Contributors

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Host

Julie Legg

Julie Legg (New Zealand) is a creative whose adventurous spirit has shaped a dynamic career as a professional actor, voice-over artist, marketer, business owner, writer, and food photographer. Now an author with HarperCollins, her debut book, The Missing Piece - A Woman's Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHD (2024), reflects her passion for storytelling and connection too.

Diagnosed with ADHD at 52, Julie describes it as a transformative moment, offering clarity and understanding that resonates with many women discovering ADHD in adulthood. She shares her journey of self-discovery through her blog, Rediscover, where she chronicles life as a homesteader, swapping corporate life for the serenity (and challenges) of protecting her fruit trees from possums. Julie’s work and writing celebrate growth, resilience, and finding the missing pieces of life’s puzzle.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-legg-author/
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Co-host

Jel Legg

Jel Legg (New Zealand) is a music producer, audio engineer, and musician with over 35 years of experience. His eclectic career spans electronics engineering, web development, and music, with contributions to prestigious projects ranging from space satellites to the Bugatti Veyron and iconic music websites for Decca, EMI, Universal, and Warner.

Diagnosed with ADHD at 55, Jel embraced the clarity it brought to his life and now channels his insights into his work at Studio 109. As part of the studio band OLDER, he recently released Unmasked, an album exploring the ADHD journey and connecting with others navigating similar experiences.

https://adhdifference.nz/about/

Guests

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Angela Raspass

Angela Rapass (Syndey, Australia) is a self-leadership advocate, mentor, and entrepreneur who has been self-employed since 2003. She built a thriving small business marketing agency serving clients across three states, but behind the scenes, Angela grappled with what she calls "Perpetual Potential." Despite achieving traditional success, she struggled with self-doubt and felt her creativity and energy weren’t fully realized.

At 53, Angela’s ADHD diagnosis transformed her understanding of herself and her approach to life and work. What once seemed like shortcomings became clear strengths: her supercharged divergent thinking, ability to see endless possibilities, and gift for pivoting.

https://www.angelaraspass.com.au/

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Ashley Cairns

Ashley Cairns (New Zealand) is a dedicated Mental Health Counsellor originally from just outside Syracuse, New York. After earning her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with Honors from SUNY Potsdam in 2008 and her Master of Science in Mental Health Counselling with Honors from SUNY Plattsburgh in 2010, Ashley relocated to Auckland, New Zealand, in 2012. Her career has spanned various roles in community mental health, including gambling counseling, residential care, and helpline support.

In 2019, Ashley pivoted from community health to establish her own therapy practice, leading to the creation of A Change for Better (ACFB)—a comprehensive platform that connects the public with therapists and provides resources for professionals growing their practices. 

https://ashleycairns.com/

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Cali Keating

Cali Keating LCSW-S is a neurodivergent therapist for neurodivergent clients, specializing in ADHD, OCD and autism – the dual/triple diagnosis phenomenon of autism/ADHD/OCD, autism/ADHD, and ADHD/OCD. 


She works with adults, providing psychotherapy to process anything they need but also using motivational interviewing, psychoeducation, executive skills coaching, and IFS parts work to help folks live well with ADHD. 

http://callisonkeatinglcsw.com

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Caroline Beresford

Caroline Beresford (NSW, Australia) is an accredited ADHD coach, facilitator and speaker, trained to help people with ADHD and executive function challenges and aim to realise their goals.

Through her lived experience, she identified a need for improved access to education and support for organisations, individuals and families navigating their unique, neurodiverse journey. 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-beresford-the-addvocacy-project/

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Dana Baker-Williams

Dana Baker-Williams is an ADHD and Anxiety Coach who helps parents navigate the chaos, big emotions, and challenges of a neurodivergent family. She combines personal experience with neuroscience-based strategies to help parents reduce disruptive behaviors, navigate big emotions, and foster stronger connections.


Through personalized coaching, small groups, and speaking engagements, Dana equips parents with practical tools to meet their uniquely wired children where they are with confidence and grace.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/parentinginreallife/

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Dani Donovan

Dani Donovan (USA) is an award-winning ADHD creator whose viral comics and TikTok videos helped build an online community of validation and solidarity for neurodivergent adults. Her first infographic, “ADHD Storytelling,” went viral within hours, amassed over 100 million views, and was even reposted by celebrities like Mindy Kaling. She was the closing keynote speaker for the 2021 International ADHD Conference and has been featured in publications such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Guardian.

Dani's illustrations feature in ADHDifference podcast co-host Julie Legg's book: The Missing Piece - A Woman's Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHD.

https://adhddd.com/

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Darrin Bull

Darrin Bull (New Zealand) is a Strategy and Change leader, specialising in guiding organisations to adapt to ongoing trends in the world. New Zealand because of its geography, tends to lag behind the world in responding to these trends, but never-the-less, all trends will have an impact. This is actually an advantage as Darrin is able to assess how other countries have responded to these trends and find the best ways to adapt.

His focus on "making the impossible, possible” is delivered through leadership, learning and creativity. Darrin is the spokesperson for ADHD New Zealand.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrin-bull/

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Dr Alessandra Wall

Powerful, driven women with big dreams and even bigger ambitions are rising to the top. Yet, at their peak, things can be lonely, and finding a partner who matches their level of excellence is rare.


For over 20 years, Dr. Alessandra Wall, CEO and founder of Noteworthy, international speaker, author, and psychologist, has been coaching top leaders and elite to lead with authority, amplify impact, and build fulfilling lives—both in and out of the office. 


Her work has transformed hundreds of executive women’s lives and improved workplaces from nimble start-ups to Fortune 100 companies.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralessandrawall

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Dr Jaime Raygoza

Dr Jaime Raygoza, founder of Rainbow Career Coaching (California, USA), specializes in stress management, burnout prevention, and career development. With a PsyD in Human and Organizational Psychology, Dr Raygoza blends academic insight with innovative techniques such as Laughter Yoga, empowering professionals to build resilience and embrace authenticity. 

A certified Career Development Coach and proud Gay Latino, he is committed to fostering inclusive, mentally healthy workplace environments. Diagnosed with ADHD in 2022, Dr. Raygoza's diagnosis marked the beginning of a transformative self-discovery journey. Since then, he has developed effective strategies tailored to his neurodivergent needs and now shares these tools to help others succeed in both their personal and professional lives. 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-gabriel-raygoza/

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Dr Nathan Mellor

Dr Nathan Mellor (Oklahoma, USA) is a thought-leader, two-time TEDx speaker, author, and CEO of Strata Leadership, and an experienced executive coach who has provided over 3,000 coaching sessions for executive leaders. He serves as a sounding board, thought partner, and a source of encouragement for leaders seeking to maximize their effectiveness. 

Diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 30, Nathan's life was profoundly reshaped by this pivotal revelation. What began as a struggle with stigma and self-doubt transformed into a triumphant embrace of his unique strengths.


https://strataleadership.com/nathan-mellor

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Dr Sara Thompson

Sara Thompson (USA) is a dynamic public speaking coach with over a decade of experience helping individuals share their unique voices and stories with confidence. Armed with a Ph.D. in Theatre and Performance Studies, Sara combines a "communications nerd" approach with techniques from the world of performance to help her clients shine on stage or in any presentation setting.


Passionate about embracing authenticity, Sara equips diverse, creative professionals with the tools to navigate the ever-changing professional world. Her coaching focuses on building confidence, understanding the connection between physiology and voice, and applying performer-inspired methods to enhance presentation skills.  Sara was diagnosed with ADHD as a young adult.

https://thatpresentationcoach.com

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Emily Cox

Emily Cox (North Carolina, USA) is a licensed therapist with over 10 years of experience working with kids, families, and adults. She has experience supporting neurodivergent individuals access their inner tools and strengths. 

Using creative approaches can be especially helpful with young children with big feelings, teens unsure about the talk therapy process, and those working through trauma that can be difficult to discuss through words. Emily often uses creativity, collaboration, and expression in her work. 

https://www.larkspurtherapy.com

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J M Shaw

JM Shaw (Alberta, Canada) is a fantasy fiction writer,  celebrated for her Callum Walker series. She has a background in x-ray technology, psychology, and personal training, as well variable personal interests in martial arts, airsoft, and running. 

JM Shaw was diagnosed with ADHD and autism in adulthood. She shares her unique journey to understanding her neurodivergence, a process that began after her son’s diagnosis in 2019. 

https://jmshawauthor.com/

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Janine VanStee

Janine VanStee is a retired special educator with over 30 years experience. From a young age, Janine knew she wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. As she explored various career paths, including teaching, psychology, nursing, and medicine, Janine eventually found her calling in special education. Throughout her 30-year career, Janine worked with students of all ages from Pre-K to age 26, serving every disability area. 


It wasn’t until she reached the age of 50 that Janine discovered she had been living with ADHD herself along with her husband, Jay, and her two adult children who were also adult diagnosis.  


Now, as a coach, Janine has founded, J VanStee ADHD Life Coaching a coaching service for people with ADHD or executive functioning difficulties. 


https://www.jvansteeadhdlifecoaching.net/

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Julio Rivera

Julio Angel Rivera is a New York City writer, mental health advocate, and self-defense coach.  The Brazilian jiu jitsu, judo, and Japanese jiu jitsu black belt has also taught kickboxing, MMA, and Krav Maga.  Decades of training have shaped his fighting philosophy, but just as important has been Julio’s experience with mental illness, trauma recovery, mindset, and emotional regulation. In 2018, he sold his martial arts academy to focus on writing, private instruction, and corporate workshops.  


A former world masters jiu jitsu champion who is open about his mental and emotional struggles, Julio’s first book, Brokedown Sensei: How I Fought Trauma and Bipolar Disorder From the Outside In, is available on Amazon.  His new book, Internal Jiu Jitsu: Conquering Mind and Body Resistance by Giving Way, was released in May 2025.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julioar/

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Laurence Pratt

Laurence Pratt (London, UK) is a certified ADHD coach and the founder of ADHD Goals, with a background in UX research and design. 
 
After discovering his own ADHD later in life, Laurence recently transitioned into coaching to help others harness the strengths of ADHD through personalised coaching, practical strategies, and the ADHD Goals podcast.

https://adhdgoals.co/

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Leonie-Ruth Acland

Leonie-Ruth Acland (NSW, Australia) is a vibrant, internationally experienced advocate and mentor with a unique perspective on neurodiversity. Residing in New South Wales, Australia, Ruth embraced her ADHD identity at 68, following a journey of self-discovery sparked by conversations with family, friends, and professionals. She has chosen to identify with ADHD rather than pursue a formal diagnosis, aligning with her values and lifestyle.

Ruth's global adventures have taken her to places like Java and Tanzania, where she has worked alongside organizations like the United Nations. Through these experiences, she has honed her emotional intelligence and non-conformist approach to life, empowering women and fostering their growth worldwide. Acknowledging the complexities of ADHD later in life, Ruth uses her personal insights and strengths to inspire others, proving that flourishing is possible at any age.

https://pomegranatecircle.com/home/tanglewood/

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Michael W Allison

Michael W. Allison, is a renowned keynote speaker, best-selling author, and resilience expert who has inspired thousands of individuals and organizations worldwide to overcome adversity and unlock their potential. A Purple Heart U.S. Marine Combat Veteran and Founder & CEO of The Adversity Academy, Michael delivers transformative insights on leadership, resilience, and peak performance. 


Known for his engaging storytelling and actionable strategies, Michael empowers audiences to break through limiting beliefs, foster innovation, and lead with confidence. As the author of Overcoming Adversity and Break the Bottle, Michael shares powerful tools and real-world lessons to help individuals and teams achieve excellence in every area of life.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/iammichaelwallison/

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Raewyn Hayes

Raewyn Heays (New Zealand) is the passionate National Coordinator of ADHD New Zealand, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with ADHD and their families. Raewyn has been working with ADHD New Zealand since 2019, building on the organization’s legacy since its founding in 1979. She oversees a wide range of initiatives, including managing resources, online forums, and webinars designed to educate and empower the ADHD community.

With a keen focus on advocacy, Raewyn works closely with government bodies, educators, and healthcare professionals to address the unique challenges faced by individuals with ADHD. 

https://www.adhd.org.nz/

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Romy Graichen

Romy Graichen (Manchester, UK) from Therapy Advances is a dedicated advocate for ADHD and neurodivergent inclusion, drawing on her lived experience as a multiply neurodivergent individual—ADHD, Autistic, Dyslexic, and Dyspraxic—to inform her work as a therapist, trainer, and consultant. 

Late diagnosed, she understands both the challenges and strengths of neurodivergence and focuses on creating affirming, inclusive spaces for individuals and professionals.

https://tatherapy.co.uk/

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Stephon Brown

S. Stephon Brown was diagnosed as neurodivergent (ADD) at a very young age. Throughout early life, he constantly struggled with traditional education techniques and communication styles because he had no system to understand or express what he was going through. That changed in 1993 when he began to study improvisation & improv therapy through a program at his school. 


The Covid Lockdown of 2020 gave Stephon the time and perspective needed to reevaluate his approach to life and start down a new career path. 


Since then he has published two books on behavior theory, developed the concepts of Mental Cartography & Performative Communication, and founded his own musing company all with the goal to help other individuals and companies who are struggling but may not know why... just like he was.

http://www.thebarstooltheories.com/

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Theresa Leah Levine

Theresa Lear Levine is an EFT Master Practitioner, Certified Hypnotherapist, and the Founder of Becoming More Me.  After years of battling trauma, high-functioning anxiety & ADHD, Theresa found herself stuck in a cycle of exhaustion, distraction & dissatisfaction. Despite outward success and an abundant life, she struggled to be present and truly fulfilled.


Her turning point came when she discovered the profound impact of nervous S-system nourishment, subconscious mind shifts, & the law of attraction. By integrating Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), hypnotherapy & energetic strategies, she unlocked a new level of calm, clarity & confidence—a transformation she now facilitates for her clients worldwide.


Theresa is the author of the international best-seller, “Becoming More Me: Tapping into Success—Subconscious Secrets of an ADHD Entrepreneurial Mom.” 

https://www.instagram.com/theresalearlevine/

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Tina Hazen

Tina Hazen, founder of Think Inside the Boxx, has been helping individuals and families create order and balance since 2008. A Registered Nurse (BSN), author of "LIFE IS MESSY: Organizing Strategies for Your Head and Home", and inspiring speaker, Tina blends her expertise in mental health with practical organizational systems to tackle anxiety and ADHD.


Diagnosed with anxiety and ADHD as an adult, Tina uses her personal journey to connect with clients, providing compassionate solutions for their unique challenges. Whether decluttering homes, speaking to groups, or coaching on life’s messiness, Tina’s energy and empathy inspire change.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-hazen-73ab34a/

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Upton Rand

Upton Rand is an author, business owner, and the visionary founder of Gay Mens Field Guide LLC. Diagnosed with ADHD at the age of six, Upton’s life has been a vibrant tapestry of creativity, resilience, and adventure—peppered with moments of humour and learning. Rather than viewing ADHD as a limitation, Upton embraced it as a powerful difference that drives his imagination and fuels his entrepreneurial ambitions.

Through his writing and product designs, Upton seeks to connect with others, share stories that matter, and create tools that inspire and empower. His journey stands as a testament to how embracing one’s uniqueness can lead to both personal fulfilment and professional success.

https://www.gaymensfieldguide.com/

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