What if the way you help your child is actually holding them back?

In this powerful conversation with Kristin Lombardi and Christine Drew, co-authors of Spectrum of Independence, we unpack the hard-to-navigate space between support and overdoing. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Am I empowering or enabling?” — this episode is a must-listen.

We explore how to slowly and compassionately fade our support, why independence isn’t about going it alone, and how morning and bedtime routines can become moments of growth instead of daily battles. With real talk, gentle truth-telling, and deeply empathetic strategies, we help you make space for your child’s autonomy without sacrificing connection.

Listen now to start shifting from doing it for them to teaching them how.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/324

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

What if the most powerful regulation tool for your child has been sitting right under their nose all along?In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m joined by breathwork facilitator and trainer Kurtis Lee Thomas to talk about the overlooked power of the breath — not just for calming down in the moment, but for deep emotional healing and nervous system regulation. Kurtis breaks down how breathwork helps both parents and kids release stuck emotions, build emotional intelligence, and move from chaos to calm.

We also explore:

• Why breathwork works fast
• How to simplify it so even your reluctant teen or sensory-sensitive kid can engage
• Easy rituals to incorporate it into your family’s daily life
• Why your child’s self-awareness starts with your breath

Plus, you’ll walk away with three simple breath practices you can use anytime, anywhere.

This episode is full of practical wisdom, deep insight, and a fresh take on what emotional regulation really looks like. Take a deep breath, literally, and come listen in.

Tune in now and experience the power of the breath.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/323

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with parenting coach and boys' emotional ally, Tosha Schore, to unpack something most of us were never taught: our emotions — especially the messy, loud, uncomfortable ones — hold the key to healing.

We talk about what it really looks like to bear witness to our child’s (and our own) pain, why your “just calm down” instincts might be backfiring, and how to show up for your neurodivergent child in a way that builds emotional intelligence, resilience, and lasting connection.

And parents, we go there: the shame, the silence, the struggle to “fix” things that feel out of control. You’ll walk away with simple, profound shifts that don’t require perfection — just presence.

✨ If you’ve ever wondered, How do I help my kid without losing myself? this episode is for you.

Listen now and discover the healing power that’s already within reach.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/322

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Your child’s behavior isn’t the problem — it’s the clue.

So often we’re handed behavior plans, sticker charts, and systems that totally ignore what our neurodivergent kids are trying to tell us. In this powerful conversation with RDI Consultant Nancy Gilette, we dig into what really shapes your child’s quality of life — and spoiler alert: it starts with you.

We talk about shifting from task-based parenting to experience-based connection, what “feeling good” actually looks like for neurodivergent brains, and how slowing down can speed up growth in the long run. You’ll hear practical ways to create co-regulation, why safety (not compliance) is the key to learning, and how to build a home that feels good for everyone.

This one is equal parts validation, insight, and heck yes, I can do this.

🎧 Don’t miss it — press play and let’s rethink how we support our kids, from the inside out.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/321

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Is your back-to-school plan just a fresh stack of notebooks and high hopes? Let’s talk about what really makes or breaks a smooth transition for your neurodivergent child. In this episode, I’m sharing the top three things I wish I had known when my son was in school — the things that could’ve saved us from years of chaos, meltdowns, and overwhelm.

We’re ditching the myth that buying the right planner will fix everything. Instead, I’ll walk you through how to prep your systems (not just your supplies), how to create emotional safety in the daily routine, and how to build a true partnership with your child’s teacher — before the chaos starts.

This isn’t just back-to-school advice. It’s a whole new way of showing up for your complex kid with calm, clarity, and confidence.

Listen in to start creating less stress and more success — starting now. 

ou can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time. Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/320

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

What if the secret to helping your child regulate their emotions… is already playing on your speakers?In this episode, I’m joined by board-certified music therapist and fellow neurodivergent mom, Samantha Foote, to explore how music can be a powerful (and joyful!) regulation tool for kids with ADHD, autism, and other complex needs. We chat about everything from angry drumming sessions between siblings to writing silly blues songs to cueing transitions with the right rhythm.

Samantha shares how rhythm is hardwired into our bodies — and how we can use that to our advantage when emotions run high. Whether your kid calms to classical, beatboxes their stress away, or creates heavy metal drum loops on an iPad, this episode is packed with practical ways to make music work for your beautifully complex child.

Listen now and discover how one song could be the bridge between chaos and calm.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/319

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

What if just five minutes a day could lower your stress, help your child regulate, and even improve sleep? Sounds too good to be true, right? In this episode, I’m joined by Ariel Garten, neuroscientist, psychotherapist, and co-founder of Muse — and trust me, this conversation is both science-packed and deeply personal.

We talk about the real brain science behind mindfulness and meditation (spoiler: it’s not about emptying your mind), and how biofeedback technology like Muse can help kids and parents strengthen self-regulation, improve mental health, and actually enjoy meditation. We also dive into how sleep, anxiety, and neurodivergence all intersect — and how just a couple of minutes of practice a day can transform your family’s nervous system and routines.

If you’ve ever wondered how to help your neurodivergent child (or yourself!) feel calmer, sleep better, and take control of spiraling thoughts, this episode is your starting point.

Listen now and discover how neuroscience-backed tools can make emotional regulation more doable for your beautifully complex family.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/318

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

What if schools didn’t just accommodate neurodivergent kids, but celebrated them? In this heartfelt and eye-opening conversation with Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris, we dig into what it really means to create neurodiversity-affirming schools. From ditching moral judgments on behavior to prioritizing belonging over compliance, this episode is a must-listen for any parent or educator who wants more for our kids than just surviving school.

You’ll hear powerful personal stories, practical strategies, and a reminder that our children deserve to be seen, supported, and valued exactly as they are.

Tune in and discover how we can help create classrooms that don’t just teach, but transform lives.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/317

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Ever wonder how to push your child just enough without pushing them over the edge?

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I sit down with therapist Chris Taylor, LCSW-C, to unpack what it really means to find your child’s “Just Right Balance.” Unlike the more familiar “just right challenge,” this concept is about balancing emotional safety with growth — how to gently nudge our neurodivergent kids out of their comfort zones without creating shutdown or dysregulation.

Chris and I talk about how to know when to step in and when to step back, why validation and predictability are game-changers for emotionally intense kids, and how your own regulation as a parent sets the tone for everything else. Plus, we dig into why fulfillment — not just short-term happiness — should be the goal when helping kids navigate hard things.

If you’ve ever felt stuck between protecting your child and encouraging independence, this episode is full of insights (and real talk) to help you find that elusive middle ground.

Listen now to learn how to help your child grow in confidence and resilience — without losing trust or connection.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/316

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

What if a pom pom, a paper tube, and ten minutes a day could transform your child’s learning?

In this joy-filled episode, I sit down with Kelsey Cook, mom of four, former teacher, and founder of Learning with Kelsey, to unpack the science and soul behind play-based learning. Together, we explore how creativity and play aren't just fun — they're vital tools for connection, emotional regulation, and skill development in neurodivergent kids.

From sensory-friendly adaptations to parent-child rituals that build predictability, you'll walk away with practical strategies to foster emotional intelligence, meet your child’s sensory needs, and bring more joy to learning (without a single worksheet in sight).

If you’ve ever struggled to get your child engaged in learning or wondered how to balance structure with flexibility, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped.

🎧 Press play and discover how a little intentional play can lead to big breakthroughs.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.


Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/315


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Walking into school meetings can feel like navigating a minefield while carrying the weight of your child’s future.

You're not alone — and in this episode, I sit down with education advocate and parent coach Scotti Weintraub to unpack how to have better, calmer, more productive conversations with your child’s teacher, especially when things are hard. We dig into the reality that most teachers aren’t trained in neurodivergence, and how parents can advocate without alienating and burning bridges. From leading with curiosity to asking, “Can I share this with you?,” instead of handing over a stack of articles, this conversation is packed with strategies for fostering mutual respect, trust, and teamwork.

If you’ve ever dreaded that parent-teacher conference or IEP meeting, this episode is your roadmap to more effective and empowering communication.

Tune in now to learn how to build the kind of teacher partnerships that actually help your neurodivergent child thrive.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/314.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

The antidote to stress and disconnection could be awe. In this heartwarming episode, I chat with child development expert Deborah Farmer Kris about the transformative power of awe and wonder for beautifully complex kids. From music and nature to kindness and curiosity, we explore how tapping into these moments can reduce stress, regulate the nervous system, and foster belonging. You’ll hear real stories, science-backed insights, and simple ways to help your child (and yourself) become an awe-seeker in a world that often feels overwhelming.

Listen now and discover the small moments that can create big shifts in emotional regulation and joy.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/313

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Is college really the only path to success? Not even close.

In this episode, I sit down with Hannah Maruyama, co-founder of Degree Free, to challenge the outdated idea that college is the ultimate goal for every kid — especially for neurodivergent kids who may thrive outside traditional systems. We get deep into how redefining success, focusing on real-world needs, and shifting the career conversation can change everything. Learn why starting with your child's unique lifestyle goals leads to a far more satisfying and successful future, and why the old "college = success" formula just doesn't add up anymore.

Ready to rethink what your child’s future can look like? Listen now and empower your family to build a life by design, not by default.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.


Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/312


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

What if your child’s “overexplaining” isn’t defiance, but a deep need to be understood?

In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Sol Smith — autistic adult, author, life coach, educator, and dad of four neurodivergent kids — to talk about the inner world of autistic individuals. From masking and sensory differences to building friendships and finding identity through passion, Sol walks us through what self-discovery really looks like for autistic kids… and how we can better support it as parents.

We also dive into the hard stuff: the social exhaustion of masking, the difference between “traits” and diagnostic persistence, and why trusting your child’s path — even if it looks different — is the most loving move you can make.

Sol’s insights are real, relatable, and refreshingly hopeful. If you’ve ever wondered how to support your child in being their true self while also preparing them for “the real world,” this episode is your new roadmap.

🎧 Don’t miss it — press play and get ready to see your child through a brand-new lens.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/311

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

What if we stopped calling kids “attention-seeking” and started calling them “connection-seeking?”

In this heart-opening episode, I sit down with veteran educators and authors Erika Bare and Tiffany Burns to rethink how we approach behavior in schools — especially for neurodivergent kids. From eliminating power struggles to building culture through connection, they break down practical strategies that teachers and parents can use right now to shift from correction to connection.

You’ll hear why traditional behavior charts often do more harm than good, how to “care out loud” in everyday interactions, and what it really means to co-create emotionally safe spaces for all kids. We explore how small changes in mindset and language can spark massive change for kids who struggle.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or anyone who works with kids, this episode is a breath of fresh air for modern education.

👉 Tune in and start building the connection-first culture our kids deserve.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/310

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

What if the big feelings your child has aren’t a problem — but a clue?

In this comforting conversation, I sit down with Janine Halloran, LMHC — therapist, mom, and author of Coping Skills for Kids — to talk all things anger, coping, and emotional regulation for neurodivergent kids and their families.

We dig into why some kids explode, what to do in the moment (spoiler: it starts with YOU), and how to teach your child the coping strategies that actually work for their unique brain and nervous system. Plus, Janine shares real-life stories, tools, and ways to create a home environment that supports emotional growth — without trying to force your kid to “just breathe.”

Whether your child resists every strategy you suggest or you’re just trying to stay calm during the chaos, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and hope.

Tune in now to learn how to help your child (and yourself) walk through big feelings with more connection, confidence, and calm.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/309

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Wait, ADHD is more than attention issues? Yep — and this episode will blow your mind.

In this special episode, I’m sharing the first episode of the must-listen new series Climbing the Walls by Understood.org. This story-driven episode dives into the rise of ADHD diagnoses in women — especially during the pandemic — and how emotional regulation, executive function, and misunderstood symptoms have kept countless women undiagnosed for decades.

I reflect on the shock of hearing things I wish I’d known when my child was first diagnosed. This episode isn't just about women with ADHD — it’s about the ripple effects of missed diagnoses, how emotions show up in unexpected ways (hello, rage and rejection sensitivity!), and why recognizing the full picture of ADHD is crucial for parenting neurodivergent kids.

If you’ve ever questioned why your child explodes or struggles to meet deadlines, or if you've felt unseen yourself, this one’s going to hit home.

Don’t miss this compelling episode — hit play now and prepare to see ADHD through a new lens.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/308

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

✨ What if your child’s “daydreaming” on the sidelines was actually self-regulation in action?

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m joined by Shawna Rosenzweig, CEO of Campfire, for a real-talk conversation about rethinking success and valuing our kids for who they are, not what they do.

We unpack how our cultural obsession with productivity often misses the mark — especially for neurodivergent kids. From challenging perfectionism to navigating sensory overwhelm and learning to follow our kids’ lead, this episode is a must-listen for any parent ready to shift from performance to personhood.

Whether your kid is struggling with school, friendships, or emotional regulation, this episode offers insight, hope, and practical tools.

Listen now and let’s reimagine childhood together.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/305

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Ever wish your kid would just stop yelling?

This episode of Beautifully Complex will make you rethink that wish — in the best way. Inspired by the timeless wisdom of Mr. Rogers, I explore one deceptively simple question: “What do you do with the mad that you feel?”

In this solo episode, you’ll discover how anger shows up in the nervous system, why our kids often can’t think their way through it, and how to help them feel safe in their emotions, instead of ashamed. From compassionate scripts to body-based strategies, this is your go-to guide for turning meltdown moments into connection and growth.

Whether your child is autistic, has ADHD, or just struggles with big feelings, this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Tune in to learn how to support your child’s emotional regulation — without control, shame, or power struggles.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/306

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I am joined by resilience coach Barb Fletcher to explore empowering strategies for building parent resilience — an essential tool for those of us navigating the unique journey of raising neurodivergent kids.

We discuss the balance of control over stress, the pivotal role of heart-focused breathing, and the impact of shared energy between parent and child. Listen in to learn about redefining stress management, adjusting our lens on resilience, and the actionable steps we can take today to show up for ourselves and our children with authenticity and strength.

Join us as we support your journey with practical, step-by-step advice to cultivate a loving, neuro-affirming environment that benefits your entire family. Let’s build resilience together to nurture a brighter future for our beautifully complex kids.

You can find additional resources at parentingadhdandautism.com and Regulated Kids.com — because it’s not just about the struggles, it’s about progress, one step at a time.

Show notes and more resources at parentingadhdandautism.com/305

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.