ADHD for Smart Ass Women with Tracy Otsuka

ADHD brains and money: What if your challenges could become your greatest strength? In this episode of ADHD with Smart Ass Women, Tracy is joined by Catherine Morgan, a Certified Financial Coach and Trauma of Money Expert, about the emotional side of money and how ADHD shapes financial habits. Catherine, the founder of The Money Panel® and author of the bestseller It’s Not About the Money, shares her own ADHD story and how it reshaped her understanding of impulsive spending, budgeting struggles, and financial shame. Catherine breaks down why traditional budgeting doesn’t work for many ADHD brains and offers practical tips like automating finances, focusing on what truly matters, and simplifying money tasks into smaller, achievable steps. Her insights are not just about managing money but about transforming how we see it—as a tool for creating freedom and resilience, rather than a source of stress. This episode goes beyond the numbers to explore how trauma and neurodivergence influence our relationship with money. Catherine’s compassionate and relatable approach offers actionable strategies to help listeners build healthier habits and see their financial challenges as opportunities for growth. Resources: Website: https://catherinemorgan.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/catherinemorganmoney LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/catherine-morgan 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

Let’s talk about your crowning glory—your hair—and how it can help you embrace your authentic self. Gina Marie Rodriguez, a self-described "nerdy/sciency hairstylist," is on a mission to help clients love their natural curls and waves. As the owner of The Cultivated Curl in Fair Oaks, CA, Gina’s work blends natural hair movement, gray hair acceptance, and neurodivergence advocacy, creating a space where authenticity is celebrated. In this episode, Gina shares her personal ADHD journey, from childhood masking to embracing her neurodivergent traits as an adult. She opens up about how ADHD has fueled her passion for learning and teaching, driving her to innovate within the salon industry. By creating a pre-appointment educational course, Gina is empowering clients to better care for their hair and embrace their individuality. Gina also dives into the challenges of masking, breaking societal expectations, and finding community in spaces that honor neurodiversity. Her story is a testament to the power of leaning into your quirks, whether that’s in hair care, creativity, or daily life. If you’ve ever felt the need to shrink yourself to fit in, this episode will remind you that there’s beauty in being exactly who you are. Resources: Website: https://www.cultivatedcurl.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gina_thecultivatedcurl/ Facebook: facebook.com/TheCultivatedCurl/ 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

How do ADHD, trauma, and addiction intersect, and what strategies can help break this harmful cycle? In this episode, Tracy Otsuka speaks with Andrea Epting, a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience specializing in trauma recovery, addiction, and neurodivergence. As a professional with ADHD and OCD, and a mother to two neurodivergent young adults, Andrea brings both personal insight and professional expertise to the conversation. Andrea delves into the often-overlooked connection between ADHD and addiction, explaining how trauma, emotional dysregulation, and a search for dopamine can create vulnerabilities. She shares her therapeutic approach to recovery, emphasizing the importance of abstinence, community, and replacing unhealthy habits with meaningful alternatives. Andrea also highlights the unique challenges ADHD women face in emotional regulation and how breaking harmful cycles can lead to resilience and healing. This episode provides strategies for navigating the intersections of ADHD, trauma, and recovery. Andrea offers insights into the role of mindfulness, self-compassion, and creating structure in building healthier habits. She also discusses her work through her nonprofit, Heads-Up Guidance Services (HUGS), to make mental health resources more accessible. Resources Website: lightninginabottle.biz headsupsavannah.org/ Planner Social Media: instagram.com/liab_lightninginabottle pinterest.com/liablightninginabottle youtube.com/@directimpactimpactae 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

ADHD brains are creative powerhouses, built for innovation, connection, and resilience. In this episode, Tracy Otsuka sits down with Izzie Chea—a dynamic entrepreneur, educator, and neurodivergence advocate—whose ADHD diagnosis unlocked a world of possibilities. From building a viral virtual piano studio during the pandemic to creating impactful initiatives like La Neuropicante and the Accountable Otters Club, Izzie shares how she turned challenges into opportunities to uplift herself and others. Izzie opens up about her late ADHD diagnosis, the burnout that led to it, and the transformative impact of understanding her brain’s unique wiring. She recounts how growing up in a culturally traditional environment shaped her experiences and how she now advocates for neurodivergent voices, particularly in the Latinx community. As the head of social media and customer experience for the Hiki app and founder of a successful social media agency, Izzie talks about balancing her many passions while prioritizing mental health. She shares practical strategies for managing time and staying productive, including tools like Llama Life and time-boxing techniques. Resoures: https://www.laneuropicante.com https://accotters.com Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/@IzzieCheaMusicStudio Hiki App 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

ADHD brains are built for brilliance. In this special Thanksgiving episode, Tracy reflects on the unique strengths of ADHD women and how they navigate a chaotic world. Drawing on her experience working with thousands of ADHD women, she explores why their minds excel at creativity, connection, and meaningful work. Tracy talks about the real challenges ADHD women face—overwhelm, juggling too many responsibilities, and feeling misunderstood—and offers practical strategies to create more focus and clarity. She explains how breaking tasks into micro-goals and aligning with your values can make life feel more manageable and purposeful. Through her A-OK system, Tracy has seen how ADHD women can take small steps that lead to big changes. She shares how understanding your brain’s unique wiring can help you stop feeling stuck and start building a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. This episode is a reminder of the incredible things ADHD women can achieve when they embrace their strengths. With personal stories and practical insights, Tracy encourages listeners to see their ADHD traits in a new light and use them to create a life that truly works for them. Resources: spyhappy.me/blackfriday 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

Hot take: ADHD behavior is a normal variant, not a disorder. This is what our guest, Dr. Idit Hazan believes. Dr. Idit Hazan, a pediatrician turned entrepreneur and professor, redefines what it means to embrace neurodivergence in medicine and beyond. Through her journey as a parent and professional, Dr. Hazan recognized traits in herself that align with ADHD, helping her reframe her challenges as strengths and fueling her creativity and problem-solving skills. Her insights have led to groundbreaking innovations in pediatric care. In this episode, Dr. Hazan shares how her experiences as a parent and professor helped her uncover the hidden strengths of an ADHD brain. She reflects on how embracing outside-the-box thinking has shaped her approach to problem-solving and innovation. As a professor of Biology at Grand View University and a trailblazer in pediatric healthcare, she demonstrates how leaning into neurodivergence can transform industries. Dr. Hazan discusses the development of her pioneering platform, designed to make clinical environments more engaging and empowering for children. She also offers insights on balancing life as a parent of three college-aged kids, a professor, and an innovator. Her story challenges the narrative of ADHD as a deficit and highlights the potential of neurodivergence to unlock creativity and drive meaningful change. Resources: X: https://x.com/genetics_prof/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/idit-hazan/ 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

What if understanding your ADHD brain is the key to achieving your biggest dreams? For Luci Taylor, an ADHD diagnosis in her twenties became a turning point, giving her the clarity and confidence to finish her first book. Her journey—from crafting her first stories in kindergarten to creating complex, neurodivergent characters—is a testament to the power of self-discovery and embracing your unique strengths. In this episode, Luci opens up about the struggles and breakthroughs she’s faced with ADHD, from challenges in school to finding her creative voice as a writer. Diagnosed later in life, Luci shares how finally understanding her ADHD transformed the way she saw herself and her goals. Her “Midwestern Bookish Belles” series reimagines classic heroines with neurodivergent traits, inviting young readers to see themselves in characters who defy convention and embrace their quirks. Luci also shares insights into her creative process, which includes using colorful Post-it notes to organize her ideas and letting go of perfectionism in early drafts. For aspiring neurodivergent writers, Luci’s story is a reminder that embracing your brain’s unique wiring can fuel both creativity and resilience. Her journey offers encouragement and practical advice for anyone learning to live authentically with ADHD or supporting someone who is. Resources: Website: https://www.lucitaylorbooks.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luci.taylor.books/ Resources: Website: https://www.womenandadhd.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenandadhdpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/womenandadhd 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

From parenting struggles to podcasting success, Katy Weber’s ADHD journey has reshaped her life. Diagnosed at 45, Katy—a health coach and founder of Women & ADHD—found herself rethinking everything she thought she knew about ADHD. This unexpected self-discovery helped her understand how ADHD had influenced her as a mother, professional, and individual. Through her podcast, she’s built a supportive, encouraging space for neurodivergent women to connect, share stories, and find community. Katy’s story is one of resilience and self-discovery, full of twists that many will find relatable. Before entering the ADHD advocacy world, Katy spent years as a journalist, covering a range of human experiences and honing her ability to tell powerful stories. With experience at publications like National Geographic and PsychCentral, she now brings her storytelling expertise to Women & ADHD, sharing stories and insights that make listeners feel seen and understood. This episode captures her journey from the fast-paced world of New York City to finding a new sense of balance in the Hudson Valley, where she has found purpose in health coaching and community-building. Through Women & ADHD, Katy addresses topics that resonate with her listeners on a personal level, such as the complex relationship between ADHD and binge eating and moving beyond diet culture to embrace a more holistic approach to health. She shares how ADHD affects not only personal identity but also how women show up in their work and family lives. Katy’s story goes beyond diagnosis; it’s a journey of learning, unlearning, and embracing the strengths that come with ADHD. Her message is clear: it’s never too late to understand your own mind and rewrite your narrative in ways that are both empowering and authentic. Resources: Website: https://www.womenandadhd.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenandadhdpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/womenandadhd 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

When life gets overwhelming, self-compassion and mindfulness can be the key to thriving. Breanna Autolitano, a mother of 9 and mindfulness expert, shares how she embraced neurodivergence and used compassionate communication to transform her life. As a mindfulness tour guide certified by Eckhart Tolle, Breanna uses her skills to help others find balance amidst the chaos of daily life. Diagnosed with ADHD and autism later in life, Breanna talks about her journey of self-discovery and the tools that helped her cope with childhood trauma and the pressures of raising a neurodiverse family. She opens up about the challenges of being misunderstood growing up, from struggling with dyslexia and math in school to finally receiving the support she needed. Her experience with mindfulness and compassionate communication gave her the ability to navigate her own neurodivergence and become a more present, understanding parent. In this episode, Breanna shares insights on how mindfulness and compassionate communication can reshape relationships, especially with children. From applying empathy in everyday situations to creating systems that work for ADHD minds, her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and connection. Resources: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breannaautolitano/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/breanna-autolitano-88227778/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@breannaautolitano3 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

When life feels chaotic, humor can be your greatest tool for finding balance. Kristen West, founder of The Centered Life Co., has built a thriving online community around her fun, ADHD-friendly tools that bring joy and structure to daily life. With over half a million followers, her playful, shame-free videos on mental health and productivity inspire others to embrace their quirks and find motivation in unexpected ways. Diagnosed with ADHD at 26, Kristen struggled in traditional work environments, constantly facing burnout and frustration. Her diagnosis became a turning point, allowing her to build a life suited to her brain’s unique strengths. Now, through her planners and videos, she helps others create routines incorporating joy and play, proving that productivity can be fun and tailored to individual needs. Kristen’s work goes beyond to-do lists, blending humor and creativity with effective planning tools. In this episode, she shares her journey of managing ADHD, offering insights into overcoming challenges with self-compassion and humor. Her experiences show how turning perceived limitations into strengths can bring more balance and happiness into everyday life. When Kristen isn’t creating viral content, she’s likely climbing, baking bread, or trying to keep her vegetable garden alive. Her story is a reminder that success comes from embracing who you are and building systems that align with your unique needs, leaving room for fun along the way. Resources: Website: https://thecenteredlife.co/ Website: https://www.findyourmagic.biz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecenteredlifeco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findyourmagicbiz/ Tiktok: @findyourmagicbiz 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

When art became a refuge, it became a revolution. This episode is about embracing neurodivergence and challenging beauty standards. Yolanda Liu, a Taiwan-born artist based in London, is renowned for her work across photography, film, collage, illustration, and tattoo art. Featured in outlets like BBC, Vogue, and i-D, her story reflects resilience as she navigates life with ADHD and a recent autism diagnosis. From her early days nurtured by a creative mother to the launch of her second book, Thank You For Playing With Me, Yolanda's journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment. Through her art, she challenges societal beauty standards and promotes authenticity. Initially misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder, Yolanda found relief in an accurate ADHD diagnosis, which allowed her to better understand herself. Embracing her neurodivergent strengths, she explores how creativity has served as a sanctuary and a means to empower others. Her projects—spanning tattoo artistry and collaborative photography—emphasize representation, connection, and breaking down societal norms. Yolanda shares insights on managing empathy, self-care, and productivity, emphasizing the strength of embracing one’s uniqueness. Her journey is a testament to the resilience within neurodivergence, offering fresh perspectives on mental well-being, creativity, and self-expression. Resources: Website: https://yolandaliou.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yolandaliou/ LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/yolanda-y-liou-45234142 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

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

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

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: 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

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: spyhappy.me/class Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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/class Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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

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 best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message