Ever feel like friendships are way harder than they should be? In this conversation, I sit down with ADHD coach, educator, and author Caroline Maguire to unpack why so many neurodivergent adults struggle with connection—and what’s actually going on beneath the surface. We explore the hidden patterns that keep us stuck, from people-pleasing to rejection sensitivity, and why “just be yourself” isn’t always that simple.

Caroline shares powerful insights from her new book on friendship skills for neurodivergent adults, helping us rethink what authentic connection really looks like. If you’ve ever questioned your relationships, felt like “too much,” or wondered why friendships don’t stick, this episode will open your eyes—and give you hope for building connections that truly feel good.

Episode Timeline Highlights

[0:00] - The people-pleasing trap and why it sabotages authentic friendships

[2:17] - Masking, confidence issues, and the cost of trying to fit in

[5:20] - What actually fills your “social cup” (and why most advice gets it wrong)

[8:23] - The impulsive friendship cycle and dopamine-driven connections

[14:12] - What neurodivergent kids experience socially—and how it carries into adulthood

[19:25] - Why ADHDers are more likely to be bullied and excluded

[22:58] - How unhealthy friendship patterns continue into adult life

[28:32] - Practical tools: autopilot friendships, body doubling, and social systems

[35:33] - The difference between acquaintances, emerging friends, and real friendships

[41:19] - Rejection sensitivity, emotional flooding, and how to interrupt the spiral

[45:52] - What it really means when someone says “you’re too sensitive”

[49:49] - The ultimate friendship litmus test: how you feel after spending time together

Links & Resources

Caroline Maguire, M.Ed., ACCG, PCC, is an internationally recognized expert in ADHD, social-emotional learning (SEL), and relationship development. She’s the author of Why Will No One Play with Me? and Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults (April 2026), focused on building authentic connections.

A coach, educator, and speaker, Caroline developed a widely used SEL methodology to support emotional regulation, self-awareness, and social confidence. She also hosts The ADHD Social Playbook podcast.

As a neurodivergent individual with ADHD, dyslexia, and learning differences, she brings both lived experience and professional expertise to her work.

Her work has been featured in ADDitude, WebMD, and TODAY Parenting. She’s also a TEDx speaker and keynote presenter at the International Conference on ADHD.

Instagram/Linkedin @authorcarolinem

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