Episode 66: From Rock Bottom to Records with Jack Thompson

ADHD, Addiction, and Turning Pain Into Purpose — with Jack Thompson In this episode, Sharon sits down with ultra-endurance cyclist Jack Thompson, who shares his powerful story of ADHD, addiction, recovery, and purpose. Jack’s journey offers a raw look at what happens when ADHD goes misunderstood — and how deep self-understanding and compassion can rebuild a life. Together, they unpack Jack's story and uncover Jack's parent's important actions that we all need to know about when things get rocky. 👉 Subscribe to the ADHD Families Podcast for real stories, practical strategies, and support that actually makes life easier. 🧩 In This Episode Jack’s story of ADHD, addiction, and finding purpose through cycling The link between stimulation-seeking and addiction cycles How sport, movement, and structure can support mental wellbeing How Jack's parents navigated his addiction and recovery and what we need to learn from this Sharon’s grounded advice for parents supporting ADHD children ⏱️ Episode Flow 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 03:20 – Jack’s early life and undiagnosed ADHD 07:45 – The path to addiction and what he was really seeking 14:10 – Finding clarity and healing through cycling 21:30 – The ADHD diagnosis that reframed everything 29:00 – How structure became Jack’s self-regulation tool 36:00 – Sharon’s insight: parenting from understanding, not control 44:15 – Reframing success for ADHD kids 51:00 – Final reflections: hope, humility, and healing 🧠 Key Takeaways ADHD isn’t a deficit — it’s a brain difference that requires the right supports Dysregulation is contagious Real change happens when we stop fixing and start understanding Connection always precedes correction Routine, interest, and safety are the foundation of growth 🔗 Connect with Jack 🌍  jackultracyclist.com  📸 Instagram: @jackultracyclist  🎥 YouTube: Jack Ultra Cyclist  💼 Work With Sharon Sharon Collon is a credentialed ADHD Coach & Parenting Consultant, founder of The Functional Family, and mum to three boys with ADHD. She’s helped over 40,000 families move from chaos to calm through her signature programs, coaching, and community. 📚 Learn more at thefunctionalfamily.com  📧 [email protected]  📸 Instagram: @thefunctionalfamily  🗞️ Join the ADHD Family Community Join our free support group HERE. Subscribe to The ADHD Family Newsletter for grounded guidance, parenting strategies, and stories that remind you — you’re not alone, and it can get easier.