"You Are A Lot" (an ADHD/AuDHD podcast)

In this Jen Chat I talk about the origin of the term "Asperger's Syndrome" and why it's no longer used. The short answer: Nazis. I'm reading a book about Hans Asperger, the Austrian pediatrician who worked with the Nazis but claimed not to be one of them. To this day the idea of how "functioning" an autistic person is seems to be deeply and darkly rooted in only what their value to the workforce is - and not their value as a human being. Get 20% off of the book "Asperger's Children: The Origins Of Autism In Nazi Vienna" using my unique link to Bookshop dot org - a great website that buys from indie booksellers and helps them stay in business. SHOW NOTES: Use my unique link for 20% off books at Bookshop dot org. A great resource if you don't have an indie bookstore near you - and want your books mailed to you fast. Check out my lists of recommended mental health reading: Jen's Recommended ADHD Friendly Mental Health Books Jen's Recommended books/memoirs about ADHD Jen's Recommended books/memoirs about Audhd/Autism Jen's Recommended therapy books about love/relationship issues

EPISODE INFO: This week's episode is Patreon only but you can listen to it if you are one of the first 50 people to CLAIM YOUR FREE ONE MONTH to the Tier #2 of the "You Are A Lot" Podcast Patreon. Click here to claim! Patreon Only Episode 39: "Skeptical of Scams & Cults?" In this episode: In response to last week's episode about reasons why ADHD/AuDHD Humans sometimes have a bigger chance of being drawn into cults, MLM's and other sketchy setups - there is an equal and opposite argument that people with ADHD/AuDHD are actually MORE EQUIPPED to spot scams and avoid getting sucked into cults and sketchy situations. SHOW NOTES: Click here to claim your ONE FREE MONTH of Tier #2 Patreon Membership. Here is what you get with a Tier #2 Membership: ☕️AD-FREE EPISODES ☕️EARLY RELEASE ON SUNDAYS ****(Before the public release of on Mondays) ☕️IMAGE & CAPTION VIDEO VERSIONS OF EVERY EPISODE (for those who like to read along and look at things as they listen) ☕️MONTHLY PATREON ONLY BONUS EPISODE (with image & caption & transcript) ☕️DOWNLOADABLE PDF TRANSCRIPT OF EVERY EPISODE (edited by Jen, not AI so they're easy to read and all research highlighted - print them out and make your own ADHD book!) ☕️QUOTE GRAPHICS with ADHD facts (colorful, factual, downloadable and easy to share on your social media) ☕️ PRIVATE CHAT COMMUNITY with other neurodivergent members of this podcast Patreon

In this episode: Did you know that ADHD/AuDHD Humans have a bigger chance of being drawn into cults, MLM's and other sketchy setups? I explain why we are targets (hint: our impulsivity, need for community and outsider feelings) and talk about how to spot red flags. SHOW NOTES: For bonus episodes, transcripts, captioned videos, AMA's with Jen, a private chat community and more - go GET A LOT in the "You Are a LOT" podcast Patreon community. Start with a 7-day-free-trial at any level, and when you join take 15% off if you subscribe annually. CLAIM YOUR FREE 7 DAY TRIAL Hugimals 15% Off LInk Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an ADHD/AuDHD Podcast) webpage Subscribe to the "This Is A Lot" Newsletter Jen's Recommended Mental Health Books at 20% Off Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Telehealth Company Accused Of Fraud Psychology Today: Phishing Email Fraud: The Search For Predictors Of Susceptibility Social Media Overwhelmed With Scams Media Matters: Tik Tok Enables Predatory ADHD Ads The Root Counseling: Multi-level Marketing Schemes Does ADHD Create Vulnerability To High Control Groups?

In this episode: Jen breaks down the ins and outs of PDA; Pathological Demand Avoidance or Pervasive Drive for Autonomy. She chats about why even the simplest requests can feel like too much and how people with PDA handle those constant demands. Jen looks at the behaviors, challenges, and some ways to work on keeping a sense of autonomy even when triggered. SHOW NOTES: For bonus episodes, transcripts, captioned videos, live online events with Jen, a private chat community and more - go GET A LOT in the "You Are a LOT" podcast Patreon community. Start with a 7-day-free-trial at any level, and when you join take 15% off if you subscribe annually. CLAIM YOUR FREE 7 DAY TRIAL Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an ADHD/AuDHD Podcast) webpage Subscribe to the "This Is A Lot" Newsletter Buy a "You Are A Lot" Podcast Mug Buy a "You Are A Lot" Podcast Sticker Buy an "I Am A Lot" Tote Bag Shop Jen's Amazon Storefront for ADHD supplies! Shop Jen's Digital Download Guides For ADHD Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Defining Symptoms of PDA from PDA Society The discovery of PDA from Psychology Today Changing The Name To Pervasive Drive For Autonomy Dr. Megan Anna Neff on PDA vs. Neurodivergent Traits Causes of PDA on Neurosparkhealth website PDA in Adults from Psychology Today PDA Coping Strategies from PDA Society

In this episode: Jen answers a question from a listener regarding medication for ADHD. Jen gives researched information about what to discuss with your doctor such as; things to consider when doing trial and error with ADHD medication, the different types of medication available and what they do, how meds interact with various life situations, and why it's a more complex issue than a podcast is equipped to solve but luckily - Jen can give a LOT of sourced facts in one place that helps everyone know what they should be talking about with their prescriber. SHOW NOTES: For bonus episodes, transcripts, captioned videos, live online events with Jen, a private chat community, and more - go GET A LOT in the "You Are a LOT" podcast Patreon community. Start with a 7-day free trial at any level, and when you join take 15% off if you subscribe annually. 7 Day Free Patreon Trial Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Subscribe to the "This Is A Lot" Newsletter Shop Jen's Digital Download Guides For ADHD Shop Jen's Amazon Storefront for ADHD supplies! Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an ADHD/AuDHD Podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: "You Are A Lot" Podcast Episode 14: ADHD & Estrogen ADHD Medication: ADDitude Magazine ADHD Medication Quick Facts: ChADD Organization

In this episode: Jen talks about the other side of masking which is unmasking! She explains how we can safely and consciously choose to un-mask, the risks for some of unmasking, and how we may find ourselves unconsciously unmasking as people around us say things like, "You're acting more ADHD/Autistic ever since your diagnosis." But it's not an act. It's our authentic selves coming through. SHOW NOTES: For bonus episodes, transcripts, captioned videos, live online events with Jen, a private chat community and more - go GET A LOT in the "You Are a LOT" podcast Patreon community. Start with a 7-day-free-trial at any level, and when you join take 15% off if you subscribe annually. CLAIM YOUR FREE 7 DAY TRIAL Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an ADHD/AuDHD Podcast) webpage Subscribe to the "This Is A Lot" Newsletter Buy a "You Are A Lot" Podcast Mug Buy a "You Are A Lot" Podcast Sticker Buy an "I Am A Lot" Tote Bag Shop Jen's Amazon Storefront for ADHD supplies! Shop Jen's Digital Download Guides For ADHD Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: What ADHD Masking Looks Like ADHD Masking: Does Hiding Your Symptoms Help Or Harm? Masking Is Life 7 Masks We Use To Hide Our Faults Why ADHD Masking Is A Form of Self-Sabotage Why Un-Masking In ADHD Can Help Us Unmasking As A Black Neurodivergent Employee

In this episode: Jen talks about the exhausting art of masking with ADHD and/or AuDHD. She explores why so many of us feel the need to mask (both consciously and unconsciously), what the very real consequences of masking are and when it benefits those of us with ADHD. SHOW NOTES: For bonus episodes, transcripts, captioned videos, live online events with Jen, a private chat community and more - go GET A LOT in the "You Are a LOT" podcast Patreon community. Start with a 7-day-free-trial at any level, and when you join take 15% off if you subscribe annually. CLAIM YOUR FREE 7 DAY TRIAL Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an ADHD/AuDHD Podcast) webpage Subscribe to the "This Is A Lot" Newsletter Buy a "You Are A Lot" Podcast Mug Buy a "You Are A Lot" Podcast Sticker Buy an "I Am A Lot" Tote Bag Shop Jen's Amazon Storefront for ADHD supplies! Shop Jen's Digital Download Guides For ADHD Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: What ADHD Masking Looks Like ADHD Masking: Does Hiding Your Symptoms Help Or Harm? Masking Is Life 7 Masks We Use To Hide Our Faults Why ADHD Masking Is A Form of Self-Sabotage Why Un-Masking In ADHD Can Help Us Unmasking As A Black Neurodivergent Employee

In this episode: Did you know that people with ADHD/AuDHD are vulnerable to ending up in toxic relationships (of all kinds)? You are not broken and neither is your "picker". There is science behind this. It's due to our issues with communication, impulsivity, low self-esteem, and that old need for dopamine! This episode may make you feel sane and help your confusion as to how you got here - especially if you don't have any "big T" trauma in your upbringing. SHOW NOTES: For bonus episodes, transcripts, captioned videos, live online events with Jen, a private chat community and more - go GET A LOT in the "You Are a LOT" podcast Patreon community. Start with a 7-day-free-trial at any level, and when you join take 15% off if you subscribe annually. 7 Day Free Patreon Trial Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Subscribe to the "This Is A Lot" Newsletter Shop Jen's Digital Download Guides For ADHD Shop Jen's Amazon Storefront for ADHD supplies! Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an ADHD/AuDHD Podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: The Gaslighting Risk For Adults With ADHD Gaslighting: Recognize Manipulative And Emotionally Abusive People Why Do Toxic Relationships Swallow People With ADHD? Autistic People Might Be More Susceptible To Abusive Romantic Relationships Alexithymia & Manipulation

In this episode: Jen explores the concept of Justice Sensitivity in people with ADHD and AuDHD. She explains why fairness and injustice can feel so intense for neurodivergent individuals and how these strong reactions shape everyday experiences and influence relationships, work, and personal well-being. SHOW NOTES: For bonus episodes, transcripts, captioned videos, live online events with Jen, a private chat community and more - go GET A LOT in the "You Are a LOT" podcast Patreon community. Start with a 7-day-free-trial at any level, and when you join take 15% off if you subscribe annually. CLAIM YOUR FREE 7 DAY TRIAL Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an ADHD/AuDHD Podcast) webpage Subscribe to the "This Is A Lot" Newsletter Shop Jen's Amazon Storefront for ADHD supplies! Shop Jen's Digital Download Guides For ADHD Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: The Fairness Imperative: Edge Foundation Why ADHD Brains Can't Ignore Unfairness: ADDitude Magazine Doomscrolling, ADHD & Justice Sensitivity: ADDept website Do People With ADHD Feel Injustice More? Focus UK Justice Sensitivity, Navigating Emotions & Actions: Focus Bear Paradoxical Career Strengths in ADHD Adults: Emerald Insight ADHD & An Unusual Sense Of Fairness: Untapped Brilliance Justice Sensitivity Plagues ADHD/AuDHD Individuals: Very Well Mind

In episode 31: Jen talks about the very real psychological issue of feeling like an imposter despite our accomplishments. While this can happen to neurotypicals as well, especially in a career context, ADHD humans walk around feeling this way consistently. We can feel like a secret failure at just LIFE itself, and since having ADHD erodes self-trust, we also feel like imposters if we don't seem "ADHD or AuDHD enough". - For exclusive podcast bonus episodes, transcripts, and more, join the You Are A Lot podcast at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on TikTok SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: A Neuroscientific Exploration of Self-Doubt and Success How to Counteract Imposter Syndrome Overcoming Imposter Syndrome with ADHD All About Imposter Syndrome Overcoming Imposter Syndrome The 3 C's Model For Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

In this episode: Jen talks about how ADHD humans can withdraw from friendships due to our "out of sight, out of mind" brains despite loving our friends and gives advice on how we can maintain our friendships. For exclusive podcast bonus episodes, transcripts, and more, join the You Are A Lot podcast at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $6.99 a month and 15% off if you pay annually. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: The Buddy System ADHD, Women & Emotional Withdrawal The ADHD Friendship Paradox ADHD "Out of Sight Out of Mind" Object Permanence

In this episode: Jen talks about the pros and cons of hyperfocus. Pro: In a hyperfocus we are working at our optimal ability. Con: Too much hyperfocus and we're neglecting our basic needs and the needs of people in our lives. Also, Jen talks about why she thinks that "flow" and "hyperfocus" are two different states of being. For exclusive podcast bonus episodes, transcripts, and more, join the You Are A Lot podcast at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $6.99 a month and 15% off if you pay annually. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Recovering From Hyperfocus Burnout (article) The Good, The Bad, The Ugly of Hyperfocus (article) Hyperfocus In Adults: Dr. Ned Hallowell Flow State VS. Hyperfocus (article)

This week: Jen talks about how being an ADHD Human comes with a lot of misunderstandings, from neurotypicals not understanding that ADHD traits aren't moral failings, to not being able to understand ourselves after being labeled as "lazy" or "rude" for so long, and how ADHD itself is misunderstood even by the people who have this neuro-developmental disorder. For exclusive podcast bonus episodes, transcripts, and more, join the You Are A Lot podcast Patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $6.99 a month and 15% off if you pay annually. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! SHOW NOTES: Has ADHD Warped Your Sense Of Self? - ADDitude Magazine What Adult ADHD Feels Like - Psychology Today Communication Hacks For ADHD - WebMD SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Has ADHD Warped Your Sense Of Self? - ADDitude Magazine What Adult ADHD Feels Like - Psychology Today Communication Hacks For ADHD - WebMD

In this episode: Jen talks about the concept that ADHD Humans have an "Interest Based Nervous System" as opposed to Neurotypicals who have an "Importance Based Nervous System." Basically, ADHD Humans are not motivated by the fact that they know that something is important to them or someone else, but they are motivated by their interest in a project or task, the novelty of it all, whether it's a challenge or creates a competitive feeling and a sense of urgency. ADHD Humans have to figure out their own road map for their brains when they have to make something interesting that they're not interested in. For exclusive podcast bonus episodes, transcripts, and more, join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $6.99 a month and 15% off if you pay annually. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: The ADHD Manual Secrets of the ADHD Brain - ADDitude Magazine ADHD Motivation Problems - ADDitude Magazine A Simple Framework To Hack Your Productivity - Medcircle

In this episode: Jen answers a listener's email about a philosophical crisis of self. Is our personality, our interests, our attitudes and sense of self just ADHD? How can we tell the difference? For exclusive podcast bonus episodes, transcripts, a chat community and more, join the You Are A Lot podcast on Patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $6.99 a month and 15% off if you pay annually. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen

In this episode: Jen answers two listener emails about how to stop with the negative self-talk after failing to complete tasks and feeling overwhelmed, and how (and if) to tell a new boss that you have Rejection Sensitivity and might need future feedback to be more gentle. Listen to "YOU ARE A LOT" (an adhd podcast) FREE on any podcast app. For bonus content join the podcast Patreon at $6.99 a month or 15% off annually. You can start with a 7-day-free-trial today! CLICK TO JOIN PATREON - http://patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at [email protected] Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Newly diagnosed with ADHD? Subscribe free to ADDitude Magazine online.

In this episode: Jen talks about the word "procrastivity" and why ADHD humans love to do every task other than what they set out to work on. And the problem of not even being able to get started due to what's known as "front end perfectionism" where the entire day goes by and we've spent it preparing to do our tasks or work - not by actually preparing anything related, but by "organizing" our space, and "getting ready to get ready. There will be some helpful tips in this episode about how to actually begin your project without procrastivity or perfectionism. Listen to "YOU ARE A LOT" (an adhd podcast) FREE on any podcast app. For bonus content join the podcast Patreon at $6.99 a month. You can start with a 7-day-free-trial today! If you sign up for one year you get 15% off. CLICK TO JOIN PATREON - http://patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: PROCRASTINATION QUIZ - ADDitude Magazine OUTSMART PROCRASTINATION & IMPROVE PRODUCTIVITY - You Tube 18 WAYS NOT TO PROCRASTINATE - Article on Healthline

In this episode: Jen talks about how after just assuming that the "right" thing to do for ADHD is keeping her phone in FOCUS mode, leaving all notifications and alerts off - that she realized living that way is more overwhelming than allowing bleeps, bloops and on-screen banners to remind her of what she needs to get done. Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen

In this episode: Jen talks about why ADHD people procrastinate (hint: the usual answers - lack of executive function and an impulsive need for dopamine) and how we must accept that we will continue to procrastinate, otherwise we'll live in a constant fantasy loop that tomorrow will be the day that I'm a person who doesn't procrastinate! Once we accept that we will procrastinate, we can then start to make changes in how we get things done, and how we decide what we really actually want to get done. For bonus content join the podcast Patreon at $6.99 a month. You can start with a 7-day-free-trial today! If you sign up for one year you get 15% off. CLICK TO JOIN PATREON Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: The Relationship b/w ADHD & Procrastination (article) Very Well Mind website Procrastination Is An Emotional Problem (article) The New York Times Why I Taught Myself To Procrastinate (article) Adam Grant Op-Ed NY Times

In this episode: Jen talks about the ADHD Human tendency to overshare by saying "inappropriate" things to people, not knowing we are talking too much or stopping, info dumping on someone, spilling other people's secrets, saying too much about ourselves even if we didn't mean to, or over-explaining ourselves and then the subsequent shame hangover after we realize that we overshared. Jen shares tips on how to not overshare in various social situations and how to accept and prep; we are lovable, warm people who will overshare again but we can prep for that inevitability. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Oversharing: The Social Traps…(Video) - Caroline Maguire Is Your ADHD Causing Social Slip Ups? (Article) - Dr. Ari Tuckerman ADHD & Oversharing (Article) - Understood.org How To Break Your Oversharing Habit (Article) - New U Therapy Center Oversharing…& RSD Induced Shame Afterward (Article) - ADDitude Magazine Disclosure: 5 Things Adult ADHD Want You To Know (Article) - ADHD Centre UK

In this episode: Jen tells a personal story about her latest attempt to get her ADHD medication prescription filled during this medication shortage and in a timely manner before she had to travel out of the country for work. This attempt included going to a pharmacy miles away and having to show a travel itinerary to prove that she wasn't lying about needing her medication by a certain date, and refused to fill the prescription in advance for pick-up, instead telling Jen that she needed to get there soon to beat the other ADHD customers who were having their prescriptions filled. You won't believe this one! For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen

This week: Jen talks about how middle-aged women are being diagnosed with ADHD in higher numbers due to their diagnosis being missed as children. And Jen talks about not realizing that she had ADHD as a child until she read Sari Solden's book that explains that girls go unnoticed and undiagnosed because their symptoms may not present as hyper-active or inattentive - leading them to become women who are confused and ashamed about why they're not fulfilling everyone's expectations - until they get diagnosed and "unmask". Jen talks about how middle-aged women are being diagnosed with ADHD in higher numbers due to their diagnosis being missed as children. And Jen talks about not realizing that she had ADHD as a child until she read Sari Solden's book that explains that girls go unnoticed and undiagnosed because their symptoms may not present as hyper-active or inattentive - leading them to become women who are confused and ashamed about why they're not fulfilling everyone's expectations - until they get diagnosed and "unmask". For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: WOMEN WITH ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER (book) by Sari Solden

In this episode: Jen talks about a scientific study published in early 2024 that found that early humans with ADHD-like tendencies (impulsivity, an urge for risk taking, and an inability to stay still for too long) are a big reason why our species not only survived but developed certain levels of survival intelligence. Get support in Jen's "We Are A Lot" online community. An interactive (yet self-paced, no forced socializing) group giving you 24/7 peer to peer support. It's designed for ADHD/AuDHD humans that need connection and gentle accountability with taking action, so you're not doing it all alone. You get daily body doubling sessions with Jen, weekly check-in progress meetings, extras like live Q&A's with Jen, book club meetings, journaling sessions with Jen, instructional videos for nervous system regulation, a private chat community, free worksheets, guides and printables, journal prompts, as well as all of the podcast episodes early and ad-free, video versions with transcripts, and four audio bonus episodes per month. This monthly membership supports learning things at your own pace so that you can act like your own ADHD/AuDHD coach whenever you want. Join the "We Are A Lot" Community for $24.99/month, or I am offering over 3 months free if you join annually and check it out no pressure with a one-week free trial! Find Jen on: jenkirkman.com Instagram Pinterest Threads Substack Cameo Send an email to the show at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Shop to Support the Show: Jen's Favorite ADHD Supports (with Discounts) Brain.fm — A Focus Tool I Use Every Day I listen while I work and I can feel my brain lock in. It's not AI, or binaural beats. Brain.fm is science-backed sound made by musicians and scientists for ADHD brains. I want you to try it for 30 days free, with my link! The Big A## Calendar I have the Big A## wall calendar that maps out the entire year and the Big A## personal planner with 365 days in one view, dry erase markers, color coded labels. With my unique link you can get 10% off of your order. Hugimals — Weighted Comfort for Kids & Adults I own Hugimals, give them as gifts, and love that they're made by a neurodivergent founder who understands nervous system needs. These weighted stuffed animals and pillows help with anxiety and overwhelm, and you can get 15% off anytime using my link and code JENKIRKMAN (it never expires). Bookshop.org — Books I Recommend I love Bookshop.org because every purchase supports your local independent bookstore, not Amazon, while still shipping directly to you. I've curated book lists on ADHD/AuDHD and mental health, and you can get 20% off everything when you shop using my link. The Time Timer - a Cute Visual Time Tool! I use my Time Timer every single day to help me visualize time during work blocks, and to gamify chores. There's no discount, but when you use my link I earn a percentage that goes directly into supporting this podcast. Appointed — Planners, Notebooks & Desk Goods Appointed notebooks are my go-to for my spiral notebooks, day planners, calendars and Le Pen pens for list-making, journaling, and planning. Save 15% off with my link and code JENKIRKMAN. UnHide — Soft, Weighted Comfort I love UnHide's products. Their faux fur weighted blankets, pillows, robes, and socks are incredibly soft and calming. You can get 20% off with my link and code JEN20. Research Referenced In This Episode: ADHD Might Have Been An Evolutionary Advantage (article) - The Guardian ADHD/Hyperactive Hunger-Gatherers (article) - Heathline The Evolution of Cognitive Diversity (study) - National Library of Medicine Attention Deficits Linked With Proclivity to Forage (study) - Proceedings of the Royal Society B

In this episode: Jen talks about the complex and interesting history of ADHD. The symptoms were recognized as a condition since the 1800's but was seen as a moral failing in children, it was then recognized as a physiological brain problem in children in the 1900's, stimulant medications began to be used as treatment in the 1960's but by the 1970's there was backlash, and in the 1990's many organizations and clinicians refused to validate that the emerging diagnosis of Adult ADHD even existed. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: The Controversy That Was Adult ADHD (Article) - ADDitude Magazine The Evolution of ADHD (Article) - ADDitude Magazine What Does Everybody Else Know That I Don't? (Book) - Dr. MIchele Novotni The History Of ADHD And It's Treatments (Article) - ADDitude Magazine The Early History Of ADJD (Video) - Dr. Russell Barkley

In this episode: Jen talks about how there is so much more to time management than actually completing to-do lists, or finding the perfect productivity method. Instead, Jen talks about how when we think we are trying to make a schedule, we may be unconsciously trying to master time itself, which can't be done. And that deep at the heart of trying to get to 'inbox zero' before tackling what actually matters to us, is just a fear of failure and an existential angst about our finite amount of time in life. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: 4,000 Weeks: Time Management For Mortals (book) - Oliver Burkeman

In this episode: Jen talks about how the DSM (The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) is failing people with ADHD because the diagnosis criteria is incomplete. The DSM-5 overemphasizes mythologized symptoms, and doesn't list emotional regulation issues which are at the core of executive dysfunction. This can prevent people with ADHD from being diagnosed and getting the treatment that they need to function in a neurotypical world. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: ADHD Is A Whole Life Experience (Article) - ADDitude Magazine The DSM Fails ADHD (Article) - ADDitude Magazine Emotions And The DSM (Article) - CHADD Org (Children/Adults with ADD) Why Emotion Needs To Go Back In The DSM (Video) - Dr. Russell Barkley Emotional Issues Left Out Of the DSM (Article) - Dr. Russell Barkley

In this episode: Jen talks about the very real ways that estrogen levels affect ADHD positively and negatively due to the relationship between Estrogen and our executive functions during a menstrual cycle, pregnancy, post-partum depression, peri-menopause and menopause. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Hormonal Fluctuations & ADHD (Video) - Dr. Jeanette Wasserstein Menopause & ADHD: How Estrogen Impacts (Video) - Dr. Jeanette Wasserstein PMDD, Postpartum More Severe With ADHD (Study) - ADDitude Magazine

In this episode: Jen helps everyone get their facts straight about ADHD and debunks the "alternative facts" that are out there such as: ADHD is not a real medical issue, everyone has ADHD, ADHD is overdiagnosed, and taking ADHD medication is dangerous and addictive. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: "… Myth That Those With ADHD Need To Change" (Article) - ADDITUDE MAG 9 Myths That Perpetuate ADHD Stigma (Article) - ADDITUDE MAG ADHD Myths & Misunderstandings (Article) - CHADD ORG 7 Common Myths About ADHD (Video) - DR. TRACEY MARKS YOU TUBE ADHD Is Not 'Overdiagnosed' (Article) THE CONVERSATION WEBSITE

In this episode: Jen talks about the similarities on the surface between Narcissistic Personality Disorder and ADHD but breaks down the major differences between the neurological developmental disorder (ADHD) and the personality disorder (NPD). For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Click here to write a 5-star review of the podcast Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: ADHD & NPD: How Similar Are They? (Article) - Psych Central The Complex Relationship b/w ADHD & Personality Disorders (Article) - Medium Know The Differences: ADHD & Narcissism (Article) - Psychology Today Correlations b/w ADHD & Narcissism (Medical Review) - Choosing Therapy

This week: Jen talks about the little known flip-side of Rejection Sensitivity known as Recognition Response Euphoria (RRE) coined by Dr. Ned Hallowell. RRE is a euphoric and motivating feeling experienced by an ADHD-er who has been praised or encouraged - and how this is an important part of combating despair and maintaining resilience as a neurodivergent in a neurotypical world. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Flip Side of ADHD RSD: Energy & Motivation (Video) - Dr. Ned Hallowell Divergent Psychology - Article The Default Mode Network & ADHD - LA Concierge Psychologist Recognition Response Euphoria (RRE) - Dr. Ned Hallowell Dr. John Ratey Website Dr. Ned Hallowell Website

This week: Jen talks about Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria. RSD affects 98% people with ADHD and is an intense emotional response caused by the perception that we've disappointed others in our life and will now be rejected, abandoned, unloved as a consequence. Jen talks about how RSD feels in her body and reads lots of comments from her listeners about they experience RSD. This episode will help you feel less alone! For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Defining Features of ADHD That Get Overlooked (Video) - Dr. William Dodson An ADHD Guide to RSD (Video) - Dr. William Dodson Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria - ADDitude Magazine Understanding RSD Download - ADDitude Magazine RSD Coping Strategies Toolkit - ADDitude Magazine Overview of RSD - Cleveland Clinic

This week: Jen talks about scientific studies on the links between ADHD and trauma. ADHD is not caused by childhood trauma but having ADHD in childhood can cause trauma which changes the chemistry of the brain. It's complex, nuanced and a great example of "correlation does not equal causation." For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Adult ADHD & Trauma. Is There A Link? - Psychology Today The Link Between ADHD & Trauma - Medical News Today Why Gabor Mate is Wrong About ADHD & Trauma (Video) - Dr. Russell Barkley Childhood Trauma & ADHD - ADDitude Magazine ADHD & Trauma: Symptoms & Treatments - ADDitude Magazine

In this episode: Jen talks provides some expert methods to handle intense emotions. Topics include - building emotional resiliency, naming feelings, how to interrupt a possible blowup, and working with your ADHD nervous system. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can start with a 7-day-free-trial today! CLICK HERE to leave a five-star review for this podcast CLICK HERE for more ways to listen to the podcast Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok Visit the "YOU ARE A LOT" (an adhd podcast) webpage For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Deficient Emotional Self Regulation (Video) - Dr. Russell Barkley Build Your Emotional Resilience (Video) - Dr. Tamara Rosier Coping with Anxiety & Adult ADHD (Video) - Dr. Russell Ramsay 15 Ways to Disarm & Understand ADHD Emotions - ADDitude Magazine Coping With Heightened Emotions - Psychology Today The Feelings Wheel

In this episode: Jen talks about her personal experience with being emotionally intense and lashing out without understanding what was going on in her brain. Jen explains the science behind the ADHD brain and how/why neurodivergent brains get flooded, experience meltdowns, shutdowns, sadness, low self-esteem, getting carried away with emotion and not being able to tolerate feeling many emotions at once. Also explained: how emotions filter through a neurotypical brain and how they get jammed up in a filterless ADHD brain. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: Dr. William Dodson You Tube - Overlooked Symptoms of ADHD Dr. Russell Barkley You Tube - Deficient Emotional Self-Regulation ADHD Aware Magazine - Emotions & ADHD ADDitude Magazine: Exaggerated Emotions - How ADHD Triggers Intensity CHADD Website - Emotions Too Much? Could Be ADHD VeryWellMind Website - Understanding Hypersensitivity in ADHD Addept (Thriving With ADHD) Website - Emotional Flooding

In this episode: Jen gives her thoughts on what to do once you think you might have ADHD from how to get a diagnosis, shop for a therapist or psychiatrist or coach, and how to advocate for yourself when supposed professionals aren't that up-to-speed on the most current ADHD findings. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can start with a 7-day-free-trial today! CLICK HERE to leave a five-star review for this podcast CLICK HERE for more ways to listen to the podcast Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok Visit the "YOU ARE A LOT" (an adhd podcast) webpage For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: FOCUSED ADHD COACHING - with Kristen Carder PSYCH CENTRAL - How To Get An ADHD Diagnosis CHADD - Contact An ADHD Specialist ADD.ORG - Finding an ADHD Coach PSYCHOLOGY TODAY - Find a Psychiatrist or Therapist DR. RUSSELL BARKLEY VIDEO - How To Treat ADHD ADDITUDE MAGAZINE - Assessing an ADHD Clinician ADDITUDE MAGAZINE - Find an ADHD Clinic ADDITUDE MAGAZINE - Who Can Diagnose ADHD? ADDITUDE MAGAZINE - Self Diagnose Test for Inattentive ADHD ADDITUDE MAGAZINE - Self Diagnose ADD Test for Women HELP GUIDE - ADHD Medications for Adults & Children

In this episode: Jen talks about how New Year's Resolutions don't work with her ADHD, gives advice on how NOT to make resolutions, how not to set yourself up to fail, get out of fantasy and accept yourself, and rethinking how to see your year ahead. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: CHADD WEBSITE - Pick A New Year's Theme Instead ADDEPT WEBSITE - Resolution Strategies for ADHD Brains

This week: Jen imparts wisdom from her research written by ADHD experts about the ADHD Iceberg, symptoms and types of ADHD, the definition of executive functions, what it looks like for an ADHD person with executive dysfunction, why ADHD is known as the "invisible disorder" and not functioning well in a neurotypical world. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can start with a 7-day-free-trial today! Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok Visit the "YOU ARE A LOT" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: PSYCH CENTRAL - The ADHD Iceberg ADDITUDE MAGAZINE - ADHD Symptoms Checklist ADDITUDE MAGAZINE - What Is Executive Dysfunction? DR. RUSSELL BARKLEY - Making The Invisible Visible DR. RUSSELL BARKLEY - ADHD Major Characteristics ADDITUDE MAGAZINE - Dr. William Dodson on the Curvilinear Mind ADDITUDE MAGAZINE - Living in a Neurotypical World

In this episode: Jen talks about how she was a chronic plans canceler until she realized that this came from her lack of executive functioning around keeping a schedule and with some simple (but not easy for the ADHD person) readjustments to how she organizes her time - she's become someone who builds in time for the ADHD collapse ad avoids canceling on friends. For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can start with a 7-day-free-trial today! Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok Visit the "YOU ARE A LOT" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: DR. RUSSELL BARKLEY VIDEO - "ADHD is time blindness" PSYCH CENTRAL - Why Are People With ADHD Bad At Planning Ahead?

In this episode: Jen talks about those weird things that she always thought were personality quirks or flaws but are actually very common ADHD traits like sitting on the floor, re-heating coffee all day long, sitting in strange positions in chairs, an existential dread about laundry and more! For exclusive podcast content join the You Are A Lot podcast patreon at patreon.com/ALOTADHDPOD for just $5 a month. You can sign up for a 7 Day Free Trial today! Follow Jen on Instagram Follow Jen on Tik Tok Visit the "You Are A Lot" (an adhd podcast) webpage Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com For More Info on Jen SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: WOMEN WITH ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER (book), author Sari Golden MS, LMFT TOTALLY ADD WEBSITE - ADHD and Overwhelm. I'm Behind In So Many Things! ADDEPT WEBSITE - How To Reduce Overwhelm With An ADHD Brain CHADD WEBSITE - When Emotions Overwhelm You SELF-REG (book), author Stuart Shanker WEBMD - Progressive Muscle Relaxation PSYCHOLOGY TODAY - Perfectionism

Jen talks about how the nagging feeling of being overwhelmed brought her to an ADHD diagnosis. Jen also discusses: the difference between actually having too much to do and the phantom feeling of overwhelm which can't be solved with a to-do list and how to cope with overwhelm. Get support in Jen's "We Are A Lot" online community. An interactive (yet self-paced, no forced socializing) group giving you 24/7 peer to peer support. It's designed for ADHD/AuDHD humans that need connection and support with taking action, so you're not doing it all alone. You get daily body doubling sessions with Jen, weekly check-in progress meetings, extras like live Q&A's with Jen, book club meetings, journaling sessions with Jen, instructional videos for nervous system regulation, a private chat community, free worksheets, guides and printables, journal prompts, as well as all of the podcast episodes early and ad-free, video versions with transcripts, and four audio bonus episodes per month. This monthly membership supports learning things at your own pace so that you can act like your own ADHD/AuDHD coach whenever you want. Join the "We Are A Lot" Community for $24.99/month, or I am offering over 3 months free if you join annually and check it out no pressure with a one-week free trial! Shop to Support the Show: Jen's Favorite ADHD Supports (with Discounts) Brain.fm — A Focus Tool I Use Every Day I listen while I work and I can feel my brain lock in. It's not AI, or binaural beats. Brain.fm is science-backed sound made by musicians and scientists for ADHD brains. I want you to try it for 30 days free, with my link! The Big A## Calendar I have the Big A## wall calendar that maps out the entire year and the Big A## personal planner with 365 days in one view, dry erase markers, color coded labels. With my unique link you can get 10% off of your order. Hugimals — Weighted Comfort for Kids & Adults I own Hugimals, give them as gifts, and love that they're made by a neurodivergent founder who understands nervous system needs. These weighted stuffed animals and pillows help with anxiety and overwhelm, and you can get 15% off anytime using my link and code JENKIRKMAN (it never expires). Bookshop.org — Books I Recommend I love Bookshop.org because every purchase supports your local independent bookstore, not Amazon, while still shipping directly to you. I've curated book lists on ADHD/AuDHD and mental health, and you can get 20% off everything when you shop using my link. The Time Timer - a Cute Visual Time Tool! I use my Time Timer every single day to help me visualize time during work blocks, and to gamify chores. There's no discount, but when you use my link I earn a percentage that goes directly into supporting this podcast. Appointed — Planners, Notebooks & Desk Goods Appointed notebooks are my go-to for my spiral notebooks, day planners, calendars and Le Pen pens for list-making, journaling, and planning. Save 15% off with my link and code JENKIRKMAN. UnHide — Soft, Weighted Comfort I love UnHide's products. Their faux fur weighted blankets, pillows, robes, and socks are incredibly soft and calming. You can get 20% off with my link and code JEN20. SOURCES USED FOR THIS EPISODE: WOMEN WITH ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER (book), author Sari Golden MS, LMFT TOTALLY ADD WEBSITE - ADHD and Overwhelm. I'm Behind In So Many Things! ADDEPT WEBSITE - How To Reduce Overwhelm With An ADHD Brain CHADD WEBSITE - When Emotions Overwhelm You SELF-REG (book), author Stuart Shanker WEBMD - Progressive Muscle Relaxation PSYCHOLOGY TODAY - Perfectionism