When one twin has ADHD and gets labeled “the bad one” (Lisa McNeil’s story)
Podcast: ADHD Aha!Published On: Tue Oct 14 2025
Description: Lisa McNeil grew up being called the “bad” twin — the one who talked back and couldn’t do well in school. Her sister was the “good” one. It wasn’t until years later, when Lisa joined a Duke University study to earn some extra cash, that she discovered she had ADHD.In this episode of ADHD Aha!, host Laura Key talks with Lisa about how that ADHD diagnosis reframed her childhood, why being a paramedic suited her brain, and how playing violin in fourth grade unexpectedly helped her with reading.For more on this topic:ADHD and siblings: Tips from an expertHow to deal with sibling rivalry when one child learns and thinks differentlyTimestamps:(00:00) Intro(02:19) Growing up as a twin(09:22) The impact of music on Lisa in the fourth grade(11:23) Early adulthood before ADHD diagnosis(12:33) The Duke study Lisa took part in to be diagnosed(16:02) How religion has affected Lisa’s relationship with her family as an adult (18:10) Life after diagnosis(23:27) Outro and creditsFor a transcript and more resources, visit ADHD Aha! on Understood.org. You can also email us adhdaha@understood.org. ADHD Unstuck is a free, self-guided activity from Understood.org and Northwestern University designed to help women with ADHD boost their mood and take small, practical steps to get unstuck. In about 10 minutes, learn why mood spirals happen and get a personalized action plan of quick wins and science-backed strategies that work with your brain. Give it a try at Understood.org/GetUnstuck.Understood.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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