What does ADHD look like in women who were labeled “smart but not applying themselves”? In this episode with Kim Steen, we explore late-diagnosed ADHD, emotional dysregulation, justice sensitivity, time blindness, task paralysis, and entrepreneurship. You’ll hear how interest-based nervous systems shape school performance, why impulsivity can fuel small business success, and how movement supports focus and regulation. We also discuss ADHD and shame, family dynamics, rejection sensitivity, connection needs, and the difference between social media interaction and real human contact. This episode highlights both the challenges and strengths of ADHD in women — especially for moms, business owners, and highly sensitive people. So many women with ADHD grew up hearing the same message: You’re smart. You just need to try harder. In this conversation, we unpack what happens when a bright, curious, justice-driven child grows up without knowing she has an interest-based nervous system. We explore the grief of late diagnosis, the relief of finally understanding your brain, and the complicated emotions that come with both. You’ll hear about emotional regulation and what it actually looks like in real life — the flushed face, the anxious chest, the pause before replying. We talk about justice sensitivity, impulsivity, and why asking “why?” was often labeled as talking back instead of curiosity. This episode also highlights ADHD strengths in entrepreneurship — risk-taking, creativity, openness, and the ability to make people feel seen. There’s an honest look at time management struggles, task paralysis, single parenting, shame patterns in family systems, and the deep need for authentic, in-person connection. At its core, this conversation is about creating spaces — in business and in life — where people feel accepted exactly as they are. Learn more about Kim's work at Intown Tumbling (Atlanta, GA) here. Your Lab Kit: Track the body signal. Interest first, not the "should." Replacing the scroll with "Vitamin C." ---------------------------------------------------------------------- The ADHD Alchemy Podcast is where bright, sensitive women finally stop masking and start thriving—with clarity, confidence, and shameless potential. We’re sharing real stories that help us turn friction into flow, liability into leverage, and resistance into rhythm. If your brain feels like a thousand tabs are open and five radio stations are playing at once, you’re in the right place! I’m Jessica Covington and I’ve always had a slightly different way of doing things, including ADHD. In my work, we leverage the body-mind connection to harness the beautiful potential you’ve always known is there but haven’t been able to use. My guests and I are here to help you quiet the shame, trust yourself again, and create a life that feels calm, focused, and fully yours. These are the stories of women like us: the ones who think differently; who’ve tried every damn system, planner, and app but nothing sticks; who’ve spent years and all their energy trying to seem "normal"; and who are finally ready to see ADHD without shame, guilt, or apology. Stick with us here to remember you are NOT a failure, you’re not alone in the chaos, and you are certainly not deficient or disordered. Apply to be a guest and share your own story here. Learn more at fit-ology.com. Join the conversation – it’s in our own little space away from algorithms, and it’s free! Co-work with us in Focus Labs – Tuesdays at 1pm eastern. Free and open to any Fancy Brain (but we need your registration to attend). Grab your copy of “Distracted to Done” Help yourself to the “Move Your Body - Move Your Mind Map” Learn more about ADHD Alchemy Coaching (private and group pathways are open now) On the socials (sporadically!): Facebook Page Fancy Brains Facebook Group Jessica on LinkedIn Instagram Blog on Medium Music credit goes to my son, TAZZFANTO, who composed and produced this song just for us. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes; always check with your healthcare provider before making changes to diet, exercise and mental health care. This episode may contain affiliate links and mentions; we are grateful for your support.
