ADHD Beyond The Label

From the very first day of ADHD Beyond the Label, one name kept coming up, Kate Moryoussef.Kate often describes herself as the well behaved one. Quiet, shy, and always keeping her head down, but inside, the noise never stopped.ADHD is as hereditary as height. Understanding that helps us make sense of experiences like Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria. Instead of assuming someone is too emotional or overly sensitive, we can begin to understand what those feelings are really telling us.Masking and not living authentically can be exhausting. For many people it catches up with you until you feel there is nowhere left to turn. Kate recognised that and decided to create a space for women to feel seen, supported and safe.Her book The ADHD Women's Wellbeing Toolkit is more than a read. It is a guide to understanding ADHD through the female lens, helping women explore triggers behind burnout, overwhelm and emotional sensitivity. It offers practical tools to regulate the nervous system, live in sync with hormones, embrace creativity and build a life that truly works for them.Join Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds as they sit down with Kate Moryoussef for an open and moving conversation about her journey, her work and the message behind The ADHD Women's Wellbeing Toolkit in this week's episode of ADHD Beyond the Label.

In this powerful episode of ADHD Beyond the Label, Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds are joined by Marie Weidlich, a fintech marketing professional, fashion creator, and ADHD advocate whose journey spans continents, challenges, and transformation.Born and raised in Brazil before moving to London, Marie spent years feeling like she didn’t belong. From severe bullying at school and the loss of her grandfather to suicide, to navigating life undiagnosed with ADHD while building a career in the City, Marie’s story is one of resilience, determination, and self-discovery.After receiving a life-changing ADHD diagnosis as an adult, everything began to make sense. With a new sense of self-empathy and clarity, Marie not only rebuilt her own narrative but also turned her experience into action, launching a petition that sparked discussion in the UK Parliament about improving access to ADHD diagnosis and treatment.Alongside her advocacy and career in fintech, Marie also built London Fashion Today, a global fashion and travel platform that has empowered thousands of women to travel, create, and express themselves.This is a deeply honest conversation about identity, resilience, and what happens when someone finally understands themselves and uses that understanding to create change for others.A story of survival, purpose, and empowerment you won’t want to miss.

Marisa Poster is a Forbes 30 Under 30 entrepreneur, GBEA Young Entrepreneur of the Year, and co-founder of PerfectTed.Diagnosed with ADHD as a teenager, she turned to matcha as a replacement for coffee.When she moved to the UK and couldn't find it anywhere, she built the solution herself. Today, PerfectTed is Europe's largest matcha brand and the second biggest importer of matcha globally after Starbucks.In this episode, she joins ADHD 360 CEO Dr Phil Anderton and co-host John Reynolds to talk about what ADHD really looks like in the workplace. From masking to momentum, systems to self-awareness, Marisa shares how her diagnosis became the framework for how she leads.This is not a story about overcoming a challenge. It is a reframing of what ADHD can offer when it is understood, supported and allowed to thrive.

This episode of ADHD Beyond the Label features Alex Partridge, founder of UniLad and LADBible, and host of ADHD Chatter, where he speaks with experts, psychiatrists and public figures about the many sides of ADHD.Alex was diagnosed with ADHD at 34. By that point, he had built two of the UK's biggest media brands, but still didn't feel settled in himself.In this conversation, he speaks with ADHD 360 CEO, Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds about the version of success people saw, and the quieter struggles they didn't. About years spent shape-shifting to fit in, chasing validation, and questioning why none of it ever felt quite right.It's not a story of overcoming. It's a story of understanding. And how the right diagnosis can completely reframe the way we see ourselves, both past and present.

From an art-school project at 50 to one of the UK's fastest-growing beauty brands, meet Maxine Laceby, CEO and co-founder of Absolute Collagen.This week on ADHD Beyond the Label, Maxine Laceby joins hosts Phil Anderton and John Reynolds to share how a kitchen-table experiment became Absolute Collagen, the award-winning marine collagen brand founded by women, for women.Maxine shares how her ADHD has been both a challenge and a driving force:Impulsivity that pushed her to take bold, game-changing risksHyperfocus that fuelled her relentless drive for growthResilience built through a turbulent childhoodTogether, they unpack the lessons of entrepreneurship, the link between ADHD and creativity, and what it truly takes to embrace being different, in life, in business, and in yourself.

‘Neurodivergence isn't a brake on progress - it might actually be the engine behind it.’In this episode of ADHD Beyond the Label, Dr Phil Anderton & John Reynolds talk with Dex Hunter-Torricke.Dex has worked directly with some of the biggest names in tech, Eric Schmidt at Google, Elon Musk at SpaceX, Mark Zuckerberg at Facebook.He's seen up close how innovation accelerates when neurodivergent thinkers are not only welcomed, but empowered.Dex believes that all but one of his big-tech bosses were likely neurodivergent - and in Silicon Valley, that's not something people hide. It's often a headline strength.Neurodivergence is credited as a driver of creation, disruption, and problem-solving. (Of course, hyper-focus and intense work cultures can also lead to burnout - a conversation for another day).But outside that ecosystem, especially in the UK, neurodivergence is still too often masked, misunderstood, or surrounded by stigma & shame.And that has consequences:• ideas unspoken• innovation lost• potential untappedThere's so much we could learn from the way Silicon Valley elevates difference rather than burying it under rigid protocols and one-size-fits-all HR performance reviews.Today, alongside recently joining the HM Treasury board, Dec is using his platform, experience and extensive networks to take n some of humanities most urgent challenges.

This week on Beyond the Label we're joined by Darcus Beese OBE - trailblazing music executive, former President of Island Records, and the force behind artists including Amy Winehouse, Jessie J, and The Killers.From growing up in 1970s West London to shaping global music culture, Darcus shares his late ADHD diagnosis, the pivotal role it played in his life, and the lessons he's carrying forward. Together we explore:Why ADHD in the arts is more common than you might thinkHow fight-or-flight instincts shaped his resilience and creativityThe highs and hardships of working with world-famous artistsWhy understanding mental health in the music industry is long overdueIn this week's episode of ADHD Beyond the Label, Darcus joins Phil Anderton and John Reynolds for an inspiring, unfiltered conversation about creativity, survival, and redefining success.

In this episode of ADHD Beyond the Label, Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds discuss ADHD and inflammation with leading Professor Dan Nicolau Jr.Dan is a mathematician, engineer and physician. He completed his DPhi in mathematics at Oxford and his medical degree at Green-Templeton College, Oxford. He was a Miller Postdoctoral Fellow at UC Berkeley in the laboratory of MAR Koehl.Dan's research focusses on using mathematics and computer science methods to better understand complex biological systems, particularly as they relate to disease states, inflammation and ageing. A unifying theme of this work is viewing immune networks as devices of computation and control, with disease states disturbing the native topology.

This week on Beyond the Label, we were joined by none other than Heston Blumenthal OBE - the world-renowned chef, innovator, and pioneer of multi-sensory gastronomy. Known for pushing the boundaries of food at his three Michelin-starred restaurant The Fat Duck, Heston has redefined how we experience flavour, memory, and emotion through food.But behind the culinary genius is also a story of neurodivergence. Diagnosed with ADHD in 2017, Heston opened up to us about how his busy mind, boundless creativity, and ability to "fall down rabbit holes" shaped his career and inspired some of his most daring dishes - from crab ice cream to The Sound of the Sea.We spoke about:The link between ADHD and creativity in the kitchenHis childhood school reports that simply read "can do better”How he translated French cookbooks as a teenager and discovered food science through curiosityWhy the way we perceive food can change the way it tastesHis openness about ADHD and bipolar diagnoses - and the importance of raising awareness to remove shameAs Heston put it, the brain is "a very busy thing" - and learning about ADHD helped him understand not just his challenges, but also the unique strengths that fuelled his career.In this week's episode of ADHD Beyond the Label, Heston joins Phil Anderton and John Reynolds to share his journey, from misplaced dustpans in fridges to pioneering dishes that changed the way the world thinks about food.

In Episode 3 of ADHD: Beyond The Label, adventure Jordan Wylie MBE and ADHD specialist Rebecca Whelan share their personal journeys from hidden struggles to life-changing clarity after diagnosis.In this insightful series, Dr. Phil Anderton and John Reynolds challenge common misconceptions, speaking with high achievers from business and media about their real-life experiences with ADHD.Together, they uncover the truth behind the diagnosis - dispelling stigma and revealing how ADHD does not have to be a limitation but rather an asset.

In episode 19 of ADHD Beyond the Label, Sarah Ann Macklin joins Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds for a conversation about self-awareness, masking, and what it means to finally have language for something you've felt your whole life.Sarah shares how ADHD shaped her success in ways she didn't recognise at the time - how perfectionism, burnout, and constant overthinking became normal.She speaks honestly about the years she spent pushing herself hard, while quietly assuming she just needed to try harder or be better.

In this powerful and uplifting episode of ADHD Beyond the Label, Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds sit down with ADHD coach and mum Charlie Faulkner for a candid conversation about integrity, identity, and the importance of doing things properly.Charlie shares her journey from navigating her daughter’s ADHD diagnosis at a time when support felt like a closed book, to completing a year-long accredited coaching qualification so she could truly make a difference.In a world where anyone can pay a small fee and call themselves an “ADHD coach,” this episode tackles the urgent need for standards, regulation, and professionalism in an unregulated industry.The conversation explores:Why proper accreditation in ADHD coaching mattersThe crucial difference between coaching and therapySupporting neurodivergent students through the vulnerable university transitionThe hidden impact of rejection sensitivity and crushed self-esteem in schoolsADHD in motherhood and the isolation many mums silently carryThe emotional power of diagnosis—and the relief of finally feeling seenCharlie introduces a beautiful metaphor that may change how you think about ADHD forever: the “care label.” Just like a label inside a garment tells you how to care for it, understanding ADHD helps individuals and families know how to care for themselves with compassion instead of criticism.From stories of resilience and grit (including achieving record GCSE results after being underestimated) to star-jumping in reindeer antlers at an international conference, this episode balances depth with joy, reminding us that structure and professionalism can coexist with playfulness and authenticity.Whether you're a parent, educator, young adult, or someone exploring your own neurodivergent identity, this conversation offers warmth, clarity, and hope.Because sometimes, the most powerful thing we can give someone is simply this: You are seen.

In this powerful episode of ADHD Beyond the Label, Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds sit down with Jess Rad, to explore what happens when neurodiversity is no longer hidden, but celebrated.Jess shares the deeply personal journey that began with her daughter’s late neurodivergent identification and led to her own exploration of ADHD. What started as navigating EHCPs and education systems became a catalyst for profound self-understanding, validation, and purpose.Together, they unpack:- Why so many adults discover their ADHD only after their children are diagnosed- The emotional journey from denial and anger to acceptance and empowerment- How shame around “not conforming” can be more damaging than any label- The overlooked sensory experiences that shape daily life — from haircuts to school environments- Why curiosity may be the most powerful starting point for changeJess speaks passionately about creating safe and brave spaces in businesses and communities — environments where people can unmask without fear of judgment. Through her Neurocurious events, she’s working to normalize and mainstream conversations around ADHD, autism, and intersectional identity, reframing neurodivergence as a competitive advantage rather than a weakness.Drawing on Stoic philosophy and Elizabeth Gilbert’s metaphor of fear as a passenger (not the driver), this episode challenges listeners to rethink how they view ADHD. You may not be able to change your neurotype, but you can change how you think about it.At its heart, this conversation is about removing shame, changing the narrative, and building a world where someone can say, “Hi, I’m ADHD,” as casually as ordering a coffee and be met with understanding.

Join hosts Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds as they sit down with entrepreneur, philanthropist and podcast host, Brogan Garrit-Smith for a candid conversation about life with ADHD beyond the stereotypes.In this powerful episode, Brogan reflects on her personal journey, the resilience she’s developed through life’s challenges, and how embracing neurodiversity has reshaped her sense of purpose and success. Together, they unpack the myths that still surround ADHD and explore how understanding your wiring can be the key to unlocking your potential.Whether you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD, know someone who has, or just want a fresh perspective on what it really means to thrive with a neurodivergent mind, this conversation will leave you inspired and empowered.

Do you dream of flying?Of becoming an aviator?If you’re diagnosed with ADHD, that dream could be effectively over. The door is probably firmly closed.And if you’re a young person with that ambition and later receive a diagnosis, it’s closed before you even get a chance to try.  It’s far too difficult to overcome the stigma. ADHD is classed as a disability in this context, and the system still appears to treat it as an automatic disqualifier.  Which raises a bigger question. How many incredible aviators are already flying with ADHD, undiagnosed or unsupported, because seeking a diagnosis would end their careers?How many feel they can’t be honest about their own neurodiversity?That feels archaic given what we now understand about ADHD, focus, performance, and capability.On the next episode of ADHD: Beyond the Label, Dr Phil Anderton PhD and John Reynolds are joined by Beth Long and Squadron Leader Mark “Suggs” Sugden from the Mark Long Trust.After BBMF fighter pilot Squadron Leader Mark Long tragically lost his life in the crash of Spitfire Mk356 on 25th May 2024, his widow Beth and family established the Mark Long Trust.His legacy now lives on through flying scholarships and access to aviation delivered in partnership with organisations like Flying Scholarship for Disabled People, opening doors that were previously closed.This episode isn’t just about aviation. It’s about fairness. About outdated systems and dated thinking. And about whether we are brave enough to rethink what “capable” really means.Some doors shouldn’t be closed by a label.

In this powerful and insightful episode of ADHD Beyond the Label, hosts Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds sit down with the remarkable Dr Carly Jones MBE FRSA—an internationally respected autistic advocate, policy leader, author, and advisor who has spent nearly two decades driving meaningful change for autistic people across education, healthcare, government, justice, aviation, business, and beyond.Across this conversation, we explore:The intersection of ADHD and Autism and why understanding both mattersGendered experiences in Autism and why diagnosis is often missed in women and girlsSafety, safeguarding, and the realities autistic people face in education, healthcare, and societyCarly’s landmark advocacy work—from addressing the United Nations to influencing UK and international policyHope, resilience, and what real inclusion should look likeWith honesty, warmth, expertise, and passion, Carly offers an unmissable blend of professional insight and lived experience, inviting us to look far beyond labels and towards genuine understanding and change.

In this episode of ADHD Beyond The Label, Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds talk to Lou Woods.In this insightful interview the trio discuss personal experiences with ADHD, exploring professional challenges, career journeys from DJing to high-profile events, and the importance of understanding neurodiversity in workplace settings. We challenge stereotypical gender perceptions of ADHD symptoms and advocate for supportive work environments.

In this episode of ADHD Beyond the Label, Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds talk to AuDHDer, scientist, storyteller, and founder of ADHD Girls, Dr. Samantha Hiew.After achieving a doctorate in cancer research, Samantha was diagnosed with ADHD at 40, after years of feeling lost in a world that didn’t quite fit.In this episode we discuss a personal journey through scientific research, exploring how understanding genetics and neurodiversity can provide insights into human experiences, particularly focusing on ADHD, autism, and the challenges women face in professional and personal contexts.

In this episode of ADHD Beyond the Label, Dr Phil Anderton and John Reynolds talk with radio presenter, DJ and BBC Make a Difference Award recipient Ryan Swain."ADHD is a tornado - and you can get lost in the middle of it" is how Ryan explains ADHD when he speaks to kids in schools today. What makes this so powerful is that no one was talking like this when Ryan was a pupil.Instead of understanding, he experienced exclusion.Instead of support, he was labelled.Now, Ryan pours his energy into giving young people what he never had - language, understanding, and permission to learn differently.ADHD isn't bad behaviour. It isn't a choice. It's a neurobiological condition - and when it goes unrecognised, the damage can last far beyond the classroom.This conversation reflects not just lived experience, but the impact of turning adversity into purpose - becoming what was missing for others.

"I've always known I have ADHD"Steven Thai aka 'The prawn King' is this week's guest on ADHD Beyond the Label.Having met hosts John Reynolds & Dr Phil Anderton at Ideas Fest and sharing his back story, Steven was invited to be part of this filming series.We discuss the personal journey of understanding ADHD, exploring how unique traits like crisis management and social adaptability can be viewed as strengths, and the ongoing process of self-improvement and leadership development.The resilience and relentless drive to survive and protect family is both inspiring and humbling.This is a conversation not to miss....