200 Episodes In: Reflecting on Podcasting with ADHD w/ Brendan Mahan
Oct 28, 2024
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Brendan Mahan, host of the ADHD Essentials podcast and an expert on parenting with ADHD, joins to celebrate a major podcast milestone. They discuss transforming from a Frisbee-themed show to one focused on ADHD, sharing lessons learned from failures that led to success. The importance of effective titling and an engaging back catalog is highlighted, along with the shift from solo topics to dynamic interviews. The complexities of managing ADHD and navigating executive functions while fostering community connections are also key themes.
Reflecting on the podcast's journey highlights the importance of learning from past failures, which can lead to future success.
Emphasizing self-compassion and tailored strategies underscores the need for personalized approaches in managing the challenges of ADHD.
Deep dives
Milestones and Personal Reflection
The podcast highlights a significant milestone of reaching 200 episodes and five years of running the show, celebrating the journey of growth and learning. The host expresses pride in sticking with the podcast despite challenges posed by ADHD, illustrating a commitment to personal development. This self-reflection also serves to motivate listeners, showing that persistence is possible even when facing the struggles associated with ADHD. The conversation emphasizes that the evolution of the podcast itself mirrors the host's growth in understanding and managing ADHD.
The Power of Past Failures
A key insight shared is the importance of viewing past failures as invaluable learning experiences that pave the way for future success. The host reflects on his initial podcast about Ultimate Frisbee, which didn't sustain momentum but provided essential skills and experiences for launching Hacking Your ADHD. This journey underscores the concept that earlier missteps can transform into beneficial steps when learned from effectively. Embracing failures fosters resilience and innovation, crucial for navigating the challenges of ADHD.
ADHD Management and Self-Compassion
The discussion addresses the necessity of self-compassion and understanding personal ADHD management challenges. The host points out that ADHD complicates typical productivity strategies, necessitating adjustments to techniques that account for their unique mindset. Recognizing the need for tailored approaches, such as using timers and external stimulation, can greatly enhance productivity for those with ADHD. The emphasis on empathy towards oneself helps listeners understand that struggles do not equate to personal shortcomings, but rather stem from navigating the complexities of ADHD.
Future Aspirations and Community Building
Looking ahead, the podcast's host shares plans to enhance community building and outreach, indicating a desire to create a supportive space for those dealing with ADHD. By working with a colleague to establish a Discord platform, the host envisions fostering greater engagement and interaction among listeners. Additionally, there are aspirations to invite more diverse voices, including scientists and high-profile guests, to bring fresh perspectives to the show. This strategic direction aims to deepen the podcast's impact and broaden its reach within the ADHD community.
This week we’re celebrating a milestone for Hacking Your ADHD - 200 episodes… also 5 years of running the podcast. I honestly don’t know exactly what to say about how far this podcast has come. It’s been an incredible run so far and I have a lot of plans for the future as well, which, honestly is a little scary, but also exciting that even with ADHD I’m sticking with it.
For this episode, I’ve invited Brendan Mahan, the voice behind the ADHD Essentials Podcast, to help mark the occasion by interviewing me on the ins and outs of podcasting with ADHD. We talk about the early days, what has changed, and how past failures have paved the way for success. It’s a bit more of the behind-the-scenes look at the podcast and how I got here.
Allow past failures to become stepping stones to success. Learning from “crappy rough drafts” makes getting started on what you’re currently doing so much easier.
It’s incredibly important to allow for empathy for yourself when trying to work with your ADHD. Viewing your problem-solving through the lens of “I have ADHD, and I need to account for my ADHD” can make finding that next step so much easier.
Go check out Brendan’s podcast, ADHD Essentials. While his podcast focuses more on parenting and ADHD, I haven’t listened to an episode without getting something out of it, truly excellent stuff.
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