279 episodes

I have NEVER met an ADHD woman who wasn't truly brilliant at something! **This podcast with over 5 million downloads is for smart, high-ability ADD/ADHD (diagnosed or suspecting) women who see their symptoms as more positive than negative. If you want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and discover where your brilliance lies, this podcast is for you! **ADHD for Smart Ass Women is globally ranked in the top one-half percent of all podcasts in the world on any subject. It's streamed in more than 160 countries and is downloaded by more than 150,000 listeners every month.**I’m Tracy Otsuka your host. I'm a lawyer, not a doctor, a life-long learner and a certified ADHD coach. I’m committed to changing the conversation around ADHD. **When I was diagnosed eight months after my son, my entire life suddenly made perfect sense but all I heard and read about was everything that my ADHD brain SHOULD be struggling with when in fact I would come to learn that my ADHD is responsible for some of my greatest superpowers. **One other thing, we constantly hear about all the successful ADHD men, but no one talks about the women. This podcast is here to change that dynamic. ADHD women are my people, and I’m here to acknowledge, support and cheer them on.***THE CONTENT IN THIS PODCAST IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS OR TREATMENT AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. NEVER DISREGARD PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY IN SEEKING IT BECAUSE OF ANYTHING YOU HAVE SEEN OR HEARD FROM TRACY OTSUKA OR THIS PODCAST.

ADHD for Smart Ass Women with Tracy Otsuka Tracy Otsuka

    • Health & Fitness
    • 4.8 • 1.3K Ratings

I have NEVER met an ADHD woman who wasn't truly brilliant at something! **This podcast with over 5 million downloads is for smart, high-ability ADD/ADHD (diagnosed or suspecting) women who see their symptoms as more positive than negative. If you want to fall in love with your ADHD brain and discover where your brilliance lies, this podcast is for you! **ADHD for Smart Ass Women is globally ranked in the top one-half percent of all podcasts in the world on any subject. It's streamed in more than 160 countries and is downloaded by more than 150,000 listeners every month.**I’m Tracy Otsuka your host. I'm a lawyer, not a doctor, a life-long learner and a certified ADHD coach. I’m committed to changing the conversation around ADHD. **When I was diagnosed eight months after my son, my entire life suddenly made perfect sense but all I heard and read about was everything that my ADHD brain SHOULD be struggling with when in fact I would come to learn that my ADHD is responsible for some of my greatest superpowers. **One other thing, we constantly hear about all the successful ADHD men, but no one talks about the women. This podcast is here to change that dynamic. ADHD women are my people, and I’m here to acknowledge, support and cheer them on.***THE CONTENT IN THIS PODCAST IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS OR TREATMENT AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. NEVER DISREGARD PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY IN SEEKING IT BECAUSE OF ANYTHING YOU HAVE SEEN OR HEARD FROM TRACY OTSUKA OR THIS PODCAST.

    EP. 273: Empowerment Beyond Misdiagnosis with Alyssa Fontaine

    EP. 273: Empowerment Beyond Misdiagnosis with Alyssa Fontaine

    Alyssa Fontaine's life story highlights the crucial need for mental health diagnosis and care accuracy. Misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder as a teenager, she faced the challenges of ADHD and medication mismanagement, which set her on a path to self-advocacy and profound change. This experience fueled her passion to support women entangled in cycles of incarceration and addiction and to lead a transformative cheerleading program in her hometown, demonstrating the power of empathy and proper care.

    In her current roles, Alyssa combines her journey with professional dedication. As a Community Support at Crossroads for Women and a Cheerleading Coach in Highland Hornets, she empowers women and children from her community to overcome mental health challenges and social barriers. In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, Alyssa and I put highlight on the impact of self-advocacy and community support, offering practical wisdom for those navigating similar struggles.

    This episode showcases triumph over misdiagnosis and advocates a relentless drive to empower others facing mental health challenges and social obstacles.
    Resources:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssafontaine89 Highland Hornets: https://www.instagram.com/highlandhornetscheerleading Crossroads for Women: https://crossroadsabq.org Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book

    Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

    Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka 

    • 1 hr
    EP. 272: Grieving and Healing through ADHD Perspective with Laurie Peterson, Anita Robertson, and Sandra Centorino

    EP. 272: Grieving and Healing through ADHD Perspective with Laurie Peterson, Anita Robertson, and Sandra Centorino

    Navigating grief can be a challenging and emotional journey, especially when coupled with the complexities of ADHD. However, it can also be an opportunity for growth and resilience. In this upcoming discussion, we'll hear from a group of remarkable women, including Sandra Centorino, the beacon of positivity, Laurie Peterson, an authority on ADHD and educational assessments, and Anita Robertson, the insightful psychotherapist, as they share their personal experiences of loss and how they have found ways to cope with the unique challenges of ADHD. Through their candid stories, we'll gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate executive function issues during times of crisis and find hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

    Laurie Peterson is the founder of Diagnostic Learning Services and eDiagnostic Learning. She helps students and adults with learning disabilities such as Dyslexia and ADHD.

    Anita Robertson is a licensed psychotherapist who specializes in Attachment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. She developed the ADHD Relationship Boot Camp and authored "ADHD & Us: A Couple’s Guide to Loving and Living with Adult ADHD."

    Sandra Centorino is a digital veteran with two decades of experience. She's known for her vibrant energy and kindness and has built a loyal following on platforms like Snapchat and TikTok. She assists others, particularly in the ADHD community, and shares her talents in live video and podcasting.

    This episode is an homage to those we've loved and lost, a testament to the power of honoring their wishes, and a beacon of hope for anyone seeking support and understanding in the aftermath of grief.
    Follow these amazing ladies here:

    Laurie Peterson:
    Website: https://www.ediagnosticlearning.com/
    Podcast: https://ltldpodcast.com/

    Anita Roberston:
    Webinar: https://www.lifewithanadhdspouse.com/adhd-midlife-sandwich-replay
    Website: https://www.anitarobertson.com
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anitarobertsonlcsw/
    Instagram: http://instagram.com/strengthinyourmind
    LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/anitarobertson
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strengthinyourmind
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@strengthinyourmind

    Sandra Centorino:
    Website: https://www.sandracentorino.com/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@PositivityPractitioner 

    Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book

    Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok

    Join our 3-Days How to Fall in Love with Your ADHD Brain: spyhappy.me/3days

    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

    Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka 

    • 1 hr 24 min
    EP. 271: Navigating ADHD and Public Service with Dulce Vasquez

    EP. 271: Navigating ADHD and Public Service with Dulce Vasquez

    In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, I have the pleasure of chatting with Dulce Vasquez, who's not only making waves in the political arena by running for California State Assembly District 57 but also reshaping the conversation around ADHD and mental health. At 36, Dulce's life took a transformative turn with her ADHD diagnosis, providing her with the clarity she'd been seeking in both her academic pursuits and political endeavors.

    As a formerly undocumented LGBTQ+ Latina, Dulce brings a rich tapestry of experiences to the table. Her advocacy work spans across education, housing, public transportation, and the rights of the LGBTQ+ and women's communities. Serving as the Assistant Vice President for Arizona State University's Los Angeles outpost, her journey from being a Los Angeles City Commissioner to a contender for the Los Angeles City Council and now a candidate for the State Assembly showcases her commitment to societal change.

    During our conversation, Dulce opens up about the challenges and revelations of living with inattentive type ADHD and complex PTSD. From navigating the world of medications to the intricacies of personal and professional relationships, her story is one of vulnerability, resilience, and empowerment. Dulce's candid sharing underscores the significant role personal narratives play in driving societal change and highlights the importance of representation and understanding within our communities.

    Join us as Dulce Vasquez shares her inspiring journey, her challenges and triumphs with ADHD, and her passionate advocacy for accessible mental health care. Her story is a powerful reminder of the intersection between the personal and the political, and the profound impact of embracing one's true self.

    Tune in to hear more about Dulce Vasquez's remarkable journey and her vision for a more inclusive and understanding society. Whether you're interested in the political implications of ADHD, the journey of self-discovery, or the nuances of advocating for mental health, this episode promises insights and inspiration in equal measure.

    Follow Dulce Vasquez here:
    Website: DulcevasquezcomLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dulcevasquez/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DulceforLA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vasquezdulce/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vasquezdulce 
    Are You Ready to Discover Your Brilliance? Order Now: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/book
    Join Your ADHD Brain is A-OK: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com/aok
    Visit our website: https://adhdforsmartwomen.com

    Join our community of ADHD For Smart Ass Women: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyotsuka

    • 1 hr 4 min
    EP. 270: The ADHD Toolbox: Brooke Schnittman's Strategies for Success

    EP. 270: The ADHD Toolbox: Brooke Schnittman's Strategies for Success

    Brooke Schnittman worked closely with ADHDers for years providing disability supports, not realizing she had ADHD herself until she moved to virtual coaching and was suddenly unable to focus and stay on top of administrative tasks like she was before.  Getting a diagnosis gave Brooke the tools and understanding to take her services and self-care to the next level. Through her company, Coaching with Brooke, she and her eight coaches help ADHDers transform their chaos and frustration into focused success through executive functioning skills. She also wrote a book, Activate Your ADHD Potential, in which she provides strategies for conquering the cycle of underwhelm and overwhelm that so often keeps ADHDers stuck.  Brooke’s book is transformative because she breaks the work down into 12 easy-to-follow steps, from gaining control of the chaos of your brain to organizing your schedule in a way that works for you. With the help of guided worksheets, Brooke’s book will give you strategies for success that are strengths-focused and achievable, and I’m so excited to share her insights with you this episode.    Resources: Website: Instagram: @coachingwithBrooke Brooke’s book:

    • 59 min
    EP. 269: How to Feel Good with Taylor Elyse Morrison

    EP. 269: How to Feel Good with Taylor Elyse Morrison

    The term “self-care” has become synonymous with bubble baths and meditation classes, but for ADHDers who are already overwhelmed by endless to-do lists, the last thing we need is to pile more “shoulds” onto our plates. Taylor Elyse Morrison always felt overwhelmed by the idea of self-care until she realized that, in her words, “self-care is listening within and responding in the most loving way possible,” and it completely changed her perspective on what it looks like to care for herself.    Taylor went on to turn her newfound relationship with self-care into a career. She’s now the founder of the company Inner Workout and the author of a book by the same name. Taylor uses her coaching, mindfulness, and movement training to meet people where they're at and offer actionable steps towards creating a world without burnout.   Taylor’s approach to self-care feels so welcoming and accessible because she knows the struggle firsthand. During our conversation Taylor shares her own ADHD diagnosis story, how she incorporates neurodivergent needs into her work, her advice for making movement fun, the importance of community, and much more.  Resources: Website: https://innerworkout.co Instagram: @innerworkout; @taylorelysemorrison Photo credit: Pooja Shah    

    • 57 min
    EP. 268: Dissecting RSD, People Pleasing, Neurofibromatosis and Pet Nutrition with Priscilla Tollin

    EP. 268: Dissecting RSD, People Pleasing, Neurofibromatosis and Pet Nutrition with Priscilla Tollin

    Priscilla Tollin was born with neurofibromatosis (NF), a neurological disorder that causes tumors to form on nerve tissue and can impact mobility. Priscilla’s physical limitations meant that any hyperactivity she experienced growing up was turned inwards, and her ADHD flew under the radar until finally getting a diagnosis at 32.    Once Priscilla understood her ADHD brain, so many pieces of the puzzle fell into place. She was able to address her RSD, to shift her mindset to one of optimism and positivity, and to pursue a career she’s genuinely passionate about. Now, Priscilla is studying pet nutrition and working on starting her own dog treat business. She is also an advocate for neurofibromatosis, disability, and ADHD.    During our conversation Priscilla shares her unique experience of having ADHD with no physical outlet, what NF is and the range of ways it can manifest, how self-acceptance led her to create the life she had always imagined, and her helpful advice for ensuring our pets are getting the nutrition they deserve.  Resources: spyhappy.me/bookreview Dog Treat Instagram: @ro_dogtreats Personal Instagram: @potatoesocks_  

    • 1 hr 5 min

Customer Reviews

4.8 out of 5
1.3K Ratings

1.3K Ratings

Clarissa Constantine ,

I LOVE this podcast!

I LOVE hearing about so many other women who either have or suspect they have ADHD and how they have embraced the fact that their brains just work differently. I fall into the 'suspect I have' category, and it explains SO MUCH. I've learned a ton from the array of guests, but the episode that spoke to my soul was the one on which Tracy talked about grief in the wake of her mom's passing. I happened to listen to it just about 3 years after my mom's passing, and it took me right back to my experience 3 years before. I can totally relate to much of what Tracy shared! We neurodivergent folks definitely process things differently.

Thank you, Tracy, for bringing women like us into each others' lives.

Tara S W ,

Ep 270

This is my favorite episode ever, no shade to Grace. I LOVED how you both just ADHD'd through it and it was so fun. I'm literally listening on a roadtrip, pulled over to get gas (because i for got to fill up before I left to head home) and had to leave a review before I forgot. Also, Brooke totally sold me on her book and yours too, Tracy. I have it in my Amazon cart, I guess it's time to check out.

BH621 ,

I love the latest episode!!!

Been listening for about a year. Early 50s, diagnosed at 35. Combined type. Didn’t really dive in to my own adhd experience until a combination of adhd, perimenopause, and long COVID contributed to the demise of a 6 month romantic relationship I thought would be for the long haul. The perimenopause/adhd difficulties intensified in early ‘22. I could no longer mask my difficulties. Time blindness and hyperfocus were the downfall. Your podcast has me laughing and crying every week. This episode I totally related to the curly hair. I’ve learned to love my curly hair, but straight is easier. If I get a blowout, I can go days without washing, and can make it look nice with a brush. Curly is more time consuming. Still trying to find a balance!!!

Top Podcasts In Health & Fitness

Huberman Lab
Scicomm Media
ZOE Science & Nutrition
ZOE
The School of Greatness
Lewis Howes
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
iHeartPodcasts
Pursuit of Wellness
Mari Llewellyn
Passion Struck with John R. Miles
John R. Miles