From Struggle to Safe Spaces: Emily Kapszukiewicz on Building Squirrel Space for ADHD & Beyond

What if burnout, misdiagnosis, and personal struggle weren’t the end of your story—but the beginning of a movement to reimagine healthcare and community?In this episode of Lightning RX, host Colette Nataf sits down with Emily Kapszukiewicz, CEO of Squirrel Space, a community and platform designed to support people who struggle in traditional environments—particularly those with ADHD. From her own health battles and psychiatric hospitalization to launching an innovative Public Benefit Corporation, Emily shares how vulnerability, creativity, and resilience became the foundation for her entrepreneurial journey.Emily opens up about the dangers of overprescription, her experience with the failures of the healthcare system, and how art, therapy, and play helped her heal. She explains how Squirrel Space blends digital connection, physical spaces, and ADHD-friendly kits to create safe environments where people can thrive. Along the way, she highlights the power of turning setbacks into strengths, leaning into authenticity, and building trust-driven communities.What You’ll Learn:Emily’s journey from burnout and psychiatric hospitalization to entrepreneurshipWhy she reframed ADHD as a superpower and leadership strengthThe inspiration behind Squirrel Space and its mission of psychological safetyHow creativity, art, music, dance, pottery became central to healing and designThe role of Squirrel Kits in supporting focus, calm, and joy for membersWhy she structured the company as a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC)Her long-term vision for tiny homes as therapeutic safe spacesPractical advice for founders: bet on yourself, stay authentic, and lead with compassion💡 Golden Nugget: “Trust yourself. Bet on yourself. And don’t let anyone tell you that kindness isn’t a strength in business.”Connect with Emily Kapszukiewicz & Squirrel Space LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emilykapszukiewicz Website: squirrel-space.com Connect with the Show:LinkedInWebsiteSpotifyAmazon MusiciHeartSubscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone passionate about healthcare marketing, startup growth, or innovative product launches, and don’t forget to leave us a review. New episodes drop weekly!