I’m so excited to share that I was recently interviewed on the Hacking Your ADHD podcast with William Curb. The episode is titled “Beyond Task Management: Exploring ADHD and Emotions,” and it was such an honest, thoughtful conversation that I’m really proud to share with you.

🎧 You can listen to the episode here:
Listen on Apple Podcasts

In the interview, we move beyond the typical conversations about focus, planners, and productivity. I talk about what often gets overlooked in ADHD spaces—the emotional side of ADHD, including shame, rejection sensitivity, identity confusion, and that constant feeling of “never quite measuring up.”

Here are a few things we covered:

The Emotional Experience of ADHD

I shared parts of my own journey as someone diagnosed later in life, and how the emotional impact of ADHD can be just as debilitating as the executive functioning struggles. We talked about what it’s like to carry years of internalized criticism and how it can shape your self-worth.

From Self-Criticism to Self-Compassion

One of the biggest things I’ve learned personally—and through my work as a therapist—is how powerful self-compassion can be. ADHD often comes with a harsh inner critic, and I offered some tools and mindset shifts that have helped both me and my clients move toward greater self-acceptance and emotional regulation.

How My Book Was Born

I also spoke about the inspiration behind my new book, A Journey to a Valiant Mind, and how it weaves together personal stories, clinical insight, and reflection prompts to help others better understand themselves. It’s not a how-to guide—it’s an invitation to meet yourself with curiosity, clarity, and kindness.

What I Hope You’ll Take Away

If you listen to the episode, my hope is that you’ll walk away feeling a little more seen and a little less alone. ADHD is about so much more than getting things done; it’s about how we process the world, how we relate to others, and how we learn to extend grace to ourselves.

Thank you to William Curb for creating such a warm, validating space to talk about these important topics.

If you’re curious to explore more, you can find A Journey to a Valiant Mind or browse other ADHD tools and resources on my website.

Warmly,

Valerie