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June 2025 Home of the Arts


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Welcome to DISTRACTD – June Edition


Hey friends, Getting an ADHD diagnosis as an adult is a strange kind of relief—suddenly things make sense, but they also get louder. For me, it wasn't just about understanding my brain. It was about unlearning years of shame, self-doubt, and masking. In this month’s event, “I've Got the Music in Me,” I’m sharing some deeply personal reflections on what it’s really like to live beyond the diagnosis. The emotional intensity, the misunderstandings, the grief, the pride—and the very real strategies that help me regulate, reconnect, and show up.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone, or just curious—this is for you. Welcome to the mess and magic of ADHD. It so nice to have you here.


Amanda x



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!



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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

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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.

6:10 pm : Speaker 1 : Monica Zidar

6:25 pm : Speaker 2 : Dr Ryan Pope

6:40 pm : Speaker 3: Amanda Gorman

6:55pm : live breathwork session : Dr Ryan Pope

7:10 pm : 15 min break

7:25 pm : Q & A begins

8:30 pm : Event officially concludes



Please follow and share our socials

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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


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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


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Meet your speakers:



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Host

Amanda Gorman - DISTRACTD Founder


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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

Monica Zidar Music Therapist


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Director of qpah and Music Therapist


Monica Zidar is a Registered Music Therapist with a passion for helping neurodivergent minds find clarity, calm, and connection through sound. With deep expertise in rhythm, voice, and emotional regulation, Monica explores how music therapy supports focus, memory, and mood in ADHD. In this engaging session, she’ll unpack the science behind why music works—and share practical techniques like singing scales and rhythm exercises you can use daily. This is Monica’s third time at DISTRACTD, and we’re thrilled to have her back.

0756476120


Speaker 2

Dr Ryan Pope

Powerhouse Mind Body Chiro


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Chiropractor and Breathwork Coach

Dr Ryan Pope is a Chiropractor, Breathwork Coach, and passionate educator on the mind-body connection. With over a decade of experience helping people reset their nervous systems, Ryan brings practical insight into how ADHD affects focus, movement, and regulation. In this session, he’ll explore the ADHD nervous system, chiropractic care, and how breathwork can shift us from fight-or-flight into focus. Includes a live guided breathwork exercise to help us refocus before the break.


Powerhouse mind body Chiro

Phone: 0452 332 455

1/51 Railway St, Mudgeeraba, 4213


Next Breath Odyssey event with Dr Ryan: 18th June Mudgeeraba


Speaker 3

Amanda Gorman

DISTRACTD


On the Couch

Dr Glen Craig

Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist


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Dr Glen Craig is a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has been working in private practice on the Gold Coast since 2012. He holds additional advanced qualifications in child psychiatry and is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. Glen specialises in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, Autism, anxiety, and learning challenges, and is known for his thoughtful, collaborative approach with families, schools, and other professionals.



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.


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WORKPLACE NEURODIVERSITY TRAINING DID YOU SAY???

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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:


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Additude Mag Podcast Library ( so many amazing podcasts )


Audience Recommendations from DISTRACTD

A curated list of ADHD-friendly podcasts, books, creators, and tools – all recommended by our wonderful community.



🎧 Podcasts

  • I Have ADHD – Kristen Carder ➤ Also check out her Focused coaching program

  • The Psychology Podcast – by Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman

  • ADHD Chatter

  • The Neurodivergent Woman – Hosted by Monique Mitchelson & Michelle Livock

  • She’s on the Money – Look for ADHD-focused episodes

  • Emsolation – Em Rusciano

  • Morbid: A True Crime Podcast

  • Unfuck Your Brain – Kara Loewentheil

  • Feminist Wellness – Victoria Albina

  • The Year I Met My Brain – by Matilda Boseley

  • Scattered Minds – by Dr. Gabor Maté

  • Alex Partridge Podcast

  • Sorry What?! Podcast – Tarah Elizabeth

  • Ologies – Ali Ward – Search for the 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

(Audience faves & expert picks)

  • 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

💡 Other Mentions

  • New dating app for neurodivergents – hellowable.com

  • Now It All Makes Sense – audience-suggested title or reflection



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A quick look at the 10 best ADHD books

Amanda Gorman – TEDx Speaker

DISTRACTD founder Amanda Gorman took to the TEDx stage to share her powerful perspective on ADHD – exploring what it means to live with ADHD beyond the clichés and why we don’t need to turn our challenges into superpowers to be worthy.

It’s honest, relatable, and a must-watch for anyone wanting to better understand ADHD from the inside out.


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.

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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 Monica, Dr Ryan and Dr Glen 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 , Hannah & the DISTRACTD team xx



Howdy Partner ..

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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 July 2nd Keep an eye on our socials for updates on speakers and event details—we can’t wait to see you there!






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Ticket link to DISTRACTD for next month will be direct with HOTA at this link below.







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