Happy Persian New Year! While we celebrate the U.S. New Year on January 1st, my family also celebrates Norwuz, the first day of spring—a time for fresh starts and new beginnings. And what better way to welcome the season than with a good spring cleaning session?Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about clearing mental and physical clutter so you can feel more organized, less stressed, and ready for the months ahead. As a math tutor and ADHD coach, I know firsthand how a clutter-free environment can improve focus, productivity, and overall well-being, especially for parents and kids with ADHD.What you’ll learn:How decluttering helps reduce overwhelm and improve focusADHD-friendly spring cleaning strategies for parentsHow to break down big cleaning tasks into manageable stepsTips for organizing homework stations, school papers, and study spacesWhere to start if decluttering feels overwhelmingSpring is the perfect time to refresh your home and mindset—and I’ve got simple, realistic tips to help make it easier!CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
A tidy home equals a tidy mind. I STRONGLY believe in this! Decluttering has been a great ADHD management tool for me. It’s helped me mitigate my ADHD symptoms without needing medication; I know a lot of people search for solutions like this. I want to share some benefits of decluttering that I have experienced in my life and some decluttering tips to incorporate into your life. My Decluttering Guide for ADHD outlines everything that helps me declutter my house so I can focus better. You can download it for free!CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
Do you have a picky eater at home? I get it! Encouraging kids to try new foods—especially when they’re stuck in the chicken nugget phase—can be a challenge. But establishing healthy eating habits early on is key, and as someone who loves exploring different cuisines, I know how important it is to help kids develop a love for variety.As a math tutor and ADHD coach, I also understand how food affects focus, mood, and energy levels. That’s why I’m sharing simple, practical strategies that have helped my own kids and students step outside their comfort zone when it comes to food.What you'll learn:Why kids (especially those with ADHD) can be extra sensitive to new foodsHow to introduce variety without mealtime meltdownsThe role of textures, flavors, and presentation in getting kids to eat different foodsADHD-friendly nutrition strategies to support focus and energyFun and creative ways to make trying new foods an adventureCONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
I’ve been so excited to record this episode because nutrition has been a game-changer for me in managing ADHD! Over the years, I’ve learned just how much what we eat affects our focus, mood, and overall mental health—and I want to share those insights with you.As a math tutor and ADHD coach, I see firsthand how diet influences energy levels, concentration, and even emotional regulation. While ADHD presents unique challenges, making simple, mindful changes to your nutrition can make a huge difference.CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
Struggling to get enough sleep? You’re not alone! A consistent bedtime routine is essential for both parents and kids, especially for those with ADHD. As a math tutor and ADHD coach, I know firsthand how poor sleep can impact focus, mood, and productivity—and let’s be honest, we all function better when we’re well-rested!In this episode, we’re talking about why sleep hygiene matters and how to create a bedtime routine that actually works. Whether you’re trying to get your kids to sleep earlier or improve your own nighttime habits, these tips will help everyone in your home get better rest.What you'll learn:Why ADHD and poor sleep go hand in hand (and how to fix it)How a structured bedtime routine improves focus and energySimple sleep hygiene tips for kids and adultsHow to create a calming nighttime routine that works for your familyStrategies for reducing bedtime battles and improving consistencyCONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
A new semester means a fresh start, and one of the best ways to set students up for success is getting organized from day one. As a math tutor and ADHD coach, I see a common struggle—missing assignments, crumpled papers, and overflowing backpacks. Without a structured system, it’s easy for students (especially those with ADHD) to fall behind.That’s why this year is going to be different! In this episode, I’m sharing my best school organization hacks, including how to craft the perfect homework binder to keep assignments in order, reduce stress, and improve focus.What you'll learn:Why staying organized helps students boost grades and reduce homework stressThe biggest mistakes students make with school organizationHow to set up a homework binder system that actually worksADHD-friendly tips for keeping track of assignments and deadlinesHow parents can support their child’s organization habitsWhether your child has ADHD or just needs a little extra help staying on track, this episode will help them build strong organization habits that set them up for success!CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
I love setting New Year’s resolutions! There’s something powerful about starting fresh and setting intentions for the year ahead. But let’s be real—most people fall off track within weeks of setting their goals. If you have ADHD, sticking to resolutions can be even harder without the right approach.So, why do we expect perfection in an imperfect world? Instead of setting ourselves up for failure, we need to create goals that actually work for us. In this episode, I’m sharing how to set realistic, achievable resolutions—especially if you struggle with focus, time management, or follow-through.What you'll learn:How ADHD impacts goal setting and why traditional resolutions don’t workThe biggest mistakes people make with New Year’s resolutionsHow to set realistic, flexible goals that fit your lifestyleStrategies for staying motivated and following throughHow to break down big goals into manageable, achievable stepsCONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
The habits we create at home have a huge impact on our energy, focus, and overall well-being. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or daily responsibilities, having a solid home routine can be a game-changer—especially for those of us with ADHD!Over the years, I’ve learned some key home habits from influencers, family, and friends that have helped me manage my ADHD, stay productive, and create a balanced home environment. While my routines might seem structured (maybe even a little Type-A!), they’ve truly transformed how I stay organized and focused.What you'll learn:How ADHD impacts home routines and organizationThe home habits I swear by for productivity and balanceSimple ways to create structure without feeling overwhelmedHow small habits can lead to a healthier, happier homeTips to personalize your own home habits based on your needsCONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
Meal prepping has been a game-changer for me—not just for saving time, but for reducing stress and making healthier choices throughout the week. As a math tutor and ADHD coach, I know firsthand how planning ahead helps avoid decision fatigue, impulsive eating, and last-minute stress over what to cook.I typically meal prep on Sundays, but when I was preparing for my second maternity leave, I took it to the next level—I prepped four months' worth of meals! In this episode, I’m sharing how I did it, my favorite meal prep strategies, and how you can fit meal prepping into your busy schedule without feeling overwhelmed.What you'll learn:How meal prepping can help with ADHD, focus, and energyTime-saving meal prep strategies for busy schedulesMy favorite easy, nutritious recipes for meal preppingHow to prep in bulk without feeling overwhelmedSimple ways to make meal prepping work for youMeal prepping doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming—it’s all about creating a system that fits your lifestyle. Tune in to learn how to make it simple, stress-free, and effective!CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
The holiday season is here, and I couldn’t be more excited! From spending extra time with family to festive lights and delicious food, there’s so much to love. But let’s be honest—the holidays can make it tough to stick to your health goals, especially when sugary treats and big meals are everywhere.As a math tutor and ADHD coach, I know how food choices affect focus, energy, and mood. In the past, I struggled with self-control during the holidays, overindulging and feeling awful afterward. If you can relate, this episode is for you!What you’ll learn:How to enjoy holiday treats without the sugar crash Simple healthy swaps to balance indulgence with nutritionWhy blood sugar stability is key for ADHD and focusHow food impacts brain function and energy levelsMindful eating strategies to avoid feeling sluggish after big mealsYou don’t have to deprive yourself to stay on track this holiday season. With a few smart choices, you can enjoy every bite while feeling your best!CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
Eating healthy while dining out can be a challenge—especially when portion sizes are huge, fried food is everywhere, and temptations run high. In this episode, I sit down with NASA Engineer Ivette Rivera Aponte to talk about making smart food choices while embracing cultural cuisine. As a Puerto Rican and a Persian-American, we love discussing food, culture, and how to navigate restaurant menus in a way that supports both enjoyment and nutrition.What you'll learn:How to plan ahead by checking the menu before you goWhy portion sizes in the U.S. can be unrealistic and how to manage themSimple swaps to avoid fried or overly processed foodsThe trick to eating a small snack before dining out to make mindful choicesHow ADHD affects food choices and ways to stay on track with healthy habitsTrying new restaurants and exploring different cultures through food is amazing—and you can still stay aligned with your health goals! This episode will help you enjoy dining out while making balanced, nourishing choices.CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
Preparing for the SAT and ACT can feel overwhelming, especially if you have ADHD or struggle with test anxiety. While some schools no longer require these exams, I still encourage students to take them—it can open doors to better opportunities and teach valuable study habits for college.As a math tutor and ADHD coach, I’ve helped students improve their test scores by focusing on smart study strategies, test-taking techniques, and anxiety management. In this episode, I’ll break down how to study efficiently and approach these exams with confidence.In this episode you'll learn:Why the SAT and ACT are still valuable, even if they’re optionalHow ADHD students can study smarter, not harderSimple strategies to reduce test anxiety and improve focusThe role of mental health, physical health, and nutrition in test performancePractical tips to manage time effectively during the testStandardized tests don’t have to be a nightmare! With the right mindset and preparation, you’ll be ready to crush your exams and feel confident walking into test day.CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
We have an amazing guest with us this week! Let me introduce Ivette - my former NASA mentor! We are such great friends, and I appreciate her taking the time to come on the Launching Forward podcast. We started working together at Kennedy Space Center in 2008, and she encouraged me to pursue entrepreneurship! She’s an inspiration to me, and I know many others, too.Today, we’re talking about the challenges and lessons of being a woman in the STEM field. When Ivette started at NASA in 2003, she was the only female in the office. It’s challenging to work in an office as the only female. There are several other industries where this is the norm. Let’s talk about some of the experiences and lessons Ivette and I have as women in STEM.CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
Balancing work, family, personal goals, and everyday responsibilities can feel overwhelming—especially if you have ADHD. In this episode, I sit down with Annelies, owner of F45 Gym in Brussels, Belgium, to talk about how she navigates a busy life with both compassion and discipline.Annelies shares her journey of managing a demanding career, fitness, and personal life, all while avoiding burnout. Whether you’re a mom, a student, or a professional juggling multiple responsibilities, this conversation will help you rethink balance and learn how to prioritize what truly matters.You'll learn:How to balance work, family, and personal goals without feeling overwhelmedWhy discipline and self-compassion go hand in handStrategies to avoid burnout while still pushing toward your goalsHow ADHD impacts daily routines and how to adapt for successCONNECT WITH ANNELIES:Instagram: @annelies_f45Come to their studio and get an amazing workout!CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
o you have a big test coming up or a major goal you’re working toward? Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone trying to improve focus and productivity, these study tips will help! As a math tutor and ADHD coach, I teach my students how to develop strong study habits that actually stick—just like astronauts train for their missions.In this episode, I’m sharing:10 astronaut-approved study techniques that improve focus and retentionHow to create ADHD-friendly routines that make studying easierThe best ways to break down big goals into manageable stepsWhy mindset and structure are key to long-term successSuccess isn’t about cramming—it’s about building smart, sustainable habits. No matter what challenge you’re tackling, these strategies will help you stay on track and achieve your goals.CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
The postpartum period—also known as the fourth trimester—can be overwhelming. Your hormones are shifting, and for many moms, that can bring on anxiety, depression, or feelings of being completely out of control. As a mom with ADHD, I’ve had to navigate postpartum in a unique way, and I want to share my experience with you.In this episode, I’m opening up about:My postpartum experience with my first child and what I learnedHow I’m preparing for postpartum the second time aroundThe connection between ADHD and postpartum anxietyPractical ways to give yourself grace and manage your mental healthEvery postpartum journey is different, and there is no one right way to cope. If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone, and you won’t feel this way forever. You just created life—give yourself time to heal and adjust. You’ve got this, mama! ❤️CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
Today, I’m opening up about my personal ADHD journey—how I learned to manage it without medication. While I did try medication for a short time in college, I quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. Through trial and error, I discovered alternative strategies that helped me stay focused, organized, and productive.In this episode, I’m sharing:Why I stopped taking ADHD medication and what happened nextThe holistic and practical strategies I use to manage ADHDHow structure, accountability, and lifestyle changes made a differenceWhy ADHD is part of who I am, and I wouldn’t change itIf you’re struggling with ADHD and wondering if there are alternatives to medication, I want you to know that you have options! No single approach works for everyone, and I hope my experience gives you ideas to explore what works best for you.CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
Do you struggle with math or feel overwhelmed by numbers? As a math tutor and ADHD coach, I strongly believe that every woman—especially those with ADHD—needs to understand their numbers. Whether it’s budgeting, business finances, or everyday decision-making, knowing your numbers is essential to feeling empowered and in control.In this episode, I’m breaking down five key reasons why understanding numbers matters, even if math isn’t your strong suit. You’ll walk away with practical tips to boost your confidence and take charge of your finances, career, and personal goals.CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
I get a lot of questions about why I left NASA. It was my dream job since third grade, and I worked incredibly hard to get there. So, did I get fired? Did I quit? Today, I’m finally opening up about my journey—from landing a role in the NASA engineering program to making the life-changing decision to leave and pursue a new path as an ADHD coach and math tutor.In this episode, I share:How I got into NASA and what it was really like working thereThe unexpected challenges I faced as someone with ADHDWhy I ultimately decided to leave my engineering careerHow this decision led me to coaching and helping others reach their full potentialCONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.
WELCOME to the very first episode of the Launching Forward podcast!I am so excited to introduce the Launching Forward podcast! I wanted to create a podcast that touches on a variety of topics I have expertise in. Topics of future episodes include: -Nutrition -Engineering -Mathematics -Wellness -Working mom -Entrepreneurship And so much more! I can’t wait to share all my knowledge with you and hopefully help you become mission fit and achieve your goals.Thank you for listening to my Welcomesode! I release new episodes every other week; see you next time! It’s episode 1, or as I like to call it: ‘The Welcomsode!’ Join me, Laila Alieh, as I prepare for launch with my brand new podcast, a deep dive into nutrition, engineering, mathematics, wellness and much more. In this episode, we blast off with an introduction to what you might expect from future podcast episodes, a brief history of Laila; who I am, and how I got here. CONNECT WITH LAILA ALIEH: Instagram: @lailaaliehEmail: Laila@lailaalieh.comSign up for my monthly newsletterLaila is an ADHD Coach and Tutor for Students, ready to help people of all ages reach for the stars and discover their full potential. To learn more about Laila, or to inquire about working with her, visit www.LailaAlieh.com. To inquire about being a guest on the podcast, submit a topic, or ask a question for a future episode, please email Laila.