ADHD KC Conversations

ADHDKC Conversations

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

  1. Jul 17

    Missed the July ADHDKC Parent Group? Watch the Recording Anytime!

    If you couldn’t join us live for July’s ADHDKC Parent Group, you can now watch the recording of our outstanding presentation by Adam Tilove, executive coach, educator, author, and ADHDKC board member. The Smart Kid Paradox: Why Bright Kids with ADHD Still Struggle Adam shared a powerful perspective on why intelligence can sometimes hide ADHD rather than protect against it. Families learned: * Why ADHD is about much more than paying attention * How executive dysfunction creates a gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it * Why homework battles happen even when kids understand the material * How emotional regulation plays a bigger role than many parents realize * Simple strategies that reduce overwhelm and help children get started Parents especially appreciated Adam’s personal stories about growing up with ADHD, his practical advice, and his compassionate reminder that our children aren’t lazy—they’re often working much harder than it appears. Keep the Conversation Going in August Adam helped us understand why executive functioning (EF) is so difficult for many people with ADHD. Next month, Sarah Kesty will focus on the next step: What can you actually do to help? She’ll share practical, evidence-based strategies you can begin using immediately with your children and teens to support planning, organization, task initiation, working memory, and other executive functioning skills. If July explained the “why,” August is all about the “how.” For Teens: Homework Without the Battles In August, our ADHDKC Teen Group will tackle one of the topics teens requested most: How do I get my homework done when I don’t want to? Rather than adults telling them what they should do, this interactive session will help middle and high school students explore practical ways to bridge the gap between knowing they have homework and actually getting started. No homework but struggling with lack of motivation to get stuff done? They can use the tools to get chores and boring tasks done too! Explore All Upcoming ADHDKC Events Whether you’re a parent, teen, adult with ADHD, or educator, we have programs designed to support every stage of the ADHD journey. Visit: adhdkc.org/event-list to see our full calendar of upcoming groups, workshops, and events. We hope you’ll watch Adam’s recording, then join us live next month as we continue building practical tools that help families thrive with 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

    Missed the July ADHDKC Parent Group? Watch the Recording Anytime!

  2. Jul 15

    New on ADHDKC Conversations: Why Bright Kids Struggle (and What Actually Helps)

    Why does my child know what to do...but still can’t seem to do it? If you’ve ever watched your bright, capable child forget assignments, get overwhelmed by simple tasks, or shut down when school gets stressful, this episode is for you. In our newest ADHDKC Conversations episode, we sit down with Sarah Kesty—executive function coach, educator, author, and host of the Executive Function Podcast—to unpack one of the most misunderstood parts of ADHD: executive function. Sarah has spent nearly 20 years helping neurodivergent students and families build practical, brain-friendly systems that actually work. In this conversation, she shares strategies that can reduce conflict at home while helping teens build the independence we all want for them. In this episode, you’ll learn: * Why executive function is much more than organization and time management * Why knowing what to do is not the same as being able to do it * The difference between a lack of skill and a lack of will * Why bright students often struggle despite their intelligence * How parents can move from being the “manager” to becoming a trusted “consultant” * Why visual reminders and calendars work better than repeated verbal reminders * What to do instead of lecturing when your child is overwhelmed or dysregulated * How allowing kids to experiment with their own systems—even imperfect ones—helps them become more independent * How understanding their own brain can replace shame with confidence One of our favorite takeaways: “If they can’t do it, assume it’s a lack of skill, not will.” That simple mindset shift can completely change how we respond to our children—and how they begin to see themselves. Sarah also gives us a preview of her upcoming ADHDKC Parent Group presentation, where she’ll share even more practical executive function strategies parents can start using immediately. Resources Sarah Kesty - Brain Tools School Sarah Kesty - Executive Function Podcast Ace Your Time Google Calendar App Brainstorm by Dan Siegel Good Sleep Guide for Neurodivergent Kids by Melissa Moore About Our Guest Sarah Kesty is an executive function, ADHD, and autism coach, educator, author, and speaker dedicated to helping neurodivergent individuals thrive. She is the founder of Brain Tools School and host of the Executive Function Podcast. A 4-time Teacher of the Year, Sarah brings nearly two decades of experience supporting students and families in building real-life executive function skills that make daily life smoother and more manageable. She specializes in translating research into practical, actionable strategies that families and educators can use right away. Her work has been featured in publications such as Psychology Today, Edutopia, and state and national education organizations. Sarah’s engaging, down-to-earth style focuses on creating brain-friendly systems, inclusive environments, and sustainable strategies that empower teens and young adults to build independence and confidence. Watch or Listen Wherever You Prefer You can: * 🎥 Watch the video right here in this newsletter * 🌐 Watch on the ADHDKC website * ▶️ Watch on our YouTube channel * 🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast app wherever you get podcasts Whether you prefer watching or listening during your commute, we’ve made it easy to learn in the format that works best for you. Help More Families Find These Resources If you find our podcast helpful, we’d be incredibly grateful if you would: * ❤️ Like the episode * 👍 Subscribe or Follow the podcast * ⭐ Leave a rating or review * 📤 Share it with another parent, educator, or professional Those small actions make a huge difference. They help YouTube and podcast platforms recommend our episodes to other families who may be searching for answers but don’t yet know where to find them. Together, we can help more people understand ADHD and neurodiversity—one conversation at a time. Happy listening! —The ADHDKC Team 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

    New on ADHDKC Conversations: Why Bright Kids Struggle (and What Actually Helps)

  3. Jun 15

    ADHDKC Parent Group Recording Now Available:

    Missed our June ADHDKC Parent Group meeting? ~ Or attended and want to revisit the great information shared? We’re excited to share the recording of our June Parent Group presentation, “Anxious Brains and Tools That Help,” featuring pediatrician Dr. Jennifer Dilts. In this engaging discussion, Dr. Dilts explores the powerful connection between ADHD and anxiety, helping parents better understand: * Why anxiety and ADHD so often occur together * How anxious brains process situations differently * The role of avoidance and reassurance in anxiety * Practical coping tools that help children manage stress and worry * Strategies for supporting emotional regulation at home * Evidence-based treatments for anxiety, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) * How ADHD and anxiety symptoms can overlap—and what that means for treatment Parents especially appreciated Dr. Dilts’ practical, compassionate approach to helping children build confidence, resilience, and coping skills while navigating both ADHD and anxiety. Watch or Listen Your Way You can access this presentation in whichever format works best for you: ▶️ Watch the recording right here in our newsletter 📖 Read along with the transcript below ▶️ Watch on our ADHDKC YouTube channel 🎧 Listen as a podcast on your favorite podcast platform - look for ADHD KC Conversations Whether you’re folding laundry, commuting, taking a walk, or sitting down with a cup of coffee, you can learn at your own pace. Don’t Miss Future ADHDKC Content Each month, ADHDKC brings you expert presentations, support groups, podcasts, book discussions, and practical ADHD resources for parents, adults, women, and teens. Subscribe to stay connected: * Subscribe to our newsletter for upcoming events and resources * Follow our YouTube channel for new recordings * Subscribe to the ADHD KC Conversations podcast wherever you listen to podcasts * Like and comment on our content to help others find us! The more connected you stay, the more tools, support, and community you’ll have on your ADHD journey. We hope you’ll enjoy this valuable conversation and share it with another parent who could benefit from understanding the ADHD–anxiety connection. Thanks for reading ADHDKC’s Newsletter! This post is public so feel free to share it. Resources & Dr. Dilts Information * Slides * Meg Foundation - megfoundationforpain.org * Dr. Dilts’ website - drjenniferdilts.com * ADHD Moms Podcast - letstalkkidshealth.org/Podcasts * Flusterclux Podcast - flusterclux.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Group Overview 01:58 Understanding Anxiety and ADHD 04:43 The Nature of Anxiety 07:41 Anxiety in Children and Teens 10:31 Coping Mechanisms for Anxiety 13:23 The Brain and Anxiety 16:40 Avoidance and Its Consequences 19:27 Modeling Coping Strategies 22:30 Words Matter: Validating Emotions 25:38 Normalizing Anxiety 28:28 Practical Tools for Parents 31:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 34:26 Modeling Emotions for Kids 38:18 Understanding and Naming Anxiety 42:44 Techniques for Regulating Stress 49:59 Assessing and Treating Anxiety in Children 55:50 Navigating ADHD and Anxiety Together Transcript AI generated - excuse the mistakes speaker (00:00) Welcome everybody as you’re joining in. Dr. Danda, did you want to introduce yourself since you’re relatively new to the group? Yes. I’m Caroline Danda and I am a psychologist. and I’ve got three kiddos that all have ADHD in some form. And so I recently joined the board of ADHD KC and very excited to help co-host the parent support group. And glad to be here because it’s just a I it’s been a long time coming because this has been such a wealth of information. everybody, I’m just gonna go over the since the CHADD agreements here and then I’ll turn it back over to Kristen. just really be kind. Be kind, be respectful. you know, be yourself, don’t try to be anyone else. what we talk about in here, we want to maintain confidentiality when appropriate. and then we are recording this. So it will go up on the website for people to be able to watch that as well. But we’re glad everybody is here. We’re super excited for the turnout. And I’ll let Kristen continue on. All right. I make her do the yucky stuff. not really yucky, but just agreements. Not always fun. but I get to talk about things that are up and coming and I’m very excited. We have several great speakers lined up. Next month will be the Smart Kids Paradox. You know, all of us who have known that kid who’s just not living up to his potential, so smart, but not doing great. Adam Tillove will talk about that. And then Sarah Ketsky will be talking about executive functioning strategies for teens the following month. And I know that will hit right as school is probably about ready to get going and parents are going to want to get their kids set for school. So that’ll be great timing. I also have the CHADD National Event Calendar. Many of the CHADD chapters like ours will post their online things and you’re welcome to join any of those. And then the new book club that Dr. Danda is co-leading is going on now. The adhdkc.org groups page has a book club group and there’s a forum there that’s discussing chapter by chapter, and they’ll wrap it up at the end on August 6th. with a Zoom talk about the whole book. So if you want to read ADHD 2 .0 or maybe just listen in on what everybody else who’s reading it is learning, I highly encourage joining that book club. So Dr. Fer Dr. Fur Doctor Jennifer Dilts is a pediatrician in the Kansas City metro area. She practices with Bloom Pediatrics, which is direct primary care, but she doesn’t do primary care. She focuses on ADHD anxiety and migraines, which don’t sound like they go together, but they really do. And I’m super excited. I’ve gotten to know her really well. Through multiple channels, and I’m excited to hear her talk tonight about anxiety and ADHD. So I’d love to take it away. Thank you. I am excited to be here. I also now get the honor of co-facilitating with Dr. Stuppy the Teen Group. And so we have a lot of fun each month in the teen ADHD KC group. So we’re talking today about anxious brains and tools that help. And as Kristen said, I’m Dr. Jennifer Dilts and I practice at Bloom Pediatrics here in Kansas City. And also as Kristen said, I treat anxiety, ADHD, headaches, migraine, and depression. And then I am also board certified in acupuncture and I do acupuncture for both kids and adults, which is really fun. The overlap, ‘cause cause as Kristen mentioned, it it seems like kind of a strange mix, but part of the overlap for me, or a big piece of the overlap and why I like treating all these conditions, is because I love teaching kids about their brains and how brains work and giving them tools, demystifying some of this so that they can have agency and feel successful. And I also, in a strange sort of way, like talking about hard emotions and negative emotions. We all have them. And so I think it’s helpful for our kids when we are able to talk about them and when we feel comfortable talking about them, then they are gonna feel more comfortable bringing up hard things with us. And the other thing that we know is that our kids, whether they’re little kids or teens, are really good at coming up with stories, and we want them to have helpful. And accurate narratives. And this is really easy to think about for me with ADHD because when a child gets an ADHD diagnosis, then a lot of times they can replace an unhelpful narrative like I’m just stupid or I’m the bad kid with no, I have ADHD. I have a fast brain. It’s harder for my brain to take that pause sometimes. And so the same thing with anxiety and other hard emotions, we want our kids to be able to understand what’s happening in their brains and how their own brains work so that they have helpful information and they’re not telling themselves other stories that that aren’t as true or aren’t as helpful. And so today we’re gonna run through how anxious brains work. It’s really interesting to me when I dig into anxiety that whether you’re four years old or 64 years old, whether you’re afraid of spiders or you’re afraid of public speaking, anxious brains tend to behave in predictable ways. And there are things that both for little kids, teens, and adults tend to help anxious brains too. And so we’re going to talk about how anxiety works and How we can help our kids with negative emotions, including anxiety, and then the most important part, tools that help with anxiety and with other difficult emotions, both for ourselves as parents and for our kids. And it may seem maybe like a little bit of a reach. I don’t know that we’re talking about this in the ADHD parenting group. This isn’t specifically an anxiety group. I also want to say that. I know Dr. Natasha Berger came and and talked to you all and her book, Managing Childhood Anxiety for Dummies, is a fantastic book. You can go back and watch her presentation that she did for ADHD KC here a few months ago. I watched it and I I think that she and I I think our presentations will go well together. I wanted to make sure I wasn’t repeating for you a lot of the info that she talked about and I I think They just kind of complement each other nicely. And what we know is that anxiety and ADHD are good friends, depending on which study, which which set of data you you look at, up to half of kids with and teens with ADHD also have an anxiety disorder. So 25 to 50% is kind of how that shakes out. And that is significantly higher than kids and teens who don’t have ADHD. Their rates of anxiety is more like 2 to 15%, sometimes as high as 25% in teens, depending on again which studies you’re looking at. But what we know is anxiety is super common, just like ADHD. And if you have one condition, you are more likely to also have that other condition. One of the lan

    ADHDKC Parent Group Recording Now Available:

  4. Jun 10

    🎙️ New ADHDKC Conversations Podcast Episode

    “Very bright… but not working to potential.” If you’re parenting a child with ADHD, chances are you’ve heard those words before. Maybe you’ve also wondered: * Why can my child focus on sports stats, video games, or favorite hobbies for hours… * But homework feels impossible? * Why does school seem so painful for kids who are clearly intelligent? * Is this really about motivation—or is something deeper going on? In our newest episode of ADHDKC Conversations, Dr. Kristen Stuppy and Dr. Caroline Danda sit down with Adam Tilove—certified executive coach, author, former Head of School, and new ADHDKC board member—to unpack these questions. 🧠 In This Episode: Adam shares: ✔️ What 11 years leading schools taught him about ADHD students✔️ Why traditional school environments often fail bright ADHD kids✔️ His own journey of being diagnosed later in life✔️ The “Smart Kid Paradox” and how intelligence can sometimes mask deeper struggles✔️ Why execution—not motivation—is often the real challenge✔️ Practical insights parents can use immediately 📚 About Adam Tilove Adam is the creator of the NeuroDiscipline framework, designed to help bridge the frustrating gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it. He is also the author of Split Second: Stop Stalling. Start Doing. His work focuses on helping ADHD individuals and families better understand the mechanics behind procrastination, follow-through, and success. 🎧 Podcast Highlights “School is often not designed for how ADHD brains actually work.” “The world eventually stops caring how smart you are and starts caring what you can execute.” “This isn’t a motivation problem—it’s a mechanics problem.” 📅 Don’t Miss Adam’s Upcoming ADHDKC Parent Group Event The Smart Kid Paradox: Why School Is Painful for Kids With ADHD — and What Parents Can Do About It 📍 Online📅 Tuesday, July 14th⏰ 6:30 PM CT💻 Free with RSVP Adam will also provide: 🎁 A free practical parent resource guide🎁 Actionable takeaways you can implement immediately🎁 Additional tools from his NeuroDiscipline framework 🔗 Resources Watch the video above or listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast player - look for ADHD KC Conversations RSVP for the July 14th Parent Group Event: Adam Tilove’s Website: Neurodiscipline Adam’s LinkedIn: LinkedIn Find this and other recordings on the ADHDKC Website: 💬 Final Takeaway If your child is bright but struggling, frustrated, or constantly labeled as “not reaching potential,” this episode is essential listening. Understanding why ADHD kids struggle in school can change how parents support them—and how kids see themselves. 🎙️ Listen now, share with another parent, and join us July 14th for this powerful conversation. ADHDKC ConversationsReal experiences. Expert insights. Practical ADHD strategies. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to ADHDKC Conversations 01:34 Understanding ADHD Through Personal Experience 05:39 The Role of Environment in ADHD Success 09:26 Misdiagnosis and the Complexity of ADHD 14:29 The Impact of Late Diagnosis 17:35 Supporting ADHD Kids: Parental Perspectives 18:56 The Smart Kid Paradox 21:21 The Importance of Homework and Execution 25:57 Building Structures for ADHD Success 30:02 Split Seconds: The Book and Its Insights 32:24 Preview of Upcoming Talk: The Smart Kid Paradox 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

    🎙️ New ADHDKC Conversations Podcast Episode

  5. May 16

    ADHDKC Parent Group Recording: To Do or Not To Do. Decision Science of Motivation with Mike Leggett

    At our May 2026 ADHDKC Parent Group meeting, executive function coach Mike Leggett delivered an insightful and compassionate deep dive into the neuroscience of motivation, helping parents better understand why ADHD brains often struggle with task initiation, follow-through, and resistance—even when the person truly wants to succeed. Mike combined brain science, relatable real-world examples, and actionable strategies to explain how motivation is not simply about “trying harder” or “knowing better.” Instead, motivation is the brain’s internal cost-benefit system, heavily influenced by: * Emotional significance * Anticipated reward * Effort required * Working memory demands * Fear, discomfort, or uncertainty * Interest level * Social support Key Takeaways from Mike’s Presentation ADHD brains are not lazy. Children (and adults) with ADHD often fully understand what they should do—but their brains may calculate that the emotional, cognitive, or physical cost feels too high. Motivation is based on feelings, not just logic. Parents often rely on explanations, reminders, or consequences, but Mike emphasized that intellectual understanding alone rarely drives action. Dopamine plays a major role. ADHD brains often struggle to properly anticipate reward, making future benefits feel too distant or emotionally unimportant compared to immediate discomfort. Resistance often comes from hidden “No” factors: Examples include: * Ambiguity (“I don’t know where to start”) * Overwhelm * Working memory overload * Boredom intolerance * Emotional pain or fear of failure * Opportunity cost (“I’d rather do literally anything else”) Parents can help by reducing barriers—not just increasing pressure. Effective strategies include: * Breaking tasks into smaller, clearer steps * Supporting working memory with lists, templates, or visuals * Reducing uncertainty * Providing body doubling or emotional support * Increasing novelty or interest * Helping children identify why a task feels hard Practical ADHD-Friendly Strategies Mike Recommended Build clarity: * Ask: “What feels hard about this?” * Help identify unknowns * Make tasks concrete and specific Reduce working memory load: * Checklists * Visual examples * Written steps * External reminders Lower emotional discomfort: * Body doubling * Encouragement * Social support * Collaborative problem-solving Increase motivation: * Music * Challenges/gamification * Immediate rewards * Interest-based approaches Watch the Recording Missed the live event or want to revisit Mike’s powerful explanation? Watch it above or find it on your favorite podcast player. Download Mike’s Slides + Resources Mike generously provided her slides, neuroscience references, and additional resources for families who want to continue learning. Slides + Resource Packet: Connect with Mike Leggett Mike Leggett is an executive functioning coach with a passion for translating dense neuroscience into practical ADHD-friendly strategies. Website: Center for Living Well with ADHD Email/Contact: mike@centerforlivingwellwithadhd.org Final Thoughts Mike’s presentation offered an important reminder for families: When kids struggle with motivation, it is rarely about defiance or laziness. More often, their brains are calculating that the task feels too costly in that moment. Understanding the science behind this process allows parents to move from frustration toward collaboration, compassion, and more effective support. By helping reduce the “No” and strengthen the “Yes,” we can better support our children in bridging the gap between intention and action. Upcoming ADHDKC Parent Group Events Stay connected for future ADHDKC Parent Group discussions, including: * Anxiety and avoidance * Executive functioning strategies for teens * Academic and emotional support tools * Neurodivergent parenting insights Visit ADHDKC.org to learn about upcoming events and registration details. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this outstanding session, and a special thank you to Mike Leggett for sharing her expertise, humor, and compassionate understanding of ADHD brains. Chapters 00:01 Introduction and Setup 01:08 Understanding ADHD and Motivation 11:30 Neuroscience of Decision Making 19:35 Brain Structures and Their Functions 20:05 Understanding the Brain’s Emotional Processing 27:03 The Role of the Prefrontal Cortex in Decision Making 31:28 Motivation: The Brain’s Driving Force 37:45 The Action Intention Gap in ADHD 45:23 Challenges Faced by ADHD Brains 55:34 Understanding the Problem Before Solutions 55:48 Motivation and Task Engagement Strategies 57:58 Removing Barriers to Action 01:00:07 Supporting Working Memory for Task Completion 01:02:51 Managing Overwhelm and Ambiguity 01:04:15 Making Tasks More Tolerable 01:05:51 The Role of Emotional Support in Motivation 01:07:48 Understanding Motivation and Emotional Responses 01:10:42 Identifying Patterns in Task Avoidance 01:12:51 Applying Insights to Parenting and Practice 01:17:20 Visual and Immediate Reinforcement Strategies 01:22:12 Navigating Rewards vs. Bribery in Parenting 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

    ADHDKC Parent Group Recording: To Do or Not To Do. Decision Science of Motivation with Mike Leggett

  6. May 13

    ADHDKC Conversations: Meet Dr. Jennifer Dilts + New Co-Host Dr. Caroline Danda

    This month’s episode introduces Dr. Caroline Danda as ADHDKC’s new podcast co-host alongside Dr. Kristen Stuppy, and welcomes an incredible guest: Dr. Jennifer Dilts, pediatrician, new ADHDKC board member, and expert in ADHD, anxiety, and headaches. Together, they dive into the powerful connections between ADHD, anxiety, emotional regulation, headaches, and overall brain health—giving parents practical insights into challenges many families face every day. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: * Why ADHD, anxiety, and headaches often overlap * How anxiety can show up as anger, irritability, school refusal, or emotional explosions * Why kids with ADHD are at higher risk for anxiety * How understanding brain function gives kids more confidence and agency * The role of lifestyle factors like sleep, nutrition, and stress management * How acupuncture may help some children with headaches and anxiety * Why emotional education is one of the most powerful tools parents can offer * How to better recognize what’s really driving “oppositional” behavior A Key Takeaway: Dr. Dilts emphasizes that anxiety isn’t something to erase completely—it serves an important protective role. The goal is helping children recognize anxiety, build coping skills, and move through challenges with support. Don’t Miss Dr. Dilts’ Upcoming Parent Group Talk: Inside the Anxious Brain: Tools That Help Kids and Teens📅 Tuesday, June 9th🕡 6:30 PM Central💻 Free & Online Parents will walk away with actionable tools to better understand and support anxious children and teens. Learn More About Dr Dilts: * Visit Dr. Jennifer Dilts’ website Listen Now: Whether you’re parenting a child with ADHD, anxiety, headaches—or simply want to better understand how kids’ brains work—this episode is packed with expert insight, relatable discussion, and practical strategies. Watch here or listen on your favorite podcast player. Tune in today and join ADHDKC as we continue building a stronger, more informed community for families. CHAPTERS 00:16 Introduction to ADHDKC Conversations 03:20 Understanding ADHD, Anxiety, and Headaches 06:02 The Role of Education in Managing ADHD 08:46 Acupuncture and Its Benefits for Kids 11:26 The ADHD Mom Docs Podcast 17:28 Recognizing Anxiety in Children 22:19 Understanding Anxiety in Children 24:25 The Intersection of ADHD and Anxiety 27:43 Navigating Treatment Strategies 31:09 Recognizing and Expressing Emotions 36:29 The Role of Anxiety in Growth 41:43 Community Engagement and Support 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

    ADHDKC Conversations: Meet Dr. Jennifer Dilts + New Co-Host Dr. Caroline Danda

  7. Apr 18

    🎥 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

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

  8. Apr 15

    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

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

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  • Creator
    ADHDKC Conversations
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
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    © ADHDKC
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    ADHD KC Conversations