I Have ADHD Podcast

Ever feel like the world just doesn't get what’s happening inside your brain? In this episode of the I Have ADHD Podcast, I sit down with my client and colleague Dr. Priyanka Rao, and we dive headfirst into the wild, twisty world of ADHD and autism—especially how it shows up in women. We’re talking about the real stuff—like why it’s so dang hard to get diagnosed, the silent battles happening behind the scenes, and why neurodiversity-affirming care is a game-changer (spoiler: it’s life-changing). Dr. Rao opens up about her late-in-life diagnosis and lets us in on what she wished she knew sooner. Oh, and hormones? Yep, they’re in the mix too. We cover how they mess with ADHD, the overlap with autism, and—most importantly—how you can speak up and advocate for yourself during assessments. I also unpack some heavy hitters: perfectionism (ugh), why self-diagnosis is totally valid, and how the mental health field needs to step it up when it comes to cultural competence and understanding neurodivergent brains. This episode is packed with insights, personal stories, and practical tips to help you feel seen, heard, and ready to take on the world (or at least that overdue to-do list). Hit play and let’s get into it! Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok

In this episode, I sit down AGAIN with the amazing Dr. Jessica McCarthy to dive into the wild, messy, and beautiful world of parenting with ADHD. We’re getting real about emotional regulation (for us and our kids), that constant dance between connection and control, and why making repairs with our kiddos is pure magic. We unpack the unique challenges ADHD parents face—like, why is parenting so dang hard sometimes?! Plus, we talk about how having some kind of framework (even if we ADHD-ify it) can be a lifesaver. Oh, and teaching emotional regulation to our kids? Yep, it’s as hard as it sounds, but we’ve got thoughts on that too. There’s also a lot of love for being flexible, giving yourself grace, and remembering that developmental appropriateness isn’t just a buzzword – it’s key to surviving the rollercoaster of parenting. If you’ve ever felt like you’re screwing it all up, this episode is here to remind you that you’re not alone—and you’re probably doing better than you think. Grab your coffee (or hide in the pantry for a little break) and let’s dive in! Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok AG 1 by Athletic Greens

THIS WEEK ONLY: Use code FOCUSED75 for $75 off your first month in FOCUSED! A few months ago, I shared an Instagram reel about the struggle ADHDers have when it comes to hearing, and THOUSANDS of you responded. If you relate to the phrase, "I can hear but I can't HEAR", you're going to get so much out of this episode! Today we're discussing the intersection of auditory processing issues and ADHD, emphasizing the common struggles faced by adults with ADHD in processing verbal information. Since this is a solo episode, we get into lots of other topics, too, but you know that means you gotta buckle up because a wild ride is about to be had by all! Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok AG 1 by Athletic Greens

Sign up for my free class HERE! In it, we'll dive into WHY your to-do list is broken, and how to fix it. I can't wait to see you there on Monday December 30! Today's episode dives into the challenges of follow-through and the impact that shame has on our ability to get the things done. I share with you own experiences of unfinished tasks, and one in particular that still plagues me to this day. Buckle up because this is a solo show which means it's a little unhinged and all over the map - just like every single one of us with ADHD! Watch this episode on YouTub Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok AG 1 by Athletic Greens

Today we're talking all things ADHD and procrastination. Longtime FOCUSED member and certified FOCUSED ADHD Coach, Steev, joins me to share his story and discuss the struggles he's faced as a late-diagnosed ADHDer. We dive into the challenges of procrastination, particularly in the context of ADHD. I've never met an ADHDer who didn't struggle with procrastination, so buckle up and let's go. Find more information about Steev on his website http://damnhealthydose.com/ Watch this episode on YouTube to see us in our Eagles gear! Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok AG 1 by Athletic Greens

Dr. Nachi (Michael) Felt, Ph.D. is an ADHD & Executive Functioning specialist who has lectured at Yale University School of Medicine, and is a professor at Columbia University where he teaches Psychopathology and co-directs the Cognition and Neuroscience Research Lab. In this episode, Dr. Felt talks about the ADHD 'Cycle of Ambiguity,' and introduces his 'Felt Five' method for creating clarity and aligning with personal values. Learn more about Dr. Felt and his work at adhddoctor.org. Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok

Dr. Jessica McCarthy, a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist specializing in ADHD assessments is here to discuss the assessment process, the importance of finding the right clinician, and the steps involved in obtaining an ADHD diagnosis. Dr. McCarthy shares insights on how to navigate the often daunting assessment experience, emphasizing the need for a supportive and understanding environment. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with ADHD, the role of lifestyle in managing symptoms, and the importance of comprehensive testing to understand individual challenges. Watch this episode on YouTubeW ant help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok AG 1 by Athletic Greens

I'm here today with FOCUSED member Matt Ciciarelli who lost his job as a Marketing Director in November of 2023 and has been navigating life for the last year as an unemployed father of 3. A few months ago Matt decided he needed to do whatever it took to help his family out financially, and he's been digging graves ever since. Matt shares his experiences from diagnosis to navigating family dynamics, employment challenges, and the impact of COVID-19 on his mental health. You're going to be so inspired by Matt's resolve and his determination to evolve into the man his wife and children need him to be. I am always impressed by my clients, and Matt is no exception. Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok AG 1 by Athletic Greens

MY HERO Dr. Tamara Rosier is here to discuss her new book, 'You, Me, and Our ADHD Family.' The conversation delves into the complexities of relationships within ADHD families, the challenges of rejection sensitivity, and the importance of understanding oneself to foster healthier connections. Dr. Rosier shares her insights on navigating family dynamics, the significance of cycle-breaking, and the distinction between safe and toxic relationships. The episode emphasizes the need for emotional regulation and transformational thinking in overcoming the struggles associated with ADHD. In this conversation, Kristen Carder explores the themes of survival versus transformational thinking, the importance of witnessing others' experiences, and the processes of reaching, repairing, and reconnecting within family dynamics, especially in the context of ADHD. She emphasizes the significance of understanding emotional boundaries and the journey of parenting, highlighting that it's never too late to make amends and grow from past experiences. Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok AG 1 by Athletic Greens

Self-awareness is one of our deficient executive functioning skills and it can REALLY hold us ADHDers back if we're not careful. Feel like you make the same mistakes over and over? That's in part because of lack of self-awareness. Feel like you don't know yourself, who you are, and what you want? Yeah, that's because your self-awareness isn't great. In this episode, my client Joe Corpus is here to discuss his path to self-awareness and the crucial role that acceptance played in the process. Joe was diagnosed with ADHD as a child but told by his mother that he was "fine" and "didn't need medication." What ensued was decades of feeling disconnected from others, but mostly disconnected from himself. Joe shares his journey of developing self-awareness and how this can only be done with a hefty dose of self-acceptance. And the pathway? Well, you may not like it (I sure don't!): GRIEF. We talk about it all...you're going to feel so nurtured by this episode, I just know it. Joe Corpus is from Houston Texas. He owns a small, full-service gardening company dedicated to the stewardship of a limited number of high-end residential properties. Joe has been a part of FOCUSED for 10 months. He was diagnosed with ADHD approximately two years before the pandemic. Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok

Liz Poggi went from what her doctor labeled as "the worst case of undiagnosed ADHD I've ever seen" to someone who helps people with ADHD achieve to their goals on a daily basis. Our discussion will address societal skepticism about ADHD and the clarity that a diagnosis brings. Together, Liz and I explore the role of medication, community support, and structured routines that incorporate mindfulness and movement to boost motivation. We’ll tackle misconceptions linking ADHD with laziness and address the stigma of feeling unlovable due to past experiences. You're not going to want to miss this heartfelt episode! Follow Liz on Instagram - LizPoggi Liz's Website - LizPoggi.com Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok AG 1 by Athletic Greens

I've got another solo show for you this week and as always you're going to need to strap in for the ride! First: I'll explain the concept of living in survival mode and help you to work your way out of the dumpster fire that is your ADHD life. Then, I answer YOUR questions! We discuss how to transition smoothly between tasks and how to advocate for yourself. Have a question for me? Call 1.833.281.2343 I AM SUPER EXCITED ABOUT THE RESOURCE OF THE WEEK - so make sure to tune into that around minute 38:00. We discuss this research on sunlight helping us sleep better, and lastly, I share what triggered me (hint: my Instagram comments). We end on a spicy note, as usual. Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok AG 1 by Athletic Greens

I've got a solo show for you today and you know what that means - buckle up because it's a rollercoaster of ADHD madness! In this episode, I explore how ADHD impacts long-term goal setting due to prioritization issues and working memory deficits. I share personal strategies that have worked for me, such as creating urgency and seeking external motivation. A recent change in Apple’s download metrics inspired me to explore new avenues for my own long-term goals like YouTube and in-person episodes. Then we answer some of your call-in questions, I share some resources with you, and of course, we wrap it up with what triggered me this week. If you have ADHD or you think you might, join me for this action-packed show. And if you want my help with your ADHD, join FOCUSED! Watch this episode on YouTube Have a question for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok

*Friendly Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are not necessarily those of the host, I Have ADHD podcast, or FOCUSED. In case you are wondering: I do not agree with all of Dr. Mellilo's takes on ADHD. However, I think he makes some interesting points and brings up aspects of the conversation that I've never heard before. As someone who's had a lot of repetitive conversations about ADHD and ADHD treatment, this was very interesting to me. My intention during this interview was to ask good questions so that you could hear a different perspective on ADHD and decide for yourself. Dr. Robert Melillo is a clinician, professor, brain researcher, and best-selling author of the book Disconnected Kids. I think you'll find this conversation fascinating. Dr. Melillo challenges the conventional view of ADHD, presenting it not just as a biochemical imbalance, genetic, or underdeveloped prefrontal cortex, but as a developmental imbalance between the two hemispheres of the brain. During our conversation, Dr. Melillo breaks down the three subtypes of ADHD—inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined—linking them to different brain regions. We explore how the right hemisphere plays a crucial role in attention, while the left is more associated with hyperactivity and impulsivity. Our discussion touches on the intricate interplay within brain regions like the basal ganglia and prefrontal cortex, with a nod to the influence of environmental factors and epigenetics. We emphasize the importance of early childhood development and how retained primitive reflexes can impact neurodevelopment. Movement, as Dr. Melillo points out, is vital for brain growth. As we wrap up, Dr. Melillo highlights the importance of a comprehensive, personalized approach to enhancing brain function in adults with ADHD. By focusing on exercises and sensory activities, we can improve communication between brain hemispheres and address imbalances. This episode is one that might make you go, "HMMMMMM" - and I'm all for that. Enjoy! Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok AG 1 by Athletic Greens

Psychologist, author, and ADHD expert Dr. Ari Tuckman is here to talk about the unique productivity challenges faced by adults with ADHD. Dr. Tuckman and I discuss how ADHD-related productivity issues go beyond typical procrastination and time management struggles. We cover effective management strategies like proper diagnosis, medication, education, coaching, therapy, and foundational self-care practices including sleep, diet, and exercise. Establishing routines and prioritizing tasks can significantly enhance productivity and reduce overwhelm. This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone navigating life with ADHD! Want more from Dr. Ari Tuckman? Check out his website! Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have a questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok

I'm trying out a new solo show style this week, and I hope you love it! I've got a bunch of fun segments for you: First, I tell you all about my trip to Oxford University for a conference on Trauma with some of the biggest names in the industry (Gabor Mate, Bessel van der Kolk, Richard Schwartz, etc). Traveling is always a mixed bag for me - exciting and exhausting, and we dive into it all Next, I share the resource of the week: The Brick Then I answer listener questions! We cover these 3 topics: We dive into this research study about Adverse Childhood Experiences and ADHD. And lastly, I go on a spicy rant about how Dr. John Delony says that ADHD is "JUST" the body's response to chaos. Excuse me no. Get outta here with that. It's a wild ride today, I hope you enjoy! Watch this episode on YouTube Want help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED! Have a question for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTok AG 1 by Athletic Greens

Psychotherapist Whitney Goodman is here today to talk about a crucial topic for many of us: navigating family-of-origin relationships as an adult with ADHD. We dive deep into the challenges and complexities neurodivergent individuals face within their families, especially during significant life transitions. Whitney and I discussed how poor communication skills can create friction within families, especially when parents are skeptical about ADHD diagnoses. We emphasized the importance of supportive parental responses and self-awareness for strengthening family bonds. Generational differences in emotional health awareness were another focal point, with older generations often suppressing feelings while younger ones advocate for open expression. The message is hopeful: personal growth can be a pathway to healing relationships. Whitney Goodman - Calling Home Watch this episode on YouTube Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343 Hang out with Kristen on Instagram

This episode is personal for me. Over the past six months, I’ve explored the ADHDer's inner critic intensively, drawing insights from influential books like “Healing the Shame That Binds You,” “Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving,” and “Rethinking Adult ADHD.” While the inner critic isn’t a formal symptom of ADHD, it profoundly impacts those of us with the disorder. In this episode, we start by examining how negative self-talk, often rooted in childhood criticism and toxic relationships, affects adults with ADHD. This inner critic can lead to self-hate and hypervigilance, causing toxic shame and hindering personal growth. I share my own struggles with shame rumination and the challenge of cultivating a positive inner voice, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion. To combat negative self-talk, I suggest strategies like journaling, verbalizing criticisms, and using thought-stopping techniques. Recognizing and documenting positive aspects of life can foster a healthier self-perception. Additionally, support systems like trauma-informed therapy and specialized coaching programs play a vital role in managing the inner critic and associated shame. Managing the inner critic is challenging but achievable with the right strategies and support systems. Want my help? Join FOCUSED for an entire course with a step-by-step process on how ADHDers can quiet their inner critic. Here are the 2 studies I mention In the episode: Peer Functioning in Children with ADHD Peer victimization in children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Hang out with me on Instagram Watch this episode on YouTube

In this episode we are diving deep into the world of adult ADHD, addressing common misconceptions, and highlighting the unique characteristics that make adult ADHD so distinct. I break down 10 of the symptoms of ADHD and explain in detail how they show up in your daily life. If you think you might have adult ADHD or you want a refresher on what it means to have ADHD, you're going to love this ep! Symptoms List Diagnostic Criteria Coaching for adults with ADHD Come hang out with me on Instagram

Meet my sister, Adrienne Himelright. In this episode, we dive deep into our shared experiences with ADHD and the all-too-familiar challenges of people-pleasing. Adrienne opens up about her struggles, including sharing a story where people-pleasing led her to drain her retirement account. Adrienne coaches people every single day on how to stop people-pleasing and in this episode, she shares a step-by-step process of how ADHDers can STOP people-pleasing. She even has a resource for you on her website Meet my sister, Adrienne Himelright. In this episode, we dive deep into our shared experiences with ADHD and the all-too-familiar challenges of people-pleasing. Adrienne opens up about her struggles, including sharing a story where people-pleasing led her to drain her retirement account. Adrienne coaches people every single day on how to stop people-pleasing and in this episode, she shares a step-by-step process of how ADHDers can STOP people-pleasing. She even has a resource for you on her website. Adrienne Himelright Coaching Find Adrienne on Instagram HERE Check this episode out on YouTube! Come hang out with me on Instagram Athletic Greens by AG1 .