Embracing Intensity 291: Reframing ADHD for Black Women with Inger Shaye Colzie
This week on Embracing Intensity, I'm thrilled to finally sit down with the powerful and passionate Inger Shaye Colzie, a therapist and coach working at the intersection of ADHD, identity, and cultural experience. Inger shares her journey of being diagnosed with ADHD later in life, after decades of navigating systems and expectations that didn't see her neurodivergence—or the unique challenges that come with being a Black woman with ADHD.
Together, we dive into her experiences growing up gifted but overlooked, her path to founding the ADHD Black Professionals Alliance, and how she helps others own their fire and intensity without apology. Inger's insight, humor, and realness make this an episode you won't want to miss.
P.S. We're planning to bring Inger back for a guest call in the Embracing Intensity Community during the 2026 speaker season—I'd love your feedback on upcoming topics and guests!
About Inger Shaye ColzieInger is a therapist, ADHD coach, and the founder of the ADHD Black Professionals Alliance. Diagnosed later in life, she now uses her lived experience, clinical knowledge, and coaching tools to support other Black women navigating life, work, and relationships with ADHD. Through her practice and community, she creates spaces for healing, advocacy, and unapologetic self-discovery.
In This Episode:-
The experience of being undiagnosed with ADHD well into adulthood—and what finally led her to seek answers
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Growing up as an intense, passionate child whose energy was often misunderstood
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Why culturally relevant care is essential for Black women with ADHD
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The emotional impact of living with ADHD in a world not built for neurodivergent minds
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How diagnosis and coaching helped her reframe her identity and harness her gifts
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Creating the ADHD Black Professionals Alliance as a safe and empowering space
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Turning down the dial—or turning it up with intention
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The importance of coaching, community, and embracing your whole self
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Inger Shaye Colzie's Website & Coaching Info (link to be added)
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ADHD Black Professionals Alliance: [Website or community link]
Whether you're navigating ADHD yourself or supporting others who are, this episode offers compassion, clarity, and community. Inger's story is a reminder that it's never too late to rewrite the narrative—and that when we embrace our fire, we light the way for others.
🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear they are not broken—just unseen.