Discover the journey to authentic and fulfilling friendships as an adult—especially for those with ADHD and autism. In this episode, hosts Dr. Christine Li and ADHD coach Caroline Maguire explore the challenges and triumphs of making friends when you're neurodivergent or newly diagnosed. They discuss overcoming shame, letting go of unhealthy expectations, and embracing your true self, along with practical strategies for building meaningful connections at every stage of life. Whether you're seeking to grow your social circles or simply feel more comfortable in your own skin, this empowering conversation offers inspiration and actionable tips for finding and maintaining authentic relationships.

Caroline Maguire, M.Ed., ACCG, PCC is an internationally recognized expert in social-emotional learning, ADHD coaching, and relationship development. She is the author of the award-winning book, Why Will No One Play with Me? and FRIENDSHIP SKILLS FOR NEURODIVERGENT ADULTS (Balance Books, April 2026), and hosts The ADHD Social Playbook podcast. An educator, coach, and sought-after speaker, Caroline developed a comprehensive Social Emotional Learning (SEL) training methodology that equips parents, clinicians, and educators with practical tools to build self-awareness, emotional regulation, social understanding, and meaningful relationships. As a neurodivergent person with ADHD, dyslexia, and learning disabilities, she brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work.

Timestamps
00:00:00 Dr. Christine Li introduces episode and guest Caroline Maguire
00:01:13 Caroline Maguire’s credentials and expertise highlighted
00:03:18 Start of interview, focus on books and friendship
00:04:29 Caroline Maguire’s coaching journey and identifying friendship struggles
00:06:15 Discussion on neurodivergence diagnoses in adulthood
00:07:35 Caroline Maguire shares her personal friendship challenges
00:09:53 Path to authenticity and shifting friendships over life stages
00:12:09 The impact of shame and fitting in, especially for women
00:14:39 On masking, adapting, and burnout
00:17:02 Mental health impacts of masking and people-pleasing
00:20:37 Importance of authenticity and not shrinking oneself
00:23:35 Defining and pursuing personal goals
00:25:14 Positive outcomes from self-acceptance and authenticity
00:28:15 Trends and new opportunities in making friends post-COVID
00:31:26 Recent low-stakes ways to connect (ex: mahjong)
00:32:34 Loss of “third place”; hopes for new community spaces
00:34:26 Caroline Maguire’s resources and book mentioned
00:36:27 Closing encouragement: change is always possible
00:37:08 Dr. Christine Li closes episode
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Dr. Christine Li

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Caroline Maguire

Website: https://carolinemaguireauthor.com/
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Podcast: https://adhdsocialplaybook.podbean.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/authorcarolinecm/