen shoulder, and hormonal changes. Anna shares insights on fascia's responsiveness to movement and hormonal fluctuations, with particular focus on the challenges during perimenopause and menopause. The conversation touches on cultural perspectives, such as Japan's concept of "50-shoulder," and examines the impact of fascia issues on individuals with ADHD. Drawing from her extensive experience, Anna offers practical strategies for improving fascia health. She introduces simple, accessible movements that can be integrated into daily life, emphasizing the importance of consistent and varied motion for maintaining healthy fascia. The discussion highlights how these practices may alleviate muscle aches, enhance hydration, and potentially influence both physical and mental well-being. Anna's approach provides listeners with tangible methods to apply this knowledge, offering a new perspective on how caring for fascia can contribute to overall health and vitality. Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annarahe https://www.instagram.com/annaraheofgst/ https://www.instagram.com/gstbody/ https://gstbody.com/ https://www.annarahe.com/ Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/cl Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

From feeling lost to running a 7-figure business: Is it possible with ADHD? Molly Claire's journey shows it can be done. As a coach trainer and founder of The Masterful Coach Collective, Molly has built a 7-figure coaching business while navigating the challenges of ADHD. She's a mom of three, hosts a popular podcast, and wrote "The Happy Mom Mindset." Molly has learned to embrace her ADHD brain and hopes to inspire others – including her two kids with ADHD – to do the same. She's passionate about helping her clients with ADHD recognize their unique strengths while being kind to themselves during difficult moments. Growing up in the 90s, Molly was diagnosed with ADHD at a time when it was rarely recognized in girls. Rather than feeling ashamed, the diagnosis helped her understand herself better. Molly believes that with persistence, most challenges can be overcome. This mindset has helped her through various life transitions – from learning to rock climb to adjusting to parenthood and changing careers. Molly opens up about dealing with self-doubt, anxiety, and the complexities of balancing work and family life. She shares how traits often associated with ADHD, like empathy and creativity, became assets in her coaching career. Molly offers a realistic look at building a thriving business while managing ADHD, showing that it's possible to turn perceived obstacles into stepping stones for success. Resources: Website: https://www.mollyclaire.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mollyclairecoaching/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-claire-coaching/ Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Why does our ADHD brain get stuck on those annoying negative thoughts? It's all about two parts of our brain: the Task Positive Network (TPN) and the Default Mode Network (DMN). The TPN is our "get stuff done" network - it lights up when we're in the zone, laser-focused on a task. The DMN, on the other hand, is our "daydream/worry" network. It's where creativity flows, but also where negative thoughts creep in. For us ADHD folks, switching between these networks can be tricky. We might get stuck in worry-mode (thanks, DMN) or hyperfocus so hard we forget to eat (hello, TPN). But here's the secret: when you're caught in a loop of negative thoughts, the key is to get into action! Go for a walk, call a friend, or dive into a project. By doing something, you're jumpstarting your TPN and quieting that pesky DMN. It's like changing the channel in your brain. Remember, it's never too late to rewire things upstairs. By understanding how our ADHD brains work and playing to our strengths, we can handle the tough stuff better. It's all about working with our quirky brains, not against them. So next time you're in a funk, remember: your brain has superpowers - you just have to learn how to use them! Resources: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

Do you ever feel like your emotions are too much to handle? Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is a powerful yet often overlooked aspect of ADHD, particularly in women. If you've ever wondered whether your emotional turbulence is more than just "in your head," you're not alone. Many people with ADHD experience RSD, but it's frequently misunderstood - especially among women. In this episode, we're going to have an honest chat about RSD and how it relates to ADHD. We'll explore why those of us with ADHD often feel things so intensely, and why criticism or perceived rejection can hit us hard. It's not just "being too sensitive" - it's a real part of how our brains work. We'll also talk about how RSD can make us perfectionists, always striving to do better but never feeling quite good enough. If you've ever felt like an imposter in your own life, we'll discuss why that might be happening and how it connects to your ADHD. But we won't just talk about the challenges. We'll also share some ways to cope with these intense emotions. From therapy techniques like DBT and CBT to mindfulness practices and medication options. This episode is designed to bring awareness, understanding, and support to those navigating the emotional landscape of ADHD. Resources: Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Symptom Test for AdultsEmotional RegulationRejection Sensitivity and Depressive Symptoms in WomenNew Insights Into Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass:,spyhappy.me/class Unlock your be Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

"I thought I was just lazy and stupid." These words from Dr. Catherine Mutti-Driscoll hit hard. At 37, with a PhD in education, she discovered she had ADHD - after her son's diagnosis. Tracy sits down with Dr. Mutti-Driscoll to explore ADHD in women, from feeling like an imposter to navigating social interactions. They discuss her groundbreaking work at the Hollowell Center and her book, "The ADHD Workbook for Teen Girls." This resource tackles the perfect storm of hormones, social pressures, and ADHD that teen girls face. The conversation covers strategies for success in education and work with an ADHD brain, offering a toolkit for self-discovery and empowerment. Resources: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-mutti-driscoll-ph-d-b9847919/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/catherinemuttidriscoll Website: catherinemuttidriscoll.com Tarot for Change Modern Hue Tarot Rider-Waite Original Tarot Deck Cards _ Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy. Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Your thoughts create your feelings. For women with ADHD, negative thoughts and emotions can be particularly challenging. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity for personal growth and mental mastery. By recognizing that our emotions stem from our thoughts, we can better manage our actions and achieve our goals. Mindfulness plays a crucial role in this process, improving attention, enhancing emotional regulation, and reducing anxiety. Visualization is a powerful tool in this journey. By imagining positive outcomes with strong emotional investment, we can boost motivation and build confidence. The Reticular Activating System (RAS) in our brain plays a key role here, helping us focus on opportunities that align with our clearly set, positive intentions. It's important to remember that while we can't control external circumstances, other people's actions, or our past, we have full control over our thoughts, feelings, and actions in the present moment. This internal locus of control is where our power lies. The dialogue we have with ourselves - our inner narrative - is crucial. By consciously shaping our thoughts, we can influence our emotions, behaviors, and ultimately, the results we achieve in life. ________ Resources: https://cogbtherapy.com/mindfulness-meditation-blog/mindfulness-stop-skill________ Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

How do you effectively prepare for a meeting with an ADHD clinician to seek a diagnosis? Many women feel anxious about seeking an ADHD diagnosis, fearing encounters with professionals who lack expertise in how ADHD presents in women or who may doubt their intentions. As someone who has been through this process for both myself and my son, I understand these concerns and the importance of thorough preparation. Effective preparation involves understanding the comprehensive testing process and finding qualified professionals for an accurate diagnosis. It's crucial to recognize that medication effectiveness varies, and personalized treatment plans are essential. When pursuing an ADHD assessment, consider the benefits of standardized tests and research clinicians with expertise in adult ADHD, particularly in women. To aid in your preparation, I've developed a structured approach based on the DSM-5 criteria and Russell Barkley's adult scale. This comprehensive checklist can help you organize your thoughts and experiences before your appointment. Additionally, for those concerned about costs, there are low-cost support options available, such as university clinics, support groups, and online resources. Remember, this journey toward diagnosis and understanding is unique for everyone. By arming yourself with knowledge and preparation, you can approach your appointment with confidence and clarity, ensuring you get the most out of your meeting with an ADHD clinician. ________ Resources: adhdforsmartwomen.com/adhd-doctor spyhappy.me/adhdprofslist adhdforsmartwomen.com/booklist add.org/professional-directory/ https://chadd.org/professional-directory/ https://directory.additudemag.com/ additudemag.com/top-adhd-clinics/ addca.com/adhd-coach-training/ADHD-Coaches/ pi.ai/onboarding ________ Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.face Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

The digital landscape can pose challenges for individuals with unique needs—a challenge Nikki Kuhn is passionate about addressing. As an advocate and entrepreneur in the accessibility field, Nikki shares her journey of overcoming hurdles and fostering change in digital accessibility. She discusses her experiences with ADHD and dyslexia and the importance of inclusive design, showing how her neurodiversity shapes her perspective and approach. Nikki talks about the relief and self-discovery she felt upon understanding her ADHD and dyslexia. She openly discusses her struggles with executive functioning and time management, and how visual aids like timers have become her secret weapons. She shares practical tips and solutions that she has found helpful for managing daily challenges, aiming to support others facing similar difficulties. With over 15 years of experience, Nikki Kuhn is a dedicated senior-level accessibility designer. Her passion for creating inclusive digital experiences has significantly improved the accessibility of websites, applications, and digital content for numerous organizations. Her ADHD and dyslexia give her a unique viewpoint, and her ability to connect with others and understand their needs stems from her own journey, making her work in accessibility deeply impactful. At home, Nikki is a loving mom to two spirited children who teach her new things every day. Her children inspire her to stay curious and creative. In her free time, Nikki loves to indulge in her passion for crafting and DIY projects, finding joy in creating and building things with her own hands. This creative outlet not only enriches her personal life but also fuels her professional creativity. Through her work and personal experiences, Nikki continues to inspire and lead by example, showing that challenges can be transformed into strengths. _______ Resources: Website: https://www.sca11ywag.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-kuhnTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capt.sca11ywag _______ Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends: Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Harnessing hyper-focus, effective prioritization, and community support are the ADHD traits that Michelle Harris credits for her success. Initially, her signs of ADHD were overlooked due to cultural misunderstandings, but she has since embraced her unique abilities. This episode highlights how unexpected life changes can bring lifelong conditions into clear focus. Michelle's entrepreneurial spirit showed early on, selling snacks at school and later exploring the MLM and insurance world. Inspired by her mother's military career and driven by her ambitions, she eventually found her passion in capturing weddings after trying her hand at newborn photography. She openly discusses the stigma surrounding ADHD medication within the Black community and how overcoming these barriers has strengthened her professional performance and personal growth. Michelle Harris is a leader in the destination wedding photography industry. Her expertise in posing has been featured in well-known publications such as Martha Stewart Weddings, Luxury Wedding Magazine, and People Magazine. Michelle is dedicated to inspiring photographers worldwide to build successful six-figure businesses. She teaches smart marketing and advanced photography techniques, helping them grow without the stress and burnout of constant hustle. Living with ADHD, Michelle designs her classes to be straightforward and easy to follow under pressure. Michelle is also a proud mother of two tween daughters and a 5lb Yorkie. ________ Resources: Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/mharrisstudios15/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mharris_studios/ Website: https://mharrisstudios.com/ ______ Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Imagine homeschooling five kids, battling chronic pain, and navigating life with ADHD—all during a pandemic. That's the incredible journey of our guest, Sarah McGlory. After years of dismissal by doctors, she finally received an ADHD diagnosis in her 40s, bringing much-needed validation. Her story is one of resilience and innovation. Sarah's ingenuity shines through in her creation of the Adaptive Cleaning system. Born out of necessity, this system helps manage a household without succumbing to unrealistic standards of perfection. In this episode, you'll uncover the emotional toll of "cleaning trauma" and the societal pressures, especially on women, to maintain spotless homes. Sarah emphasizes the importance of rest and self-compassion, supported by practical tools like physical planners and weekly cleaning plans. Sarah is a digital entrepreneur working from home while caring for five kids, aged 3 to 13, and a 24-year-old who has moved out. She once felt like a failure because her home was always in disarray. Comparing herself to social media cleaning gurus with "endless energy" and "perfect homes" only made things worse. With chronic pain and mismatched furniture, Sarah knew she needed a different approach. Her Adaptive Cleaning system aligns with her time and energy needs, helping her stay organized without spending hours cleaning. Now, Sarah has almost a million followers on TikTok, where she teaches others how to achieve the same balance. Sarah's passion for visual storytelling and content creation intersects with her ADHD, allowing her to help others stay organized without feeling overwhelmed. Her system thrives on realistic, manageable tasks that align with daily capacities, offering a practical approach to a cleaner home and a calmer mind. _______ Resources: https://www.sarahmcglory.com/https://www.instagram.com/sarahmcgloryhttp://www.tiktok.com/@sarahmcgloryhttps://www.youtube.com/@SarahMcGloryHomeLearn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com. Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends: Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Heather Florio's journey is one of resilience and growth. Her advice? Do overwhelming things one step at a time. Diagnosed with ADHD in high school and discovering she was autistic at age 41, Heather turned these traits into sources of strength and creativity. Growing up in a military family in Germany, she embraced her unique perspective and developed innovative strategies to manage her symptoms, such as using music to aid her focus and finding solace in books. Heather’s experiences highlight the importance of adapting and finding personal solutions to thrive despite challenges. Heather Florio, the second-generation owner of Desert Harvest, has collaborated with medical professionals worldwide since 1993 to develop products and advocate for health in various fields, including urology, pelvic health, and dermatology. She serves on the board of the Northern Light Health Center for Healthy Brain Aging and launched a fundraising campaign for the AANE organization in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. Heather's dedication to promoting health and wellness extends beyond her company, reflecting her passion for making a positive impact on the broader community. As the CEO of Desert Harvest, Heather's ability to hyper-focus and multitask has driven the company's growth by 1,000% since 2012. She has created effective systems to manage her time and responsibilities, showcasing how her ADHD traits can be powerful assets. Heather's dedication to her work, combined with her roles as a mother and advocate for women's health, has earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of the top 50 Women in Wellness and a feature in Forbes. When not at the helm of Desert Harvest, Heather enjoys spending time with her husband, three sons, and three dogs, embracing the joy and balance of family life. _____ Resources: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-florio-468822a4/ Website: https://www.desertharvest.com _____ Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Struggling with perfectionism? Feeling like there's always more to achieve? You're not alone! Join us as Laura Key, host of the ADHD AHA podcast, shares her journey from an anxiety disorder diagnosis to discovering her ADHD. She talks about the moments that led to her diagnosis, including a discovery in her childhood journals. Laura reflects on her sensitive and perfectionist childhood, revealing how she turned struggles with focus and burnout into strengths. This episode highlights the inspiring experiences of women with ADHD and the importance of embracing mental health awareness. Laura discusses the unique challenges women face with ADHD, from societal expectations to internal battles with self-worth. She shares personal stories and practical advice on embracing ADHD and finding balance in life. Laura Key is a longtime editor and the host of the "ADHD Aha!" podcast, where she shares interviews about the surprising and emotional ways ADHD symptoms appear. She also leads content strategy at Understood.org, an organization dedicated to supporting people with learning and thinking differences like ADHD and dyslexia. Laura’s mission is to create a supportive community where individuals can share their stories, find resources, and feel less alone in their journey. ---- Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-key-720b7436/https://www.understood.org/en/people/7FTVkuE50LuQJhQRx8AYXXhttps://www.understood.org/en/podcasts/adhd-aha---- Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Managing time with an ADHD brain can be tough, but what if there were ways to make it easier? Join us as Alexis Haselberger shares her story of being diagnosed with ADHD in her 40s and how it changed her life for the better. She talked about practical strategies for coping with ADHD, tips for managing digital communication, and the benefits of using tools like TickTick. Alexis revealed her secrets to staying focused and balancing work and life, all while celebrating the unique strengths of neurodiverse individuals. Alexis Haselberger is a time management and productivity coach who helps people do more and stress less through her coaching, workshops, and online courses. Her down-to-earth and fun approach makes it easy for people to adopt realistic strategies into their daily lives. She has helped over 160,000 individuals take control of their time and has worked with companies like Google, Lyft, Workday, Capital One, Upwork, and more. After realizing she faced many of the same challenges as her clients, Alexis discovered she had ADHD. She was already teaching strategies that work for ADHD brains, proving the saying, "You do the work you need." Alexis lives in San Francisco with her husband and two teenage sons, and she currently loves spending her free time on pottery. Resources: https://www.instagram.com/do.more.stress.less/https://web.facebook.com/domorestressless/ https://www.youtube.com/c/domorestressless https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/do-more-stress-less-with-alexis-haselberger/id1735825992 https://www.alexishaselberger.com/ ------ Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Can creativity and chaos coexist to create brilliance? Let’s unlock the secrets to mastering storytelling and entrepreneurship with Kris Jones in this week’s episode of the ADHD for Smart Ass Women. Kris Jones is a pioneer in storytelling and entrepreneurship. She founded Red Door Stories in 2003 after overcoming significant challenges, including a struggle with writing and a fear of being seen. Kris has worked with experts like Donald Miller of "Building a StoryBrand" and has collaborated with major names like Jeff Bezos, Nike, and Adidas. Despite these achievements, Kris's heart beats strongest for female coaches and service providers, empathizing with their struggles in copywriting, visibility, and the transformative potential of a well-crafted Signature Story. In this episode, Kris shares her journey from initial skepticism and a 2017 ADHD diagnosis to overcoming childhood challenges with anxiety and executive function. She reveals how writing, once a source of torment, became a delightful journey of self-expression and professional growth. Discover how Kris found solace in writing during college, transforming her academic struggles into triumphs, and laying the foundation for her entrepreneurial journey. Learn about the "idea list" and the impact of Donald Miller's StoryBrand framework on effective communication. We also discuss the unique hurdles faced by individuals with ADHD in professional settings and offer practical tips for articulating your work and accomplishments with clarity and confidence. --- Resources: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reddoordesign/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reddoorportland/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reddoordesigns/ Website: https://www.reddoordesigns.com/ Building a StoryBrand, Donald Miller: https://www.amazon.com/Building-StoryBrand-Donald-Miller-audiobook/dp/B072J8WRND------ Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart As Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

Teachers once said, “She’ll never amount to anything academically,” but Arielle proved them wrong. This podcast episode celebrates the resilience and brilliance of women with ADHD, featuring Arielle Paul's remarkable journey. Her story is a powerful reminder that with the right support and strategies, such as neurofeedback and tailored education, triumph is within reach. Arielle's story highlights the challenges of ADHD and dyslexia, showing how she turned her struggles into strengths. Her journey through academic hurdles to becoming a successful journalist illustrates how every challenge can lead to incredible growth. Arielle Paul is a writer, musician, adventurer, and lifelong student and practitioner of Kriya Yoga. Diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia at ten, she couldn't read or write. Despite teachers saying she would “never amount to anything academically” and suggesting Ritalin, her parents had other plans. Through neurofeedback therapy, tireless work with tutors, and meditation, she eventually graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from UC Berkeley with a double major in English and Performance Studies. Turning learning disabilities and the written word into something tangible and meaningful has been the cornerstone of Arielle’s journey. She wrote for the Los Angeles Times for six years, penning the My Favorite Room column and covering design, architecture, and mental health stories. Now, as a contributing reporter for The New York Times, she writes on development in live-work-play spaces intersecting with sustainability and climate change. Her feature on excess water consumption in Dubai, which appeared on the Business and International front pages, brought desalination to the forefront at last year’s United Nations Climate Change Conference. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Arielle is also the proud mother of three adorable cats – Frodo, Hobbes, and Drogon. Resources: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariellepaul/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ariellepaul/ NY Times: https://www.nytimes.com/by/arielle-paul https://muckrack.com/arielle-paul ------ Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.