Shows
ADHD Aha!Rejection sensitivity and ADHD as an Emmy-winning comedy writer (Dan McCoy’s story)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 resourcesADHD and rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD)AD...
2025-02-0425 min
ADHD Aha!A deeper dive on ADHD, sex, and consent (Cate Osborn is back!)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 resourcesR...
2025-01-2136 min
Hyperfocus with Rae JacobsonADHD Aha: Jessica McCabe (!!) on motherhood, social anxiety, and ADHD medicationThis week, Host Rae Jacobson shares an episode from ADHD Aha, another Understood Podcast, where YouTuber Jessica McCabe shares her experience being a new mom with ADHD.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 cop...
2025-01-0935 min
MissUnderstood: The ADHD in Women ChannelADHD Aha!: Jessica McCabe (!!) on motherhood, social anxiety, and ADHD medicationHow 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...
2025-01-0935 min
ADHD Aha!3 generations of ADHD…and masking (Zoe Plotnick’s story)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.
2025-01-0717 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD or OCD? (Julianna Broadwater’s story)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...
2024-12-2418 min
ADHD Aha!The ADHD failure cycle (Jared Robson’s story)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. ...
2024-12-1029 min
ADHD Aha!AuDHD, sensory meltdowns, and hormones (Sam Hiew’s story)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 resourcesWhat is AuDHD?A guide to hormones and ADHDadhdgirls.co.ukSa...
2024-11-2629 min
ADHD Aha!Going on the record with ADHD (Rakia Reynolds’ story)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 th...
2024-11-1226 min
ADHD Aha!What’s scary about ADHD? (Ghost hunter Em Schulz’s story)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 resourcesEm’s podcast website, andthatswhywedrink.com“Is ADHD real?” What experts say when...
2024-10-2925 min
ADHD Aha!When ADHD is mistaken for disobedience (Kayla Sanders’ story)If you like this show, consider making a donation this holiday season. 100% of your donation will go towards helping us create more podcasts (like this one!). Click here to make a gift today.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...
2024-10-1524 min
ADHD Aha!Emotional regulation — and yelling — as a mom with ADHD (Patricia Sung’s story)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 resourcesBuilding self-compassion skillsADHD and angerPatricia’s podcast, Motherhood in ADHDTimestamps
2024-10-0129 min
ADHD Aha!Fear of rejection with ADHD runs deep (Matthew’s story)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...
2024-09-1724 min
ADHD Aha!“You can’t have ADHD” (Farah Jamil’s story)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...
2024-09-0331 min
ADHD Aha!Jessica McCabe (!!) on motherhood, social anxiety, and ADHD medicationHow 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...
2024-08-2034 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and traumaDr. 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 resources6 ways ADHD and PTS...
2024-08-0632 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD in marriage: How it changed a relationship (Breon and Dan’s story)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 resourcesadhdinner.orgADHD and marriage (Rachel and J...
2024-07-2326 min
ADHD Aha!Career tips and starting a business with ADHD. Plus ADHD and PTSD (Phoebe Gavin’s story)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 resourcesPhoebe’s episode of How’d You Get T...
2024-07-0932 min
ADHD Aha!“ADHD for Smart Ass Women” host Tracy Otsuka!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 cookbo...
2024-06-2528 min
ADHD Aha!Toxic productivity, remembering to remember, and rejection sensitivity (Jesse Anderson’s story)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 th...
2024-06-1129 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD hacks with William CurbWhen 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 resourcesWilliam’s podcast, Hacking Your ADHDADHD and emotionsADHD and the myth of lazinessTo get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes, visit the ADHD Aha! podcast page at Understood.We love...
2024-06-0416 min
ADHD Aha!An ADHD coach on being a defiant teen, ADHD overwhelm, and self-care (Caren Magill’s story)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: Fro...
2024-05-2828 min
ADHD Aha!Pushing boundaries, breaking norms, and the ADHD brain (Casey McQuiston’s story)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 resourcesWhy “just try harder” is a mythBeing Trans with ADHD (Max’s st...
2024-05-1431 min
ADHD Aha!A personal conversation about being a mom (and woman) with ADHDWhat 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 resourcesRolling with my ADHD Mom BrainBuilding self-compassion skills3 things I’m learning as...
2024-05-0735 min
ADHD Aha!The pain of struggling with basic tasks: ADHD in the pandemic (Ellyce Fulmore's story)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 an...
2024-04-3027 min
ADHD Aha!An ADHD coach on burnout (Jaye Lin’s story)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 e...
2024-04-1635 min
ADHD Aha!Impulse buying, negative bank balances, and the ADHD tax (Paulette Perhach's story)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 t...
2024-04-0222 min
ADHD Aha!Why “just try harder” is a myth (David Flink’s story)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...
2024-03-1927 min
ADHD Aha!"Why don’t you listen?” Paying attention vs. hearing (Peter’s story)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 a...
2024-03-0521 min
ADHD Aha!Not lazy, but exhausted from analysis paralysis (Emily’s story)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 unde...
2024-02-2024 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and dyslexia, and the reading anxiety that comes with both (Carol’s story)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...
2024-02-0619 min
ADHD Aha!The problem with attention “deficit” (Ernie’s story)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 cr...
2024-01-2327 min
ADHD Aha!PTSD and ADHD, tangled up (Hannah’s story)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 gr...
2024-01-1024 min
ADHD Aha!Adulting and executive function skills (from the In It podcast)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 U...
2024-01-0224 min
ADHD Aha!From ADHD perfectionism to empathy and grace (Livingston’s story)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! podc...
2023-12-2621 min
ADHD Aha!Tackling organization, clutter, and stress with hyperfocus (Wendy’s story)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, sh...
2023-12-1230 min
ADHD Aha!Impulsive extrovert or ADHD? (Sam’s story)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...
2023-11-2820 min
ADHD Aha!How to tell the difference between tantrums and meltdowns (from the “What Now? A Parent’s Guide” podcast)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 e...
2023-11-2108 min
ADHD Aha!“I thought I was just quirky.” Plus, ADHD accommodations at work (Mananya’s story)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...
2023-11-1427 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD doesn’t go away (Johnathan’s story)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 edu...
2023-10-3121 min
ADHD Aha!The noisy ADHD brain — plus ADHD and lying (Oliver Vaquer’s story)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 lik...
2023-10-1726 min
ADHD Aha!The pressure to be productive with ADHD (Dani Donovan’s story!)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 paralys...
2023-10-0329 min
ADHD Aha!What is executive function?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...
2023-09-1937 min
ADHD Aha!Rejection sensitivity, ADHD drain, and the power of failure (Weston’s story)“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...
2023-09-0527 min
ADHD Aha!Depression, relationships, and the myth of the ADHD “superpower” (Max’s story)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 fee...
2023-08-2225 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD, social awkwardness, and ghosting (Allison’s story)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 s...
2023-08-0824 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD frustration and anger, plus ADHD and tics (Adam’s story)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.
2023-07-2523 min
In It: Raising Kids Who Learn DifferentlyADHD and eating disorders (from the ADHD Aha! podcast)Bonus episode! This time on In It, learn about ADHD and eating disorders in this episode from Understood’s ADHD Aha! podcast. Host Laura Key talks with Dr. Roberto Olivardia about why ADHD and binge-eating disorder (BED) often co-occur. Learn how ADHD symptoms like impulsivity play a role in disordered eating. Plus, find out about treatment options and what to do if you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder and needs support. Get a transcript of this show and check out more ADHD Aha! episodes at u.org/ADHDaha. We love hear...
2023-07-2029 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and depression (Josh’s story)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 childh...
2023-07-1128 min
ADHD Aha!5 ADHD labels to let go of (50th episode special!)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 a...
2023-06-2741 min
ADHD Aha!Being trans with ADHD (Max’s story)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...
2023-06-1324 min
ADHD Aha!Working mom with ADHD, feeling control over nothing (Cathy Rashidian’s story)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 P...
2023-05-3025 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and feeling “dumb” (Henry’s story)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...
2023-05-1624 min
ADHD Aha!Anxiety, imposter syndrome, and ADHD (Mallory’s story)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 bu...
2023-05-0225 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and eating disordersDr. 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 hear...
2023-04-2528 min
ADHD Aha!Masking ADHD symptoms (René Brooks’ story)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 chi...
2023-04-1835 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD, sleep apnea, and symptoms beyond the DSM (Roberto’s story)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...
2023-04-0434 min
ADHD Aha!“Everything Everywhere All at Once” and ADHDBonus 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 epis...
2023-03-2835 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD, doom bags, and squirrels in the head (Shaun’s story)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 fo...
2023-03-2125 min
ADHD Aha!“Don’t be lazy!” That ADHD voice, plus the ADHD tax (Tony’s story)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...
2023-03-0727 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD, mental health stigma, and music (John’s story)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 sou...
2023-02-2126 min
ADHD Aha!Twice exceptional: Raising a gifted son with ADHD (Emily’s story)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 exception...
2023-02-0726 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD inertia...and troublemaking (Nabil Abdulrashid’s story)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. Whe...
2023-01-2430 min
ADHD Aha!Sex, intimacy, and ADHDHow 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 resourcesADHD and hormones (Catie’s story)ADHD, loving intensely, and impulsivity (Ange’s story)8 dating trouble spots for teens with AD...
2023-01-1014 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and hormones (Catie Osborn’s story)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 cati...
2023-01-1026 min
ADHD Aha!Not “dumb” or a “hot mess”... it’s ADHD (Jenny Lorenzo’s story)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...
2022-12-0624 min
ADHD Aha!What ADHD feels like and sounds like (Yinan’s story)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 ac...
2022-11-2224 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD, loving intensely, and impulsivity (Ange’s story)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 AD...
2022-11-0830 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD, bad grades, and self-awareness (Eric Tivers' story)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 clin...
2022-10-2524 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and bullyingKids 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 episod...
2022-10-1140 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD in teens, from friendships to forgetting homework (Miya’s story)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...
2022-09-2720 min
ADHD Aha!"Trapped" with ADHD during the pandemic (Erin's story)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...
2022-09-1318 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and creativity (Kenny’s story)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 u...
2022-08-3024 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and the myth of laziness (Rebecca’s story)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 ep...
2022-08-1628 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and emotions, from anxiety to boredom (Dr. Sasha Hamdani’s story)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 unt...
2022-08-0228 min
In It: Raising Kids Who Learn DifferentlyHer intense, restless son harnessed ADHD by climbing mountains (from the “ADHD Aha!” podcast)Bonus episode! Hear one mom’s story of parenting a child with ADHD and written expression disorder in this episode from Understood’s ADHA Aha! podcast. Host Laura Key talks with Michelle Kuipers, the mother of Marc-André Leclerc. Marc-André 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.Michelle shares how she homeschooled Marc-André and helped him learn to channel his ADHD. Listen as Michelle describes Marc-André’s loving and generous spirit — and how she wants her son to be remembered.
2022-07-2838 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and marriage (Rachel and Jon’s story)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....
2022-07-1932 min
ADHD Aha!Listener letters roundup (YOUR stories)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 transcri...
2022-07-0513 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD, irritability, and friendship (Jake’s story)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 procrastinat...
2022-06-2121 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD or a “bad personality”? (Kai’s story)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 arou...
2022-06-0723 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and sleep problems (from the “In It” podcast)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 resourcesHow ADHD affect...
2022-06-0140 min
ADHD Aha!What is ADHD?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.
2022-05-2431 min
ADHD Aha!Her intense, restless son harnessed ADHD by climbing mountains (Michelle’s story)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 pa...
2022-05-1036 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and distraction in the military and at home (Justen’s story)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 dist...
2022-04-2618 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and shame (Dr. Kojo’s story)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...
2022-04-1227 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD, oversharing, and mom guilt (Lacey’s story)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. ...
2022-03-2919 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD, working memory, and feeling like a “burden” (Pablo’s story)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 ADHD...
2022-03-1516 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and messiness (Jeannie’s story)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 fo...
2022-03-0119 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and substance abuse (Peach’s story)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 t...
2022-02-1524 min
ADHD Aha!Procrastination, rushing, and ADHD (Yasmeen’s story)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...
2022-02-0123 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD and the “model minority” mask (Emily’s story)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 resource...
2022-01-1821 min
ADHD Aha!Surprise! You have ADHD (Kevin’s story)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.
2022-01-0424 min
ADHD Aha!When “ditzy” is finally diagnosed as ADHD (Jen’s story)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 ho...
2021-12-2126 min
ADHD Aha!Impulsivity, risky behavior, and obsessions (Chris' story)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 a...
2021-12-0719 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD runs in the family (Michelle’s story)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 mo...
2021-11-2326 min
ADHD Aha!Dad of a 4-year-old with ADHD (James’ story)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...
2021-11-0929 min
ADHD Aha!Hyperactive girl, labeled a troublemaker (Olivia’s story)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...
2021-10-2624 min
ADHD Aha!Diagnosed with ADHD during the pandemic (Scott’s story)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 p...
2021-10-1221 min
ADHD Aha!Raising an intense daughter with ADHD (Andrea’s story)Single mom Andrea Robinson was confused and overwhelmed by her daughter Tatiana’s “intense” behavior as a child. Tatiana got sent home from playdates, would tell lies, and couldn’t sit still. An extremely candid remark from one of Andrea’s friends changed all that — and it led to Tatiana’s ADHD diagnosis. Hear what happened, and how Tatiana is doing 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 resourcesADHD and lyingUnde...
2021-09-2824 min
ADHD Aha!ADHD, anxiety, and perfectionism (Laura’s story)Host Laura Key shares her own “aha” moment in this inaugural episode of ADHD Aha! Laura was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. But it took an emotional moment in her childhood bedroom to finally show her that her ADHD is real. Amanda Morin joins Laura to talk about ADHD in women and girls, anxiety, and why so many people with ADHD are perfectionists. 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 resourc...
2021-09-2823 min