Meet the Team Opener Presentation
Dr. Jim Russell

Neuropsychological Examiner || National Presenter || TEDx Speaker
Bio: Dr. Jim Russell is a nationally respected clinician with 30+ years of experience in neuropsychological and psychoeducational assessment. Known for his TEDx talk on twice-exceptional learners, he has presented over 200 workshops nationwide and specializes in translating complex cognitive findings into practical strategies for families, educators, and clinicians.
Abstract: Dr. Russell explores how executive function challenges shape learning and behavior across the lifespan. He demonstrates how EF strategies originally developed for neurodivergent individuals benefit all learners—especially those mislabeled as “underachieving.” His presentation blends neuroscience, case examples, and actionable tools.​

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Dr. Kevin Blake

Psychologist || National Authority on ADHD, LD, ASD

Bio: Dr. Kevin Blake is a licensed psychologist and nationally recognized expert on ADHD, learning disorders, and autism. He opened one of the first U.S. practices specializing in adult neurodevelopmental disorders and has spent decades advancing research-to-practice approaches.

Abstract: Dr. Blake presents a research-driven overview of EF differences across ADHD, autism, and related conditions. He highlights how attention, inhibition, planning, and emotional regulation vary across diagnostic groups and provides evidence-based strategies for supporting EF across the lifespan.

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Dr. Katie Plax

Adolescent Medicine Leader || Pediatric Professor || Chief  Youth Health Advocate

Bio: Dr. Katie Plax, MD, is a Professor of Pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. A nationally recognized adolescent medicine doctor, Dr. Plax has dedicated her career to improving youth health outcomes through clinical care, teaching, advocacy, and research. She founded The SPOT, a drop-in center serving over 27,000 young people in St. Louis and leads cross-sector efforts to deliver youth-centered services. As a parent to a son with learning differences, Dr. Plax brings personal insight and compassion to her work.

Abstract: Dr. Katie Plax’s presentation urges early identification and support for dyslexia and executive function challenges in children. Misunderstood learning differences can devastate academic and emotional outcomes, but timely intervention and tailored accommodations unlock student potential and reveal unique strengths. Advocacy and awareness are essential for helping every child thrive. The presentation also celebrates the unique strengths and talents of people with dyslexia, advocating for greater awareness, advocacy, and support from families, educators, and healthcare providers.

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Jason Braun, M.Ed.

Instructional Designer ||  ADHD Coach || Author

Bio: Jason Braun is an instructional designer, ADHD coach, and author of Designing Context-Rich Learning. His courses have reached more than 22,000 students. He integrates neuroscience, narrative storytelling, and lived neurodivergent experience to create practical EF strategies.

Abstract: Jason presents low-cost, high-impact tools that strengthen attention, planning, and self-regulation across home, school, and workplace settings. His work emphasizes Universal Design principles and real-world application.
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