In this episode of CTRL + ALT + THINK, Amy and Megan dig into the love-hate relationship that neurodivergent minds have with deadlines. From helpful tips like using visual timers to fun deadline hacks, they share strategies for managing (or sometimes dodging) deadlines without losing too much sanity. Amy dives into how energy management can make or break her approach to deadlines, while Megan explores how self-imposed deadlines, turned external for accountability, keep her on track. They discuss the dance of “urgent” versus “interesting” work, debate the power of rest, and laugh about those inevitable deadline fails that only ADHD brains can truly appreciate. It’s a laid-back chat for anyone who’s ever stared down a deadline and wondered, “Is this a motivator or just plain stress?” Tune in for insights, laughs, and a few techniques to help make deadlines work with you, not against you!

Amy and Megan take a winding path as they discuss the neurodivergent brain’s unique ability to make unexpected connections. From exploring the challenges of energy management and multitasking to the intricacies of research and writing, they delve into how neurodivergent individuals leverage their web-like thinking to find creative solutions. Along the way, they chat about their experiences using AI tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly, sharing insights on the benefits and pitfalls of integrating AI into their work and personal lives. If you've ever wondered how neurodivergent minds find patterns and problem-solve in non-linear ways, this episode is a must-listen!

Amy and Megan dive into the brain dump technique, a powerful tool for reducing overwhelm and improving focus, especially for neurodivergent brains. Both share their recent experiences with brain dumps, and how this simple act of getting all the mental clutter onto paper can offer clarity and stress relief.

In this episode of Ctrl + Alt + Think: Conversations with Neurodivergent Minds, hosts Amy from Creative Catapult Coaching and Megan from Focus Like a Mother discuss navigating major transitions in life. From the shift from summer to fall, returning from vacations, and juggling changing routines, they explore how these disruptions can discombobulate even the most organized minds. They dive into personal stories of getting back into the swing of things after time away, the impact on energy and executive function, and offer their top strategies for smoother transitions. If you've ever needed a vacation to recover from your vacation, this episode is for you!

Ever feel like your workspace just isn't cutting it? In this episode of CTRL + ALT + Think, Megan and Amy dive into the quirks of working from different spaces—whether it's your office, porch, or a far-off hotel room. From the necessity of spreading out (hello, visual clutter) to the distractions of coffee shops (no, I'm not interested in your latte order), we explore how changing scenery impacts productivity, focus, and creativity. Tune in for some laughs, practical tips, and a glimpse into why switching things up might just be the key to getting things done.

In this episode, Amy and Megan dive into the world of video calls through a neurodivergent lens. They explore how virtual meetings differ from in-person interactions, discussing both the pros and cons. From managing self-awareness on camera to balancing external stimuli, they share their unique preferences and challenges. The conversation touches on video call etiquette, body doubling, and the sensory sensitivities that come into play for neurodivergent individuals. Whether you're a fan of video calls or find them draining, Amy and Megan's insights will have you reflecting on your own virtual meeting experiences.

Welcome to another delightfully chaotic episode of CTRL + ALT + Think! Megan and Amy dive into the wild world of sensory sensitivities and quirks that come with neurodivergence. From haircuts that felt like a ticklish nightmare to discovering the soothing magic of head massages, the duo shares their personal sensory highs and lows.

They explore how sensory experiences vary—from the agony of certain sounds (hello, fingernails on a chalkboard!) to the sweet relief of vestibular input like swinging and spinning. Along the way, they unpack the different senses—touch, sight, sound, smell, taste, proprioception, vestibular, and interoception—and how these can be intensely soothing or downright maddening.

Amy recounts her surprising rage triggered by streetlights at night. At the same time, Megan reveals her struggles with sound sensitivities and the overwhelming smell of other people's clean laundry. They also touch on sensory coping strategies and the importance of self-awareness in managing these traits.

So, buckle up and join them as they navigate this sensory smorgasbord. You might find a few relatable moments that make you say, "Same!"

They chat about the pros of smart home devices and apps that help navigate life’s chaos (especially for neurodivergent folks) but also get real about the constant battle against tech’s siren call of endless distractions. Whether it’s games, social media, or just the digital noise, they explore how to find that sweet spot where tech helps rather than hinders. Tune in for a fun and thoughtful take on making technology work for you, not against you.