The ADHD Productivity Manual with Ari Tuckman, PSY.D, MBA

Support Comes from ADHD reWIred's Coaching and Accountability Groups. Summer Sessions are July 24 - Sept 18. Join us at our next registration event on July 10th. Learn more by going to  Episode Overview: In this episode, Eric is joined by Ari Tuckman, PSY.D, MBA, psychologist, international presenter, and author of the new "ADHD Productivity Manual." Together, they dive deep into the realities of productivity for people with ADHD, exploring motivation, activation, self-compassion, and practical strategies for getting things done. Key Topics Discussed: The difference between motivation and activation, and why both matter for ADHD brains How perfectionism and unrealistic expectations can sabotage progress The importance of understanding your "why" for each task, not just the "what" Social aspects of productivity: people-pleasing, setting boundaries, and communicating when you can’t meet a deadline Real-world strategies and creative hacks from Ari, Eric, and their clients (including timers, accountability, and engineering urgency) The value of celebrating small wins and tracking progress over time Self-compassion and letting go of impossible standards How to build systems that work for your unique brain, not just follow generic advice Guest Bio: Dr. Ari Tuckman is a leading ADHD expert, psychologist, and author of five books, including the "ADHD Productivity Manual." He brings decades of clinical experience and a practical, compassionate approach to helping people thrive with ADHD. Resources & Links: Learn more about Ari and his books: Join ADHD reWired Coaching & Accountability Groups: Check out Adult Study Hall for virtual coworking: Support the Show: Become a patron for bonus content and monthly coaching calls: Sign up for the newsletter and get episode resources: Takeaway: You’re not broken, and you don’t have to do hard things the hardest way or alone. Progress is possible—one step, one system, and one act of self-compassion at a time. Thanks for listening!

🎧 Special Announcement: Alumni Voices + Your Chance to Join ADHD reWired In this special announcement episode of ADHD reWired, Eric shares something a little different: a powerful 10-minute audio montage of alumni from our most recent coaching group — voices from ADHDers just like you who finished the program not long ago. You’ll hear, in their own words, why they joined, what they were struggling with, and what changed for them over 8 weeks of coaching, accountability, and connection. From burnout and overwhelm to self-doubt and shame, these stories highlight the real transformations that can happen with the right support. 👉 Our second-chance registration event is Thursday, June 26th at 10 AM Pacific / 1 PM Eastern! ✅ Pre-registration is due by Wednesday, June 25th at least 24 hours before the event. 📝 Session details: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 10 AM Pacific / 1 PM Eastern July 24th through September 18th 💥 Ready to join us? Here’s your next step: 1️⃣ Go to 2️⃣ If you’re not already on our interest list, click the button to join 3️⃣ Check your email and confirm your address so you don’t miss anything When you join the interest list, you’ll also get: A free time tracker we use in group A letter you can share with your employer about the program 🎧 Even if joining this season isn’t possible for you, we hope these alumni stories remind you: 👉 You’re not alone. 👉 You can do hard things — and you don’t have to do them the hardest way possible.

🎧 Episode Overview Join host Eric Tivers and three incredible panelists—Nathan James, Meg Zirger, and Christal Wang—for the second-annual Neurodivergent Queer Pride panel, organized by Shimmer. In this landmark conversation, we explore: Masking vs. Unmasking: Why hiding feels safe and how reclaiming your authentic self fuels resilience. Intersectional Identities: How ADHD, autism, and LGBTQ+ pride intersect—and why that intersection is a source of strength. Political Climate & Pride: Strategies for holding onto joy and courage when the world feels heavy. Power of Community: From isolation to solidarity—why peer support is essential for lasting change. Whether you’re neurodivergent, queer, an ally, or simply curious, this panel offers actionable insights, heartfelt stories, and affirmations to help you thrive. 🎯 Key Takeaways Masking Is Exhausting Childhood “survival mode” often becomes adult burnout. Unmasking is an ongoing, courageous process of self-discovery. ADHD + Queer = Unique Superpower Both identities challenge “scripts” society hands us. Embracing difference unlocks creativity, empathy, and authenticity. Pride Under Pressure Celebrate safely: balance vigilance with joy. Collective conversation and advocacy build courage. Community as Catalyst Small cohorts and online groups reduce shame and spark accountability. Shared experiences create “me-too” moments that heal and empower. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Welcome & Episode Intro 01:04 What Is Neurodivergent Queer Pride? 03:07 Panelist Introductions & Backgrounds 09:30 Personal Identity Journeys: “Scripts” & Masking 17:36 Societal Expectations: Fitting In vs. Standing Out 29:18 Deep Dive on Masking & Self-Acceptance 38:59 Holding Pride in a Difficult Political Climate 48:12 The Role of Community in Connection & Healing 54:48 Final Affirmations & Advice 57:41 Closing Thoughts & Next Steps 🔗 Resources & Links Join ADHD reWired Coaching & Accountability Groups (Season 41) ▸ Live kickoff: Wed, June 18 • 2 PM CT ▸ Pre-registration due: Tue, June 17 • 2 PM CT ▸ 👉 Shimmer (Episode organizer; online ADHD coaching platform) ▸ Co-founder & panel host: Christal Wang 👉 Adult Study Hall (24/7 ADHD-friendly coworking) 👉 💡 Next Steps Subscribe to ADHD reWired so you never miss an episode. Share this episode with friends who identify as neurodivergent, queer, or allies. Explore our summer Coaching & Accountability Groups to turn these insights into real-world growth. Your whole self belongs. Let’s celebrate, connect, and thrive—together.

In episode 550 of ADHD reWired, Eric Tivers sits down with Dr. Shannan Palma to explore Decide—a suite of AI-powered decision-support tools built by and for neurodivergent brains. Throughout this conversation, you’ll hear about: How Decide leverages AI (Gemini and large language models) to help with everyday choices and multi-step tasks. The story behind IT Assistive Technologies and the Autistic Self-Reliance Support Network. Real-world examples of “decision fatigue” and how Decide’s guided and randomized features ease choice paralysis. The balance between AI assistance and human insight—and why a trusting, well-prompted tool can feel like a personal neurodivergent life coach. Pricing, privacy, and the community-focused mission: 85 percent of ITI’s profits fund disability-led initiatives. Bonus segments on Pride Month, coaching groups, virtual coworking, and how to get involved with ADHD reWired’s summer programs. Use these show notes to get a quick overview, find useful links, and discover why Decide might become your new go-to when you’re stuck choosing dinner, figuring out a daily routine, or simply need a gentle “nudge” to move forward. Episode Summary Dr. Shannan Palma—co-founder of Decide and co-director of the Autistic Self-Reliance Support Network—joins Eric to unpack how tools designed by autistic and ADHD adults can transform decision making for all of us. Shannan shares her own late autism and ADHD diagnoses, the challenges she faced finding resources after getting “the piece of paper,” and how a 48-hour hackathon sparked a project that won first prize and secured nearly $400 k in grant funding. From door-dash dilemmas to life-altering choices (like whether to adopt a foster dog), Decide offers two core modes: Randomized Choice Generator Users create custom lists (e.g., favorite restaurants, daily routines) and assign energy costs. The app selects an option based on your current energy level—no more breakfast indecision or “what to watch next” paralysis. Guided Decision Assistance A series of friendly, “affirmative” prompts mirror a real-time coach. By reflecting back your own criteria (energy, resources, priorities), Decide delivers a percentage-confidence recommendation and rationale—so you can make a defensible, informed choice without overthinking. Along the way, Shannan emphasizes the importance of privacy (your data always belongs to you), ethical AI (focusing on “do no harm”), and how Decide’s freemium model avoids the “ADHD tax” by offering 10 free guided decisions per month. Premium access is available for $4.99/month, but you can cancel at any time without losing progress. Key Takeaways Why “Decision Fatigue” Matters: Neurodivergent brains often struggle with countless small choices (e.g., “What’s for dinner?”). Decide’s randomized generator isn’t just for fun—it reduces executive-function load by factoring in your energy level and pre-ranked options. Guided Mode = Personalized Neurodivergent Coaching: Instead of writing complex prompts for ChatGPT or Claude, Decide asks you targeted yes/no/unsure questions. Once you answer, it gives a clear recommendation (with a confidence score) plus a brief “why,” so you trust your decision-making process. Built by Autistic + ADHD Makers: After Shannan’s late autism diagnosis, she realized few supports existed for lower-visibility autistic adults. A 48-hour hackathon (Give Back Hack Columbus) brought together autistic and ADHD engineers, designers, and researchers—leading to Decide’s prototype and subsequent $400 k grant from Ohio’s Department of Developmental Disabilities. Community-First Funding Model: 85 percent of any IT Assistive Technologies’ profits flow back to the Autistic Self-Reliance Support Network (ASR). ASR focuses on autonomy and resources for autistic adults—rather than caregiver research—aiming to expand capacity and economic inclusion across the lifespan. Privacy & Data Rights: Decide won’t train AI on your personal data, and you retain full ownership of anything you input. Future plans include an opt-in research repository for autistic/ADHD lifespan data—governed by community safeguards. Bonus: Pride Month & ADHD ReWired Community Updates: Neurodivergent Pride Panel: Friday, June 13th at 10 AM PT / 1 PM ET (free registration at ). Summer Coaching Groups kick off July 24th—save $200 by joining the registration kickoff on June 18th (more info at ). Adult Study Hall: Virtual coworking with monthly “Pomodoro Dance Parties” (4th Friday, Pride-themed on June 27th). Try a 1-week free trial at . Next Live Q&A: Tuesday, June 10th at 10:30 AM PT / 1:30 PM ET (become a Patron at for behind-the-scenes coaching calls). Resources & Links Decide AI Decision Assistant • Web: • App Store (iOS) & Google Play (Android) • Guided decisions: 10 free/month; Premium: $4.99/month (cancel anytime) Dr. Shannan Palma & IT Assistive Technologies • IT Assistive Technologies (for-profit): • Autistic Self-Reliance Support Network (non-profit): • LinkedIn: (mention you heard the podcast!) Neurodivergent Pride & June Events • Neurodivergent Pride Panel (June 13): • Adult Study Hall Pomodoro Dance Party (June 27): ADHD ReWired Coaching & Community • Summer Coaching Groups (start July 24): • Live Q&A (June 10): RSVP details sent to interest list • Patreon: Books & References • Annie Duke, Thinking in Bets (on decision quality vs. outcome quality) • “Selling Out the Spectrum” by Ryan E. Conviction (autistic journalist on research ethics)

Summer coaching groups start on July 24th. LIstners can save $200 by signing up at the registration kickoff event on June 18th. Learn more and get on the interest list at   Eric shares updates about prioritizing sustainable energy practices and coping with recent family challenges, including the passing of his grandmother and his father's health issues.  The main segment features Dr. Shannon Palma, founder and CEO of ITI Assistive Technologies, discussing her late autism and ADHD diagnoses. She shares insights into her decades-long journey with executive function challenges, her comprehensive self-diagnosis process, and the development of support tools for neurodivergent adults. Shannon and Eric delve deeply into the nuances of autistic and ADHD burnout, the differences between autistic burnout and occupational burnout, and the challenges of masking and managing sensory sensitivities. The episode also reveals the host's own recent autism diagnosis, providing a reflective and personal perspective on understanding neurodivergence. The episode wraps up with contact information and a teaser for a follow-up episode focusing more on Shannon's work and the host's continued exploration of his diagnosis.      00:00 Introduction and Announcements 02:30 Eric’s Personal Updates and Challenges 05:12 Guest Introduction: Dr. Shannon Palma 06:32 Shannon's Diagnosis Journey 09:42 Sensory Sensitivities and Family Traits 16:56 Burnout and Neurodivergence ADS 26:56 Support and Community 28:36 Join Coaching Rewired This Summer 28:42 Introducing Adult Study Hall 30:54 Exploring Autism and ADHD 34:12 Self-Diagnosis and Professional Insights 35:29 Navigating Social Cues and Sensory Sensitivities 40:35 Understanding Neural Processing 46:56 Social Interactions and Coping Strategies 53:37 Wrapping Up and Contact Information  

What happens when two ADHDers realize there's more to the story? In this deeply personal and exploratory episode, Eric is joined by his friend and fellow coach, Portia Jackson Preston, for an honest, vulnerable, and unmasked conversation about discovering—later in life—that they’re not just ADHD… they're also autistic. April is Autism Acceptance Month and there’s no better time to peel back the layers. Eric and Portia share their parallel journeys of exploring what it means to be AuDHD, how autism was hiding in plain sight for both of them, and how late diagnosis is reshaping their self-understanding, their relationships, their parenting, and their work. Together, they unpack: What unmasking looks like—and feels like—especially when it's not a conscious choice Why self-diagnosis is valid and often necessary How intersecting identities impact recognition and diagnosis The grief and growth that come with seeing your past through a new lens Why autistic burnout hit both of them so hard (and what they’re doing now to recover) And how this shift is impacting their businesses, boundaries, and sense of self You’ll also hear about how EMDR therapy played a pivotal role in both of their journeys, how the Johari Window concept reframed Eric’s understanding of his blind spots, and how reconnecting with their full, authentic selves has allowed for deeper joy—even in the weirdest places (like dancing at a Phish show with hand flaps in full glory). This is the kind of conversation that gives others permission to explore, to question, and to be. 👉 Related links & resources: Portia Jackson Preston on Instagram: 🎧 Takeaways: Unmasking isn’t a one-time event—it’s a process. Late diagnosis can be both a relief and a reckoning. Self-compassion isn’t optional; it’s a survival tool. You don’t have to prove your neurodivergence to anyone. It’s okay to change. It’s okay to grieve. And it’s okay to rest.

🎙 Guest Info: Today's guest, Elise Fillmore, is a queer and neurodivergent financial educator, bestselling author, and the founder of  Elise focuses on identity-based finance, helping people navigate money through the lens of their lived experiences, challenges, and strengths. She’s also the author of Keeping Finance Personal and the host of the Dopamine Dollars podcast. 💡 Episode Highlights: How traditional financial advice often fails neurodivergent people Why financial planning should be tailored to your identity, lifestyle, and brain Strategies for making money management less overwhelming and more engaging The importance of automation and dopamine-driven finance systems Why shame and financial struggles are often systemic, not personal failings Common financial myths and why some mainstream advice (like Dave Ramsey’s) doesn’t work for ADHDers Practical ways to infuse joy into budgeting and create sustainable financial habits How to set up "fun money" accounts and make saving more rewarding Why financial tools and strategies “expire” for ADHDers – and what to do about it The role of external accountability in managing money 📌 Resources & Links: Elise Fillmore's Website: Instagram: TikTok:   Book: Keeping Finance Personal – Available in hardcover, ebook, and audiobook   Podcast: Dopamine Dollars – Available on , , and more 🔗 Mentioned in This Episode: A list of dopamine-boosting activities to help manage impulsive spending 📢 Support ADHD reWired! Leave a rating & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen Share this episode with someone who might find it helpful Become a to help us keep creating great content! 🚀 Join ADHD reWired’s Coaching & Accountability Groups! Our Spring 2025 Coaching Groups are coming up soon! April 24 - June 19 Registration Events: March 27 & April 2 Learn more & sign up: 🖥 Adult Study Hall - ADHD reWired's Virtual Co-working community.   New Zen Tangle and Journal with me sessions on Sundays at 8:30am PT / 11:30am ET 🎧 Don’t Miss the Next Episode! Subscribe & follow so you never miss an episode of ADHD reWired!  

In this episode of ADHD reWired, Eric Tivers welcomes Chris Hooten, a LinkedIn Top Facilitation Voice and certified neuro-mindfulness coach. With over 15 years of experience, Chris specializes in helping neurodiverse organizations foster inclusive communication, leadership, and workplace strategies. Eric begins the episode with a personal update, sharing his ongoing journey of overcoming burnout and a recent formal autism evaluation. He also highlights his interviews on Chasing Life with Dr. Sanjay Gupta and Entrepreneur on Fire, as well as the pressing need for advocacy in the face of recent policy changes that threaten diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The core discussion revolves around communication challenges in neurodivergent teams and how traditional workplace structures often fail to accommodate neurodiverse employees. Chris introduces the 4D Model of Neuroinclusive Communication—a framework designed to improve communication by making it more descriptive, deliberate, direct, and diverse. They discuss common workplace miscommunication issues, the pitfalls of platforms like Slack for neurodivergent individuals, and how managers can foster psychological safety. Chris also explores the systemic barriers that impact neurodivergent and marginalized individuals in professional spaces. They emphasize shifting away from medicalized, deficit-based narratives about neurodiversity and adopting an intersectional, affirming approach that values lived experiences. Eric and Chris conclude by reflecting on the evolving nature of work, the need for workplace wellness, and how neurodivergent individuals are often the first to recognize unsustainable work environments. Chris shares insights on fostering genuine inclusion rather than performative DEI efforts and provides strategies for improving workplace culture. 🔗 Find Chris Hooten: | LinkedIn | Instagram 💡 Resources & Announcements: Pre-registration is now open for the ADHD reWired Coaching & Accountability Groups. Secure your spot at . Spring Sessions April 24 - June 19th. Join Adult Study Hall for virtual co-working and upcoming Zentangle workshops at . Support the show on Patreon at . 🎧 Listen Now! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast app! Contact Chris at  ADHD reWired's Coaching and Accountability Groups: Adult Study Hall: Eric on the Chasing Life Podcast -  Eric on Entrepuner on Fire 5 Calls      

In this episode of ADHD reWired, I’m pulling back the curtain on two intertwined journeys: my own path toward sustainability and the incredible growth story of Jessica, an alumna of our ADHD Coaching and Accountability Groups. As I’ve navigated my own challenges with burnout and the pressures of juggling too much, I’ve made a commitment this year to focus on what matters most. My word for the year—sustainability—has reshaped how I approach my work, my energy, and even this podcast. Jessica’s story adds another layer of depth to this episode. After feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and disconnected while pursuing her PhD, Jessica joined our fall coaching group. Through her deeply personal and reflective audio journal, she shares how the program helped her build sustainable systems, reconnect with her goals, and find the motivation to tackle her work and her life with renewed energy. From discovering the power of accountability teams to replacing old habits with more supportive ones, Jessica’s transformation offers hope and inspiration for anyone seeking to live more intentionally with ADHD. This season, we’ve made changes to our coaching program to better support ADHDers like you. Now 8 weeks instead of 10, the program is more focused and accessible. We’ve also introduced on-demand access to our yearly planning sessions, allowing you to go at your own pace. These adjustments reflect the principle that less is truly more when it comes to creating meaningful and lasting growth. The final registration events for our Winter Coaching and Accountability Groups are Wednesday and Thursday of this week, so now is the time to take the next step. If you’re ready to stop juggling fireballs and start building a more sustainable, ADHD-friendly life, visit to pre-register today. Tune in to hear Jessica’s story, learn more about what makes our coaching groups so transformative, and find inspiration to start your own growth journey. Together, let’s challenge internalized ableism and reimagine what it means to thrive with ADHD.

Eric Tivers continues to reflect on his journey of overcoming burnout and seeking solutions for long-term sustainable energy management. ADHD at 80 MPH is a nod to the last episode recorded in the car about 9 years ago. Episode 47 called . Recording from his car during a road trip, Eric shares his experiences of taking a solo retreat to recharge and refocus and to think about yearly planning. He discusses his efforts to rebalance his work and personal needs, and some insights he's recently gained. The episode also touches on his continued discovery of being autistic alongside having ADHD and how it's shaping his approach to life and business.  Eric also announces the opening of registration for winter coaching and accountability groups, reflecting on the value of community and structured support for ADHD individuals. The episode concludes with hearing from some recent coaching group alumi and with logistical details about upcoming coaching sessions and community events. 1:07 Winter Coaching and Accountability Groups 01:30 Road Trip Reflections 03:47 Burnout and Sustainability 15:45 Coaching Group Success Stories 22:02 Upcoming Events and Announcements 25:36 Conclusion and Farewell Registration for our winter groups starts Jan. 3, 2025.  Winter sessions are January 30 - March 27. Add your name to our interest list at It's not to late to do your yearly planning with ADHD reWired in . Our 5-part yearly planning series is available on demand for Adult Study Hall Members. Join today. It's only $19.99 a month, or save with an annual membership for only $150 for the year.  You can also support this work on *Note - There will be no Monthly Patreon Coaching Call, or Pomodoro Dance Party for Adult Study Hall Members in December. But we'll be back in January.