I’m joined by Chris Wang—co-founder and CEO of Shimmer and creator of the Indie ADHD support app—to explore the fast-moving world of AI and what it actually means for ADHD brains. We get real about the tension so many of us feel: can technology truly support executive function, decision-making, and organization, or is it just adding more overwhelm?

Chris shares how her late ADHD diagnosis completely shifted her perspective on productivity, and we dig into how to navigate tools, goals, and AI in a way that actually works for your brain. If you’ve ever felt stuck in analysis paralysis with too many options—or unsure how to use AI without spiraling—this conversation will help you simplify, refocus, and move forward with more intention.

Episode Highlights

[00:20] - Why AI feels both exciting and overwhelming for ADHD brains

[01:51] - Chris’s late ADHD diagnosis and how it reshaped her view of productivity

[04:14] - The real reason technology can increase overwhelm (and how to avoid it)

[05:56] - “Start with the end in mind” and why direction matters more than perfection

[07:31] - Odyssey planning: designing multiple futures instead of one rigid path

[10:23] - Letting go of all-or-nothing thinking and embracing flexible goals

[13:43] - Where AI actually helps ADHD (and where it adds noise)

[15:14] - Why “done is better than perfect” when choosing productivity tools

[19:20] - How Indie helps you prioritize what actually matters

[22:47] - Energy accounting: managing tasks based on your mental bandwidth

[24:10] - Guardrails to prevent AI from becoming a hyperfocus trap

[26:15] - When AI supports growth vs. when it replaces critical thinking

[30:21] - The future of ADHD + AI: leveling the playing field

[35:43] - The one mindset shift to reduce overwhelm with tech and tools

Links & Resources

Chris Wang is the co-founder and CEO of Shimmer, the leading coaching platform for teens and adults with ADHD, which has supported over 80,000 coaching sessions to date. She also leads Indy by Shimmer, a free ADHD support app that launched this January. After being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, Chris founded Shimmer to help build a more neuro-inclusive world. She has been recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree for her work transforming ADHD support.

IG: @adhd.christal

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ADHD, AI & Overwhelm: How to Use Technology Without Losing Control with Chris Wang