• S5 EP10: ADHD Late to the Party with Neena Perez
    2025/04/01

    Welcome to ADHD Late to the Party with Neena Perez, a podcast that delves into the often-untold stories of individuals who received their ADHD diagnoses later in life. Join your host, Neena Perez, as she navigates the complexities of this newfound understanding, drawing from her own personal journey and the insightful conversations she shares.

    Have you ever felt like you were living life on a different wavelength? Perhaps things that seemed easy for others felt like monumental challenges, or maybe your mind raced with a million thoughts, making focus an elusive dream.

    For many, these experiences remain a mystery until a later-in-life ADHD diagnosis sheds light on a lifetime of seemingly unrelated struggles.

    In this podcast, we pull back the curtain on what it means to receive an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. We examine the contrasting experiences, much like the open and honest discussion between Neena and Eli Dervonté on the "Diary of a ADHD Strategist PODCAST".

    Their conversation highlighted the moment of realisation, the sense of things finally making sense, and the subsequent journey towards self-acceptance.

    Each episode explores a central question: does this newfound understanding empower self-acceptance or inadvertently impose limiting self-perceptions? We delve into the stories of guests who, like Neena and Eli, navigated years of life without this crucial piece of the puzzle.

    They share how their late diagnosis has impacted their understanding of past experiences, their relationships, their careers, and, most importantly, themselves.

    We explore themes of not being 'broken' but 'different' , echoing Eli's powerful statement. We discuss how individuals learn to manage their neurodivergent traits, the masking strategies they employed unknowingly for years, and the liberation that can come with finally understanding why their brains work the way they do.

    Through candid conversations and relatable anecdotes, ADHD Late to the Party with Neena Perez aims to foster a sense of community, offer validation, and empower listeners to embrace their neurodiversity.

    Whether you suspect you might have ADHD, have recently been diagnosed, or simply want to understand the diverse ways our minds can function, this podcast offers a down-to-earth and professional exploration of a significant and often overlooked aspect of neurodiversity.

    Join us as we unpack the late arrival to the ADHD party and discover the profound impact it can have on how we see ourselves and the world around us.

    Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    Get full access to Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 at elidervonte.substack.com/subscribe
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    52 分
  • S5 EP8: The Consistency Myth: How ADHD Minds Achieve More by Breaking All the Rules WITH Sarah Ennor
    2025/03/27

    Welcome to "Diary of a ADHD Strategist," the podcast that dares to question everything you thought you knew about getting things done, especially if your brain works a little differently.

    This isn't your typical podcast.

    Forget the rigid schedules and the endless to-do lists that leave you feeling more overwhelmed than accomplished.

    Here, we're diving deep into the world of ADHD and exploring a radical idea: perhaps achieving more means breaking all the traditional rules.

    Inspired by conversations with individuals like Sarah Ennor, the ADHD strategist featured on the "Diary of a ADHD Strategist" podcast, we uncover the reality that neurotypical standards of consistency simply don't align with how many brilliant minds operate.

    Sarah's own late diagnosis in 2023 illuminated a lifetime of experiences, revealing that her unique way of thinking and working – often marked by last-minute bursts of productivity and an "interest-based nervous system" – wasn't a deficit, but a different wiring.

    Each episode of "The Consistency Myth" will take you on a journey, sharing stories and insights from individuals who've learned to redefine success on their own terms.

    We'll explore how the power of urgency can be a potent motivator, why traditional planning sometimes falls flat, and how self-acceptance is the crucial first step towards unlocking your full potential.

    Drawing directly from candid discussions like the one with Sarah, we'll challenge the notion that consistent has to mean "every day at the same time".

    Instead, we'll explore the idea that progress can look like waves crashing against a rock, uneven but ultimately transformative.

    If you've ever felt like you're constantly fighting against the clock, struggling to maintain a consistent routine, or being judged by neurotypical standards of productivity, then "The Consistency Myth" is for you.

    Join us as we dismantle the myth of one-size-fits-all productivity and celebrate the diverse and powerful ways that ADHD minds truly thrive.

    We'll learn that you're not broken, but simply wired differently, and that your unique approach might just be your greatest strength.

    Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    Get full access to Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 at elidervonte.substack.com/subscribe
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    1 時間 15 分
  • S5 EP8: ADHD A Family's Journey Through Diagnosis and Discovery with Aquila Mendez-Valdez
    2025/03/25
    Welcome to "ADHD: A Family's Journey Through Diagnosis and Discovery with Aquila Mendez-Valdez," a podcast episode that pulls back the curtain on the realities of neurodiversity within a family and how it intertwines with the world of entrepreneurship.Ever wondered how a busy PR strategist navigates the demands of running her own agency while raising a neurodivergent child and supporting a partner who also likely experiences ADHD? Join us as we sit down with Aquila Mendez-Valdez, the founder of a thriving PR and marketing agency that empowers female founders to share their stories with the world.This isn't just a tale of business success; it's a deeply personal narrative that begins with the transformational experience of her youngest daughter's ADHD diagnosis about a year ago. Aquila candidly shares how this revelation has changed the way her entire family interacts with the world and has even influenced her approach to building processes within her business.Hear about the hindsight moments, the recognition of earlier challenges, and the journey of understanding her daughter's experiences in the classroom, where masking her struggles led to anxiety despite her bright and engaged appearance. Aquila offers an honest account of navigating communication, advocating for her daughter's needs with teachers, and the ongoing process of empowering her daughter to understand and articulate her own needs regarding medication.But the story doesn't end there. Aquila also sheds light on the unique dynamic within her marriage, where her husband, a successful former professional athlete, likely has undiagnosed ADHD. She explores how his experiences have differed due to growing up in a generation where it wasn't recognised, and how they now work together to balance their different approaches and celebrate his entrepreneurial spirit.Through Aquila's down-to-earth storytelling, you'll discover how embracing neurodiversity has fostered greater empathy and open communication within her family. This episode highlights that an ADHD diagnosis isn't an endpoint but rather a new beginning, offering a different lens through which to understand and support loved ones.Ultimately, this conversation reveals how Aquila balances the demands of her professional life – helping others craft their narratives – with the deeply personal story unfolding within her own family. It's a testament to the unexpected strengths that can emerge from navigating neurodiversity, proving that different isn't deficient, and highlighting the power of understanding and connection in both business and family. Join us for an insightful and relatable journey that goes beyond the surface of ADHD and celebrates the unique strengths found along the way.The Journey of Diagnosis:* The episode begins by exploring the transformational experience of Aquila's youngest daughter's ADHD diagnosis about a year ago.* Aquila shares how this diagnosis has significantly changed her family's interactions and even influenced her business approach.* She reflects on hindsight moments, recognising earlier challenges in getting her daughter to school and the various strategies they tried before understanding the underlying cause.* The conversation highlights the experience of "quiet" ADHD in girls, where her daughter masked her struggles in the classroom, leading to anxiety despite appearing engaged.* Aquila candidly discusses the process of communicating with her daughter, advocating for her needs with teachers, and navigating the complexities of medication.Family Dynamics and Neurodiversity:* The episode also examines the unique dynamic with Aquila's husband, a successful former professional athlete who likely has undiagnosed ADHD.* It explores how his experiences differed due to the lack of recognition in his generation and how they now work together, balancing their different approaches and celebrating his entrepreneurial spirit.* Aquila emphasises how embracing neurodiversity has fostered greater empathy and open communication within her family.The Intertwining of Personal and Professional Life:* This conversation reveals how Aquila, as a PR strategist who helps others craft their narratives, is navigating a deeply personal story within her own family.* It highlights that an ADHD diagnosis is not an endpoint but a new understanding that offers a different perspective on supporting loved ones.* Ultimately, the episode demonstrates how navigating neurodiversity can lead to unexpected strengths, proving that different isn't deficient.Join us for a relatable and insightful journey that goes beyond the surface of ADHD, celebrating the unique strengths and fostering greater understanding within families and beyond.Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 at elidervonte.substack.com/...
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    51 分
  • S5 EP7: ADHD at 55 a Physician's Unexpected Diagnosis and Transformation
    2025/03/21

    Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Cindy Starke, an internal medicine physician whose life took an unexpected turn when she received an ADHD diagnosis at age 55.

    In this eye-opening episode, Cindy shares how this late-in-life revelation helped her make sense of lifelong patterns and shaped her unique approach to health and wellness.

    From her early career in traditional medicine where she questioned the "one disease, one pill" approach, to her transformative journey as an Ironman triathlete, Cindy reveals how she unconsciously developed coping strategies long before understanding the neurological wiring behind her behaviors.

    Listeners will discover how Cindy's medical background, combined with her personal experiences, led her to develop a holistic understanding of health that encompasses mind, body, and lifestyle.

    She candidly discusses how her daughter's ADHD diagnosis opened her eyes to her own traits—from impulsivity and interrupting conversations to the hyperfocus that helped her push through a 17-hour endurance event.

    Whether you're navigating your own neurodivergence, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in a more comprehensive approach to wellness, Cindy's story offers valuable insights on how understanding your unique brain can transform challenges into strengths.

    This episode explores:

    * The surprising benefits of a mid-life ADHD diagnosis

    * How athletic training revealed nutritional insights her medical education missed

    * Practical strategies for breaking overwhelming goals into manageable steps

    * The connection between physical wellness and cognitive function

    * Finding strength in family resilience and generational tenacity

    "Sometimes our greatest challenges reveal our most powerful gifts—it's all in how we learn to channel our unique energy."Dr. Cindy Starke

    Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    Get full access to Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 at elidervonte.substack.com/subscribe
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    47 分
  • S5 EP6: ADHD Speaking Success into Existence with Mujesira Dudic
    2025/03/18

    Ever wondered how some people seem to map out their success and then walk right into it?

    Join us in "Diary of an ADHD Strategist" as we delve into the world of Mujesira Dudic, a Director of Digital Strategy at Capgemini who also navigates life with ADHD.

    Mujesira shares her down-to-earth story, taking us from her early school days in Bosnia, where her quick learning was uniquely handled, to her experiences in America where fitting in felt like a constant hurdle.

    some people seem to map out their success

    It wasn't until later in life, prompted by a personal trauma, that she fully recognised her ADHD, though in many ways, the pieces had always been there.

    One fascinating thread in Mujesira's narrative is her apparent ability to envision her goals and then see them materialise.

    From dreaming of studying at NYU to her current role in marketing strategy for major financial institutions, she describes a pattern of "making a story in my head and then acting it out in real life".

    She explains how speaking her aspirations aloud creates a feedback loop and a sense of accountability that helps her focus and achieve what she sets out to do.

    in my head and then acting it out in real life.

    However, this isn't a tale of pure manifestation. Mujesira offers a balanced perspective, acknowledging that while she thrives on flexibility and the ability to see the big picture, she also recognises her need for external structure, deadlines, and even a degree of micromanagement to stay productive.

    This need for guardrails highlights that success, for her, is a blend of vision and practical self-management.

    Through Mujesira's insights, we explore how her neurodivergent mind, with its ability to spot patterns and connect dots, has become a superpower in her strategic work, helping the world's largest financial institutions navigate complex challenges.

    She emphasises a unique problem-solving approach, reverse-engineering solutions by starting with the client's desired outcome.

    Became a superpower in her strategic work

    "ADHD: Speaking Success into Existence" offers a glimpse into a compelling journey, where personal experiences and neurodiversity intertwine with professional achievements.

    It's a story that encourages us to consider the power of articulating our goals while staying grounded in the practicalities of bringing them to life.

    Join us to hear Mujesira's story and gain valuable insights into digital strategy, neurodiversity, and the journey of self-awareness.

    Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    Get full access to Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 at elidervonte.substack.com/subscribe
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    55 分
  • S5 EP5: ADHD and Narcissistic Emotional Rollercoaster with Marie Birtel
    2025/03/13

    Welcome to ADHD and Narcissistic Emotional Rollercoaster with Marie Birtel, a podcast dedicated to unravelling the intricate connection between ADHD and the profound emotional impact of narcissistic abuse.

    Join Marie Birtel, a psychological advisor specialising in narcissistic abuse trauma and ADHD, as she shares her down-to-earth yet professional insights into this complex landscape.

    Marie’s journey into this field is deeply personal. Growing up in a family with undiagnosed narcissistic traits, she experienced firsthand the emotional neglect and difficulties in focusing that often accompany such environments.

    Though not diagnosed with ADHD herself, she recognised similar challenges in her own struggles with emotional regulation and concentration, particularly in the aftermath of trauma. This lived experience, coupled with five years as a psychological advisor, gives Marie a unique and empathetic perspective on the emotional rollercoaster many face.

    Have you ever felt like your ADHD amplifies the pain of narcissistic interactions? Or questioned whether your emotional responses are rooted in your neurodivergence or the scars of abuse? This podcast delves into these crucial questions.

    Marie brings her expertise to help you understand the often-problematic dissociation between cognition and emotions that can be exacerbated by narcissistic abuse, particularly for those with ADHD.

    Through a story-driven approach, Marie unpacks the subtle and overt ways narcissistic behaviours can impact the emotional well-being of individuals with ADHD, from the challenges of gaslighting to the difficulties in forming healthy relationships.

    You'll gain insights into coping mechanisms developed in response to both ADHD and narcissistic dynamics, and begin to understand how to navigate the unique emotional landscape created by this intersection.

    If you're seeking a relatable and professional voice to guide you through the emotional complexities of living with ADHD and healing from narcissistic abuse, then join Marie Birtel on this insightful journey.

    Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    Get full access to Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 at elidervonte.substack.com/subscribe
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    1 時間 20 分
  • S5 EP4: ADHD Inner Voices : Mind Over Chatter with Stephanie Aycock
    2025/03/11

    Welcome to ADHD Inner Voices: Mind Over Chatter, a podcast that delves into the often-tumultuous landscape of our internal dialogue, particularly through the lens of ADHD.

    Ever felt like there's a relentless critic living rent-free in your head? Our host, Stephanie Aycock, knows this feeling intimately. Diagnosed with ADHD and having navigated periods of intense highs and lows from a young age, Stephanie's journey is one of profound self-discovery.

    She's an artist, entrepreneur, speaker, screenwriter, producer, and actress, who has uniquely blended her experiences in the performing arts with personal development to understand the power – and the hindrance – of our inner voices.

    Stephanie shares how, for many, including those with ADHD, a constant stream of negative self-talk can feel like an intrinsic part of who they are.

    From feeling fundamentally "not right" to the overwhelming self-doubt that can hold artists and performers back from their full potential, this internal "devilish function" can be a significant barrier to living authentically.

    Drawing on her background in acting, where she learned to dissect a character's thoughts and motivations, Stephanie realised that the same principles could be applied to understanding her own mind.

    This led to a pivotal moment where she was able to see her negative thoughts as separate from her true self.

    This powerful shift forms the foundation of her work, helping clients access and see that negative voice inside their head as "not them".

    In ADHD Inner Voices: Mind Over Chatter, Stephanie shares her insights and practical techniques to help you do the same.

    You'll learn how to identify the origins of your negative self-talk, step out of your head and into your body, and ultimately, make different choices by witnessing your mind.

    Stephanie's down-to-earth approach, rooted in her lived experience and intuitive understanding, offers a refreshing perspective on taking control of your inner narrative and moving towards a more authentic and empowered life.

    Join us to begin your journey towards quieting the chatter and discovering your truest voice.

    Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    Get full access to Diary of a ADHD Strategist | ♉ +📣 =👂🏽 at elidervonte.substack.com/subscribe
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    52 分
  • Reflections of an ADHD Strategist: My Journey Hosting the Podcast
    2025/03/10
    When I started the "Diary of an ADHD Strategist PODCAST," I never anticipated the remarkable community that would form around it. Sitting in my recording space, surrounded by equipment that took me months to figure out (classic ADHD rabbit hole research), I find myself reflecting on the connections, conversations, and patterns that have emerged over countless episodes.I find myself reflecting on the connectionsThe Alternative Career ClubI've lost count of how many times I've heard a guest say something along the lines of, "I just couldn't make the traditional work environment work for me." It's become clear that my virtual sofa has become a meeting point for what I affectionately call the "Alternative Career Club" – professionals who discovered the standard nine-to-five was about as comfortable as wearing shoes on the wrong feet."I kept hitting the same wall," one of my favorite guests, a former corporate employee turned ADHD coach, told me. "Eventually I realized the wall wasn't going anywhere, but I could." That sentiment has echoed through so many conversations that it might as well be our unofficial motto.What fascinates me most about the coaches and consultants who join me isn't just that they offer advice – we all know the internet isn't exactly experiencing a shortage in that department – but how they've repositioned neurodiversity as an advantage rather than an obstacle. They're not just working around ADHD; they're leveraging it, using their unique perspectives to support others traveling similar paths.I remember nodding vigorously when a business consultant told me during her episode: "I don't succeed despite my ADHD. On my best days, I succeed because of it. I see connections others miss." It was one of those moments where I wanted to reach through my microphone and high-five her.they've repositioned neurodiversity as an advantageEntrepreneurship: Our Natural HabitatIf there's one thing I've noticed about my guests, it's that you can't swing a virtual cat without hitting an entrepreneur. This prevalence initially surprised me, but the more conversations I have, the more the connection between ADHD and entrepreneurship makes perfect sense.For most of us with ADHD, entrepreneurship offers something precious: freedom to design workflows around our natural rhythms rather than forcing ourselves to adapt to rigid external structures. I've smiled knowingly as guests describe building businesses that accommodate their neurodivergent needs – from PR specialists helping "oddball" entrepreneurs find their voice to software developers creating tools specifically for brains like ours.I'll never forget when one guest described the traditional career ladder as "a game of Snakes and Ladders where someone kept adding extra snakes when I wasn't looking." I laughed so hard I nearly knocked over my microphone stand.What I value most in these conversations is the honesty. None of my guests pretend entrepreneurship is some magical solution that makes all ADHD challenges disappear. We discuss the administrative tasks that pile up during creative hyperfocus, the feast-or-famine cycles of productivity, the sometimes overwhelming responsibility of being your own boss. But underneath these candid accounts, there's an unmistakable sense of liberation.As one social media strategist put it – and I quote this often – "I'd rather deal with the chaos I create than the chaos created by a system that wasn't built for brains like mine."all ADHD challenges disappearThe Power of Personal StoriesThe most meaningful aspect of hosting this podcast has been creating a space where people feel safe enough to share not just their professional achievements but their personal journeys. I've worked hard to foster an environment where guests can venture beyond rehearsed narratives into the messy, complicated reality of navigating professional landscapes with neurodivergent minds.I've had the privilege of witnessing deeply moving moments.A successful business owner describing the exact moment they realized they weren't "broken," just different.A productivity coach revealing strategies developed through years of painful trial and error.Entrepreneurs recounting turning points that transformed their perceived weaknesses into recognized strengths.These aren't the sanitized success stories we're used to hearing. They're raw, complicated, and refreshingly authentic accounts that often leave me emotional behind my microphone. The vulnerability my guests display creates connections not just with me but with listeners who tell me they finally feel understood and less alone.They're raw, complicated, and refreshingly authenticThe Art of Natural ConversationPeople often ask about my interviewing "technique," but the truth is, I don't really have one. What I do have is genuine curiosity and a preference for organic discussions over structured questions. I call them "natural conversations" because that's exactly what they are – the kind of ...
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    1 分