The Adulting With ADHD Podcast Creating Neurodivergent Friendly Workplaces with Dr. Saara Haapanen
Nov 7, 2025
Dr. Saara Haapanen is a performance scientist and ADHD coach dedicated to creating neurodivergent-friendly workplaces. She shares her personal journey with ADHD, highlighting the impact of her diagnosis on her career. The patented FUNK MS model is introduced, focusing on boosting motivation through fun, novelty, and social interaction. Dr. Haapanen discusses practical tips for workplace adjustments and emphasizes how supporting ADHD individuals can lead to enhanced productivity and organizational success.
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From Athlete To ADHD Researcher
- Dr. Saara recounts being an athlete, training for the 2008 Olympics, then discovering ADHD after a brain scan and diagnosis.
- Her life experiences and research led her to focus on ADHD coaching and motivation science.
Neurodiversity Is Common And Valuable
- About 20% of the population is neurodivergent and up to 8% may have ADHD, making workplace support important.
- Framing ADHD as a brain difference reduces stigma and highlights strengths rather than deficits.
Give Clear Next Steps After Meetings
- Start meetings by naming ADHD strengths like out-of-the-box thinking and floodlight attention.
- Follow with concrete supports like checking next steps and providing prioritized to-do lists.