The ADHD Clarity Coach: ADHD Crash Course

Donae Cannon
undefined
Mar 24, 2026 • 7min

Ep 132. Why Habits Feel So Hard with ADHD (and How to Make Them Stick)

WATCH ON YOUTUBE👥GROUP COACHING👤1:1 COACHING✉️ MAILING LIST If you’ve ever thought, “I’m just not a habit person,” you’re not alone.A lot of adults with ADHD feel like they can’t stick to habits. But most of the time, it’s not that you can’t build habits — it’s that you’ve been taught to build them in a way that doesn’t work for your brain.In this episode, I’m talking about:- Why we tend to start too big- The “snowball” method that actually works- Why celebration matters more than you think- How to restart habits without shame- The connection between habits and energy management- Why you should be picky about which habits you buildThis is especially important for late-diagnosed women who are already managing a lot of invisible mental load.Habits aren’t about becoming a different person. They’re about protecting your energy and making life a little easier.Let me know in the comments: What habit has actually stuck for you?⏱ Time Stamps:00:00 – “I’m not a habit person” 00:35 – Why we start too big 01:05 – The plant metaphor 01:45 – Start smaller than you think 02:10 – Build in celebration (yes, even sticker charts) 03:00 – How to restart without giving up 04:05 – Habits and energy management 05:00 – “Disciplined” people vs. habitual people 05:45 – Be picky about what you turn into a habit 06:15 – Where to go deeper#ADHDWomen #ExecutiveFunction #LateDiagnosedADHD #ADHDSupport #OccupationalTherapy #WomenWithADHD #HabitsThatStick #NeurodivergentWomen #EnergyManagement #ADHDStrategies
undefined
Mar 24, 2026 • 7min

Ep 131. Nervous System Regulation for ADHD: A Simple Pyramid That Works

👥GROUP COACHING:https://theadhdclaritycoach.com/page/clarity-group-coaching--week-adhd-program-sales-page👤1:1 COACHING: https://theadhdclaritycoach.com/dc-1ctaquestions✉️ MAILING LIST:https://theadhdclaritycoach.com/page/mailing-listEmotional regulation is one of the most common goals people bring into coaching.Regulation doesn't mean “=never feeling big emotions or becoming calm all the time. It means being able to experience big emotions without feeling hijacked by them.If you have ADHD, nervous system dysregulation is common — and it doesn’t just affect attention. It impacts emotions, energy, and your ability to function in the moment.In this episode, I’m introducing:What emotional regulation actually means (and what it doesn’t)The difference between regulation, masking, and shutdownHow attention, emotion, and energy are all connectedA simple “pyramid” model of nervous system toolsWhy you need body-based tools and thought-based toolsThis is just a starting point, but it’s an important one.Let me know in the comments: What regulation tools work for you?⏱ Time Stamps:00:00 – What emotional regulation really means 00:40 – ADHD and nervous system dysregulation 01:10 – Attention regulation example 01:45 – Masking vs. true regulation 02:15 – Big emotions vs. shutdown 02:45 – Regulation and energy levels 03:30 – The goal: function, not perfection 03:50 – The nervous system pyramid 04:10 – Bottom: body-based tools 04:45 – Middle: practiced body/mind tools 05:00 – Top: thought-based tools (CBT example) 05:45 – Why you need tools from all levels 06:15 – When thinking goes offlineHashtags:#ADHDWomen #ExecutiveFunction #EmotionalRegulation #LateDiagnosedADHD #NervousSystem #WomenWithADHD #NeurodivergentWomen #ADHDSupport #MentalHealthTools #ADHDStrategies
undefined
Mar 17, 2026 • 4min

Ep 130: Boomerang Tasks: The ADHD Trap That’s Draining Your Mental Energy

👥GROUP COACHING:https://theadhdclaritycoach.com/page/clarity-group-coaching--week-adhd-program-sales-page👤1:1 COACHING: https://theadhdclaritycoach.com/dc-1ctaquestions✉️ MAILING LIST:https://theadhdclaritycoach.com/page/mailing-listHave you ever finished your part of something… but it’s not actually done?You made the call. You submitted the form. You sent the email.And now? You wait.But you still have to track it. And if it falls through the cracks, you’re the one dealing with theconsequences.That’s what I call a boomerang task: if someone else doesn’t follow through, you have a problem- but not one you can deal with NOW.In this episode, I’m breaking down:●What a boomerang task is●Why they quietly drain so much mental energy (especially with ADHD/EF challenges)●A simple way to manage them without carrying them around in your brainThis is especially relevant for late-diagnosed women who are often juggling invisible trackingwork on top of everything else.You don’t need to store these in your head. There’s a better way.Let me know in the comments: Do you have a system that works for these kinds of tasks?⏱ Time Stamps:00:00 – What is a “boomerang task”?00:35 – Why these tasks are especially hard with ADHD01:05 – Stop using your brain as storage01:25 – The insurance claim example01:50 – Why your to-do list isn’t always the best place02:15 – Treating it like an appointment instead02:40 – Protecting your mental energy03:05 – What system works for you?#ADHDWomen #ExecutiveFunction #LateDiagnosedADHD #ADHDSupport#OccupationalTherapy #WomenWithADHD #NeurodivergentWomen #ADHDStrategies#MentalLoad #TimeManagement
undefined
Mar 10, 2026 • 10min

Ep 129. Energy Budgets & Menus: Planning for the Different Versions of You (ADHD)

👥 GROUP COACHING👤 1:1 COACHING✉️JOIN MAILING LISTIf you have ADHD, you probably know this feeling:Some days you’re focused, capable, knocking it out of the park. Other days? Low energy. Low focus. Drained. Absolutely can't get going.The most frustrating part is not knowing which version of you is going to show up.That unpredictability can really erode self-trust.In this episode, I’m sharing two practical tools I use in coaching (especially with late-diagnosed women):Energy Budgets – understanding what tasks actually cost youMenus – creating flexible versions of routines so it’s not all-or-nothingI'm talking about:Why executive functioning tasks cost more energyHow to offload or redesign high-drain activitiesThe “3-course meal, brunch, and snack” model for routinesHow to be able to rely on yourself without being rigidWhen you work with the reality of variable energy levels, you. move out of the "all or nothing" approach to the things we care about.Let me know in the comments: Do you have strategies that help you manage ever-changing energy levels. ⏱ Time Stamps:00:00 – The different versions of you 00:45 – Why ADHD can erode self-trust 01:15 – Executive functioning costs more energy 01:50 – What is an energy budget? 02:00 – Shopping as an energy drain (example) 03:00 – Boring tasks and invisible energy costs 03:45 – Introducing “menus” 04:15 – The 3-course morning routine 05:00 – The “brunch” version 05:30 – The “snack” (skeleton) version 06:15 – Avoiding all-or-nothing 06:45 – Exercise example 07:30 – Recap: energy budgets + menus#ADHDWomen #ExecutiveFunction #LateDiagnosedADHD #ADHDSupport #EnergyManagement #WomenWithADHD #NeurodivergentWomen #ADHDStrategies #MentalLoad #FlexibleRoutines
undefined
Mar 4, 2026 • 6min

Ep 128. ADHD & Task Initiation: Why “Just Start” Hasn’t Worked (And What Actually Does)

👥 GROUP COACHING👤 1:1 COACHING✉️JOIN MAILING LISTIf you’ve ever been completely stuck — frozen, paused, unable to start — this is for you.“Just start” is common productivity advice. But for many people with ADHD, it only works once… because secretly it means finish. And your brain knows it.In this video, I share a brain-friendly shift that helps build self-trust, flexibility, and real momentum — especially for those chronic stuck patterns that aren’t about laziness or willpower.This approach is especially helpful for late-diagnosed women with ADHD who are tired of swinging between all-or-nothing effort and shutdown.You don’t need more pressure or perfection- You need a strategy that actually works with your brain.If you’re looking for more support, I offer ADHD/Executive Function coaching and occupational therapy-informed services, including group programs.Simple Timestamps00:00 – When you’re stuck and can’t start 00:45 – Why “just start” often fails 01:30 – The trust problem (grandpa story) 02:15 – Why your brain stops believing you 02:45 – The real strategy: start with permission to stop 03:15 – Leaving things partway done (on purpose) 03:45 – Building self-trust and flexibility 04:30 – When this won’t apply (real deadlines) 05:00 – Try this instead of all-or-nothing
undefined
10 snips
Feb 18, 2026 • 10min

Ep 127. ADHD Friendly Mindfulness Tips

Why traditional mindfulness often frustrates ADHD brains. How to practice mindfulness in motion while doing dishes, walking, or sipping coffee. Tiny, realistic starts that fit busy minds — even 30 seconds counts. Simple tricks to offload intrusive to-dos so attention can return. Ways to build reminders and attach mindfulness to everyday habits.
undefined
12 snips
Jan 30, 2026 • 11min

Ep 126. Tips for ADHD Goal-Haters: Make Goals Work for Your Brain!

Practical, compassionate strategies for making goals fit an ADHD brain. Tips on connecting goals to personal values so they feel meaningful. Advice for defining clear end states and shrinking tasks into tiny, doable steps. Techniques for spotting and removing friction that blocks progress. Guidance on restarting without shame and celebrating small wins to keep momentum.
undefined
Dec 17, 2025 • 12min

Ep 125. ADHD & Thought Distortions: How to Stop Overthinking

💡👥 Group Coaching Info: Join our supportive group coaching to practice these tools with others:https://theadhdclaritycoach.com/page/eyb-group-programDo unhelpful thoughts constantly get in your way? In this ADHD-friendly coaching episode, I break down practical strategies to identify, challenge, and reframe cognitive distortions.We’ll cover:-What thought distortions are and how they shape your reality-How to label, examine, and reframe automatic thoughts-Practical examples of mind reading, black-and-white thinking, and catastrophizing-Why affirmations often fail and what actually works-How to strengthen your mental “muscles” for flexibilityTimestamps: 00:00 – This One Thinking Pattern Is Wrecking Your Mental Health00:45 – The Hidden Thought Filter Running Your Life01:30 – The “Mind Reading” Mistake We Make in Social Situations02:15 – How Thought Distortions Create Anxiety, Shame & Isolation02:50 – You Can’t Stop Thoughts (But You Can Stop Believing Them)03:30 – Intrusive Thoughts: Why Your Brain Lies to You Sometimes04:15 – ADHD, Rejection Sensitivity & Constant Self-Monitoring04:55 – Step 1: Catch the Thought Before It Takes Over05:30 – Step 2: Put Your Thought on Trial (Scientist Mindset)06:30 – Step 3: Reframing Without Toxic Positivity07:30 – The To-Do List Spiral That Destroys Motivation08:25 – Why Affirmations Usually Backfire09:00 – The Driving Example That Exposes Your Mental Filters10:30 – Same Situation, Completely Different Reality11:05 – How to Train Your Brain to Do This Automatically11:30 – Get Support Practicing This Skill (Group Coaching) #ADHD #ADHDcoach #thoughtdistortions #cognitivetherapy #adhdtips #executivefunction #adhdlife #neurodivergent #mentalhealth #adhdsupport #mindsetshift #selfawareness
undefined
Dec 9, 2025 • 12min

Ep 124. Parenting ADHD When You ALSO Have ADHD: Practical Strategies

MAILING LIST: https://theadhdclaritycoach.com/page/...👥 GROUP :https://theadhdclaritycoach.com/page/...👤 1:1 :https://theadhdclaritycoach.com/page/...Parenting with ADHD can be challenging—especially when your child also has ADHD. In this video, I share practical strategies for navigating life, supporting your child, and managing your own executive functioning and emotional regulation.We’ll cover:-Why you’re actually the best person to support your child, even if it’s hard-Prioritizing emotional regulation-Building an ADHD-informed support network-Real-life strategies [00:00:00] Intro – parenting ADHD when you also have ADHD [00:01:00] You are the best person to support your child [00:02:00] Learning backwards [00:03:00] Even hard experiences can make you an amazing resource [00:04:00] Math tutor analogy – support vs. expertise [00:05:00] Step 1: Prioritize emotional regulation [00:06:00] ADHD as a regulation disorder [00:07:00] Modeling regulation for kids [00:08:00] Transparency and working together with kids [00:09:00] Step 2: Executive functioning skills [00:10:00] Step 3: Build a support network #ADHDParenting #ADHDcoach #executivefunction #emotionalregulation #adhdsupport #adhdlife #neurodivergent #adhdparents #adhdkids #mindsetshift #parentingtips #
undefined
Dec 3, 2025 • 8min

Ep 123. Stop Forcing It: How Hidden Friction Hijacks ADHD Motivation

Learn about my group coaching program here!Schedule a call for 1:1 coaching here!Ever feel stuck on something that should be simple- like a return, a phone call, a form- and suddenly the task feels impossible? You’re not being lazy or dramatic. You’re probably dealing with hidden friction, and today we’re learning how to become a Friction Detective.In this video you’ll learn:Why “simple” tasks drain so much energyWhy pushing through friction burns your energy budgetHow to identify hidden friction in your task, environment, and thoughtsA step-by-step method to make life easier (and kinder) on your ADHD brainThis is one of the most game-changing skills my clients learn!TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Why “simple” tasks can feel impossible00:32 – What is friction?00:54 – The ADHD energy budget01:34 – Step 1: Believe yourself when something feels hard01:52 – Step 2: Get curious about the friction02:10 – Example: Why returns are secretly multi-step tasks03:30 – Hidden steps you may not realize are draining you04:00 – Environmental friction (clinic story)05:08 – Thought friction and shame spirals05:45 – How to start eliminating hidden friction06:20 – Practical mindset shifts06:50 – Why this strategy boosts confidence & preserves energy07:05 – Final encouragement + wrap upADHD strategies, ADHD executive function, ADHD life hacks, ADHD coach, ADHD adults, late-diagnosed ADHD, executive dysfunction, motivation with ADHD, ADHD energy management, practical ADHD tips, ADHD returns task, ADHD task paralysisIf this helped, let me know in the comments!For coaching information, visit: www.theadhdclaritycoach.com

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app