ADHD Aha!

Farah Jamil, an executive and ADHD life coach, shares her inspiring journey of self-advocacy when confronted by skeptics doubting her ADHD. She debunks harmful myths linking ADHD to intelligence and discusses the challenges of maintaining friendships amid her struggles. Farah emphasizes the need for community and understanding among individuals with ADHD. She founded support groups for Muslim and interfaith ADHDers, showcasing her commitment to fostering connection and resources for those navigating similar challenges.

Jessica McCabe, creator of How to ADHD, opens up about her personal journey with ADHD from diagnosis at 12 to real understanding at 32. She describes her first experience with ADHD medication as life-changing, likening it to putting on glasses. Jessica shares the challenges of motherhood combined with ADHD, including navigating social anxiety and the stigma around medication. With a mix of humor and honesty, she reflects on her rapid transition into motherhood and highlights the power of community support in managing ADHD.

Dr. Monica Johnson, a professional in mental health, discusses the complex ties between ADHD and trauma. She sheds light on how trauma can mimic ADHD symptoms and the potential for misdiagnosis. Dr. J explains the emotional challenges faced by individuals managing both conditions, emphasizing the importance of supportive treatment and understanding. Caregivers play a crucial role, and she shares valuable strategies to help those affected. This insightful conversation navigates the intersection of psychological well-being and ADHD.

Breon Gummel is a trauma nurse and a passionate advocate for ADHD awareness, while her husband Dan Gummel works in media production, bringing his insights on navigating relationships with ADHD. They share their journey after Breon's diagnosis and how it transformed their marriage. Their discussions reveal the challenges in communication and planning while highlighting the laughter that comes from understanding. They emphasize the power of community through their ADHDinners, offering a safe space for shared experiences, acceptance, and healing.

Leadership and career coach Phoebe Gavin shares her journey of starting a business with ADHD. She discusses her military service, fashion school, and tips for navigating ADHD and PTSD. Phoebe emphasizes the importance of support and empowering others with ADHD.

As women, it can feel like we have to do it all, yet not be “too much.” Add ADHD stigma and shame on top, and it can feel impossible. Good thing we have Tracy Otsuka to remind us that no one has ever made a difference by being “too little.” Tracy is an ADHD coach, the host of the ADHD for Smart Ass Women podcast, and author of the book with the same name! In this episode, host Laura Key and Tracy talk about how her son’s diagnosis led to her own, the need for an ADHD cookbook, and challenging the status quo. Related resourcesTracy’s podcast, ADHD for Smart Ass WomenTracy’s book, ADHD for Smart Ass WomenADHD and women: The essentialsTo get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit the ADHD Aha! podcast page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. 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

Jesse Anderson, an ADHD advocate, discusses toxic productivity, remembering tasks in marriage, rejection sensitivity, and the importance of owning a whiteboard to improve prospective memory. He shares strategies for managing ADHD symptoms and reflecting before responding impulsively.

ADHD advocate William Curb shares coping skills and hacks on Hacking Your ADHD podcast. Topics include ADHD emotions, favorite hacks, managing priorities efficiently, setting boundaries, and broadening ADHD management beyond productivity.

Caren Magill, an ADHD coach and creator of "It's The ADHD-Friendly Show," opens up about her personal journey with ADHD. She discusses her teenage years, marked by struggles like dropping out of high school and poor self-care. Caren emphasizes the importance of fitness, sleep, and meditation in managing ADHD, encouraging a shift from shame to curiosity in tackling challenges. She also sheds light on the unique experiences of women with ADHD, advocating for self-care and community engagement as vital tools for empowerment.

Best-selling author Casey McQuiston discusses how ADHD influences their writing, shares a sneak peek of their upcoming book, and explores unpacking shame and neurodivergence. They delve into personal experiences, struggles in school, and discovering the strengths of ADHD for creative pursuits.