In this episode of The Curious Incident Podcast, NYC special education attorney Adam Dayan steps into the guest seat for a candid, role-reversal conversation about the experiences that shaped him long before the law. Joined by his executive assistant Kristine Champagne as guest host, Adam shares his personal journey with OCD, and what it means to struggle quietly as a child who appears to be doing everything "right" on the outside. He reflects on how these early experiences influenced his path, from a defining moment in high school to seeking support after law school, and ultimately building a practice grounded in empathy. Through stories of hidden compulsions, late recognition, and ongoing self-awareness, this episode highlights a powerful truth: when we begin to understand our own struggles, we become better equipped to support others with clarity, compassion, and purpose.

In this episode of The Curious Incident Podcast, NYC special education attorney Adam Dayan speaks with Lisa Candera attorney and founder of The Autism Mom Coach, about the realities of parenting a child with autism. Drawing on her experience raising a son with severe autism, OCD, and anxiety, Lisa explains why meaningful change often begins with a parent's own self-regulation. She discusses how chronic stress and hypervigilance can leave parents dysregulated and how learning to ground themselves can transform meltdowns, school challenges, and family dynamics. From radical acceptance and managing comorbidities to approaching IEP meetings with clarity and confidence, this conversation underscores a powerful truth: regulated parents become steadier leaders, stronger advocates, and a calming force amid uncertainty.

On this episode of the Curious Incident Podcast, NYC special education attorney Adam Dayan sits down with Lisa Abbrecht, clinical psychologist and founder of New Orleans Anxiety and OCD, LLC. Together, they explore the everyday realities of living with anxiety and OCD, offering a clear, practical look at Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) deepens its impact. The conversation also addresses highly stigmatized experiences with nuance and clarity - emphasizing proper understanding, thoughtful treatment, and why healing is about changing your relationship with thoughts, not trying to erase them.