Diverse Thinking Different Learning
Diverse Thinking · Different Learning is hosted by pediatric neuropsychologist Dr. Karen Wilson. Each week, she shares expert insights and science-based strategies to help parents and educators understand ADHD, dyslexia, autism, executive functioning challenges, learning differences, and youth mental health. Through engaging interviews and practical guidance, the podcast translates research into real-world tools for supporting neurodivergent children and struggling learners. It is a trusted resource for families and professionals seeking reliable information and actionable strategies.
Episodes
Ep. 266: The Myth of the Resilient Child: When "Pushing Through" Becomes Harmful
This week, Dr. Karen Wilson is touching upon resilience and how our definition of it can sometimes be part of the problem. She challenges the idea that resilience means pushing through stress, staying quiet, or succeeding no matter the emotional cost. After all, a child who appears to be thriving on the outside may actually be running on empty. After a recent conversation with a parent, Dr. Wilson
Ep. 265: Back-to-School Anxiety in Neurodivergent Kids: Why the Transition Is So Hard and How to Help
Transitioning back to school after summer vacation can be challenging for many children, especially those who are neurodivergent. Continuing the Summer Solo Series, Dr. Karen Wilson shares seven practical, actionable strategies to help make the transition smoother. Dr. Wilson explains why even children who are genuinely excited to return to school may still experience significant anxiety. Changes
Ep. 264: What an Assessment Can and Cannot Tell You
Dr. Karen Wilson continues the Summer Solo Series to address assessments and how they can be informative yet also have their fair share of shortcomings. They can be life-changing but are often misunderstood, and Dr. Wilson unpacks what psychological and educational evaluations can actually tell us, where their limitations lie, and why they should be viewed as tools for understanding rather than cr
Ep. 263: Summer, Screens, and Sanity: Helping Kids Find Balance When School's Out
Dr. Karen Wilson takes on an important topic solo this episode - screen use during the summertime when kids are out of school. With routines loosened and independence increased, many tweens and teens drift toward longer, more frequent device use, and what often begins as "just a little YouTube" can quietly stretch into hours of electronic usage, whether it be gaming, scrolling, and/or late-night s
Ep. 262: Balancing Summer Rest and Learning Support for Diverse Learners with Ashley Harding
For this episode, we are replaying another episode of Diverse Thinking, Different Learning, this time episode 239, in which we sat down with Ashley Harding to discuss why it's so important to allow students time for rest, rejuvenation, and exploration of their interests outside of academics, especially during the summer months. As a reminder, Ashley is a fourth-generation educator and is deeply c
Ep. 261: When Helping Becomes Overhelping: Helping Neurodivergent Kids Build Independence
This week on Diverse Thinking Different Learning, we are discussing the crucial challenge of supporting neurodivergent children without doing so in a way that hinders them from independence. Joining us to take on this topic is Dr. Tara Williams, founder of Innovative Collegiate Consultants. Dr. William is also a tenured Chemistry professor at College of the Canyons in California, and has spent mo
Ep. 260: How Dyslexia Impacts Mental Health (Episode 212 Re-Air)
This month, we are replaying episode 212 of Diverse Thinking, Different Learning, in which Dr. Karen Wilson discusses the ways in which dyslexia can affect a child's mental wellbeing. Even though dyslexia is commonly associated with reading and language difficulties, the emotional implications are far too often overlooked, and Dr. Wilson unpacks some of the harmful myths that have shaped the publi
Ep. 259: Autism and ADHD Masking: The Signs & Hidden Costs with Dr. Deanna Dow
We warmly welcome Dr. Deanna Dow to the podcast. Dr. Dow is a licensed clinical psychologist with over two decades of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals and families. She is the founder and CEO of Spectrum Psych LA, a multidisciplinary clinic that provides assessment, therapy, occupational therapy, medication management, and community-based support, and she has trained and worked i
Ep. 258: Dyscalculia, Dyslexia, and ADHD: Why Math Feels So Overwhelming for Some Kids with Adrianne Meldrum & Heather Brand
We are so thrilled to have not just one guest this episode but two - Adrianne Meldrum and Heather Brand! Adrianne Meldrum founded and owns Made for Math, a fully online math center that supports students with dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other math-related learning challenges. She is a certified Multisensory Math Instructor and holds a master's degree from Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diver
Ep. 257: Helping Kids with Dyslexia and ADHD Build Confidence Through Stories with Lynn Greenberg
We are so excited to have Lynn Greenberg join us for this edition of the show. Lynn has devoted her life to being an advocate for children as a trained attorney specializing in family law and pro bono work. When her youngest son, Jonathan, was diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD, she stepped into the role of being his advocate, using her expertise to help carve a path toward his success. The experien
Ep. 256: How to Help Neurodivergent Teens and Young Adults Navigate Dating with Dr. Elina Veytsman
We are so happy to have Dr. Elina Veytsman join us for this episode of the show! Dr. Elina Veytsman is a licensed psychologist and the Director of Training at the UCLA PEERS® Clinic, where she leads groups for neurodivergent youth and their caregivers while also training interns, postdocs, and professionals. She earned her Psychology degrees at UCLA and UC Riverside, researching developmental disa
Ep. 255: How to Talk to Siblings About Neurodiversity with Liz Angoff, Ph.D.
Join us for this episode of Diverse Thinking, Different Learning as we welcome Liz Angoff Ph.D. to the podcast. Dr. Angoff is a Licensed Educational Psychologist and Diplomate in School Neuropsychology who offers assessment and consultation services for children and families in the Bay Area, California. She wrote the Brain Building Books series and Our Brains, which help neurodivergent children be
Ep. 254: Why Handwriting Is So Hard for Neurodivergent Kids (and Why Practice Isn't the Answer) with Leslie Catlett
Please join us in welcoming Leslie Catlett, MS, OTR/L to the podcast! Leslie is the founder of The Penmanship Lab, where she helps children develop confident, functional handwriting skills that support real learning. As a pediatric occupational therapist and mom of two, she approaches handwriting challenges by looking beyond neatness to understand the deeper factors affecting each child. Leslie sp
Ep. 253: When Motivation Disappears: How to Help Tweens and Teens Reconnect with Dr. Ellen Braaten
I am so happy to welcome Dr. Ellen Braaten back for her third time on the show! In case you missed those episodes and/or need a refresher, Dr. Ellen Braaten is the founding director of the Learning and Emotional Assessment Program at Massachusetts General Hospital and an associate professor at Harvard Medical School. She is a prolific researcher and author whose work focuses on ADHD, learning diso
Ep. 252: How to Make the School System Work for Your Child with Stacey Shubitz
We are joined in this episode by Stacey Shubitz, K-6 literacy consultant, a former elementary school teacher, and the co-founder of the Two Writing Teachers blog and podcast. Her forthcoming book, Make the School System Work for Your Child with Disabilities: Empowering Kids for the Future, empowers parents to navigate the special education system. In this episode, we talk openly about what it rea
Ep. 251: Sensory Processing & Regulation: How Play Rewires the Brain with Dr. Allie Ticktin, MA, OTD, OTR/L
We happily welcome Dr. Allie Ticktin to Diverse Thinking Different Learning! Dr. Ticktin is dedicated to helping children and their families thrive through sensory-based play, having founded Play 2 Progress and writing Play to Progress, introducing parents to all eight senses and offering practical ways to support them at home. Blending child development science with playful learning, Dr. Ticktin
Ep. 250: Reimagining Learning: The Evolving Power of 1:1 Learning in 2025 with Jaime Porras
We are happy to welcome back Jaime Porras for this episode! Jaime Porras is the District Vice President for Fusion Academy, overseeing nine campuses across Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. With more than two decades in education (including fourteen years at Fusion), he has held roles from teacher to Head of School and is passionate about fostering student-centered, relationship-driven learning envi
Ep. 249: Using Technology to Support Neurodivergent Students with Joan Green
For this edition of the show, we warmly welcome Joan Green! Joan Green, M.A., CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist, assistive technology specialist, and founder of Innovative Speech Therapy in the Washington, DC area. For nearly 40 years, she has helped people of all ages (especially neurodiverse learners) use technology to enhance communication, learning, and independence. Passionate about a
Ep. 248: The Power of Early Intervention: How Neuroplasticity Shapes Young Brains with Dr. Viannae Nelkin
Joining us for this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning is Dr. Viannae Nelkin. Dr. Viannae Nelkin is a board-eligible pediatric neuropsychologist and founder of The Children's Neuropsychology Center. She earned her master's and doctorate in clinical psychology, training at top institutions including Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Cedars-Sinai, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, a
Ep. 247: Helping Kids by Building Stronger Families: A Systems Approach to Support with Dr. Adi Soffer
We happily welcome Dr. Adi Soffer to Diverse Thinking Different Learning this week! Adi Soffer, PsyD is a licensed psychologist who works with children, teens, and families, and she combines family structure therapy with evidence-based practices to help families strengthen communication, establish healthy boundaries, and deepen emotional connections. Passionate about guiding parents and children
Ep. 246: Accommodations, Modifications, or Remediation? How to Know What Your Child Really Needs with Amy Cushner
For this episode of the show, we are joined by Amy Cushner! Amy has dedicated more than 30 years to the Shelton School and a lifetime to advocating for neurodivergent individuals, infusing passion, humor, and wisdom into every stage she graces. From classrooms in Dallas to conferences in China, she has become a sought-after voice championing inclusive, strengths-based approaches across both educat
Ep. 245: What Is Executive Function Coaching? with Rana Lustyan
Joining us for this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning is Rana Lustyan! Rana Lustyan is the founder of Growing Minds Coaching, where she helps students with learning differences develop confidence, independence, and academic achievement. She combines strength-based coaching, neuroscience-informed methods, and practical executive function tools to create personalized routines that last.
Ep. 244: From Burnout to Balance: Supporting Parents Raising Neurodivergent Kids with Leslie Forde
Joining us for this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning is Leslie Forde! Leslie is the CEO and Founder of Mom's Hierarchy of Needs® and soon-to-be published Author of Repair with Self-Care: Your Guide to the Mom's Hierarchy of Needs. Her business provides evidence-based tools to help moms reclaim their time and well-being from the never-done-list while also helping employers retain wo
Ep. 243: From Inclusion to Belonging: Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools with Amanda Morin
We are happy to welcome Amanda Morin to the show this week! Amanda is a neurodivergent advocate for neurodiversity, an award-winning author of six books, an early childhood expert, and a nationally recognized speaker who is passionate about building accessible and inclusive spaces for neurodivergent people. Drawing on her background in learning and child development, Universal Design for Learning
Ep. 242: How One Woman Rewired Her Brain and Created a Path for Struggling Learners with Barbara Arrowsmith-Young
Joining us for this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning is Barbara Arrowsmith-Young! Barbara is a pioneering author and innovator in neuroeducation, known for applying neuroplasticity to improve cognitive function. Since 1978, her work has helped individuals with learning difficulties, brain injuries, addiction, and age-related decline, and it is now used worldwide. She shares her groun
Ep. 241: How to Be a 'Screen-Smart' Parent with Jodi Gold, MD
We are very excited to welcome Jodi Gold, MD of The Gold Center to the show this week. Dr. Jodi Gold is a board-certified pediatric and adult psychiatrist with expertise in child and adolescent pharmacology, reproductive psychiatry, psychotherapy for mood and anxiety disorders, and the impact of digital technology. She has earned multiple awards from esteemed organizations, including NIMH and AACA
Ep. 240: Using the Summer Months to Advance Reading Skills with Dr. Steve Truch & Devan Kublik
We have not just one but two guests for you this week - Dr. Steve Truch and Devan Kublik! Steve has over 50 years of experience in education, beginning as a junior high school English teacher and then working as a school psychologist, ultimately founding The Reading Foundation clinics across North America to provide one-on-one therapy for students with learning difficulties. He is the primary auth
Ep. 239: Balancing Summer Rest and Learning Support for Diverse Learners with Ashley Harding
We are happy to welcome Ashley Harding to the podcast this episode. Ashley is a fourth-generation educator and is deeply committed to educational equity. She holds degrees from USC and Tufts University in Child Development, and her career spans more than a decade, during which she has supported students and families in private and independent schools and contributed to global education initiatives
Ep. 238: Dismantling DEI and the Department of Education: How Changes Impact Your Child with Vickie Brett & Amanda Selogie
We are excited to welcome back guests Vickie Brett and Amanda Selogie of the Inclusive Education Project. Vickie Brett is a bilingual attorney who advocates for families' legal rights via the Inclusive Education Project, with a focus on empowering monolingual Spanish-speaking families. Dedicated to supporting clients facing challenges in the education system, she actively contributes pro bono wo
Ep. 237: Beyond Accommodations: How Neurodivergent Students Can Thrive in College with Eric Endlich, Ph.D
Joining us this week is returning guest Eric Endlich, Ph.D. Dr. Endlich is a clinical psychologist and founder of Top College Consultants®, which specializes in guiding neurodivergent students through the college application process. An advocate and expert in the field and a neurodivergent adult himself, he co-teaches a UC Irvine course for educational consultants, manages a large Facebook group
Ep. 236: Beyond Racial Stress: Empowering Teens to Navigate Cultural Identity and Build Resilience with Dr. Ryan DeLapp
We warmly welcome Dr. Ryan DeLapp to Diverse Thinking Different Learning to discuss how to help teens manage and overcome racial stress. Dr. Ryan C.T. DeLapp is a licensed psychologist and the founder of the REACH program at The Ross Center, specializing in helping individuals cope with racial and cultural stress. With more than ten years of research and clinical practice, he has developed evidenc
Ep. 235: Why Stress Sabotages Learning and How Parents and Educators Can Help with Jerome Schultz, PhD
We are happy to welcome Dr. Jerome "Jerry" Schultz to Diverse Thinking Different Learning this week. Dr. Schultz is a clinical neuropsychologist and lecturer at Harvard Medical School with nearly four decades of experience working with children and young adults with learning and behavioral challenges. A former special education teacher and author of Nowhere to Hide, he has held academic positions
Ep. 234: Understanding and Addressing Math Anxiety with Aditya Nagrath, PhD
This week on Diverse Thinking Different Learning, we welcome Dr. Aditya Nagrath. Dr. Nagrath is the founder of Elephant Learning Mathematics Academy and helps students overcome math anxiety, rapidly advancing their skills with just ten minutes of practice a few times a week. He holds a PhD in Mathematics and Computer Sciences and has over three decades of experience as a software engineer, entrepr
Ep. 233: Body-Based Interventions for Neurodivergent Students with Megan Beardmore, PhD, NCSP
Joining us this week on Diverse Thinking Different Learning is Dr. Megan Beardmore. Dr. Beardmore is a licensed school psychologist with expertise in assessing and treating children, adolescents, and young adults with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as co-occurring anxiety and depression. She received her training at the University of Arizona
Ep. 232: Turning Kids' Passions and Enthusiasms into Superpowers with Barry Prizant, Ph.D., CCC-SLP (Re-Air)
We are doing a reairing this week of episode 80 of Diverse Thinking Different Learning in which we talked with Dr. Barry Prizant. This episode is being revisited at a perfect time because this is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. In this episode, Dr. Prizant helps us understand why it's important to stop labeling certain behaviors in children as intentional defiance or difficulty. Dr. Barry
Ep. 231: How to Use Students' Interest and Creativity to Enhance Learning with Victoria Waller, Ed.D.
We are so happy to be welcoming Victoria Waller, Ed.D. back to the podcast this episode. Dr. Waller is a seasoned reading specialist and educational therapist with more than four decades of experience helping children with learning differences, especially ones who teachers have sadly given up on. She is the author of Yes! Your Child Can, a finalist for the Foreword Reviews Best Book of the Year
Ep. 230: Executive Functioning & Navigating the Yearly Calendar with Michelle Porjes
We are honored to welcome returning guest Michelle Porjes to the show for this episode. Michelle is a licensed educational psychologist and credentialed school psychologist in California with over twenty-five years of experience in education. She holds advanced degrees in Educational and School Psychology from the University of Denver and the University of South Florida, specializing in learning,
Ep. 229: Boosting a Child's Autonomy with Self-Care Routines with Kristin Lombardi, MA, BCBA & Christine Drew, PhD, BCBA-D
For this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning, we are excited to welcome two guests - Kristin Lombardi, MA, BCBA and Christine Drew, PhD, BCBA-D! Kristin Lombardi, MA, BCBA, is a behavior analyst specializing in helping children and families build independent living skills through her private practice in Locust Valley, New York. With expertise in special education, psychology, and behavi
Ep. 228: Understanding Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) with Dr. Samantha Levy
We are excited to have Samantha Levy, PhD join the show again this week to discuss Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Dr. Samantha Levy is a clinical psychologist specializing in youth with chronic pain disorders. She uses a biopsychosocial approach to address both physical and emotional struggles, working with children, families, and parents to help them align the mind and body for improved
Ep. 227: Teen Depression Gone Viral with Dr. Meredith Gansner
We are joined this week by Dr. Meredith Gansner. Dr. Gansner is a child psychiatrist at Boston Children's Hospital and an instructor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, specializing in high-risk digital media use in teens. She has received multiple research grants, including a K23 career development award from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, and she is an active member of the American A
Ep. 226: Is It Autism? Recognizing, Assessing & Supporting Children and Teens with Dr. Chandni Singh
This week on the podcast, we are happy to have Dr. Chandni Singh on the show. Dr. Singh is a licensed clinical psychologist with more than a decade of experience in diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions in children, adolescents, and young adults. She is committed to providing evidence-based assessments and tailored treatment recommendations, and she stro
Ep. 225: Moving Beyond Accommodations and Modifications to Cognitive Change for Academic Gains with Shelley Woon
This week on the podcast, we welcome Shelley Woon to the conversation. Shelley is a dedicated educator and school leader with over three decades of experience supporting students, families, and staff in overcoming learning challenges. She holds a Master of Education in Leadership, has specialized qualifications in Special Education and Reading, and serves as Head of School at Arrowsmith School and
Ep. 224: Should I Medicate My Child? – Part 2 with Lance Steinberg, M.D.
Following up on last week's episode, we are joined once again by Lance Steinberg, M.D. to further discuss the complex issue of medicating children with conditions like ADHD, anxiety, and depression, and if you missed part 1 of the discussion, be sure to go back and listen to that before diving into part 2! In this continuation of our discussion, Dr. Steinberg sheds more light on the approach that
Ep. 223: Should I Medicate My Child? – Part 1 with Lance Steinberg, M.D.
We are joined this week by Lance Steinberg, M.D. Dr. Steinberg is an expert in psychopharmacology, specializing in conditions such as OCD, ADHD, and autism. He has taught internationally and at institutions like UCLA, earning multiple awards for his outstanding teaching. He completed his medical training at Dartmouth, UCLA, and Stanford, and he currently practices in Calabasas, Encino, and Valenci
Ep. 222: Wildfires and Mental Health: Understanding the Impact and Strategies for Recovery with Dr. Jyoti Mishra
We are joined for this episode by Dr. Jyoti Mishra to help us discuss an incredibly important and timely topic - the impact of wildfires on mental health. Dr. Mishra is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at UC San Diego, the founder of NEATLabs, and co-director of the UC-wide Climate Change and Mental Health Initiative. Dr. Mishra specializes in climate trauma, resilience, digital health interv
Ep. 221: Would a Behavioral Aide/Shadow Help My Child?
This week, Lisa Topp, M.S., BCBA joins us to talk about the role of behavioral aides or "shadows" in schools, focusing on how they help children with unique behavioral challenges thrive in the classroom. Lisa is a board-certified behavior analyst with a master's in Applied Behavior Analysis and more than a decade of experience in private practice. She provides 1:1 support for children and teens wi
Ep. 220: How to Support Children and Teens with Chronic Pain with Dr. Samantha Levy
Dr. Samantha Levy joins us this week to discuss the challenges of supporting kids with chronic pain. Samantha is a clinical psychologist specializing in youth with chronic pain disorders, using a biopsychosocial approach to address both physical and emotional challenges. She also supports parents through individual sessions, group facilitation, and a parenting blog for Creative Healing for Youth i
Ep. 219: Understanding Dysgraphia: Signs, Strategies, and Support for Struggling Writers with Natasha Gray
This week, we discuss the complexities of dysgraphia, a neurodevelopmental disorder that can greatly affect written expression. We are joined by Natasha Gray, founder of Spark Learning in the Caribbean. We unpack dysgraphia and what it is and highlight its varied types and how it often overlaps with other challenges such as ADHD and dyslexia. Natasha explains the different ways that dysgraphia c
Ep. 218: Understanding IEPs and 504 Plans: Which One Is Right for Your Child? - Marisol Chianello
In this episode, we had a wonderful conversation with Marisol Chianello, TIGER Director at Learning Rights Law Center where she empowers parents of children in special education through the "Know Your Rights" program. With a legal career that began in 2005, Marisol has worked with many nonprofits advocating for marginalized groups, and she also currently serves as the President of the Rotary Club
Ep. 217: Assessing Learning Differences in Bilingual Students & Students in Dual Language Programs with Dr. Vindia Fernandez
Joining us for this episode of the podcast is Dr. Vindia Fernandez, who has been on the show before back in episode 3. Dr. Fernandez earned her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Houston and completed her APA-accredited internship and fellowship at UCLA, specializing in neurodevelopmental issues like autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. As founder of the Center for Pediatric
Ep. 216: Teen Anxiety: Signs, Causes, and Effective Treatment Options with Dr. Ashley Smith
This week, we had an engaging and enlightening discussion with Dr. Ashley Smith about teen anxiety. Dr. Ashley Smith is an award-winning licensed psychologist and expert in anxiety, and we explore the critical differences between stress and anxiety, the various factors that are causing the surge in teen anxiety, and actionable strategies for parents and educators to support teens who are strugglin
Ep. 215: How to Support Students Who Struggle with Reading Comprehension - with Dr. Emily Levy
This week we sit down with Dr. Emily Levy, founder and director of EBL Coaching, to explore the complexities of reading comprehension, a skill crucial for learners of all ages. While phonics and decoding often dominate discussions around reading challenges, Dr. Levy highlights the often-overlooked significance of comprehension, explaining that it's the very essence of why we read. Tune in to learn
Ep. 214: Private Neuropsychological Evaluation vs. School Evaluation
Listen in to dive into a topic this week that often confuses parents, educators, and professionals alike: the differences between neuropsychological assessments, psychoeducational evaluations, and school-based assessments. Listen as Karen breaks down the purpose, scope, and key distinctions of these evaluations. We begin by exploring the reasons why families might seek assessments, from academic
Ep. 213: Top Interventions for Improving Executive Functioning Skills
Listen in as we discuss executive functioning and unpack its critical role in managing daily life and long-term success. There are the three core executive functions - inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility – and they form the foundation for skills like organization, planning, and emotional regulation. Hear compelling research that highlights the lifelong impact of executive
Ep. 212: How Dyslexia Impacts Mental Health
Today, we're exploring a crucial yet often overlooked topic: the impact of dyslexia on mental health. Dyslexia affects nearly 20% of people in the United States, yet its influence goes far beyond reading challenges. Many don't realize the deep connection between dyslexia and mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and self-esteem struggles. Misunderstandings and stigma can lead to feelings
Ep. 211: The Positive Impact of Music Therapy with Samantha Foote
Today, we're exploring the transformative power of music therapy with our guest, Samantha Foote, a board-certified Neurologic Music Therapy Fellow and Positive Discipline Parent Educator. Samantha brings her expertise to support neurodivergent individuals and their families by blending creativity with therapeutic intervention. With her approach, she uses music not just as a tool for expression but
Ep. 210: Challenging Behaviors or Communication? How Parents Can Respond with Dr. Andrew Kahn
Welcome back! In this episode, we're diving into the world of managing challenging behaviors—a topic every parent can relate to. We often think of behavior as just an action, but today's guest, Dr. Andrew Kahn, highlights that behavior is a form of communication. By reframing how we understand what our children are trying to express through their actions, we can open up new possibilities for posit
Ep. 209: How the Science of Reading Can Close Literacy Gaps with Dr. Benjamin Powers
Welcome to today's episode, where we'll be diving into the Science of Reading with our guest, Dr. Benjamin Powers. If you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about how students learn to read, this episode is packed with insights on evidence-based reading instruction and how it can transform classrooms. Dr. Benjamin Powers is an educator, researcher, and thought leader who believes that cerebr
Ep. 208: Overcoming Dyslexia and Addressing The Reading Crisis with Sally Shaywitz, MD
It's not only ADHD Awareness Month, it is also Dyslexia Awareness Month! So today, let's revisit a conversation with Dr. Sally Shaywitz about overcoming dyslexia and addressing the reading crisis, which is still relevant and a huge concern. We are in the midst of a reading crisis in the United States. This problem has existed for a long time, but it was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. It has
Ep. 207: Straight Talk About ADHD in Girls with Dr. Stephen Hinshaw
It is ADHD Awareness Month, and we are revisiting an excellent conversation with Dr. Stephen Hinshaw about ADHD in girls. We've discussed ADHD on the podcast before and it continues to be an important topic. Dr. Stephen Hinshaw has conducted years of research including a longitudinal study on girls with ADHD and his findings are not only fascinating but important to consider especially if you are
Ep. 206: Lifestyle Activities That Can Improve ADHD Symptoms with Dr. Joel Nigg
It is ADHD Awareness Month, and we are committed to providing resources and information that increase understanding about ADHD. Today, let's revisit an episode with Dr. Joel Nigg about lifestyle activities that can improve ADHD symptoms. Dr. Joel Nigg, Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience at Oregon Health and Science University, is the author of the book Getting Ahead of ADHD. In t
Ep. 205: Understanding ADHD Assessments
In today's episode, I'm focusing on a topic that impacts millions of children, teens, and adults: ADHD assessments. ADHD is a chronic condition that often persists throughout life, so understanding the assessment process is crucial for setting families up for long-term success. I'll be diving into various aspects of this process, exploring the multiple steps involved to ensure that the diagnosis i
Ep. 204: The Eating Disorder Trap with Robyn L. Goldberg
In today's episode, we're diving into a subject we haven't yet explored on this podcast: eating disorders. This is an issue that affects millions of people worldwide, including many children and adolescents. For some, it's a deeply personal battle that often goes unnoticed by those around them. Research even suggests that certain groups, like girls with ADHD, might be at greater risk of developing
Ep. 203: ADHD and the Gut-Brain Connection: Exploring Integrative Treatments with Sara Langley, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Welcome to this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning, where we dive into a topic that is of growing interest to parents and caregivers of children and adolescents with ADHD: integrative treatments for ADHD symptoms. Today's guest, Sara Langley, is an expert in Nutritional Psychiatry and will share valuable insights on how diet and integrative approaches can complement traditional ADHD tr
Ep. 202: How Low Demand Parenting Can Reduce Stress and Support Neurodivergent Youth with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge
Parenting is filled with moments of stress and overwhelm, especially when raising children with different neurological wiring. Many of us have faced times when our child's behavior feels too much to handle, leaving us unsure of what to do next. That's where today's guest, Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, comes in. Dr. Roseann is a trailblazer in mental health, media figure, and the founder of Neurotasti
Ep. 201: Why Loneliness Hurts and How to Help
Welcome to this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning, where we are diving into a topic that's becoming increasingly urgent: loneliness in children and adolescents. We've all experienced loneliness at some point in our lives. However, for many young people, especially those with learning and thinking differences, loneliness can become a persistent and deeply troubling issue. It's more tha
Ep. 200: The Ten Most Impactful Episodes: Celebrating 200 Episodes
Welcome to the 200th episode of the Diverse Thinking Different Learning Podcast! I am so excited to celebrate this milestone with you. This episode is a celebration and a look back on some of the most memorable and impactful episodes along this 200 episode journey. We've got some really great updates and surprises coming soon! Be sure to check out past episodes that highlight the expertise and su
Ep. 199: Fully Inclusive Education with Sharon Lowery
Welcome to today's episode, where we're exploring the timely topic of inclusive education. As the new school year begins, many parents and educators are thinking about how to create learning environments that truly support all children, regardless of their abilities. Whether you've already made decisions for your child's education or are still weighing your options, this episode will provide valua
Ep. 198: Strategies for a Smooth Back-to-School Transition with Gabrielle Hennings and Zoe Hemenway
Can you believe that it is almost time to go back to school? This time of year can be stressful for students and parents, especially when there's a history of challenges with learning and transitions. Today's guests, Gabrielle Hennings and Zoe Hemenway, bring their combined experience in education, specializing in supporting neurodiverse learners, to the conversation about preparing our students f
Ep. 197: Five Best Practices for Math Instruction - Dr. Sarah Powell
Welcome back, listeners, to Diverse Thinking Different Learning! In this episode, we're having a conversation with Dr. Sarah Powell, a distinguished professor at the University of Texas at Austin and Associate Director of the Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk. Dr. Powell's expertise in math education sheds light on effective strategies to support students who face challenges with math
Ep. 196: Gifted and/or Autistic with Megan Helmen, Psy.D., L.P.
When describing their kids, some parents might mention traits like a strong desire for accuracy, perfectionism, being highly attuned to their environment, experiencing very intense emotions, and having a strong sense of fairness and justice. Some may wonder, is my child autistic, gifted, or both? This episode is about exploring that question and providing insights into both giftedness and autism.
Ep. 195: Strategies for Navigating the Autism Journey: The Parent-Child Perspective with Barry and Jake Freeman
Today, we are diving into an important and deeply personal topic: navigating autism and the parent-child relationship when a child is on the spectrum. To help us explore this, we have the incredible father-son duo, Barry and Jake Freeman, joining us. Barry and Jake are here to share their unique perspective on living and thriving with autism as a family. Their journey is not only inspiring but als
Ep. 194: What Is Neurodiversity-Affirming Care?
Awareness and understanding of neurodiversity have been expanding in our society along with the need and opportunity for neurodiversity-affirming care. I'm thrilled to have Kody Harms joining me this week. Kody is a neuro-affirming therapist, educator, and advocate with over 15 years of experience working with neurodiverse children, teens, and adults. As a board-certified behavior analyst and co-
Ep. 193: Independent College Consultants: Who Needs One and When?
Summer is here, and many graduates are looking into the college application process. If you're not sure where to start, a college consultant can help make this stressful period much easier for students and parents alike. Today, we dive into everything about independent college consultants. What exactly are they? What is their role, and how do they help our students? We'll explore who might benefit
Ep. 192: Reimagining Education for All Students with Sylvia Barreto Benites
Today, we have a truly inspiring guest joining us from the heart of the jungle in Costa Rica. She's the director of the Renaissance Institute (iREN), a trailblazing educational program that is redefining how we approach learning for all students, especially those with learning differences. We're excited to dive deep into her insights and experiences on how she combines neuroscience, psychology, an
Ep. 191: How CBT Helps Kids and Teens with Social Anxiety with Dr. Sarah Olivo
Today, we're diving into a topic that affects many kids, teens, and adults: social anxiety. Social anxiety is more than just the usual nervousness or shyness; it can significantly impact daily life, making even the simplest social interactions panic-inducing. We're going to break down what social anxiety is, how it differs from normal social worries, and most importantly, how to spot it in childre
Ep. 190: Should Your Teen Take a Gap Year? with Julia Rogers
In this episode, we're exploring something that is often misunderstood and rarely talked about: gap years. Many parents and students don't really know exactly what a gap year is or how taking one could be the right choice for them. So today, we are exploring the benefits and considerations of gap years for teens and young adults with learning differences. I'm thrilled to introduce our guest, Julia
Ep. 189: The Private School Option for Kids with Learning Differences with Collette Bowers Zinn
Welcome to today's episode, where we are navigating the complex landscape of public and private school options for children with learning differences. While many families have had great experiences in both settings, others face challenges that necessitate exploring alternative educational environments. Today, we're diving into the independent school option for those with learning differences, with
Ep. 188: Enhancing Reading Skills Through Speech-Language Therapy with Stacy Payne MS, CCC-SLP
Today, I'm excited to discuss the profound impact of early language and speech experiences on cognitive and academic skills, specifically reading skills. Joining us is a seasoned expert in the field, Stacy Payne, a speech-language pathologist and the founder of Bright Beginnings Pediatric Services. Stacy shares her insights on the importance of creating a language-rich environment for children fro
Ep. 187: What is Social Learning? with Fran Kenton
In today's episode, I'm thrilled to have Fran Kenton with us to discuss social emotional learning (SEL). Fran holds a Master's degree in Educational Psychology, along with credentials in General and Special Education, and is a Certified Health and Wellness Coach. She is the founder of Autonome, a dynamic and interactive SEL program designed for teens and young adults. In our conversation today, we
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