A Conversation with Tracy Otsuka of ADHD for Smartass Women

When I was diagnosed with ADHD at age 31, it was a lot to process. Even though it was anticipated (I was the one seeking a screening with a psychiatrist after all) it was a shock to my system to go from thinking of myself as neurotypical to neurodivergent in an instant. In the last year, I have started to settle into this new identity, only mentioning it to select family and friends and working with my psychiatrist to dial in on appropriate medications. I also found support in online Facebook groups for women with ADHD and entrepreneurs with ADHD. Seeing other people share so vulnerably about their successes and challenges offered comfort. And when my book was released last fall, I shared in those spaces about the process of writing and publishing a book with my sister and how my ADHD played a role.

Somehow, one of those posts found its way to a woman named Tracy Otsuka, host of ADHD for Smartass Women. Before my diagnosis, I had heard an interview with Tracy on the Goal Digger Podcast. That was when I was consuming much content about ADHD in women, as I was starting to suspect it in myself. I couldn't say no when Tracy asked me if I would consider coming on her podcast! Episode 223 was my chance to share my story and talk about the process of publishing a cookbook and how my ADHD has played a role in my life.

At first, I was nervous about sharing my experiences. Knowing that I hadn’t shared about my diagnosis publicly meant this podcast would be a sort of coming out about my neurodivergence. But as soon as the interview began, Tracy made me feel comfortable and welcome. We started by discussing my background and how I came to be diagnosed with ADHD. I shared my procrastination, impulsivity, and disorganization struggles and how they impacted my daily life.

Throughout the interview, Tracy shared her own experiences and insights into living with ADHD, which made me feel less alone in my struggles. And just like every episode of her podcast, she asked about ways I've learned to manage my symptoms, such as using a timer to set reminders and creating the structure my brain needs to function well. 

Overall, my experience on the podcast was incredibly empowering. Tracy has created a community of smart, badass women living with ADHD; it was an honor to be a part of it. I’ve only received positive feedback from peers, including some that disclosed their own diagnoses that I hadn’t known about. If you're living with ADHD, I highly recommend checking out Tracy's website, podcast, and resources. Her approach and wealth of knowledge about ADHD make her a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand their strengths better and manage their symptoms. She is a leader in helping to break down the stigma of ADHD and empowering badass women in the process.