• EP. 298: Brandy Agerbeck: Do You Think in Pictures?
    Sep 18 2024

    What if you could draw your way out of a scattered mind?

    For Brandy Agerbeck, drawing became the key to turning her chaotic thoughts into something clear and manageable. Long before she was diagnosed with ADHD, Brandy used her visual skills to take control of her fast-paced brain, translating abstract ideas into organized visuals. In this episode, she shares how drawing helped her make sense of the world and how it’s become her go-to tool for managing ADHD—and empowering others to do the same.

    From childhood, Brandy learned that drawing wasn’t just an artistic outlet, but a way to visually organize her thoughts and reduce overwhelm. We discuss how she honed this skill, growing up in a creative family, and found her community of neurodiverse thinkers in college. Brandy also talks about choosing self-employment to avoid the friction of traditional jobs, building a career where her visual skills could thrive.

    Throughout the episode, Brandy walks us through her practical strategies for managing ADHD using visual tools—breaking down tasks with sticky notes, mapping ideas with diagrams, and creating flow states through drawing. We also explore the common challenges of ADHD, like time blindness and staying organized, and how visual thinking offers a way to navigate these issues.

    Brandy’s story shows that for those who think visually, drawing can be more than an artistic skill—it can be a way to bring clarity and structure to even the most scattered thoughts.

    Resources:
    Envision: http://loosetooth.com/smartass
    Website: https://www.loosetooth.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loosetoothcom/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agerbeck

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

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

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

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

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

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

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

    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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    1 hr and 55 mins
  • EP. 297: Creating Financial Harmony: Ellyce Fulmore's Intersectional, Feel Good Approach
    Sep 11 2024

    Do you often feel swamped by money decisions? Or find yourself wondering how to make your spending really reflect what matters most to you?

    Money management isn't just about crunching numbers - it's deeply personal, shaped by who we are and how we think.

    In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, we explore the complex relationship between personal identity and financial behavior with Ellyce Fulmore, a 29-year-old queer and neurodivergent financial educator, content creator, and best-selling author of "Keeping Finance Personal: Ditch the 'Shoulds' and the Shame and Rewrite Your Money Story." Ellyce is the founder of Queerd Co., a financial literacy company that takes an innovative approach to money matters.

    Ellyce's had a late ADHD diagnosis at 25, discovered through TikTok during the pandemic. This transformed her understanding of financial behaviors and led her to develop a unique approach to financial literacy.

    With an online community of over half a million, Ellyce is dedicated to helping people find the right tools, strategies, and perspectives to create a life where financial stability and joy coexist. Her expertise has been recognized by major platforms including The New York Times, CBS News, Vogue, The Globe and Mail, and The Financial Post.

    Ellyce shares insights from her journey - from post-university struggles to becoming a financial educator and author. Ellyce shared how factors such as neurodiversity, gender, race, and past experiences can profoundly influence our financial decisions and overall well-being.

    Elise offers tips from outsourcing tasks to creating spending systems that work for neurodivergent individuals. Her insights are valuable whether you're trying to better understand your own financial habits or looking for new ways to approach money management.


    Resources:
    Website: https://queerdco.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellyce.fulmore/
    Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@queerd.co
    Get my book: https://queerdco.com/book
    Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/dopamine-dollars/id1747386954

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

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

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

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

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

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

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

    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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    59 mins
  • EP 296: Anna Rahe on Fascia Therapy, Trauma Healing, and ADHD
    Sep 4 2024

    Can trauma be stored in the body? And if so, could understanding fascia - the connective tissue enveloping our muscles and organs - be key to unlocking healing? Join us as we explore these questions and delve into the often overlooked world of fascia with expert Anna Rahe.

    Anna Rahe, founder of GST Body, has dedicated over 25 years to the study and practice of fascia health and wellness. Born in the US and raised in Hobart, Australia, Anna's journey includes a personal history with ADHD, diagnosed at age 21. Her experiences with learning differences and trauma therapy significantly influenced her path toward fascia care. Now based in Boulder, Colorado with her family, Anna has established a successful business teaching fascia health, working with a diverse clientele including athletes, medical professionals, and figures from the entertainment industry.

    In this episode, we explore the connections between fascia, frozen shoulder, and hormonal changes. Anna shares insights on fascia's responsiveness to movement and hormonal fluctuations, with particular focus on the challenges during perimenopause and menopause. The conversation touches on cultural perspectives, such as Japan's concept of "50-shoulder," and examines the impact of fascia issues on individuals with ADHD.

    Drawing from her extensive experience, Anna offers practical strategies for improving fascia health. She introduces simple, accessible movements that can be integrated into daily life, emphasizing the importance of consistent and varied motion for maintaining healthy fascia. The discussion highlights how these practices may alleviate muscle aches, enhance hydration, and potentially influence both physical and mental well-being. Anna's approach provides listeners with tangible methods to apply this knowledge, offering a new perspective on how caring for fascia can contribute to overall health and vitality.

    Resources:
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/annarahe
    https://www.instagram.com/annaraheofgst/
    https://www.instagram.com/gstbody/
    https://gstbody.com/
    https://www.annarahe.com/

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

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

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

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

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

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

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

    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • EP. 295: Building a 7-Figure Business with ADHD: Insights from Molly Claire
    Aug 28 2024

    From feeling lost to running a 7-figure business: Is it possible with ADHD?

    Molly Claire's journey shows it can be done. As a coach trainer and founder of The Masterful Coach Collective, Molly has built a 7-figure coaching business while navigating the challenges of ADHD. She's a mom of three, hosts a popular podcast, and wrote "The Happy Mom Mindset."

    Molly has learned to embrace her ADHD brain and hopes to inspire others – including her two kids with ADHD – to do the same. She's passionate about helping her clients with ADHD recognize their unique strengths while being kind to themselves during difficult moments.

    Growing up in the 90s, Molly was diagnosed with ADHD at a time when it was rarely recognized in girls. Rather than feeling ashamed, the diagnosis helped her understand herself better.

    Molly believes that with persistence, most challenges can be overcome. This mindset has helped her through various life transitions – from learning to rock climb to adjusting to parenthood and changing careers.

    Molly opens up about dealing with self-doubt, anxiety, and the complexities of balancing work and family life. She shares how traits often associated with ADHD, like empathy and creativity, became assets in her coaching career.

    Molly offers a realistic look at building a thriving business while managing ADHD, showing that it's possible to turn perceived obstacles into stepping stones for success.

    Resources:
    • Website: https://www.mollyclaire.com/
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mollyclairecoaching/
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-claire-coaching/


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

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

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

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

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

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

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

    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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    44 mins
  • EP. 294: Ditching the Self-Sabotage Squad by Mastering Two Important Networks in Your Brain
    Aug 21 2024

    Why does our ADHD brain get stuck on those annoying negative thoughts?

    It's all about two parts of our brain: the Task Positive Network (TPN) and the Default Mode Network (DMN). The TPN is our "get stuff done" network - it lights up when we're in the zone, laser-focused on a task. The DMN, on the other hand, is our "daydream/worry" network. It's where creativity flows, but also where negative thoughts creep in. For us ADHD folks, switching between these networks can be tricky. We might get stuck in worry-mode (thanks, DMN) or hyperfocus so hard we forget to eat (hello, TPN).

    But here's the secret: when you're caught in a loop of negative thoughts, the key is to get into action! Go for a walk, call a friend, or dive into a project. By doing something, you're jumpstarting your TPN and quieting that pesky DMN. It's like changing the channel in your brain. Remember, it's never too late to rewire things upstairs. By understanding how our ADHD brains work and playing to our strengths, we can handle the tough stuff better.

    It's all about working with our quirky brains, not against them. So next time you're in a funk, remember: your brain has superpowers - you just have to learn how to use them!

    Resources:
    https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok

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

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

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

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

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

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

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

    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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    21 mins
  • EP. 293: What is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria?
    Aug 14 2024

    Do you ever feel like your emotions are too much to handle?

    Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is a powerful yet often overlooked aspect of ADHD, particularly in women. If you've ever wondered whether your emotional turbulence is more than just "in your head," you're not alone. Many people with ADHD experience RSD, but it's frequently misunderstood - especially among women.

    In this episode, we're going to have an honest chat about RSD and how it relates to ADHD. We'll explore why those of us with ADHD often feel things so intensely, and why criticism or perceived rejection can hit us hard. It's not just "being too sensitive" - it's a real part of how our brains work.

    We'll also talk about how RSD can make us perfectionists, always striving to do better but never feeling quite good enough. If you've ever felt like an imposter in your own life, we'll discuss why that might be happening and how it connects to your ADHD.

    But we won't just talk about the challenges. We'll also share some ways to cope with these intense emotions. From therapy techniques like DBT and CBT to mindfulness practices and medication options.

    This episode is designed to bring awareness, understanding, and support to those navigating the emotional landscape of ADHD.

    Resources:

    • Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Symptom Test for Adults
    • Emotional Regulation
    • Rejection Sensitivity and Depressive Symptoms in Women
    • New Insights Into Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria


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

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

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

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

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

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

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

    Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message

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    36 mins
  • EP. 292: The ADHD Workbook for Teen Girls: A Conversation with Dr. Catherine Mutti-Driscoll
    Aug 7 2024

    "I thought I was just lazy and stupid." These words from Dr. Catherine Mutti-Driscoll hit hard. At 37, with a PhD in education, she discovered she had ADHD - after her son's diagnosis.

    Tracy sits down with Dr. Mutti-Driscoll to explore ADHD in women, from feeling like an imposter to navigating social interactions. They discuss her groundbreaking work at the Hollowell Center and her book, "The ADHD Workbook for Teen Girls." This resource tackles the perfect storm of hormones, social pressures, and ADHD that teen girls face. The conversation covers strategies for success in education and work with an ADHD brain, offering a toolkit for self-discovery and empowerment.

    Resources:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-mutti-driscoll-ph-d-b9847919/
    Instagram: www.instagram.com/catherinemuttidriscoll
    Website: catherinemuttidriscoll.com
    Tarot for Change
    Modern Hue Tarot
    Rider-Waite Original Tarot Deck Cards

    _

    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

    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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    49 mins
  • EP. 291: Mastering Your Mind: How Thoughts Shape Your Life
    Jul 31 2024

    Your thoughts create your feelings.

    For women with ADHD, negative thoughts and emotions can be particularly challenging. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity for personal growth and mental mastery. By recognizing that our emotions stem from our thoughts, we can better manage our actions and achieve our goals. Mindfulness plays a crucial role in this process, improving attention, enhancing emotional regulation, and reducing anxiety.

    Visualization is a powerful tool in this journey. By imagining positive outcomes with strong emotional investment, we can boost motivation and build confidence. The Reticular Activating System (RAS) in our brain plays a key role here, helping us focus on opportunities that align with our clearly set, positive intentions.

    It's important to remember that while we can't control external circumstances, other people's actions, or our past, we have full control over our thoughts, feelings, and actions in the present moment. This internal locus of control is where our power lies.

    The dialogue we have with ourselves - our inner narrative - is crucial. By consciously shaping our thoughts, we can influence our emotions, behaviors, and ultimately, the results we achieve in life.

    ________

    Resources:

    • Mindfulness STOP Skill - https://cogbtherapy.com/mindfulness-meditation-blog/mindfulness-stop-skill

    ________
    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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    47 mins