ADHD Is Awesome

Ever feel like your brain is juggling ten thoughts at once–while also trying to remember where you left your keys? Father Dave and Deacon Bob chat about the wild, wonderful world of ADHD–the struggles, the strengths, and how it can be gift in disguise.

In this episode, Deacon Bob discusses his recent ADHD diagnosis and how it has transformed his approach to life, work, and faith. With insights from the book ADHD Is Awesome: A Guide to Mostly Thriving with ADHD, the hosts explore how accepting ADHD quirks can boost creativity. This acceptance can also lead to deeper spiritual growth and a lot of joyful chaos.

Of course, no episode is complete without a bit of world news, sports, and history. Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss the electric energy of the Copa América, the Euro Cup, and the touching return of Princess Kate to public life at Wimbledon.

They also commemorate the 800 anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi receiving the stigmata–because if there’s one saint who fully embodied divine intensity, it’s Francis. The conversation turns to the prophetic voice of Pope Paul VI and the urgent need for unity and prayer in the wake of the attack on former President Donald Trump.

And because ADHD means jumping between topics is inevitable, they also invite listeners to engage with the Jubilee Year of Hope, reflecting on its spiritual significance, and the transformative power of pilgrimage.

From indulgences to the upcoming Eucharistic Congress, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of hope, unity, and the enduring strength found in community and faith.

 

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Chaos in Soccer and Politics
Father Dave and Deacon Bob chat about the wild world of soccer fandom, from the electrifying Copa América final to Spain’s Euro Cup victory. They compare the rowdy energy of European crowds to America’s more reserved enthusiasm. Plus, a look at Princess Kate’s emotional return to Wimbledon.

(08:07) Current Events and Political Commentary
Marking 800 years since St. Francis received the Stigmata, the hosts reflect on his radical faith and a special conference at Franciscan University. They also discuss the prophetic legacy of Pope Paul VI and the urgent need for unity following the recent attack on former President Trump.

(17:54) ADHD Appreciation
Deacon Bob discusses his ADHD diagnosis and how it’s reshaped his approach to faith and life. They unpack the book ADHD Is Awesome: A Guide to Mostly Thriving with ADHD and how embracing neurodivergence can be a superpower. Expect plenty of humor, honesty, and a few scattered thoughts.

(25:07) Year of Jubilee and Pilgrimage Hope
The Jubilee Year is all about hope–and pilgrimages, whether to Rome or the cathedral down the street. Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss the 1700 anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and (half-jokingly) pitch a podcast pilgrimage to Disney World.

(32:05) Sacraments, Indulgences, and Hope
Indulgences aren’t just old-school Catholicism–they’re a roadmap to healing. The hosts break down how they work, why they matter, and how the upcoming Eucharistic Congress is the perfect time to embrace grace and renewal.

(36:46) Hope and Prayer at Franciscan
Need prayer? Franciscan University has you covered. Send in a request or stop by booth #340 at the congress to connect with a community rooted in faith and hope.

 

Resources Mentioned

Watch the Livestream of the Marked With the Wounds of Christ: An Academic Conference on the Stigmatization of St. Francis.

Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance

ADHD Is Awesome: A Guide to (Mostly) Thriving with ADHD by Penn and Kim Holderness

Spes Non Confundit (Hope Does Not Disappoint) Papal Bull by Pope Francis