When High Ability Meets ADHD: Delayed Diagnosis and Midlife Transformation

Aug 18

What happens when two accomplished psychotherapists discover, well into adulthood, that they have ADHD? In this thought-provoking episode, host Diann Wingert welcomes Lisa Lackey, a licensed therapist, coach, speaker, and community builder, to candidly explore their parallel journeys of late diagnosis, high achievement, and the transformative power of midlife self-discovery.

Together, they unpack what it means to awaken to neurodivergence after decades of "successful" living, the intersection of menopause and mental health, and the unique journey women take as they move from striving and struggle toward authenticity and fulfillment in their second act.

Guest Bio: Lisa Lackey (she/her)

Lisa Lackey is a licensed psychotherapist, coach, and speaker with decades of experience supporting high-achieving individuals facing addiction, anxiety, depression, and now, navigating the complexities of neurodiversity and midlife transitions.

After being diagnosed with ADHD later in life, Lisa transformed her approach—creating supportive spaces for women, particularly Black women, to rediscover their authentic selves, reclaim joy, and build community in the second half of life. Lisa is passionate about spiritual growth, legacy work, and helping others write their own rules for fulfillment.

Episode Highlights – What You’ll Learn

Why ADHD is often missed in high-achieving women, and how self-awareness—and even reading the “right” book—can be a game changer.
How hyper-competence, overachievement, and the ability to "make it work" can hide ADHD symptoms for decades.
Understanding how hormonal changes bring ADHD and identity struggles front and center for so many women in midlife.
Lisa’s concept of the “second knowing”- waking up in midlife, letting go of societal shoulds, and connecting to your true purpose and inner wisdom.
How women—especially women of color—can build new definitions of success, heal generational burdens, and lift each other up.

Connect with Lisa Lackey

Website: Inside Out Recovery
LinkedIn: Lisa Lackey on LinkedIn

Mentioned by our guest:

Driven to Distraction by Ned Hallowell, MD - the book Lisa read in 2 hours & recognized her own ADHD

Bell Hooks - Black author, best known for her work on race, feminism & social class

Sankofa - a word in the Twi language of Ghana, meaning “to retrieve”

If something in this episode struck a chord, share it with a friend, leave us a review, or drop a comment on Spotify about your own late diagnosis and mid life awakening.

ADHD diagnosismidlife transitionHigh achievers