The Executive Function Podcast for Student Success | Untapped Learning

What if the key to unlocking focus, motivation, and productivity wasn’t medication, but movement? Dr. John Ratey, Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, has spent decades researching the connection between movement and brain function. His groundbreaking book Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain changed the way we think about exercise—not just as something for physical health, but as essential for cognitive performance, ADHD management, and even mental health.

In this conversation, Dr. Ratey explains how movement is medicine—boosting attention, improving mood, and even combating procrastination. From structured workouts to small bursts of activity throughout the day, exercise fuels the brain and enhances executive function.Dr. Ratey shares incredible insights, including:

✅ Why movement helps ADHD brains focus

✅ How exercise combats procrastination & distraction

✅ Why physical activity is critical for academic performance

✅ The best types of exercise for brain health

The research is clear: If you want to optimize your brain, start moving. Want to take it further? Click the link below to learn more about how movement impacts executive function!

If you or your student are interested in learning more about what Untapped Learning has to offer, visit us at:

Website: https://untappedlearning.com/

FREE resource: https://untappedlearning.com/the-power-of-movement-enhancing-learning/

This interview was hosted by Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning, and edited/produced by Nathan Weinberg.

ADHD isn't about laziness or a lack of intelligence—it's about executive function. In this interview, Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning, sits down with Roxanne Turner, Founder and CEO of RBT Coaching, to explore how students can build executive function skills to take ownership of their success.

Roxanne Turner, a Certified ADHD Professional and Executive Function Coach, helps students shift from feeling stuck to developing the skills they need for time management, organization, and motivation. In this conversation, she and Brandon discuss:

✅How executive function challenges are often mistaken for character flaws

✅ Why curiosity and relationships are the foundation of effective coaching

✅ The "passenger to driver" transition from high school to college

✅ How parents can support independence without micromanaging

✅ The power of accountability—why students need ownership, not just reminders

Whether you're a student, parent, or educator, this interview will give you a fresh perspective on ADHD and executive function.

If you or your student are interested in learning more about what Untapped Learning has to offer, visit us at:

Website: https://untappedlearning.com/

FREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/

This interview was hosted by Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning, and edited/produced by Nathan Weinberg.

Starting college is a big transition—especially for neurodiverse students. In this episode, Sydney, a second-year student at the University of Colorado Boulder, shares how she navigated the shift from high school to college with the support of her mentor, Maddie.

Together, they discuss the importance of executive function skills, self-advocacy, and building routines to balance academics, work, and social life.

Sydney opens up about her journey in securing accommodations, using tools like ChatGPT to streamline learning, and stepping outside her comfort zone to make meaningful connections on campus.

Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, this conversation offers practical insights into overcoming college challenges and setting up a foundation for success.

Tune in to learn how mentorship, structure, and the right strategies can transform the college experience.

If you or your student are interested in learning more about what Untapped Learning has to offer, visit us at:

Website: https://untappedlearning.com/

FREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/

This podcast is hosted by Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning, conducted by Maddie Webb, Mentor at Untapped Learning, and edited/produced by Nathan Weinberg, head videographer.

Transitioning from high school to college is challenging for any student, but for student-athletes, the leap is even greater. Managing academics, athletics, and mental well-being requires discipline, structure, and executive function skills—but many athletes don’t realize just how important these skills are until they struggle.

In this episode, we sit down with Grant Green, a University of Tampa lacrosse player, to talk about what it really takes to succeed as a student-athlete.

Grant shares his journey as an All-State high school lacrosse player who moved across the country from Colorado to Florida, the mental and academic hurdles he faced, and the strategies that helped him stay ahead. From embracing structure and using campus resources to learning how to prioritize tasks and avoid burnout, he breaks down the mindset shifts that made the biggest difference.

If you’re a high school athlete preparing for college, a current student-athlete looking to improve balance, or a coach/parent supporting young athletes, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Hit play now and start setting yourself up for success—both on and off the field!

If you or your student are interested in learning more about what Untapped Learning has to offer, visit us at:

Website: https://untappedlearning.com/

FREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/

This interview was hosted by Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning, and edited/produced by Nathan Weinberg.

In this episode, we sit down with Shawna Warner, parenting coach and founder of Cultivating Resilient Teens, to discuss the challenges teens face when developing resilience, independence, and executive function skills. Shawna shares insights on how parents can support their children without stepping in to "fix" everything, the power of allowing kids to navigate their own struggles, and the importance of advocating for their unique learning styles.

We dive into real-life examples, from missed homework to social struggles, and explore how small mindset shifts can make a big impact. Plus, Shawna introduces her simple yet powerful La La framework—Learn, Acknowledge, Lean In, and Advocate—to help parents and teens embrace their strengths and build confidence.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or student looking for strategies to foster resilience, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

🔗 Find Shawna Warner at: CultivatingResilientTeens.com

🎧 For more resources on executive function skills, visit: UntappedLearning.com

If you found this episode helpful, rate us 5 stars and share it with someone who could benefit!

FREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/

This interview was hosted by Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning, and edited/produced by Nathan Weinberg.

The college application process can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, we’re joined by Stefanie Esposito, Founder of Clearstory College Counseling, who has guided over 700 students and their families through the college search and application process.

We discuss:

- How to find the right college fit (beyond rankings!)

- What parents should focus on during the admissions process

- The biggest mistakes students & parents make—and how to avoid them

- How executive function skills impact college applications- The power of a growth mindset in navigating college choices

- The role of gap years and how they can benefit students

- How to build an organized, stress-free college application plan

Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help make the college journey smoother.

Tune in now and take control of the college admissions process!

For more resources and guidance, visit UntappedLearning.com

FREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/

This interview was hosted by Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning, and edited/produced by Nathan Weinberg.

Are executive function challenges holding you back? In this episode, we sit down with Monica Werner—therapist, executive function coach, and co-author of Unstuck and On Target—to explore practical strategies for building flexibility, problem-solving skills, and independence.

What you'll learn:

- How executive function impacts daily life (and what to do about it)- Why flexibility is the secret sauce to overcoming obstacles

- The power of self-advocacy for neurodivergent individuals

- How parents and teachers can model executive function skills

- Actionable strategies from the Unstuck and On Target curriculum

Monica shares insights from decades of experience supporting neurodivergent learners, including those with ADHD and Autism, helping them turn struggles into strengths. Whether you're a student, parent, or educator, this episode is packed with game-changing advice.

Listen now and start getting Unstuck!

Resources Mentioned:

Unstuck and On Target Website: https://www.unstuckandontarget.com/

FREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/

This interview was hosted by Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning, and edited/produced by Nathan Weinberg.

David Elkins traded the courtroom for the classroom—and he’s revolutionizing how we think about teaching. In this episode, we dive into David's innovative pre-law program for high schoolers, designed to mirror the rigor and engagement of law school.

Hear how David uses AI to design captivating mock trials, simplify complex legal concepts, and ignite critical thinking in his students. From leveraging 50 Cent’s legal battles to goat yoga in a mock trial, his storytelling approach is changing the game in education.

Discover how David empowers students, including those with ADHD and executive function challenges, to become confident thinkers and communicators. Whether you're an educator, parent, or lifelong learner, this episode will inspire you to reimagine what’s possible in the classroom.

Tune in for practical strategies, heartwarming success stories, and the passion of an educator who truly cares.

Share this episode with someone who could use fresh ideas for making learning come alive.

FREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/

This interview was hosted by Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning, and edited/produced by Nathan Weinberg.

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/untappedlearning

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@untappedlearning

Natalie Wilcox, a master's student specializing in neuroimmunology at Queen's University, shares her transformative journey from a perfectionist high schooler to a neuroscience expert who has mastered how to study effectively.

In this interview, Natalie delves into her experiences of balancing academics, extracurriculars, and personal growth, revealing the studying techniques that helped her succeed.

Learn how she uses active recall, visual notes, personal connections, and strategic breaks to study smarter, not harder. Whether it's leveraging tools like Quizlet or drawing flowcharts to simplify complex concepts, Natalie's insights are a game-changer for anyone looking to optimize their learning process.

Listen to discover her strategies, her reflections on perfectionism, and the one piece of advice she believes every student should hear.

Perfect for students, educators, and anyone passionate about improving memory and learning techniques!

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/untappedlearning

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@untappedlearning

FREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/

This interview was hosted by Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning, and edited/produced by Nathan Weinberg.

Ever wonder how to create a classroom environment where students feel confident and ready to learn? Shane Saeed, a nationally recognized educator, shares her strategies for using consistent lesson structures to engage neurodiverse learners and build a more inclusive classroom.

Routines and predictability are not just 'nice to have'—they're essential. Research shows that structured environments reduce anxiety, especially for students with ADHD or executive function challenges. When students know what to expect, they can focus on mastering the content instead of figuring out what’s happening next.

FREE downloadable resources: https://untappedlearning.com/resource-type/downloads/

In this interview, Shane explains how routines benefit both teachers and students:

• Increased Engagement: Students thrive when they know how to "show up" every day.
• Reduced Cognitive Load: Clear expectations let students focus on learning, not guessing.
• Easier Planning for Teachers: Consistent lesson structures simplify preparation, saving time and reducing burnout.

Shane also delves into additional impactful topics, offering actionable advice on:

• Incorporating movement into the classroom to boost focus and engagement.
• Strategies for helping students complete and turn in homework effectively.
• Tackling procrastination with manageable, practical interventions.
• Leveraging AI tools and school portals to streamline student success.
• Building meaningful relationships with parents through positive communication.

At Untapped Learning, we believe in equipping students with the skills to thrive in any environment, whether it’s breaking down complex projects into manageable steps or creating daily habits that lead to academic success. Shane’s approach aligns perfectly with these values, ensuring all students, regardless of ability, can shine in the classroom.

Discover why consistency isn’t boring—it’s transformational. Listen now to learn actionable tips for implementing routines that work for every learner!

This interview was hosted by Brandon Slade, Founder of Untapped Learning, and edited/produced by Nathan Weinberg.