Episode 102: Dr. Amanda Mullin

Welcome to episode #102! We’re thrilled to be joined by Dr. Amanda Mullen today.Dr. Amanda Mullen is a clinical psychologist, business owner, and keynote speaker passionate about helping people thrive using neurodivergence-friendly strategies. As the founder of Mindwork Psychology, Mindworks Online, and Think Differently, she has over 20 years of experience supporting individuals with ADHD, anxiety, and burnout. Amanda is the creator of Thrive 2025, a year-long online course designed to embed practical tools into daily life, particularly for neurodivergent minds. She’s also a mom, footballer, and matcha enthusiast who believes in living authentically—rubber duck included.Welcome to the show, Amanda!QuestionsJN: Can you tell us about your experience with neurodiversity?Initially trained in outdated deficit models of ADHD and autismDidn’t realize she had ADHD and autistic traits until laterHigh-functioning masking delayed recognition of her own neurodivergenceJN: What challenges did you face?Struggled with emotional regulation, impulsivity, and school disciplineStrong sense of justice led to conflictsHeavy masking to fit in sociallyJN: What changes have come post diagnosis?Diagnosis helped her understand herself and support clients betterReduced stigma in her personal and professional circlesAble to talk openly on stage and implement practical strategiesJN: What challenges do you still face now?Balancing her neurodivergent needs with leadership in a large psychology practiceNo single playbook for neuroaffirming workplacesNavigating trial-and-error in supporting diverse clients and staffJN: What neuroexceptional strengths are you leaning into now?Hyperfocus and deep curiosity help in content creation and therapyEmbraces rapid learning and solution-focused approachesEnjoys designing neurodivergent-friendly programsJC: What "work" projects are you concentrating on?Leading Mindwork Psychology with 14 staffLaunched Thrive 2025, a year-long course for ADHDersBuilds micro-learning, multimedia online programsJC: How about the rest of the time? What do you enjoy doing in your off time?Passionate about running and footballTook up soccer at 40 to challenge body image stigmaBelieves enjoyment—not performance—is key in sportsJC: Productivity tips – What do you do to optimise productivity during your working hours?Heavy tasks in early morning or late nightUses post-it notes for task clarityAcknowledges task initiation challenges middayJC: What is some unhelpful productivity advice that doesn’t work for you?Over-reliance on novelty-based tools/appsSustainable success comes from routines, not quick fixesAdvocates boring consistency over “productivity hacks”JN: What does your morning routine look like and how has it evolved over time?Biohacking enthusiast (e.g., Oura ring)Starts day with movement, hydration, sunlight, and no caffeineOutdoor yoga or running as grounding ritualsJC: How is your sleep? How do you switch off at night?Sleeps deeply, unlike many ADHDersLimits late-night hyperfocus despite temptationMindful of overworking due to past health scares (cancer survivor)JN: Where can people connect with you or find your work?Mind Psychology: https://www.mindworxpsychology.com.au/portfolio-items/dr-amanda-mullin-director/Think Differently with Dr. Amanda: https://www.think-differently.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.amandamullin/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrAmandaMullin/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-amanda-mullin-2442912/JC: Do you have any final words or asks for our audience?“Get to know yourself.”There is no one-size-fits-all ADHD solution.Let go of labels and cultivate self-awarenessMore from Focus Bear:Website: https://focusbear.ioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/focus-bear/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@focusbearappTwitter: https://twitter.com/focusbear1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focus_bear/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focusbearapp/Podcast: https://podcast.focusbear.ioTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@focusbearConnect with Jeremy:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/nageljeremyEmail: [email protected] with Joey:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeycorea/Newsletter: https://thepluckyjester.com/newsletter/