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Explore every episode of the podcast Soaring Child: Thriving with ADHD

Dive into the complete episode list for Soaring Child: Thriving with ADHD. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
221: Can Magnesium Help ADHD? with Dana Kay13 Aug 202600:19:06

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, we are continuing our Summer Series by sharing another fan favorite episode. Tune in as  Dana Kay shares all about magnesium for ADHD. 

What are the benefits of magnesium for children with ADHD? Which types of magnesium are the most effective and beneficial?

In this episode of the Soaring Child podcast, Dana Kay, board certified holistic health and nutrition practitioner, explores the benefits of magnesium for children with ADHD.

To watch this episode on YouTube, go here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byF1TQev3WA

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[2:45] Benefits of magnesium
[4:04] Why magnesium will never be the be-all-end-all solution for ADHD
[8:05] The importance of functional lab testing
[10:34] 8 types of magnesium and when to use which
[13:14] Dana's favorite form of magnesium for kids with ADHD
[15:50] Foods that are naturally high in magnesium

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"Magnesium is a great supplement to start with for many people. It is used in over 300 biochemical processes in the body."

"Magnesium is a really great supplement with a lot of great benefits! The problem comes in when magnesium is NOT what your child's body needs."

"No one supplement is going to be the game changer."

"There is no 'one size fits all' approach to ADHD symptoms."

"It is true that supplements can play a very important role in nutrition and healing, but sadly no single supplement is going to solve all of your problems."

"I always strongly recommend before considering supplementation that you address diet first or specific functional lab testing to identify underlying malfunctions and stressors."

"Using magnesium is not as simple as just running to your local pharmacy and picking up any bottle. Formulation matters."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
https://dana-kay.com/

👋 SOCIALS:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:
Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:
Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3QzvFHm

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:
ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

220: The ADHD Parent's Guide to a Non-Toxic Summer06 Aug 202600:27:49

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, we are continuing our Summer Series by sharing another fan favorite episode. Tune in as  Dana Kay shares how to have a non-toxic summer.

Summer is full of outdoor activities and memorable adventures. But it's also a time when our children are more exposed to various environmental toxins, like chlorine from swimming pools, chemicals in sunscreens, etc. These toxins can add a significant load to their bodies, exacerbating ADHD symptoms.

In this episode of the Soaring Child podcast, discover how to have a non-toxic summer (and how to safely and effectively detox from any toxins your child might be exposed to).

To watch this episode on YouTube, go here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofVk4AWCZUA&t=1s

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[3:20] Common toxins kids are exposed to during the summer
[7:20] Tips to make swimming less toxic
[11:38] What to look for in a sunscreen
[15:38] How parents can ensure a toxin-free environment at summer camp
[18:14] Natural ways to support detoxification and reduce the impact of toxins

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"During the summer, children are often more active and spend a considerable amount of time outdoors, which, while very beneficial for kids with ADHD, also increases their exposure to various environmental toxins."
"Because children's bodies are still developing, they are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of chemical exposures. Their smaller size, higher rates of metabolism, and the fact that they're closer to the ground (where some toxins settle) further increase their risk."
"Though chlorine isn't ideal, there are things you can do to help your  kids detox those chemicals before and after swimming."
"You can still use sunscreen but choose a cleaner brand and this will go a long way in reducing your child's overall toxic load!"
"It's much easier to limit a child's toxic exposure when they're at home with us under our supervision, but many of our kids will also be going to summer camps so we need to think about this too."
"The goal is to support the body's natural detoxification processes, which include the liver, kidneys, digestive system, and skin, in a gentle and supportive way."
"Remember, small tweaks can make a significant impact."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
https://dana-kay.com/

👋 SOCIALS:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:
Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:
Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3QzvFHm

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:
ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

219: Managing Screen Time with ADHD Kids with Ashley Gobeil30 Jul 202600:39:27

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, we are continuing our Summer Series by sharing another fan favorite episode. Tune in as  Dana Kay talks with Child and Family therapist, Ashley Gobeil, about screen time and its effects on children, especially those with ADHD. Ashley Gobeil has over 15 years of experience in child and adolescent mental health, and this important discussion unpacks how technology impacts emotional regulation, impulsivity, and overall well-being.

Ashley provides valuable insights into the neuroscience behind screen time's effects on ADHD brains, as well as practical strategies for parents to manage it. From setting boundaries to navigating meltdowns and fostering healthier habits, this episode equips parents with actionable tools to create a balanced approach to technology in their homes.

To watch this episode on YouTube, go here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qhYty22QRg&t=8s 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

CONNECT WITH ASHLEY GOBEIL

KEY TAKEAWAYS

[3:14] The Impacts of Screen Time on ADHD Symptoms
[11:21] How Screen Time Affects Emotional Regulation and Dopamine Loops
[11:47] Social and Cognitive Effects of Excessive Screen Time
[12:04] Strategies for Managing Screen Time Effectively
[16:08] Setting Boundaries Around Screen Time
[20:21] Tips for Navigating Screen Time Detox and Alternatives
[36:35] Practical Scripts and Tools for Parents

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"Screen time can act as a temporary escape for kids, but it doesn't increase their internal regulation."
"For children with ADHD, screen time often becomes a way of seeking dopamine, creating a reward loop that's hard to break."
"Screen time doesn't just overstimulate—it can actually decrease a child's ability to control impulses."
"Excessive screen use inhibits imagination, natural play, and the development of critical emotional processing skills."
"We're not here to eliminate screens completely but to find a healthy balance that supports emotional and mental well-being."
"Screen time is designed to leave children wanting more—it's a bucket with a hole that can never be filled."
"Setting boundaries is hard but essential. It's okay for kids to feel big emotions when limits are set—it's part of learning."
"Boredom isn't a bad thing—it's an opportunity for kids to build creativity, imagination, and self-regulation."
"Start small, stay consistent, and be proactive about setting screen time rules—it will pay off in the long run."
"Healthy screen habits are a team effort. Explain your decisions to your kids, and adjust based on what works for your family."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

Order Lab Tests Here - https://adhdthriveinstitute.wellproz.com/patient/home 

https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
https://dana-kay.com/

👋 SOCIALS:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:
Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:
Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:
ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

218: The 3 Best Natural Strategies to Reduce ADHD Symptoms in Kids23 Jul 202600:31:46

This episode kicks off our special summer series, where we're bringing back some of our most-loved previous episodes from The Soaring Child Podcast. We chose these episodes because they speak directly to what so many families are navigating this time of year: more screens, disrupted routines, travel, toxins, processed foods, picky eating, meltdowns, burnout, and the eventual transition back to school. We're starting with this episode on The Most Effective Natural Solutions for ADHD because it is the perfect starting point for parents who are just starting out and for those who have been on this road for a while.

If you could only choose three things to focus on to reduce ADHD symptoms naturally, what would they be? Dana Kay, holistic health and nutrition practitioner, answered that question in this episode.

If you're just starting out, she shared 3 beginner strategies. If you've been doing this for a while and feel like you've got a grasp on the beginner strategies, she shared some intermediate strategies. Finally, if you consider yourself an expert, she shared the top strategies for experts as well.

These strategies are the pillars that can make a significant difference in the life of a child with ADHD. So, whether you're just starting out on the journey or you're looking to refine your approach, this episode is for you!

To watch the video recording of this podcast episode, go here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0GW2Imxw7E

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[3:18] The Top Areas to Focus on – Beginner Level – Diet, Supplements, Exercise
[14:22] The Top Areas to Focus on –  Intermediate Level – Functional Lab Testing, Targeted Supplementation, Optimizing Detoxification
[24:42] The Top Areas to Focus on – Advanced Level – Dietary Flexibility, Maintenance Supplements

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

"Diet is the foundation of any plan to reduce ADHD symptoms naturally. The food we consume plays a crucial role in how our bodies and brains function."
"Supplements should never be considered the be-all and end-all for ADHD support. As I say often, you can't supplement your way out of a poor diet. BUT, in conjunction with dietary changes, supplements can be very beneficial."
"Research shows that taking probiotics can help support that gut-brain connection. But, the problem with a lot of probiotics is that the strains don't survive digestion."
"Functional lab tests can uncover underlying issues that might be contributing to ADHD symptoms, such as nutrient deficiencies, parasites, leaky gut, food sensitivities, mold, etc."
"Our bodies are constantly exposed to toxins, and for children with ADHD, reducing this toxic burden is really important."
"It is impossible to get rid of all toxins from your life, so that's why it's important to optimize detoxification."
"Once you're in the thriving phase, it's important to reassess the supplements your child is taking. Maintenance supplements are about supporting ongoing health and preventing regression."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

Order Lab Tests Here - https://adhdthriveinstitute.wellproz.com/patient/home 

https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
https://dana-kay.com/

👋 SOCIALS:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:
Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:
Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:
ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

 

217: Eczema & ADHD Explained - Experts Answer with Andra McHugh16 Jul 202600:29:23

Most parents assume ADHD and eczema are completely separate. One is the brain. One is the skin. But what if both are signs that the body is overloaded? In this episode of the Soaring Child Podcast, Dana Kay sits down with Andra McHugh, founder of Eczema Kids and creator of the Eczema Elimination Method, to explore the powerful connection between the gut, immune system, inflammation, skin, environment, nervous system, and brain.

After watching two of her own children struggle with severe eczema as a baby and toddler, Andra stopped asking, "What cream do I use next?" and started asking, "Why does this keep happening?" That one question changed everything. Through years of research, trial and error, and hands-on experience with families, Andra developed a whole-body approach to eczema that looks beyond symptom management and starts addressing the deeper stressors underneath.

In this conversation, Dana and Andra discuss why eczema is not just a skin issue, how gut dysfunction and inflammation can show up through both skin and behavior, why food triggers are only one piece of the puzzle, and how hidden environmental stressors like mold, off-gassing, and EMFs can contribute to flare-ups. Parents will also learn practical first steps they can take right away, including whole foods, opening windows, reducing toxic exposures, and using Epsom salt baths to support detoxification, mineral levels, and nervous system regulation.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

Connect with Andra McHugh:


KEY TAKEAWAYS
[0:00] Dana opens by asking whether eczema, itchy skin, allergies, skin flare-ups, and ADHD may be more connected than most parents realize.
[0:28] Dana explains that eczema often overlaps with gut issues, allergies, sensory sensitivity, sleep problems, anxiety, big emotions, and inflammation.
[1:53] Dana introduces the idea that chronic symptoms are often the body's way of communicating that something deeper is overloaded.
[3:50] Andra shares the moment conventional advice failed her family, when she was told to use steroid creams and hope her children grew out of eczema.
[4:17] Andra explains that she knew this could not be the ceiling of her children's health or the story they were meant to live.
[5:43] Andra reminds parents that they are often the true drivers of their child's outcomes because they shape food, home environment, and daily routines.
[7:07] Andra explains that eczema is not really a skin condition at its root, even though the rash and itching show up on the skin.
[7:32] Andra describes eczema as something that can spread like a wildfire and explains that the outside skin can mirror what is happening inside the gut.
[8:43] Dana connects eczema and ADHD by explaining that both are often treated as isolated conditions instead of signs of deeper stress in the body.
[12:23] Andra explains that she often saves testing for later and starts by reducing systemic inflammation through food and lifestyle changes first.
[14:40] Andra connects eczema to the total load concept, explaining that some children's inflammation buckets seem full from the very beginning.
[16:20] Andra names hidden environmental stressors that may contribute to eczema, including mold, new furniture, new cars, renovated homes, drywall, flooring, adhesives, and off-gassing.
[19:50] Andra explains why she was concerned about both conventional steroid creams and many natural skincare products that still contained ingredients not ideal for eczema-prone skin.
[24:39] Andra shares that real whole foods are one of the best first steps parents can take to reduce inflammation and support healing.
[25:39] Andra's final practical tip is Epsom salt baths, which may help with inflammation, mineral support, detoxification, and nervous system regulation.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"What if the skin is actually another way the body communicates overload?"
"It's almost like the body is waving little red flags everywhere saying, hey, something deeper is going on here."
"so often the body is trying to communicate that something underneath the surface is overloaded."
"the best you can do is really slather on these steroid creams and know, hope in a prayer, hope they grow out of it."
"this just can't be the ceiling of their health."
"This cannot be their story. This is not what my children are here for."
"my kids were so uncomfortable and itchy and their skin was just literally falling off."
"You're the buyer and the server of the food. You're the CEO of the home and the creator of the environment."
"It's not really a skin condition at all."
"It feels like a wildfire that you just like cannot get, can't get a handle on it."
"your outside skin is a mirror of your intestinal lining."
"how are they born with just their inflammation buckets already overflowing?"
"They're already full. And now you have to take these extra measures to take some things out of their bucket"
"they're just little sponges."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

Order Lab Tests Here - https://adhdthriveinstitute.wellproz.com/patient/home 

https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
https://dana-kay.com/

👋 SOCIALS:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:
Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:
Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:
ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

 

216: Stop Taking ADHD Meltdowns Personally. Do This Instead.08 Jul 202600:36:11

When a child screams, "I hate you," "You're the worst mom ever," or "I wish you weren't my parent," it can feel deeply personal. But in this episode of the Soaring Child Podcast, child and family therapist Ashley Gobeil explains that these explosive moments are often not signs of defiance, manipulation, or bad parenting. They are often signs of a dysregulated nervous system, emotional overwhelm, and a child who does not yet have the language or tools to express what is really going on inside.

In this powerful conversation, Dana Kay and Ashley unpack what is really happening underneath intense ADHD-related meltdowns, why shame can keep both parents and children stuck in painful cycles, and how parents can respond in a way that calms the storm instead of feeding it. Ashley shares practical language parents can use in the moment, how to hold boundaries without escalating the situation, and why repair after a rupture is so important for building emotional regulation, connection, and long-term accountability.

This episode is a compassionate reminder that parents do not have to get it perfect. They simply need to keep showing up, one moment at a time.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[03:50] Hurtful words during meltdowns are usually communication, not defiance.
When a child says things like "I hate you," Ashley explains that there is usually something much deeper happening underneath the behavior.
[04:44] In the moment, it is not deliberate disrespect.
Ashley emphasizes that these moments are often intense overwhelm, not a conscious choice to attack the parent.
[05:42] Kids with ADHD often have very few tools available when dysregulated.
When their nervous system is overwhelmed, the tools they may have learned often "go out the window."
[06:39] Their nervous system can experience ordinary requests as threats.
Even something as simple as being asked to put shoes away can trigger fight, flight, or freeze when a child is already overwhelmed.
[07:35] "I hate you" may really mean "I feel out of control."
Ashley explains that hurtful words often point to feelings like fear, shame, grief, lack of control, or not feeling understood.
[09:15] Parents can shift their response by changing the lens.
Instead of seeing the child as disrespectful or defiant, parents can view the behavior as a window into distress.
[10:28] Shame can create a painful loop for both parent and child.
The child may feel ashamed after losing control, and the parent may spiral into thoughts like "Have I failed?" or "What am I doing wrong?"
[15:44] The parent's internal response comes first.
Ashley encourages parents to remind themselves: "My child is not giving me a hard time. They're having a hard time."
[17:35] Naming the feeling can help deescalate the moment.
Parents can say things like, "You're really angry with me right now," or "Something really big must have happened for you to say that."
[22:43] Repair is essential, and it is never too late.
Ashley explains that repair after rupture helps rebuild connection, reduce shame, and teach emotional accountability over time.


MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"Have you ever had one of those moments where your child looks straight at you and says, I hate you. You're the worst mom ever. I wish you weren't my parent."
"children's behaviors are a form of communication."
"it is not a deliberate defiant moment or a deliberate disrespect."
"they just go straight into the survival nervous system response."
"There's just like tons of stuff happening at once and like their nervous system's on fire."
"I feel really out of control. I feel like I don't get to make choice. I don't feel understood."
"So so many of them actually feel terrible by themselves."
"every single child has this deep innate desire to have a positive, loving relationship with their parent."
"These are just words. This is not an emergency. This is not a reflection of my parenting."
"It is never too late to go back and have a repair conversation."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

Order Lab Tests Here - https://adhdthriveinstitute.wellproz.com/patient/home 

https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
https://dana-kay.com/

👋 SOCIALS:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:
Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:
Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:
ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

 

215: Is Toxic Load Making ADHD Symptoms Worse?02 Jul 202600:09:50

What if your child's ADHD symptoms are being made worse because of the toxic load they are carrying? In this episode, Dana Kay continues the functional lab testing series by exploring toxic load, including mold toxins, heavy metals, and everyday environmental chemicals that can quietly build up in the body and impact symptoms.

Dana explains the Total Tox Panel, a urine test that looks at three important areas: mold toxins, heavy metals, and environmental chemicals. Using her memorable "trash can" analogy, she explains how the body is designed to clear waste and toxins, but many children with ADHD struggle to empty that trash can effectively. When the body's detox pathways are overwhelmed, the result can be inflammation, nervous system stress, brain fog, mood swings, hyperactivity, and poor regulation.

This episode helps parents understand why symptoms may not fully shift even after cleaning up the diet, supporting the gut, and adding nutrients. For families who feel like they have tried everything, toxic load may be one of the missing layers worth exploring. Dana shares what she has seen after working with over 1,600 children with ADHD and explains why testing can help parents move from guessing to seeing what is actually going on inside the body.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] ADHD symptoms may not only be connected to food, nutrients, or gut health. Toxic load from heavy metals, mold toxins, and everyday chemicals may also play a role.
[01:29] Toxic load is especially worth exploring when families have already cleaned up the diet, supported the gut, and added nutrients, but symptoms still are not fully shifting.
[01:56] The Total Tox Panel is a urine test that looks at three key areas: mold toxins, heavy metals, and environmental chemicals.
[02:25] Dana introduces the "trash can" analogy to explain how toxins, food choices, medication, sugar, bacteria, viruses, and other stressors can build up in the body.
[03:24] Many children with ADHD may not be clearing toxins efficiently, causing the "trash can" to overflow and contribute to inflammation, stress, brain fog, mood swings, inattention, and hyperactivity.
[04:20] Dana shares a real example of a child whose test showed high mold toxins, thallium, BPA, and glyphosate, showing how multiple toxic stressors can layer together.
[07:34] ADHD symptoms are often layered, and toxic load may be one of the missing pieces for families who feel like they have tried everything.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"What if your child's ADHD symptoms were not just about food or nutrients or even gut health, but about what their body is carrying?"
"For some kids, it can quietly build up and start to affect how they think, how they feel, and how they behave."
"Families are doing the right things. They clean up the diet, they support the gut, they add in nutrients, and they see some improvements. But it does not fully shift."
"We all have a metaphorical trash can in our body, and as we go through life, the trash can it gets filled up."
"Working with over 1600 kids with ADHD is that a lot of these kiddos, they're not emptying their trash cans properly."
"The brain is under stress, and that shows up as the things parents are dealing with every single day."
"I do not like to guess. I want to see what is actually going on inside the body."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

Order Lab Tests Here - https://adhdthriveinstitute.wellproz.com/patient/home 

https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
https://dana-kay.com/

👋 SOCIALS:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:
Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:
Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:
ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

214: Is Your Child's ADHD Actually a Gut Issue?25 Jun 202600:12:07

What if your child's ADHD symptoms had less to do with their brain, and more to do with what is living in their gut? In this episode, Dana Kay continues the functional lab testing series by unpacking one of the most overlooked drivers of ADHD symptoms: gut health. She explains how hidden infections, yeast overgrowth, parasites, gut inflammation, poor digestion, immune activation, and imbalanced bacteria can all place stress on the body, even when a child has no obvious stomach complaints.

Dana also explains the difference between the Organic Acid Test and a comprehensive stool test, using the "smelling smoke" analogy to show why both tests can be helpful in different ways. The OAT may reveal downstream clues that something is off, while the stool test can help identify what may actually be sitting in the gut and contributing to that stress.

This episode gives parents a practical, hopeful way to look beneath behavior and focus struggles. Instead of asking, "What is wrong with my child's behavior?" Dana encourages parents to ask, "What is stressing my child's system?" For families who feel like they have tried everything, this conversation offers a clearer way to understand the gut-brain connection and why targeted testing can help reduce the guesswork.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] A child's ADHD symptoms may be connected to hidden gut issues, even when there are no obvious stomach complaints.
[01:26] Gut health is about much more than digestion. It affects the immune system, nervous system, mood, behavior, focus, hormones, and detoxification.
[01:55] The gut is constantly communicating with the brain, so when something is off in the gut, the brain can feel the effects.
[02:24] The Organic Acid Test shows downstream metabolic clues, while a stool test helps identify what may actually be present in the gut.
[04:21] A comprehensive stool test can look at bacteria, yeast, parasites, viruses, H. pylori, inflammation, digestion, and other gut markers.
[04:50] Gut stress can show up as behavior, mood, sleep issues, focus problems, and sensory sensitivity before it ever shows up as digestive symptoms.
[07:07] Yeast overgrowth does not cause ADHD, but it can be one reason symptoms are not improving.
[09:55] Testing helps parents stop guessing and start making targeted decisions based on what is actually stressing their child's system.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

"What if your child's ADHD symptoms had nothing to do with their brain? And everything to do with what is living in their gut?"
"Your child might not have a single stomach complaint."
"When something is off in the gut, the brain feels it big time."
"It's like walking into your house and smelling smoke."
"The gut shows up in behaviour and symptoms long before it actually shows up in the in the bathroom."
"Instead of asking, what is wrong with my child's behavior? We have to ask what is stressing their gut, their system."
"Not because the brain is the problem, but because the brain is responding to what's happening in the gut."
"They're not just ADHD symptoms. They're body issues that are showing up as ADHD symptoms."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

Order Lab Tests Here - https://adhdthriveinstitute.wellproz.com/patient/home 

https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
https://dana-kay.com/

👋 SOCIALS:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
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📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:
Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:
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⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:
ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

213: Stop Guessing: The Test That Finds Hidden ADHD Triggers18 Jun 202600:11:11

What if your child's ADHD symptoms were not just a behavior problem, but a metabolic issue happening underneath the surface? In this episode, Dana Kay explains how the Organic Acid Test, often called the OAT test, can offer a deeper look at how a child's body is functioning, from nutrient processing and neurotransmitter pathways to gut overgrowth, detox stress, mitochondrial function, and more.

This episode is part of Dana's functional lab testing series, and it goes one layer deeper than food sensitivities, gut issues, or nutrient loss. Dana explains why some families can be doing "all the right things," like cleaning up the diet, removing triggers, and adding supplements, yet still feel stuck. The missing piece may not be what to add or remove. It may be whether the body is actually processing things the way it should.

Dana walks parents through the six key areas the Organic Acid Test can help illuminate, including microbial overgrowth, mitochondrial function, neurotransmitter pathways, toxic exposure, methylation and detoxification, and functional nutrient needs. Most importantly, she explains why this test can help bridge the gap between symptoms and function, giving families a clearer, more targeted path forward.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] ADHD symptoms may not only be behavioral. They may be connected to deeper metabolic issues happening underneath the surface.
[01:29] Some families still feel stuck even after improving diet, removing triggers, and adding supplements because the body may not be processing things properly.
[01:59] The Organic Acid Test, or OAT test, is a urine test that looks at organic acids, which are byproducts of metabolism.
[02:27] Organic acids act like "metabolic breadcrumbs," offering clues about energy production, detoxification, neurotransmitters, and gut microbes.
[03:18] The OAT test can help show where systems are struggling and where things are breaking down in the body.
[03:43] Dana emphasizes that patterns matter more than one isolated out-of-range marker.
[04:37] Gut and microbial overgrowth can produce toxins that may affect the brain and contribute to mood swings, hyperactivity, sensory issues, aggression, and poor focus.
[05:03] Mitochondrial function matters because low cellular energy can show up as brain fog, low motivation, poor resilience, and overwhelm.
[05:33] The test can give insight into neurotransmitter pathways like dopamine and serotonin, which are connected to focus, motivation, mood, and calm.
[08:00] The biggest takeaway: traditional labs often look for disease, while the OAT test looks at dysfunction, helping parents better understand the whole-body picture.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"What if your child's ADHD symptoms were not just a behavior problem, but a metabolic issue happening underneath the surface?"
"There is a test that can show you all of that from one simple urine sample."
"Parents are doing everything right, they're cleaning up the diet, they're removing triggers, they're adding some supplements, and yet their child is still struggling."
"The missing question is not always what should we add or remove. It is, is the body actually processing things?"
"It's leaving behind these little sort of metabolic breadcrumbs."
"It's not just telling us what is happening, it's telling us where things are breaking down in the body."
"But the patterns are the more important thing."
"You cannot fix neurotransmitters if the body does not have the nutrients or the pathways to make them properly."
"This test looks at dysfunction."
"You can stop guessing, you can stop jumping from one thing to the next, and you can start making sort of these really targeted decisions."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

Order Lab Tests Here - https://adhdthriveinstitute.wellproz.com/patient/home 

https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
https://dana-kay.com/

👋 SOCIALS:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
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 Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:
Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:
Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:
ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
 ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

 

212: Is a Zinc & B6 Deficiency Making ADHD Symptoms Worse?11 Jun 202600:12:04

Your child may be losing the very nutrients their brain needs to function at its best, and when that happens, it can show up as exacerbated ADHD symptoms.

In this episode of  the Soaring Child podcast, Dana Kay uncovers one of the most overlooked underlying stressors of persistent ADHD symptoms, a condition where key nutrients like zinc and vitamin B6 are literally being depleted before the body can use them.

Continuing the functional lab testing series, Dana breaks down the Kryptopyrrole (Pyroluria) test in a way that finally makes sense. She explains how this hidden imbalance can impact mood, emotional regulation, stress tolerance, focus, and even behavior, and why so many families never hear about it through traditional channels.

You'll learn how this condition creates a cycle of nutrient loss and symptom flare-ups, the common signs to look for, and why even the best diet or supplement routine may not work if this piece is missing. 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] Why kids can still struggle even with the "right" diet and supplements
[01:10] Introducing the Cryptopyrrole (Pyroluria) test
[02:05] How the body can lose nutrients faster than it uses them
[03:20] What HPL is and how it binds to zinc and B6
[05:10] Why zinc and B6 are critical for ADHD symptoms
[07:00] The two main drivers: genetics and oxidative stress
[09:10] The cycle of stress, inflammation, and nutrient depletion
[11:20] Why this test is rarely run but highly relevant for ADHD
[13:00] The surprising prevalence of elevated pyroles in ADHD kids
[15:10] Common signs parents may notice at home
[18:00] Why testing is essential before supplementing
[20:15] How treatment is personalized and not one-size-fits-all
[22:10] Timeline for seeing improvements after addressing pyroles
[24:00] Why this is one piece of a bigger root-cause puzzle
[26:30] How functional testing builds a complete picture over time

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

"What if your child is taking the right supplements… and still struggling because their body is literally dumping the nutrients they need?"

"What if their body is not holding on to those nutrients in the first place?"

"This compound comes along and hijacks them… and pulls them out of circulation."

"Now those nutrients… they're gone."

"Zinc and B6 are so critical for mood, emotional regulation, and focus."

"You have more nutrient loss, more symptoms, and more stress on the body."

"In the general population it's about 3%, but in my ADHD clients it's closer to 40%."

"This is not rare in the ADHD world… it's just rarely tested."

"When I heard this list, it was like a light bulb went off."

"I do not want you guessing. I want data."

"Sometimes addressing pyroles alone can create massive shifts."

"It's not the only piece… but it can be a really important one."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

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⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

211: Two Tests That Change Everything for ADHD Families03 Jun 202600:16:30

Normal labs don't always mean everything is where it should be. That's the frustrating part for many parents. They go to the doctor, get some tests run, but leave with "everything looks fine" even when their child is still struggling.

It leaves many parents wondering: Where do we look next?

In this episode, Dana Kay breaks down why traditional testing often misses the real problem, and how functional lab testing can uncover the hidden stressors driving ADHD symptoms.

Dana shares how shifting from guessing to testing completely changed the trajectory for her own son, and how it's now helping thousands of families get real answers. You'll learn how inflammation, gut health, and immune responses can impact focus, mood, and behavior, even when standard tests say everything is "fine."

She walks you through two of the most powerful starting points, the Wheat Zoomer and food sensitivity testing, explaining what they actually measure, why they matter, and how they can reveal deeper issues like leaky gut, hidden food reactions, and even opioid-like responses to gluten. If you've ever felt like something isn't adding up with your child's ADHD symptoms, this episode will help you finally connect the dots and understand what's really going on beneath the surface.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] Why "normal" lab results don't match what you're seeing at home
[01:15] The shift from guessing to testing, and why it changes everything
[02:10] Traditional testing vs functional testing, what's being missed
[03:20] How inflammation and overload drive ADHD symptoms
[05:10] What the Wheat Zoomer actually measures beyond celiac testing
[07:30] How leaky gut contributes to focus, mood, and behavior challenges
[10:05] Why gluten reactions can still exist even with negative tests
[13:40] The role of opioid-like compounds from gluten in behavior and cravings
[16:20] Why gluten-free doesn't always mean symptom-free
[18:05] Food sensitivities vs food allergies, and why they're often missed
[21:30] How gut damage leads to developing new food sensitivities
[24:10] Why removing foods alone isn't enough without addressing root causes
[27:00] How testing gives clarity and direction instead of guesswork
[29:10] What's coming next in the lab testing series

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"Everything looks normal on the lab work… but this doesn't feel normal because you're living it."

"Once I started testing instead of guessing, that's when everything got clearer."

"Most traditional testing is looking for disease. It's not looking for dysfunction."

"ADHD is very often a dysfunction problem before it becomes anything diagnosable."

"It's like taking a magnifying glass to wheat, to gluten, and to the gut all at once."

"Food is like a giant Lego masterpiece… and this test zooms in on the tiny pieces."

"These compounds can act almost like a drug in the brain."

"Gluten-free does not always mean wheat-free."

"Food sensitivities are delayed, and that's what makes them so sneaky."
"Food sensitivities are often not the starting point… they're the result."

 "I don't want you wasting your money guessing what foods to remove."

"This is where things start to add up, because now you're not guessing anymore."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

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210: Your ADHD Child Isn't Defiant. Their Body May Be in Survival Mode27 May 202600:15:47

A child screaming over shoes, melting down after school, or exploding over a tiny disappointment may look defiant from the outside. But in this episode, Dana Kay explains why many ADHD behaviors are not simply "bad behavior," attention-seeking, or manipulation.

Often, they are signs of a nervous system under stress.

Dana shares one of the biggest mindset shifts she  had as both a practitioner and a parent: behavior is usually the last thing happening in the chain. Underneath the meltdown may be blood sugar crashes, gut inflammation, food sensitivities, poor sleep, mouth breathing, nutrient deficiencies, or chronic inflammation. When those stressors stack, the brain and body can shift into survival mode.

In this solo episode, Dana walks parents through the biology beneath ADHD behavior, including why after-school meltdowns are so common, how the gut-brain connection can affect mood and focus, and why stable fuel matters for emotional regulation. Most importantly, she reminds parents that understanding biology does not mean removing boundaries. It means learning to respond with more clarity, compassion, and strategy.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:44] Dana introduces the idea that the child may not be fighting the parent. Their body may be fighting to survive.
[01:47] Dana sets up one of the biggest mindset shifts she has had as both a practitioner and a parent.
[02:10] Behavior is usually the last thing happening in the chain, which means parents need to ask what is happening underneath it.
[02:46] Many ADHD kids are carrying a heavy stress load, and when the body is overloaded, behavior can fall apart.
[02:54] Dana shares the Costco meltdown story with her son Oliver and how it became a turning point in how she viewed his reactions.
[04:47] When a child's nervous system is overloaded, the brain can shift into survival mode quickly.
[06:49] Signs like hunger meltdowns, after-school crashes, tiny disappointments feeling huge, and fast mood shifts are not random.
[07:01] After-school meltdowns are often a clue that a child has been masking and holding everything together all day.
[08:44] Dana explains that ADHD symptoms often have stacked stressors underneath them, including blood sugar crashes, gut inflammation, food sensitivities, mouth breathing, nutrient deficiencies, and chronic inflammation.
[10:06] Stable fuel matters because the brain cannot regulate properly when blood sugar is crashing.
[10:13] Dana explains why the gut-brain connection is one of the biggest light bulb moments in understanding ADHD symptoms.
[11:57] Understanding biology does not mean removing boundaries. It changes how parents interpret and respond to behavior.
[12:43] Dana encourages parents to start simple by looking for patterns instead of reacting immediately.
[15:05] Dana closes with the reminder that a child is not broken. Their behavior is communication.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"Their body may be fighting to survive."

"But behavior is usually the last thing happening in the chain."

"And when the body is overloaded, behavior goes out the window."

"His reactions, they weren't random, you know, and that realization changed everything."

"Those aren't random."

"Home is the place, their body, their nervous system finally feels safe enough to unravel."

"If the brain does not have stable fuel, it can't regulate properly."

"Just because symptoms are showing up behaviorally doesn't mean the root issue is purely behavioral."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

209: ADHD Focus Skills with Dr. Norrine Russell20 May 202600:30:19

Most advice about focus sounds simple: give them breaks, reduce distractions, use a timer, etc.  But for many kids with ADHD, the real struggle is not "focus" as one big thing. It is the tiny moments inside focus: starting, staying with it, transitioning, managing frustration, and not shutting down halfway through.

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, Dana Kay sits down with Dr. Norrine Russell, founder of Russell Coaching for Students and creator of Connected Coaching, to talk about the practical micro-skills behind focus. Dr. Russell explains why telling a child to "just focus" often backfires, and what parents can do instead to support executive functioning in a way that actually helps.

Parents will learn how to shrink the starting point, reduce cognitive load, use presence without hovering, support emotional regulation with empathy, and create simple systems like whiteboards and second screens. This conversation is full of practical, doable strategies for helping kids move from stuck and overwhelmed to supported and capable.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] Most focus advice is too general and misses the specific moments where ADHD kids get stuck.
[01:00] Focus is made up of smaller skills, and when one small skill is missing, the whole process can fall apart.
[03:07] Dr. Russell explains the executive functioning skills behind focus, including starting, transitioning, sustained attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation.
[06:14] Parents can help children begin by shrinking the starting point into one tiny, doable action.
[07:59] Support should change with age, moving from direct guidance in younger years to internalized skills in older children.
[09:30] Hovering increases stress and does not build self-regulation.
[09:59] Parents can support focus by being visible but silent, then gradually moving farther away as the child matures.
[12:59] Empathy is often the most helpful tool when a child becomes frustrated or overwhelmed.
[16:11] Asking whether a child wants to be heard or helped can prevent over-helping and build problem-solving skills.
[17:28] Reducing cognitive load is key, and a large whiteboard can help kids get thoughts, assignments, and goals out of their heads.
[20:16] A second screen can reduce working memory demands for students using a laptop.
[21:06] Sometimes the missing piece is not another strategy, but more time, support, acceptance, and brain maturation.
[23:24] Texting can be a helpful way to communicate with children and teens in a way that gives them space to process and respond.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"Your child isn't struggling with focus sort of in general, they're struggling with very specific moments."

"Focus isn't just one skill. It's a series of really small skills stacked together."

"The least helpful thing that a parent can do is say something like, just focus, just get started."

"Attention is like a muscle."

"Shrink the starting point. Shrink the starting point."

"Hovering is not helpful. Hovering is not helpful."

"So you want to be visible, but silent."

"Our number one tool really when our kids are frustrated is empathy."

"Right, heard, helped, or hugged."

"You can't rush development. You can't rush brain maturation."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

 

208: Is Sugar Driving Your Child's ADHD Symptoms? with Mike Collins13 May 202600:37:54

What if sugar isn't just making your child "a little hyper" but actually changing how their brain functions?

In this episode of The Soaring Child podcast, Dana Kay sits down with Mike Collins, a leading expert in sugar addiction and recovery, to unpack what sugar is really doing inside your child's brain. With over 40 years of experience and tens of thousands of detoxes behind him, Mike shares why sugar may be far more than a harmless treat and how it can impact focus, mood, impulse control, and behavior in ways most parents have never been told.

You'll hear eye-opening insights on how sugar affects dopamine and the brain's reward system, why cravings can feel impossible to control, and what makes sugar uniquely addictive compared to other substances. Dana also brings this conversation back to real life, helping parents understand how to recognize signs of sugar sensitivity in their child and what to do next.

If you've ever wondered whether sugar could be playing a bigger role in your child's ADHD symptoms, this episode will give you practical next steps.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

CONNECT WITH MIKE COLLINS


KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:01] Sudden behavior changes after sugar exposure
[03:36] Introduction to sugar addiction and Mike Collins' work
[04:30] Is sugar addiction real?
[05:48] Brain function improvements after reducing sugar
[08:11] Rise of metabolic psychiatry
[09:45] Sugar as a neurotoxin
[13:22] How modern fruit differs from historical fruit
[15:05] Signs of sugar sensitivity in children
[17:01] Dopamine-driven behavior explained
[18:34] Why cravings are not about taste
[21:04] Sugar vs other addictions
[24:07] Dopamine and intermittent reward systems 


MEMORABLE MOMENTS

"What if sugar isn't just a treat? What if it's actually driving ADHD symptoms?"

"I believe sugar causes ADHD."

"Their brain came back online."

"Sugar is a neurotoxin."

"That is the worst thing on the planet… craving with no peace."

"They're not looking for a sweet taste. They're looking for dopamine."

"The science has outpaced the public's understanding."

"They're not looking for the behavior… they're looking for the dopamine hit."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

207: ADHD Picky Eating Solutions with Andrea Daigle06 May 202600:20:38

Picky eating is not something parents simply have to "deal with." There are strategies they can use to help expand the diets of their children.

In this episode of the Soaring Child podcast, Dana Kay sits down with ADHD Thrive Institute coach Andrea Daigle to unpack what's really behind picky eating. You'll learn why some kids rely on "safe foods," how texture sensitivity and digestion issues can drive food resistance, and why forcing bites may actually make things worse. You'll also discover that many children with ADHD who struggle at the dinner table are actually responding to deeper biological signals.

Andrea shares simple, practical strategies parents can start using immediately—including the powerful "add, don't subtract" method and the easy-to-implement cheese grater strategy that helps expand your child's diet without triggering overwhelm.
If mealtimes feel like a daily battle, this episode will give you a new perspective and a clear, compassionate path forward.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] The emotional reality of mealtime struggles
[04:00] Picky eating as a nervous system and gut signal
[05:42] Why pressure and forcing bites backfires
[07:44] "Add, don't subtract" strategy explained
[09:26] Cheese grater strategy for texture sensitivity
[12:00] When picky eating becomes a red flag
[12:47] Gut health and digestion as foundational drivers
[13:57] Sensory issues and nutrient deficiencies
[15:40] One simple action parents can start today
[16:15] Why repetition (15–20 exposures) matters

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

"Picky eating is rarely ever just a behavior problem."

"It's their nervous system saying, this just doesn't feel safe right now."

"Even the slightest pressure like just try one bite can trigger a defensive response."

"Instead of taking foods away, let's start upgrading what they're already eating."

"When you barely change that texture, the nervous system does not react."

"We can't change picky eating for a child whose body is uncomfortable."

"Zinc deficiency… changes the way that you taste food."

"We want to look at all the pieces of the puzzle."

"It can take 15 to 20 times for a kid to accept a new flavor."

Schedule a free call with Andrea and the team of ADHD Thrive Institute - https://bit.ly/3X5ZVvT 

DANA KAY RESOURCES

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👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

206: IEPs vs. 504 Plans for ADHD with Paula Yost29 Apr 202600:34:18

Most parents walk into IEP or 504 meetings hoping to advocate for their child, but unfortunately, many of them walk out feeling unheard, overwhelmed, and unsure of what just happened.

In this  episode of The Soaring Child podcast, Dana sits down with attorney and licensed clinical mental health clinician Paula Yost to break down exactly why these meetings feel so difficult and what you can do to change that. Paula brings a rare and deeply valuable perspective, combining legal expertise with real-life experience as a mom navigating the system herself. She is the author of Tumbleweeds: How to Be an Advocate for Your Children and Yourself in a Failing System.

You'll learn the critical differences between IEPs and 504 plans (and why many children with ADHD are often placed in the wrong one), how to recognize when your child isn't truly being supported (even if their grades look "fine"), and what to say in the moment when you feel dismissed or unheard.

This conversation is packed with practical strategies, real scripts you can use immediately, and empowering insights to help you walk into your next school meeting with clarity and confidence. Most importantly, it will remind you that you have the right to advocate for your child every step of the way.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

CONNECT WITH PAULA YOST

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:01] Why parents often leave school meetings feeling unheard
[04:34] The real reason IEP meetings feel so difficult
[06:08] The mismatch between parent and school goals
[06:47] What FAPE means and why it matters
[07:17] Key difference between IEP and 504
[09:13] Why IEPs matter long-term for your child
[10:20] High IQ masking ADHD struggles
[13:00] Signs your child isn't properly supported
[16:18] Common mistakes parents make in meetings
[19:36] What to say when you're not being heard
[21:11] What to do if your child doesn't qualify
[24:13] Why after-school crashes matter
[26:39] 3 things to prepare before a meeting
[27:47] Emotional reality of advocacy
[29:31] You always have the right to another meeting


MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"It's not a fair fight."

"That IEP is a legal document that follows you all the way through your life."

"The height of the IQ is masking the ADHD."

"I feel like I'm not being heard."

"We have to let them fail until they're nine."

"You are paying for your attorney and their attorney."

"I have never left anything as upset as I was when I have left an IEP meeting."

"Some days are just going to be like that."

"You always have the right to another meeting."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

205: Protecting Families from Hidden EMF Dangers with Beverly Jensen Ph.D23 Apr 202600:41:24

What do EMFs and EMRs have to do with ADHD? Find out in this Soaring Child podcast interview.

Dana Kay sits down with Beverly Jensen, Ph.D., to unpack the hidden impact of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from everyday devices like phones, Wi-Fi, tablets, and baby monitors. Beverly shares how this constant, invisible exposure may be affecting children's developing brains, nervous systems, sleep, and behavior, often without parents realizing it.

Together, they explore the science behind EMFs (electromagnetic fields), including emerging research showing potential effects on neurodevelopment, even at levels far below current safety standards. Beverly also explains why children are more vulnerable, how modern homes have become "hotbeds" of exposure, and why this conversation isn't more widely discussed.

Most importantly, this episode gives parents practical, doable steps they can start today. From simple changes like turning off Wi-Fi at night to creating device-free spaces in your home, you'll walk away feeling empowered, not overwhelmed.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

[00:01] Invisible environmental exposures affecting children's brains
[04:43] EMRs defined as invisible pollution
[09:07] Devices emitting radiation and human electrical systems
[11:06] Impact on nervous system, brain, and sleep
[15:58] Yale study on neurodevelopment and EMR exposure
[16:58] Bluetooth vs Wi-Fi radiation comparison
[23:40] Screen use and parenting challenges
[31:02] Router as primary source of exposure
[33:26] Number of EMF-emitting devices in homes
[36:11] Creating a device-free "communication center"
[39:00] Small steps create meaningful long-term change

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

"There's something affecting your child's brain that you can't see…"

"It is a pollutant that we can't see…"

 "If a device sends radio signals… it's dangerous."

"We are all electrical beings."

"It affects the nervous system… the brain and the heart."

"It interfered with the neurodevelopment…"

"Bluetooth is seven times the amount of radiation as Wi-Fi."

"The industry calls it the 'shut up toy.'"

"The router is usually the most consistently… emitter."

 "It's going to be up to the moms to change this." 

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

204: Why ADHD Symptoms Are Exploding in the Digital Age (& What Parents Can Do About It) with Logan McIlwain16 Apr 202600:34:26

What if it's not just ADHD getting worse, but the world your child is growing up in?

In this week's episode of The Soaring Child podcast, Dana Kay sits down with licensed therapist Logan McIlwain to unpack what's really happening to kids' brains in today's digital world. From constant notifications to endless scrolling, today's children are growing up in an environment of nonstop stimulation, and for kids with ADHD, that impact can be intense.

You'll hear why screens don't create ADHD but can absolutely amplify symptoms like inattention, emotional dysregulation, and impulsivity. Logan breaks down what's happening in the brain with dopamine, why kids struggle to "just turn it off," and how devices can quietly become a child's primary coping tool.

Together, they also tackle one of the biggest challenges parents face today: setting boundaries without triggering meltdowns. If taking the phone away feels like a full nervous system explosion in your home, this episode will help you understand why and what to do instead.

Most importantly, you'll walk away with practical, realistic strategies you can start using right away. From creating consistent guardrails to helping your child build real-life regulation skills, this conversation is about supporting your child in the digital age.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:01] Modern childhood overstimulation explained
[02:10] Screens amplify ADHD symptoms
[06:10] Environment vs diagnosis debate
[09:32] Difference between distraction and ADHD
[13:03] Dopamine and addictive screen loops
[14:48] Loss of boredom tolerance
[17:01] Screens as emotional coping tools
[19:15] Importance of consistent boundaries
[22:10] How to reset screen habits
[25:34] Monitoring apps and content
[29:43] Externalizing executive function
[31:10] Small changes reduce nervous system overload

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"When did childhood get so loud?"

"There is absolutely no way my brain could have handled this much input."

"Phones don't create true ADHD, but they absolutely create ADHD-like symptoms."

"It's like this slot machine effect."

"Our kids in this generation don't know how to be bored at all."

"These devices have become their emotional regulation tools."

"You can exercise your boundary muscle over and over again."

"Don't ask a struggling brain to do everything internally."

"We handed our children these tiny slot machines."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

203: Biofeedback for ADHD Kids with Dana Hargus09 Apr 202600:42:11

What if your child's meltdowns, impulsivity, and focus struggles weren't behavioral problems but signs of a dysregulated nervous system?

In this episode, Dana Kay sits down with licensed professional counselor Dana Hargus to explore a powerful and often misunderstood tool: biofeedback. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Dana explains how we can train the brain to regulate itself, helping children feel calmer, more focused, and more in control of their emotions.

You'll learn how biofeedback works in simple, practical terms, what it looks like during a session, and why many families start seeing changes in sleep, emotional regulation, and behavior sooner than expected.

Dana also shares how this approach supports nervous system dysregulation (which can exacerbate ADHD), rather than just managing symptoms on the surface.

This is a hopeful, eye-opening conversation for parents who feel stuck in daily meltdowns, constant dysregulation, or the feeling that their child just "can't shift gears." You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of what's really happening in your child's brain and what you can start doing today to support them.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

📒 Show Notes and Resources 📒

📘 Connect with Dana Hargus
➡️Website: https://restoreofada.com/
➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restoreofada
➡️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/restoreofada

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] ADHD behaviors are often regulation issues, not behavior problems
[04:28] Biofeedback explained as "exercise for the brain"
[07:48] How real-time feedback trains the brain automatically
[09:07] Physical signs your child's nervous system is calming
[13:36] How frequency training supports calm and focus
[18:54] Real-life transformation using biofeedback
[22:09] Sleep is often the first and most important improvement
[25:31] Biofeedback can support all ADHD presentations
[27:57] Long-term effects and when maintenance is needed
[30:21] How to choose the right provider
[34:13] Simple parenting strategy to support regulation

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"Why can't they just calm down?"

 "We can exercise our brain."

"You're basically showing the brain, don't do that, do this instead."

"The brain will do it on its own."

"Without sleep, everything is worse."

"Once the brain learns something new… it should not go away."

"Connection is the foundation for all mental health."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

202: Why ADHD Kids Don't Listen: Executive Function Explained with Cindy Goldrich02 Apr 202600:36:16

Many children with ADHD know exactly what they're supposed to do but still struggle to do it. That frustrating gap between knowing and doing is one of the most misunderstood parts of ADHD, and it can leave parents feeling confused, exhausted, and questioning their child's behavior.

In this episode, Dana Kay sits down with ADHD parenting expert and coach Cindy Goldrich to unpack what's really happening in the ADHD brain when children don't follow through on simple requests. Cindy explains why ADHD is not a problem of knowledge, but a challenge with executive function, and how factors like working memory, hyperfocus, processing speed, and transitions can all impact a child's ability to act.

Throughout the conversation, Cindy shares practical strategies that help parents move away from constant reminders and power struggles and instead support their child's developing executive function skills. She encourages parents to shift from seeing behavior as defiance to recognizing the underlying skills that may still be developing.

When parents understand the brain behind the behavior, it creates space for more patience, better communication, and stronger connection with their child.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

📒 Show Notes and Resources 📒

📘 Connect with Cindy Goldrich

KEY TAKEAWAYS

[00:00] The everyday parenting scenario where a child agrees to do something but doesn't follow through.
[03:56] Parents often feel confused when kids know what to do but still don't do it.
[04:26] ADHD is explained as the gap between knowing and doing.
[06:48] Hyperfocus can prevent kids from shifting attention to a new task.
[08:41] Multiple brain-based factors can explain why kids don't follow through.
[12:57] Processing speed challenges can make kids appear resistant.
[16:20] Understanding executive function helps parents shift their expectations.
[18:14] Misinterpreting behavior as defiance can damage connection.
[22:55] Parenting mindset plays a major role in how kids respond.
[26:28] Instead of labeling weaknesses, parents should look for ways to support skills.
[30:18] Executive function development is similar to learning any other skill.
[31:37] Kids improve with practice, structure, and guidance.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

"You ask your kid to put their shoes on. They say okay… and then they don't."

"What if the problem isn't defiance, but executive function?"

"ADHD is not a problem of knowing what to do. It's a problem of doing what you know."

"Maybe this kid is so hyper-focused on what he's doing that his mind is nowhere near what you're asking."

"They're basically saying, slow down. I can't process this fast enough."

"When we assume our kids are being difficult, we miss the opportunity to understand what their brain actually needs."

"It's not about labeling the weakness. It's about asking, how are we going to support this?"

"Why would this be any different than learning any other skill?"

"These are skills that develop with support and practice."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

201: 5 Biological Stressors of ADHD26 Mar 202600:12:51

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

You know what I wish someone had told me years ago when my son was diagnosed with ADHD? That ADHD isn't one neat little story.

ADHD isn't one problem. It's often driven by  five biological stressors stacked inside the same child. And depending on the day, a different stressor shouts loudest.

In this powerful solo episode, Dana Kay reframes ADHD in a way that instantly relieves shame and confusion for parents. If you've ever felt like you're parenting a different child by 4 p.m. than you were at 8 a.m., this episode explains why.

Dana walks listeners through the five biological stressors inside the ADHD Thrive framework: blood sugar dysregulation, gut-brain dysfunction, food reactions, poor detox pathways, and the nutrient deficiencies. Instead of asking, "Why are they doing this?" she teaches parents to ask a better question: "Which layer is loud today?"

If your child's symptoms fluctuate, if some days feel manageable and others feel impossible, this episode will help you understand the biology underneath the behavior.

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] ADHD is not one story — it's five layers.
[00:23] Parenting a "different kid" by 4 p.m.
[00:50] The wrong question vs. the right question.
[02:10] Introduction to biological stressor layers.
[04:30] Blood sugar dysregulation explained.
[07:15] Gut-brain dysfunction overview.
[10:40] Food reactions layer.
[13:20] Detox overload layer.
[16:30] The final layer connecting impulsivity and picky eating.
[19:45] Identifying which layer is loud.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"ADHD isn't one neat little story."
"It's five stories all squashed into the same kid wearing the same jumper."
"Depending on the day, you're parenting a different kid in the same body."
"By 4 p.m. you're Googling boarding schools in Switzerland…"
"We end up asking the wrong question."
"Which layer is loud today?"

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

200: Picky Eating, Nutrient Deficiencies, and ADHD19 Mar 202600:14:12

What if picky eating and impulsive ADHD behavior aren't separate problems at all—but signals coming from the same biological root?

In a special milestone for the podcast — our 200th episode of The Soaring Child Podcast — Dana Kay explains how nutrient deficiencies can directly affect the brain systems responsible for focus, emotional regulation, impulse control, and sleep. Iron supports dopamine production. Magnesium and B6 calm the nervous system. Zinc shapes taste perception. Omega-3s carry the brain's messages. And vitamin D helps regulate serotonin and sleep cycles.

When these nutrients are depleted, the brain struggles to function properly. The result can look like impulsivity, hyperactivity, emotional outbursts, sleep struggles, and extreme picky eating. Dana shares the story of a young boy expelled from four preschools whose behavior transformed after severe nutrient deficiencies were identified and supported.

This episode helps parents understand how what looks like "behavior" may actually be a biological signal. Dana walks listeners through the nutrients most commonly involved in ADHD regulation, the signs that the brain may be running on empty, and how parents can begin identifying which biological stressors may be affecting their child.

If you're trying to understand the biological drivers behind your child's symptoms, start here: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

The ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit helps parents translate symptoms into biology and identify which underlying stressors may be affecting their child.

Get the Decoder Kit here to learn more about how ADHD symptoms connect to biology here: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] Picky eating and impulsive ADHD behaviors may come from the same biological root.
[01:15] Case story of a child expelled from four preschools due to extreme behavior.
[02:10] Severe nutrient depletion revealed through lab testing.
[03:40] The concept of the "starving brain."
[05:00] Iron's role in dopamine production and emotional regulation.
[06:10] Magnesium and B6 supporting nervous system calm and sleep.
[07:00] Zinc deficiency affecting taste perception and picky eating.
[08:10] Omega-3s and brain communication.
[09:00] Vitamin D and its connection to serotonin and sleep.
[10:45] The Ferrari fuel analogy for brain nutrients.
[12:15] Signs that the brain may be running low on nutrients.
[14:30] Introducing the ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"Picky eating and hyperactive and impulsive behavior are not two separate problems. They're the same conversation happening in different rooms."
"What if the brain isn't being difficult? What if it's just hungry?"
"A brain that's running on empty cannot do manners, patience or waiting turns."
"When the brain is starving, no amount of behavioral strategies will actually feed the brain."
"These nutrients are literally the wiring for the brain."
"You can parent beautifully, but if that fuel is not there, their system stalls."
"You're asking a Ferrari to run on cordial."
"A hungry brain cannot be polite."
"Feed the brain and the behavior follows."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

199: ADHD, Sleep Issues, & Poor Detox12 Mar 202600:18:06

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

If you're raising a child with ADHD and sleep feels like a nightly argument, nobody wins.

What if bedtime isn't a parenting problem at all? What if your child isn't resisting sleep… but their body is trying to take out the trash?

In this powerful solo episode, Dana Kay reveals one of the most overlooked biological stressors impacting children with ADHD: poor detoxification. Sleep is not just rest. It is the brain and body's nightly cleanup crew. When detox pathways are sluggish, overloaded, or genetically compromised, children can wake between 1–3 a.m., feel wired but exhausted, experience red cheeks, itchy skin, anxiety, sensory overload, and morning meltdowns before the day even begins.

Dana walks through  three major detox systems — liver, gut, and lymphatic system — and explains how genetic mutations like MTHFR, GSTT1, GSTM1, and GSTP1, combined with oxidative stress and environmental toxin exposure, can create internal pressure that looks like ADHD behavior. Through the story of Dara and her daughter Reese, she shows how supporting detox pathways changed sleep first, and regulation followed.

If sleep plans work for other kids but not yours, this episode will help you understand why.

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] Sleep reframed as the "nightly cleanup crew."
[03:10] The three detox systems explained.
[04:42] Genetics: MTHFR, GSTT1, GSTM1, GSTP1.
[05:10] Heavy metals & oxidative stress research.
[06:15] "Carrying yesterday's load."
[07:00] Liver most active between 1–3 a.m.
[08:35] Red flags: itchy skin, red cheeks, night waking.
[09:50] Neuroinflammation & frontal lobe impact.
[10:40] Why routines fail when detox is overloaded.
[12:30] How supporting detox shifted Reese's sleep.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"If you're raising a child with ADHD and sleep feels like a nightly argument, nobody wins."
"Sleep is your child's nightly cleanup crew."
"Translation, their system is already carrying yesterday's load when today even starts."
"It's not your child that they're resisting sleep. It's actually the body sending a red alert."
"They're biological red flags."
"No amount of meds or bedtime routines or behavioral therapy will fix a full bin."
"We stop asking why won't they just sleep? And we start asking, what is their body trying to clear?"

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

198: Invisible Food Reactions & ADHD05 Mar 202600:16:36

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

Sometimes it's not your child having a bad day. Sometimes it's that you are parenting a completely different nervous system, depending on what went into their mouth yesterday.
In this eye-opening episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, Dana Kay unpacks one of the most overlooked biological stressors driving ADHD symptoms: delayed, invisible food reactions. If you've ever felt like your child's behavior shifts overnight — same child, same house, same rules — this episode explains what may actually be happening beneath the surface.

Dana walks you through the full biological chain reaction: trigger foods, IgG-mediated immune flares, cytokine release, gut inflammation, intestinal permeability, and how inflammation travels upstream to the frontal lobe. She explains how symptoms like meltdowns, rigidity, emotional volatility, and impulse control struggles often begin days before the behavior appears.

You'll also learn about opioid-like food peptides formed from gluten and dairy (gluteomorphin and casomorphin), how artificial dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5 have been shown in studies to worsen hyperactivity, and why guessing at food changes often leaves parents exhausted and confused.

This episode introduces Biological Stressor #3 inside the ADHD Thrive Decoder framework: Invisible Food Reactions. Most importantly, Dana helps you shift from "What's wrong today?" to "What touched their system yesterday?" — a mindset change that can quietly change everything.

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123 

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] Parenting a different nervous system depending on what was eaten yesterday.
[02:42] Personal story: raspberries triggering delayed immune reactions.
[05:06] IgG reactions are slow, quiet, and delayed.
[06:35] Cytokines traveling to the frontal lobe.
[07:02] Symptoms today often started yesterday.
[08:40] Research on gut inflammation and intestinal permeability in ADHD.
[10:08] Opioid peptides from gluten and dairy.
[11:35] Artificial dyes and double-blind research.
[13:12] "We test, we don't guess."
[15:44] Parenting the same child but a different internal weather system.
[17:30] Behavior decoding vs food journaling.
[19:10] Introducing the ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"Sometimes it's not your child having a bad day. Sometimes it's that you are parenting a completely different nervous system."
 "Once you see it, you can literally trace meltdowns backwards through to their lunchbox."
 "The symptoms or the behavior that you're dealing with today, that did not start today."
"These are actual compounds that bind to opioid receptors in the brain."
"You've basically built a nervous system hand grenade in a lunchbox."
"We test, we don't guess."
"Your parenting didn't suddenly stop working. The biology underneath them shifted."
"Instead of asking what on earth is wrong today, we start asking what touched their system yesterday."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

197: The Gut-Brain ADHD Link26 Feb 202600:14:55

Grab your ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

Over 90–95% of serotonin and nearly half of the body's dopamine are produced in the gut, not the brain, and that one fact explains why so many ADHD meltdowns seem to come out of nowhere. In this episode, Dana Kay breaks down how gut inflammation, immune activation, and nervous system overload can drive ADHD symptoms long before behavior ever appears.

This is Part 2 of a 5-part series unpacking the biological stressors behind ADHD. After decoding blood sugar dysregulation in the previous episode, Dana explains why the gut functions as a control panel for emotional regulation, focus, and impulse control and how the vagus nerve sends stress signals straight from the gut to the frontal lobe.

Parents will learn why many children show no digestive symptoms despite significant gut dysfunction, how altered gut bacteria affect neurotransmitters, and what questions to start asking when behavior doesn't make sense. Dana also shares a powerful client story and introduces a practical tool designed to help parents stop guessing and start supporting the systems asking for help.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] The physical signs before meltdowns begin
[03:29] ADHD symptoms often start in the body, not behavior
[03:48] Serotonin and dopamine production in the gut
[05:15] The vagus nerve and frontal lobe shutdown
[06:22] Neuroinflammation vs. misbehavior
[07:18] Research linking ADHD and altered gut bacteria
[08:05] Why gut symptoms are often invisible
[09:48] Questions parents can ask starting today
[11:22] Introducing the ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit
[13:22] Reframing meltdowns as nervous system overload

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"There is a very specific look that kids get right before everything goes sideways."
"That moment doesn't start in their brain. It starts in their body."
"Over 90 to 95% of serotonin is made in the gut."
"The frontal lobe basically goes offline."
"Your child isn't being defiant. They're neurologically flooded."
"The gut isn't a side issue. It's the control panel."
"Once you can see which system is driving behavior, you stop guessing."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

196: The Real Reason Mornings and Afternoons Are a Disaster for Kids With ADHD19 Feb 202600:17:21

Grab your ADHD Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

(It's FREE! You just pay shipping!) 

Mornings before school and afternoons after school pickup aren't chaotic by accident. They follow a predictable biological pattern that almost no one explains to parents of children with ADHD.
In this solo episode, Dana Kay breaks down why the most intense meltdowns, hyperactivity, irritability, and emotional shutdowns tend to show up at the same two points every day — and why it's not about willpower, discipline, or "bad behavior." It's about blood sugar, stress hormones, and a nervous system running on empty.

Drawing from both personal experience and her work with over 1,600 families, Dana explains how overnight fasting, carb-heavy school lunches, and skipped protein create the same internal crash twice a day. She translates the science in a parent-friendly way and shares one simple, doable rule that can immediately reduce chaos without overhauling your entire diet.
This episode also introduces a brand-new resource (available right now at http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123) designed to help parents finally understand what's driving their child's ADHD symptoms beneath the surface and how to start addressing biology instead of just managing behavior.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[01:23] Why mornings and afternoons are predictable meltdown windows
[03:48] Morning and afternoon behaviors share the same biological cause
[06:49] Overnight fasting, cortisol, and morning blood sugar crashes
[07:42] How school lunches create afternoon blood sugar crashes
[08:41] What blood sugar instability does to focus and emotions
[09:48] The "no naked carbs" rule
[10:29] Practical food pairings that stabilize blood sugar
[11:14] Why small changes calm the nervous system
[12:15] Introduction of the ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit
[15:08] Why biology — not parenting — is the starting point

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"The behavior you're seeing in the morning and at 3:30 PM is the same biological pattern wearing two different outfits."
"You didn't get their worst — you got their empty."
"Your child's brain is like a fancy electric car."
"It's not them being difficult — it's biology running the show."
"No naked carbs."
"Small biological shifts stack up into massive changes."


DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 Access your free ADHD Thrive Decoder Kit here: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/123

It's free for a limited time. You just pay shipping! 

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

195: Glutathione & ADHD Brains with Dr. Gina Nick12 Feb 202600:35:03

Some children can skip meals, miss sleep, or fight off a cold and barely flinch — while others spiral into meltdowns after the smallest stressor. In this episode, Dana Kay uncovers the hidden biological reason behind that difference: glutathione — the brain's primary antioxidant and stress buffer.

Joined by world-renowned naturopathic physician and researcher Dr. Gina Nick, this episode breaks down glutathione (or "Vitamin G") in a way parents can finally understand. You'll learn how glutathione protects the brain from toxins and inflammation, why modern kids are more depleted than ever, and how low levels can drive ADHD symptoms, emotional dysregulation, and stress sensitivity.

Drawing on decades of research, clinical practice, and formulation expertise, Dr. Nick explains detox pathways, NAC vs glutathione, safe supplementation, and why small daily detox actions matter more than extreme protocols. If your child's nervous system feels constantly overwhelmed — even when you're doing everything right — this episode fills in a critical missing piece.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:01] Why some kids melt down faster than others
[04:08] What glutathione actually is
[06:31] How toxins deplete brain resilience
[10:19] Silent brain inflammation explained
[13:45] Genetic detox vulnerabilities
[17:07] NAC vs glutathione
[18:32] Oral glutathione challenges
[23:09] Safe daily glutathione support
[28:23] Signs glutathione is working
[29:51] One daily detox action

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"Glutathione is the mother of all antioxidants."
"That's when the brain becomes vulnerable."
"That one extra neurotoxin can put things over the edge."
"Brain inflammation is often silent."
"Some kids accumulate toxins faster."
"I want glutathione to be a household name."

DANA KAY RESOURCES

🔗 WEBSITES:

👋 SOCIALS:

📕 INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻 FREE MASTERCLASS:

⭐ COURSES & PROGRAMS:

194: Minerals & ADHD Explained with Caroline Alan05 Feb 202600:50:16

Most parents are told ADHD lives only in the brain, but what if the real issue starts much deeper? In this episode, we explore a powerful and often overlooked driver of ADHD symptoms: mineral depletion at the cellular level. You'll hear why calm, focus, sleep, and emotional regulation are literally built from minerals and how many kids are trying to regulate big emotions while running on empty batteries.

Dana Kay is joined by Caroline Alan, co-founder of Beam Minerals and author of The Mineral Reset, to break down complex biology into parent-friendly language. Caroline explains how minerals fuel the mitochondria — the tiny "campfires" inside every cell — and why children who lack proper mineral support can appear anxious, wired, exhausted, or stuck in fight-or-flight, even when they eat a "healthy" diet.

This conversation helps parents understand why food quality, soil depletion, filtered water, and modern stressors have created a widespread mineral gap — and what gentle, practical steps families can take to support their child's nervous system without overwhelm. If your child struggles with meltdowns, sleep issues, anxiety, or focus, this episode offers a new lens grounded in biology, not behavior.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

Connect with Caroline Alan

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[00:00] ADHD symptoms as signs of depletion
[03:48] Why minerals matter beyond bones and teeth
[08:41] Mitochondria, energy, and brain function
[11:05] Low energy cells and nervous system stress
[21:10] Soil depletion and food mineral loss
[23:31] How filtered water worsens deficiency
[30:22] Humic vs. fulvic minerals explained
[38:05] Minerals as spark plugs for the brain
[44:51] One simple step parents can take today

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"Our kids are not being difficult — they're depleted."
"Calm is built from minerals."
"Minerals are the spark plugs for the brain."
"That equals a kid who cannot sit down."
"You cannot eat your way out of mineral deficiency."
"This isn't ADHD behavior — it's biology."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

193: Talking to Kids About Sex, Boundaries, and Relationships—Without Making It Weird with Logan McIlwain29 Jan 202600:34:02

Many parents worry that talking about sex, boundaries, consent, or online exposure will open doors too early—but real-world clinical experience shows the opposite. In this episode, Logan McIlwain explains why ongoing, everyday conversations actually reduce risky behavior and help kids feel safer turning to their parents instead of the internet.

Dana Kay brings a deeply personal perspective as a mom of a teen and a tween, naming the fear so many parents quietly carry: "Am I too early… or already too late?" Logan gently dismantles the pressure to get it perfect and replaces it with a more sustainable truth—presence matters more than perfection.

You'll learn how to use everyday "micro-moments" to build trust, how to respond calmly to sensitive questions, and how to reset conversations even if you feel behind. This episode is especially meaningful for parents of neurodivergent kids, where impulsivity and online exposure can make these conversations feel even heavier.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

KEY TAKEAWAYS
[03:00] Why this episode isn't about biology—but real-world parenting
[05:46] How inherited discomfort shapes today's parenting fears
[07:16] Why parents don't need all the answers
[08:30] What happens when parents stay silent
[12:30] Why micro-conversations beat "the big talk"
[16:15] The myth that talking leads to risky behavior
[19:27] Handling unexpected, sensitive questions calmly
[28:50] Resetting conversations when you feel behind
[29:26] Logan's one actionable parenting tip

MEMORABLE MOMENTS
"If you don't talk about these things with your children, Instagram will."
"We don't have to be perfect."
"Kids feel like parents talk at them."
"Circle back. That matters."
"You don't have to be perfect. You just have to be present."
"Understanding comes before teaching."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

192: Screen Time Meltdowns in ADHD Kids with Sondra Bakinde and Mariana Gordon22 Jan 202600:39:11

A child can appear calm on a screen and unravel seconds after it turns off. That reaction isn't bad behavior or poor discipline — it's a nervous system crash driven by dopamine, overstimulation, and an abrupt loss of regulation.

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, Dana Kay sits down with Sondra Bakinde and Mariana Gordon, co-founders of Mindful Mantis, to unpack what's really happening in a child's brain and body during screen time. They explain why screens activate the sympathetic nervous system, how dopamine crashes trigger fight-flight-freeze responses, and why kids with ADHD feel these shifts even more intensely.

You'll learn how to spot early signs of dysregulation before meltdowns erupt, why restriction alone often backfires, and how simple transitions can support a child's nervous system instead of overwhelming it. Sondra and Mariana share practical, realistic tools — including bridging the dopamine gap, predictable transitions, connection before direction, and their Pause & Play Method — all designed for real families, not perfect ones.

If screen time feels like a daily struggle in your home, this episode will help you reframe what's happening and respond with more calm, clarity, and confidence.

Links Mentioned in the Show

Key Takeaways
[01:21] Why parents immediately blame themselves
[02:13] Why this isn't a discipline issue
[04:39] How screens pull energy out of the body
[06:04] The dopamine crash explained
[08:27] Fight, flight, or freeze in kids
[11:16] Why ADHD intensifies screen reactions
[14:42] Early warning signs parents often miss
[18:11] Recovery vs restriction after screens
[20:06] Bridging the dopamine gap
[29:56] The Pause & Play Method introduced
[36:53] One grounding step parents can try today

Memorable Moments
"I am literally dealing with a feral raccoon in a human body."
"Screens pull energy outward into the eyes, the mind, the nervous system."
"That sudden shift can feel very threatening."
 "The body whispers before it shouts."
 "We focus less on restriction and more on recovery."
"Urgency feels like danger. Slowness feels like safety."
"Never end stimulation without grounding."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

191: Overcoming Parental PTSD: Lara's Story15 Jan 202600:45:05

Imagine sitting on your front porch, enjoying a quiet moment after school drop-off, only to suddenly find yourself in the grip of a panic attack—not because something went wrong, but because nothing went wrong. For Lara, this was the reality of parental PTSD. After years of daily phone calls, school expulsions, and crisis management, her nervous system had forgotten how to feel safe in the calm.

In this emotional episode, Lara shares her family's incredible journey from "survival mode" to thriving. She opens up about her son Oliver, who was once on three different medications and struggling with severe meltdowns and aggression. Lara candidly discusses the turning point that occurred during a family vacation, the step-by-step nutritional changes that transformed their lives, and the joy of finally taking a family trip to a museum without fear of a public incident.

Listen in to learn how Lara weaned her son off medication with doctor support, how she and her husband navigated their own healing, and why the silence after the storm can sometimes be the hardest adjustment of all.

Key Takeaways
[04:45] Early Signs of Dysregulation - Lara describes the extreme rage cycles and daily meltdowns that began when Oliver was just two years old.
[06:12] School Struggles - The heartbreaking reality of being dismissed from multiple preschools and eventually a public school due to severe behavioral challenges.
[12:14] The Medication Load - Oliver was on three medications—Abilify, Celexa, and various stimulants—yet the family was still "drowning in emotional roller coasters."
[13:57] The Turning Point - How a YouTube video discovered during a desperate family vacation in Florida shifted everything for Lara and her husband.
[18:27] Tackling Overwhelm with Baby Steps - Why eliminating one food group at a time—and not striving for perfection—was the key to making dietary changes sustainable.
[28:57] Feeling Again - The powerful moment when Oliver verbally expressed anger for the first time after coming off numbing mood stabilizers.
[31:03] New Freedom as a Family - The family's ability to travel to Washington D.C. and visit museums without fear of elopement, aggression, or major dysregulation.
[33:33] Parental PTSD - Lara shares her "porch story," describing a panic attack triggered simply because the school didn't call with an emergency.
[39:01] A Mindset Shift That Helps - Lara reminds parents that children are born with all the emotions—but not yet the skills to manage them.

Memorable Moments
"We ran into several mothers along our path and that was the best support for me because I could talk to them about what was going on and they didn't look at me like, what are you doing wrong?"
"We tried everything else. This makes sense to me… This is our chance."
"I remember the first time he said, 'I feel so mad'… This poor kid was so numbed and dulled that he had all these things going on, but he wasn't able to say how he felt."
"I was just there and I felt a panic… I really thought I was gonna die… I experienced a panic attack, and I don't know why. There's nothing to worry about. My son is doing great."
"Lara, your nervous system is in fight or flight, and your brain still thinks you need to fight or flight."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

190: Executive Function Skills for ADHD Kids with Hannah Bookbinder08 Jan 202600:29:00

What if the biggest struggle your child faces isn't motivation at all, but a hidden set of brain-based skills that help them start tasks, stay organized, manage time, regulate emotions, and follow through? These are executive function skills  and for kids with ADHD, they can feel nearly impossible to access.

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, Dana Kay welcomes executive function expert Hannah Bookbinder, a licensed social worker and educator with almost 30 years of experience helping ADHD kids build these skills in practical, meaningful ways. Hannah explains what executive function really is, how ADHD derails it, and why even the brightest, most capable kids often feel defeated by daily routines.

Together, Dana and Hannah break down simple, real-world strategies families can begin using right away,  from training time awareness, to using visual cues, to building routines that actually stick. Hannah also shares the story behind her new book and the MyToad App, a tool designed to teach time management, organization, accountability, and focus in one supportive space.

If your child struggles with getting started, staying organized, remembering steps, or managing overwhelm, this conversation will leave you feeling understood, encouraged, and equipped with practical tools to help your child thrive.

Links Mentioned in the Show
▶ MyToad App: https://mytoadapp.com
▶ ADHD Symptom Reduction Tool: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/tool

Connect with Hannah

▶ Website: https://mytoadapp.com
▶ Facebook: @mytoadapp
▶ Instagram: @mytoad_llc
▶ Pinterest: @mytoadllc

Key Takeaways 
[00:45] Invisible executive skills can make or break daily routines.
[02:07] Hannah's 30-year journey supporting ADHD kids.
[02:57] What executive function is — and isn't.
[04:59] Understanding age appropriateness and expectations.
[07:37] Validating kids' emotional exhaustion and defeat.
[09:59] "Now vs. Not Now" — ADHD and urgency.
[11:15] Working memory breakdowns explained.
[12:23] Simple strategy: time-estimation training.
[13:27] Sticky notes and mirror cues for daily routines.
[18:08] Why MyToad App was created.
[20:38] How the app personalizes executive function support.
[23:18] Partnership and curiosity in parenting ADHD.

Memorable Moments
"Every morning... shoes were missing, homework was not done, panic attacks at the door."

"What exactly are executive function skills…? How they don't show up in kids with ADHD."

"Emotionally, they often walk in my door very defeated."

"It's either now or not now."

"Put your phone in airplane mode… no pings, no dings, no bloops."

"Make your own shower podcast…"

"This is a partnership — especially when your child has a special need."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

189: 3 ADHD Podcasts Every Parent Needs to Hear18 Dec 202500:10:27

If you're trying to support your child with ADHD naturally and feel overwhelmed by where to start, this episode is for you.

ADHD health practitioner Dana Kay shares the three podcast episodes every parent should listen to first. She explains exactly where she would send you if you were sitting together over coffee asking one simple question: "Where do I even start?"

Dana breaks down why understanding what's really driving ADHD is the foundation, why traditional ADHD treatments don't always lead to lasting change, and why hearing another parent's real journey can shift everything. These three episodes help parents stop chasing every new solution, start seeing patterns instead of isolated problems, and finally feel grounded in what actually helps their child thrive.

If you're new to The Soaring Child Podcast or feeling stuck, confused, or exhausted, this episode gives you clarity, direction, and a starting point that actually makes sense. Dana also shares a glimpse of what's coming in the new year and why it may change how you see your child and their ADHD journey. 
Links Mentioned in the Show

3 of the Best Soaring Child Podcast Episodes: 
▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-166/
▶  https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-111/
▶  https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-178/

Key Takeaways
[00:49] Why more information doesn't always bring clarity
[01:06] The power of focusing on the "right three" resources
[02:07] Why this episode avoids hacks and protocols
[02:26] What's happening beneath ADHD behaviors
[02:58] Why this episode is the foundation for everything else
[03:02] How understanding root causes brings steadiness
[06:27] Seeing patterns instead of isolated problems
[06:48] Why this perspective changes where parents put their energy

Memorable Moments
"More information does not equal more clarity."
"Sometimes you need just the right three."
"No hacks, no protocols, no checklist."
"That explains so much."
"This is the foundation episode."
"Things start lining up in a way that feels really steady."
"You start seeing patterns instead of isolated problems."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

188: Homeschooling ADHD Kids: How to Build Education That Fits with Leslee Dirnberger11 Dec 202500:40:46

Let's be honest,  public school wasn't designed for kids with ADHD. Too often, these kids are labeled, misunderstood, and pushed into systems that don't fit how their brains learn best. But what if the problem isn't your child, but the system itself?

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay, ADHD health practitioner and founder of the ADHD Thrive Method for Kids speaks with Leslie Dernberger, founder of Aspire Education, mom of four, and one of the nation's leading experts in K–12 education for neurodiverse learners. Drawing on her legal background and over a decade of experience helping families, Leslie unpacks why traditional schooling often fails ADHD kids and what parents can do about it.

From understanding homeschool laws and navigating deschooling, to structuring the day and busting common misconceptions, this episode is filled with practical guidance and encouragement. Whether you're curious about homeschooling, exploring hybrid options, or just want to better support your child's learning, this conversation will give you hope and actionable tools.

Links Mentioned in the Show:
▶ Aspire Education: https://www.aspireeducation.us/
▶ Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA): https://hslda.org

Key Takeaways:
[00:00] Public school isn't built for many ADHD learners andwhy fit-the-mold systems backfire.
[02:37] Meet Leslie Dirnberger (Aspire Education): mom of four, homeschool veteran, legal background, supports thousands of families.
[04:23] The "catalyst event": what finally pushes parents to seek alternatives.
[06:03] Spotting the signal: "the spark is gone" and nothing at school is fixing it.
[07:16] First steps legally: understand your state's rules; public vs. private education; where homeschooling fits.
[10:05] Deschooling 101: reset the parent first; museum/nature learning to reconnect.
[13:38] Foundation step: define "a good education" as a family; ask kids what learning should look like.
[15:24] Myth-busting socialization: why homeschoolers often get better real-world social practice.
[18:30] Colleges love homeschoolers: time management, self-advocacy, executive function.
[26:27] Standardized tests miss the mark, especially for ADHD,  focus on mastery instead.

Memorable Moments:
"The truth is, your child doesn't need to be fixed. They need an education that actually fits their brain."
"There is a catalyst event that has occurred that creates a situation that the parents go, wait a second, let's take a step back here."
"The spark has gone out, the light has gone out of their eyes and the parents know something's wrong."
"The hardest part of homeschooling? Looking myself in the mirror and challenging my own beliefs."
"What does a good education look like for your family and for your children?"
"Nothing could be further from the truth — homeschoolers are often better socialized."
"Colleges love homeschoolers because they know how to manage their time and advocate for themselves."
"Accreditation is a game. It is absolutely garbage. It doesn't mean a thing."
"Everything is geared towards standardized testing in government schools. And that's why they're in a box and they ram it through, which is terrible for ADHD kids."
"Your children can own their own education and advocate for themselves at school."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

187: Is It Normal or Is It ADHD? with Dana Kay04 Dec 202500:20:20

Is it normal…or is it ADHD?

That's the question that keeps so many parents of neurodivergent kids up at night, especially when old behaviors resurface after months or years of progress. 


In this episode of The Soaring Child podcast, Dana Kay, board certified holistic health and nutrition practitioner, 2X international bestselling author, and mom of a child with ADHD, opens up about the emotional whiplash that can come with raising a neurodiverse child. 


She shares what it's like to second-guess every behavior, even the ones that might just be typical childhood moments. Tune in to discover the difference between developmentally typical behavior and patterns that signal deeper dysregulation.

Links Mentioned in the Show

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/breakfastguide
▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/tool
▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplements
▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/parenting
▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book

Key Takeaways with Timestamps

[00:16] Why calm can trigger panic for ADHD parents
[02:41] The "Is this normal or ADHD?" fear spiral
[04:27] What counts as developmentally typical behavior
[06:05] When patterns—not moments—signal deeper concerns
[06:53] Why one meltdown feels heavier after progress
[08:26] A client story: panic when the school didn't call
[10:12] Why children (and adults) naturally have off days
[11:34] How biology—gut, nutrients, inflammation—affects behavior
[12:20] Questions parents can ask when behaviour worries them
[14:17] Why hyperactive boyhood isn't pathology
[16:42] Tracking patterns over time rather than reacting to one-offs
[18:13] Validation that every parent needs to hear

 

Memorable Moments with Timestamps (Exact Quotes)

"If peace somehow feels unsafe, it's not your fault."

"I felt my whole body tighten… that hot flush that runs through every bone in your body."

"One school phone call… and we spiral."

"That fear doesn't mean everything is unraveling. It means that you care."

"Progress hits harder when you finally experience peace."

"For years, silence meant brace yourself—something bad's coming."

"It means they're human children."

"We've been conditioned to expect our children to behave better than most adults do."

"These aren't signs of ADHD symptoms returning—these are signs of life."

"Let them be messy. Let them be human. Let them be in process."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

186: Repairing Parent-Child Connections with Ashley Gobeil27 Nov 202500:44:11

What if the words you speak in frustration are slowly eroding the relationship you most want to protect?

In this deeply honest episode, Dana Kay welcomes back Ashley Gobeil, our resident child and family therapist, to explore how parents can repair, reconnect, and rebuild trust after conflict. Ashley shares why ADHD behaviors are rooted in nervous-system dysregulation and why healing begins when parents learn to co-regulate and model emotional accountability.

Together, they unpack why traditional reward and punishment systems backfire, how to set firm yet compassionate boundaries, and what "connection before correction" looks like in everyday moments. Listeners will hear moving examples of repair conversations, simple regulation tools, and encouraging reminders that it's never too late to change the tone in your home.

This episode will leave parents feeling seen, hopeful, and empowered to begin healing their own family patterns—one calm, connected moment at a time.

Links Mentioned in the Show
▶ ADHD Thrive Jumpstart for Parenting → https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/parenting
▶ Ashley Gobeil → https://ashleychildtherapies.com.au
▶ Parenting ADHD Teens Calmly with Ashley Gobeil - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/177-parenting-adhd-teens-calmly-with-ashley-gobiel/id1619834565?i=1000728325539

Key Takeaways:
[02:35] Kids with ADHD require a different parenting lens rooted in nervous-system awareness.
[05:50] Parents co-regulate their children's nervous systems every day.
[09:30] Teens turn to peers when trust and repair are missing.
[12:45] "Connection before correction" changes the tone of discipline.
[18:30] Controlling and fear-based models collapse as teens seek independence.
[19:20] How to apologize and repair without losing authority.
[25:10] Don't take "I hate you!" personally — hear the emotion beneath the words.
[26:50] Why authenticity is more regulating than forced calm.
[32:10] Learn your own triggers to break generational cycles.
[39:20] Ashley's final tip: "Drop everything and connect — say 'I love you no matter what.'"

Memorable Moments:
"If I spoke to my friends the way I speak to my child, I'd have no friends left."

"We hold the keys to our child's nervous system."

"They're not giving you a hard time, they're having a hard time."

"It's never too late to repair."

"Connection before correction, that phrase will be your friend."

"I'd rather parents choose authenticity over calm."

"Go connect and say 'I love you no matter what.'"

Connect with Ashley:

▶ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/healing_with_ashley
▶ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ashley.gobeil.50
▶ Website – https://ashleychildtherapies.com.au

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

185: Raising Holistic Kids Naturally20 Nov 202500:27:05

Ultra-processed food isn't just junk. It's engineered to hijack kids' brains, emotions, and habits. But what happens when kids themselves decide to fight back?

In this powerful episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay sits down with four inspiring brothers,  Abdullah, Zain, Emaad, and Qasim Ansari, known as The Holistic Kids. They are leading a wellness revolution for their generation. These young changemakers, ages 10 to 17, have ditched junk food, launched their own health podcast, and co-authored The Teen Health Revolution, a guidebook helping kids reclaim their health, energy, and focus naturally.

From gut health and brain function to emotional balance and community leadership, this conversation reveals how small changes in food and mindset can spark massive transformation. Whether you're a parent looking for hope or a teen ready to make a difference, this episode will remind you that true change starts young and it's absolutely possible.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

▶ The Holistic Kids Show Podcast
▶The Teen Health Revolution Book
▶The Holistic Kids Show Website
▶ADHD Thrive Institute

Connect with The Holistic Kids:

▶ Website: theholistickidsshow.com
▶ Instagram: @holistickidsshow
▶ Facebook: facebook.com/theholistickidsshow
▶ Book: theteenhealthrevolution.com
▶ Apple Podcasts: The Holistic Kids Show
▶ Spotify: The Holistic Kids Show

Key Takeaways:

[00:00] Ultra-processed food and how it hijacks children's brains
[02:11] Meet The Holistic Kids — the brothers leading a food revolution
[04:18] The science behind junk food addiction and marketing to kids
[06:27] Navigating peer pressure and eating healthy at school
[09:17] Why eating color and real food matters for brain and body
[12:18] "You are what you eat" — microbiome explained in simple terms
[14:13] The gut-brain connection and ADHD
[17:16] The smoothie trick: how their mom made healthy food fun
[19:54] Inside The Teen Health Revolution book
[22:25] Inspiring kids everywhere to take charge of their health

Memorable Moments:

"Ultra-processed food is like a science experiment — not real food."

"Eating real food is weird now, and that's sad."

"Food is medicine, food is power."

"If you eat junk, you're going to turn out as junk."

"What you put in your gut affects your brain — even ADHD."

"It starts with breakfast — that's where change begins."

"We just want teens to take back control of their bodies and lives."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

 

184: Cain Runyan's Story: A 10-Year-Old's ADHD Transformation13 Nov 202500:21:23

What if your child could tell you, in their own words, what it feels like to thrive with ADHD?

In this inspiring episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay sits down with 10-year-old Cain Runyan, a graduate of the ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids, to hear his firsthand story of transformation — from daily meltdowns and dysregulation to calm, confidence, and joy.

Cain shares what it was like before the program, at the age of 6, how changing his diet and learning about his body helped him feel more in control, and how he navigates social moments when others eat foods he can't. His honesty and wisdom are beyond his years, offering parents an inside look at what it's like for a child to not just follow a plan , but truly own their progress.

Whether you're feeling uncertain about natural approaches for your child or just need hope from another child who's lived it, this episode will show you what's possible when kids are empowered to thrive.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE SHOW

▶ ADHD Thrive Institute
▶ Free Breakfast Guide
▶ Dye-Free for ADHD Course
▶ Book a Free Consultation

Key Takeaways:

[01:07] Meet Cain Runyan and hear what life was like before the ADHD Thrive Method

[03:13] The frustration of wanting to have a good day but feeling out of control

[04:24] Finding peace with food differences and learning to see them as something positive

[06:30] How Cain's mom helped him feel included with healthy alternatives at parties

[09:37] How the program changed his mindset and helped him take ownership of his health

[10:09] Understanding what was going wrong and how diet made everything click

[12:56] Feeling calmer, more focused, and in control of emotions

[14:54] Cain's powerful message to other kids: "All of this is worth it."

[17:57] Cain's health tip for families — "If you can't pronounce it, you probably shouldn't get it."

[20:31] Dana's emotional closing and encouragement for parents ready to start their own journey

Memorable Moments:

"I just wanted to have a good day, but my body wouldn't let me."

"Everything really happens for a reason. Maybe this was meant to be."

"There are a bunch of things that taste exactly the same or better."

"This program really helped because it figured out what was going wrong."

"It feels calmer. It feels easier to block out some things."

"All this is worth it. Even if you have to do things you don't want to do, you'll feel better in the end."

"If you can't pronounce it, you probably shouldn't get it."

"I was nervous at first, but then it felt like going down a spring — it just flowed."

 "If you're ready to start helping your own child feel better in their body and brain…"

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

 

183: The Toxic Truth About ADHD: How Hidden Heavy Metals Impact Kids with Dr. Wendy Myers06 Nov 202500:37:05

You can have the perfect ADHD diet, remove every allergen, and stack the best supplements… yet your child may still struggle if heavy metals are silently clogging their system.

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay, ADHD health practitioner and founder of the ADHD Thrive Method for Kids, welcomes Dr. Wendy Myers, naturopathic doctor, #1 bestselling author, and founder of MyersDetox.com. Known worldwide as the "detox expert," Dr. Wendy has helped thousands of families understand the hidden dangers of heavy metals and toxins.

Together, Dana and Dr. Wendy reveal how toxins affect brain function, mood, and ADHD symptoms, and they unpack the everyday ways kids are exposed to lead, aluminum, and other metals. More importantly, they share safe, practical strategies to begin reducing toxic load — from simple dietary tweaks to powerful detox supports. Parents will walk away with hope, knowledge, and steps they can take immediately to support their child's health.


Links Mentioned in the Show:

Key Takeaways:

[01:00] Why diet and supplements alone may not be enough if toxins are present
[01:27] Dana's story of a child with sky-high lead and aluminum levels
[02:07] Dr. Wendy Myers' personal health crisis and how it led her to detox work
[05:17] Why heavy metals are everywhere ,  air, food, water, even shower steam
[09:12] Lead's link to ADHD, learning delays, and behavior challenges
[12:48] Aluminum exposures parents may overlook in food, cookware, and personal care
[14:14] Signs your child might be struggling with heavy metal overload
[17:18] Testing options: hair mineral analysis, scans, and what they reveal
[19:44] The top detox foods every family can use right now
[22:54] Minerals as the foundation for safe detox and healthy brain function
[23:45] Binders, spirulina, chlorella, and other supportive supplements
[24:03] Safe detox methods for kids: ionic foot baths and infrared saunas
[25:09] Why detox doesn't need to be extreme or scary
[28:59] Hope and encouragement for parents who feel overwhelmed

Memorable Moments:

"You can have the perfect ADHD diet, but if heavy metals are clogging the system, your child will still struggle."

 "This child was carrying a toxic burden that was literally short-circuiting his brain and body."

 "Lead is the number one heavy metal linked to ADHD, and it's still all around us."

 "Aluminum causes brain swelling and behavioral issues — and it's shockingly common."

 "Binders soak up toxins like a sponge. They're like little catchers' mitts for heavy metals."

 "Children's bodies are resilient. Once you support the basics, they often detox naturally."

 "Don't ever feel hopeless. Your options for supporting your child are limitless."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

182: From Chaos to Calm: The Hogan Family's ADHD Breakthrough30 Oct 202500:37:13

What if your child's ADHD challenges weren't a life sentence — but a signal that something deeper is going on in the body?

In this deeply inspiring episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay sits down with Zac and Caitlin Hogan, two parents who went from constant chaos, meltdowns, and hopelessness to calm, connection, and confidence — all through natural strategies that got to the root of their child's ADHD.

The Hogans share the emotional highs and lows of their journey: the daily struggles that pushed them to the edge, the discovery of the ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids, and how making key dietary and environmental changes completely transformed their family's life. Their story will remind every parent listening that healing is possible, that behavior is communication, and that thriving ,not just survivingis within reach.

Whether you're feeling stuck, skeptical, or desperate for change, this episode will help you see what's possible when you look beyond medication and start working with your child's biology instead of against it.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

▶ ADHD Thrive Institute
▶ Free ADHD Fast Class
▶ Book a Free Consultation
▶ Thriving with ADHD Book

Key Takeaways:
[00:00] Introduction to Zac and Caitlin's story and early struggles
[01:22] Living in constant chaos and emotional overwhelm
[03:45] The turning point — realizing traditional methods weren't working
[06:08] Discovering the ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kidsand the gut connection
[08:15] Implementing dietary and lifestyle changes
[09:55] The moment everything began to shift
[12:40] How their child's behavior and focus transformed
[15:20] The emotional relief of seeing their child thrive
[18:32] Zac's advice for other dads and skeptical parents
[21:18] Dana's reflections on the power of natural healing"

Memorable Moments:
"There were nights we'd look at each other and say, 'We can't do this anymore.' It was that hard."
"We were doing everything right therapy, meds, diets and still, nothing was changing."
"When we took out dairy, it was like someone turned the lights back on in our daughter's brain."
"We stopped trying to fix her and started supporting she that's when everything changed."
"She started smiling again, laughing again. It sounds small, but it was everything."
"I remember thinking, 'Oh my gosh, she's calm. She's actually calm.' We hadn't seen that in years."
"The biggest change wasn't just in her, it was in us. We finally stopped living in survival mode."
"If you're listening and you're where we were, don't give up. There's hope — real, tangible hope."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

 

181: The Truth About Artificial Dyes and ADHD with Dr. Ana-Maria Temple23 Oct 202500:30:56

Artificial dyes are in so many of the foods marketed to children,—cereals, candies, sports drinks, and even some everyday snacks. While they may make foods look "fun," for sensitive kids, these chemicals can trigger tantrums, mood swings, hyperactivity, brain fog, and full-on emotional chaos.

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay, ADHD health practitioner and founder of the ADHD Thrive Method for Kids, welcomes back Dr. Ana-Maria Temple, board-certified pediatrician, functional medicine practitioner, and author of Healthy Kids in an Unhealthy World. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Temple has seen firsthand how removing dyes can dramatically change children's behavior.

Together, Dana and Dr. Ana-Maria Temple break down what the research really says about artificial dyes, why the U.S. lags behind other countries in regulating them, and what parents can do right now to protect their kids. From real-life clinical stories to simple swaps and mindset shifts, this conversation empowers parents to make choices that support calmer, healthier, and happier children.

Links Mentioned in the Show:
▶ ADHD Thrive Institute Website
▶ ADHD Parent Nutrition Support Group | Facebook
▶ Follow Dr. Anna Maria Temple on Instagram

Key Takeaways:
[01:20] "Headlines vs. reality: why promised changes don't always equal real change"
[03:46] "What really happened in Washington and why parents are still skeptical"
[06:20] "The science: what studies actually show about dyes and ADHD behavior"
[07:15] "How much dye is in everyday foods like cereal, candy, and sports drinks"
[08:09] "The "Twizzler test": why even small amounts can set off sensitive kids"
[09:28] "Genetics, inflammation, and why some kids are more reactive than others"
[13:12] "The patchwork of state bans and how it might push companies toward nationwide change"
[18:05] "Why processed foods remain harmful, even if dyes are removed"
[19:07] "Added sugars as another major trigger for ADHD symptoms and anxiety"
[20:02] "A simple rule of thumb for parents: "If you can't read it, don't eat it.""
[21:14] "Redefining what's "fun" for kids beyond food coloring"
[22:02] "Fast, practical real-food swaps parents can use today"
[23:21] "Meal prep hacks that make healthy eating quick and realistic for busy families"
[26:24] "Dr. Temple's "yes culture" approach: say yes to snacks, but start with fruits or veggies"

Memorable Moments:
"Artificial dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5 were designed to make cereal and candy look fun—but in sensitive kids, they can hijack behavior."
"I've seen my own child go from calm to explosive, and then the opposite when dyes were removed."
"The average American child eats the equivalent of 20 Twizzlers' worth of dye every single day."
"Mindset is everything. We need to relabel what's fun—food is nutrition, not entertainment."
"If you can't read it, don't eat it."
"Instead of being a 'no' culture, be a 'yes' culture: yes to snacks, but first choose a fruit or vegetable."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

 

180: ADHD-Friendly Halloween Hacks with Andrea Daigle16 Oct 202500:16:20

Halloween can feel like chaos on steroids for families of children with ADHD. Sugar highs, late nights, artificial dyes, and the inevitable meltdowns can make the holiday overwhelming. But it doesn't have to be that way. In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay, ADHD health practitioner and founder of the ADHD Thrive Method for Kids, is joined by regular guest, expert practitioner and mom, Andrea Daigle. Together, they unpack practical, creative ways to enjoy Halloween without sacrificing your child's health, progress, or your sanity.

From managing candy swaps to creating new family traditions, Dana and Andrea share real-life strategies that reduce stress, prevent meltdowns, and keep the fun alive. Whether it's reframing food choices, setting expectations ahead of time, or making memories without the sugar crashes, this conversation is packed with hope and actionable tips to make Halloween both safe and magical for ADHD families.

Links Mentioned in the Show:
▶ ADHD Thrive Institute – Website

Key Takeaways:
[01:19] The challenges of Halloween with ADHD
[03:07] How candy and artificial ingredients affect kids
[06:03] Creative alternatives to candy (Switch Witch, candy swap, cash-for-candy)
[07:46] Setting expectations and reducing stress with family agreements
[09:29] Reframing food choices and mindset so kids don't feel deprived
[12:42] Favorite non-candy traditions (pumpkin painting, dance parties, haunted hunts)
[13:57] Final actionable tip and takeaways: focus on mindset

Memorable Moments:
"Halloween isn't just costumes and candy. It's chaos on steroids."
"You don't have to choose between protecting your child's progress and letting them be a kid."
"Halloween can actually be fun, safe, and meltdown free without you feeling like the bad guy."
"Sugar highs and crashes can lead to hyperactivity, mood swings, and even meltdowns."
"My son had a bag of Skittles and cried the entire night after Halloween."
"We choose foods that make your brain calmer and stronger."
"If I stayed in a place of loss, then my child would start to feel that loss too."
"When kids know the plan, they're less likely to push back, and everyone gets to enjoy the night."
"Mindset is everything. Our kids feed off of our energy."
"Just a little planning and creativity can really help keep things safe and fun without all the sugar crashes."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

179: Magnesium & ADHD Explained with Dana Kay09 Oct 202500:13:40

Magnesium is one of the most talked about supplements for ADHD, but it's also one of the most misunderstood. In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay breaks down why magnesium matters so much for kids with ADHD, the different forms available, and how to choose the right one without making symptoms worse.
Drawing from her own experience as a parent and as an ADHD health practitioner, Dana explains how magnesium supports sleep, mood, focus, and stress regulation, and why it must be paired with a strong foundation of diet and gut health. Parents will walk away with practical tips, clarity about which forms work best, and a framework to avoid the trial and error mistakes most families face.

Links Mentioned in the Show:
▶ ADHD Thrive Institute – Website
▶ Mag Essentials - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/mag-essentials.html

Key Takeaways:
[01:30] Why magnesium is a big deal for ADHD kids
[03:03] Food-first approach to boosting magnesium
[05:03] The 8 different forms of magnesium—and what they each do
[07:19] Why supplements won't work without foundational health
[08:06] How to safely introduce magnesium to your child
[09:04] Why Dana created Mag Essentials
[10:12] Recap: Practical framework for using magnesium effectively

Memorable Moments:
"Not all magnesium is created equal — the form you choose can make all the difference."
"You can't supplement your way out of an inflamed body — foundation comes first."
"If the gut hasn't been supported or inflammation is high, even the best magnesium won't make a dent."
"Magnesium can be a powerful ally for your child — but it's not magic."
"I've tested dozens of magnesium products, and none combined the forms I wanted for ADHD support — so I created one."
"Start low, go slow. Track reactions. Never start two supplements at the same time."
"Food-first, foundation second, then the right supplements. That's the order that actually works."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

178: From ER to Empowered: A Mom's Brave Journey to Help Her Child Thrive with ADHD02 Oct 202500:49:35

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay sits down with Tiffany Azzone, a brave mom who moved her family from survival mode to sustainable progress with her son's ADHD. Tiffany opens up about the hard parts, walking on eggshells, losing friends, school crises, and a medication rollercoaster that ultimately led to an ER visit. Her story is honest, real, and packed with the kind of hope you can only get from someone who's lived it.Dana and Tiffany trace the turning points: stepping off the "more meds" treadmill, embracing a comprehensive natural approach, running functional testing, changing routines and food, and focusing on relationship-based parenting. Early wins like calmer bedtimes, better sleep, and real dinner-table conversations built into bigger shifts of self-advocacy at school, communication, and a family trip that once felt impossible. If you've ever wondered whether change is possible, this conversation is for you.


Links Mentioned in the Show:

▶ ADHD Thrive Institute – Website: ADHD Thrive Institute

Key Takeaways:
[01:11] Tiffany's early signs: "We just knew something was different"
[04:57] The heartbreak of self-isolation and parenting guilt
[06:04] Medication feels like the only option — until it goes too far
[10:23] The dangers of overmedication and a life-threatening ER visit
[15:04] The moment everything changed: discovering a new approach
[20:29] Bedtime breakthroughs and unexpected calm
[24:00] Parasites, food sensitivities, and the real root causes
[28:10] A pediatrician's surprise: the progress was undeniable
[31:05] Back to school with confidence — and self-advocacy
[34:06] A successful family vacation (yes, even at Disney!)
[39:53] Tiffany's advice to parents: "Don't give up. Start somewhere."
[42:59] The most powerful tip: be open, be vulnerable, and go all in

Memorable Moments:
"We weren't parenting anymore , we were surviving."
"We were walking on eggshells for years, just waiting for it to get better… and it never did."
"Our happy little guy disappeared. The meds took that sparkle right out of his eyes."
"He was on three medications , ADHD, anxiety, and antipsychotic. And then we ended up in the emergency room."
"His hormone levels were so high, they couldn't believe a child his age was on that dosage."
"When I looked at him in that hospital bed, I said: This ends now. I will never let this happen again."
"If you're going to do this halfway, you're going to get halfway results."
"For the first time, we saw our son. Not the meltdowns, not the impulsivity just him."
"He walked into class, told his teacher he wasn't having a good morning, and asked to go to the calming room. That was everything."
"We went to Disney World. That would've been impossible a year ago. He thrived."
"His ADHD isn't something to fix. It's part of who he is and he's thriving with it."
"Don't give up. If it's not working now, it's not going to magically start working later."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

177: Parenting ADHD Teens, Calmly with Ashley Gobiel25 Sep 202500:39:44

Parenting a teenager can feel like tiptoeing through a construction zone — and ADHD cranks the jackhammer. In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay breaks down what's really happening in the teenage brain and why ADHD can intensify mood swings, impulsivity, and motivation slumps. This isn't "bad behavior" or "bad parenting" — it's a developing brain that needs different scaffolding, smarter systems, and calmer connection.
Dana is joined by therapist Ashley Gobeil, who has over 15 years of experience supporting neurodiverse families. Together they unpack practical tools for emotional regulation, communication that doesn't escalate conflict, realistic academic supports, screen-time sanity, and how to get teens on board with nutrition changes by linking food to feelings and function. If you want fewer blowups and more buy-in, this conversation gives you the scripts, mindsets, and next steps.

Links Mentioned in the Show:
▶ ADHD Thrive Jumpstart Program (with bonus masterclasses on Leaky Gut, Emotional Intelligence, Sensory/Body Activities, and Dealing with Defiance): https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ Hold On to Your Kids by Gordon Neufeld & Gabor Maté (peer orientation & staying connected to teens) - https://amzn.to/4niwMKP

Key Takeaways:
[03:08] Why ADHD symptoms often intensify in the teen years
[05:02] Teen brain pruning explained with the "patchy Wi-Fi" metaphor
[08:07] Practical scaffolding: systems and supports that actually work
[09:50] Communication that regulates instead of escalates
[14:15] Staying connected to teens while peer orientation increases
[22:50] Strategies for screen-time and motivation slumps
[30:50] Linking food to function: how to get teens on board with nutrition

Memorable Moments:
"Your teen's brain is under construction."
"This isn't bad parenting. And your child isn't broken."
"Their brain just needs different support."
"Teens are going through some serious brain construction."
"That frontal lobe cortex literally is like the patchiest Wi-Fi possible."
"Teenagers with ADHD… those symptoms could exacerbate in those teenage years."
"They do need a lot of hands on help and scaffolding."
"Consciously, we want our kids to feel seen, heard, acknowledged, and valued for all parts of who they are."
"We actually still want them orbiting around us."
"There's no such thing as laziness — it's actually a lack of motivation."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

176: Music Therapy for ADHD Kids with Samantha Foote18 Sep 202500:23:06

In this inspiring episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay sits down with Samantha Foote, a neurodivergent, board-certified music therapist, positive discipline parenting guide, and mom to three autistic children. Together, they explore how music—when used intentionally—can become one of the most powerful tools for kids with ADHD, supporting focus, emotional regulation, and connection without another pill, appointment, or battle.

Samantha shares both her personal journey and professional expertise, explaining why music resonates so deeply with neurodivergent kids. From the science of rhythm organizing the ADHD brain to playful, practical interventions like rhythm games, songwriting, and calming playlists—parents will walk away with tools they can use right away.

Whether it's turning meltdowns into moments of connection, helping kids transition smoothly between activities, or strengthening executive function skills, this episode shows how music is far more than entertainment—it's a life-changing therapeutic tool.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

▶ Every Brain is Different – Samantha's Website: https://everybrainisdifferent.com
▶ Certification Verification – https://cbmt.org
▶ Samantha's Podcast: Every Brain is Different

Key Takeaways:

[03:17] What music therapy really is—and how it differs from just listening to music.
[04:15] Why neurodivergent kids gravitate toward music as a form of expression.
[06:12] What a typical ADHD-focused music therapy session looks like.
[07:21] Rhythm games and impulse-control activities that build attention.
[09:31] The science of rhythm organizing the ADHD brain.
[10:31] The ISO Principle: moving through emotions with music.
[12:11] How to find a qualified, board-certified music therapist.
[14:28] Samantha's personal stories of using music with her own children.
[17:04] A simple tip: build daily music breaks to reduce stress and increase connection.

Memorable Moments:

"If your kid has ADHD and music isn't part of your plan, you're not just missing out."

"When words fail, music speaks."

"Music can access more of your brain than anything else."

"The rhythm is very organizing, and so it can calm them down."

"If you're angry, you listen to angry music and then you slowly move to calm music."

"Every child is different, and I tailor my sessions to meet their needs."

"You don't have to be a musician to get the benefits from music."

"Music can really open a doorway to connection and calm you might not expect."

"That calming playlist or rhythm game can change everything."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

▶ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/

▶ https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/

▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/

▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute

▶ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/

▶ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/

▶ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

▶ Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

▶ Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

▶ ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd

▶ ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/

175: How to Help a Child with ADHD Focus—Without the Daily Battles11 Sep 202500:16:13

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay challenges one of the most common myths about ADHD—that kids with ADHD simply can't focus. As a Board-Certified Health and Nutrition Practitioner, Dana unpacks what focus really is, explaining how skills like impulse control, working memory, and planning all come together to create what we think of as "attention." She also explores how these skills develop at different ages and why setting realistic expectations is so important.

From brain science to real-world parenting strategies, Dana shares the foundational pillars—diet, sleep, movement, and stress reduction—that set the stage for focus. She also offers practical, everyday tools parents can start using right away, including games that build focus, reducing environmental stressors, and safe supplementation. This episode is full of encouragement and actionable steps that will help parents feel less overwhelmed and more empowered to support their child's unique ADHD brain.

Link Mentioned in the Show: 

Key Takeaways:

[04:21] Redefining what focus really is (not just "paying attention").

[07:02] Developmental stages of focus and why kids aren't "behind"—their brains may simply not be ready yet.

[11:15] How setting realistic expectations can reduce stress and power struggles at home.

[14:48] Why diet, sleep, and movement are essential foundations for attention and self-regulation.

[18:09] Environmental and internal stressors that sabotage focus—and how to reduce them.

[21:32] Fun, brain-building games that improve focus in just 15 minutes a day.

[25:14] How supplements like Curcumin and Optimal Focus can provide added support.

[28:50] Why celebrating small wins helps build long-term confidence and resilience.

 

Memorable Moments:

"If you've been told to just accept that your child with ADHD can't focus, this episode will flip that script."

"What looks like distraction or defiance is often a brain waiting for the right support."

"Sometimes we expect our kids to focus at a level their brain literally isn't ready for yet."

"Focus isn't just sitting still and staring at a teacher or a workbook—it's a bunch of different skills working together."

"Diet, sleep, and movement are absolutely essential for setting the stage for focus."

"When kids are constantly in fight-or-flight mode, it's almost impossible for them to focus."

"Fifteen minutes of focus-building games a day can do more than an hour of nagging."

"Focus isn't built overnight—it's built in small moments."

"Even little changes can have a big ripple effect over time."

 

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

👋SOCIALS:

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

174: ADHD, Homework, and Executive Function with Ann Dolin03 Sep 202500:26:52

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay sits down with Ann Dolin, an award-winning educator, author, and expert in ADHD, executive function, and academic coaching. Together, they unpack one of the most common and stressful challenges for families raising kids with ADHD—homework. With over three decades of experience helping children who think and learn differently, Ann shares practical, tested strategies to reduce homework battles, build executive function skills, and bring more calm to busy evenings.

Dana Kay, a Board-Certified Health and Nutrition Practitioner and founder of the ADHD Thrive Institute, approaches this topic as both a professional and a parent who's been in the trenches. Whether your child procrastinates, feels overwhelmed by multi-step directions, or struggles to get started, you'll walk away with actionable advice you can use tonight to make homework time more peaceful and productive.

Link Mentioned in the Show: 

Key Takeaways:
[07:54] Practical tip: Break big assignments into smaller chunks and involve kids in deciding the order to build independence.
[09:56] What executive function skills are and how weaknesses in these areas impact homework, focus, and emotions.
[14:10] How to work collaboratively with teachers to modify homework and avoid nightly power struggles.
[15:28] Why setting a homework start time is more effective than focusing only on the end time.
[18:47] Using timers and the Pomodoro method to help kids with ADHD get started and stay on task.
[21:05] Building confidence with specific positive feedback to shift mindset and motivation.
[23:14] Stepping back and asking guiding questions instead of micromanaging homework.

Memorable Moments:
"It's not always about motivation. Sometimes it's about executive function."
"Most kids don't want to do poorly. They just don't know how to start."
"The number one thing that helps is structure and consistency."
"Procrastination isn't laziness — it's often overwhelm."
"Sometimes the best thing we can do is step back, not step in."
"A checklist is like a GPS for the brain."
"Kids with ADHD often need external reminders to manage time and tasks."
"When parents micromanage, it can actually backfire."
"Homework should never be a battle zone."
"Parents are doing the best they can with the tools they have."


How to Connect with Ann Dolin

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

👋SOCIALS:

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

 

173: ADHD & Sensory Processing Explained with Michael Soria28 Aug 202500:40:41

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay dives into some often overlooked aspects of ADHD—sensory processing challenges. She's joined by Michael Soria, a global special education consultant and dad of a neurodivergent child, who brings over 35 years of insight and heart to the conversation.

If your child melts down in the cereal aisle or fights over wearing socks, it may not be "just ADHD"—it could be their sensory system crying out for help. Dana and Michael explore how sensory overload can mimic or magnify ADHD symptoms, and what parents and educators can do to support these children more effectively.

Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of the three hidden senses (vestibular, proprioception, and interoception), how to distinguish behavior from sensory triggers, and four powerful Cs—Consistency, Calm Transitions, Communication, and Compassion—for building a more supportive home and school environment.

Link Mentioned in the Show:

Key Takeaways:
[04:56] Learn about the three hidden senses often overlooked in ADHD care
[09:05] Sensory red flags at home—like picky eating or trouble finishing meals
[16:25] The power of the 95-point sensory checklist to clarify what's really going on
[22:05] Michael's "4 Cs" for supporting children with ADHD and sensory challenges
[29:38] How a custom calming space or a "comfort portfolio" can change behavior in the moment

Memorable Moments:
"What if your child isn't misbehaving — their sensory system is just overwhelmed?"

"Transitions are where most antecedents become behavior problems."

"The best activities you can do with your kids are the ones they tell you they like the most."

"Even if they don't have sensory challenges, every child benefits from calming tools."

"Teachers are experts in loving our students, and that's invaluable."

"How cool would it be if I'm having a meltdown and I open a little book and see a photo of me and my dog?"

"Knowledge is power—and so is community."

"If we do this activity at school, parents please also do it at home."

"We're not looking at the behavior; we should be looking at what caused the behavior."

"When your kid screams over socks... it might not be bad behavior."

How to Connect to Caz:
📧 Email: michael@playlearn.com
💼 LinkedIn: Michael Soria on LinkedIn
🌐 Playlearn: https://playlearn.com

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

👋SOCIALS:

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

172: Is It ADHD or Sleep Apnea? with Kirk Huntsman21 Aug 202500:47:34

Could your child's ADHD symptoms actually be caused by something else entirely—like undiagnosed pediatric sleep apnea? In this compelling episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay is joined by Kirk Huntsman, CEO and co-founder of Vivos Therapeutics. Together, they unpack the often-overlooked connection between sleep and behavior, revealing how disrupted sleep patterns—especially obstructive sleep apnea—can mimic or even contribute to ADHD symptoms in children.

Dana and Kirk explore the biological and developmental reasons behind sleep-related misdiagnoses, warning signs parents should look out for, and new, non-invasive treatment options that go far beyond medication or surgery. If your child still struggles with focus, energy, or meltdowns—this episode is essential listening. You'll walk away with a new lens on your child's behavior and practical tools to uncover and address hidden sleep issues that could be holding them back. 

Links Mentioned in the Show: 
Visit vivos.com to learn more about Vivos Therapeutics 

Key Takeaways:
[0:00] Introduction: When ADHD Isn't ADHD
[2:06] Meet Kirk Huntsman of Vivos
[3:46] What Is Pediatric Sleep Apnea?
[4:37] Overlap Between ADHD and Sleep Symptoms
[7:20] Warning Signs Parents Should Watch For
[16:55] Developmental Clues You Might Be Missing
[23:46] Long-Term Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
[31:31] Non-Invasive Treatment Options
[42:29] Final Advice for Parents


Memorable Moments:
"Your child wakes up tired, loses focus by mid-morning, spirals emotionally by lunch—and everyone's telling you it's ADHD."
"They've actually taken kids known to have ADHD and put them in a playground with kids who have sleep disorders—and the experts couldn't tell them apart."
"ADHD is actually meant to be a diagnosis of exclusion."
"A child that becomes hyperactive shows up at school and becomes that kid that the teacher can't control."
"Mouth breathing is one of the early signals that there's a problem."
"Breathing should be silent, consistent, and through the nose—not through the mouth."
"Putting a child in braces that already has compromised oral development can make the problem worse."
"We were designed to be obligate nasal breathers."
"Night terrors are not normal."
"The number one action? Get your child tested."

How to Connect with Kirk Huntsman

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

👋SOCIALS:

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

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