We believe that success with ADHD is possible... with a little translation. Hosts Asher Collins and Dusty Chipura, both ADHD coaches who have plenty of insight to share navigating their own ADHD experiences, discuss how to live more authentically as an adult with ADHD and how to create real, sustained change to achieve greater success. If you are an adult with ADHD who wants more out of their business, career, and life, this is the podcast for you!
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Asher and Dusty revisit the core coaching model—understand, own, translate—and show how it helps people with ADHD move from surface symptoms to real, usable solutions. They emphasize that common tips (planners, timers) often fail because they don’t address individual causation. Through concrete client stories—one about “hard emails” that caused compulsive inbox checking and another about preparing for a job interview— they show how coaching discovers the hidden emotional or cognitive drivers, cr...
This episode revisits the coaching concept of journey thinking and why it’s especially useful for people with ADHD. Rather than fixating on a distant outcome or an idealized destination, journey thinking asks you to stay on the current “stepping stone,” notice what’s actually happening, and get curious about the next possible step. Asher and Dusty explain how detaching from outcomes reduces magical and all-or-nothing thinking, makes small wins visible, and protects motivation when progress is sl...
Ash and Dusty discuss how ADHD traits (hyperfocus, justice sensitivity, rejection sensitivity, and perfectionism) shape the way people approach allyship. Ash opens with a vivid story about feeling unintentionally objectified at a conference after coming out as transgender, illustrating how well-meaning curiosity and requests for education can put emotional labor on the person with a marginalized identity. Dusty describes common ADHD patterns—the over-eager ally who wants to demonstrate knowledge...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty explore the intense overlap between ADHD and early gender transition, focusing on how sudden, widespread change taxes executive function and identity. Ash describes the real-world disruptions—wardrobe overhaul, haircuts, public outings, bathroom access, and safety concerns—that made routine tasks overwhelming. He discusses how ADHD can make introspection and identity work harder, and why finding queer and trans communities provides essential context, normalization,...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty open the season by revisiting Ash’s transition and how it has intersected with his work helping people with ADHD. Ash describes transition as a liminal, between-states process that forced reexamination of identity, relationships, and public context. They discuss how coming out shifted social dynamics, revealed hidden “masks” shaped by social expectations, and resurfaced—rather than erased—questions about self that ADHD can complicate: weak identity formation, disso...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty explore the complexities of seeking and receiving accommodations and supports for ADHD. They discuss how well-intentioned efforts can sometimes miss the mark when helpers do not fully understand the specific needs or reasons behind requests. Dusty shares personal experiences and client stories highlighting the frustrations that arise when accommodations are either insufficient, misunderstood, or perceived as burdensome by those providing support. They emphasize the...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty explore the complexities of moderation for people with ADHD. They discuss how impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and black-and-white thinking often make it difficult to moderate behaviors such as alcohol consumption, nicotine use, marijuana, and internet usage. Ash shares personal experiences and insights about managing these challenges, emphasizing the importance of building awareness and connecting to positive motivations rather than striving for perfection or...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty explore the pervasive challenge of forgetfulness for people with ADHD and how it impacts daily life and progress toward goals. They discuss the common experience of forgetting intentions or tasks, which leads to feelings of being overwhelmed or constantly "putting out fires." Both coaches emphasize the importance of starting with small, manageable systems tailored to individual needs, highlighting that complex systems often fail or get abandoned without curiosity a...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty explore the complex relationship between honesty, communication, and neurodivergence, especially within the ADHD community. They discuss how people with ADHD often struggle with communication due to impulsivity and a strong sense of justice, which can manifest as bluntness or oversharing. Through personal examples and coaching experiences, they highlight how honesty can sometimes cause misunderstandings or hurt feelings but also recognize its value as a strength wh...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty explore the complexities of managing hyperfixations and hobbies as individuals with ADHD. They discuss the common experience of having interests that are “an inch deep but a mile long,” the guilt and shame surrounding inconsistent engagement or financial investment in hobbies, and the struggle to align identity with fluctuating passions. Both hosts share personal stories that highlight different patterns of engagement—from impulsively diving into new interests to l...
In this episode, hosts Ash and Dusty tackle the complex relationship between sleep and ADHD. They discuss how sleep issues are prevalent among individuals with ADHD, with statistics suggesting that up to 90% struggle with some form of sleep disorder. The conversation highlights the challenges clients face in recognizing the connection between their mood, cognitive functioning, and sleep quality. Ash emphasizes the importance of clients experiencing well-rested nights to understand the benefits o...
In this episode, hosts Ash and Dusty tackle the pervasive issue of phone addiction, especially as it relates to individuals with ADHD. They explore how the constant stimulation of smartphones can lead to feelings of guilt and shame, as well as frustration from lost time. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding individual motivations behind phone usage and how it serves different needs, from distraction to connection. Both hosts share personal anecdotes and strategies for navi...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty explore the significant role emotions play in unwanted behaviors associated with ADHD. They illustrate this through a coaching case study focused on a client's struggle with managing emails, revealing how underlying feelings of guilt and shame influenced her behavior. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the emotional context behind actions, emphasizing that awareness and acceptance are crucial for clients to recognize and reshape their narra...
Ash and Dusty explore internalized ableism in ADHD, prompted by a listener's feedback on using paper plates. They emphasize giving oneself permission to use accommodations and make imperfect choices, even if they seem environmentally less ideal, because these actions preserve capacity and lead to better long-term well-being. The hosts share personal anecdotes, like managing household challenges and memory struggles, advocating for self-compassion and understanding one's unique needs without an all-or-nothing mindset. They encourage listeners to recognize limitations and prioritize self-care over the pursuit of unattainable perfection.
In this episode, Ash and Dusty explore the challenges and complexities of answering the question, "What do I want to be when I grow up?" for individuals with ADHD. They discuss two distinct types of clients: those who are successful yet struggle to manage their passions due to ADHD, and those who feel completely lost regarding their career aspirations. By sharing personal experiences and stories from their coaching practices, they highlight the importance of recognizing agency in one’s journey a...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty revisit the critical topic of strengths in the context of ADHD. They explore how individuals with ADHD often focus on their challenges, overshadowing their unique strengths. Through coaching insights and real-life examples, they emphasize the importance of recognizing and leveraging strengths as a means to address challenges effectively. The conversation highlights the need for a balanced perspective where strengths and challenges coexist, allowing clients to navig...
In this episode, hosts Ash and Dusty tackle the challenges of "adulting" while living with ADHD. They discuss the societal pressures and ableist beliefs that lead individuals with ADHD to feel inadequate or less capable as adults. The conversation centers around the importance of accepting one's unique path and recognizing that the way individuals with ADHD manage their responsibilities may differ significantly from neurotypical standards, yet is equally valid. They emphasize the need for self-c...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty dive into the complexities of food management for individuals with ADHD. They discuss the various challenges faced when it comes to meal planning, cooking, and maintaining a clean kitchen, all of which can lead to frustration and overwhelm. Dusty shares personal experiences and strategies that have helped clients, including the importance of simplifying meal prep and recognizing when to let go of food that will not be used. The conversation emphasizes the significa...
In this episode, hosts Ash and Dusty dive into the topic of Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), which are common among individuals with ADHD. They discuss behaviors such as skin picking, nail biting, and hair pulling, highlighting how these actions serve as manifestations of underlying hyperactivity and sensory issues. Dusty shares personal anecdotes about her struggles with nail biting and cuticle peeling, emphasizing the importance of understanding the triggers and habitual patterns tha...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty delve into the complex relationship between ADHD and substance use. They discuss how individuals with ADHD may turn to substances like alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, and even more illicit drugs as a form of self-medication. These substances can provide temporary relief for symptoms such as impulsivity, under-stimulation, and social anxiety. The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding the underlying reasons behind substance use, distinguishing between actual ...
In this episode, hosts Ash and Dusty explore the crucial topic of setting and maintaining boundaries, especially for those with ADHD. They begin by discussing the importance of understanding personal boundaries as rules that define how others can interact with you, emphasizing that these boundaries are not about controlling others but about ensuring one's own safety and comfort. Dusty introduces the concept of the "boundaries escalator," a step-by-step approach to gradually enforcing boundaries,...
In this episode, hosts Ash and Dusty delve into the complex topic of boundaries and toxic relationships, especially as they relate to individuals with ADHD. They explore the increased vulnerability of people with ADHD to manipulative and exploitative relationships due to factors such as poor working memory, low self-esteem, and a tendency to people-please. Ash and Dusty discuss how these traits can lead ADHD individuals to doubt their own recollections and trust others too easily, often placing ...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty explore the intriguing intersection of kink and ADHD, discussing how neurodivergent individuals may be drawn to unconventional sexual interests. They emphasize the importance of curiosity and communication in navigating the complexities of kink, particularly for those who may struggle with societal norms or personal inhibitions. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they highlight the potential for self-discovery and growth within the kink community, advocating ...
In this episode, hosts Ash and Dusty explore the complex relationship between ADHD and sexuality, discussing how attention challenges can impact intimacy and arousal. Dusty highlights the disconnect many individuals with ADHD may feel towards their bodies, illustrating how hyper-focusing on daily tasks can overshadow the awareness of physical desires. The conversation touches on the societal pressures faced by women and the emotional labor involved in sexual relationships, as well as the unique ...
In this episode, hosts Ash and Dusty explore the challenges and opportunities that the New Year presents for individuals with ADHD. They delve into the concept of clean slate thinking and how it can be both a trap and a motivational tool. While traditional New Year's resolutions can often feel overwhelming due to heightened expectations, Ash shares a personal practice of choosing a word to guide intentions throughout the year. This approach helps in maintaining focus and aligning actions with pe...
In this episode, Ash and Dusty continue their exploration of effective systems that help them manage their lives with ADHD. Dusty shares how implementing multiple overlapping systems has allowed her to better organize her time and prioritize quality moments with her child, emphasizing the importance of novelty in maintaining motivation. She discusses how creating a visual weekly schedule for her child has enhanced their planning and engagement in activities together. Ash contributes by highlight...
In this episode, Asher and Dusty share their personal experiences with various organizational systems that help them manage their ADHD. They discuss the importance of having a clear calendaring system, as well as how they prioritize appointments over tasks to reduce notification fatigue. Both hosts emphasize the need for simple, effective methods that cater to their unique preferences, such as using Google Docs for task management and pre-deciding meals to streamline dinner preparation. The conv...
In this episode, hosts Ash and Dusty discuss the unique challenges faced by individuals with ADHD during pregnancy. Dusty shares her expertise in pregnancy coaching, highlighting the importance of understanding how ADHD can impact the pregnancy experience. The conversation touches on various topics, including the emotional and practical aspects of managing ADHD symptoms during pregnancy, the lack of research surrounding ADHD and pregnancy, and the recent developments in guidelines for medication...
In this episode of the Translating ADHD Podcast, Ash and Dusty explore the complexities of activism, particularly for individuals with ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions. They discuss how all-or-nothing thinking can hinder meaningful engagement in social justice causes, leading to feelings of despair or burnout. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing one’s capacity and the need for nuance in advocacy. Rather than adhering to strict standards of activism, Ash and Dusty en...
In this episode of Translating ADHD, Ash and Dusty discuss the emotional challenges faced by individuals with ADHD in the wake of significant global events, such as elections and social issues. They explore how these events can lead to increased emotional dysregulation, rumination, and a diminished capacity to attend to daily responsibilities. Through personal anecdotes and client experiences, they emphasize the importance of recognizing one's emotional state and adapting self-care strategies ac...
