Episoder
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How do you build a writing life when your brain refuses to follow rules? For Paulette Perhach, the answer has always been a mix of creativity, structure, and compassion.
Paulette is an award-winning author, writing coach, and creator of the Writerâs Mission Control Center and Finishing School for Writers. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Vox, Glamour, The Washington Post, and Cosmopolitan. But before all that, she was a gifted kid with a brain full of ideasâand no clue why some things came so easily while others felt impossible.
In this conversation, Paulette shares how growing up with undiagnosed ADHD and without financial resourcesâshaped her writing path, her self-image, and her relationship with money. She talks with Tracy about the emotional cost of feeling "less than," the unpredictability of social energy, and how finding a creative community changed everything. Diagnosed in adulthood, she finally began to understand the why behind her chaos and built systems that helped her move from intention to execution.
Paulette also breaks down her FINISH framework, a six-part approach to help ADHD writers build structure, create momentum, and finally complete the work they care about. She shares how she bootstrapped her own software tool to support writers like her, and why creating spaces that center neurodivergent needs isn't just helpfulâit's transformative.
Whether you're a creative with too many ideas or someone still trying to trust your voice, Pauletteâs story will make you feel seen, inspired, and ready to try again, with a little more self-compassion this time.
Resources:
Website: https://www.pauletteperhach.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulette-perhach-23b12832
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulettejperhach
X: https://x.com/pauletteperhachSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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If youâve ever been told youâre âtoo sensitive,â âtoo emotional,â or just âtoo much,â this episode is here to tell you: youâre not. Youâre intuitive, and that might just be your ADHD superpower.
Julie Jancius, known as The Angel Medium, is a spiritual teacher, podcast host, and bestselling author who helps people reconnect with their intuition, their energy, and their purpose. Diagnosed with ADHD in middle school, Julie always knew she was differentâdriven, creative, deeply empathic, and always tuned in to something just below the surface. But it wasnât until she experienced major life upheaval as a teen and later lost her father unexpectedly that she began to fully understand the power of intuition and energetic sensitivityâand how it had been guiding her all along.
In this conversation, Julie and Tracy explore the link between ADHD and spiritual gifts, from intuitive decision-making to emotional depth and the ability to read a room without saying a word. Julie shares why traditional ADHD solutions didnât work for her, how energy healing and spiritual connection became her lifelines, and why learning to follow your internal compass might just be the most important skill of all. They also talk about breaking cycles, building purpose-led businesses, and why listening to your intuition isnât âwooââitâs wisdom.
If youâve ever felt like your brain doesnât follow the rules and your heart doesnât either, Julieâs story will leave you feeling more seen, understood, and inspired to trust yourself.
Resources:
Website: https://theangelmedium.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelpodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theangelmedium
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/theangelmedium
Podcast & Membership Links:
Podcast: https://theangelmedium.com/podcast
Angel Membership: https://theangelmedium.com/membership
Angel Reiki School:Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
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Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Money advice rarely works for the ADHD brain. Weâre told to budget, track every dollar, and rely on willpowerâbut what if the real answer is to make it easier, not harder?
Nicole Stanley gets it. A financial coach, Latina entrepreneur, and founder of Arise Financial Coaching, Nicole helps women ditch the shame, confusion, and overwhelm around money. But before she coached hundreds of women and couples to pay off debt and build wealth, Nicole was a young mom in financial survival mode. Married at 22, she had to learn about money fast when her husbandâs modest salary wasnât enough to make ends meet. With a baby on her hip and a brain that struggled with traditional systems, she slowly built a business that now serves over 100 clients and supports a full-time teamâlong before she even knew she had ADHD.
Nicole was diagnosed with ADHD at 31, and everything started to make sense: the disorganization, the impulsive spending, the exhaustion from trying to do money âthe right way.â She realized that what worked for neurotypical people didnât work for herâor for many of the women she coached. Thatâs when she began designing tools and systems rooted in compassion, simplicity, and sustainabilityâapproaches that honor how the ADHD brain actually works.
Nicole and Tracy talk about the emotional weight many women carry when it comes to money. They dive into why ADHD women are often labeled âbad with money,â how to build dopamine-boosting routines that stick, and what it means to make peace with your financesânot through shame, but through clarity and choice.
Resources:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arise.financial.coaching/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@arise.financial.coaching/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/arise.financial.coaching/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@arisefinancialcoaching
Book a discovery call:Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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What happens when a self-taught, multi-passionate entrepreneur builds a six-figure Etsy business from scratchâwhile homeschooling on a farm and running multiple income streams?
You get Lizzie Smiley.
Known for her hot-mess mom humor and contagious high energy, Lizzie is the host of How to Sell Your Stuff on Etsy, where she helps creative entrepreneurs build thriving online businesses. But behind the success is a story many ADHD women will find deeply familiar: years of self-doubt, people-pleasing, and the constant feeling of being âtoo much.â
In this conversation, Lizzie opens up about her late realization that she likely has ADHD, how it shows up in her personal and professional life, and the mindset tools that help her stay grounded amidst the chaos.
Tracy and Lizzie dive into everything from hyperfocus and imposter syndrome to business pivots, family dynamics, and anxiety spirals. Lizzie also shares how delegating, tapping into joy, and leaning on her strengths helped her 10x her incomeâand build a life that works with her brain, not against it.
If youâve ever felt like youâre doing too much and still not enough, this oneâs for you.
Resources:
Website: https://www.howtosellyourstuff.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smiley_lizzie
How to Sell Your Stuff on Etsy Podcast: https://www.howtosellyourstuff.com/podcastSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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For many ADHD women, relationships can be complicatedâespecially when navigating emotional intensity, executive dysfunction, and the feeling that something just isnât right. Kate Anthony, host of the Divorce Survival Guide Podcast and author of The D Word, joins Tracy to talk about what it means to reclaim your agency, especially when youâve spent years feeling like youâre the problem.
Kate shares her story of growing up undiagnosed, struggling in traditional learning environments, and always feeling like she was âbad at schoolââuntil her sonâs diagnosis helped her connect the dots in her own life. The discovery gave her a new lens of self-compassion and helped her understand why experiential learning worked when academic structures didnât. Now, as a divorce coach and certified domestic violence advocate, Kate helps womenâespecially mothersâdo the deep personal work of deciding whether to stay in or leave their marriages, with an approach grounded in self-knowledge, clarity, and safety.
Kate and Tracy also explore how ADHD shows up in relationships: the dopamine-seeking behavior, the impulse to over-function, and the toll of living beneath your potential. They talk about how abuse can be subtle and confusingâespecially for ADHD women who are naturally empathetic, people-pleasing, or used to maskingâand why working on yourself is essential before making big relationship decisions.
This episode is a powerful listen for anyone stuck in the question: Should I stay or should I go?
Resources:
Website: https://kateanthony.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedivorcesurvivalguide
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/YourDivorceSurvivalGuideSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Rejection stings, but what if you could flip it into your greatest advantage?
Alice Draper, founder of Hustling Writers and host of My Rejection Story, knows that rejection isnât just part of the gameâit is the game. Diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood, Alice struggled for years with imposter syndrome, social rejection, and the fear of putting herself out there. But everything changed when she set a radical goal: to get rejected 100 times in a year. What happened next? More success than she ever imagined.
In this conversation, Alice shares how growing up undiagnosed shaped her confidence, why ADHD brains are wired to fear rejection, and how she rewired her mindset to see ânoâ as a step toward âyes.â She dives into the science of rejection, how our ancestors depended on acceptance for survival, and why ADHD brains feel it even more intensely. Tracy and Alice also talk about harnessing rejection as a tool for success, why storytelling is a superpower, and how to shift from perfectionism to action.
Now a publicity strategist and media expert, Alice helps under-recognized women entrepreneurs land press and podcast guest spotsâproving that rejection isnât the end of the story, but the beginning of something bigger. If youâve ever hesitated to put yourself out there for fear of failure, this episode will challenge you to rethink rejectionâand maybe even celebrate it.
Resources:
Website: http://hustlingwriters.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alicedraper/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alice-m-draper/ Podcast: https://hustlingwriters.com/podcast/ Course: https://hustlingwriters.com/pitchyourpower/Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Some people are naturally organized. Cassandra Aarssen is not one of them. A self-proclaimed âsuper slobâ turned organizing expert, Cas spent years struggling with clutter before realizing that traditional organizing methods simply didnât work for her ADHD brain. That revelation led her to develop the ClutterbugÂź Organizing Philosophy, identifying four unique organizing styles to help people work with their brainsânot against them.
In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, Cas shares her incredible journeyâfrom being a homeless teen to finding stability, only to feel like she was constantly dropping the ball as an adult. She opens up about how her late ADHD diagnosis at 40 transformed her self-perception, the organizing hacks that changed her life, and why a one-size-fits-all organization is a myth. Tracy and Cas also dive into why ADHD brains struggle with clutter, how decision fatigue plays a role, and practical strategies to make organization effortlessâeven for those who think theyâre beyond help.
Cas is now the host of HGTVâs Hot Mess House, a bestselling author, and the creator of a wildly popular YouTube channel, podcast, and online community. Through it all, she remains on a mission to help others reclaim their homes, their time, and their peace of mindâwithout the shame or frustration that so often comes with being âmessy.â
If youâve ever felt overwhelmed by clutter or convinced youâre just bad at organizing, this episode will completely change the way you see your spaceâand yourself.Resources:
Website: https://clutterbug.me
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clutterbug_me
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/cassandra-aarssen-5bbba22b
ClutterBug - Organize, Clean and Transform your Home & Life Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1098781682
Hot Mess House: https://www.hgtv.com/shows/hot-mess-houseSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Growing up as the youngest of ten kids, Chelsea Kunz learned early how to be loud, funny, and grab attentionâwhich, as it turns out, is pretty on-brand for an ADHD brain. Now an actor, creator, and self-described hot mess mom, Chelsea built an online following as Karen Disapproves, blending comedy and chaos into relatable parenting content. But behind the laughs, sheâs been on a deep dive into self-development, spirituality, and purpose, which led her to launch the Soul Slumber Party podcast.
In this conversation, Chelsea shares her ADHD diagnosis journey, from being the class clown (and occasional teacherâs nightmare) to struggling with focus, working memory, and traditional academics. She opens up about how ADHD showed up in motherhood, why she felt overwhelmed and irritable after having kids, and what finally led her to seek a diagnosis. Tracy and Chelsea also talk about nervous system regulation, how overstimulation can lead to emotional dysregulation, and why finding the right creative outlet can make all the difference for ADHD brains.
Chelsea also breaks down how she balances big ideas, creative projects, and intuitive decision-making, from social media to screenwriting. If youâve ever felt like youâre juggling too much or struggling to follow through on what matters most, this conversation will leave you laughing, nodding along, and maybe even rethinking how you approach your creativity.Resources:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulslumberparty
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@soulslumberparty
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@soulslumberpartySend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Procrastination, clutter, perfectionismâthese arenât just bad habits. For many ADHD women, theyâre constant battles that drain energy and create overwhelm.
Dr. Christine Li, a clinical psychologist and The Procrastination Coach, has spent over 25 years helping people break free from these struggles. A Princeton and Columbia graduate, she has worked extensively with university students, led workshops at top institutions, and built an online platform to help people regain control of their time.In this episode, Christine shares her personal experience with procrastination and disorganizationâincluding how she unknowingly struggled with extreme last-minute scrambling for years. She explains why clutter isnât just about stuff, but about emotional attachments, fear, and decision-making. Tracy and Christine also talk about why ADHD brains are particularly prone to clutter and procrastination, how perfectionism fuels avoidance, and why small, daily actions can completely shift your energy and productivity.
Christineâs insights go beyond theoryâshe provides simple, actionable strategies that make productivity feel lighter and more natural. If youâve ever felt stuck in cycles of procrastination, clutter, or overwhelm, this conversation will give you the tools (and the mindset shifts) to start moving forward today.
Resources:
Website: https://procrastinationcoach.com
Facebook Group: https://procrastinationcoach.com/facebook
Instagram: https://instagram.com/procrastinationcoach
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@procrastinationcoach
Podcast: https://maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com
Discover the Secret to Clearing Your Clutter Easily and Quickly 5-Day Challenge: https://procrastinationcoach.lpages.co/challenge-re-energize-your-home-spring-2025-tracy-otsukaSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Some people see retirement as slowing downâEmily Ransdell saw it as a chance to finally do what she was meant to do.
After a career in tech marketing, she walked away at 59 and went all in on her lifelong love of writing. At 60, she enrolled in a Masterâs in Creative Writing, and by 67, she had published her first poetry collection, which won the Lewis Award from Concrete Wolf Press. Now, she teaches writing workshops, gives public readings, and continues to build a life centered around creativity.
But Emilyâs story isnât just about reinventionâitâs about understanding herself in a way she never had before. Diagnosed with ADHD in her early 60s, she finally made sense of the struggles sheâd faced for decades: disorganization, perfectionism, and the feeling that she was always working harder than everyone else just to keep up. In this conversation, Emily shares how she managed school and career before her diagnosis, how ADHD affected her creative process, and why getting diagnosed later in life changed everything.
She also talks about breaking free from the idea that itâs âtoo lateâ to start something new. Whether youâre considering a career shift, exploring a creative passion, or just wondering if thereâs more out there for you, Emilyâs story proves that itâs never too late to start.
Resources:
Website: https://emilyransdell.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilyransdellpoet/Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Most people donât think of ADHD and aging in the same sentence, but what happens when someone reaches their 60s, 70s, or beyondânever knowing they had ADHD in the first place?
Jami Shapiro is tackling that question head-on. As the founder of Silver Linings, she helps seniors navigate major life changes like downsizing and moving. But her journey into ADHD advocacy became personal when she realized ADHD had been running through her family for generationsâincluding her parents, two of her three children, and herself.
Jami was diagnosed with ADHD at 45, after her childâs evaluation led to an unexpected realization: she had more âyesâ answers on the ADHD questionnaire than they did. Suddenly, the struggles sheâd facedâtalking too much in class, procrastinating on big projects, feeling scattered while juggling work and familyâmade sense. But the biggest lightbulb moment came when she recognized the same patterns in her aging mother. Her discovery led her to create Grandma Has ADHD, a podcast and platform dedicated to shedding light on undiagnosed ADHD in seniors and helping families navigate it with understanding and support.
In this conversation, Jami shares her own diagnosis story, what itâs like to build a business with ADHD, and why the senior community desperately needs more awareness around neurodiversity. She also offers practical advice on managing life transitionsâwhether itâs decluttering, right-sizing a home, or setting up systems that actually work for ADHD brains. If youâve ever wondered how ADHD plays out in later yearsâor how to support an aging parent who might have itâthis episode is an eye-opener.
Resources:
Website: https://silverliningstransitions.com/
Website: http://grandmahasadhd.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silverliningstransitions/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/silverliningstransitions/Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Some people spend years trying to figure out what they want to do. Brit Madrid Mogensen does it all.
From sports reporting and acting to hosting her own TV show, Brit built a career that thrives on curiosity, creativity, and adaptabilityâhallmarks of the ADHD brain. But before she found her rhythm in the fast-paced world of media, she struggled in school, particularly with math, where her dyscalculia made numbers feel impossible. Despite excelling in subjects like literature and philosophy, she often felt held back by traditional educationâs narrow expectations. It wasnât until college that she was officially diagnosed with ADHD, a realization that helped her understand why certain things came so easily while others felt impossible.
Brit shares how she went from feeling like she wasnât measuring up to carving her path in media, taking on opportunities without always knowing what she was doingâbut trusting sheâd figure it out along the way. She opens up about rejection in the entertainment industry, how sheâs learned to bounce back, and why ADHD has been her greatest asset in a field that rewards quick thinking and adaptability. Whether sheâs reporting from the sidelines, acting on the Dallas reboot, or creating TV that blends wellness and pop culture, Brit has found success by following her interests instead of forcing herself into a traditional mold.
She also dives into her love of astrologyâhow it helps her understand herself and others, and why it might resonate with ADHD brains. If youâve ever struggled to stick to one path or felt like your interests pull you in a million directions, Britâs journey is a reminder that success isnât about narrowing yourself downâitâs about finding the through line that makes it all work together.
Resources:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/britmadrid/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bzentv/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/bzentv/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/bzentv
Podcast:Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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How do generational trauma, ADHD, and addiction intertwineâand how can understanding them save lives?
In this deeply personal episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, Tracy Otsuka speaks with Jennifer Nicole Schmitz, whose journey is one of survival, resilience, and purpose. Jennifer candidly shares her experiences growing up in a home marked by trauma, her motherâs undiagnosed ADHD, and struggles with addiction, and how these shaped her own path. Diagnosed with ADHD later in life, Jennifer reflects on her teenage years battling addiction and the pivotal moments that led her to sobriety.
Jennifer is now pursuing a psychology degree with the mission to help women and young girls navigate ADHD, trauma, and the impact of misdiagnosis. She discusses the tools and strategies that helped her manage her ADHD and build a healthier life, including creating space for emotions, self-awareness, and connecting with a supportive community.
This heartfelt conversation sheds light on the critical links between ADHD, addiction, and mental health while offering insights on breaking free from shame, recognizing personal worth, and finding purpose amid lifeâs challenges.
Resources:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.n.schmitzSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Dr. Kathy Zhang has spent her career on the frontlines of life and death, supporting patients in their most vulnerable moments. A hospice and palliative care physician, TEDx speaker, and certified coach, Kathy transforms the wisdom of those nearing the end of life into lessons that inspire the living. Diagnosed with ADHD in her mid-30s, Kathy has used her neurodivergent brilliance to pioneer techniques that connect people to their inner wisdom, regulate their nervous systems, and overcome emotional blocks.
In this episode, Kathy shares her journey from a sensitive, introverted child to a medical doctor driven by connection and purpose. She reflects on the challenges she faced as a first-generation immigrant navigating cultural expectations and societal pressures, and how those experiences shaped her compassionate approach to caregiving. Through stories from her practice, she illustrates how understanding and addressing nervous system dysregulation can unlock resilience, clarity, and peace.
Kathy also delves into the transformative power of hypnosis and meditation, explaining how these tools can help rewire the brain for positive change. Whether youâre seeking to calm your mind, address trauma, or embrace life with intention, Kathy offers practical strategies rooted in neuroscience and empathy. Her insights remind us to live fully while we can and to use the lessons of mortality as a catalyst for meaning and connection.
Resources:
Website: https://luyikathyzhang.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.luyikathyzhang
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luyikathyzhang/
Other Resources:
To download a free video guide from Dr. Zhang to learn 3 techniques to help soothe and calm your nervous system, please visit this link: https://exciting-mover-6982.kit.com/bc79a6821aSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Some kids canât sit still in class. Others stare out the window, lost in their thoughts. Then there are kids like Rebecca Barrera, who ask a million questions, try their hardest, and still get told theyâre not learning fast enough. When Rebecca was five, a teacher dismissed her as an academic lost causeâher mother refused to accept that.
Rebecca was diagnosed with ADHD early, but school was still an uphill battle. Standardized tests, rigid expectations, and a system that didnât understand how her brain worked made things harder. But with a mother who fought for her, Rebecca figured out how to work with her brain instead of against it. She went on to earn a nursing degree and build a career that keeps her engaged, moving, and connecting with people in a way that makes sense for her.
In this conversation, Rebecca shares what it was like growing up with ADHD, how early medication rewired her approach to learning, and why she still has to be intentional about managing her symptoms at work. She also talks about the fast-paced nature of nursing, the emotional weight of the job, and the daily strategies that help her focus. If youâve ever struggled in traditional settings, youâll probably see a bit of yourself in her story.
Resources:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/becsb1229/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bbarrera1229Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Set Intentions, Not Resolutions and Making 2025 Your Best Year Yet
January feels like a fresh start, but for many ADHD brains, resolutions quickly lose their spark. In this solo episode, Tracy Otsuka takes a deep dive into why the beginning of the year feels so energizing and how to harness that momentum all year long. She introduces the concept of temporal landmarksânatural reset points like New Yearâs, birthdays, or even Mondaysâthat help our ADHD brains reframe goals and create clarity.
Tracy shares her own journey with setting intentions over resolutions, explaining how defining a single word of the year has transformed her mindset and productivity. She walks listeners through the process of finding their North Starâa guiding intention that simplifies decisions and keeps them aligned with their true goals. From overcoming perfectionism to embracing micro-actions, she offers practical strategies to maintain focus and build momentum without falling into the cycle of self-criticism.
This episode is packed with actionable advice to help ADHD minds thrive, including daily rituals, micro-goals, and simple strategies to reset and stay on track throughout 2025. Tracy also shares her own word of the year and how it will shape her goals. If youâve ever felt overwhelmed by resolutions, this episode will show you a better way to approach the new yearâwith clarity, confidence, and a plan that actually works.
Resources:
A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok-everyday
Bracelets, rings and necklaces: adhdforsmartwomen.com/epi-314
For other resources:Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Your voice is more than what you sayâitâs who you are.
Dana Lewis, a communication and vocal coach, is on a mission to amplify the voices of neurodivergent women. As the founder of Undeniable Voice, she brings two decades of expertise in vocal pedagogy, nervous system awareness, and trauma-informed coaching to help ADHD women reconnect with their authentic voices.
Dana shares her personal ADHD story, from masking as a child to rediscovering her quirks as a source of strength in adulthood. These formative experiences inspired Danaâs journey of self-acceptance, where she discovered how singing and voice work can not only regulate the nervous system but also boost confidence and foster emotional clarity.
Dana recounts pivotal moments in her youth that shaped her journey. In grade school, a teacherâs harsh criticism of her learning style left a lasting mark on her confidence. In high school, rumors about her having a learning disability fueled her determination to mask and overcompensate, striving for perfection to prove her capabilities. These challenges ultimately guided Dana toward finding her voice, building resilience, and igniting her passion for helping others do the same. Her later discovery of singing as a tool to reconnect with suppressed emotions solidified her commitment to empowering others to embrace their voices and identities. She now sees voice work not just as a tool for communication but as a pathway to healing and self-expression.
Through her Bold and Brilliant program, born from this desire to help others reclaim their voices, Dana empowers ADHD women to build resilience, express their truths, and embrace their unique identities with pride.
Website: https://www.undeniablevoice.com/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/danalewis-undeniablevoiceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/undeniable_voice/
Resources:Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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ADHD brains and money: What if your challenges could become your greatest strength?
In this episode of ADHD with Smart Ass Women, Tracy is joined by Catherine Morgan, a Certified Financial Coach and Trauma of Money Expert, about the emotional side of money and how ADHD shapes financial habits. Catherine, the founder of The Money PanelÂź and author of the bestseller Itâs Not About the Money, shares her own ADHD story and how it reshaped her understanding of impulsive spending, budgeting struggles, and financial shame.
Catherine breaks down why traditional budgeting doesnât work for many ADHD brains and offers practical tips like automating finances, focusing on what truly matters, and simplifying money tasks into smaller, achievable steps. Her insights are not just about managing money but about transforming how we see itâas a tool for creating freedom and resilience, rather than a source of stress.
This episode goes beyond the numbers to explore how trauma and neurodivergence influence our relationship with money. Catherineâs compassionate and relatable approach offers actionable strategies to help listeners build healthier habits and see their financial challenges as opportunities for growth.
Website: https://catherinemorgan.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/catherinemorganmoney LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/catherine-morgan
Resources:Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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Letâs talk about your crowning gloryâyour hairâand how it can help you embrace your authentic self.
Website: https://www.cultivatedcurl.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gina_thecultivatedcurl/Facebook: facebook.com/TheCultivatedCurl/
Gina Marie Rodriguez, a self-described "nerdy/sciency hairstylist," is on a mission to help clients love their natural curls and waves. As the owner of The Cultivated Curl in Fair Oaks, CA, Ginaâs work blends natural hair movement, gray hair acceptance, and neurodivergence advocacy, creating a space where authenticity is celebrated.
In this episode, Gina shares her personal ADHD journey, from childhood masking to embracing her neurodivergent traits as an adult. She opens up about how ADHD has fueled her passion for learning and teaching, driving her to innovate within the salon industry. By creating a pre-appointment educational course, Gina is empowering clients to better care for their hair and embrace their individuality.
Gina also dives into the challenges of masking, breaking societal expectations, and finding community in spaces that honor neurodiversity. Her story is a testament to the power of leaning into your quirks, whether thatâs in hair care, creativity, or daily life.
If youâve ever felt the need to shrink yourself to fit in, this episode will remind you that thereâs beauty in being exactly who you are.
Resources:Send a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends -
Want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and make it work for you? Learn more about my patented program, Your ADHD Brain is A-OK Academy here: programs.tracyotsuka.com/signup
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How do ADHD, trauma, and addiction intersect, and what strategies can help break this harmful cycle?
In this episode, Tracy Otsuka speaks with Andrea Epting, a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience specializing in trauma recovery, addiction, and neurodivergence. As a professional with ADHD and OCD, and a mother to two neurodivergent young adults, Andrea brings both personal insight and professional expertise to the conversation.
Andrea delves into the often-overlooked connection between ADHD and addiction, explaining how trauma, emotional dysregulation, and a search for dopamine can create vulnerabilities. She shares her therapeutic approach to recovery, emphasizing the importance of abstinence, community, and replacing unhealthy habits with meaningful alternatives. Andrea also highlights the unique challenges ADHD women face in emotional regulation and how breaking harmful cycles can lead to resilience and healing.
This episode provides strategies for navigating the intersections of ADHD, trauma, and recovery. Andrea offers insights into the role of mindfulness, self-compassion, and creating structure in building healthier habits. She also discusses her work through her nonprofit, Heads-Up Guidance Services (HUGS), to make mental health resources more accessible.
Website:
lightninginabottle.bizheadsupsavannah.org/PlannerSocial Media:
instagram.com/liab_lightninginabottle pinterest.com/liablightninginabottle youtube.com/@directimpactimpactaeSend a Message: Your Name | Email | Message
Learn more by connecting with Tracy through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, or visit adhdforsmartwomen.com.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com
Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsukaJoin What Do I Do With My Life Masterclass: spyhappy.me/class
Unlock your best days with Blends: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/blends - Se mer
