What if your biggest struggle wasn’t a lack of effort… but a brain wired differently?In this powerful conversation, psychologist, researcher, and ADHD advocate Shannon Fernandes ‪@dionysy joins host Ann Thomas to unpack the lived reality of ADHD — beyond the stereotypes, beyond the checklists.We talk about:Masking and missing signs — even as a psychology studentRejection sensitivity and how it sabotages relationshipsADHD and high intelligence: the underdiagnosed “smart kids”Emotional dysregulation, school struggles, and adult burnoutThe truth about meds, motivation, and managing stigma in IndiaWhy our education system is failing neurodivergent mindsHow can we rethink parenting, diagnosis, and self-worth📍 This isn’t just a podcast. It’s a space to feel seen.🎧 Full episode available soon on Spotify, Amazon Music & Apple Podcasts.👇 Drop a 🥄 in the comments if you’ve ever run out of energy and didn’t know why.🔔 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to support Just Your Normal Missfit.📌 Connect with us:🎙️ Podcast Page: / justyournormalmissfit 🌐 More on JYNM & Ann Thomas: https://mommysuitup.org00:00 Introduction to the Conversation01:24 Shannon's Journey into Psychology03:23 Challenges of ADHD in Education04:37 Impact of ADHD on Relationships10:08 Founding CogVerge12:31 Critique of the Education System15:24 The Importance of ADHD Diagnosis19:37 Navigating ADHD Medication31:03 ADHD Awareness on Instagram35:09 The Importance of Professional Monitoring in Psychiatric Medication36:04 Creating an ADHD Community: Challenges and Feedback37:14 Common Misconceptions About ADHD38:45 The Role of Professionals in ADHD Diagnosis42:01 Challenges in Diagnosing ADHD with Comorbidities45:26 Parenting Tips for Children with ADHD46:14 The Importance of Sampling Period for ADHD Children01:05:05 Understanding Rejection Sensitivity in ADHD01:11:09 Advocating for ADHD: Personal and Professional Insights01:12:17 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

This episode is a quiet, honest reflection on what it means to not fit in—especially when you or your child navigates the world with learning differences like ADHD, dyslexia, or dysgraphia.

I speak about the invisible weight we carry, the expectations that feel impossible, and the longing for a space that simply gets it. This isn't about fixing. It's about seeing, understanding, and holding space—for our children and ourselves.

If you’ve ever whispered, “Maybe it’s not me, maybe it’s the system,” this one's for you.

About the Guest: Sonal Singh Certified ADHD Coach

Sonal Singh is an internationally recognized, ICF-certified ADHD and Family Coach—widely regarded as India’s first trained and certified ADHD Coach. With over 25 years of diverse experience, including roles at Dow Jones Newswires, Aon Hewitt, and McKinsey Knowledge Center, she combines evidence-based strategies with her lived AuADHD perspective. Sonal specialises in coaching adults, parents, and groups, as well as guiding organisations to build neurodivergent-friendly workplaces. Beyond her coaching endeavours, she serves as CEO of a nonprofit empowering vulnerable communities. Her multidimensional expertise and compassionate approach help individuals unlock their full potential, fostering personal growth, resilience, and lasting transformation.

Sonal's journey began when a close family member was diagnosed with ADHD, which propelled her to explore child and adolescent mental health and family therapy. This personal encounter led her to formal training as an ADHD coach, and she now brings her lived experience and expertise to help others harness their strengths and navigate the challenges of ADHD.

You can learn more about her approach and offerings on her website, sonalsinghcoaching.com and reach her at:

Email: info@sonalsinghcoaching.com
Mobile: +91-98102-33494
Instagram: @adhdcoachsonalsingh

In This Episode:

In this episode, we'll dive deep into:

• The emotional journey of receiving an ADHD diagnosis
• The power of validation and the impact of timely intervention
• Strategies for managing ADHD, from building executive functioning skills to embracing alternative approaches
• How to leverage intrinsic motivation and create structured yet flexible support systems for lasting change

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