Whitney opens up about navigating the complexities of ADHD, mental health support, and her ongoing journey of self-discovery. Recorded in her childhood bedroom, she shares her frustrations with medical providers, the challenges of managing ADHD, and the societal gaps in supporting those with mental health needs. Reflecting on dark moments, the impact of community, and the importance of validation, Whitney discusses coping strategies, her experiences with rejection-sensitive dysphoria, and the solace she finds in creating deep, meaningful connections. Join her as she candidly explores these sensitive topics, encouraging listeners to seek support and find resilience in their unique journeys.

Key Takeaways:

1. ADHD Journey: Whitney’s exploration of ADHD as a recognized disability and her experiences with medical support.
2. Mental Health Obstacles: Discussing difficulties in accessing care while traveling and the impact of dismissive medical experiences.
3. Community and Connection: How connecting with others who understand can be a lifeline during dark times.
4. Beyond Measure: Insights into Whitney’s supportive, private community, and the importance of having a safe space for sharing personal struggles.
5. Finding Balance in Life's Pace: The constant battle between needing both stimulation and rest and the importance of slowing down to savor meaningful moments.

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In this episode, Whitney reflects on her ongoing road trip, her camping experiences in Rhode Island, a memorable Hans Zimmer concert, bike trips, a bad experience with a psychiatrist, and more. She shares personal insights about managing ADHD, experimenting with Adderall, and the dynamics of emotional wellbeing. Whitney also discusses her renewed engagement with TikTok and the impact of global events on her perspective. Emphasizing authenticity, she explores how embracing one's natural rhythm and being true to oneself is vital, especially amidst societal pressures and curated lives. Between recounting serene moments and confronting reality, Whitney invites listeners to connect with her and join the conversation about life's complexities.

https://www.tiktok.com/@whitlauritsen

Join the Beyond Measure community today: https://whitneylauritsen.com/beyond-measure/

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In this episode, Whitney reflects on her ongoing road trip from her van parked in her parents' driveway in Massachusetts. She discusses visiting friends, navigating unexpected situations, and using various travel gear. Highlights include attending the Newtopia trade show in Denver, experiencing immersive art at MeowWolf, and spontaneous trips to Rocky Mountain National Park and Acadia National Park.

01:07 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Travel

03:28 Van Life vs. Traditional Travel

05:14 Unexpected Challenges and Realizations

12:15 Trade Show Adventures in Denver at Newtopia

13:05 Exploring Meow Wolf and Making Connections

19:01 Highlights from the Trade Show

32:58 Yoga at Red Rocks and Spontaneous Elk Adventure

34:11 Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park

38:49 Cracker Barrel and Indianapolis Visit

43:01 Family Crisis in Cleveland

48:32 Camping in Maine and Acadia National Park

55:02 Gear Talk and Shopping at Sierra

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Whitney, broadcasting from a Cracker Barrel parking lot in Illinois, shares her journey back to Colorado, following a trip to Cleveland for a family memorial. Discussing the nuances of van life, accessibility challenges at amusement parks, and considerations about carrying a gun for safety, Whitney delves into her experiences with neurodivergence and the complexities of public spaces. She also reflects on her nostalgic visit to Cedar Point and the discriminatory experiences faced by her family. She touches upon her plan to attend the Newtopia trade show in Denver and her deep emotions stirred by the Democratic National Convention.

Whitney shares her experiences traveling in her new van from Los Angeles across the country with her dog, Evie. She talks about the sense of grounding and clarity she feels on the road, the mental challenges she's faced, and the balance she's trying to achieve between work and relaxation. Whitney reflects on her neurodivergence and the evolving understanding of herself over time. Additionally, she recounts her stops in Utah and Colorado, a flat tire incident, navigating through thunderstorms, and attending a OneRepublic concert. Whitney also touches on safety considerations while traveling alone and the overall joy and freedom her van life brings.

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Whitney opens up about her recent experience with ADHD management, including adjusting her medication with the help of her psychiatrist. She talks about the challenges, such as dealing with dysphraxia and the emotional impacts of feeling different. Whitney also shares her decision to buy a camper van for her upcoming annual road trip, detailing the extensive research and financial considerations involved. Additionally, she talks about the importance of self-acceptance and how her new ventures, are shaping her future.

00:26 ADHD Medication Update

06:39 Exploring the Effects of Adderall

10:21 Therapy and Neurodivergence

19:57 Camper Van Journey Begins

44:15 Preparing for Van Life

53:32 Investing in Essential Gear

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Whitney shares updates about her mental health, creative blocks, and the significance of physical and emotional therapy in her life. She gets vulnerable about content creation and her recent experiences with ADHD diagnosis and medication. She reflects on the challenges of self-awareness, body image, and the journey of exploring neurodivergence. Additionally, Whitney discusses her efforts to find balance in managing work and personal life.

01:12 Content Creation Struggles

05:02 Physical Therapy Journey

07:00 Neurodivergence Exploration

10:13 ADHD Evaluation Process

23:17 Emotional Support Animals and Mental Health

30:38 Medication and Self-Advocacy

33:12 Exploring Medication

37:35 The Impact of Stimulants on Daily Life

44:02 Struggles with Food and Cravings

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In this episode, Whitney recounts of her three-week trip exploring the national parks of Hawaii and American Samoa. She goes into detail on the planning process, the financial ease she experienced, and adventures had at nature spots like Maui's Road to Hana and American Samoa's island of Ofu. She also touches on personal milestones, such as paying off her car loan, and the importance of respecting local cultures. Reflecting on the balance between work and travel, Whitney discusses personal growth, connections made, and the dualities of feeling both relaxed and challenged. Join her for enriching stories and lessons on ease, spiritual connection, and the impacts of travel.

07:05 Trip Preparations

20:37 Exploring Maui: Road to Hana and Camping

31:15 Big Island Adventures: Volcanoes and Spiritual Connections

46:08 Oahu Surprises: Glamping and Pearl Harbor

54:24 Adventures in American Samoa

01:04:57 Cultural Immersion and Local Cuisine

01:14:47 Final Island: Kauai

01:23:12 Reflections on Travel and Personal Growth

Mentioned (affiliate links used):

• Owen Beiny episode: https://podcast.wellevatr.com/life-changing-advice-on-credit-cards-celebrity-and-coffee-with-owen-beiny
• America the Beautiful Pass: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tool_type=cl&merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&website_id=cb108bda-c46a-4843-be9f-40db97e01187&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F234584%2Famerica-the-beautiful-pass-20242025
• Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tool_type=cl&merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&website_id=cb108bda-c46a-4843-be9f-40db97e01187&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F215176%2Fpatagonia-torrentshell-3l-jacket-womens
• Hiking Umbrella - https://amzn.to/4cksqO0
• Tevas: https://amzn.to/3KSJpv4
• Snorkel Set: https://amzn.to/3XqsAPv
• HipCamp: hipcamp.com/r/whitneyelsa
• Happy Cow: https://www.happycow.net/
• Car Phone Holder Mount: https://amzn.to/3RADVsF
• Cabeau neck pillow: https://amzn.to/4bdbzvt
• Aeropress: https://amzn.to/4eyr6Zt
• Porlex Mini Grinder: https://amzn.to/4cwqSR1

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Whitney struggles with feelings of vulnerability and ignorance while addressing the major conflict in Palestine. She navigates her privilege and the discomfort accompanying her expanding awareness of global issues through using TikTok again. The episode covers the complexities of global suffering, personal guilt associated with privilege, efforts toward social justice, and the nuanced process of becoming more educated and engaged in current global issues.

Whitney also shares a few personal updates and the importance of self-care amidst social responsibilities.

Check out Operation Olive Branch, a grassroots movement to support & amplify aid requests of Palestinian families: https://linktr.ee/opolivebranch

01:27 A Deep Dive into the Palestine Situation and Personal Awakening

05:44 Exploring the Complexities of Privilege and Social Responsibility

14:30 The Struggle with Consumerism and Planning for Mindful Travel

31:37 Personal Health and Self-Care Amidst Global Awareness

37:06 Closing Thoughts and the Path Forward

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Whitney openly talks about her insecurities related to podcast length, body image, aging, and the judgments of others. Her exploration touches on the struggles with disordered eating, societal pressures, and the desire for authenticity in various aspects of life, including online dating experiences and societal metrics of success. Whitney reflects on the importance of self-acceptance and the difficulty of shedding the mental weight of others' opinions. The episode also touches on her passion for travel and potential future content, revealing her constant battle with balancing authentic expression and societal expectations.

01:24 Exploring the Challenge of Keeping Episodes Short

03:37 Navigating Personal Insecurities and Social Perceptions

06:17 The Impact of Social Media and the Job Market on Self-Perception

09:17 Facing Age and Body Image Concerns Through Personal Stories

15:21 The Quest for Self-Acceptance Amidst External Judgments

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