Soaring Child: Thriving with ADHD

• 159: Hope for Struggling Readers with David Chalk

  In this eye-opening episode of The Soaring Child, host Dana Kay is joined by David Chalk, an entrepreneur, speaker, and advocate for literacy who learned to read at the age of 62. Despite battling dyslexia, ADHD, and a rare condition that affects facial recognition, David built a wildly successful life. He now shares his powerful journey and introduces his groundbreaking AI-powered program, ReadingRoad.io, which is set to revolutionize how we teach children and adults to read—by focusing on the science of sounds, connection, and compassion. Dana and David dive deep into the emotional and cognitive blocks behind reading challenges, especially for neurodivergent kids. This episode offers parents not only hope, but actionable insight. You'll also hear how unconditional love, mindset, and understanding the “why” behind behavior can transform a struggling child’s life. David’s story is a must-hear for any parent navigating reading struggles with their child. Links Mentioned in the Show: Thriving with ADHD Book - https://bit.ly/40MSf4M   Key Takeaways: [2:28] The Literacy Crisis and Real-world Impact [3:47] David's Journey with Dyslexia and ADHD [3:56] How David Learned to Read at 62 [7:32] The Science Behind Reading Challenges [5:06] Parenting Neurodivergent Kids with Love [17:07] The Birth of ReadingRoad.io [17:28] How AI is Revolutionizing Literacy [26:44] Advice for Parents and Struggling Children [33:16] David’s New Podcast with His Daughter Memorable Moments: “It isn't cast in stone. Your child has every possibility.” “I learned to read in 11 hours.” “There's something magic inside of every child.” “The only reason I’m here today is the love of my mother.” “You are not the voice talking to you in your head.” “If there's one technique—hug your kids more than you ever could.” “There are only 26 symbols and 44 sounds, and that’s all you need to read every word.” “Reading must be taught from speech to print, not the other way around.” “No child ever starts out not wanting to learn.” “When the education system ends, your life begins.” How to Connect with David Chalk: Email David at david@chalkcorp.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/askdavidchalk/?hl=en  Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/ Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY

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• 158: Why Most Popular ADHD Vitamins Don’t Work with Dana Kay

  In this episode of The Soaring Child, host Dana Kay dives into a topic that’s sure to challenge the status quo—popular ADHD multivitamins. With eye-catching labels and lofty promises, these supplements flood our social media feeds and store shelves. But are they really helping our kids? Dana reveals why most of these well-marketed products are nothing more than expensive band-aids—and what to focus on instead. Dana Kay is an ADHD health practitioner, author, and parent who knows firsthand what it’s like to navigate the overwhelming world of ADHD solutions. Through her journey with her own son, Dana has discovered the power of root-cause healing and targeted support. In this episode, she unpacks why testing—not guessing—is the key to identifying what your child truly needs to thrive, and how functional lab testing, dietary changes, and gut healing are essential steps on that path. Link Mentioned in the Show:  My favorite place to purchase supplements - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplements The Best Functional Lab Tests for Kids with ADHD (short video) - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/lab-testing-for-adhd1  Links to Previous Episodes in this Supplements for ADHD Series: Magnesium -  https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-93/ Saffron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-136/ GABA - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-137/  L-Theanine - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-142/ Bio Essentials - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-144/ Omegas - ​​ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-146/ Iron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-148/ Zinc - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-152/ Vitamin D - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-150/ Zembrin - ​​ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-154/ Herbs - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-156/ Key Takeaways: [0:23] The Truth About Popular ADHD Supplements [3:13] Dana’s Personal Experience with Over-the-Counter Multivitamins [3:23] Why Generic Supplements Don’t Work [4:42] The “Bandaid Blend” Problem [6:58] The Real Root: Inflammation, Gut Health, and Absorption [7:57] The Garden Analogy: Preparing the Body for Growth [9:45] Steps for Parents to Take Now [11:49] Why Functional Testing is the Game-Changer [12:27] Targeted Supplementation vs. Random Guessing Memorable Moments: Most popular ADHD multivitamins are nothing more than expensive band-aids. It’s like trying to pour water into a clogged funnel. You wouldn’t try to fix your car without popping the hood first. Many of these brands include synthetic forms of vitamins that are poorly absorbed. You can’t supplement your way out of a poor diet or a body riddled with inflammation. We test, we don’t guess. There’s a big difference between supplementing randomly and supplementing for targeted issues. More isn’t always better—you need the right ones. Popular multivitamins are like throwing handfuls of seeds into the soil—without checking if the soil is dry. That’s when your child starts thriving—not just surviving. Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/ Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY

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• 157: Critical Mindset Shifts for Parents of Kids with ADHD with Andrea Daigle

  Making dietary changes for a child with ADHD can feel like an overwhelming uphill battle—but what if the biggest obstacle isn’t your child’s resistance, but your own fear of change? In this episode of The Soaring Child podcast, host Dana Kay is joined by Andrea Daigle, an expert ADHD coach at the ADHD Thrive Institute. Together, they unpack how shifting your mindset as a parent can make the difference between constant frustration and long-term success. From reframing the process as an opportunity for growth to managing social situations with confidence, this conversation is packed with powerful mindset tools for parents navigating dietary transitions. Dana Kay, a leading ADHD health practitioner and founder of the ADHD Thrive Institute, shares her personal experience and expert insights on how to foster resilience and confidence through change. Whether you’re facing resistance from your child, family members, or even your own internal doubts, this episode offers practical advice and empowering strategies to help your entire family embrace a gluten-, dairy-, and soy-free lifestyle—without stress or shame. Links Mentioned in the Show:  Link to book a free call with Andrea Daigle and our team at ADHD Thrive Institute - https://bit.ly/3X5ZVvT  Key Takeaways: [2:04] Why Mindset Matters [3:30] Strategies for Building a Positive Mindset [7:07] Small Wins and Sustainable Change [8:06] Helping Kids Embrace the Diet [14:02] Turning Diet Changes into Family Growth [18:05] Managing Social Situations with Confidence [22:23] Final Words and Actionable Tips Memorable Moments: "You think your child's resistance is the biggest obstacle to a new diet, but what if it's actually your own fear of change?" "So we are not fixing your kids' plate. We are rewiring your brain first." "This is not just a diet. This is a lifestyle change and this is a long-term roadmap for thriving." "We get to do this together." "Perfection is not the goal. It's about creating a sustainable lifestyle shift." "As soon as I shifted my mindset and I started really empowering him with the knowledge behind why we are going down this journey, things started to change." "We wanna keep things light and positive, especially in the beginning." "Start focusing on what we can eat and not what we can’t eat." "Modeling that confident, calm attitude in those situations shows your child that this is nothing to be ashamed of." "One small change leads to great big ones." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/ Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY  

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• 156: Best Herbs for ADHD with Dana Kay

  Managing ADHD naturally can feel overwhelming, but what if there were powerful plant-based remedies that could help? In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay explores the best herbs for ADHD, breaking down the science behind how they support focus, reduce stress, and regulate emotions. She covers research-backed benefits of herbs like Rhodiola Rosea, OPCs, ginkgo, and ginseng—offering practical strategies for incorporating them into your child’s routine. Dana Kay, a leading ADHD health practitioner, has helped thousands of families find natural, effective solutions for ADHD symptoms. In this episode, she provides a clear, no-fluff guide to using herbs safely and effectively. Whether you're new to natural remedies or looking to refine your child’s supplement plan, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss! Make sure and grab your Herbs for ADHD Cheat Sheet at the link provided!  Links Mentioned in the Show:  Functional Lab Testing Video -  https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/lab-testing-for-adhd1  My Favorite Place to Buy Supplements - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplements  My Favorite Herbs that are Mentioned in this Episode: Rhodiola Rosea - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/rhodiola-rosea.html  OPC - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/curcumasorb-mind-60-capsules.html  Ginkgo - https://amzn.to/4ij9EK1  Ginseng - https://amzn.to/4ihGDye  Herbs for ADHD Cheat Sheet - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplement-for-adhd-herbs  Links to Previous Episodes in this Supplements for ADHD Series: Magnesium -  https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-93/  Saffron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-136/  GABA - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-137/  L-Theanine - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-142/  Bio Essentials - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-144/  Omegas - ​​ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-146/  Iron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-148/  Vitamin D - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-150/  Zinc - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-152/  Zembrin -  https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-154/  Key Takeaways: [3:04] Overview of Rhodiola Rosea and Its Benefits [3:49] Scientific Studies on Rhodiola for ADHD [4:23] How to Choose and Use Rhodiola Safely [8:45] Introduction to OPCs and Their Brain-Boosting Effects [9:14] The Role of OPCs in Strengthening the Blood-Brain Barrier [10:15] How OPCs Improve Cognitive Function and Focus [13:10] Ginkgo & Ginseng: Natural Stimulant Alternatives [14:15] Key Considerations Before Using Herbs for ADHD [14:52] Final Thoughts and Actionable Next Steps Memorable Moments: "Herbs are powerful plant-based remedies that could sharpen focus, reduce stress, and support emotional regulation—and most people completely overlook them." "Rhodiola is like a built-in stress shield for the brain. It helps calm that chaos, sharpen focus, and smooth out emotional roller coasters." "In just one week, people taking Rhodiola felt less stressed, more focused, and mentally sharper." "Rhodiola was compared to the antidepressant sertraline, also known as Zoloft. While sertraline had stronger effects, Rhodiola had fewer side effects and was better tolerated." "Research shows Rhodiola may enhance memory and learning by helping neurons in the brain communicate better." "OPCs are antioxidants found in blueberries, grapes, and dark chocolate, and they help protect the brain while strengthening the blood-brain barrier." "One study found that drinking blueberry juice, which is rich in OPC flavanols, for 12 weeks improved working memory, blood flow to the brain, and cognitive performance in adults." "Ginkgo and ginseng act like stimulants without the side effects, and studies show they may help improve attention and dopamine levels in kids with ADHD." "Herbs are powerful, even though they're natural. They can interact with medications, so always consult a professional." "There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Functional lab testing can help determine which nutrients and herbs your child actually needs." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/ Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY  

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  16:45
• 155: Can Horses Help ADHD Kids? with Caz Pringle-Bowden

  Could working with animals be the key to helping children with ADHD regulate their emotions and build confidence? In this episode of The Soaring Child, host Dana Kay explores the transformative world of equine-assisted therapy. She’s joined by Caz Pringle-Bowden, a yoga facilitator, counselor, and equine therapy expert who has worked with hundreds of neurodivergent children. Caz shares how horses offer a unique form of emotional and nervous system regulation, helping children develop focus, self-awareness, and trust in ways that traditional therapies often cannot. Beyond the horse paddock, Caz also teaches yoga and boxing to youth in juvenile detention and designs neurodiversity training for educators. As a neurodivergent woman herself, she brings a deeply personal perspective to her work. In this conversation, she explains why horses have a profound impact on children with ADHD, how parents can incorporate similar strategies at home, and why rethinking the narrative around ADHD is essential for supporting neurodivergent kids. Links Mentioned in the Show:  ADHD Fast Class - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl Key Takeaways: [3:57] What is Equine-Assisted Therapy? [4:21] The Science Behind Horses and the Nervous System [6:54] How Equine Therapy Helps Kids with ADHD [5:22] The Power of Changing the Narrative for Neurodivergent Kids [20:22] Real-Life Success Stories from Equine Therapy [34:08] How Parents Can Apply These Lessons at Home Memorable Moments: "Horses are not tools to be used. They have thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences, and another system just like ours." "It is an absolutely powerful and helpful alternative to clinical interventions that works for people that may not be able to sit down in a chair and talk to someone." "They can hear a heartbeat from up to 10 meters away. So, heart rate variability—if we are excited or nervous, they're going to hear that." "You cannot lie to a horse." "By working with a horse, we're actually working with new stories, new stories of hope, resilience, and capacity to counteract those negative stories that that child might have heard." "When someone is regulated and they're okay, the horse gives trust, and when a horse gives trust, it is real—very, very real." "It's just 10% of the time that the teachers see it, and they judge me for it. And they only know that 10% of me. They know 10%. They don't know the other 90. They're not even interested." "If we think—if we have the thought in our head—that our kid is trying all the time to regulate themselves, and they don't know how… they are trying." How to Connect with Caz Pringle-Bowden: W: https://www.cazpringlebowden.com.au/ Insta : https://www.instagram.com/cazpringlebowden/ Podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/1DCAOuCHMbEosshxIYIHQC?si=78b17f4ee52c4c90&nd=1&dlsi=0dff349b71c84d7e Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/ Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY

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