Beautifully Complex
Join parenting coach and mom-in-the-trenches, Penny Williams, as she helps parents, caregivers, and educators harness the realization that we are all beautifully complex and marvelously imperfect. Each week she delivers insights and actionable strategies on parenting and educating neurodivergent kids — those with ADHD, autism, anxiety, learning disabilities... Her 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. Penny has helped thousands of families worldwide to help their ki...
328: Behavior Is a Signal: How to Decode What It’s Telling You, with Penny Williams
Behavior isn’t random. It’s not about disrespect, laziness, or a “bad attitude.” Every outburst, shutdown, or refusal is your child’s nervous system sending a signal.
In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m unpacking what those signals really mean and why the labels we often put on behavior — defiance, aggression, avoidance — miss the mark. You’ll learn how to look past the surface to see the need underneath, and how shifting from control to curiosity changes everything.
When you learn to decode behavior as a signal, you stop fighting the symptom and start supporting your ch...
327: How Animal Instincts Signal What's Underlying Behavior, with Penny Williams
What if your child’s meltdowns weren’t about defiance, disrespect, or “bad behavior” at all—but simply their nervous system doing what it was designed to do? In this episode, I unpack how animal instincts like Lumi the Owl, Prickles the Porcupine, Bolt the Cheetah, and Tuck the Possum signal what’s happening beneath the surface. When you learn to spot the state and meet the need, you stop wrestling with behavior and start tending the roots.
We’ll talk about how to recognize each instinct, what your child actually needs in those moments, and how to support withou...
326: Hidden in Plain Sight: Misdiagnosis & Missed Diagnosis with Monica Garty Juice, PNP, PMHS
Your child’s biggest struggles might be the very things no one else sees.
In this powerful conversation with pediatric nurse practitioner and mental health specialist Monica Garty Juice, we explore how subtle signs of neurodivergence often get dismissed, misdiagnosed, or go completely unnoticed — and what that means for our kids. Monica shares why so many complex kids are “hidden in plain sight,” how masking shows up in daily life, and what it looks like to finally be seen.
We also talk about how parents often become the “quarterback” of their child’s care team — even wh...
325: Unlocking the Best Possible Outcomes in Special Education, with Michelle Pianim
Ever walk into a school meeting and feel like you're already behind before you even sit down?
In this episode, I’m talking with special education consultant Michelle Pianim about how we shift from feeling powerless in IEP meetings to taking proactive, confident steps for our neurodivergent kids. We unpack the culture of inclusion (or the lack thereof), how to become the expert in the room about your child, and what to do when you feel like you've hit a wall with your school team.
Michelle brings decades of experience — and serious wisdom — to this conversation, includ...
324: How to Step Back Without Letting Go, with Kristin Lombardi, MA & Christine Drew, Ph.D.
What if the way you help your child is actually holding them back?
In this powerful conversation with Kristin Lombardi and Christine Drew, co-authors of Spectrum of Independence, we unpack the hard-to-navigate space between support and overdoing. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Am I empowering or enabling?” — this episode is a must-listen.
We explore how to slowly and compassionately fade our support, why independence isn’t about going it alone, and how morning and bedtime routines can become moments of growth instead of daily battles. With real talk, gentle truth-telling, and deeply empathetic strategies, we help yo...
323: Using Breathwork to Facilitate Regulation, with Kurtis Lee Thomas
What if the most powerful regulation tool for your child has been sitting right under their nose all along?In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m joined by breathwork facilitator and trainer Kurtis Lee Thomas to talk about the overlooked power of the breath — not just for calming down in the moment, but for deep emotional healing and nervous system regulation. Kurtis breaks down how breathwork helps both parents and kids release stuck emotions, build emotional intelligence, and move from chaos to calm.
We also explore:Why breathwork works fastHow to simplify it so even your reluctant teen...
322: Your Child’s Big Emotions Are the Way Through, Not the Problem, with Tosha Schore
In this powerful episode, I sit down with parenting coach and boys' emotional ally, Tosha Schore, to unpack something most of us were never taught: our emotions — especially the messy, loud, uncomfortable ones — hold the key to healing.
We talk about what it really looks like to bear witness to our child’s (and our own) pain, why your “just calm down” instincts might be backfiring, and how to show up for your neurodivergent child in a way that builds emotional intelligence, resilience, and lasting connection.
And parents, we go there: the shame, the silence, the struggle t...
321: Your Kid’s Quality of Life Starts with You, with Nancy Gilette
Your child’s behavior isn’t the problem — it’s the clue.
So often we’re handed behavior plans, sticker charts, and systems that totally ignore what our neurodivergent kids are trying to tell us. In this powerful conversation with RDI Consultant Nancy Gilette, we dig into what really shapes your child’s quality of life — and spoiler alert: it starts with you.
We talk about shifting from task-based parenting to experience-based connection, what “feeling good” actually looks like for neurodivergent brains, and how slowing down can speed up growth in the long run. You’ll hear practi...
320 Less Stress, More Success for Back-to-School
Is your back-to-school plan just a fresh stack of notebooks and high hopes? Let’s talk about what really makes or breaks a smooth transition for your neurodivergent child. In this episode, I’m sharing the top three things I wish I had known when my son was in school — the things that could’ve saved us from years of chaos, meltdowns, and overwhelm.
We’re ditching the myth that buying the right planner will fix everything. Instead, I’ll walk you through how to prep your systems (not just your supplies), how to create emotional safety in the daily ro...
319: Using Music for Emotional Regulation, with Samantha Foote
What if the secret to helping your child regulate their emotions… is already playing on your speakers?In this episode, I’m joined by board-certified music therapist and fellow neurodivergent mom, Samantha Foote, to explore how music can be a powerful (and joyful!) regulation tool for kids with ADHD, autism, and other complex needs. We chat about everything from angry drumming sessions between siblings to writing silly blues songs to cueing transitions with the right rhythm.
Samantha shares how rhythm is hardwired into our bodies — and how we can use that to our advantage when emotions run high. Whethe...
318: Neuroscience, Mental Health & Sleep Optimization, with Ariel Garten
What if just five minutes a day could lower your stress, help your child regulate, and even improve sleep? Sounds too good to be true, right? In this episode, I’m joined by Ariel Garten, neuroscientist, psychotherapist, and co-founder of Muse — and trust me, this conversation is both science-packed and deeply personal.
We talk about the real brain science behind mindfulness and meditation (spoiler: it’s not about emptying your mind), and how biofeedback technology like Muse can help kids and parents strengthen self-regulation, improve mental health, and actually enjoy meditation. We also dive into how sleep, anxiety, and ne...
317: Creating Neurodiverstiy-Affirming Schools, with Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC
What if schools didn’t just accommodate neurodivergent kids, but celebrated them? In this heartfelt and eye-opening conversation with Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris, we dig into what it really means to create neurodiversity-affirming schools. From ditching moral judgments on behavior to prioritizing belonging over compliance, this episode is a must-listen for any parent or educator who wants more for our kids than just surviving school.
You’ll hear powerful personal stories, practical strategies, and a reminder that our children deserve to be seen, supported, and valued exactly as they are.
Tune in and discover how we c...
316: Finding Your Kid’s Just Right Balance, with Chris Taylor, LCSW-C
Ever wonder how to push your child just enough without pushing them over the edge?
In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I sit down with therapist Chris Taylor, LCSW-C, to unpack what it really means to find your child’s “Just Right Balance.” Unlike the more familiar “just right challenge,” this concept is about balancing emotional safety with growth — how to gently nudge our neurodivergent kids out of their comfort zones without creating shutdown or dysregulation.
Chris and I talk about how to know when to step in and when to step back, why validation and predictabili...
315: Integrating Creativity and Play into Learning, with Kelsey Cook
What if a pom pom, a paper tube, and ten minutes a day could transform your child’s learning?
In this joy-filled episode, I sit down with Kelsey Cook, mom of four, former teacher, and founder of Learning with Kelsey, to unpack the science and soul behind play-based learning. Together, we explore how creativity and play aren't just fun — they're vital tools for connection, emotional regulation, and skill development in neurodivergent kids.
From sensory-friendly adaptations to parent-child rituals that build predictability, you'll walk away with practical strategies to foster emotional intelligence, meet your child’s sensory needs...
314: Don’t Be “That Parent:” How to Advocate Effectively & Compassionately, with Scotti Weintraub
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 hard. We dig into the reality that most teachers aren’t trained in neurodivergence, and how parents can advocate without alienating and burning bridges. From leading with curiosity to asking, “Can I share this with you?,” instead of handing over a stack of articles...
313: Build Resilience and Joy with Awe and Wonder, with Deborah Farmer Kris
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 nervous system, and foster belonging. You’ll hear real stories, science-backed insights, and simple ways to help your child (and yourself) become an awe-seeker in a world that often feels overwhelming.
Listen now and discover the small moments that can create big shifts in...
312: Discovering the Right Career Path for Neurodivergent Kids, with Hannah Maruyama
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 real-world needs, and shifting the career conversation can change everything. Learn why starting with your child's unique lifestyle goals leads to a far more satisfying and successful future, and why the old "college = success" formula just doesn't add up anymore.
311: Fostering Self-Discovery for Your Autistic Kid, with Sol Smith, MS, MFA, EDS
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 friendships and finding identity through passion, Sol walks us through what self-discovery really looks like for autistic kids… and how we can better support it as parents.
We also dive into the hard stuff: the social exhaustion of masking, the difference bet...
310: Connecting Through Conversation: Rethinking Behavior Strategies for Schools, with Erika Bare & Tiffany Burns
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 connection, they break down practical strategies that teachers and parents can use right now to shift from correction to connection.
You’ll hear why traditional behavior charts often do more harm than good, how to “care out loud” in everyday interactions, and what it really means to co-create emotio...
309: Coping Skills for Kids, Teens, and Adults, with Janine Halloran, MA, LMHC
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 the moment (spoiler: it starts with YOU), and how to teach your child the coping strategies that actually work for their unique brain and nervous system. Plus, Janine shares real-life stories, tools, and ways to...
308: You Might Also Like Climbing the Walls from Understood.org
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, executive function, and misunderstood symptoms have kept countless women undiagnosed for decades.
I reflect on the shock of hearing things I wish I’d known when my child was first diagnosed. This episode isn't just about women with ADHD — it’s about the ri...
307: Valuing Personhood Over Productivity, with Shawna Rosenzweig
✨ 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 often misses the mark — especially for neurodivergent kids. From challenging perfectionism to navigating sensory overwhelm and learning to follow our kids’ lead, this episode is a must-listen for any parent ready to shift from performance to personhood.
Whether your kid is st...
306: What Do You Do With the Mad that You Feel?
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 our kids often can’t think their way through it, and how to help them feel safe in their emotions, instead of ashamed. From compassionate scripts to body-based strategies, this is your go-to guide for...
305: Building Parent Resilience, with Barb Fletcher
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 impact of shared energy between parent and child. Listen in to learn about redefining stress management, adjusting our lens on resilience, and the actionable steps we can take today to show up for ourselves and our children with authenticity and strength.
Join us as...
304: How to Support Regulation with Play, with Polina Shkadron, MA/SLP, MSNE, CTP, ADHD-RSP
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 embracing your child's creativity can lead to breakthroughs in self-regulation and problem-solving.
You'll receive warm guidance on striking the right balance between encouragement and independence, teaching your child how to navigate challenges while building strong executive functioning skills. We'll address your parental capacity, prov...
303: How to Prepare for a Successful School Meeting, with Penny Williams
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 foundation for successful school meetings.
Join me as I share personal stories and insights, exploring the importance of submitting your parent input ahead of time, understanding the structure of these meetings, and cultivating a collaborative mindset. These strategies are not just about surviving the meeting but turning them i...
302: Break the Parenting Norms for Kids with ADHD, with Penny Williams
In this episode of Beautifully Complex, I’m sharing some of the powerful insights gathered from the Unlocking ADHD Summit. You’ll discover the importance of stepping outside the box to let your child's individual strengths shine, and learn how to lay the groundwork for a neuro-affirming, supportive environment and a strengths-based approach where your child can thrive.
Join me as I share practical, step-by-step advice on harnessing your child's strengths to overcome challenges, creating a feeling of safety that supports learning and growth, and the crucial role of parental regulation in helping your child navigate their world. We c...
301: Helping Neurodivergent Kids Crack the Code of Thriving in a Neurotypical World, with Matt Zakreski, PsyD
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 how to replace the worry of 'fitting in' with the confidence of 'standing out' in their own unique way.
You'll gain step-by-step guidance on helping your child build a supportive community, fostering emotional growth while also growing their confidence and competence. With practical advice, we'l...
300: 5 Myths That Hurt Neurodivergent Kids (And What to Do Instead!), with Penny Williams
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 parent. We’ll tackle the misconception that neurodivergent kids just need to try harder, reveal why success doesn’t hinge on fitting in, and highlight the myriad paths to achieving a fulfilled life beyond traditional ideas. Learn why discipline isn't the answer a...
299: How to Create a Strengths-Based Culture of Learning, with Julia Black
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 and success.
Key Topics:
The transformative power of "heart set," "mindset," and "skill set" in learning.How to identify what switches your child’s “lights on” for deeper engagement.Practical tools for creating a strengths-based culture of learning at home and in classrooms.This e...
298: Why We Need to Stop Criminalizing Neurodivergent Behavior, with Sarah Templeton
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 neurodivergent behavior, particularly for individuals with ADHD.The urgent need for early ADHD screening to prevent misunderstandings and punitive consequences.How misdiagnoses and lack of understanding lead neurodivergent individuals down a troubling path.Proactive, compassionate strategies to break the school-to-prison pipeline and create supportive systems for complex kids...
297: How to Talk to Neurodivergent Kids about Sexuality, with Amy Lang MA
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 seasoned expert in sexual health education, specializing in neurodivergence.
Together, we discuss essential topics like:
How neurodivergent kids and teens process social cues and navigate puberty.Addressing the stark reality of porn exposure and providing age-appropriate, explicit information...
296: Supporting Executive Function: Strategies for Managing Daily Tasks, with Carrie Bonnett
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 functioning in our unique kids, making daunting tasks more approachable and fostering resilience.
I'm thrilled to be joined by executive functioning expert, Carrie Bonnett. Together, we'll explore:Breaking assignments into smaller, manageable parts to aid task initiation and alleviate overwhelm.Effective techniques to control impulsive...
295: Transforming Your Stream of Consciousness to Make Room for Joy in 2025
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’s. From being overwhelmed by a sense of victimhood to reclaiming your narrative, I share my personal experiences and proven strategies that have helped me and many other parents.
<...
294: Introducing the Regulated Kids Project
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 professional journey as a parenting coach and a mom of a neurodivergent kid. I've spent years in the trenches, facing the same challenges you do, and I'm here to tell you there's hope and a path to a fulfilling, peaceful family life.<...
293: Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), with Casey Ehrlich, Ph.D.
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 judgment and trust your instincts.Building a supportive and neuro-affirming environment tailored to your child's needs.Strategies for enhancing autonomy and reducing stress for PDA children.Real-world examples and actionable tips to foster resilience and safety for your child.Join us for an eye-opening...
292: Representing Neurodivergence in Kid’s Media, with Deborah Farmer Kris
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 Farmer Kris to discuss the heartfelt and eye-opening representation of neurodivergent characters in children’s media — a subject that touches deeply on both our worries and hopes for our kids.
We’re unpacking an inspiring new PBS Kids show, Carl the...
291: Teaching Your Kid to Harness Their Brain, with Anna Housley Juster, Ph.D., LICSW
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 our kids’ anxiety and stress responses. Together, we'll explore:
Understanding the Amygdala: What is it, and why is it so vital for our neurodivergent children and teens to grasp how it works.Managing Anxiety: Step-by-step strategies to teach your kids how...
290: Practical Strategies for Reducing School Stress, with Ann Dolin M.Ed.
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 difficulties to handling emotional ups and downs, we cover it all. Key topics include:Balancing support and independence.Powerful questions to help your child prioritize tasks.Visual tools and routines to enhance learning.Breaking down tasks to manage overwhelm.Ann provides step-by-step advice to cr...
289: Balancing Act: Teen Independence & Parent Concerns, with Gabriele Nicolet, MA CCC-SLP
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'm joined by the incredible Gabriele Nicolet, a seasoned speech-language pathologist and parent coach, to dive deep into the uniquely challenging world of parenting complex teens. Together, we explore:
✨ The importance of validating both your child's and your own emotions, creating a space wh...
