What happens when you finally get an ADHD or autism diagnosis — and then have to explain it to the people who’ve known you your whole life?

In this special New Year episode of Late to Know, I’m joined by my first-ever guests — Amy, diagnosed with ADHD, and Rhi, diagnosed with autism — as we reflect on late diagnosis, misdiagnosis, and the emotional work of helping others understand the parts of us they couldn’t see.

Together, we talk openly about:

• Being treated for anxiety and depression when ADHD or autism was the missing piece
• The relief and fear that comes with late diagnosis
• Masking, shame, and feeling like a fraud when you finally tell people the truth
• How it can be invalidating when loved ones sometimes respond with “but everyone feels like that”
• Letting go of self-blame and unrealistic expectations as we head into a new year
• Learning to set boundaries without believing you’re a “bad friend”
• Navigating relationships, work, and feedback when your brain struggles to feel “finished”

This episode is for adults navigating the early stages of ADHD or autism diagnosis — and for partners, friends, and family who want to understand their neurodivergent loved ones better.

New year. Same me. Just with more clarity, compassion, and language for what’s always been there.