A+ Gems Fall 2025 Edition
Hello! Every now and then I send a newsletter to my A+ patients, colleagues, and well, anyone who is interested about resources and tools that’ve been shared with me. These are things that other people have found helpful for better living. I figure if they're helpful for some people then others might find them helpful as well. Feel free to subscribe to my non-spammy mailing list here: Join the A+ Gems mailing list on Mailchimp
Featured Blog Highlight:
Finding Epicurus — The Original ADHD-Friendly Therapist
This month, I’m especially excited (and proud!) to share a new blog post I wrote, exploring how ancient philosopher Epicurus might just be the original ADHD-friendly therapist. He believed in peace, pleasure, and simplicity as the key to happiness — basically the antidote to modern ADHD burnout. This post kicks off what I fully intend to make a series on ADHD-compatible therapies… assuming I follow through. Read the full post here
Tools & Apps
YNAB (You Need a Budget). An ADHD-friendly budgeting app that helps you plan for real life (like spontaneous coffee splurges) without guilt. ynab.com
Your Focus Friend. A fun, quirky app that cheers you on for getting off your phone — recommended by multiple patients who love it. yourfocusfriend.com
InterGifted. A supportive global community for gifted and twice-exceptional adults who think and feel deeply. intergifted.com
Thought Provoking Brain Boosters
Huberman Lab Podcast. Deep dives into the neuroscience of focus, motivation, and rest — explained in a way that’s practical and engaging. hubermanlab.com/podcast
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us – Daniel Pink. A smart, approachable look at what really drives human behavior — spoiler: it’s not just rewards. danpink.com
Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion – Robert Cialdini. A timeless classic on how influence and communication really work (and how to use that insight kindly). Find it here
Immersion – Paul Zak. Blending neuroscience and storytelling, Zak explores how connection and purpose light up the brain. Read the case study
Book links are for convenience — feel free to shop local or check your favorite library!
Relationships & Self-Compassion
How to Keep House While Drowning – KC Davis. A compassionate, shame-free guide for when executive function meets everyday life. Gentle, practical, and full of self-compassion. Find it here
The Gottman Institute. Evidence-based tools for happier, healthier relationships. Their newsletters and resources are gold. gottman.com
Brilliant but Not Broken – Tiny Buddha. A powerful reframe for neurodivergence that reminds us our quirks can be our greatest strengths. Read here
More to Explore
12 Rules for Life – Jordan Peterson. Thought-provoking reflections on order, meaning, and staying sane in a noisy world. Find it here
“Dear Diary” – Hidden Brain Podcast Episode. A fascinating look at how writing and journaling can help us understand ourselves and manage emotions. Listen here
AS ALWAYS THANK YOU TO MY PATIENTS AND THE COMMUNITY FOR BEING SO AWESOME!
Have an A+ Day!
Jess Levy, MD
