The ADHD Manual: How to survive with a colorful brain in a black and white world. Living with ADHD in a world built for neurotypicals (people with the most common brains) is like trying to follow an IKEA assembly manual for our Hot Wheels race car track pieces. We could toss this rocket launcher and buy crappy plastic pins. Or we could toss the manual and write our own.
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Hello my beloveds. I'm here to let you know that The ADHD Manual Podcast is going on hiatus. I have simply too many ideas that I want to develop, so the pod is taking a break while I work on breathing new life into TAM. I will be back with public updates on November 16th at the latest! Support the showExtended video episodes available on Patreon Follow TAM on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Today I'm here with something different: a listener interviews me about time blindness/time perception differences in ADHD and how loved ones can support ADHDers struggling with it. Thank you for joining me Laura! If you want to come on the pod with me and discuss an ADHD topic of your choice, please email me! theadhdmanual@gmail.com Uncut audio is on Patreon, and for a full list of sources visit theadhdmanual.com.Support the showExtended video episodes available on Patreon Follow TAM on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
TW: medical trauma, gaslighting, death/mortality Six years ago this week, I almost died. And for some reason, that still bothers me?? So today I spend some time unpacking how trauma recovery might look for the neurospicy. More information on the symptoms of pulmonary embolism & blood clots Support the showExtended video episodes available on Patreon Follow TAM on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Today I give a few tips to address some of the challenges ADHDers might face when it comes to fueling their meat machines. Follow these nutritionists on Insta for more ADHD-friendly anti-diet nutrition tips: @adhd.nutritionist @adhd.dietitian Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon Follow TAM on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Today I answer a question about how to ease transitions for yourself and/or your neurodivergent children. For time, I ended up cutting a section in which I talk more about how task switching involves every executive function. If that interests you, check out the full episode on Patreon. Here's everything else I've written and recorded on executive functions. Check out this article on ADDitude for more suggestions on helping kids with transitions. Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon Follow TAM on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
As Pride Month comes to an end, queer neurodivergents might be wishing they could have participated more. Here's how I know you did more than enough."Wild Geese" is from Dream Work (1986) by Mary Oliver.Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon Follow TAM on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Today I'm joined by Lyric Rivera - the badass behind the Neurodivergent Rebel and best-selling author of Workplace NeuroDiversity Rising. Join us as we frolic in the intersection of queerness and neurodivergence. Follow Lyric on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, and support them on Patreon. Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon Follow TAM on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Today Max and I talk about taking a med break, the Adderall shortage, and Pride Plans for the Pod. If you have thoughts or requests regarding Pride month episodes, shoot me an email theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon Follow TAM on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
*Warning: vulnerability ahead* Today I am one loud noise away from a meltdown and so not equipped to record an episode. Which is why I recorded an episode. You need to know that it's okay to have days when you are stretched to your limits by ordinary things. Be soft with your heart; you are working so much harder than anyone understands.Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon Follow TAM on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Today Hong joins me to talk about how the Baby Challenge has affected our sex life, and how our neurodiverse relationship has prepared us for tough conversations. Check out my other podcast Happily Ever Pasture Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon Follow TAM on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
My gramma's birthday was last week, so I've been thinking about all the little ways she supported me as a neurodivergent kid. Happy belated birthday, Gramma. I hope there's always music wherever you are. Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Today I gave Hum a free pass for any ADHD question she hasn't gotten around to asking. Listen to my interview with Rachel Scanlon here. Follow Rachel Scanlon on Instagram to see when and where her special comes out. Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
ADHD can disrupt sleep. Disrupted sleep can worsen ADHD symptoms. Worsened ADHD symptoms make it harder to get adequate sleep. Are you familiar with this vicious cycle? In today's episode (appropriately recorded at 3am), I break down some theories on why ADHD is such a Sleep Bully and what I do about it, with the help of an article by Dr. William Dodson. You can listen to my new podcast here: Happily Ever Pasture Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
We're back with a recap of our appointment with a new fertility clinic, as well as a discussion and some tips about the national Adderall shortage.If you have ideas on what Hum and I should discuss next, shoot an email to theadhdmanual@gmail.com!Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Happy New Year! People often ask us how they can offer support as we're trying to start a family. So we are back with some ideas on how you can help your queer loved ones who are trying to conceive. Current legislation concerning family building equality (via RESOLVE) Support the showVideo episodes available on Patreon theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Most things suck! We're tired! Have a holiday! See you next year!Support the showtheadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Today Hum and I debrief our first clinic appointments, and share what we've learned about ourselves and each other. Video ft. Max is on PatreonSupport the showtheadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Today Hum and I are talking about feeling frozen in the face of a daunting process, and how our different neurotypes and identities might impact our experience. The extended video is on Patreon. Support the showtheadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
We've been lost in the weeds of How to Have a Child Without Declaring Bankruptcy, so we're coming up for air by reminiscing about how we met and fell in love. To view the extended video, check out Patreon.Healthy Lifestyle Solutions with Maya AcostaAre you ready to upgrade your health to a new level and do so by learning from experts...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showtheadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Today I wanted to share what's been going on in the Chau House, and what the pod might look like going forward. The video's up on PatreonSupport the showtheadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com
Today I'm talking housing accommodations. And by "talking" I mean "giving a Powerpoint presentation" and by "housing accommodations" I mean the quirks of my living space that make my house more ADHD friendly, and some more information on Emotional Support Animals. To behold my Powerpoint in all its glory, check out Patreon. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show
Today I'm sharing tips for how ADHDers can ask for accommodations in their personal relationships, and how non-ADHDers can foster more meaningful connections with their ADHD loved ones.For ad-free episodes and to read the "Abby's Going to Israel Book" my mom wrote for me when I was three, check out Patreon. It's pretty adorable. * I had a lot of trouble with the audio with this new microphone, and I understand that may be unbearable for some. I am working on the transcript now and will be making it public and available to all (even non-subscribers) on the Patreon in the next day or two. Thanks for your patience, and it won't happen again. * The Science of BirdsThe Science of Birds is a lighthearted exploration of bird biology. It's a fun resource...Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Ego Lab - Our mission is to help people feeling alone, lost, or stuck in life. What is the ego anyway? Join Anthony and Brian as they explore philosophy, discuss...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show
Today I'm talking accommodations at work - how to ask for them and where you can find resources and support. For unedited video of this episode, check out Patreon. AskJAN Links (for Employees and Employers): Sample Accommodation Request Letters ADHD Accommodations Executive Dysfunction Accommodations Contact JAN If you want me to come speak to your workplace about ADHD, email theadhdmanual@gmail.com. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show
I'm back! Today I'm talking tips for interoception difficulties; i.e., body signals we might miss and what they mean. For an extended video version of this episode, check out Patreon. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show
patreon.com/theadhdmanual | theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show
This is a brief excerpt from last week's ADHD & Sex Patreon episode, "My Coming Out Story ft. ADHD". If you want more juicy details about how growing up neurodivergent influenced my sexual identity, check out Patreon. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show
I am beyond excited, because today I get to show off the amazing minds in my community. Listen to how my neurodivergent peers answered the question: What is a life lesson you have learned (or unlearned) that changed your neurodivergent experience for the better? Thank you to all who shared so generously. I had to cut a couple for time, so for the full-length and video version of this episode, check out Patreon. If this inspired you to reflect on your own collection of Neurodivergent Life Lessons, it's never too late to join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or email: theadhdmanual@gmail.com. Share what you've learned and you could be featured on a larger piece I'm curating for the website. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show
My brother Joe is back with wisdom and insight as we answer an email question about how to have challenging conversations with an ADHD loved one. For a video version of this episode with an extra half hour of content, check out Patreon. Support the show
Yesterday was the four year anniversary of my ADHD diagnosis! I took the opportunity to share the nuts and bolts of how it happened and some reflections on how it changed my life. "Which Side I'm On" - Blind Pilot Watch my first video about ADHD & sex on Patreon. Support the show
In 3rd grade, a teacher chastised me in front of the class for a "careless" mistake during a project. For twenty years I have bided my time. Now my moment has finally come. Article by Dr. Brown about ADHD & executive function The first of my videos about ADHD & sex comes out next Thursday the 28th. Become a patron to access that, episode transcripts, and other exclusive content. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
This is the most casual organization advice episode you will ever hear. You know why? Because you are already organized. Yes, you. Listen up and I'll prove it.
Why do ADHDers sometimes struggle with getting past frustration roadblocks? Why does stress seem to burn us out faster than others? Let's talk about ADHD and stress tolerance. What is a life lesson you have learned (or unlearned) that changed your neurodivergent experience for the better? Email your answer to theadhdmanual@gmail.com or via message/comment on The ADHD Manual's Facebook or Twitter to be featured in an upcoming episode. Become a patron to access exclusive content. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
Hello TAM fans! It's Hong, Abby's wife, taking over for this episode! Abby asked me to step in and think about this question: “What are some things about ADHD you're glad you know that come up often in my day to day as a spouse?” Buckle up! PSA: I am NOT a mental health professional. Tune in next time for your regularly scheduled program. Become a patron for more content. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
How does our brain prioritize? Why do ADHDers struggle with prioritization? What can we do about it? Resources: Eisenhower Matrix Seeing My Time Planner Planner Pad Become a patron to access a video episode discussing ADHD representation on The Bachelor. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
Wait a minute. Strike that, reverse it. This is basically the voicemail I leave you when I'm two weeks late calling you back, during which I give TMI about my life and remind you that I love you and am not intentionally ignoring you
Do you want to know how a pet can be an accommodation for neurodivergents? This one's for you. Do you want to hear silly cat stories? This one's for you. Sorry for the skipped episode last week! The schedule will continue every other week from here on out. Become a patron of The ADHD Manual (https://www.patreon.com/theadhdmanual)Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
This episode is probably 2021 in a nutshell: a total mess, directionless, and you'll be relieved when it's over. Enjoy!
I am back from hiatus! As you may have seen on my social media, I've spent the break in hardcore Mourning Mode. It's got me thinking about grief, and how bereavement and healing may look a little different in neurodivergent folks. My Patreon is up and running! Become a Patron of The ADHD Manual for exclusive bonus content.theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
To wrap up ADHD Acceptance Month, I made a list of house hacks and items that make my everyday neurodivergent life a little easier. I originally included a list of helpful apps I use, but it got way too long! If this interests you, check back later for a link to subscribe to my Patreon for an episode on ADHD-approved apps and other exclusive content. Flare Audio's Calmer Loop Earplugs Tile Sunrise Alarm Clocks Black Girl Lost Keys' Pill Pack/Water Bottle theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
I hope this episode makes you uncomfortable. I know it was for me. Instead of continuing the Executive Function Chronicles, I decided to go a different direction in honor of ADHD Acceptance Month. I decided to take a break from talking about the ways my brain holds me back and send gratitude for all the ways it makes my life more vibrant, colorful, and beautiful. Neurodivergent life is really hard, AND I love my ND brain. And I love yours too. Happy ADHD Acceptance Month. Check out my episode of The Peas in the Podcast, out now. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
Good news: I'm continuing the Executive Function Chronicles no one asked for! Today I'm talking about task initiation. How do we go from thinking about something to *doing* it? Why is that harder for ADHDers? And how do we make it easier?To get notified when my guest episode comes out, subscribe to The Peas in the Podcast. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
ADHD impacts several of our executive functions (planning, prioritizing, organizing, task initiation, etc) and today I will give an overview of working memory: what is it, why do ADHDers struggle with it, and what do we do about it? You can read my article on working memory here. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
I'm back in the closet (studio)! Today I have announcements about exciting things on the horizon, and then I give a brief overview on how testosterone and estrogen fluctuation impacts ADHD symptoms.Get my interview with Topknot by subscribing on topknot.app/sim.theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
*TW: abuse* In this second and final installment of my parents' interview, we get real about my tumultuous adolescence and why teens with ADHD are susceptible to abusive relationships. We conclude with some advice for parents of ADHD kids and a message for adult ADHDers who are in need of a loving Parent Pep Talk. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.com Support the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
Receiving an adult diagnosis of a lifelong condition such as ADHD can be illuminating and disorienting - not only for us, but also for our caregivers. I am currently on the East Coast visiting family, so I took the opportunity to interview my parents about my Origin Story. They share their initial reactions to my diagnosis, moments in my childhood that could have been helped with more information about ADHD, and how they still managed to offer me a safe place to land. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.comSupport the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
Today The ADHD Manual Podcast closes out our Pride series with Rachel Scanlon, L.A.-based comedian & co-host of More Than Friends with Ray and Kenz (formerly Two Dykes and a Mic) podcast and comedy show. We discuss how living a life outside of the mainstream provides unique opportunity to create your own authentic identity.Follow Rachel Scanlon on Twitter & Instagram @rachelsafetyFollow More Than Friends on Twitter & Instagram for upcoming showsSubscribe to the More than Friends podcast & Patreontheadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.comSupport the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
Welcome back to Pride: Extended Edition! Today I interview fellow ADHD podcaster Syd, of The Endy Enby podcast, about their experiences as a neurodivergent and non-binary person.You can subscribe to The Endy Enby wherever you get podcasts, follow them on TikTok and Twitter, and support them on Ko-fi and Patreon. Resources:Normal Life by Dean Spade Come back in two weeks for more Pride: Extended Edition, with a special guest you won't want to miss. theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.comSupport the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
Part Two of my conversation with Mike is here to close out the FIRST month of Pride. Here you'll find more discussion about the complexities of being queer and neurodivergent, the ways we have created our own "templates" for living despite the limited examples provided for us, and how our lives are different post-coming out and post-diagnosis. Enjoy!Listen to Part One hereCome back in two weeks for more Pride: Extended Edition, with special guests you won't want to miss.theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.comSupport the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
Happy Pride! I can't think of a better way to kick off Pride season than a stimulating conversation with a very dear friend. Mike and I cover a wide variety of topics, including but not limited to: the compounding challenges of being gay and neurodivergent; how queerness and ADHD have shaped our identities in complex and beautiful ways; and speculating on the whereabouts of the many pens and pencils we have lost in our lifetime. This episode is genuine and personal, and I hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed making it. I enjoyed our talk so much in fact that I got carried away and had to split it into two parts - so come back next week for part two of the Gay-DHD Agenda.theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.comSupport the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
What do therapists, neurodivergents, and people living through a global pandemic all have in common? A high risk of burnout. Today I need to talk about my place at the intersection of those three. Resources: "Neurodivergent burnout: the cost of closing the gap" by Abi Moorcock theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.comSupport the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)
Here is the second half of my advice for teens and their parents! Today I answer a question from a parent and talk about some essentials I think every parent of a teen with ADHD should know. Books: Smart But Scattered Teens by Peg Dawson, Richard Guare, and Colin Guare Delivered from Distraction by Edward Hallowell and John Ratey List of books by Russell Barkley theadhdmanual.com | theadhdmanual@gmail.comSupport the show (https://ko-fi.com/theadhdmanual)