Learn to Thrive with ADHD Podcast

Mande John
  • 4.7 (3)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to the Learn to Thrive with ADHD Podcast. This is the show for you if you’re an adult with ADHD or ADHD-like symptoms and you need help. Do you feel like your symptoms are holding you back from reaching your full potential? Are you frustrated, unmotivated and overwhelmed?    Many people aren’t aware that ADHD coaching is even an option. Perhaps you are newly diagnosed, or not diagnosed, but you check all the boxes and you’re finding it difficult to cope in certain areas of your life. Host, Mande John and ADHD coach, is here to help. Each week, you’ll get solutions and practical advice to navigate ADHD symptoms and live a productive life.   On the podcast, you’ll hear from coaches and clients who share real-world applications, tools, and resources that you can apply to your own life. We can be creatives, entrepreneurs, or multi-passionate people, and not know how to organize our ideas, or even how to take action on them. With Mande John as your guide in the area of ADHD coaching, she’ll show you how to transform your life when you apply the tools to help you be more focused, less overwhelmed, and be a person that commits and stays the course. Are you ready for a life-changing experience? Let’s go!  

  1. DEC 4

    Ep 113: Risk-Taker, Entrepreneur, Bodybuilder: John Brink on Living Without Limits

    Are you stuck believing that ADHD is a limitation rather than a superpower? John A. Brink, an 85-year-old entrepreneur, author, and competitive bodybuilder, joins us to share how discovering ADHD at 57 completely transformed his understanding of himself - and his life. In this episode, we discuss: How undiagnosed ADHD became the hidden ingredient to business success (and why 75% of highly successful entrepreneurs may have ADHD)The pivotal discovery of Dr. Hallowell's work in 1997 and why knowing who you are changes everythingWhy failing grade 7 three times was actually a gift—and how to reframe academic struggles as interest problems, not intelligence problemsThe transformative power of Toastmasters in overcoming communication anxiety and building confidenceHow to manage multiple business ventures and interests without feeling scattered (the secret is systems and structures)The critical connection between health, fitness, and mental stimulation for thriving at any ageWhy authenticity in content creation attracts a global community of 2-2.5 million viewers John shares his remarkable story of arriving in Canada with just $25.47 and no job, building a lumber empire from the ground up, and discovering at 62 that he had ADHD all along. We dive deep into how his ADHD brain actually enabled his entrepreneurial risk-taking, his ability to juggle multiple business "silos," and his passion for continuous learning and growth. John also reveals how he became North America's oldest competitive bodybuilder and why he'll never retire. About Our Guest: John A. Brink is a Canadian entrepreneur, author, and media personality who has built multiple successful businesses including Canada's largest secondary lumber manufacturer. Diagnosed with ADHD at 62, John is passionate about removing stigma and helping others recognize ADHD as a superpower. He's published five books on business, ADHD, communication, and personal development, hosts his own podcast. At 85, John continues to compete in bodybuilding, speak at schools about WWII and resilience, and mentor the next generation of ADHD entrepreneurs. Connect with John A. Brink: Website: johnаbrink.com On The Brink Podcast: Available on all major platforms Books: Available on Amazon & Audible (Against All Odds, ADHD Unlocked, Finding Your Passion Living the Dream, Living Young Dying Old, Billion Dollar Communication Skills) Key Takeaway: ADHD isn't something to overcome—it's a superpower to unlock. Your struggles in traditional settings don't define your potential; they're simply clues that you're wired for something bigger. Ready to unlock YOUR ADHD superpower? Book a free coaching consultation with Coach Mande at Learn to Thrive with ADHD.com/services #ADHD #ADHDPodcast #Neurodiversity #Entrepreneurship #ADHDSuperpowers #MentalHealth #PersonalDevelopment #LearnToThrive #CoachingPodcast Click here for full show notes Send us a text CLICK HERE for more resources. We're on this journey together!

    46 min

  2. NOV 14

    EP 112: ADHD Time Management - Stop, Drop & Plan Your Day

    Learn the Stop, Drop & Plan system - Mande's proven ADHD time management method for managing overwhelm, prioritizing tasks, and reducing the "pinball effect" of bouncing between work. The ADHD Overwhelm Problem When you have ADHD, managing multiple responsibilities creates the "pinball effect" - bouncing from task to task without completion. You start on one thing, notice another urgent item, switch to that, notice something else... and suddenly you're overwhelmed and haven't finished anything. Mande discovered the real issue wasn't the number of tasks - it was that she hadn't planned her day. The Stop, Drop & Plan Framework STOP — Notice when you're bouncing between tasks DROP — Get everything onto a Now/Not Now list PLAN — Identify what actually has to happen today The Now/Not Now List: Task Prioritization Made Simple The Now/Not Now list is a two-column system that separates: Today's tasks (yellow highlighter)Tomorrow's tasks (orange highlighter)Everything else ("Not Now")When Mande used this system, she discovered a crucial insight: Her brain said: hundreds of urgent tasks Reality: 6 things actually needed to happen This clarity reduces overwhelm and activates task completion. How This ADHD Time Management System Works 🔹 Google Calendar — Time-block appointments, routines, and task work. Estimate time for each task. 🔹 Physical Planner — Disc planner system for monthly overview of recurring tasks and appointments. 🔹 Now/Not Now List — Two-column categorization (business/personal, today/tomorrow/not now) 🔹 Metallic Sharpie Marking — Mark completed tasks visibly so you can track progress 🔹 Planning Time Limit — Set 10-minute timer to avoid planning without doing Why This Works for ADHD Brains Externalizes task load (gets it out of your head)Creates visual clarity on prioritiesReduces decision fatigueManages anxiety through realistic task countThe Planning Dopamine Trap Planning triggers dopamine, but be careful: spending hours on a perfect plan means no energy left for execution. The solution: plan for 10 minutes, then take action. When Tasks Get Transferred If a task gets transferred to your list 4+ times, it's on the wrong list. It's probably not actually important to you. Resources Mentioned 📋 Disc Planner System (also: Martha Stewart, Happy Planner) 📋 Now/Not Now template from Natalie Rebecca Designs 🎯 Google Calendar ⏰ Visual timer ✏️ Metallic Sharpie Related Episodes 👂 Episode 34: ADHD Coaching Strategies with Stephanie McEwan  Send us a text CLICK HERE for more resources. We're on this journey together!

    16 min

  3. NOV 6

    Ep 111: ADHD Paralysis - Why You Freeze and How to Get Moving Again

    The 5-Minute ADHD Unfreeze Guide: Stop Staring and Start Moving Ever find yourself frozen—knowing exactly what to do, but unable to start? That’s ADHD paralysis. It’s not laziness or lack of willpower—it’s your brain protecting you from overload. In this episode, Coach Mande John breaks down why it happens and gives you the tools to break free fast. You’ll learn the 4 hidden triggers behind ADHD paralysis and discover how to reset your brain, calm your body, and take one small step forward. 💡 IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL DISCOVER: • The real reasons behind ADHD paralysis (and why it’s not your fault) • 4 common triggers: information overload, perfectionism, low dopamine, and stress/fatigue • Body-based reset techniques that instantly get your brain moving again • Micro-actions that make any task startable • Supportive self-talk and 5–10 minute timer tricks to bypass perfectionism • How to build your personal “When I’m frozen, I will…” action plan 🎁 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your 5-Minute ADHD Unfreeze Guide → www.learntothrivewithadhd.com/unfreeze Remember: You don’t need more motivation—you need a calmer brain and one small action. Every bit of movement counts. ✨ TAKE ACTION: 📝 Download the free Unfreeze Guide 🎤 Leave a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/learntothrivewithadhd 📧 Book a free ADHD coaching consultation: www.learntothrivewithadhd.com/services ⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little momentum today Keywords: ADHD paralysis, ADHD motivation, ADHD coaching, executive dysfunction, ADHD productivity, ADHD overwhelm, ADHD brain freeze, adult ADHD, ADHD support, ADHD reset, ADHD momentum, Learn to Thrive with ADHD, Mande John Click here for full show notes Send us a text CLICK HERE for more resources. We're on this journey together!

    7 min

  4. OCT 31

    Ep 110: ADHD Self Coaching E.A.S.Y. Framework

    The E.A.S.Y. ADHD Self-Coaching Framework: Your 4-Step Path from Stuck to Unstuck Feeling stuck in the same ADHD patterns? Tired of spinning your wheels? In this game-changing episode, Coach Mande John reveals the exact ADHD self-coaching framework she uses with her private clients - now available to you for FREE. This simple yet powerful E.A.S.Y. framework helps you: • Stop guessing and start moving forward • Build self-awareness without judgment  • Create systems that actually work for your ADHD brain • Take imperfect action and build real momentum THE E.A.S.Y. FRAMEWORK BREAKDOWN: E - EVALUATE: Rate yourself across 20 key ADHD areas (time management, organization, emotional regulation, and more) using a simple 1-10 scale A - AWARENESS: Identify the thoughts and beliefs keeping you stuck vs. helping you thrive S - SYSTEMS & SKILLS: Build personalized routines and practice learnable skills like planning and prioritizing Y - YOU SHOW UP: Make one specific commitment and keep coming back (even when it's messy!) In this episode, you'll discover: • Why most ADHD advice doesn't stick (and what actually works) • The power of rating without judging yourself • How to catch unhelpful thought patterns before they derail you • Simple questions to ask when you feel overwhelmed • Why recommitting after getting off track isn't failure - it's growth • The accountability secret that builds self-trust Plus, hear a heartwarming listener voicemail about how these strategies are already changing lives! 🎁 FREE WORKBOOK: Download your step-by-step E.A.S.Y. Framework Workbook at www.learntothrivewithadhd.com/easy Remember: You're not stuck. You're just one decision away from momentum. TAKE ACTION: 📝 Grab the free workbook 🎤 Leave a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/learntothrivewithadhd 📧 Book a free ADHD coaching consultation: learntothrivewithadhd.com/services ⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs it Keywords: ADHD coaching, ADHD self-help, executive dysfunction, ADHD strategies, adult ADHD, ADHD framework, time management ADHD, ADHD organization, emotional regulation ADHD, ADHD productivity Click here for full show notes Send us a text CLICK HERE for more resources. We're on this journey together!

    8 min

  5. OCT 16

    Ep 109: ADHD Nutrition Secrets with Catherine McClory - Protein, Brain Fog & Essential Supplements

    Send us a voice message at speakpipe.com/learntothrivewithadhd Are you struggling with 3pm crashes, brain fog, or ADHD symptoms that seem worse at certain times of the month? Catherine McClory, a Registered Nutritional Therapist diagnosed with ADHD at 35, joins us to share game-changing nutrition strategies that transformed her life and those of her clients. In this episode, we discuss: Why 25-30g of protein at every meal is crucial for dopamine productionThe hidden link between iron deficiency and brain fog (especially in women)How your menstrual cycle impacts ADHD symptoms and executive functionThe top 4 supplements for ADHD: B-complex, Magnesium Bisglycinate, Lion's Mane, and Omega-3sSimple meal strategies to maintain steady energy and focus throughout the dayWhy addressing your nervous system comes before nutrition changesCatherine shares practical tips like what 30g of protein actually looks like on your plate, why your 2-egg breakfast isn't enough, and how to properly supplement for optimal brain function. We also dive into the fascinating connection between hormones and executive function throughout the monthly cycle. About Our Guest: Catherine McClory is a Registered Nutritional Therapist specializing in women's health and ADHD nutrition. She helps women navigate their cycles using personalized nutrition and lifestyle medicine, with particular expertise in PMS, PMDD, PCOS, and endometriosis. Connect with Catherine:  Website: naturalcyclesnutrition.co.uk  Instagram: @naturalcyclesnutrition  YouTube: @CathNutritionalTherapist Key Takeaway: Your ADHD brain needs specific nutritional support, and small changes can lead to significant improvements in focus, energy, and overall functioning. Click here for full show notes Send us a text CLICK HERE for more resources. We're on this journey together!

    37 min

  6. OCT 10

    Ep 108: Why Consistency Is Unfair with ADHD (And What to Do Instead)

    Send us a voice message at speakpipe.com/learntothrivewithadhd Stop beating yourself up for being "inconsistent." Your ADHD brain wasn't built for it-and that's okay. Consistency is the most oversold advice out there, and it's crushing people with ADHD. In this episode, we're replacing impossible standards with strategies that actually work for your brain. In This Episode: Why consistency is an unfair expectation for ADHD brainsHow ADHD brains run on dopamine and novelty—not steady motivationThe Minimum/Maximum Method for avoiding all-or-nothing thinkingWhat "baby quitting" is (and why it's not actually failing)How to track your progress when your brain lies to youReframing failure as feedback that helps you growThe Bottom Line: Inconsistency isn't a personality flaw—it's part of how you're wired. The goal isn't perfection; it's trying again in a way that works for YOU. Every time you quit and restart, you're getting better. Consistency isn't about never quitting—it's about what you do after. Where can you show up one more time today, even if you've quit before? 💌 Found this helpful? Share it with someone who needs to hear this message. ⭐ Leave a rating or review—it helps more people like us find the podcast! 🎧 New episodes every week on Learn to Thrive with ADHD. Click here for full show notes Send us a text CLICK HERE for more resources. We're on this journey together!

    8 min

  7. OCT 2

    Ep 107: Stop Earning Rest - Why Rest Isn't Optional With ADHD

    Send us a voice message at speakpipe.com/learntothrivewithadhd 🛑 If you're waiting until everything is done before you rest, you'll never rest. And that's why so many ADHD adults run on empty. This episode is about why self-care, balance, and rest are not luxuries—they're the foundation that lets everything else work. IN THIS EPISODE: ✨ Why rest isn't a reward—it's maintenance (like changing your car's oil) ✨ The mindset shift that changed how I approach my days ✨ How I structure my priorities now: main intentions (ME first!) → nice to have → help others (yes, at the bottom now) ✨ Why taking gym breaks mid-workday improved my productivity (not harmed it!) ✨ What ADHD experts say about rest:  Rest looks different for everyone (Claire Edelson) It's a biological necessity, not something you earn How to structure breaks with time blindness (Pomodoro Technique) Why sleep is medicine for ADHD brains How movement = rejuvenation (Dr. Ratey's Spark) The power of body doubling for rest✨ The science behind rest:  Why "doing nothing" is brain maintenance How 90-minute walks in nature reset your brain Why reading is the most restful activity (The Rest Test) The vacation study that proves rest isn't optional✨ Real examples: From Scott Adams to Winston Churchill to Hemingway—how rest fueled their success THE BIG TRUTH: Rest is not the opposite of productivity. Rest is what makes productivity possible. ✅ You can't fuel a car without parking it at the pump. And we're the same. We have to slow down—or even stop—if we want to get refueled. YOUR REFLECTION: Where do you need to put yourself back on your own list?What's ONE small way you can practice rest this week?Because if you don't intentionally take time for yourself, you will fall to the wayside. Connect with me: Leave a voice message with your questions, challenges, or wins at speakpipe.com/learntothrivewithADHD Click here for full show notes Send us a text CLICK HERE for more resources. We're on this journey together!

    8 min

  8. SEP 25

    Ep 106: Practical Tools to Reclaim Your Self-Esteem with ADHD

    Send us a voice message at speakpipe.com/learntothrivewithadhd Do you constantly feel like you're not measuring up? Like no matter how hard you try, it's never enough? If you have ADHD, chances are you've felt the sting of low self-esteem – that persistent sense that you're somehow broken or flawed. But here's the truth: low self-esteem isn't part of your personality. It's a story you've been told about yourself. And if you have ADHD, that story has probably been wrong your whole life. In this episode, we dive deep into the connection between ADHD and self-esteem, exploring why adults with ADHD consistently report lower self-esteem than the general population – and more importantly, what you can actually do about it. What You'll Learn: Why being undiagnosed can actually hurt your self-esteem more than being diagnosedHow your diagnosis can be the key to rebuilding self-esteem (not a limitation)The difference between guilt ("I did something bad") and shame ("I am bad")Why the "shame cycle" keeps so many ADHD adults stuckThe incredible strengths that come with ADHD (that you're probably ignoring)Practical Tools You Can Use Today: Cognitive reframing: The "Or I could be thinking..." technique that works in under 60 secondsIdentity shifting: "I'm learning to become a person who..."Self-compassion practices that actually increase your energyRadical acceptance techniquesAction-based self-esteem building strategiesPersonal Stories: I share my own journey of carrying shame about my education until my ADHD diagnosis at 42, plus real client breakthroughs that show how changing your self-worth story changes everything. The Big Shift: You don't have to fix your ADHD before you can feel good about yourself. It actually works the other way around. The more compassion you give yourself, the more energy and clarity you have to manage your ADHD. Your brain may not always behave the way you want, but it has so many beautiful strengths. What's the story you've been telling about who you are? And what's another story that's also true, but better? Connect with me: Leave a voice message with your questions, challenges, or wins at speakpipe.com/learntothrivewithADHD Remember: You're not broken. You're just telling yourself the wrong story. Click here for full show notes Send us a text CLICK HERE for more resources. We're on this journey together!

    8 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Learn to Thrive with ADHD Podcast. This is the show for you if you’re an adult with ADHD or ADHD-like symptoms and you need help. Do you feel like your symptoms are holding you back from reaching your full potential? Are you frustrated, unmotivated and overwhelmed?    Many people aren’t aware that ADHD coaching is even an option. Perhaps you are newly diagnosed, or not diagnosed, but you check all the boxes and you’re finding it difficult to cope in certain areas of your life. Host, Mande John and ADHD coach, is here to help. Each week, you’ll get solutions and practical advice to navigate ADHD symptoms and live a productive life.   On the podcast, you’ll hear from coaches and clients who share real-world applications, tools, and resources that you can apply to your own life. We can be creatives, entrepreneurs, or multi-passionate people, and not know how to organize our ideas, or even how to take action on them. With Mande John as your guide in the area of ADHD coaching, she’ll show you how to transform your life when you apply the tools to help you be more focused, less overwhelmed, and be a person that commits and stays the course. Are you ready for a life-changing experience? Let’s go!  

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