14th Annual Online ADHD Awareness Expo
Limited Time Encore
The Sessions
Embracing ADHD: Thriving with Your Unique Mind with Edward Hallowell MD
A Practical Approach to Consistent Follow Through with Lynne Edris
Small and Easy Things that Get BIG Results with Alan P. Brown
Closing the Gap: How to Get from Where You are to Where You Want to be! with Laurie Dupar
Tame Your Task List with Dana Rayburn
Brain Dump Calendaring System with Heidi Fishbein
Struggle with Procrastination? How to Feel Like Working On-Demand with Aron Croft
How to End Self-Sabotage from "Fear of Looking Stupid" with Bonnie Mincu
Getting Off The ADHD Rollercoaster and Living with More Agency with Elizabeth Brink
Conquer Kitchen Chaos: Masterful Tips and Strategies for Dinner Success with Terry Matlen
RSD Stoppers! How to Stop Your Brain from Dooms-Day-ing with Patricia Sung
Share Your Takeaways from the Sessions
Share something new you have learned or an "aha moment" from the sessions.
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34 replies to "ADHD Awareness Expo"
From a VIP Member:
I appreciated hearing about the flash of inspiration that became recognized with a Nobel prize. I am looking forward to harnessing our inner ‘genius’, so to speak- organizing and recording our brilliant ideas in Heidi Fishbein’s, ‘Brain Dump’ so we can better flush out and organize all of our ideas and prioritize responsibilities and tasks better, in finding a calendaring system that works for us. That has been my greatest challenge. An absolute resistance to following any kind of system that requires consistent application. I am so looking forward to changing my attitude about this!!! Thank you so much for your encouragement and help with embracing ourselves, loving ourselves more and sharing tools, strategies and enlightened perspectives for those of us who have run out of ideas to help ourselves.
I say I’m in the rebel phase! Since new dx I’ve packed my brain full with education on adhd, but seem 💯 % resistant to implementing even small things. Everything feels like the foundation to a starting point…and the wall to a dead end…yikes
Thank you Tara for this year’s annual Expo. Wonderful. I REdiscovered Dana Rayburn. I went to her website and I really appreciate her “discover your clutter type” pdf. Thank you a million Dana.
Hi Roxanne
I have ADHD and was diagx’d at 35 years ago. For some reason, despite being one of the best employees (so my employers used to say), my differences ALSO ‘shine’ in the workplace, sometimes in a bad way (amongst colleagues). I lost so many jobs, I couldn’t even count them at this point! This year, as most previous ones, I was subscribed to Tara’s ADHD awareness expo and watched one of your previous videos as you were one of the speaker on the expo. Let me tell you that you gave me so MUCH HOPE. All that you say is ALL soooo true. I knew most of all you mentionned was all true before watching your video but to hear it from someone else like you made all the difference. You are such a ‘human’ type of person (empathetic with a warm smile) and just for WHO you are at a person, I could relate to you right so easily. Even before you said on the video that you sang in the church choir, I could tell already that you had that “little thing” that makes you stand out from the rest of the pack. Great work. I will sign up on your website and I also thank a million Tara for having chosen to rebroadcast your video this year. Thank you so much to Roxanne (swellhead.com) and Tara for this priceless resource! I wish MORE ADHDers could watch your video also. I pledge to give a ‘good’ donation to Tara’s movement as soon as I have the financial capacity to do so. Please keep me in your prayers guys. Take care. Pierre M.
Thank you for this excellent Expo.
Dr Hallowell’s talk filled me with hope and I look forward to investigating his website and books!! His talk also reminded me to appreciate the wonderful aspects of myself .. creativity, imagination, intuition, …….!
I also very much appreciated and related to Aron Croft’s presentation. It also gives me hope and I’m going to accept his ‘free ADHD challenge’
All the talks have provided guidance to someone who has uncovered the missing piece of a lifelong puzzle at the age of 70! I have a lot of catching up to do! Thanks again for organizing this wonderful Expo.
There are so many great sessions and things to ponder. I can’t wait to check out Heidi Fishbein’s workbook. I definitely need help with organizing my to do lists.
I’m ready to start the day with the 3 questions that Alan Brown suggested. It’s so easy to fill our time with seemingly urgent things and leave no time for the priorities. I appreciate the simplicity of starting my day with a clearer trajectory.
Terry Matlan’s talk was great for reminding me that it’s okay to take shortcuts; I need to cut myself slack when everything isn’t homemade or home grown.
I’m looking forward to Aron Croft’s 5 day challenge.
I appreciate Patricia Sung shining a light on RSD. Naming this is powerful. So good to know there are steps to dealing with it.
Lynne Erdis’ session really resonated with me. I beat myself up way too often. My take away is that I need to stop beating myself up for what I don’t accomplish; instead I need to approach myself with non-judgmental curiosity. … That was helpful. It’s also reassuring to know that I’m not the only one who has this issue.
@ Dr. Hallowell, – yes I am convinced that taking the medication will help avoid addiction to other substances. But what about addiction to the medication itself? I personally experienced the “Wow, my life has so much more potential if I take this medicine daily”, aha moment, that I was well on my way to getting an appointment with a psychiatrist for a permanent prescription.
And then I caught myself. Asking what exactly my personal motivation was behind this new found need for the medication. I realised that the possibility of addiction was probably pretty real (for myself), which is why the medication is probably being controlled so strictly. (Here in Namibia, Africa, general practitioners are allowed limited prescription of it, and upon need or requirement for more frequent or permanent dosage, the patient is referred to a psychiatrist.)
In any case, considering the financial implication of psychiatrist appointments every six weeks (which are really costly per appointment), the cost of the medication itself and the fact that my life had not been dysfunctional up until that time, only unproductive and chaotic, made me reconsider taking the medication permanently. I am lucky in the sense that my ADHD is relatively well managed. (I have my amazing mother and the support of a child psychologist from a young age to thank for that).
Getting back to the point. I would love to hear your thoughts on the addiction question. I am not afraid of the medication, but have always been a firm believer that if something can be managed through diet, systems and lifestyle choices instead of medication, that one should try and do so first.
Thank you for a lovely ADD video, Dr. Hallowell and Tara.
@Lynne Edris – Occasionally overwhelmed Professional from Namibia, Africa, speaking here: Personally, the pain with lack of follow through, was seeing the disappointment in the eyes of the people around me whom I hold in high esteem. The disappointment and how less and less responsibility was left to me to handle because I could not deliver what I so very badly intended to deliver.
Looking deeper, this was often due to unrealistic over commitment on my side. The ‘head in the clouds dreamer’ who has these grand scheme ideas of what is possible, only to totally miss the realities and real-time factors influencing the succes of such an outcome.
I am grateful that the most important person that I have held in high esteem as an adult, outside of my family, has not given up on me yet and has seen the personal growth and development in myself over the last ten years. Today she is my business partner and I am very lucky to have her. But, other than ten years ago, I also know that I am of great value to her through my idiosyncrasies, and that learning to better deal with the lack of follow-through on my side has definitely strengthened and bettered our friendship as well as our working relationship.
Thanks for a great topic!
I just LOVED Elizabeth Brink’s session. Being an ADHD Life Coach with a lifetime of experience with a dysfunctional narcissist family dynamic – I always love hearing how others are working to heal their trauma. Elizabeth’s explanation of the amusement park was spot on. Makes so much sense!
Thank you so much for sharing!
@ Alan Brown, I have not checked out ADHD Crusher yet, but I get the feeling that I’m going to like it!
I love your fun and playful approach to the topic at hand. Of course the basic psychology behind ease of learning is making the topic fun or playful. But it feels to me as if us ADHD folks are experts in not taking serious topics too seriously. But also using fun and playfulness to break down heavy and hard topics into more processable chunks. This ‘skill’ is definitely something that benefits us as well as neuro-typical persons.
Really enjoyed your video, it left mr light hearted and enthusiastic about being part of this awesome ADHD community. Thanks!
@Laurie Dupar – I loved your use of visual imagery in explaining concepts in your video. Thanks, it gave so much depth and understanding to what you where explaining.
Also the advice on getting into details about what you want or where you want to be in life I found extremely helpful.
Knowing about a place such as the IACTS centre (and whoa what a big initiative) is extremely helpful. I feel as if the United States has been unpacking the ADHD topic for years now, whereas the rest of the world (being in my frame of reference – Sub-Saharan Africa) is only starting to destigmatise and unpack the ADHD box now, bit by bit.
@Bonnie Mincu – I have joked many times that my brain sometimes only catches up to my mouth by the time it is too late.
Thanks for the advice on how to approach certain situations more sensitively. As impulsivity is such a big aspect of the ADHD ‘make-up’ one is often on the look-out for ways to be, (in Dr. Holloway’s words), ‘more loveable’.
@Dana Rayburn and Heidi Fishbein – the skill to manage a task list/to-do list and managing your calendar/brain dumping are skills I have had to acquire the hard way.
Could mostly only nod in absolute agreement with what you contributed here. Would rate my skillset at intermediate level for the calendaring as well as the task listing, but hope to reach master level ‘when I grow up one day’. Thanks for offering assistance with these topics, would live to delve deeper into the resources that you are offering.
@Aron Croft – I had to laugh when you started listing the games that we play. Oh don’t we just know each and every one of those games so well. And really they only work sometimes. If hou are lucky.
Enjoyed your contribution a lot, thank you.
@Patricia Sung – Been following your podcast for a while now. Thank you for all the love and caring that you convey in it.
I have had RSD modeled my whole life by my Mom. (I just never knew there was a name for it, now I know better!) She is quite sensitive to feelings of rejection and does not deal well with it. Watching her, while growing up made me decide that I did not want the sense of rejection to affect me so dramatically.
Not reading criticism of oneself into an everyday conversation is a skillset that is worth developing, and one that has taken much work on my side. However, the relief of not feeling judged around every corner is absolutely worth the work and effort.
Thanks Patricia for a great topic!
I’m 63 and recently diagnosed ADHD. Ned Holloway’s book was the first one I read – he has great insights, and I enjoyed seeing him “live” on the video after feeling as if I knew him from his words. Thanks!
Embracing ADHD: Thriving with Your Unique Mind with Edward Hallowell MD
Loved his positive voice regarding impulsivity leading to creativity. He said he’s GLAD his 3 sins have adhd! I was continually called belligerent, hard headed and stubborn as a child. Dx at 60 I now know I was just being curious and craved knowing the why’s…”but why, but why”…these talks are helping me reframe my shame into discovering my identity…and loving ME
I was diagnosed with combo ADHd in 2001. We were told that it’s a learning disability that adults rarely retain. For 20 years I went through life under this assumption. The last 2 and a half years I’ve researched more and have grieved the idea that this condition will never go away. I still consider it a disability based on my experience but hearing some solid tips on how to work with my brain has already started to help.
I’ve wanted to open an online store for years but have been scared and disorganized. Learning how to remain consistent, plan effectively, and overcome my fear of failure and rejection has helped.We’ll see how it goes.
A Practical Approach to Consistent Follow Through with Lynne Edris
She is so energetic! I appreciate that the emotional pain from adhd comes from the disconnect between who I am and how I appear to be. If I didn’t care, I wouldn’t feel that pain or shame. Being curious as to what gets in the way of what’s going on between my ears puts a lighter spin on what seems to be a heavy burden
There are so many great sessions and things to ponder. I can’t wait to check out Heidi Fishbein’s workbook. I definitely need help with organizing my to do lists.
I’m ready to start the day with the 3 questions that Alan Brown suggested. It’s so easy to fill our time with seemingly urgent things and leave no time for the priorities. I appreciate the simplicity of starting my day with a clearer trajectory.
Terry Matlan’s talk was great for reminding me that it’s okay to take shortcuts; I need to cut myself slack when everything isn’t homemade or home grown.
I’m looking forward to Aron Croft’s 5 day challenge.
I appreciate Patricia Sung shining a light on RSD. Naming this is powerful. So good to know there are steps to dealing with it.
Small and Easy Things that Get BIG Results with Alan P. Brown
Thank you for the acronyms! WCID and well, my acronym, “DWYDW’D”…with a Boston accent 😁 Set an alarm to do just 1 each day is a great idea, 365 a year! And especially THANK YOU for reminding that I need to PLAY, and not on the 📱! I actually have paid access to your course but I keep forgetting to use it…I’m making a sticky note!
Closing the Gap: How to Get from Where You are to Where You Want to be! with Laurie Dupar
My brain doesn’t think or work in linear ways! If what I’ve been doing isn’t working, then use my strengths I may be ignoring to do things differently than before, to get the results I want! Yes! Perhaps more difficulties surface bc I’ve not truly identified what those strengths are 🕵🏻♀️
How to End Self-Sabotage from “Fear of Looking Stupid” with Bonnie Mincu
I’m not one to hesitate to ask questions, I’m quite the opposite! Thank you for the suggestions to ask in ways that don’t cause the person to feel defensive…this is usually where I go wrong and bad feelings happen
Tame Your Task List with Dana Rayburn
I’ve never done well with to do lists. Her point is well taken…the tools used don’t provide the immediate solutions. The basic skills have to be in place first, and then find the tools that work well.
Brain Dump Calendaring System with Heidi Fishbein
My brain gets mentally fatigued daily even when I get very minimal tasks done. I don’t practice brain dumping or use a calendar for anything except appointments. But using a system can help conserve brain energy and expend it in a more balance way. Something I will put in practice!
Struggle with Procrastination? How to Feel Like Working On-Demand with Aron Croft
“Procrastination feasts on secrecy” oh for sure! His comparison of physical therapy with implementing strategies for my adhd brain muscle is spot on! I’ve had many years of PT and it is hard to do and stick with. Diagnosis at 60 makes it all that more difficult. I believe support is crucial to changing so many years of imbalanced strategies
Getting Off The ADHD Rollercoaster and Living with More Agency with Elizabeth Brink
This was very intriguing to me. Until my dx I was never aware of the messages my body was trying to communicate, even to eat or drink. Nervous system just meant being nervous. I think self-awareness of how our personal nervous systems affects us is crucial to overall adhd health and provide a solid foundation to restructuring our lives
Conquer Kitchen Chaos: Masterful Tips and Strategies for Dinner Success with Terry Matlen
I’m such a slow cook and would rather just eat oatmeal and fruit! Salads take me forever to make, washing and chopping veggies. I put food in the microwave and after 2 hrs of it beeping, I’ll reheat, let it rebeep, and finally eat! Not to mention boiled over onto the floor pots of soup! Thank you for saying it’s OK to do what works for my brain, if I pay extra for home delivery and prewashed veggies and I eat…it’s all worth it!
RSD Stoppers! How to Stop Your Brain from Dooms-Day-ing with Patricia Sung
RSD is a huge obstacle to feeling happy and enjoying life. It’s an equally huge relief to recognize it’s mostly imagined, not real. The “just think happy thoughts” comments are upsetting, esp if given by a NT brain person. So I really want to try her fun imagery strategy for neuroplasticity! Gotta let out my creative nature for some fun!
An aha moment for me was the x2 rule for estimating time (Brain Dump Calendaring System with Heidi Fishbein). I’m late for most things, even when I try really hard, and it’s been this way most of my life (50+ years). How did I not know this before? I definitely will be using this. And I really hope the brain dump and chunking down will help with my huge feelings of overwhelm. I also really liked A Practical Approach to Consistent Follow Through with Lynne Edris. Follow through is the next biggest issue I deal with. I loved the idea of coming at it with curiosity, and the two questions. Thanks so much!!
@Terry Matlen – I could relate to your story oh so well! What a relevant topic, especially to us ladies.
My mom ran a catering business and as her assistant it was always my job to make the salad (relatively failure proof on the larger scale of things, right?)
Anyway, I inevitably burn somethin critical to the meal while its on the stove. Which is why I started using timed devices such as my steamer and the microwave. You set them for a specific duration, little can burn or get destroyed in the meantime and they go ‘ping’!! When next you need to give attention to them.
Minding anything on a stove just means I get bored, then distracted and then things get burnt…
Thanks for your insights into this specific topic. I think we can all learn a lot from one another on the cooking front too.
I bought ready made meals almost daily for about a year when my firstborn joined us in 2020. What a stressful, chaotic time.
Lots of love and thanks again for all the great content on this expo!
I loved Dr. Hallowell”s saying that the ADHD brain is a gift, and that others could only wish they had such a brain! I appreciated the idea of the two question follow-up from Lynne Edris when an intention doesn’t come to pass; !) What’s up with that? 2) What tool would help me experience success next time? Bonnie Mincu’s advice about how to phrase questions to elicit a positive response from the other person was invaluable. Loved Patricia Sung’s advice about creating new pathways using fun and imagination, and the way she described the rural path analogy. I’m forgetting which speaker mentioned the Planner Pad, which was new to me, but I think is exactly what I need. Some of the ones I listened to earlier in October I can’t quite recall specifics, but I benefited from all of them. Thanks so much for the expo!
@Elizabeth Brink – the rollercoaster that one has been on your whole life that could be different. Going om a different ride or not going om any ride because you get to know the map better.
Yes, I have managed to tame my rollercoaster and having the opportunity for further self-education on the ‘Map’ through means of expo’s such as these has been an absolute life changer.
Thank you for valuable content!