Why does planning feel so difficult with ADHD, even when you are trying your hardest?

In this episode of ADHDtime On Air, Nikki Kinzer and Pete Wright join Daniella Karidi to discuss ADHD planning, time blindness, productivity, workflow systems, task management, and building ADHD-friendly routines that actually work.

Drawing from their book Unapologetically ADHD, Nikki and Pete share practical strategies for reducing overwhelm, creating flexible systems, and developing a healthier relationship with time without shame or perfectionism.

This conversation explores:
• ADHD planning and time blindness
• Why traditional planning systems often fail ADHD brains
• Productivity without shame
• ADHD workflow systems and task management
• Building routines that are flexible and sustainable
• Prospective memory and follow-through
• Friction in ADHD systems
• Emotional overwhelm and unrealistic expectations
• Why ADHDers often overestimate what they can do in a day

The episode also dives into practical tools including calendars, task managers, visual reminders, scaffolding systems, and strategies for maintaining systems after the novelty wears off.

⏱ Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Book and Podcast
• 05:44 Audience and Purpose of the Book
• 11:56 Overcoming Planning Challenges
• 20:42 Flexibility in Time Management
• 27:03 Workflow and Tool Selection
• 39:05 Advice to Young Self and Future Self
• 41:19 Upcoming Projects and Resources

📘 Book Mentioned
Unapologetically ADHD

📌 About Nikki Kinzer and Pete Wright
Nikki Kinzer and Pete Wright are the hosts of the long-running podcast Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast. Together, they focus on ADHD planning, productivity, emotional wellbeing, and creating systems that work with ADHD instead of against it.

📌 Learn More
Taking Control ADHD Podcast
Pete Wright Website

📌 Connect with Daniella Karidi
ADHDtime Website
Instagram @adhdtime
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