246 Interview with Jen Kirkman: Writer, Standup Comedian, and My Most Famous Client
Jan 16, 2024
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In this entertaining podcast, the host interviews Jen Kirkman, a writer, standup comedian, and New York Times bestselling author. They discuss Jen's misdiagnosis with anxiety and depression, her recent discovery of having ADHD, her transition from standup comedy to writing, signs of burnout and self-awareness, the benefits of AG One for mental clarity, the realities of pursuing a career in entertainment, and finding purpose amidst anxiety.
Jen Kirkman discovered her ADHD diagnosis after years of misdiagnosis with anxiety and depression.
Taking medication for ADHD, such as Vyvanse, brings a sense of quiet and clarity by removing distractions and noise in the mind.
Finding a knowledgeable healthcare professional who understands ADHD is crucial for receiving proper support and guidance.
Deep dives
Misdiagnosis and ADHD realization
Jen Kirkman, a writer, producer, comedian, and author, discusses her journey with ADHD. After years of misdiagnosis with anxiety and depression, she finally understood that ADHD was at the core of her struggles. She shares how her partner's observation of her equal prioritization of tasks led to her ADHD diagnosis. However, her initial medication, focolin, didn't work effectively. Years later, during the lockdown, she revisited her ADHD diagnosis and found a medication (Vyvanse) that brought her a sense of balance and calm.
The impact of ADHD medication
Jen describes the experience of taking Vyvanse, an ADHD medication. She compares it to closing a window that is letting in noise, bringing a sense of quiet and clarity to her mind. The medication doesn't necessarily increase motivation, but it helps remove distractions and noise, enabling her to focus and prioritize tasks.
The importance of finding the right healthcare professionals
Jen emphasizes the significance of finding a knowledgeable healthcare professional who understands ADHD. She shares her experiences with different psychiatrists and therapists, noting the challenges of misdiagnoses and misguided advice. Jen's journey eventually led her to a nurse practitioner who specializes in ADHD, and she finally found the support and guidance she needed.
The impact of ADHD on daily life
Jen discusses how ADHD affects various aspects of her life, beyond just work. She talks about forgetfulness, time blindness, and feeling overwhelmed with tasks and responsibilities. Medication has helped her manage these challenges and provided relief from panic attacks triggered by feeling trapped or in high-stress situations.
The transformative power of ADHD awareness
Jen highlights the transformative power of understanding and accepting her ADHD. She acknowledges the importance of self-trust and exploring her own needs and desires. Additionally, she expresses her passion for helping others with ADHD and how it has become a significant focus in her life.
Today's episode is part 1 of a 2-part interview with my dear client, Jen Kirkman. Jen is currently a writer/producer on the one-hour comedy Etoile for Amazon Prime. She was a writer/producer on 4 seasons of the The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Amazon Prime). Jen hosts a weekly solo podcast, "You Are A Lot" (An ADHD Podcast) - which is about navigating life with ADHD. Jen is a New York Times Bestselling author of two books. She has toured the world as a stand-up comedian and has two critically acclaimed stand-up specials on Netflix. You're going to LOVE this conversation - enjoy!