Episode 97 - Finding Peace After a Late ADHD Diagnosis

Jami Shapiro sits down with executive communication coach and public speaking expert Dr. Reesa Woolf for a conversation that goes far beyond speaking in front of a crowd.After decades of believing she simply wasn't good at certain things, Reesa shares how discovering she had ADHD later in life brought an overwhelming sense of relief and self-compassion. Instead of seeing herself as "bad at life," she finally understood that her brain simply worked differently.Together, Jami and Reesa explore the emotional impact of a late ADHD diagnosis, the freedom that comes from letting go of self-criticism, and why understanding your brain can help you make peace with your past while creating a better future. They also discuss rejection sensitivity, public speaking anxiety, addiction, and the importance of building systems that support the way your brain naturally works.What You'll LearnWhy a late ADHD diagnosis can bring relief instead of regretHow to replace years of self-criticism with self-compassionThe connection between ADHD and public speaking anxietyWhy rejection sensitivity can make criticism feel so overwhelmingHow structure and routines can create more peace in everyday lifeThe relationship between ADHD and addictive behaviorsSimple ways to work with your brain instead of against itWhy focusing on one small change at a time leads to lasting progressWhy This MattersMany adults spend years believing they're lazy, disorganized, or simply "not good enough."A late ADHD diagnosis doesn't change the past, but it can completely change the way you understand yourself. This conversation is a reminder that it's never too late to replace shame with understanding and begin building a life that works for your brain.The ADHD Button QuestionJami asks every guest: If there were a button that could remove your ADHD forever, would you press it?Reesa says she wouldn't. While ADHD has certainly brought challenges, she believes it's also shaped her creativity, compassion, curiosity, and the adventurous life she's built. For her, understanding her ADHD brought peace—not a desire to erase it.About the GuestDr. Reesa Woolf is an executive communication coach, TED Talk trainer, and public speaking expert with more than 30 years of experience helping executives, business owners, and professionals become confident, authentic communicators. She is the author of Mr. Bear Speaks Without Fear and specializes in helping people overcome public speaking anxiety through practical, lasting strategies.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.ResourcesMr. Bear Speaks Without Fear by Dr. Reesa WoolfPublic Speaking AustinThis Explains So Much by Jami ShapiroLinks & 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