Thriving with ADHD podcast: ADHD, Imposter Syndrome & Hidden Cognitive Strain
Nada
Many adults with ADHD appear successful on the outside while privately struggling with self-doubt, perfectionism, overwhelm, and the fear of being “found out.”
In this episode of Thriving with ADHD, host Nada Pupovac sits down with Jason McDaid to explore the relationship between ADHD, imposter syndrome, and what he calls Hidden Cognitive Strain—the often invisible mental and emotional effort required to keep performing while quietly struggling beneath the surface.
Together, they discuss
In this insightful episode, listeners will discover:
- ADHD and professional identity
- The connection between ADHD and imposter syndrome
- The experience of receiving an ADHD diagnosis later in life
- Why success doesn’t always feel like success
- Hidden Cognitive Strain and its impact on wellbeing
- The importance of seeking support and sharing your struggles
⚠️ Content Note: This episode includes discussion of depression, burnout, suicidal ideation, and mental health challenges.
A Unique Conversation for Thriving with ADHD
This episode marks several firsts for the Thriving with ADHD podcast.
Our first international guest — Jason joins us from Ireland, bringing a perspective that reminds us ADHD is a global experience that transcends borders and healthcare systems.
Our first guest outside the healthcare field — While many of our previous guests have come from medical or mental health backgrounds, Jason’s career as a fire engineer offers a unique perspective on how ADHD, self-doubt, and hidden struggles can affect professionals in any industry.
A male perspective on late ADHD diagnosis — We often hear important conversations about women being diagnosed later in life, but Jason’s story highlights that many men also spend decades trying to understand why life feels harder than it seems for others.
A timely conversation for Men’s Mental Health Month — June is Men’s Mental Health Month, making this discussion especially meaningful. Jason speaks candidly about the challenges of carrying struggles in silence, the importance of asking for help, and the power of vulnerability in recovery.
Together, these perspectives make for a powerful and thought-provoking conversation about ADHD, identity, self-worth, and mental wellbeing.
Why This Conversation Matters
We often assume that successful people feel successful.
But many adults with ADHD carry an invisible burden—questioning their abilities, hiding their struggles, and worrying that one day they’ll be exposed as not being good enough.
Jason’s story challenges that assumption. Through honesty, vulnerability, and lived experience, he invites us to rethink what success looks like and to have more compassion for ourselves and others.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re thriving on the outside while struggling on the inside, this conversation may resonate with you.
About Jason McDaid
Jason McDaid is a fire engineer, speaker, and founder of The 78% Club. After receiving an ADHD diagnosis just before turning 50, he began exploring the connection between ADHD, imposter syndrome, and hidden cognitive strain. Through workshops, speaking engagements, and personal storytelling, he helps professionals better understand the hidden pressures that often accompany success.
Listen to the full episode below.
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