Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast

Dive into the world of tolerations, those pesky little tasks we tolerate that drain our energy daily. Discover how they evolve and become invisible over time, from crooked pictures to unaddressed maintenance. Explore the emotional impacts of living with these annoyances and learn how to differentiate between tolerations and avoidance. The hosts offer practical tips on creating a tolerations list, prioritizing tasks, and visualizing completion to overcome procrastination. Embrace the journey to a clutter-free mind!

This week’s guest is Kyrus Keenan-Westcott (Ky), a content creator and mental health advocate known for his insights on ADHD and introversion. Ky shares his journey of being diagnosed with ADHD at 35, exploring feelings of grief and acceptance. He debunks myths about introversion, emphasizing it's about energy management, not dislike of socializing. Ky discusses 'introvert guilt,' the joy of solo travel, and the beauty of setting boundaries. Plus, he reveals his whimsical new fragrance collaboration inspired by adult ADHD!

Dr. Nachi Felt, a clinical psychologist and Columbia University professor, returns to explore the Cycle of Accountability. He emphasizes the shift from viewing accountability as punishment to recognizing it as a connection to personal values and purpose. Their discussion reveals how motivation for those with ADHD is deeply tied to meaning, and how small acts of self-acceptance can trigger significant change. Nachi also reframes attention as presence and delves into how early responses to ADHD shape our self-worth and identity.

In this engaging discussion, James Ochoa, a licensed counselor and author of Focused Forward, sheds light on long-term planning challenges for individuals with ADHD. He emphasizes the importance of treating your future self with compassion rather than pressure, helping listeners reframe their relationship with responsibility. James introduces the reflective tool 11Q Your ADHD, designed to aid self-understanding and progress. The conversation also highlights the need for community and tailored support systems to enhance motivation and foster emotional safety.

Alan Brown, an ADHD coach and the innovative mind behind ADD Crusher, shares his journey from misdiagnosis to a powerful advocate for self-advocacy. He reveals how shifting your mindset from 'I suck' to 'I'm trying' can transform your approach to challenges. Alan emphasizes the importance of articulating specific needs and requesting workplace accommodations, using his own experience of transitioning to a private office as a key example. He encourages understanding ADHD's impact to build empathy and support in professional settings.

Dr. Amie DeHarpporte, a licensed psychologist and ADHD assessment specialist, dives into the complexities of diagnosing ADHD. She discusses how social media, particularly TikTok, shapes perceptions and leads to misconceptions about the condition. The episode explores the balance of overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis, stressing the need for thorough assessments to validate experiences. Dr. DeHarpporte highlights the importance of understanding ADHD as a nuanced lens, rather than a binary label, and emphasizes the emotional validation and strengths unearthed through proper diagnostics.

Matthew Fox, a media critic and host of shows like Superhero Ethics, joins the conversation to unpack ADHD representation in media. He explores the stereotype of ADHD as the class clown or quirky sidekick, pointing out characters like Maria from Sound of Music as ADHD-coded yet never labeled. The discussion highlights how these portrayals shape self-identity and societal perceptions, urging for authentic representation that includes neurodivergent voices. Matthew also emphasizes positive depictions, like Jake Peralta from Brooklyn Nine-Nine, showcasing ADHD as a strength.

Nicole Stanley, founder of Arise Financial Coaching, discusses her journey with ADHD and money. She reveals how early experiences shape financial beliefs, often leading to feelings of shame and overwhelm. Nicole emphasizes the importance of automating financial systems and creating dopamine-driven habits to make managing money more enjoyable. She challenges listeners to redefine financial independence and identify core financial problems while shedding the guilt attached to spending. This conversation is a liberating guide for those ready to shift their money mindset.

This week’s guests are Ben Barlowe and Ernie Reppe, the dynamic duo behind YNAB's Budget Nerds. Ben, a seasoned YNAB teacher, helps people infuse purpose into their finances, while Ernie brings practical budgeting advice from his own journey with YNAB. They dive into the unique challenges ADHD presents in managing money, emphasizing that budgeting doesn't have to be restrictive. Discover the empowering concept of giving every dollar a job, practical tips for building financial routines, and ways to make money management feel less daunting.

Side hustles can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, especially for those with ADHD. The discussion highlights the power of hyperfocus and creativity in pursuing your passions for profit. However, it also addresses the risks of burnout and disorganization, along with the pressure to monetize every hobby. Tips for managing these challenges include planning tools and automation strategies. Ultimately, finding joy in side hustles is emphasized, encouraging a flexible, fulfilling approach rather than viewing them as mere obligations.