Parenting a teenager can feel like tiptoeing through a construction zone — and ADHD cranks the jackhammer. In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay breaks down what’s really happening in the teenage brain and why ADHD can intensify mood swings, impulsivity, and motivation slumps. This isn’t “bad behavior” or “bad parenting” — it’s a developing brain that needs different scaffolding, smarter systems, and calmer connection.
Dana is joined by therapist Ashley Gobeil, who has over 15 years of experience supporting neurodiverse families. Together they unpack practical tools for emotional regulation, communication that doesn’t escalate conflict, realistic academic supports, screen-time sanity, and how to get teens on board with nutrition changes by linking food to feelings and function. If you want fewer blowups and more buy-in, this conversation gives you the scripts, mindsets, and next steps.
Links Mentioned in the Show:
▶ ADHD Thrive Jumpstart Program (with bonus masterclasses on Leaky Gut, Emotional Intelligence, Sensory/Body Activities, and Dealing with Defiance): https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
▶ Hold On to Your Kids by Gordon Neufeld & Gabor Maté (peer orientation & staying connected to teens) – https://amzn.to/4niwMKP
