MHNRN | Apple Podcasts | Spreaker | Episode #4
I’m so excited to introduce you to three wonderful guests who know all about this work: Robin Spiesman, Susie Carbrey, and Hollis Thomann. They each bring their own expertise to the table, working with kids, adults, and families to build stronger executive functioning skills.
Meet the Guests
- Susie Carbrey: Susie is a speech-language pathologist and executive function coach, mostly working with adults to help them stay organized, manage time, and focus. When she’s not working, you’ll probably find her outdoors—biking, rappelling, or up for any kind of adventure!
- Robin Spiesman: Robin has a background in neuropsychology and works with kids and young adults to help them with focus and emotional regulation. Fun fact—Robin used to be terrified of dogs, but after her daughter convinced her to adopt a puppy, she’s now a complete dog lover!
- Hollis Thomann: Hollis specializes in language, literacy, and executive functioning for adults with ADHD. She’s also part of a rare redhead duo—she and her husband both have red hair!
These ladies bring so much heart and knowledge to what they do, and I can’t wait for you to hear their insights. Let’s jump in!
So, What Is Executive Functioning?
Executive functioning is basically our brain’s way of managing itself—helping us stay organized, manage time, control emotions, and make decisions.
Unpacking executive functioning, the brain’s essential toolkit for managing daily life—organizing, staying on time, regulating emotions, and making decisions; Susie, Robin, and Hollis each bring a unique passion to their work, driven by a desire to make these skills accessible for everyone.
Susie focuses on spreading awareness and helping people find that balance between structure and flexibility, making life a little easier to manage. Robin, with a heart for underserved kids, uses her background in special education to connect families with resources and help kids build self-regulation skills. Hollis, specializing in literacy, supports clients with ADHD in building confidence in reading and writing as ways to connect and express themselves.
Together, they explain executive functioning as our “self-manager,” highlighting how emotional regulation, impulse control, and self-monitoring play crucial roles in everything from absorbing information to communicating clearly.
Challenges in these areas can make social interactions and daily tasks harder to navigate, which is why these specialists focus on tailored strategies—whether it’s helping kids build emotional control, guiding adults in creating flexible routines, or supporting reading and writing skills. This episode shows that executive functioning skills benefit everyone, not just those with ADHD or autism, making daily life a little smoother and more connected.
How Executive Functioning Impacts Communication
Executive functioning doesn’t just keep us organized; it affects how we connect with others, too. Challenges with impulse control or organization can make conversations hard to follow, causing misunderstandings. Susie and Hollis explain how these skills are crucial for clear communication and social interactions.
How These Coaches Help Their Clients
Dr. Mary and her guests bring light to the essential role of executive functioning in everything from communication to personal growth. These skills matter for everyone, whether you’re neurodivergent or not.
Huge thanks to Robin, Susie, and Hollis for sharing their insights and passion!
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
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