Why Generic Advice Fails Neurodivergent Brains (and What Actually Helps Instead)

If you’ve ever followed well-meaning advice and still felt stuck, broken, or misunderstood — this episode is for you.In this conversation with writer Jeanette Smith, we unpack why most advice is built for the “average” brain, and why that model breaks down for neurodivergent thinkers. We explore how ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other overlapping diagnoses can complicate communication — especially in writing, work, and relationships — and how easily intent gets misread when people don’t understand how your mind works.One of the central ideas in this episode is the critical difference between advice and feedback. Advice is generic and impersonal. Feedback is responsive, specific, and rooted in you. That distinction alone can change how you ask for help, how you collaborate, and how you stop internalizing shame when something doesn’t work.We also talk about masking, hyperfocus, determination, creativity, and the permission to follow whimsy — not as a distraction, but as a source of clarity and strength. This episode is about learning to advocate for your brain, stop forcing yourself into systems that don’t fit, and start asking for the kind of support that actually works.Connect with Jeanette:Website LinkedIn InstagramYour Lab Kit:The Advice AuditAsk for feedback, not fixes.Build a "brain disclaimer".----------------------------------------------------------------------The ADHD Alchemy Podcast is where bright, sensitive women finally stop masking and start thriving—with clarity, confidence, and shameless potential.We’re sharing real stories that help us turn friction into flow, liability into leverage, and resistance into rhythm. If your brain feels like a thousand tabs are open and five radio stations are playing at once, you’re in the right place!I’m Jessica Covington and I’ve always had a slightly different way of doing things, including ADHD. In my work, we leverage the body-mind connection to harness the beautiful potential you’ve always known is there but haven’t been able to use. My guests and I are here to help you quiet the shame, trust yourself again, and create a life that feels calm, focused, and fully yours.These are the stories of women like us: the ones who think differently; who’ve tried every damn system, planner, and app but nothing sticks; who’ve spent years and all their energy trying to seem "normal"; and who are finally ready to see ADHD without shame, guilt, or apology.Stick with us here to remember you are NOT a failure, you’re not alone in the chaos, and you are certainly not deficient or disordered. Apply to be a guest and share your own story here.Learn more at fit-ology.com. Join the conversation – it’s in our own little space away from algorithms, and it’s free!Co-work with us in Focus Labs – Tuesdays at 1pm eastern. Free and open to any Fancy Brain (but we need your registration to attend).Grab your copy of “Distracted to Done”Help yourself to the “Move Your Body - Move Your Mind Map” Learn more about ADHD Alchemy Coaching (private and group pathways are open now)On the socials (sporadically!):Facebook PageFancy Brains Facebook GroupJessica on LinkedInInstagramBlog on MediumMusic credit goes to my son, TAZZFANTO, who composed and produced this song just for us.This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes; always check with your healthcare provider before making changes to diet, exercise and mental health care. This episode may contain affiliate links and mentions; we are grateful for your support.