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ADHD Eavesdrop

Janine VanStee

🎧 ADHD Eavesdrop is the podcast where you can be a butterfly on the wall, listening in on real, unscripted conversations about life with ADHD. Hosted by ADHD Life Coach Janine VanStee, each episode dives into authentic chats with experts, educators, coaches, and everyday people living with ADHD. We explore challenges, breakthroughs, and the messy, beautiful realities of neurodivergent life — from school and work struggles to creativity, relationships, mental health, and everything in between. Whether you're diagnosed, self-diagnosed, or just curious, ADHD Eavesdrop is here to bring you connection, insights, laughter, and lots of "me too!" moments.

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#75
June 29 · 26 min
Late-Diagnosed ADHD, Raising Three ADHD Boys & Growing Up in a Cult
What happens when you discover your own ADHD only after raising three children with it? In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, Janine VanStee sits down with author and book coach Sally Lotz to discuss her late ADHD diagnosis, raising three sons with ADHD, and how understanding neurodivergence transformed the way she viewed her life. Sally also shares her experience growing up as a Jehovah's Witness, the lasting effects of rejection, and how writing became both a creative outlet and a path toward healing. Together they explore masking, menopause and ADHD, creativity, parenting strategies, rejection sensitivity, and finding strengths in a differently wired brain.
#74
May 25 · 38 min
ADHD, Creativity & Comedy with Paco Romain | Neurodivergence, RSD & Creative Thinking
Why do so many creative people seem to be neurodivergent? In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, Janine VanStee sits down with comedian, writer, actor, and creative Paco Romain for a deeply honest conversation about ADHD, creativity, emotional dysregulation, rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), therapy, masking, pattern recognition, and the emotional intensity that often comes with neurodivergence. Paco shares stories from his life in comedy, acting, music, and performance while reflecting on the traits that made him begin questioning whether he may be neurodivergent. Together, Janine and Paco explore the connection between ADHD and creativity, the emotional impact of rejection sensitivity, the role of trauma, and why so many artists and creatives feel “different.” This episode is funny, vulnerable, insightful, and incredibly relatable for creatives, deep thinkers, ADHD adults, and anyone navigating emotional intensity or late diagnosis. Here’s a cleaner, more podcast-description-friendly version you can drop into YouTube or RSS details: Paco Romane — comedian, writer, actor, podcaster, and “The Voice of Pandora” — joins me for this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop! Paco has been featured on Comedy Central, Drunk History, SF Sketchfest, Outside Lands, The Todd Glass Show, NPR, NBC, Funny or Die, Cracked, KQED, The New York Times, Huffington Post, YouTube, and more. He is also the host of: Sup Doc — The Premier Podcast About Documentaries Paco was voted Best Comedian in San Francisco twice (2005 and 2012) and has been described as: “a natural entertainer” — Santa Cruz Review “an original” — Digital Journal and someone whose performances keep “audiences riveted and coming back for more” — NBC Learn more about Paco here: Website: www.pacoromane.com Twitter/X: @pacoromane Topics include: ADHD and creativity Neurodivergence in comedians and artists Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) Emotional dysregulation Therapy and self-awareness Hyperfocus and pattern recognition Trauma vs ADHD Relationships and masking Creativity and purpose The emotional side of performing Chapters 00:00 Welcome & Meeting Paco Romain 04:41 Therapy, ADHD & Self-Discovery 0 8:37 Pattern Recognition & Creative Thinking 12:14 Puzzles, Music & Neurodivergent Brains 16:08 Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) 19:29 Emotional Overload & Public Reactions 27:18 Trauma vs ADHD Explained 33:59 Creativity, Passion & Neurodivergence 40:49 Comedy, Success & Searching for Purpose 49:09 Final Thoughts & Creative Identity
#73
May 11 · 27 min
ADHD & Emotional Patterns: Creativity, Reactions, and Self-Awareness with Melanie Sue Hicks
In this episode, I talk with Melanie Sue Hicks about ADHD, emotional patterns, and self-awareness. We explore how patterns show up in reactions, creativity, and relationships—and what shifts when you start to recognize them We explore how ADHD shows up in everyday reactions, relationships, and the way we process the world around us. This conversation looks at patterns—how they form, how they repeat, and what starts to shift when we begin to recognize them. Melanie shares thoughtful insights on creativity, personal growth, and understanding your own responses over time. It’s one of those conversations that moves between humor, reflection, and those moments where you catch yourself thinking, “that’s me.” Connect with Melanie Sue Hicks Website: https://melaniesuehicks.com Instagram: @inpursuitmelsue LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniesuehicks/ What We Talk About ADHD and emotional patterns Self-awareness and recognizing reactions Creativity and neurodivergence Relationships and communication Personal growth over time Disclaimer This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice.
#72
April 27 · 41 min
ADHD & Entrepreneurship: Why “Normal” Business Advice Doesn’t Work
ADHD and entrepreneurship can feel like they don’t mix—especially when traditional business advice just doesn’t work for your brain. In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, I talk with Lark Frazier, a designer and marketing specialist who helps neurodivergent entrepreneurs build businesses that actually fit how they think, work, and create. We explore what it’s like to be late-diagnosed with ADHD, the challenges of finding your niche, and why self-doubt, rejection sensitivity, and executive dysfunction can make starting (and sustaining) a business feel overwhelming. Lark shares her journey from trying everything—coffee shops, woodworking, travel, and more—to realizing that 100% of her clients were neurodivergent, and building her business around that insight. If you’ve ever struggled with: ADHD and work or career direction Starting a business with ADHD Interview anxiety or self-doubt Feeling like “normal” advice doesn’t work for you This conversation will feel both validating and practical.
#71
March 16 · 27 min
Disabled or Different? Neurodiversity, Inclusion, and Representation
What does it mean to be disabled versus different? Janine VanStee talks with Lynn Greenberg about neurodiversity, ADHD, dyslexia, and why representation in children’s books matters for kids with learning differences. What does it mean to be disabled versus simply different? In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, Janine VanStee talks with advocate and children's book author Lynn Greenberg about neurodiversity, learning differences, and the importance of representation for children with ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive differences. Lynn co-created the Creative Cab Company children's book series with her son, creating stories that highlight strengths, creativity, and unique perspectives in kids whose brains work differently. Together they explore how labels can both help and harm, how representation shapes confidence, and why helping children see themselves reflected in stories can be incredibly powerful. This conversation looks at neurodiversity through a hopeful lens—focusing on acceptance, empowerment, and the idea that differences can also be strengths. In This Episode We Discuss • ADHD and dyslexia • Neurodiversity and learning differences • Disability vs. difference • Why representation in children's books matters • Helping kids build confidence and identity • The power of storytelling for neurodivergent children Connect with Janine ADHD Life Coaching https://jvansteeadhdlifecoaching.net Email jvansteeadhdlifecoaching@gmail.com Connect with Lynn Creative Cab Company Children's Book Series Disclaimer This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, psychological, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.
#70
March 2 · 29 min
ADHD, Gut Health, and Chronic Illness
Is ADHD really a neurological disorder — or could gut health, diet, and inflammation play a role? In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, Janine VanStee sits down with functional medicine practitioner Dr. Brad Montagne to explore a different perspective on ADHD, chronic illness, and the gut-brain connection. Dr. Brad shares insights from nearly four decades of working with people experiencing complex health conditions including Lyme disease, digestive issues, and inflammation-related symptoms. The conversation dives into topics like diet, sugar, gut microbiome health, and how lifestyle choices may influence focus, behavior, and overall well-being. Together they discuss: • The connection between gut health and brain function • Why inflammation may affect focus and behavior • Diet, sugar, and processed foods • The gut-brain relationship • Functional medicine approaches to chronic illness • Parenting and supporting children with ADHD • Supplements, fish oil, and nutrition myths • Epigenetics and lifestyle factors As always on ADHD Eavesdrop, this is an open conversation — not a script — where you get to be a butterfly on the wall listening in. If you’re curious about different perspectives on ADHD, health, and how our bodies work, this episode offers plenty to think about. Dr. Brad Montagne https://www.instagram.com/healthfullyu/ https://www.facebook.com/healthfullyu https://healthfullyu.com Free ADHD coaching consultation with Janine VanStee: https://calendly.com/jvansteeadhdlifecoaching/45-min-consultation Website: https://jvansteeadhdlifecoaching.net 00:00 Welcome to ADHD Eavesdrop 03:00 ADHD, Diet, and “Toxic Food” 06:00 Why Defining the Problem Matters 09:00 Gut Health and the Brain Connection 12:00 Inflammation, Dopamine, and ADHD 15:00 Sugar, Caffeine, and Kids 18:00 Is ADHD Neurological or Gut-Related? 21:00 Epigenetics and Lifestyle Factors 25:00 Fish Oil, Supplements, and Nutrition 30:30 Advice for Parents of Kids with ADHD The views expressed in this episode are those of the guest and are for informational purposes only and not medical advice.
#69
February 23 · 27 min
Neurodiversity, Writing, and Healing
In this episode, Janine talks with Randi-lee Bowslaugh about autism, depression, parenting neurodivergent children, and the healing power of creativity and writing. In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, Janine sits down with author and podcaster Randi-lee Bowslaugh to talk about neurodiversity, mental health, and the power of creative expression. Randi-lee shares her experiences living with autism, depression, and PTSD, while also parenting a neurodivergent child and navigating life as a grandmother. Together, Janine and Randi-lee explore how writing, storytelling, and creativity can support emotional healing, identity development, and connection. This conversation touches on self-acceptance, resilience, and the importance of finding supportive spaces where neurodivergent people can be fully themselves. As always, this episode is a real, unscripted conversation — just like listening to two people talk at the next table in a coffee shop. 00:00:00 Introduction and guest welcome 00:02:15 Randi-lee’s story: autism, depression, and PTSD 00:05:10 Parenting neurodivergent children 00:08:40 Becoming a grandmother and life perspective 00:11:30 Writing as emotional expression and healing 00:15:20 The connection between creativity and mental health 00:19:05 Living with multiple diagnoses 00:23:40 Identity, acceptance, and self-understanding 00:27:15 Supporting neurodivergent families 00:31:00 Closing reflections and encouragement Is ADHD Life Coaching right for you? If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or ready to better understand how your ADHD shows up in your daily life, coaching might help. I offer supportive, practical ADHD Life Coaching focused on real-life strategies, self-awareness, and sustainable change. You can schedule a free 45-minute consultation to see if coaching is a good fit: https://calendly.com/jvansteeadhdlifecoaching/45-min-consultation Learn more at: https://jvansteeadhdlifecoaching.net Email: jvansteeadhdlifecoaching@gmail.com This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, mental health, or professional advice. The views shared in this episode reflect personal experiences and conversations, not clinical recommendations. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional.
#68
February 9 · 29 min
Stress, Somatics and the Mind-Body Connection (with Jen Kreiner)
Short Spotify Description: How stress lives in the body — and how somatics can help you move from overwhelm to resilience. Janine talks with ADHD coach Jen Kreiner about nervous system awareness, burnout, and emotional healing. In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, Janine VanStee talks with ADHD coach Jen Kreiner about the mind-body connection and the role of somatics in emotional regulation, stress, and resilience. Jen shares how somatic practices help people notice where stress lives in the body, understand nervous system responses like fight, flight, and freeze, and build the ability to move from automatic reactions to intentional responses. They explore how ADHD, burnout, trauma patterns, and emotional avoidance can show up physically — and how learning to pause, notice, and connect with body sensations can support healing and long-term change. This conversation is especially helpful for adults with ADHD who experience overwhelm, rumination, or chronic stress and want practical ways to reconnect with themselves. Key Topics Somatics and the mind-body connection Nervous system regulation Fight, flight, freeze, and rest-and-digest ADHD and emotional avoidance Burnout and resilience Processing unexpressed emotions Curiosity and emotional awareness Guest Jen Kreiner — Stonesthrowcoaching.com Disclaimer ADHD Eavesdrop is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical or mental health treatment. ADHD coaching is not therapy, counseling, or medical care. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding medical or mental health concerns.
#67
January 26 · 29 min
The Patterns That Create Thrillers: ADHD, Autism & the Mind of J.D. Barker
What if the same pattern recognition that shapes bestselling thrillers is also tied to ADHD and autism? In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, I sit down with J.D. Barker, New York Times bestselling author, for an unscripted conversation about how his brain sees connections others miss — and how that ability influences creativity, storytelling, and suspense. We talk about: Pattern recognition in ADHD and autism How noticing small inconsistencies can lead to big stories The overlap between neurodivergence and creative work Why some minds naturally see where things are headed — before anyone else does This episode isn’t about writing tips or formulas. It’s about how certain brains work, how patterns become stories, and why neurodivergent thinking can be a powerful creative advantage. If you’re curious about ADHD, autism, creativity, or what really goes on inside the mind of a thriller writer, this conversation is for you.
#66
January 19 · 31 min
ADHD Isn’t Your Fault: Reducing Overwhelm, Shame, and Executive Dysfunction
In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, an ADHD podcast for adults, Janine sits down with Leah Caroll, an ADHD life and mindset coach, to talk about adult ADHD, overwhelm, and why ADHD isn’t your fault. Leah shares her lived experience with late-diagnosed ADHD, burnout, and years of feeling like life was harder than it should be. Together, Janine and Leah explore how executive dysfunction, shame, and all-or-nothing thinking keep many adults with ADHD stuck — even when they’re smart, capable, and trying their best. This honest conversation focuses on what actually helps people with ADHD feel more in control: reducing overwhelm instead of chasing perfect systems, building habits that work with an ADHD brain, and replacing self-criticism with curiosity and self-compassion. If you’ve ever wondered why routines don’t stick, why motivation feels inconsistent, or why you feel exhausted by daily life, this episode offers validation, practical insight, and a gentler way forward. Find Leah!: w: leahccoaching.com i: @adhd.coach.leah l: Leah Carroll f: ADHD: Now What?! 00:00 – ADHD Isn’t Your Fault Why ADHD is about wiring, not willpower — and how shame keeps people stuck 02:15 – Leah’s ADHD Story & Late Diagnosis Burnout, meds, and realizing life didn’t have to feel this hard 05:45 – Burnout, Identity, and Starting Over Quitting everything and what it taught Leah about adult ADHD 09:30 – Executive Dysfunction Explained Why “just try harder” doesn’t work for ADHD brains 13:00 – Pills Don’t Teach Skills Where medication helps — and where coaching matters most 16:30 – Reducing Overwhelm Without Perfection Why small, realistic changes beat total life overhauls 19:45 – Consistency vs. Persistence Why flexible routines work better than rigid plans 23:00 – Habits That Actually Stick Keys on hooks, tiny systems, and ADHD-friendly habit building 26:15 – Curiosity Over Self-Criticism Breaking shame cycles and rewriting the ADHD inner voice 29:45 – Advice to Our Younger ADHD Selves Self-compassion, safety, and progress over perfection
#65
January 12 · 28 min
You Don’t Have to Suffer to Be Creative
Creativity is often romanticized as something that only comes from pain, struggle, or trauma — but what if that’s completely wrong? In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, Janine sits down with therapist and creative Rachel Moore for a candid, unmasked conversation about ADHD, late diagnosis, and the myth of the “suffering artist.” Rachel shares why creativity doesn’t come from trauma, but from sensitivity — and how that sensitivity shapes how neurodivergent people experience art, work, relationships, and the world itself. Together, they explore why so many creatives are neurodivergent, how structure and novelty support ADHD brains, and why you don’t have to be miserable to make meaningful art. This episode is a grounding reminder that creativity can come from joy, regulation, and being fully yourself. Settle in, get cozy, and be a butterfly on the wall for this honest and affirming conversation. ⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to ADHD Eavesdrop A conversation about ADHD, creativity, and late diagnosis 00:39 – Rachel’s Late ADHD Diagnosis Testing well, failing homework, and being diagnosed at 45 02:12 – ADHD, Work, and Why Certain Jobs Fit Deadlines, novelty, urgency, and creative careers 04:22 – Are All Creatives Neurodivergent? The overlap between creativity, ADHD, and theater communities 05:39 – Therapy as a Creative Process Structure, intuition, and why creativity matters in clinical work 08:16 – The Myth of the Suffering Artist Why trauma is not the source of creativity 09:39 – Creativity Comes From Sensitivity A powerful reframing of art, trauma, and neurodivergence 11:46 – ADHD, Perception, and Trauma Why neurodivergent kids experience the world differently 13:35 – Art, Emotion, and Identity Why sensitivity shapes creative expression 27:52 – Being Fully Unmasked Creativity, safety, and the freedom to be yourself
#64
January 5 · 29 min
The Hidden Cost of Undiagnosed ADHD: Burnout, Overachievement, and Late Diagnosis
A candid conversation about late-diagnosed ADHD, burnout, and the hidden cost of overachievement—featuring author and former academic Adva Shaviv. What does it cost to live for decades with undiagnosed ADHD—especially when you’re a high achiever? In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, I’m joined by author and former academic Adva Shaviv, joining me from the Netherlands, for a deeply honest conversation about late-diagnosed ADHD, burnout, and the unseen toll of overcompensating for years. We talk about growing up feeling “different,” pushing through higher education without support, parenting while neurodivergent, and why so many people with ADHD appear successful on the outside while quietly burning out on the inside. Our conversation weaves through journaling, block scheduling, sensory needs, creativity, homeschooling, and the stormy-but-magical inner world of the ADHD brain. If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing too much and still falling short, this episode will feel familiar. Come be a butterfly on the wall and listen in.
#63
Dec 15, 2025 · 30 min
Writing Became My Therapy: ADHD and Autism
Big emotions, black-hole hyperfocus, and caffeine just to function—sound familiar? In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, we sit down with neurodivergent author Jennifer Shaw to explore her family’s shared journey with ADHD and autism. Diagnosed in adulthood, Jennifer found clarity and healing through writing, music, and deep self-discovery. She shares how late diagnosis transformed her parenting, mental health, and creativity. From navigating emotional dysregulation to using writing as a nervous system regulator, this conversation is packed with real-life strategies and relatable stories for anyone living with ADHD or autism—especially women and parents. 🧠 Topics include: • Late ADHD and autism diagnosis in adults and children • Writing for emotional regulation and mental clarity • Music, movement, and creative expression as neurodivergent coping tools • Parenting neurodivergent kids while navigating your own diagnosis • Reframing “too much” as a neurodivergent strength 👩‍💻 Guest: Jennifer Shaw is a writer from Airdrie, Alberta, whose family shares both ADHD and autism diagnoses. Learn more: https://jmshawauthor.com 🎧 Subscribe for more honest, unscripted ADHD conversations. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and entertainment only. Views expressed are those of the guests and do not substitute for professional medical or mental health advice.
#62
Dec 1, 2025 · 37 min
Unspoken Expectations Create Chaos: ADHD, Marriage & Communication
Unspoken expectations are silent relationship killers — especially in ADHD marriages. In this episode, Janine VanStee sits down with leadership expert and relationship strategist David Kiwimagi (Kiwi Coaching) to unpack why unspoken expectations turn into resentment, how ADHD and RSD (Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria) amplify conflict, and what couples can do to communicate better right now. Kiwi shares powerful stories from his marriage, his Navy background, and his work coaching couples in business together. From the “his business / her business / not your business” framework to the simple 3-page exercise that can transform household expectations, Kiwi gives practical tools wrapped in humor, vulnerability, and wisdom. In this episode, we explore: Why unspoken expectations create chaos How to turn expectations into clear agreements How ADHD + RSD intensify misunderstandings The “You and Me vs. the Problem” argument-fixing mindset Why environment matters more than trying to “manage” feelings Hyperfocus, humor, and ADHD superpowers in relationships Why conflict doesn’t have to be destructive — it can be growth fuel If you’re in a relationship impacted by ADHD, communication struggles, emotional intensity, or business-life overlap, this conversation will hit home. 🦋 Want more episodes like this? Follow the podcast, leave a review, and stay connected for more real-life ADHD conversations that feel like being a butterfly on the wall.
#61
Nov 17, 2025 · 25 min
ADHD: Why Everything Feels Important — A Cozy Q&A
ADHD makes prioritizing, time blindness, and emotional regulation feel impossible — even when everything is important. In this cozy couch conversation, Janine sits down with her daughter Savannah and son-in-law Jack to answer listener questions about ADHD, teaching, deadlines, creative chaos, and the moments when humor turns into overwhelm. Real, relatable, and a little chaotic (in the best way). Why does everything feel important when you have ADHD? Why is prioritizing so hard—even when you know what needs to happen first? And what do you do when creative energy suddenly turns into total chaos? In today’s episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, Janine curls up on the couch with her daughter Savannah and son-in-law Jack for a relaxed, funny, and very real ADHD Q&A. Together they dive into: ✨ Why prioritizing is so emotionally draining ✨ The guilt of the task you didn’t pick ✨ ADHD in teaching and why the classroom is both magic and chaos ✨ Time blindness, “circle time” (analog clocks!), and clock confusion ✨ Why four appointments in one day feels like running a marathon ✨ Task stacking, body doubling, and dopamine-driven momentum ✨ Creative energy → chaos → RSD spirals ✨ How humor helps… until it suddenly doesn’t ✨ Why ADHD favorites change daily ✨ Little brain hacks that actually help (sometimes) This episode is cozy, honest, warm, and full of those “oh my gosh YES!” ADHD moments. Grab your coffee, curl up, and be a butterfly on the wall for one of the most relatable family conversations you’ll hear all week.
#60
Nov 3, 2025 · 26 min
ADHD & Grief: Healing Deep Emotions, Love, and Loss
Why does grief hit so differently when you have ADHD? In this heartfelt episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, host Janine VanStee welcomes returning guest Cheryl Dics, an ADHD coach from British Columbia, for an open, compassionate talk about grief, love, loss, and emotional regulation. Together, Janine and Cheryl explore why ADHDers and other neurodivergent individuals often feel emotions more deeply and for longer periods, and how that affects the grieving process. They discuss time blindness, rejection sensitivity, guilt, and shame, and share personal stories of loss—including Cheryl’s moving reflection on the death of her sponsor after five years of sobriety. Listeners will learn gentle, practical ways to process overwhelming feelings: breathing techniques, Cheryl’s “Five Things” grounding exercise, and a visualization for creating a sacred space to connect with loved ones who have passed. 💜 Key themes: ADHD & emotional intensity in grief Coping with loss, guilt, and “shoulds” Using mindfulness and grounding to self-regulate Spiritual tools for healing and connection Finding meaning and letting love continue Whether you’ve recently experienced loss or simply want to understand ADHD emotions on a deeper level, this conversation offers comfort, wisdom, and permission to feel it all. 🦋 Be a butterfly on the wall as Janine VanStee and Cheryl Dics share authentic insight on what it means to love, lose, and heal—ADHD style. Listen on RSS, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.
#59
Oct 27, 2025 · 33 min
Why Teachers Make Great ADHD Coaches
Former teachers bring something powerful into ADHD coaching—deep empathy, practical strategy, and the ability to translate complex executive function skills into real-life change. In this episode, Janine VanStee talks with Kate Sage, founder of Sage EF Coaching, about the natural overlap between teaching and ADHD coaching. They discuss how understanding executive function helps both educators and adults with ADHD develop self-trust, create sustainable systems, and learn to adapt instead of trying to “fix” themselves. If you're a teacher curious about ADHD coaching, or you want to understand how executive function affects learning, working, and daily life—this conversation will hit home. 🕒 Chapters 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Kate Sage 01:00 – From Teaching to ADHD Coaching 05:45 – Teaching Neurodivergent Students in Small Group Settings 09:20 – Time, Structure, and Executive Function in Schools 12:45 – Coaching as Teaching in Disguise 16:10 – Why Adults with ADHD Feel “Behind” 20:00 – Adaptation vs. Fixing Yourself 24:30 – Executive Function vs. Real-World Expectations 27:50 – Frontal Lobe Development and Compassion for ADHD Brains 29:55 – What We Wish We Could Have Told Our Students 32:40 – Final Reflection & Closing Message 🎤 Guest Kate Sage | Sage EF Coaching 🌐 https://sageefcoaching.com 🎙 Host Janine VanStee | J VanStee ADHD Life Coaching 🌐 https://jvansteeadhdlifecoaching.net
#58
Oct 20, 2025 · 29 min
Art Is the Closest I’ve Come to Peace
What if the only place your brain ever feels right… is on stage? This episode dives deep into ADHD, autism, OCD, RSD, and the neurodivergent need for creative expression—not as a hobby, but as regulation. My guest is a wildly artistic neurodivergent performer who shares how poetry, music, and live shows became the only place his mind goes quiet. We talk about dopamine, hyperfocus, OCD spikes, emotional ignition, and why traditional systems like school and college simply cannot hold a brain wired for passion over compliance. If you've ever felt “too much”—too intense, too sensitive, too creative, too emotional—this conversation is a love letter to the way your brain works. “Give it time. It will grow beautifully.” 🧠 What We Explore ADHD, autism & the dopamine rush of being truly seen Stage as meditation — when performance quiets the noise OCD spikes, undiagnosed epilepsy & misunderstood behaviors Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) & emotional firestorms Creativity vs conformity — why some brains cannot be contained The power of finding one adult who sees your potential Advice to our 13-year-old neurodivergent selves 🎧 Chapters 00:00 Welcome & why the stage is the only place the brain feels right 01:00 Poetry, music & the first dopamine hit of performance 02:20 ADHD, autism & finding brain quiet through creative focus 03:45 Hyperfocus, presence & stage as meditation for neurodivergent minds 05:10 Growing up "too much" in traditional schools 07:00 OCD spikes, undiagnosed epilepsy & being misunderstood 09:00 RSD (Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria) & emotional ignition moments 11:00 Creative wiring vs academic conformity — leaving college behind 12:30 The one teacher who saw something different — and why it mattered 14:00 Final reflection: “Give it time. It will grow beautifully.” ✨ If this conversation made you feel seen, you’re not alone. Subscribe, share it with another creative brain, and keep being beautifully too-much.
#57
Oct 12, 2025 · 34 min
Journaling for ADHD with Ada Gore: Emotional Regulation, Conflict Resolution, and Manifestation
Journaling can help ADHD brains manage emotions, resolve conflict, and clarify goals. Guided journal creator Ada Gore shares strategies for self-regulation, manifestation, and personal growth. Journaling is more than just writing — for people with ADHD, it can be a lifeline. In this episode, I talk with guided journal creator and manifestation coach Ada Gore about how journaling has helped her manage ADHD, improve emotional regulation, and stay grounded during conflict. Ada shares her journey from conflict mediator to creative journal designer, and how she uses tools like if/then planning, emotional processing, and cyclical wisdom to help people — especially neurodivergent folks — thrive. We cover: ADHD and emotional regulation through journaling Conflict resolution skills for neurodivergent communication Why most guided journals don’t work for ADHD (and what does) The connection between curiosity, grace, and self-discovery How Ada’s “Soft Discipline” journal reframes failure and perfectionism Chapters: 0:00 – Ada’s ADHD Story & Early Diagnosis4:00 – Conflict Management & Emotional Overload7:00 – Journaling as Self-Regulation16:30 – Designing ADHD-Friendly Journals18:00 – Soft Discipline & Graceful Growth 🛒 Find Ada’s journals on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Ada-Gore/author/B0CGRXNYKZ 💬 Share your thoughts with us or leave a review if this resonated — we love hearing from you!
#56
Oct 6, 2025 · 37 min
Hope and Endurance, Living with ADHD with Laurie Singer
Psychotherapist Laurie Singer shares how movement, structure, and executive function tools helped her manage adult ADHD, thrive in endurance sports, and support clients through real-life tools. Laurie Singer—licensed psychotherapist, board-certified behavior analyst, and ultra-endurance athlete—was diagnosed with ADHD in her 50s after years of treating others. In this episode of ADHD Eavesdrop, Laurie shares how she unknowingly managed her symptoms through structured athletic training, daily movement, and sensory breaks long before she had a diagnosis. She talks with Janine about how ADHD showed up in her childhood, why executive functioning tools were key to her success, and how she helps clients implement behavioral systems that stick. Laurie also shares a harrowing near-death experience on the John Muir Trail and how movement continues to ground her as she trains for hiking across Switzerland and biking 100+ miles around Lake Geneva—at age 66. Whether you're newly diagnosed or decades in, Laurie's story offers relatable insight, encouragement, and practical tips to manage ADHD with compassion and creativity. Topics Covered: Adult ADHD diagnosis story How movement improves executive function Using athletics to manage ADHD symptoms Structure, planning, and sensory breaks The link between physical activity and dopamine Coaching vs. therapy in ADHD support Near-death hiking experience and ADHD risk-taking Practical exercise motivation tips for beginners 🔗 Links & Resources 📖 📖 Laurie’s book – You’re Not Crazy: Living with Anxiety, Obsessions and Fetishes– Get it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Youre-Not-Crazy-Obsessions-Fetishes/dp/1735944823📍 Laurie Singer Behavioral Services: www.lauriesingerbehavioral.com 📷 Follow Laurie 🎙️ More episodes: jvansteeadhdlifecoaching.net/ If you enjoyed this episode, follow, rate, and share it with someone navigating life with ADHD. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an unscripted, real-talk episode of ADHD Eavesdrop.

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