From Brain Rot to Real Talk: Teaching Self-Acceptance to ADHDers Across Generational Gaps with Mr. Lindsay

SuccessFULL With ADHD

Philip Lindsay isn’t just a Special Education math teacher—he’s a Gen Alpha translator, content creator, and a powerful force in connecting with students who learn differently. In this episode of Successful with ADHD, I sit down with Philip to explore his late ADHD diagnosis, his journey from youth pastor to teacher, and how he uses humor, “brain rot” (yes, that’s a real thing!), and intentional connection to empower kids with learning differences.

We dive into how ADHD fuels his content creation, why relational investment is essential in education, and how his approach breaks long-standing stereotypes in the classroom. Philip shares stories that are both hilarious and deeply relatable—especially for educators and parents raising or working with neurodivergent kids. You’ll laugh, reflect, and maybe even find yourself googling Gen Alpha slang after this one!

Philip Lindsay is a Special Ed math teacher whose mission is simple: be helpful. Best known for decoding Gen Alpha slang, going viral on The Today Show, and creating content that bridges students, parents, and teachers—Philip’s mix of humor, heart, and practical insight resonates deeply with all who work with or raise the next generation.

Episode Highlights:

[1:06] - Meet Philip Lindsay: Special Ed teacher, Gen Alpha translator, and all-around hilarious human
[3:00] - Getting diagnosed with ADHD at 27—and why it was such a relief
[5:06] - Juggling marriage, fatherhood, and a youth pastor role during COVID
[7:06] - The game-changing power of self-awareness and honest communication in relationships
[10:00] - Redefining productivity: Embracing ADHD brain rhythms and ditching typical schedules
[14:33] - Why having a clear “why” makes ADHD a content creation superpower
[16:56] - Using humor to bridge the gap between teachers, students, and parents
[26:00] - Trashketball, trust, and transformative teaching strategies
[30:00] - Debunking the “fun teacher vs. serious teacher” myth
[33:45] - Breaking down Gen Alpha slang: from “gyat” to “skibidi” and everything in between
[36:08] - Brain rot explained: How memes and math mix in middle school
[40:51] - Teaching boundaries: When slang shows up in student writing
[43:03] - Hawk Tuah and other brain rot creations (you won’t believe this one!)
[46:36] - Are generations getting better or worse? Philip shares his take
[48:47] - Final wisdom for parents and educators: Connection over correction

Connect with Philip Lindsay:

• Instagram: @mr_phlindsay_sped
• TikTok: @mr_lindsay_sped
• Facebook: Philip Lindsay
• YouTube: Mr. Lindsay

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