ADHD-ish™ ADHD Business Strategy for Busy Brains

If you are an expert, who not only has knowledge, credentials and a body of work, but a unique viewpoint on your field or industry, then you may be on your way to becoming a thought leader.  The term is revered by some, rejected by others and is a source of confusion and debate by many, but the world actually needs thought leaders, now more than ever. What it does not need is more recycled and regurgitated information or opinions.  

The internet is already saturated with that and it is only going to get worse in the years to come.  What is truly unique and stands out is someone who is the real deal and who has an original perspective they are willing to share in a bold, direct way.  Thinking about thought leadership?  Here is the path:

1️⃣ Speak up and challenge the status quo by having open conversations and addressing the hidden issues in our industries. True thought leadership requires being willing to talk publicly about the uncomfortable truths and topics that others tend to ignore. By doing so, we become the catalysts for positive change and progress.

2️⃣ Share your unique perspective: To make a lasting impact, it's essential to bring our own unique viewpoint and personal experiences to the table. By sharing our stories and connecting with others on a deeper level, we create relatability and foster genuine connections. Remember, your voice matters, and your perspective can make a significant difference in the lives of others.

3️⃣ Create thought leadership projects & platforms: Being a thought leader is about taking action and creating projects or platforms that amplify your message and engage your audience. Whether it's hosting events, speaking on stages or in video series, or starting initiatives, thought leadership projects enable you to develop a strong brand authority and reach a wider audience.

Thought Leaders mentioned in this episode:

• Brene Brown Ted Talk: https://www.ted.com/speakers/brene_brown
• Gabor Mate: https://drgabormate.com/

Have you heard?  I launched a PRIVATE PODCAST and you can listen to it from the same podcast player where you enjoy this one!  It’s called “Show Up Like a Boss” and you can grab it right here:  https://bit.ly/show-up-like-a-boss

If you are an Emerging or Aspiring Thought Leader, my signature program, The Boss Up Breakthrough is perfect for you.  We work together for 12 weeks to clarify your values, message and visibility strategy, so you have a plan and are ready to start standing out.  At this time,  I am only accepting 1:1 clients and the first step is to schedule a free 30-minute consultation right here: https://bit.ly/calendly-free-consultation

Not ready to work together but want to see more of my content? Subscribe to my weekly Linked In newsletter here: https://bit.ly/TDWE-Newsletter

TLDL (time stamps) 

00:01:12 Thought leaders: definitions, path, and requirements.

00:09:23 Thought leadership requires bold, direct communication and relatability.

00:11:41 Find unique viewpoint or perspective and prepare for exposure. 

00:17:03 Build brand authority through thought leadership projects.

00:31:02 Support aspiring thought leaders in sharing perspectives.

I was first attracted to Aleasha Bahr because of the name of her podcast, “Sales is Not a Dirty Word” and the audacious claim on her website that she teaches “Sales That Don’t Suck”.  Because so many self employed women struggle with selling, I just had to know more. Aleasha is a sales strategist that has developed her own unique approach called “The Matchmaker Sales Method,” based on the way women sell. Women, in general have a distinct advantage, because for most of us, curiosity and empathy come naturally.  

The Matchmaker method is all about fitting, not closing, and it’s a way for even the introverts, rejection sensitive and sales avoidant among us can learn to sell in a way that does not feel gross or out of alignment with our values and personality.  

Highlights of this convo:

1️⃣ Shift the Sales Paradigm: What customers truly crave is the feeling of being understood and heard. Replace pushy sales tactics with empathetic and genuine conversations to build trust.

2️⃣ Matching, Not Convincing: The matchmaker sales method emphasizes finding the perfect fit between your offering and your customer's needs. This approach not only boosts your chances of success but also ensures a positive and authentic experience.

3️⃣ Power of Self-Value: Many entrepreneurs, especially creative and empathic individuals, struggle with rejection and undervaluing their own unique talents. You don't need to change who you are– embrace your style and connect authentically.

Connect with Aleasha beyond this episode: 

Website: https://aleashabahr.com/

Podcast: https://www.podpage.com/sales-is-not-a-dirty-word/

Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/salesisnotadirtyword

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleashabahr/ 

One of ways you can expect to Boss Up if we work together using my 12 week Boss Up Breakthrough 1:1 signature program is to be more confident about your value, pricing and offers.  Want to know more?  Grab my Work With Me private podcast and see if we’re a fit: https://bit.ly/work-with-me-podcast

My favorite place to connect online is Linked In, click here to subscribe to my LinkedIn newsletter: https://bit.ly/TDWE-Newsletter

For the time-crunched, or impatient, here’s the TLDL version:

[00:00:48] Matchmaker sales method: no convincing, just fitting.

[00:07:51] Sales conversation: understanding, curiosity, solving problems.

[00:24:59] People often don't recognize their own talent.

[00:34:33] Empathy and communication are key in sales.

Rejection sensitivity affects many individuals, particularly those who are neurodivergent, and it can have a significant impact on their personal and professional lives.

Understanding and accepting our neurological differences can empower us to build resilience and improve our ability to handle rejection.

In this episode, I share both my perspective and strategies on how to create a business and lifestyle that honors and protects our sensitivity, allowing us to bring our unique gifts to those who need them most.

Some of these tools and techniques include powerful questions, affirmations, journaling, and mindfulness practices.

These practices can serve as powerful pattern interrupts, helping us shift our physiology and maintain control during moments of stress or anxiety. By making these tools a habit, we can confidently navigate rejection and embrace growth.

Remember, there is nothing wrong with being sensitive to rejection. It is a part of our unique makeup, and by embracing it, we can harness our sensitivity as a strength rather than a weakness.

By learning to manage rejection sensitivity, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and create a business that aligns authentically with who we are.

So, grab your favorite beverage, find a cozy spot, and tune in to this thought-provoking episode. It's time to embrace your sensitivity, develop your resilience, and thrive as an entrepreneur!

Mentioned in this episode:

• Powerful Questions: https://bit.ly/3R5lKvx
• Energy Technique: https://bit.ly/3EsU1xf
• Think Up! App: https://bit.ly/3Drf9Un

“Suits” series on Netflix: https://bit.ly/4613FTs

Have you heard?  I launched a PRIVATE PODCAST and you can listen to it from the same podcast player where you enjoy this one!  It’s called “Show Up Like a Boss” and you can grab it right here:  https://bit.ly/show-up-like-a-boss

The Boss Up Breakthrough  is my signature coaching framework and the one I use with both my 1:1 and group coaching clients.  At this time,  I am only accepting 1:1 clients and the first step is to schedule a free 30-minute consultation right here: https://bit.ly/calendly-free-consultation

Not ready to work together but want to see more of my content? Subscribe to my weekly Linked In newsletter here: https://bit.ly/TDWE-Newsletter

TLDL (time stamps) 

00:19:05 Sensitivity, reactivity, and hardiness in neurodivergent individuals.

00:26:48 Learn rejection sensitivity tools before you need them.

00:37:29 Mindfulness techniques for ADHD, including powerful questions.

Looking to uncover the hidden costs of social media? In this episode of The Driven Woman Entrepreneur Podcast, I sit down with Meg Casebolt, an SEO strategist, and dig into the impact of social media on female entrepreneurs. Meg shares invaluable insights on the resource allocation decisions to consider when it comes to social media and unveils the truth about anxiety and the fear of missing out in the online world, as well as the mental capacity it takes to spread yourself thin across multiple platforms. 

Learn about the importance of making intentional choices and setting specific times to be online to alleviate the pressure to constantly perform. We explore the societal shift towards a digital focus and the benefits and challenges it brings. Meg shares her personal experience of taking 100 days off social media and how it affected her mental health. 

We explore the power of genuine relationship building, as well as the pitfalls of transactional networking. Come along on this thought-provoking conversation as we encourage critical thinking and aligning your actions with your true self. If you're craving deeper conversations, this episode is for you. Join us as we unpack the costs of social media and explore alternative marketing approaches that go beyond the superficial. 

Mentioned in this episode:

• Nicole Kalil’s F*ck Social Media podcast episode: https://bit.ly/46lRba9
• The Confidence Code: https://bit.ly/3srbmE4 
• The Female Brain:  https://bit.ly/44yccMw

Meet our guest: 

Meg Casebolt is an author, podcaster, and SEO specialist who has spent the last two years delving into the impact of social media on online marketing and its effects on mental health. Her first book, "Social Slowdown," explores the misconception that social media is synonymous with digital marketing and challenges the traditional approach preached by industry leaders. 

Through her podcast, also titled "Social Slowdown," Meg has had numerous conversations with experts in the field, which inspired her to compile the best parts of these discussions into a linear and consumable format, in other words, a book. With a passion for connecting with like-minded individuals, Meg is dedicated to spreading awareness about the detrimental effects of social media and advocating for a more mindful and balanced approach to marketing.

And, if that’s not enough, Meg is also a fellow ADHD-powered entrepreneur. 

Connect with Meg beyond this episode: https://bit.ly/45LmDNU

• Buy a copy of her new book: https://bit.ly/45w6MTQ
• Check out her website: https://bit.ly/45LmDNU 
• Listen to her podcast:  https://bit.ly/3R1HzMx

Going, going, almost gone… If summer is a little slower in your business, it’s the perfect time for my  Boss Up Bootcamp short-term options.  Whether you need a Strategy Day, an Accountability Day, or a Brainstorm to Breakthrough intensive, don’t wait. They are only available until September 15th. Kinda like summer camp, but without leaving home or S’Mores.  Find out more here:  https://bit.ly/summer-strategy-form  then, schedule a free 30-minute consultation here:  https://bit.ly/calendly-free-consultation

My favorite place to connect online is Linked In, click here to subscribe to my LinkedIn newsletter: https://bit.ly/TDWE-Newsletter

For the time-crunched, or impatient, here’s the TLDL version:

00:04:26 Social media lacks depth, and rewards quick content.

00:09:36 Social media seems free but has costs.

00:14:45 Gaslighting of those seeking success online.

00:22:07 Relationship-based marketing boosts business through referrals and networking.

00:27:38 Society has gone digital and stayed connected online.

00:35:39 Trends: decrease in anxiety, intentional choices, finding clients off social media.

00:43:37 Importance of prioritization and redefining success.

00:51:50 Audience knowledge, clear messaging, specific pain points.

00:58:42 Visualize future self and plan content accordingly.

01:00:25 Simple strategy for creative people's benefit. (7 words)

In this episode, I will introduce you to one of my favorite tools in my business, The Four Tendencies framework for dealing with expectations. 

How we deal with expectations, our own and those of others has a significant impact on our business and personal lives.  Some of us always go the extra mile for others but let ourselves down on a regular basis and others are the exact opposite.

Knowing our own tendency and that of our clients, our team members, and even our friends and family members can make the difference between referral business, testimonials, and long-term relationships and negative reviews, disappointment, and frequent turnover.  

This framework is taken from the book, “The Four Tendencies” by Gretchen Rubin. And in this episode, I will explore each one: Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel, and how they impact our ability to meet expectations. 

The information I share will center around the common challenges each tendency faces, as well as their unique strengths. By the end of this episode, you'll have a deeper understanding of your own tendency and how it influences your interactions with others and your approach to meeting expectations.  

There are 5 important questions at the end and an invitation to DM me on Linked In or Instagram to let me know what you think MY tendency is and to share yours! 

Don’t forget to grab the worksheet that summarizes each of the Four Tendencies to use in your business and with your team, here:  https://bit.ly/four-tendencies-guide

To go deeper after listening: 

1. How do you typically approach meeting expectations in your business or work life? Do you tend to prioritize meeting the expectations of others or your own?

2. Have you ever felt misunderstood or frustrated by the expectations placed on you by others? How did this impact your interactions and relationships?

3. In what ways do you think understanding your tendency in meeting expectations can benefit your mental health and overall well-being?

4.  How do you navigate the tension between meeting the expectations of others and prioritizing your own needs and self-care? What practices or strategies have you implemented to find a balance?

5. When working with others, what steps can you take to ensure that expectations are clear and achievable for everyone involved?

Want to schedule a Strategy day for planning how to work more effectively with your team based on your (and their)  tendencies?  

This would be an excellent use of a VIP Day but don’t wait because Boss Up Bootcamps are going away soon. Whether it’s a Strategy Date, an Accountability Date, or a Brainstorm to Breakthrough intensive, you will be amazed at how fast we can move the needle in your business with focus & action!  Click here for more info and here to schedule a free consultation to see which bootcamp has YOUR name all over it! 

Are we connected on Linked In?  What are we waiting for? https://bit.ly/DWC-LinkedIn

00:22:46 Questioners struggle to answer others' questions due to their own intense curiosity and tendency to generate endless inquiries. 

00:29:07 Obligers at risk for burnout, cultural pressure.

00:34:19 Rebels defy odds to achieve wealth, success.

In today's episode, Claudia Schalkx will share the power of implementing a signature system in your business as a way to stand out and help you be more consistent with your marketing.

A signature system can be used for marketing, sales, content generation, and even business decision-making, so you save time, stay focused, position yourself as an expert, and potentially elevate your pricing. 

If your marketing is all over the place, attracting the wrong people or eating up too much time and energy, it’s time to consider a signature solution of your own. Claudia is the person I turned to when I decided to create my own signature system and has become a good friend and biz bestie. 

The benefits of a signature system for your small business:

Versatility:

  - Uses in marketing, sales, content generation, and business decision-making:

  - Saves time and keeps the message on target:

  - Positions the speaker as an expert:

  - Potential for raising prices:

  - Helps you differentiate  yourself from competitors in a clear and compelling way

  - By selling the outcome, not the implementation: simplifies the buying decision 

  - Helps you stay focused and avoid chasing multiple ideas

  - You can easily customize the signature system to fit individual client needs

Meet our guest: 

Claudia Schalkx is a marketing consultant and expert in developing signature systems for businesses. She understands that a signature system is not just a blueprint or business plan, but rather, it is a comprehensive solution that encompasses both the roadmap and the detailed steps needed to guide clients from their current state to their desired outcome.

Connect with Claudia beyond this episode:

• Signature System: https://bit.ly/3YROXvR
• Marketing Quiz: https://bit.ly/45eA09K
• Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudiaschalkx/

Going, going, almost gone… If summer is a little slower in your business, it’s the perfect time for my  Boss Up Bootcamp short-term options.  Whether you need a Strategy Day, an Accountability Day, or a Brainstorm to Breakthrough intensive, don’t wait.

They are only available until September. Kinda like summer camp, but without leaving home or S’Mores.  Find out more here:  https://bit.ly/43XxovI  then, schedule a free 30-minute consultation here:  https://bit.ly/3qrJ9YQ 

My favorite place to connect online is Linked In, click here to subscribe to my LinkedIn newsletter: https://bit.ly/3MAalSp

For the time-crunched, or impatient, here’s the TLDL version:

00:15:22 Signature system is a flexible process that allows customization.

00:19:43 Tailor marketing strategies to individual clients' needs.

00:35:52 Signature system brings clarity and focus.

00:38:45 The only magic in marketing: consistency and unique solutions.

00:57:37 Visual representation of your process builds trust.

As women entrepreneurs, we often face the pressure to appear successful by avoiding mistakes and end up making decisions driven by fear, based on assumptions that are flawed.  Many businesses that seem prosperous on the outside may actually be struggling behind the scenes including those we are trying to emulate.

To truly thrive in business, we need to find the balance between passion, purpose, planning, prioritizing, and profitability. It's time to shift our mindset, make strategic decisions, and take actions that move our businesses forward and stop looking for proven processes and magic pills.  

In this episode, we'll explore how to overcome fear, uncertainty, and doubt, and prevent regret while still embracing risks.   To make this information both informative and actionable,  don’t forget to grab the worksheet that will help you work through these questions and unleash your confidence. 

So get ready to make empowered decisions and unlock your full potential as a driven woman entrepreneur. Let's dive in! 

Mentioned during this episode:

Grab the Taking Risks & Making Decisions worksheet with the the present, future & regrets questions shared in this episode: https://bit.ly/3DSOQ9v

Episode #103  “How to Deal With Fear, Uncertainty & Doubt”  https://bit.ly/3Mp4sDZ

Summer Boss Up Bootcamps - ENDING SOON!  

Summer is a great time to schedule a VIP Day or 4-week intensive with me but don’t wait because these Boss Up Bootcamps are going away soon.

Whether it’s a Strategy Date, an Accountability Date, or a Brainstorm to Breakthrough intensive, you will be amazed at fast we can move the needle in your business with focus & action!  Click here for more info and here to schedule a free consultation to see which boot camp has YOUR name all over it! 

Are we connected on Linked In?  What are we waiting for? https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannwingertcoaching/

TLDL (time stamps) 

00:05:29 Building a business, scaling, and trusting intuition.

00:11:06 Indulging in buffering and confusion in business.

00:19:15 Overcoming fear and analyzing worst-case scenario.

00:27:42 Don't expect control; embrace uncertainty and adapt

00:34:38 Prevent regret by embracing mindset, skill, and action.

Today’s guest, Shulamit Ber Levtov is a clinical social worker who specializes in supporting female small business owners and who calls herself The Entrepreneur’s Therapist. 

Shulamit started her own business in her fifties after a career shift left her searching for new opportunities. She discovered that entrepreneurship was not only fulfilling but also provided the flexibility and autonomy she craved. 

In her work, Shulamit aims to change the conversation around mental health in entrepreneurship, helping women recognize their strengths, acknowledge their struggles, and build businesses that serve them holistically.

Together we explore:

- The isolation and stigma surrounding mental health in entrepreneurship

- The discrepancy between the portrayal of entrepreneurship and the reality

- The dopamine-seeking behaviors in entrepreneurship and its emotional implications

- The significance of self-compassion and understanding in overcoming struggles

Join us as we delve into these topics and more, and gain valuable insights about the intersection of feminine conditioning, mental health, and entrepreneurship.

If you are a woman who identifies as an entrepreneur and is finding her mental health challenged by the stress and strain of running a business, you are not alone. 

It is the nature of entrepreneurship and as women, therapists, and business owners ourselves, Shula and I wanted to discuss the truth of entrepreneurship behind the glamorous image portrayed on social media, there are a lot of women struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD and a pervasive sense that there is something wrong with them.  If you are reading these words, I want you to know that you are not alone. 

Connect with Shulamit Ber Levtov beyond this episode:

• Newsletter: https://www.shula.ca/newsletter/
• 7 Threats to Your Mental Health as an Entrepreneur: https://bit.ly/43MuE3V
• Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shulamitberlevtov/\
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_entrepreneurs_therapist/

Mentioned in this episode:

• Michael Freeman/ECONA: https://econa.net/about/
• The E-Myth by Michael Gerber: https://bit.ly/454FrYg
• Spoon Theory: https://bit.ly/3KhasjG
• Emotional Labor by Rose Hackman: https://amzn.to/44ELQcK

If summer is a little slower in your business, it’s the perfect time to turn things around before the fall rush. My short-term,  Boss Up Bootcamp options are only available during July and August. Kinda like summer camp, but without leaving home or S’Mores.  Find out more here:  https://bit.ly/43XxovI  then, schedule a free 30-minute consultation here:  https://bit.ly/3qrJ9YQ 

For the time-crunched, or impatient, here’s the TLDL version:

00:02:02] Misleading portrayals of women entrepreneurs 

[00:26:01] Mature women entrepreneurs can work smarter, not harder.

[00:38:09] Trauma and entrepreneurship: there’s nothing wrong with you.

As human beings, we possess unique qualities like imagination, originality, and critical thinking, which have always been the driving force behind compelling content. But can AI replicate these qualities?

In this solo episode, I share my thoughts on the benefits and limitations of generative AI, such as ChatGPT, my personal experiences with various AI tools, and the cautious optimism I hold for this emerging technology. Discover why it's crucial to have realistic expectations, do thorough research, and weigh the pros and cons before incorporating AI into your business.

If you're curious about how generative AI fits into the world of driven woman entrepreneurs, don't miss this thought-provoking episode!

AI tools mentioned in this episode:

• Capsho https://www.capsho.com/
• CastMagic https://www.castmagic.io/
• Fathom https://www.fathom.video/
• Otter.ai https://otter.ai/

Food for thought

• How do you balance the use of AI tools for efficiency and time-saving purposes with the need to personally read, edit, and personalize the content produced by AI?
• How would you decide if using generative AI tools for marketing content makes sense for your business? What factors would you consider?

TLDL (time stamps) 

[00:04:56] No promised land, only options and opportunities.

[00:15:20] Repetitive AI generates similar content, lacks uniqueness.

[00:17:12] AI lacks creativity and adaptability, human strengths.

[00:21:27] CRM saves time, energy, and aids coaching. AI enhances content creation and efficiency. Approaching tools mindfully is important. 

Want to work with me, but don’t want (or need) a long-term commitment? 

Most service businesses based on client work are slower during the summer, so it’s a perfect time to schedule a VIP Day or 4-week intensive with me, whether it’s a Strategy Date, an Accountability Date, or a Brainstorm to Breakthrough intensive, you will be amazed at fast we can move the needle in your business with focus & action!  Click here for more info and here to schedule a free consultation to see which of my summer Boss Up. Bootcamps has YOUR name all over it! 

Are we connected on Linked In?  What are we waiting for? https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannwingertcoaching/

I’m excited to share my interview with business coach, consultant and fractional COO, Jessica Lackey with you.  Since we talk about courage and authenticity in this episode, I think it’s important that I acknowledge something. When I was first introduced to Jessica Lackey by a mutual mentor, I expected to be a little bit intimidated because she has an MBA from Harvard, was a consultant for top-ranked McKinsey & Company and also had a successful corporate career at Nike.  I am certainly no slouch, with a master's degree from UCLA and a resume with plenty of high profile employers of my own, our culture teaches us to compare and compete, so those insecurity vibes were there.  

What I experienced in getting to know her is that Jessica Lackey is like many high ability and high performing women I’ve known: approachable and down to earth, which is to say - warm, funny, and genuine.  After years of pushing herself to fit into the mold, she embarked on a journey of self-exploration, diving into alternative healing modalities and ancient teachings. Today, she is a business coach who empowers others to embrace their authentic selves and create lives that align with their values and potential.

While our paths were not identical, Jessica and I internalized many of the same beliefs growing up.  When you are identified as gifted in elementary school, the message you get is that you have a lot of potential and you need to live up to all expectations placed on you.  While both of us remained on the overachiever path for quite some time, eventually each of us reached a point where we recognized that the success we had created did not feel fulfilling.   

Here’s what we cover in this vulnerable conversation: 

- Toxic productivity which results in disconnection from awareness

- Learning to trust oneself and recognizing the importance of being authentic

- Alternative healing modalities and how they can facilitate growth and insight 

- Discovering our values and the concept of Dharma

- Using our gifts to serve the broader good and not just maximizing wealth

- The experience of Impostor syndrome and rejection sensitivity as gifted adults 

- The courage it takes to learn to trust yourself and building something authentic 

Connect with Jessica Lackey beyond this episode:

• Website: https://www.jessicalackey.com/
• What’s Your Stage of Business? Quiz: https://bit.ly/3XGqoBv
• Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-lackey/   

If summer is a little slower in your business, it’s the perfect time to turn things around before the fall rush. My short term, Choose Your Own Adventure options are only available during July and August.  Kinda like summer camp, but without leaving home or S’Mores.  Find out more here: https://bit.ly/summer-strategy-form  then, schedule a free 30-minute consultation here:  https://bit.ly/calendly-free-consultation

My favorite place to connect online is Linked In, click here to subscribe to my LinkedIn newsletter: https://bit.ly/TDWE-Newsletter

For the time crunched, or impatient: go back (or skip)  to your favorite parts! 

00:10:16 Breaking Free: Corporate Ladders and Crucible Moments

00:14:44 Understanding the Limits of Adult-Defined Identity

00:22:25 "Leaving Nike: Family Pushback and Pursuing Happiness"

00:26:51 "Evolve Your Personal Values: A Painful Journey"

00:33:16 "Life Coaching Journey Leads to Pandemic Resignation"

00:39:56 "Overcoming Impostor Syndrome: Trust and Authenticity"

00:43:46 "Women Entrepreneurs Exploiting Each Other: Reality Check"

00:47:38 "The Fascinating Path of Personal Evolution"