
Imagine if you could follow your ambition without drowning in it – how much more fulfilling life would be? That’s what Pause Purpose Play is all about – finding balance over burnout by setting you free from needing to be perfect, so that you can take action and get started with what matters to you, instead of getting stuck in procrastination and holding yourself back with self-limiting beliefs your inner critic tells you. In this podcast, Michaela Thomas, Clinical Psychologist, Couples Therapist and founder of The Thomas Connection, shares bite-sized learning around psychology of performance, habits, self-confidence, stress, anxiety, perfectionism, parenthood and couples relationships. The podcast will mix solo episodes with guest interviews; diving deep into their professional zone of genius and learning about how they have found pause, purpose and play in their life and in their work. My new book, The Lasting Connection, is available now from all good bookshops.
Imagine if you could follow your ambition without drowning in it – how much more fulfilling life would be? That’s what Pause Purpose Play is all about – finding balance over burnout by setting you free from needing to be perfect, so that you can take action and get started with what matters to you, instead of getting stuck in procrastination and holding yourself back with self-limiting beliefs your inner critic tells you. In this podcast, Michaela Thomas, Clinical Psychologist, Couples Therapist and founder of The Thomas Connection, shares bite-sized learning around psychology of performance, habits, self-confidence, stress, anxiety, perfectionism, parenthood and couples relationships. The podcast will mix solo episodes with guest interviews; diving deep into their professional zone of genius and learning about how they have found pause, purpose and play in their life and in their work. My new book, The Lasting Connection, is available now from all good bookshops.
Episodes

Thursday Aug 28, 2025
How perfectionism and self-criticism impact ADHD women, with Kristin Carder
Thursday Aug 28, 2025
Thursday Aug 28, 2025
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:
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Kristin’s personal ADHD journey and how it shaped her podcast
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The reality of rejection sensitivity and harsh online feedback
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Why self-forgiveness is crucial for ADHDers and parents
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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/
Kristin Carder: From Rock Bottom to Global ADHD Mentor
https://enaid.app/kristen-carder-adhd
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

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