top of page
Search

APRIL: Live

Why Knowing Doesn’t Equal Doing


Daily Functioning, Executive Function & the Regulation Puzzle


Ever understood exactly what you needed to do…

and still couldn’t do it?


Not because you didn’t care.

Not because you weren’t trying.

Not because you were lazy.


Just because executive function works differently under stress.


This DISTRACTD Foundations Night is about daily functioning.

Why insight doesn’t always lead to action.

Why overwhelm, avoidance and stalling show up even when you know better.

And why ADHD is not a motivation problem, but a regulation one.


Because ADHD isn’t a lack of effort.

It isn’t a willpower issue.

And it definitely isn’t a character flaw.


It’s a difference in how the brain manages planning, emotion, memory, energy and task-starting… especially when stress enters the picture.


And once you understand that, so many frustrating patterns start to make sense.


We’ll explore:


How executive function changes under stress

Why knowing doesn’t equal doing

The difference between motivation and capacity

Why avoidance and overwhelm are signals, not failures

How unmet needs affect daily functioning

Why external structure supports the brain

How environment design can reduce friction

Real-life organising strategies that work with ADHD brains


Think less productivity advice.

More compassionate clarity.


The kind where you quietly go,

“…so that’s why I get stuck.”


Whether you’re diagnosed, questioning, supporting someone, or trying to make sense of your own patterns, this night gives you language and tools to understand daily functioning with kindness and realism.


Come curious.

Leave clearer.


A Note from Amanda


Hello friends,


There’s a version of ADHD people see.

It’s colourful, creative, energetic.

Full of ideas and momentum.


And yes… that’s real.


But it’s not the whole picture.


There’s another side.


The side that feels overwhelmed, sensitive, and quietly frustrated by the things that don’t get done.

The things you knew about.

The things you meant to do.


This month at DISTRACTD, we’re exploring something at the core of that experience:


Why knowing doesn’t mean doing.

Because for many people with ADHD, the issue isn’t understanding.


We know what needs to happen.

We’ve thought about it, planned it… even rehearsed it.


And still… it doesn’t happen.



As Russell Barkley puts it, ADHD isn’t a disorder of knowing… it’s a disorder of doing.

That gap between intention and action is where so much confusion — and shame — lives. Sometimes that gap looks like impulsive decisions you wish you could stop.


Other times, it’s something disappearing entirely.


Not avoided.

Not ignored.

Just… gone.

And over time, there’s a cost.


Missed appointments.

Defaulted payments.

Things slipping through the cracks.


Not because you don’t care…

but because your brain isn’t built to hold it all on its own.


So maybe the question isn’t:

“Why can’t I just do it?”

Maybe it’s:

“What support do I need to make this work?”


Because this isn’t about trying harder.

It’s about scaffolding.

And learning to work with your brain… not against it.



Thank you for being here.


Come curious.

Leave clearer.


Big love,


Amanda

Founder – DISTRACTD




We are on our Menti Meter again tonight.

Here is our link to join Event Schedule


6:00 pm – Guest Arrival & Official Welcome by Amanda Gorman, Founder of DISTRACTD + Mentimeter ( 15 mins )

6:15 pm – Speaker 1: Amelia Reid ( 20 mins )

6:35 pm – Speaker 2: Mark Mc Conville ( 15 mins )

6:50 pm – Speaker 3: Tamara Speedie ( 15 mins )

7:10 pm - Chat about body doubling and donations ( 10 mins )

7:20 pm - Break ( 10 mins )

7:30 pm - Panel Q&A with Dr Glen Craig ( 50 mins )

8:20 pm - Wrap up, Mingle, Body double, Call to support/donate ( 10 mins )

8:30 pm - Event concludes and bump out commences 3





Please follow and share our socials



Be updated with our 2026 live events

this link will put the dates into your calender



Support the Movement


Our DISTRACTD T-shirts and ADHD affirmation pencils are available tonight at the merch table. We also have a few new T-shirt designs to check out alongside our favourites.


Join the movement of unity and support with a DISTRACTD tee for $30.


“These shirts are more than just clothing. They are a symbol of solidarity and acceptance. Wear it proudly to show that you stand with those with ADHD, offering a silent nod of understanding and support. Together, let’s create a community where everyone feels seen, accepted and valued.”


Amanda Gorman



Our DISTRACTD T-Shirts and new ADHD affirmation pencils are available tonight.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT** of unity and support with a DISTRACTD tee — just $30.


“These shirts are more than just clothing. They are a symbol of solidarity and acceptance. Wear it proudly to show that you stand with those with ADHD, offering a silent nod of understanding and support. Together, let’s create a community where everyone feels seen, accepted and valued.”— Amanda Gorman





Quirky Reminders for Busy Minds


Whether you’re navigating life’s whirlwind or simply trying to remember that free trial you still haven’t cancelled, these pencils are here to bring a smile and a gentle nudge.

With delightfully relatable phrases like “I knew better but I did it anyway” and “Is there wet washing to hang out?”, they’re perfect for taming the chaos or embracing it with a grin.


A cute little desk companion or thoughtful gift for someone with ADHD — a small way to say, “I see you.”


$8.50 each.





Meet your speakers:


Host


Amanda Gorman - DISTRACTD Founder

Amanda Gorman is the founder of Distractd, a TEDx speaker, ADHD educator and advocate, visual artist, and textile designer. As a co-founder of the GC Music Network and Director of Strategic Partnerships, Amanda is deeply involved in her community, both as a professional and as a devoted mother and wife on the Gold Coast.

Passionate about bridging the gap between industry experts and individuals with ADHD, Amanda is committed to fostering understanding and empowerment. She believes in the power of self-advocacy and is dedicated to helping those with ADHD embrace their uniqueness while gaining deeper insights into their condition. Through Distractd, Amanda has created a platform that supports connection, solidarity, and community—a place for individuals to find the support they need on their journey toward greater understanding and self-empowerment.


Speaker 1 : Amelia Reid - B. Psyc Scy (Hons), M. Clin Psyc


As the Founder, Director, and Principal Psychologist at The Neurodiversity Network Amelia brings over a decade of expertise in the mental health sector, with a strong focus on neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, ADHD, specific learning disorders, and related challenges.


With a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, she has dedicated her career to providing tailored support to children, adults, and families navigating the complexities of neurodiversity.


Amelia’s approach is both evidence-based and deeply informed by her own lived experience. Diagnosed with ADHD and autism herself, she understands firsthand the unique perspectives and challenges of neurodivergence. This personal insight has fueled her mission to champion and empower the neurodiverse community through compassionate care and advocacy.


Her expertise includes diagnostic assessments, ADHD/autism coaching, parent education, and preventative/proactive interventions. Alongside her dynamic team, Amelia also supports eligible clients in accessing and navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), ensuring a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to care.



Additionally, Amelia is a STAP-approved supervisor, providing supervision to other Gold Coast psychologists assisting to enhance their understanding of neurodiversity in client presentations. Through her advocacy efforts, she is committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring equitable access to essential services and support for individuals within the neurodiverse community. Including the award winning Diverse VR Project


Outside of her professional pursuits, Amelia finds joy in spending time with her beloved fur baby, Suki, and embracing the great outdoors through boating, fishing, and camping adventures—when she’s not enjoying her Nintendo Switch.



The Neurodiverse Network

Reception Hours:

Monday-Friday: 9am-4pm

Saturday: 8am-2pm

Contact Us

Phone: 0420 211 470




Speakers 2: Mark Mc Conville

GradCert SuiPrevStudies; MSui.

Comedian / Keynote Speaker / Suicidologist



Australia’s only full-time professional comedian with a master’s degree in Suicidology.

Join professional comedian Mark McConville as he presents his Laughter Clinic Keynote Presentation. Mark is an accomplished Stand-Up Comedian, MC and Keynote Speaker and has been working in the Australian entertainment industry since 1998.


In 2018 Mark graduated from Griffith University with a master’s degree in Suicidology, he subsequently was appointed as Adjunct Lecture at The Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention AISRAP, based at Griffith University.


Mark’s Laughter Clinic Keynote Presentation combines comedy and laughter with the latest information and research in the field of Suicidology to produce a fun, yet very powerful event. He also draws on over 15 years of lived experience battling and overcoming depression.


What this means for your audience is that they will experience an engaging, interactive, and insightful presentation that has been meticulously crafted. Mark has the innate ability to ensure the right balance of humour and laughter with easy to remember mental health self-care strategies and take away messages.


Mark’s Laughter Clinic presentations and workshops are the perfect integration of academic knowledge with world class entertainment. This has meant that The Laughter Clinic repeatedly receives rave reviews from corporate clients and conference attendees.


The Laughter Clinic

Phone: + 61 0408 632 631




Speakers 3: Tamara Speedie



I am Tamara Speedie.


Certified KonMari consultant. Professional Organiser. Stationery addict.

Yep, that’s my real surname. Quick by name, efficient by nature. That’s partly why I’m good at what I do. So, what is that again?


I’m a professional organiser. I help people from Brisbane, to northern NSW and the Gold Coast declutter and sort their homes into tidy, organised spaces that function in your favour.


My team and I help you simplify your life. We make it easy to see and access your belongings. We flip those I-really-hate chores into that’s-easy tasks with solutions customised for the way you like to live. Less stress, more time. Extra dollar bucks in your pocket and a lightened mental load. Just a handful of the ways we change your life.


What makes me the real deal?


A person you can feel comfortable inviting in to your house. Sorting your undies drawer. Showing your deepest, darkest pantry depths.

Well, a coupla things...


I’ve always been into structure, neatness and systems. And stationery. Side note – the first time I walked into a Kikki K store when I moved from Darwin to the Gold Coast for uni, I felt like I was home.


I studied Psychological Science at uni and that helps me understand the deep attachment we can have to our belongings. I understand how hard it is to let go of things you might not even like, simply because it emotionally connects you to a person or moment. I get how the mental load of looming chores can feel like such a heavy weight to carry. If you want to talk through these kinds of feelings or memories, I am happy to help you in our session.


We’ll never make you part with things that you adore. We’re here to make your space work better and your life happier.



Speakers 4: Dr Glen Craig

Psychiatrist (Medical Anchor)


Dr Glen Craig is a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has been working in private practice on the Gold Coast since 2012.



Glen is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. He holds additional Advanced Training qualifications in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Glen has also previously held clinical titles of Associate Lecturer at Griffith University and the University of Queensland.


Glen specialises in the assessment, diagnosis and management of a range of psychiatric conditions in children and adolescents. Over the years, he has build a strong collaborative relationship with numerous health care professionals and schools on the Gold Coast.


Glen enjoys working with patients with a range of conditions, and is well known on the Gold Coast for his work in ADHD in  both adults and children. Other areas of interest include Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety disorders, Depression, eating disorders, and problems of learning and education.


Glen is also trained as a General Adult Psychiatrist and is available to see adults up to forty years of age. His expertise in childhood conditions and development across the lifespan offers a unique perspective to the treatment of adult patients.

​

Glen also works in the Medico-Legal field as an Approved Independent Medical Examiner.


The Southport Psychiatry & Psychology Clinic (TSPPC)


Address: Suite 1B, Level 6 (6.1B)

Pacific Private Clinic

123 Nerang Street

Southport Qld 4215

Hours of Operation: Our Reception Desk is open Monday-Friday: 8:30am to 4:30pm

Closed for Public Holidays

Phone: (07) 5528 5222




Meet Our Lovely Volunteers.


Kira Jaechel

Kira is a PhD candidate at Griffith University with a background in psychology and a research focus on youth homelessness in Australia. Inspired by both personal experiences and her work in the field,  she’s passionate about understanding how people find resilience, connection, and purpose in challenging circumstances. At DISTRACTD, she combines her curiosity about human behavior with a creative approach to explore how attention, emotion, and everyday human experiences intersect — always aiming to challenge stereotypes and foster understanding. Her goal, both in research and in everyday life, is simple — to make someone’s day a little better.

Free Resources to Share

We’ve created downloadable DISTRACTD info packs that you’re welcome to print and share — with your workplace, friends, family, clients, or even pin up at your local community noticeboard or shopping centre! We would love you to snap a pic of where you pin them and tag us on our socials so we can see.


You can help spread the word and spark more conversations about ADHD, neurodivergence, and mental health.


Link here Print, share, stick it up — we’d love your help.






Neuroinclusion Training for Workplaces



Practical. Strengths-based. Built for real teams.


DISTRACTD has developed a workplace training program to help organisations better understand, support, and retain neurodivergent talent.


Think of it like a first aid refresher, but for neuroinclusion.


Our facilitators come to you, in person or online, guiding your team through practical strategies like neuroinclusive onboarding, inclusive hiring practices, simple workplace accommodations, and policies that help different brains thrive.


Neurodivergent people are often innovators, problem-solvers, and big-picture thinkers. With the right support, those differences become strengths that lift whole teams.

Developed in collaboration with GPs, psychologists, and psychiatrists, this program is strengths-based, realistic, and grounded in lived experience.


Bookings open early 2026.


Help your team work better together.


Join the waitlist for our neuroinclusion training and be first to book when sessions open.


Register here



Support DISTRACTD



DISTRACTD is community-led and independently run.


Your support helps cover venue costs , filming and production, accessibility needs, and paying our growing team fairly so we can keep showing up each month.


If you value these events and want to see them continue, please consider making a donation.


Donate to help keep DISTRACTD running → show some love here



Sponsors & Partners


We’re currently inviting a small number of values-aligned sponsors and partners to support DISTRACTD’s growth.


DISTRACTD is building a trusted, consistent space for neurodivergent adults on the Gold Coast — and this work is only possible through thoughtful partnerships.


Beyond financial sponsorship, we also warmly welcome donated skills, services, or equipment. Areas we currently need support in include accounting, printing, merch supply, podcast and recording equipment, tech hardware, catering, and event supplies.


Every contribution helps us keep these events free and accessible, while building a stronger, more connected neurodivergent community.


If you or your business would like to get involved, we’d love to chat.


Contact us at → hello@distractd.org



Resources and Recommendations from our Community .


PODCASTS


Climbing the Walls

WTF is AUDHD

How I Met My Brain – Matilda Bosely

ADHD Chatter – Alex Partridge

The Neurodivergent Woman – Monique Mitchelson & Michelle Livock

I Have ADHD – Kristen Carder

Scattered Minds – Inspired by Dr Gabor Maté

ADHD Experts Podcast (ADDitude Magazine)

The ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Podcast

Emsolation – Em Rusciano

Emsolation (Podcast) - Em Rusciano

Morbid - Ash Kelley & Alaina Urquhart



BOOKS


The Year I Met My Brain – Matilda Bosely

Scattered Minds – Dr Gabor Maté

How to Keep House While Drowning – KC Davis

Atomic Habits – James Clear

ADHD 2.0 – Edward Hallowell & John Ratey

Your Brain’s Not Broken – Tamara Rosier

A Radical Guide for Women with ADHD – Sari Solden & Michelle Frank

Organizing Solutions for People with ADHD – Susan C. Pinsky

Blood, Sweat and Glitter – Em Rusciano (NEW and on Amandas Christmas List)



APPS & DIGITAL SUPPORT


Forest – Grow a tree while you focus.

Todoist – Simple task manager with reminders.

Notion – Build a system for your brain.

Finch – Self-care turned into a gentle game.

Dubbi App – ADHD-friendly voice journaling.

Insight Timer – Meditation, sleep, grounding.

Yoto Audio Player – Screen-free stories/music for ND kids.



CREATORS & ACCOUNTS


@adhdmemetherapy – The memes that keep us alive.

@tarah.and.barry – ND + NT couple navigating life.

@adhd_love – Creators of Dubbi; great ADHD education.

@domesticblisters / @strugglecare – KC Davis and the “good enough” approach.

@tarahelizabeth – Chaos, colour, creativity, and honesty.

How to ADHD (Jessica McCabe, YouTube)

HealthyGamerGG (YouTube) – Mental health + gaming + ADHD.

ADHD Mums (adhdmums.com.au/resources) – Massive Australian resource hub.



ND-FRIENDLY TOOLS, SUPPORTS & SERVICES


NeuroFit Program (Daniel Bennett, ARRC + Tidal Health) – Inclusive movement for neurodivergent bodies.

hellowable.com – Dating for neurodivergent people.

ADDitude Magazine – Articles, webinars, community stories.

CHADD.org – Evidence-based ADHD education & advocacy.


Local wins from the survey:

body-doubling with friends

library as a low-stim workspace

journaling groups

weekly dopamine-ritual routines



ND-FRIENDLY TOYS BY SENSORY NEED + AGE


MOVEMENT / GROSS MOTOR


Ages 1–3

Indoor Sensory Swing – calming pressure + movement

Stapelstein Elements – stacking, stepping, wobbling

Jungle Jumparoo – safe jumping and vestibular input

Nugget Play Couch / Chunk – climb, jump, crash-pad fun


Ages 3–6

Bolder Play Stair Slide – proprioceptive + vestibular input

Tree Frog Play Rock Wall & Monkey Bars – climbing, strength, coordination

BT Toys Balance Beam – balance + core stability

Nex Playground – movement games via screen interaction


Ages 6–10+

Swelly Water Scooter – underwater resistance + movement

Spinning Chair – vestibular input

Jungle Jumparoo (still great for older kids)

Rock Wall / Monkey Bars (scaled up for older kids)



CREATIVE / IMAGINATIVE PLAY


Ages 1–3

Sarah’s Silks – open-ended, soothing sensory play


Ages 3–6

Connetix Magnetic Tiles

MagnaTiles

SuperSpace Magnetic Tiles – larger builds, forts

Nugget Play Couch – pretend play setups


Ages 6–10+

Rail Cubes – creative track building

Foamnasium FoamMan – imaginative sculptural play



FINE MOTOR / HAND–EYE COORDINATION


Ages 1–3

Chompsaw Power Tool – pretend tool with hand activation

Yoto Player – button pressing is simple + sensory reward


Ages 3–6

AirToobz – connecting tubes + cause & effect

Magnetic Tiles (all brands) – small grip work


Ages 6–10+

Rail Cubes – precise building

Infini Book Reader – page-turning + interactive literacy tasks



SENSORY-SEEKING / REGULATION TOOLS


Ages 1–3

Stapelstein Stones – jumping, rocking

Indoor Swing – deep pressure + vestibular


Ages 3–6

Foamnasium Foam Pit – crash pad + heavy work

Nugget Chunk – squish + pressure

Spinning Chair – safe spinning to regulate


Ages 6–10+

Rail Cubes – visually regulating + problem-solving

Swelly Water Scooter – deep pressure underwater

Nex Playground Games – structured movement



STEM / COGNITIVE + PROBLEM SOLVING


Ages 3–6

Magnetic Tiles (all types)

AirToobz – airflow experiments


Ages 6–10+

Miko 3 AI Robot – coding, logic

Rail Cubes – engineering-style construction

Infini Book Reader – interactive literacy



CALM CORNER / REGULATION SPACE SETUP


Great for all ages — mix & match:


Nugget Couch

Stapelstein Stones

Sensory Swing

Foamnasium Pit

Sarah’s Silks (soft, soothing)

Yoto Player (stories for grounding)



WEBSITES & ONLINE RESOURCES


ADDitude Magazine

ADHD Mums (Australia): https://adhdmums.com.au/resources/

hellowable.com – ND dating



LOCAL SUPPORTS & COMMUNITY


Body-doubling with us at DISTRACTD

Library as a low-stimulation workspace

Journaling groups

DISTRACTD Events, Workshops & Community


EVENTS


Oh! I SEE NOW with Dusty Rich

GC Laughs 2026 - GC Laughs Festival returns for 2026









Thank you for being part of our growing community! We’re so excited to have you with us — stay connected, stay curious, and join us at our monthly events to keep the conversation going.


We’d love to hear about the podcasts, books, videos, or groups that inspire you, so we can share them with our audience. Drop us a line anytime at hello@distractd.org— we’d love to hear from you!


A heartfelt thanks this month to Dr Chris Wever, Kelly Gall and Dr Kristy Bayliss for generously sharing their time, expertise, and insights with us.


Finally, I’m endlessly grateful to my family, friends, and the incredible staff at HOTA for their ongoing support in bringing these events to life every month.


With appreciation,

Amanda & the DISTRACTD team xx



Grab a Season Pass


Want to make life easy?


Our free Season Pass covers the whole year in one quick step.

No monthly bookings. No forgetting. No last-minute scrambling.

Just sign up once and come along whenever you can.

It’s the simplest way to stay connected and lock in every DISTRACTD event for 2026.

Get your


Season Pass → here



Casual tickets

Prefer to book month by month?

Individual tickets are now live on the HOTA website too.


Up next month : May 6


What does emotional regulation actually look like in everyday life?


From high energy and overwhelm to quiet shutdown, this session explores how regulation shows up differently across people — and how behaviours are often attempts to cope, not problems to fix.


With guest experts across psychology, occupational therapy and movement.




Come curious.

Leave clearer.









 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page