Discovering ADHD: Stories from Backyard Brunch

Episode 19: Synesthesia, Tics, and AI

In this episode, Heidi continues her interview with her best friend, Rachel, diving deep into topics like sensory processing disorder, ADHD, and associated comorbidities. They share personal experiences with sensory stimuli, motor and verbal tics, and the challenges of undiagnosed ADHD. The conversation also touches on broader issues such as how ADHD manifests differently in people, the connection between neurodivergence and creativity, and the potential of emerging technology and AI to revolutionize individualized learning and treatment.

Episode 18: The ADHD/OCD Battle, Water Sensitivity, and “Boreture”

In this episode, Heidi continues her conversation with best friend Rachel, discussing the complexities of ADHD and its interaction with OCD. The duo shares personal anecdotes about ADHD symptoms like impulsivity, hyperfocus, and sensory sensitivities, as well as the challenges of maintaining hygiene and managing compulsions. They delve into their struggles with executive function and share surprising ADHD manifestations, such as experiencing physical pain when bored and sensitivity to the taste of water. The conversation is a mix of humor, personal reflection, and a deeper understanding of ADHD and other comorbidities. Their candid discussion aims to highlight the often overlooked aspects of living with ADHD as adults.

Episode 17: From Self-Medicating to Self-Discovery

In this episode Heidi and Heather switch from their typical backyard discussions to interviews, this one with Heidi's best friend Rachel, who also has ADHD. Rachel discusses her late diagnosis, coinciding with her journey to sobriety in 2013. The conversation covers the interplay between ADHD, substance abuse, and other comorbidities like anxiety, depression, and OCD. They also touch on the impact of ADHD on daily life, and the ways ADHD can manifest as both a challenge and a superpower. Rachel shares insights on how ADHD has influenced her career, her coping mechanisms, and the emotional growth she has experienced through sobriety.

Episode 16: Gen Alpha's Take on ADHD: Embracing Unique Thinking

In this episode, hosts Heidi and Heather break from their usual format to conduct interviews with individuals who have ADHD. The first guest is Heidi's daughter, Grace. They discuss Grace's recent experiences with ADHD medications, her unique ways of thinking, and the various symptoms and challenges associated with ADHD, such as lack of focus, time management issues, and emotional impulsivity. The conversation also touches on comorbid conditions like anxiety and sensory processing issues. Grace shares her perspectives on school, social interactions, and coping mechanisms, providing a personal glimpse into living with ADHD.

Episode 15: Gen X ADHD Parenting Gen Alpha ADHD

In this episode, Heidi Faucette discusses the complex intersection of being a mom with ADHD and raising a child with ADHD. Heidi shares her personal challenges with maintaining self-care routines and instilling these habits in her daughter, Grace, who also struggles with ADHD. The episode delves into specific issues like hygiene, fear of bowel movements, and lack of balance, explaining how these may stem from ADHD. Heidi recounts advice from a pediatrician, including setting schedules and utilizing tools like Alexa for reminders, and describes her efforts to improve her daughter’s balance and posture with suggested exercises. She speaks candidly about the difficulties of being a role model and the shared struggles between her and her daughter. Ultimately, the episode aims to offer support to other mothers facing similar challenges.