Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast

Daniella Karidi, an executive coach and cognitive scientist, discusses memory challenges faced by individuals with ADHD. She reveals that memory is fragile, often affected by a shifting foundation rather than a sturdy vault. Daniella emphasizes the importance of understanding how memories are formed and recalled, offering the idea that forgetting isn't failure but a human trait. Strategies to enhance memory, like the Memory Palace technique and using cues, are highlighted. Ultimately, she encourages a compassionate approach to memory struggles.

Dr. Dara Abraham, a board-certified psychiatrist and women’s mental health expert, dives into the vital connection between hormones and ADHD. She sheds light on how hormonal shifts during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause uniquely affect ADHD symptoms and medication. Emphasizing the importance of estrogen for brain health, she discusses the often-dismissed struggles women face when seeking help. Listeners gain practical tips for managing ADHD alongside hormonal changes, including the benefits of strength training and self-advocacy.

Jules Galloway, a clinical naturopath from Melbourne, specializes in women's health and the gut-brain connection. She dives into the hidden complexities of ADHD, revealing how chronic illnesses like adrenal fatigue and autoimmunity intertwine with mental health. Jules discusses the physical toll of stress, inflammation, and how burnout is a real crisis. She offers practical strategies such as blood sugar stabilization and gut health improvements, providing empathy and actionable insights for those navigating the challenges of ADHD.

Dr. Kathleen Nadeau, founder of the Chesapeake Center and author of 'Still Distracted After All These Years', dives into the often-overlooked topic of ADHD in older adults. She discusses the impact of aging on ADHD, including loss of structure and increasing isolation. Kathleen highlights the importance of community support, the connection between sleep disturbances and cognitive health, and advocates for better resources and awareness for this demographic. Her insights mix nuance with humor, emphasizing resilience and the potential for reinvention.

What if constant productivity is just a trap? The hosts explore the emotional toll of perfectionism and the societal pressure to always be achieving. They share personal stories of self-compassion and redefine what productivity means, emphasizing the value of everyday accomplishments. AI tools and practical strategies help navigate the chaotic landscape of ADHD, while the importance of prioritizing mental well-being over output takes center stage. Embrace imperfection and let go of the pressure to perform!

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Ari Tuckman, a clinical psychologist and ADHD expert, dives into the intricate dynamics of productivity and ADHD. He highlights the paradox of wanting to be productive while feeling stuck in self-blame. Tuckman shares insights from his book on the myth of the perfect planner and the nuanced relationship with to-do lists. Emphasizing self-honesty, he encourages listeners to reevaluate their priorities and the pressures of perfectionism, ultimately redefining what true productivity means.

Dr. Dodge Rea, an ADHD expert known for his unique grace sequence approach, joins Dr. Sharon Saline to discuss the neuroscience of emotional flooding in ADHD. They explore how overwhelming emotions are not flaws but responses shaped by biology and experience. Insights into the amygdala's role, coping strategies like the STAR approach, and the importance of self-compassion offer listeners practical tools for managing emotional dysregulation. They also highlight how humor and community can aid in processing these complex feelings.

Tamara Rosier, the founder of the ADHD Center in West Michigan and author of 'Your Brain's Not Broken', teams up with Brooke Schnittman, a nationally recognized ADHD coach and author of 'Activate Your ADHD Potential'. They dive deep into the overwhelm often felt by those with ADHD, linking emotional sensitivity to executive function issues. Tamara explains 'emotional flooding', while Brooke introduces practical micro-actions to break through moments of stasis. Together, they emphasize that feeling stuck isn’t a personal failure but a signal to listen to one’s unique brain.

James Ochoa, an ADHD pathfinder and author, joins Dr. Nachi Felt, a Columbia University ADHD specialist, to tackle the formidable force of shame in the context of ADHD. They explore how shame spirals can disrupt mental clarity and resilience, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and acceptance. With a blend of humor and expertise, they discuss the neurological underpinnings of shame and share strategies for emotional empowerment, making this conversation both enlightening and a call for self-compassion.

The impact of AI on productivity for individuals with ADHD is explored, revealing both its potential and pitfalls. The hosts discuss mastering prompt engineering to harness AI effectively, likening it to training a dog for better results. AI in education is examined, emphasizing the balance between productivity and personal expression. The versatile uses of AI platforms like Poe and Coda are highlighted. Finally, they unveil innovative AI tools like Adobe Voice Enhancer that elevate audio quality, showcasing AI’s transformative possibilities.