July 2025 Home of the Arts
- Amanda Gorman
- Jul 1
- 9 min read
Updated: Jul 2
Welcome to DISTRACTD July Edition
“Driver’s License, Deadlines & ADHD: The Ultimate Survival Guide”
Hi! I’m Amanda Gorman, founder of DISTRACTD, and I’m so glad you’re here.
As we begin a brand-new financial year, I’ve been reflecting on how we’re all really doing—and what we want to move towards next. We don’t need to shift mountains, but maybe we can choose one or two things to focus on, and feel proud of even the smallest steps. Tonight, we’ll be doing a fun ADHD-style check-in, but first—I just want to say welcome.
I’m so excited for tonight’s event. We’ve been wanting to have Amelia Read join us for ages, but the calendars just wouldn’t line up… until now! Having her here feels like such a win, and I know you’re going to get so much out of what she brings.
Our theme this month really hits home—because growing up ADHD is no small thing. Adulthood is already full of moving parts. But throw in school, the start of work, navigating friendships, hormones, identity, independence—and yep, let’s not forget executive dysfunction—and suddenly, it’s a lot. Tonight is about keeping it real, feeling seen, and walking away with something helpful.
I’m so happy to see your faces—whether it’s your first time or your tenth. This community is growing into something really special, and I’m so grateful for you being part of it. If tonight resonates, please share these events with your ADHD folk. We’d love to have you (and your people) here on the regular.
Big love,Amanda Gorman
Founder – DISTRACTD
You might notice parts of this blog or program using a slightly bolded first-half of words style. This is called Bionic Reading – a technique that helps the brain read faster and retain more by guiding your eyes through key parts of the word.
We’re trying it out to help support different types of brains and reading styles – especially those with ADHD, dyslexia, or who just like a little help focusing. Let us know if it helps!
DISTRACTD Events: Free, Accessible, and Community-Focused
At DISTRACTD, we are deeply committed to keeping our regular monthly events free and accessible for everyone. We recognize the financial challenges faced by many in the ADHD community, with treatments, therapies, and resources often being costly. Our goal is to ensure that these events remain a welcoming space for all, without financial barriers.
Throughout the year, we’ll also introduce ticketed events that will dive deeper into specific topics, such as Relationships and ADHD, Women with ADHD, and Understanding ADHD for Medical Professionals and Educators. These ticketed events will help fund our mission while offering focused learning opportunities for those who want to explore certain areas in depth.
To support the ongoing operation and growth of DISTRACTD, we’re introducing an optional donation system at our free events. If you can, a small contribution—like a gold coin donation or a digital donation via our self-operated Square system—will help us continue our work. However, if donating isn’t affordable for you, please know you are always welcome to attend for free.
Your contributions will help us:
Upgrade our tools like Mentimeter for interactive audience engagement.
Enhance our social media presence to reach more people.
Invest time in securing sponsorships to keep these events thriving.
Roll out our workplace training programs to promote ADHD inclusivity.
Every bit helps us grow and make a greater impact, and we are immensely grateful for your support. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more connected, and informed ADHD community.
You can donate here
You can also use a Pay Id to donate or direct deposit using details below.
Direct deposit
DISTRACTD
BSB: 122 778
ACC: 850635836
We are on our Menti Meter again tonight.
Tonights schedule
6:00pm: Guest Arrival & Amanda Gorman Founder of DISTRACTD to do official intro and welcome.
6:15 pm : Speaker 1 Amelia Reid
6:30 pm : Speaker 2 : Dr Chris Wever
6:45 pm : Speaker 3: Amanda Gorman
6:50pm : 10 minutes to fill in Mid Year Check in
7:00 pm : 15 min break
7:15 pm : Q & A begins
8:30 pm : Event officially concludes
Please follow and share our socials
T Shirts and Merch
Our T shirts and new pencils are on sale tonight .
JOIN THE MOVEMENT of Unity and support with our DISTRACTD T's. They are $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, lets create a community where everyone feels seen, accepted and valued." Amanda Gorman
Introducing the ADHD Affirmation Pencils: 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 eight delightfully relatable phrases like “I knew better but I did it anyway” and “Is there wet washing to hang out?” — these colorful companions are perfect for taming the chaos or embracing it with a grin.
These make for the perfect cute, dopamine-seeking impulse purchase to brighten up your desk — or a thoughtful gift for someone you know with ADHD to show them that you see them, support them, and share a laugh at some of those little challenges we all know too well. Because sometimes, we all need a reminder to stay on top of things… or at least have a good chuckle about not!
They are $8.50
Meet your speakers:
Host
Amanda Gorman - DISTRACTD Founder
Amanda Gorman - founder of DISTRACTD
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 Psycologist
Amelia Read is a Clinical Psychologist and the Founder of Amelia Read Psychology, a practice dedicated to neuro-affirming support for individuals and families. With over a decade of experience, she works across autism, ADHD, and learning differences using a practical, strengths-based approach. As someone who is both autistic and ADHD, Amelia combines clinical expertise with personal insight, creating a space where neurodivergent people feel truly seen and supported.
0420211470
0420 211 47004 0420 211 4700420 211 470
0420 211 470
Speaker 2
Dr Chris Wever
Psychiatrist
Dr Chris Wever is a Child, Adolescent and Family Psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience supporting young people and families across the full range of psychiatric challenges. A Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, Dr Wever founded the OCD and School Refusal Programs at Rivendell in Sydney, later relocating to the Gold Coast to continue his work in private practice. He is the author of several therapeutic children’s books, including The Secret Problem, The School Wobblies, and Full of Beans. While no longer accepting new patients, Dr Wever continues to advocate for early intervention and accessible support through education and authorship.
The Southport Psychiatry & Psychology Clinic
Abby Dietrich
On the Couch ( as a lived experience DISTRACTD attendee )
24 year old diagnosed with ADHD in early 20s, current university student and very passionate about accurate education of ADHD particularly in women
Socials @abbydietrich on Instagram and Abby Dietrich on LinkedIn
Want to help us out. Please share this event poster with your workplaces, friends family or anyone who will listen. You download it here and print it out to pin up at your local shops, sports or community centre.
Thanks so very much team DISTRACTD.
WORKPLACE NEURODIVERSITY TRAINING DID YOU SAY???
Bring Neurodiversity to the Forefront of Your Workplace!
We’re excited to introduce a new training program—think of it like a first aid refresher, but for building a more neuroinclusive workplace! Our facilitators bring the training to you, either in-person or online, guiding your team through key topics like neuroinclusive onboarding, advertising and interviewing practices, workplace accommodations, and developing impactful policies.
Neurodiverse individuals often lead as entrepreneurs and innovators, and we want to help you recognize and nurture the value of these out-of-the-box thinkers within your workplace. Developed by DISTRACTD in partnership with leading GPs, psychologists, and psychiatrists, this strengths-based program addresses the good, the challenges, and the unexpected—equipping your organization to create a supportive environment where neurodiverse talent thrives.
Ready to take the next step? Submit your expression of interest, and together, let’s create a workplace where every unique mind is empowered to succeed!
let us know at distractdhq@gmail.com if you are keen for us to come visit your workplace.
Recommended reading / Viewing / Listening:
A curated list of ADHD-friendly podcasts, books, creators, and tools – all recommended by our incredible community.
PODCASTS
I Have ADHD – Kristen Carder➤ Also check out her Focused coaching program
The Psychology Podcast – Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman
ADHD Chatter – Alex Partridge➤ Honest convos & real stories about adult ADHD🔗 @adhd_chatter_podcast
The Neurodivergent Woman – Monique Mitchelson & Michelle Livock
She’s on the Money➤ Look for ADHD-focused episodes
Emsolation – Em Rusciano
Morbid: A True Crime Podcast➤ For the dopamine-seekers
Unfuck Your Brain – Kara Loewentheil
Feminist Wellness – Victoria Albina
The Year I Met My Brain – Matilda Boseley
Scattered Minds – Dr. Gabor Maté
Alex Partridge Podcast
Sorry What?! Podcast – Tarah Elizabeth
Ologies – Ali Ward➤ Search “ADHD” episode
Sad Boyz Podcast
Broken Brains
Living with ADHD – Featuring Janelle Booker
The Mel Robbins Podcast
BOOKS
How to Keep House While Drowning – KC Davis
The Year I Met My Brain – Matilda Boseley
Scattered Minds – Dr. Gabor Maté
The Highly Sensitive Person – Dr. Elaine Aron
Atomic Habits – James Clear
Top 10 ADHD Books (Community Faves)
Driven to Distraction – Edward M. Hallowell, M.D.
A Radical Guide for Women with ADHD – Sari Solden & Michelle Frank
Thriving with Adult ADHD – Phil Boissiere
Order from Chaos – Jaclyn Paul
What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew – Dr. Sharon Saline
The ADHD Effect on Marriage – Melissa Orlov
Organizing Solutions for People with ADHD – Susan C. Pinsky
ADHD 2.0 – Dr. Edward Hallowell & Dr. John Ratey
Smart but Scattered Teens – Richard Guare et al.
Thriving with ADHD Workbook for Kids – Kelli Miller, LCSW
APPS & TOOLS
Finch App – Daily motivation + self-care
Dubbi App – Created by @adhd_love_ & @tarah.and.barry
Focused Coaching – Kristen Carder
CREATORS & SOCIALS
@adhdmemetherapy – Memes + relatable ADHD content
@tarah.and.barry – ADHD + Non-ADHD couple content
@adhd_love_ – Rich & Rox, creators of Late Bloomers Podcast and Dubbi
@strugglecare / @domesticblisters – KC Davis, ADHD home & life support
HealthyGamerGG (YouTube)
OTHER MENTIONS
New Dating App for Neurodivergents – hellowable.com
“Now It All Makes Sense” – audience-suggested phrase that sums it up
TEDx Talk
Amanda Gorman – TEDx SpeakerWatch: “ADHD is Not a Superpower (And That’s Okay)”DISTRACTD founder Amanda Gorman shares a raw, honest take on ADHD, breaking down the stereotypes and embracing what it really means to thrive.📺 Watch here
If it resonates, We'd love for you to:
🟥 Watch it
🟧 Share it with someone who needs to hear it
🟨 Leave a comment or send us a message with your thoughts distractdhq@gmail.com
Let’s start changing the conversation around ADHD – one honest story at a time.
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 distractdhq@gmail.com—we’d love to hear from you!
A heartfelt thanks this month to Dr Chris Wever and Amelia Reid 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
Howdy Partner ..
Partner with Us!
We’re always looking to build meaningful partnerships with those who want to support our vibrant ADHD community. Interested in becoming a sponsor? We have a variety of sponsorship packages available to help amplify your brand while making a positive impact. Let’s work together to create something amazing! Reach out to us to learn more. distractdhq@gmail.com
Our next event will be on Wednesday August 6th Keep an eye on our socials for updates on speakers and event details—we can’t wait to see you there!
Ticket link to DISTRACTD for next month will be direct with HOTA at this link below.
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