Episodes
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Julie Legg speaks with Julio Angel Rivera, a New York City-based writer, mental health advocate, and martial arts coach, about his experience with ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression and CPTSD.
This jiu-jitsu philosophy profoundly resonates with how Julio has come to approach ADHD and mental health, and has learned to flow with challenges and embrace nonlinear paths to progress. Diagnosed at 42, he reflects on the struggles he faced before his diagnosis and the personal growth that followed and shares his insights on neurodivergence, trauma, and resilience.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Decades of training in jiu-jitsu, judo, and MMA provided Julio not only a physical outlet but philosophical grounding. Mindfulness has become a vital tool in Julioâs mental health repertoire. He discusses the importance of learning to notice triggers and stay present during moments of dysregulation, which can help to de-escalate situations before they spiral - a skill rooted in both therapy and martial arts discipline. Julio is the author of Brokedown Sensei and Internal Jiu-Jitsu (released May 2025) and blogger on Threads, Medium and Substack.LINKS
Internal Jiu-Jitsu by Julio Rivera Instagram FacebookLinkedIn - Julio Rivera Threads Medium Substack The Missing Piece by Julie LeggSend us a text
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Julie Legg interviews Cali Keating, a neurodivergent therapist based in Barcelona who specialises in supporting clients with the triple combo: ADHD, OCD and autism, and various dual combinations thereof.
Cali explains how OCD, like ADHD, is tied to dopamine and cortisol regulation and how these overlapping neurodivergences can complicate diagnosis and treatment.
The core of the conversation revolves around multiple neurodivergent diagnoses, commonly referred to as "multiple exceptionalities" or "twice exceptional" when someone has more than one neurodivergent condition. Cali dives into the mechanisms and nuances of OCD, especially "Pure OCD" (also known as "Pure O"), which involves intense mental rituals rather than visible compulsions.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
OCD affects both dopamine and cortisol regulation, making it not just an anxiety disorder but also a neurological one. The compulsions arenât just habits, theyâre urgent attempts to neutralize biochemical distress caused by intrusive thoughts.Characterised by intrusive thoughts and compulsions used to neutralize distress, OCD is commonly misunderstood. Itâs not just about neatness or repetitive behavioursâitâs a neurological survival response, often invisible and deeply distressing.âPure OCDâ involves mental rituals rather than visible actionsâthis includes rumination, mental checking, or seeking constant reassurance. These hidden compulsions often go unnoticed, delaying diagnosis and understanding.Traits across ADHD, OCD, and autism can appear similarâsuch as hyperfocus, rigidity, or sensory sensitivityâbut the motivations behind those traits differ. For example, hyperfocus in ADHD might stem from dopamine-seeking, while in OCD it may be driven by an obsessive need for certainty.Misinterpreting those motivations can lead to support plans that miss the mark. Treating the behaviour without understanding its function (e.g. assuming rigidity is just autism-related when it may stem from OCD) can result in strategies that feel invalidating or even increase distress.ADHD often coexists with OCD and autism, making accurate diagnosis more complexâbut also more essential. Overlapping symptoms can cloud clinical clarity unless assessed through a neurodivergence-informed lens.Stigma and stereotypes often delay diagnosis, particularly for women or quieter individuals. Misconceptions about what OCD or ADHD âlook likeâ can lead to missed or misdiagnoses, sometimes for decades.LINKS
Cali Keating - Website
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Episodes manquant?
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Julie returns to respond to more questions in part 2 of Curiously ADHD. She ponders an array of topics including medication, meditation, labels, genetics, unmasking and reclaiming a lost spark.
As a late diagnosed ADHDer she offers empathetic, experience-based reflections meant to validate, soothe, and support.
6 KEY QUESTIONS ADDRESSED
Q1. Medication Worries: "I've recently started ADHD medication but it's not working well for me. I've changed GPs a few times and I'm now worried my current doctor won't take me seriously. What should I do?"
Q2. Meditation Matters: "My mind is constantly noisy with internal chatter. I find it hard to sit still so meditation doesn't work for me. Do you have any tips to help?"
Q3. Label Stigma: "I'm struggling with the ADHD label after my diagnosis. I don't want people to see me as 'too hard'. Should I keep it to myself?"
Q4. Family Patterns: "My sister has ADHD and I suspect my mother does too. What are the chances I have it?"
Q5. Unmasking Fatigue: "A work colleague said that unmasking can be exhausting. What does she mean by that?"
Q6. Regaining My Spark: "I feel ashamed of things I did before my ADHD diagnosis. I carry a lot of guilt and now I think I've lost the spark I used to have. How do I move forward?"
LINKS
Self-Screening Assessment Tool â ADHD New Zealand
Email ADHDifference Podcast
The Missing Piece: A Womanâs Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHD â by Julie Legg
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Julie Legg chats with Theresa Lear Levineâan EFT master practitioner, hypnotherapist, business coach, author and fellow ADHDer, about tapping into joy and presence.
Diagnosed with ADHD at 42 Theresa describes the experience as finally switching on a light in a room she didnât know was dark. This self-discovery reframed years of internal tension and helped her release long-held guilt, particularly in her roles as a mother and entrepreneur. Together, they explore how therapeutic tools, like EFT and subconscious reprogramming, can shift emotional patterns.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
What is EFT? Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is a therapeutic method that combines gentle tapping on acupressure points with focused verbal therapy. EFT may help clients release emotional blockages, heal past traumas, and regulate their nervous systemsâespecially helpful for those with ADHD whose emotions can be intense and quickly dysregulated.What is Law of Attraction Coaching? This is not just about positive or wishful thinking! This coaching approach teaches individuals to shift their thoughts, feelings, and energy to align with their goals. For ADHDers, this method can be empowering, helping redirect negative self-beliefs toward possibility and intentional living. Subconscious Healing: Many ADHD challenges stem not just from executive function struggles but from limiting subconscious beliefs and nervous system dysregulation. By working at this deeper level, clients often experience transformation in both mindset and outcomes.ADHD Resources: Listeners are invited to join Theresaâs Becoming More Me community, which offers free access to tools, workshops, and coaching resourcesâespecially geared toward those with ADHD looking to overcome internal blocks.LINKS
Theresa Lear Levine - Instagram
Theresa Lear Levine - Website
Theresa Lear Levine - LinkedIn
Becoming More Me â Book by Theresa Lear Levine
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In this solo episode, Curiously ADHD, Julie Legg sits down with a cup of coffee to answer frequently asked questions sheâs received over time from people trying to make sense of ADHD.
This episode is both personal and practical, aiming to empower listeners through shared experiences and pragmatic guidance rather than medical advice. Julie emphasizes that she is not a medical professional, but a diagnosed ADHDer and author who has spent years researching and speaking with others in the community.
5 KEY QUESTIONS ADDRESSED
0:00:00 Intro
0:01:39 Q1: "I was tested for ADHD and they said it was probably anxiety. I'm hesitant to spend thousands more for a second opinion and I'm pretty sure I do have ADHD though. Any suggestions?â
0:07:35 Q2: âHow do you know that you've got emotional dysregulation because you might just think it's normal?â
0:11:54 Q3: âOne of my biggest ADHD challenges is how to stop my epic retail spending sprees. I spend too much money impulsively on the things I do not need and cannot afford. What can I do?â
0:17:51 Q4: âI think my partner has ADHD but I don't know how to broach the subject.â
0:22:41 Q5: âI was diagnosed with ADHD when I lived overseas. I have the reports and I've come back to New Zealand and now I have to get reassessed before I can access medication?"
LINKS
Self-Screening Assessment Tool â ADHD New ZealandA Change for BetterEmail ADHDifference PodcastThe Missing Piece: A Womanâs Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHD â by Julie LeggSend us a text
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Wherever on your ADHD journey, you are not alone. Julie and Jel Legg reflect on the importance of community, connection, and shared experiences for those living with ADHD.
The conversation is sparked by their attendance at a recent authorâs event and the overwhelming sense of affirmation and belonging that came from engaging with readers who identified with The Missing Piece, Julieâs book for women diagnosed with ADHD later in life.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Community is critical: Finding like-minded people helps mitigate feelings of isolation that can accompany an ADHD diagnosis.Affirmation matters: Small affirmations from others who understand ADHD can be deeply validating.You are not alone: Many have similar struggles, and shared stories create a sense of belonging.Diagnosis is a journey, not a destination: Post-diagnosis, understanding and self-acceptance continue to evolve.ADHD is constant but not central: It influences life but does not need to dominate it; most daily life is ânormal stuff.âCourage to connect: Engaging in conversations about ADHD can require bravery, but it often leads to powerful, supportive relationships.Resources are plentiful: Organizations like ADHD New Zealand provide in-person and online support options.No need to "reinvent the wheel": Others have walked similar paths and their experiences can provide valuable guidance.LINKS
The Missing Piece: A Womanâs Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHD â by Julie LeggADHD New ZealandOLDER â Unmasked: the ADHD albumSend us a text
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Dr Alessandra Wall, founder and CEO of Noteworthy, joins Julie Legg to reflect on her life, career, and insights into women in leadership.
She shares her experiences of working with children and adults with ADHD and what led her to shift from psychology to founding Noteworthy, a platform helping women in leadership roles find their voice and value. Though never formally diagnosed with ADHD, Alessandra recognised many of its traits in herself. The conversation dives deep into how to communicate our value, the reality of executive stress, the concept of the âgilded cageâ and the power of the pause.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Noteworthy: Alessandra's leadership platform supports women in high-powered roles by encouraging authentic self-expression and dismantling internalised narratives that keep them playing small. Success shouldnât require compromise on identity or mental health.Women in Leadership: Many are high-functioning but secretly burning out or feeling "less than." Societal expectations, especially around femininity and behaviour, often cause women to mask their neurodivergent traits more than men.Communicating Your Value: Women often downplay their abilities or wait for external validation. It is important that women are able to articulate their worthânot in a loud or performative way, but with clarity, intention, and confidence.Managing Stress: Stress is a constant in high-performance environments, but it's how we relate to it that matters. Many high-achievers are taught to grind, but few are taught to rest with purpose.The Gilded Cage: This metaphor refers to being successful on paper while feeling unfulfilled, stuck, or disconnected in reality. Life âat the topâ can feel like a prison made of goldâprestige, salary, titleâbut still a prison.âMastering the Pauseâ: The power of stopping, reflecting, and responding with intention. ADHD brains are often fast-reacting, but the pause allows for clarity, emotional regulation, and better decision-making.LINKS:
LinkedIn â Dr Alessandra Wall Website - NoteworthyNoteworthy Newsletter Unforgettable - A 3-step roadmap to articulating your value with confidence, poise, and ImpactBack To Me, a 4 week guide to restoring balance & regaining controlSend us a text
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Julie and Jel Legg explore the deep emotional responses people with ADHD often have to perceived injustices. They delve into the concept of justice sensitivity, describing how this sensitivity can manifest in different areas of lifeâparticularly through heightened emotional responses and a strong sense of moral fairness.
They introduce the four key domains of justice: Distributive (fairness in outcomes), Procedural (fairness in processes), Interpersonal (fairness in treatment), Informational (fairness in communication). The conversation highlights how ADHD traits such as emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and intensity of feelings contribute to a heightened sensitivity to unfairness. The duo reflect on both childhood and adult experiencesâranging from emotional triggers to social scenarios like queue-jumpingâthat evoke strong reactions due to this innate sense of right and wrong.
Rather than merely complaining, they aim to unpack why ADHDers react so strongly to injustice, with a focus on understanding and self-compassion.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Justice sensitivity is often intensified in ADHD due to traits like emotional dysregulation and impulsivity.ADHDers may struggle more with perceived injustices, reacting with an emotional depth that neurotypicals might not relate to or understand. Perception mattersâwhat feels unjust to one person may not even register to another, leading to feelings of isolation or invalidation.The emotional reaction can feel childlike or disproportionate, which adds a layer of internal conflict or shame.ADHD brains often seek fairness and may instinctively advocate for the underdog or fight against perceived wrongs, even in seemingly minor instances.Acknowledging this sensitivity can be empowering, helping individuals better navigate emotional responses and interpersonal dynamics.Send us a text
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In this episode Julie and Jel Legg delve into the topic of negative self-talkâthose persistent, looping thoughts that can erode confidence and hold people back from trying new things. For those with ADHD, these internal narratives can be especially loud and deeply rooted, often shaped by years of misunderstanding, impulsivity, and self-doubt.
They explore how these thought patterns can quickly spiral into feelings of worthlessness or inadequacy. The conversation touches on the role of adult diagnosis in helping to reframe these thoughts, the importance of recognising unrealistic expectations, and the power of self-compassion. Together, they discuss ways to interrupt the loop of negative self-talk through mindfulness, perspective, community, and kindness.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Negative self-talk is common, and particularly intense for people with ADHD due to a mix of internal and external pressures.Understanding the ADHD brain brings clarity to these patterns and can open the door to self-compassion and change.Failure is not the same as giving up. Failing is a natural part of growth; giving up turns that failure into a permanent roadblock.Unrealistic expectations can sabotage joy. Itâs okay to be goodânot everything needs to be exceptional to be meaningful.Celebrate progress. Even small achievements are worth acknowledging. âTake the winâ is a mindset worth adopting.Tools like mindfulness, reframing, and open conversations can help break the cycle of negative thinking.No one is alone in this. Whatever the thought or struggle, others are likely experiencing something similarâand connection can be a powerful antidote.Send us a text
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Julie and Jel Legg explore the concept of body doubling, a common ADHD coping strategy where the presence of another person helps one complete tasks that feel overwhelming or unappealing when done alone. They clarify that body doubling isnât teamworkâboth people donât have to be doing the same thing. Instead, it's about having someone nearby as a form of gentle accountability and moral support, which can reduce distraction and increase focus.
They share personal anecdotes, and reflect on how many people may have been using this strategy instinctively without having a term for it, often in situations like decluttering, completing paperwork, or doing chores.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Definition: Body doubling is when another personâs presence (not necessarily their help) makes it easier to complete a task. This can be done in person, remotely or by being in group environment with a common focus. Not Teamwork: Itâs not about co-working on the same job, but rather about supporting focus and reducing avoidance or procrastination. Accountability Boost: Even a silent partner nearby, or a virtual presence (via video call), can create a sense of accountability. ADHD-Friendly Motivation: Especially helpful for mundane or repetitive tasks that donât naturally engage the ADHD brain. Unconscious Use: Many people may already be using this technique without realisingâlike inviting a friend over for moral support when tackling a new project or task. Emotional Comfort: Beyond productivity, body doubling offers emotional easeâit feels less lonely and reduces the intimidation of big tasks.Send us a text
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Julie Legg interviews Michael W. AllisonâCEO of The Adversity Academy, U.S. Marine combat veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and resilience expertâabout his ADHD journey and how adversity shaped his purpose.
Michael explains how he navigates life with ADHD through the lens of adversity, identity, and personal growth. From his early experiences of being misunderstood to discovering how structure, self-awareness, and purposeful systems can transform challenges into strengths, he shares powerful insights on reframing ADHD as a source of clarity, adaptability, and leadership.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
ADHD Traits: Michael reframes commonly misunderstood ADHD characteristicsâsuch as high energy, impulsivity, hyperfocus, and rapid decision-makingâas potential strengths. He notes that while these traits posed challenges in traditional academic settings and early social environments, they later became key tools in environments that value agility and decisiveness, such as the military and entrepreneurial leadership. Self-Awareness: A pivotal theme in Michaelâs journey is the transformation that came with increased self-awareness which has helped him challenge the idea that ADHD was purely a limitation, instead seeing it as part of a broader identity with valuable capabilities.Adversity: Rather than being defined by hardship, Michael chose to use adversity as a forgeâan opportunity to discover who he truly was and what he stood for. Itâs not the adversity itself, he suggests, but our response to it that defines us.Structure â A support, not a constraint: Though naturally resistant to overly rigid systems in school, Michael came to appreciate the value of structure through his experience in the Marine Corps. The discipline, clarity, and operational frameworks of military life helped him channel his energy and focus more effectively. Owning Your Story: One of Michaelâs core messages is the power of embracing your story fully, your authenticity. By understanding, articulating, and reframing your lived experience, he encourages others to rewrite their internal narratives and step into leadership with confidence.LINKS
Michael Allison - WebsiteThe Adversity Academy WebsiteOvercoming Adversity BookMichael Allison FacebookMichael Allison - InstagramMichael Allison - LinkedInMichael Allison - TikTokMichael Allison - TwitterMichael Allison - YoutubeSend us a text
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Host Julie Legg speaks with ADHD and anxiety coach Dana Baker-Williams about the complexities of parenting neurodivergent children. Dana, who has ADHD herself, shares her personal journey and emphasizes that while traits may manifest differently in each child, there are common struggles with ADHD and parenting.
Parents, she explains, play a crucial role in helping their children navigate these challenges, but they must also prioritize their own well-being. Self-care, even in small doses, is essential to maintaining balance in a household where emotions can run high. Ultimately, Danaâs message is one of empowerment: when parents understand and embrace their childâs unique wiring, they can approach challenges with patience, adaptability, and graceâ.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Self-Care for Parents is Crucial: Parents with ADHD (or those managing ADHD in their children) must prioritize their own well-being. Parents set the tone for their household; if they are overwhelmed, their children will likely struggle too.Routines Reduce Anxiety: Establishing structured routines benefits both parents and children with ADHD. Predictability lowers anxiety by eliminating uncertainty.Externalizing Systems Helps with Memory and Organization: ADHD brains struggle with working memory and time perception. Keeping information visible prevents the âout of sight, out of mindâ problem.Validation and Emotional Regulation: Parents should focus on validating their childâs emotions rather than immediately trying to âfixâ problems. Emotional dysregulation is common in ADHD, and learning to name emotions (âname it to tame itâ) can help children process their feelings.ADHD and Anxiety are Interconnected: Many children with ADHD also experience anxiety, often due to repeated failures or difficulty meeting expectations. Routine, sleep, exercise, and breathing techniques can help manage both ADHD and anxiety.Handling Defiance and Frustration: What appears as defiance in ADHD children is often frustration due to difficulty with emotional regulation. Arguing with an ADHD child in a power struggle provides a dopamine rush, reinforcing the behaviour. Instead of engaging in arguments, parents should set firm boundaries and disengage calmly.Every Child Needs Different Support: "Fair" does not mean treating all children the same; it means giving each child what they need. ADHD children often struggle with social cues, maintaining friendships, and understanding expectations. Parents should consider what works best for their child rather than imposing neurotypical expectations.LINKS
Website: https://www.parentinginreallife.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentinreallife/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@parentinginreallifeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/parentinginreallife/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parentinginreallife/Send us a text
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Host Julie Legg speaks with Tina Hazen, author and professional organizer (Houston, Texas) about her work helping othersâespecially those with ADHDâcreate structured, clutter-free spaces: organising the chaos.
Diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety at 38, Tina (founder of Think Inside the Boxx) emphasizes that traditional organizing methods often donât work for individuals with ADHD, who may struggle with object permanence, decision paralysis, and maintaining systems over time. She shares her personal experiences of trial and error in organizing her own space and explains how she turned these lessons into strategies for her clients. Through her book, Life is Messy, and her professional work, Tina empowers people to design spaces that work with their ADHD brains rather than against them.
KEY TAKEAWAYS - Decluttering & Organizing Tips
Use the "Like with Like" method: Group similar items together. This helps prevent over-purchasing and ensures you know what you already have before shoppingâ.Create a "landing spot": Designate a space near the entrance for essentials like keys, bags, sunglasses, and other daily-use items. This prevents misplaced items and reduces the stress of searching for them when leaving the houseâ.Set a timer for small tasks: If an organizing task feels overwhelming, set a timer for 10-15 minutes. This allows you to focus on one small section at a time, making progress more manageable.Use visual storage solutions: ADHDers often struggle with object permanence (forgetting about items if they are out of sight). Using open baskets or clear storage bins can help keep items visible and prevent clutter from accumulatingâ.Start with the most stressful area Identify the space in your home that causes the most frustration (e.g., an overstuffed closet or messy kitchen). Tackling the biggest stressor first provides an immediate sense of relief and motivation to continueâ.Body doubling for decluttering: Having a friend or accountability partner present while organizing can help maintain focus and motivation. Even if they are not actively helping, their presence can reduce distractions and increase productivityâ.LINKS
Think Inside the Boxx â websiteThink Inside the Boxx - InstagramTina Hazen â LinkedInBook by Tina Hazen - Life Is Messy Think Inside the Boxx - TikTokJulie Legg - The Missing Piece: A Woman's Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHDSend us a text
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Julie and Jel Legg explore dopamine stackingâwhen multiple sources of dopamine stimulation are layered on top of each other. This can create an intense, pleasurable experience but also lead to a crash afterward, leaving individuals feeling unmotivated, overstimulated, or even emotionally flat.
They discuss how ADHD brains crave dopamine, and explore how dopamine stacking manifests in different areas of life, including social interactions, work, and family environments. They chat about dopamine âsnackingââengaging in small, spaced-out dopamine hits, which can help maintain motivation without burnout.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Dopamine Stacking Feels Good but Has a Cost: Engaging in multiple dopamine-producing activities at once can be highly stimulating but often leads to a crash in motivation and mood afterward. People with ADHD often stack dopamine unintentionally due to dopamine deficiency and difficulty regulating pleasure and motivation.
The Crash After the High: After intense dopamine stacking, the next day or even the next few hours can feel bland, unmotivating, or overwhelming, making it hard to focus or feel engaged.
Social and Work Implications: Dopamine stacking isn't limited to personal entertainment; it can occur in social settings, leading to burnout after highly stimulating social events, or in work environments where overloading tasks can cause fatigue and mental exhaustion.
Self-Awareness is Key: Recognizing when dopamine stacking is happening allows individuals to pace themselves, spread out rewarding activities, and avoid the intense highs and lows.
LINKS
Julie Legg, The Missing Piece: A Womanâs Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHDSend us a text
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In this episode Julie Legg interviews Janine VanStee, an ADHD Life Coach and podcast host of ADHD Eaves Drop (Michigan, USA). Janine was diagnosed with ADHD at 50, after years of misdiagnoses including depression, anxiety, and OCD.
With 30 years of experience in special education, Janine has dedicated her work to helping others navigate their ADHD traits. Janineâs journey highlights the power of self-awareness, structure, and support in thriving with ADHD. By implementing small, ADHD-friendly changes, itâs possible to navigate challenges more effectively and with self-compassion.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Late Diagnosis: Like many women, Janine was misdiagnosed multiple times before receiving an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The "domino effect" is common in families, where one diagnosis often leads to others.Retrospective Signs of ADHD: Janine recalls early signs such as excessive talking, hyperactivity, impulsive decision-making, and rejection sensitivity (RSD). She also struggled with people-pleasing and being a "chameleon" in social settings to fit in.Self-Awareness & Acceptance: Accept that ADHD is not a flaw, but a different way of thinking that requires tailored strategies. Practice self-compassionâacknowledge emotions without judgment. Speak up about necessary accommodations at work or in social settings. Educate loved ones about ADHD to foster understanding and support.LINKS
J VanStee ADHD Life Coaching - WebsiteJ VanStee - InstagramJ VanStee - FacebookJ VanStee - LinkedInADHD Eaves Drop PodcastJulie Legg - The Missing Piece: A Woman's Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHDSend us a text
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Julie Legg chats with Stephon Brown (Los Angeles, USA), an author and self-described "modern-day muse," to discuss his journey with ADHD. While school posed significant challenges, he discovered his love for improv, which became a powerful outlet for his creativity and quick-thinking mind.
Together they explore concepts like mental cartography and performative communication, The Barstool Theories, and the importance of recognizing and nurturing the strengths of ADHD individuals rather than forcing them into rigid systems.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Early ADHD Diagnosis: In the 1980s ADD was poorly understood, often leading to medication without holistic support. Rigid education systems can suppress joy and creativity in neurodivergent children. Teachers and mentors who see beyond standardized learning can make a profound difference in ADHD individuals' success.Careers & Brick Walls: Traditional career paths often arenât designed for neurodivergent thinkers. Despite being intelligent and creative, rigid work environments that donât accommodate ADHDers way of thinking can lead to forcing oneself into a mould that doesnât fit. Stephonâs journey is a reminder that success doesnât always follow a straight line, and sometimes, breaking through the wall means finding a door that was never on the blueprint.Shame & Guilt in ADHD: Growing up in a time when ADHD was poorly understood, Stephon recalls how early treatment focused on "Ritalin and shame", making him feel broken rather than supported. Over time, he realized that this shame wasnât his burden to carry; it was the result of a system that didnât know how to nurture different thinkers. By reframing his ADHD as a strength rather than a deficit, he was able to let go of guilt and embrace his uniqueness.LINKS
Stephon Brown, The Barstool Theories - WebsiteStephon Brown, The Barstool Theories â InstagramStephon Brown, The Barstool Theories â FacebookStephon Brown, The Barstool Theories â YouTubeStephon Brown, The Barstool Theories - AmazonJulie Legg, The Missing Piece: A Womanâs Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHDADHDifference â InstagramADHDifference Podcast - FacebookSend us a text
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Julie Legg welcomes Upton Rand to the ADHDifference podcast. Upton (Ohio, USA) was diagnosed with ADHD at six and shares his journey of embracing his ADHD as a powerful force that drives his curiosity, adventurous spirit, and capacity for innovation.
Through his experiences, Upton has learned to ride the wave of ADHD rather than fight against it and encourages listeners to embrace their differences and trust their unique paths. His story exemplifies how ADHD, when acknowledged and navigated thoughtfully, can become a source of strength and adventure in life.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Early Diagnosis & Childhood: Diagnosed at six, Upton experienced challenges with focus, stillness, and academic performance. He describes growing up during the "Ritalin generation," with ADHD becoming increasingly visible and many classmates taking medicationâ.
"Riding the Wave" of ADHD: Upton speaks about his philosophy of riding the wave of ADHD, saying: "It's the wave of who I am and I have to ride it. And it's taken me to amazing places. I've met incredible people. I've done things I never thought I'd be able to do. And I would really like to see everyone ride their wave, whatever that looks like for them."â
Curiosity, Adventure, and AI: Upton highlights how his ADHD fuels an insatiable curiosity and drive for adventure. AI has become a valuable tool in managing his curiosity and helps streamline his learning process by offering quick, tailored information, keeping him engaged while preventing the overwhelm that can come with distraction.
LINKS
Upton Rand - websiteUpton's book - Gay CampgroundsUpton's book - Gay Mens Field Guide: Urban AdventuresJulie Legg's book - The Missing Piece: A Woman's Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHDSend us a text
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Julie Legg chats with Dr Jaime Raygoza, founder of Rainbow Career Coaching (California, USA), to explore the challenges and opportunities faced by ADHDers in the workplace and beyond. Diagnosed as an adult, Jaime opens up about his journey of self-discovery, offering valuable insights into managing stress, preventing burnout, and embracing one's authentic self.
Together, they discuss strategies to thrive in professional settings, the power of reframing ADHD traits as unique strengths, finding balance through self-care, and the surprising mental health benefits of practices like laughter yoga. It's a candid, practical conversation designed to inspire and empower ADHDers at every stage of their careers.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Barriers to Career Progression: ADHD traits like procrastination, impulsivity, and hyperfocus can impact performanceââ. Negative self-perceptions and societal expectations can undermine confidenceâ.Being Authentic: Jaime highlights the importance of understanding your brain's wiring and leveraging ADHD traits like creativity and adaptability as strengthsââ. Masking or suppressing oneâs authentic self, often to conform, can increase anxiety and reduce productivityâ.Stress and Burnout Management: ADHDers can thrive in high-pressure situations due to the surge of dopamine but are also prone to burnout from overwork and sensory overload. demands or lack of control in tasks can trigger emotional shutdown or overwhelmâ. Strategies like structured breaks, managing workload, and prioritizing self-care are critical. ExcessiveLaughter Yoga as Stress Relief: This practice combines intentional laughter with breathing exercises to lower cortisol levels, and increase dopamine, improving mood and focus.Overcoming Challenges: Body-doubling, maintaining accountability, setting boundaries and building tailored strategies for focus and time management are beneficialââ, along with work-life balance.LINKS
Rainbow Career Coaching - website Rainbow Career Coaching - YouTube Rainbow Career Coaching - InstagramRainbow Career Coaching - Facebook Dr Jaime Raygoza - LinkedIn Dr Jaime Gaygoza - Google ScholarJulie Legg, author of The Missing Piece: A Womanâs Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHDSend us a text
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Julie and Jel Legg discuss the common yet invalidating comment, "You donât look like you have ADHD," and explore how ADHD traits, such as overthinking and emotional regulation, can create paradoxical behaviours that confuse observers.
The Flipsides of ADHD highlight the contrasting extremes that can coexist within momentsâswinging from overthinking to underthinking, oversharing to withholding, and being highly organized to thriving in chaos. These complexities emphasize that ADHD is best understood through appropriate tools and expert guidance, rather than through casual judgments from friends or family.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
ADHD's Paradoxes: People with ADHD often exhibit seemingly contradictory traits, such as overthinking one moment and underthinking the next. This duality can confuse others and even those with ADHD themselves.The Challenge of Understanding ADHD: ADHDâs complexity makes it difficult for both neurotypicals and individuals with ADHD to fully grasp. Outsiders may simplify or misjudge the condition due to a lack of proper context or tools for understanding.Invalidation Through Misjudgment: Phrases like, "You donât look like you have ADHD," can be invalidating and stem from others' limited perspectives rather than reality. These remarks highlight the importance of promoting awareness and education.The Importance of Perspective: Understanding ADHD requires the right tools and expertise. Lay observations are insufficient, much like using a tape measure to estimate the distance to the moon.Navigating Misunderstanding with Grace: Instead of responding harshly to misinformed comments, individuals with ADHD can use them as an opportunity to educate others while maintaining self-compassion.ADHD is Personal and Nuanced: No two ADHD experiences are alike, making it essential to approach the topic with sensitivity and an open mind. It is not a condition that can be boxed into simple categories or stereotypes.LINKS
Julie Legg Author â The Missing Piece: A Womanâs Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHDADHDifference InstagramSend us a text
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Julie Legg chats with Emily Cox, a licensed therapist from North Carolina, USA, exploring the challenges and triumphs of navigating life as a neurodivergent teen or young adult.
Drawing on her personal and professional journey, Emily sheds light on the social and emotional hurdles young people often encounter and shares her therapeutic approach, which focuses on empowering clients to harness their unique strengths and thrive.KEY TAKEAWAYS
Social and Communication Challenges: Teens and young adults often face difficulties in expressing their thoughts and navigating social interactions. Emily emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces where they can learn alternative ways to communicate and connect.Personal and Professional Journey: Diagnosed as neurodivergent in childhood, Emilyâs experiences of feeling different in a time of greater stigma fueled her passion for mental health advocacy.Therapeutic Approach: Emily uses creative and adaptive methods tailored to individual needs, whether it's working through trauma, regulating emotions, or finding nonverbal ways to express feelings.Strengths Over Fixes: Therapy is not about âfixingâ neurodivergence but empowering individuals to utilize their unique abilities as tools for success.Fostering Self-Confidence: By reframing neurodivergence as a source of strength, Emily helps clients build self-acceptance and confidence.LINKS
Larkspur Therapy - websiteLarkspur Therapy - InstagramJulie Legg Author - websiteSend us a text
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