ADHD KC Conversations

ADHDKC Conversations

Learn more about ADHD related topics with the Kansas City CHADD Chapter, ADHDKC. adhdkc.substack.com

  1. 🎥 Now Available: Understanding ADHD, Weight, Sleep & the Brain

    18 APR

    🎥 Now Available: Understanding ADHD, Weight, Sleep & the Brain

    If you joined us for our recent ADHDKC Parent Group—or if you missed it—you can now watch the full recording of our powerful talk with Dr. Matt Lindquist. This is one of the most important (and most validating) conversations we’ve had for families navigating ADHD. 🧠 Why This Talk Matters Dr. Lindquist walked us through a cluster of conditions that often show up together: * ADHD * Anxiety * Obesity & metabolic health challenges * Binge eating * Sleep difficulties These are not separate issues—and they are not personal failures. They are deeply connected through biology. He explained how: * Poor sleep worsens executive function and increases sugar cravings * Anxiety and stress (cortisol) disrupt sleep and contribute to weight gain * ADHD-related dopamine differences can drive reward-seeking behaviors like overeating * These conditions create cycles that reinforce each other 🍽️ What We Learned About Food, Weight & ADHD Dr. Lindquist broke down why weight management is so complex in ADHD: * Sleep deprivation disrupts hunger and fullness hormones * Low dopamine can lead to seeking stimulation through highly palatable foods * Binge eating disorder is common—and often misunderstood He emphasized:👉 Occasional overeating is normal👉 Frequent episodes or loss of control may need professional support We also discussed treatment approaches, including: * Behavioral strategies * Nutrition support * Medications (when appropriate) ⚙️ Executive Function & Eating Patterns ADHD doesn’t just affect attention—it impacts daily habits around food: * Impulse control challenges * Time blindness (skipping meals → evening overeating) * Difficulty with planning and consistency These are brain-based barriers, not lack of willpower. 🧩 Practical Strategies You Can Start Using Dr. Lindquist shared actionable tools families can implement right away: 1. Build Structure * Schedule regular meals to prevent crashes and binge cycles * Create consistent sleep routines 2. Start with Protein * Supports dopamine and norepinephrine * Helps prevent energy crashes and cravings 3. Rethink “Healthy” Snacks * Many packaged foods (like granola bars) are high in added sugar * Better options: eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese 4. Shape the Environment * Keep tempting foods out of sight (or out of the house) * Make healthier options easy and visible 5. The “Dopamine Menu” — a list of go-to activities that provide stimulation without defaulting to food 6. Sleep Sleep plays a central role in everything: * ADHD can delay melatonin release → later bedtimes * Poor sleep → worse focus, mood, and food choices * Evening wakefulness increases risk of overeating Key tips: * Consider low-dose melatonin (0.5–1 mg; less is often more) * Limit caffeine and screen time later in the day * Prioritize consistent sleep schedules 💬 Final Takeaway Perhaps the most important message: These patterns are biological, not behavioral failures. When we understand the brain, we can: * Reduce shame * Improve support * Make more effective, individualized choices 🎥 Watch the full recording now and share it with someone who needs this perspective. At ADHDKC, we’re committed to bringing you conversations that connect the dots—and help your family move forward with clarity and confidence. For the full transcript, visit our website. Chapters 00:00 Understanding ADHD and Its Impact on Families 02:01 The Connection Between ADHD and Obesity 03:39 The Anxiety and Sleep Loop 05:47 Binge Eating and Emotional Eating 08:09 Executive Function and Impulse Control 10:19 Strategies for Managing ADHD and Weight 12:32 Nutrition and Its Role in ADHD Management 14:44 Creating Structure for Success 16:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 23:21 Healthy Eating Strategies for Kids 26:51 Sleep Challenges and Solutions for ADHD 29:09 Navigating ADHD and Anxiety 30:52 Empowering Kids with ADHD 32:12 Practical Tips for Parents 34:20 Intermittent Fasting and Eating Patterns 38:01 Vitamins, Supplements, and Sleep 42:23 Intuitive Eating and ADHD This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adhdkc.substack.com

    45 min
  2. New Episode of ADHDKC Conversations

    15 APR

    New Episode of ADHDKC Conversations

    Have you ever had a moment where everything is ready to go — the gym clothes are out, the homework plan is made, the reminders are set — and then when the time comes… your brain just says nope? If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. In our latest episode of ADHDKC Conversations, hosts Kristen Stuppy and Sara Whelan sit down with ADHD coach Mike Legett to explore the fascinating neuroscience behind motivation and decision-making in ADHD brains. This conversation began when Kristen heard Mike speak at the ADHD International Conference in Kansas City. After the talk, Kristen immediately asked her to speak for ADHDKC — because her explanation of complex genetics was one of the most clear explanations, understandable to even non-science nerds. It was her favorite talk from the entire conference and she knows ADHDKC parents would love to hear Mike communicate science. In this episode, Mike gives listeners a preview of the ideas she’ll share during the upcoming ADHDKC Parent Group talk on May 12th, where she will present: “To Do, or Not To Do? Decision Neuroscience and ADHD.” Why ADHD Brains Sometimes Can’t Get Started Many parents say the same thing: “My child knows what to do — they just can’t get started.” Mike explains that the problem usually isn’t knowledge or intelligence. Instead, it’s the brain’s internal decision-making system trying to answer a much more basic question: “Is this worth it right now?” ADHD brains weigh that question differently. Rather than prioritizing importance or long-term consequences, they respond strongly to things that feel: • interesting• immediate• novel• challenging• emotionally engaging Understanding this can completely change how we respond when kids (or adults) seem stuck. Moving From Frustration to Compassion One of the most powerful parts of this conversation is how understanding brain science can reduce shame. Instead of assuming a child is lazy, careless, or defiant, neuroscience shows us something very different: the brain may simply be struggling to activate the task. As Mike puts it: “What’s hard is hard — and it’s hard for a reason.” That shift in perspective opens the door to more effective strategies and more compassionate parenting. Practical Ideas From the Episode In this conversation you’ll hear about: • Why “try harder” doesn’t actually help ADHD motivation• The difference between effort problems and activation problems• Why importance doesn’t automatically create motivation in ADHD brains• How collaborative problem-solving helps kids build autonomy• A simple mindset shift that helps parents slow down and find real solutions You’ll also hear Mike share how her unusual career path (though not atypical for an ADHDer) — from an engineering undergrad to a genetics grad student to an internationally recognized swing dance instructor to an ADHD coach — shaped the way she understands learning, motivation, and brain science. Want to Learn More? This episode is just the beginning. Mike will be our featured speaker at the next ADHDKC Parent Group online event: Tuesday, May 126:30 PM Central To Do, or Not To Do? Decision Neuroscience and ADHD During that talk, Mike will go deeper into the brain science behind decision-making and explain complex concepts in clear, approachable language that parents can actually use. If you’ve ever wondered why motivation seems so unpredictable in ADHD — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Register for the Parent Group event here. And in the meantime, watch the full ADHDKC Conversations episode above, on our YouTube channel, or listen on your favorite podcast player. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 00:17 Understanding ADHD and Decision-Making 03:16 Mike Leggett’s Journey to ADHD Coaching 08:22 Learning and Motivation: A Unique Perspective 10:24 Decision Neuroscience Explained 12:52 The Challenge of Getting Started 15:43 The Equation of Motivation 19:52 Building Compassion Through Understanding 22:41 Common Misconceptions About ADHD and Motivation 24:11 Mindset Shifts for Parents 26:23 Practical Strategies for Families 28:03 Supporting Autonomy and Motivation 31:05 Strategies for Adults with ADHD 33:34 Bridging the Gap in Understanding ADHD 35:05 Key Takeaways for Parents 36:57 Fun and Personal Insights Transcript - autogenerated, excuse the errors Kristen Stuppy (00:17) Welcome back to ADHDKC Conversations. I’m Kristen Stuppy. Sara Whelan (00:22) And I’m Sara Whelan. We’re so glad to have you here with us. And whether you’re a parent, educator, professional, someone navigating ADHD yourself, our goal is always the same, to bring you practical insights, really compassionate perspectives and conversations that just help make life a little easier. Kristen Stuppy (00:43) And today’s episode is one that I think a lot of families are going to recognize themselves in. You know these moments where you want to do something, you’ve planned it, you’ve prepared for it, but when the time comes, your brain just says, Sara Whelan (00:58) Yeah, for sure. Like, gym clothes are ready. We’ve got the homework all planned out. Morning routine is mapped out. But somehow it just doesn’t all happen or any of it happens at all. If that sounds familiar, you’re definitely not alone. You’re in good company here. Kristen Stuppy (01:16) Today we’re going to begin talking about the neuroscience of decision-making, specifically how ADHD brains decide what feels worth doing and what doesn’t. And we have an incredible guest here to help us unpack things in a way that actually makes sense in real life. I do have to say that I heard Mike talk at the November ADHD International big convention here in Kansas City, and she’s the... only speaker I went up to after the talk and asked her if I could ask her to speak for this group because it was by far the best talk I heard at that entire conference. She made genetics very relatable. And I do have a science background, but I don’t think I needed the science background to understand what she was saying. So I’m very excited that she’s here today. Sara Whelan (02:07) Fantastic. I’m so excited. I do not have a science background and just cannot wait to learn your insights and what you have to share with us and our audience. Kristen Stuppy (02:11) Bye. Sara Whelan (02:17) We’re joined today by Mike Leggett. Mike’s an ADHD coach. Hi, welcome. And she has a wonderfully unique background in science and art. And she got her start in genetics, later became an internationally recognized swing and blues dance instructor. I have a dance background. Love that. fantastic. And now helps ADHD clients move from being overwhelmed, frustrated toward being curious. Mike Legett (02:22) you Sara Whelan (02:44) having momentum in their lives and making meaningful progress. Mike Legett (02:47) you Kristen Stuppy (02:49) And Mike describes herself as a proud nerd, which we absolutely love because I am also a proud nerd. And she’s passionate again about translating complex neuroscience into language that parents and individuals can actually use. She’ll be our featured speaker at the ADHD KC parent group event on Tuesday, May 12th at 6.30 PM Central. And in today’s conversation, it’s a great preview of what families can expect. Sara Whelan (02:53) Okay. Mike, welcome to ADHD KC conversations. We’re just so glad you’re here. Mike Legett (03:20) Thank you. Thank you so much. ⁓ am thrilled and honored ⁓ and also delighted. And thank you, Kristen. Man, that really feels good to hear. So thank you so much. Kristen Stuppy (03:32) That’s awesome. I think I did a review for you as well online. hopefully you’ll be invited back to more of those talks. But I do love hearing about the journey from science into coaching. Can you tell us a little more about what drew you to ADHD coaching specifically? Mike Legett (03:35) Yay! Yeah, it was exactly as straight and linear a path as you might expect from an ADHD-er. So I, you know, I actually was always interested in science and arts and writing and, right, just all the things. And when I was in high school, right, I was like, I’m going to be an engineer. So I went to undergrad and I was like, yeah, I’m going to be engineer. And then I got in there. I was like, no, I’m not. I’m going to be a vet in my last year undergrad. was like, well, okay, no. Instead, I’m going to do genetics because I had a professor who was, I think she said she had ADHD. If not, she certainly got it. she, know, molecular genetics was super interesting. It was a puzzle. So I started my PhD in molecular genetics and I had been diagnosed ⁓ as a kid with ADHD, which is remarkable for a woman in her forties who was inattentive, which might give you a hint as to like, how noticeable it was that I didn’t skate by. But it wasn’t managed ⁓ through anything other than know, gritted teeth and overcommitment, which was my maladaptive coping mechanism, right? So by the time I get to grad school, my coping mechanisms weren’t working anymore. So I was sitting in this grad school library, right? And this article, comes across my desk, digital desk, about ADHD in women and what it looked like. Because when I was a kid, they were like, you have ADHD. That’s why you’re disorganized and distracted. You can try Ritalin. And I was like, cool. I don’t like Ritalin. And they’re like, cool. Have a good life. That was it. And so this article comes across my desk. And I was like, this is my entire life explained, every aspect. Because again, I was left with, this is why you’re distracted and disorganized. So there was like, Sara Whelan (05:34) Mm-hmm. Mike Legett (05:35) ugly crying in a grad school library, as one does. And so I ended up dropping out of grad school because the graduate program said, we can’t, you know, I know you’ve been diagnosed, but you have t

    40 min
  3. New ADHDKC Parent Talk Recording: Parents Under Pressure

    14 MAR

    New ADHDKC Parent Talk Recording: Parents Under Pressure

    Parenting is hard. Parenting neurodivergent kids can feel even harder. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or like you’re constantly juggling too many responsibilities — you’re in good company. This month’s ADHDKC Parent Group talk took place both at the J and online. It was our first hybrid meeting in quite a while, and of course the classic tech gremlins made an appearance. The projector wouldn’t share anything but a full screen, the camera refused to cooperate… you know how it goes. Thankfully, Dr. Stuppy had recorded a full run‑through earlier in the day, so we’re able to share a clean, uninterrupted version with you. The session dives into something many parents experience but rarely name out loud: parental stress and caregiver wellbeing. In this talk, pediatrician Dr. Kristen Stuppy unpacks why parenting today feels so heavy, how chronic stress affects our bodies and minds, and — most importantly — practical ways to lighten the load without adding more pressure to your life. You’ll learn: * Why parents today report higher stress levels than other adults * How chronic stress affects sleep, focus, digestion, and emotional regulation * What’s actually happening in your brain and nervous system during stress * Simple, realistic strategies to support your mental and physical health * Why progress, not perfection, is the goal This conversation blends science, lived experience, and compassionate strategies that parents can actually use in real life. Feeling overwhelmed does not mean you’re failing as a parent. It means you’re carrying a lot. Small changes: better sleep habits, realistic boundaries, movement, connection with others — can gradually help your nervous system reset and make daily life feel more manageable. You don’t have to fix everything at once. One small step forward is enough. Watch or Listen — Your Choice The full video recording is available now on our YouTube channel and is embedded in this week’s Substack post. If you’d rather listen on the go, the audio version is also available on your favorite podcast player, making it easy to learn while commuting, walking, or doing chores. We’ve added ADHD KC Conversations to Apple podcast and Overcast. Resources from the talk AAP Family Media Plan Mayo Clinic’s CBT-I Mind Tricks (mindfulness) Quest for Health KC - Dr Stuppy’s Substack Surgeon General’s Advisory And if you know another parent who could use a reminder that they’re not alone in this, please share this talk with them. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Parental Stress and Wellbeing05:32 — Understanding the Prevalence of Parental Stress10:12 — The Impact of Chronic Stress on Health22:05 — Recognizing Stress as a Signal for Self-Care23:19 — Practical Strategies for Managing Stress37:13 — Embracing Progress and Community Support Transcript Auto-generated. Excuse the errors. Welcome to Parents Under Pressure, strengthening your mental health and wellbeing as a caregiver. Tonight, we’re talking about things most of us know, but don’t always recognize the full impact of, and that awareness can help us make more meaningful choices. Before we dive in, take a moment, close your eyes if you’d like, and just notice your body. Are your shoulders tight? Is your jaw clenched? Is your mind already running through a million things you need to do tonight after this talk? And if so, you’re in the right place. Many of you are carrying a lot, not just because you’re doing anything wrong, but because what you’re navigating is genuinely hard. If you feel tired, overwhelmed, or stretched thin, nothing is wrong with you. You’re not failing. You’re just responding to a role in a world that has a lot of us. And tonight isn’t about you trying harder. It’s about understanding why parenting can feel so heavy and what actually helps lighten the load. And by the end of tonight, you’ll learn the prevalence of parental stress, understanding the impact of stress on physical health. And this part’s a little heavy, but stick with me because you’ll leave with at least one way to better manage your stress. And not to add to your pressure because I know this is a very busy slide, but since I’m talking as a representative for CHADD this is a summary of the participation agreement that CHADD requires for each event. You can read the whole thing from ADHDKC’s home page if you’re curious. This is just the main points and I’ve highlighted the most important parts for this group. In a nutshell, be kind to others. What’s said here stays here. unless it’s information coming from me, which then you can certainly share, but if it’s a personal story or comment from some other participant, please don’t share. And then I do plan to share the recording. In fact, this is a pre-recording. And if you need any accommodations, let me know, which is a little late for the recording. And none of this is medical advice specific to you. please talk to your own doctor or therapist for advice. And a little bit about me, I’m Kristen Steppe. I’m a pediatrician who works closely with families navigating ADHD and other neurodiversities, both in clinic and at home. I was diagnosed with ADHD myself within the past year and share my story in letters to my younger self from Find the ADHD Girls, an organization focused on earlier diagnosis for girls because the delay worsens outcomes. I’m here tonight representing ADHDKC, our local CHADD chapter. I first got involved with ADHDKC in 2012 and the parent events that I attended helped me to learn better how to manage the chaos in my own home. And during the pandemic, I began leading the ADHDKC teen group online, which I still do and would be happy to have any of your middle school or high schoolers join me. Those are very differently organized events, very interactive to keep the teens engaged because they cannot do a lecture format like this. I now also teach kids and parents through the Teach Me ADHD program initiated by Dr. Nerissa Bauer, a behavioral pediatrician in the Indianapolis, Indiana area. And then I also write about ADHD and related conditions on my stub stack. It’s always free, so feel free to follow me at Quest for Health KC. I also know firsthand what it’s like to feel the pressure of holding everything together. Like many women who were diagnosed with ADHD later in life, I stayed constantly busy because it kept me going. That was a good thing because it got me through medical school and residency and raising children and everything, but it also comes with a price. What we’ll talk about tonight comes from both the clinical science and real life, because those two are not able to be separated. And before we go any further, I want to set a few expectations for our time together. This is not a space for perfection. I will not be perfect for sure. And you do not need to fix your whole life tonight. We’re all a work in progress. And so I love this passage from Braden Young, spoken from the point of view of a parent with ADHD. For neurotypical folks, there’s usually a buffer between I’m frustrated and I’m acting on frustration. For us, that buffer is often non-existent or incredibly short. We’re impulsive with our emotions, just like we’re impulsive with everything else. Add in the stress of parenting, which is already emotionally demanding, sleep deprivation, sensory overload from a chaotic household, and the constant executive function demands. And it’s no wonder we sometimes lose it over a missing shirt. And if you’re parenting neurodivergent kids, which many of us are, given the genetic component of ADHD, you’re dealing with their emotional dysregulation on top of your own. It’s like two emotional tornadoes colliding and someone has to be the calm in that storm except you’re also a tornado. So how does that work? I’m sharing this because it’s important to acknowledge that those of you who have neurodivergence in the home, stress leads to even more dysfunction. So a lot of us feel like we’re living in a tornado. My hope is that you walk away with one or two insights that help you understand yourself with more compassion and maybe one small thing you can try that makes next week feel a little lighter. And throughout tonight, I invite you to check in with yourself. Notice what resonates. Notice what doesn’t. Take what’s helpful and leave the rest. And before we go any further, I am curious. Just a show of hands or if you’re online, emojis, how many of you would say you feel stressed? most days of the week. You’re not alone. For those of you who raised your hands, you are definitely in good company. In August of 2024, Vivek Murthy, the Surgeon General of the time, felt this was an important enough problem that he released an advisory on the mental health and wellbeing of parents. And tonight is about understanding why that is and what can be realistically done about it. Now, parenting has always been stressful, but right now it’s especially hard. Recent data shows that parents consistently report higher stress levels than other adults. So if you’re comfortable, raise your hand if you ever felt like you have too much on your plate. Who feels like everyone else seems to be have things together better than you? It’s not surprising. A lot of us tend to hide it well and so do others. So it’s not recognized and stress shows up differently at every stage of parenting. In the early years, it’s sleep deprivation and adjusting to new roles. As kids grow, the challenges shift, managing their emotions, school pressure, social dynamics, and constant decision making. And by adolescence, parents are juggling with the increasing independence of their children, risk-taking behaviors, and they worry about their kids’ well-being. all while managing work and daily life. The mental load is really heavy. So keeping track of schedules, needs, emotion

    40 min
  4. 🎙️ New Podcast Episode: Dr. Matt Lindquist discusses ADHD & Obesity - It's Not Laziness!

    11 MAR

    🎙️ New Podcast Episode: Dr. Matt Lindquist discusses ADHD & Obesity - It's Not Laziness!

    We’re excited to share the newest episode of ADHDKC Conversations, featuring a powerful and eye-opening discussion with Dr. Matt Lindquist, who is triple board-certified in internal medicine, pediatrics, and obesity medicine, and founder of MoKan Weight Loss and Metabolic Health. This conversation gets to the heart of something many families experience—but rarely hear explained clearly: 👉 Why are so many individuals with ADHD also struggling with weight, sleep, anxiety, or binge eating?👉 Why does it feel like “lazy” is the label people get when something deeper is happening?👉 And what does neuroscience actually tell us about these overlaps? 🧠 What We Talk About in This Episode Dr. Lindquist walks us through: * The shared neurobiology between ADHD and obesity * How dopamine and reward pathways influence eating behaviors * Why “response inhibition” and emotional regulation matter * The powerful role of genetics in both ADHD and obesity * How anxiety and sleep disorders intensify everything * Why medication is not a failure—but often an evidence-based necessity One of the most important takeaways? Obesity, ADHD, anxiety, and binge eating are biologically driven conditions—not character flaws. There are real brain-based mechanisms behind food responsiveness, impulsivity, emotional eating, and sleep disruption. When we understand that, shame starts to lift—and effective treatment becomes possible. If you’ve ever wondered why you or your child feel constantly tired and hungry… or why evenings spiral into binge eating after a long day of holding it together… this episode connects the dots. 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and share it with someone who needs to hear this. For those who would rather read the transcript, see the bottom of this newsletter. Chapters 00:00Introduction to ADHD and Obesity 01:43Dr. Lindquist’s Journey in Medicine 03:57Identifying Gaps in Obesity Care 05:59Understanding Genetics in Obesity 08:21The Connection Between ADHD and Obesity 10:14Neurobiology of ADHD and Weight Management 12:51The Role of Anxiety and Sleep Disorders 15:37Personalized Treatment Approaches 17:51Addressing Stigma in Obesity and ADHD 19:42Final Thoughts and Future Conversations 📅 Coming Up: ADHDKC Parent Talk (Free & Online) We’re also thrilled that Dr. Lindquist will be speaking live to the ADHDKC Parent Group! 🗓 Tuesday, April 14 ⏰ 6:30 PM CST (Online) 🎟 Free event Title: “Why You’re Tired and Hungry: How the ADHD Brain Impacts Weight, Sleep & Binge Eating” In this deeper dive, parents will learn: * Why ADHD increases risk for metabolic issues * How sleep disruption fuels appetite and inattention * The connection between anxiety, binge eating, and dopamine * What individualized, evidence-based treatment actually looks like * How to reduce stigma and increase hope for your family This is one of those topics that affects many families—but rarely gets discussed openly. You can RSVP at ADHDKC to get your Zoom link: 💬 Why This Matters As pediatricians and parent advocates, we see it all the time: * A child with ADHD who struggles with impulse control around food * A teen with metabolic syndrome and untreated anxiety * A parent who feels guilty and blames themselves * Families stuck in cycles of exhaustion and shame Understanding the biology changes everything. We hope you’ll: * 🎧 Listen to the episode * 📅 Register for the parent talk * 📣 Share with another parent who might need this perspective The more we understand the brain, the better we can support our kids—and ourselves. See you on April 14. Transcript Kristen Stuppy (00:14) welcome back to ADHDKC Conversations. I’m Dr. Kristen Stuppy and I’m here with my co-host, Sara Whelan. Sara Whelan (00:22) Hi everyone, we’re so glad you’re joining us. Each month we sit down with experts, parents and individuals in the ADHD community to explore topics that make a big difference for our families in Kansas City and even beyond Kansas City. Kristen Stuppy (00:36) And today we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Matt Lindquist. Dr. Lindquist is a triple board certified physician in internal medicine, pediatrics and obesity medicine, and is the founder of MoKan Weight Loss and Metabolic Health. He’s deeply passionate about teaching both patients and medical professionals about obesity as a disease and helping people find. individualized paths to better health and well-being. Sara Whelan (01:00) We’re especially excited to talk with Dr. Lindquist today because his work really sits at the intersection that isn’t discussed nearly enough. How ADHD, weight, sleep, anxiety, and eating behaviors can all really be connected at a neurobiological level. Kristen Stuppy (01:17) This conversation is a chance to get to know Dr. Lindquist, learn from his clinical experience, and start unpacking why these connections matter so much for individuals and families affected by ADHD. So with that, Dr. Lindquist, you’re triple board certified in internal medicine, pediatrics, and obesity medicine, which is a pretty unique combination. Can you walk us through your professional journey and what led you to focus your career on obesity and metabolic health? Dr. Matt Lindquist (01:42) Yeah, glad to. And first, you know, happy to be here. Appreciate you having me on the podcast and getting to, yeah, just getting to educate. love talking about this and getting, you know, reliable info out there to the public. So, yeah, I mean, I’m a true masochist, both in my training and day to day. So, you know, that fits and like most of us in medicine, I I love to learn and if I have like a vice, apparently that’s it. But yeah, I feel like I had, you know, kind of this slow burn into obesity. You know, I knew from a pretty early age, I mean, one of my best friends, I, you know, I wanted to be a physician earlier than I thought I wanted to be apparently. And then I remember seeing a couple of docs from small town North Dakota. And I remember during college coming back and seeing my eye doc and one of my friends’ dads who’s a family doc in town. I talked to them and one of them didn’t even want to retire because part of it was like that’s their social aspect of their life too. And that really clicked with me in that I really love developing those like longitudinal relationships. And with internal medicine and pediatrics, similar to family med, I get to know that whole family and really see multiple generations. So. where I was like, when I’d go into OR during surgery, I hated it. Like cut and run and no, patients are asleep, people love that and I wanted to see them out throughout their life. then, being, and this is kind of odd, I sometimes bring this up in clinic, but I was always just this skinny little fart. you know, maybe like 130 pounds, soaking wet. So remember in high school, I was actually, I got into nutrition to kind of gain muscle and, you know, strength for sports. And that was, you know, that I think that was when I really like dipped my toes into just understanding nutrition, which unfortunately is not taught quite that well in both undergraduate and graduate medical education. So it’s probably a little ahead of the curve there. then I think that just kind of snowballed on itself until I was about a second year resident in my combined internal medicine, pediatrics residency. And I spent a month with my mentor, Dr. Brooke Sweeney at Children’s Mercy. Dr. Sara Hampel, who’s the mother of the program. that’s where I saw what, like the light bulb went off. I saw what good obesity medicine could be, and that was off to the races from there. Kristen Stuppy (04:35) you know, as a pediatrician, there’s a saying that we gave up our 20s for this because there’s so much of training that we really do have to give up part of our life to intensely study and be at the hospital and everything. And I cannot imagine being triple board certified. I only did one with the kids. So but you can tell, like if this is your passion and even since high school, if you had this love of the nutrition that very much fits how that could keep you motivated to do all that you do. That’s fantastic. Sara Whelan (05:04) Yeah, I think it stands out too. It’s rare today to find a family to find a resource who has so many different layers and levels of your experience. But it’s just interest too in terms of looking at things from a family system, which is really so relevant and important with ADHD and with families. You’ve helped build large academic programs and then went on to open MoKan weight loss and metabolic health. What gaps were you seeing in care that made you realize something different was needed and for you to go ahead and open your own practice? Dr. Matt Lindquist (05:40) Yeah, mean, you know, first, I mean, it’s a and it’s as some may know, it’s a pretty big leap to go from employed, employed practice to kind of bootstrapping your own clinic. so I would say one of the one of the biggest gaps was just my family time. So that was that was a major, major push. But yeah, you know, so. I had started the University Health Weight Management Clinic about eight years ago or so now. And I was seeing... I was seeing people with heart failure, kidney failure, dialysis, and pretty advanced disease states. And I was sitting there in a 20-minute slot, which is inappropriate for them anyways, let alone anyone, pretty much. And I was doing absolutely fundamental nutrition stuff, for example, while talking about, hey, so what is a protein? while also managing these meds and okay, well if you’re on dialysis, don’t worry about how it’s metabolized by the kidney. A little bit more complex medicine stuff. And I just, mean, even fighting for a dietician and a psychologist and a sleep psychologist, like. still those resources were still so limited. And I was having to do so much of that

    28 min
  5. 🎥 Now Available: ‘Worried & Wiggly’ – Understanding ADHD + Anxiety

    14 FEB

    🎥 Now Available: ‘Worried & Wiggly’ – Understanding ADHD + Anxiety

    If you’ve ever wondered whether your child’s struggles come from ADHD, anxiety, or both — you’re not alone. And now you can watch the recording of our most recent ADHDKC Parent Group talk: 🎥 Wired & Wiggly: Understanding Anxiety and ADHD in Kidswith pediatrician and childhood mental health advocate Dr. Natasha Burgert Sara Whelan, our ADHDKC Parent Group volunteer coordinator, opened the evening by welcoming families and sharing a reminder of ADHDKC’s connection to CHADD — our national parent organization dedicated to evidence-based ADHD education and support. Then Dr. Burgert guided us through an engaging, fast-paced, and practical discussion designed with busy parents in mind. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Recording Dr. Burgert shares real-world insights from her work as a full-time pediatrician caring for children with ADHD, anxiety, and everyday pediatric challenges. In this talk, she explains: * Why ADHD and anxiety often show up together — and how easily they can be confused * How similar behaviors (like inattention, restlessness, or avoidance) can come from very different causes * What’s happening in the brain — including executive function challenges vs. perceived threat responses * Questions parents can use to better understand the why behind behaviors * The importance of comprehensive evaluation and working with your pediatrician as a first step * Evidence-based supports including therapy approaches, school accommodations, lifestyle foundations, and medication considerations * Practical strategies for co-regulation, routines, sleep, and everyday family functioning As Dr. Burgert reminds us, we aren’t treating “alphabet soup” — we’re supporting kids who are trying their best in a fast, loud world. 🧠 Want to Keep Learning? Dr. Burgert also writes about ADHD, anxiety, and child mental health for parents and caregivers. You can explore more of her work in her Substack, starting with the article with this talk’s resources. 💬 Stay Connected We encourage you to explore upcoming ADHDKC events and parent group meetings — a welcoming space for learning, connection, and support. Thank you for being part of our ADHDKC community and for continuing to learn alongside us. We’re grateful you’re here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to ADHDKC and Event Overview 02:06 Understanding ADHD and Anxiety: A Pediatrician’s Perspective 11:53 Diagnosis and Treatment: Navigating ADHD and Anxiety 19:12 Comprehensive Treatment Plans for ADHD and Anxiety 25:56 Treating ADHD and Anxiety Together 28:27 Understanding SSRIs and Their Role 33:09 Monitoring Medication and Adjustments 35:16 Common Questions About ADHD and Anxiety 39:31 Practical Strategies for Parents 45:38 Community Support and Resources This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adhdkc.substack.com

    49 min
  6. 🎧 New ADHD KC Conversations Episode: Parents Under Pressure — Why Caregiver Stress Matters

    11 FEB

    🎧 New ADHD KC Conversations Episode: Parents Under Pressure — Why Caregiver Stress Matters

    Our newest ADHD KC Conversations episode is live — and this one flips the script a little! Instead of previewing an upcoming speaker, Kristen Stuppy, MD, FAAP, sits down with special guest Lindsey Lipsky, M.Ed, CNP, a longtime special education advocate and new ADHDKC Advisory Board member. Together, they talk about what families are really experiencing right now — the pressure, the chronic stress, and why supporting parents is just as important as supporting kids. 👉 You can: * Watch the full video right here in this newsletter * Watch on our YouTube channel * Listen on your favorite podcast platform 💬 What You’ll Hear in This Episode * Why community and connection matter so much for neurodivergent families * The reality parents are facing right now — stress, burnout, and limited supports * The science behind chronic stress and how it affects the body * Why caring for yourself is not selfish — it’s foundational to supporting your kids * A preview of the upcoming ADHDKC Parent Group talk:Parents Under Pressure: Strengthening Your Mental Health & Well-Being as a Caregiver Lindsey also shares insights from her work supporting families and schools — and why spaces like ADHDKC are more important than ever. 📅 Join Us for the Upcoming ADHDKC Parent Group Event Parents Under Pressure: Strengthening Your Mental Health & Well-Being as a CaregiverPresented by Dr. Kristen Stuppy 🗓 Tuesday, March 10🕡 6:30 PM📍 In person at the Jewish Community Center (the J) -OR- 💻 Online💲 Free & open to everyone — ADHDKC members, J members, and the general public in Kansas City and beyond During this session, you’ll learn: * What chronic stress actually does to your body * Why basic self-care strategies matter more than you think * Practical ways to reduce overwhelm and strengthen resilience * How to make small changes that support your mental and physical well-being No diagnosis is required — if you’re a caregiver feeling pressure, you belong here. 👉 RSVP Here https://www.adhdkc.org/event-details/parents-under-pressure-strengthening-your-mental-health-well-being-as-a-caregiver 🤝 Why This Conversation Matters Parents often feel like they have to handle everything alone — juggling work, school systems, therapies, and everyday life. This episode is a reminder that: * You are not alone * Your health matters too * And support is available in this community Thanks for being part of ADHDKC.As always — take good care of yourselves. Parenting is hard, but you don’t have to do it alone. This post is public so feel free to share it with someone you think needs it. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to ADHD KC Conversations 01:38 Lindsay Lipsky: Advocate for Neurodivergent Families 03:09 The Importance of Community Support 06:36 Collaboration Between ADHDKC and Lindsay’s Work 11:18 Understanding Parental Stress 16:01 Empowering Parents: Tools for Mental Health 17:28 Event Details and Conclusion Transcript Kristen Stuppy (00:16) Welcome back to ADHD KC Conversations. I’m Kristen Stuppy and I’m so glad you’re joining us. Each month we sit down with experts, parents, and individuals in the ADHD community to explore topics that make a real difference for families in the Kansas City area and beyond. Today, we’re changing it up a bit. Usually my co-host, Sara Whalen, and I talk with the upcoming ADHD KC parent group speaker so you can get to know them ahead of time. This week, Sara couldn’t join us. And since I’m actually the one doing the next ADHDKC parent group talk on March 10th, and you already know me from hosting this podcast and other talks, I thought we’d flip the script. Instead of interviewing a future speaker, I invited someone who’s become a really meaningful connection for me, Lindsay Lipsky. And Lindsay introduced herself to me at the International ADHD Conference back in November, and later invited me to speak at a parent group event at the Jewish Community Center, locally known as the J. and I’m excited to use this wonderful space at the J for this upcoming talk. So just to be clear, all members of the Jewish Community Center and ADHDKC and just the general public are welcome. And this event will be both in person and online. And today I wanted to ask Lindsay about her work, and then I’ve asked her to turn the tables and ask me why I wanted to talk about something that so many parents are feeling right now, being under pressure, what chronic stress does to our bodies, and what parents can actually do about it. So Lindsay, I’m really glad that you’re here and welcome to the podcast. Lindsey (01:41) Thank you, thank you for having me. It’s an honor to be here and Dr. Stuppy have known you for a long time and you’re famous to me, so thank you. Yeah, thanks, thanks. Kristen Stuppy (01:54) So to start us off, can you tell our listeners a little bit about who you are? Lindsey (01:57) Yeah, so I actually run a program in the Jewish community that helps support kids and families that have disabilities have access to our community. I’ve been a special education advocate for almost 20 years now and have worked in the field and more specifically now with ⁓ kiddos that are neurodivergent who have ADHD, autism, and other learning disabilities. Kristen Stuppy (02:23) So what kinds of things do you see coming up again and again when parents walk through your door? Lindsey (02:27) Yeah, so a lot of the parents that I work with, they are coming to me to seek community. So a lot of them, you know, the Jewish community is really small and our issues are no different than any other community. So oftentimes when they are coming through my door, they’re feeling really lost. And so often they are looking for just connection, resources and supports. just another ear to hear what’s going on in their lives and to help troubleshoot issues that arise from parenting our neurodivergent kiddos. And it is a really humbling experience just to be on that journey helping them. Kristen Stuppy (03:09) That is wonderful. What kind of themes do you see when parents come in to your office again and again? Lindsey (03:15) So a lot of what I see is just parents that are looking for connection, parents that are looking for resources and supports, sometimes just to listen to them. As your talk, I’m sure, is gonna talk about parenting kids that are neurodivergent is not for the faint of heart. Oftentimes, it can be challenging. And so I think really having the ability to talk to each other and problem solve is really the meat of what I see when I’m working with families. Kristen Stuppy (03:47) I think that’s very helpful and parents do need that support. I know you and I first officially met and talked at the International ADHD Conference in November in Kansas City. But since then, we’ve had several conversations and it’s been really clear how passionate you are about supporting families with neurodivergent children and the whole ADHD community. In fact, I’m so excited that you’re joining ADHDKC’s advisory board. What drew you to ADHDKC and what made you want to be involved? Lindsey (04:14) Well, I’ve again just been a lifelong advocate for individuals with disabilities. More recently, I have a personal connection with ADHD. It’s in our family system. so navigating that complex process has really brought me closer. I think it’s interesting that when you’re a special educator and I’ve worked on so many individual education plans, IEPs, 504 plans, And then suddenly when you’re on the other side of that table, when you’re a parent, and suddenly, you know, the script has flipped a bit, and suddenly you realize that this is hard, this is really hard. And I really feel strongly that, you know, we’re better together, and I think the work that ADHDKC does is really important for our community. Kristen Stuppy (05:02) So of course the theme now is the script being flipped because we’re gonna have you interview me here flipping the script for the whole podcast. And then you just talking about how your personal life it’s been affected. And it is so very different as a professional who’s used to the system seeing how it works from the other side. So yeah, I think that’s very interesting for me as a parent of a child. Lindsey (05:11) There we go. Kristen Stuppy (05:27) now young adults with ADHD. I do remember those days of trying to get all of the knowledge I knew from the other side to work with what my own child needed. So how does the mission of ADHDKC align with the work you’re already doing? Lindsey (05:41) So a lot of the work that I do right now is supporting schools and systems and programs to just be more accepting and understanding. You know, the whole neurodiversity movement has been really impactful, I think, for the community and understanding that people that have ADHD really bring a wide array of strengths. So a lot of the work that I do now involves training and consulting with school teams and with programs. ⁓ just so that they understand that we are better with our individuals that have ADHD in our community. And I also work with families that of course are just running through situations that ⁓ are complicated. So I think especially because ADHD KC is such a strong chapter, was really drawn to this work and really I’m really honored that I get to join and help support you guys in this important endeavor. Kristen Stuppy (06:36) think we’re excited to be able to join with your group as well and offer things to a larger community. I think, unfortunately, funding for many groups that provide services. know CHADD in general has lost some funding that was provided through the CDC in the past. And I feel like it’s harder to reach people due to some of these cuts. So it’s going to be really important to be able to support families where they are. Lindsey (06:40) Haha. Kristen Stuppy (07:03) with less. So I think that w

    19 min

  7. 17 JAN

    New Parent Group Recording: Creating a Blueprint for a Successful Semester

    We’re excited to share the latest ADHDKC Parent Group recording, featuring Sean McCormick, a former special education teacher whose passion for supporting students with ADHD truly shines through. From the very beginning, you can hear Sean’s deep commitment to helping students succeed. His background in special education gives him a grounded, real-world perspective that parents and teens alike can benefit from. What Sean Covered A Framework for Supporting Students with ADHD – CHASESean introduced his CHASE framework, designed to address the unique challenges students with ADHD face and to offer practical, realistic supports. He emphasized the critical role of executive function skills in student success and shared ways parents and educators can help students manage schoolwork more effectively. Understanding the “CHASE Cycle”Sean described how many students begin a semester motivated and hopeful, only to become overwhelmed as missing assignments pile up and stress increases. Helping Students Engage Teachers EffectivelyOne highlight was Sean’s “Managing Your Bosses” strategy, which helps students proactively work with teachers instead of avoiding them. He shared: * A goal-setting template for early-in-the-semester conversations * The PING email framework (Pleasant Introduction, Inform/Inquire, Negotiate a Plan, End with Gratitude) * Why email templates can reduce anxiety and improve follow-through—for students and adults Academic Management & Family SupportSean walked through tools and strategies to help students: * Organize assignments across multiple platforms using a student dashboard * Prioritize tasks when everything feels urgent * Benefit from family team meetings that build collective efficacy when simple organization isn’t enough He also outlined what support looks like at different stages of academic struggle—from the alert phase to the exhaustion phase—and how parents can respond without escalating burnout. Executive Function Strategies That Actually HelpSean shared practical advice on: * Negotiating plans with teachers * Using visual organizers * Reducing burnout * Acknowledging ADHD openly * Shifting toward process praise rather than outcome-only praise Resources Shared Sean generously shared a document packed with resources that parents can explore on their own or together with their teen: He also shared some pages of his website that covers some of the questions raised: * How to advocate for executive function coaching services (as part of the IEP) * How to Help Students With ADHD Keep Their Backpack C.L.E.A.N. * Search for articles by subject * Student Dashboard / Digital Planner * Printables He mentioned Jessica McCabe as an influencer with data-based strategies. Find her on How to ADHD. If you’re supporting a student who is overwhelmed, burned out, or struggling to keep up despite “trying hard,” this recording offers concrete tools and a compassionate roadmap forward. Know someone who would benefit from this? This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adhdkc.substack.com

    50 min
  8. 🌟 New ADHD KC Conversations Episode Alert!

    14 JAN

    🌟 New ADHD KC Conversations Episode Alert!

    ADHD KC Conversations Featuring Dr. Natasha Burgert, MD, FAAP Hosted by Dr. Kristen Stuppy & Sara Whelan We’re excited to share the newest episode of ADHD KC Conversations, where Dr. Kristen Stuppy and Sara Whelan sit down with pediatrician, author, and child-mental-health advocate Dr. Natasha Burgert, MD, FAAP for a powerful and practical conversation about ADHD, anxiety, and the kids who experience both. If you’ve ever wondered: * How early can ADHD or anxiety show up? * How can you tell whether a child’s inattention is from worry or distraction? * What daily routines actually help anxious and wiggly brains? * Do ADHD medicines make anxiety better (or worse)? …this episode is packed with insight, clarity, and the calm, practical wisdom every parent deserves. 🎙️ Episode Highlights 👉 Anxiety and ADHD often show up together.Dr. Burgert explains why these two “best buddies” frequently overlap in developing brains — and why some worries are normal and expected as kids grow. 👉 How to tell the difference between anxious inattention and ADHD inattention.She shares simple, real-world questions she uses in practice to help families and kids figure out what’s really driving those “zoned out” moments. 👉 Why treating one condition can help the other.She discusses what she sees in practice: treating ADHD often reduces anxiety and treating anxiety often improves attention. 👉 How to know if therapy or medication is working.It’s not just about rating scales; it’s about real life. Are mornings smoother? Are transitions easier? Are they more willing to use checklists or follow routines? These daily wins matter just as much as any score. 👉 A sneak peek of her upcoming ADHDKC event.Dr. Burgert will be sharing even more practical strategies in her free upcoming talk:Worried and Wiggly: Understanding ADHD & Anxiety in Kids📅 Tuesday, February 10🕢 6:30 PM CT💻 Online & free to allRegister at ADHDKC.org → Events or hit the button below! 🎧 Listen Now Don’t miss this warm, validating, and deeply useful conversation.Tune in to the new episode of ADHD KC Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. 💙 Stay Connected Follow ADHDKC on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with upcoming events, resources, and more conversations designed to support families raising neurodivergent kids. Thanks for being part of our community — and stay curious. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adhdkc.substack.com

    15 min
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Learn more about ADHD related topics with the Kansas City CHADD Chapter, ADHDKC. adhdkc.substack.com

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