Supporting Neurodivergent College Students, with Drs. George & Oksana Hagerty of Beacon College | EDB
(32 mins) Beacon College’s Drs. George and Oksana Hagerty discuss how they support neurodivergent students.
The Inner Lives of Women with Learning Disabilities
Denise Brodey discusses the challenges women with learning challenges can have both hiding and sharing their diagnoses.
Jobs for the Neurodivergent, with Dr. Nancy Doyle of A&E’s “The Employables” | EDB 180
(VIDEO - 25 minutes) Dr. Hackie Reitman continues speaking with occupational psychologist Dr. Nancy Doyle to find out tips for successful neurodivergent job searches.
The College Living Experience, with Stephanie Martin | EDB 155
(VIDEO - 22 minutes) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Stephanie Martin, president of the College Living Experience (CLE).
Down Syndrome’s Latest 3 Year Old Ambassador!
(3 min 24 sec) In this episode: a 3-yr-old with Down syndrome becomes the latest international ambassador, a fourth grade student opens up to his class about autism, and more!
People With ADHD More Likely to Think Outside the Box
Recent studies show that individuals with ADHD have a higher likelihood of thinking much more creatively than those without.
Teen With Apraxia Becomes Beloved Mascot – W.I.N.
(3 min 45 sec) In this episode, a counselor looks to help students with ADHD find their superpowers, a high school student with apraxia becomes a beloved mascot, the National Down Syndrome Society dispels myths in an inspirational video, and more!
The Importance of Volunteering, with Casey Seidman | EDB 147
(13 minutes) Casey Seidman discusses the importance of volunteering, the need nonprofits serve communities, and how his ADHD actually helps him excel.
Can Early School Enrollment Lead To Earlier ADHD Diagnosis?
A new study published in the New English Journal of Medicine shows that children who are enrolled in school at a younger age are more likely to be diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder than children enrolled at an older age.
2018 in Review: Supporting & Optimizing Our Brains, w/ Dr. Seth Keller, Dr. Ken Dychtwald & more | EDB 154
(17 minutes) In this second of two “2018 in Review” episodes, we are going to hear from some of the dedicated clinicians, specialists, educators, advocates, and change-makers working to improve the lives of those of us with Different Brains.
The Best of the Week In Neurodiversity – 2018 Year in Review
(6 min 17 sec) In this episode, we count down the top 10 stories from 2018, including a comedian with Tourette’s becoming famous on America’s Got Talent, the first Washington Lobbyist with Down syndrome, the first runner with cerebral palsy earning a contract with Nike, and more!
2018 in Review: Advice From The Self-Advocates | EDB 153
Words of wisdom from neurodiverse self-advocates In this first of two "2018 in Review" episodes,…
Rocking Chairs Help Students with ADHD?
At Corriher-Lip Middle School in Salisbury, NC, a seventh-grade language arts teacher is trying an unusual approach to getting her students with ADHD to focus: rocking chairs.
Accepting Help to Overcome Depression, with Jeff Emmerson | EDB 127
(24 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Jeff Emmerson, co-author of the book Beyond ADHD, and advocate for mental health awareness.
A Relationship Between ADHD and Asthma?
Current studies are showing a link between ADHD and asthma. The results are supported by the combined findings from a meta-analysis and a Swedish population-based study.
A Back to School Survival Guide for Different Brains
Resuming classes after summer vacation is always an exciting and often stressful event for any child. Here are 6 tips for making the transitions easier for any kind of different brain.
Evolving Different Brains: ADHD, Technology & the Productivity Paradox
Harold S. Reitman, M.D. discusses a recent study finding the use of technology may lead to increases in ADHD diagnoses, and what that may mean for all of our brains.
How Concussions Impact Those with ADHD
In a recent study, those with ADHD showed a higher rate of continuous effects on the brain following a concussion, such as long-lasting anxiety and depression.
Swimmers With Down Syndrome Compete in Nova Scotia – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 28 sec) In this episode researchers from USC find a link between social media use and ADHD, swimmers with Down syndrome break records in Nova Scotia, and more!
First Frat Brother with Down Syndrome – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 min 16 sec) In this episode, a young man bikes cross-country for autism awareness, former NFL star Percy Harvin discusses anxiety, a college student with Down syndrome breaks barriers with the help of his mentor, and more!
Meet The Swimming Phenom with Tourette’s and ADHD – Week in Neurodiversity
(3 mins 33 sec) In this episode, a Missouri family sells bow ties for those with Down syndrome, a new book is bringing awareness to children with Dyslexia, and we take a look at the high school swimming phenom who overcame the challenges of Tourette’s and ADHD! These stories and more in this week's edition!
One Parent’s View of Neurodiversity
Cheryl Fox, M.O.T., OTR/L C/NDT discusses how her daughter's diagnosis with autism changed her life, and inspired her to become a pediatric occupational therapist for the neurodiverse.
Finding Happiness in Neurodiversity, with Shawn Smith, Me.D., CCC | EDB 121
(13 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman continues speaking with Canadian advocate Shawn Smith, Me.D., CCC.
What to Expect from Biomedical Treatment for ADHD and Autism
"The Autism Doctor" Dr. Brian Udell discusses ways to measure progress in the treatment of children with autism and ADHD.
ADHD & Entrepreneurs, with Shawn Smith, Me.D., CCC | EDB 120
(16 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman welcomes back regular guest Shawn Smith, successful Canadian entrepreneur, a neurodiversity advocate and consultant, and founder of Don’t Dis-my-Ability.
Snoop Dogg and the NFL’s Demarcus Ware Raise ADHD Awareness – Week in Neurodiversity (3/17/18)
(3 min 19 sec) Patients with Alzheimer’s find joy through singing, a man with Borderline Personality Disorder looks to end the stigma around mental illness, an ex-football star and Snoop Dogg create a song for ADHD empowerment, and more!
Girl with Down Syndrome Joins Harlem Globetrotters – Week in Neurodiversity (3/10/18)
(3min 26sec) In this episode, a man with ADHD opens a boxing gym for kids with the same challenges, a high school student with Down syndrome joins the Harlem Globetrotters, and more!
5 Tips for Dealing With Adult ADHD
Here are five easy tricks to help ADHD adults out there to avoid trouble in your daily activities.
Painter with Down Syndrome Wows Art Community – Week in Neurodiversity (2/10/18)
(3 min) In this episode, aerobics help improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s, families receive tattoos are Down syndrome solidarity, and an artist with Down syndrome draws a huge following! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Brain Training for Neurological Imbalances Through Neurofeedback
Dr. Jacqueline Davis discusses the use of neurofeedback for ADHD, autism, depression, and anxiety.
How Autism Families Are Learning to Fly – Week in Neurodiversity (1/13/18)
(3 min 30 sec) In this episode, a Dallas company helps those with autism reach their full potential, a young girl with Asperger’s receives this mega-gift made of 800 rolls of toilet paper, and more in this week’s edition!
Teen with Autism Lives As a Police Officer For a Day – Week in Neurodiversity (1/6/18)
(3 min 20 sec) In this episode, Ferdinand the Bull advocates for children with ADHD, a teen with autism fulfills his Christmas wish of being a police officer for a day, and more!
2017 in Review, Part 2: Understanding & Supporting Neurodiversity | EDB 110
(11 minutes) In part two of a special two part year-in-review episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. presents words of wisdom from parents, researchers, specialists and advocates that are working to help create a world of acceptance for those of us with different brains, including Dr. Chris Stout, Dr. Bankole A. Johnson, Dr. Gail Saltz, and many more!
Rudolph: a Shining Example of Neurodiversity
Shawn Smith M.Ed., CCC looks at how the story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer spoke to his own journey as an individual with a different brain.
Will Video Games Be Prescribed For ADHD?
Boston-based company plans to file for FDA approval next year for a videogame that has proven effective for children with ADHD.
Achieving Goals with ADHD, with Lynn Miner-Rosen | EDB 105
(25 mins) Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Lynn Miner-Rosen, M.Ed., BCC, CDCS. Lynn is a Board Certified ADHD Coach and Career Coach for College Students and Young Adults.
New ADHD Gaming Device Can Detect Distraction
Neuroplus is a startup that has created a brain-training device aiming to help those with ADHD to improve their concentration.
Can Instagram Cause Anxiety and Depression? – Week in Neurodiversity (11/11/17)
(3 mins 43 sec) In this episode, a man with Down Syndrome gives a speech to Congress about life with the condition, Jennifer Lewis from Black-ish discusses her bipolar disorder diagnosis, and how can Instagram create anxiety and depression for teens?
What is Different Brains? Advocating for Neurodiversity From Autism to Alzheimer’s | EDB 100
(21 mins) In this special 100th episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. explains what Different Brains® stands for through the words of some of our amazing past guests. Featuring Dr. Temple Grandin, Dr. Bankole Johnson Dr. Stephen Shore, Dr. Steve Perlman, Michael Alessandri Dr. J.R. Harding, Jessica Thom, Dr. Gail Saltz, and many more!
New Study Tracking Eye Movement Offers Innovative Method for Diagnosing ADHD
Researchers may now be able to improve upon their understanding as well as the methods in which they assess attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), by monitoring tiny movements within the eyes.
The ADHD Parent: Choosing Your Battles
Lacey Craddock discusses how picking battles carefully helped her have peace, and helped maximize the potential and self-esteem of her neurodiverse son.
How Do You Measure Positive Impact? The Challenges of Advocating for Neurodiversity
Canadian ADHD and Neurodiversity advocate Shawn Smith reflects on how a recent presentation at a conference reinforced his concept of how to measure the positive impact of his work.
Young Man with Schizophrenia Educates Police
Twenty-three-year-old Connor Jackson is using his experiences with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and ADHD to train officers from a handful of Kansas police departments.
‘America’s Got Talent’ Judges Wowed by Deaf Singer – Week in Neurodiversity (6/17/17)
(4 mins) In this episode, a teacher dyes his hair for a boy with epilepsy, a an 11-year-old with autism inspires others to overcome their fears by riding roller coasters, and a deaf woman gets a standing ovation with her performance on America’s Got Talent! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Baseball MVP Kirk Gibson on Life with Parkinson’s Disease – Week in Neurodiversity (6/3/17)
(3 mins 52 sec) In this episode, a comedian uses his Asperger’s diagnosis to his advantage, fashion students hold a fashion show for children with Down syndrome, and former baseball player Kirk Gibson discusses living with Parkinson’s! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Doctor Raps for Concussion Awareness – Week in Neurodiversity (5/13/17)
(3 mins 28 sec) In this episode, a doctor raps for concussion awareness, a boy with Down syndrome opens up a cupcake shop, and Emma Stone and Michael Phelps speak about mental health awareness for the Child Mind Institute! These stories and more in this week’s episode!
Lady Gaga & Prince William Talk Mental Illness – Week in Neurodiversity (4/29/17)
(3 mins 54 sec) In this episode, Boy Meets World star Rider Strong makes the birthday wish of a boy with Down syndrome come true, Project UROK runs a beauty ad for anxiety, and Lady Gaga and prince Harry come together to talk mental health! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Study Finds Kids with ADHD Have Questions for Doctors But Don’t Ask
Study Suggests Genetic Link Among Autism, ADHD, Bipolar, and Other Neurodiverse Conditions
According to a recent study, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia and autism all have one thing in common: they can each be traced back to the same inherited genetic variations.
Can Yoga Ease Autism-Related Anxiety? – Week in Neurodiversity (4/15/17)
(4 mins) In this episode, a yoga class is helping those with autism, a new app is keeping kids with ADHD focused, and how has this viral prom proposal vid inspired others to contribute to the special occasion? These stories and more in this week’s edition!
ADHD, Learning Challenges, and Life Changes: Finding a Better Way to Assess Different Brains
Tammy Elkon discusses how the journey through finding proper educational assistance for her son led her to develop a tool for assessing the abilities of those with different brains.
Is It a Behavior or Brain Problem? Neurological Deficits in Different Brains
Debbie Hampton discusses how what might look like impulsive, irresponsible, selfish, disorganized, or unmotivated behavior may actual be a result of a problem in the brain.
Getting a Second Opinion on an ADHD Diagnosis
Julie Saumsiegle discusses the importance of getting second opinions and trying all avenues when caring for a child with a different brain.
Overcoming Learning Obstacles with Dyslexia & ADHD | EDB 70
In this special episode of Exploring Different Brains, Hackie Reitman, M.D. discusses ways to overcome the learning challenges presented by dyslexia and ADHD with Dr. Matthew Schneps, Elizabeth Wilkinson, Sue Kahn, and Shawn Smith.
The ADHD Parent: Comfort Levels and ADHD
Lacey Craddock discusses the challenges a child with a neurodiverse diagnoses can face while growing up, and the concern parents can have in safeguarding their children through that process.
The Adderall Debate – Life Before and After my ADHD Diagnosis
Roland Jung discusses his first year after receiving his ADHD diagnosis, and his ongoing dilemma with medication.
Understanding and Supporting Weaknesses in Executive Brain Functioning
Cheryl Checkers, M.S. outlines how weaknesses in the executive functions of the brain can create problems for the neurodiverse, and reviews strategies for how to improve those functions.
Getting Assessed – Life Before and After my ADHD Diagnosis
Roland Jung continues the story of his personal journey with ADHD. In this installment, he discusses going from self-diagnosis to receiving a real assessment.
Executive Brain Functions and their Link with the Neurodiverse
Giuliana Fenwick discusses the executive functions of the brain, and how she believes directed massage can aid in mitigating issues with cognitive control.
Does Caffeine Affect ADHD?
A 2012 study from the Federal University of Santa Catarina recommends that caffeine could be useful as an aid for symptoms of ADHD, normalizing levels of dopamine and improving the attentiveness of the patient- but with caution.
Just Keep Swimming: Life Before and After my ADHD Diagnosis
In the first part of his ongoing blog series, Roland E. Jung discusses life before and after receiving his diagnosis of ADHD.
The Best of the Week In Neurodiversity – 2016 Year in Review
(7 minutes 40 seconds) In honor of the end of the year, we cover our top ten stories of 2016, featuring Michael J. Fox jamming with Dave Matthews for Parkinson’s awareness, Michael Jordan surprising a fan with autism, and the story of Daniel the therapy duck! These stories and more in this week’s episode!
Sensory-Friendly Santa For Kids With Autism – Week In Neurodiversity (12/24/16)
In this episode, kids are meeting Santa in malls all over the country in a sensory-friendly environment, kids with ADHD get to run around to help them learn, and NFL Hall of Famer Charles Haley talks about Bipolar Disorder.
Week in Neurodiversity – Selena Gomez Opens Up About Depression (12/3/16)
In this episode, a rapper with autism releases his debut album, models with Down syndrome have a fashion walk with the stars, and Selena Gomez gives a speech on mental health at the AMAs! These stories and more in this week’s episode!
Maximizing Educational Success for Different Brains with Lori Bitar | EDB 56
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Lori Bitar, educational consultant and author of "SOS: Save Our Students."
Week in Neurodiversity – Rock Climber with Epilepsy Inspires (11/12/16)
In this episode, cognitive behavioral therapy is helping those with insomnia, a man with epilepsy climbs mountains, and an entrepreneur with Down syndrome sends baskets to families whose children also have the condition. All these and more in this week’s edition!
“Drumming is My Madness”: How One Student Fought ADHD
In this excerpt from her book, Lori Bitar tells the story of how she helped one student battle ADHD.
Possible Link Found Between Vitamin D and ADHD Risk
A study conducted by Danish researchers has shown that mothers who take Vitamin D during pregnancy may reduce the risk of ADHD in their children.
Sensorimotor and Neurologically Based Music Therapy: An Interview with Dr. Dorita Berger
Dr. Jennifer Jo Brout speaks with Dr. Dorita Berger about the various benefits music therapy can have on people with autism, ADHD, PTSD, and many other diagnoses.
Succeeding With ADHD: Maximizing the Abilities of Neurodiversity, with Shawn Smith | EDB 49
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with returning guest Shawn Smith, of Don’t dis-my-ability.
Why Therapy Shouldn’t Always Lead to Medication, with Dr. Lauren Gerber | EDB 46
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with returning guest Dr. Lauren Gerber, author and psychologist.
Simple Steps for Massaging Away Meltdowns in the Neurodiverse
Just a few simple massage techniques will bring someone back into the "parasympathetic" state where the heart rate slows, blood pressure lowers and breathing is deeper and calmer.
Week in Neurodiversity – Michael Jordan Makes the Dreams of a Fan with Autism Come True (8/27/16)
In this episode, a young man with Down syndrome scores a touchdown, bee venom is helping those with Parkinson’s, and what did Michael Jordan do for a fan with autism? All these stories and more!
Breathing Your Way to a Healthier Brain, with Ed Harrold | EDB 44
In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman sits down with Ed Harrold, performance enhancement coach and motivational speaker, and discusses the positive effect proper breathing can have on the brain.
The Multiple Types of ADHD
Shawn Smith identifies the different types of ADHD, and how characteristics can differ.
The Week In Neurodiversity – Can Theater Benefit the Autistic? (6/11/16)
In this episode, a study shows drama classes help those with autism, a town is colored purple for Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and how did one man gain control of his Parkinson’s?
The Week In Neurodiversity – Do Kids and Adults Have Different ADHD? (06/03/16)
This week- adult ADHD may differ from that of children, twins with OCD under go a new surgery, a documentary sheds light on epilepsy, and more!
Don’t Dis-my-ability! Success For The Neurodiverse, with Shawn Smith, M.Ed. | EDB 28
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Shawn Smith M.Ed., CCC, founder of Don’t Dis-my-ability.
Week in Neurodiversity – Boxing Away Parkinson’s Disease (5/14/16)
This week in neurodiversity features Kristen Bell discussing her issues with anxiety, a Vine comedian opens up about bi-polar and depression, and a new program hopes to use boxing to fight Parkinson's disease.
What is it like to have autism? #WIN (4/30/16)
This week in neurodiversity features Irish snapchat star James Kavanagh, Nick Lachey and Bruno Mars' autism awareness contribution, and a robot designed to help autistic children improve their social skills.
Hosted by Matthew Ryan.
