Jordan Stephens, musician and author of 'Avoidance, Drugs, Heartbreak & Dogs', joins a live podcast at The British Library. Topics include meeting David Attenborough, food memories from school, struggles with ADHD, lockdown in Margate, return of Rizzle Kicks, and hosting 'Never Mind The Buzzcocks'.
Jordan faced challenges with traditional education due to ADHD, finding solace in extracurricular activities.
His journey of self-medication for ADHD symptoms evolved from Modafinil to prescribed medication like Concerta.
Advocates for holistic education, emphasizing the need for physical and mental well-being support in schools.
Deep dives
Challenging School Experience and ADHD Diagnosis
In the podcast episode, Jordan Stephens discusses his challenging school experience and being diagnosed with ADHD during his GCSEs. He reflects on struggling with traditional education methods and finding more success in extracurricular activities. He mentions feeling incompatible with the school system and facing conflicts with teachers. Jordan also shares his experience of self-medicating with Modafinil and Adderall to manage his ADHD symptoms and improve his focus, highlighting the complexities of seeking alternative treatments.
Self-Medication and ADHD Symptoms
Jordan Stephens opens up about his journey of self-medication to address his ADHD symptoms, including using Modafinil and Adderall. He recalls feeling inspired and experiencing a newfound ability to think before speaking while on the medication. Jordan acknowledges the risks and challenges associated with self-medicating, sharing how it led to hyper-focusing and eventually transitioning to prescribed medication like Concerta. His story sheds light on the complexities of managing ADHD and seeking effective treatment.
Exploring Educational Flaws and Holistic Approaches
During the podcast, Jordan Stephens delves into his views on educational flaws and the need for holistic approaches in school systems. He discusses the lack of attention given to students' physical and mental well-being, emphasizing the importance of a more holistic educational approach. Jordan mentions a school in Detroit or Harlem that implemented meditation instead of detention, resulting in a reduction of disruptive behavior among students. He advocates for a shift towards a more comprehensive and empathetic educational framework.
Jordan's Struggle with Medication Overdose and Breakup Impact
Jordan shares his experience of unknowingly overdosing on modafinil, mistaking its side effects for its effectiveness, which led to difficulties in changing his medication after 18 months. He reflects on the challenges of prescription medication and the cycle of building tolerance leading to increased dosage. Additionally, the podcast delves into a transformative period post-breakup, where Jordan's visit to Brazil and writing an essay on toxic masculinity marked significant emotional growth.
Exploring Caribbean Cuisine and Advocacy for Queer Community
The discussion shifts to Jordan's culinary preferences, highlighting Caribbean cuisine's historical and cultural richness, especially in his choice of dishes like jerk chicken and plantains. Jordan also emphasizes his vocal support for the queer community, influenced by his upbringing around diverse sexualities and ethnicities. He stresses the importance of integrating femininity and masculinity, denouncing homophobia and advocating for a harmonious human experience.
On this week's episode, we are joined by the delightful Jordan Stephens for a special live episode at The British Library as part of their 'Food Season’. This is Jordan’s first interview for his upcoming memoir, 'Avoidance, Drugs, Heartbreak & Dogs’ and it was a special evening. Mum & I served up some snacky bits and settled in with the gorgeous audience for a fab convo. Jordan told us about his time meeting David Attenborough, the food he ate at school and growing up, his struggles with ADHD, his lockdown spent in Margate, the return of Rizzle Kicks(!) and the story of his unforgettable 'Never Mind The Buzzcocks' hosting job! We loved every minute of this special live episode, thank you to everyone who came along and joined us for a delish Friday night in the library. Jordan’s fantastic upcoming memoir is released on 22nd August and is available to pre-order now.
