164: Regulate Yourself to Support Your ADHD Child with Ashley Gobeil
In this episode of The Soaring Child, host Dana Kay welcomes back child and parent therapist Ashley Gobeil to dive into a game-changing conversation for families navigating ADHD. Have you ever found yourself snapping at your child and then immediately feeling guilty? You’re not alone, and it may be more about your nervous system than your parenting skills. Dana and Ashley explore what’s really happening inside your body when you’re triggered and how understanding your own regulation is the foundation for becoming the calmest person in the room, even when your child is not. Ashley brings over 15 years of experience in child and adolescent mental health, developmental trauma, and family dynamics. Together, she and Dana break down the difference between being reactive and responsive, the role of the nervous system in parenting, and practical regulation tools that can be integrated into even the busiest days. Whether you're deep in the trenches of ADHD parenting or simply looking to parent with more intention and connection, this episode offers hope, actionable strategies, and heartfelt encouragement. Links Mentioned in the Show: Free guide: Soothing Your Parental Nervous System (created by Ashley) ADD LINK ONCE WE HAVE IT The ADHD Thrive Parenting 4 Jumpstart Program - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/parenting Other podcast episodes with Ashley - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/?s=ashley+gobeil Key Takeaways: [3:27] Intro: What Happens When We’re Triggered[3:56] Understanding Reactivity and Regulation[5:01] The Role of the Nervous System[8:24] Awareness and Emotional Identification[26:13] Feeling Emotions Without Fear[32:35] Tools to Reset Your Nervous System[39:14] Daily Practices That Work[41:36] Permission to Heal[41:54] Repair and Modeling for Children[48:14] Final Encouragement and Takeaways Memorable Moments: "Triggered is when our whole nervous system almost hijacks our body." "Our nervous system doesn’t realize we’re actually not in danger because my child told me they’re not getting dressed." "Being regulated is different than just being calm." "You can be frustrated, mad, annoyed, angry, and still in your zone." "If we can be the most regulated person in the family, our children will then start to orbit to us." "We often expect our children to show up in ways that manage our stress." "When we model this and we do our own healing work, we are going to heal our children and the generations to come." "Repair is a tool that every parent needs in their back pocket." "You just need to be willing to notice, to reflect, to repair." "Make a decision that you will eventually create a new reality for your family." How to Connect to Ashley Gobeil: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleychildtherapies/?hl=en Ashley’s ADHD Thrive Jumpstart 4 Parenting Program: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/parenting Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/ Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY
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50:29
163: Homeschooling ADHD Kids with Linsey Knerl
In this episode of The Soaring Child, host Dana Kay talks with homeschooling expert and author Linsey Knerl about how homeschooling can be a game-changer for kids with ADHD. Linsey, a mom of six and author of Homeschool Hacks: How to Give Your Kid a Great Education Without Losing Your Job or Your Mind, shares her two decades of experience and wisdom. Together, they explore the flexibility and power of homeschooling for families who feel stuck in traditional education systems that don't serve neurodivergent learners. Dana and Linsey break down common fears around homeschooling, like not being "qualified," managing costs, and working while teaching. They discuss how to make learning more natural, how screens can help (or hurt), and what daily life can really look like—from toddlers to teens. Whether you’re curious about alternatives to school or ready to dive into homeschooling, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and encouragement. Link Mentioned in the Show: Healthy Habits for Digital Kids Free Downloadable Guide - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/free-guide-managing-adhd-and-screen-time Symptom Reduction Tool - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/tool Key Takeaways: [3:07] Why Homeschooling for ADHD? [3:57] Breaking the Homeschooling Myths [7:51] What a Homeschool Day Looks Like [12:45] Costs and Curriculum Choices [17:09] Homeschooling Younger vs. Older Kids [29:13] Screen Time & Online Learning [31:57] Finding Support and Community [35:11] Taking the First Step Memorable Moments: "They're already putting in the work. Homeschooling just makes it intentional." "You're not failing if you need a break." "Most kids don't need formal schooling at age three—what they need is curiosity." "Self-paced learning lets you ride the waves." "Use their natural interests to spark real education." "Homeschooling isn't about being a teacher—it's about being a guide." "Parents with ADHD kids are already doing so much—they’re just missing control." "It’s not about replacing school; it’s about redefining education." "Online learning needs supervision—but it can work beautifully." "Before you choose curriculum, figure out the logistics." How to Connect with Linsey Knerl: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lknerl/ Website: https://www.lillepunkin.com/ Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/ Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY
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162: How Concussions Mimic ADHD with Nate Pope
In this week’s episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay uncovers a surprising root cause of ADHD symptoms that most parents and even practitioners overlook—past head injuries. Joined by neurological occupational therapist and co-founder of NCX Brain Recovery, Nate Pope, the conversation explores the profound and often hidden impact concussions can have on a child's focus, emotional regulation, and behavior. From post-concussion syndrome to powerful recovery therapies, Nate shares his expertise on how to identify these injuries and why they are frequently misdiagnosed as ADHD. Dana Kay, a board-certified holistic health and nutrition practitioner, is passionate about helping families uncover the real reasons behind their child's struggles. Through her ADHD Thrive Institute and expert interviews like this one, she empowers parents with the tools and insights they need to support their children naturally and effectively. Tune in to learn how to tell if your child’s ADHD symptoms might actually stem from a past head injury—and what you can do today to help them heal and thrive. Link Mentioned in the Show: ADHD Fast Class - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl Key Takeaways: [2:03] Introduction to Brain Injury and ADHD [2:40] Nate Pope’s Expertise and Background [3:08] Differentiating ADHD from Head Trauma [3:17] Symptoms of Post-Concussion Syndrome [5:01] Myths About Concussion Recovery [24:07] Functional Brain Therapy Strategies [28:01] How NCX Brain Recovery Works [27:49] Empowering Families with Practical Tools [28:35] Final Tips for Parents Memorable Moments: “What if the real culprit was something that no one ever told you to check for—a past head injury?” “There’s a lot of kids walking around out there that the parents don’t know and the kids don’t know—but they've got symptoms.” “When your brain’s not quite working right, the quality of everything kind of drops.” “Post-concussion syndrome can look a lot like ADHD.” “Our brain can compensate, but it’s not designed to do that long term.” “Don’t go in a dark place and do nothing—we call it cocooning.” “The brain has a really hard time being imbalanced when you make it process multiple things simultaneously.” “If your focus issues are related to that, then that’s one of the best ways to re-engage the areas that are inactive.” “Families are a great vehicle for helping kids change—doing stuff with your kids is powerful.” “You’re not imagining things. Their body may be sending out very real distress signals.” How to Connect with Nate Pope: Website: https://www.ncxbrainrecovery.com/ Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/ Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY
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30:26
161: Could This Gut Bacteria Be Fueling ADHD Symptoms with Dana Kay
In this eye-opening episode of The Soaring Child, host Dana Kay explores a hidden root cause of ADHD symptoms that most parents (and even doctors) overlook—Clostridia overgrowth, specifically C. diff. If your child struggles with meltdowns, mood swings, anxiety, or sleep issues—and nothing has worked—this episode could be a game-changer. Dana breaks down what C. diff is, how it affects neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, and why many kids are being misdiagnosed when the real problem lies in their gut. Dana Kay is an ADHD health practitioner, author, and mom who has helped over 1,500 families through her ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids program. In this episode, she shares real-life stories, scientific explanations, and actionable solutions—including the power of the Organic Acids Test and a gut-healing probiotic blend called Gut Restore Essentials. Whether you're just beginning your ADHD journey or feeling stuck, this episode will give you practical next steps and a renewed sense of hope. Link Mentioned in the Show: My Favorite Place to Buy Supplements - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplements Functional Lab Testing Video - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/lab-testing-for-adhd1 Gut Restore Essentials Cheat Sheet - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplement-for-adhd-gut-restore-essentials Gut Restore Essentials - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/gut-restore-essentials.html Links to Previous Episodes in this Supplements for ADHD Series: Magnesium - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-93/ Saffron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-136/ GABA - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-137/ L-Theanine - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-142/ Bio Essentials - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-144/ Omegas - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-146/ Iron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-148/ Zinc - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-152/ Vitamin D - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-150/ Zembrin - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-154/ Herbs - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-156/ Why Most Popular ADHD Supplements Don’t Work - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-158/ Key Takeaways: [3:40] The Hidden Role of C. diff in ADHD [3:52] What Is Clostridia and Why It Matters [4:56] Symptoms That Point to Gut Imbalance [7:23] The Dopamine–Norepinephrine Connection [9:37] Why OAT Testing Is So Powerful [15:04] Gut Restore Essentials and Natural Support [18:07] Action Steps for Parents [18:46] The Importance of Functional Testing [19:14] Final Encouragement and Where to Go Next Memorable Moments: What if your child’s explosive meltdowns had nothing to do with behavior and everything to do with a hidden bacteria in their gut? C. diff is like a bully in the gut—pushing around the good bacteria and creating chaos. Many of these symptoms are misdiagnosed as behavioral or emotional problems—but the real issue is sometimes biological. This exact scenario has been observed on Organic Acids Tests. Dopamine xcess can be linked to hyperactivity, agitation, or even psychotic-like behavior. No amount of parenting strategies or therapy will work until we address what’s happening in the gut. The OAT test gives us a window into gut bacteria, neurotransmitter imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and more. This test is a simple urine test you can do from home. Most pediatricians are not looking at the gut when it comes to ADHD symptoms. You are not imagining things. Their body may be sending out very real distress signals. Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/ Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY
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21:12
160: Move to Focus with Rob Owen
In this episode of The Soaring Child, host Dana Kay sits down with Rob Owen—former school principal and expert in mindfulness-based movement—to explore a transformative approach to helping kids with ADHD thrive. Rob shares his remarkable journey from a traumatic car accident to discovering the power of Tai Chi and Qigong, and how these ancient practices became a game-changer for students struggling with focus, emotional regulation, and restlessness in the classroom. Dana and Rob unpack how movement, breath, and focus can be seamlessly integrated to support children both at home and at school. This episode is full of practical, science-backed strategies that educators and parents can start implementing right away. Dana Kay, an ADHD health practitioner and passionate advocate for natural approaches, brings another insightful conversation aimed at helping families unlock their child’s full potential—without added stress. Link Mentioned in the Show: Free Breakfast Guide: http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/breakfastguide Key Takeaways: [2:36] Rob Owen’s Personal Healing Journey [7:51] Movement in the Classroom: From Chaos to Calm [8:47] How Mindful Movement Improves Focus and Regulation [11:32] Simple At-Home Strategies for Parents [18:31] Bringing Movement into Schools [24:07] Modeling Behavior and Creating Consistent Practice [24:34] Practical Tips for Immediate Implementation [29:45] Where to Learn More from Rob Owen Memorable Moments: Imagine sitting in a classroom where chaos reigns. What if the key to focus wasn’t actually sitting still but moving? Embedded in Tai Chi and Qigong are tools to develop a refinement of your energy. They gave me 10 boys… bouncing off the walls. I found that breath, movement, and focus have to be together. The mind is at the bottom of the feet. This practice is for standing up. Attach a movement to one of those already pre-made behaviors. Model for your child, because you’re the one. Start small, start modeling… and see what happens. How to Connect with Rob Owen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/move_2_focus/ Website: https://move2focus.com/ Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/ Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY
Here is a place where you will learn how to address your child's ADHD symptoms naturally so you can stop walking on eggshells & bring back peace & calm to your home.
Hosted Dana Kay, board certified health & nutrition practitioner, author of the best selling book Thriving with ADHD, leading ADHD expert but most importantly a mom with a child with ADHD who gets it. As a mother of a child with ADHD, she knows firsthand the struggles that come with parenting a neurodiverse child & the freedom that is possible once parents learn to reduce ADHD symptoms. Dana has been featured in Forbes, on Fox & CBS, & various other online media. She has also been a guest at multiple parenting & ADHD summits & podcasts.
Her goal with the Soaring child is to give hope & answers to parents of children with ADHD who are looking for alternative (natural) and effective means of helping them learn to thrive at home, at school, and in life.
Because children with ADHD deserve to soar, just like every other child.
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