Soaring Child: Thriving with ADHD

• 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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• 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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• 154: Zembrin: A Natural ADHD Game-Changer with Dana Kay

  Managing ADHD can feel overwhelming, but what if there was a natural supplement that could support focus, emotional balance, and executive function—without the harsh side effects of medication? In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay dives deep into Zembrin, a clinically studied, plant-based supplement with promising benefits for ADHD. She breaks down the science behind how it works, its impact on cognitive flexibility, executive function, and stress management, and why it’s a game-changer for so many families. Dana Kay, a leading ADHD health practitioner, shares her personal journey of searching for natural solutions after her son's struggle with medication side effects. She explains how Zembrin, along with gut health support and strategic nutrition, can make a dramatic difference in ADHD symptoms. Tune in to learn how to incorporate this powerful supplement into your child’s routine and get actionable tips to help them thrive naturally.  Links Mentioned in the Show:  Join me at my upcoming Live Masterclass on How to Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/live  Functional Lab Testing Video -  https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/lab-testing-for-adhd1  Zembrin Cheat Sheet - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplement-for-adhd-zembrin  My Favorite Place to Buy Supplements - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplements  My Favorite Zembrin Supplement  https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/pro-essentials.html  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/  Key Takeaways: [1:28] Introduction: The Search for a Natural ADHD Solution [3:47] Why Medication Wasn’t the Answer for My Son [5:53] What Is Zembrin? A Breakdown of Its Benefits [6:02] The Power of Supplements in ADHD Management [7:28] How Zembrin Supports Cognitive Flexibility [8:25] Zembrin’s Role in Executive Function and Focus [8:38] Probiotics, Gut Health, and ADHD—Why It Matters [9:50] How Zembrin Helps with Stress and Emotional Regulation [12:41] Pro Essentials: Combining Zembrin, Probiotics, and Saffron [27:33] Final Thoughts and Next Steps for Parents Memorable Moments: "If I told you there is a natural supplement that could sharpen focus, balance emotions, and boost executive function, all without the nasty side effects of medication, would you believe me?" "I was absolutely desperate for that magic pill. I’m not going to sugarcoat it—I wanted something that was going to fix our home." "You can’t supplement your way out of a poor diet, but supplementation, especially when paired with other natural strategies, can help kiddos with ADHD thrive." "Zembrin is a powerful plant extract from a South African succulent that’s been clinically studied, patented, and tested for cognitive support and stress reduction." "Studies show that Zembrin significantly improved cognitive flexibility—helping kids shift between tasks, adapt to new situations, and focus more easily." "Imagine your child actually remembering to pack their school bag without reminding them five times or starting their homework without a meltdown—that’s executive function." "Zembrin has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood in clinical studies, helping kids who become easily overwhelmed or struggle with emotional regulation." "Most probiotics don’t survive digestion, but Pro Essentials does—it actually reseeds the gut, strengthening the gut-brain connection for better ADHD symptom management." "Some parents are seeing equal efficacy to prescription ADHD medications with Pro Essentials, which combines Zembrin, spore-forming probiotics, and saffron extract." "The more this podcast gets shared and the more reviews we get, the more we spread the word to families that there are natural alternatives out there." 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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