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 83 – Overcoming the Guilt and Shame of ADHD

In this episode, Jami Shapiro sits down with ADHD coach and educator Jamie Blume for a deeply honest conversation about guilt, shame, and self-compassion in the ADHD journey.

Jamie shares her personal story of discovering ADHD through her son’s struggles and how that realization reshaped not only her understanding of him, but of herself and her past.

Together, Jami and Jamie explore how guilt shows up in ADHD, why it can feel so heavy, and how shifting from self-blame to self-compassion can open the door to growth, healing, and a more empowered way forward.

What You’ll Learn

  • How ADHD can show up in childhood but go unrecognized
  • Why many adults carry guilt about missed signs or late diagnosis
  • The connection between ADHD, shame, and self-perception
  • How to shift from “should have known” to “what can I do now”
  • The role of self-compassion in moving forward
  • How ADHD affects social dynamics and relationships
  • Why structure and systems matter at every stage of life
  • How menopause and life transitions can intensify ADHD symptoms

Why This Matters

Many adults spend years looking back with regret, wishing they had known sooner.

This episode is a reminder that while those feelings are real, staying there doesn’t move us forward.

Understanding ADHD through a new lens can help replace guilt with clarity, and shame with self-compassion.

The ADHD Button Question

Jami asks every guest: If there were a button that could remove your ADHD forever, would you press it?

Jamie’s answer: No.

She shares that ADHD is deeply connected to who she is, her creativity, empathy, and energy, and that with the right tools and awareness, it becomes something to work with, not against.

About the Guest

Jamie Blume is an ADHD coach, educator, and founder of Along Their Way. After her own ADHD diagnosis, she dedicated her work to helping individuals and families better understand and navigate life with ADHD through both science and lived experience.

About the Host

Jami Shapiro is an ADHD coach, speaker, and founder of Silver Linings Transitions. Through her podcast Grandma Has ADHD, she brings awareness to ADHD in older adults, especially women, helping listeners better understand their brains and navigate life with more clarity and compassion.

Resources

Along Their Way: https://alongtheirway.com
ADHD coaching and support resources
This Explains So Much by Jami Shapiro

Links & Support

Website: https://www.jamishapiro.me

Silver Linings Transitions: Support for downsizing, organizing, and life transitions

Book: This Explains So Much by Jami Shapiro