Grandma Has ADHD - podcast cover

Grandma Has ADHD

Welcome to “Grandma Has ADHD,” the podcast dedicated to exploring the unique challenges and experiences of seniors living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and referred by some as ADD.  We’ll provide valuable insights, expert advice, and personal stories to help older adults, their families, and caregivers navigate the journey of managing ADHD in later life mixed with a little humor and real life, unedited examples of navigating life with ADHD. 

Whether you are a senior who suspects you may have ADHD or love an ADHD Senior, “Grandma Has ADHD” embraces the saying “Making the rest of your life, the BEST of your life” and is here to provide you with the information, support, and resources you need to thrive.

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Episodes

Episode 43 – Acceptance is a Beautiful Thing

In this insightful and relatable episode, host Jami Shapiro sits down with ADHD coach Julia Rice for a candid conversation about discovering ADHD later in life—and how it changes everything. Julia shares her story of being diagnosed in her late 30s after years of "managing just fine" until life circumstances, like the pandemic, career shifts, and perimenopause, amplified her ADHD symptoms. Sound familiar? Jami and Julia dive into why ADHD in women, especially those over 50, often goes unnoticed,...

Jul 08, 202541 minEp. 43

Episode 42 – Grandma Rides a Motorcycle and Being Young at Heart

In this lively and relatable episode about ADHD in grandmothers over 50, host Jami Shapiro chats with ADHD coach and adventurous grandma, Mide Emans. They explore Mide’s journey of discovering ADHD later in life—after raising four children who also have ADHD. Mide shares what it was like managing a chaotic, love-filled household while feeling like she could never quite “get it together.” It’s a feeling many women over 50 know all too well. Together, Jami and Mide unpack how ADHD can hide in plai...

Jul 01, 202535 minEp. 42

Episode 41 – Beyond Stimulants: Holistic Health Strategies for Aging with ADHD

In this empowering episode of the Grandma Has ADHD podcast, host Jami Shapiro talks with Dr. Erica Oberg—ADHD advocate, integrative medicine expert, and wellness speaker—about holistic ADHD treatment for women over 50 who are looking for support beyond stimulant medications. If your ADHD symptoms have felt more intense as you’ve gotten older—or if stimulants aren’t an option for you—this conversation offers science-backed, natural ADHD treatments that can help. Jami and Dr. Oberg explore how hor...

Jun 24, 202537 minEp. 41

Episode 40 – When Moving Feels Impossible: ADHD and the Overwhelm of Life Transitions

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, we dive into ADHD challenges and move management, exploring how both intersect to make moving, decluttering, and organizing feel overwhelming. However, with the right support, these challenges can absolutely be managed. Host Jami Shapiro shares her personal experience living with ADHD. As a result, she explains how challenges like executive dysfunction, decision fatigue, time blindness, and emotional overwhelm can complicate even simple daily tasks. Naturally...

Jun 17, 202535 minEp. 40

Episode 39 – I Finally Have Permission to Be ME. Lisa Shares the Impact of Her Late Life Diagnosis

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro dives into the often overlooked topic of ADHD in adults over 50. She is joined by Lisa B, a 67-year-old woman who was diagnosed with ADHD later in life, following her daughter’s diagnosis. Lisa shares how finally understanding her brain has helped her reframe decades of struggles, from a diverse career path to personal relationships and daily organization. Jami and Lisa explore the unique challenges of a late ADHD diagnosis, the stigma that ...

Jun 17, 202539 minEp. 39

Episode 38 – Alice Reiter Feld Schpilkas in the Touchas

In this episode of 'Grandma Has ADHD,' host Jami Shapiro discusses ADHD in seniors and its impact on organization, task initiation, and time management. Jami introduces guest Alice Reiter Feld, a board-certified elder law attorney, certified family mediator, and ADHD coach. Alice shares her personal ADHD story, having been diagnosed in her late 40s, and talks about her career in elder law, touching on the importance of planning and communication in family dynamics. They explore the common sympto...

Jun 03, 202535 minEp. 38

Episode 37 – Executive Function Coach, Sarah Kesty Your Brain is a Factory Not a Warehouse

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro welcomes executive function coach and ADHD expert @Sarah for an eye-opening conversation about executive dysfunction in older adults—a topic rarely talked about but incredibly important. If you're over 50 and struggling with focus, organization, procrastination, or memory, this episode is for you. Jami and Sarah dive into the executive functioning challenges many adults face as they age, especially those living with late-diagnosed or overloo...

May 27, 202539 minEp. 37

Episode 36 – It's Never Too Late: David Giwerc on ADHD Discovery, Coaching, and Thriving at Any Age

In this powerful episode, Jami sits down with David Giwerc, MCC—pioneer of ADHD coaching, founder of the ADD Coach Academy (ADDCA), and a relentless advocate for embracing strengths over shame. Together, they explore what it means to live—and thrive—with ADHD later in life. From his own late diagnosis to launching the first ICF-accredited ADHD coach training program, David shares how understanding and embracing your unique brain wiring—at any age—can completely transform your life. He talks abou...

May 20, 202551 minEp. 36

Episode 35 - Embracing ADHD: Self-Compassion, Boundaries & Community

In this heartfelt episode of Grandma Has ADHD , Jami Shapiro welcomes Kara Cruz, LMFT, PMH-C—a licensed psychotherapist specializing in women’s mental health, ADHD, and trauma. Kara shares her personal journey with ADHD, including the challenges of hyperfocus, self-abandonment, and the transformative power of self-awareness. Kara discusses how ADHD manifests differently in women, the importance of setting boundaries, and the necessity of self-compassion. She also highlights her work with the Wom...

May 13, 202541 minEp. 35

Episode 34 - Bridging Generations: How Grandparents Can Be Powerful Allies for ADHD Kids

In this empowering episode, Jami sits down with Cindy Goldrich, Ed.M., ADHD-CCSP, parenting coach, author, and the founder of PTS Coaching. Cindy brings decades of experience supporting families navigating ADHD and executive function challenges, and in this conversation, she shares wisdom that’s just as relevant for grandparents as it is for parents. Together, they explore how older adults—whether they're grandparents, teachers, or “bonus adults”—can be powerful allies for ADHD kids. Cindy expla...

May 06, 202530 minEp. 34

Episode 33 - This Grandpa is the poster child for ADHD which helped him write Strategic Planning for the Golden Years

In this deeply insightful episode, Jami is joined by Will Holditch, author of Strategic Planning for the Golden Years, entrepreneur, father of eight, former firefighter, and proud member of the ADHD community. Will shares his lifelong journey with undiagnosed ADHD and dyslexia, and how his unconventional brain helped him build a thriving events business, pivot careers multiple times, and ultimately create a much-needed resource for families navigating elder care planning. From growing up misunde...

Apr 29, 202545 minEp. 33

Episode 32 - Put the Stick Down: Parenting Emerging Adults and Embracing ADHD with Elaine Taylor-Klaus

In this powerful episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami sits down with globally recognized ADHD thought leader and coach Elaine Taylor-Klaus, co-founder of ImpactParents and host of the Parenting with Impact podcast. Diagnosed in her 40s and part of an “ADHD-plus-plus” family, Elaine shares her deeply personal journey—navigating a late diagnosis, embracing neurodiversity, and discovering how coaching transformed her life. Together, she and Jami explore what it means to live with ADHD as an older adul...

Apr 22, 202545 min

Episode 31 - Wise Squirrels & The Root Down: Embracing ADHD with Dave Delaney

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro sits down with motivational speaker, author, and fellow ADHD late-bloomer Dave Delaney of the Wise Squirrels podcast. Diagnosed at 50, Dave shares his personal journey of self-discovery, how ADHD shaped his life and career, and why he wouldn’t press the “easy button” to remove it—even if he could. From navigating missed diagnoses and medical blind spots to building a platform that empowers others, Dave brings humor, depth, and compassion to ...

Apr 15, 202534 minEp. 31

Episode 30 - How Age And ADHD Create The Perfect Storm For Scammers

In this very different but incredibly important episode of Grandma Has ADHD, we step outside our usual ADHD focus for a powerful conversation that impacts everyone—especially seniors and those with ADHD. Host Jamie sits down with certified fraud examiner and accounting expert Lisa Carroll, who brings over 30 years of experience in spotting financial fraud and protecting vulnerable populations from scams. Lisa shares eye-opening stats about the rising tide of scams targeting seniors, explains why...

Apr 08, 202538 minEp. 30

Episode 29 - Priscilla Davis: How an ADHDer Conquered Her Overwhelm and Tackled Her Paperwork Monster

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, guest Priscilla Davis shares her personal journey with ADHD, recounting her struggles with organization, time management, and the overwhelming task of handling paperwork. From practical strategies for managing daily mail to overcoming self-sabotage and learning to prioritize self-care, Priscilla offers valuable insights and tips. The conversation emphasizes kindness towards oneself and highlights the importance of a supportive community, encouraging listeners...

Apr 01, 202539 minEp. 29

Episode 28 - Judith Rosen: Finding Balance with Uncertainty, Anxiety, & ADHD

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro discusses the intersection of ADHD and anxiety with licensed clinical social worker and expert in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Judith Rosen. They discuss how anxiety and ADHD can coexist and how they can be effectively managed, especially for people over 50. Rosen shares her personal and professional insights on emotional regulation, the benefits of CBT, and practical examples of CBT in action, including exposure therapy for phobias. ...

Mar 25, 202545 minEp. 28

Episode 27 - Revolutionizing Senior Care: Scott Mendell's Mission and ADHD Journey

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro welcomes Scott Mendell, founder and managing partner of Red Bear Care in Houston, Texas. They discuss the often overlooked presence of ADHD in people over 50 and share insights from Scott's journey in revolutionizing senior care. Scott recounts his personal experience caring for his father, who was diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy, and how it led him to create a holistic approach to senior wellness. The episode delves into the n...

Mar 18, 202537 minEp. 27

Episode 26 - Sharing Discomfort: A Candid Conversation on Rejection When Plans Fall Through

Ever felt like rejection stings more than it should? You’re not alone. In this special episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro explores Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)—or rather, rejection sensitivity—and how it deeply affects individuals with ADHD. After an unexpected guest no-shows, Jami takes the opportunity to reflect on her own experiences with rejection sensitivity. Jami shares personal experiences, childhood memories, and real-life examples of how rejection sensitivity has sh...

Mar 11, 202532 minEp. 26

Episode 25 - Julie Potiker on Mindfulness and Marriage to MacGyver

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro welcomes Julie Potiker, a mindfulness and self-compassion expert, about ADHD, aging, and the power of being kind to yourself. Julie shares her experience raising children with ADHD, supporting her ADHD husband, and how she became a certified mindful self-compassion teacher. They discuss how negative self-talk affects people with ADHD, the struggles families face, and simple tools like the SNAP method to handle emotions and stress. Julie also expl...

Mar 04, 202535 minEp. 25

Episode 24 - Never Too Late For Lightbulbs: ADHD Coach and Thought Leader Jeff Copper

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro welcomes ADHD coach and thought leader Jeff Copper to explore how ADHD presents in older adults, how executive functioning changes with age, and why so many seniors are only now discovering their ADHD. Jeff shares his personal journey with ADHD and dyslexia, his transition from business to ADHD coaching, and the science behind executive function challenges. They also dive into how technology, stigma, and generational attitudes impact ADHD aw...

Feb 26, 202542 minEp. 24

Episode 23 - From Courtroom to Coaching: Elle's ADHD Journey

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami speaks with ADHD coach and keynote speaker Elle O'Flaherty. Elle shares her journey from being a high-achieving attorney to discovering her ADHD and transitioning into coaching. They discuss the challenges of ADHD in adults, especially seniors, and how to navigate executive function struggles, organization, and life transitions like retirement. Elle also talks about being raised by an ADHD mom and raising ADHD children, highlighting the generational shif...

Feb 18, 202539 minEp. 23

Episode 22 - How to Find Pleasure Without a Partner

In this special Valentine’s week episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro welcomes back Coach Diane D for Part 2 of their discussion. This time, they dive deep into sexuality, intimacy, and body confidence for people with ADHD as they age. From self-pleasure and communication tips to overcoming body image struggles, this conversation is all about embracing pleasure at any stage of life. Content Warning: This episode contains open discussions about sex and intimacy. Listener discretion is a...

Feb 14, 202538 minEp. 22

Episode 21 - Spicing Up Your Sex Life

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami sits down with Coach Diane D., a registered therapist, ADHD coach, and certified sexuality coach. They discuss Diane’s journey with ADHD and autism, her experiences as a mother, and how ADHD affects relationships and intimacy. Diane also shares insights into sexuality coaching, including the Erotic Blueprint framework, and offers advice for individuals and couples navigating intimacy with ADHD. In this episode we: [00:02:00] Jami shares how Rejection Sen...

Feb 11, 202536 min

Episode 20 - Three Generations of ADHD

In this special birthday episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro is joined by two very important guests—her oldest child, Will, and her mother, Vicky. Together, they explore the experience of ADHD across three generations, sharing stories, struggles, and insights into how ADHD manifests differently in each of them. ADHD often runs in families, and many parents only recognize their own ADHD after their children are diagnosed. Jami reflects on her journey of self-discovery, her mother's lat...

Feb 05, 202536 minEp. 20

Episode 19 - Thank You, Oprah! How Daytime TV Led to an ADHD Diagnosis at 36

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro sits down with Judith Rosen, a licensed clinical social worker with ADHD and a wealth of lived and professional experience. Judith shares her late ADHD diagnosis journey at age 36, her decision to pivot careers in her fifties, and how her ADHD diagnosis empowered her academic and professional success. The conversation dives deep into the challenges and strengths of living with ADHD at any age, the importance of addressing shame, and practica...

Jan 28, 202535 minEp. 19

Episode 18 - What's a Squirtle and Other Life Lesson From an ADHD Grandma Who's Come Out of Retirement Three Times

In this episode, host Jami welcomes Wilma Fellman, a counselor, author, and expert in career and life transitions, to discuss the often-overlooked topic of retirement for adults with ADHD. Wilma shares her insights into how ADHD individuals can navigate the challenges of retirement, reassess their strengths, and find meaningful ways to spend their time post-career. Drawing from her own experience of retiring three times and her work with clients, Wilma offers practical advice and inspiring stori...

Jan 22, 202536 minEp. 18

Episode 17: Why Hitting the Pause Button is so Important

In this episode, Jami sits down with ADHD coach Corie Wightlin to discuss her personal ADHD journey, the power of mindfulness, and how seniors and their families can better understand and support ADHD. Corie shares actionable tips for regulating emotions, building self-compassion, and creating systems that work for ADHD brains. Whether you're navigating ADHD yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. In this episode we: [00:02:00] Corie shares her e...

Jan 14, 202532 minEp. 17

Episode 16 - Tacking One of Your Most Important Possessions: Photos

In this episode, Jami Shapiro speaks with Cathi Nelson, the visionary CEO and founder of The Photo Managers, the world's leading educational community dedicated to helping individuals and businesses manage, organize, and preserve their photo and video collections. Together, they discuss the significance of photos in preserving memories, the emotional and practical challenges of organizing and preserving photo collections, especially for people with ADHD. Cathi shares practical tips for tackling ...

Jan 07, 202538 minEp. 16

Episode 15 - Perfect is the Enemy of Done: Setting Intentions for 2025

In this special solo episode, host Jami Shapiro opens up about her experiences with ADHD and shares her thoughts on embracing a new year with kindness, self-awareness, and optimism. Jami dives into the importance of setting realistic goals, building community, and finding gratitude amidst the chaos. She also reflects on her journey as a podcast host, her takeaways from the international ADHD conference, and the many gifts of living with ADHD. Key Takeaways: [00:01:14] Authenticity Matters: Jami ...

Jan 01, 202534 min

Episode 14 - This 76-year-old outlasted me

In this inspiring episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami welcomes special guest Heidi Eagleton, a 76-year-old trailblazer who has lived an extraordinary life with ADHD. Heidi shares her journey from undiagnosed challenges in her youth to becoming a lawyer, architect, and now a memoir writer. She dives into the importance of recognizing and embracing ADHD's unique strengths, including creativity, resilience, and hyperfocus, while addressing the struggles that come with aging and ADHD. Together, Jami a...

Dec 24, 202432 minEp. 14
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