ADHD is often talked about through the lens of productivity, focus, and executive functioning, but what happens when we zoom out and look at the bigger picture? Elizabeth Ahmann and Micah Saviet, co-authors of Flourishing with Adult ADHD, join me for a thought-provoking conversation about identity, self-perception, and the lived experience of being neurodivergent.

We explore how masking, shame, trauma, sociocultural influences, and late diagnosis can shape the way adults with ADHD see themselves and navigate the world. This conversation challenges the traditional deficit-based model of ADHD and offers a more affirming, strengths-based perspective that can help you better understand yourself and create meaningful change. Whether you're an adult with ADHD, a coach, therapist, or someone supporting a neurodivergent loved one, you'll walk away with practical insights for building self-awareness, self-compassion, and resilience.

Episode Highlights

[0:00] - The hidden cost of masking, perfectionism, and appearing successful on the outside

[0:50] - Meet Elizabeth Ahmann and Micah Saviet, co-authors of Flourishing with Adult ADHD

[2:18] - Why ADHD is more than executive functioning challenges—it’s also an identity experience

[4:23] - Moving beyond the medical model and embracing a neurodiversity-affirming perspective

[7:16] - Understanding the "fifth domain" of ADHD: sociocultural identity

[10:44] - Cultural humility, curiosity, and supporting clients with different lived experiences

[12:04] - The Social Identity Wheel and how identity awareness can reduce shame

[14:49] - Reframing ADHD challenges as differences in neurobiology rather than personal failures

[16:17] - Identity reconstruction and redefining yourself beyond an ADHD-based narrative of failure

[18:24] - Trauma, adverse childhood experiences, and how they intersect with ADHD

[23:51] - Why addressing shame is essential for adults with ADHD

[24:14] - Masking, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and the invisible burden many adults carry

[26:42] - How social conditioning impacts women with ADHD and contributes to late diagnosis

[29:06] - The difference between adapting and masking as a neurodivergent person

[31:02] - Small steps, externalizing tasks, and reducing executive function overwhelm

[33:30] - Using affirmations and visualization to reshape self-belief and identity

[36:10] - Why micro-actions and 1% improvements create lasting progress

[38:08] - Turning goals into experiments to reduce pressure and build momentum

[40:08] - What to remember when it feels like you've tried everything and nothing has worked

[40:55] - New research on ADHD coaching and improvements in well-being and executive functioning

[43:35] - Where to find Flourishing with Adult ADHD and who will benefit most from reading it

Links & Resources

Elizabeth Ahmann, ScD, RN, PCC, NBC-HWC

Elizabeth Ahmann (she/her) is an ADHD and health and wellness coach, Professor, and Curriculum Manager in the Health and Wellness Coaching Department at Notre Dame of Maryland University’s School of Integrative Health. She also serves as Director of Research at Springer Institute.

With a master’s degree in nursing and a doctorate in public health, Elizabeth brings extensive experience in coaching, teaching, and research. She synthesizes theory, evidence, and practice to translate complex research into accessible, actionable guidance that supports optimal, person-centered care for adults with ADHD.

Micah Saviet, LCSW-C, NBC-HWC

Micah Saviet (he/him) is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming care for adults with ADHD. Micah integrates evidence-based, somatic, and neurophysiological approaches to support clients in healing from shame, emotional dysregulation, and trauma-related patterns commonly experienced by neurodivergent adults.

Micah’s work emphasizes moving beyond symptom management toward deeper healing, self-compassion, and sustainable well-being. He writes and speaks on adult ADHD, trauma, nervous system regulation, and strengths-based care for professionals.

Connect

Instagram: @adulttrauma_adhdsolutions

To purchase "Flourishing with Adult ADHD":

Micah's therapy practice: https://www.adulttraumaandadhdsolutions.com/

Micah & Liz's coaching practice: https://www.pathways-ahead.com/

Liz and Micah's research institute: https://springerinstitute.org/

Thank you for tuning into "SuccessFULL with ADHD." If this episode has impacted you, remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach and help more individuals navigating their journeys with ADHD.

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