Welcome to episode #102! We’re thrilled to be joined by Dr. Amanda Mullen today.
Dr. Amanda Mullen is a clinical psychologist, business owner, and keynote speaker passionate about helping people thrive using neurodivergence-friendly strategies. As the founder of Mindwork Psychology, Mindworks Online, and Think Differently, she has over 20 years of experience supporting individuals with ADHD, anxiety, and burnout. Amanda is the creator of Thrive 2025, a year-long online course designed to embed practical tools into daily life, particularly for neurodivergent minds. She’s also a mom, footballer, and matcha enthusiast who believes in living authentically—rubber duck included.
Welcome to the show, Amanda!
Questions
JN: Can you tell us about your experience with neurodiversity?
- Initially trained in outdated deficit models of ADHD and autism
- Didn’t realize she had ADHD and autistic traits until later
- High-functioning masking delayed recognition of her own neurodivergence
JN: What challenges did you face?
- Struggled with emotional regulation, impulsivity, and school discipline
- Strong sense of justice led to conflicts
- Heavy masking to fit in socially
JN: What changes have come post diagnosis?
- Diagnosis helped her understand herself and support clients better
- Reduced stigma in her personal and professional circles
- Able to talk openly on stage and implement practical strategies
JN: What challenges do you still face now?
- Balancing her neurodivergent needs with leadership in a large psychology practice
- No single playbook for neuroaffirming workplaces
- Navigating trial-and-error in supporting diverse clients and staff
JN: What neuroexceptional strengths are you leaning into now?
- Hyperfocus and deep curiosity help in content creation and therapy
- Embraces rapid learning and solution-focused approaches
- Enjoys designing neurodivergent-friendly programs
JC: What "work" projects are you concentrating on?
- Leading Mindwork Psychology with 14 staff
- Launched Thrive 2025, a year-long course for ADHDers
- Builds micro-learning, multimedia online programs
JC: How about the rest of the time? What do you enjoy doing in your off time?
- Passionate about running and football
- Took up soccer at 40 to challenge body image stigma
- Believes enjoyment—not performance—is key in sports
JC: Productivity tips – What do you do to optimise productivity during your working hours?
- Heavy tasks in early morning or late night
- Uses post-it notes for task clarity
- Acknowledges task initiation challenges midday
JC: What is some unhelpful productivity advice that doesn’t work for you?
- Over-reliance on novelty-based tools/apps
- Sustainable success comes from routines, not quick fixes
- Advocates boring consistency over “productivity hacks”
JN: What does your morning routine look like and how has it evolved over time?
- Biohacking enthusiast (e.g., Oura ring)
- Starts day with movement, hydration, sunlight, and no caffeine
- Outdoor yoga or running as grounding rituals
JC: How is your sleep? How do you switch off at night?
- Sleeps deeply, unlike many ADHDers
- Limits late-night hyperfocus despite temptation
- Mindful of overworking due to past health scares (cancer survivor)
JN: Where can people connect with you or find your work?
JC: Do you have any final words or asks for our audience?
- “Get to know yourself.”
- There is no one-size-fits-all ADHD solution.
- Let go of labels and cultivate self-awareness
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Email: jeremy@focusbear.io
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Episode 102