317 From Barely Coping to High-Functioning: 10 ADHD Game-Changers
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 (but aren’t magic)The basics: water, sleep, movement, hygieneExercise = brain boost (science says so!)Journaling to calm the chaos 🧠Emotional regulation = your secret weaponFinding your people and setting real limitsDitching people-pleasing and life-designing insteadResting on purpose (not just numbing) Healing ADHD is a slow, messy, totally possible journey. Just move the needle a little this week.Research on Exercise Watch this episode on YouTubeWant help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED!Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTokAG 1 by Athletic Greens
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316 Productivity, People-Pleasing, and ADHD: What We Need to Unlearn with Dr. Ari Tuckman
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,” and those messages often turn into people-pleasing patterns and unrealistic productivity standards that are so hard to shake.Ari and I explored what it really means to be productive—not based on hustle culture or external pressure—but in a way that feels aligned with our personal values, goals, and life circumstances. We also talked about how this plays out in relationships, and how important it is to communicate openly with our partners about what’s going on beneath the surface.We touched on the emotional labor of living with ADHD, the frustration of not meeting expectations (especially our own), and the real need for self-compassion as we navigate personal growth. Because here’s the truth: being in relationship with yourself—and with others—requires space for change, grace for the messiness, and a deep understanding that we’re always evolving.This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt like they’re not measuring up, who’s navigating the push-pull of productivity and self-worth, or who’s simply trying to do the best they can with the brain they have. I hope it helps you feel seen, understood, and a little less alone in the process.Ari's website Buy Ari's book here Watch this episode on YouTubeWant help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED!Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTokAG 1 by Athletic Greens
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315 Why ADHD Feels So Shameful (and How to Fight Back)
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 families (👋 hi, generational shame).The antidotes: empathy, self-compassion, and speaking your shame OUT LOUD.We’re done letting shame run the show. Join me and learn how to break the cycle and build real shame resilience 💥. Hit play now—you do not want to miss this one!Find Needle for Finding your ADHD Meds!Watch this episode on YouTubeWant help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED!Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTokAG 1 by Athletic Greens
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314 Two Things Can Be True (and Also… I’m Apparently Racist Against White Men?)
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 that called me racist and sexist against white men It’s messy, it’s honest, it’s full of laughs and truth bombs. Basically, it’s classic ADHD.Hit play now—because this episode might just change how you see yourself (and the world)Watch this episode on YouTubeWant help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED!Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTokAG 1 by Athletic Greens
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313 Rejection Sensitivity Is Real (But I Reject RSD)
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 yes—medication—can all helpThis episode is validating, spicy, and rooted in both lived experience and science. Let’s talk about rejection sensitivity in a way that empowers us to heal.Resources Mentioned:Journal of Pediatric Psychology study on ADHD and peer rejectionDr. Dodson’s updated Additude article on RSDWatch this episode on YouTubeWant help with your ADHD? Join FOCUSED!Have questions for Kristen? Call 1.833.281.2343Hang out with Kristen on Instagram and TikTokAG 1 by Athletic GreensCozy Earth
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.
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