Hacking Your ADHD

This classic discussion dives into how ADHD can make us our own worst enemies, highlighting self-sabotaging behaviors like poor time management, procrastination, and overcommitting. Emphasizing the importance of self-compassion, it encourages listeners to understand these behaviors as reflections of unmet needs rather than moral failings. The conversation also explores practical ways to move toward a better self through empathy, realistic goal-setting, and identifying emotional needs, ultimately offering a path forward without the pressure of perfection.

Skye Waterson, a research recap contributor and ADHD support advocate, dives into a study exploring the link between bullying and ADHD. They discuss how ADHD students often face increased visibility and reduced likability, leading to higher risks of bullying. Personal school experiences illuminate the social challenges these students encounter. Discover practical strategies for teachers and peers to foster positive relationships and reduce bullying impacts, while also addressing the long-term emotional effects on those bullied.

In this episode, Sarah Templeton, a counselor and advocate previously working in the UK prison system, shares her journey of self-discovery after being diagnosed with ADHD at 51. She discusses the alarming rates of undiagnosed ADHD among incarcerated populations and its role in recidivism. Sarah highlights how impulsivity and a heightened sense of justice can lead to legal troubles. She also emphasizes the need for early neurodiversity screening in schools and justice systems to break the cycle and improve outcomes for at-risk individuals.

Dr. Judy Ho, a clinical neuropsychologist and triple board-certified expert, shares her insights on ADHD and self-sabotage. She discusses how ADHD impacts self-esteem and relationships, emphasizing the importance of understanding brain wiring. Dr. Ho introduces cognitive-behavioral strategies to manage attention, tackle procrastination, and enhance emotional regulation. She shares practical mindfulness techniques and highlights hyperfocus as both a superpower and a potential risk. Her takeaway? Everyone can thrive with the right tools and self-compassion.

Skye Waterson, a research contributor at Unconventional Organization, dives into the fascinating world of hyperfocus in university students. The discussion highlights how hyperfocus can vary significantly, distinguishing between reward-related and attention-focused types. Skye explains the role of executive function in mediating ADHD symptoms and hyperfocus, emphasizing its double-edged nature. They also explore practical strategies to manage hyperfocus effectively, offering valuable insights tailored for students navigating their ADHD.

Rae Jacobson, a journalist and ADHD expert who hosts the Hyperfocus podcast, dives into the complexities of ADHD in this engaging discussion. They explore how ordinary life events, like misplacing keys or getting songs stuck in heads, are often misattributed to ADHD. Rae shares insights on the dangers of over-pathologizing ADHD and differentiating it from comorbidities like anxiety and depression. With humor, they tackle clutter as a coping mechanism, and why understanding the root causes of symptoms is crucial for effective treatment. Expect relatable anecdotes and practical advice!

Join Nikki Kinzer, an ADHD coach dedicated to building supportive systems, and Pete Wright, a co-author sharing personal insights on ADHD. They discuss the power of embracing ADHD strengths, eliminating the worst options in planning to avoid perfectionism, and how traditional productivity systems often miss the mark for those with ADHD. They emphasize the importance of resilience in workflows, accepting that tasks can be hard, and using tools that truly fit individual needs—reminding us that ADHD-friendly systems can make life feel lighter.

Skye Waterson, a research-focused practitioner from Unconventional Organization, dives into video accessibility for those with ADHD. They explore innovative strategies like speeding up video playback to enhance focus and practical recommendations for making content more engaging, such as using clear summaries and visuals. The conversation touches on user strategies versus creator responsibilities, including the importance of captions and varied presentation styles. They also address potential caption censorship issues, making for a thought-provoking discussion about improving accessibility.

Jamie Shapiro, an ADHD coach and founder of Silver Linings Transitions, shares her journey of late ADHD diagnosis and its impact on older adults. She discusses the intersection of aging and ADHD, highlighting how aging traits can mask ADHD symptoms. Jamie sheds light on the emotional effects of late diagnoses and the importance of community. She provides practical tools for managing ADHD in later life and encourages proactive planning for aging with ADHD while emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding across generations.

Dr. Tracy Dalgleish, a clinical psychologist and couples therapist, shares her insights on navigating complex family dynamics. She discusses how family expectations can complicate relationships and emphasizes the importance of teamwork with your partner. Tracy introduces her Vault method to help couples clarify values and boundaries, reducing friction in decision-making. She highlights the impact of ADHD on family roles and offers practical strategies for reconnecting during conflicts, stressing the importance of vulnerability and apologies.