ADHD Aha!

Peter Jones, a UX designer and software architect from New Hampshire, shares his enlightening journey with ADHD. He reflects on childhood experiences where adults misinterpreted his struggles as hearing issues. The discussion dives into the intricate relationship between auditory processing and ADHD, distinguishing between listening and hearing. Peter also highlights how aging can uncover previously misunderstood symptoms, and he emphasizes the importance of embracing one’s ADHD traits while advocating for better understanding and support in society.

ADHD coach Emily Weinberg discusses her struggle with analysis paralysis before being diagnosed with ADHD. She reflects on feeling lazy, mentally exhausted, balancing guilt and relaxation during post-childbirth pumping sessions, embracing her ADHD diagnosis despite not fitting the stereotype, and transitioning to become an ADHD coach to empower others.

Carol Blumenstein, a former unteachable student with ADHD and dyslexia, shares her journey of overcoming reading anxiety and becoming a motivated individual. She discusses the challenges of having both ADHD and dyslexia, the discovery of her own diagnoses and those of her children, and the inspiration and work of Kids Read to Kids. The organization provides free video audiobooks read by kids for kids, creating resources to support children's learning and parents.

Ernest Anemone, actor and executive coach, shares his personal journey with ADHD. He discusses the lack of control and shame associated with executive dysfunction and challenges the idea of ADHD being an attention 'deficit'. Ernie also explores his self-perception, the power of storytelling, and creating connections through film.

Journalist and writer Hannah Harris Green shares her ADHD diagnosis story and discusses the overlapping symptoms of ADHD and PTSD. She delves into the challenges of transitioning to high school, navigating the ADHD label, and the emotional aspect of being evaluated for ADHD. Hannah highlights the importance of stability, access to resources, and a full evaluation before starting medication on the journey to diagnosis and relief.

Clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Karen Wilson discusses executive function challenges faced by young adults with ADHD in the real world. She provides expert advice on coping with the demands of college or that first job, including developing self-advocacy skills, seeking academic help, managing medication, and fostering self-development. The hosts and Dr. Wilson encourage listeners to join the conversation and share their experiences.

Livingston Steele, a guest on this podcast, discusses his perfectionism and how it led him to get evaluated for ADHD. He also shares how ADHD helped him build empathy for his brothers (who also have ADHD), and for himself.

ADHD decluttering coach, Wendy Zanders, shares her experience of using hyperfocus to bring organization to her life. She discusses her ADHD diagnosis, homeschooling challenges, and the importance of balance and prioritizing tasks. Wendy also shares her vision of providing scholarships and support for families in need.

Before her ADHD diagnosis, accountant Sam Salmons felt “fixed, but still broken.” As a young adult, she spent years in therapy, treated her depression, and had a laundry list of coping skills. So, why couldn’t she stop her body from doing things — like interrupting — that her mind didn’t want to do?Sam saw herself as an “extroverted extrovert.” She was constantly talking and impulsively saying yes to everything. Then her therapist recommended an ADHD evaluation.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at ADHDAha@understood.org.Related resourcesADHD in girls: Overlooked?What causes trouble with self-control?How ADHD is diagnosed in adults 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

Dr. Andrew Kahn, psychologist and dad, explains the difference between tantrums and meltdowns in children with ADHD. He provides practical strategies for parents to respond effectively, emphasizing the importance of observation and presence. Check out more helpful advice for parents on understood.org.