Brainwaves the ADHD podcast

What's the deal with ADHD coaching? Is this a scam? How does it work? How do I find a good coach?Skepticism makes sense. You're busy, coaching costs money, and there are plenty of schemes out there trying to take advantage of us neurodivergent folks.Let's break down exactly what ADHD coaches do (and don't do), and explain how ADHD coaching is different from therapy. Coach Alex walks us through realistic expectations, what actually happens in coaching sessions, and how to spot someone qualified versus someone who probably isn't a great fit.

There’s a moment after getting diagnosed with ADHD when everything shifts. Not just because you finally have an explanation, but because you finally have language to communicate the experience you’ve been living with your whole life. Not just for others to understand. But for yourself too. The missed deadlines, the constant overwhelm, the way you had to work twice as hard just to keep up… it was never a personal failing. But without the right words, how could you have known? This week’s episode is about what happens when you finally get to see yourself clearly and why naming your experience is the key to changing it. For a deeper dive and more resources be sure to check out: shimmer.care/brainwaves/adhd-diagnosis-didnt-change-me-dave-delaney

Perimenopause & menopause brings profound hormonal shifts that can amplify ADHD challenges like brain fog, emotional highs and lows, and disrupted sleep. These changes often leave women feeling unseen and unsupported in healthcare conversations. This exploration reveals the overlooked connection between ADHD and menopause, offering practical tools to manage heightened executive dysfunction, sensory sensitivities, and emotional dysregulation.

Marie Ng, founder of Llama Life, is on a mission to revolutionize productivity for those with ADHD. She shares the inspiring story behind creating her app, reflecting on how a transformative journey to Peru led to its calming llama theme. The conversation dives into the unique productivity challenges faced by ADHDers, like time blindness, and highlights features of Llama Life that help users manage tasks with ease. Marie emphasizes the power of community and social connections for individuals navigating ADHD, making the journey feel less isolating.

Gratitude practices might feel forced, especially for those with ADHD, but there's real science backing their benefits. The discussion dives into emotional challenges, with a focus on how ADHD can cloud the recognition of positive emotions. Practicing gratitude isn't about toxic positivity; it's about balancing negative feelings with acknowledgment of the good. Practical strategies are shared to cultivate gratitude, enhancing mental health and relationships, making it a vital tool for well-being.

The holidays can quickly become a storm of overpacked schedules, emotional stress, and endless demands. For ADHD brains, it’s even harder—time blindness, impulsivity, and decision fatigue can turn every task into a struggle. Boundaries are the key to cutting through the chaos and creating a season that works for you. Learn how to identify your limits, plan ahead, and communicate clearly without guilt. From managing holiday gatherings to sticking to your energy budget, these strategies help you protect your time and well-being while still enjoying what matters most.

If you've ever watched someone trying to herd cats, you know exactly what chaos looks like. Just when you think you've got one headed in the right direction, three others are wandering off to investigate a butterfly, one's taking a nap in the middle of everything, and somehow one ended up on the roof (how did it even get up there?). Lately, we've been thinking about how managing our to-do lists feels a lot like that: just when we think we've got one task corralled, three more pop up unexpectedly, that important thing we were supposed to do is taking a nap somewhere in our brain, and somehow we end up doing something that wasn't even on the list to begin with (how did we even get there?). This week, during our podcast chat about to-do lists, Noelle pointed out something fascinating: for neurotypical folks, managing tasks seems as natural as breathing. But for us? It's more like trying to herd those cats—possible, sure, but requiring way more energy, strategy, and patience than it probably should.

ADHD is frequently misunderstood, with many experiences going untold. The discussion highlights common struggles with time and organization, revealing how internal challenges can diverge from societal stereotypes. It also sheds light on the complexities faced by undiagnosed individuals, emphasizing ADHD as a unique identity rather than a limitation. Personal stories advocate for greater awareness and understanding, reminding listeners they are not alone in their journeys.

Have ADHD and struggling with time? You're not alone. In this episode, we dive into what time blindness is, how it affects people with ADHD, and practical ways to manage it. ADHD can make time management challenging—whether it’s underestimating how long things take, losing track of time, or constantly being late. Join O'Ryan, Trina, and Coach Noelle as they discuss: Introduction: What is ADHD Time Blindness? How ADHD Affects Time Perception ADHD and Struggles with Time Management Tools and Strategies for Coping with Time Blindness Using Habit Stacking to Improve Time Management If you've been searching for ways to deal with time blindness, procrastination, or time mismanagement due to ADHD, this conversation has the insights and solutions you need.

Meredith Carter, an ADHD coach and author of "It All Makes Sense Now," shares her expertise on ADHD burnout. She highlights hidden signs of exhaustion and differentiates ADHD burnout from general fatigue. The conversation dives into the impact of hyperfocus, the importance of self-care, and how to create ADHD-friendly routines. Meredith uses the sprint versus marathon metaphor to emphasize pacing and community support. With practical strategies and a focus on celebrating achievements, this discussion is vital for anyone navigating ADHD challenges.