In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro welcomes back ADHD coach and Attention Talk Radio founder Jeff Copper for a fascinating conversation about motivation, executive function, and a concept that could completely change the way we support people with ADHD: adaptive accommodations.

For years, many people with ADHD have been told they’re lazy, unmotivated, or just need to try harder. But Jeff challenges that narrative entirely. Instead, he explains how ADHD is an executive functioning impairment, and why people with ADHD are often working harder, not less.

Together, Jami and Jeff explore why traditional accommodations like “more time” often miss the mark, and why support systems that reduce cognitive strain, like verbal processing, cueing, and collaborative problem-solving, may be far more effective.

This episode offers a completely different lens for understanding ADHD, one rooted in compassion, neuroscience, and practical support instead of shame and willpower.

What You’ll Learn

• Why ADHD is not a motivation problem
• How executive function impacts problem-solving and task completion
• The difference between traditional accommodations and adaptive accommodations
• Why “more time” may not actually reduce ADHD overwhelm
• How verbal processing can help people with ADHD think more clearly
• What direct oral conversation has to do with executive functioning
• Why many older adults feel their ADHD gets “worse” later in life
• How isolation can increase ADHD struggles
• Why people with ADHD often need external processing and validation
• How adaptive accommodations can reduce emotional and cognitive overload

Why This Matters

Many adults with ADHD spend years believing they just aren’t trying hard enough.

This episode reframes ADHD through the lens of impairment and support, not character flaws.

Understanding adaptive accommodations can help reduce shame, increase self-awareness, and create systems that actually work with the ADHD brain instead of against it.

About the Guest

Jeff Copper, MBA, PCC, PCAC, CPCC, ACG is the founder of DIG Coaching Practice and host of Attention Talk Radio. Diagnosed with dyslexia and learning disabilities, Jeff has spent decades helping people understand ADHD through the lens of executive functioning, self-awareness, and practical adaptation. He is known for his innovative work in ADHD coaching and cognitive ergonomics.

About the Host

Jami Shapiro is an ADHD coach, speaker, and founder of Silver Linings Transitions. Through her podcast Grandma Has ADHD, she brings awareness to ADHD in older adults, especially women, helping listeners better understand their brains and navigate life with more clarity and compassion.

Resources

• Attention Talk Radio: https://attentiontalkradio.com
• DIG Coaching Practice:  https://digcoaching.com
• This Explains So Much by Jami Shapiro
• Information on executive functioning and adaptive accommodations

Links & Support

• Website: https://www.jamishapiro.me
• Silver Linings Transitions: Support for downsizing, organizing, and life transitions
• This Explains So Much by Jami Shapiro

Enjoying the Podcast?

If this episode resonated with you:

• Leave a review
• Share it with someone who might need to hear it
• Follow Jami Shapiro for more conversations on ADHD, aging, and understanding your brain