In this episode, Sharon sits down with ultra-endurance cyclist Jack Thompson, who shares his powerful story of ADHD, addiction, recovery, and purpose.

Jack’s journey offers a raw look at what happens when ADHD goes misunderstood — and how deep self-understanding and compassion can rebuild a life. Together, they unpack Jack's story and uncover Jack's parent's important actions that we all need to know about when things get rocky.

👉 Subscribe to the ADHD Families Podcast for real stories, practical strategies, and support that actually makes life easier.

Jack’s story of ADHD, addiction, and finding purpose through cycling

The link between stimulation-seeking and addiction cycles

How sport, movement, and structure can support mental wellbeing

How Jack's parents navigated his addiction and recovery and what we need to learn from this

Sharon’s grounded advice for parents supporting ADHD children

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction
03:20 – Jack’s early life and undiagnosed ADHD
07:45 – The path to addiction and what he was really seeking
14:10 – Finding clarity and healing through cycling
21:30 – The ADHD diagnosis that reframed everything
29:00 – How structure became Jack’s self-regulation tool
36:00 – Sharon’s insight: parenting from understanding, not control
44:15 – Reframing success for ADHD kids
51:00 – Final reflections: hope, humility, and healing

ADHD isn’t a deficit — it’s a brain difference that requires the right supports

Dysregulation is contagious

Real change happens when we stop fixing and start understanding

Connection always precedes correction

Routine, interest, and safety are the foundation of growth

🌍  jackultracyclist.com 
📸 Instagram: @jackultracyclist 
🎥 YouTube: Jack Ultra Cyclist 

Sharon Collon is a credentialed ADHD Coach & Parenting Consultant, founder of The Functional Family, and mum to three boys with ADHD. She’s helped over 40,000 families move from chaos to calm through her signature programs, coaching, and community.

📚 Learn more at thefunctionalfamily.com 
📧 [email protected] 
📸 Instagram: @thefunctionalfamily 

Join our free support group HERE.

Subscribe to The ADHD Family Newsletter for grounded guidance, parenting strategies, and stories that remind you — you’re not alone, and it can get easier.