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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
To get the free download that accompanies this episode, go to: https://maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com/friendship
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For more information on the Make Time for Success podcast, visit: https://www.maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com (https://www.maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com/)
Gain Access to Dr. Christine Li’s Free Resource Library -- 12 downloadable tools and templates to help you bypass the impulse to procrastinate: https://procrastinationcoach.mykajabi.com/freelibrary
To work with Dr. Li on a weekly basis in her coaching and accountability program, register for The Success Lab here: https://www.procrastinationcoach.com/lab
Connect with Us!
Dr. Christine Li
• Website: https://www.procrastinationcoach.com (https://www.procrastinationcoach.com/)
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Caroline Maguire
• Website: https://carolinemaguireauthor.com/
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• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorCarolineM
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• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@authorcarolinem
• Podcast: https://adhdsocialplaybook.podbean.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/authorcarolinecm/