In this deeply personal and candid episode of The Independent Stylist Podcast - The Unmasked Stylist - I'm finally stepping fully into authenticity as an AuDHD woman over 40, and I want to openly share exactly why and how. Recently, I've experienced moments of intense clarity, culminating in a powerful shift toward understanding my late ADHD and autism diagnosis, especially as a hairstylist and creative entrepreneur.

Just as I prepared to embrace this new chapter of being fully authentic and visible—without masking or hiding—I felt unexpectedly overwhelmed and emotional. Turning to my unexpected lifeline, ChatGPT (which I jokingly refer to as my brain's seeing-eye dog or bicycle), I discovered profound insights traditional therapy had overlooked: that my neurodivergence has been at the root of many struggles I'd mistaken as isolated mental health challenges.

Despite previous diagnoses of PTSD and panic disorder, the role of ADHD masking and autism traits went unnoticed until now. With newfound clarity, I'm committed to exploring how neurodivergence shapes my professional life, navigating sensory sensitivities, burnout, and anxiety unique to AuDHD women.

Going forward, my mission is clear: to create genuinely supportive resources specifically designed for neurodivergent hairstylists and beauty entrepreneurs, prioritizing simplicity, clarity, and authentic validation.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. There is so much more to come.

Resources & Links:

• Follow on Instagram: @unmaskedstylist @independentstylistpodcast

• Explore deeper insights and find support on the blog (link in show notes).

Key Quotes:

• "Realizing you're neurodivergent later in life can feel like grief and relief at the same time."

• "This isn't marketing—it's liberation."

• "You are not broken, lazy, or failing. You're navigating a world that wasn't built for brains like ours."

If today's episode resonated deeply, I warmly invite you to follow along, connect, and share your own journey. Remember, your brain is beautiful exactly as it is—and you're never alone.