SuccessFULL With ADHD Black with ADHD in Hollywood: 'Shrinking' Writer/Actor Ashley Nicole Black Discusses Identity, Representation, & Owning Your Brain
In this episode, I sit down with the brilliant and hilarious Ashley Nicole Black—Emmy-winning writer, comedian, and actor known for her work on A Black Lady Sketch Show, Ted Lasso, and Shrinking. We dive into her personal ADHD journey, the powerful intersection of being Black and neurodivergent, and how her diagnosis—sparked by an unexpected wave of social media feedback—reshaped her understanding of herself. Ashley opens up about what it was like navigating school as a gifted yet misunderstood student, and how she's found strength and freedom in embracing the way her brain works.
This conversation is packed with insight, laughter, and hard truths. We talk about the realities of being undiagnosed for years, the emotional and physical toll of late recognition, and how ADHD both challenges and fuels her creativity in fast-paced writing rooms. Ashley shares why she believes improv should be part of every neurodivergent toolkit, and we touch on the need for authentic, joyful neurodivergent representation in media. This is a must-listen if you're looking for validation, inspiration, or just a damn good laugh.
Episode Highlights:
[0:00] - Ashley shares the moment social media “diagnosed” her with ADHD before she even knew
[2:21] - The real path to her diagnosis—and how PMS played a surprising role
[5:40] - Childhood teachers, misunderstood brilliance, and being “smart but not smart”
[8:28] - Why schools need to rethink how they handle gifted, ADHD, and Black kids
[11:15] - How acting and writing became Ashley’s creative outlet and career
[13:19] - Using ADHD strengths in fast-paced writing rooms and comedy
[17:11] - Learning to manage energy instead of pushing through burnout
[21:23] - Why social media helped Ashley get diagnosed—and how it ties into dopamine seeking
[23:26] - Misdiagnosed with anxiety: what doctors missed
[26:03] - Representation of neurodiversity in media: we need more funny, authentic portrayals
[30:33] - Managing personal energy, shifting social time, and navigating life balance
[32:30] - A hilarious behind-the-scenes ADHD moment in the writers' room
[33:32] - Navigating ADHD and being Black in Hollywood
[36:43] - Creating authentic Black representation on shows like Ted Lasso
[40:43] - The power of storytelling and audience connection
[41:09] - How Ashley remembers lines despite ADHD memory challenges
[42:40] - “Laziness” redefined: the creativity in finding your own way
[44:00] - Encouragement for adults and parents of kids with ADHD
[46:34] - Improv as therapy: how it builds confidence and authenticity
[49:25] - What’s next for Ashley—updates on Shrinking and Ted Lasso
Connect with Ashley Nicole Black:
IG: @ashnb1
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