From broadcaster to ADHD advocate: Dave Delaney shares his journey of turning lifelong curiosity, comedy, and communication expertise into a mission to help others understand and manage ADHD. With over two decades of podcasting experience, Dave has explored everything from parenting with his wife on Two Boobs and a Baby to solo musings on Walking with Dave, and now educates audiences through his podcast ADHD Wise Squirrels. His storytelling blends humor, empathy, and insight, making complex topics approachable while celebrating authentic human connection.
Dave’s path was shaped by discovery and adaptability. Majoring in radio and television broadcasting, his hyperactive, class-clown personality led him to study improv at Second City in Toronto, honing skills that would inform his podcasting, public speaking, and networking work. Recently diagnosed with ADHD at fifty, Dave reframed decades of personal and professional experience, realizing that his innate curiosity and energy could empower others. Along the way, he navigated the evolving landscape of social media, podcasting, and live performance, learning to balance technology’s benefits with its potential to dilute human connection.
Based on his knowledge and experiences, Dave shares practical strategies drawn from improv, communication theory, and ADHD research. He emphasizes the “yes and” mindset for authentic leadership and networking, the importance of mastering material to allow genuine improvisation, and how long-term, empathetic engagement outweighs transactional connections online. He also addresses ADHD management, offering resources like free screenings on wisesquirrels.com and insights into coaching oneself to stay focused and productive.
Listeners will gain a nuanced perspective on leadership, creativity, and resilience. Dave highlights how embracing neurodiversity can enhance collaboration and innovation, and why in-person relationships remain irreplaceable even in a digital-first world. His reflections on humor, storytelling, and human connection invite audiences to see both personal challenges and professional opportunities in a new light.
Tune in for a conversation filled with laughter, insight, and actionable advice, and discover how Dave Delaney transforms curiosity and creativity into tools for connection and understanding.
Chapters
00:49 🎙️ Meet Dave Delaney the Podcasting Pioneer
02:39 🎧 Explore Dave Delaney’s Podcasting Adventures
06:44 🎭 Discover the Power of Improv and Networking
29:05 📝 Dave’s Struggles with ADHD and Writing
30:15 🌐 Tracing the Evolution of Social Media
32:21 ⚠️ Understanding the Dark Side of Social Media
42:34 🤖 AI and the Future of Networking
47:01 🧠 Understanding ADHD through Personal Insights
Website:
https://davedelaneyspeaks.com
Social Media:
https://davedelaney.me/linkage
Connect with Dave Delaney to explore his ADHD resources, follow his podcast ADHD Wise Squirrels, and learn how improv, storytelling, and authentic networking can transform your communication and leadership skills.
Episode 79
