Today I’m joined by Caroline Maguire, ADHD coach, author, and host of The ADHD Social Playbook podcast, to talk about her new book Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults.

In this conversation, we explore why friendship can feel so complicated for neurodivergent adults and why social connection is often treated like something people should “just know” how to do. Caroline shares practical insights about building friendships, navigating social anxiety, understanding social cues, and balancing authenticity with masking.

We also discuss the difference between practice friendships and deeper relationships, the fear of reaching out, and why friendship is not a personality trait but a skill that can be learned and strengthened over time.

Whether you have ADHD, identify as neurodivergent, or have ever felt unsure about where you fit socially, this conversation offers thoughtful, compassionate, and practical strategies for creating more meaningful connections.

Takeaways

• Friendship is a skill that can be developed
• Neurodivergent adults often need explicit social strategies
• Authenticity and masking are different experiences
• Reading the room is a learnable skill
• Building friendships requires practice and vulnerability

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Book and Author
• 08:02 Understanding Social Cues and Reading the Room
• 15:29 Transitioning from Practice to Leveled Up Friendship
• 22:40 Advice to Younger Self and Future Self
• 28:51 Key Takeaway: Friendship is a Skill

Connect with Connect with Caroline Maguire

Instagram: @authorcarolinecm
LinkedIn: Caroline Maguire on LinkedIn
YouTube: Caroline Maguire YouTube Channel

Connect with Daniella Karidi, PhD

[email protected]

Instagram: @ADHDtime
https://www.adhdtime.com/

Free Book Club https://bookclubs.com/clubs/5960965/join/dc42f3

Buy the book: https://amzn.to/4nb3AXbkeywords

ADHDtime, ADHD, Neurodivergent, Friendship Skills, ADHD Podcast, Friendship, Masking