I Have ADHD Podcast 358 The Day I Hired a Frontal Lobe: How Paying for Help Pulled Me Out of ADHD Chaos
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Dec 9, 2025 Bill Adair, the Creative Director of ArtPhilly, shares his journey of living with ADHD and how he transformed chaos into clarity by hiring help. He candidly discusses the overwhelming struggle of managing ADHD alone, leading to the realization that outsourcing tasks is not just indulgent—it's essential for mental well-being. Bill describes his experience of hiring a part-time assistant to tackle mundane chores, the importance of prioritizing self-care, and how this newfound support has allowed him to reclaim energy for meaningful pursuits. His story is a powerful reminder that seeking help can be a pathway to peace and productivity.
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Ivy League Grind Without Diagnosis
- Bill Adair describes getting through Penn and UCLA by faking comprehension and speeding up work under intense pressure.
- He depended on teacher support, energy, and determination while feeling exhausted and unreliable for decades.
Late ADHD Diagnosis At 55
- Bill was diagnosed with ADHD at 55 after a therapist suggested it during long-term therapy for overwhelm.
- The diagnosis brought relief and shame release, plus resistance from others who couldn't reconcile his success with ADHD.
Acceptance Is A Gradual Process
- Bill explains acceptance of ADHD is gradual and often met with internalized messages of laziness and unreliability.
- Joining support groups and coaching helped him reframe limitations as realities to manage, not moral failings.