Best Barb Fletcher Podcasts (2025)

1
314: Don’t Be “That Parent:” How to Advocate Effectively & Compassionately, with Scotti Weintraub 40:08

6d ago40:08

40:08

Walking into school meetings can feel like navigating a minefield while carrying the weight of your child’s future. You're not alone — and in this episode, I sit down with education advocate and parent coach Scotti Weintraub to unpack how to have better, calmer, more productive conversations with your child’s teacher, especially when things are har…

1
The Healing Rollercoaster is Not Linear 28:15

12d ago28:15

28:15

In today’s episode, we’re diving into a truth that many of us struggle with: healing isn’t linear. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or navigating emotional setbacks, the road to wellness is rarely a straight path—and that’s okay. Hosts Deb Timmerman, Lindsay Bertulka, and Susie Marsh are here to remind you tha…

1
313: Build Resilience and Joy with Awe and Wonder, with Deborah Farmer Kris 39:06

13d ago39:06

39:06

The antidote to stress and disconnection could be awe. In this heartwarming episode, I chat with child development expert Deborah Farmer Kris about the transformative power of awe and wonder for beautifully complex kids. From music and nature to kindness and curiosity, we explore how tapping into these moments can reduce stress, regulate the nervou…

1
Chronic Disorganization: It's Not Just Clutter. It’s a Brain-Based Issue 22:52

18d ago22:52

22:52

Welcome back to the Less Stress in Life Podcast and our Empowered Wellness Series! In this episode, co-hosts Deb Timmerman, RN, Lindsay Vertalka, MSPT, and Susie Marsh, LMSW and professional organizer, dive deep into a topic that’s often misunderstood: chronic disorganization. Follow Us: Website: LessStressinLife.com/podcast/ Stay tuned for more co…

1
312: Discovering the Right Career Path for Neurodivergent Kids, with Hannah Maruyama 33:58

20d ago33:58

33:58

Is college really the only path to success? Not even close. In this episode, I sit down with Hannah Maruyama, co-founder of Degree Free, to challenge the outdated idea that college is the ultimate goal for every kid — especially for neurodivergent kids who may thrive outside traditional systems. We get deep into how redefining success, focusing on …

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311: Fostering Self-Discovery for Your Autistic Kid, with Sol Smith, MS, MFA, EDS 34:01

27d ago34:01

34:01

What if your child’s “overexplaining” isn’t defiance, but a deep need to be understood? In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Sol Smith — autistic adult, author, life coach, educator, and dad of four neurodivergent kids — to talk about the inner world of autistic individuals. From masking and sensory differences to building…

1
Decluttering for Mental Clarity: The Power of Letting Go 27:20

1M ago27:20

27:20

Welcome back to the Less Stress in Life Podcast and our Empowered Wellness Series! In this episode, your hosts Deb Timmerman, RN and natural health advocate; Lindsay Vertalka, physical therapist; and Susie Marsh, social worker and professional organizer, dig into the connection between organization, emotional wellness, and stress reduction. In this…

1
310: Connecting Through Conversation: Rethinking Behavior Strategies for Schools, with Erika Bare & Tiffany Burns 31:59

1M ago31:59

31:59

What if we stopped calling kids “attention-seeking” and started calling them “connection-seeking?” In this heart-opening episode, I sit down with veteran educators and authors Erika Bare and Tiffany Burns to rethink how we approach behavior in schools — especially for neurodivergent kids. From eliminating power struggles to building culture through…

1
309: Coping Skills for Kids, Teens, and Adults, with Janine Halloran, MA, LMHC 35:56

1M ago35:56

35:56

What if the big feelings your child has aren’t a problem — but a clue? In this comforting conversation, I sit down with Janine Halloran, LMHC — therapist, mom, and author of Coping Skills for Kids — to talk all things anger, coping, and emotional regulation for neurodivergent kids and their families. We dig into why some kids explode, what to do in…

1
Could Clutter Be Harming My Health? 24:36

1M ago24:36

24:36

Welcome to the Less Stress in Life Podcast, your space to reimagine what it means to live well. In this episode of our Empowered Wellness Series, co-hosts Deb Timmerman, RN, Lindsay Vertalka, MPT, and Susie Marsh, LBSW explore a timely and often overlooked topic: the health impact of clutter. Spring is here, and it's not just about cleaning—it's ab…

1
308: You Might Also Like Climbing the Walls from Understood.org 32:06

2M ago32:06

32:06

Wait, ADHD is more than attention issues? Yep — and this episode will blow your mind. In this special episode, I’m sharing the first episode of the must-listen new series Climbing the Walls by Understood.org. This story-driven episode dives into the rise of ADHD diagnoses in women — especially during the pandemic — and how emotional regulation, exe…

1
307: Valuing Personhood Over Productivity, with Shawna Rosenzweig 32:16

2M ago32:16

32:16

✨ What if your child’s “daydreaming” on the sidelines was actually self-regulation in action? In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m joined by Shawna Rosenzweig, CEO of Campfire, for a real-talk conversation about rethinking success and valuing our kids for who they are, not what they do. We unpack how our cultural obsession with productivity …

1
Who is in Your Circle of Support? 21:30

2M ago21:30

21:30

Who is in Your Support Circle? The people around you play a huge role in your well-being—but are they lifting you up or draining your energy? In this episode of the Empowered Wellness series, we explore how relationships impact your stress levels, healing, and overall health. Join Deb Timmerman RN, DAIS, HMCT, ARCB, Susie Marsh, LBSW and Lindsay Ve…

1
306: What Do You Do With the Mad that You Feel? 20:19

2M ago20:19

20:19

Ever wish your kid would just stop yelling? This episode of Beautifully Complex will make you rethink that wish — in the best way. Inspired by the timeless wisdom of Mr. Rogers, I explore one deceptively simple question: “What do you do with the mad that you feel?” In this solo episode, you’ll discover how anger shows up in the nervous system, why …

1
305: Building Parent Resilience, with Barb Fletcher 26:50

2M ago26:50

26:50

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I am joined by resilience coach Barb Fletcher to explore empowering strategies for building parent resilience — an essential tool for those of us navigating the unique journey of raising neurodivergent kids. We discuss the balance of control over stress, the pivotal role of heart-focused breathing, and the im…

1
Why Do I Still Have Pain After Surgery? 22:24

2M ago22:24

22:24

You had surgery expecting relief, but you're still in pain—why? In this episode of the Empowered Wellness series, we uncover the hidden reasons behind persistent post-surgical pain. Join Deb Timmerman, RN DAIS, HMCT, ARCB, Susie Marsh, LBSW and professional organizer, and Lindsay Vertalka, MSPT, as they explore how the brain, emotions, and nervous …

1
304: How to Support Regulation with Play, with Polina Shkadron, MA/SLP, MSNE, CTP, ADHD-RSP 33:23

3M ago33:23

33:23

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I sit down with expert Polina Shkadron to explore the incredible power of play in supporting emotional regulation. Discover how co-regulation — a crucial component of nurturing a healthy parent-child bond — can become a natural part of your routine. We dive into how letting go of control during playtime and e…

1
303: How to Prepare for a Successful School Meeting, with Penny Williams 39:39

3M ago39:39

39:39

School meetings can stir up a lot of emotions for parents — including overwhelm, confusion, anxiety, and uncertainty. You’re worried about your child's rights, accommodations, and educational success in an ever-changing landscape. In this episode of the Beautifully Complex podcast, I’m sharing some practical and hard-won wisdom on setting the found…

1
Are My Thoughts and Feelings Causing My Pain? 27:06

3M ago27:06

27:06

In this episode of the Empowered Wellness series, we explore how thoughts, emotions, and past experiences influence physical pain. Our hosts—Deb Timmerman RN, DAIS, HMCT, ARCB, Susie Marsh, LBSW, and Lindsay Vertalka, MSPT discuss the science behind pain perception, the impact of stress and fear, and practical strategies to retrain the brain’s resp…

1
The Impact of Stress and Anxiety on Pain and Healing 24:20

3M ago24:20

24:20

In this episode of the Empowered Wellness Series, Deb Timmerman RN, Lindsay Vertalka MPT, and Susie Marsh LBSW discuss how chronic stress and anxiety affect the body’s ability to heal. Learn how the nervous system reacts to stress, why it can lead to pain and inflammation, and how small actions—like mindful breathing, movement, and reducing clutter…

1
301: Helping Neurodivergent Kids Crack the Code of Thriving in a Neurotypical World, with Matt Zakreski, PsyD 28:21

3M ago28:21

28:21

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m joined by Dr. Matt Zakreski, who shares compelling strategies from his new book, "Neurodiversity Playbook." We discuss how important it is to create a neuro-affirming environment that celebrates authenticity while equipping our kids with the social skills to thrive in a neurotypical world. You’ll learn ho…

1
300: 5 Myths That Hurt Neurodivergent Kids (And What to Do Instead!), with Penny Williams 23:25

4M ago23:25

23:25

In this milestone 300th episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m going deep into the misconceptions that many of us face raising neurodivergent kids and that unjustly limit our children’s potential. Join me as I bust the top 5 myths that hurt neurodivergent kids and then provide strategies to challenge outdated thinking and empower your journey as a par…

1
Taking a Holistic Approach to Health 16:38

4M ago16:38

16:38

In this episode, we dive into the challenges practitioners face in today’s healthcare system, including time constraints and limited communication, which hinder holistic patient care. Our co-hosts—Deb Timmerman, RN, DAIS, HMCT, ARCB, Lindsay Vertalka, MPT, and Susie Marsh, LBSW discuss how holistic care emphasizes prevention, balance, and treating …

1
Welcome to the Empowered Wellness Series 9:13

4M ago9:13

9:13

Meet three passionate clinicians—Lindsay Vertalka, MPT; Susie Marsh, LBSW; and Deb Timmerman, RN, DAIS, HMCT, ARCB come together to guide you on a journey toward greater well-being. In this special pre-episode, we’ll introduce ourselves, share our unique paths in healthcare, and explain why we are committed to helping you reclaim control over your …

1
299: How to Create a Strengths-Based Culture of Learning, with Julia Black 28:45

4M ago28:45

28:45

What if you could ignite your child's inner spark and unlock their boundless potential? In this episode, Julia Black, founder of Lights on Learning, shares her groundbreaking approach to unleashing creativity and fostering a love of learning in neurodivergent kids. Discover how focusing on what lights your child up can lead to lifelong confidence a…

1
298: Why We Need to Stop Criminalizing Neurodivergent Behavior, with Sarah Templeton 39:46

4M ago39:46

39:46

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I explore the critical issues surrounding neurodivergence and criminalization with ADHD author and activist Sarah Templeton. Sarah shares her powerful experience working with individuals in the prison system and the critical need for early ADHD screening. Key topics include: The alarming criminalization of ne…

1
297: How to Talk to Neurodivergent Kids about Sexuality, with Amy Lang MA 39:36

4M ago39:36

39:36

LISTENER NOTE: We openly discuss body parts, sex, and sexuality in this episode. You likely want to listen where you child cannot hear it.Feel overwhelmed and uncertain about how to handle complex topics like sexuality and relationships with your neurodivergent kid? In this episode, I sit down with Amy Lang, MA, founder of Birds & Bees & Kids and a…

1
296: Supporting Executive Function: Strategies for Managing Daily Tasks, with Carrie Bonnett 29:59

5M ago29:59

29:59

Ever feel like you're fighting an uphill battle when it comes to helping your child manage everyday tasks? Do you worry that your neurodivergent child may not be able to navigate the complexities of life independently? There's hope! In this episode of Beautifully Complex, we're diving deep into practical strategies for supporting executive function…

1
295: Transforming Your Stream of Consciousness to Make Room for Joy in 2025 28:47

5M ago28:47

28:47

Do you find yourself asking, "Why is this happening to me? Why my kid?" It’s okay to feel this way, and I’m here to tell you that you have the power to transform these frustrations into opportunities for joy and growth. In this episode I will guide you through the journey of shifting your mindset to make room for joy in your life and in your child’…

1
294: Introducing the Regulated Kids Project 25:16

5M ago25:16

25:16

Are you exhausted from navigating the emotional storms and meltdowns that come with raising a neurodivergent child? Do you sometimes feel like every traditional parenting strategy has led you to a dead-end, leaving you worried about your child's future and overwhelmed by the daily chaos? You're not alone. In this episode, I'll share my personal and…

1
293: Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), with Casey Ehrlich, Ph.D. 41:49

6M ago41:49

41:49

In this episode, I sit down with Casey Ehrlich, Ph.D. to discuss the unique challenges of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and offer heartfelt guidance and practical strategies to help you and your child thrive. Key Topics Covered: Understanding PDA and why conventional parenting methods often fall short. How to separate yourself from societal j…

1
292: Representing Neurodivergence in Kid’s Media, with Deborah Farmer Kris 29:51

6M ago29:51

29:51

Do you worry that your neurodivergent child might not see themselves represented in the stories they love? If you’ve ever felt this way, this episode of Beautifully Complex is just what you need. I'm Penny Williams, your host and fellow parent navigating the beautifully complex world of neurodivergence. In this episode, I sit down with Deborah Farm…

1
291: Teaching Your Kid to Harness Their Brain, with Anna Housley Juster, Ph.D., LICSW 28:00

6M ago28:00

28:00

Welcome to episode 291 of the Beautifully Complex podcast, where we’re discussing Teaching Your Kid to Harness Their Brain with early childhood education consultant and mental health clinician Anna Housley Juster, Ph.D., LICSW. In this episode, we’re getting to know the amygdala — that small but mighty part of the brain that plays a crucial role in…

1
290: Practical Strategies for Reducing School Stress, with Ann Dolin M.Ed. 30:16

6M ago30:16

30:16

Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed and worry that your neurodivergent kid isn’t getting the support they need? On this week's episode of Beautifully Complex, join me, Penny Williams, as I chat with Ann Dolin, M.Ed., about practical strategies to reduce school stress and promote independence in our children. From managing executive function difficult…

1
289: Balancing Act: Teen Independence & Parent Concerns, with Gabriele Nicolet, MA CCC-SLP 42:02

7M ago42:02

42:02

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the daily struggles and emotional rollercoaster of parenting a neurodivergent teen? Do you find yourself torn between nurturing their independence and managing your own worries and emotions? If this sounds familiar, you're not alone, and this episode of Beautifully Complex is just for you. In this heartfelt episode, I…

1
288: 5 Reasons Why You Should Stop Trying to Control Your Kid, with Penny Williams 27:57

7M ago27:57

27:57

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the constant need to control your child's behavior, only to find it leads to more frustration and distance? That it isn’t making anything better? You're not alone. Welcome to episode 288 of the Beautifully Complex podcast, where host Penny Williams, a parenting coach and author, dives into the core of these common par…

1
287: Stop Saying “It’s okay”, with Penny Williams 30:06

7M ago30:06

30:06

Are you exhausted from the constant emotional ups and downs, the frustration of trying to connect with your neurodivergent child, and the worry about saying the “wrong” thing? You’re not alone, and there is hope. In this warm and supportive episode of Beautifully Complex, host Penny Williams dives deep into the transformative power of skill-buildin…

1
285: Creating an Environment that Works for Neurodivergent Kids, with Caroline Thor 34:28

7M ago34:28

34:28

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the endless clutter, frustrated by your child's attachment to their possessions, or worried about creating a clean, organized space for your neurodivergent child or teen? You are not alone, and help is here! In our latest episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m joined by Caroline Thor, a professional organizer and KonMari…

1
286: When an Anxious, Empathetic Nervous System is Confronted with Natural Disaster, Penny Williams 55:55

7M ago55:55

55:55

Do you ever feel like you're caught in the eye of the storm? Trust me, you're not alone. Join Penny Williams in this profoundly personal episode of Beautifully Complex where she shares her experience living in Asheville, NC through the devastation Hurricane Helene brought, including the trials and triumphs of navigating this challenging time, both …

1
284: Motivation Myth Busters, with Wendy S. Grolnick, Ph.D. 28:50

8M ago28:50

28:50

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the daily challenges of raising a neurodivergent child? Do you worry about how to motivate your kid and help them succeed, or perhaps you’re frustrated with the constant misunderstandings surrounding their unique needs? You are not alone, and there is hope. In this episode of Beautifully Complex, Dr. Wendy Grolnick an…

1
283: We Need to Talk About Anxiety, with Penny Williams 23:24

8M ago23:24

23:24

Feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how to support your child or teen through their anxiety? You’re not alone. As parents, we often face sleepless nights worrying: Are we doing enough to help them feel safe? Are we equipping them with the tools they need to conquer their fears? In this heartfelt episode, I shine a light on the often unsaid stru…

1
282: Single Parenting with Neurodivergent Kids, with Dr. Gila 44:44

9M ago44:44

44:44

Are you navigating the challenging, yet rewarding journey of single parenting a neurodivergent child? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by societal expectations, struggling with feelings of guilt and isolation, or simply looking for practical advice to foster a nurturing environment for your unique family? In this empowering episode of Beautif…

1
281: Raising Healthy Gamers, with Dr. Alok Kanojia, MD MPH 35:01

9M ago35:01

35:01

Are you tired of battling your kid over screen time and gaming habits, only to see your relationship suffer and the issues persist? In this episode of "Beautifully Complex," I welcome Dr. Alok Kanojia (aka, Dr. K), psychiatrist and President and Co-Founder of Healthy Gamer. As a recovering gaming addict himself, Dr. K offers a unique perspective on…

1
280: Fostering Resilience in the Age of Uncertainty, with Tovah Klein, Ph.D. 29:21

9M ago29:21

29:21

Are you struggling to help your child navigate the uncertainties of today's world? In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m chatting with Tovah Klein, Ph.D., professor at Barnard College and director of the Center for Toddler Development, about fostering resilience in children during these challenging times. Dr. Klein emphasizes the importance o…

1
279: You Might Also Like: In It: Raising Kids who Learn Differently, from Understood.org 28:20

9M ago28:20

28:20

This episode is a special collaboration with the "In It" podcast from Understood.org, dedicated to families with children facing challenges like ADHD and dyslexia. We’re diving into a topic that many parents find both essential and perplexing — encouraging kids to care about personal hygiene. In It hosts, Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek, are joi…

1
278: Helping Kids on the Spectrum Transition to Adulthood, with Shannon Urquiola 32:39

10M ago32:39

32:39

Navigating the transition to adulthood with your neurodivergent child can be overwhelming and fraught with uncertainties. In this episode of Beautifully Complex, my guest, Shannon Urquiola and I explore the critical aspects of preparing kids on the spectrum for adulthood, addressing common pain points like guardianship, financial planning, SSI, and…

1
277: Redefining ADHD for Neurodivergent Kids, with Elly Both 27:08

10M ago27:08

27:08

Are you struggling to talk to your child about their ADHD diagnosis or seeking ways to reframe it positively? In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I host an empowering conversation with Elly Both about her inspiring new children's book on ADHD. Elly shares her personal journey of being diagnosed later in life and how that revelation transformed …

1
276: Executive Function Rundown, with Seth Perler, M.Ed. 32:44

10M ago32:44

32:44

Feeling frustrated by your child's disorganization, falling grades, and struggles with time management? Tune in to this episode of Beautifully Complex, where Seth Perler, M.Ed. and I explore the crucial role of executive function skills in your child or teen's life. Seth likens these skills to learning guitar chords — they're not innate, but they c…

1
275: Starting Scared, with Chrysty Lockhart 31:40

10M ago31:40

31:40

Are you tired of letting fear hold you back? The key to moving beyond that is turning what you view as failure into stepping stones to success. And you can teach your kids the same. In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m joined by Chrysty Lockhart, who shares her transformative journey from fearful to learning to push forward despite the fear.…

1
274 Looking at Behavior Both Inside and Out, with Gabriele Nicolet, MA, CCC-SLP 47:07

10M ago47:07

47:07

Do you find it challenging to stay calm and mindful when your child is having a tough time in public? Gabriele Nicolet and I explore understanding kid’s behavior from both behavioral and neurophysiological perspectives. Gabriele, a seasoned speech therapist and parent coach, shares invaluable insights into decoding what behaviors signify about a ki…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Barb Fletcher Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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