

"ADHD 2.0"
by Dr. Edward Hallowell and Dr. John Ratey
Recommended by: Lois Baynham
After my diagnosis, I wanted to understand my brain—not just manage it. ADHD 2.0 by Dr Edward Hallowell and Dr John Ratey helped me do exactly that. Unlike many books that lecture or over-pathologise, this one felt straightforward, easy to digest, and surprisingly fun to read. Their use of analogies made complex neuroscience accessible, and for the first time, I found myself smiling while learning how my brain actually works.
I appreciated their neutral stance on medication—offering research, lived experience, and respect for each person’s individual journey. That tone of compassion runs through the book, making it a resource rather than a prescription.
What resonated most for me was their concept of VAST — Variable Attention Stimulus Trait. It reframes ADHD as part of a broader continuum of attention differences that can show up in our fast-paced, overloaded world. Instead of defensively answering, “Aren’t we all a little ADHD these days?” it opens the door to a more inclusive conversation. “No, we’re not; however, some of us might be.
As someone building a neuroinclusive company and advising leaders on culture and wellbeing, that framing matters deeply. It bridges the gap between lived experience and collective empathy, showing that while ADHD may be my lens, attention in the modern world is a challenge for everyone.
