The I Have ADHD Podcast is a clear, concise, and FUN podcast for adults with ADHD. Listen to learn about how ADHD impacts every area of your life from the boardroom to the bedroom...and how you can begin to overcome your symptoms by accepting who you are, flaws and all.
Host Kristen Carder is a dually certified coach who has supported thousands of of people with ADHD worldwide. Kristen's extensive experience working with ADHDers began in 2012, and she now leads a global community of adults with ADHD in her coaching program, FOCUSED.
****OBVIOUSLY the content in this podcast is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice. Kristen Carder is not a medical professional.
Buckle up, because this episode is a fast-paced, wide-ranging Q&A where I answer as many of your ADHD questions as I possibly can! These questions were submitted on Instagram, and I had the best time flying through them and sharing real, practical insights from my ADHD brain to yours. We cover everything from medication, motivation, and prioritization to emotional regulation, rejection, brain dumps, and massage-induced thought spirals (yep, really). If you’ve ever felt stuck, scattered, o...
Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025
Ever sat on the couch knowing you “should” do something… but just couldn’t? Welcome to the ADHD task initiation struggle. It’s real—and no, it’s not laziness. In this episode, we dive into: What task initiation actually is (hint: it’s an executive function)Why starting can feel impossible for ADHDers + AutisticsThe brain science behind motivation, dopamine, and urgencyEmotional blocks like fear, shame, and perfectionismSimple, ADHD-friendly tips to finally get moving (without needing willpowe...
Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2025
Struggling to get organized? You’re not broken — you’re just an ADHDer with a real, overwhelmed brain. In this episode, we’re ditching the shame spiral and unpacking why staying organized is so hard for ADHDers… and what actually helps. Spoiler alert: It’s NOT more bins. If your home feels like a disaster zone, this one’s for you. We’ll talk about: Why executive dysfunction—not laziness—is the real culpritHow emotional regulation (not time management) is the secret key to organizingThe connec...
Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025
Feeling like you're stuck in survival mode? Can’t keep up with the laundry, your inbox, or... your life? You’re not alone—and you’re not broken. This episode is the loving wake-up call (and gentle nudge) you didn’t know you needed. We’re breaking down what it really means to be low-, mid-, and high-functioning with ADHD—and why wherever you are on that scale is totally OK. This is your roadmap to rise, slowly but surely. ✨ What we cover: Low vs. mid vs. high-functioning ADHDWhy meds matter (b...
Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025
In this episode of the I Have ADHD podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Ari Tuckman to talk about one of the most layered and misunderstood topics in the ADHD world: productivity—and how it's tangled up in our relationships, our childhoods, and the expectations we carry from society. We dove deep into how our early experiences shape the way we function (or struggle to function) as adults with ADHD. So many of us grew up feeling like we were “too much” or “not enough,”...
Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025
If you’ve ever felt like your struggles with ADHD make you "less than"—this one’s a must-listen. We’re diving deep into Shame Resilience Theory (thanks, Brené Brown!) and unpacking why ADHDers are especially vulnerable to toxic shame. Spoiler: It’s NOT because you’re lazy or broken (even if you’ve been made to feel that way). ✨ We’re covering: Why shame thrives in secrecy—and how to stop feeding it.The real reason ADHD tasks feel SO loaded with guilt and moral judgment.How shame travels in fa...
Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025
Today we're talking emotional flexibility, why black-and-white thinking is holding you back, and how one tiny phrase (borrowed from parenting wisdom!) can radically change how you relate to yourself and others: “Two things can be true.” You’ll also get: A cheat-code app for building emotional intelligence (perfect for ADHD brains)My spicy take on that viral New York Times ADHD article A heartfelt message for anyone struggling with a late diagnosis And yes… the spicy podcast review t...
Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025
Rejection hurts—especially when you have ADHD. For years, the term Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) has helped many of us put language to that experience. But in this episode, I explain why I’m no longer using that term—and what I’m saying instead. We’ll cover: What rejection sensitivity actually isWhy it makes total sense (and it's not a disorder)What’s problematic about the term RSD...in my opinionWhat the research really says about rejection and ADHDHow trauma, therapy, coaching, and ye...
Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025
In this episode of the I Have ADHD podcast, I have the absolute pleasure of sitting down with autism expert and clinician Dr. Robert Naseef to explore the deeply personal and complex relationship between autism and ADHD. Together, we reflect on the key differences between these two neurodivergent identities while celebrating the importance of self-acceptance and understanding. We also touch on AuDHD, the experience of having both ADHD and autism—a dual diagnosis that is more common than many ...
Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025
Think you know ADHD? Think again. In this solo episode, I’m breaking down 10 surprising truths about ADHD that most people (even professionals!) get wrong. From misunderstood symptoms to powerful treatment outcomes, we’re going deep—but keeping it real, relatable, and research-backed. You’ll learn: Why ADHD is one of the most treatable mental health conditionsThe truth about calling ADHD a “superpower”How support systems make all the differenceWhat messed-up sleep has to do with your symptoms...
Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025
Making and keeping friends as an adult with ADHD can be really hard. We tend to move fast—bonding quickly, oversharing early, and sometimes getting burned. In this episode, I’m sharing two powerful (and practical!) skills that can help you build friendships that feel safer, steadier, and more fulfilling: going slow and listening better. If you’ve ever felt like friendship is either all in or all out, this episode is your gentle reminder that connection doesn’t have to be chaotic. You can take...
Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025
Friendship as an adult is hard—and when you have ADHD, it can feel almost impossible. The impulsivity, the overthinking, the struggle to set boundaries or trust your gut... it’s a lot. But you can build strong, supportive friendships—and it starts with knowing what to look for (and what to avoid). In Part 1 of this two-part series, we’re breaking down: Why friendships can be uniquely challenging for ADHDersHow to recognize red flags before you waste time on the wrong peopleWhat green flags to...
Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2025
If you’re parenting with ADHD, you already know—it’s a lot. The meltdowns (sometimes yours), the forgotten school forms, the overstimulation, the guilt spiral after snapping at your kid… and then the vow to do better next time. In today’s episode, we’re talking about how to be a good enough parent, even when ADHD makes it hard. You’ll learn the 5 essential building blocks every ADHD parent needs (hint: perfection is not one of them), and how to model one of the most powerful relationship skil...
Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025
Following through is hard enough when everything goes right—but what about when life happens? When motivation was there, the plan was solid, and then… BAM. A curveball knocks you off track. If you have ADHD, you know how hard it is to re-engage after a disruption. So how do you recover without spiraling into guilt and frustration? In this episode, I’m sharing practical strategies for getting back on track when life throws you off course—plus, what to do when you are the reason you didn’t foll...
Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2025
Ever been so locked into a task that the world around you fades away? That’s hyperfocus, one of the most misunderstood aspects of ADHD. Some call it a superpower—but is it really? In this episode of the I Have ADHD Podcast, I break down what hyperfocus actually is, how it impacts ADHDers, and why it’s not the magical productivity hack some people think it is. What You’ll Learn: Why hyperfocus looks like the opposite of ADHD but still causes major challengesThe hidden cost of hyperfocus (spoil...
Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025
In this solo episode of the I Have ADHD podcast, we’re covering a little bit of everything—because, let’s be honest, ADHD brains thrive on variety! First up: BOREDOM. Ugh. It’s uncomfortable, frustrating, and makes us want to do literally anything else. But here’s the hard truth—boredom is the price we pay to get what we want out of life. If we want success, fulfillment, and progress toward our goals, we have to learn to sit with the discomfort instead of running from it. I break down exactly...
Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025
Struggling to keep up at work with ADHD? Wondering if you should tell your boss? 😬 We’ve got you covered! In this episode, I sit down with ADHD coach Meghan Brown-Enya to tackle the real challenges of navigating ADHD in the workplace—from emotional dysregulation to productivity hacks to self-advocacy. We’re diving into: ✅ Should you disclose your ADHD to your employer? (And what happens if you do?!) ✅ How to ask for reasonable accommodations—without the stress! ✅ Why ADHDers often struggle in...
Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025
In this must-listen episode, Dr. Marcy Caldwell joins us for a deep dive into the wild and sometimes frustrating world of ADHD. We’re breaking down what ADHD really is (spoiler: it’s NOT just about being distracted), why self-regulation is so tricky, and how masking can leave people feeling exhausted and unseen. Ever felt like you know what to do but just can’t seem to do it? Yep, we go there. We also tackle the unique ways ADHD shows up in women, the surprising pain of boredom, and the myths...
Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025
In this raw and personal episode, I open up about my journey with alcohol dependency—how I struggled with moderation, what finally pushed me toward sobriety, and the surprising ways it transformed my ADHD experience. If you've ever wondered about the connection between ADHD and alcohol use, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. I also dive deep into Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)—what it is, how it shows up in kids (and adults!), and why traditional parenting strategies often ba...
Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2025
Y’ALL. This is wild. I had the insane honor of speaking at SpaceX (yes, the rocket-launching SpaceX!!) about ADHD, and I have so much to tell you. In this episode, I’m sharing: ✨ What it was like to speak at SpaceX (and why my ADHD brain almost short-circuited) ✨ Your voicemails!—including how to actually support friends with ADHD and why boundaries might just save your sanity ✨ The surprising genetic link between ADHD & dyslexia (who knew?!) ✨ My current fave journaling resource and why ...
Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025
300th EPISODE, BABY!!!! Today, I’m sitting down with Maddie Novy, a teacher who also has ADHD, to talk about what it’s really like to juggle the demands of a classroom while managing this unique brain.Maddie shares her story, including:Her personal ADHD journey and how she’s handled medication ups and downs.The challenges of planning and problem-solving as an educator (spoiler: it’s not easy!).How perfectionism has shown up in her work—and what she’s doing to overcome it.The art of staying em...
Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2025
It’s just me today, y’all, and you know what that means—it’s going to be a wild ride! Buckle up, because in this solo episode of the I Have ADHD Podcast, I’m diving into the juicy (and sometimes chaotic) topic of following through when you have ADHD. Spoiler alert: it’s HARD. But don’t worry, I've got some tips for you. I’m sharing my personal struggles, some real talk about why it’s so tough for us ADHDers to follow through, and how we can start shifting that narrative. We’re talking about:✨...
Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2025
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...
Transcribed - Published: 14 January 2025
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) ...
Transcribed - Published: 7 January 2025
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....
Transcribed - Published: 31 December 2024
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....
Transcribed - Published: 31 December 2024
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...
Transcribed - Published: 24 December 2024
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...
Transcribed - Published: 24 December 2024
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 YouTu...
Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2024
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 YouTu...
Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2024
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. Watc...
Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2024
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. Watc...
Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2024
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 lifest...
Transcribed - Published: 3 December 2024
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 ...
Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2024
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 r...
Transcribed - Published: 19 November 2024
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. J...
Transcribed - Published: 12 November 2024
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 ad...
Transcribed - Published: 5 November 2024
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 1.833.281.2343I AM SUPER EXCITED ABOUT THE RESOURCE OF THE WEEK - so make sure to tune into that around min...
Transcribed - Published: 29 October 2024
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 episod...
Transcribed - Published: 22 October 2024
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-...
Transcribed - Published: 15 October 2024
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 si...
Transcribed - Published: 8 October 2024
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 si...
Transcribed - Published: 8 October 2024
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 ...
Transcribed - Published: 1 October 2024
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 suppo...
Transcribed - Published: 24 September 2024
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, ...
Transcribed - Published: 17 September 2024
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 ListDiagnostic CriteriaCoaching for adults with ADHDCome hang out with me on Instagram
Transcribed - Published: 10 September 2024
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 w...
Transcribed - Published: 3 September 2024
Stacy Scott is a feng shui practitioner and decluttering expert who has so much wisdom to share about how our environments impact our self-concept and personal growth. You won’t want to miss this transformative conversation! We delve into the influence of childhood experiences on adult behaviors related to clutter. Stacy shares insights on how chaos and even trauma from our early years can shape our relationship with our living spaces. She also touches on the pitfalls of striving for minimali...
Transcribed - Published: 27 August 2024
Stacy Scott is a feng shui practitioner and decluttering expert who has so much wisdom to share about how our environments impact our self-concept and personal growth. You won’t want to miss this transformative conversation! We delve into the influence of childhood experiences on adult behaviors related to clutter. Stacy shares insights on how chaos and even trauma from our early years can shape our relationship with our living spaces. She also touches on the pitfalls of striving for minimali...
Transcribed - Published: 27 August 2024
Join me in welcoming my friend and colleague, Paula Engebretson! In this episode, we dive into productivity strategies, managing emails, and how tools like ChatGPT can make a difference in our daily lives. Paula’s focus on productivity and my passion for personal growth blend perfectly in this engaging and insightful conversation.One of the highlights of our conversation is the practical advice Paula provides on email management. She breaks down different types of emails and offers strategies...
Transcribed - Published: 20 August 2024
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