ADHD Aha!

This week we’re revisiting one of our favorite ADHD Aha! episodes. Ange Nolan once suspected she had ADHD but was dismissed by her doctor. Years later, an ADHD “iceberg” graphic that visualized how so many ADHD symptoms live beneath the surface finally made everything click. After her diagnosis, Ange recognized how much ADHD had shaped her romantic relationships, her drive for intense connection, her “chameleon” behavior, and her impulsive career changes. Be sure to tune in next time! Ange is coming back to tell us how life has changed in the three years since her episode aired. Spoiler: She’s doing great.For more on this topic:Listen: ADHD and messiness (Jeannie’s story)Read: ADHD and emotionsRead: Understanding impulsivityListen: ADHD and marriage (Rachel and Jon’s story)Timestamps: (00:50) The ADHD iceberg moment that revealed hidden symptoms(05:20) Early warning signs, misdiagnosis, and feeling dismissed(09:40) Career pivots, masking, and finding work that finally fits(15:30) Impulsivity, hyperfixation, and burnout in relationshipsFor a transcript and more resources, visit ADHD Aha! on Understood.org. You can also email us at adhdaha@understood.org. Understood.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Atira Roberson, a passionate learning disability advocate and English teacher from Arkansas, shares her compelling journey of discovering her ADHD and other diagnoses in college. She reflects on the impact of being shielded from her diagnoses growing up, the stigma of being a Black girl with learning disabilities, and the bullying that shaped her self-perception. Atira's passion for teaching stems from her experiences, leading her to develop classroom strategies aimed at creating safe, supportive environments for students with ADHD.

Jim Tews, a comedian, Coast Guard veteran, and New York Times bestselling author, candidly shares his journey with ADHD. He recounts how a series of panic attacks during college led to his diagnosis and experimentation with medication. Jim reflects on his childhood distractions and the unique challenges of ‘girl ADHD.’ He reveals how stand-up comedy serves as an outlet that helps him stay grounded. Plus, he discusses his latest comedy special, "With Pictures," and album, "Without Pictures," showcasing his humorous take on living with ADHD.

Dr. Ann Bennett, an applied research lead at Understood.org and valedictorian with ADHD and autism, shares her journey of late diagnoses. She discusses her academic struggles, including a disciplinary record from boredom in class and her relief upon receiving her autism diagnosis during her PhD. Ann reveals insights from her 'Women With ADHD: The Power of Podcasts' study, highlighting how podcasts provide hope and connection for women, improve understanding of ADHD and autism, and foster community among listeners.

Lisa McNeil, a former paramedic and musician, shares her journey as the 'bad' twin who was later diagnosed with ADHD. She reflects on how music, particularly playing the violin, unexpectedly enhanced her reading and focus. The conversation dives into the impact of her childhood labeling and the contrasting personalities between her and her sister. Lisa discusses how joining a Duke University study led to her diagnosis, which reframed her understanding of herself and improved her life significantly.

Dr. Nerissa Bauer, a behavioral pediatrician and CEO of Let's Talk Kids Health, shares her journey from treating ADHD to discovering she has it herself. She discusses the burnout she experienced in academia and the surprising self-reflection prompted by her son's ADHD. Nerissa reveals how her diagnosis reshaped her approach to patient care with increased empathy and honesty. She also introduces her course, Teach Me ADHD, designed to help families navigate ADHD together with practical strategies and insights.

Derek Miller, a multifaceted money coach and musician, shares his journey with ADHD, diagnosed in college amidst personal challenges. He candidly discusses overcoming math anxiety, emotional regulation, and the impact of caffeine on focus. Derek's missionary experience in Mozambique shaped his understanding of community and resilience. He emphasizes the emotional ties to money and advocates for healthier financial relationships, especially for those who are neurodivergent. Join him as he explores fear, self-awareness, and playful approaches to financial education.

Sari Solden, a pioneering psychotherapist and author, is a steadfast advocate for women with ADHD. In her discussion, she reflects on her personal journey of discovering her own ADHD while shaping the field in the 90s. She addresses the societal pressures and stigma surrounding women with ADHD, sharing candid anecdotes about her struggles with shame and working memory. Sari emphasizes the importance of community support and self-acceptance, highlighting the recent surge in diagnoses and the evolving understandings of ADHD in women.

Erica Shoemate, a maternal health strategist and advocate, shares her powerful story of navigating motherhood after a traumatic birth. She reveals how her experiences led to a late ADHD diagnosis and highlights the layered mental health stigma that exists within the Black community. Erica discusses the intersection of ADHD and hormonal changes, reflecting on her challenges with postpartum anxiety and PTSD. Her journey underscores the importance of mental health advocacy and support, encouraging open conversations about these issues.

Canadian writer and performer Kate Hammer, now based in Scotland, talks about her journey with ADHD and the emotional rollercoaster of seeking a diagnosis. She reveals how candid feedback from loved ones influenced her understanding of herself, alongside her experience navigating the UK evaluation process. Kate shares insights into her short film 'Bear,' a creative representation of ADHD through the metaphor of a clumsy bear, shedding light on the chaos of neurodivergence and the power of humor in addressing invisible struggles.