About Wise Squirrels.
wise squir·rel - /wīz/ ˈskwər(ə)l/ - noun
A Wise Squirrel is an adult diagnosed with ADHD later in life. Wise comes from the wisdom they have gained surviving and thriving in a neurotypical world without knowing they developed coping methods to help them succeed. Squirrel comes from the often ADHD-referenced distracted dog meme "Squirrel!" by Dug the Dog from the movie "UP."
An estimated 6% of U.S. adults—around 15.5 million—have ADHD, with global prevalence ranging from 2% to 5%. Symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity can be challenging, but they also come with unique strengths.
If you've recently been diagnosed with ADHD, you might relate to squirrels—energetic, impulsive, hyperfocused, creative, and resourceful, but sometimes forgetful and unplanned. Like squirrels, people with ADHD adapt and thrive, often learning to turn their challenges into strengths over time.
Get our free NOW WHAT guide for newly diagnosed wise squirrels.
As adults, we’ve built careers, families, and lives through wisdom gained from experience. ADHD presents challenges, but it also offers opportunities to embrace our creativity, resilience, and unique perspectives.
Wise Squirrels is a supportive community for neurodivergent adults to connect, learn, and grow. Together, we can navigate life’s challenges and celebrate its successes. And yes, the name was inspired by Dug’s obsession with squirrels in Up—a playful nod to our shared journey as resilient and resourceful Wise Squirrels. Welcome!
Dave, your Chief Wise Squirrel. Interested in hearing more of his story? Check out these interviews.
About Dave, your “Chief Wise Squirrel.”
Hi, I’m Dave Delaney, your Chief Wise Squirrel. I am a keynote speaker, published author, and business coach.
I’m walking this path with you. At fifty years old, I was diagnosed with ADHD, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
My wife, a school teacher, smiled and nodded in comforting agreement when I shared my news. She had assumed this for years and had urged* me to see a doctor. Through medical miscommunication between a therapist in 2016 and my family doctor in 2023, we finally confirmed that, like my fellow wise squirrels, I have ADHD.
Rather than focusing on my whole history in this brief About section, I will share stories, tools, and tips with you along the way on the podcast, blog, and newsletter to help you and your loved ones embrace and celebrate your neurodiversity.
Wise Squirrels “Kits”
Our amazing interns are helping us make Wise Squirrels a success.
Jackson Hubbard is a digital and media marketer and recent graduate holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Media Studies with a minor in Communication from Middle Tennessee State University. Jackson boasts a diverse skill set encompassing content creation, content strategy, content management, web design, brand marketing, and interpersonal communication. His experience includes serving as a valuable member of the Riverside SDA Church Media Team and as a Student Marketeer for Red Bull in the Nashville Market.