Welcome back to the 3Spoonies podcast! In Episode 10, our hosts Claire, Jo, and Karen, alongside their special guest Beth Thomas, delve into the intricacies of living and working with ADHD. This episode is packed with insights, personal stories, and expert advice, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating life with ADHD or supporting someone who is.
Meet Beth Thomas
Beth Thomas, a Certified ADHD Life Coach and co-founder of Neuroinclusive Link, shares her journey from an undiagnosed university student to a thriving ADHD coach. Her story is one of resilience and self-discovery, highlighting the importance of understanding and embracing neurodivergence. You can find out more about Beth here.
Understanding ADHD
Beth provides a comprehensive overview of ADHD, emphasising that it is not merely a deficit but a different way of processing the world. She discusses the historical context of ADHD and its recognition dating back to Hippocrates. ADHD is characterised by differences in attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, but Beth stresses the unique strengths that come from understanding and leveraging these traits.
Challenges in Business
Beth candidly shares her personal challenges with ADHD in the business world, including imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and sensory overload. She emphasises the importance of recognising and accommodating these challenges to thrive in a business environment.
Client Experiences
Beth’s work with neurodivergent clients reveals common challenges such as low self-esteem and the pressures of living in a neurotypical world. She explains the importance of addressing issues like interoception—the ability to recognise bodily cues—and emotional regulation to enhance well-being and productivity.
The Positives of Neurodiversity
The episode also highlights the positives of working with neurodiverse individuals. Beth speaks passionately about the transformative journeys of her clients and the privilege of witnessing their growth and self-acceptance. Creating safe spaces for neurodivergent individuals to express themselves without judgment is a cornerstone of her practice.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those considering starting a business or currently struggling, Beth offers valuable advice. She stresses the importance of clarity in identifying challenges and leveraging strengths. She encourages seeking support and understanding that asking for help is a strategic business decision, not a sign of weakness.
Connect with Beth
Beth invites listeners to connect with her through various social media platforms and offers one-to-one coaching for individuals and organisations looking to foster a more neuroinclusive environment. Her passion for increasing psychological safety and productivity in workplaces is evident throughout the episode. You can find out more about Beth here.
Conclusion
This episode of 3Spoonies provides a deep dive into the world of ADHD in business, offering practical advice, shared experiences, and a supportive community. Whether you’re neurodivergent or supporting someone who is, the insights shared by Beth and the hosts are invaluable.
Stay tuned, stay informed, and keep track of your Spoons!
If you want to watch or listen to the full episode you can find it here.
Join our mailing list to get new episodes straight to your inbox every Thursday.