Do you ever feel like life is harder for you than it is for everyone else? On the outside you’re smart, capable, and creative. But inside you feel overwhelmed, scattered, and constantly behind. That could be a sign of undiagnosed ADHD.
In this episode, I’m talking with Shanna Pearson, Founder and President of Expert ADHD Coaching, about how ADHD often shows up in women, why it’s so frequently mistaken for anxiety or depression, and the lifelong impact of being misunderstood. We also share practical tools to help you externalize the chaos in your mind and stay present with the people you love.
As you listen, reflect on this:
🌱 Have you carried a quiet sense of being “different” without knowing why?
🌱 How often do you feel overwhelmed by things that seem easy for others?
🌱 What would shift if you saw those struggles through the lens of ADHD?
If you’ve ever thought, “What’s wrong with me?” - nothing is wrong with you. Understanding your brain is the first step toward compassion, clarity, and lasting change.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Undiagnosed ADHD in Women
01:36 Shanna Pearson’s ADHD Story
09:26 Inattentive vs Hyperactive ADHD
13:24 ADHD Misdiagnosis: Anxiety & Depression
17:17 What a Real ADHD Assessment Looks Like
22:05 Managing Overwhelm and Prioritizing
48:47 Pills Don’t Teach Skills
If you’d like more support beyond this episode, you’re welcome to schedule a free consultation with me or a member of my team. Many of our coaches have completed advanced ADHD training, so you’ll be matched with someone who understands these challenges and can provide tailored strategies to help you thrive.
And if today’s conversation resonated with you, I highly recommend Shanna Pearson’s new book, Invisible ADHD. It’s filled with over a hundred practical tools and strategies to help you navigate life with more ease and confidence.
You can also stay connected with me between episodes on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, where I share weekly tips and encouragement. And I’d love to hear from you - your questions and feedback always help shape future episodes. Let’s talk!
I'd also like to give a very special thank you to the sponsor of today’s episode: Headway.
I love reading and learning, but finding the time to sit down with a book can feel impossible. That’s why I’m such a fan of the Headway app. I use it almost every day, and it’s been a true game-changer for my personal growth. With Headway, I’m able to absorb the key insights from incredible books in minutes, instead of weeks.
If you want to keep learning and growing right alongside me, I have an exclusive offer for you! Save 25% when you go to makeheadway.com/lhs and use the promo code LHS.
Let’s keep learning and growing together. 🌱
xoxo,
Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby
Growing Self