Why is it so hard for women with ADHD to trust their instincts, and what happens when we finally do?
In this episode of All Aboard ADHD, Claire is joined by Sam Bramwell, an ADHD coach, entrepreneur, and expert in polyvagal theory, who was diagnosed with ADHD in her 40s. Sam supports women navigating late-diagnosed ADHD, and her work centres around helping them rebuild self-trust, overcome shame, and find a more compassionate way of living.
In this powerful and deeply relatable conversation, Sam shares her journey from years of masking, burnout, and self-doubt to finally understanding her neurodivergence and rebuilding her life around authenticity rather than fear.
Together, Claire and Sam unpack why so many girls and women go undiagnosed, the emotional fallout of that process, and the freedom that comes with finally making sense of yourself and tuning into your nervous system’s needs. Their conversation covers:
What polyvagal theory is and how the autonomic nervous system's three states can show up in our day-to-day experience
How ADHD traits in girls and women often go unnoticed, misinterpreted, or attributed to anxiety, perfectionism, or “high functioning” behaviour
The cumulative impact of years of masking, from people-pleasing to chronic overachievement, and why unmasking can feel both frightening and liberating
The emotional crash that can often follow diagnosis: grief, anger, relief, and the slow rebuilding of identity
How fear-based decision-making develops and why women with ADHD often learn to distrust themselves
How relationships and parenting shift when you begin to tune into your nervous system, communicate your needs, set boundaries, and stop pretending to be “being fine.”
What self-compassion actually looks like in practice, and the importance of slowing down, resting, and listening to your body
Practical tools for reconnecting with yourself, including values-based decision-making, nervous system regulation, boundaries, and community support
Whether you’ve recently discovered your ADHD or are still unpacking years of confusion, this episode offers validation, insight, and a path toward rebuilding your life with softness rather than self-criticism.
Further resources and links
Sam Bramwell Coaching: sambramwellcoaching.com
Follow Sam on Instagram: @samjbramwell
Buy Sam’s Book - Enough is Enough
All Aboard ADHD coaching & resources: https://allaboardadhd.com
Follow Claire on Instagram & TikTok: @allaboardADHD
The views shared in this episode are those of the guest, based on their professional expertise and personal experience. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, educational, or psychological advice. Please consult a qualified professional for personalised support relevant to your individual circumstances.
