What Schools Don’t Tell You About ADHD Support — and What to Do About It with Christine Levy

On today’s episode, I sit down with a long-time friend and powerhouse in the world of educational advocacy, Christine Levy. Christine and I go way back—we met during our grad school days at NYU, and since then, she's become a fierce advocate for children with disabilities and their families. With over 20 years of experience in education, Christine has sat on every side of the IEP table—as a teacher, admin, RTI coordinator, and now as a passionate parent advocate.In this conversation, Christine and I dive into what parents really need to know about navigating the special education system when their child is diagnosed with ADHD or other learning differences. From decoding neuropsych evaluations to tackling 504 plans and IEPs, we unpack what services and support are actually available—and how to get them. Whether you're just starting your journey or you're deep in the trenches of school meetings and documentation, this episode is filled with clarity, strategy, and heart. Christine’s calm, connected approach brings hope and real tools to families feeling overwhelmed by the process.Christine Levy, M.Ed., is a leading expert in Educational Advocacy with over two decades of experience in special education as a teacher, administrator, and MTSS coordinator. She holds advanced degrees from NYU and Bank Street College of Education and is the founder of Levy Educational Advocacy. Christine empowers families by guiding them through the complexities of special education, ensuring their children receive the support, services, and placements they need to thrive. A passionate advocate and parent herself, she brings both expertise and empathy to every case she supports. Episode Highlights:[0:57] - Meet Christine Levy: educator turned advocate with a mission to empower families[3:26] - Our shared journey from grad school to special ed leadership[5:50] - When ADHD is diagnosed: What happens next?[6:52] - Misconceptions around diagnosis and eligibility for services[8:43] - Why RTI/MTSS documentation is critical before special ed referrals[10:02] - The importance of parent-provided data: binders are more than paper—they’re your child’s story[12:49] - “Behavior” is often misinterpreted ADHD—how advocacy can change the narrative[14:30] - Supporting emotionally dysregulated parents through the process[16:58] - Do ADHD and anxiety automatically qualify for a 504? The nuance explained[19:50] - Advice for parents on the verge of burnout or considering school changes[23:46] - Understanding the types of advocates and what support really looks like[27:02] - Breaking cycles of intergenerational trauma through calm, effective advocacy[28:46] - Executive functioning at home: how parents can build consistency with the school[30:54] - When a child “looks fine” at school but struggles at home—how to present the full picture[33:23] - Twice-exceptional students: the challenge of advocating for kids who mask their needs[34:17] - Final words of empowerment: “You are not alone, and we see you.” Connect with Christine Levy:Christine Levy’s Website: levyadvocacy.comChristine Levy’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/levyadvocacy/ Christine Levy’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077923336637 Thank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach and help more individuals navigating their journeys with ADHD.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

In this episode, we’re discussing important topics—social skills, friendships, and navigating communication as someone with ADHD. I’m joined by the amazing Caroline Maguire, an author, coach, TED Talk speaker, and founder of a revolutionary social emotional learning (SEL) method that helps neurodivergent individuals connect more authentically. Caroline’s insight is deeply rooted in both her personal journey and decades of professional experience supporting kids, teens, and adults with ADHD.We unpack the real (and often painful) challenges of miscommunication, self-doubt, and finding your people when you’re neurodivergent. Caroline and I talk candidly about the paradoxes of ADHD communication, the importance of self-awareness, how we curate our friendships, and how interests can lead to connection. Caroline Maguire, is the founder of a revolutionary social emotional learning methodology that helps teach social skills to children, teenagers, and young adults. She holds a holds a Masters in Education degree with a concentration in SEL training and is the founder and director of The Fundamentals of ADHD Coaching for Families training curriculum at ADD Coach Academy (ADDCA). She is a former coach for the Hallowell Center in Sudbury, Massachusetts. She is the author of Why Will No One Play With Me?, the winner of the Best Parenting and Family Book 2020 as awarded by American Book Fest. Episode Highlights:[1:08] – Introducing Caroline Maguire and her extensive background in ADHD coaching and SEL.[2:22] – Getting personal: Why I invited Caroline to talk about the communication paradox with ADHD.[6:26] – Caroline opens up about her ongoing self-talk journey and how it still shows up today.[8:52] – The power of understanding your brain: Why telling your child they have ADHD matters.[11:46] – Adult friendships and trust: How to explain your traits and connect without fear.[18:34] – Why making friends is harder for kids and how parents can support them better.[24:52] – The big gap in school services for ADHD students when it comes to pragmatics and speech.[32:34] – Caroline’s personal strategy to improve self-talk and own her accomplishments.[40:03] – Embracing authenticity and navigating the workplace with ADHD.[43:30] – What’s next for schools? And how early neurodiversity education makes a difference.[52:07] – Helping kids embrace who they are—even when it’s not “cool.”[54:39] – Where to find more of Caroline’s work and wisdom. Connect with Caroline Maguire:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorcarolinem/ Website: https://carolinemaguireauthor.com/ Book: Why Will No One Play with Me?: The Play Better Plan to Help Children of All Ages Make Friends and Thrive Thank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach and help more individuals navigating their journeys with ADHD.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

If you've ever struggled with feeding yourself consistently, felt overwhelmed by meal planning, or wondered how ADHD impacts your relationship with food—this episode is for you. I sat down with Becca King, a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified intuitive eating counselor who also happens to have ADHD herself. Becca’s story is incredibly relatable and eye-opening. She shares how her ADHD played a role in her past eating disorder, and how she now uses that lived experience to help other ADHDers find food freedom without shame or restriction.In this conversation, we explore how dopamine, executive dysfunction, sensory issues, and emotional regulation all intersect with eating behaviors. We also talk about what disordered eating actually looks like (it’s more common than you think) and how to start building a healthier, more sustainable relationship with food. Becca’s weight-inclusive approach is all about permission over perfection, and her advice is both practical and compassionate. You’ll walk away from this episode with real, ADHD-friendly tools to help you nourish your body without the guilt.Becca King is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist & Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor from Charlotte, North Carolina. As an adult with ADHD who struggled for years with disordered eating, Becca is passionate about helping other adults with ADHD who struggle with binge eating, chronic dieting, and body image issues find food freedom and improve their self-esteem. She uses the Principles of Intuitive Eating and a weight-inclusive approach to nutrition for ADHD in her virtual practice. Episode Highlights:[0:58] – Meet Becca King, RDN: Her journey with ADHD and disordered eating.[6:03] – Finding the connection between ADHD and private practice dietetics.[7:06] – How her eating disorder developed and tied into ADHD symptoms.[9:57] – The role of dopamine in disordered eating.[10:22] – Why so many ADHDers struggle with binge eating and food regulation.[12:51] – Defining disordered eating and how it manifests in ADHDers.[16:40] – Living in recovery and developing healthier coping tools.[18:25] – Emotional dysregulation, sensory issues, and other overlooked triggers.[22:20] – Real talk about ARFID, safe foods, and honoring sensory needs.[24:54] – Mindful eating and how it actually looks for ADHD brains.[27:33] – Simple, realistic advice for feeding yourself with ADHD.[30:50] – Debunking the fear around processed foods and shortcuts.[33:57] – Intermittent fasting and ADHD—what you really need to know.[37:19] – Becca’s upcoming book and her practical nutrition philosophy.[38:55] – Final advice: Let go of "shoulds" and find what works for you. Connect with Becca King:Follow Becca King on Instagram: @adhd.nutritionistBecca’s Book: How to Eat Well for Adults with ADHD – Available on Amazon and major booksellersThank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach and help more individuals navigating their journeys with ADHD.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

Are sleepless nights and racing thoughts keeping you awake? Emmy Award-winning ABC News anchor and bestselling author Diane Macedo joins Brooke to share her personal journey of late ADHD diagnosis and her transformative "Sleep Fix" method. Diane reveals how ADHD intensifies sleep challenges, why common sleep hygiene advice can backfire, and practical solutions designed specifically to support ADHD brains.Diane shares candidly about her ADHD diagnosis journey, motherhood, and how restructuring everyday habits—like fridge organization—significantly improved her daily life. Whether you're struggling with insomnia, overwhelmed by household responsibilities, or simply looking for ADHD-friendly life hacks, this episode provides insights and actionable strategies to help reclaim your rest and rediscover joy in your routines.Episode Highlights:[0:42] Introduction to Diane Macedo and Her Background[3:37] Diane’s Personal Experience with ADHD[7:21] Impact of ADHD on Daily Life and Relationships[14:27] Diagnosis and Coping Mechanisms[28:07] Sleep Fix Method and Its Application[45:09] ADHD and Sleep Interconnection[47:46] Practical Tips for Improving Sleep[56:17] Impact of ADHD on Daily Life and RelationshipsConnect with Diane:[email protected]@dianermacedo & @sleepfixmethodThank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach and help more individuals navigating their journeys with ADHD.🚨Calling all aspiring ADHD coaches ▶️ https://bit.ly/CWBCoachCertHelp your clients break free from paralysis and better manage their life with 3C Activation® coach training!💥Gain a proven process for ADHD coaching💥Earn 38 ICF Credits and 18 PAAC CCE’s💥Learn the latest neuroscience to boost your practice💥Qualify to be listed as a “Professional ADHD Coach” Under ACO DirectorySave your seat for the Q&A to learn more ▶️ https://bit.ly/CWBCoachCertWant to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

Have you ever felt stuck in a cycle of burnout, pushing yourself to the limit only to crash and start over again? My guest today, Jamie Toyne, knows that struggle all too well. A former professional tennis player turned entrepreneur and ADHD coach, Jamie has experienced burnout—first on the court, then in business. But through his journey, he discovered the power of flow and alignment. Now, through his Flowjo method, he's helping ADHD entrepreneurs break free from burnout and step into their full potential.Jamie is Coaching with Brooke's 3C Activation ADHD Coach alumni. After researching the connection between 'ADHD', 'Burnout' and 'Flow' Jamie developed a coaching program called 'Flowjo' which helps ADHD founders to cure burnout, harness their ADHD superpowers, and start flowing towards their goals. Jamie is also the Author of the 'Pressure Gauge Mindset' and Founder of two other companies called Dealflow and Exitplanr, that helped more than 400 entrepreneurs successfully exit their business. Episode Highlights:[00:57] - Meet Jamie Toyne: From professional tennis to ADHD entrepreneurship.[03:15] - Getting diagnosed with ADHD at 11 and struggling in school.[07:56] - The pressure of professional tennis and a dramatic exit.[10:42] - The realization: ADHD and burnout are deeply connected.[13:36] - Understanding flow: More than just peak performance hacks.[19:15] - How different people access flow and why it's personal.[22:03] - The difference between active recovery and passive recovery.[25:07] - How to recognize when you need to step back from flow.[31:48] - How Jamie helps ADHD entrepreneurs master their own flow. Connect with Jamie Toyne:Find Jamie & Take His Flow Finder Quiz: https://www.jamietoyne.com/flowjo-finder Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamietoyne1 Thank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach and help more individuals navigating their journeys with ADHD.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

If you’ve ever questioned your relationship with alcohol or struggled with that all-or-nothing mindset that so many of us with ADHD have, then today’s episode is for you. I’m joined by Colleen Kachmann—certified master life and recovery coach, mindful drinking coach, and host of It’s Not About the Alcohol. Colleen has a powerful story of overcoming alcohol use disorder while navigating ADHD, and she’s here to break down the science behind addiction, dopamine, and why traditional sobriety approaches don’t work for everyone.Colleen introduces how self-directed neuroplasticity, nervous system regulation, and how shifting your mindset from “I have to quit” to “I want to feel better” changes everything. Colleen shares her personal journey, the myths around addiction, and the small, sustainable steps that make lasting change possible.  Episode Highlights:[2:26] – Colleen’s journey with ADHD, alcohol use disorder, and the moment she realized something had to change.[6:31] – The difference between an addiction and an identity—why the word “addict” kept her stuck.[10:47] – Debunking the “once an addict, always an addict” myth and the science of how the brain heals.[15:06] – Why traditional sobriety doesn’t work for most people and what to do instead.[21:05] – The first step to breaking the habit (and why it’s NOT quitting cold turkey).[25:12] – Why small habit shifts are more effective than all-or-nothing thinking.[30:40] – The importance of nervous system regulation and how to stop living in fight-or-flight mode.[36:06] – How to bounce back from setbacks and avoid the shame spiral.[40:00] – Colleen’s unexpected analogy for negative thoughts (this one’s hilarious and SO true!).[41:45] – Trusting your felt experience and paying attention to your body’s cues.[43:50] – Find the non-judgmental support and getting out of your head. Connect with Colleen Kachmann:Podcast It’s Not About the Alcohol: https://itsnotaboutthealcohol.com/ Social: Instagram @thehangoverwhisperer TikTok @thehangoverwhispererThank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach and help more individuals navigating their journeys with ADHD.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

What if you could cut yourself some slack and still achieve massive success? In this episode, I sit down with my friend and leadership expert, JM Ryerson, to dive into the mindset shifts and practical strategies that help ADHDers—and everyone—stay focused, productive, and fulfilled. JM is a leadership and performance coach, international speaker, and best-selling author of Let's Go Win, Champions Daily Playbook, and Upgrade. He’s built and sold three businesses and now helps teams double their revenue while optimizing leadership and culture.We talk about gamification, accountability, morning routines, and breaking free from self-limiting beliefs. JM shares how small changes—like shifting how you approach daily habits, structuring accountability, and using fun to stay motivated—can make a huge difference. Episode Highlights:[0:52] – Meet JM Ryerson: Entrepreneur, coach, and leadership expert [3:38] – Simplifying focus and calming the nervous system [5:18] – The power of cutting yourself some slack [10:21] – Reframing daily tasks using gamification [14:55] – How competition and fun can drive success [22:22] – Rethinking morning routines (without rigid rules!) [31:24] – The brain-boosting benefits of MCT oil in coffee [35:41] – The role of accountability in making real progress [41:08] – Getting clear on your values for a simpler, more fulfilling life [46:29] – Final wisdom: Embrace authenticity and take off the maskConnect with JM Ryerson:🔗 Learn more about JM Ryerson: www.letsgowin.com 💡 Connect with JM on social: @letsgowin365Thank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach and help more individuals navigating their journeys with ADHD.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

In this episode, I’m sitting down with the incredible Linda Karanzalis, a nationally recognized cognitive specialist and advocate for nonverbal learning disorder (NVLD). Linda is on a mission to spread awareness about NVLD, a condition often misunderstood and misdiagnosed as ADHD, autism, or other learning challenges.Linda breaks down what NVLD really is, how it differs from autism and ADHD, and the struggles people with NVLD face in communication, school, and the workplace. We also dive into the stigma surrounding NVLD, its unique learning and processing challenges, and how proper diagnosis and understanding can make a life-changing difference. Linda shares her own experiences growing up with NVLD, why she wrote her book "Misnamed, Misdiagnosed, Misunderstood", and how we can foster empathy and awareness to support those who think and learn differently. Episode Highlights:[0:49] - Introduction to Linda Karanzalis and her inspiring mission. [3:23] - What is nonverbal learning disorder (NVLD), and how does it differ from autism and ADHD? [9:10] - The challenges of diagnosing NVLD and why it’s often misunderstood. [16:27] - Why many psychologists and schools struggle to recognize NVLD—and how to advocate for proper evaluation. [25:15] - Key markers of NVLD in psychoeducational and neuropsychological evaluations. [37:24] - Teaching strategies and accommodations for students with NVLD. [40:00] - How workplace stigma affects adults with NVLD—and why empathy is essential. [41:35] - Linda’s advice for fostering understanding and patience toward neurodivergent individuals. Connect with Linda Karanzalis:Linda Karanzalis’s website: LindaKaranzalis.comLinda’s book: "Misnamed, Misdiagnosed, Misunderstood" https://www.lindakaranzalis.com/book Advantages Learning Center: https://addvantageslearningcenter.com/The NVLD Project: nvld.orgThank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach and help more individuals navigating their journeys with ADHD.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by two incredible guests, Pete Wright and Nikki Kinzer, the dynamic duo behind the new book, Unapologetically ADHD. With decades of combined experience in coaching, podcasting, and living with ADHD, Pete and Nikki share their unique journey of co-authoring their book and the lessons they’ve learned about failure, success, and working together as a team. We dive into their podcasting journey, strategies for navigating big projects, and how they’ve redefined ADHD productivity with compassion and practicality.Nikki Kinzer is a professional certified ADHD coach through the International Coaching Federation (ICF). She’s been coaching adults with ADHD since 2010 and has built a business around supporting the ADHD community through coaching, teaching, and podcasting. She lives with her husband, Brad, in Springfield, Oregon. Pete Wright was diagnosed with ADHD when he was 28 and has spent the better part of his life since then studying and podcasting about his lived ADHD experience. He is a professional podcaster and co-founder of the TruStory FM podcast network. He’s a former journalist, educator, and public relations executive and lives with his wife, Kira, in Portland, Oregon. Episode Highlights:[0:00] - Pete reflects on reprogramming how we view failure.[0:44] - Introducing Pete Wright and Nikki Kinzer, their backgrounds, and the new book.[2:35] - The origins of their podcast and the magic of their partnership.[7:15] - Nikki’s journey into ADHD coaching and the transition to focusing on ADHD clients.[13:20] - Pete’s perspective on working with a professional organizer and managing ADHD.[17:03] - How their second book came to life and what made the process smoother.[22:22] - Strategies they used to tackle challenges during the writing process.[29:01] - Key takeaways from Unapologetically ADHD for managing big projects. [37:37] - Pete’s deep dive into routines, executive function, and strategic friction. [43:12] - Final reflections: reframing failure and embracing being unapologetically ADHD. Links & ResourcesVisit Pete and Nikki’s website: takecontroladhd.comOrder their book, Unapologetically ADHD: https://takecontroladhd.com/adhdbook Listen to their podcast: Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast wherever you get your podcasts. https://takecontroladhd.com/the-adhd-podcast Thank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach and help more individuals navigating their journeys with ADHD. Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Eugene Yao, the force behind ADHD Founder on Instagram, where his content resonates with millions, helping people feel seen and understood. Eugene shares his journey of self-discovery, from his ADHD diagnosis to building a million-strong following in just six months. We delve into his transformation from chasing external rewards like money and status to creating purpose-driven content and meaningful work.Eugene opens up about his personal growth, his unique path to finding fulfillment, and how he’s using his ADHD superpowers to inspire others. We also talk about his latest venture—an accountability buddy app aimed at fostering meaningful connections and helping users stay productive. Whether you're an entrepreneur, content creator, or someone navigating life with ADHD, this episode is packed with insights to spark motivation and self-reflection.Eugene Yao is the Co-Founder of Huddle and former CEO of eVouch, a VC-backed marketing tool that served over 1,500 brands. After stepping down in April 2023, Eugene shifted his focus to mental health advocacy following his ADHD diagnosis. Passionate about educating others, he launched an Instagram channel that grew from 0 to 500k followers in just four months, reaching over 50 million unique accounts. His goal is to inspire and inform through engaging content, aiming to hit 1 million followers by the end of 2024. Episode Highlights:[3:18] - Eugene’s ADHD diagnosis journey and why finding meaningful work matters.[7:07] - The transformative power of a "dopamine detox" and reconnecting with core values.[13:55] - The rise of ADHD Founder: crafting relatable and original content.[19:53] - The reality of content creation and how Eugene balances mission with financial needs.[26:49] - A sneak peek into Eugene’s upcoming accountability buddy app.[32:12] - Why growth and progress are essential for ADHD brains.[35:29] - Eugene’s advice on moving from pleasure-driven habits to purpose-driven fulfillment. Connect with Eugene Yao:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdfounder/?hl=en#Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugene-yao-nz/ Thank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach and help more individuals navigating their journeys with ADHD.Want to be ‘SuccessFULL with ADHD’ by Activating Your ADHD Potential?Order our 3x best-selling book/workbook for adults with ADHD ▶️ http://bit.ly/activateadhd