What It Really Looks Like to Prioritise Yourself (A compassionate nudge for busy, neurodivergent women and perfectionists) You know you should prioritise yourself — but what does that actually look like when you’re juggling ADHD, business, motherhood, and perfectionism? In this episode of Pause Purpose Play, Clinical Psychologist and ADHD specialist Michaela Thomas explores what real self-care looks like beyond bubble baths and quick fixes. She shares the three types of clients she sees — from those running on empty to those beginning to create balance — and how each can benefit from more compassion and support. You’ll also hear real success stories from Burn Bright members who learned to set boundaries, manage their energy, and finally put themselves on their own to-do list. If you’ve been thinking, “I’ll prioritise myself later,” this is your gentle (but firm) reminder that now is the time.   🌿 You’ll hear about: Why self-care feels so hard for perfectionists and ADHD women The three types of clients Michaela works with — and where you might fit Real-life examples of women who learned to prioritise themselves How to choose between therapy and coaching for the right kind of support A final invitation to join Burn Bright before doors close Ready to stop running on empty? Inside Burn Bright, Michaela helps ADHD women in business find balance between ambition and rest through support, systems and self-compassion. ✨ Book your clarity call now: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright

You’ve seen the posts - “If you’re not up at 4am journalling and hitting the gym, do you even want success?”Michaela says: that's the pressure of perfection coming from the patriarchy - let that stuff go. In this short solo episode, Clinical Psychologist and ADHD specialist Michaela Thomas shares why you don’t need to burn out to build something brilliant. She unpacks how hustle culture is ableist, unsustainable, and particularly harmful for neurodivergent women and mums with ADHD, whose energy is already stretched thin. You’ll learn how to redefine success on your terms, protect your nervous system, and build a business that feels balanced - not punitive. Ready to build success without self-sacrifice? Inside Burn Bright, Michaela helps ADHD women in business find sustainable success through support, systems and self-compassion. ✨ Book your clarity call: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright Doors close for applications 24th of October and the programme starts 5th of November!

In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, host Michaela Thomas discusses the importance of prioritizing self-care, especially for perfectionistic individuals and those with ADHD. She categorises her clients into three groups based on their progression in self-compassion and self-care and explains how each group can benefit from her Burn Bright program. Michaela provides real-life examples of women who have benefitted from prioritising themselves, setting boundaries, and managing energy, ultimately leading to a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. She invites listeners to consider their needs and offers guidance on whether Burn Bright or therapy might be the best fit for them. 00:13 Understanding the Struggles of Prioritizing Self-Care 01:31 The Three Types of Clients 03:09 The Importance of Prioritizing Yourself 05:28 Success Stories from Burn Bright Members 07:48 Why ADHD Women Struggle with Self-Care 08:51 Final Invitation to Join Burn Bright 10:03 Encouragement to Take Action Now

Ever swing between unstoppable energy and complete inertia - buzzing with ideas one day and paralysed by overwhelm the next? In this episode, Michaela explores two sides of the ADHD experience she calls the Meerkat and the Sloth. One can’t stop, the other can’t start - and both are trying to help you. You’ll learn why these shifts aren’t inconsistency or failure, but signs of an ADHD brain managing energy and safety. Michaela shares how to move from shame to self-compassion, and find balance between overdrive and standstill. You’ll hear about: ADHD as attention regulation, not deficit The Meerkat (hyperfocus) vs Sloth (inertia) modes Why rest and action both deserve compassion Tools to steady your energy and find your rhythm Ready to build compassion for all of you? Inside Burn Bright, Michaela helps ADHD women in business find the sweet spot between ambition and rest - with support, systems and self-compassion. ✨ Book your clarity call: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-brightDoors close for applications 31st of October and the programme starts 5th of November!

Are you “too well” to get help for ADHD?In this solo episode, I shine a light on one of the most overlooked faces of ADHD — the women who look like they’re “coping” but are really over-functioning themselves into burnout. You’ll hear why being told you’re “too well” or “not struggling badly enough” can be just as invalidating and harmful as being dismissed entirely, and why support is still essential even if you appear to be managing. What you’ll learn in this episode:* "The many faces of ADHD" as the theme of ADHD Awareness Month* Why I don’t use the label “high-functioning”* My friend’s story of being told she wasn’t “struggling enough” for referral for assessment* The hidden shame of women with ADHD who look like they’re coping* Why coping isn’t thriving - you still need support even if you're holding it together 👉 Book a free call with me to explore my 6-month group coaching programme, Burn Bright: https://tidycal.com/michaela-thomas/burn-bright-clarity-call Doors close end of October, with the programme starting on Nov 5th!

In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, host Michaela Thomas explores the concept of 'musturbation' and the harmful effects of forcing oneself to achieve goals out of obligation and fear. She highlights the importance of shifting from a mindset of 'should' to one of 'choose,' promoting self-compassion and conscious decision-making. Michaela encourages listeners to replace self-critical thoughts with intentional, value-driven choices, improving their mental well-being and productivity. The episode also includes practical exercises to reframe 'should' statements and an invitation to a free masterclass that Michaela is running on 9th October on how to Burn Bright Without Burning Out, specifically designed for ambitious women with ADHD. Sign up for my Masterclass: http://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/adhd

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In this episode, clinical psychologist Michaela Thomas explores the connection between rest and creativity, challenging the hustle culture notion that constant productivity leads to success. She emphasises that great ideas often come during moments of relaxation, not while grinding away at tasks. Michaela delves into the neurological basis for why rest enhances creativity, especially for neurodivergent individuals. She offers practical tips for incorporating short breaks and restful activities into daily routines to foster creativity and maintain mental well-being. Listeners are invited to join 'The Reset,' a free seven-day program designed to help regulate the nervous system, ultimately fueling productivity and innovation.   www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/rest

Have you considered whether you're ADHD or whether it's just parenting in modern life, or if it's the perimenopause? Maybe you're struggling because you are affected by all of the above!In this heartfelt episode of Pause Purpose Play, Clinical Psychologist Michaela Thomas welcomes journalist Georgina Fuller, writer of the Telegraph article featuring the ADHD assessment she had with Michaela earlier this year. This is an honest conversation about the realities of being a neurodivergent woman raising neurodivergent children, and finding out your own diagnosis of ADHD in the midst of the chaos. Georgina shares her personal story, the impact of public writing on neurodiversity, and the importance of self-compassion in the face of stigma and online criticism. Plus, Michaela introduces The Reset, her upcoming nervous system reset experience, designed to help ADHD women find gentle, effective practices to make small shifts towards healthier habits for their rather overstretched nervous systems.   Resources & Links Read Georgina’s article in The Telegraph: Do I have ADHD? At age 47, I took the test to finally find out Connect with Georgina: MuckRack profile or search for her work online Free reset for busy ADHD brains: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/reset  ADHD assessment clarity call: Contact Michaela via Instagram or her website

Do you feel frazzled, fizzy, reactive, or on edge? Your nervous system might be dysregulated. In this episode of Pause Purpose Play, I talk about something I know so many of us struggle with – regulating our nervous systems. You’ve probably seen all the advice flying around on social media – ice baths, cold plunges, endless hacks – but a lot of it isn’t grounded in science, and even more importantly, it isn’t tailored to you. Instead of chasing trends, I want to help you find regulation practices that actually work for your unique brain and body. For me, that looks less like forcing myself into an ice bath, and more like something simple and soothing – like warm water and slowing down with my breath. Breathwork is one of the most powerful (and free!) tools we all have at our disposal. And if you’d like a little help bringing your nervous system back into balance, I’ve created something special: The Rest to Reset experience. It’s a free 7-day reset, designed to give you practical, manageable tools to regulate your nervous system – without adding pressure or overwhelm. ✨ Join The Rest to Reset experience for free here → www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/reset We start 22nd of Sept!

Ever felt weighed down by shame, self-criticism, or parenting guilt as a woman with ADHD? You’re not alone. In this vulnerable episode, Michaela welcomes Kristin Carder, host of the hit podcast “I Have ADHD,” for a frank and compassionate conversation about the hidden struggles of ambitious, neurodivergent women. Together, they discuss how ADHD shows up as internal chaos, why criticism and rejection hurt so much, and what it takes to forgive yourself and repair with your kids. If you battle perfectionism, loud inner criticism, or regret how you’ve parented in the past, this episode offers comfort and practical support. Discover why compassion beats shame—and why it’s never too late to start again. Highlights: Kristin’s personal ADHD journey and how it shaped her podcast The reality of rejection sensitivity and harsh online feedback Why self-forgiveness is crucial for ADHDers and parents Simple strategies for softening your inner critic About Kristin:Kristin Carder is a certified ADHD coach and host of the “I Have ADHD Podcast.” Learn more: https://ihaveadhd.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ihaveadhdpodcast/ Find Michaela:Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaela-thomas/ Interested in Michaela’s Burn Bright group coaching for ADHD women? Doors are open for the Oct 2025 start: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright 

You want to be the best version of yourself for your kids. You want to do parenting “right.” But nobody told you about the pressure, the invisible comparisons, or the harsh self-talk that creeps in at the end of a long day. And no one ever told you it doesn’t have to be this way. In today’s episode, Michaela is joined by her friend and fellow clinical psychologist Dr. Tess Browne to get real about: * The difference between mum guilt and mum shame  * How comparison, social media trends (hello, “18 summers”!), and well-meaning advice can trigger self-doubt and parental anxiety * Why imperfect parenting is not only OK, but essential  * How compassion for yourself leads to real, positive changes (not more self-criticism) * The pressure of summer holidays, screen time debates, and the “shoulds” that make us second-guess our choices * Releasing the myth of the “perfect parent” and giving yourself permission to just be good enough Because you, your kids, and your messy beautiful life all deserve it. Connect with Dr. Tess Browne: Website: www.drtessbrowne.com  Instagram: @drtessbrowne Upcoming Autumn Retreat: Day retreat near Cambridge, 4th October (see Tess's website for details) Connect with Michaela:Instagram: @the_thomas_connection If this episode resonated, follow the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes on compassion, neurodivergence, and working mum life — and please share it with a friend who needs a reminder that “good enough” really is enough. You’re doing better than you think. 

In this podcast episode, Ron, an author and business leader, shares his journey from a challenging academic-focused upbringing in Kenya and a transition to Canada to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Ron discusses his career path in finance and accounting, his evolution into a corporate leader, and his eventual shift to entrepreneurship. He delves into the motivations behind writing his book 'Love Mondays,' emphasising the importance of finding joy and fulfilment in one's career. The conversation touches on the concept of Ikigai, the significance of aligning one's work with personal values, and the importance of being present and intentional with one's time. Ron also offers advice for those contemplating a similar shift from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, underscoring the need for reflection, small steps, and gradual transitions. The episode concludes with Ron's thoughts on the balance between work and leisure and the importance of finding joy both in and outside of work. Connect with Ron on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronmonteiro18/ Order "Love Mondays" by Ron Monteiro on Amazon Join the waitlist for Burn Bright: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright

Maybe no one saw the signs when you were a child. Maybe you didn’t either - not until the burnout hit, the wheels came off, and everything started to feel unmanageable with the school admin, your next big work deadline and the brain fog of perimenopause. This episode is for the women who have spent years masking, pushing through, and wondering why life still feels so hard. You got the grades. You looked like you were coping. You held it all together on the outside. But inside? You were overwhelmed. Overthinking. Hiding the chaos. And no one ever called it ADHD. In this episode, I talk about the fear so many women bring into ADHD assessments — the worry that it won’t “count” if nobody noticed it when you were a child. We’ll explore: What childhood ADHD symptoms actually look like — especially in girls and high achievers Why ADHD often goes undiagnosed until adulthood The emotional rollercoaster of being “on it” one day and burnt out the next How masking makes it harder to recognise (even in yourself) Why it’s not too late — and you’re not too much Because this isn’t about how well you performed. It’s about how you felt. And if the signs were there all along - you deserve to understand them now. Book a call with Michaela to talk about ADHD assessment, therapy or coaching: Michaela Thomas - ADHD Assessment clarity call | TidyCal DM Michaela on Instagram with your questions: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection

In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, host Michaela Thomas interviews Dr. Kara Davey, an award-winning clinical psychologist, discussing the complex relationship between ADHD and trauma. They explore how trauma is both common in ADHD and can be distinguished from it, emphasising the importance of a thorough assessment. Dr. Davey shares her own experiences with late ADHD diagnosis following a traumatic stillbirth and how both personal and professional paths led to her passion for this field. They also discuss the challenges late-diagnosed adults face, especially women, and how postnatal periods can trigger or exacerbate ADHD symptoms. Michaela and Kara underline the significance of a compassionate and detailed assessment process and delve into the effectiveness of EMDR therapy for trauma, particularly within the neurodivergent community. https://linktr.ee/drdaveyADHDcoaching https://linktr.ee/alwaysinmyheart https://www.drdaveycoaching.com/adhd https://www.karaclinicalpsychologistinsussex.co.uk/about-us/

Ever felt like you can run a team, lead a business, or write a book - yet somehow can’t manage to return a library book or put your laundry away? In this episode of Pause Purpose Play, I’m digging into the hidden paradox so many women with ADHD face: outward success with chaos underneath the surface. You’ll hear personal reflections and real client stories that reveal how executive dysfunction can sit alongside brilliance, not in opposition to it. I’ll walk you through: Why some of the smartest, most capable women struggle with the "simplest" tasks The emotional toll of being misunderstood (by others and yourself) How I approach ADHD assessments with both compassion and clinical conscientiousness If you’ve ever wondered, “How can I be this competent and still feel like I can't do adulting?” - this one’s for you. Let’s explore what’s really going on beneath the surface, and why a deeper, more personalised understanding of ADHD can be a game changer...  because you can be smart and successful, and still ADHD. www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/adhdclub to join other brilliant ADHD women

In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, host Michaela Thomas welcomes the founders of the Evolve Journal, Sam and Freddy Titcombe. They discuss the development of the Evolve Journal, a tool designed to help people live with more intention, clarity, and consistency by focusing on manageable progress rather than perfection. Sam and Freddy share insights on building healthy journaling habits, the importance of self-kindness, and the value of stoicism in daily life. The conversation highlights the balance of emotional reflection with practical goal-setting, addressing how to manage AHDH traits and the challenges of maintaining consistency. They also touch on the four fundamental pillars of happiness—health, wealth, relationships, and freedom—and provide practical tips for integrating them into daily life. The episode concludes with advice on giving yourself permission to make mistakes and continue striving for growth.   Join the waitlist for the next Burn Bright cohort here: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright Find the Evolve Journal here: https://www.evolvejourney.co.uk/

In this solo episode, Michaela explores the discomfort many of us feel when receiving compliments - especially when we’re wired for self-criticism, perfectionism, or modesty. Sharing a personal story from LinkedIn, she unpacks why our inner critics hate being seen and how we can respond with compassionate curiosity instead of avoidance. This episode is for anyone who’s ever cringed at being praised and wants to learn how to receive kindness more fully - without shame or self-doubt. You’ll hear about: Why compliments can trigger our inner critic How upbringing and culture shape our ability to receive kindness Michaela’s personal experience of public praise on LinkedIn The two-step process of compassion: sense-making + action-taking How to lead with vulnerability while staying grounded in your values Resources mentioned: Follow Lauren O’Carroll on LinkedIn Learn more about ADHD coaching for women: The Thomas Connection Work with Michaela:Feeling called to be more visible  - but scared of the inner backlash? Get in touch for 1:1 coaching or find out more about my programmes for neurodivergent women leaders.

When You Can’t “Just Do It”: Motivation, Self-Discipline & Self-Compassion You want to do the thing. You care. You’ve got the vision, the list, the intention, and proof that you have done stuff like this before, because you DO achieve things. And still… nothing. You get stuck procrastafaffing with some irrelevant stuff until you've nearly run out of time. Maybe even feeling ashamed of how hard it feels to "just" start. If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “Why can’t I just do it?”, then this episode is for you.   Inside, Michaela explores: Why motivation is so unpredictable for ADHD and burnout-prone brains The limits of “just push through” thinking and the myth of self-discipline as force Why self-compassion is not weakness, but a legit performance strategy What’s actually happening in your nervous system when resistance takes over Practical ways to get moving again, encouraging yourself with kindness, not shame   You’ll get some evidence-based reframes here: You don’t need to hustle harder or push through You need to feel safer - in your body and your brain   Because we can't "just do it" with ADHD, we need to do a little dance with it, creating momentum through taking action and building on that energy step by step, rather than waiting for motivation to magically occur. Links & Mentions: Join The ADHD Club: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/adhdclub

In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, host Michaela Thomas explores the themes of anxiety, permission, and growth, particularly for those navigating compassion, ADHD, and perfectionism. Michaela stresses the importance of honouring one’s energy and sensitivity while addressing anxiety gradually and compassionately. Using an example from Polly Lavarello's journey, Michaela illustrates how embodying leadership and facing anxiety can lead to significant growth. The episode also touches on Michaela’s Burn Bright coaching program, aimed at helping neurodivergent women grow without burning out. She encourages listeners to pursue growth gently and at their own pace.