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 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 Learn

  • Why a late ADHD diagnosis can bring relief instead of regret
  • How to replace years of self-criticism with self-compassion
  • The connection between ADHD and public speaking anxiety
  • Why rejection sensitivity can make criticism feel so overwhelming
  • How structure and routines can create more peace in everyday life
  • The relationship between ADHD and addictive behaviors
  • Simple ways to work with your brain instead of against it
  • Why focusing on one small change at a time leads to lasting progress

Why This Matters

Many 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 Question

Jami 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 Guest

Dr. 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 Host

Jami 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.

Resources

  • Mr. Bear Speaks Without Fear by Dr. Reesa Woolf
  • Public Speaking Austin
  • This Explains So Much by Jami Shapiro

Links & Support

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