MHNRN | Apple Podcasts | Spreaker | Episode #8

I’m a pediatrician, wife, mother, and passionate advocate for neurodiversity awareness. If you’re here, it means you care about understanding the unique ways our brains work—especially when it comes to ADHD, autism, and parenting neurodivergent children.

As a doctor, a coach, and a mom raising neurodivergent kids in the Black community, I’ve seen firsthand how much education, advocacy, and support can change lives. This podcast is all about breaking stigmas, sharing real stories, and giving you the tools to help yourself and your loved ones thrive.

So, if you’re ready for honest conversations, expert insights, and a whole lot of heart—stick around. Let’s talk about what it really means to embrace neurodiversity in a world that doesn’t always understand it.

This is The Dr. Mary Podcast—where we speak the truth, spread love, and advocate for every mind to be seen, heard, and valued.

[00:00] – Introduction

Welcome to The Dr. Mary Podcast! I’m your host, Dr. Mary. I’m a pediatrician, wife, mother, and empowerment advocate.

I invite guests from all over the world to discuss mental and physical health, ADHD, autism, and more. As I always tell my patients, I’ll give it to you straight—with a lot of love. Welcome to the show!

[00:30] – A Different Kind of Episode

Today’s episode is going to be a little different from my previous ones. Now that we’ve done a few of these, I wanted to pause and share more about myself—why I started this podcast, what led me here, and the mission behind it. So stay tuned!

[01:15] – The Unexpected Journey to Podcasting

I never imagined I’d have a podcast. Even just a few months ago, if you had told me I’d be doing this, I wouldn’t have believed it. I was already juggling so much—why would anyone want to hear what I had to say?

But here we are. And this experience has reminded me: never say never.

This podcast started because a good friend of mine, Dr. Stephanie Holmes, who has been on the show introduced me to Kristen Walker, the founder of the podcast network, Spreaker. Kristen and I quickly became friends, and she, along with Dr. Stephanie, encouraged me to take this step. They didn’t just believe I could do it—they believed I needed to do it.

So I prayed, thought long and hard about it, and here I am.

Advocating for Neurodivergent Kids in a World That Doesn’t Always Understand

[03:30] – Why This Podcast Matters

Why did they think I should do a podcast? And why did I say yes?

It wasn’t to be podcast-famous or chase internet stardom. The reason was simple: I believed my story, my family’s story, and the stories of those I bring on this show could truly help people.

If just one person hears this podcast and it shifts their perspective, changes their life, or helps them find a path forward—then my mission is accomplished.

Years ago, I told God that if He could use my story to help others, I’d share it. And now, through this podcast, I get to share not just my story, but also the wisdom and experiences of so many others.

[06:00] – Who Is Dr. Mary?

So, who am I? Let me give you a quick glimpse.

I’m a 40-something Black woman, a Jesus follower, a wife, and a mama of five amazing children—four boys and one girl (my little princess). I’m also a pediatrician, a calling I felt from a very young age. Even as a child, I knew this was what I was meant to do. By God’s grace and a lot of hard work, I made it happen.

I’ve been a pediatrician for nearly 20 years, but recently, I also became a life and leadership coach. I have a deep passion for educating people—especially about ADHD and autism, which I’ve spent my career working with.

[09:15] – A Personal Connection to Neurodiversity

This mission is personal. I’m a wife to a man on the spectrum—a diagnosis I made myself after we’d been married for 13 years. I also have a child on the autism spectrum, diagnosed by our wonderful psychologist, Dr. Christine Lee. She’ll be joining us in a few weeks to discuss her book, Autism Rules. (It’s amazing—grab a copy on Amazon if you want to read along!)

On top of that, I have three children with ADHD. I always say—thank God He made me a pediatrician because I had no idea how much this knowledge would come into play in my own home!

But let me tell you—having neurodivergent kids is very different from treating neurodivergent patients. Living it every day has deepened my passion for helping families navigate these challenges.

Breaking Stigmas: Advocating for Neurodiversity in the Black Community

[12:45] – Addressing Stigma in the Black Community

I’m particularly passionate about breaking the stigma of neurodiversity in the Black community. There are still so many misconceptions—people thinking ADHD isn’t real, that autism is just an excuse, or that medication will turn kids into zombies.

Even in 2023, these myths persist. And that’s why I’m here—to be a voice, to educate, to advocate.

Black children and adults are diagnosed later and receive fewer services than their white counterparts. There’s solid research confirming this. Whether it’s due to stigma, lack of access, or misdiagnosis, the result is the same—delayed support and missed opportunities.

I want to change that.

Why ADHD and Autism Awareness Matters for Parenting and Education

[16:30] – The Power of Education and Advocacy

My goal isn’t just to educate families—it’s also to educate providers, therapists, educators, pastors, and community leaders. In Black and underrepresented communities, places like churches and community centers often play a vital role in people’s lives. These leaders need to be equipped with knowledge, so they can help identify and support neurodivergent individuals.

When people are misdiagnosed or overlooked, it impacts their success in school, work, and life. Whether it’s underdiagnosing autism or overdiagnosing ADHD, these gaps create real, lasting consequences.

[20:00] – Looking Ahead

So what can you expect from this podcast moving forward?

We’ll be talking about autism, ADHD, and neurodiversity. But that won’t be the only focus. I’ll bring on amazing guests to talk about a variety of topics—some serious, some fun, but all meaningful.

My hope? That every episode teaches you something or at least sparks curiosity. Maybe you’ll recognize something in yourself, your child, or a friend. Maybe you’ll start important conversations in your own circles.

We are here to normalize these discussions—especially in communities where they’ve been overlooked for too long.

[24:00] – Stay Connected

I’d love to hear from you! If you have ideas for topics or guests, feel free to reach out. You can find me on Facebook, YouTube, and my website—all the details will be in the show notes.

And if you’ve enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share. Your support helps spread the message.

Oh—and don’t forget to leave a five-star review on your favorite podcast platform. It truly means the world.

I’m Dr. Mary, and I’ll see you next time.

Connect with Us:

• Dr. Mary’s Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, & Linkedin 
• Mental Health News Radio Network

HEY SIS!

As a devoted pediatrician, specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders, my focus is on guiding and supporting families who have received an autism or ADHD diagnosis.

I am a PCCI trained life and leadership coach.

– Dr Mary