For years, Catherine Lee believed she was lazy, unintelligent, and simply not trying hard enough. An ADHD diagnosis didn't change who she was. It changed the story she'd been telling herself her entire life.
In this episode, Catherine shares her late ADHD diagnosis, how it transformed her self-esteem, and why understanding neurodiversity can create safer, more inclusive workplaces. We also explore ADHD at work, workplace accommodations, executive functioning, hyperfocus, productivity strategies, and why designing systems for different brains benefits everyone.
Catherine Lee is a Queensland-based occupational health and safety consultant, founder of the Neurodiverse Safe Work Initiative, and founder of Lethbridge Piper & Associates. With more than 30 years of experience, she helps organizations build safer, more inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent employees through evidence-based consulting, coaching, and systems design.
Episode Highlights
00:09:30 — Rewriting a lifetime of self-criticism
After receiving her ADHD diagnosis at 55, Catherine realized she wasn't lazy or unintelligent. Changing that lifelong internal narrative became one of the biggest turning points for her confidence, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing.
00:10:30 — Why workplaces unintentionally exclude neurodivergent people
Catherine explains that most workplace systems are designed with the assumption that everyone thinks and learns the same way. She argues that inclusive systems don't just help neurodivergent employees, they create safer workplaces for everyone.
00:22:30 — The hidden barrier to workplace accommodations
Many adults struggle to access ADHD assessments because of long waitlists and high costs, yet employers often require formal diagnoses before making adjustments. Catherine discusses why focusing on a person's actual needs is more effective than relying solely on labels.
00:31:00 — The productivity routine that actually works with ADHD
Instead of forcing herself through overwhelming task lists, Catherine begins each day by identifying her highest priorities before clearing quick "low-hanging fruit" tasks for an early dopamine boost. Timers and structured breaks help her stay productive without burning out.
00:33:30 — ADHD time blindness and protecting deep focus
Catherine shares how time blindness causes hours to disappear without her noticing, and why alarms, scheduled breaks, and exercise have become essential tools for managing hyperfocus and maintaining sustainable productivity.
00:38:10 — Building a life that works with your brain
Beyond work, Catherine talks about the routines that keep her grounded, including movement, cooking, family dinners, and protecting time for relationships. Working with her ADHD, rather than constantly fighting it, has made both work and life more sustainable.
Connect with Jeremy:
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/nageljeremy
Email: jeremy@focusbear.io
More from Focus Bear:
Website: https://focusbear.io
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/focus-bear/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@focusbearapp
Twitter: https://twitter.com/focusbear1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focus_bear/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focusbearapp/
Podcast: https://podcast.focusbear.io
Episode 140