Podcast Summary: Laugh Lines with Kim & Penn Holderness
Episode: Is It ADHD or Perimenopause?
Release Date: July 1, 2025

Overview

In the episode titled "Is It ADHD or Perimenopause?", hosts Kim and Penn Holderness delve into the intriguing overlap between ADHD symptoms and perimenopause experiences. Combining personal anecdotes, expert insights, and their trademark humor, they explore how these two distinct conditions can sometimes present similar challenges. The episode also features interactive segments, including their popular game show "ADHD or Perimenopause?" and listener-submitted advice, making it a comprehensive and engaging listen for anyone navigating these life stages.

Main Discussion: ADHD vs. Perimenopause

Personal Stories and Experiences

Kim and Penn open up about their personal encounters with ADHD and perimenopause, highlighting how these experiences have shaped their understanding and management strategies.

• Penn shares:
  “I have to say, there's moments I'm just not handling it well. What about you?”
  (16:00)

• Kim responds:
  “The two things that I would preach are patience for the person who is receiving the neurodivergence and rewarding self-awareness.”
  (18:10)

Symptom Overlaps

The hosts discuss the overlapping symptoms of ADHD and perimenopause, such as brain fog, forgetfulness, and emotional dysregulation. They emphasize the importance of recognizing these similarities to better understand and support those experiencing them.

• Penn explains:
  “Brain fog is very common in ADHD and it's a hallmark perimenopause symptom because of the drop in estrogen.”
  (16:14)

• Kim adds:
  “There's even more similarities than people are aware, for sure.”
  (16:24)

Advice and Coping Strategies

Drawing from their discussions, Kim and Penn offer practical advice for managing the intertwined symptoms of ADHD and perimenopause:

• Penn advises:
  “Knowing that there is an end, and that these instincts and rage moments are just a phase.”
  (16:33)

• Kim recommends:
  “Patience and self-awareness on both sides can make navigating these challenges much more manageable.”
  (18:48)

Fun Segments: "ADHD or Perimenopause?" Game Show

In a lighthearted twist, Kim and Penn engage in their game show segment "ADHD or Perimenopause?", where they answer humorous and relatable scenarios to determine which condition is responsible.

• Scenario Example:
  “You walk into a room and instantly forget why you're there.”

  • Kim: “Failing. Hormones and dopamine are on strike.”
    (23:18)

• Another Scenario:
  “You hyper focus for six hours on reorganizing your spice rack, but forgot to eat lunch?”

  • Penn: “That's ADHD.”
    (24:17)

This segment not only entertains but also reinforces the similarities and differences between ADHD and perimenopause symptoms.

Listener Advice and Recommendations

The episode features a segment where listeners share their unique advice for managing ADHD and perimenopause.

• Listener Wally from Minnesota shares:
  “You either have a great time or a great story. And when you're really fortunate, you have both.”
  (27:18)

• Listener Sally from North Carolina suggests:
  “When your mind is super active, especially right before you go to sleep, take a deep breath, sigh it out through your mouth, and then say to yourself, 'I wonder what my next thought is going to be.'”
  (27:35)

These contributions provide a variety of strategies that listeners can incorporate into their daily lives.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Kim and Penn wrap up the episode by reiterating the importance of understanding the overlap between ADHD and perimenopause. They encourage patience, self-awareness, and open communication as essential tools for managing the challenges associated with both conditions. The episode underscores the value of community and shared experiences in navigating the complexities of aging and neurodivergence.

Notable Quote to End With:

• Kim: “Adults are a little bit further along when it comes to self-awareness, and it's just a much more friendly way to get through life.”
  (19:03)

Stay Connected:
Listeners are invited to share their thoughts, questions, and personal stories by leaving a voicemail at 323-364-3929 or writing to podcast@theholdernessfamily.com. Join Kim and Penn on their journey to "aging better together" with laughter and understanding.