E239: Are Autoimmune Disease, Inflammation, and ADHD related?

There is a 50-75% chance that your child will have ADHD when you, their parent, have ADHD. That means everything multiplies exponentially - both the struggles and the wins! Parenting is already a tough job, and ADHD adds extra flavor, spunk, and responsibility onto both our and our kids’ plates.  How can we raise our ADHD children well?  Meet Tracy Otsuka, author & host of the ADHD for Smart Ass Women podcast & book.  Tracy Otsuka, JD, is a certified ADHD coach and the host of the ADHD for Smart Ass Women podcast. Over the past decade, she has empowered thousands of clients (from doctors and therapists to C-suite executives and entrepreneurs) to see their neurodivergence as a strength–not a weakness. Tracy leverages her analytical skills from being a lead counsel at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to identify the right questions to ask her clients so they can boost their productivity, improve their finances, save failing relationships and live happier lives. Tracy’s expertise and experience as an adult living with ADHD are regularly sought out by top tier media including Inc, Forbes, ADDitude magazine, and The Goal Digger Podcast. When she’s not sharing her thought leadership around ADHD on other platforms, she hosts her own podcast which ranks #1 in its category and has over 5 million downloads across 160 countries. She also moderates a Facebook group with nearly 100,000 members. A married mother of two, Tracy lives in Sonoma County outside of San Francisco.  We’re often told that people who have degrees or do well in school couldn’t possibly have ADHD. Giant Eye Roll! While Tracy excelled in school, including a law degree, but it wasn’t until she was late-diagnosed with ADHD that she knew it was because she worked harder than everyone else and implemented some serious organization and structure. Today we’re discussing how both Tracy and her son Marcus struggled with undiagnosed ADHD and dyslexia in school, affecting their grades and confidence. Tracy focused on supporting Marcus' interests and passions rather than grades, which helped him get into NYU and find his path to success.  Tracy also shares her hard-earned wisdom around communication, understanding strengths and weaknesses, and not passing on generational trauma to her children as part of how her family is able to manage 3 of 4 members having ADHD. With both her son and daughter reaching young adulthood, Tracy is on the other side of motherhood as an empty nester and is shining a light on what truly matters as you raise your ADHD kids well.   Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-240-raising-adhd-children-tracy-otsuka-smart-women   Curious how ADHD shows up frequently in women? Download this free checklist of ADHD symptoms to help you feel confident at your diagnosis assessment or in your own knowledge of ADHD.   I’ve got a podcast for you to check out! I’m honored to partner with Understood.org’s podcast, In It: Raising Kids who Learn Differently this month. In each episode, you’ll hear from people sharing their own stories and perspectives on how to navigate and support those who have challenges with reading, math, ADHD, or dyslexia, and more. Listen today for support on how to better support yourself and your child.   Our annual ADHD Moms Luxury Weekend Retreat is coming up October 11-13, 2024 in Houston, Texas! You're officially invited :) “Gift yourself the opportunity to meet like-minded people (literally), make instant friendships, and the space to finally be yourself.” –ADHD Mama T.H. I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy. Put it on your calendar now. Because you deserve to take care of yourself too. Grab your all-inclusive ticket here: patriciasung.com/retreat Last day to get your ticket: Tuesday, September 24th!

Feeling like your body is staging a mutiny? Join the club!  I’ve been dealing with autoimmune issues for over a decade.  The majority of my clients also have autoimmune and chronic health issues, from chronic fatigue, celiac disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, to arthritis… the list goes on.  I don’t think that’s a coincidence! It’s not just the physical toll that illness takes on you, but also the mental battle. I grappled often with the impact my health had on my parenting. While I’m sharing a lot of my struggles today, it’s not a whine-fest. I’m also sharing insights on how I see the relationship between autoimmune issues, inflammation, and ADHD. Plus, I’m dishing what has helped me lower my stress levels and take care of myself so that I could take care of my family as best I could, even when all I had were scraps. Self-care isn't selfish; it's a lifeline for the whole family. Although I can’t heal you with my words, I hope to provide an empathetic space and support, shedding light on the intricate dance of health, stress, and parenting with chronic illness.  You’re not alone, Successful Mama. Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor. This is not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare team for specifics on your individual care. I'm sharing my own experience with autoimmune disease and working with others who also have ADHD and chronic illness.    Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-239-are-autoimmune-disease-inflammation-stress-and-adhd-related   I’ve got a podcast for you to check out! I’m honored to partner with Understood.org’s podcast, In It: Raising Kids who Learn Differently this month. In each episode, you’ll hear from people sharing their own stories and perspectives on how to navigate and support those who have challenges with reading, math, ADHD, or dyslexia, and more. Listen today for support on how to better support yourself and your child.   Super stressed and need a break? We’re learning more about your stress response and how it relates to treating your ADHD symptoms at our annual ADHD Moms Luxury Weekend Retreat, October 11-13, 2024 in Houston, Texas!  “Honestly, this was one the best weekends I've had since becoming a mom. I've never felt so seen and understood. I would hop on a plane and go again. No hesitation! I'll follow y’all anywhere, moms.” –ADHD Mama J.Q. I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy. I take care of you while you learn how to take even better care of yourself, in a way that’s sustainable for real momlife.  Because you can take care of your family when you’re in a healthy place. Sign up here: https://patriciasung.com/retreat Last day to get your ticket: Tuesday, September 24th!

Have you ever lost it on your kids and your partner gives you some side eye along with, “WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!?” While yes, your child is being rude, you’re mostly grumpy because your shirt is itchy and it’s hot outside. And then you beat yourself up because you think, “what IS wrong with me?” because you turned something little into a yelling fest?!? Sigh. On today's episode of "Motherhood in ADHD," we're diving headfirst into the whirlwind of dealing with hypersensitivity, overstimulation, and rejection sensitivity dysphoria. Join me as we unravel the mysteries of feeling like a walking nerve on edge and tackle the tough task of managing stress like the patient moms we truly want to be. We're breaking down the nitty-gritty of setting boundaries, learning to navigate criticism without losing our cool, and finding that sweet spot of personal growth that brings the confidence to handle it all.  So grab your latte, snag a comfy spot, and let's dive into hypersensitivity, overstimulation, and all the mama magic in between! If you’d like more support like this, tailored to what moms need, the next round of Lighthouse Group ADHD Coaching starts September 12th.  In 3 months together, we’ll get your emotional regulation tools sharpened and your daily schedule sorted, so that you can connect home to what matters to you, start trusting yourself again, and build the life you want to live. Register now, as there are only a couple of spots left: patriciasung.com/lighthouse   Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-238-setting-boundaries-navigating-criticism-rsd-hypersensitivity-overstimulation-adhd I’ve got a podcast for you to check out! I’m honored to partner with Understood.org’s podcast, In It: Raising Kids who Learn Differently this month. In each episode, you’ll hear from people sharing their own stories and perspectives on how to navigate and support those who have challenges with reading, math, ADHD, or dyslexia, and more. Listen today for support on how to better support yourself and your child.

Feel like you've tried every hack & trick on the internet, only to find yourself still tossed around the rough seas of ADHD challenges?  Well, grab a life jacket, and join me on this podcast journey as I share some salty opinions on ADHD coaching and other solutions available on the internet. In this episode, we're unraveling the thread of misconceptions, and highlighting the real benefits of finding the right coach for you. Spoiler alert: Even great athletes have coaches in order to reach their goals. Together, we'll uncover the myths and the snags to reach smooth sailing solutions to help you navigate the turbulent waters of ADHD. Tailored support, emotional regulation skills, and practical tools for moms with ADHD that actually work is just what you need to move from surviving to enjoying the little moments in your day when you’re present with your family Ready for support from an experienced sailor (that’s me!) who will help you get your head above water? Lighthouse Group ADHD Coaching is enrolling now! Get all the details at: patriciasung.com/lighthouse Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-237-what-is-the-point-of-adhd-coaching   Stop Medusa Mom in her tracks with these 10 tips to calm down before you lose your cool! Watch (or read) the free video here: patriciasung.com/calm

Whoo-hoo! Today we’re celebrating! This summer, we hit 1,000,000 downloads on the podcast!!!  To celebrate, I hosted a live Q&A podcast episode last month and here it is… You all asked some amazing questions!  You shared your hearts and experiences. It was a beautiful time together. You had me reflecting on my podcasting journey and the last 5 years, from overcoming self-doubt to reaching a million downloads, and the importance of staying true to myself and my values.  We talked about some of the challenges of motherhood with ADHD and several moms jumped in and encouraged each other, reminding you to embrace your values, individuality, and creative parenting. Throughout the episode, you all bring up your own experiences, from struggles with remembering goals due to ADHD, to the challenges of meeting a child's needs and the pressure to do it all, perfectly.  This conversation focuses on finding balance, trusting yourself, and the inevitable learning process of parenting. Honestly, it felt like a big friendship hug. I really appreciate you so, so much. I never would have arrived here without you, and I adore you more than words can express. Hanging out with you makes my heart happy and full. Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey to help as many moms with ADHD as possible! Now let’s go help thousands more moms! Send this episode to a friend. Big hugs! Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-236-celebrating-one-million-downloads-live I’ve got a podcast for you to check out! I’m honored to partner with Understood.org’s podcast, In It: Raising Kids who Learn Differently this month. In each episode, you’ll hear from people sharing their own stories and perspectives on how to navigate and support those who have challenges with reading, math, ADHD, or dyslexia, and more. Listen today for support on how to better support yourself and your child.   READY TO GET AWAY? Our annual ADHD Moms Luxury Weekend Retreat is coming up October 11-13, 2024 in Houston, Texas! You're officially invited :)  “Gift yourself the opportunity to meet like-minded people (literally), make instant friendships, and the space to finally be yourself.” –ADHD Mama T.H. I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy. Put it on your calendar now. Because you deserve to take care of yourself too. Grab your all-inclusive ticket here: patriciasung.com/retreat

Meet my friend Jacki, host of the Here’s What I Learned Podcast. In this episode, Jacki and I chat about the successes and struggles of owning a business when you have ADHD.  Jacki shares:  In today's episode, I talk with Patricia Sung about the challenges and benefits of starting a business as people with ADHD. Patricia shares the importance of seeking support and finding a balance between flexibility and structure when running a thriving business. We also chat about managing energy levels, prioritizing tasks, and creating more balanced schedules. Finally, we discuss the significance of failing early and often to gain data we can use to create success. Be sure to subscribe to the Here’s What I Learned Podcast! Jacki’s website Jacki’s instagram  Jacki’s LinkedIn  Find our episode details here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-235-failure-required-enterpreneur-business-adhd-jacki-hayes Jacki Hayes is a Systems Strategist and Operational Support Specialist who offers her clients custom-crafted systems and exceptional operational support so they can run the business of their dreams, create greater impact, and unplug from their business with confidence. When she's not supporting her clients, she's bouldering, lifting weights, or reading a book with her two cats Raven and Starfire. Welcome to the Best of Friends Series, where you are meeting a few of my friends in the podcast community. I’m sharing interviews that I have done on other friends’ podcasts. Not only do you get a new episode, I hope that you’ll find a few shows to add to your podcast queue.    With a community of ADHD moms to lift you up when you’re struggling, you’re ready to take a baby step forward. It is possible to plan your week and achieve it, even with ADHD. Sign up at patriciasung.com/meetup.   Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-235-failure-required-enterpreneur-business-adhd-jacki-hayes  

Meet my friend Allison Jordan, host of The Better Belly Podcast. In this episode, Allison and I chat about the basics of ADHD in women, gut health in relation to ADHD, and how to make the little habits easier, like taking your supplements or eating meals regularly. Allison shares:  As you guys know, we are currently in an ADHD series on the Better Belly Podcast. And I thought, what better way to do an ADHD series than to have an expert on supporting women with ADHD onto the podcast? Patricia Sung is the host of the Motherhood in ADHD Podcast, a Top 5 Parenting podcast, that encourages mamas with ADHD or suspected ADHD with practical strategies and relatable missteps. Patricia is a hobby-hopping, anxious adventurer, willing to try almost anything once. On today's episode, we talk about what ADHD is, why ADHD can look so different in women than men, common signs that you have ADHD, common signs of ADHD that often get overlooked, and Patricia's top tips on how to incorporate new goals into your life, such as taking vitamins regularly or changing your diet, when you have ADHD. Whether you KNOW you have or THINK you have ADHD, this episode is for you. Be sure to subscribe to The Better Belly Podcast! Allison’s website  Allison’s instagram  Find our episode details here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-234-4-adhd-friendly-tips-take-supplements-eat-regularly-gut-health-allison-jordan Welcome to the Best of Friends Series, where you are meeting a few of my friends in the podcast community. I’m sharing interviews that I have done on other friends’ podcasts. Not only do you get a new episode, I hope that you’ll find a few shows to add to your podcast queue. There’s a wide variety of topics coming your way, so keep an eye out for a new friend every other week of the summer. Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-234-4-adhd-friendly-tips-take-supplements-eat-regularly-gut-health-allison-jordan   You’re not alone. “This is a chance to invest in yourself and build a community that will empower your future. Worth it!” –ADHD Mama D.B. Our annual ADHD Moms Luxury Weekend Retreat is coming up October 11-13, 2024 in Houston, Texas! And we hope you’re coming, too!  I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy. Put it on your calendar now. Having a circle of moms who support you and believe in you matters. Register for your all-inclusive ticket here: patriciasung.com/retreat

When you think of doing something for yourself, do you jump in with both feet? Or do you think about aaaaaaaaallllllll the reasons you shouldn’t? Meet my actual real-life friend, Tami Hackbarth, host of 100% Guilt-Free Self-Care. In this episode, Tami and I chat about an honest look at motherhood through the lens of ADHD. Tami shares: I am so excited to introduce you to my guest this week! I met Patricia at Mom2 Summit last year in Scottsdale. We bonded quickly over having both been classroom teachers and now coaches. I was in the midst of my ADHD evaluation so I had so many questions for her.  Patricia Sung helps moms with adult ADHD work with their unique brains and get their ish together one step at a time and feel confident running their family life. She hosts Motherhood in ADHD, a Top 5 Parenting podcast, encouraging mamas with practical strategies and relatable missteps. She’s a hobby-hopping, anxious adventurer willing to try almost anything once. A Midwesterner at heart, she reluctantly adopted the word "y'all" and lives in Houston with her husband and two young sons. You can grab free resources and get your crap together with other ADHD moms in Successful Mama Meetups at www.motherhoodinadhd.com. 100% Guilt-Free Self-Care because we all need it in order to create the world we want to live in. Self-care isn’t selfish and you are not broken. Modern life is built on the unpaid labor of caregivers and women. This show is a mix of interviews, practical tips and a good natured kick in the pants to get you into action. It will help you build more energy and remind you that you matter too. Hosted by author, speaker, coach and Fair Play Facilitator Tami Hackbarth.  Tami loves a good swear word, so pop in your headphones. Be sure to subscribe to the 100% Guilt-Free Self-Care Podcast! Tami’s website Tami’s instagram Join Tami’s free class Reduce the Mental Load: https://www.tamihackbarth.com/reduce-mental-load Find our episode details here:  https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-233-is-it-me-or-adhd-guilt-free-self-care-tami-hackbarth Welcome to the Best of Friends Series, where you are meeting a few of my favorite friends in the podcast community. I’m sharing interviews that I have done on other friends’ podcasts. Not only do you get a new episode, I hope that you’ll find a few shows to add to your podcast queue. There’s a wide variety of topics coming your way, so keep an eye out for a new friend every other week of the summer.   Super stressed and need a break? We’re learning more about your stress response and how it relates to treating your ADHD symptoms at our annual ADHD Moms Luxury Weekend Retreat, October 11-13, 2024 in Houston, Texas!  “Honestly, this was one the best weekends I've had since becoming a mom. I've never felt so seen and understood. I would hop on a plane and go again. No hesitation! I'll follow y’all anywhere, moms.” –ADHD Mama J.Q. I’ll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy. I take care of you while you learn how to take even better care of yourself, in a way that’s sustainable for real mom life.  Because you can take care of your family when you’re in a healthy place. Sign up here: patriciasung.com/retreat   Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-233-is-it-me-or-adhd-guilt-free-self-care-tami-hackbarth  

WOW! IT HAPPENED!!! The Motherhood in ADHD Podcast hit 1 million downloads!!! And it’s all because of you!  Thank you, thank you, thank you! It’s because of you that we’ve made it this far :)  And it goes to show HOW MANY OF US ADHD MOMS there are in the world. You’re not alone, clearly! I’ve been dreaming up how to celebrate with you for moooooonths and now it’s happening!!! You’re invited to a live recording of the podcast! Come join me on July 30th at 11 AM - Noon Eastern / 8 - 9 AM Pacific to record an episode for next month.  Get the link to the Zoom here: patriciasung.com/million Ask me anything you want!  I’ll answer as many of your questions as I can in one hour. AHHHHHHHHHHHH I can’t wait to hang out! Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-232-one-million-downloads-celebration

Meet my friend Bethany Lovern, host of Breastfeeding Relief with Bethany.  In this episode, Bethany and I chat about struggles as a new mom, including breastfeeding, Postpartum Depression (PPD), Postpartum Anxiety (PPA), and Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex or D-MER. Bethany shares: In this episode, Patricia discusses how she struggled with her ADHD symptoms after becoming a mom, leading to sleepless nights spent searching for support online. Though initially unwilling, she was later prompted by her faith to start a podcast supporting moms with ADHD. Patricia and I chat about our personal experiences with postpartum depression and anxiety. We also delve into Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER), which is described as a sudden mood change when milk lets down. I share how, as a first-time mom, I constantly tracked feedings, sleep and milestones, worrying over my son’s well-being. We both emphasize the need for finding community for shared struggles, whether online or in-person. Patricia invites you to connect with her podcast and community at motherhoodinADHD.com. Be sure to subscribe to the Breastfeeding Relief with Bethany Podcast! ⁠Bethany’s website ⁠Bethany’s instagram Find our episode details here: patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-231-adhd-postpartum-anxiety-depression-d-mer-breastfeeding-relief-with-bethany-lovern Welcome to the Best of Friends Series, where you are meeting a few of my friends in the podcast community. I’m sharing interviews that I have done on other friends’ podcasts. Not only do you get a new episode, I hope that you’ll find a few shows to add to your podcast queue. There’s a wide variety of topics coming your way, so keep an eye out for a new friend every other week of the summer.   Craving people who understand how you work instead of judging you??? Come hang out with me and other ADHD Moms in our twice weekly online community: Successful Mama Meetups! Join here: patriciasung.com/meetup   Ready for a getaway?  Watch this 2 min video of our last ADHD moms retreat! You’re invited to our next trip: October 11-13, 2024! Sign up here: patriciasung.com/retreat