Attempting Motherhood

Samantha Johnson

Attempting Motherhood: The Aud Way is a podcast for late diagnosed or late realised ADHD / AuDHD mothers. It is hosted by Sam, an AuDHD ( autistic + ADHD )  elder millennial mom. Episodes cover topics pertaining to motherhood, neurodivergence, the combination of those two and how they intersect. Remember in this wild ride of motherhood, we're all attempting to do our best. 

  1. 08/07/2025

    Was it Burn Out? Life Update from Sam

    Navigating Burnout, Motherhood, and Reconnecting In this raw and unfiltered episode, Sam returns after a four-month hiatus to open up about her recent experiences with burnout, the challenges of balancing motherhood, and the isolating nature of her life.  She touches on her struggles with maintaining motivation, particularly after a family holiday and outlines the difficulties of managing her content creation in Australia. Sam also discusses her early perimenopausal symptoms, hormone therapy, and the importance of finding personal projects and community engagement.  She shares future plans for providing actionable holiday preparation tips and possibly reviving her Intention workbook series.  Listeners are encouraged to provide feedback and connect via social media  IG: @SamAttemptsMotherhood TT: @SamAttemptsMotherhood samattemptsmotherhood@gmail.com 00:00 Introduction and Hiatus Explanation 01:56 Struggles with Burnout and Isolation 05:49 Closing the Membership and Financial Struggles 10:20 Hormonal Changes and Perimenopause 12:58 Rediscovering Motivation and Future Plans 16:04 Reconnecting with the Community 18:49 Commitment to Less Editing and More Authenticity 20:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Want to get in touch? Send us a message! Thank you for listening!If you like this episode please share, rate, review, and subscribe.Each time you do our little community grows!Coaching and free resources: AttemptingMotherhood.com Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, medical professional, or mental health professional. I am sharing my lived experience. If you relate to any of the content in these episodes, do your own research and speak to a medical professional if needed. There are free resources available in my links:  https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood If you enjoyed this episode please share, subscribe, rate, and review. Each time you do our little community grows. Follow Sam: https://www.tiktok.com/@samattemptsmotherhood https://www.instagram.com/samattemptsmotherhood/ Follow the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/attemptingmotherhood.pod/ For more information and resources head to: https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood Buy me a coffee (an opportunity to show appreciation for the content you've enjoyed).

    23 min
  2. 03/31/2025

    Travel Tips for Neurodivergent Families

    Tips for any type of travel but especially for International travel. In this episode I personal experiences and practical tips for traveling internationally with a young child. As an AuDHDer who has travelled internationally with my daughter several times I share the preparation strategies, essential items to pack, and accommodations available for hidden disabilities that I've learned. Key tips using a sunflower lanyard for hidden disabilitiesleveraging AI for travel planningpacking efficientlyutilizing communication cards noise-dampening toolscompartmentalized packing child-friendly entertainment optionsYou can find additional travel tips and info in the Attempting Motherhood Membership Resources. Start your FREE trial today (no payment details needed). Head to my socials to see content with more travel tips!  Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction and Travel Plans 01:12 Packing Tips for Solo Travel with a Child 01:55 Navigating Airports with Hidden Disabilities 04:09 Traveling Through LAX and Using Google for Assistance 06:29 Utilizing AI for Travel Assistance 08:34 Preparing Medical Documentation for International Travel 09:28 Communication Tools for Kids During Flights 12:57 Essential Travel Hacks and Tips 24:09 Final Thoughts and Social Media Links Want to get in touch? Send us a message! Thank you for listening!If you like this episode please share, rate, review, and subscribe.Each time you do our little community grows!Coaching and free resources: AttemptingMotherhood.com Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, medical professional, or mental health professional. I am sharing my lived experience. If you relate to any of the content in these episodes, do your own research and speak to a medical professional if needed. There are free resources available in my links:  https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood If you enjoyed this episode please share, subscribe, rate, and review. Each time you do our little community grows. Follow Sam: https://www.tiktok.com/@samattemptsmotherhood https://www.instagram.com/samattemptsmotherhood/ Follow the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/attemptingmotherhood.pod/ For more information and resources head to: https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood Buy me a coffee (an opportunity to show appreciation for the content you've enjoyed).

    27 min
  3. 03/25/2025

    Supplements to Support ADHD & Hormones - Erica Garber, Functional Nutritional Practitioner

    *Not medical advice. Please consult a medical practitioner before starting any new supplements or vitamins.  7-Day FREE trial + 20% off your first month of Attempting Motherhood Community In this episode, we are joined by Erica Garber, a functional nutritional practitioner based in Canada. The discussion covers what it means to be a functional nutritional practitioner, the supplements recommended for ADHD and perimenopause, and the significance of hormones in ADHD management.  Erica talks in detail about her 6 M's morning routine (Matcha + Lion's Mane, Mindfulness, Movement, Medication, Meal, & Mushrooms) to help individuals with ADHD and perimenopause.  The conversation also delves into Erica’s newly launched perimenopause program, Beyond Being, highlighting its benefits and importance.  We round off the episode covers the importance of community, maintaining cognitive health, and thriving in the second half of our lives.  Connect with Erica:  IG: @foodmoodnutrition Resources: Rainbo 11:11 Mushroom Tincture Focus Plus Supplement Skip to: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:09 Understanding Functional Nutrition 00:17 Navigating Supplements for ADHD and Perimenopause 03:13 Erica's Qualifications and Approach 04:56 ADHD-Friendly Health Practices 07:54 Exploring Effective Supplements 16:55 Challenges with ADHD Medication 20:45 Daily Routines for ADHD Management 26:05 Morning Routine and Nutrition Tips 26:34 The Benefits of Lion's Mane 27:00 Choosing Quality Supplements 30:31 Omega 3s and Their Importance 32:34 Managing Perimenopause Symp Want to get in touch? Send us a message! Thank you for listening!If you like this episode please share, rate, review, and subscribe.Each time you do our little community grows!Coaching and free resources: AttemptingMotherhood.com Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, medical professional, or mental health professional. I am sharing my lived experience. If you relate to any of the content in these episodes, do your own research and speak to a medical professional if needed. There are free resources available in my links:  https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood If you enjoyed this episode please share, subscribe, rate, and review. Each time you do our little community grows. Follow Sam: https://www.tiktok.com/@samattemptsmotherhood https://www.instagram.com/samattemptsmotherhood/ Follow the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/attemptingmotherhood.pod/ For more information and resources head to: https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood Buy me a coffee (an opportunity to show appreciation for the content you've enjoyed).

    53 min
  4. 03/06/2025

    Peeing Your Pants PostPartum? - Common, but Not Normal Pelvic Health Issues with PFPT, Lynn Schulte

    *This episodes includes discussion of intercourse and pelvic anatomy.  Understanding Pelvic Health: Common but Not Normal Issues Postpartum This episode features a conversation with Lynn Schulte, a pelvic floor physical therapist, who addresses common postpartum issues like leakage and painful intercourse. Lynn stresses that these issues are common but not normal and discusses the importance of working with a pelvic floor physical therapist for recovery.  The discussion covers various topics, including the impact of childbirth on pelvic health, the importance of proper alignment and muscle activation, and the need for holistic trauma care. Lynn also highlights the significant difference between common occurrences post-pregnancy and what is normal, and encourages listening to one's body and seeking proper care instead of normalizing these issues. More from Lynn:  CenterForBirthHealing.com (for mothers) InstituteForBirthHealing.com (for practitioners) IG @InstituteForBirthHealing FB Group: InstituteForBirthHealing Youtube: InstituteForBirthHealing Lynn will be conducting in person trainings for practitioners in Australia in August. See the above website for details.  00:00 Introduction: Common but Not Normal 00:24 Meet Lynn Schulte: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist 01:00 Understanding Postpartum Issues 02:11 Lynn's Journey and Expertise 03:03 Pelvic Health Education and Resources 05:24 The Importance of Core Stability 07:37 Addressing Hyperextension and Pelvic Pressure 21:51 Pregnancy and EDS Considerations 26:48 Labor and Postpartum Recovery Tips 32:10 Understanding Sacral Flexion and Tailbone Issues 32:59 The Importance of Seeing a Practitioner 34:06 Intervaginal Adjustments Post-Birth 34:49 Addressing Pain with Intercourse 37:45 Want to get in touch? Send us a message! Thank you for listening!If you like this episode please share, rate, review, and subscribe.Each time you do our little community grows!Coaching and free resources: AttemptingMotherhood.com Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, medical professional, or mental health professional. I am sharing my lived experience. If you relate to any of the content in these episodes, do your own research and speak to a medical professional if needed. There are free resources available in my links:  https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood If you enjoyed this episode please share, subscribe, rate, and review. Each time you do our little community grows. Follow Sam: https://www.tiktok.com/@samattemptsmotherhood https://www.instagram.com/samattemptsmotherhood/ Follow the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/attemptingmotherhood.pod/ For more information and resources head to: https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood Buy me a coffee (an opportunity to show appreciation for the content you've enjoyed).

    1h 4m
  5. 02/11/2025

    Restraint Collapse & Transitions - Understanding & Managing in Children and Adults

    Understanding and Managing Restraint Collapse and Transitions In this solo episode, Sam discusses the concept of restraint collapse, where individuals release pent-up emotions and stress upon reaching a safe space or person. Although often linked to children, Sam explains that adults also experience restraint collapse.  The episode also offers practical techniques for mitigating its effects and navigating transitions effectively.  Tips include:  use of sensory toolsdeep oral inputrhythmic movementstime in natureimplementation of visual schedulesSam shares personal examples and provides detailed strategies for both adults and children to create a more regulated and balanced life. Free Resources:  Child's Week Visual Template (Canva) Child's Bag Visual (Canva) Adult Daily Schedule (Canva) Regulation Tools for Overstimulated Mamas (pdf download) 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update 00:25 Understanding Restraint Collapse 01:59 Personal Examples of Restraint Collapse 04:11 Strategies to Mitigate Restraint Collapse 05:31 The Importance of Deep Oral Input 09:08 The Role of Nature and Movement 16:26 Creating Visual Schedules and Routines 22:50 Using Technology to Aid Transitions 24:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Want to get in touch? Send us a message! Thank you for listening!If you like this episode please share, rate, review, and subscribe.Each time you do our little community grows!Coaching and free resources: AttemptingMotherhood.com Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, medical professional, or mental health professional. I am sharing my lived experience. If you relate to any of the content in these episodes, do your own research and speak to a medical professional if needed. There are free resources available in my links:  https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood If you enjoyed this episode please share, subscribe, rate, and review. Each time you do our little community grows. Follow Sam: https://www.tiktok.com/@samattemptsmotherhood https://www.instagram.com/samattemptsmotherhood/ Follow the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/attemptingmotherhood.pod/ For more information and resources head to: https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood Buy me a coffee (an opportunity to show appreciation for the content you've enjoyed).

    28 min
  6. 01/23/2025

    Season 2 & The Membership Launch

    In this short episode I breakdown what you can expect for Season 2, what 2025 plans I have, and take a deep dive into the Attempting Motherhood Membership. 20% off + 7-Day Trial for The Attempting Motherhood Membership https://www.attemptingmotherhood.com/membership Code: PODCAST for 20% off! What do you think of the new podcast cover? Share your feedback, suggestions, and thoughts in the "Send us a message" box below.  Want to get in touch? Send us a message! Thank you for listening!If you like this episode please share, rate, review, and subscribe.Each time you do our little community grows!Coaching and free resources: AttemptingMotherhood.com Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, medical professional, or mental health professional. I am sharing my lived experience. If you relate to any of the content in these episodes, do your own research and speak to a medical professional if needed. There are free resources available in my links:  https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood If you enjoyed this episode please share, subscribe, rate, and review. Each time you do our little community grows. Follow Sam: https://www.tiktok.com/@samattemptsmotherhood https://www.instagram.com/samattemptsmotherhood/ Follow the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/attemptingmotherhood.pod/ For more information and resources head to: https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood Buy me a coffee (an opportunity to show appreciation for the content you've enjoyed).

    12 min
  7. 01/07/2025

    The ADHD Focus Friend - Grace Koelma helps you understand your ADHD brain

    This week I'm joined by Grace Koelma of Future ADHD This was a special conversation. Grace is the newly published author of “The ADHD Focus Friend”. We chat about the book, launching January 8th, which explores strategies for managing ADHD, alongside her popular digital planners which have been transformative tools for many. We open with Grace sharing her personal journey of motherhood and discovering her neurodivergent traits, emphasizing the importance of self-diagnosis, advocacy, and creating neuroaffirming environments. Resources Mentioned: Grace Koelma’s New Book: “The ADHD Focus Friend” Future ADHD Planner: Available at Future ADHD’s websiteYour ADHD Besties Podcast: Hosted by Grace KoelmaMore from Grace:  Website: FutureADHD.comInstagram: @future.adhd  |  @adhd_besties_podcastPodcast: Your ADHD Besties Podcast Want to get in touch? Send us a message! Thank you for listening!If you like this episode please share, rate, review, and subscribe.Each time you do our little community grows!Coaching and free resources: AttemptingMotherhood.com Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, medical professional, or mental health professional. I am sharing my lived experience. If you relate to any of the content in these episodes, do your own research and speak to a medical professional if needed. There are free resources available in my links:  https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood If you enjoyed this episode please share, subscribe, rate, and review. Each time you do our little community grows. Follow Sam: https://www.tiktok.com/@samattemptsmotherhood https://www.instagram.com/samattemptsmotherhood/ Follow the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/attemptingmotherhood.pod/ For more information and resources head to: https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood Buy me a coffee (an opportunity to show appreciation for the content you've enjoyed).

    1 hr
  8. 12/17/2024

    Realistic Budgeting & Side Hustle Options for ADHD/ AuDHDers - Steph from Abundant on a Budget

    This week I'm joined by Steph from Abundant on a Budget. I cannot even explain how much I learned from this conversation! She talks about budgeting and how to make it realistic - meaning you'll actually stick to it- as a neurodivergent person. She share how you can make money doing side hustles (surveys, user testing, etc) with no experience or huge social media following necessary. Since Steph is neurodivergent and has lived with chronic illness she's always explored how to do things "differently". We discuss her realisation of being neurodivergent and what lead her to start budgeting and sharing her content. Links: AUS Side Hustle Masterclass US Side Hustle Masterclass UpBank $10 1:1 Budget Coaching Substack  Follow Steph: IG: AbundantOnABudget Tiktok: AbundantOnABudget Want to get in touch? Send us a message! Thank you for listening!If you like this episode please share, rate, review, and subscribe.Each time you do our little community grows!Coaching and free resources: AttemptingMotherhood.com Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, medical professional, or mental health professional. I am sharing my lived experience. If you relate to any of the content in these episodes, do your own research and speak to a medical professional if needed. There are free resources available in my links:  https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood If you enjoyed this episode please share, subscribe, rate, and review. Each time you do our little community grows. Follow Sam: https://www.tiktok.com/@samattemptsmotherhood https://www.instagram.com/samattemptsmotherhood/ Follow the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/attemptingmotherhood.pod/ For more information and resources head to: https://linktr.ee/samattemptsmotherhood Buy me a coffee (an opportunity to show appreciation for the content you've enjoyed).

    58 min
4.8
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Attempting Motherhood: The Aud Way is a podcast for late diagnosed or late realised ADHD / AuDHD mothers. It is hosted by Sam, an AuDHD ( autistic + ADHD )  elder millennial mom. Episodes cover topics pertaining to motherhood, neurodivergence, the combination of those two and how they intersect. Remember in this wild ride of motherhood, we're all attempting to do our best.