Épisodes

  • Episode 35: Dyslexia, Part 2

    Episode 35: Dyslexia, Part 2
    Jan 24 2026

    Summary


    In this episode of the Nimble Youth Podcast, host Matt Butterman continues the discussion on dyslexia with Dr. Gretchen Hoyle, focusing on actionable strategies for parents after a diagnosis. The conversation emphasizes that simply increasing reading practice is not sufficient; instead, it is crucial to address the underlying decoding pathways in a child's brain. Dr. Hoyle uses a swimming metaphor to illustrate that practicing with incorrect techniques can reinforce ineffective pathways, akin to running on a sprained ankle. The episode introduces the concept of structured literacy, particularly the Orton-Gillingham method, which is designed to explicitly teach reading through a systematic approach that includes explicit instruction, sequential learning, cumulative reinforcement, and multisensory engagement.


    Dr. Hoyle elaborates on the four key principles of the Orton-Gillingham method, explaining how each principle supports children with dyslexia in building a strong foundation for reading. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced in public schools regarding the implementation of structured literacy programs due to funding and resource limitations. The episode concludes with insights on the importance of collaborative care in managing dyslexia, emphasizing that with the right support and instruction, children can thrive despite their challenges.

    Takeaways


    • Effort alone doesn't fix the underlying problem.
    • Structured literacy explicitly teaches how language works.
    • The Orton-Gillingham method is effective for dyslexia.
    • Children with dyslexia need granular instruction.
    • Multisensory approaches strengthen neural connections.

      Sound bites

      "Effort alone doesn't fix the underlying problem."
      "Structured literacy explicitly teaches how language works."
      "Engaging the whole brain is crucial."
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    27 min
  • Episode 34: Dyslexia, Part One

    Episode 34: Dyslexia, Part One
    Jan 22 2026

    Episode 34: Dyslexia, Part One

    Summary


    In this episode of the Nimble Youth Podcast, host Matt Butterman and pediatrician Dr. Gretchen Hoyle delve into the complexities of dyslexia, a learning disability that affects many children but is often misunderstood. Dr. Hoyle provides a comprehensive definition of dyslexia, emphasizing that it is not related to intelligence or effort but rather a difference in how the brain processes written language. She explains that dyslexia manifests in various ways at different ages, from preschool through high school, highlighting the emotional and behavioral challenges children face as they struggle with reading and writing tasks.


    The conversation also touches on the overlap between dyslexia and ADHD, as both can present similar symptoms, making diagnosis challenging. Dr. Hoyle discusses the importance of formal evaluations and the role of family history in understanding dyslexia. She shares insights on how parents can recognize signs of dyslexia in their children and the significance of early intervention. The episode sets the stage for a follow-up discussion on effective management strategies and educational support for children diagnosed with dyslexia.

    Takeaways


    • Dyslexia is an unexpected difficulty with reading.
    • It's not about intelligence or effort; it's about brain processing.
    • Dyslexia often runs in families, indicating a genetic component.


    Sound bites


    "Dyslexia is an unexpected difficulty with reading."

    "It's not clicking for the kid."

    "We ask the kids to read nonsense words."

    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Dyslexia

    01:03 Defining Dyslexia

    03:09 Signs of Dyslexia in Early Childhood

    08:18 Behavioral Challenges and Emotional Responses

    10:02 Family History and Genetic Links

    12:12 Diagnostic Approaches and Testing

    15:28 Overlap Between Dyslexia and ADHD

    17:31 Formal Diagnosis of Dyslexia
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    24 min
  • Episode 33: You're On Fire, It's Fine with Katie K. May

    Episode 33: You're On Fire, It's Fine with Katie K. May
    Jan 15 2026

    Summary

    In this episode of the Nimble Youth Podcast, therapist and author Katie K. May discusses the complexities of parenting highly emotional teenagers. She shares insights from her book, 'You're On Fire, It's Fine,' emphasizing the importance of understanding teen emotions, the concept of 'fire-feelers,' and the necessity of radical acceptance. The conversation explores common parental challenges, the impact of validation, and the significance of natural consequences over punitive measures. Katie provides practical strategies for preventing emotional escalation and rebuilding trust with teens, ultimately offering hope for meaningful change in the parent-teen relationship.

    Sound bites


    "Emotions can be like a wildfire."

    "Parents go first."

    "You're On Fire, You're Okay"

    Chapters


    00:00 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Teens

    02:01 Understanding Parental Challenges

    04:39 The Concept of Fire-Feelers

    06:25 Counterproductive Responses from Parents

    08:29 Radical Acceptance in Parenting

    10:16 The Importance of Acceptance vs. Approval

    12:33 Preventing Emotional Escalation

    14:38 Teaching Lessons vs. Natural Consequences

    16:22 Understanding Self-Destructive Behaviors

    20:21 The Hope of Change

    22:05 The Role of Environment in Emotional Dysregulation

    24:46 The Power of Validation

    26:48 Embracing Good Enough Parenting

    28:00 Rebuilding Trust and Connection

    30:40 Final Thoughts for Parents
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    25 min
  • Episode 32 - ADHD and Anxiety, Part 2

    Episode 32 - ADHD and Anxiety, Part 2
    Jan 7 2026

    Summary


    In this episode of the Nimble Youth Podcast, host Matt Butterman and pediatric mental health expert Dr. Gretchen Hoyle delve into the complexities of ADHD and anxiety in children and teens. They discuss the prevalence of these overlapping conditions, the effects of medications on each other, and the importance of addressing both issues simultaneously. The conversation highlights the risks of untreated ADHD and anxiety, the challenges parents face in seeking treatment, and the need for a balanced approach to medication. Ultimately, the episode aims to provide hope and guidance for parents navigating these difficult topics.

    Takeaways


    • About 40% of kids with ADHD also have anxiety.
    • Treating ADHD without addressing anxiety can worsen anxiety symptoms.
    • SSRIs can sometimes activate ADHD symptoms in children.
    • Monotherapy may not be effective for kids with both ADHD and anxiety.
    • Parents often find it easier to treat ADHD than anxiety.
    • There is a stigma around using medication for anxiety in children.
    • Managing anxiety is crucial; you can't just grit through it.
    • Untreated ADHD can lead to significant academic and social issues.
    • There is a higher risk of substance abuse with untreated ADHD.
    • Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for children.

    Titles


    Navigating ADHD and Anxiety in Youth

    The Interplay of ADHD and Anxiety Medications

    Sound bites


    "Sometimes SSRIs can activate ADHD symptoms."

    "Monotherapy doesn't always work for ADHD and anxiety."

    "Hopeful takeaways for parents feeling overwhelmed."

    Chapters


    00:00 Understanding ADHD and Anxiety Overlap

    02:08 The Impact of Medications on ADHD and Anxiety

    07:58 Monotherapy vs. Combination Therapy

    09:39 Parental Perspectives on Treating ADHD and Anxiety

    17:35 Risks of Untreated ADHD and Anxiety
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    18 min
  • Episode 31 – Homebound and Healing: Parenting Through Autism and Addiction

    Episode 31 – Homebound and Healing: Parenting Through Autism and Addiction
    Dec 17 2025

    Summary


    In this episode of Nimble Youth, host Matt Butterman speaks with Jamie Hrobar, a mother of two autistic children and a woman in recovery from alcoholism. They discuss the challenges of parenting children on the autism spectrum, the impact of addiction on family life, and the importance of community support. Jamie shares her journey through early diagnoses, the struggles with severe autism, and the fight for necessary services. She emphasizes the need for advocacy, understanding, and the power of hope in navigating these challenges.

    Takeaways

    • Parenting a child with autism is incredibly challenging.
    • Both of Jamie's children have taught her invaluable life lessons.
    • Early diagnosis can significantly impact the support a child receives.
    • The reality of severe autism includes significant behavioral challenges.
    • Addiction can complicate parenting, but recovery is possible.
    • Finding a higher power can provide strength in difficult times.
    • Navigating the system for autism services is often a battle.
    • Building a community of support is crucial for families.
    • New parents should educate themselves about their child's rights.
    • Resources for families with severe autism are critically lacking.


    Titles

    • Navigating the Challenges of Autism Parenting
    • The Journey of a Mother in Recovery

    Sound bites


    "I see you and I understand."

    "You are not alone."

    "We need more resources."

    Chapters


    00:00 Navigating Autism and Family Life

    06:03 Early Diagnosis and Its Impact

    12:28 Struggles with Addiction and Recovery

    18:49 Finding a Higher Power in Recovery

    25:40 Navigating the Autism Service System

    32:17 Practical Steps for New Parents

    36:14 Building Community and Sharing Stories

    40:12 Messages of Hope for Parents

    45:37 Advocating for Better Resources
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    45 min
  • Episode 30: When ADHD and Anxiety Overlap

    Episode 30: When ADHD and Anxiety Overlap
    Dec 10 2025

    Summary


    In this episode of the Nimble Youth Podcast, hosts Matthew Butterman and Dr. Gretchen Hoyle discuss the complex interplay between ADHD and anxiety in children, particularly when disruptive behaviors lead to school challenges. They explore the symptoms, the impact of trauma, and the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment. The conversation emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that includes medication, therapy, and sleep hygiene to support children's mental health effectively.

    Takeaways


    • Understanding the overlap between ADHD and anxiety is crucial.
    • Children with disruptive behaviors are often overwhelmed, not bad.
    • Emotional dysregulation can stem from trauma, not just ADHD or anxiety.
    • Measurement tools like questionnaires help in diagnosing conditions.
    • Treatment plans may require balancing medications for ADHD and anxiety.
    • Sleep hygiene is essential for mental health and medication effectiveness.
    • Parents should limit children's access to phones at night.
    • Early intervention can lead to significant improvements in behavior.
    • Support from healthcare professionals is vital for families in crisis.
    • It's important to recognize that struggling children need support, not blame.


    Titles


    Navigating ADHD and Anxiety in Children

    Understanding Disruptive Behaviors in Kids

    Sound bites


    "These are not what you call bad kids, right?"

    "Medicine to me is gonna be on the table."

    "It means that their brain needs support."

    Chapters


    00:00 Understanding Disruptive Behaviors in Children

    05:44 The Overlap of ADHD and Anxiety

    11:02 Navigating Treatment Options

    16:54 The Importance of Sleep in Mental Health

    19:01 Hope and Support for Families
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    19 min
  • Episode 29: Calming Teenage Anxiety (with Sophia Vale Galano, LCSW)

    Episode 29: Calming Teenage Anxiety (with Sophia Vale Galano, LCSW)
    Dec 3 2025
    Nimble Youth – Episode 29 Show Notes“Calming Teenage Anxiety: Practical Steps Parents Can Use Today”Guest: Sophia Vale Galano, LCSW, author of Calming Teenage AnxietyEpisode OverviewIn Episode 29 of Nimble Youth, host Matt Butterman sits down with Sophia Vale Galano, LCSW—therapist, educator, speaker, and author of Calming Teenage Anxiety. Sophia’s clinical career has spanned public high schools, inpatient psychiatric units, residential programs, and private practice. She brings a rare combination of clinical expertise, real-world experience, and practical clarity to one of the most urgent challenges parents face today: teen anxiety.In this episode, Sophia walks us through:Why teen anxiety is risingHow parents often accidentally shut down communicationHow to tell normal developmental stress from true clinical anxietyWhen—and how—to seek outside helpWhat to do when teens refuse therapyThe single daily practice parents can start tonightHer holistic approach: movement, creativity, nature, and environmentWhy listening trumps solutions, and curiosity trumps controlThis is one of the most actionable episodes we’ve aired—packed with specific scripts, strategies and reminders designed to help parents move from panic to partnership.About Our Guest: Sophia Vale Galano, LCSWSophia Vale Galano is a licensed clinical social worker and the author of Calming Teenage Anxiety: A Parent’s Guide to Helping Your Teen Cope With Worry. Born in Los Angeles and raised in London, she holds a Master’s in Social Work from NYU.Her background spans:Counseling teens in public and independent schoolsProviding group therapy and case management in psychiatric settingsServing as a primary therapist for young adult males in long-term substance use treatmentSupervising social work associatesPracticing master-level ReikiWorking as a yoga instructorIntegrating art, movement, and nontraditional therapeutic modalitiesShe also consults for Hollywood Health & Society and volunteers with animal rescue organizations.Key Themes & Insights1. Why Teen Anxiety Is RisingSophia identifies two overlapping drivers:Classic developmental factors:PubertyHormonal shiftsCognitive changesIdentity formationModern amplifiers:Social mediaTechnology and screen saturationReduced in-person connectionCultural pressures around achievementThe result: more anxiety, earlier in life, and often harder for parents to interpret.2. The Trust Break: Why Parents’ “Solutions” Shut Teens DownParents often jump immediately to:“Have you tried meditating?”“Go outside.”“You’ll be fine.”…all well-intended but often perceived by teens as invalidation.What teens actually need first: To feel heard, seen, and understood. Not fixed.3. Why Setting Matters: Conversations Work Better Without Eye ContactSophia encourages parents and clinicians to switch the setting:Talk in the carGo for a walkSit side-by-side instead of face-to-faceDo something together (cooking, errands)Teens often open up when the pressure to “perform” disappears.4. Is It Real Anxiety or Just Teenage Stress?Sophia recommends observing two dimensions:Frequency How often is the anxiety occurring? Once a year? Weekly? Daily?Severity Does the teen…push through the discomfort?have panic attacks?avoid school?stop socializing?withdraw from activities they once enjoyed?The combination of frequency + severity helps determine when outside support is needed.5. When Parents Should Seek Outside HelpConsider professional support when:The teen’s functioning is significantly impactedAnxiety leads to avoidanceEmotional regulation is deterioratingStruggles persist despite supportive conversationsThe teen asks for helpSophia adds: any time a teen expresses willingness to talk to someone, seize the moment.6. Highly Sensitive Kids: What Parents Should KnowBeing sensitive does not mean a teen is destined for anxiety.Key protective factors include:Coping skillsEmotional literacySupportive relationshipsRegulation strategiesHealthy modeling from adultsSophia encourages parents to meet sensitivity with attunement, not fear.7. The Home Environment and Anxiety: Why Parents Must Do Their Own WorkSometimes a teen’s anxiety is shaped by the overall emotional tone of the household.Parents can help by:Managing their own stressSeeking therapy or supportModeling boundariesPracticing self-careNormalizing help-seekingTeenagers learn more from what they see than what they’re told.8. Three Repeatable Moves for ParentsSophia offers three concrete steps parents can start today:1. Respond with curiosity, not solutions Use open-ended questions:“Tell me more about that.”“What was that like for you?”“How did you get through it?”2. Keep the door open Even a 30-second conversation is progress.3. Collaborate instead of rescuing Work with the teen, not for the teen.9. What If Your Teen Refuses Therapy?Sophia cautions against forcing therapy unless safety requires it.Instead:Ensure the parent has ...
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    25 min
  • Episode 28: Autism, Then and Now: Patrick’s Story and the Power of Community

    Episode 28: Autism, Then and Now: Patrick’s Story and the Power of Community
    Nov 26 2025
    Nimble Youth Podcast — Episode 28 Show NotesAutism, Then and Now: Patrick’s Story and the Power of CommunityHost: Matt Butterman Guest: Dr. Gretchen Hoyle, MD — Pediatrician with 25 years of clinical practiceSeries: Growing Up with Mental Health Conditions🎧 Episode OverviewIn Episode 28 of Nimble Youth, we launch a new series exploring the lives of people who grew up with mental health or developmental differences — and how family, community, and changing knowledge shaped their journeys.We begin with autism, seen through the life of Patrick, Dr. Gretchen Hoyle’s cousin, who was born in 1972, long before “autism spectrum disorder” entered everyday language.Patrick’s story unfolds in a time when:Autism was rarely diagnosedThere were no IEPs, formal supports, or online communitiesKids who struggled socially were often labeled “odd,” “quirky,” or “in their own world”Through this deeply personal narrative, Matt and Dr. Hoyle explore:What autism looked like in the 1970s and ’80sHow family love created an early form of “community” before diagnostic language existedHow much more we understand now — and what hasn’t changed🧩 Patrick’s Story: Autism Before We Had the WordsDr. Hoyle describes growing up in a close-knit family of nine cousins, all within a few years of each other. Patrick, two years younger than her, quickly stood out as:Exceptionally brightCarried an almanac everywhereMemorized capitals, populations, imports, weather patterns of countries few adults knewSocially and physically differentStruggled with coordination in group gamesNeeded accommodations for things like Easter egg hunts (the “Patrick egg” hidden in plain sight)Took language literally, missed inside jokes and social nuanceEven without a label, his cousins created a kind of protective community around him — choosing teams thoughtfully, saving the visible egg, involving him in play.Years later, as Dr. Hoyle went through psychology, medical school, and pediatrics, she recognized what hadn’t been named at the time: Patrick was on the autism spectrum.🔍 Autism vs. “Just Neurodivergent”: What We Look ForMatt asks: What distinguishes autism from someone who’s just quirky or neurodivergent?Dr. Hoyle highlights key features often present in autism:Communication differencesLiteral interpretation of languageDifficulty with nuance, jokes, or implied meaningSocial interaction challengesTrouble reading others’ moods or facial expressionsDifficulty initiating and sustaining conversations with unfamiliar peopleSafer and more regulated with “their people” (like cousins or known peers)Narrow or intense interestsDeep, specialized focus (e.g., the almanac, birding later in life)Topics not typically shared by age peersShe notes that:What used to be called Asperger’s syndrome would likely have fit PatrickToday, this is folded into Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with varying levels of support needsWe now know much more about sensory sensitivities, stress processing, and strengths in autistic individuals than we did in the 1970s🎓 Patrick’s Adulthood: Strengths, Challenges, and CommunityPatrick:Did well academicallyAttended college in a community for students with similar challengesCompleted a Master’s in Library Science (very on-brand for his love of information and systems)But adult life brought:Strain in employmentDifficulties with friendships and relationshipsIncreasing challenges with day-to-day interactionHe eventually moved back in with his mother and stepfather after a hard period, especially around the post-pandemic years.In 2023, after a family reunion and a special celebration of their ancestral family home in Old Salem (Winston-Salem), Patrick was killed in a car crash following an argument during a drive back from the event.His death remains a profound grief and a powerful touchstone in Dr. Hoyle’s work.💡 How Patrick’s Legacy Shapes Clinical Work TodayIn clinic, Dr. Hoyle says Patrick is “with her” every day when she meets:A bright child who is socially isolatedA teen who feels different but can’t say whyA parent who quietly says, “I don’t know how to help my child make friends.She sees:The craving for communityThe tension between strengths and vulnerabilitiesThe risk of anxiety, depression, and loneliness layered on top of autistic traitShe also underscores the hopeful piece: We now know so much more about:Teaching social communication skillsSupporting executive functioningHelping neurodivergent kids thrive in school, work, and relationshipsBut she also warns that:Kids today have fewer in-person interactionsMore time on screens means less practice reading faces and body languageThis is especially concerning for neurodivergent kids, who need live practice to build those social pathways👨‍👩‍👧 Six Takeaways for Parents (Patrick’s Legacy in Practice)Matt and Dr. Hoyle close with six key reminders for parents who see parts of Patrick’s story in...
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    20 min