In this episode of the Control Alt Think podcast, hosts Amy Voros and her co-host explore the complex topic of **overwhelm**, particularly from the perspective of neurodivergent entrepreneurs. They dive deep into strategies for managing stress, recognizing early signs of emotional and physical overwhelm, and leveraging **automation** and **external systems** to reduce mental load.

Key discussion points include:

- Recognizing physical and emotional signs of overwhelm

- The difference between stress in corporate versus self-employed environments

- Strategies for automation and task management

- The importance of interoception and emotional regulation

- Creating systems that reduce cognitive burden for repetitive tasks

The conversation offers insights into how neurodivergent individuals can develop more effective approaches to managing work, reducing stress, and maintaining productivity by understanding their unique cognitive patterns and implementing supportive strategies.

Amy and Megan dive into the complex relationship between neurodivergent brains, online shopping, and dopamine. From navigating Black Friday deals to managing impulse purchases, they share practical strategies for mindful spending. Discussion includes creating effective gift lists, using separate savings accounts, managing digital payment temptations, and balancing the dopamine rush of shopping with financial well-being. Perfect for neurodivergent adults seeking to understand their shopping patterns and develop better spending habits during high-pressure sales seasons.

In this episode of Ctrl + Alt + Think: Conversations with Neurodivergent Minds, Amy and Megan dive into the interconnected worlds of interoception, self-regulation, and emotional awareness. They explore what it means to interpret internal body signals—like hunger, fatigue, and emotions—and how neurodivergence can create unique challenges and strengths in understanding these cues. From personal experiences with wearables to navigating sensory sensitivities and energy regulation, this candid discussion highlights practical strategies for building self-awareness and managing the complexities of living in a neurodivergent body.

Can hyper-focus be both a superpower and a struggle? In this candid conversation, Amy and Megan explore the complexities of intense focus states in neurodivergent brains. From productive deep work to unwanted fixations, they unpack the science and lived experience of when your brain latches onto something and won't let go. You'll discover:

Whether you're learning to harness your focus superpowers or struggling to redirect them, this episode offers fresh perspectives on working with (not against) your brain's natural tendencies. Join our hosts as they share personal strategies, laugh about laptop batteries as accountability partners, and explore how to navigate life when your brain has its own agenda.

In this episode of Ctrl + Alt + Think: Conversations with Neurodivergent Minds, Amy and Megan dive into the ins and outs of conference preparation, particularly for neurodivergent individuals. From managing energy and sensory overload to strategic packing and self-care, they explore the delicate balance of maximizing learning and connection while minimizing burnout. Whether you're a seasoned conference-goer or considering your first, tune in for practical tips, funny anecdotes, and candid reflections on the trade-offs of in-person and virtual events.

Ever felt like your brain went through a blender? In this fascinating episode, Amy and Megan dive deep into the science of "mom brain" and the massive neurological restructuring that happens during parenthood (spoiler: it's as significant as adolescence!). Whether you're a parent, considering parenthood, or just curious about how major life changes affect our neurodivergent minds, you'll discover:

Join our hosts as they challenge harmful stereotypes about "mom brain" and explore how major life transitions reshape our neurological landscape. Whether you're navigating parenthood with ADHD, supporting someone who is, or interested in how our brains adapt to big changes, this episode offers validation, scientific insights, and practical perspectives on embracing your evolving brain.

In this episode of Ctl + Alt + Think: Conversations with Neurodivergent Minds, Amy and Megan dive into the concept of “I just need to” — those tasks we tell ourselves should be simple but often feel impossible to complete. They explore why these “just need to” moments can be deceptive indicators of deeper blocks and discuss strategies like time-blocking, recipe cards, and delegation to navigate them. Tune in to hear relatable stories, including how both hosts have approached their own tricky “just need to” situations and insights on balancing support with self-compassion. This candid conversation sheds light on why it’s not always as simple as “just doing it” and how to navigate our own unique brain wiring to actually get things done.

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!