Kids & FamilyParentingEducationSelf-Improvement

Parenting with Impact

Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster

The Parenting with Impact Podcast with Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster, co-creators of ImpactParents.com, inspires parents and professionals guiding complex kids, teens and young adults all over the world to become capable, independent adults. ImpactParents.com is an online community, award-winning blog, and direct service provider for parents and professionals. Elaine and Diane are certified professional coaches with their own lived experience raising children with complex challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, gender identity issues, and more. Drawing from both personal and professional experience, they teach and inspire parents and professionals to raise and empower complex kids with confidence and calm. Scroll down for links and to download a free parenting guide. The Parenting with Impact Podcast will:Feature leading experts, bringing you cutting edge information to address your child’s challengesTeach you real-life, practical strategies for creating lasting changeDemonstrate how a coach-approach can improve all of your communications, one conversation at a time For the essentials of ImpactParent's coach-approach to parenting, download a free parenting guide at: ImpactParents.com/Podcast Find out about Sanity School®, a program for Parents, at: https://impactparents.com/programs-offerings/parent-training-sanity-school/ For information about professional continuing education: https://impactparents.com/for-professionals/ Visit Impact Parents at: https://impactparents.com/

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#281
Wednesday · 23 min
EP281 When Your Teen Pulls Away: Rebuilding Trust After Conflict
Does it feel like your kid is pulling away? Always closing their door, avoiding you, or talking to you only when they have to? For neurodiverse families, this shift often comes from normal development colliding with an already taxed parent-child relationship. In this episode, Elaine and Diane dig into where that disconnect happens and what actually works to rebuild trust and connection with your kid. They unpack the shift from "I'm afraid for you" to "I believe in you," and why that one mindset change can transform your dynamic. If you've been feeling shut out, this is your on-ramp back in. What to expect in this episode: Why a teenager pulling away and closing their door is often a normal part of development, not necessarily a red flag How the parent's role as "director" can create a second layer of disconnection on top of natural individuation A reframe of "trust" as a felt sense of safety and comfort, not just honesty or truth-telling A practical mindset shift — "I believe in you" instead of "I'm afraid for you" — and why it changes how our kids experience us Why creating space for an uncertain (but very possible) positive future can help you calm enough to make reconnection possible Download free guide: Top 12 Tips To Help Your Complex Kids Connect with ImpactParents: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack
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#280
August 19 · 22 min
EP280 SODA: The Four Ways Parents Get Reactive (And How to Recognize Them)
Ever feel like you're spiraling? If it seems like nothing you try is working and you're somehow driving your kid further away, you're not alone—and it's not just about your kid. In this episode, Elaine and Diane dig into the parent experience—the overwhelm, frustration, guilt, and worry that show up when we're raising complex kids, and why noticing our own reactivity (hello, SODA: shut down, offense, defense, avoid) is the first step to showing up differently. If you've ever wondered why you react the way you do, this one's for you. Hit play. What to expect in this episode: Why the parent experience—not the kid's—is often the missing piec An introduction to SODA: the four common reactive patterns (Shut down, Offense, Defense, Avoid) and how to spot yours The difference between being "aware," "alert," and "alarmed,” and why many parents live in alert without realizing it Why uncertainty, even more than the actual problem, is often what makes parents feel unsafe A reminder that feeling alone in this struggle is a signal worth paying attention to, not a truth about your situation Download free guide: Top 12 Tips To Help Your Complex Kids Connect with ImpactParents: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack
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#279
August 12 · 32 min
EP279 Why Won't My ADHD Kid Just Start? A New Theory of Motivation
Ever look at your ADHD kid and think, "I know they want to do well — so why can't they just get started?" This week, cognitive engineer and ADHD coach Jeff Copper joins Elaine to break down a completely new way of understanding motivation and executive function. You'll learn why "unmotivated" is almost always the wrong word, why extra time isn't the accommodation you think it is, and why talking things through with your kid might be one of the most powerful tools you have. This one's dense — you may want to listen twice. Tap in for a total shift in how you see effort, motivation, and what your ADHD kid is actually up against. What to expect in this episode: A new way to understand ADHD motivation using Dr. Russell Barkley's two-brain model Why calling executive function an "impairment" can actually reduce shame, not increase it Why rewards and willpower fall short as long-term motivation strategies Why extra time isn't the relief parents assume it is Why talking things through with your kid is a real, research-backed accommodation About Jeff Copper Jeff Copper is a cognitive engineer and ADHD coach. He is founder of DIG Coaching Practice, Attention Talk Radio, and Attention Talk Video. He holds professional designations from ICF and PAAC and certifications from ADD Coach Academy and Coaches Training Institute. A member of ADDA, CHADD, ACO, PAAC, and ICF, Jeff developed Cognitive Ergonomics From the Inside Out®, a radical departure from the current ADHD intervention paradigm. In recognition of his contributions, he received the ACO's 2022 Professional Excellence Award. Jeff continues to innovate in attention coaching, helping individuals understand and manage their ADHD challenges. Connect with Jeff Facebook (optional): https://www.facebook.com/adultaddcoach X Handle (optional) https://twitter.com/digcoaching Linkedin (optional) https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-copper Instagram (optional) https://instagram.com/dig.coaching Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents
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#278
August 5 · 38 min
EP278 High-Conflict Divorce to Co-Parenting Peace: A Real Success Story
High-conflict divorce can feel like a life sentence — especially when you're fighting over your child's health and well-being, and neither parent will budge. In this episode, Elaine sits down with Alanah, an attorney and civil rights advocate, who shares how she transformed a near-litigation co-parenting nightmare into a working relationship built on mutual respect and collaboration. Alanah breaks down the exact shift that changed everything — and what she did when her co-parent wasn't on board yet. If you've ever felt trapped in a conflict you can't get out of, this one's for you. Listen now and find out what's actually possible. What to expect in this episode: The parenting covenant strategy: How Alanah transformed a stack of legal pleadings into a clear, shared vision, and how to distill what you actually want from a conflict so you can start working toward it. What to do when your co-parent isn't on board: Practical guidance on enrolling a resistant co-parent in a new vision without forcing it on them. Why alignment beats agreement: The crucial difference between trying to agree on specifics and starting with what you both already share: your child's well-being. Real-time coaching and "texting from the ledge": Why practicing new patterns in the middle of a real conflict, not just during a coaching session, is what makes change stick. The shift from "have to" to "get to": How Alanah moved from feeling like a prisoner in her co-parenting dynamic to feeling genuinely liberated and what that shift actually required. Download free guide: Top 12 Tips To Help Your Complex Kids Connect with ImpactParents: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack
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#277
July 29 · 26 min
EP277 Why Systems Fail—And What Actually Works for Complex Kids
You’ve tried the systems recommended for helping complex kids—reward charts, planners, new morning routines—and they’re just not sticking for your kid. It isn’t that you’re using bad systems, it's that often we’re starting with the solution before we understand the problem. In this episode, Elaine and Diane unpack why systems and structures are the last piece of the parenting puzzle, not the first, and walk you through a practical, personalized approach to building routines that actually hold up for neurodiverse kids. Ready to stop guessing and start problem solving? This one's for you. What to expect in this episode: Why systems and structures come last in the ImpactParents model. The real reason reward charts and planners only work some of the time. How to problem-solve before you pick a system using real world scenarios and practical examples. Why buy-in and ownership are essential for complex kids and how to get them on board without a power struggle. The concept of "flexible structure": how to build routines that are solid enough to hold, but have enough give to survive a hard day. Download free guide: Top 12 Tips To Help Your Complex Kids Connect with ImpactParents: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack
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#276
July 22 · 23 min
EP276: Shifting Expectations for Complex Kids: How to Meet Them Where They Are
Are you holding your complex kid to expectations that weren't built for their brain? In this episode, Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster dig into one of the most misunderstood concepts in parenting neurodiverse kids: shifting expectations—not lowering or eliminating them. You'll learn why the gap between expectation and reality is the root of most conflicts, the reasons why your complex kid might be struggling to meet the bar you set, and what it means to meet your kid where they are. If you’re raising a kid with ADHD or executive function challenges, this one’s an essential listen. Tune in, then head to ImpactParents.com to find out how you can keep learning with Sanity School® for Parents. What to expect in this episode: The 30% rule explained: Kids with executive function challenges are often 30% behind peers developmentally, which translates to 3–5 years for younger kids and 8–10 years for young adults. Shifting vs. lowering—they’re not the same thing: Understand the difference between abandoning your expectations and moving them to where your kid can actually reach them, then growing from there. Every trigger starts with a gap: The space between what you expect and what your kid delivers is the root cause of most conflicts at home. Process over outcome: Holding neurodiverse kids accountable to how they approach tasks (rather than just whether they finish them) is what really builds long-term capability and self-worth. The collaborative piece: Setting expectations isn't something you do to your kid, it's something you do with them, and buy-in from your child is what makes the whole thing stick. Download free guide: Top 12 Tips To Help Your Complex Kids Connect with ImpactParents: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack
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#275
July 15 · 23 min
EP275: Positivity and Communication: The Second Cornerstone of Parenting Complex Kids
Being nice and being positive aren't the same thing—and if you're parenting a complex kid, that distinction matters. In this episode, Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster dig into the second Sanity School® cornerstone: positivity and communication. They cover why resilience more than intelligence influences success, what the "independence pyramid" is built on, and how the way you talk to your kid (and to yourself) shapes everything from relationships to self-regulation. It's part two of a four-part series. You can catch up on the first episode about activating your child’s brain and follow along so you don't miss the rest. What to expect in this episode: Why being positive isn't the same as being nice, and why that distinction matters for parenting complex kids Why resilience, not intelligence, is the biggest predictor of a kid's long-term success, and how to build it What the "independence pyramid" is, and why relationship, trust, and communication have to come in that order How tone, timing, and what your kid actually hears (versus what you meant) shape every conversation Why self-talk is a form of self-care, and how changing your own internal dialogue changes how you show up for your kid Download free guide: Top 12 Tips To Help Your Complex Kids Connect with ImpactParents: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack
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#274
July 8 · 25 min
EP274: How to Activate Your ADHD Child's Brain: Executive Function, Emotions & Motivation
Your brilliant kid can't get out the door in the morning, falls apart over homework, and goes from fine to completely overwhelmed in seconds. You want to help them out, but it feels like you've tried everything and nothing sticks. In this episode of Parenting with Impact, Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster break down what's actually happening in your child's brain, and why executive function, emotional regulation, and motivation are the three most important things every parent of a neurodiverse kid needs to understand. This is part one of a four-episode series built on the framework ImpactParents has been teaching with their Sanity School® program for 15 years. If you're tired of jumping from strategy to strategy without meaningful progress, this episode gives you a powerful place to start. Hit follow so you don't miss what's coming next. What to expect in this episode: Why "activating the brain" is the foundation for everything else you'll do as a parent of a complex or neurodiverse kid—and what it actually means day-to-day The real reason your brilliant child struggles to organize, plan, or follow through (it has nothing to do with how smart they are, it just requires a completely different part of the brain) What executive function looks like in daily life, and how Dr. Thomas E. Brown's six-area model helps you pinpoint exactly where your child needs support Why your child probably isn't really going from "zero to a hundred"—and what's actually happening in their nervous system before the meltdown Why your child isn't unmotivated — they're differently wired, and understanding that changes everything about how you show up for them Download free guide: Top 12 Tips To Help Your Complex Kids Connect with ImpactParents: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack
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July 1 · 29 min
EP273: Parenting Ahead of the Problem with Dr. Ross Greene
When rewards, punishments, and consequences aren’t working, it may be time to ask new questions. In this episode, Dr. Ross Greene explains why challenging behavior isn’t usually a sign of defiance or poor motivation, but a signal that a child is struggling with expectations they cannot yet meet. He introduces the Collaborative and Proactive Solutions mode and explains how shifting from behavior management to collaborative problem solving can reduce conflict, strengthen relationships, and help kids build the skills they need to succeed. Discover how changing the way you see challenging behavior can transform the way you support your child. What to expect in this episode: Why challenging behavior is often signals a struggle with skills rather than defiance The difference between managing behaviors and addressing the causes behind them The role of collaboration in helping kids build problem-solving skills How proactive conversations can reduce power struggles and emotional blowups What schools and families can do differently to better support complex kids About Dr. Ross Greene Ross is the originator of the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model, as described in his influential books The Explosive Child, Lost at School, Lost & Found, and Raising Human Beings, and the forthcoming The Kids Who Aren't Okay: The Urgent Case for Reimagining Support, Belonging, and Hope in Schools. He served on the faculty at Harvard Medical School for over 20 years, and is now an adjunct Professor in the Department of Psychology at Virginia Tech and in the Faculty of Science at The University of Technology Sydney in Australia. He is deeply involved in fundraising efforts at Lives in the Balance, CPS model projects, and Lives in the Balance documentaries and mini-documentaries. Connect with Dr. Ross Website: Lives in the Balance Instagram: @livesinthebalance YouTube: Lives in the Balance (Dr. Ross Greene) Book: The Explosive Child by Greene, Ross W. | The Explosive Child by Ross Greene The Explosive Child [Sixth Edition] by Greene PhD, Ross W. The Kids Who Aren't Okay by Ross W. Greene Ph.D. Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors "Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out" – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we've developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods. Learn more at www.cognitive-ergonomics.com
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June 24 · 34 min
EP272: How To Build the School Support Kids with ADHD Need to Thrive with Jenny Drennan
Getting your child through school should not feel like navigating a maze, but for many parents, it does. When learning differences, executive function challenges, or other school struggles are a factor, it can be hard to know which supports will actually work and how to find ones that will be a good fit. In this episode, educational therapist Jenny Drennan unpacks the differences among tutors, coaches, educational therapists, advocates, and other specialists, and shares what parents need to know before investing their time, energy, and resources. Get ready to cut through the confusion and discover how finding the right support can strengthen not only your child's growth, but your relationship with them. What to expect in this episode: The differences between tutoring, educational therapy, coaching, and school-based supports What cognitive assessments reveal about how a child learns and struggles Why executive function support requires more than just organizational tools The role of authentic buy-in in determining a support’s success How the parent-child relationship impacts learning and growth About Jenny Drennan Jenny Drennan is a Board-Certified Educational Therapist, Founder of WeThrive Learning, and a featured speaker. Her private practice specializes in supporting students with ADHD and math and language processing challenges. Drawing on best practices and the latest research, WeThrive Learning provides 1-1 tailored support for students and parents globally, taking into account their complex learning profiles. She is certified by ImpactParents as a Sanity School® behavior therapy program trainer. Her passion, work, and insights have earned her recognition as one of the top 10 most influential educators by MSN. Her contributions and presentations have also been featured on numerous podcasts, in organizations, at workshops, and in parent groups. Connect with Jenny Website: WeThrive Learning Podcast: WeThrive Learning Facebook Group: Parent Your ADHD Child with Confidence! Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors "Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out" – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we've developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods. Learn more at www.cognitive-ergonomics.com
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June 17 · 34 min
EP271: Late Diagnosed ADHD in Women: When Life Finally Makes Sense with Liz Lewis
What happens when years of overwhelm, self-doubt, and burnout finally start to make sense? For many women, ADHD goes undiagnosed for decades, leaving them navigating impossible expectations and blaming themselves for struggles they never understood. In this episode, Liz Lewis explores how a late diagnosis can change how you see your past, your relationships, and yourself, while reminding us that ADHD is only one part of the story. Take this conversation as an opportunity to slow down, question old narratives, and create a version of success that actually fits your life. What to expect in this episode: The reality of growing up with ADHD before we understood how it shows up in girls and women Why many women discover ADHD through parenting, burnout, or major life transitions The hidden ways unrealistic expectations and gender roles amplify ADHD overwhelm What happens when an ADHD diagnosis becomes self-understanding instead of self-definition Why hitting pause after diagnosis can stop you from turning self-discovery into self-destruction About Liz Lewis Liz Lewis is a writer, coach, researcher, and self-described chronic overthinker who helps ADHD women navigate motherhood, mental health, and midlife burnout with more clarity and self-compassion. Through her work at HealthyADHD LLC, as well as through coaching, speaking, and her Substack, Liz offers practical, relatable support grounded in lived experience and research. She has facilitated peer support groups for ADDA, spoken at national conferences, and written for publications including HuffPost, Attention Magazine, and ADDitude Magazine. Her first book, You Are Not the Problem, is a gentle guide for late-diagnosed ADHD women that blends personal stories, science, and midlife humor. When she’s not overthinking life and writing about it, she enjoys reading, volunteering, and spending time with her husband, son, and their very opinionated dog. Connect with Liz Website: Liz Lewis | Healthy ADHD | Substack: Liz Lewis Instagram: @lizlewisliterary Celebrate the launch of Liz Lewis’ new book, You Are Not the Problem: Late Diagnosed Women and the Invisible Forces That Shape Us! Grab your copy and use code NotTheProb20 to get 20% OFF. Don’t miss this empowering read for late-diagnosed women navigating identity, ADHD, and the invisible forces shaping their lives. Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors "Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out" – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we've developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods. Learn more at www.cognitive-ergonomics.com
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June 10 · 34 min
EP270: How To Help Young Adults with ADHD Find the Right Support with Dr. Zachary Gershon
Wanting to support your growing ADHD kid and knowing how to support them are often two very different things. As teens and young adults push for independence, even well-meaning advice can feel controlling, creating more resistance and disconnection. In this episode, Dr. Zach Gershon explains why peer support and community can be life-changing for young adults with ADHD, and how parents can shift from managing their child to becoming a trusted source of support. Press play to discover how connection, autonomy, and small wins can help young adults build confidence and move forward on their own terms. What to expect in this episode: Why peer support groups can feel safer and more relatable than parent advice How “asking instead of telling” changes parent-child dynamics What ADHD teens and young adults really want from their parents during transition years The role of community in reducing shame and isolation for ADHD young adults Why support works best when young adults feel ownership and autonomy About Dr. Zachary Gershon Dr. Zachary Gershon is a twice-exceptional neuroscientist based in New York City whose work explores the intersection of neurodiversity, cognition, and human behavior. He earned his PhD from The Rockefeller University, where his research focused on neuroscience and brain function. Drawing from both scientific expertise and lived experience as a twice-exceptional individual, Dr. Gershon is passionate about advancing conversations around neurodivergence, learning differences, giftedness, and mental performance through research, speaking, and advocacy. Connect with Dr. Zachary Website: ADHD Support Group for Young Adults | ADDA Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors "Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out" – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we've developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods. Learn more at www.cognitive-ergonomics.com
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June 3 · 30 min
EP269: What do PDA & ODD Have to Do with the Nervous System? - Rabbi Shoshana
What if behaviors that look defiant are actually signs of a nervous system under threat? In this episode, Rabbi Shoshana unpacks PDA, also known as Pathological Demand Avoidance or Pervasive Drive for Autonomy, and explains how nervous system sensitivity, autonomy, and co-regulation shape behavior in neurodivergent kids. She explores why traditional approaches often fail, how aspects of modern life intensify dysregulation, and what it means to truly trust a child rather than assume oppositional intent. Get ready to rethink “difficult behavior,” understand what may be happening beneath the surface, and walk away with a more compassionate, nervous-system-informed approach to supporting your family. What to expect in this episode: The connection between nervous system sensitivity, autonomy, and emotional regulation PDA behaviors that are commonly mistaken for defiance or manipulation Modern school and family expectations that can push sensitive nervous systems into overload A breakdown of the “safe circle” metaphor and what it says about threat response Meaningful, real-life tasks that naturally lower resistance and increase cooperation About Rabbi Shoshana Rabbi Shoshana Meira Friedman is a PDA Autistic woman and creator of The PDA Safe Circle™, a transformative online community for PDAers and their loved ones that centers her strengths-based PDA Safe Circle® Approach. Rabbi Shoshana is known for her in-depth content on PDA that helps PDAers of all ages to thrive within the constraints of their vulnerable nervous system. After a previous career in Jewish congregational leadership and climate activism, she is now a sought-after coach and trainer for PDA adults, parents, and allied clinicians. Her writing has been published in many venues, including The New York Times and Psychotherapy Networker magazine, and she is the author of two children’s books. Connect with Rabbi Website: The PDA Safe Circle Instagram: @rabbishoshana Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors "Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out" – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we've developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods. Learn more at www.cognitive-ergonomics.com
- Transcript
May 27 · 25 min
EP268: Parent Coaching and Support: What Parents Need Most
Feeling isolated or overwhelmed? Unsure why some parenting support spaces help, while others leave you feeling even more stuck? In this episode, Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster break down the differences between support groups, coaching groups, learning communities, and live Q&A spaces, and why the right kind of support can completely change your experience as the parent of a complex kid. They explore how feeling truly understood and supported can reduce isolation, why coaching creates deeper change than information alone, and how shared experiences help parents move from overwhelm into action. Discover how choosing the right kind of support can help you feel less alone, make real progress, and create the kind of change your family has been needing. What to expect in this episode: The key differences between support groups, coaching groups, and learning communities How feeling understood by other parents can ease feelings of shame and isolation What parents can learn by observing others work through their own challenges in coaching Why real change happens when support moves beyond information into action How understanding your needs can help you choose the right kind of support Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors "Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out" – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we've developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods. Learn more at www.cognitive-ergonomics.com
- Transcript
May 20 · 33 min
EP267: The Hidden Math Disability: Understanding and Managing Dyscalculia with Laura Jackson
Math struggles are not always about effort or attention. For some kids, the challenge runs deeper, starting with how they understand numbers, patterns, and quantities. In this episode, specialist Laura Jackson unpacks dyscalculia a little-known learning ,disability that affects number sense, problem-solving, and everyday tasks like time, money, and measurement, often leaving kids frustrated and misunderstood. Dive in to learn how curiosity, validation, and informed, targeted support can reduce anxiety, build confidence, and help your child develop skills that finally make math (and life) feel more manageable. What to expect in this episode: What dyscalculia is and how it differs from general math struggles Why more studying and practice problems don’t address the core challenge How dyscalculia impacts everyday life beyond school subjects Why traditional tutoring may not address the root of the issue The importance of curiosity and validation in supporting kids About Laura Jackson Laura M. Jackson is an author, dyscalculia specialist, and founder of Discovering Dyscalculia. She coaches individuals and families through the diagnosis of dyscalculia or math learning disability, which impacts at least 1 in every 20 students and adults. Laura’s work in this little-known field began in 2017 with her own daughter’s dyscalculia diagnosis. Since then, she has written a book, led workshops and training sessions, coached parents, students, teachers, and adults, and collaborated with dyscalculia experts in the US and the UK. Through her website, writing, speaking engagements, and coaching, her mission is to raise greater dyscalculia awareness, education, and support for individuals and families impacted by dyscalculia. Connect with Laura Website: Discovering Dyscalculia Book: The Book | Discovering Dyscalculia by Laura M Jackson Podcast: Discovering Dyscalculia | The Podcast Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors “Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out” – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we’ve developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods. Learn more at www.cognitive-ergonomics.com
- Transcript
May 13 · 29 min
EP266: Beyond Intervention: When & How to Have Serious Family Conversations with Diana Clark, JD, MA
When a loved one is struggling, knowing what to say or do can feel overwhelming and high-stakes. In this episode, Diana Clark, President of Intent Clinical, shares how communication patterns, emotional reactions, and fear can shape the way families respond to complex issues like addiction, mental health, and behavioral challenges. You will hear why trying to “fix” someone often backfires, and what it really takes to open the door for support and change. Dive in to learn how to approach difficult conversations with clarity, compassion, and a collaborative mindset that strengthens connection instead of resistance. What to expect in this episode: Why trying to “fix” a loved one can create more resistance than change How fear and urgency can lead to rigid and ineffective communication patterns The importance of preparing for conversations instead of reacting in the moment Why asking permission can improve receptivity in difficult discussions Facilitated family meetings vs. traditional interventions—and why that shift is so important About Diana Clark, JD, MA Diana Clark, JD, MA, is a renowned family recovery advocate and the President of Intent Clinical, bringing over 20 years of expertise in complex family systems, substance use disorders, and mental health disorders. She has helped thousands of families in crisis, guiding them toward healthier dynamics and sustainable recovery. At Intent Clinical, Diana leads a team of behavioral health professionals providing concierge-level care to high-net-worth individuals and families. Under her leadership, the organization delivers customized, evidence-based solutions that address the unique complexities of behavioral health. Diana holds a master's degree in psychology from Antioch New England Graduate School. She is widely recognized as an expert in family systems and parenting. In addition to her work as a speaker, educator, and thought leader, Diana has presented at major conferences, led professional training sessions, and conducted workshops for families, clinicians, and organizations. She is also the author of Addiction Recovery: A Family’s Journey, and the co-host of the Conversations with Intent Podcast, where she explores mental health, family resilience, and strategies for navigating life’s challenges. Connect with Diana Website: Intent Clinical LinkedIn: Diana Clark, JD,MA | Intent Clinical Instagram: @intentclinical Facebook: Intent Clinical Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors "Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out" – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we've developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods. Learn more at www.cognitive-ergonomics.com
- Transcript
May 6 · 24 min
EP265: Who Are Complex Kids And What Do They Need?
“Complex kids” are often seen as difficult or defiant, but there’s more going on beneath the surface. They are navigating executive function challenges, emotional regulation struggles, and a world that often expects them to conform to methods that don't work for them. In this episode, Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster break down what makes a child “complex” and why traditional parenting approaches often fall short for those kids. Tune in to learn how a collaborative, coach-style approach can help your complex child build confidence, develop agency, and move toward independence with support that truly works. What to expect in this episode: What “complex kids” really means beyond diagnoses like ADHD Why executive function is at the core of many parenting challenges How modern life and the digital world increase overwhelm for kids The importance of emotional regulation for both kids and parents How agency and independence develop through collaboration, not control Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors "Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out" – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we've developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods. Learn more at www.cognitive-ergonomics.com
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April 29 · 30 min
EP264: Sensitive Kids and Big Emotions: What Parents Need to Know with Dr. Judith Orloff
Does your child seem overwhelmed by emotions, easily affected by others, or more sensitive than their peers? It may not be a problem to fix, but a difference to understand. In this episode, Dr. Judith Orloff explains the difference between empathy, empaths, and highly sensitive kids and examines how these traits shape behavior, overwhelm, and emotional responses. Press play to learn practical ways to support your child with self-regulation, boundaries, and confidence so they can feel understood and in control. What to expect in this episode: The difference between empathy and being an empath or highly sensitive person How sensory overload can lead to overwhelm, shutdown, or big reactions Why neurodivergent and sensitive kids tend to absorb emotions from others Why sensitive traits should be supported, not “trained out” of children Simple self-regulation tools like alone time, boundaries, and calming environments About Dr. Judith Orloff Judith Orloff, MD, is a New York Times bestselling author, a psychiatrist, and an empath. She is the author of the new children’s book The Highly Sensitive Rabbit, about a caring cottontail who is shamed for her sensitivities but then learns to embrace them. Dr. Orloff's other books include The Genius of Empathy, The Empath’s Survival Guide, and Thriving as an Empath. Dr. Orloff also specializes in treating highly sensitive people in her medical practice. Dr. Orloff’s work has been featured on The Today Show, CNN, Oprah Magazine, the New York Times, and USA Today. Explore more at www.drjudithorloff.com. Connect with Dr. Judith Orloff Website: Dr. Judith Orloff Book: The Highly Sensitive Rabbit | The Highly Sensitive Teen Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors "Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out" – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we've developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods. Learn more at www.cognitive-ergonomics.com
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April 22 · 31 min
EP263: How to Help 2e Kids with Social Skills and Bullying with Elizabeth Smith
Social struggles are not just about making friends. For many neurodivergent and 2e or “twice exceptional” kids, misunderstood social cues, complex peer dynamics, and hurt feelings can quickly turn into conflict or isolation. In this episode, Elizabeth Smith unpacks what is really happening beneath these interactions and how parents can guide their kids through them with greater clarity and understanding. Dive in to learn how you can help your child navigate social situations, respond confidently to teasing, and feel like they truly belong with peers. What to expect in this episode: The differences between social feedback, teasing, & bullying and why it matters How social hierarchies influence behaviors in middle school and beyond Why neurodivergent kids may struggle to interpret social cues How to teach “snappy comebacks” so kids can respond to teasing in real time What to do when teasing becomes repeated or escalates into bullying About Elizabeth Smith Elizabeth, a New York City-based social coach, has a deep-rooted passion for empowering 2e and profoundly gifted children. Her journey into social coaching was personal: she was working as a physician assistant in psychiatry when her own 2e child needed support. Elizabeth discovered the evidence-based PEERS program from UCLA’s Semel Institute. After obtaining certification, Elizabeth conducted further research into best practices for affirming neurotypes and strategies to avoid masking and forced behavior. This developed into her own strengths-based approach, utilizing empathy, acceptance, and current research to empower children to meet their own goals. Connect with Elizabeth Smith Website: 2e Kids Coaching LinkedIn: Elizabeth Smith Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors "Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out" – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we've developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods. Learn more at www.cognitive-ergonomics.com
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April 15 · 54 min
EP262: Success! Coaching Group Members Share Powerful Stories
Parenting a complex teen can feel isolating, exhausting, and hard to figure out on your own. What if you didn’t have to do it alone? In this episode, real parents share how group coaching helped them feel supported, learn practical parenting strategies, and create lasting change in their families. Listen in to find out how support, connection, and the right tools can help you parent with more confidence, calm, and hope. What to expect in this episode: How group coaching helps parents feel less alone and more supported The difference between support groups and structured coaching Why hearing others’ experiences can accelerate your own growth How coaching teaches skills you can apply beyond parenting The role of community in building confidence and emotional resilience Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools for Parents at https://impactparents.com/gift. Connect with Impact Parents: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents Sponsors "Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out" – A New ADHD Intervention Do you recognize current ADHD interventions fall short? At DIG Coaching, we've developed a groundbreaking field of engineering called Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out. Discover a fresh approach to ADHD care that looks beyond traditional methods.
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