In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro sits down with ADHD coach, author, and podcast host Brooke Schnittman to discuss why understanding ADHD can be life-changing, no matter when you’re diagnosed.

Brooke shares her own late-diagnosis journey and reflects on years of being treated for anxiety, depression, and learning differences before realizing ADHD was the missing piece. Together, she and Jami explore how ADHD is often hidden behind perfectionism, overachievement, people-pleasing, and coping strategies, especially in women.

They also discuss the impact of hormones, trauma, bullying, and major life transitions, and why awareness is the first step toward creating meaningful change.

What You’ll Learn

• Why many women are diagnosed with anxiety or depression before ADHD
• How perfectionism and overcompensation can mask ADHD
• The impact of hormones and life transitions on ADHD symptoms
• Why understanding ADHD matters at any age
• What neuroplasticity means and why change is always possible
• How trauma and bullying affect people with ADHD
• The connection between ADHD and imposter syndrome
• Why externalizing information is one of the most effective ADHD tools

Why This Matters

Many adults spend decades believing they’re lazy, disorganized, or not trying hard enough.

Understanding ADHD doesn’t change the past, but it can change how you see yourself moving forward. Awareness creates opportunities for self-compassion, better systems, and a deeper understanding of why certain things have always felt harder.

The ADHD Button Question

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

Brooke’s answer is no.

While ADHD has brought challenges, it’s also shaped her strengths, career, and purpose. She sees it as an important part of who she is today.

About the Guest

Brooke Schnittman is an ADHD coach, bestselling author, speaker, and founder of Coaching with Brooke. She is the creator of the 3C Activation Program and host of the Successful with ADHD podcast. She specializes in helping adults with ADHD build confidence, create effective systems, and reach their potential.

About the Host

Jami Shapiro is an ADHD coach, speaker, author, and founder of Silver Linings Transitions. Through Grandma Has ADHD, she helps adults better understand their brains and navigate life with greater clarity and compassion.

Resources

• Activate Your ADHD Potential by Brooke Schnittman
• Successful with ADHD Podcast
• This Explains So Much by Jami Shapiro

Links & Support

• Website: https://www.jamishapiro.me
• Book: This Explains So Much by Jami Shapiro