The Podcast

We don’t outgrow ADHD, we simply change with it. Join hosts Jami and Justin as we explore the intersection of ADHD and seniors.

Episode 57 – Gen Z and ADHD

What happens when ADHD runs in the family—but each generation experiences it completely differently?

In this candid and often hilarious episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro sits down with her 17-year-old daughter, Adyson, for an honest conversation about growing up with ADHD, understanding it across generations, and learning to embrace their brains—laundry piles and all.

From Jami’s early suspicions of Adyson’s ADHD in grade school to her eventual diagnosis in high school, the two share stories that many families will recognize: messy rooms, forgotten chores, and the constant “I’ll do it later.” But beneath the humor lies a deeper look at how ADHD shows up differently in every person, how Gen Z views mental health compared to previous generations, and why understanding neurodiversity is helping bridge family conversations with more compassion (and fewer arguments about laundry).

Together, Jami and Adyson explore self-acceptance, school struggles, and how ADHD can be both a daily challenge and a creative superpower. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or teen figuring it out, this episode reminds us that ADHD isn’t a flaw—it’s a different kind of brilliance.

ADHD and Gen Z: A Mother–Daughter Conversation

Growing Up Neurodivergent with Jami and Adyson Shapiro

What happens when ADHD runs in the family—but each generation experiences it differently?


In this honest and entertaining episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro sits down with her 17-year-old daughter, Adyson, to talk about life with ADHD from two perspectives—one from the Gen Z teen figuring it out and one from the mom who’s been there.

Together, they share stories about messy rooms, motivation struggles, and how understanding ADHD can transform frustration into compassion. Jami reflects on recognizing ADHD in her daughter years before her diagnosis, and Adyson opens up about what it’s really like to live with ADHD in today’s fast-paced, digital world.

Understanding ADHD Across Generations

Jami and Adyson explore how ADHD shows up differently at every age—and how social media, school pressures, and mental health awareness shape Gen Z’s experience. From laundry chaos to late-night hyperfocus, this episode is full of relatable moments for parents, grandparents, and teens alike.

They also discuss:

  • How ADHD can hide in plain sight, especially for girls
  • The emotional cycle of clutter, motivation, and overwhelm
  • Why Gen Z is more open about mental health than any generation before
  • The grief and relief of finally getting an ADHD diagnosis
  • What it means to accept your brain without wishing it away

The “Press the Button” Question

When asked if she’d press a button to remove her ADHD forever, Adyson gives a refreshingly honest answer—reminding listeners that living with ADHD can be challenging, especially in structured environments like school. But Jami helps her see the hidden strengths: creativity, empathy, problem-solving, and curiosity.

Their back-and-forth is funny, heartfelt, and deeply real—showing that understanding your brain (and your child’s) might be the key to more connection, less shame, and a little more grace.

No More Hiding: Embracing Your Brain at Any Age

This episode celebrates what makes ADHD brains unique—whether you’re 17 or 55. Through humor and vulnerability, Jami and Adyson remind us that ADHD isn’t a flaw—it’s a different way of seeing and experiencing the world.

If you’ve ever struggled to get started, stay focused, or explain how your brain works, this conversation will make you feel understood, accepted, and maybe even proud of your beautiful, “squirrel-brained” self.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

Episode 57 Podcast Guest, Adyson Shapiro - Student | Musician | Gen Z with ADHD | Daughter of podcast host Jami Shapiro

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