• EP. 309: Redefining ADHD in the Latinx Community: Insights from Izzie Chea
    Dec 4 2024

    ADHD brains are creative powerhouses, built for innovation, connection, and resilience.

    In this episode, Tracy Otsuka sits down with Izzie Chea—a dynamic entrepreneur, educator, and neurodivergence advocate—whose ADHD diagnosis unlocked a world of possibilities. From building a viral virtual piano studio during the pandemic to creating impactful initiatives like La Neuropicante and the Accountable Otters Club, Izzie shares how she turned challenges into opportunities to uplift herself and others.

    Izzie opens up about her late ADHD diagnosis, the burnout that led to it, and the transformative impact of understanding her brain’s unique wiring. She recounts how growing up in a culturally traditional environment shaped her experiences and how she now advocates for neurodivergent voices, particularly in the Latinx community.

    As the head of social media and customer experience for the Hiki app and founder of a successful social media agency, Izzie talks about balancing her many passions while prioritizing mental health. She shares practical strategies for managing time and staying productive, including tools like Llama Life and time-boxing techniques.

    Resoures:
    https://www.laneuropicante.com
    https://accotters.com
    Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/@IzzieCheaMusicStudio
    Hiki App

    Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

    Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book

    Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

    Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka

    Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class

    Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends

    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • EP. 308: Chaos: Why ADHD Minds Are Built for This Moment in Time
    Nov 27 2024

    ADHD brains are built for brilliance.

    In this special Thanksgiving episode, Tracy reflects on the unique strengths of ADHD women and how they navigate a chaotic world. Drawing on her experience working with thousands of ADHD women, she explores why their minds excel at creativity, connection, and meaningful work.

    Tracy talks about the real challenges ADHD women face—overwhelm, juggling too many responsibilities, and feeling misunderstood—and offers practical strategies to create more focus and clarity. She explains how breaking tasks into micro-goals and aligning with your values can make life feel more manageable and purposeful.

    Through her A-OK system, Tracy has seen how ADHD women can take small steps that lead to big changes. She shares how understanding your brain’s unique wiring can help you stop feeling stuck and start building a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.

    This episode is a reminder of the incredible things ADHD women can achieve when they embrace their strengths. With personal stories and practical insights, Tracy encourages listeners to see their ADHD traits in a new light and use them to create a life that truly works for them.


    Resources:
    spyhappy.me/blackfriday

    Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

    Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book

    Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

    Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka

    Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class

    Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends

    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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    21 mins
  • EP. 307: Not a Disorder, But a Wildtype: Dr. Idit Hazan on ADHD as a Natural Human Variation
    Nov 20 2024

    Hot take: ADHD behavior is a normal variant, not a disorder. This is what our guest, Dr. Idit Hazan believes.

    Dr. Idit Hazan, a pediatrician turned entrepreneur and professor, redefines what it means to embrace neurodivergence in medicine and beyond. Through her journey as a parent and professional, Dr. Hazan recognized traits in herself that align with ADHD, helping her reframe her challenges as strengths and fueling her creativity and problem-solving skills. Her insights have led to groundbreaking innovations in pediatric care.

    In this episode, Dr. Hazan shares how her experiences as a parent and professor helped her uncover the hidden strengths of an ADHD brain. She reflects on how embracing outside-the-box thinking has shaped her approach to problem-solving and innovation. As a professor of Biology at Grand View University and a trailblazer in pediatric healthcare, she demonstrates how leaning into neurodivergence can transform industries.

    Dr. Hazan discusses the development of her pioneering platform, designed to make clinical environments more engaging and empowering for children. She also offers insights on balancing life as a parent of three college-aged kids, a professor, and an innovator. Her story challenges the narrative of ADHD as a deficit and highlights the potential of neurodivergence to unlock creativity and drive meaningful change.


    Resources:
    X: https://x.com/genetics_prof/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/idit-hazan/


    Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

    Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book

    Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

    Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka

    Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class

    Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends





    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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    50 mins
  • EP. 306: Why You Need to Find Your People Now!
    Nov 13 2024

    What if understanding your ADHD brain is the key to achieving your biggest dreams?

    For Luci Taylor, an ADHD diagnosis in her twenties became a turning point, giving her the clarity and confidence to finish her first book. Her journey—from crafting her first stories in kindergarten to creating complex, neurodivergent characters—is a testament to the power of self-discovery and embracing your unique strengths.

    In this episode, Luci opens up about the struggles and breakthroughs she’s faced with ADHD, from challenges in school to finding her creative voice as a writer. Diagnosed later in life, Luci shares how finally understanding her ADHD transformed the way she saw herself and her goals. Her “Midwestern Bookish Belles” series reimagines classic heroines with neurodivergent traits, inviting young readers to see themselves in characters who defy convention and embrace their quirks.

    Luci also shares insights into her creative process, which includes using colorful Post-it notes to organize her ideas and letting go of perfectionism in early drafts. For aspiring neurodivergent writers, Luci’s story is a reminder that embracing your brain’s unique wiring can fuel both creativity and resilience. Her journey offers encouragement and practical advice for anyone learning to live authentically with ADHD or supporting someone who is.


    Resources:
    Website: https://www.lucitaylorbooks.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luci.taylor.books/


    Resources:
    Website: https://www.womenandadhd.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenandadhdpodcast
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/womenandadhd

    Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

    Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book

    Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

    Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka

    Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class

    Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends



    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message


    Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

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    58 mins
  • EP. 305: Katy Weber’s Mission for Women with ADHD
    Nov 6 2024

    From parenting struggles to podcasting success, Katy Weber’s ADHD journey has reshaped her life.

    Diagnosed at 45, Katy—a health coach and founder of Women & ADHD—found herself rethinking everything she thought she knew about ADHD. This unexpected self-discovery helped her understand how ADHD had influenced her as a mother, professional, and individual. Through her podcast, she’s built a supportive, encouraging space for neurodivergent women to connect, share stories, and find community.

    Katy’s story is one of resilience and self-discovery, full of twists that many will find relatable. Before entering the ADHD advocacy world, Katy spent years as a journalist, covering a range of human experiences and honing her ability to tell powerful stories. With experience at publications like National Geographic and PsychCentral, she now brings her storytelling expertise to Women & ADHD, sharing stories and insights that make listeners feel seen and understood. This episode captures her journey from the fast-paced world of New York City to finding a new sense of balance in the Hudson Valley, where she has found purpose in health coaching and community-building.

    Through Women & ADHD, Katy addresses topics that resonate with her listeners on a personal level, such as the complex relationship between ADHD and binge eating and moving beyond diet culture to embrace a more holistic approach to health. She shares how ADHD affects not only personal identity but also how women show up in their work and family lives. Katy’s story goes beyond diagnosis; it’s a journey of learning, unlearning, and embracing the strengths that come with ADHD. Her message is clear: it’s never too late to understand your own mind and rewrite your narrative in ways that are both empowering and authentic.

    Resources:
    Website: https://www.womenandadhd.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenandadhdpodcast
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/womenandadhd

    Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

    Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book

    Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

    Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka

    Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class

    Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends

    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • EP. 304: Compassionate Communication for a Neurodiverse Family with Breanna Autolitano
    Oct 30 2024

    When life gets overwhelming, self-compassion and mindfulness can be the key to thriving.

    Breanna Autolitano, a mother of 9 and mindfulness expert, shares how she embraced neurodivergence and used compassionate communication to transform her life. As a mindfulness tour guide certified by Eckhart Tolle, Breanna uses her skills to help others find balance amidst the chaos of daily life.

    Diagnosed with ADHD and autism later in life, Breanna talks about her journey of self-discovery and the tools that helped her cope with childhood trauma and the pressures of raising a neurodiverse family. She opens up about the challenges of being misunderstood growing up, from struggling with dyslexia and math in school to finally receiving the support she needed. Her experience with mindfulness and compassionate communication gave her the ability to navigate her own neurodivergence and become a more present, understanding parent.

    In this episode, Breanna shares insights on how mindfulness and compassionate communication can reshape relationships, especially with children. From applying empathy in everyday situations to creating systems that work for ADHD minds, her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and connection.

    Resources:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breannaautolitano/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/breanna-autolitano-88227778/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@breannaautolitano3

    Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

    Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book

    Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

    Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka

    Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class

    Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends

    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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    58 mins
  • EP. 303: Turning Work into Play: Kristen West’s Story
    Oct 23 2024

    When life feels chaotic, humor can be your greatest tool for finding balance.

    Kristen West, founder of The Centered Life Co., has built a thriving online community around her fun, ADHD-friendly tools that bring joy and structure to daily life. With over half a million followers, her playful, shame-free videos on mental health and productivity inspire others to embrace their quirks and find motivation in unexpected ways.

    Diagnosed with ADHD at 26, Kristen struggled in traditional work environments, constantly facing burnout and frustration. Her diagnosis became a turning point, allowing her to build a life suited to her brain’s unique strengths. Now, through her planners and videos, she helps others create routines incorporating joy and play, proving that productivity can be fun and tailored to individual needs.

    Kristen’s work goes beyond to-do lists, blending humor and creativity with effective planning tools. In this episode, she shares her journey of managing ADHD, offering insights into overcoming challenges with self-compassion and humor. Her experiences show how turning perceived limitations into strengths can bring more balance and happiness into everyday life.

    When Kristen isn’t creating viral content, she’s likely climbing, baking bread, or trying to keep her vegetable garden alive. Her story is a reminder that success comes from embracing who you are and building systems that align with your unique needs, leaving room for fun along the way.

    Resources:
    Website: https://thecenteredlife.co/
    Website: https://www.findyourmagic.biz/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecenteredlifeco/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findyourmagicbiz/
    Tiktok: @findyourmagicbiz


    Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

    Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book

    Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

    Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka

    Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class

    Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends

    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message


    Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

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    1 hr
  • EP. 302: Healing Through Art with Yolanda Y. Liou
    Oct 16 2024

    When art became a refuge, it became a revolution.

    This episode is about embracing neurodivergence and challenging beauty standards. Yolanda Liu, a Taiwan-born artist based in London, is renowned for her work across photography, film, collage, illustration, and tattoo art. Featured in outlets like BBC, Vogue, and i-D, her story reflects resilience as she navigates life with ADHD and a recent autism diagnosis. From her early days nurtured by a creative mother to the launch of her second book, Thank You For Playing With Me, Yolanda's journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment. Through her art, she challenges societal beauty standards and promotes authenticity.

    Initially misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder, Yolanda found relief in an accurate ADHD diagnosis, which allowed her to better understand herself. Embracing her neurodivergent strengths, she explores how creativity has served as a sanctuary and a means to empower others. Her projects—spanning tattoo artistry and collaborative photography—emphasize representation, connection, and breaking down societal norms.

    Yolanda shares insights on managing empathy, self-care, and productivity, emphasizing the strength of embracing one’s uniqueness. Her journey is a testament to the resilience within neurodivergence, offering fresh perspectives on mental well-being, creativity, and self-expression.

    Resources:
    Website: https://yolandaliou.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yolandaliou/
    LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/yolanda-y-liou-45234142

    Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.

    Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book

    Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

    Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka

    Join What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class

    Unlock your best days with Blends:,https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends



    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message


    Are you feeling uncertain about your life's direction? Join Tracy Otsuka's free "What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass" to discover how to make better, more confident decisions and realize your full potential. Become an expert on yourself and choose the right path forward. Register now at spyhappy.me/class.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 13 mins