014: Finding Success with ADHD, with Ben Glenn

Picture of hosted by Penny Williams

hosted by Penny Williams

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I'm so excited to have Ben Glenn (aka, The Chalkguy) on the podcast. He is a remarkable human being and offers great insights to parents raising kids with ADHD and/or learning disabilities, because he was that kid.

Ben begins by sharing his story of growing up with learning disabilities and ADHD, unhappy in a self-contained classroom for many years. Then, with the help of an out-of-the-box-thinking high school principal, Ben discovered his gift — art. During our conversation he shares what it's like to grow up thinking something's wrong with you, and how he found his motivation and became a successful, happy adult.

Hearing his story also reinforces that what our kids are doing right now (like cheating in Ben's case), doesn't necessarily mean they will grow up to still employ those unsavory coping mechanisms.

Ben is a fun and funny guy. His energy and drive to help others are infectious. His story will inspire you.

Resources

Some of the resources may be affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission (at no cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

10 Self-Check Questions for Kids with ADHD

1. How do you feel today?
Excited… Energetic… Tired… Bored… Frustrated… Cranky… Edgy… Positive… Hopeful…

2. How is your energy today?
Energetic… Ready to rock… Ok… Tired…. I need a nap… I need coffee…

3. What are you looking forward to today?
Project… Work… Task… Friends… Event… Lunch… Outing… Sport… Gym… Fellowship…

4. What do you need to get done 1st today?
Homework… Gym… Food… Project… Email… Phone call… School…

5. Is there anything stressing you out?
Family… Homework… School… Friends… Work… Project…

6. If you are not feeling yourself…
Have you taken your medication today?
When was the last time you exercised?
What did you eat before you went to bed last night?
How many hours of sleep did you get last night?
Are you taking any other medication that can affect your mood?

7. What is one thing you’ve done that you are super proud of?

8. What is one good thing you are going to do today? WHY?

9. What type of exercise are you going to do today?

10. How can your parents help you today?

(Of course, feel free to customize that for your own child.)

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My Guest

BEN GLENN

Ben Glenn struggled with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) throughout his formative years, ultimately finding it impossible to stay interested in school and leaving following his junior year in college. Although his ADD caused him to struggle academically, it proved to be a perfect companion in his career as a performer, creator, and educator. Rather than let it hold him back, he chose to be inspired by his condition. He uses it as a tool for writing, speaking, and making videos focused on ADHD and personal development.

Ben’s speaking engagements began spontaneously after his short-lived collegiate career when he was presented with the opportunity to tell his story at small church camps and conferences. He has since expanded his outreach by working with students, teachers, and speaking at corporate events. Ben is the published author of seven books and the founder of Chalkguy’s LEGO drive project.

When he isn’t working, Ben enjoys fishing, boxing, and spending time with his wife and two daughters.

Check out Ben's Speedscaping!

 

Thank you!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it. Have something to say, or a question to ask? Leave a comment below. I promise to answer every single one. **Also, please leave an honest review for the Beautifully Complex Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and appreciated! That's what helps me reach and help more families like yours.

Hello!
I'm Penny Williams.

I help stuck and struggling parents (educators, too) make the pivots necessary to unlock success and joy for neurodivergent kids and teens, themselves, and their families. I'm honored to be part of your journey!

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Quick Start: 3 High-Impact Actions to Transform Behavior

Transforming negative or unwanted behavior is a long and complex process. HOWEVER, there are a few actions you can take right now that will provide a big impact. These 3 high-impact strategies address foundational aspects of behavior, empowering you to help your child feel better so they can do better.

SOME OF MY FAVORITE TOOLS

1

Makes time visual for those with time blindness.

2

Blends gaming with off-screen activities to teach coping skills through play.

3

Manage chores and routines while building self-confidence and independence.

4

A chair that gives kids a sensory hug.

About the show...

I'm your host, Penny.

Join me as I help parents, caregivers, and educators like you harness the realization that we are all beautifully complex and marvelously imperfect. Each week I deliver insights and actionable strategies on parenting neurodivergent kids — those with ADHD, autism, anxiety, learning disabilities…

My approach to decoding behavior while honoring neurodiversity and parenting the individual child you have will provide you with the tools to help you understand and transform behavior, reduce your own stress, increase parenting confidence, and create the joyful family life you crave. I am honored to have helped thousands of families worldwide to help their kids feel good so they can do good.

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