Episoder
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If you’ve spent hours calling pharmacies, chasing down scripts, or fighting tears in front of your child’s school — this episode is for you.
This week’s Quick Reset is a brutally honest look at the ADHD medication shortage and what it’s actually costing families. It’s not just about pills. It’s about access, function, and survival. If you’ve been told to 'just hang in there' while rationing doses, burning out, and trying to stay regulated — this episode will meet you where you are.
We unpack why the shortage isn’t just a supply chain hiccup — but a structural failure — and what you can do right now. You’ll hear the real-life chaos behind one bottle of meds, the truth about demand vs infrastructure, and the emotional cost of parenting without the support you fought hard to access.
π§ What We Cover in This Episode:
What’s actually causing the ADHD medication shortage in Australia
Why this isn’t about 'overprescribing' — it’s about systemic neglect
The real impact on parents who are rationing, relapsing, and burning out
How executive function vanishes when meds disappear
What the TGA, the PBS, and DEA limits have to do with your child’s treatment
Bridging scripts, access barriers, and what GPs still don’t know
Why this crisis is about disability rights, not convenience
The stories that politicians need to hear — and how to send them
π₯ This episode is for you if:
– You’re sharing meds between siblings or skipping doses to make it through the week
– You’ve been left with no support, no alternatives, and zero help — yet somehow still expected to function
– You want to advocate without being told to 'calm down'π§ Listen now and take the first step toward action — even if all you can do today is hit play.
π Related Resources:
– Free ADHD Medication Advocacy Resource
– TGA Medication Shortage Portal
– π₯ Download MP forms, free resources & more on this subject hereπ§ TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
ADHD medication shortage, ADHD mums, stimulant access, unmedicated parenting, executive dysfunction, advocacy, system failure, rationing medication, Concerta shortage, Ritalin supply, neurodivergent burnout, mental health crisis, parenting unsupported, TGA, PBS medication, real-life ADHD, medication access, writing to MPs, disability rights, school chaos, neuroaffirming advocacy, ADHD parenting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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If your partner’s dreaming of overseas holidays while you’re barely surviving the playground — this episode is for you.
This Quick Reset is a brutally honest look at what 'holiday' means when you’re the default parent, the nervous system regulator, and the one who never actually gets to rest. If your body flinches at the word “vacation” because it remembers meltdowns, sleepless nights, and judgmental relatives — you’re not alone.
Jane unpacks the invisible trauma of parenting while travelling, why holidays can feel like executive function overload, and how memory, shame, and nervous system trauma shape our future planning.
You’ll laugh, cry, and probably cancel the family road trip — but you’ll feel deeply seen.
IN THIS EPISODE:
The five-step emotional cycle of ‘family holidays’ Why past chaos makes your brain reject future hope The mental load of pretending you're relaxed Photo albums that trigger survival memories What to say when your partner doesn’t get it How to redefine rest when even leaving the house feels hard Naming nervous system trauma without shame Why opting out isn’t negative — it’s protectiveThis episode is for you if:
– You feel guilt for dreading holidays you’re “meant” to enjoy
– You’ve walked into school term more tired than you left
– You want to create memories, but not at the cost of your sanityResources & Links:
Join the Facebook community: ADHD Mums FB Group More resources & tools: www.adhdmums.com.au/shopSCHOOL MINI SERIES:
S1 E41: Camouflaging ADHD + Autistic Traits in Girls with Millie Carr | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E2: SCHOOL SERIES When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E3: SCHOOL SERIES - Burnout Starts in the Classroom — And Follows Them Home | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E5: SCHOOL SERIES: Your Child Isn’t ‘Acting Out’ — They’re Burning Out | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E7: SCHOOL SERIES: The Great Gaslighting: When Schools Say We Don’t See It | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E9: SCHOOL SERIES -IEP Meetings Are Broken — Here’s What to Say Instead | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E11: SCHOOL SERIES: Reducing Stress Behaviours in the Classroom: Connection, Co-Regulation & Neuro-Aware Teaching | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E13: SCHOOL SERIES: When They Just Don’t Get It: Navigating School with Neurotypical Parents | Spotify | Apple PodcastJOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.
COLLABS:
For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].
MORE RESOURCES:
Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.
TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
holiday trauma, ADHD mums, parenting burnout, sensory overload, neurodivergent parenting, executive dysfunction, invisible load, travel shame, mental load, overstimulation, family expectations, gentle parenting realities, meltdown management, trauma-informed parenting, ADHD mum life, redefining rest, survival mode, vacation anxiety, co-regulation, parenting triggers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Manglende episoder?
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This one is for the mums who cancel plans and then spiral into shame — not because you don’t care about your friends, but because you’re tired of becoming someone else just to belong. This Quick Reset goes straight into the emotional cost of masking, people-pleasing, and being ‘palatable’ in social spaces when you’re already running on empty.
If you've ever ghosted a dinner invite because the idea of smiling through small talk made you feel sick — you're not rude. You're exhausted. And there’s a reason your nervous system taps out.
We unpack the invisible work of shaping your personality around others, the aftermath of overthinking every interaction, and what it means to parent, mask, and still try to hold onto yourself.
π§ What We Cover in This Episode:
Are you antisocial — or socially exhausted? What ‘masking’ actually costs neurodivergent women Why even a quick coffee can feel like a performance review Patchwork identity and shape-shifting through a room The difference between safe friends vs. performance friends How playdates, school pickups, and small talk drain your nervous system Real life examples of emotional hangovers after 'being social' Reset strategies for identifying low-cost, low-mask relationships Why you don’t have to host, chat, or explain — and how to drop the guiltπ This episode is for you if:
– You dread text replies or cancel plans last minute and don’t know why
– You feel like friendship has become another task to survive
– You’re tired of auto-correcting your personality to be liked
– You want to create space for friendships that feel safe — not scriptedπ Mentioned Resource:
– A Guide to Navigating School Pick-Ups for ADHD Mums — includes scripts, social energy planning, neurodiverse/NT dynamics, and boundariesπ Resources & Links:
π Reference:
Price, D. (2022). Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity. Harmony Books.• Join the Facebook community: ADHD Mums FB Group
• More resources & tools: www.adhdmums.com.au/shopπ SHARE THIS RESET:
If this one hit hard, send it to a mum friend who’s also stuck in survival mode. Let her know: she’s not broken, she’s bracing.SCHOOL MINI SERIES:
S1 E41: Camouflaging ADHD + Autistic Traits in Girls with Millie Carr | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E2: SCHOOL SERIES When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E3: SCHOOL SERIES - Burnout Starts in the Classroom — And Follows Them Home | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E5: SCHOOL SERIES: Your Child Isn’t ‘Acting Out’ — They’re Burning Out | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E7: SCHOOL SERIES: The Great Gaslighting: When Schools Say We Don’t See It | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E9: SCHOOL SERIES -IEP Meetings Are Broken — Here’s What to Say Instead | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E11: SCHOOL SERIES: Reducing Stress Behaviours in the Classroom: Connection, Co-Regulation & Neuro-Aware Teaching | Spotify | Apple PodcastJOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.
COLLABS:
For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].
MORE RESOURCES:
Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.
π§ TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
mirrored trauma, masking, social burnout, ADHD mums, neurodivergent exhaustion, friendship anxiety, sensory overwhelm, rejection sensitivity, people-pleasing, patchwork identity, fawning, parenting while masking, real self vs performed self, social hangovers, playdate dread, drop-off anxiety, safe vs performance friendships, emotional load, ADHD parenting, mum guilt, playground scripts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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This one’s for every mum who’s watched the birthday party photos roll in and realised — again — your child wasn’t invited. Or stood awkwardly at the school gate while other parents chatted like you weren’t even there.
In this raw and necessary episode, Jane tackles the quiet grief of social exclusion: not just for our neurodivergent kids, but for us too. From WhatsApp politics to parent cliques to the unspoken ‘rules’ of what’s considered acceptable behaviour in kids — we unpack how the system trains us all to exclude those who don’t conform.
If you've ever blamed yourself, masked harder, or told your kid to ‘just try to fit in’ — this episode offers a much-needed reframe. It’s not about fitting in. It’s about dismantling the gatekeeping in the first place.
π‘ What We Cover:
Why school exclusion is more than ‘just a missed invite’ The unspoken cultural rules neurotypical parents use to gatekeep inclusion What we internalise when no one includes our kids — or us How emotional safety and performance parenting collide Scripts for advocating without begging What to say to your child when they ask: ‘Why wasn’t I invited?’ Why this isn’t about being ‘liked’ — it’s about equityNeed support navigating school chaos?
Making School Work is your go-to advocacy guide for when your neurodivergent child isn’t coping — and the school says they’re fine. Packed with scripts, templates, and clarity for IEPs, school refusal, and shutdowns, it helps you hold your ground in the rooms that matter.
Get it here: https://adhdmums.com.au/product/making-school-work-parent-guide/Resources Mentioned:
A Guide to Navigating School Pick-Ups for ADHD Mums: check it out here
The Quiet Exclusion Kit: check it out here
π§ Listener Questions please send here
π Free Guides and Resources: https://adhdmums.com.au/resources/
π Research References & Supporting Evidence1. Autistic children are invited to fewer social events
Bauminger, N., & Kasari, C. (2000). Parent attitudes significantly influence social inclusion de Boer, A., Pijl, S. J., & Minnaert, A. (2012). Children with ADHD and autism are socially excluded more frequently Humphrey, N., & Symes, W. (2010). Rotheram-Fuller, E., Kasari, C., Chamberlain, B., & Locke, J. (2010)4. Impact of parental discomfort on social dynamics
While less studied formally, autism and ADHD parent advocacy groups (e.g. Autism Awareness Australia, ADHD Australia) and academic interviews (qualitative data) consistently show that parent discomfort, not child behaviour, is a major driver of exclusion.Many reports include statements like:
“Once the parents found out he had autism, the invitations stopped.”
“They said it might be too much for her — but they never asked us what would help.”These appear across:
Australian disability advocacy forums Published interviews in parenting and education journals Peer-reviewed qualitative studies of parent experience (e.g. Goodall, 2020)JOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.
COLLABS:
For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].
MORE RESOURCES:
Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.
TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
mirrored trauma, ADHD mums, neurodivergent parenting, good girl conditioning, parenting rage, ADHD parenting, sensory kids, emotional honesty, shutdown, intergenerational trauma, gentle parenting realities, meltdown support, breaking cycles, neuroaffirming parenting, trauma-informed parenting, ADHD mum life, performance parenting, co-regulation, reparenting yourself, parenting and trauma.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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If you’ve ever found yourself raging over a sock battle, losing it over a tantrum, or feeling shame after snapping at your child — this episode will meet you right there. It’s not just that your child is being ‘difficult’. It’s that their big feelings might be waking up parts of you that were never allowed to exist.
This Quick Reset unpacks the link between parenting rage and trauma stored in the body. We explore the concept of mirrored trauma — when your child expresses the exact emotions you were taught to suppress. If you were the “good girl” who never acted out, your child’s raw honesty can feel confronting. Even triggering.
But you’re not failing — you’re feeling. And there are ways to recognise it, reset, and shift the shame.
β¨ In This Episode, We Cover:
– Why you might feel rage at small things (like socks or dinner refusal)
– What’s really happening when your child ‘won’t comply’
– How ‘good girl conditioning’ can collide with your child’s emotional honesty
– The neuroscience of mirrored trauma
– Self-check-ins for performance parenting
– Why your child’s defiance isn’t disobedience — it’s a dysregulated nervous system
– What to do when you feel the heat rising
– Real, honest stories from parenting in the trenches
– Reframing the “problem child” as a mirror of your own healingπ This episode is for you if:
You’ve ever wondered “Why do I lose it at the tiniest things?”
You feel like your child’s behaviour lights up something way bigger than the moment
You want to break generational patterns — but also feel pushed to the edgeπ Resources & Links:
• Join the Facebook community: ADHD Mums FB Group
• More resources & tools: www.adhdmums.com.au/shopπ SHARE THIS RESET:
If this one hit hard, send it to a mum friend who’s also stuck in survival mode. Let her know: she’s not broken, she’s bracing.SCHOOL MINI SERIES:
S1 E41: Camouflaging ADHD + Autistic Traits in Girls with Millie Carr | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E2: SCHOOL SERIES When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E3: SCHOOL SERIES - Burnout Starts in the Classroom — And Follows Them Home | Spotify | Apple Podcastπ§ Listen Now
If you’ve ever left a meeting wondering what just happened – or held back tears while playing nice just to get a referral – this one’s for you. Hit play. Share it with a friend who’s fighting the same fight.π§ TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
mirrored trauma, ADHD mums, neurodivergent parenting, good girl conditioning, parenting rage, ADHD parenting, sensory kids, emotional honesty, shutdown, intergenerational trauma, gentle parenting realities, meltdown support, breaking cycles, neuroaffirming parenting, trauma-informed parenting, ADHD mum life, performance parenting, co-regulation, reparenting yourself, parenting and trauma.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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If you’ve ever been told your child is ‘defiant’, ‘rude’, or ‘lazy’—this episode is for you.
Tania Waring is back to unpack how stress behaviours are misread as misbehaviour in classrooms. Drawing on her PhD research into co-regulation and inclusive education, Tania explains what’s really going on for ADHD and autistic students—and why the classroom itself can fuel or relieve their distress.
We talk about why behaviour systems like marbles-in-the-jar and Dojo points don’t work for neurodivergent kids, and how regulation starts with the adult in the room. We cover practical ways teachers (and parents) can co-regulate, build trust, and support children in distress without punishing them for brain-based struggles.
This episode is honest, emotional, and full of tools for both home and school. If you’ve ever felt alone advocating for your child—or if you’re a teacher desperate for something that actually works—this conversation will validate what you already know and help you name it out loud.
Need support navigating school chaos?
Making School Work is your go-to advocacy guide for when your neurodivergent child isn’t coping — and the school says they’re fine. Packed with scripts, templates, and clarity for IEPs, school refusal, and shutdowns, it helps you hold your ground in the rooms that matter.
Get it here: https://adhdmums.com.au/product/making-school-work-parent-guide/Correction
In this episode, Tania mentioned there are no professional development (PD) requirements for teachers — however, she later discovered that wasn't quite correct and wanted to ensure this was added. In Australia, all registered teachers are required to complete a minimum number of PD hours annually to maintain their registration. For example, Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) mandates 20 hours of PD per year. You can read more here: QCT Professional Development Requirements.
π Mentioned in this episode:
Berry Street Education Model Social Stencil neurodiversity-affirming SEL Mental Health Menu (Victoria DET) Books: The Neurodiverse Classroom – Victoria Honeybourne Creating Trauma-Informed, Strengths-Based Classrooms – Tom Brunzell Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools – Emily Kircher-Morris The Whole-Brain Child – Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson Universal Design for Learning (UDL) GuidelinesResources Mentioned:
π Sign our Change Petition here
π Submit your experience with schooling here
π§ Listener Questions please send here
π Free Guides and Resources: https://adhdmums.com.au/resources/
Disability & Education Laws Referenced (Qld Human Rights Act, DSE 2005, UN CRPD)
π©βοΈ Human Rights Commission: humanrights.gov.au
π References & Further Reading
Disability Standards for Education 2005
Read via the Department of Education – Australian GovernmentDisability Discrimination Act 1992
View the full legislation on the Federal RegisterJOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.
COLLABS:
For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].
MORE RESOURCES:
Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.
TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
ADHD classroom behaviour, neurodivergent students school, ADHD school meltdown, trauma-informed teaching ADHD, co-regulation in education, stress behaviour vs misbehaviour, neurodiversity affirming strategies, inclusive education ADHD, autism shutdown at school, ADHD advocacy, classroom behaviour systems, Dojo points criticism, emotional regulation in school, ADHD support for teachers, Berry Street model, Universal Design for Learning ADHD, strength-based education, emotional safety in classrooms, behaviour as communication, ADHD discipline alternatives, neurodivergent parenting, supporting ADHD kids in school, autistic school experience, ADHD overwhelm school, masking and meltdown cycle, ADHD parenting, ADHD and school trauma.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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If you can’t sit still even when nothing’s wrong...
If you're checking your emails like a debt collector is chasing you...
If your heart races during peaceful moments...This episode is for you.
In this raw and validating Quick Reset, Jane peels back the misunderstood layers of 'anxiety' to reveal something many ADHD mums live with daily — high-functioning hypervigilance. It's not just worry. It's a nervous system that never learned to feel safe.
This is the episode to save and return to every time you feel like you can’t switch off, even when the house is quiet and the kids are fine. It’s not just stress. It’s survival mode — and it’s unlearnable.
π§· What We Cover:
The difference between anxiety and hypervigilance
Why so many late-diagnosed ADHD and autistic women live in a bracing state
How childhood emotional mismatch (not just trauma) conditions us to constantly scan
The link between people-pleasing, masking, and chronic nervous system activation
What hypervigilance looks like in motherhood (especially if your child is impulsive or unsafe)
Three practical tools to start calming your system today — no spa day required
π Key Takeaway:
You didn’t get this way by accident. Your body learned to brace because safety wasn’t a given. But it can unlearn. Regulation isn’t a reward — it’s your right.π Resources & Links:
• Join the Facebook community: ADHD Mums FB Group
• More resources & tools: www.adhdmums.com.au/shopπ SHARE THIS RESET:
If this one hit hard, send it to a mum friend who’s also stuck in survival mode. Let her know: she’s not broken, she’s bracing.SCHOOL MINI SERIES:
S1 E41: Camouflaging ADHD + Autistic Traits in Girls with Millie Carr | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E2: SCHOOL SERIES When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E3: SCHOOL SERIES When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents | Spotify | Apple Podcastπ§ Listen Now
If you’ve ever left a meeting wondering what just happened – or held back tears while playing nice just to get a referral – this one’s for you. Hit play. Share it with a friend who’s fighting the same fight.TOPICS COVERED:
Hypervigilance vs anxiety, ADHD shutdown, chronic stress, trauma responses, parenting neurodivergent kids, sensory overwhelm, people-pleasing, masking, emotional dysregulation, nervous system regulation, emotional safety, ADHD and trauma, survival mode, ADHD parenting tools, quick nervous system resets, late-diagnosed ADHD, mum burnout recovery, high-functioning anxiety, emotional masking in women, calm nervous system tips, ADHD mental health, trauma-informed ADHD strategies, somatic safety, ADHD nervous system healing, gentle parenting for ND families.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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You walk into a school meeting hoping for support—and walk out feeling like the unreasonable parent again.
In this no-fluff episode, Jane is joined by returning guest and neuroaffirming educator Millie Carr to rip the curtain off how Individual Education Plans (IEPs) are actually playing out in real classrooms. From broken communication and missing documentation to defensive staff and performative inclusion policies, this episode is a sharp, validating look at what’s really happening behind the school gate.
If you’ve ever been told, ‘we can’t do that for everyone’, ‘they seem fine’, or your child’s support plan was ignored by day one of term—this one will make you feel less alone, and a hell of a lot more prepared.
π‘ What We Cover:
Why teachers often get defensive in IEP meetings (and how to work around it) The myth of “equal treatment” vs the reality of legal equity in education What to say when schools refuse an adjustment because ‘it’s not fair to others’ The emotional toll of feeling dismissed—and how to stay focused in meetings What federal laws actually say about reasonable adjustments (and how to quote them) The serious issue of IEPs not being shared, read, or honoured—especially at the start of term Why parents must document everything—even if nothing changes Real consequences (or lack of) for schools that fail to follow inclusion policies What to prepare, bring, and track if you ever need to escalate or file a complaintNeed support navigating school chaos?
Making School Work is your go-to advocacy guide for when your neurodivergent child isn’t coping — and the school says they’re fine. Packed with scripts, templates, and clarity for IEPs, school refusal, and shutdowns, it helps you hold your ground in the rooms that matter.
Get it here: https://adhdmums.com.au/product/making-school-work-parent-guide/Related Episodes:
SCHOOL SERIES - When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents | Listen in Spotify | Listen in Apple Podcast SCHOOL SERIES - Burnout Starts in the Classroom — And Follows Them Home | Listen in Spotify | Listen in Apple Podcast SCHOOL SERIES: Your Child Isn’t ‘Acting Out’ — They’re Burning Out | Listen in Spotify | Listen in Apple PodcastResources Mentioned:
π To find out more about Millie Carr or purchase her books please click on her website or check out her IG
π Sign our Change Petition here
π Submit your experience with schooling here
π§ Listener Questions please send here
π Free Guides and Resources: https://adhdmums.com.au/resources/
Disability & Education Laws Referenced (Qld Human Rights Act, DSE 2005, UN CRPD)
π©βοΈ Human Rights Commission: humanrights.gov.au
π References & Further Reading
Disability Standards for Education 2005
Read via the Department of Education – Australian Government Disability Discrimination Act 1992
View the full legislation on the Federal Registerπ§ Listen Now
If you’ve ever sat through a 15-minute IEP meeting where nothing changed, or wondered how much louder you have to get before someone listens—this episode is your script, your validation, and your reminder:
You’re not too much. The system is too underprepared.
Hit play. Forward it to your child’s support coordinator. Save it for your next meeting.
JOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.
COLLABS:
For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].
MORE RESOURCES:
Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.
Topics Covered In This Episode:
IEP meetings ADHD Australia, neurodivergent inclusion school, disability standards for education, equitable adjustments vs equal treatment, ADHD fidgets in class, schools ignoring support plans, teacher defensiveness IEP, NCCD and disability evidence, parent advocacy for neurodivergent kids, documenting school issues, escalation in school systems, broken inclusion plans, legal rights ADHD school, how to prepare for an IEP, fidget bans and discrimination, masking in the classroom, disability support Victoria education, Millie Carr ADHD, ADHD Mums podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Why does getting support for your child feel like a full-time job… with no sick leave?
In this solo episode, Jane dives into the exhausting, invisible labour of advocacy – and why neurodivergent mums are often left navigating broken systems without a map, a translator, or a break. From IEP meetings to GP appointments, this is the episode for every mum who’s ever stayed up till 2am writing an email that might just get ignored.
If you’re tired of being dismissed, dismissed again, then blamed for being ‘too emotional’ about it – you are not the problem.
This episode will help you do it without setting yourself on fire.
π‘ What We Cover:
• How to advocate for your child without it consuming your entire life
• What to say when professionals dismiss you or minimise your concerns
• Scripts to stay calm and assertive in tense school/NDIS/GP meetings
• Energy-saving strategies for emotionally draining advocacy tasks
• Balancing authenticity vs masking when you’re in ‘the system’
• Why documentation (yes, again) is your best ally – and how to use it
• Emotional resilience vs toxic positivity when you’re gaslit again
• Building long-term allies in school and health systems – without losing your mindSCHOOL MINI SERIES:
S1 E41: Camouflaging ADHD + Autistic Traits in Girls with Millie Carr | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E2: SCHOOL SERIES When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E3: SCHOOL SERIES When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents | Spotify | Apple Podcastπ Resources & Links:
• Join the Facebook community: ADHD Mums FB Group
• More resources & tools: www.adhdmums.com.au/shopπ§ Listen Now
If you’ve ever left a meeting wondering what just happened – or held back tears while playing nice just to get a referral – this one’s for you. Hit play. Share it with a friend who’s fighting the same fight.TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
ADHD advocacy, neurodivergent parenting, school refusal, IEP meetings, masking and burnout, ADHD mums emotional load, advocating for your ADHD child, navigating NDIS, GP advocacy scripts, ADHD mental load, supporting neurodivergent kids in school, trauma-informed advocacy, inclusive education, ADHD documentation strategies, neuroaffirming parenting, advocacy burnout, parenting ADHD and autism, school system failures, emotional regulation in meetings, ADHD self-compassion, strength-based parenting, advocacy energy managementSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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What happens when schools insist your child is fine - but everything in your gut says otherwise?
In this powerful instalment of our school mini-series, Jane is joined again by Millie Carr - teacher, parent, and neurodivergent advocate - to unpack one of the most maddening experiences families face: being gaslit by educators who don’t “see” the struggle.
If you’ve ever been told your child is “fine” at school while managing meltdowns, shutdowns, or burnout at home, this one will hit hard. Jane shares a deeply personal story of leaving a school that refused to acknowledge her daughter’s invisible needs - and Millie breaks down exactly why high-masking kids get overlooked, and what parents can do when they’re dismissed.
Together, they explore:
Why girls and high-masking kids are so often missed The damaging impact of visible vs invisible disability bias What to say in IEP meetings when schools won’t listen Why anxiety is often misdiagnosed when it’s really about unmet needs How PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is misunderstood in schools—and what helps insteadThis episode will validate your fury, your heartbreak, and your instincts. You’re not imagining it. You’re not overreacting. And you’re not alone.
Listen If:
You’ve been told “we don’t see it” and felt dismissed Your child is different at school than at home—and no one believes you You’re exhausted from advocating and need to feel seen You want practical strategies for navigating resistant schoolsNeed support navigating school chaos?
Making School Work is your go-to advocacy guide for when your neurodivergent child isn’t coping — and the school says they’re fine. Packed with scripts, templates, and clarity for IEPs, school refusal, and shutdowns, it helps you hold your ground in the rooms that matter.
Get it here: https://adhdmums.com.au/product/making-school-work-parent-guide/Other Episodes with Millie Carr
S1 E41: Camouflaging ADHD + Autistic Traits in Girls with Millie Carr | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E2: SCHOOL SERIES When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents | Spotify | Apple Podcast S3 E3: SCHOOL SERIES When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents | Spotify | Apple PodcastEpisode on PDA:
S2E30: Could it be PDA? Exploring the signs and why it’s different from ODD with Prof Tony Attwood and Dr Michelle Garnett | Spotify | Apple Podcast
π Resources & Links:
π Sign our Change Petition here
π§ Listener Questions please send here
π Submit your experience with schooling here
π ADHD Mums Free Guides and Resources here
π References & Further Reading
Disability Standards for Education 2005
Read via the Department of Education – Australian GovernmentDisability Discrimination Act 1992
Disability & Education Laws Referenced (Qld Human Rights Act, DSE 2005, UN CRPD) π©βοΈ Human Rights Commission: humanrights.gov.au
View the full legislation on the Federal RegisterJOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.
COLLABS:
For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].
MORE RESOURCES:
Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.
Topics Covered In This Episode:
Invisible disabilities, ADHD girls, autism masking, high masking, school gaslighting, inclusion in education, IEP meetings, neurodiversity in schools, Pathological Demand Avoidance, PDA strategies, school refusal, trauma-informed schools, advocating for neurodivergent kids, ADHD parenting, neurodivergent burnout, federal disability education law, ADHD girls dismissed, reasonable adjustments school, ADHD Mums podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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You’re not imagining it — psychology funding is reducing from NDIS plans. And neurodivergent families are being hit the hardest.
In this critical solo episode, Jane breaks down the real impact of recent NDIS changes, including the hidden rollout of Section 33, why psychology is being reframed as a ‘Medicare issue’, and how support for emotional regulation, anxiety and trauma is being stripped away under the radar.
If you’re navigating plan reviews, therapy cancellations, or watching mental health supports vanish — this episode gives you the language, strategy and advocate for yourself or your child.
What We Cover:
The quiet rollout of Section 33 and what it means for your child’s plan Why psychology for ADHD, anxiety, trauma and RSD is no longer ‘reasonable and necessary’ The difference between clinical vs. functional supports — and how to frame them What psychologists are being told, and why they may redirect you to Medicare How to advocate for functional impact without breaching new NDIS rules The cost blowout no one’s talking about: $600+ monthly gap payments for ADHD families Why early intervention cuts contradict everything the NDIS claims to support What to say in your next plan review — including exact phrases for therapy justification The personal toll on ADHD mums trying to keep their kids afloat — emotionally and financiallyResources & Links:
Submit your story: Speak Up for Change: Submit Your NDIS Complaint to Help Us Lobby for Fairness Listen to the related podcast episodes on:The NDIS Shake-Up and National Autism Strategy: What Jane Really Thinks:
Spotify: listen here
Apple: listen here
Sign the petition: NDIS Cuts Are Failing Our Kids List of ADHD Mums Recommended Providers All NDIS Changes and Resources - https://adhdmums.com.au/ndis/JOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.
COLLABS:
For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].
MORE RESOURCES:
Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.
Topics Covered In This Episode:
NDIS psychology funding cuts, ADHD therapy removed from NDIS, Section 33 NDIS explanation, ADHD and functional capacity reports, neurodivergent families NDIS, ADHD emotional regulation therapy, reasonable and necessary supports ADHD, early intervention plan review, psychology under Medicare vs NDIS, ADHD child anxiety supports, ADHD trauma support, rejection sensitivity NDIS, plan review scripts ADHD, disability discrimination Australia, NDIS burnout for mothers, ADHD Mums podcast NDIS, school refusal and therapy access, ADHD kids unsupported by NDIS, petition for NDIS reform, neurodivergent parenting advocacy Australia
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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If your kid has been labelled ‘disruptive’, ‘too much’, or has a 'behaviour problem’ at school - this episode is for you.
In this raw, honest, and fiercely educational conversation, Jane is joined by Tania Waring - lawyer-turned-PhD researcher, mum of three neurodivergent boys, and longtime education advocate. They go into what’s really happening when ADHD and autistic kids are ‘acting out’ - and why so many schools are punishing trauma responses, not managing them.
This episode isn’t polite. It’s personal, practical, and painfully real. From school exclusions and behaviour plans to Human Rights Commission complaints and fighting for basic inclusion - this one’s for every parent who’s been dismissed, gaslit, and told their child doesn’t belong.
Trigger warning: briefly mentions suicide ideation of a child.
π‘ What We Cover:
The myth of ‘naughty kids’ vs the reality of burnout and nervous system collapse Why suspension and detention are discriminatory—not developmental How behaviour plans often become performance-management tools What schools are legally required to do under federal, state, and disability law. How to document, escalate, and advocate when you’re being stonewalled Tips for writing advocacy emails that get attention (without sounding ‘difficult’) What parents can realistically do when change feels impossibleNeed support navigating school chaos?
Making School Work is your go-to advocacy guide for when your neurodivergent child isn’t coping — and the school says they’re fine. Packed with scripts, templates, and clarity for IEPs, school refusal, and shutdowns, it helps you hold your ground in the rooms that matter.
Get it here: https://adhdmums.com.au/product/making-school-work-parent-guide/π Resources & Links:
π Sign our Change Petition here
π§ Listener Questions please send here
π Submit your experience with schooling here
π ADHD Mums Free Guides and Resources here
π References & Further Reading
Disability Standards for Education 2005
Read via the Department of Education – Australian GovernmentDisability Discrimination Act 1992
Disability & Education Laws Referenced (Qld Human Rights Act, DSE 2005, UN CRPD) π©βοΈ Human Rights Commission: humanrights.gov.au
View the full legislation on the Federal RegisterJOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.
COLLABS:
For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].
MORE RESOURCES:
Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.
Topics Covered In This Episode:
ADHD school exclusion Australia neurodivergent child suspension ADHD behaviour plans and trauma disability standards for education 2005 QLD Human Rights Act school rights ADHD and school-based discrimination inclusive education ADHD autism school burnout ADHD child advocacy tools for ADHD parents ADHD child behaviour misunderstood ADHD suspension legal rights UN CRPD education rights Human Rights Commission school complaints ADHD parent advocacy Australia trauma-informed education ADHD Tania Waring ADHD advocacy ADHD Mums podcast Australia neuroaffirming schools strategies ADHD child misunderstood in classroom
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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You’ve already heard the basics: ADHD isn’t just for boys. Autism isn’t all hand-flapping. Great. But what about the deeper stuff?
In this solo episode, Jane takes a sledgehammer to the most persistent, harmful, and advanced myths that are still sabotaging ADHD and autistic women.
From the dangerous praise of ‘high functioning’ to the weaponisation of executive function, performative neurodiversity, and the false promise that meds fix everything—this is the truth the awareness campaigns skip.
If you’ve ever been told you’re ‘too capable to struggle’, ‘too smart to be ADHD’, or ‘too emotional to be taken seriously’, this episode is your armour.
π‘ What We Cover:
Why ‘high functioning’ is just ‘high masking’—and why it’s killing us slowly
How executive function gets twisted into shame and perfectionism
Why medication is support, not salvation
The deeply gendered myth of what autism ‘looks like’ in kids
Neuroaffirming ≠ letting your child do whatever they want
Why your nervous system needs more than a planner and good intentions
The hidden cost of chasing ‘normal’ as a goal
How parenting myths keep mums stuck in shame, guilt, and silence
π Resources & Links:
π Research cited:
Hull et al. (2020) on camouflaging in ADHD & autism
Brown’s Executive Function Model (ADD Warehouse)
Lye & Baron-Cohen (2015) on misdiagnosis in girls
Dvorsky (2016) on long-term neurodivergent outcomes
Dr Mona Delahooke on co-regulation & scaffolding
π§ Related episodes: Ep 20 – The Worst Assessment Process EverSCHOOL SERIES - When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents
The Worst Assessment Process Ever: A Cautionary Tale
Listen in Spotify Listen in AppleLISTEN NOW:
If you’ve ever been told you’re ‘fine’ because you’re functioning — or you’ve questioned your diagnosis because you still can’t get organised — this episode is the recalibration you didn’t know you needed.
Send it to a friend. A partner. A GP. Anyone who still doesn’t get it.
#ADHDMumsPodcast #HighMasking #NeurodivergentMyths #ADHDAndMedication #ExecutiveDysfunction #Camouflaging #AutismInGirls #NeurodivergentBurnout #ADHDFatigue #MentalLoadMatters #NeuroaffirmingParenting #JaneMcFaddenPodcast
JOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.
COLLABS:
For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].
MORE RESOURCES:
Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.
TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
High masking ADHD, high functioning myth, ADHD and executive dysfunction, medication and burnout, autism myths in children, neuroaffirming parenting, parenting neurodivergent kids, mental load of diagnosis, late-diagnosed ADHD women, emotional regulation myths, ADHD and trauma overlap, gender bias in autism, ADHD toolkit for mums, camouflaging in ADHD women, ADHD shame, parenting without guilt
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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If your child’s after-school meltdowns seem to come out of nowhere — they don’t. They’re just not being seen.
In this second episode of the School Series, Jane is joined again by neurodivergent educator and mum Millie Carr to unpack how burnout builds silently in classrooms and explodes at home. From sensory overwhelm and executive dysfunction to chronic invalidation and misread behaviour — this episode doesn’t just name the problem. It helps you understand what to look for, what schools can do differently, and what you can shift at home without burning yourself out too.
This is a must-listen for any parent hearing ‘they’re fine at school’ while watching their kid unravel every night.
π‘ What We Cover:
The difference between academic fatigue and neurodivergent burnout What school-based nervous system overload actually looks like How masking, people-pleasing and perfectionism disguise distress Why executive dysfunction + sensory chaos = a ticking time bomb The impact of chronic invalidation on self-esteem and identity Interoception struggles — why neurodivergent kids often don’t see their own crash coming Simple school accommodations that reduce burnout without being performative How parents can build structure and regulation into home life without adding pressureNeed support navigating school chaos?
Making School Work is your go-to advocacy guide for when your neurodivergent child isn’t coping — and the school says they’re fine. Packed with scripts, templates, and clarity for IEPs, school refusal, and shutdowns, it helps you hold your ground in the rooms that matter.
Get it here: https://adhdmums.com.au/product/making-school-work-parent-guide/π§ Related episodes with Millie Carr:
SCHOOL SERIES - When School Becomes the Trauma — What No One Tells ADHD Parents
Listen in Spotify Listen in AppleHow to Tell Your Child About Their Diagnosis: Essential Do's and Don'ts.
Listen in Spotify\ Listen in AppleCamouflaging ADHD and Autistic Traits in Girls
Listen in Spotify Listen in AppleThe Neurodiverse Classroom
Listen in Spotify Listen in Appleπ To find out more about Millie Carr or purchase her books please click on her website or check out her IG
π Sign our Change Petition here
π§ Listener Questions please send here
π Submit your experience with schooling here
π ADHD Mums Free Guides and Resources here
π References & Further Reading
Disability Standards for Education 2005
Read via the Department of Education – Australian GovernmentDisability Discrimination Act 1992
View the full legislation on the Federal RegisterThis episode isn’t about blaming teachers—it’s about exposing the system that’s letting everyone down, especially our neurodivergent kids. If you’ve ever been told ‘they’re fine at school’, you need to hear this.
Hit play. Share with a friend.
JOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Connect with other ADHD mums in our Facebook group – no question too small, no meltdown too messy.
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Daily ADHD mum content on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review helps other mums find support that actually makes sense.
COLLABS:
Want Jane to speak or collaborate? Email [email protected].
MORE RESOURCES:
Still questioning ADHD or autism? Access recommended self-assessments and tools here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
If your child holds it together all day at school only to fall apart the second they get home—this episode is for you.
In this brutally honest conversation, Jane is joined by teacher, parent, and neurodivergent advocate Millie Carr to unpack the invisible trauma happening behind ‘good behaviour’ in classrooms.
From silent shutdowns to explosive rage, masking to misdiagnosis, we explore how the school system is inadvertently breaking the very kids it's meant to support—and what parents can do about it.
π‘ What We Cover:
What school-based trauma really looks like (it’s not always loud) Why girls and fawn-type students are flying under the radar The link between masking, people-pleasing, and identity loss How chronic invalidation chips away at kids’ mental health Why ‘good girl’ praise can be just as damaging as discipline The high cost of being the “perfect” student RSD (Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria) and the hidden social toll of school What schools and parents can do to build trust and repair harmNeed support navigating school chaos?
Making School Work is your go-to advocacy guide for when your neurodivergent child isn’t coping — and the school says they’re fine. Packed with scripts, templates, and clarity for IEPs, school refusal, and shutdowns, it helps you hold your ground in the rooms that matter.
Get it here: https://adhdmums.com.au/product/making-school-work-parent-guide/π§ Related episodes with Millie Carr:
How to Tell Your Child About Their Diagnosis: Essential Do's and Don'ts.
Listen in Spotify Listen in AppleCamouflaging ADHD and Autistic Traits in Girls
Listen in Spotify Listen in AppleThe Neurodiverse Classroom
Listen in Spotify Listen in Appleπ To find out more about Millie Carr or purchase her books please click on her website or check out her IG
π Sign our Change Petition here
π Submit your experience with schooling here
π§ Listener Questions please send here
π Free Guides and Resources here
π References & Further Reading
Disability Standards for Education 2005
Read via the Department of Education – Australian GovernmentDisability Discrimination Act 1992
View the full legislation on the Federal RegisterThis episode isn’t about blaming teachers—it’s about exposing the system that’s letting everyone down, especially our neurodivergent kids. If you’ve ever been told ‘they’re fine at school’, you need to hear this.
Hit play. Share with a friend. And let’s stop gaslighting ourselves about what’s really going on in classrooms.
JOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Connect with other ADHD mums in our Facebook group – no question too small, no meltdown too messy.
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Daily ADHD mum content on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Love this episode? Your review helps other mums find support that actually makes sense.
COLLABS:
Want Jane to speak or collaborate? Email [email protected].
MORE RESOURCES:
Still questioning ADHD or autism? Access recommended self-assessments and tools here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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You’ve read the listicles. You’ve sat in the paediatrician’s office explaining what your child’s meltdown actually meant — again. You’re not confused. You’re exhausted.
Season 3 is here — and it’s not about awareness anymore. It’s about tools, systems, scripts, and sustainable change. This season, Jane is done explaining ADHD to the masses. If you’re an ADHD mum, late-diagnosed woman, or raising neurodivergent kids in a system that’s already failing you — this season is built for you.
This opener is sharp, validating, and cuts straight to what’s coming, why it matters, and how ADHD Mums is shifting focus to create real support. Spoiler: it started with one burnt-out night, one whiteboard, and the lowest-effort dinner plan that worked like magic.
π‘ What We Cover:
Why Season 3 ditches the awareness fluff and starts with real-world strategy
The ADHD Mum Hack that came out of a PMDD spiral and whiteboard panic
How a low-energy dinner framework led to the most helpful ADHD tool Jane’s made yet
What 3 years of DMs, reviews, and survey data revealed about what ADHD mums actually want
The burnout no one saw coming, and how Jane nearly stopped the podcast altogether
What’s changing: solo Thursdays, guest Tuesdays, and no more overexplaining
Upcoming series on hormones, medication, school trauma, and misdiagnosis
Why ADHD Mums is building a system for us — not just hoping the current one catches up
π§ Related episodes:
Ep 64 – PMDD, PMS & Emotional Burnout
Spotify: Listen Here on Spotify Apple: Listen here on Apple Ep 25 - Feeling like PMS is taking over your life? It might be PMDD Spotify: Listen Here on Spotify Apple: Listen here on Appleπ Shop the resources – adhdmums.com.au/shop
π¬ Join the ADHD Mums Facebook Group – click
Don't Miss Out On the most current information on ADHD Meds & the NDIS. Subscribe to the mailing list hereπ§ Listen Now
If you’ve ever thought, ‘I know what ADHD is — what I need is help actually managing my life’, this episode is your sign to stop apologising and start rebuilding.
Hit play. This is your season.#ADHDMumsPodcast #NeurodivergentMums #ADHDParentingTools #BurnoutSupport #PMDDandADHD #ExecutiveDysfunction #RSDInMothers #MentalLoadMums #ADHDSeason3 #ADHDAustralia #LowEnergyParenting #InvisibleLoadADHD
JOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Validation, dark humour, and strategy — not tips and vibes. Come hang with us on Facebook.
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube — because multitasking is the only way we exist.
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Help another exhausted, brilliant ADHD mum find this and feel seen. Reviews matter more than you think.
COLLABS:
To book Jane or pitch a media/story idea: [email protected]
TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
ADHD burnout, PMDD and ADHD, neurodivergent parenting support, ADHD mums podcast, emotional regulation, ADHD tools for mums, late-diagnosed ADHD women, ADHD low-energy hacks, executive dysfunction management, ADHD daily survival, ADHD women hormones, school trauma ADHD, ADHD parenting podcast, ADHD menu planning, Jane McFadden podcast, ADHD validation, realistic ADHD support
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
You made the reservation. You packed the gifts. You wiped the tears, booked the table, and still felt… like no one saw you.
If Mother’s Day makes you feel flat, ragey, or quietly devastated—you’re not ungrateful, you’re unsupported. In this raw solo episode, Jane shares the truth about what ADHD mums, solo parents, and neurodivergent women are really navigating on the day that’s supposed to be for them.
This isn’t about handmade cards and breakfast in bed. This is about emotional labour, unmet needs, and the silent heartbreak of being overlooked on the one day you were told you’d be celebrated.
π‘ What We Cover:
Why so many mums dread Mother’s Day—and it’s not ‘ingratitude’
Survey results from 100+ ADHD Mums on how the day actually goes
What invisible emotional labour looks like (and why it stings most on Mother’s Day)
The loneliness of solo parenting, co-parenting, or being in a relationship and still doing it all
Scripts and strategies to set boundaries, ask for what you need, or say no
The complex grief that can rise: for the mum you had, the mum you wanted, or the mum you thought you'd be
Seven key reminders for emotionally overloaded mums this Mother's Day
How to validate yourself when no one else does—and why your kids will remember even when it feels like they won’t
π Resources & Links:
π§ Related episodes:
7 Brutally Honest Reasons ADHD Mums Stay Silent About the Mental Load [Part 2] Listen on Spotify Listen on AppleHow to Handle Family Criticism About ADHD: Boundaries and Keeping Your Sanity
Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple㪠Join the ADHD Mums Facebook group: Click here
If Mother’s Day makes you feel like disappearing, this episode is your reminder: you are not invisible, you are just unsupported—and that is not your fault.
Hit play. Send this to a mum who needs to feel seen this weekend.
#ADHDMumsPodcast #MothersDayBurnout #InvisibleLoad #MentalLoadMatters #ADHDParenting #NeurodivergentMums #EmotionalLabour #ADHDFatigue #SoloMumSupport #ADHDandGrief #RealMotherhood #ADHDMumPodcast
JOIN THE COMMUNITY:
You don’t have to smile through it. Join our Facebook group for real talk and support.
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Find Jane on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. Because sometimes you just need someone to say what you're thinking—out loud.
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Your review helps more exhausted, ragey, overextended mums find this podcast. Share the episode. Rate it. Let’s raise the volume on what really matters.
COLLABS:
To collaborate or invite Jane to speak, email [email protected].
TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
Mother’s Day and emotional labour, ADHD mums and mental load, invisible labour, solo mum burnout, co-parenting struggles, grief on Mother’s Day, unmet expectations, neurodivergent parenting challenges, ADHD and sensory overwhelm, ADHD mum shutdown, rage and resilience, ADHD women and shame, emotional validation for mothers, complex motherhood, real talk Mother’s Day, ADHD self-compassion, masking on holidays, self-advocacy for mums, survival-mode parenting, ADHD parenting community
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-
If you made it through Season 2 while juggling meltdowns, meds, late-night Googling, school chaos, and trying to figure out dinner while being told to ‘get off your phone’—you’re not just surviving. You’re reshaping the narrative.
In this raw and honest wrap-up, Jane reflects on what really went down in Season 2: the burnout, the backlash, the breakthroughs, and the moments that made her want to walk away. From NDIS implosions to medication shortages, from massive listener growth to imposter syndrome and award snubs—this one lays it bare.
This is a thank you, a debrief, and a reminder: you’re not alone, and Season 3 is just getting started.
π‘ What We Cover:
Why ADHD Mums doesn’t ‘pause for the season’—because the chaos doesn’t either
Medication shortages, government silence, and the reality of parenting without support
Burnout, surgery, ARFID, and behind-the-scenes pressure that almost ended the podcast
What worked, what tanked, and why the DV mini-series didn’t land (even though it mattered)
Why she kept going: DMs, community wins, and the power of knowing someone needed it
The rise of $10 kits and what the audience really asked for: practical strategies, not fluff
The message to women navigating neurodivergence without validation: build anyway
π§ Listen Now1. Burnout, Pain & Weird Symptoms? The ADHD Link No One Told Us About (My Lipodema Operation episode)
Listen here on Spotify
Listen here on Apple
2. Does ADHD Medication make you feel withdrawn, sad or sensory sensitive?
Listen Here on Spotify
Listen Here on Apple
π Resources & Links:
π§ Most downloaded episodes of Season 2 – Top 10 Recap Blog
π₯ Downloadable Kits & Guides – Go Here
π¬ Facebook Group: Join ADHD Mums
#ADHDMumsPodcast #NeurodivergentParenting #ADHDMedicationCrisis #ARFIDParenting #BurnoutAndRecovery #NDAdvocacy #ExecutiveDysfunction #PerimenopauseADHD #RageAndMasking #MentalLoadForMums #WomenWithADHD #Season2Recap
JOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube
COLLABS:
Want to pitch an idea, book Jane, or collaborate? Email [email protected]
MORE RESOURCES:
Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.
TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
ADHD mums podcast recap, burnout parenting, ARFID and ADHD, medication shortage Australia, ADHD and DV, imposter syndrome ADHD, ADHD misdiagnosis women, NDIS changes 2024, ADHD rage and masking, executive dysfunction, perimenopause ADHD, navigating school with ADHD kids, ND community support, practical ADHD strategies, low-energy parenting, advocacy and neurodivergence, ADHD mum community
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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ADHD Meds: Are They Safe Long-Term? What the World's Largest Study Just Told Us
You’re sitting in the paediatrician’s office, staring at a tiny tablet in your hand, wondering if giving it to your child makes you a bad parent—or a better one. Sound familiar?
In this solo episode, Jane breaks down the world’s biggest ADHD medication study—just published in The Lancet Psychiatry—and unpacks what it really means for neurodivergent families. We’re talking hard data, real side effects, long-term unknowns, and the emotional load mums carry when we’re asked to medicate our kids. This episode is your crash course in science and lived experience. No moral panic, no TikTok nonsense. Just the facts—and how they actually apply to real-life parenting.
π‘ What We Cover:
What the new research says about long-term safety of ADHD meds for kids and teens
The truth about stimulants vs non-stimulants (both affect vitals)
Why we need to track more than behaviour—and what to watch for
The real-life variables the study didn’t cover (puberty, co-regulation, family chaos)
How to use your lived experience to advocate during appointments
Questions to ask your paediatrician now, based on the new data
Why clinical reassurance alone isn’t enough—and never replaces your gut
The difference between data-backed parenting and paranoia (and why you’re probably not overreacting)
Previous studies had already established the effectiveness and general safety of ADHD medications. The 2023 ADDUCE study built upon this foundation, offering more detailed insights into their long-term safety, particularly in younger populations.
π Resources & Links:
π§ͺ The full Lancet Psychiatry study
π§ Related episodes:
From Skeptic to Advocate – Medication, Neuroplasticity & Motherhood
Stimulants vs Non-Stimulants – What’s the Difference?
ADHD Meds & Pregnancy – with pharmacist Dr Rodney White
π Referenced researchers: The Lancet, ADHD Australia, Dr Ari Tuckman, Rodney White (UTS Pharmacy)
π§ Listen Now
If you’ve ever spiralled at 2am wondering if your child’s meds are doing more harm than good—or if you're exhausted from explaining your choices to well-meaning relatives—this episode will ground you in real data and real life.
Hit play, send it to your co-parent or GP, and take this study to your next appointment.
#ADHDMumsPodcast #ADHDMedicationStudy #ParentingWithADHD #NeurodivergentKids #ADHDMumLife #ADHDAndMedication #ADHDSafety #StimulantMedication #ParentAdvocacy #MedicationTracking
JOIN THE COMMUNITY:
Have questions or want to talk to other mums navigating ADHD meds and emotional whiplash? Join our Facebook group [here].
FOLLOW FOR MORE:
Daily validation, tips, and the occasional rage-fuelled vent session — Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube.
LEAVE A REVIEW:
Your review helps more overwhelmed mums find this podcast—and feel less alone in the chaos.
COLLABS:
For interviews, speaking, or partnership enquiries: [email protected]
TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
ADHD medication study, ADHD meds and safety, stimulant vs non-stimulant ADHD, Ritalin Vyvanse Intuniv, ADHD in children, medicating neurodivergent kids, paediatric ADHD, ADHD parent guilt, ADHD and blood pressure, ADHD mum podcast, ADHD and tracking symptoms, how to talk to your paediatrician ADHD, lived experience and medication, medication decisions for kids, ADHD research explained, ADHD and monitoring, ADHD study Lancet Psychiatry, neurodivergent parenting, ADHD crash management, ADHD support for mums
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Okay, so you’ve screamed into your car steering wheel.
Now what?
In Part 2, Jane and clinical psychologist Dr Jacinta Thompson return to bring the goods: the actual, practical tools ADHD mums can use to manage rage without pretending to be zen all the time. From self-coaching scripts to nervous system hacks, this episode gives you permission to be angry—and shows you what to do with it that’s actually effective.
Because no, you don’t need to just 'try yoga' again. And no, you’re not the only one who wants to punch the air when your partner asks what’s for dinner.
π‘ What We Cover:
How to spot rage earlier (before you hit full explosion) DBT’s ‘BUT to AND’ method for flipping shame spirals Why screaming into a pillow can be a regulation strategy How to coach your partner to be useful in the heat of the moment The link between sensory load and delayed rage meltdowns Releasing anger without suppressing it (and modelling this for your kids) Medication and mum rage: what no one tells you Jane’s own messy beliefs—and how she’s rewriting them out loudπ Resources & Links:
π§ Guest: Dr Jacinta Thompson – Time to Untangle Blog from Jacinta here on this topic. π Referenced approaches: DBT dialectical thinking Emotional regulation via stress cycle completion Agomelatine & SSRIs for ADHD irritability π§ Related episodes: Ep 71 – 7 Honest Reasons ADHD Mums Stay Silent About the Mental Load Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Ep 32 – Realising Autistic Burnout: Self-Awareness Part 1 Listen on Spotify Listen on Appleπ§ Listen Now
You’re allowed to feel rage. You’re also allowed to not be destroyed by it.
This one’s for every mum trying to hold it together while everyone needs a snack, a hug, or your last nerve.#ADHDMumsPodcast #MumRage #EmotionalRegulation #DBTForADHD #Burnout #NeurodivergentWomen #MentalLoad #TooMuchIsValid #ADHDRealTalk #ParentingWithADHD
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