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Motherhood comes with an enormous mental load but what happens when ADHD is part of the picture?

In this episode of Thriving with ADHD, Nada talks with Maddison Henley, PA-C, CAQ-PSY, about why motherhood can make previously manageable ADHD symptoms feel much harder to cope with. They explore why some women only recognize their ADHD after becoming mothers, the role of sleep deprivation, sensory overload and changing routines, and how to distinguish ADHD from the everyday overwhelm of parenting.

Maddison also discusses how pregnancy, postpartum changes and hormonal shifts can affect ADHD symptoms, the impact of undiagnosed ADHD on self-esteem and relationships, and the treatment and practical strategies that can make everyday life more manageable.

Most importantly, this episode offers an important reminder for mothers with ADHD: struggling with executive functioning is not a measure of how much you love your children or how good of a mom you are. If life feels harder than it seems to for everyone else, you don't have to simply try harder or criticize yourself more. Understanding what's behind those challenges can be the first step toward getting the right support.

Thank you for listening to Thriving with ADHD. This show is produced by Animo Sano Psychiatry. For more information about our clinic, please visit animosanopsychiatry.com. 

Animo Sano Psychiatry is constantly looking for the talent in behavioral health. If you are a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health therapist, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our Careers pages to learn more about the available positions. https://animosanopsychiatry.com/careers/ 

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Why do I keep starting over? If you've ever felt like you're constantly rebuilding routines, restarting healthy habits, or struggling to stay consistent, you're not alone.

In this episode of Thriving with ADHD, host Nada Pupovac is joined by Breanna Perry, LMSW, therapist at Animo Sano Psychiatry, to explore the ADHD reset cycle—why it happens, how shame and perfectionism keep us stuck, and how to create routines that work with your ADHD brain instead of against it.

Together, they discuss practical strategies for building sustainable habits, finding intrinsic motivation, and replacing self-criticism with self-compassion.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why people with ADHD often feel like they're constantly starting over
• How to tell whether a routine needs adjusting or you've simply fallen out of it
• Why guilt and shame can make it harder to get back on track
• The difference between perfection and progress
• How to create ADHD-friendly routines that are easier to maintain
• Simple ways to make everyday tasks more motivating and rewarding

Whether you've restarted your exercise routine, planner, self-care habits, or household systems dozens of times, this episode offers encouragement and practical tools to help you move forward—one small step at a time.

Thank you for listening to Thriving with ADHD. This show is produced by Animo Sano Psychiatry. For more information about our clinic, please visit animosanopsychiatry.com. 

Animo Sano Psychiatry is constantly looking for the talent in behavioral health. If you are a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health therapist, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our Careers pages to learn more about the available positions. https://animosanopsychiatry.com/careers/ 

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What happens when success on the outside hides a very different reality on the inside?

In this powerful episode of Thriving with ADHD, host Nada Pupovac speaks with Jason McDaid, fire engineer, speaker, and founder of The 78% Club. Jason shares his deeply personal journey of living with undiagnosed ADHD, battling imposter syndrome, and carrying what he calls Hidden Cognitive Strain—the invisible mental and emotional effort required to keep performing while quietly struggling beneath the surface.

Together, they explore the connection between ADHD and self-doubt, the impact of late diagnosis, perfectionism, professional identity, and the importance of reaching out for support.

This conversation is honest, vulnerable, and ultimately hopeful for anyone who has ever felt like they were secretly failing despite appearing successful.

⚠️ Content Note: This episode contains discussion of depression, burnout, suicidal ideation, and mental health struggles. Listener discretion is advised.

Learn more about Jason and The 78% Club at 78percentclub.com.

Thank you for listening to Thriving with ADHD. This show is produced by Animo Sano Psychiatry. For more information about our clinic, please visit animosanopsychiatry.com. 

Animo Sano Psychiatry is constantly looking for the talent in behavioral health. If you are a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health therapist, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our Careers pages to learn more about the available positions. https://animosanopsychiatry.com/careers/ 

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Many adults struggle to understand whether their symptoms point to ADHD, anxiety, or a combination of both. Difficulty focusing, racing thoughts, restlessness, overwhelm, and trouble getting things done can all show up in both conditions which is why distinguishing between them is not always straightforward.

In this episode of Thriving with ADHD, Nada sits down with Carolyn 'Callie' Kundert, PA-C at Animo Sano Psychiatry to unpack the complex relationship between ADHD and anxiety. Together, they explore why anxiety is often diagnosed first, how ADHD can sometimes be overlooked or masked, and how clinicians work to tell the difference between the two conditions.

Callie also explains:

•  Common symptoms shared by ADHD and anxiety 
•  Why untreated ADHD can contribute to anxiety over time 
•  How ADHD and anxiety can interact and reinforce each other 
•  What clinicians look for during assessment 
•  Differences in treatment approaches for ADHD, anxiety, or both conditions together 
•  Why getting evaluated by a trained professional matters 

This episode offers practical insight, validation, and hope for anyone trying to better understand their mental health and the way their brain works.

Whether you’ve been diagnosed, are exploring your symptoms, or simply want to learn more, this conversation helps clarify one of the most common areas of confusion in adult mental health.

For more information about Animo Sano Psychiatry, visit our website.

Thank you for listening to Thriving with ADHD. This show is produced by Animo Sano Psychiatry. For more information about our clinic, please visit animosanopsychiatry.com. 

Animo Sano Psychiatry is constantly looking for the talent in behavioral health. If you are a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health therapist, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our Careers pages to learn more about the available positions. https://animosanopsychiatry.com/careers/ 

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In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, distracted, or burned out. But how do you know when it might be ADHD rather than just everyday life?

In this episode of Thriving with ADHD, host Nada Pupovac is joined by Dr. Jennifer Dall, a Grief-Informed Neurodivergence Specialist and founder of ADHD Holistically. Together, they explore how to distinguish between normal life stress and ADHD, and why so many people — especially women — go years without recognizing the signs.

Dr. Jennifer shares both her professional expertise and personal experience of being diagnosed with ADHD in her 50s, offering a compassionate and practical perspective on understanding your brain, recognizing patterns, and managing daily life with more ease.

You’ll learn:

•  How to tell the difference between ADHD and everyday overwhelm 
•  Common behaviors that are often misunderstood or mislabelled 
•  Why patterns and consistency matter 
•  Practical tools and mindset shifts to reduce overwhelm 
•  What to do if you think you might have ADHD 

This episode is for anyone who has ever wondered: Is it ADHD… or is it just life?

Dr. Jennifer Dall's website and social media links:

• Website: https://adhdholistically.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhd.holistically
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/ADHDHolistically/100077667853992/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-dall-ed-d-226857317/

Thank you for listening to Thriving with ADHD. This show is produced by Animo Sano Psychiatry. For more information about our clinic, please visit animosanopsychiatry.com. 

Animo Sano Psychiatry is constantly looking for the talent in behavioral health. If you are a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health therapist, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our Careers pages to learn more about the available positions. https://animosanopsychiatry.com/careers/ 

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When most people think about ADHD, they imagine missed deadlines, disorganization, or academic struggles. But many adults with ADHD are highly accomplished - building businesses, leading teams, and performing at high levels while quietly struggling behind the scenes.

In this episode of Thriving With ADHD, host Nada Pupovac is joined by Maren Londahl-Smidt, LCSW, a therapist and coach who works with entrepreneurs, professionals, and high-performing adults navigating ADHD.

Together they explore the “successful but struggling” paradox - why many high achievers with ADHD go undiagnosed for years and how masking, perfectionism, and hyperfocus can both support and strain performance.

Maren shares insights from her clinical work and lived experience with ADHD, along with practical strategies to help high achievers move from hustle and burnout toward sustainable success.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why high achievers often receive ADHD diagnoses later in life
• The hidden emotional cost of masking ADHD symptoms
• Hyperfocus: when it’s a superpower and when it leads to burnout
• ADHD, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome
• Coping patterns like overwork, people-pleasing, and adrenaline dependence
• How to build sustainable routines and protect mental health
• Practical tools for executive function and productivity

If you’re a high performer who feels like you’re constantly working twice as hard to keep everything together, this episode will resonate.

Thank you for listening to Thriving with ADHD. This show is produced by Animo Sano Psychiatry. For more information about our clinic, please visit animosanopsychiatry.com. 

Animo Sano Psychiatry is constantly looking for the talent in behavioral health. If you are a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health therapist, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our Careers pages to learn more about the available positions. https://animosanopsychiatry.com/careers/ 

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In this February episode of Thriving With ADHD, we’re going back to basics - unpacking what ADHD really is, how it’s diagnosed, what’s happening in the ADHD brain, and what actually helps.

Joining Nada is Whitney Kost, PA-C, physician assistant at Animo Sano Psychiatry, who brings clinical insight and practical experience from working closely with adults navigating ADHD and other mental health challenges.

Together, they explore:

• What ADHD diagnostic criteria actually involve
• The difference between ADD and ADHD
• Types of ADHD and how they show up in daily life
• Symptom overlap with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders
• Common everyday struggles adults report
• What’s happening neurologically in the ADHD brain
• Treatment options - medication, therapy, coaching, and lifestyle supports
• Persistent myths and misconceptions about ADHD

Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone with ADHD, or simply looking for a clearer understanding, this episode offers grounded, reassuring education without overwhelm.

Thriving With ADHD is brought to you by Animo Sano Psychiatry, a behavioral health practice with a specialist ADHD clinic based in North Carolina.

Thank you for listening to Thriving with ADHD. This show is produced by Animo Sano Psychiatry. For more information about our clinic, please visit animosanopsychiatry.com. 

Animo Sano Psychiatry is constantly looking for the talent in behavioral health. If you are a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health therapist, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our Careers pages to learn more about the available positions. https://animosanopsychiatry.com/careers/ 

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Medication, Therapy, or Both? Understanding ADHD Treatment Options for Kids

Breaking down misconceptions and supporting confident, informed decisions

When a child is diagnosed with ADHD, one of the first, and often most overwhelming, questions parents face is: What is the right treatment? Medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both?

In this episode of Thriving with ADHD, host Nada Pupovac is joined by Dr. Karen Melendez, Clinical Advisor and Supervising Physician at Animo Sano Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinic, to gently and clearly unpack the realities of ADHD treatment for children.

Together, they explore:

• How stimulant medication actually works in the ADHD brain
• Common fears around medication, including addiction, growth, and side effects
• When psychotherapy alone may not be enough
• What a balanced, multimodal treatment approach looks like in real life
• How structure, school support, sleep, nutrition, and family dynamics all play a role
• Why untreated ADHD can carry greater long-term risks than many parents realize

Dr. Melendez shares practical examples, clinical insights, and compassionate guidance to help parents move from fear and confusion to clarity and confidence.

Whether you’re just beginning your ADHD journey with your child or looking to reassess your current approach, this episode offers reassurance, evidence-based information, and a reminder that you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Thank you for listening to Thriving with ADHD. This show is produced by Animo Sano Psychiatry. For more information about our clinic, please visit animosanopsychiatry.com. 

Animo Sano Psychiatry is constantly looking for the talent in behavioral health. If you are a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health therapist, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our Careers pages to learn more about the available positions. https://animosanopsychiatry.com/careers/ 

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Host: Nada Pupovac | Guest: Dr. Ronald Lee, MD (Luminous Vitality Behavioral Health)

The holidays can feel like a perfect storm for adults with ADHD. Routines get disrupted, sensory and social demands ramp up, and executive function takes a hit. In this episode of Thriving with ADHD, Nada Pupovac sits down with board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Ronald Lee to unpack why the season is especially tricky and, more importantly, what you can do about it.

Dr. Lee explains how disrupted sleep, cluttered schedules, travel, family dynamics, and sensory overload amplify ADHD symptoms and emotional reactivity. Then he offers clear, practical tools you can use right away: visual calendars and chunked task lists, scheduled “anchor” routines (sleep, meds, movement), short breaks and recharge rituals, simple scripts for setting boundaries, travel tips for medication, and the power of lowering perfectionism to make room for joy.

If the holidays leave you tired, scattered, or people-pleasing, this episode brings compassionate, actionable advice so you can protect your energy, stay present, and actually enjoy meaningful moments.

Thank you for listening to Thriving with ADHD. This show is produced by Animo Sano Psychiatry. For more information about our clinic, please visit animosanopsychiatry.com. 

Animo Sano Psychiatry is constantly looking for the talent in behavioral health. If you are a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health therapist, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our Careers pages to learn more about the available positions. https://animosanopsychiatry.com/careers/ 

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In this inspiring episode of Thriving with ADHD, host Nada Pupovac sits down with Brock Carter, Physician Assistant at Animo Sano Psychiatry and office lead for the Tennessee branch, who’s not only a mental health clinician but also a passionate musician and producer. Together, they explore the fascinating link between ADHD and creativity how divergent thinking, impulsivity, and curiosity can both fuel and challenge creative expression.

Brock shares his perspective on embracing ADHD as a different operating system rather than a deficit, and how creativity can serve as a form of self-regulation, therapy, and empowerment. From navigating creative highs and lows to learning to “strike while the iron is hot,” this episode is filled with compassion, insight, and encouragement for anyone who’s ever felt frustrated by their creative rhythm.

Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone with a curious mind, you’ll walk away reminded that creativity doesn’t have an expiration date, and that your mind works in seasons, not on a stopwatch.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

• How ADHD traits like curiosity and impulsivity can spark creativity
• The challenges of follow-through and structure in creative work
• Why creativity can be therapeutic for ADHD minds
• Practical ways to honor your natural creative rhythm
• How clinicians can encourage creative outlets in ADHD treatment

Thank you for listening to Thriving with ADHD. This show is produced by Animo Sano Psychiatry. For more information about our clinic, please visit animosanopsychiatry.com. 

Animo Sano Psychiatry is constantly looking for the talent in behavioral health. If you are a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or mental health therapist, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our Careers pages to learn more about the available positions. https://animosanopsychiatry.com/careers/