Why Simple Tasks Feel Impossible: Executive Functioning Explained with Dr. Leslee Marcom

Why Simple Tasks Feel Impossible: Executive Functioning Explained with Dr. Leslee Marcom

From Mental Note by Mental Note

January 27, 2026 · 30 min

About this episode

This episode explores executive functioning and its impact on daily life, featuring insights and strategies from psychologist Dr. Leslee Marcom.

If you've ever stared at a simple task and felt an unexplainable, heavy resistance… you are definitely not alone - and you are not broken! With the help of psychologist and clinical director Leslee Marcom, we'll unpack the topic of executive functioning and why struggles with organization, time management, procrastination, and task initiation are not signs of laziness or lack of motivation. Our conversation explores what executive functioning is, how it affects daily life, and why challenges are common not only in ADHD but also in anxiety, depression, learning differences, chronic stress, and burnout. Dr. Marcom shares practical, evidence-based strategies to improve focus and follow-through. This episode is especially helpful for adults with executive functioning challenges, parents and educators supporting kids with ADHD, and anyone looking for realistic tools and compassionate insight into how the brain works. Links Mental Note Podcast www.mentalnotepodcast.com Dr. Dan Siegel's Upstairs/Downstairs Brain - A simple video overview Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support…

People in this episode

Host: Mental Note

Guest: Dr. Leslee Marcom

Topics covered

  • executive functioning
  • ADHD
  • mental health
  • task initiation
  • procrastination
  • organization
  • anxiety

Keywords

  • executive functioning
  • ADHD
  • mental health
  • task management
  • procrastination
  • anxiety
  • depression

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center, Eating Recovery Center

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