ADHD Aha!

Feeling unsafe with ADHD (Laura Mears-Reynolds’ story) Jun 10, 2025

Laura Mears-Reynolds had reached a breaking point with anxiety and depression—until she realized something deeper was going on. She didn’t feel safe in her own hands, and she knew she needed help. What she didn’t know? ADHD was at the root of it all.

The UK-based host of the ADHD AF podcast joins ADHD Aha! to share how understanding her brain finally helped her shed shame, find self-acceptance, and build a thriving community. Her message is clear: You’re not broken—and you’re definitely not alone.

Related resources

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Laura’s podcast and community website, adhdasfemales.com
ADHD and depression
ADHD and anxiety

Timestamps

(02:37) The most ADHD thing that’s happened this week

(03:29) Laura’s ADHD diagnosis story, and crisis point

(07:20) Identifying as naive and overly trusting

(10:18) Laura’s ADHD “aha” moments

(13:02) A constant level of chaos, and assuming (what ended up being) ADHD symptoms were from partying a lot

(15:18) The “little” ADHD things that add up and cause shame

(17:27) Struggling with the “ADHD superpower” narrative

(19:50) How would life have been different with an earlier diagnosis?

(21:21) How Laura’s life has changed since her diagnosis, and creating the ADHD AF podcast

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! show page on Understood.org.

We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at adhdaha@understood.org or record a message for us here.

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

How an ADHD diagnosis was lost and found again (Nikki Daye’s story) May 27, 2025

Nikki Daye, a school psychologist and ADHD advocate, grew up in the foster care system. She was diagnosed with ADHD as a child, but her medical records were eventually lost. As she got older, her ADHD diagnosis wasn’t considered. Instead, her symptoms were misdiagnosed as anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.

While her ADHD diagnosis was “lost in translation,” Nikki spent a lot of time feeling misunderstood and unsupported. It wasn’t until adulthood that she finally got the clarity she needed. Now, she’s using her experience to advocate for kids with ADHD, including her own daughter.

Related resources

Timestamps

(01:18) Nikki’s first ADHD diagnosis as a teenager

(03:30) Nikki’s experience with echolalia

(05:27) ADHD treatment, speculating other diagnoses, and medical records being lost while in foster care

(09:11) “Aging out” of her ADHD diagnosis, and coming back to it

(15:08) Nikki’s intersectional “aha” moments

(20:33) Nikki’s work helping kids like her, and her daughter

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! show page on Understood.org.

We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at adhdaha@understood.org or record a message for us here.

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

ADHD, autism, and the pressure to be “man enough” (Shane Thrapp’s story) May 13, 2025

Shane Thrapp always felt different. As an adult, he found out he has both ADHD and autism — two parts of his brain that sometimes work against each other.

In this episode, Shane shares the weight of masking his symptoms, and how society’s ideas about “real men” can make it even harder to speak up. Today, Shane is helping other men with ADHD as the Operations Director of the Men’s ADHD Support Group. He’s on a mission to show that being yourself shows more strength than pretending to be someone you’re not.

Related resources

Timestamps

(01:19) Shane’s ADHD and autism diagnoses story

(05:48) The three-way battle between ADHD and autism

(09:12) How is Shane as a boss?

(10:21) Learning social cues, trying on identities, and societal expectations

(15:04) The Men’s ADHD Support Group, and building a community that supports each other in healthy ways

(18:34) The biggest misconceptions about men with ADHD

(21:38) Building a world that’s better for his children

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! Show page on Understood.org.

We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at adhdaha@understood.org or record a message for us here.

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

A breakup, an intense reaction, and the ADHD questions surrounding it all (Danielle Elliot’s story) Apr 29, 2025

Danielle Elliot was considering breaking up with her partner...and then he broke up with her first. Danielle had a “big, out of character” reaction: By 4am that night she was packed and ready to leave. The whole experience left her feeling unsettled. Why had she reacted that way? That sparked a deep dive into rejection sensitivity and ADHD.

Danielle is a health and science journalist who’s now asking a bigger question: Why are so many women being diagnosed with ADHD — and why now?

She explores this in Understood.org’s new limited-series podcast, Climbing the Walls. Listen to Danielle’s personal story here — then check out Climbing the Walls on your podcast platform of choice.

Related resources

Timestamps

(01:26) Danielle’s pandemic diagnosis after a strong reaction to a break up

(08:26) Danielle’s need to travel

(12:15) Danielle’s relationship with relationships, and rejection

(16:02) Hosting Understood.org’s Climbing the Walls podcast

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! show page on Understood.org.

We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at adhdaha@understood.org, or record a message for us here.

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

I didn’t want to have ADHD (from the Climbing the Walls podcast) Apr 22, 2025

In this bonus episode, we’re sharing the first episode of a new Understood.org podcast, Climbing the Walls.

Climbing the Walls is an investigative limited-series podcast that explores why women were historically underdiagnosed with ADHD — and how the recent surge in diagnoses is reshaping our understanding of ADHD.

In this episode, host Danielle Elliot finds herself among the many women diagnosed with ADHD during the pandemic, and she gets curious. Why women? And why now?

This question takes her to northern Michigan, to meet a friend’s mom.

For more on this topic:

For a transcript and more resources, visit the Climbing the Walls show page on Understood.org. 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

A mother-son ADHD combo, plus teaching with ADHD (Emilia McGuckin’s story) Apr 15, 2025

Join health and science journalist Danielle Elliot as she investigates the rise of women recently diagnosed with ADHD. Listen to Climbing the Walls now.

Emilia McGuckin was surprised when a teacher suggested her son might have ADHD. As a teacher herself, she thought she would have spotted the signs. But after diving into the research, an even bigger surprise hit her: Could she have ADHD too?

Emilia, a high school and college teacher, was hesitant to pursue an ADHD evaluation. She’d felt dismissed by medical providers in the past, an experience all too common for many women. But when she finally got diagnosed, everything started to make sense. What she once saw as “character flaws” or “personal failings” turned out to be overlooked symptoms of ADHD.

Related resources

Timestamps

(01:10) Emilia’s son’s ADHD diagnosis

(04:42) Hyperfocusing on ADHD to help her son, and realizing she has symptoms too

(06:49) Apprehension about seeking an ADHD evaluation, after not being believed by doctors in the past

(09:20) Feelings and coping after diagnosis

(11:56) An “avalanche of ADHD” in the family

(17:02) How Emilia and her son’s diagnoses changed how she teaches

(20:29) Busting ADHD myths

For a transcript and more resources, visit the episode page on 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

My full-circle ADHD experience (Laura’s story, continued) Apr 01, 2025

Join health and science journalist Danielle Elliot as she investigates the rise of women recently diagnosed with ADHD. Listen to Climbing the Walls now.

On this 100th episode of ADHD Aha!, host Laura Key looks back on the powerful conversations she’s had with guests from all walks of life about their unique ADHD experiences. She also opens up about a deeply personal new chapter: her 9-year-old daughter’s recent ADHD diagnosis. Laura reflects on what this milestone means for her both as a mom and a person with ADHD.

Joining Laura is her friend, co-worker, and Hyperfocus podcast host, Rae Jacobson. Together, they explore how Laura’s understanding of ADHD has evolved over the course of the show — and how she’s navigating the emotions of raising a child who shares her diagnosis.

Related resources

Timestamps

(00:50) What has it been like making 100 episodes of ADHD Aha!?

(03:03) Laura’s daughter’s diagnoses, and being a mom with ADHD

(08:21) Laura’s daughter’s ADHD and anxiety evaluation

(10:51) Sleep and ADHD parenting challenges

(12:19) Feeling the pressure to be a “perfect ADHD mom”

(14:14) How hard it can be to be a kid with ADHD

(16:40) Keeping ADHD mom perfectionism in check

(20:58) Has Laura’s outlook on ADHD changed throughout making this show?

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! page on Understood.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

Love and grief with ADHD (Steve Wesley’s story) Mar 18, 2025

Join health and science journalist Danielle Elliot as she investigates the rise of women recently diagnosed with ADHD. Listen to Climbing the Walls now.

Steve Wesley makes videos about ADHD to create a legacy for his family. As a single dad with ADHD, he worries he’s not doing enough to support his two sons, who also have ADHD. He hopes the videos will serve as proof one day that he really was trying.

Steve’s late wife was “the calendar” of the family. She kept everything on track. When she passed away, it was up to Steve to manage everything and teach his sons the executive function skills that he struggles with so much himself.

Join this emotional conversation between Steve and host Laura Key about parenting and coping with death with ADHD.

Related resources

Check out Steve’s YouTube channel, Steve with ADHD
ADHD and coping with grief: 8 ways to help your child
ADHD and emotions

Timestamps

(01:00) Steve’s “aha” moment, and accepting his diagnosis

(05:03) ADHD, emotions, and grieving the loss of his wife

(10:57) Adjusting to being a single parent as a widower

(13:48) Why did Steve start his YouTube channel for his family?

(18:38) ADHD: Superpower or curse?

(23:27) What would Steve’s wife be proud of him for today?

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! page on Understood.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

Afraid to be the “crazy wife” with ADHD (Sela Carsen’s story) Mar 04, 2025

Join health and science journalist Danielle Elliot as she investigates the rise of women recently diagnosed with ADHD. Listen to Climbing the Walls now.

Romance author Sela Carsen saw herself in her daughter’s ADHD evaluation 20 years ago. But she didn’t request an evaluation for herself until just 4 years ago. She was afraid that having ADHD would have a negative effect on her husband’s military career — that she’d be the “crazy wife.”

Once Sela was finally diagnosed with ADHD, she had a big sense of relief. She felt capable in her job as an author, and that she “didn’t have to hate herself so much” anymore. Hear this conversation with Sela and host Laura Key as they chat about ADHD shame, Gen X’s outlook on mental health, and neurodivergent book characters.

Related resources

Timestamps

(01:46) When did Sela start to notice signs of ADHD in herself?

(03:48) Why Sela didn’t pursue an ADHD evaluation while her husband was in active duty

(05:46) How ADHD symptoms affected her life while she was undiagnosed

(08:55) Finally seeking an ADHD evaluation

(14:11) Neurodivergent story characters

(17:45) How being Gen X changes how you approach ADHD

(20:24) What’s next for Sela?

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! page on Understood.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

Sensory overload and self-advocacy with ADHD (Margaux Joffe’s story) Feb 18, 2025

Join health and science journalist Danielle Elliot as she investigates the rise of women recently diagnosed with ADHD. Listen to Climbing the Walls now.

Margaux Joffe’s “aha” moment came during a shopping trip to IKEA with her mom. She had an intense sensory overload experience, which her mom later suggested could be ADHD-related. Margaux, who’d been diagnosed with anxiety and depression as a teenager, had never considered ADHD.

She was diagnosed with ADHD at age 29. In the years since, she’s become a global advocate for neurodiversity and accessibility. Check out her conversation with host Laura Key about justice sensitivity, workplace accommodations, and self-harm in undiagnosed women.

Related resources

ADHD and sensory overload
ADHD and depression
Understood.org’s 2024 Neurodiversity at Work Survey Fact Sheet
Margaux’s website, margauxjoffe.com

Timestamps

(01:55) Margaux’s IKEA story, and “aha” moment

(07:34) Sensory sensitivity and ADHD

(09:03) Undiagnosed ADHD leading to anxiety and depression

(12:38) Breaking down during transitional periods

(14:16) Being told she was just “too much” as a child

(18:44) What has she learned in the 10 years since being diagnosed?

(21:12) What has she learned through working with other women with ADHD?

(23:29) Self-advocacy and disclosure at work

(26:35) What’s Margaux up to now?

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! page on Understood.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

Rejection sensitivity and ADHD as an Emmy-winning comedy writer (Dan McCoy’s story) Feb 04, 2025

We’re running a survey to see how podcasts help women with ADHD learn about mental health and health-related topics. Make your voice heard today.

Dan McCoy understood better his mood swings, fear of rejection, and hyperfocus when he was diagnosed with ADHD last year. He got an ADHD evaluation after reading an article his brother wrote about being on the autism spectrum.

Dan is a comedy writer who’s won two Emmy awards for his work on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. He also co-hosts the movie podcast, The Flop House. Dan explains how comedy writing can be exposure therapy for rejection, and how he’s coping with managing emotions.

Related resources

ADHD and rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD)
ADHD and mood swings
Dan’s podcast, The Flop House

Timestamps

(01:24) Dan’s recent ADHD diagnosis

(03:55) Recognizing emotions and burnout from masking

(06:40) The “Boom Bust” ADHD energy cycle

(08:05) Would it have been helpful to have an ADHD diagnosis as a child?

(11:26) Rejection sensitivity and comedy writing

(15:32) Does ADHD make you funny?

(19:34) Are people considerate of ADHD characteristics?

(22:34) What is Dan working on?

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! page on Understood

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

A deeper dive on ADHD, sex, and consent (Cate Osborn is back!) Jan 21, 2025

We’re running a survey to see how podcasts help women with ADHD learn about mental health and health-related topics. Make your voice heard today.

ADHD affects our whole life — even our sex life. Our friend Cate Osborn, who has a background in sex education, is back to chat with host Laura Key about executive function challenges that may pop up in the bedroom. Cate and Laura dive into topics like ADHD and consent, working memory, and rejection sensitivity.

Cate hosts another Understood.org podcast, Sorry, I Missed This, a show about ADHD, intimacy, and communication. Check it out for some deeper dives into this episode’s topics!

Note: This episode contains conversation about sexual assault.

Related resources

Rainn.org

Hear Cate’s personal story: ADHD and hormones (Cate Osborn’s story)

Cate’s podcast, Sorry, I Missed This!

Timestamps

(02:34) Why it’s called “Sorry, I Missed This”

(6:50) Executive function impact on relationships

(10:04) “Sex is a task”

(12:20)Task initiation impact on relationships

(14:07) Communication, working memory, and consent

(16:31) Time perception, impulsiveness, and dating

(20:46) “It’s not your fault”

(23:19) How to approach consent as a person with ADHD

(27:33) Cate’s own journey with ADHD and sexuality

(30:09) How rejection sensitivity complicates consent

(33:32) Cate’s email

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! page on Understood.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

3 generations of ADHD…and masking (Zoe Plotnick’s story) Jan 07, 2025

At 14, Zoe Plotnick told her mom, “My brain’s broken.” Zoe wanted an ADHD evaluation, but her mom discouraged it, pointing to Zoe’s good grades. Zoe was eventually diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. She also learned that her mom was hiding her own ADHD all along.

Now Zoe, who’s a teacher, is unpacking the ADHD stigma that her family has carried for generations. And she’s advocating for her daughter who, in a twist of fate, was diagnosed with ADHD at age 14 — the same age Zoe was when she tried to get evaluated the first time.

Related resources

Timestamps

((01:10) Zoe’s pandemic “aha” moment

(03:23) Pushing for an ADHD diagnosis as an adult

(05:22) Growing up with undiagnosed ADHD

(09:17) Asking for help when Zoe was 14

(12:32) Generational ADHD shame and masking

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! page on Understood.org

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

ADHD or OCD? (Julianna Broadwater’s story) Dec 24, 2024

For years, Julianna Broadwater’s therapist suggested looking into ADHD. But Julianna resisted. She had a past diagnosis of OCD, so she attributed her challenges to that. Plus she was the primary breadwinner in the family, so how could she have ADHD?

Then Julianna tried ADHD medication, and her thinking completely changed. The impulsive, intrusive thoughts that would pop into her head started to lessen. It was easy to swat them away like flies, instead of dropping everything to focus on them.

Julianna was diagnosed with ADHD during the pandemic. Hear about her OCD misdiagnosis, and how the symptoms she thought were her OCD actually stemmed from ADHD.

Related resources

Timestamps

(01:17) Julianna’s ADHD diagnosis story

(06:49) Julianna’s experience growing up

(11:42) Julianna’s OCD misdiagnosis

(13:59) Getting stuck on thoughts

(15:26) Never going back to how things were before the pandemic

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! page on Understood.org

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

The ADHD failure cycle (Jared Robson’s story) Dec 10, 2024

Growing up, Jared Robson got so sick of failing that he decided, “trying isn’t for me.” Jared got into trouble all the time and bounced around different high schools. He eventually graduated high school but admits that that might not have happened if his family weren’t so well-off.

Now, Jared’s a stay-at-home dad and thriving as a college student taking courses online (He has a 4.0 GPA!). Jared and Laura talk about the “hyperactive little boy” stereotype. Listen as he describes his quest to find stillness and how he thinks of the ADHD failure cycle today.

Related resources

Understanding hyperactivity
What is the school-to-prison pipeline? From Opportunity Gap
ADHD in boys

Timestamps

(01:01) Jared’s school life growing up

(07:08) “Trying isn’t for me”

(10:54) Changing around high schools

(12:53) Trying out different colleges

(13:56) Managing expectations

(17:31) Jared’s “aha” moments

(20:14) Jared’s pandemic lifestyle change

(23:36) Jared’s mindset shift in the present day

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! page on Understood.org.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

AuDHD, sensory meltdowns, and hormones (Sam Hiew’s story) Nov 26, 2024

After Samantha Hiew had her second child at age 40, hormonal changes shed light on her ADHD symptoms. She was diagnosed with ADHD and, later, autism. Sam talks about her experience with AuDHD, including regulating emotions and sensory meltdowns. Sam also talks about her multicultural experience and the importance of community when you have ADHD.

Sam is a social entrepreneur, scientist, and advocate. She’s also the founder and director of ADHD Girls, an award-winning social impact organization that helps neurodivergent girls succeed.

Related resources

What is AuDHD?
A guide to hormones and ADHD
adhdgirls.co.uk
Sam’s personal website, samanthahiew.com

Timestamps

(01:21) What is ADHD Girls?

(02:59) Why was Sam questioning if she had ADHD?

(06:42) Sam’s multicultural experience with ADHD

(10:12) Sam’s ADHD symptoms

(12:04) Having both ADHD and autism

(14:32) Sensory meltdowns

(18:12) Sam’s childhood

(19:58) ADHD and hormones

(26:00) Where you can find Sam

For a transcript and more resources, visit the ADHD Aha! page on Understood.org

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

Going on the record with ADHD (Rakia Reynolds’ story) Nov 12, 2024

In school, a teacher made Rakia Reynolds push her desk all the way to the principal’s office for getting in trouble. Rakia had undiagnosed ADHD. She was energetic, creative, and the class clown. Rakia is now a businesswoman and creative leader with diagnosed ADHD — a diagnosis that she never shared publicly… until now.

Hear from Rakia, the founder and executive director of Skai Blue Media, on why she shied away from talking about her ADHD until now. Did a level of success make it feel safer to talk about? And if so, what can we learn from that?

Related resources

Timestamps

(01:41) Speaking publicly about having ADHD

(07:47) Rakia’s childhood and school life

(12:43) Hitting a wall in graduate school

(14:36) Rakia’s “aha“ moments

(16:51) ADHD strengths and weaknesses

(18:53) Coping at work

(21:36) How employers can create an inclusive and supportive workplace

To get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit the ADHD Aha! podcast page at Understood.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

What’s scary about ADHD? (Ghost hunter Em Schulz’s story) Oct 29, 2024

Em Schulz thought they were just lazy growing up. Years later, after discovering that not everyone’s TikTok was full of ADHD tips that “weirdly work,” they realized they might have ADHD.

Em is a paranormal investigator (aka ghost hunter) and co-host of the And That’s Why We Drink podcast. Em and Laura chat about ghosts and ghosting, as in ghosting relationships — a not uncommon ADHD behavior. And Em shares their take on whether people believe less in ghosts or ADHD.

Related resources

Em’s podcast website, andthatswhywedrink.com
“Is ADHD real?” What experts say when people doubt ADHD
ADHD fact sheet

Timestamps

(01:32) What it’s like being a paranormal investigator

(06:13) What do people believe in less: ADHD or ghosts?

(07:02) Growing up with undiagnosed ADHD

(10:42) Em’s pandemic diagnosis

(14:02) TikTok ADHD tips that resonated with Em

(15:39) How did Em’s ADHD diagnosis change their life?

(16:55) What’s scary about ADHD?

(18:34) Why Em became a paranormal investigator

(19:33) ADHD creativity at night

(20:28) Scary movies

(23:43) Where you can find Em

To get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit the ADHD Aha! podcast page at Understood.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

When ADHD is mistaken for disobedience (Kayla Sanders’ story) Oct 15, 2024

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Growing up as a Black girl with undiagnosed ADHD, Kayla Sanders learned very early that getting into trouble was not an option. Kayla was imaginative, playful, and extremely bright. She was also hyperactive, which was occasionally mistaken for disobedience.

One incident in particular in the first grade left a lasting mark on Kayla. From then on out, Kayla did everything she could to avoid causing trouble for her hard-working, loving mom. She pushed down her hyperactivity and masked her symptoms for years. Then, during the pandemic, Kayla was finally diagnosed with ADHD.

Join Kayla and host Laura Key’s chat on ADHD and masking, and the added pressure that comes from racial bias.

Related resources

Timestamps

(01:10) Kayla’s pandemic ADHD diagnosis story

(06:53) Kayla’s childhood behavior

(09:45) The pressure to mask ADHD as a Black woman

(13:56) Covering up “mistakes” in the classroom

(15:35) Kayla’s relationship with her mom

(20:11) Cultural masking, and the intersection of ADHD and race

To get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit the ADHD Aha! podcast page at Understood.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

Emotional regulation — and yelling — as a mom with ADHD (Patricia Sung’s story) Oct 01, 2024

Patricia Sung was diagnosed with ADHD in her first year of college. It wasn’t until she became a mother, and other people relied on her, that she realized just how much ADHD affected her.

Patricia now hosts the Motherhood in ADHD podcast. Join Patricia and host Laura Key as they talk about managing emotions with ADHD. Patricia explains the concept of “raging” — that moment when you go from 99 to 100 and emotions boil over. She also shares strategies that can help.

Related resources

Timestamps

((01:10) Patricia’s diagnosis story

(06:16) How “ADHD” changed for Patricia when she became a mom

(09:09) ADHD mom challenges

(21:47) Acknowledging realistic “wins” for women with ADHD

(26:41) How you can join Patricia

To get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit the ADHD Aha! podcast page at Understood.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

Fear of rejection with ADHD runs deep (Matthew’s story) Sep 17, 2024

Matthew Raghunauth always felt like he was a little lazy and sluggish — that’s just how he was. Then the time came to return to office after the pandemic, and he really started struggling at work. He questioned why he would put things off so much. He was scared to mess up, and afraid that his colleagues would think he’s a bad employee.

Matthew is an artist and UX designer who was diagnosed with ADHD about a year and a half ago. Join Laura and Matthew as they talk about this ADHD fear of being “found out,” and a grown-up view of growing up.

Related resources

Timestamps

(01:25) Why did Matthew seek out an ADHD evaluation?

(05:59) ADHD and prioritization overload

(07:23) Anxiety and fixations while growing up

(10:10) Putting off things out of fear of failing and being rejected

(12:34) ADHD and catastrophizing

(15:32) Are we really “too sensitive”?

(16:38) When “growing up” means taking care of yourself

(21:20) The added pressure of being first generation American

To get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit the ADHD Aha! podcast page at Understood.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

“You can’t have ADHD” (Farah Jamil’s story) Sep 03, 2024

Farah Jamil had to stand up for herself when two health care providers told her she couldn’t have ADHD. The reasons cited? One thought she was too smart, charming, and cared for to have ADHD. The other seemed to question whether ADHD was even real. Fortunately, Farah has strong self-advocacy skills that allowed her to debunk these myths in real time.

Farah is an executive coach, ADHD life coach, and the founder of the community groups Muslim ADHDers and Interfaith ADHDers. Listen as host Laura Key and Farah bust common ADHD myths. They also talk about how ADHD can make keeping friends hard.

Related resources

From Sorry, I Missed This: The impact of ADHD on workplace relationships
8 common myths about ADHD
Muslim ADHDers
Interfaith ADHDers

Timestamps

(01:14) Farah’s first attempt to get an ADHD diagnosis

(05:11) Unpacking the 4 myths her doctor told her about ADHD

(09:22) Farah’s second attempt to get an ADHD diagnosis

(10:55) What was Farah struggling with?

(13:41) Why is Farah surprised she “still has friends”?

(18:53) The ADHD communities Farah has founded

(27:24) Farah’s advice

(29:53) Where you can find Farah

To get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit the ADHD Aha! podcast page at Understood.

Want to share your “aha” moment? 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

Jessica McCabe (!!) on motherhood, social anxiety, and ADHD medication Aug 20, 2024

How to ADHD creator Jessica McCabe has been the source of many ADHD “aha” moments — so what were her ADHD “aha” moments?

Jessica was diagnosed when she was 12 years old but didn’t start to look into what ADHD meant for her until she was 32. Taking ADHD medication felt like putting on glasses — experiencing the world as everyone else did. But she didn’t have the skills and strategies to cope with ADHD.

So, she started making YouTube videos...and the rest is history. Listen in as Jessica answers Laura’s many questions, including: What’s it like for her to be a new mom with ADHD? Does she ever get a vulnerability hangover? And why doesn’t she think she’s cool?

Related resources

Jessica’s YouTube channel, How to ADHD
All about ADHD medication
Understanding trouble with social skills

Timestamps

(03:08) How Jessica feels about being involved in so many people’s “aha” moment

(04:55) Jessica’s diagnosis story at age 12

(06:16) Jessica’s ADHD medication “aha” moment

(07:33) The creation of Jessica’s YouTube channel How to ADHD

(11:29) Jessica on social anxiety

(14:07) Busting ADHD medication stigma

(16:52) ADHD and new motherhood

(22:49) Going back to work after maternity leave

(26:01) Laura’s rapid-fire questions

(31:49) Jessica’s parting words

To get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit the ADHD Aha! podcast page at Understood.

Want to share your ADHD “aha” moment? 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

ADHD and trauma Aug 06, 2024

Dr. Monica Johnson joins Laura to talk about a topic that comes up a lot on ADHD Aha!: ADHD and trauma. She explains how trauma and ADHD can look alike and whether ADHD can lead to trauma. Dr. J, as she’s known, also talks about misdiagnosis, treatment, and how to support someone who’s struggling.

This episode contains discussion about trauma, PTSD, and examples of traumatic events. It’s intended for educational purposes, but may not be for everyone. You can visit mentalhealthhotline.org, or rainn.org for support.

Related resources

6 ways ADHD and PTSD can look alike
Trauma, learning differences, and kids of color (from The Opportunity Gap podcast)
MissUnderstood: The ADHD in Women Channel

Timestamps

(04:05) Dr. J defines trauma

(05:18) The difference between trauma and PTSD

(07:59) Can trauma cause ADHD? Can ADHD cause trauma?

(09:51) Misdiagnosis

(16:50) What happens when you have both ADHD and trauma

(19:25) Possible treatment

(23:54) How can caregivers and loved ones support someone who has ADHD and trauma?

(28:13) More on ADHD and... on the MissUnderstood podcast channel

To 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

ADHD in marriage: How it changed a relationship (Breon and Dan’s story) Jul 23, 2024

Breon and Dan Gummel are a mixed-neurodiversity married couple. After about 5 years of marriage, Breon was diagnosed with ADHD. The conflicts they’d been having as a couple took on a new shape. The more they learned about ADHD, the better they understood each other.

Now, they’ve founded an ADHD community called ADHDinner. This is where people with ADHD, and their close ones, can come together for a meal and share their experiences. You can create your own wherever you live with their free ADHDinner guide.

Related resources

To 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

Career tips and starting a business with ADHD. Plus ADHD and PTSD (Phoebe Gavin’s story) Jul 09, 2024

Leadership and career coach Phoebe Gavin was diagnosed with ADHD at a young age. Phoebe’s mom was her number one advocate. She never made Phoebe feel like there was something wrong with her, and that’s followed her to this day. Now, she works with clients to empower them in the same way.

Phoebe takes us through serving in the military, to fashion school, to starting a business with ADHD. She shares career tips when you have ADHD and her journey navigating ADHD and PTSD.

Related resources

Phoebe’s episode of How’d You Get THAT Job?!
Phoebe’s website, betterwithphoebe.com
6 ways ADHD and PTSD can look alike

To 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

“ADHD for Smart Ass Women” host Tracy Otsuka! Jun 25, 2024

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 resources

Tracy’s podcast, ADHD for Smart Ass Women
Tracy’s book, ADHD for Smart Ass Women
ADHD and women: The essentials

To 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

Toxic productivity, remembering to remember, and rejection sensitivity (Jesse Anderson’s story) Jun 11, 2024

Jesse Anderson wishes he’d had an ADHD manual when he was first diagnosed as an adult, so he wrote one. Before he was diagnosed, he never considered having ADHD himself. After his wife encouraged him to look into it more, his trouble with remembering to do things, time management, and anger started to take a different shape in his mind.

Today, Jesse is an ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and author of the book Extra Focus: The Quick Start Guide to Adult ADHD. Join host Laura Key and Jesse as they discuss toxic productivity, prospective memory, and the magic of owning a whiteboard.

Related resources

ADHD and rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD)
ADHD and anger
Jesse’s website, adhdjesse.com

To 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 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. Learn more at Understood.org.

And if you like what you hear, help us continue this work by donating at understood.org/donate.

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

ADHD hacks with William Curb Jun 04, 2024

When William Curb learned he had ADHD (and wasn’t just lazy), he felt empowered to build coping skills. Now, he hosts the Hacking Your ADHD podcast where he talks about ADHD supports, workarounds, and more.

In this bonus episode, host Laura Key and William talk about ADHD and emotions and his favorite ADHD hacks.

Related resources

To 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 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. Learn more at Understood.org.

And if you like what you hear, help us continue this work by donating at understood.org/donate.

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

An ADHD coach on being a defiant teen, ADHD overwhelm, and self-care (Caren Magill’s story) May 28, 2024

ADHD coach and creator Caren Magill was diagnosed with ADHD in 2020, during the pandemic. Caren gets real about her experience as a teen girl with undiagnosed ADHD: dropping out of high school, smoking, having poor self-care, and being a “messy kid.” She also shares how she manages her ADHD through fitness, sleep, and meditation.

Caren is also the host of It’s The ADHD-Friendly Show podcast. Listen as she shares what she’s hearing from women with ADHD about overwhelm, and approaching ADHD challenges with curiosity instead of shame.

Related resources:

ADHD in teens: From friendship to forgetting homework (Miya’s story)

5 ways ADHD teens take risks — and why

Caren’s website

Caren’s podcast, It’s The ADHD-Friendly Show

To 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 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. Learn more at Understood.org.

And if you like what you hear, help us continue this work by donating at understood.org/donate.

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

Pushing boundaries, breaking norms, and the ADHD brain (Casey McQuiston’s story) May 14, 2024

Casey McQuiston, best-selling author of Red, White and Royal Blue, grew up in a neurodivergent family and was diagnosed with ADHD at a young age. Still, they had trouble coping, and in high school, English teachers gave them an intervention for “not trying hard enough.”

Casey is the author of multiple books in the queer romance genre. Casey chats with Laura about how ADHD influences their writing. They also share a sneak peek of their upcoming book The Pairing, coming out August 2024.

Related resources

To 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 resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about ADHD Aha! and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

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

A personal conversation about being a mom (and woman) with ADHD May 07, 2024

What makes being a mom with ADHD so hard? Navigating executive functions and emotional labor, for one. And feeling burned out when burnout isn’t an option — because there’s always something else that needs your very limited attention!

Talking about it with someone who just “gets it” is such a relief. In this episode, Laura talks to her friend and colleague Rae Jacobson, also a mom with ADHD. Listen to their conversation and insights on this bonus Mother’s Day episode.

Related resources

To 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 resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about ADHD Aha! and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

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

The pain of struggling with basic tasks: ADHD in the pandemic (Ellyce Fulmore's story) Apr 30, 2024

Ellyce Fulmore had structures in place her whole life that kept her ADHD hidden. When the pandemic hit, those structures disappeared. Doing basic daily tasks — things like cooking and running errands — got really hard. Then she went down a research rabbit hole on ADHD in women and asked for an ADHD evaluation.

Before the pandemic, Ellyce had been struggling with impulsive spending. It made her feel like she was in control when really the spending was controlling her. Now, she’s the author of the book Keeping Finance Personal.

Related resources:

5 tips to help teens and young adults manage money
Ellyce’s book, Keeping Finance Personal
Queerdco.com

To 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

An ADHD coach on burnout (Jaye Lin’s story) Apr 16, 2024

ADHD coach Jaye Lin is no stranger to ADHD burnout. As an Asian American former gifted kid with undiagnosed ADHD, her parents thought she was just being lazy and not applying herself. This pressure and shame followed until her 30s, when her anxiety peaked while she was working at a high-pressure job.

Jaye’s therapist thought she was drug-seeking when she wanted to be screened for ADHD. Now, Jaye builds communities and helps others prioritize what’s important when tunnel vision takes over our lives.

To 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.

Related resources

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

Impulse buying, negative bank balances, and the ADHD tax (Paulette Perhach's story) Apr 02, 2024

In 2016, Paulette Perhach wrote a piece proclaiming that all women need an emergency fund — what she calls an “f-off fund.” But when she struggled to secure an emergency fund for herself, she suspected she might have ADHD. Paulette, a successful author and writing coach, put off the evaluation because she couldn’t afford the $260 price tag.

In this episode of ADHD Aha!, Paulette talks about her trouble with impulse buying and online shopping. She shares her family’s history with money issues, including bankruptcy. And she and Laura have an emotional exchange about the ADHD tax.

To 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.

Related resources

What is the ADHD tax?
ADHD and managing money
Paulette in the New York Times: “For women with money issues, an ADHD diagnosis can be revelatory”
See more of Paulette’s writing on her website.

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

Why “just try harder” is a myth (David Flink’s story) Mar 19, 2024

As a child, David Flink was told to “just try harder.” But David wasn’t lazy. He was trying as hard as he could.

After being diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia in the 5th grade, David went to a school that taught him to “try smarter” instead. There he learned to pick paths that work better for his brain.

Today, David is an author, advocate, and speaker. He’s also the founder and chief empowerment officer of Eye to Eye, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving experiences for students with learning differences. Host Laura Key and David discuss how Eye to Eye was born, and bust some age-old ADHD myths.

To 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.

Related resources

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

"Why don’t you listen?” Paying attention vs. hearing (Peter’s story) Mar 05, 2024

Peter Jones used to feel better about saying he had a hearing problem rather than considering ADHD. When he was a child in the 90s, adults thought his “listening problem” was because he couldn’t hear. Turns out, Peter does have some trouble hearing lower frequencies, but that didn’t explain his other symptoms.

Now, Peter knows he has ADHD and is not afraid to say it. On this episode, Host Laura Key and Peter discuss what it means when a child is “listening,” and how auditory processing comes into play.

To 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.

Related resources

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

Not lazy, but exhausted from analysis paralysis (Emily’s story) Feb 20, 2024

ADHD coach Emily Weinberg is no stranger to analysis paralysis. Before she was diagnosed, she thought she was just lazy, and that she couldn’t have ADHD since she wasn’t hyperactive. But whenever she was being “unproductive,” she was actually just frozen. She was stuck thinking about the list of things to do mounting in her head.

When she first spoke to a psychiatrist about ADHD, Emily was told that “she just seemed like an anxious mom with young kids.” So her ADHD was missed, which happens for so many women. Since then, Emily has worked hard to understand herself better, and now she empowers others to do the same.

To 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.

Related resources

ADHD and “analysis paralysis”
ADHD and the myth of laziness
Emily’s ADHD coaching website, ADHDwithemily.com

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

ADHD and dyslexia, and the reading anxiety that comes with both (Carol’s story) Feb 06, 2024

Growing up, Carol Blumenstein was labeled an unteachable student. She was terrified to read during class, and school only brought huge anxiety. Luckily, her mom believed in her in a way teachers didn’t. She put Carol in community college courses and pushed her to turn her frustration into motivation.

Carol didn’t know she had ADHD and dyslexia until she saw her own children — all five of them — struggle with the same things she did when she was little. But this time the issues were addressed and they were understood by their teachers.

Now, Carol’s kids have founded their own organization, KidsRead2Kids, which provides free video audiobooks read by kids for kids and other helpful resources.

To 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.

Related resources

Video: Why do ADHD and dyslexia co-occur so often?
Dyslexia and anxiety in kids
ADHD and anxiety
Carol’s family’s organization, KidsRead2Kids

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

The problem with attention “deficit” (Ernie’s story) Jan 23, 2024

Back when he was a criminal defense lawyer, Ernest Anemone related to one of his clients: An impulsive, irritable teenage boy who burned down the penalty box of a hockey rink. But what Ernie related to wasn’t just the ADHD behaviors. It was the teen’s feeling of having no control over his own life.

Now, Ernie is an actor, filmmaker, and executive coach for Fortune 500 companies. Growing up, Ernie felt like he had no agency. He knew he didn’t have the type of focus society favored. But he was (and continues to be) good in a crisis. Ernie can focus — one could argue — when it really matters.

Also in this episode, the embarrassment and shame that comes with executive dysfunction. And is ADHD really an attention “deficit”?

To 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.

Related resources

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

PTSD and ADHD, tangled up (Hannah’s story) Jan 10, 2024

ADHD and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms can look similar in many ways. And together, they can morph into what guest Hannah Harris Green calls “a trauma ball of blame that’s hard to untangle.”

Hannah is a podcast producer, journalist, and writer who works in public radio. She talked about ADHD and PTSD on KCRW’s Bodies podcast, which she produced. (It’s an incredible episode. Link below.) She shares her ADHD diagnosis story here and talks about her Venn diagram of ADHD and PTSD behaviors (insomnia, trouble focusing, and more). Also in this episode: a “fall from grace” when school got harder. Plus, adding ADHD to an already layered identity.

Hannah’s episode on the Bodies podcast: https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/bodies/adhd-women-ptsd-executive-function-messy

To 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.

Related resources

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

Adulting and executive function skills (from the In It podcast) Jan 02, 2024

Everyone with ADHD has trouble with executive function in some way — and these challenges can make the transition to adulthood especially hard.

Today, we’re sharing an episode of the In It podcast called “Adulting and executive function skills.” Clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Karen Wilson shares common executive function challenges young adults face in the real world. Get her expert advice on how to help young adults with ADHD cope with the demands of college or that first job.

To get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit the In It podcast page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at ADHDAha@understood.org.

Related resources

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

From ADHD perfectionism to empathy and grace (Livingston’s story) Dec 26, 2023

It’s the hair twirling that always gives it away. After silently coping for years, Livingston Steele can spot the signs of ADHD, and the anxiety it can cause. He’d been working here at Understood.org for about a year when he was officially diagnosed.

Livingston talks about his perfectionism and what 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.

To 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.

Related resources

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

Tackling organization, clutter, and stress with hyperfocus (Wendy’s story) Dec 12, 2023

Need organization and decluttering tips? Wendy Zanders has tips for days. She also has ADHD. We don’t usually associate strong organization skills with ADHD. And yet, Wendy is a decluttering coach with ADHD. She moved to the United States from Trinidad and Tobago at 14. At first, she struggled to keep up with her classes. But then she discovered her secret weapon: hyperfocusing on cleaning to de-stress and bring focus to her school life.

Today, Wendy is a United States veteran, business owner, and mom of 2 kids who also have ADHD. When her son was being evaluated, she recognized her own symptoms in him. Find out how Wendy helps other families tackle clutter, and how having ADHD brings empathy to her work.

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 resources

Check out Wendy’s website: yourdecluttercoach.com
ADHD and messiness
4 ways I stay organized with ADHD

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

Impulsive extrovert or ADHD? (Sam’s story) Nov 28, 2023

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 resources

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

How to tell the difference between tantrums and meltdowns (from the “What Now? A Parent’s Guide” podcast) Nov 21, 2023

Parents and caregivers: if you have a child with ADHD, you’ve probably dealt with your share of behavior challenges at home. Just in time for the holidays, here we share an episode of Understood’s newest podcast, What Now? A Parent’s Guide to Tantrums and Meltdowns. Listen to psychologist (and dad) Dr. Andrew Kahn explain how to tell the difference between tantrums and meltdowns and what to do next. In each episode, he shares practical strategies to help you respond more effectively to your child’s outbursts — and manage your own stress along the way.

Find the entire season’s YouTube playlist here.

Get a transcript of this show and check out more What Now? A Parent’s Guide to Tantrums and Meltdowns episodes by visiting the podcast page.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at ADHDAha@understood.org.

Related resources

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

“I thought I was just quirky.” Plus, ADHD accommodations at work (Mananya’s story) Nov 14, 2023

Executive Mananya Komorowski has been described as “brilliant but chaotic” and “unlike any other executive.” Mananya thought she was just quirky, until she found out she has ADHD.

Over the last few years, Mananya has experienced a lot of loss. A number of her loved ones have died. To cope, she’d set her emotions aside and hyperfocus on work. Then her grief counselor recommended an ADHD test. Now, she’s making space to process her feelings. And she’s thinking a lot about ADHD accommodations at work — especially in high-stress executive roles.

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 resources

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

ADHD doesn’t go away (Johnathan’s story) Oct 31, 2023

ADHD doesn’t go away. Dr. Johnathan Flowers, who specializes in the philosophy of disability, got that message loud and clear when he hit a wall in grad school.

Johnathan had been diagnosed with ADHD in grade school. As a child, he had a complex journey with ADHD medication and teachers who didn’t understand his behavior or how to support him. As a young adult, Johnathan thought maybe he’d “gotten over ADHD,” but then he hit that wall. So he got re-evaluated for ADHD.

Also in this episode: How Johnathan’s mom, who’s a special education teacher, advocated for him at school. Plus, what it’s like to be a professor with ADHD.

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 resources

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

The noisy ADHD brain — plus ADHD and lying (Oliver Vaquer’s story) Oct 17, 2023

Actor Oliver Vaquer has a “noisy” ADHD brain. Growing up, he had a hard time paying attention to just about everything — and he’d lie to cover it up. His thoughts would all shout at him at once, and he felt pressured to blurt them out before he forgot them.

As an adult, Oliver’s rushed, “staccato” speech spurred his doctor to give him an ADHD questionnaire. His responses to the questionnaire surprised them both.

Also in this episode: How Oliver uses ADHD medication as a tool to build better habits. Plus, ADHD social anxiety and feeling like you’re operating at 100% for the first time ever.

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 resources

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

The pressure to be productive with ADHD (Dani Donovan’s story!) Oct 03, 2023

People with ADHD know what it’s like to be called lazy. Is that because they don’t seem “productive”? Who better to talk about this with than the creator of The Anti-Planner: How to Get Sh*t When You Don’t Feel Like It, Dani Donovan. Dani shares her ADHD “aha” moments and what drove her to create an activity book designed for procrastinators.

Dani and host Laura Key chat about what it means to be productive with ADHD. Dani shares how she would criticize herself intensely so that others wouldn’t. They also talk about analysis paralysis, rejection sensitivity, friendship, and how understanding neurodiversity can change the game.

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 resources

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

What is executive function? Sep 19, 2023

Executive function comes up all the time in our interviews with people with ADHD. Why is that? Expert Dr. Karen Wilson joins Laura in this episode to explain. She defines executive function and talks about the types of skills under the executive function umbrella. Dr. Wilson also answers questions like: Does everyone with ADHD have executive function challenges? And what’s the link between executive function and mental health challenges like anxiety?

Dr. Wilson is a clinical neuropsychologist and the founder of ChildNEXUS, a web application that connects parents of kids with learning or mental health challenges with service providers. Tune in to learn about the connection between ADHD and executive function — and what it means for people with ADHD in everyday life.

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 resources

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

Rejection sensitivity, ADHD drain, and the power of failure (Weston’s story) Sep 05, 2023

“The cup that is draining.” That’s how musician and content creator Weston Gardner describes ADHD’s effect on him. He’d spent his whole life feeling like he couldn’t do things that came so easily to everyone else. Weston was at his wit’s end. Getting diagnosed with ADHD (along with anxiety and panic disorder) has helped him be kinder to himself and accept his ADHD brain for how it works.

Weston is a musician and content creator who goes by Arcane Anthems (@arcaneanthems). His music sets the scene for podcasts, Twitch streams, tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons, and more.

This episode is guest hosted by ADHD Aha! alum Cate Osborn. Cate, aka @catieosaurus, is a content creator and co-host of Catie and Erik’s Infinite Quest podcast. Listen to this week’s episode to hear Cate and Weston talk about ADHD and gaming, rejection sensitivity, and the power of failure.

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 resources

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

Depression, relationships, and the myth of the ADHD “superpower” (Max’s story) Aug 22, 2023

Max Willey, an expat living in Norway, often found himself overwhelmed by complex tasks as a kid. There were too many moving parts, and his brain was always racing too fast. A teacher thought he might have ADHD.

But it wasn’t until adulthood that Max was diagnosed “by accident.” He was feeling depressed and was struggling with some relationships. When he sought treatment, he was diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety, and depression all at once.

Max felt relieved. And he’s come to see ADHD as a “glorious curse.” It has its downsides — but also allows him to feel and do wonderful things.

Listen in as Laura and Max unpack this and more.

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 resources

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

ADHD, social awkwardness, and ghosting (Allison’s story) Aug 08, 2023

Allison O’Keefe, a UX designer in Detroit, always felt she rubbed people the wrong way. Then, in her early teen years, one of her friends confirmed it when she called Allison “the annoying friend” behind her back. This made Allison more cautious in social situations, which often overwhelmed her. Worse, she also found herself accidentally “ghosting” people, forgetting to respond to their messages.

Eventually, a therapist asked her if she’d ever been diagnosed with ADHD, and the diagnosis started to make a lot of sense. She now feels less isolated — even as she still grapples with how open she wants to be about her ADHD.

How do folks with ADHD navigate these choppy social waters? Listen in as Laura and Allison sort through these questions and more.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page on Understood.org.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at ADHDAha@understood.org.

Related resources

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

ADHD frustration and anger, plus ADHD and tics (Adam’s story) Jul 25, 2023

Lawyer Adam Sosnik was miserable in his job. Miserable when he couldn’t concentrate, which was often. Miserable because it was physically uncomfortable to focus on even a small thing, like writing a single sentence. The trouble was, he was being treated for anxiety and depression, but not ADHD.

When he began working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, his wife noticed his frustration. And with her encouragement, he booked an appointment with a new psychiatrist. That led to an ADHD diagnosis, which validated the discomfort Adam felt. But it also marked the beginning of a new struggle.

Also in this episode: Adam talks about ADHD and tics and his experience with Tourettic OCD (TOCD). And how he’s charted a new way of living that’s finally made him happy.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page on Understood.org.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at ADHDAha@understood.org.

Related resources

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

ADHD and depression (Josh’s story) Jul 11, 2023

Pediatrician Josh Maxwell had two “aha” moments that led to his ADHD diagnosis. One came from talking with a teenage patient whose ADHD symptoms were different from what he’d seen in other patients. It wasn’t that the teen couldn’t pay attention, but rather that they were paying attention to everything all at once. Josh related to that feeling.

Josh’s other ADHD “aha” came from his experience with depression. After starting antidepressants, he could more clearly see his own ADHD symptoms. Now, the coping strategies he’d put in place for himself, the masking, and even the childhood poem he wrote about fidgeting made perfect sense.

Listen to this episode of ADHD Aha! to learn what Josh would rename ADHD, and why pediatrics is the only specialty for him.

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 resources

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

5 ADHD labels to let go of (50th episode special!) Jun 27, 2023

Have you ever noticed that people with ADHD say some pretty negative things about themselves? After recording 50 episodes of the ADHD Aha! podcast, we certainly had noticed this. In this special episode, host Laura Key and producer Jessamine Molli count down the five most common labels and adjectives guests use to describe their ADHD symptoms and behaviors. They listen to clips and dive deep into ADHD myths and stereotypes. Laura also shares her take on what the ADHD Aha! podcast is really about.

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 resources

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

Being trans with ADHD (Max’s story) Jun 13, 2023

Max Siegel (he/they) was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. Throughout that process, Max encountered some of the same fears and myths around ADHD as he does around transness: “You just want an excuse.” “You just want to be lazy.” Max, an LGBTQ+ transgender and neurodiversity inclusion speaker and consultant, found that coming out gave him resilience. And that same resilience helped him cope with his ADHD diagnosis.

Max and host Laura Key also talk about ADHD symptoms and gender identity. Max, who was assigned female at birth, was socialized as a woman until his 20s. He talks about anxiety, rejection sensitivity, and other ADHD-related challenges he’s faced — and how ADHD can get missed because of a person’s gender.

A note about this episode: Max talks about how he felt he needed to “convince” his doctor he had ADHD. We can’t speak to the differences between how ADHD is diagnosed and treated in the UK vs. the United States. However, well-trained and credentialed evaluators should be capable of making accurate diagnoses without convincing. For detailed, easy-to-understand information on ADHD diagnosis in adults, listen to Season 2 of our Understood Explains podcast.

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 resources

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

Working mom with ADHD, feeling control over nothing (Cathy Rashidian’s story) May 30, 2023

ADHD coach Cathy Rashidian spent the first 20 years of her career climbing the corporate ladder. She was a workaholic with undiagnosed ADHD. Then two major life events shifted her path and perspective.

At 35, she was diagnosed with cancer. She kept craving going back to work after treatment, even though she wasn’t ready. Then she had a baby at age 40. She felt overwhelmed and like she had control over nothing. Finally, after her doctor’s fourth suggestion, she got tested for ADHD. From there everything started to make sense.

Cathy, who’s also the host of the Proudly ADHD podcast, talks about being a working mom with ADHD, her PMDD diagnosis, and “compassionate scheduling” to feel and function as best as possible. Join host Laura Key and Cathy’s discussion on ADHD in women, parenting, shame, and more.

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 resources

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

ADHD and feeling “dumb” (Henry’s story) May 16, 2023

Growing up, Henry Lang kept hearing that he was too disorganized and “not smart enough.” Then in high school, he was diagnosed with ADHD and started getting support through a 504 plan.

Now, Henry is a teacher in Vermont dedicating his career to — and even writing his thesis on — teaching kids with ADHD. He has trouble giving himself the same empathy he shows his students, though. Henry, like many of us with ADHD, often calls the mistakes he makes because of his ADHD “dumb.” Henry and host Laura Key unpack what he really means when he says “dumb” — and how other ADHD-ers might internalize and misuse that word, too.

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 resources

Check out some of Henry’s Understood content: How to declutter your CPU desktop screen
Another ADHD Aha! episode: Not “dumb” or a “hot mess” … it’s ADHD (Jenny’s story)
Classroom accommodations for ADHD

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

Anxiety, imposter syndrome, and ADHD (Mallory’s story) May 02, 2023

Mallory Band was diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety when she was 8 years old. She has two brothers with ADHD, but their ADHD looked different. They were hyperactive on the outside. But Mallory felt hyperactive on the inside. She struggled with perfectionism, people pleasing, and big emotions. As with many women who have ADHD, imposter syndrome set in as she got older.

Mallory’s “aha” moment came well after her ADHD diagnosis — when she was in graduate school learning about executive function. It was the first time she had stopped to think about how her own brain worked, and how burnt out she was from pushing herself against it. Now she’s an executive function coach who helps people with ADHD lean into the power of saying “no.”

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 resources

More from Mallory: Imposter syndrome at work: How I stopped feeling like a fake
ADHD and anxiety
ADHD in girls

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

ADHD and eating disorders Apr 25, 2023

Dr. Roberto Olivardia returns to the show to talk about ADHD and eating disorders in this bonus episode. He explains the different types of eating disorders — and why ADHD and eating disorders, like binge-eating disorder (BED), often co-occur. Dr. Olivardia shares how ADHD symptoms like impulsivity play a role in eating disorders. He also talks about treatment options and what to do if you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder and needs support.

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 resources

Find support at The National Eating Disorders Association.

And learn more about:

ADHD and eating disorders

ADHD and depression

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

Masking ADHD symptoms (René Brooks’ story) Apr 18, 2023

René Brooks was diagnosed with ADHD three separate times — at ages 7, 11, and 25 — so she’s had plenty of “aha” moments.

When René was a child, mental health and medication stigma kept her family from receiving vital education about ADHD. But when she was diagnosed at age 25, she was ready to tell everyone about her ADHD diagnosis.

René started Black Girl Lost Keys to empower Black women with ADHD. She’s an advocate, a content creator, and the host of the Life With Lost Keys podcast.

In this week’s episode of ADHD Aha!, René unpacks her childhood ADHD diagnoses. She shares how she’d mask her ADHD symptoms, and how that led to anxiety and depression in adulthood. Also in this episode: Is ADHD really a superpower?

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 resources

René Brooks’ podcast: Life With Lost Keys
All about ADHD medication
From The Opportunity Gap podcast: ADHD and race: What Black families need to know

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

ADHD, sleep apnea, and symptoms beyond the DSM (Roberto’s story) Apr 04, 2023

Dr. Roberto Olivardia is a clinical psychologist and ADHD expert who was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. As he learned about ADHD in his career, the signs felt familiar: impulsivity, trouble with focus, and more. He procrastinated constantly in college and was mischievous as a kid. He was even kicked out of Sunday school.

Once he got his sleep apnea under control, his ADHD difficulties became even clearer — and it wasn’t just what you’d typically find in the DSM. (That’s the handbook health care professionals use when diagnosing things like ADHD.)

Roberto is the host of Season 2 of Understood Explains, where he unpacks the ins and outs of adult ADHD diagnosis. He also has two kids with ADHD. Listen to this episode of ADHD Aha! to learn about ADHD and trouble sleeping, plus ADHD time zones (the “now” and the “not now”).

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 resources

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

“Everything Everywhere All at Once” and ADHD Mar 28, 2023

Bonus episode! Laura talks with film writer and editor Ariel Fisher about Best Picture winner Everything Everywhere All at Once and its many connections to ADHD. How making the movie was an ADHD “aha” moment for director Daniel Kwan. How the film itself feels like a depiction of the ADHD brain. And how characters in the film show ADHD behaviors.

Fisher, who has ADHD, also talks about how the film reflects her own ADHD journey — from getting evaluated and diagnosed to taking ADHD medication.

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 resources

Read about director Daniel Kwan’s ADHD “aha” moment
Check out Ariel Fisher’s piece about Everything Everywhere All at Once and ADHD
Learn about the ADHD brain

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

ADHD, doom bags, and squirrels in the head (Shaun’s story) Mar 21, 2023

When Shaun saw a clip of someone describing ADHD as “squirrels running on a conveyor belt in your brain,” his ears perked up. Then his wife discovered his doom bags. (“Doom” stands for “didn’t organize; only moved.”) Shaun started thinking about his trouble with organization and other signs of ADHD, and he decided to get evaluated.

Now just three months after his ADHD diagnosis, Shaun, a listener who wrote in, is reflecting on how ADHD impacted him as a kid. He remembers feeling bored all the time and being labeled a slacker. Also in this conversation: Shaun’s love for graphic design and how he’s coping with ADHD at work.

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 resources

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

“Don’t be lazy!” That ADHD voice, plus the ADHD tax (Tony’s story) Mar 07, 2023

Tony Tran decided to get evaluated for ADHD during his last year of college, after starting a part-time IT job. His grades began to slip, and his brain would scream at him: “Don’t be lazy!” Then he realized that the fake scenarios he had to solve alone in class were boring compared to the real-life problems he collaborated on with his co-workers.

When Tony was a child, his family immigrated to Australia from Vietnam. Growing up, Tony’s ADHD symptoms were missed. But now his mom even sees ADHD in herself. After being diagnosed, Tony felt grief for lost time — time when he could have known why he felt like the “annoying weird kid.” Time when he could have held on to relationships that ended because of his trouble managing emotions. But that lost time led him to who he is today: A person with deeper understanding of ADHD and the strengths that can come with it.

Also in this episode: The “ADHD tax.” Listen in to see if you’ve paid a literal price as a result of ADHD behaviors.

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 resources

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

ADHD, mental health stigma, and music (John’s story) Feb 21, 2023

John Hazelwood was diagnosed with ADHD shortly after he graduated from college. He was in therapy and had trouble with test anxiety. Music was the only thing that helped him study and actually remember what he read. Then he got curious about ADHD medication and talked about it with his doctor, who recommended an ADHD evaluation.

John, a mechanical engineer in Virginia, co-founded the Men’s ADHD Support Group, an organization aimed at helping men with ADHD find community and acceptance. John talks about facing stigma around ADHD and mental health in the Black community, what songs sound like ADHD, and much more.

Check out the Men’s ADHD Support Group.

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 resources

ADHD as a “white boy problem” (from The Opportunity Gap podcast)
What I tell Black parents who worry about labels like “ADHD” for their child
How ADHD medication works

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

Twice exceptional: Raising a gifted son with ADHD (Emily’s story) Feb 07, 2023

From a very young age, Emily Hamblin’s son would have meltdowns and get intensely angry. He was also really bright. He was ahead of the curve academically and scored in the 99th percentile on standardized testing. His teachers would say he was just “smart and quirky.” That didn’t sit right with Emily, though. She knew something else was going on.

Then one day, a friend suggested that Emily look into ADHD. Emily was skeptical at first. But when she learned more, it was clear that this was the missing puzzle piece. Her son was twice exceptional: He’s gifted AND he has ADHD. And this discovery even helped Emily recognize ADHD symptoms in herself.

Emily co-hosts a podcast called Enlightening Motherhood, which aims to help moms who are overwhelmed by their kids’ big emotions. Listen in to hear how Emily reframes ADHD symptoms in a positive light.

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 resources

The challenges of twice-exceptional kids
7 myths about twice-exceptional (2e) students
Twice-exceptional Black and brown kids (The Opportunity Gap podcast episode)

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

ADHD inertia...and troublemaking (Nabil Abdulrashid’s story) Jan 24, 2023

Nabil Abdulrashid was diagnosed with ADHD as a child growing up in Nigeria. Now a London-based comedian, Nabil credits his ADHD brain as an advantage in his comedy career. He’s quick-witted, both stifled and driven by inertia, tumbling into funny thoughts and scenarios as he speaks. He doesn’t even write down any of his material — it’s stuck in his head and just flows.

Nabil’s teachers in Nigeria thought he wouldn’t amount to much. They didn’t even want him in their classes. He got into fights and turned to sports to channel his energy. When he moved to the U.K. as a teen, he got into trouble there, too. As an immigrant, he was othered, and the rigid school structure didn’t work with his ADHD. He fell into the wrong crowd and eventually ended up in jail, where he discovered his comedic talents.

Listen in to hear Nabil’s “aha” moment and how he channeled his ADHD into a successful comedy career. 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 resources

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

Sex, intimacy, and ADHD Jan 10, 2023

How might ADHD affect your sex life? Host Laura Key chats again with sex therapist Catie Osborn, this time about how executive function challenges can affect sex and intimacy. Spoiler: Sex is a task, and people with ADHD can struggle with task management.

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 resources

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

ADHD and hormones (Catie Osborn’s story) Jan 10, 2023

Catie Osborn’s ADHD flew under the radar until she had to get an ovary removed in her late 20s. Left with one ovary ( “Han Solo-vary”), she experienced a hormone shift that made her ADHD symptoms much more noticeable.

Catie is a former “gifted kid” who excelled in school. Growing up, she didn’t fit ADHD stereotypes, aside from being a bit messy. Once she was diagnosed, she started seeing ADHD flags everywhere. Hear what she’s learned from her experience and her work, like how hormones — especially in people who get periods — can impact ADHD symptoms.

Catie, aka catieosaurus on TikTok, is a certified sex educator, neurodivergency specialist, and co-host of the podcast Catie and Erik’s Infinite Quest: An ADHD Adventure.

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 resources

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

Executive function and ADHD shame in women (Katy Weber’s story) Dec 20, 2022

Katy Weber’s ADHD symptoms took center stage during the pandemic. She was stuck in “waiting mode” and experiencing “time blindness.” And then she learned about executive function and dug into signs of ADHD in women.

Before the pandemic, the stereotypes that surround ADHD never felt relatable to Katy. Once she was diagnosed, she started talking to other women with ADHD and found her community. Now, she sees how ADHD shows up in her children, and she’s getting them the support they need — earlier than she got it.

Katy is an ADHD advocate and coach and the host of the Women & ADHD podcast. Katy had Laura on her podcast, and now it’s Katy’s turn in the hot seat! Check out Katy’s interview with Laura.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

Related resources

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

Not “dumb” or a “hot mess”... it’s ADHD (Jenny Lorenzo’s story) Dec 06, 2022

Before getting diagnosed with ADHD, comedian Jenny Lorenzo felt like she was “dumb” and “not good enough” — a race car without brakes that left disaster behind. As she learns more about ADHD and how it impacts her, she’s pushing back on people who think ADHD is “a joke” and who don’t believe ADHD is real.

Jenny co-hosts the Hyphenated podcast, an English-language podcast about living in the hyphen that connects American and Latin culture.

On this episode of ADHD Aha!, she shares her take on how ADHD is perceived in Hispanic culture — and how frustrating it is when friends and her community don’t take ADHD seriously. Host Laura Key and Jenny also talk about forgetfulness and why people with ADHD might overexplain things.

Check out the Hyphenated podcast.

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 resources

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

What ADHD feels like and sounds like (Yinan’s story) Nov 22, 2022

What does ADHD sound like? What does hyperactivity feel like? Yinan Shentu, a voice actor, theme park performer, and world-class collector of hobbies, hits the nail on the head with his impressions and descriptions. Yinan was diagnosed with ADHD last year after starting yet another new hobby: stock trading. When reading about trading, he realized he was re-reading the same sentence seven times and still couldn’t remember what it was about. One online ADHD test later, and he felt certain he had ADHD.

A lot of his childhood made more sense after his diagnosis. He would act out all the time to keep from being bored — even a clown talked to him about his behavior! Now, Yinan’s ever-changing job performing as different characters fits right into his fast-paced brain.

Join this conversation between host Laura Key and Yinan. They also talk about fidgeting, and how starting a task is the hardest part.

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 resources

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

ADHD, loving intensely, and impulsivity (Ange’s story) Nov 08, 2022

Ange Nolan once suspected she had ADHD, but she was dismissed by her doctor. Years later, she saw an ADHD iceberg infographic and related to almost every ADHD symptom it listed — including forgetting to use the bathroom. That’s when she decided it was time to approach a different doctor about ADHD.

After getting diagnosed with ADHD last year, Ange realized how it had been affecting her many romantic relationships. She’d crave the chaos of an intense connection and become a “chameleon” who fixated on her partner’s interests and happiness — until burning out.

Hear how Ange’s ADHD diagnosis helped her notice her own patterns, including hopping impulsively from one career to another. And stay tuned for a mini “aha” moment from host Laura Key on why she likes to be alone so much.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

Ange is a listener who wrote to us about her “aha” moment. We’d love to hear from you, too. Email us at ADHDAha@understood.org.

Related resources

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

ADHD, bad grades, and self-awareness (Eric Tivers' story) Oct 25, 2022

Eric Tivers had always struggled with reading. Then someone told Eric her own story about how ADHD made it hard for her to read. Then it clicked with Eric that he could have ADHD, too.

Before his “aha” moment, Eric had trouble studying and keeping his GPA up in college. He’d been evaluated as a child, and he’d had an IEP in school. But they hadn’t picked up on his ADHD. Reading his old report cards now, it’s obvious to Eric that he was struggling with ADHD all along.

Eric, a licensed clinical social worker, is the founder and CEO of the ADHD reWired network. Getting diagnosed with and understanding ADHD has been pivotal in his self-awareness journey. On his show and in all his work, he’s candid about his struggles. “When we can get vulnerable … that’s where real growth happens.”

This isn’t the first time host Laura Key and Eric have chatted. Laura was recently on an episode of Eric’s podcast, ADHD reWired.

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 resources

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

ADHD and bullying Oct 11, 2022

Kids and adults with ADHD are more likely to be bullied than their peers. So in honor of National Bullying Prevention Month this October, we’re doing a special episode to shed light on the problem. Psychologist and Understood expert Dr. Andy Kahn — who has ADHD himself — answers Laura’s questions on ADHD and bullying. What behaviors make kids with ADHD targets for bullying? Are people with ADHD more likely to bully others? What can we do about it?

You’ll also hear bullying stories from a number of ADHD Aha! guests — some you’ve heard in previous episodes, and some you haven’t.

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 resources

Bullying and learning differences
The difference between teasing and bullying
What to do when your child is the bully
Get more information at stopbullying.gov.

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

ADHD in teens, from friendships to forgetting homework (Miya’s story) Sep 27, 2022

Miya Kofo is a 16-year-old high school student with ADHD — and the star of Understood’s “Be the Reason” campaign to fight stigma around learning and thinking differences. Miya was diagnosed in middle school. Her dad, who also has ADHD, helped her see it was nothing to be ashamed of and that she could accomplish anything.

Host Laura Key and Miya talk about how ADHD is still often ignored in girls, and how the pressure to be perfect can make symptoms even worse. Miya also shares her thoughts about TikTok — the positives (getting the word about ADHD out there) and the negatives (“doom scrolling”) for people with ADHD.

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 resources

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

"Trapped" with ADHD during the pandemic (Erin's story) Sep 13, 2022

Erin Lazoen is a listener who wrote in about her “aha!” moment during the pandemic. Working full time, and a newly single parent, Erin had a lot going on stuck inside four walls. She was diagnosed with ADHD and struggled with reading comprehension as a kid, but she didn’t realize just how much was going on inside her head as an adult. She decided it was time to revisit her ADHD diagnosis.

During the pandemic, Erin wasn’t able to push all her thoughts to the back of her head like usual. Stuck inside, she felt as if all she could do was flip through all the open tabs in her brain. But all of that is part of what makes her such a great — and creative — parent. Also in this episode: feeling like an “oddball” in your family, and how that can actually be a huge strength.

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 resources

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

ADHD and creativity (Kenny’s story) Aug 30, 2022

Kenny Friedman is a creative director with ADHD who’s driven to constantly do more and better. And yet he calls himself an underachiever. (Stay tuned to the 18-minute mark for a mini “aha” moment on that.)

Kenny has been diagnosed with ADHD twice, but his true ADHD “aha” came after his second diagnosis. He realized ADHD is actually what makes him so creative and great at his job. Yes, ADHD has its ups and downs. But for Kenny, his ability to get bored quickly allows him to always be innovating and improving his ideas.

Kenny grew up as the class clown and still holds that title today. Join a conversation with Kenny and host Laura Key on ADHD and creativity. Also in this episode: Is there a connection between punk rock and ADHD?

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 resources

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

ADHD and the myth of laziness (Rebecca’s story) Aug 16, 2022

Rebecca Phillips Epstein has ADHD. But as with many high-achieving girls, her symptoms were missed early on. Then, during the pandemic, it finally clicked: She discovered a Twitter thread about people who beat themselves up for being lazy when clearly they’re not.
Rebecca has always been aware of her challenges — procrastination, being late, and having a million great ideas that never get finished. As a screenplay writer and essayist, she’d overcompensate so no one would be the wiser. Hear how an ADHD diagnosis helped her rethink what she used to call “personality failures” or “laziness.” Also in this episode: How depression treatment before her ADHD diagnosis helped her tread water but never “surf.” Rebecca also talks about her decision to stop breastfeeding her second child in order to stay on her ADHD medication.
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 resources

ADHD and the myth of laziness
ADHD and the brain
8 common myths about ADHD
You can also check out Rebecca's Washington Post article on ADHD medication and breastfeeding.

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

ADHD and emotions, from anxiety to boredom (Dr. Sasha Hamdani’s story) Aug 02, 2022

Dr. Sasha Hamdani is a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD and anxiety. She was diagnosed with ADHD in fourth grade after starting what she calls a “riot” in her classroom. But she didn’t find out she had ADHD until much later, when she hit a wall in the competitive medical school environment. After discovering her diagnosis, she unplugged from academics to learn more about herself — and about ADHD. Now she debunks ADHD myths one by one on social media.
Dr. Sasha shares her story, including her thoughts on her parents’ decision to not tell her she had ADHD until she was an adult. Stay tuned to the end to hear Dr. Sasha talk about the connection between ADHD and anxiety. And get her advice on how to ask kids about ADHD symptoms and challenges, like boredom.
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 resources

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

ADHD and marriage (Rachel and Jon’s story) Jul 19, 2022

Jon Gardea has ADHD... and his wife Rachel doesn’t. She helped him spot the signs, though, including his hobby graveyard. Once Jon got diagnosed, it was clear that ADHD had been impacting their marriage over the years. Having an explanation created a positive mindset shift in their relationship, bringing them even closer.
Rachel hosts a YouTube channel called Post-Mormon Parenting. In this episode, she and Jon also talk about how leaving the Mormon church contributed to Jon’s ADHD discovery. Listen to this heartfelt and honest discussion to get a behind-the-scenes look at ADHD and marriage.
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 resources

Post-Mormon Parenting YouTube Channel
The relationship between ADHD and executive functioning
“Setting aside” my ADHD to be a better parent and husband

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

Listener letters roundup (YOUR stories) Jul 05, 2022

Laura and the ADHD Aha! team have been blown away by all of the thoughtful and candid emails we get from our listeners about their own ADHD “aha” moments. So with their permission, we’re sharing a few of them here! Find out which ADHD symptoms some of our listeners have struggled with and what their path to ADHD diagnosis was like.
From all of us at the ADHD Aha! podcast, thank you for writing to us and for all of the kind words. Keep ’em coming! Email us at ADHDAha@understood.org.
To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.
Related resources

ADHD symptoms at different ages
Find more ADHD personal stories in our Medium publication, for/by.
Share your story, too! 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

ADHD, irritability, and friendship (Jake’s story) Jun 21, 2022

Jake Lambert watched his mother thrive once she was diagnosed with ADHD and getting ADHD treatment. That pushed him to look for answers about his own struggles to pay attention. He wondered why he was so irritable, why he had trouble managing emotions, and why he struggled to keep friends. He figured they were just “bad” traits of his — but in reality, it was ADHD.
Growing up, Jake did well enough in school that no one caught his ADHD symptoms. He’d have to re-read a page three times because he’d get distracted. And he constantly procrastinated on homework assignments. Jake and host Laura Key also talk about how ADHD can make you feel “crackly,” and coping strategies that help them.
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 resources

ADHD symptoms at different ages
Find more ADHD personal stories in our Medium publication, for/by.
Share your story, too! 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

ADHD or a “bad personality”? (Kai’s story) Jun 07, 2022

Kai Liu thought she was doing a good job masking her distractibility and overall frazzled-ness. It wasn’t until a friend checked in with her that she realized she wasn’t masking her ADHD symptoms as well as she thought. After some reflection about her trouble with focus, she knew it was time to ask a doctor about ADHD.
Kai grew up thinking she just had a “bad personality.” But this conversation with host Laura Key shows that this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Through her ADHD diagnosis, and some self-kindness, she’s turning that thinking around. Hear about the overlooked symptoms of ADHD in adult women, and listen as Laura and Kai, who’s a comedian, play an impromptu ADHD game show!

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 resources

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

ADHD and sleep problems (from the “In It” podcast) Jun 01, 2022

Bonus episode! Learn about ADHD and sleep from our friends at Understood’s In It podcast. Hosts Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra first hear from a mom whose son has ADHD, autism, and sleep challenges. Then they speak with clinical psychologist Dr. Roberto Olivardia about the connection between ADHD and sleep — including why people with ADHD may have sleep problems.
Get a transcript of this show and check out more “In It” episodes at u.org/init.
We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at ADHDAha@understood.org.
Related resources

How ADHD affects sleep — and what you can do to help
Download: Bedtime checklists for kids
Follow Belinda on Instagram or Twitter to see more about her advocacy for neurodivergent people.

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

What is ADHD? May 24, 2022

You’ve heard our guests’ stories about their ADHD symptoms…but what exactly is ADHD? A bunch of listeners have asked for an ADHD explainer. So this episode, we’re doing something different. The best explanation of ADHD we’ve ever heard comes from clinical psychologist and ADHD expert Dr. Thomas Brown. We’re posting the audio of the YouTube video he did with Understood here, along with some commentary from host Laura Key.
Dr. Brown defines ADHD, shares relatable and detailed examples of ADHD symptoms, and explains the ADHD brain. We hope you enjoy — and that it’s helpful.
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 resources

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

Her intense, restless son harnessed ADHD by climbing mountains (Michelle’s story) May 10, 2022

Marc-André Leclerc was a skilled rock climber and alpinist who died at age 25 in the mountains of Alaska. He’s the subject of a Netflix documentary, The Alpinist. Marc-André was diagnosed with ADHD and written expression disorder as a child. Through climbing, he found an outlet for his intensity and hyperfocus — and his achievements were nothing short of extraordinary.

Marc-André's mother, Michelle Kuipers, homeschooled him and helped him learn to channel his ADHD. Michelle joins the show to talk about her son and her approach to parenting a child with ADHD. She shares how Marc-André would be more panicked about renewing a passport than about climbing mountains alone and without ropes.

Listen as Michelle describes Marc-André’s loving and generous spirit and how she wants her son to be remembered.
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 resources

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

ADHD and distraction in the military and at home (Justen’s story) Apr 26, 2022

Justen Scott got diagnosed with ADHD this year at age 27. His ADHD “aha” moment happened while he was stationed in Qatar for military service, and work just kept piling up. Trouble with focus and time management had been a problem for Justen since high school. But when others in the military started to notice his challenges, he knew it was time to get evaluated for ADHD.
Host Laura Key and Justen talk about trying to seem “cool” on the outside — even as thoughts race a mile a minute on the inside — and how one small noise can be a huge distraction. Hear Justen’s take on how the military handles ADHD. And pick up a few tips on managing ADHD along the way.
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 resources

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

ADHD and shame (Dr. Kojo’s story) Apr 12, 2022

Dr. Kojo Sarfo played life on hard mode with his ADHD before getting diagnosed as an adult. ADHD treatment helped Dr. Kojo cope with his daydreaming and procrastination. But he wanted to do more. Today, he connects with millions of followers on TikTok and other social media, fighting the shame around ADHD and mental health and having conversations that build people up.
Dr. Kojo had an unexpected ADHD “aha” moment: as he was watching an Atlanta Braves baseball game and player Adam LaRoche made an error on a routine ground ball. Join a heartfelt conversation between host Laura Key and Dr. Kojo as they unearth how daydreaming is brainstorming in disguise — and why seeking treatment is the road to self-compassion.
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 resources

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

ADHD, oversharing, and mom guilt (Lacey’s story) Mar 29, 2022

Lacey has ADHD, and so does her daughter. But their ADHD shows up differently. Lacey is more hyperactive, while her daughter is more on the inattentive side. Lacey shares how her daughter’s evaluation shed light on her own ADHD challenges.
Lacey and host Laura Key have a funny conversation about oversharing intimate life details. And they talk about the guilt some moms with ADHD feel.
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 resources

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

ADHD, working memory, and feeling like a “burden” (Pablo’s story) Mar 15, 2022

Pablo Chavez is forgetful and easily distracted, and he has trouble managing emotions. He’s also a playful, fun dad. He has a unique bond with his daughter, who has autism. When Pablo’s wife Britney noticed his trouble with working memory, she encouraged him to get evaluated for ADHD. Pablo reflects on how his ADHD-related challenges can sometimes make him feel like a “burden” at home. But also how his positive attitude brings joy to people around him.
We learned about Pablo’s story because he wrote to us! We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at ADHDAha@understood.org.
To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.
Related resources

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

ADHD and messiness (Jeannie’s story) Mar 01, 2022

Kids and adults with ADHD can have a hard time keeping things tidy. That’s true of Jeannie Ferguson, a plus model in Brooklyn who describes herself as “messy.” Jeannie was diagnosed with ADHD in college — and her wife, Tash, also has ADHD.

Jeannie gives Laura a detailed walk through what goes on in her brain when she tries to clean. She also shares what led to her ADHD diagnosis, why as a Black woman she hesitated to get evaluated, and what it’s like when two people with ADHD are married.
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 resources

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

ADHD and substance abuse (Peach’s story) Feb 15, 2022

Peach (they/them) is a recovering alcoholic and addict who has ADHD. The first time Peach got sober, they figured that being sober would “fix” their trouble performing at work. But when Peach continued to struggle with focus, they decided to get evaluated for ADHD. The path to ADHD diagnosis wasn’t easy. Peach feared that doctors thought they were drug-seeking and wondered, “How can I explain to you how debilitating this is?”
Also in this episode: ADHD and oversharing, and being “the life of the party” to cope with ADHD-related difficulties.
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 resources

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

Procrastination, rushing, and ADHD (Yasmeen’s story) Feb 01, 2022

Yasmeen (they/them) was a perpetual procrastinator. They would always wait until the last minute to write a paper or start an assignment. But then came a tough college course and an equally tough professor. Yasmeen’s old methods were no longer working, which set them on the path to an ADHD diagnosis.
Yasmeen reflects on growing up with undiagnosed ADHD, specifically their struggle with homework. Yasmeen, who’s a user researcher, also shares what they’ve learned about the over- and underdiagnosis of ADHD in the Black community.
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 resources

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

ADHD and the “model minority” mask (Emily’s story) Jan 18, 2022

Emily’s challenges with executive function and sensory processing sounded very similar to those of their mental health clients with ADHD. Emily, who lives in Australia, does peer work, and their interactions with other young people with ADHD ultimately led to their own ADHD diagnosis.
Emily talks about masking their ADHD symptoms and feeling like a failure not just to their family, but to Asian people in general. And they share how they finally felt seen and “broke the mask” when they got diagnosed with ADHD.
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 resources

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

Surprise! You have ADHD (Kevin’s story) Jan 04, 2022

Kevin Lam’s parents never told him he was diagnosed with ADHD as a child. And they might never have told him, if it weren’t for something Kevin, now 23, noticed at a recent family gathering.
Kevin is just starting to learn about ADHD and his symptoms: Hyperactivity, fidgeting, and trouble focusing. And he has some “aha” moments throughout the interview: Why was he always the class clown? Does his ADHD really create challenges for him? He also talks about ADHD stigma in his Mexican family, and how it contributed to his diagnosis being hidden from him.
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 resources

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

When “ditzy” is finally diagnosed as ADHD (Jen’s story) Dec 21, 2021

After losing her mom at 23 and having kids starting at 27, writer Jen Barton, now 39 with four kids, was in a strange place. For the first time in a long time, she wasn’t feeling overly anxious or depressed. She felt creative and was bonding with her kids. But still, something “wasn’t right.” She started looking under every rock for an answer to her disorganization, “ditziness,” and chaos. What she found was ADHD.
Hear from Jen, who wrote the British Vogue article “Why Does No One Believe My ADHD Diagnosis?” She talks about ADHD in women, parenting with ADHD, and how her perspective has changed now that she’s been diagnosed with ADHD.
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 resources

Jen’s British Vogue article: Why does no one believe my ADHD diagnosis?
ADHD in women and girls
ADHD and anxiety

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

Impulsivity, risky behavior, and obsessions (Chris' story) Dec 07, 2021

College student Chris Lozano seems calm on the outside. But on the inside, he feels “like a volcano.” He has trouble sleeping, sitting still, and stopping his mind from wandering. And often his only relief is going to the gym — to the point of obsession — or riding motorcycles. Hear how Chris came to get diagnosed with ADHD at 26 and why he went back to college to seek a career helping people like himself.
Also in this episode: Chris shares how he’s coped with substance abuse and other risky behaviors.
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 resources

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

ADHD runs in the family (Michelle’s story) Nov 23, 2021

Like many parents, Michelle Lassiter started to notice her own ADHD symptoms during her son’s evaluation for ADHD. In this episode, Michelle, whose mom is from the Dominican Republic, looks back on how ADHD impacted her growing up in Mexico, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico. And she connects this to her son’s experience with ADHD — confusing signs, feeling “stupid,” and the strengths they share.
Michelle also talks about parenting a child with ADHD when you have ADHD yourself: “When you’re also lacking those skills, it is very tough.”

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 resources

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

Dad of a 4-year-old with ADHD (James’ story) Nov 09, 2021

James Tai didn’t notice his son’s ADHD symptoms in preschool. But teachers did. They approached James and his then wife, which led to his son getting diagnosed with ADHD at age 4. Since then, James has faced an internal struggle that many parents of kids with ADHD face: where to draw the line between discipline and letting go.
James also talks about how being Asian American impacts his parenting approach. And an incident on an airplane that awakened his deep empathy for his son.

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 resources

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

Hyperactive girl, labeled a troublemaker (Olivia’s story) Oct 26, 2021

As a kid, Olivia Chavez got disciplined a lot in school for her “disruptive” behavior. She would often seek out ways to move around and channel her hyperactivity. One incident led to an awkward conversation between her teacher and her mom — and ultimately set Olivia on the path to an ADHD diagnosis.
Olivia also talks about ADHD and depression, and mentions a time when she had thoughts of suicide. This is discussed in a context of hope and strength. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available today at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

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 resources

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

Diagnosed with ADHD during the pandemic (Scott’s story) Oct 12, 2021

Sometimes ADHD only make sense in retrospect — like when you find out who the killer is in a murder mystery. During the pandemic, actor Scott Watson’s trouble with focus hit a tipping point and made him wonder if he had ADHD. Once he got diagnosed — and after stumbling across a handy acronym — suddenly he could spot how ADHD had impacted him his whole life. Host Laura Key talks with Scott about his executive function skills, ADHD medication, and the pros and cons of hyperfocus.

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 resources

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

Introducing ADHD Aha! Sep 23, 2021

Welcome to ADHA Aha!, a podcast where people share the single moment when it finally clicked that they — or someone they know — has ADHD.

Laura Key is not only the host but also someone who had her own ADHD “aha” moment. Tune in to hear about the unexpected, emotional, and even funny ways ADHD symptoms surface for kids and 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

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