Episode 96 - ADHD & Autism with Dr. Cheryl Browne

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro sits down with developmental psychologist, ADHD coach, and mindfulness practitioner Dr. Cheryl Browne for a thoughtful conversation about the overlap between ADHD and autism—and why more adults, especially women, are discovering they identify with both later in life.Cheryl shares her own late-diagnosis journey, reflecting on decades of succeeding academically while quietly relying on last-minute deadlines, workarounds, and intense curiosity to navigate life. Together, she and Jami explore the growing conversation around AuDHD, the combination of ADHD and autism, and discuss where these neurotypes overlap, where they differ, and why understanding your unique brain can lead to greater self-compassion.They also talk about mindfulness, aging with ADHD, and why many people find greater confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being later in life.What You'll LearnWhy many women aren't diagnosed with ADHD until adulthoodWhat AuDHD is and why more people are talking about itHow ADHD and autism can overlap while remaining distinctSigns that autism may be part of the pictureThe role of sensory sensitivities and social communication differencesWhy ADHD symptoms often become more noticeable during perimenopauseHow mindfulness can support emotional regulation and self-compassionPractical ADHD strategies for reducing reliance on memoryWhy many adults report greater happiness and resilience as they ageWhy This MattersMany adults discover ADHD later in life only to realize there may be other pieces of their neurodivergent story they haven't yet explored.This episode encourages listeners to approach these discoveries with curiosity rather than labels, reminding us that understanding how our brains work allows us to build lives that work with us, not against us.The ADHD Button QuestionJami asks every guest: If there were a button that could remove your ADHD forever, would you press it?Cheryl's answer is an immediate no.While ADHD has brought challenges, she believes it has also shaped the life she loves today. After years of learning how her brain works, she feels the strengths now outweigh the struggles.About the GuestDr. Cheryl Browne is a developmental psychologist, certified ADHD coach, and mindfulness practitioner. Drawing on her own late ADHD diagnosis and decades of research, she helps adults, particularly those diagnosed later in life, better understand their neurodivergent brains and build lives that align with their strengths. She has degrees from Yale University and The University of Texas at Austin.About the HostJami Shapiro is an ADHD coach, speaker, author, and founder of Silver Linings Transitions. Through Grandma Has ADHD, she helps adults, especially women diagnosed later in life, better understand their brains and navigate life with greater clarity and compassion.ResourcesContact Dr. Cheryl Browne: [email protected] Explains So Much by Jami ShapiroMeditation apps: Headspace, Calm, 10% HappierLinks & SupportWebsite: https://www.jamishapiro.meBook: This Explains So Much by Jami ShapiroThank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life.Follow us:Instagram:@grandma_has_adhd@silverliningstransitionsFacebook:Silver Linings TransitionsGrandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group)Youtube:Grandma Has ADHD