WTF is AuDHD?

Trigger warning: this episode contains light conversations surrounding eating and disordered eating. In this episode, we’re joined by Erin - an ADHDer and dietician (Balance and Bite) - to unpack what neuroaffirming nutrition actually looks like and why traditional advice around food so often doesn’t work for neurodivergent people.Erin talks to us about the real reasons the neurodivergent population struggle with food - from executive dysfunction and dopamine-seeking, to sensory needs, decision fatigue, and burnout. We explore why advice like “just eat when you’re hungry” or “just use willpower” can fall apart, and how these challenges are often misunderstood as personal failure rather than differences in how our brains work.We also dive into binge eating, emotional eating, and the role food can play in regulation - reframing these behaviours with compassion instead of shame. Erin shares practical, ADHD-friendly strategies to make eating feel easier, support energy and focus, and reduce overwhelm without aiming for perfection. We hope you walk away from this episode feeling validated and carrying less shame around food. Book a mentoring session with Ellie www.ellieonthetelly.comSign up for early access to our journals www.wtfjournals.com/signup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join the waitlist for our journals! https://wtfjournals.com/signup In this episode, we share our personal journeys of improving our gut health - and why it’s become something we’re paying a lot more attention to.This isn’t a dieting episode, we just feel passionate about sharing our personal experiences when it comes to gut health. We explore the gut-brain connection, why gut health plays such a big role in mood, energy, and regulation, and why it can be especially important for AuDHD brains.We talk about the small, realistic changes we’ve made, how adding (not restricting) foods has shifted our mindset, and why we started thinking about our microbiome in a completely different way - even personifying it to help us take better care of it.If you’ve ever struggled with consistency, motivation, or knowing where to start when it comes to looking after your body, you're not alone and we hope this episode will be a gentle, non-judgemental place to begin.Next week, we’re joined by a neurodivergent dietician to dive even deeper into nutrition for neurodivergent people, and why traditional approaches don't work for us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Connection and loneliness are two of the most common experiences in the neurodivergent community. So in this episode, we chat to 27-year-old Holly Fowler - founder and CEO of Wable, an app designed to help neurodivergent people connect through friendship, dating, and work. This is not sponsored, it's just a genuine chat between three neurodivergent who want the world to be a better place for everyone.Holly shares how a spontaneous DM to Michael Theo after watching Love on the Spectrum led to a four-year journey of building Wable from the ground up - despite having no prior startup experience, navigating ADHD and OCD, and facing intense stress along the way.We talk about how her neurodivergence shows up in both challenging and powerful ways - from paralysing OCD rituals to the hyperfocus and determination that helped bring Wable to life. Holly opens up about her experiences with ADHD and OCD, burnout, hospitalisations, and the reality of building something meaningful while managing her mental health.We also dive into how Wable works, how she's made it inclusive and accessible, and why neurodivergent people often struggle to find connection in traditional spaces.Paige also introduces the project she's been working on for YEARS - and we need your help with it! Follow @wtf.journals on Instagram for more info.Search 'Wable' on the App Store or Google Play. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we unpack the concept of internalised ableism - and how it can shape the way neurodivergent people see themselves.Growing up in a world designed for neurotypical brains often means receiving constant messages that we’re lazy, disorganised, too sensitive, or not trying hard enough. Over time, those messages can become internalised, turning into our own inner voice.We talk about what ableism actually is, why AuDHD people are vulnerable to internalising it, and the ways it has shown up in our own lives - from pushing through burnout to holding ourselves to impossible standards.This episode explores the shame many neurodivergent people carry, and how recognising internalised ableism can be the first step toward self-compassion and understanding.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Watch us on YouTube! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Content warning: this episode touches on assault, trauma and manipulation. Listen with care.Disclaimer: this was recorded before Britney Spears' arrest on March 5th.In this episode of WTF is AuDHD?, Ellie and Paige dive into a candid conversation about how the world - and the systems around us - often fail neurodivergent people.Observing the experiences of celebrities like Britney Spears, Billie Eilish, Lewis Capaldi, and Demi Lovato, we lightly explore how fame can amplify the challenges of living with ADHD, autism, or AuDHD - especially when diagnosis comes late or is misunderstood.From public “meltdowns” to media scrutiny, the conversation looks at what might actually be happening beneath the surface: rejection sensitivity, burnout, trauma, and the pressure of living in a world not built for neurodivergent brains. And how the systems fail us entirely, leading to isolation and reckless behaviour.Ellie shares her long‑standing fascination with famous child stars and why so many of them seem to struggle, plus she shares her own experiences of being in the spotlight as an undiagnosed AuDHDer. Paige shares her experiences of feeling used, abused and discarded once she expressed what she needed - and the ongoing trauma that comes with that.This episode explores:Why so many famous people appear to be neurodivergentThe link between creativity, success, and ADHD/autismHow fame can intensify rejection sensitivity and burnoutWhy women are so often misdiagnosedAnd why empathy matters when we see someone struggling in the public eyeAs always, this conversation is honest, curious, and unfiltered - and based on our personal opinions and analysis. LinktreeSOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastBook a session with Ellie ellieonthetelly.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s episode is a raw, unfiltered check-in where Ellie and Paige sit down (slightly lower in energy than usual), to talk honestly about how they're feeling - burnout, survival mode, and what can happen when your nervous system has been holding it together for too long. We talk financial stress under capitalism, sensory overload, relief instead of achievement and why the world feels especially heavy right now for neurodivergent people.We also discuss a listener post from our Reddit (and no, the Reddit isn't fixed sorry), about whether AuDHD is a good name for the neurotype of meeting criteria for both autism and ADHD.Note: Ellie's audio goes funny around 27 mins due to an accidental mute... woops! We have cut a segment out regarding medication that we will re-record for a future episode.Book a chat with Ellie ellieonthetelly.comSOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLinktree Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we kick things off with a real-life catch-up - burnout, taking back your power, and why stories like figure skater Alysa Liu (Olympic Gold Medalist) matter so much when it comes to ADHD and redefining success. We also get into another cracking poll about how you eat your meals - riveting content, we know! Plus Ellie shares something she’s been grappling with this week and what she wishes she’d known earlier.In the second half, we’re joined by ADHD coach Marium to unpack what ADHD coaching actually looks like in practice. We talk about common goals ADHDers bring to coaching, why execution is often harder than knowing what to do, and how mindset and systems work together. Marium shares powerful strategies for task initiation, increasing interest levels, and getting unstuck without shame.We also cover what to look for in a qualified ADHD coach, how often coaching is most effective, and why you don’t have to do this alone.Contact Marium adhd-empowered.com Book a session with Ellie ellieonthetelly.comSOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is split into two parts - the first part is banter between Paige and Ellie. We chat about recent hacks and learnings we've had, we discuss the differences we're noticing in our biometrics (recorded by our Oura rings) and we also clarify why you may not have been let into our Reddit yet...Then we learn - WTF is ADHD coaching? And how is it different from therapy or life coaching? We’re joined by ADHD coach Marium (from ADHD Empowered), who shares how she moved from corporate life and international teaching into specialised ADHD coaching after seeing how misunderstood and unsupported neurodivergent people often are.We unpack:Who ADHD coaching is for (from teens to late-diagnosed adults)How to know if you’re “ready” for coachingThe key differences between ADHD coaching, therapy, and traditional life coachingHow coaches help clients who know what to do but can’t executeAddressing shame, grief, and the belief that you’re “broken”Marium explains why ADHD coaching focuses on the “what” and “how” rather than the “why,” how understanding your brain can be life-changing, and why strengthening executive function matters more than visualising success.Next week, we'll play out the other half of our chat where Marium provides practical advice and some reassuring words for our fellow ADHDers.Contact Marium if you're interested in ADHD coaching HERE.Book a session with Ellie at ellieonthetelly.comLINKTREESOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of suicidal thoughts, emotional manipulation / boundaries and trauma. Please listen with care.In part two of our conversation with Jen, we go deeper into the cost of living in survival mode for almost five decades - and what happens when the body and brain can no longer keep up.Jen shares how perimenopause intersected with her AuDHD and long-term burnout, amplifying symptoms and stripping away coping mechanisms that had held her together for years. We unpack early warning signs of burnout and perimenopause that are often missed or misattributed, particularly in late-diagnosed neurodivergent women.We talk about delayed processing and how it has impacted Jen’s relationships, safety, and sense of self — including how manipulation and abuse can go unnoticed until the nervous system finally has space to process what happened. Jen reflects on how pursuing a PhD exposed both her strengths and her limits, and the profound toll this took on her mental health.This episode is an honest, vulnerable conversation about collapse, grief, and the necessity of radically changing your life when survival is no longer sustainable. It’s for anyone who feels like they’ve been “coping” for decades - and are only now realising the cost.FOLLOW @autistic_connections (Jen)Book a session with Ellie ellieonthetelly.comSOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLINKTREE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part one of our conversation with Jen @autistic_connections, we get chatting about the reality of being a late diagnosed AuDHD women, who also hit burnout in conjunction with perimenopause (poor Jen!).Jen shares her journey to diagnosis, how she was completely missed as a child, and then given incorrect diagnoses throughout her 20s, and the juxtaposition of being 'smart' but feeling 'dumb'. Jen talks about struggling with “basic” daily tasks, yet being capable of getting First Class Honours at University, before her nervous system hit breaking point, and how autistic burnout was the catalyst for diagnosis.We talk about what it’s like to be a deeply empathetic person who sometimes struggles with connection, and we explore the difference between cognitive and affective empathy, and how misunderstanding empathy in autistic people causes harm.Jen also opens up about the grounding, regulating role her two dogs play in her life - each meeting different emotional needs.In next week's episode, Jen covers early signs of her neurodivergent tendencies, how autistic burnout and perimenopause interact with each other, why she had to leave her pHD and how she's coping with life now that she has more answers.Follow Jen on Instagram @autistic_connections Book a 1:1 session with Ellie at ellieonthetelly.comSOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLINKTREE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we unpack decision fatigue and decision paralysis - why even simple choices can feel overwhelming for AuDHD brains. We explore how years of masking disconnect us from our instincts, leaving us frozen, second-guessing everything, and afraid to choose “wrong.” We share how paralysis has shown up in our own lives, and what’s actually helped. Paige also walks through her framework for rebuilding your life from the ground up when everything feels too hard to start.Book a 1:1 session with Ellie! ellieonthetelly.com - introductory rate of $30USD valid until Jan 31 2026.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLinktree Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re back for 2026! And we're starting off with an AuDHD debrief - funny holiday stories and what Ellie and Paige would do differently next holiday season. We also look ahead to what’s coming this year for WTF is AuDHD? - what we’re excited about, what we’re learning, and how we want to keep growing alongside this community.Plus, we dive into a nuanced and thoughtful discussion about Autistic Barbie - including your listener contributions. We discuss what it gets right, what feels complicated, and why seeing neurodivergent experiences reflected can be powerful. This also leads to a wider discussion on why representation matters so deeply - for everyone.Join us a for an easy, casual, welcome-back chat!SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLinktree Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sarah (social worker, ADHD, OCD, PMDD and autistic) is back for more! In this episode we shift into language, identity, and the inner world of neurodivergence. Sarah reflects on her childhood as an undiagnosed AuDHDer, the anxiety that masked her ADHD, and elaborates on the different ways boys vs girls are treated.We explore dialectical thinking - the simple but powerful practice of using “and” instead of “but” - and why it’s especially transformative for neurodivergent people whose needs often conflict. Sarah also shares how her lived experience shapes her work in perinatal social work, and why finding community and personal joy isn’t really optional for neurodivergent people - it’s survival.Thanks for joining us this year! We really appreciate you. We'll be back Jan 20.Follow Sarah @neurodialecticalLinktree - find our online communities and register your interest for 1:1 sessions with Ellie in 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're super excited to be joined by neurodivergent parent and social worker Sarah (@neurodialectical on Instagram), who shares how becoming a parent was the catalyst for her diagnoses - including autism, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and PMDD. We talk candidly about the sensory reality of parenting when your needs directly clash with your child’s, the rage and grief no one prepares you for, and why planning life around hormonal cycles can be helpful (if you can). Sarah also shares how she’s unlearning traditional parenting norms, prioritising autonomy over compliance, and raising her son in ways that protect his nervous system - even when it looks "unconventional". Sarah is super honest, raw and validating for any neurodivergent parent who’s ever felt overwhelmed, ashamed, or like they’re doing it “wrong.”Follow Sarah @neurodialecticalLINKTREE - join our Reddit, Discord and express interest in 1:1 sessions with Ellie in 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Ellie's running on lack of sleep thanks to the Formula One race overnight, so we're chatting about sleep! We dig into why sleep is such a challenge for neurodivergent brains - from revenge bedtime procrastination to sensory overload to busy brains and chronic sleep debt. We share our own experiences and how lack of rest affects everything from emotion regulation to basic functioning. Join our Discord and Reddit! Links in our LinktreeInterested in a 1:1 session with Ellie in 2026? Register your interest ellieonthetelly.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Content warning: in this episode we lightly touch on abuse, manipulation and sexual assault - between 37 - 40mins - proceed with care.In this episode we dive into one of the biggest neurodivergent struggles: boundaries. Why do so many AuDHD people become chronic people-pleasers? Why do we say yes when every part of our body is screaming no? Why do we only realise afterwards how we're actually feeling? And why does setting even the smallest boundary feel like we’re letting someone down?We chat about the link between neurodivergence and people pleasing, how RSD, masking and social survival instincts shape our boundaries (or lack thereof) and we candidly discuss how we're personally going with improving our boundaries.Want a 1:1 mentoring chat with Ellie? Express your interest here: ellieonthetelly.comJoin our Discord and Reddit - links in our Linktree Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we’re joined by Bayley Garnham - diagnosed dyspraxic and neuro-affirming Personal Trainer! Bayley shares his diagnosis journey, what dyspraxia can actually look like day-to-day, how dyspraxia affected him growing up and what inspired him into personal training.We chat about why exercise can vary depending on biological sex, why so many of us need movement but struggle to start, and how PTs can better support neurodivergent clients. Bayley also breaks down how he trains people with compassion, flexibility and zero shame.If you’ve ever felt intimidated by exercise, disconnected from your body, or you're unsure where to begin, this episode might be for you!Follow Bayley on Instagram (@bayleygarnham) or get in touch via email [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we unpack the perfectionism cage - the invisible set of rules we build for ourselves as AuDHDers in an attempt to survive, succeed, or simply avoid judgement. We talk about how perfectionism showed up in our childhoods, how it morphs into procrastination and paralysis, and why so many of us cling to impossible standards even when they burn us out.JOIN OUR DISCORD Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s not personal, we just literally forgot you existed. This week we dive into the concept of object permanence. We chat about why AuDHDers struggle to remember things, hobbies, goals and people once they’re out of sight, how it impacts friendships and daily life, and what we’ve learned about how to manage it.Vote for us for Listener's Choice at the NZ Podcast awards (if you want) HERESOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLINKTREE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For so many neurodivergent people, friendships can feel confusing, draining, or just out of reach. In this episode we open up about growing up lonely, the ache of wanting connection, and how RSD can destablise you from reality. We touch on a listener submission - should you tell your friends about your diagnosis? We also share how our dogs have helped us with being at peace in our own company and have also helped with our general motivation!Vote for us at the NZ Podcast Awards for Listener's Choice! VOTE HERE. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paige is back! If you've always secretly found travelling stressful and wondered why it looks so fun for everyone else - we see you. In this episode, we’re unpacking why holidays and travel can feel so overwhelming as a neurodivergent person. Freshly off the plane, Paige reflects on her recent trip and what accomodations she made for herself. We talk about why AuDHDers find travelling stressful and also reflect on some recent listener Reddit posts about perimenopause.VOTE FOR US (if you want) at the NZ PODCAST AWARDS for Listener's Choice! VOTE HERE.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLinktree Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What about the after part of ADHD diagnosis? Bree Tomasel joins us for a follow up chat about her diagnosis experience and feelings. Bree shares her experience with the weird limbo of diagnosis imposter syndrome, the long road to getting meds right (four years, no joke), and she shares advice and things she's learned that have helped her.Paige is back next week! Also, if you'd like to vote our podcast for Listener's Choice at the NZ Podcast Awards, you can do that here.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast // LinktreeFollow @breetomasel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The hilarious and wildly talented Bree Tomasel - broadcaster, creator, and late-diagnosed ADHDer - joins Ellie for a candid chat. Bree opens up about a lifetime of masking - not just her ADHD, but her anxiety and even her sexuality - and how she shaped her own career, while sometimes feeling 'dumb'. We hear about what she was like as an undiagnosed child and some of the early signs she now sees in hindsight. We talk about imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and how Bree channels her ADHD energy into sport and humour. Plus, Bree will be back next week for another chat where we debrief on life after diagnosis, self-acceptance, and what’s changed since learning she’s neurodivergent.Follow Bree: Instagram SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast LINKTREE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy ADHD Awareness Month! Ellie is back with her partner Sam for another candid chat about life with ADHD, and life as an neurodivergent couple. This week we explore what we wish people knew about ADHD, why feedback is so crucial for us as ADHDers, and we share the ways we've learned to split responsibilities at home. We also talk honestly about why ADHDers can be so tough on themselves and answer some more of your listener questions. SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastWatch on YouTubeLINKTREE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, Ellie's ADHD partner Sam is back to share the story of their relationship - navigating conflict, emotional regulation, and yes, how they deal with intimacy. From being good friends and retrospectively noticing early signs of undiagnosed ADHD and AuDHD to how they’ve learned to grow together, they open up and celebrate the strengths that neurodivergence brings into their lives. It’s a candid and vulnerable look at what it means for Ellie and Sam to love and live as an ND couple, in the hopes of helping others feel seen when it comes to the trials and tribulations of finding love and a partnership.Join our private Reddit community!SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Paige is on holiday, so Ellie sits down with her partner Sam to talk about his journey with late-diagnosed ADHD. From childhood challenges and misunderstood behaviours, to the coping mechanisms he developed along the way, to the huge relief (and grief) of finally getting a diagnosis - we dig into what life looked like before and after. Sam shares how he found his career as a young social media star, why it helped him process his emotions pre-diagnosis and he opens up about struggling with emotional regulation. Next week we’ll chat with Sam again, and dive into what it’s like to navigate a relationship together as two neurodivergent people.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastFollow Sam - @samjrmorgan (Instagram) Join our Linktree! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just like last episode, we're going through a common autism screener (Autism Quotient) and discussing the limitations of these questions (especially if you might be AuDHD). While tools like this can be a helpful first step, they also have major blind spots - especially around masking, nuance, and gender differences. We share the answers we gave in our actual screeners from a few years back and disuss why lived experience needs to be an important part of neurodevelopmental assessments. SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLinktree Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve ever taken an ADHD screener and thought, “Well, that didn’t feel accurate…” you’re not alone! In this episode, we walk through the 18 questions you're generally asked in New Zealand, to work out whether you are "worth" further assessment for ADHD. We go through the screener, answer them as AuDHDers, and show why screeners don't always capture the full picture - especially if you’ve spent years masking, you've got trauma or other diagnoses. There are so many limitations to these screeners, and we hope this episode gives you more confidence in your interpretation of them.Here's the link to the screener we are referencing.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastJoin our private Reddit community - link in our LINKTREEWatch on YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet our ADHD Dad, Grant! He was born in the 60s - in a generation that barely knew anything about neurodivergence. Dad went through school, work, parenting, literally everything without a diagnosis until much later in life, and unfortunately his parents had passed away before he was diagnosed. In this episode, Grant shares what it’s like to piece together your story backwards, how late diagnosis changed the way he sees himself, what it's like getting ADHD coaching and we discuss the generational differences in awareness and stigma. He also reflects on some hilarious stories from his childhood (that now make sense after getting his diagnosis). We're really grateful for our Dad's vulnerabilty and the advice he shares from his own lived experience.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLINKTREE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore Pathological Demand Avoidance (more compassionately known as Pervasive Drive for Autonomy) - a profile most often linked with autism that goes far beyond being just being “stubborn.” We break down what PDA is, our understanding of it and how it's appeared in our life, and why everyday requests can feel overwhelming or even threatening - even if the demand is from within your own mind. We share personal stories of when demands have triggered resistance (sometimes without us even realising why), and unpack the differences between ADHD task resistance and PDA driven task resistance.Again, please use this episode as a jump-off to do your own research!SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastJoin our private Reddit community! Link in our Linktree Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we open up about our personal journeys with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal / autoimmune issues we've experienced, using hindsight to recognise it may have all been linked to our autism and ADHD (stress!). We start exploring the connection between the brain and the gut, including how our stomach microbiome impacts our brain. We dive into emerging research linking neurodivergence with physical health and common correlations. This episode isn’t medical advice, but more a conversation to spark curiosity. We encourage you to do your own research but we just wanted to remind you that you’re not the only one with a gassy gut!Find the research article we reference HERE. Join our private community on Reddit - direct link in our Linktree.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transitions can be some of the hardest moments for people with ADHD, autism, or both - even when we’re looking forward to what’s next. Paige and Ellie have had a few ephiphanies recently about how transitions have affected them throughout their life. In this episode, we explore why shifting from one activity, environment, or phase of life can feel so dysregulating, and how neurodivergent inertia plays into it. We unpack our own personal struggless and offer tips for supporting yourself and your kids through transitions.Join our Reddit community!SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLINKTREE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Khurram Sadiq is back for part two where we dig into common misdiagnoses, masking, family dynamics, and how to truly identify AuDHD traits. We also touch on workplace accommodations, co-occurring conditions like OCD and PMDD, and how to manage burnout and executive dysfunction (especially when medication isn’t accessible or effective). Dr Sadiq offers grounded advice and hope to anyone navigating late diagnosis, uncertainty, or feeling "too much" for the world.Win a signed copy of Dr Khurram Sadiq's new book - Explaining AuDHD! Head over to our Instagram @wtfisaudhdpodcast to enter.Purchase your own copy hereKey moments:1:50 – If one sibling is neurodivergent, does that mean the others are too? Genetics, family traits, and environment explained3:50 – How undiagnosed neurodivergent parents can unknowingly impact their kids - and themselves5:20 – When a child’s diagnosis leads to the parent’s lightbulb moment6:34 – The most common misdiagnoses (and what clinicians often miss)8:50 – Why all clinicians need better training to recognise neurodevelopmental conditions11:12 – The biggest blind spots in current diagnostic practices - and how they affect adults especially13:20 – How do you really know if you’re AuDHD - and not “just” ADHD or autistic?18:34 – The link between OCD and neurodivergence: is it a separate condition or a secondary outcome?21:06 – Why masking is subconscious - and how to begin unmasking safely24:45 – Practical ways businesses and workplaces can better accommodate AuDHDers29:38 – Managing life with AuDHD: realistic tips from lived experience34:20 – Why content, podcasts, and peer education are critical to self-understanding35:45 – The latest research on AuDHD that we should be paying attention to37:50 – What’s the connection between neurodivergence and tic disorders?39:59 – Dr Sadiq shares new insight into PMDD and neurodivergence42:32 – How to handle AuDHD burnout - especially when you're trying to do everything46:26 – What to do when medication isn’t working - or you can’t access it50:21 – Assimilate or opt out? The hard choices AuDHDers face around work, education, and parenting54:05 – Final reflections: a message to every neurodivergent person trying their best in a world not built for them Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Khurram Sadiq - renowned psychiatrist and AuDHDer - joins us to help explain AuDHD. In this powerful first half of our conversation, we unpack his own diagnostic journey, what it means to live between ADHD and autism, and why this combination deserves more recognition. We explore how gender, culture, and systemic pressures influence diagnosis, and why many of us are missed or misunderstood for decades. Dr Sadiq also shares his perspective on whether ADHD and autism exist on a shared spectrum - and how we can begin to differentiate between similar traits. Part two of our chat is out next week!Win a signed copy of Dr Khurram Sadiq's new book - Explaining AuDHD! Head over to our Instagram @wtfisaudhdpodcast to enter.Purchase your own copy hereKey moments:4:39 – Dr Sadiq shares his upbringing and the early signs of neurodivergence he experienced, including the emotional toll of trying to conform in a neurotypical world15:04 – The unexpected journey that led him into mental health17:20 – How Dr Sadiq came to be diagnosed as AuDHD himself23:15 – What he now recognises in hindsight from his childhood and adolescence26:13 – Why he chose to specialise in autism + ADHD - and what he's learned from that path27:15 – How he believes neurodivergence should be diagnosed - and what’s missing in the current system30:21 – Dr Sadiq breaks down how he defines ADHD, autism, and how they overlap34:19 – A compelling story of a woman who denied her diagnosis - and what that says about stigma36:35 – What really “causes” neurodivergent conditions? Dr Sadiq explains what the research tells us (and what it doesn’t)37:45 – A fascinating hypothesis about genetics and brain development41:35 – How gender, culture, and hormones all impact how neurodevelopmental conditions manifest - and why women and AFAB people are often missed44:41 – How societal expectations around women’s roles can delay diagnosis and support46:07 – How systemic pressure (not just individual traits) influences how autism and ADHD show up48:45 – Are autism and ADHD truly separate conditions - or part of a shared spectrum?50:58 – How to tell the difference between autistic “indifference” and ADHD “inattention"52:58 – Distraction or sensory overload? Understanding how they can look the same but feel different55:15 – Why some ADHDers speak without a filter, while autistic people often struggle with social nuance58:30 – Is it over-talking, or talking with passion?59:56 – The paradoxes of living with AuDHD - where traits seem to contradict themselves.1:01:30 – Understanding the spectrum of autism: what's the difference between profound autism and levels 1–3? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we’re diving into a big one: having children as an AuDHD adult. Neither of us are parents (yet - or possibly ever), so this is not a how-to, but an open conversation about the thoughts, fears, and feelings we have around parenting as neurodivergent people.We speak honestly about the differences in our perspectives (Paige and Ellie don’t feel the same way!), and share the thoughts and experiences sent in by our community - from those who are already parenting with AuDHD, to those who’ve chosen not to, and everything in between.One day, we’ll revisit this topic with actual parents and experts - but for now, consider this a first step in holding space for the complicated and very human feelings that come with the idea of having kids when your brain is wired like ours.LINKTREE@wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're diving into what it’s really like navigating work with AuDHD. We chat about our personal job histories - the burnout, the boredom, the passion, and the pivots - and why sticking to one career path can feel impossible. If you’ve ever loved and hated your job at the same time, or blamed yourself for not being “cut out” for work, this one’s for you. You’re not lazy - you’re likely unsupported. We also remind you (and ourselves) to not lose self-compassion - it's so important to not turn on yourself!LINKTREESOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is AuDHD so hard to manage and treat? In this episode, we explore lived contradictions of having both ADHD and autism - where one part of your brain craves routine and the other thrives on chaos, often resulting in burnout. We share real-life examples from ourselves and you - our listeners! We unpack why treatments often fall short, and highlight how young the concept of AuDHD really is - including in clinical settings.Join our private Reddit community!LINKTREESOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we’re excited to be joined by Mike Cochrane (@nzpsychologyclinic), a Clinical Psychologist and fellow AuDHDer who specialises in Autistic, ADHD and AuDHD assessments. We had an insightful and validating chat about life with an AuDHD brain.Together, we unpack:Commonly missed traits in ADHD and autismHow to get a diagnosisWhy diagnosis often comes with both relief and griefStrategies for navigating executive dysfunction and overwhelmHow CBT and ACT can support AuDHDers - and when they fall shortThe recent legislation change in NZ allowing GPs to diagnose ADHDThe importance of self-understanding, unmasking, and neurodivergent-led therapyand more!We thoroughly enjoyed this chat and if you'd like more information about Mike Cochrane and his diagnosis process, head to nzpsychologyclinic.co.nzLINKTREESOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Autism or trauma - or both? In today’s episode, we (very basically) unpack the complex relationship between Complex PTSD (CPTSD) and autism. We explore the ways the two can look similar, why autistic people are more likely to experience trauma, and why it’s so important to approach self-identification with care and curiosity. We reflect on personal experiences, share research insights, and offer guidance for anyone navigating these diagnoses. With so many of you finding value in our conversations, we thought it was important to touch on this point. This episode only scrapes the top level of this topic so we strongly encourage you to do your own research.Neurodivergent insights article we reference: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/ptsd-and-autism/LINKTREESOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re constantly exhausted no matter how much you feel like you're resting, it might autistic, ADHD or AuDHD burnout (and yes, it's different from traditional 'burnout'). Our neurodivergent brains are different and therefore the causes and treatment for burnout need to be neurodiversity affirming. We unpack the causes of ADHD, autistic, and AuDHD burnout, what we've experienced, how it can be confused for depression and why traditional therapy may not work for you. Below are some resources we reference in the episode - as always, please continue to do your own research!Join our Reddit community!LINKTREESOCIAL @wtfaudhdpodcastSOURCES:@vivdawesautistic (Instagram) and WEBSITE with (paid) resourcesHandy (paid) Burnout WorkbookPrevention for AuDHD Burnout - article here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Getting an ADHD or autism diagnosis - especially later in life - can bring an avalanche of emotions: relief, validation, anger, grief, confusion, and imposter syndrome. In today’s episode, we talk about the messy, beautiful, and often overwhelming feelings that come before and after a diagnosis.We share real community stories and our own experiences of trying to make sense of this new identity, processing the past, navigating conversations with family, and wrestling with the fear of not being believed - especially when autism (in particular) is still so misunderstood.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastJoin our Reddit community! Link in our Linktree Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we’re diving deep into justice sensitivity - the intense emotional reaction many AuDHDers have to unfairness, inequality, and being misunderstood.We explore what justice sensitivity actually is, how it shows up differently in autism and ADHD, and why it’s more than just being “too sensitive. We share our own real-life examples and strategies to cope when injustice feels personal.✨ Listener shoutouts from Reddit start the episode! Join our Reddit community HERE.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLINKTREE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join our private Reddit community: https://www.reddit.com/r/wtfisaudhdpodcast/Feeling lonely even when you're surrounded by people? You're not broken and you're not alone. In this episode, we unpack loneliness, friendship struggles, and the invisible barriers that come with having both ADHD and autism (AuDHD). We unpack why so many ADHDers and autistic people struggle with connection, friendship maintenance, and burnout, even though a lot of us crave closeness more than anything.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLINKTREE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is RSD? Is it just an ADHD thing? Is it trauma? In this episode, we’re breaking down Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria - a common but sometimes misunderstood experience in the ADHD community. We explore how RSD affects people with ADHD and autism, why it might develop, and how it shows up in everyday life. Plus, we share personal stories, examples, and strategies to cope when rejection feels like danger.LINKTREESOCIAL @wtifisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this practical and personal episode, we’re diving into real-life strategies for navigating the daily chaos of living with ADHD (and autism!) but this is more focused on the ADHD side. Paige's entrepreneurial and creative brain has come up with a bunch of strategies that she's affectionately called Paige's Pointers. These tips help with everything from executive dysfunction to sensory overwhelm. We appreciate these might not work for everyone, but we hope you find some value!SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLINKTREE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.