The ADHD Boss: Clear Communication and Why Coaching Matters

Mike Simmons, founder of Catalyst and host of the “Find Your Catalyst” podcast, returns for a solo Q&A session. In this episode, he explores how ADHD shows up in leadership, strategies for clear communication, and why coaching is an essential part of personal and business growth. Mike shares personal experiences and systems that help him and others focus, execute, and lead effectively.

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💬 3 Key Quotes

"Don't diagnose people—understand behaviors and build systems that reduce chaos."

"There are things that are said, things that are heard, and things that are remembered—and rarely are they the same."

"A coach helps people think differently, see differently, and ultimately do differently."

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Mike Simmons dives into leadership with ADHD, how communication often breaks down, and the critical role coaching plays in helping people move faster and smarter. With practical tools like priority lists and communication preferences, Mike shows how clarity and systems can be a catalyst for better business and personal outcomes.

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🔑 5 Key Takeaways

1. Leading with ADHD: Embrace Focus and Flexibility

• Leaders with ADHD often juggle many ideas, creating confusion for their teams.

• Systems and priority lists can reduce stress and clarify direction.

• Asking “Where does this fit in our priorities?” curbs the chaos of chasing new ideas.

2. Communication is a Two-Way Street

• Don’t assume understanding—validate what was heard.

• Ask: “What did you hear me say?” to catch misalignment early.

• Clear definitions help reduce frustration and improve team trust.

3. Define Accountability Clearly

• Use the framework: Who will do what by when.

• Color-code notes to track priorities, ideas, and action items.

• Avoid assumptions—clarity builds accountability.

4. Build and Share Communication Preferences

• Leaders should express how they prefer to receive information (e.g., text over email).

• Encourage team members to share their preferences too.

• Revisit these preferences regularly to improve efficiency.

5. Coaching as a Catalyst

• Coaching helps people go from where they are to where they want to be.

• A coach shifts perspectives and simplifies next steps.

• Mike emphasizes making coaching more visible and accessible for leaders and teams.

 

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