Full-Tilt Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent Children

This week I’m talking with Dr. Lynyetta Willis about navigating the journey when a child is newly diagnosed with a neurodifference. A psychologist turned family coach, Lynyetta specializes in empowering women in their relationships, as well as combines her foundation in psychology and trauma healing with best practices in empowerment coaching to help her clients strengthen their parenting, partnerships, and personal growth to create joyful, connected, and harmonious families.  There are so many things I could have talked about with Lynyetta, but I wanted to dig into what happens to a couple, and a family, when a child is newly diagnosed — an often challenging and real process for many parents of differently wired kids. We talk about the sister emotions of grief and guilt, the importance of self-compassion and self-care in the process, how to handle different reactions in partnerships, and more.  About Lynyetta Dr. Lynyetta G. Willis, psychologist and family empowerment coach, helps frustrated families break unhelpful patterns and cross-generational cycles so they can move from stable misery into peaceful harmony. She helps her clients and audiences learn to strengthen their parenting, partnership, and personal growth practices so they can feel harmony in their hearts and homes.   What You'll Learn in this Episode: The difference between practicing clinical psychology and coaching work What are the common emotions after a diagnosis and how to process them in a healthy way Lynyetta’s PATHS framework: Perspective, Awareness, Tools, Healing, Self-Empowerment Tips for getting on the same page as parenting partners What is meant by the term “stable misery” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today we’re digging into executive function — what it really is, why it matters so much for neurodivergent kids (and adults!), and how we can better support these skills without judgment or overwhelm. Sarah and I talk about how awareness around executive function has evolved, why self-regulation is foundational, and how different skills — emotional, cognitive, and behavioral — are all interconnected. She shares her supportive, nonjudgmental coaching philosophy, along with practical ideas for helping kids with lagging executive function skills and navigating resistance when it shows up. Most importantly, Sarah reminds us that there is so much hope here: executive function skills can grow, and there are concrete steps we can take to help our kids thrive. About Sarah Kesty  Sarah Kesty helps amazing neurodivergent people create strategies to thrive! She is an executive function, autism, and ADHD coach and host of the Executive Function Podcast. A 4-time teacher of the year, Sarah’s Brain Tools School coaching and learning programs support high schoolers, college students, adults, and coaches in developing executive function skills to smooth out life. Sarah specializes in translating research into real-life, actionable strategies. She regularly writes and presents for international groups and publications, including The Humane Society, State Departments of Education, Psychology Today, and Edutopia. Sarah’s trainings teach businesses and schools to create environments and systems that support executive function. Her mission is to make the world brain-friendly, inclusive, and a little more fun. An avid birder and local Trail Guide, she and her family live in San Diego, surrounded by nature. Her book for teachers, Growing Executive Function, was released September 2025 (Solution Tree). Things you'll learn from this episode  How executive function serves as a foundation for success and why self-regulation is central to these skills Why “living in hard mode” can hinder executive functioning and how environmental factors play a major role How executive function skills can be taught, supported, and improved over time Why non-judgmental, supportive coaching helps children build confidence and reduce avoidance How visual aids and small, structured supports can make time management more accessible Why recognizing and celebrating small wins reinforces progress and builds hope for continued growth Resources mentioned Sarah Kesty’s website Growing Executive Function: Empowering Secondary Students With Skills for Lifelong Success (Executive function made easy for teachers) by Sarah Kesty Stop Playing in Hard Mode (Psychology Today) Sarah Kesty on Psychology Today Sarah Kesty on Instagram Sarah Kesty on YouTube Sarah Kesty on Edutopia Sarah Kesty on Facebook Seth Perler (executive function coach) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week I’m bringing back to the podcast Dr. Devon MacEachron, a New York-based psychologist specializing in assessment and educational planning for gifted and twice-exceptional learners. The last time Devon was on the show, we talked about the assessment process for 2e learners, but today we’re moving on to the next natural step of this conversation, and actually, the next step for a parent whose child has been identified as having any sort of neurodifference, from dyslexia and ADHD to a processing speed or sensory issue. And that step involves really exploring this question: What now? As in, what should I do with this information? How should I feel about it? Where do I begin? How can I figure out a way to navigate this unknown path in a way that’s in alignment with my values and will best support my child? This is a very practical episode intended to give you a framework for processing what can be overwhelming or unexpected information and then moving forward with confidence.   THINGS YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: If and when to disclose a diagnosis to a child A step-by-step breakdown for what parents should do once they receive a diagnosis for their child Whether or not parents should consider getting a second opinion How to vet advice and therapies and other approaches for addressing a child’s unique challenges Why it’s critical that we view children through a strengths-based lens Dr. Devon’s best practices for navigating the journey of raising a differently wired child Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s conversation is all about shifting from a mindset of limitation to one of empowerment and possibility. My guest is Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, a psychologist, professor, and bestselling author whose work focuses on helping all kinds of minds live creative, fulfilling, and self-actualized lives. In our conversation, Scott shares insights from his latest book, Rise Above, which explores the concept of the victim mindset and how we can move beyond it. We talk about the role of neurodivergence in shaping perspective, the traps of learned helplessness and rejection sensitivity, and the character strengths that help us cultivate resilience and personal growth. Scott also reflects on his own journey toward empowerment and what it means to truly rise above our limitations—both real and perceived. About Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman is a psychologist, coach, professor, keynote speaker, and best-selling author who is passionate about helping all kinds of minds live a creative, fulfilling, and self-actualized life. He is a professor of psychology at Columbia University and director of the Center for Human Potential. He hosts The Psychology Podcast, which has received over 30 million downloads and is widely considered among the top psychology podcasts in the world. Things you'll learn from this episode How Scott Barry Kaufman’s personal experiences shaped Rise Above and his exploration of the victim mindset Why a victim mindset is not fixed—and how self-empowerment and learned hopefulness can transform it How rejection sensitivity and cognitive distortions can reinforce feelings of victimhood, especially in children Why leveraging character strengths and modeling emotional flexibility builds resilience and growth How an empowerment mindset helps individuals take ownership of their challenges and personal development Why self-compassion and realistic expectations are essential parts of the ongoing journey toward self-actualization Resources mentioned Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman’s website Rise Above: Overcome a Victim Mindset, Empower Yourself, and Realize Your Full Potential by Scott Barry Kaufman, PhD Via Institute on Character VIA Youth-103 (Age 13-17) (Currently being tested) Dr. David Yeager on the Science of Motivating Young People (Full-Tilt Parenting) 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People: A Groundbreaking Approach to Leading the Next Generation―And Making Your Own Life Easier by David Yeager, PhD Mindset: How We Can Learn to Fulfill Our Potential by Carol Dweck Dr. Tamar Chansky on Children & Negative Thinking (Tilt Parenting episode) Freeing Your Child from Negative Thinking: Powerful, Practical Strategies to Build a Lifetime of Resilience, Flexibility, and Happiness by Dr. Tamar Chansky Dr. Sharon Saline on Understanding Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) in Tweens and Teens (Tilt Parenting episode) Dr. David Yeager on the Science of Motivating Young People (Tilt Parenting episode) 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People: A Groundbreaking Approach to Leading the Next Generation―And Making Your Own Life Easier by David Yeager, PhD Victim Culture & Self-Actualization (Scott on the Last Meal with Tom Nash podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The neuropsych assessment process can be daunting and complicated to navigate, especially in recent years as a result of COVID,  so I’m excited to share my conversation with pediatric and adolescent young adult neuropsychologist, Dr. Jonine Nazar-Biesman. Jonine’s work is about taking into consideration the whole child and the big picture when assessments are being done.  In this episode, we talk about what parents should think about when vetting psychologists to assess their child, the difference between a neuropsych, a psychoeducational, and a psychological assessment, and how parents can navigate getting a better assessment if they believe their child got the wrong diagnosis. We also talked about what to do with all the feedback parents get from an evaluation and how that feedback can best be relayed to our kids, and to their schools.Dr. Jonine Nazar-Biesman has over 25 years of experience specializing in assessing and treating children, adolescents, and young adults with neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism, ADHD, learning differences, and genetic conditions. She works closely with families, treatment teams, schools, and the community to ameliorate social-emotional, behavioral, and educational challenges.   Things you'll learn from this episode: What parents should think about when looking for someone to do an assessment for their child, as well as tips for vetting evaluators The difference between a neuropsych, a psychoeducational, and a psychological assessment How Jonine works with students and adjusts the evaluation process during the assessment in response to what she’s discovering How parents can navigate getting a better assessment if they believe their child got the wrong diagnosis Whether or not a neuropsych evaluation would benefit every neurodivergent child How feedback is ideally shared with parents, kids, and schools after an assessment has been completed How the COVID pandemic has impacted the assessment process How parents can best use the detailed feedback they receive as part of the neuropsych evaluation process Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode is an expert visit with leadership coach, author, and podcast host Heather Chauvin about navigating life’s unexpected detours, especially the ones that knock the wind out of you and make you question everything. Heather shares how her stage 4 cancer diagnosis reshaped the way she thinks about “resilience,” why so many capable, responsible women end up running on fumes, and what it looks like to stop powering through and start rebuilding your mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual resources from the inside out. We talk about the shame that can come with feeling tired, how to notice the moment right before you react (so you can respond differently over time), and simple, grounding questions like “How do I want to feel?” that can become a roadmap when life gets messy. Note: This is a special release of an expert conversation held inside the Differently Wired Club. Enjoy!   About Heather Heather Chauvin is a leadership coach who helps ‘successful’ women courageously and authentically live, work, and parent on their own terms. Heather started her career as a social worker helping adults understand children’s behavior. But it wasn’t until 2013 when a stage 4 cancer diagnosis pushed her to take a deeper stand for change, uncovering how cultural expectations sabotage our dreams. She has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Real Simple Magazine, Mind Body Green, Google, and more. When Heather isn’t working, you will find her living out what she teaches which may include kayaking Alaska, snowboarding, hiking, or anything else that challenges what she believes is possible for herself (and inviting her children along the journey). Life is full of opportunities. It’s time to feel alive.   Key Takeaways Why resilience isn’t about powering through—and how numbing and over-functioning can quietly turn into fatigue and shame How starting with the question “How do I want to feel?” helps parents make more aligned, sustainable choices Why fatigue carries important information and how getting curious instead of judgmental can shift everything How noticing your yellow zone before reacting builds awareness and more connected responses over time Why detours and uncertainty often become powerful identity work, revealing where growth and change are being invited How practicing small, intentional “tiny pushes” can help parents move toward the version of themselves they’re becoming Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cathy and Todd Adams, the husband and wife team behind Zen Parenting Radio, talk about showing up in partnership for our children, the gifts of growth and vulnerability, and how to foster deeper alignment with our parenting partners, even in the face of challenges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode an expert visit with Dr. Mel Houser—family physician, autistic PDAer, and founder of All Brains Belong—about the realities of navigating healthcare systems with neurodivergent kids and teens. Mel shares how their clinical work and lived experience have revealed predictable patterns in the “constellation” of intertwined neuro-immune conditions many autistic and ADHD people experience, why traditional medicine often misses them, and what families can do to get safer, more informed care. This conversation is packed with practical tools, system workarounds, and hope grounded in community and bottom-up change. Note: This is a special release of an expert conversation held inside the Differently Wired Club. Enjoy! Key Takeaways How advocacy can look like bottom-up systems change—building parallel supports, community-driven solutions, and using an oblique angle instead of fighting institutions head-on Why the predictable “constellation” of medical issues in autistic and ADHD people is often missed by traditional medicine—and how a whole neuro-immune lens changes that How self-knowledge at any age becomes a medical and emotional game-changer, empowering kids and adults to understand, predict, and manage their own bodies Why teens who feel “tired of trying” need a new narrative and bigger framework, not just more interventions or treatment plans How proactively preparing for healthcare encounters—with visuals, scripts, and flexible goals—reduces dysregulation and builds long-term trust and capacity Why community and collective problem-solving are essential infrastructure when systems fail, not optional extras Additional Resources   All Brains Belong (Dr. Mel Houser’s website) Dr. Mel Houser on Navigating the Healthcare System as a Neurodivergent Individual (Tilt Parenting podcast) All Brains Belong on Instagram All Brains Belong on Facebook Dr. Mel Houser on LinkedIn All Brains Belong Resource, ALL THE THINGS (Free resource for navigating neurodivergent healthcare) All Brains Belong Kid Connections (Free customized friend-making program for kids age 4-17 based on shared interests) Everything is Connected to Everything: Improving the Healthcare of Autistic & ADHD Patients Brain Club: (Weekly virtual community education program for older teens & adults) Practical Strategies for Neuroinclusive Healthcare (webinar) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week I bring back parent coach Margaret Webb, who offers advice for navigating a dynamic where grandparents and other extended family don’t understand our child. We talk about how to handle family who may not be as tolerant or understanding of who our kids are (or our reality in raising them) as we would like. So often big family events like weddings or graduations or holiday celebrations create situations where we’re expected to spend lots of time with family, but it might not look the way we, or they, expect. So what do we do in these scenarios? What are our responsibilities both to our children and to the family members hosting or attending these events? How can we best prep for these tricky situations? That’s what we’re covering in this episode. Margaret has a lot of experience supporting parents through this difficult dynamic, and in this episode she shares her best tips and strategies for taking care of ourselves and our children and making choices around family events that make the most sense for our reality.   About Margaret Margaret Webb is a certified Master Life Coach, parenting coach, nature-based coach, former teacher, wife and mother. As a life and parenting coach, she weaves together her experience as an elementary education teacher with the tools she’s learned in Martha Beck’s Life Coach Training, Sagefire Institute’s Nature-Based Coach Training, and what she’s applied to her own life as a mom of a child with special needs.   Things you’ll learn from this episode How “shoulding” from other parents can lead to a judgement shame spiral How to take care of yourself and the emotions that come up in challenging situations How to practice proactive problem solving around family events that are likely to be challenging The importance of being mindful of the time and energy we spend on other people How to play “dysfunctional bingo” Margaret’s best tips for parents navigating tricky dynamics with extended family, and handling grandparents who don’t understand our child Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today we’re talking about Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria—often referred to as RSD—a deeply emotional experience that affects so many individuals with ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence. My guest is Dr. Sharon Saline, a clinical psychologist who has spent over 30 years working with neurodivergent children, teens, adults, and families. In our conversation, Sharon breaks down what RSD is, how it shows up in daily life, and why understanding it can be such a game changer—for both kids and parents. We talk about the emotional and psychological impact of RSD, practical tools for managing it, and how to cultivate self-compassion and resilience in the face of painful rejection or criticism. Sharon also shares strategies for helping kids navigate social situations with more confidence and less overwhelm, and for supporting ourselves as parents along the way. About Dr. Sharon Saline Dr. Sharon Saline is the author of the award-winning book, What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew: Working Together to Empower Kids for Success in School and Life and The ADHD solution card deck. She specializes in working with ADHD and neurodivergent children, teens, adults and families–helping them improve cognitive and social executive functioning skills, resilience, self-confidence and personal relationships. She consults with schools, clinics and businesses internationally. Dr. Saline is an instructor at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, a part-time lecturer at the Smith College School for Social Work, blogger for PsychologyToday.com, contributing expert on MASS Live at WWLP TV, serves on the editorial board of and hosts a monthly live event for ADDitudemag.com. Things you'll learn from this episode  How rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) shows up as an intense emotional response to perceived rejection or criticism Why many people with ADHD also experience RSD and how it can affect social interactions and relationships How RSD can trigger deep shame and emotional pain, often overlapping with social anxiety Why self-compassion, resilience, and reframing negative thoughts are key coping strategies How parents can support their children by validating their feelings rather than minimizing them Why understanding RSD is empowering and helps individuals navigate relationships with greater self-awareness Resources mentioned Dr. Sharon Saline’s website What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew: Working Together to Empower Kids for Success in School and Life by Dr. Sharon Saline The ADHD Solution Card Deck Dr. Sharon Saline on Instagram Dr. Sharon Saline on Facebook Dr. Sharon Saline on Threads Dr. Sharon Saline on LinkedIn Dr. Sharon Saline’s YouTube channel Dr. Sharon Saline on Understanding and Working with ADHD in Girls (Full-Tilt Parenting) The ADHD Solution Card Deck: 50 Strategies to Help Kids Learn, Reduce Stress & Improve Family Connections (created by Dr. Sharon Saline) Sharon Saline on What Our ADHD Kids Wish We Knew (Full-Tilt Parenting) Dr. Megan Anna Neff on RSD (Neurodivergent Insights) Sharon Saline on RSD (Additude Today) Thomas Brown / Brown Clinic for Attention and Related Disorders Dr. William Dodson How ADHD Shapes Your Perceptions (PDF by William Dodson) Big Kids, Big Emotions: Helping Teens with ADHD and Rejection Sensitivity Improve Emotional Regulation (Webinar with Sharon Saline on Additude Magazine) Q: Are My Feelings Valid, Even If RSD Is Involved? (Sharon Saline on Additude Magazine) I Feel Judged & Attacked: A Teen’s View of RSD (Sharon Saline on Additude Magazine) Dear Dr. Sharon: Is Rejection Sensitivity All In My Head? (Sharon Saline’s website) Social Anxiety vs. Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) with Sharon Saline, Psy.D. (Webinar) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Today we’re talking about anxiety—how it shows up in families, how it affects our kids’ growing independence, and what we can do to keep worry from running the show. My guest, Lynn Lyons, is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, and leading voice in the treatment of anxiety disorders in children, teens, and adults. In our conversation, Lynn and I unpack the dynamics of anxiety within families—what happens as kids begin asserting independence, how parents can best support their social and emotional growth, and how to notice when our own habits might be feeding the cycle. She offers practical, compassionate strategies for shifting from worry to courage and for helping both our kids and ourselves move through anxiety with more confidence and calm.   About Lynn Lyons Lynn Lyons is a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist in Concord, New Hampshire. She has been in private practice for 35 years specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders in adults and children. She is a sought after expert, appearing in the New York Times, Time, NPR, Psychology Today, Good Morning America, Today Show and other media outlets. Lynn is a featured expert in the 2023 documentary Anxious Nation. With a special interest in breaking the generational cycle of worry in families, Lynn is the author/coauthor of several books and articles on anxiety, including Anxious Kids, Anxious Parents: 7 Ways to Stop the Worry Cycle and Raise Courageous & Independent Children, and the companion book for kids, Playing with Anxiety: Casey’s Guide for Teens and Kids. Her latest book for adults and teenagers, The Anxiety Audit was released October ’22. Lynn is the co-host of the popular podcast Flusterclux. Things you'll learn from this episode How anxiety can take on a powerful “cult leader” role within families, influencing thoughts and behaviors Why parents often unknowingly bargain with anxiety in early childhood to maintain calm or control How growing social pressures and the shift toward independence can heighten anxiety for both parents and kids Why changes in sleep, participation, and social engagement may signal deeper anxiety concerns How the loss of parental control during adolescence can trigger its own layer of worry and stress Why understanding these family dynamics is essential for effectively supporting children’s mental health Resources mentioned Lynn Lyons’ website Flusterclux podcast Lynn on Instagram Anxiety Disruptor series on the Flusterclux Podcast Anxious Kids, Anxious Parents: 7 Ways to Stop the Worry Cycle and Raise Courageous and Independent Children by Lynn Lyons & Reid Wilson The Anxiety Audit: Seven Sneaky Ways Anxiety Takes Hold and How to Escape Them by Lynn Lyons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I sit down with my dear friend and super talented life coach Kanesha Baynard to talk about the relationship we have with our parents and in-laws while also navigating our own journey as parents. Kanesha is an expert in multi-generational family dynamics and in this episode, we cover a lot of ground — the common challenges, tackling uncomfortable conversations, designing an alliance with our parents and in-laws, and much more. If you’ve ever had a communications fail or conflict or disagreement with your own parent or parent-in-law over some aspect of raising your own child, Kanesha’s perspective and practical strategies will undoubtedly inspire you to foster a dynamic that will best serve the whole family and meet everyone’s needs in a respectful way moving forward. About Kanesha Kanesha Baynard is a workshop facilitator, creativity coach, and inner wellness author who has been featured on the Dr. Oz Show. Her work has also been featured in many local and national publications. Kanesha is the author of The Self-love Playbook for #boldthinkers, 52 Powerful Questions: A Journal and Planning Guide for Creative Entrepreneurs, and Focus on What Matters: A Guided Journal. Kanesha has over 20 years of experience as an educator, leadership developer, and curriculum designer. She was a secondary teacher for eight years, served as a K-12 professional development administrator and oversaw the teacher certification program at a large university. She holds degrees in Spanish, secondary education, educational leadership, and linguistically diverse education. She is also has a certification in life coaching. Kanesha is based in the Bay Area and works with one-on-one clients, facilitates workshops, hosts enhanced retail experiences, and provides keynote presentations. What you'll learn from this episode How to recognize and understand generational differences between our parents parenting style and our own Strategies for handling difficult conversations with our parents How to handle it when we feel judged by our parents or in-laws How to take care of our needs and our kids needs during difficult moments How to ask for what you need from your parents and in-laws in a respectful way Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Cara Natterson and Vanessa Kroll Bennett, the dynamic duo behind the book This Is So Awkward: Modern Puberty Explained and the co-hosts of The Puberty Podcast, were on the show a few years ago when their book was first published, and so I was eager to have them back on for a deeper conversation about the often awkward but incredibly important stage of growing up called puberty and how parents can better support their kids through it, especially when neurodivergence adds an extra layer of complexity. In our conversation, we dive into the early onset of puberty, what’s new in the updated paperback edition of This Is So Awkward, and their vision for a more comprehensive, affirming approach to health education. We also talk about the unique challenges for parents of neurodivergent kids and why all of us—parents, educators, and communities—need better tools and language to support young people through this pivotal time. Ultimately, we’re talking about whole child development. Because every child no matter their age, race, socio economic status, brain wiring, will go through this stage of life. And as it turns out, what all kids need to emerge more seen and whole is the same thing. About Cara Natterson, MD Cara Natterson, MD, is a pediatrician, consultant, and New York Times bestselling author. She’s also the co-founder and CEO of Order of Magnitude, a company dedicated to flipping puberty positive. Cara’s books focus largely on puberty — some written for the kids going through it, and others for the adults helping them along the way. Her list of titles includes The Care and Keeping of You series with more than 7 million copies in print. While this reach is incredible, the written word is only one way to transform the experience of adolescence. About Vanessa Kroll Bennett Vanessa Kroll Bennett is a puberty educator and writer, a podcaster, and entrepreneur who helps adults navigate uncertainty while they support the kids they love. Vanessa is the co-host of The Puberty Podcast which is exactly what it sounds like and the founder of Dynamo Girl, a company focused on building kids’ self-esteem through sports, puberty education and parent workshops. Vanessa consults with organizations, large and small, on how to authentically engage children in their communities.  Things you'll learn from this episode  How the average age of puberty is shifting earlier, beginning as young as 8 to 10 years old Why parents and educators need reliable, science-based information to navigate early puberty confidently How neurodivergent children may experience puberty differently and benefit from tailored support Why it’s essential to include boys in open, ongoing conversations about puberty and development How empowering children with knowledge and advocacy can positively shape their growth and self-understanding Why collaboration between parents, educators, and experts leads to stronger, more inclusive health education Resources mentioned This is So Awkward: Modern Puberty Explained by Cara Natterson, MD and Vanessa Kroll Bennett Dr. Cara Natterson’s website, the Worry-Proof MD This is So Awkward Dynamo Girl (Vanessa Bennett’s website) Uncertain Parenting Newsletter Less Awkward on Instagram Vanessa on Instagram The Order of Magnitude Oomla The Care and Keeping of You 2: The Body Book for Older Girls by Cara Natterson Decoding Boys: New Science Behind the Subtle Art of Raising Sons by Cara Natterson What You Need to Know About Modern-Day Puberty, with Cara Natterson & Vanessa Kroll Bennett (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Sex Education and Our Differently Wired Kids, with Amy Lang (Tilt Parenting podcast) Sex Educator Amy Lang Talks About Kids and Pornography (Tilt Parenting podcast) Amy Lang on How Having “The Talk” Can Help Keep Your Kids Safe Online (Tilt Parenting podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Academic coach and author of The Disintegrating Student, Jeannine Jannot, Ph.D., shares insights on why previously high performing students might fall apart and offers strategies for building skills and resilience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s conversation is all about understanding and supporting autistic identity—how it develops, why it matters, and the ways parents and educators can help nurture it. I’m joined by Rebecca Duffus and Lyric Rivera, two incredible advocates doing powerful work in this space, and the authors of the new Autism, Identity & Me workbook for kids, and the accompanying professional and parent guide of the same name. In our conversation, we talk about the importance of identity development for autistic young people, the current state of neurodivergent education, and how parents and caregivers can foster a positive, affirming understanding of neurodiversity. We also dig into the “superpower” narrative—when it helps, when it doesn’t—and how to use Rebecca and Lyric’s Autism, Identity & Me workbook as a practical tool for ongoing conversations about identity, acceptance, and self-understanding. About Rebecca Duffus Rebecca Duffus BSc, PGCE, MA is an experienced Advisory Teacher with a Psychology Degree and a Masters in Autism and Education. She has many years of experience working with students and educators in both mainstream and specialist education settings as well as within local councils, charities and education services. Rebecca has been a speaker at conferences across the UK, developed a range of parent programmes, and provides training and coaching for settings.Rebeca is the author of the Autism, Identity & Me Workbook and Guidebook set published by Routledge. About Lyric Rivera Lyric Rivera, an autistic self-advocate from Texas, is a prominent figure in the field of neurodiversity and autism advocacy. Over the years, Lyric has educated millions about autism and neuro-inclusion through their blog, NeuroDivergent Rebel, their consulting organization, NeuroDivergent Consulting, and their best-selling business ethics book, Workplace Neurodiversity Rising. Things you'll learn from this episode Why understanding and affirming identity is central to empowering autistic children and teens How Lyric’s late discovery of autism underscores the need for better resources and support for adults How education systems differ widely in their ability to support neurodivergent learners Why parents should approach conversations about neurodiversity with openness and sensitivity How the “superpower” narrative can unintentionally dehumanize autistic individuals Why accessible, adaptable resources and ongoing conversations are key to healthy identity development Resources mentioned Autism, Identity and Me: A Practical Workbook and Professional Guide to Empower Autistic Children and Young People Aged 10+ by Rebecca Dufus and Lyric Rivera Rebecca Duffus’ website Lyric Rivera’s website Neurodivergent Rebel Rebecca on Instagram Neurodivergent Rebel on Instagram Rebecca on Facebook Neurodivergent Rebel on Facebook Neurodivergent Rebel Substack   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Executive functioning/education coach Seth Perler explores the concept of resistance in differently-wired kids and shares strategies and tools for how parents can support their kids in learning how to face their resistance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today we’re unpacking a topic that so many families struggle to understand—Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD—especially when it shows up in children. My guest is Dr. Tamar Chansky, a clinical psychologist and author of the newly updated and revised edition of her seminal book Freeing Your Child from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. In our conversation, Tamar and I talk about how our understanding of OCD has evolved over the past 25 years, what intrusive thoughts really are, and how parents can recognize and respond to them with compassion and clarity. Tamar walks us through her five-step approach for helping kids manage OCD effectively, and she offers a message of hope—reminding us that with the right support, children can learn to take charge of their thoughts and lead full, joyful lives. About Tamar E. Chansky, Ph.D. Tamar E. Chansky, Ph.D., founder of the Children’s and Adult Center for OCD and Anxiety, has helped thousands of children overcome fears and gripping mental compulsions. She is also the author of Freeing Your Child from Negative Thinking, Freeing Your Child from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Freeing Yourself from Anxiety. Things you'll learn from this episode How OCD can deeply impact family life and why awareness and understanding make such a difference Why recognizing the difference between typical anxiety and OCD is key to getting the right support How intrusive thoughts are more common than many realize—and can be effectively managed with treatment Why parents play a central role in helping children navigate OCD using structured, behavior-focused approaches How the five-step model empowers families to support change without reinforcing compulsions Why education, support, and understanding can ease parental fears and lead to better outcomes for kids Resources mentioned Dr. Tamar Chansky’s website Freeing Your Child from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Powerful, Practical Program for Parents of Children and Adolescents (Updated in 2025) by Dr. Tamar  Chansky Freeing Your Child from Negative Thinking: Powerful, Practical Strategies to Build a Lifetime of Resilience, Flexibility, and Happiness by Dr. Tamar Chansky Freeing Yourself from Anxiety: Practical Strategies to Overcome Fears, Worries, and Phobias and Be Prepared for Life–from Toddlers to Teens by Dr. Tamar Chansky Children’s and Adult Center for OCD and Anxiety in Plymouth Meeting, PA Dr. Tamar Chansky on How to Free Children from Negative Thinking (Full-Tilt Parenting podcast) Tamar on Instagram Natasha Daniels on Helping Kids Crush OCD (Full-Tilt Parenting podcast) Crushing OCD Workbook for Kids: 50 Fun Activities to Overcome OCD With CBT and Exposures by Natasha Daniels Filmmaker Chris Baier Helps Families Get Unstuck from OCD (Tilt Parenting Podcast) UNSTUCK: An OCD Kids Movie (Available with Spanish, French, Russian, Greek, Portuguese subtitles and an audio description) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week is a continuation of last week’s episode with executive functioning coach Seth Perler, which was so packed full of information (and also so long) that I had to break it up into two separate episodes, which I’m now referring to as a “masterclass” in executive functioning.  In last week’s episode, Seth shared his protocol for setting up a child for success in their developing executive functioning skills. In today’s episode, Seth is going to get into the nitty gritty about specific strategies he uses to address different executive functioning challenges that show up in school and in life.    THINGS YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: * What “Frankenstudy” is, and how to know where to focus your energies so you can create a “domino effect” with your child’s fledgling executive functioning skills * How to best use “learning planners” to learn how to think / talk through their plan (and what we’re doing wrong) * The benefits of monthly planners versus daily or weekly planners * Helping kids identify the “MIT” – most important thing – each day * The importance of creating a sacred study space for a child * How to optimize an internet browser to make it easy with bookmark bars (and have tabs automatically open, including calendar, grade tab, email) * Why it’s important to get kids to start checking grades weekly (Seth recommends Sunday nights) * The importance of helping a child create clearly identified routines (for leaving house, doing daily plan, doing homework, etc.) * How getting visual with kids benefits them in developing their executive functioning skills * Why separate digital timers need to be a part of a child’s life so they can learn to calibrate time, as well as get started and do short bursts of work * Creating a weekly overhaul of systems * The important of kids “getting into the mode” for studying, etc: organize their space, make their plan, and executive   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today we’re diving into one of the most tender and complex stages of parenting—launching our neurodivergent young adults into independence, or more accurately, interdependence. My guest is Penny Williams, a parenting coach for neurodiverse families and the award-winning author of four books on ADHD, including Boy Without Instructions. In this episode Penny and I talk about the emotional challenges parents face during this transition, how to redefine what success and independence really look like, and why interdependence is often the goal that best supports our kids’ thriving. We also explore the healing and acceptance this stage asks of us as parents—and how, even in the uncertainty, there’s so much possibility for connection, growth, and joy. Also, this is part one of a two-part episode — listen to the rest of the conversation on Penny’s Beautifully Complex podcast, which you will find here.  About Penny Williams A parenting coach for neurodiverse families, Penny Williams is the award-winning author of four books on ADHD, including Boy Without Instructions, producer and host of the Beautifully Complex Podcast, host of the annual Neurodiversity Summits, and co-creator of The Behavior Revolution Program, a parent training program designed to change the narrative on behavior and help parents celebrate and support their kids with ADHD or autism through neuroscience-backed insights, hard-won strategies, compassion, and guidance.  Penny empowers parents to help their neurodivergent kids — and families — thrive. Things you'll learn from this episode How parenting neurodivergent young adults can be both deeply complex and emotionally challenging Why redefining success for each individual young adult is key to healthier expectations How healing from our own experiences allows us to better support our kid’s growth Why aiming for interdependence and self-determination, not independence, leads to greater emotional stability How launching into adulthood is often messy, nonlinear, and filled with opportunities for growth Why letting go of control, staying curious, and remaining open are essential during this phase of parenting Resources mentioned Penny Williams’ Parenting ADHD and Autism website Beautifully Complex Podcast Part 2 of this conversation Meghan Ashburn and Jules Edwards on Autistic Adults, Autism Parents, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World (Tilt Parenting Podcast) I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults, Autism Parents, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn and Jules Edwards Dr.Dan Peters Discusses the Teen Years & Preparing for Navigating Launch (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Best Gap Year Programs for Neurodivergent Students (Thrive Autism Coaching) Dr Eric Endlich on Gap Programs for Neurodivergent Students (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Gap Programs Debbie Explored Gap at Glen Brook Parzival Academy Pure Life Adventure Program SOAR Sequin Land Institute   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices