Executive Function for All | A Podcast by Untapped Learning

Episoade

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  How to Start Your College Journey | Jack DuFauchard 22.07.2026 24min

  Starting college is a journey like no other; however, it’s often difficult to figure out what that “first step” is going to be, especially for some kids with executive function challenges. Through self-awareness, active learning, prioritization, and organizing a schedule, students can overcome these challenges and achieve ambitious goals.In this podcast, Jack DuFauchard, an incoming student at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, goes into greater detail about the struggles upon entering college, and how saying yes to too many things can lead to a procrastination trap. Together, we go into greater detail about the idea of essentialism, organizational systems, and the importance of balancing a schedule, even with all the freedom the university provides to the students.At Untapped Learning, we help students find their stride by helping them get ahead of the curve by teaching them developmental skills to plan forward, rather than catching up. Teaching the students long-term independence and success lets our students learn better and helps the parents focus on being there for their children.Want to learn more about how we help students build executive function skills? Subscribe to our YouTube channel and explore our 1-on-1 mentoring, workshops, and free resources at untappedlearning.com.📥 Free Downloads: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/untappedlearning#ExecutiveFunction #ADHD #Neurodivergent #ExecutiveFunctionCoaching #College #StudentSupport
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  How Parents Can Support Teens with ADHD Without Constant Conflict | Gabe Casher, Ph.D. 08.07.2026 26min

  When discussing homework, why does it suddenly become a fight between students and parents? When discussing a child’s success, it can be anxiety-inducing for both the child and the parent. For parents, it’s much more difficult to identify/resonate with their children when there isn't any proof to back up a child’s progress, while for children, it's difficult when parents get too involved. It creates a cycle of fear, shame, and anxiety through a family's relationship.In today’s podcast, Dr. Gabe Casher, Founder of Panorama Psychology, dives deeper into the relationship between a child with Executive Dysfunction and parents and how a lack of clear results or communication can lead to distancing between parents and students. Together, we discuss ADHD, executive functioning, emotional regulation, parenting strategies, teen mental health, and how families can break cycles of conflict. Learn why strengthening your relationship with your child often produces better long-term benefits than focusing directly on results.At Untapped Learning, we help students find their stride by helping them learn and developing the skills necessary to succeed. Teaching the students long-term independence and success lets our students learn better and helps the parents to focus on parenting.Want to learn more about how we help students build executive function skills? Subscribe to our YouTube channel and explore our 1-on-1 mentoring, workshops, and free resources at untappedlearning.com.📥 Free Downloads: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/untappedlearningLearn more about Gabe Casher and Panorama Psychology here: (https://www.panoramapsychology.com/) #ExecutiveFunction #ADHD #Neurodivergent #ExecutiveFunctionCoaching #Family #StudentSupport
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  Keeping a good relationship with a child with executive function challenges | Cindy Goldrich 24.06.2026 29min

  In the earliest stages of school, a lot of changes happen, especially towards a student’s learning, their development, and even their relationship with their family.In this engaging work, Cindy Goldrich, founder of PTS Coaching and ADHD/Executive Function Parent Coach, provides a deeper insight into how students and parents can communicate what needs to be done, without sacrificing effective communication. At Untapped Learning, we align heavily with helping students and figuring out methods that help them learn and prioritize their daily tasks while being able to fully understand what results they want to accomplish.If you are a parent of a student who struggles with ADHD or executive dysfunction, this episode is worth a listen.Want to learn more about how we help students build executive function skills? Subscribe to our YouTube channel and explore our 1-on-1 mentoring, workshops, and free resources at untappedlearning.com📥 Free Downloads: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/untappedlearningLearn more about Cindy Goldrich and PTS Coaching here: (https://ptscoaching.com)
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  How to Advocate for Your Student’s Learning | Jessica Diamond 12.06.2026 28min

  Advocating for students is already difficult for many parents, even more so when the student in question has ADHD, Dyslexia, or executive functioning struggles. However, there are processes to help not only advocate, but to keep a good relationship between parents and the students. In this podcast, Jessica Diamond, a professional Special Education Advocate, demonstrates an emphasis on the importance of advocacy. In the podcast, we explain how to properly advocate for your student at school using tools such as 504 plans, while also ensuring not to sacrifice that personal communication with your student. At Untapped Learning, we help middle school, high school, and college students build systems that create long-term independence and success.Want to learn more about how we help students build executive function skills? Subscribe to our YouTube channel and explore our 1-on-1 mentoring, workshops, and free resources at untappedlearning.com (http://untappedlearning.com).📥 Free Downloads: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/untappedlearningLearn more: www.untappedlearning.com (http://www.untappedlearning.com) Learn more about Jessica Diamond here: (https://www.advocatingforsolutions.com) #ExecutiveFunction #ADHD #Neurodivergent #ExecutiveFunctionCoaching #504Plan #StudentSupport
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  College Recruiting for Student Athletes with ADHD | Katie Anderson 27.05.2026 33min

  In this episode, we sat down with Katie Anderson, a former Duke soccer player and college advisor who specializes in helping student athletes and families navigate both college admissions and athletic recruiting.Katie breaks down what parents need to understand before the process becomes stressful: why talent alone is not enough, how students can stay organized when communicating with coaches, what role parents should play without taking over, and why the right college fit matters more than chasing the biggest name.We also discuss how ADHD can impact recruiting, when and why disclosure may matter, and how families can help student athletes build the systems they will need long before they step on campus.If you are a parent of a high school athlete, this conversation is a practical guide to helping your student move through recruiting with more clarity, ownership, and confidence.Learn more about Katie’s work:https://www.thestudentathleteadvisors.com/ http://www.collegefitoc.com/about.html Want to learn more about how we help students build executive function skills? Subscribe to our YouTube channel and explore our 1-on-1 mentoring, workshops, and free resources at untappedlearning.com.🌐 Website: https://untappedlearning.com📥 Free Downloads: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/untappedlearning
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  Why High Achievers with ADHD Feel Like Imposters | Jen Zobel Bieber 06.05.2026 29min

  Jen Zobel Bieber is a certified ADHD coach at the Hallowell Center who specializes in helping high-achieving adults with ADHD better understand their brains, reduce shame, and build systems that actually work. Jen graduated as valedictorian from Columbia University, received her coaching certification from NYU, and has been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, The Financial Times, and The Today Show for her work helping individuals navigate ADHD, executive function challenges, and performance anxiety.In this episode, Brandon and Jen explore:• Why high achievers with ADHD often struggle with imposter syndrome• How hyperfocus can become both a strength and a liability• Why routines and habits are harder for ADHD brains to maintain• The connection between executive function, anxiety, and inconsistent performance• Practical ways to reduce overwhelm and create clarity that leads to actionThis conversation is packed with practical insight for students, parents, professionals, and anyone trying to better understand the ADHD brain.Learn more about Jen and the Hallowell Center: https://drhallowell.com/Untapped Learning helps students build executive function skills like planning, organization, time management, and self-advocacy through personalized 1-on-1 mentoring and coaching.Want to learn more about how Untapped Learning helps students build executive function skills?🌐 Website: https://untappedlearning.com/📥 FREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/untappedlearningThis podcast is hosted by Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning.
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  Supporting Teens After Treatment | Dave Herz, Founder of Wonder 01.05.2026 24min

  In this episode, we’re joined by Dave Herz, Founder of Wonder and a leader in young adult transition support with over 25 years of experience working with teens, young adults, and their families.Dave has been a pioneer in aftercare and wraparound support, founding one of the first non-residential programs for young adults returning home from treatment. His work has helped shape best practices in supporting families through some of the most challenging transitions.In this conversation, Dave shares how to help young adults rebuild confidence after setbacks, why relationships must come before strategy, and how small wins create the foundation for long-term independence. We also explore the role of executive function in recovery, the connection between ADHD and higher-risk behaviors, and what parents should look for as signs of real progress.This episode is especially valuable for parents, educators, and professionals supporting students navigating anxiety, executive function challenges, or the transition back from treatment.Learn more about Dave Herz's work at: https://www.teamwonder.org/dave-herzWant to learn more about how Untapped Learning helps students (and their families) build executive function skills? Explore our 1-on-1 mentoring, workshops, and free resources at🌐 Website: https://untappedlearning.com📥 Free Downloads: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/untappedlearning
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  Keeping Ahead of the College Transition | Ryan Palm, Executive Director of Neurodiversity at Mercyhurst University 22.04.2026 33min

  Ryan Palm, Executive Director of the Brad McGarry Center for Neurodiversity at Mercyhurst University, joins the podcast to break down what really happens to students when they transition from high school to college.Drawing from his work supporting neurodiverse students, Ryan explains why executive function challenges become more visible in college and why planning, organization, and follow-through often break down when structure disappears.This conversation highlights the gap between intelligence and execution, how colleges are adapting to support neurodiverse learners better, and what students and families need to understand before making the transition.If your student is heading to college or already struggling to keep up, this episode will give you a clearer lens on what is actually going on and how to better support it. Learn more about Ryan’s work and the Brad McGarry Center for Neurodiversity: https://www.mercyhurst.edu/student-services/center-neurodiversityNeurodiversity https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/neurodiversity-and-higher-education/id1846224970FREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/If you or your student are interested in learning more about what Untapped Learning has to offer, visit us at:Website: https://untappedlearning.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/untappedlearningYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@untappedlearning
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  Why ADHD, Anxiety & Autism Get Misdiagnosed | Dr. Jennifer Paz Ryan 15.04.2026 27min

  Dr. Jennifer Paz Ryan is a licensed clinical psychologist and co-founder of Elevated Insights Assessment, specializing in complex learning profiles and co-occurring conditions across the lifespan.In this episode, we dive into what happens when challenges like ADHD, anxiety, autism, and learning disabilities show up together and how often they mask one another. Dr. Paz Ryan breaks down why many students are misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or only partially supported, and how comprehensive, culturally responsive evaluations can completely change the trajectory for both students and families.We also explore what “co-occurring conditions” actually mean, why getting the full picture matters more than any single diagnosis, and how parents can better understand what’s really going on beneath the surface.If you’ve ever felt like your child doesn’t fit neatly into one box or that something is being missed, this conversation will give you clarity, language, and direction.Learn more about Dr. Jennifer Paz Ryan and her work: https://elevatedinsights.orgFREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/If you or your student are interested in learning more about what Untapped Learning has to offer, visit us at:Website: https://untappedlearning.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/untappedlearningYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@untappedlearning
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  How to Prepare Your Student for College Success | Laura Barr 08.04.2026 30min

  Laura Barr is a high-level college consultant and the Founder and CEO of Emerging Consulting, where she helps students and families navigate the college process with clarity, strategy, and purpose.With a background in student-centered coaching, Laura brings a unique perspective to college planning. Her work is grounded in a simple yet powerful mission: to help raise and launch good humans through the power of education.In this episode, Laura breaks down how the college application process is about much more than getting accepted. It is one of the first real-world opportunities students have to develop executive function skills like planning, time management, organization, and self-advocacy.We cover:🗓️Why the college process should be treated like a long-term project, not a last-minute task👪How parents can support without overstepping, and when to step back🎓What students with ADHD and executive function challenges need to succeed in college🏫How to build independence before stepping onto campus📃What actually matters when choosing the right collegeIf you are a parent of a high school student or a student preparing for college, this episode will give you a clearer framework for approaching the process in a way that builds real-life skills, not just outcomes.Learn more about Laura Barr and her work:emergingconsulting.com/laurabarr@emergingconsulting.com
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  The Parent Trap: Breaking the Cycle of Conflict at Home | Katie Blakey 03.04.2026 32min

  If it feels like every conversation with your child turns into a battle, you’re not alone.In this episode, Brandon sits down with Katie Blakeley, an executive function and parent coach who works closely with neurodiverse students and families, to unpack a pattern many parents find themselves stuck in but don’t know how to name.You try to help. They resist. You step in more. They shut down or push back even harder.Katie explains why this cycle happens, how it connects to emotional regulation and executive function, and why the instinct to “fix” often backfires even when it comes from a good place.This conversation gives parents a clearer way to respond in the moment, reduce conflict at home, and build a stronger connection with their child without lowering expectations.If your child gets overwhelmed easily, avoids tasks, or reacts strongly when you step in, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on and what to do differently.Learn more about Katie’s work: https://www.blakeywellness.com/If this episode resonates, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a parent who needs this perspective.For more support building executive function skills in students, visit untappedlarning.com or explore more episodes on our channel.
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  The 5 Pillars of a Successful Transition to College | Hannah Bookbinder 20.03.2026 33min

  The transition from high school to college is one of the most significant and often underestimated shifts in a student’s life. While many students leave home academically prepared, far fewer are equipped with the executive function skills required to manage their time, advocate for themselves, and navigate the independence that college demands.In this episode, Brandon sits down with Hannah Bookbinder, academic coach and founder of AcademicAlly, to break down the five pillars of a successful transition to college. With over 25 years of experience working with students, Hannah shares a practical and deeply human framework for helping students build the skills they actually need before they leave home.This conversation explores what changes when external structure disappears, why so many capable students struggle during their first year, and how parents can support the transition without creating dependence.You’ll hear insights on:• The five pillars that support a successful transition to college• Why time management becomes a challenge without structure• How students can develop self-advocacy and accountability• The role of routines, planning, and follow-through in college success• What parents can do to prepare their child for independenceThis episode is especially valuable for students with ADHD or executive function challenges, but the principles apply to any student preparing to take ownership of their academic and personal life.If your child is approaching college or already feeling overwhelmed by the transition, this conversation will give you a clearer understanding of what they need and how to support them in building it.This conversation is especially valuable for students with ADHD, executive function challenges, or learning differences, but the principles apply to any student preparing for independence in college.Learn more about Hannah's work:https://mytoadapp.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/my-toad-llc-099450368/https://www.youtube.com/@MyTOADCoachhttps://www.facebook.com/mytoadapphttps://www.instagram.com/mytoad_llc/My TOAD App & Book:Special Offer for Listeners Use code SLADE10 for a discount on the My TOAD app and book.App: Sign up at health.clickmedix.com/toad or download on iOS at ios.mytoadapp.comBook (audio or hardcopy): Purchase at mytoadapp.com/shop and enter code SLADE10 at checkout
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  Understanding ADHD: Rejection Sensitivity, Motivation, and the ADHD Brain | Dr. William Dodson 11.03.2026 26min

  What if ADHD isn’t a deficit… but a different nervous system?In this powerful conversation, board-certified psychiatrist Dr. William Dodson shares decades of clinical insight on ADHD, Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD), medication optimization, and what he calls the “interest-based nervous system. We discuss:• Why importance doesn’t motivate the ADHD brain• The 5 things that reliably create engagement• How untreated ADHD damages self-esteem• Why medication alone is never enough• The power of having one adult who “gets it”At Untapped Learning, this aligns deeply with our belief that executive function is the foundation. When we stop trying to “fix” students and instead understand how their brain works, everything changes.Listen to the full episode and rethink ADHD.Learn more about Dr. Dodson's work here: https://www.dodsonadhdtreatment.com/https://www.additudemag.com/author/william-dodson-m-d/
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  How Dungeons & Dragons Builds Executive Function Skills with Rhina Guzmán 04.03.2026 27min

  What if executive function skills weren’t taught through worksheets, but through adventure?In this episode, we sit down with Rhina Guzman, executive function coach at Untapped Learning and creator of our Dungeons & Dragons Executive Function Program.Rhina explains how a tabletop role-playing game becomes a powerful tool for building organization, emotional regulation, task initiation, planning, and social problem-solving. Students manage character sheets, navigate uncertainty, regulate emotions under pressure, collaborate in group decisions, and initiate problem-solving—all in a fully screen-free, high-engagement environment.This is executive function development through experience, not lectures.If you’re a parent looking for creative, real-world ways to help your child build independence and confidence, this episode will shift how you think about skill development.Learn more about Untapped Learning:🌐 https://untappedlearning.com📥 Free resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/untappedlearningHosted by Brandon Slade. Produced by Nathan Weinberg.
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  Anxiety Isn’t the Problem | Nick Thompson, LCSW, on Performance & Pressure 27.02.2026 34min

  If your teen says “I have anxiety” before every test, presentation, or big moment… this episode will change how you understand what’s actually happening.Licensed clinical social worker Nick Thompson joins us to unpack the truth about anxiety, performance pressure, and why students shut down under stress. With over 15 years of experience working with adolescents and families in schools, private practice, residential treatment settings, and early intervention programs, Nick specializes in helping teens navigate anxiety, identity, and academic overwhelm without shame.In this conversation, we break down the difference between anxiety and worry, why the brain mistakes discomfort for danger, how stress impacts focus and decision-making, and the connection between ADHD, creativity, and spiraling thoughts. Nick also shares practical tools students can use before tests or presentations, including grounding techniques, breathwork, and how to work with anxiety instead of fighting it.If you’re a parent, educator, or student trying to make sense of performance anxiety and shutdowns, this conversation brings clarity, science, and real strategies you can use right away.Learn more about Nick's work here: https://www.nicholasdthompson.com/Explore Untapped Learning’s mentoring and free resources:https://untappedlearning.com/
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  Harvard M.Ed. Andrew Watson on Working Memory 20.02.2026 34min

  Few things are more frustrating than feeling like your brain just won’t hold onto information.You try to follow directions.You lose track halfway through.You ask a question that was just answered.And eventually, you start wondering if something is wrong with you.In this episode of Executive Function for All, Brandon sits down with Andrew Watson — former high school teacher, Harvard M.Ed. in Mind, Brain, and Education, and author of Learning Begins — to unpack the science of working memory.Here’s the hard truth:Working memory capacity is limited for everyone. And despite what some programs claim, research does not strongly support that we can artificially increase it.But here’s the hopeful part:We can design systems that reduce overload and make learning more manageable.Andrew shares:• What working memory actually is• Why it feels so frustrating• Why low scores are not an academic death sentence• The 3-question framework: Anticipate. Identify. Solve.• Signs of overload that look like “not listening.”• How dual coding (visual + verbal instruction) increases usable capacity• Why emotional safety matters for cognitive performanceThis episode reframes memory struggles from character flaws to capacity constraints.Learn more about Andrew’s work at: https://translatethebrain.com/Explore Untapped Learning’s mentoring and free resources: https://untappedlearning.com/#WorkingMemory #ExecutiveFunction #ADHDSupport #EducationPodcast #UntappedLearning
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  How to Support Your Teen Without Overstepping | Shawna Warner, MSW 04.02.2026 32min

  Parenting teenagers often feels like walking a tightrope. You want to support them, but not smother them. You want to help, but not fix everything for them.In this episode of Executive Function for All, we’re joined by Shawna Warner, a parent coach and clinical social worker who specializes in teenage resilience, identity development, and family dynamics.We talk about what happens when a teen’s identity gets shaken by setbacks, how parents can tell when to step in versus step back, and why resilience is built through curiosity, not control. Shawna also shares practical tools for supporting highly sensitive teens, creating predictable after-school transitions, and helping kids develop a stronger sense of self without pressure or perfectionism.If you’re parenting a teen who feels overwhelmed, emotionally reactive, or stuck in self-doubt, this conversation will help you respond with clarity, compassion, and confidence.Want to learn more about how Untapped Learning helps students (and their families) build executive function skills? Learn more about Shawna's work here: https://cultivatingresilientteens.com/meet-shawna-warner/Explore our 1-on-1 mentoring, workshops, and free resources at🌐 Website: https://untappedlearning.com📥 Free Downloads: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/untappedlearning
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  Supporting Kids Who Struggle: Tools for Parents and Educators | Ali Schroer, LCSW 28.01.2026 31min

  In this episode of EF for All, we’re joined by Ali Schroer, LCSW—a psychotherapist, former classroom teacher, and nationally recognized expert on anxiety and executive functioning. As the founder of Schroer Counseling and Consulting, Ali brings a rare combination of clinical expertise and real-world experience supporting children, teens, families, and high-achieving adults.Ali’s background includes training at Children’s Hospital Colorado and The Kempe Center, where she helped develop programs for youth anxiety. She now runs a thriving private practice, teaches at the University of Denver, and consults with major organizations like Faegre Drinker on mental health and well-being initiatives.Together, we explore:The messy overlap between anxiety, ADHD, and executive functioningWhy high achievers often struggle silently—and how to support themHow perfectionism and avoidance show up in both kids and adultsWhat parents can do instead of “snowplowing” obstacles awayAli's perspective is practical, compassionate, and deeply human. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or professional looking for support, you’ll walk away with tools to face hard things and build lasting resilience.🎧 Tune in and learn why preparing—not protecting—might be the most powerful way to support our kids.Learn more about Ali's work here: https://schroercc.com/ https://www.mentalscopeconsulting.com/
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  Understanding the Social Side of Executive Function Struggles with Lana Gollyhorn 21.01.2026 32min

  Social struggles are often the most painful part of executive function challenges, and the least understood.In this episode, Brandon sits down with Lana Gollyhorn, a psychotherapist with nearly two decades of experience working directly with children, adolescents, and families. Lana brings a rare lens into what kids are actually experiencing beneath the surface when social situations fall apart.She explains how executive function challenges affect things like listening, remembering plans, regulating emotions, and reading social cues, and how those gaps can quickly turn into hurt feelings, perceived rejection, or intense after-school meltdowns. Parents will gain clarity on why their child may seem disengaged, overly reactive, controlling, or defensive with friends, even when connection is what they want most.This conversation offers practical guidance for how parents can respond in the moment, support reflection without blame, and help their child rebuild friendships without overstepping. If your child often feels misunderstood socially or comes home emotionally flooded, this episode will help you see those moments through a more compassionate and accurate lens.Learn more about Lana's work: https://lanagollyhorn.com/
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  Procrastination, Trauma, and Executive Function in Adults | Howard Baumgarten, LPC 07.01.2026 34min

  In this episode of Executive Function for All, Brandon Slade talks with Licensed Professional Counselor Howard Baumgarten about the emotional side of executive function that often gets overlooked, especially for adults and men with ADHD.Howard explains how suppression, anxiety, and past experiences show up as procrastination, distraction, and burnout. Instead of pushing harder, real change comes from slowing down, building self-compassion, and learning how to respond rather than react. When the nervous system calms, thinking gets easier, and follow-through becomes possible.This episode is for adults who feel stuck, parents supporting overwhelmed students, and anyone who has tried routines and strategies without addressing what lies underneath.🎧 Listen now to learn how compassion unlocks executive function.Learn More about Howard's practice at: https://howardbaumgarten.com/