This week’s episode dives deep into what it really means to support neurodivergent minds. Whether you're parenting a complex kid, managing your own ADHD, or trying to break the cycle of “fixing it” for everyone else, this one is for you.

Michelle and Megan reflect on Chapter 3 of The Essential Guide to Raising Complex Kids by Elaine Taylor-Klaus and tackle the emotional reality of the moment when you’ve “tried everything and nothing seems to work.”

Megan shares the surprising emotional growth that came from finally cleaning out her garage. (Yes, the whole thing!) with the support of a neighbor. From “deferred decisions” to letting go of past selves, she walks us through the mindset shift that made it possible. Michelle brings the parenting perspective, offering insights from conversations with Josh and the complexity of offering support without over-controlling.

Together, they explore what it means to parent ourselves, our children, and our relationships through big transitions with grace, curiosity, and a little spicy humor.

Favorite line from the episode:

“I had to build this muscle little piece by piece… which is why sometimes I get hard on Elaine Taylor-Klaus, because nothing she says is simple. But it is worth it.”

00:00 welcome and the pressure to do “the right” kind of parenting

05:00 defining success and dealing with feelings of failure

10:30 Megan’s garage cleanup breakthrough (and how it really wasn’t about the garage)

15:00 honoring relationships over tasks

23:00 relationship fatigue and letting go of control

35:00 your child is not your resume

42:00 redefining “adulting” and giving yourself time

49:00 trusting the long-term “stock market” of parenting

56:00 the importance of curiosity and repair in relationship-building

If you’ve ever felt stuck in the chaos of parenting a complex kid, or parenting yourself through the mess, this is your sign to pause, breathe, and trust the process. We’re so glad you’re here with us. Make sure to follow or subscribe on your favorite podcast app, and if you’re enjoying the show, leave us a review or rating. Doing that really helps other neurospicy folks find their way here too. And hey, what’s your version of the garage you’ve been avoiding? Share it with us on Instagram or leave a comment. Until then, stay curious, joyful, and radically accepting. 🎧💖

ADHD, complex kids, parenting, executive function, burnout, emotional regulation, relationships, radical acceptance, garage metaphor, sensory overload, letting go, adulting, redefining success, shoulds, transitions