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Have you ever looked at someone who seems full of potential and thought, “Why can’t they just get it together?”

I used to ask myself that a lot—about myself. About people I care about. And I know I’m not alone.

In this week’s episode of The Vibe With Ky Podcast, I sat down with the incredible Kristen Pressner to talk about that exact question. Kristen is a global HR executive, TEDx speaker, and passionate advocate for ADHD awareness and neurodivergence. She’s someone who truly gets it—because she had to live through the confusion before finding clarity.

This episode was personal. It was eye-opening. And honestly, it was full of those “Oh wow, that’s me” moments.

Who is Kristen Pressner?

Kristen is the Global Head of People & Culture at a multinational company. She’s also a mom of four, all of whom—along with her husband—are neurodivergent. Kristen’s TEDx talk, Why is it that so many people just ‘can’t get it together’?, is sparking important conversations around the globe.

She thought she understood ADHD—until she realized she didn’t. And that realization changed everything.

You can learn more about Kristen and watch her TEDx talk here: Kristen Pressner’s Website

What We Talked About

This conversation wasn’t about blaming or labeling. It was about understanding ADHD and neurodivergent people in a deeper, more compassionate way. Here are some of the big takeaways:

1. Misunderstanding ADHD is the norm, not the exception

Kristen openly shared how she once viewed her family’s behavior as laziness, lack of motivation, or disorganization. But once she understood the science of ADHD, it all made sense. ADHD isn’t a character flaw—it’s a neurological difference.

According to the CDC, around 9.8% of children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with ADHD—and many adults remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed (CDC, 2023).

2. The difference between “importance brains” and “interest brains”

This part blew my mind. Kristen explained how neurotypical brains are wired to respond to importance, while ADHD brains respond to interest. That means things like due dates or routines don’t light up the brain the same way. Urgency, novelty, fun? Those do.

It’s not about willpower—it’s about wiring.

3. The power of being a “Brain Friend”

Kristen coined this term in her talk. Being a “Brain Friend” means learning how someone’s brain works and supporting them in ways that actually help—not ways that make them feel broken.

This could look like:

  • Turning chores into a timed game
  • Choosing fun or interesting topics for school/work projects
  • Changing systems when they get boring

4. Why awareness isn’t enough—we need action

Kristen isn’t just raising awareness for people who already “get” ADHD. She’s calling on all of us—especially neurotypical folks—to be part of the solution. That includes workplaces, schools, and families.

Why This Matters (Especially for Adults with ADHD)

Many of us who grew up without a diagnosis have spent years wondering what’s “wrong” with us. We’ve been labeled disorganized, forgetful, late, scattered—when in reality, we were living in a world that wasn’t built for how our brains work.

This episode shines a light on that and gives people hope. Not false hope—but real, practical ways to better understand ourselves and the people around us.

Actionable Takeaway

Start by being a Brain Friend—to yourself or to someone you love. Choose one “hard” task in your life this week and turn it into something interesting, urgent, fun, or different.

Here’s how:

  1. Set a timer and race the clock.
  2. Add music or movement.
  3. Break it into the smallest steps possible.
  4. Pair it with something enjoyable (like a treat or podcast).

It doesn’t have to be perfect—just start.

FAQs About ADHD Awareness and Neurodivergence

Q. Can adults be diagnosed with ADHD even if they weren’t as kids?

A. Yes. Many adults are diagnosed later in life after years of struggling with focus, time blindness, and emotional regulation. Diagnosis can bring clarity and relief.

Q. What are some early signs of ADHD that are often missed?

A. Trouble with follow-through, time management, or emotional regulation. People may be labeled as “lazy” or “inconsistent” when it’s really neurological.

Q. How can workplaces support neurodivergent employees better?

A. Workplaces can:

  • Offer flexible schedules
  • Allow noise-canceling headphones or quiet workspaces
  • Give written and verbal instructions
  • Encourage task variety and novelty

These changes support everyone—not just neurodivergent staff.

Final Thoughts

I’m so grateful Kristen joined me for this conversation. Her ability to speak both as a professional and as a parent makes her message hit in a different way. If you’ve ever struggled to “get it together” or if you know someone who has, this episode is for you.

The world needs more understanding, more grace, and more people willing to be Brain Friends.

Let’s be those people.

Much love. Good vibes. – Ky