Grandma Has ADHD

Jami Shapiro
  • 5.0 (15)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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.

  1. 5D AGO

    Episode 74 - It's my party and I can cry if I want to. Do we have unrealistic expectations about birthdays?

    It's my party and I can cry if I want to. Do we have unrealistic expectations about birthdays? Birthdays are supposed to be joyful, celebratory, and full of cake—but for many of us, they come with unexpected emotions: disappointment, pressure, comparison, and quiet grief over where we thought we’d be by now. In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro unpacks the unrealistic expectations we place on birthdays and why they can hit especially hard for ADHD and midlife brains. We talk about social pressure, emotional labor, aging, and the freedom that comes with letting birthdays be honest instead of perfect. If you’ve ever cried on your birthday and wondered, “What’s wrong with me?”—this episode is for you. Birthdays are supposed to feel magical—but why do they so often end in tears?  In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro explores the unrealistic expectations we put on birthdays, the pressure to feel celebrated, and why this one day can stir up big emotions—especially in midlife and ADHD brains. If you’ve ever cried on your birthday and felt confused (or guilty) about it, you’re not alone. Birthdays are supposed to be fun… so why do they sometimes make us cry? 🎈  In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro dives into the unrealistic expectations we put on birthdays, the pressure to feel celebrated, and the big emotions that sneak in—especially for midlife and ADHD brains. Cake, feelings, and permission to be human included. Disclaimer: This episode is for fun, reflection, and ideas about birthdays and feelings—it’s not a substitute for professional advice. If you’re struggling with emotional or mental health issues, please reach out to a qualified professional. And yes, crying at your party is totally allowed! Resources Grandma Has ADHD Community & Resources – Join the Grandma Has ADHD Facebook Community: https://grandmahasadhd.comJami Shapiro – ADHD Coaching & Sparkler Society: https://jamishapiro.meSilver Linings Transitions (ADHD-informed organizing & move management): https://silverliningstransitions.com Thank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life. Follow us: Instagram: @grandma_has_adhd @silverliningstransitions Facebook: Silver Linings Transitions Grandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group) Youtube: Grandma Has ADHD

    48 min

  2. FEB 3

    Episode 73 - Consciously Aging and Living Powerfully with ADHD

    With over 30 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families with ADHD, James Ochoa, LPC brings a rare combination of clinical insight and lived experience to this episode of Grandma Has ADHD. As an ADHD clinician, author, and founder of the Life Empowerment Center, James joins Jami to explore what it truly means to age with ADHD, especially when the diagnosis comes later in life, and how finally naming it can profoundly change the way we age, relate to others, and care for ourselves. James shares both his professional expertise and personal lived experience, opening up about his own adult ADHD diagnosis and how it reshaped his understanding of emotional regulation, identity, relationships, and purpose. Together, Jami and James explore the emotional complexity of late diagnosis, including the grief for what could have been, the relief of finally having an explanation, and the unexpected joy of self-recognition. This episode also dives into the often overlooked emotional distress syndrome of ADHD, how aging and hormonal changes such as menopause can intensify symptoms, and why curiosity, compassion, and meaning matter more than productivity as we grow older. James introduces powerful reframes, including mining the gems of your life story, embracing recognition euphoria, and imagining a future where ADHD is not something to fix, but something to understand and work with. If you have ever felt like you were too late to understand yourself, this conversation is a reminder that self-discovery does not expire, and that your later years can be some of the most connected, adventurous, and fulfilling of your life. Disclaimer This episode discusses ADHD, menopause, hormone replacement therapy, mental health, and medical topics. It is intended for education and awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making medical decisions. If you are experiencing emotional distress or a medical emergency, please seek immediate help.  Resources & Links Mentioned: Focus Forward by James Ochoa – exploring the emotional and mental stress of ADHDWhen the Shiny Wears Off (upcoming book by James Ochoa)You Mean I'm Not Lazy, Stupid, or Crazy?! – Kate Kelly & Peggy RamundoErik Erikson’s 9th Stage of Development (Gerotranscendence)jamesochoa.com – James Ochoa’s websiteGrandma Has ADHD Community & Resources https://grandmahasadhd.com Join the Grandma Has ADHD Facebook CommunityJami Shapiro – ADHD Coaching & Sparkler Society https://jamishapiro.meSilver Linings Transitions (ADHD-informed organizing & move management) https://silverliningstransitions.comThank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life. Follow us: Instagram: @grandma_has_adhd @silverliningstransitions Facebook: Silver Linings Transitions Grandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group) Youtube: Grandma Has ADHD

    47 min

  3. JAN 27

    Episode 72 - Living Life Wide Open: ADHD, Menopause, and Learning to Love Yourself with Linda Roggoli

    What happens when undiagnosed ADHD meets menopause?  In this episode, Jami Shapiro sits down with ADHD pioneer Linda Roggoli to unpack decades of masking, overwhelm, and “why is life suddenly harder?” moments. Linda shares how dropping estrogen turned everyday challenges into chaos—and how understanding the link between hormones and ADHD changed everything. They dive into why stimulant medication isn’t always the full answer, how hormone therapy can be transformative when done safely, and why outdated research scared many women from treatment. They also explore how ADHD manifests differently in women, especially with increasing responsibilities at work and home. This episode is full of validation, laughter, and relief for anyone wondering, “Why is this getting harder as I get older?” It’s a reminder that ADHD isn’t new in midlife—it’s often been there all along, finally demanding attention. If you’re a woman navigating menopause, questioning a late ADHD diagnosis, or seeking to understand your brain with more kindness, this episode will leave you feeling seen, informed, and far less alone. Disclaimer This episode discusses ADHD, menopause, hormone replacement therapy, mental health, and medical topics. It is intended for education and awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making medical decisions. If you are experiencing emotional distress or a medical emergency, please seek immediate help. Resources ADDiva Network – Community & support for women 40+ with ADHD: https://addiva.net/ ADHD Palooza – Online expert conferences for ADHD women and couples:  https://adhdpalooza.com/ TADD Talks – Short ADHD talks hosted by ADDA (similar to TED but ADHD‑friendly). You can explore the archive and weekly series here: https://add.org/tadd-talks-podcast/  Grandma Has ADHD Community & Resources – Join the Grandma Has ADHD Facebook Community: https://grandmahasadhd.comJami Shapiro – ADHD Coaching & Sparkler Society: https://jamishapiro.meSilver Linings Transitions (ADHD-informed organizing & move management): https://silverliningstransitions.comThank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life. Follow us: Instagram: @grandma_has_adhd @silverliningstransitions Facebook: Silver Linings Transitions Grandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group) Youtube: Grandma Has ADHD

    55 min

  4. JAN 20

    Episode 71 - Menopause, ADHD & Oversharing: What Women Over 50 Need to Know

    What happens when menopause, ADHD, hormones, and midlife all collide at once? In this candid and deeply relatable episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro is joined by her longtime friend and Sparkler Society co-creator Lynn Layfield for an honest conversation about menopause, ADHD after 50, brain fog, hormones, emotional regulation, and what it really feels like to enter the “third act” of life. Jami shares a milestone moment — officially entering menopause — and opens up about how hormonal shifts dramatically impacted her ADHD symptoms, energy, sleep, pain, focus, and overall quality of life. Together, Jami and Lynn explore how menopause can amplify ADHD challenges that many women have lived with undiagnosed for decades, often mislabeling symptoms as anxiety, depression, aging, or “just stress.” They talk openly about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), white-knuckling menopause vs. getting support, brain fog, emotional dysregulation, sensory overload, and the often-ignored connection between estrogen and ADHD symptoms. The conversation also highlights the generational gap in ADHD diagnosis — especially for women — and why so many women only recognize ADHD after their children are diagnosed. This episode is funny, validating, a little messy (in the best way), and incredibly empowering. It reframes menopause not as an ending, but as the beginning of a powerful new chapter — one where self-understanding, systems, and strengths finally come together. If you’ve ever wondered why everything feels harder during menopause — or why ADHD symptoms suddenly feel louder — this conversation will make you feel seen. Disclaimer  This episode discusses ADHD, menopause, hormone replacement therapy, mental health, and medical topics. It is intended for education and awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making medical decisions. If you are experiencing emotional distress or a medical emergency, please seek immediate help. Resources Grandma Has ADHD Community & Resources - https://grandmahasadhd.com Join the Grandma Has ADHD Facebook CommunityJami Shapiro – ADHD Coaching & Sparkler Society - https://jamishapiro.meSilver Linings Transitions (ADHD-informed organizing & move management) - https://silverliningstransitions.comThank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life. Follow us: Instagram: @grandma_has_adhd @silverliningstransitions Facebook: Silver Linings Transitions Grandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group) Youtube: Grandma Has ADHD

    49 min

  5. JAN 13

    Episode 70 - The Connection between Fibromyalgia, ADHD and Chronic Pain with Dr. Michael Lenz

    What if the chronic pain, fatigue, migraines, or fibromyalgia you’ve lived with for years weren’t “just part of getting older” — but connected to undiagnosed ADHD? In this eye-opening episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro is joined by Dr. Michael Lenz, physician, author, and host of the Conquering Your Fibromyalgia podcast, for a deep dive into the powerful — and often missed — overlap between ADHD, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, IBS, migraines, and nervous system dysregulation. Dr. Lenz shares how his early exposure to ADHD research shaped his medical career, why adult ADHD is still widely misunderstood (especially in women and older adults), and how decades of patients struggling with “invisible illnesses” led him to recognize a consistent pattern: a high co-occurrence of ADHD in people with fibromyalgia and chronic pain syndromes. Together, Jami and Dr. Lenz explore how the ADHD brain processes pain differently, why sensory overload and emotional dysregulation matter, and how properly treating ADHD can dramatically reduce pain, fatigue, overwhelm, and even improve relationships and quality of life. The episode also tackles common myths — including stimulant medication fears in older adults — and offers practical guidance on where to seek help if you suspect ADHD later in life. This conversation is validating, science-based, and deeply hopeful for anyone who has felt dismissed, misunderstood, or exhausted by chronic symptoms with no clear answers. Disclaimer: This episode discusses ADHD, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, mental health, and medical treatment options. It is intended for education and awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making medical decisions. If you are experiencing emotional distress or a medical emergency, please seek immediate help. Resources & Links Mentioned: Dr. Michael Lenz Book - Conquering Your FibromyalgiaDr. Michael Lenz Podcast & YouTube Channel - Search Conquering Your Fibromyalgia on YouTube and podcast platformsGrandma Has ADHD Community & Resources: https://grandmahasadhd.comJoin the Grandma Has ADHD Facebook CommunityJami’s Website, ADHD Coaching & Sparkler Society Membership: https://jamishapiro.meSilver Linings Transitions (ADHD-informed organizing & move management): https://silverliningstransitions.com Thank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life. Follow us: Instagram: @grandma_has_adhd @silverliningstransitions Facebook: Silver Linings Transitions Grandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group) Youtube: Grandma Has ADHD

    52 min

  6. JAN 6

    Episode 69 - Task Triage for ADHD Brains: Stop Spinning & Start Winning with Coach Ryan Mayer

    What does ADHD look like when it’s not the stereotype — and how does it impact work, family, and daily life across generations? In this candid and energizing episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro is joined by Ryan Mayer, professional ADHD life coach, accountability and mindset specialist, and host of the More Than ADHD podcast. Together, they explore what it really means to live, work, parent, and lead with an ADHD brain — especially when structure breaks down and expectations don’t fit how our minds work. Ryan shares his personal ADHD journey, from being the “last one out of the locker room” to navigating anxiety, time blindness, workplace challenges, and job loss — experiences that ultimately led him into ADHD coaching. Jami and Ryan talk honestly about late recognition, generational differences in ADHD awareness, parenting kids with ADHD, and why even ADHD professionals still struggle (and that’s okay). The conversation wraps with one of Ryan’s most practical tools: Task Triage, a simple yet powerful system to help ADHD brains decide what actually deserves attention — and what doesn’t. This episode is validating, funny, and deeply relatable for older adults with ADHD, parents, professionals, and anyone who’s ever felt “great in the room but stuck on the follow-through.” Disclaimer: This episode discusses ADHD, mental health, anxiety, and workplace challenges. It is intended for education, awareness, and support only and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or mental health care. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. If you are experiencing emotional distress or a mental health emergency, please seek help immediately. Resources & Links Mentioned: Ryan Mayer Coaching (YouTube & Coaching): Search Ryan Mayer Coaching on YouTube and major social platformsRyan Mayer Podcast - More Than ADHD Podcast Available on major podcast platformsGrandma Has ADHD Community & Resources: https://grandmahasadhd.comJoin the Grandma Has ADHD Facebook CommunityJami’s Website & ADHD Membership Info: https://jamishapiro.meSilver Linings Transitions (ADHD-informed organizing & move management): https://silverliningstransitions.com Thank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life. Follow us: Instagram: @grandma_has_adhd @silverliningstransitions Facebook: Silver Linings Transitions Grandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group) Youtube: Grandma Has ADHD

    27 min

  7. 12/30/2025

    Episode 68 - ADHD & Aging: Understanding Depression and Suicide Risk in Seniors

    What happens when ADHD goes undiagnosed or misunderstood for decades — especially in older adults, veterans, and first responders? In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Jami sits down with Stephen Wright, a U.S. Army veteran, law enforcement professional, suicide prevention advocate, and fellow ADHDer, to explore the emotional, mental, and life-changing realities of living with ADHD after 50. Stephen opens up about his own ADHD journey, the frustration of a late diagnosis, the grief of “what could have been,” and why so many older adults mask their struggles behind resilience, productivity, and strength. Together, they unpack how untreated ADHD can fuel anxiety, depression, overwhelm, disorganization, emotional exhaustion, and even suicidality — especially in seniors, veterans, and caregivers who often minimize their pain or struggle to access support. This episode is honest, compassionate, and incredibly validating. If you or someone you love is navigating ADHD, mental health challenges, or late-in-life diagnosis, this conversation is a reminder that you are not alone, support exists, and understanding your brain can truly change everything. Disclaimer: This episode discusses ADHD, mental health, anxiety, depression, and suicide. It is intended for education, awareness, and support only and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or mental health care. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, or any medical questions. If you or someone you love is experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately.  📞 U.S.: Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). If you are outside the U.S., please contact your local emergency number or suicide prevention service. You are not alone. Help is available. Resources & Links Mentioned: Email: Stephen@heritageseniorcare.comHeritage Senior Care: https://heritageseniorcare.comGrandma Has ADHD Community & Resources: https://grandmahasadhd.comJoin the Grandma Has ADHD Facebook CommunityJami’s Website: https://jamishapiro.meSilver Linings Transitions: https://silverliningstransitions.com Thank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life. Follow us: Instagram: @grandma_has_adhd @silverliningstransitions Facebook: Silver Linings Transitions Grandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group) Youtube: Grandma Has ADHD

    55 min

  8. 12/23/2025

    Episode 67 - Stop Doing Life on Hard Mode: The Truth About High-Functioning ADHD

    What if your lifelong “drive,” perfectionism, and success were actually camouflage for undiagnosed ADHD? In this validating episode, Jami sits down with Dr. Eliza Barach — cognitive psychologist, ADHD coach, and proud ADHDer — to talk about what ADHD really looks like in high-performing women, especially those diagnosed later in life. Together, they explore why so many bright, capable adults get missed for decades, the emotional rollercoaster of finally understanding your brain, and how learning to work with ADHD (instead of fighting it) can change everything — motivation, self-worth, productivity, parenting, relationships, and life after 50. You’ll also hear candid stories about emotional dysregulation, growing up with an ADHD parent, marriage and ADHD, resilience, impulsive decisions that actually changed life for the better, and how to realistically plan when you’ve got an optimist, pessimist, and realist all living in your head. If you’ve ever felt like you “shouldn’t” struggle because you’re successful… this episode will feel like a deep exhale. Disclaimer: This episode is for education and support only and does not replace professional medical or mental health care. Always consult a qualified professional regarding diagnosis, treatment, or medical concerns. Resources & Links Mentioned: Dr. Eliza Barach – Coaching & Resources: Neural RevolutionNewsletter: Chaos ManagedJami’s Website: https://jamishapiro.meGrandma Has ADHD Community & Resources: https://grandmahasadhd.comFacebook Community: Grandma Has ADHDSilver Linings Transitions: https://silverliningstransitions.comNASMM – National Association of Senior & Specialty Move ManagersThank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life. Follow us: Instagram: @grandma_has_adhd @silverliningstransitions Facebook: Silver Linings Transitions Grandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group) Youtube: Grandma Has ADHD

    43 min
See All (75)

5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Jami Shapiro
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    75
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Grandma Has ADHD
  • Show Website
    Grandma Has ADHD

You Might Also Like