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I Have ADHD Podcast

Author: Kristen Carder

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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 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.


403 Episodes
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“Why do I look forward to the weekend all week… and then completely fall apart when it gets here?”If your weekends start with hope and end with overwhelm, guilt, or total shutdown—welcome to the club!In this episode, I’m breaking down why unstructured time is uniquely challenging for ADHD brains… and how to create weekends that actually feel good (without turning them into a rigid, miserable schedule).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 TikTokSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Kristen hosted a live master class on Wednesday 4/1 and we thought you’d enjoy the replay! If you prefer to watch on youtube, you can do that here. Find the worksheet Kristen provided here. Join FOCUSED and save $100 on the relationships course in April here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Love this clip? Check out the full episode: Episode #352: The Kids Who Can’t Be Told What To Do: PDA & Low-Demand Parenting (With Casey Ehrlich)Listen to the full conversation in the original episode HERE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
If you’ve ever set a goal, made a plan, felt excited… and then somehow done the exact opposite—welcome to the ADHD self-sabotage club.In this episode, I’m sharing a powerful class from inside my ADHD coaching membership, FOCUSED, all about self-sabotage—why it happens, what it actually means, and how to finally understand what’s going on in your brain.But before we get into it, a little context:Right now, I’m intentionally taking the path of least resistance to support my ADHD brain and protect my energy. Instead of creating brand-new content from scratch while feeling stretched thin, I’m sharing some of the most impactful classes I’ve already taught inside FOCUSED.And this one?It got raving reviews.Members told me:“This explained my brain in a way I’ve never understood before.”“I finally see what’s happening when I get in my own way.”So if you’ve ever told yourself:“Why can’t I just follow through?”“What is wrong with me?”“Why do I keep sabotaging myself?”This episode is going to shift how you see yourself—and your ADHD. Because self-sabotage isn’t a character flaw. It’s a pattern with a reason. And once you understand it, everything starts to change.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 TikTokSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Love this clip? Check out the full episode: Episode #350: From Cemetery Shifts To A Career That Fits: Matt’s ADHD Comeback StoryListen to the full conversation in the original episode HERE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Let’s be honest: money tasks are peak ADHD avoidance material.So instead of overthinking it…let’s just do it together.This episode is your guided money session—part strategy, part nervous system support, all designed to help you finally engage with your finances.We’ll work through the resistance, regulate your nervous system, and make money feel just a little bit more doable.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 TikTokSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Love this clip? Check out the full episode: Episode #348: Too Bored To Function: Why ADHD Brains Would Rather Do Anything Than Be BoredListen to the full conversation in the original episode HERE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This episode is… very ADHD.We start with a quick revisit of ARFID after hearing from a listener who shared a powerful personal experience. Then we dive into your voicemails—covering everything from the heavy question of how to repair damage we worry we’ve done to our kids, to a very relatable struggle: emotional “doom piles.”And because no ADHD episode would be complete without a little delightful distraction, we wrap things up by watching some hilarious ADHD reels together.It’s thoughtful, honest, a little chaotic, and full of those “wait… is this just me?” moments. If you’ve ever had a brain that jumps track mid-sentence, you’ll feel right at home 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 TikTokSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Love this clip? Check out the full episode: Episode #344: Living in a Dumpster Fire: Systems That Actually Work for ADHD FamiliesListen to the full conversation in the original episode HERE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What if the easiest version of the task is actually the smartest one?In this episode, we’re talking about the path of least resistance — and why for ADHD brains, it’s not laziness. It’s strategy.The path of least resistance is the version of a task that:Requires the least activation energyUses the least executive functionHurts the leastGets you moving the fastestNot the A+ version.Not the neurotypical version.The version you can actually do.So why don’t we take it? Perfectionism.Russell Ramsay calls perfectionism the number one cognitive distortion in adults with ADHD. It sounds like, “If I’m going to do it, I have to do it right.” But “right” usually means the hardest, most optimized version — which often means we don’t do it at all.We’ll talk about:Why 70% done changes your lifeHow all-or-nothing thinking keeps you stuckThe moral layer that makes “easy” feel like cheatingWhy the hard way is often the never-finished wayPlus, I’ll give you a simple coaching tool to use when you’re stuck:What is the easiest possible version of this?Because forward motion builds momentum.Momentum builds self-trust.And self-trust changes everything.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 TikTokSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Love this clip? Check out the full episode: Episode #342: Love on the Spectrum’s Kaelynn Partlow on Autism, ADHD, and Why She Refuses to Use the Term “AuDHD”Listen to the full conversation in the original episode HERE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Today’s episode is pure joy.I’m hanging out with old friends of the podcast Cate Osborn and Erik Gude, two of the most creative, thoughtful, and FUN voices in the ADHD world. And this conversation goes everywhere in the best possible way.Cate is a certified sex educator (yes, we go there) whose work has appeared in The New York Times and Cosmopolitan, and you probably know her from Sorry I Missed This on Understood. Erik is her co-host on Catie and Erik’s Infinite Quest: An ADHD Adventure and the brilliant mind behind the viral ADHD Crafting Challenge on TikTok.Together, they wrote The ADHD Field Guide for Adults, a smart, hilarious, deeply validating, actually-accessible guide that fills the massive info gap so many of us experience after diagnosis.And friends… this conversation is a ride.We talk about:🔥 What ADHDers are struggling with right now🔥 The loudest themes in their DMs🔥 ADHD internet culture — what’s helping and what’s… not🔥 Self-diagnosis, identity, and taking responsibility without self-blame🔥 Relationships, intimacy, and rejection sensitivityThere is so much laughter. So many “OH MY GOSH YES” moments. And the core message that comes through again and again:You are not broken. You are not lazy. You are not a f*ckup.This episode feels like sitting at the cool ADHD table with people who get it.The ADHD Field Guide for AdultsCate Osborn on TikTokErik Gude on TikTokWatch 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 TikTokSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Love this clip? Check out the full episode: Episode #346: Voicemails from the ADHD Trenches: Marriage, Faith, Regret, and Rage (Yep, We’re Going There)Listen to the full conversation in the original episode HERE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we’re diving into something I really wish I had known about sooner: ARFID — Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder.ARFID is a serious eating disorder that has nothing to do with body image or weight loss. Instead, it’s driven by things that are incredibly common for ADHD and autistic folks — sensory sensitivities, low appetite, lack of interest, anxiety, and fear of negative food experiences (like choking or vomiting).If you or someone you love:forgets to eat to eatlives off a small list of “safe foods”feels overwhelmed by textures, smells, or food prephas been called a “picky eater” your whole life…this episode might feel like a huge lightbulb moment.We’re talking about:what ARFID actually is (and why it’s not just picky eating)how sensory issues, anxiety, and interoception play a rolethe real physical and emotional impactswhy it shows up so often in neurodivergent peoplehow support and treatment actually workI’m also sharing personally — because learning about ARFID made me look at my own life and my kids in a completely new way.If this episode resonates, please share it with someone who needs to hear:https:///www.ihaveadhd.com/10thingsEquip HealthWatch 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 TikTokSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Love this clip? Check out the full episode: Episode #338: From “Leaf in the Wind” to Coach: Sarah’s ADHD Glow-UpListen to the full conversation in the original episode HERE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
BUCKLE UP! The next hour is going to be a little wild—in the best way.In today’s episode, I’m answering a couple of your voicemails, diving into emerging research on the link between ADHD and early perimenopause, and responding to a very fear-heavy Wall Street Journal reel about ADHD medication.We’re talking about:• The idea of a “drug cascade” and why extreme cases don’t equal common outcomes• ADHD comorbidities (because ADHD rarely travels alone)• What responsible journalism should look like• Why treating ADHD is often the beginning of understanding someone’s full mental health picture—not the start of doom• The reality of diagnosing very young kids (and the privilege conversation around that)• What effective ADHD therapy would actually need to include (hint: the whole family)If you’ve felt confused, scared, frustrated, or just exhausted by the ADHD discourse online lately… this episode will help you take a breath.As always, nuance > panic.Reel from WSJ that I break down in this episodeWatch 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 TikTokSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Love this clip? Check out the full episode: Episode #333: Want to Stay Behind Forever? Keep Ignoring Your CapacityListen to the full conversation in the original episode HERE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In today’s episode, we’re talking about ADHD that looks like overwhelmed and under-functioning: when your brain gets so flooded that it can’t prioritize, and instead of choosing a next step… it shuts down.You’ll learn what overwhelm really is in the context of ADHD (total cognitive, emotional, and/or sensory flooding), why “freeze” can be a very real nervous system response, and how this pattern often develops especially for those who grew up criticized, emotionally unsafe, unsupported, or chronically overwhelmed. If you’ve ever thought, “I’m not hyper—I’m stuck,” this episode is for you.We’ll break down the common pattern: Overwhelm → Freeze → UnderfunctioningNot because you don’t care, but because your system can’t handle the load.Then we move into gentle, practical ways to “thaw” without bullying yourself:Name it and accept it (without shame)Use safe, doable movement to activate your systemShrink the cognitive load (two essentials, tiny timers, one-minute starts)Borrow someone else’s brain (ask for help, then obey)Reduce decisions wherever possiblePractice deep self-compassion as the pathway to changeFinally, we talk about when to get extra support—especially trauma-informed therapy and nervous-system-based approaches like EMDR or somatic work.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 TikTokSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Love this clip? Check out the full episode: Episode #332: Stop Adding to the Planner Graveyard: One Tool to Improve ADHD Time Blindness NOWListen to the full conversation in the original episode HERE.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This is part two of our series on dysfunctional families and ADHD.If last week’s episode felt heavy, emotional, or disorienting, that makes sense. Episode one was about naming reality—and naming reality can stir grief, anger, relief, or all three. But we can’t change what we’re not willing to name.Today, we answer the next (and crucial) question:If that’s dysfunction… what does health actually look like?Because knowing what you don’t want isn’t enough. You also need a clear picture of what you’re moving toward.In this episode, I walk you through 10 signs of a healthy, functional family—not perfect families, not calm-all-the-time families, but regulated-enough, repair-focused, emotionally safe-enough families. Yes, even with ADHD.We talk about:Why repair—not perfection—is the real difference between healthy and dysfunctional familiesWhat direct communication, emotional attunement, boundaries, and accountability actually look like in real lifeHow to end parentification and create age-appropriate rolesWhy unconditional love, safety, and reliable care matter more than appearancesSmall, realistic shifts you can make without shame or perfectionismThis isn’t a pass/fail checklist. It’s about direction, not perfection.If you’re pausing, noticing, repairing, and setting boundaries—you are already changing the pattern. And that’s how generational cycles end.Your family can be marked by safety, honesty, connection, and repair. Even with ADHD. Especially with ADHD.Resources mentioned:@codependencykate@timfletcherco@sitwithwhit@benvbennettWatch 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 TikTokSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Comments (24)

Moz Martin

One thing I would like to point out is that the caller stated they are yet to be officially diagnosed, meaning that what she's experiencing might not be ADHD. I find it reasonable to express caution when someone looks for any specific diagnosis, rather than going to a doctor with a neutral mindset. I don't want to undermine their experience with family -- when someone you know and love is expressing vulnerability, it would be better met with empathy and support.

Nov 27th
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Stacy Halbert

absolutely loved this episode!! thank you!

May 29th
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Strawberrypug

I am literally in tears listening to this and how much I relate. Just hearing that I am not alone! I’ve done a lot of therapy in my life & I never connected with words so much!! Thank you.

Apr 23rd
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Alison Miller

omg the comment on her saying people that don't like talking on the phone. I despise it and it took me over a year to finally message my doctor about me talking about my concerns on being diagnosed and she said I need to call psychology department and talk to that department... that was almost a year ago... 🙄 I'm going to try to do it soon...

Jan 8th
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Jenny Glozshtein

I thought this would have some actual advice.......

Dec 22nd
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StrayCactus

I can HIGHLY recommend the app Paprika for saving recipes and maintaining a grocery list. It's helped me stay organised, it's a game changer for someone with ADHD.

Jul 28th
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Ryann Pinnegar

Ep 241 So good.

Jan 9th
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Iain Smith

Podcasts that don't get to the point are a waste of time.

Nov 9th
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narges

👏👏👏

Oct 16th
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Joshua Brown

really missed on this one Kristen. sounds like a lot of insider baseball. I was 15 minutes in before I was figuring out what you were even talking about.

Aug 17th
Reply (1)

Sara Ara

as a adhder .i have a social phobia and anxiety .most of the time i can't go out .because i think that i might get lost and because of this i think that These thoughts have paralyzed my mind.please talk about this in your another podcast .maby it can helps me .

Jul 7th
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Mary Mcgeehan

lordy I want to join Focused but I def can't swing $199 a month although I'm sure it's worth it.....

Mar 21st
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Megan Rausch

That's imposter syndrome. 200 IS huge! congrats!

Feb 9th
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Regan Stevens

I had to pause this episode because it brought up feelings in me that I was unprepared for. I’m recently diagnosed as an adult and hearing you describe your shame for things in your younger years really made me feel so sad for my younger self

Jul 13th
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Linnorama

I'd really like to check out some of those resources you mentioned, but I can't seem to find them where they should be. Have they been removed since this is an old episode?

Mar 7th
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Linnorama

Hey Kristen! This episode blew my mind!!! Let me share a little about myself to explain why. I am 34 years old, mom of two, Norwegian nurse with a bachelor's degree, and at the moment in my 3rd year of "sickleave". I put it in the quote marks because I, and everyone else, believed I had an incapacitating depression due to several issues spanning from my childhood to my early 20s. I have received therapy, medication and a lot of help, and i can't believe that my boyfriend hasn't left yet... A couple of months ago I accidentally (and finally) persuaded my therapist to examine me for ADHD, which he categorically turned down when we first met, and I met all the criteria except for one area. I'm not visible hyperactive. So a new journey began. I started testing out stimulants a month ago and discovered that my ADHD had impacts far beyond what I suspected, and that most of my symptoms for depression probably was my ADHD. My depression is real, but also probably a symptom of undiagnosed ADHD.

Mar 5th
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Alvino Carrillo

Is there only one type of adhd.

Jan 21st
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Logan Marie Young

It won't let me play this episode 😭

Aug 10th
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Toby Murr

this has helped me out so much

Jan 23rd
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Reese Digby

I love your podcast! It's like a goldmine of useful info. I also love how you cannot help yourself from externalising those thoughts that come up. Mega cute :)

Feb 5th
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