Episode #352: The Kids Who Can’t Be Told What to Do: PDA & Low-Demand Parenting (with Casey Ehrlich)

Listen or Watch this episode on:
Casey Ehrlich

About This Episode

What if your child’s resistance, meltdowns, or refusal to do “simple” things isn’t defiance—but a nervous system response?

In this conversation, Kristen talks with Casey Ehrlich, founder of At Peace Parents and one of the leading voices on Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). Casey is a researcher, parent coach, and mom of two PDA kids who helps families understand the intersection of ADHD, autism, and PDA through a lens of compassion and nervous system science.

Together, they explore what PDA really is, why it shows up so often in ADHD families, and how traditional parenting strategies often backfire when a child’s need for autonomy is being misunderstood as opposition.

Follow Casey Ehrlich on Instagram and be sure to check out At Peace Parents

Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED!

Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343

Go to drinkag1.com/ihaveadhd to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe!

Pre-Order Today

You're Not in Trouble

The ADHD Guide to Building Healthy, Connected Relationships

An empowering self-coaching guide to help ADHDers understand, repair, and build healthy relationships — with friends, romantic partners, family, and at work — from the creator of the I Have ADHD podcast.

Take the first step in gaining control of your life

This totally free printable includes a psychologist-approved list of symptoms that adults with ADHD commonly experience. This could give you the answers you’ve been begging for your entire life.

Related Episodes

Episode #438: ADHD Q&A: Your Questions Answered LIVE

Episode #436: ADHD, AI, Money & the Things We Avoid

Kristen Carder

Episode #434: Why You Keep Breaking Your Own Rules

Stop Struggling Alone.
Start Thriving With FOCUSED.

A proven coaching program designed specifically for adults with ADHD who want to gain clarity, build confidence, and take control of their lives.

Join a community of hundreds of ADHDers

Learning About My Brain...

Changed Everything

Hi, I’m Kristen Carder—ADHD expert, podcast host, and certified coach who’s been exactly where you are. Diagnosed at 21, I spent years cycling through planners, courses, and systems that never quite worked. Everything changed when I discovered the power of understanding my ADHD brain and the transformative impact of community support.

Now, after 15+ years of research and experience, I’ve helped thousands of adults with ADHD thrive. I’m here to show you how understanding your brain can transform your life, just like it did for mine.

ADHD Tips That Actually Make Sense

Follow @i.have.adhd.podcast and join our Instagram community for daily strategies, relatable content, and real talk about ADHD