

ADHD Scapegoat Podcast
ADHD with Angie
On the ADHD Scapegoat podcast, we're going to talk about everything ADHD and scapegoating. I'm Angie, an Advanced Certified ADHD Life Coach (ACALC), late diagnosis ADHDer, & trauma survivor of Family Scapegoating Abuse. Let's keep seeking truth and creating a brighter future together!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 4min
Narcissistic Family Roles: The Golden Child & The Scapegoat
Ever wonder why one sibling is praised while another is constantly blamed? In this special episode, I (the ADHD Scapegoat) sit down with my sister—once labeled our family’s “Golden Child”—to tackle the unspoken roles within a dysfunctional, narcissistic family system. We share how pitting siblings against each other creates lasting emotional damage, and we discuss the unspoken “rules” that keep everyone in line (or in constant conflict).
From understanding why rage gets normalized to discovering how fear and shame kept us from forming deeper bonds, we reveal how we’re finally healing and rebuilding a genuine sisterly connection. If you’re seeking clarity about scapegoating, favoritism, and the complexities of growing up in a narcissistic family, this episode is for you.

Jan 9, 2025 • 51min
Signs of Family Dysfunction & Narcissistic Abuse
Holiday gatherings can be a whirlwind, but for those of us with ADHD stuck in dysfunctional families—often featuring narcissistic abuse—this whirlwind is nonstop chaos and confusion. As the family “scapegoat,” I share what I’ve learned from years of research, therapy, and reading books like "You’re Not the Problem" (Helen Villiers & Katie McKenna) and "Adult Survivors of Toxic Family Members" (Dr. Sherrie Campbell).
In this episode, we break down the telling signs of narcissistic and toxic family systems, drawing from Dr. Ramani’s insights on narcissistic behavior vs. an official NPD diagnosis. If you’ve grown up in dysfunction, these 🚩“red flags” 🚩 may feel normal—but recognizing them is the first step toward healing. I’ll also guide you through a three-part exercise to raise your awareness: identifying unhealthy traits, naming the emotions they trigger, and envisioning how to avoid repeating these patterns in the family you create. It’s time to break free from the cycle of chaos and reclaim your life.

Jan 2, 2025 • 57min
No Resolutions. Just Growth.
January often comes with massive pressure to set—and stick to—New Year’s resolutions. But for ADHDers, these rigid goals can quickly trigger boredom, frustration, and guilt. In this episode, I share why “resolutions” often lead to burnout for those of us with ADHD. Instead, I focus on embracing growth and flexibility, finding novel ways to stay engaged in workouts, daily tasks, or any new habit—without forcing ourselves into an all-or-nothing routine.
From time blindness and overambitious planning to the freedom of starting a new habit on any day (not just January 1st), you’ll learn strategies for building sustainable changes that don’t drain your motivation or harm your mental health. If you’re tired of resolutions that never stick, this episode offers a fresh approach: no deadlines, no shame—just growth, day by day.

Dec 26, 2024 • 1h 3min
Grief
The holidays can amplify our grief when we’re reminded of those we’ve lost—either physically or through family estrangement. From the heartbreak of ambiguous grief (mourning someone still alive) to the anxiety of anticipatory grief (fearing loss yet to come) and secondary loss (the ripple effect of your primary loss), we explore the deeply personal ways grief intersects with ADHD.
As the “ADHD Scapegoat,” I share my emotional journey coping with family dysfunction, narcissistic abuse, and shattered trust. Together, we’ll discuss the importance of acknowledging and honoring grief rather than burying it. If you’ve ever felt alone in your pain—especially during a season meant for “togetherness”—this episode offers insight and support. Remember: Healing begins when we give ourselves permission to feel and move forward on our own terms.

Dec 19, 2024 • 1h 16min
The Pain of a Smear Campaign
Being targeted by a narcissistic smear campaign can leave you feeling confused, isolated, and heartbroken—especially when it involves those closest to you. In this episode, we unpack the tactics narcissists use to tarnish reputations and manipulate others, including gaslighting, false accusations, and spreading rumors.
We also explore actionable steps to cope, such as maintaining boundaries, gathering evidence, and prioritizing self-care. Sharing your truth is not a smear campaign—it’s empowerment. Join us as we navigate this painful experience, offering insights to protect your mental health and reclaim your narrative.

Dec 12, 2024 • 45min
Managing ADHD During the Holidays
7 Ways to Manage ADHD During the Holidays
The holidays can be a whirlwind of excitement, overstimulation, and unexpected challenges, especially for ADHD families. In this episode, we dive into the highs and lows of holiday life. From disrupted routines and sugar overloads to navigating extended family dynamics and social anxiety, we share 7 actionable strategies to keep ADHD brains (and hearts) balanced this holiday season.
Whether you’re struggling with sleep deprivation, traveling stress, or managing unrealistic expectations, this episode offers practical tips for building routines, setting boundaries, and finding moments of joy amidst the chaos. Let's reclaim the holidays on our own terms and support our ADHD selves and loved ones!

Dec 5, 2024 • 44min
Being a Cycle Breaker
Are you an ADHD scapegoat or someone breaking generational cycles of abuse? In this episode, I share my personal journey of being a cycle breaker in a dysfunctional family system. From enduring emotional abuse as a child to standing up for my own kids, I’ve committed to healing the wounds I didn’t create—but refuse to pass on.
Discover how understanding generational trauma and ADHD has empowered me to say, “It stops with me.” I'll walk you through the four steps I’ve taken: Awareness, Healing Work, Growth Practice, and Sharing, and why these cycle-breaking practices are essential for creating a healthier, happier family legacy.
"I had to go through it, so I’ll do the work to make sure my kids don’t."
Tune in to learn how breaking toxic cycles can help you protect yourself and the next generation. 🌟

Nov 28, 2024 • 40min
5 Signs You're an ADHD Scapegoat: Ep. 5 - You Are Seen as a Threat
5 signs you are an ADHD Scapegoat: #5 You are seen as a threat.
5 Signs You're an ADHD Scapegoat:
1. You are the truth teller.
2. You are a highly sensitive person.
3. You are curious.
4. You are NOT easy to control.
5. You are seen as a threat.
Today's episode focuses on #5: You are seen as a threat.

Nov 21, 2024 • 47min
5 Signs Your Are an ADHD Scapegoat: Ep. 4 - You Are NOT Easy to Control
Hello, Truth Tellers! In today's episode of the ADHD Scapegoat podcast, we're going to talk about five signs that you might be chosen as a family scapegoat and how your ADHD may be contributing to it. Today's episode is dedicated to number four on the list: you are NOT easy to control.
On the ADHD Scapegoat podcast, we're going to talk about everything ADHD and scapegoating. I'm Angie, an Advanced Certified ADHD Life Coach (ACALC), late diagnosis ADHDer, & trauma survivor of Family Scapegoating Abuse. Let's keep seeking truth and creating a brighter future together!
For more info about my ADHD Life Coach services, please visit my website: https://adhdwithangie.com/

Nov 14, 2024 • 38min
5 Signs Your Are an ADHD Scapegoat: Ep. 3 - You Are Curious
Hello, Truth Tellers! In today's episode of the ADHD Scapegoat podcast, we're going to talk about five signs that you might be chosen as a family scapegoat and how your ADHD may be contributing to it. Today's episode is dedicated to number three on the list: you are curious.
On the ADHD Scapegoat podcast, we're going to talk about everything ADHD and scapegoating. I'm Angie, an Advanced Certified ADHD Life Coach (ACALC), late diagnosis ADHDer, & trauma survivor of Family Scapegoating Abuse. Let's keep seeking truth and creating a brighter future together!
For more info about my ADHD Life Coach services, please visit my website: https://adhdwithangie.com/