ADHD-ish

ADHD fundamentally impacts executive function—the mental skills for planning, prioritizing, delegating, and following through. So, when an entrepreneur hires a VA and is expected to onboard, direct, and give detailed instructions, they’re faced with a mismatch: the very skills they struggle with are those they now must use to instruct their assistant.Traditional VAs, trained to “do what they’re told,” end up sitting idle, waiting for direction, while the entrepreneur is paralyzed by indecision and shame. The result? Money is wasted, little is accomplished, and increased frustration, making it even harder to try again.What if support could be different? What if, instead of looking for a “unicorn” VA who can do everything, ADHD entrepreneurs sought out “distant assistants”—human lifelines who specialize in executive functioning, regulated communication, and operationalized thinking?Today’s guest is Avigail (Avy) Schondorf, fellow ADHD entrepreneur, podcaster, and owner of the Alisto agency that trains and outsources distant assistants who understand what neurodivergent business owners really need.This conversation is full of insights, humor, cringeworthy moments, and a new paradigm for shame-free support.Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone considering hiring support:A “bad” solution is not worse than no solution. Many ADHD entrepreneurs avoid help out of fear that it won’t work, but that only fuels more shame and wasted energy.Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment or system. The real tipping point isn’t having more work—it’s being ready to ask for what you need, without shame.Stop looking for unicorns—lean into teams. Expecting one assistant to do everything sets everyone up for failure. Specialized support means you (and your VA) can play to your strengths.If “doing it all myself” isn’t scalable OR sustainable, maybe it’s time to delegate differently—and embrace asking for help as a sign of strength.About today’s guest, Avigail (Avy) Schondorf:Avigail (Avy) Schondorf is a social worker turned entrepreneur who built two companies around the way her brain actually works.She's the founder of Alisto Virtual Workforce, a team of Distant Assistants who specialize in supporting neurodivergent entrepreneurs — and AvyHD, her strategy and thought leadership brand where she gets real about ADHD, delegation, and building a business without burning out.When she's not running her team or hosting the AvyHD Podcast, she's lifting weights, reading, or wrangling two very energetic daughters.Connect with Avy: WebsiteAVYHD podcastLinkedIn Mentioned during this episode:Avigail’s Octopus promptJamie from Bottleneck Distant Assistant My interview on Avi’s podcast, “Consistency, the Other C Word for ADHD Entrepreneurs”Your ADHD-ish™ host, Diann Wingert Diann Wingert brings decades of experience as a psychotherapist and serial business owner and is now a sought-after coach to entrepreneurs with ADHD traits. Her style is direct, strategic, and always honest—peppered with the insight of someone who lives and breathes the neurodivergent experience.Diann is a fierce advocate for self-acceptance and meaningful growth at the intersection of neurodivergence and entrepreneurship. She is the creator of the ADHD-ish Method and host of the top-rated ADHD-ish podcast.Links:Follow / Subscribe to ADHD-ish so you don’t miss an episodeReady to work with an ADHD-informed business strategist and coach? Visit my website. © 2026 ADHD-ish™ Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops / Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

Welcome back to ADHD-ish! In this episode, my guest Ian Wilson, a creative agency owner of over 16 years, is what I call a natural-born entrepreneur. From hustling for his first job at age eleven to building a unique partnership with his neurodivergent business partner Eric, Ian sheds light on why traditional approaches to team building rarely work for people whose brains are wired a bit differently.We’ll hear how Ian and Eric’s complementary neurotypes—ADHD and autism - have enabled them to build a successful agency grounded in autonomy, mastery, and ownership. Ian shares lessons learned on building a team of “hurricane chasers,” hiring for attitude over experience, and why the bold move of unapologetically charging what you’re worth doesn’t just benefit the business—it creates a thriving company culture.Whether you’re a founder who is churning and burning team members or a solopreneur anticipating that first hire, this episode is packed with practical advice, refreshing honesty, and plenty of laughs about what happens when you fully embrace the ADHD-ish way of doing business.Three key takeaways:Self-awareness and self-acceptance matter more than “best practices.” Knowing what you’re brilliant at—and what you hate—makes it so much easier to build a business (and find team members) that complement your strengths and support your growth.Hire for traits, not just skills. Ian’s team isn’t made up of “perfect resumes” but of entrepreneurial thinkers who enjoy solving problems and don’t need to be micromanaged. Find the ones who vibe with your approach and love challenging themselves to figure things out.Be bold about your value. Ian & Eric tell prospects: “We’re probably the most expensive quote you’ll get—and here’s why.” Setting unapologetic boundaries not only draws the right clients but also creates a culture of excellence and transparency.Mic Drop Moment:Ian & Eric deliberately hire people who crave these three things, no matter their resume. Their neurodivergent advantage? Investing in traits, not credentials.Autonomy: Freedom to do things your way.Mastery: The drive to get better and own your craft.Ownership: Feeling like your contributions actually matter.About today’s guest, Ian Wilson:Ian is the Co-Founder and Creative Director of buildcreate, a full-service B2B marketing agency for manufacturing, technology, engineering, and industrial clients in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Home-schooled and entrepreneurial from childhood, Ian discovered his ADHD as an adult. He and his business partner, Eric Lynch, who is autistic, have discovered that their secret sauce as neurodivergent leaders is to hire smart people and let them work to their strengths.Connect with Ian: LinkedIn- Company Website - Email Your ADHD-ish host, Diann Wingert Diann Wingert brings decades of experience as a psychotherapist and serial business owner and is now a sought-after coach to entrepreneurs with ADHD traits. Diann is a fierce advocate for self-acceptance and meaningful growth at the intersection of neurodivergence and entrepreneurship. She is the creator of the ADHD-ish Method and host of the top-rated ADHD-ish podcast.Mentioned during this episode:Ep # 303: Which Company Culture is Your ADHD Brain Building?Links:Follow / Subscribe to ADHD-ish so you don’t miss an episodeKnow another entrepreneur with ADHD who thinks there is only one way to build a team - the neurotypical way? Share this episode.Ready to work with an ADHD-informed business strategist and coach? Visit my website. © 2026 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops/ Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

Too often, those of us with ADHD (and, honestly, just about anyone striving for success) fall into the “check the box and move on” mentality, downplaying our achievements and racing toward the next goal. Sound familiar? In this episode, host Diann Wingert and returning guest Risa Williams, LMFT, challenge listeners to radically rethink what counts as a win. What if making a sandwich, sending a tough email, or—even better—taking a moment for self-care, can be celebrated as much as those big, flashy milestones? If you’ve ever felt like your wins don’t "count," or you’re stuck on the productivity treadmill, this episode is your sign to embrace a kinder, more sustainable approach.3 key takeaways from our conversation:Redefine Productivity: Success isn’t just about big goals—it’s about acknowledging every step, even the small ones. Practicing this daily fosters confidence and decreases imposter syndrome and chronic dissatisfaction.Combat Dismissiveness: Many of us grew up being dismissed or dismissing ourselves. Start catching that dismissive inner voice. Replace it with gentle validation—give yourself credit the way you’d celebrate a friend’s progress.Track and Celebrate Progress: Write down 3–5 tiny accomplishments every day. Over time, this simple act retrains your brain to notice and remember your efforts, fueling motivation and staving off burnout.Mic Drop Moment:Many high achievers with ADHD also battle imposter syndrome. Why? Because they literally cannot remember the many incremental steps it took to get results. If you don’t witness your own progress, you can’t internalize your success. The result: even evidence-based accomplishments don’t “count,” fueling the endless treadmill of “not good enough.” About Risa Williams, LMFTRisa Williams is a licensed therapist, a time management expert, and an award-winning book author of six self-help books. She's also the host of The Motivation Mindset Podcast (Apple, Spotify). Risa has been featured as an expert in Forbes Magazine, Wondermind, Wired, Bustle, Psychology Today, and Business Insider. She's also a busy mom of two and a university professor. Connect with Risa: Website - Instagram - Motivation Mindset Podcast Ready to put it into practice?Ultimately, reframing tiny wins is an act of reclaiming joy and validation from a world conditioned to withhold or diminish them. The results are worth it—greater momentum, resilience, and happiness. So, what tiny win will you celebrate today?Risa Williams’ Tiny Wins Journal - Tiny Wins digital mini-course Rick Hanson’s Book Buddha’s Brain If You Take Just One StepThe act of writing down tiny wins and then reviewing them is what rewires the narrative in your brain. Do it out of skepticism, if that works. Gamify it, make it defiant, or treat it as an experiment. And because we know accountability makes it real, DM me on LinkedIn, email me, or leave a voice message on my website. Your ADHD-ish host, Diann Wingert Diann Wingert has decades of experience as a psychotherapist and serial business owner, and is now a sought-after coach to entrepreneurs with ADHD traits. Her style is direct, strategic, and always honest—peppered with the insight of someone who lives and breathes the ADHD experience. Sharing is Caring Know a fellow business owner who is on the productivity dreadmill, always moving on to the next project without celebrating their success? They might need this wake-up call, too, so be a pal and share the episode. Here is a link to make it easy. © 2026 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops / Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

In this vulnerable and eye-opening conversation, ADHD-ish host Diann Wingert sits down with fellow ADHD coach, Brooke Schnittman, to explore the lasting impact of bullying for those of us with ADHD, drawing from her own lived experience and groundbreaking research. One of the most surprising insights? While bullying trends downward in the general population as we age, it barely drops for those with ADHD, showing up in new and often subtle forms throughout adulthood. What starts as name-calling and exclusion on the playground can morph into chronic criticism, micromanagement, gaslighting, and professional exclusion in adulthood. This constant “othering” can erode confidence and reinforce masking, people-pleasing, and overachievement as survival strategies.Here are 4 key takeaways for anyone navigating ADHD (or supporting neurodivergent folks):What makes it bullying? Repetitive pattern - Power imbalance - Harm Bullying rarely ends with childhood: For adults with ADHD, bullying simply morphs. Physical teasing and exclusion may become workplace micromanagement, social exclusion, and subtle undermining.The harm goes beyond “hurt feelings.” Chronic criticism and exclusion keep the brain’s stress system on high alert, triggering anxiety, imposter syndrome, burnout, and even making executive dysfunction worse.Self-acceptance + community are critical. When we name bullying for what it is and seek out supportive communities, we can start to untangle shame and build resilience. As Brooke notes: “We were never too much. We were exactly who we were meant to be, just waiting for a world that could understand us.”About Brooke Schnittman, MA, PCC, BCC:Brooke Schnittman is an ADHD coach, educator, and advocate for adults with ADHD. With years of working directly with individuals and families, she noticed an alarming pattern: bullying is not only common in the lives of people with ADHD but is also a neglected topic in ADHD research and support. Brooke’s recent pioneering survey on adult ADHD and bullying—the first of its kind—has started an essential conversation about the legacy of bullying, how it changes form over time, and how those affected can heal and thriveConnect with Brooke: Website: https://www.coachingwithbrooke.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithbrooke/Free e-book:https://www.coachingwithbrooke.com/ebookParticipate in the survey on ADHD & bullying: https://bit.ly/4stMllMMentioned during this interview:Ned Hallowell, MDWilliam Dodson, MDTake action: Participate in Brooke’s survey on ADHD & Bullying: https://bit.ly/4stMllMYour ADHD-ish host, Diann Wingert Diann Wingert brings decades of experience as a psychotherapist and serial business owner, and is now a sought-after coach to entrepreneurs with ADHD traits. Her style is direct, strategic, and always honest—peppered with the insight of someone who lives and breathes the neurodivergent experience. If conversations like this one are one of the reasons you keep coming back to ADHD-ish, the best way to let me know is to leave a review on Apple or Spotify. Here’s the link to make it happen.© 2026 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops / Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

If you’ve ever felt weighed down by burnout or the urge to abandon it all and start fresh, you’re not alone.In this lively conversation, serial entrepreneur Megan Eckman shares her delightfully candid journey of starting, scaling, hibernating, and moving on from multiple businesses, offering honest lessons you won’t find in most business books.We talk about Megan’s recent ADHD diagnosis, the three distinct ways she’s learned to transition in business, the emotional toll and freedom of letting go, and how curiosity and self-awareness have kept her evolving as both a creator and entrepreneur.Why You’ll Love It:Megan walks us through the three ways she’s learned to pivot and the circumstances that led to each one, allowing her to follow her curiosity and pursue her creative impulses, without risking her well-being or financial stability:Test & Build - Learning to listen to your customers, running small experiments, and transitioning into new opportunitiesJump Without a Parachute: The Hard Stop Pivot - When a dramatic, not-so-planned exit from a thriving business is the way to save your sanity —and what it really takes to walk away.The Hibernate & Resuscitate Pivot - Sometimes the best move isn’t quitting cold turkey, but putting a project “in the freezer” while you work on your next big idea.Three key takeaways:Pivoting isn’t failure—it’s evolution. Whether you’re testing and building, taking a bold leap, or putting a project into hibernation, each pivot can be a strategic step toward growth and alignment. (Diann said it perfectly: “You can burn out on your own success just as easily. Maybe even easier.”)Curiosity is your greatest asset. Megan Eckman reveals how following her curiosity—not just passion or profit—helped her create unique offers and build true superfans, even when the work didn’t “look” like her dream on paper.Burnout prevention requires boundaries and self-awareness. Recognize when you’ve hit your scale ceiling—or when you’re simply not excited anymore. It’s okay to say “enough,” recalibrate, and design your next chapter intentionally, not reactively.Mic Drop Moment:“It was basically a ‘hold my beer, I’ll go build that business for you.’ To be fair, they did wait a month.” Megan EckmanAbout today’s guest, Megan EckmanMegan Eckman is a serial entrepreneur who constantly finds new ways to delight her audiences, from fantastical pen-and-ink illustrations to bold embroidery kits to fantasy rom-coms.For 14 years, she ran an embroidery kit business, managing revenue streams from wholesale, retail, and subscriptions. She's a published author and now also a podcast co-host for a show all about networking.When she’s not working, she’s likely out on one of her bicycles exploring new routes in the woods. She lives in Vancouver, WA, with her husband and tri-color cat. Megan was diagnosed with ADHD in her 30s.Connect with Megan: Fat Cap Design PDX SpellboundThe Awkward Handshake podcast LinkedIn Email Your ADHD-ish host, Diann Wingert Diann Wingert brings decades of experience as a psychotherapist and serial business owner and is now a sought-after coach to entrepreneurs with ADHD traits. Her style is direct, strategic, and always honest—peppered with the insight of someone who lives and breathes the neurodivergent experience.Known for her candor and her refusal to compromise on what matters, Diann Wingert is a fierce advocate for self-acceptance and meaningful growth at the intersection of neurodivergence and entrepreneurship.Mentioned during this interview:EtsyColonial Patterns Lisa Congdon Simple suggestions for preparing for your next potential pivot:1) Assess emotional, financial, and market conditions regularly.2) Define your personal “red flags” for burnout and your criteria for build and grow, hard stop and hibernate, and resuscitate pivots3) Inventory current and planned activities, noting which are energizing versus draining.4) Keep communication open with your clients/community during hibernation phases. You never know who might want to be a part of whatever you do next.If this episode saved you from burnout (or burning your business down…), now would be a perfect time for that 5-star rating and review you keep meaning to leave. Here’s the link to make it happen. Be sure to mention what you loved about the episode or the show in general.© 2026 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops / Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

Welcome to another episode of ADHD-ish! In today’s conversation, Diann Wingert, host and therapist-turned-business strategist, sits down with longtime ADHD coach and thought leader Jeff Copper to explore his groundbreaking new approach: “Cognitive Ergonomics from the Inside Out.” Together, they dive into the roots of executive function challenges, drawing on insights from Dr. Russell Barkley, and discuss why traditional ADHD advice doesn’t always translate to real-world results.Jeff Copper explains the concept of “cognitive illiteracy” and shares how his attention scope experiences can help make the invisible struggles of ADHD tangible. You’ll hear practical strategies—like the power of direct, oral conversations in problem-solving—and fresh perspectives on mindfulness for busy brains.Why You’ll Love ItWhether you’re newly diagnosed, deep in your ADHD self-awareness journey, or have “tried all the things,” this episode invites you to see your challenges—and strengths—through a radically new, pragmatic lens. If you geek out on intellectual curiosity and want to see what’s “under the hood,” check out Jeff Cooper’s Cognitive Ergonomics resources (link below).What you’ll learn: Cognitive Ergonomics, Explained: No engineering degree required—Jeff Copper breaks down this powerful new way to understand how your brain REALLY operates.The Concept of “Cognitive Illiteracy”: What does it mean to be cognitively illiterate? Why is it not as negative as it sounds? Spoiler: it’s about discovering things you couldn’t see before!Experiencing Attention Scope: Learn how using your non-dominant hand during everyday tasks can help you feel executive function challenges—and practice self-awareness.Mindfulness, Reimagined: Forget trying to get your mind to go blank—get practical tips for being present in the now (and why that matters for your productivity and focus).Fun Fact from the Episode:If you’ve ever solved a problem just by voicing it to someone (or even sending a voice note!), you’re already practicing cognitive ergonomics. In fact, Jeff Copper says some folks can process and solve their own issues simply by “downloading” a problem out loud—even if nobody responds! About today’s guest, Jeff Copper Jeff Copper is a cognitive engineer, thought leader, and ADHD coach. He is the founder of DIG Coaching, Attention Talk Radio, and Attention Talk Video, and holds professional designations from ICF and PAAC and certifications from ADD Coach Academy and Coaches Training Institute. Jeff developed Cognitive Ergonomics From the Inside Out®, a radical departure from the current ADHD intervention paradigm. In recognition of his contributions, he received the ACO's 2022 Professional Excellence Award. Jeff continues to innovate in attention coaching, helping individuals understand and manage their ADHD challenges.Connect with Jeff: DIG Coaching Practice - Attention Talk Radio Podcast - LinkedIn - Email Cognitive Ergonomics From the Inside Out Your ADHD-ish host, Diann Wingert Diann Wingert brings decades of experience as a psychotherapist and is now a sought-after coach to entrepreneurs with ADHD traits. Her style is direct, strategic, and always honest—peppered with the insight of someone who lives and breathes the neurodivergent experience. Known for her candor and her refusal to compromise on what matters, Diann Wingert is a fierce advocate for self-acceptance and meaningful growth at the intersection of neurodivergence and entrepreneurship. Mentioned during this interview:Russell A Barkley, PhD - Dr. Charles Parker - The Four Tendencies - John Maxwell Now what? If this episode got you thinking in a new way about your ADHD, now would be a perfect time to leave that 5-star rating and review you keep meaning to leave. Here’s the link to make it happen. Thank you! And, if you are connected with Jeff Copper, or are going to start now, be sure to reach out and let him know your thoughts on cognitive ergonomics: jeff@digcoaching.com © 2026 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops / Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

Joy isn’t a luxury, it’s a strategy: As ADHD-ish host, Diann Wingert, and today’s guest, Dr. Alexis Hope, agree—joy needs to be intentionally built into our routines and workspaces.Rather than waiting for motivation, seek and design pockets of joy to unlock creativity and productivity. Social connection is powerful dopamine:For Alexis Hope, sharing small wins, positive feedback, and a sense of community at Focus Space transforms even mundane tasks into meaningful, motivating experiences.According to the philosopher, Spinoza, joy has “sharp edges”: Joy isn’t about ignoring challenges or “just being happy.” As Alexis Hope shares, it’s about cultivating the capacity to act—and can coexist with struggle. Even during tough times, intentionally seeking joy helps us stay engaged and resilient.Whether you identify as neurodivergent or just want more purpose in your day-to-day, this conversation is a must-listen. Bring more joy into your work—your brain (and business) will thank you.You’ll discover:Why joy isn’t optional for neurodivergent/neurospicy brainsNeuroscience behind task initiation and real talk about dopamineSmart practices for remote work, creative teams, and fighting burnoutPermission to collect ideas, objects, and “joy units”—no shame, just inspirationWhy “play” isn’t just for kids and how adult creativity is more essential than everGet ready to shake off the “just be happy” platitudes and find out what it really takes to keep your momentum and your mood up—especially when the work gets hard.About Our Guest Alexis Hope, PhD, is a designer, musician, and organizer whose work focuses on creating playful experiences that help people find joy, self-compassion, and connection with others.She received her PhD at the MIT Media Lab in 2021. As a designer, she has worked on projects across a variety of domains, including cameras for deep-sea exploration, creative learning technologies for children, artistic tools for zero-gravity environments in orbit, low-cost ultrasound machines for prenatal care in areas with limited resources, and more.Alexis is co-founder and head of product at Focused Space, a technology company that provides the building blocks for a productive and fulfilling day, helping people cut through the noise and accomplish their goals through the power of “body doubling.” Connect with Alexis Hope, PhD - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexishopeg/About the Host Diann Wingert brings decades of experience as a psychotherapist and now a sought-after coach to entrepreneurs with ADHD traits. Known for her candor and her refusal to compromise on what matters, Diann Wingert is a fierce advocate for self-acceptance and meaningful growth at the intersection of neurodivergence and entrepreneurship.Mentioned during this interview:Spinoza’s philosophy on happiness vs joy: https://joyfulmilitancy.com/2017/10/20/happiness-is-bullshit/Focused Space: Body Doubling with CommunityDiscord: group chat platform Trash Club Seattle Ep #293: Why Entrepreneurial ADHD Traits Don’t Always Mean You Should Start a Business If you struggle to get things done on your own but thrive with the accountability and social support of a community, Use the ADHD-ish affiliate link for a free trial and a discount on the regular membership of Focused Space. Your membership includes sessions throughout the day for productivity, planning, and deep work, with an app to track and celebrate your progress.© 2026 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops / Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

Welcome to a milestone episode of ADHD-ish! In episode 300, host Diann Wingert invites listeners into a raw, unfiltered conversation about the realities of entrepreneurship with ADHD.Rather than a feel-good celebration, this episode delivers the hard truths that other neurodivergent entrepreneurs need to hear—no sugar-coating, no apologies, just authentic wisdom earned through real-world experience.If you’re ready for tangible insight (and a few uncomfortable truths), this is your episode.Here are the 3 Hard Truths Every Entrepreneur with ADHD Needs to Hear:Your self-doubt isn’t wisdom—it’s unaddressed trauma.That overthinking, need for certainty, and analysis paralysis? It’s not you being “strategic”—it’s the residue of years spent feeling “not enough.” The real challenge is rebuilding self-trust so you can act boldly, even if you’re terrified of being wrong.There’s no magic pill or “perfect” system.Stop believing the next planner, project management tool, or “ADHD-friendly” hack will make entrepreneurship comfortable. Success means tolerating discomfort, not shopping for something to eliminate it.ADHD is not your get-out-of-jail-free card.Acceptance isn’t hiding behind your diagnosis—it's doing the tough, creative work to adapt and grow. “I have ADHD, so I need to figure out how to do this differently” is where real progress begins.Zero F*cks Given:To “fulfilling my potential” (an ever-moving target designed to keep you feeling not enough).To being “too niched” (connection and impact mean more than pleasing the masses).to ADHD diagnosis gatekeeping (if this content helps and you see yourself here, you belong).What I WON’T apologize for:Being unmasked and openly ADHD.Holding ADHD coaches to real standards.Being selective about coaching clients (it’s about the right fit—not the right paycheck).The bottom line? Consistency doesn’t come from trying to “fix” yourself—it comes from radical self-acceptance, messy action, and getting honest about what really stops you.If you’ve been waiting for the “right” moment, the perfect plan, or permission, the only way to get clarity is to take action.About the HostDiann Wingert brings decades of experience as a psychotherapist and now a sought-after coach to entrepreneurs with ADHD traits. Her style is direct, strategic, and always honest—peppered with the insight of someone who lives and breathes the neurodivergent experience.Known for her candor and her refusal to compromise on what matters, Diann Wingert is a fierce advocate for self-acceptance and meaningful growth at the intersection of neurodivergence and entrepreneurship.If this episode inspired or challenged you, Diann wants to hear about it! Links to several ways to let her know are right here: Leave a review and let Diann know what resonated, challenged, or inspired you.Send Diann an email, DM her on LInkedIn or leave a voice message on her website. Diann responds personally to everyone.© 2026 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops / Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

Welcome back to ADHD-ish! In this episode, host Diann Wingert sits down with marketing strategist, copywriting expert, and podcaster Erin Ollila.This convo is all about pop-up offers—and how adding a dose of novelty can transform your business. Inspired by her own ADHD-driven creativity, Erin shares the thought process behind developing two unique, time-limited offers just before a major launch.What sets these pop-ups apart? They’re quick, strategic, easy to implement, and build on skills and systems Erin already uses in her daily work.Together, Diann and Erin unpack the benefits and pitfalls of pop-up offers, the importance of strategy, and why a well-designed “quick win” can boost both business and client satisfaction.You’ll hear how Erin’s ADHD-fueled ability to make rapid decisions, build connections, and see opportunity in white space on her calendar led her to a set of mini-offers that serve both her capacity and her clients’ need for immediate results.If you’ve ever felt stuck between launching new programs or just want to shake things up in your offer suite, this episode is gold.Here’s what you’ll learn from this episode:What the heck is a pop-up offer? Erin breaks down how these limited-time, ultra-focused offers work—and why they’re not just a glorified sale.Why pop-up offers are a dream for ADHD entrepreneurs. Ever feel compelled to act on a spark of creativity? Learn how to channel that energy in ways that actually make sense, earn money, AND feel fulfilling.The strategy behind a successful offer It’s not just about the excitement; Erin is all about blending impulsivity with real business strategy so your pop-ups support your bigger vision.How to create quick wins for your clients (and for YOU!) Discover ways to design services that give instant gratification and long-term results—yes, even for things like SEO and content strategy.What to do when things don’t go as planned Real talk: Erin and Diann discuss what happens when nobody buys right away and how to adapt without losing your momentum.About our Guest:Erin Ollila is a content strategist & conversion copywriter with 15+ years helping brands and publications connect through strategic content. She’s the founder of EO Copy Co., the host of the “Talk Copy to Me” podcast, and a fellow entrepreneur with ADHD.Connect with Erin:Website - LinkedIn - InstagramWas this episode THE ONE that is prompting you to leave a 5-Star rating and review? Do it! Here’s the link for Apple or Spotify: https://lovethepodcast.com/adhd-ishAlready left your review and want to share a comment on Spotify? I’d love to hear from you and respond personally to every one!© 2026 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops / Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

Welcome to another episode of ADHD-ish!Today, host Diann Wingert is joined by psychologist and viral TikTok creator Dr. Dante for a raw, insightful look at the "Neurodivergent Edge"—how ADHD traits transform not just personal relationships but entrepreneurial success.In this conversation, Dr. Dante shares the story behind his celebrated term "neuro baddies," celebrating the honesty, intensity, and creativity that neurodivergent women bring to the table.Together, Diann & Dante explore why society’s negative perceptions of ADHD traits miss the mark, how trauma bonds form, and how rejection sensitivity and perfectionism can be reframed as superpowers in both love and business.You’ll hear candid stories, hard-hitting truths about justice sensitivity, and practical wisdom on breaking free from toxic relationships—plus, a message for neurodivergent women struggling with self-acceptance.If you’ve ever wondered how your different way of thinking can be your biggest asset, this episode will inspire you to name it, claim it, and embrace the title of“neuro baddie” proudly.What’s Inside This Episode?Here are 5 keys you’ll learn in today’s convo:The Origin of "Neurobaddies": How a spontaneous ADHD thought in the grocery store parking lot became a viral, empowering movement for neurodivergent women.Why Neurodivergent Women Make Amazing Partners: Honesty, hyperfocus, and genuineness—discover why these traits are actually super attractive (not quirks to hide!).The Narcissist Trap: Neurodivergent traits can make women more vulnerable to toxic relationships, but knowing the signs gives you real power to protect yourself.Entrepreneurial Superpowers: How “all-in” energy, justice sensitivity, and relentless action drive success in business (yep, your ADHD traits are an asset!).Healing Starts With Self-Trust: Why learning to trust yourself is the real game-changer, despite years of negative feedback.Guest Bio:Dante Assad Williams, PsyD (Dr Dante) is a Minneapolis-based psychologist, adjunct professor, entrepreneur, and social media influencer who highlights the unique strengths of neurodivergent women in relationships and in business.With lived experience as a neurodivergent (ADHD) man, and a viral TikTok following built on his unapologetic appreciation for "neuro baddies," Dr. Dante brings authenticity, deep understanding, and hope to every conversation about mental health, relationships, and business. His body of work is centered on neurodivergence, trauma, and holistic masculinity.Connect with Dr Dante: TikTok - Instagram - 5 Keys to Know if You’re a Neurobaddie Fun Fact from the Episode:Dr. Dante named “neurobaddies” on a whim in a 10-second TikTok video? He didn’t expect it to go viral—but now, it’s a movement with merch on the way! (Yes, T-shirts are coming!)Is it time to build more balance and sustainability into your business? I have two openings for one-on-one coaching engagements, starting this month. The first step is scheduling a free consultation where we talk about your goals and see if we are a good fit. Click here to book yours now. And, don’t forget to leave a comment on Spotify (I personally respond to every one) or leave a review so more ADHD-ish business owners can find THE podcast full of real talk and real solutions for neurobaddie business brains.© 2026 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops / Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

What This Episode Is AboutIf your brain generates ideas faster than you can execute them, this conversation will make you feel seen. Sarah runs five businesses and has developed a systematic approach to managing what I call the "burden of creativity"—that relentless flow of inspiration that can fuel or derail you, depending on how you work with it.This isn't about picking one lane or shutting down your creative engine. It's about building frameworks that let you honor your ideas without drowning in them.Who This Episode Is ForFounders juggling multiple business ideas or revenue streamsCreatives who struggle with follow-through despite abundant inspirationConsultants and coaches who feel scattered across too many offersAnyone who's been shamed for having "too many interests."Serial entrepreneurs who want to build interconnected businesses without burning outThe Big IdeaHaving an ADHD brain means you're wired for abundant creativity. The challenge isn't generating ideas—it's knowing which ones deserve your energy and how to move them from concept to completion without burning out or abandoning ship halfway through.Sarah's approach: treat your ideas like they matter, but give them structure so they don't hijack your focus.What to Listen For The Reality of Being a Creative PolymathFor many ADHD entrepreneurs, being interested in multiple things isn't a distraction —it's how they’re built. Sarah explains why being a polymath is actually an advantage in today's business landscape, as long as you set boundaries around what gets your attention.The "Catching Butterflies" System: Capture, Connect, Structure, Iterate, Express, ReflectSarah walks through her six-stage process for managing creative output. It starts with capturing every idea without judgment, then moves through connecting related concepts, building structure around the keepers, iterating on them, expressing them in the world, and reflecting on what worked. Simple in concept, powerful in practice.Using AI as Your Digital Thought PartnerBoth Sarah and I use AI tools (ChatGPT, Claude) to externalize our thinking. Instead of letting ideas swirl in our heads, we dump them into our AI assistants to help us organize, connect dots, and build project folders. It's like having a patient colleague who never gets tired of your tangents.The 3D Jenga Model for Interconnected ProjectsRather than treating each business or project as a standalone tower that could topple, Sarah visualizes her work as a 3D Jenga structure. Each piece supports the others. When one idea doesn't work out, the whole thing doesn't collapse—the remaining pieces actually get stronger.Energy Management Over Time ManagementReflection isn't self-indulgence—it's how you build a feedback loop that keeps you moving forward. Regular check-ins about how you feel, what your vision is, and whether your projects still serve that vision help you stay aligned instead of spinning your wheels.Why This MattersIf you've ever been told you're "too much," or felt guilty about having too many interests, this episode offers permission to work with your brain, instead of trying to conform to any norms. You'll walk away with practical strategies for managing creative chaos and the confidence that being a polymath entrepreneur isn't a problem to fix—it's a creative operating system that needs the right infrastructure.Connect With Our Guest, Sarah Dowd Sarah Dowd is a cultural strategist and creative entrepreneur with 25+ years of experience transforming heritage and culture into immersive, inclusive experiences and developing cultural organizations. She is the founder of The Tricolor Collective – a £1m-turnover agency behind pioneering initiatives such as the UK’s first social-impact heritage disposals program– as well as Les Raconteurs and Heritage, Culture & Crafts for All. Navigating a late ADHD diagnosis, Sarah champions neurodiverse leadership, proving that creativity, joy, and disruption are powerful tools for lasting change. Sarah’s Substack on Chasing Butterflies: https://substack.com/inbox/post/177719859?r=pzapf&utm_medium=ios&triedRedirect=trueSarah’s website - Podcast - Instagram - LinkedIn "I believe the key to happiness is someone to love, something to do, and something to look forward to."-Elvis PresleyHow do YOU capture your creative ideas and see them through to the finish line? I’d love to hear from you! Share your comment on this episode on Spotify DM me on LinkedInLeave a voice message on my SpeakPipe © 2025 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops / Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

Diagnosed recently with both ADHD and autism,  Cat Orsini’s candid storytelling takes us on a journey from feeling like an outsider to building a thriving business based on authentic relationships, automation with heart, and radical self-acceptance. In this interview, Cat reveals her unique approach to business—one that centers curiosity, genuine connection, and meeting people where they are (with a little tech magic to make life easier and more fun). You’ll hear not just the triumphs, but also the complex, sometimes messy moments of “unmasking” and designing a business that fits your actual brain and values, not someone else’s idea of success.Episode Highlights:Strategic Relationship Marketing vs. AutomationCat breaks down why automation and relationship-building aren’t mutually exclusive—and how smart systems can let neurodivergent business owners focus on authentic, meaningful connections.Attract, Don’t ChaseMove over “hustle culture.” Cat and Diann discuss how building genuine relationships and letting people self-select nurtures business without the creepiness or pressure of hard selling.Neurodivergent Thriving in BusinessHow Cat’s ADHD and autism traits fuel her ability to notice patterns, create unique solutions, and support her clients in efficiently reaching their goals.Automating the Human TouchLearn how emails, follow-ups, and event workflows can be automated, freeing up energy for one-on-one connections with those who are ready for deeper engagement.Ethical Reciprocity & Non-Bro MarketingCat outlines how heart-centered reciprocity builds lasting relationships and why neurotypical tactics often miss the mark for neurodivergent individuals.Meet our Guest: Cat OrsiniCat Orsini has an MBA, is a master-certified coach, an entrepreneur, and co-author of the book "Experts Never Chase." She specializes in relationship marketing, strategic conversations, and building automated systems that allow her—and her clients—to focus on human connection over busywork. Through radical acceptance of her neurodivergence and trauma history, Cat has crafted a career and life that honors her strengths and refuses to squeeze herself into a neurotypical mold. Links & Resources:Connect with Cat on LinkedInLearn more about Cat Orsini and her workThe Book Cat Co-Authored  - Experts Never ChaseKnow someone who identifies with ADHD + Autism (officially diagnosed or not…)? Think this episode would inspire them? Here is the link to share it with them, in the most comfy way possible: https://bit.ly/episode-blog-292 © 2025 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops  / Outro music by Vladimir /  Bobi Music / All rights reserved.

In this episode, I’m sitting down with my good friend, business strategist, consultant and author, Jessica Lackey, for a candid conversation about what it really takes to build a sustainable business—especially when you have an ADHD-ish brain. Jessica shares her journey from Harvard, McKinsey, and Nike to the wild world of entrepreneurship, revealing how even with such impressive credentials, she found herself trapped in the endless loop of online business tactics, quick fixes, and shiny promises.Drawing on her upcoming book, Leaving the Casino: Stop Betting on Tactics, and Start Building a Business That Works, Jessica explains why so many of us end up gambling away our sanity (and savings) on the latest tactics, instead of building actual strategies that work for our lives and brains. Get ready for frameworks, real talk about defining your own version of success, and practical advice on bringing more intentionality and enoughness into your business (and life). It’s time to leave the casino behind—and reclaim your agency.Top Takeaways from this Episode:Start with Strategy, Not Tactics: The endless cycle of purchasing the latest digital course or marketing hack often leads to overwhelm, wasted resources, and lost confidence. Sustainable businesses are built on strategy and thoughtful decision-making, not reactive, one-size-fits-all tactics.Ask Yourself the Big Questions: Before chasing the next big thing, get clarity on key fundamentals:What type of business do you really want to run?What stage are you in?What is the right pace and amount for your life and brain?What level of responsibility and commitment matches your reality?What does “enough” look like for you? These questions ground your business in reality instead of fantasy.Don’t Compare Your Solo Journey to the Big Players: The polished marketers often have large teams and structures flattening out the chaos. If you’re a team of one (especially with an ADHD-ish brain), your output and path will—and should—look different.There’s power in slowing down, cutting through the noise, and building a business that fits you—not a casino of empty promises.About Jessica Lackey Jessica Lackey is the founder of Deeper Foundations, a consulting and training firm that helps expertise-based business owners grow and scale sustainable companies rooted in stronger business foundations. She brings a unique blend of corporate expertise and soulful business building, drawing on an MBA from Harvard Business School, a coaching certification from iPEC, and experience at McKinsey & Company and Nike, Inc. Jessica has supported over 200 entrepreneurs through her programs, blending systems thinking, operational rigor, and deep values alignment. She lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her husband.Jessica can be reached at https://deeperfoundations.com/Buy the book, or get a free chapter: Leaving the Casino by Jessica Lackey Mentioned during this episode:Digital Course Academy - Amy Porterfield Gary V - Gary Vaynerchuk Codie SanchezRobin Wall Kimmerer’s book, Braiding Sweetgrass Elizabeth Gilbert’s book Big Magic Want to share this episode with a friend who's still in the entrepreneurial casino? https://bit.ly/episode-blog-290  © 2025 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops  / Outro music by Vladimir /  Bobi Music / All rights reserved.