My ADHD diagnosis didn’t change me.

What happens when you finally get to see yourself clearly and why naming your experience is the key to changing it.

Check out Shimmer ADHD Coaching for yourself. Use code “WISESQUIRRELS” and Save 30% on your first month!

I’m excited to share that I was featured on Shimmer’s Brainwaves Podcast, and you can tune into our whole conversation below. If you’re unfamiliar with Shimmer, I love their coaching platform for adults with ADHD. It’s designed by expert ADHD clinicians and coaching psychologists. I’m a new member, so I will be sure to share my honest feedback and experiences with you on our podcast and newsletter.

Click (don’t pick) my nose to check out the full interview.

Thanks to Shimmer’s Trina Haynes and O'Ryan McEntire for their rewarding conversation. I know you will enjoy this as much as I did because we covered much ground you need to hear about.

Key Takeaways from the Interview with Dave Delaney.

Listeners of this episode can expect to learn about:

1. Late ADHD Diagnosis and Self-Discovery

• The impact of receiving an ADHD diagnosis later in life.

• The phrase “It all makes sense now” and how self-awareness changes perspective.

• The process of connecting the dots between past struggles and ADHD traits.

• The emotional roller coaster of diagnosis: relief, regret, anger, and acceptance.

2. ADHD and Entrepreneurship

• How ADHD increases the likelihood of starting a business.

• The connection between ADHD, creativity, and problem-solving in entrepreneurship.

• The importance of identifying strengths and outsourcing weaknesses.

• How ADHD hyperfocus and novelty-seeking can shape a career.

3. The Connection Between ADHD, Health, and Life Expectancy

• Dr. Russ Barkley’s research on untreated ADHD reducing life expectancy by up to 13 years.

• Risks associated with untreated ADHD: impulsivity, poor sleep, and mental health struggles.

• The role of mindfulness, exercise, and structured habits in managing ADHD symptoms.

4. ADHD Coping Strategies & Productivity Hacks

• How “Wise Squirrels” develop their own coping mechanisms over time.

• The power of community and sharing strategies to improve daily life.

• Using visual timers (e.g., Time Timer) to combat time blindness.

• The role of structure, lists, and reminders in managing executive dysfunction.

5. ADHD and Memory Challenges

• How ADHD-related working memory issues can resemble early-onset dementia.

• Strategies for remembering important tasks, such as using voice memos and visual cues.

• The emotional toll of struggling with forgetfulness and how self-compassion helps.

6. ADHD and Community

• How people with ADHD tend to find and connect with each other.

• Recognizing undiagnosed ADHD in friends, family, and older generations.

• The growing movement of ADHD advocacy and awareness, especially among women.

7. ADHD in Women and the Misdiagnosis Gap

• The history of ADHD being underdiagnosed in women due to outdated stereotypes.

• The difference between inattentive and hyperactive ADHD presentations.

• Why many women only discover they have ADHD after their children are diagnosed.

8. ADHD and Dopamine Seeking

• Why people with ADHD thrive in high-feedback environments (e.g., public speaking, entrepreneurship).

• The role of novelty, challenge, and creativity in keeping ADHD brains engaged.

• How understanding ADHD can help someone design a career that works with their brain, not against it.

9. The Importance of Seeking Diagnosis & Treatment

• The benefits of seeking a diagnosis even later in life.

• Why treatment is not just about medication but also therapy, coaching, and self-awareness.

• The importance of advocating for oneself when discussing ADHD with a doctor.

10. The Mission Behind Wise Squirrels

• Dave Delaney’s goal of spreading awareness through the Wise Squirrels podcast and website.

• How The Root Down framework helps people understand and embrace their strengths.

• The importance of reducing stigma and misinformation around ADHD.

Check out Shimmer ADHD Coaching for yourself. Use code “WISESQUIRRELS” and Save 30% on your first month, I believe it will be a worthwhile investment.

Enjoy the interview? Please share it with your friends and family. Thanks!