How to Turn Neurodivergent 'Challenges' Into Leadership Superpowers (with Frankie Berkoben)

The Product Manager

ADHD might be the product trait nobody’s putting on their resume—but maybe they should. In this episode, Hannah sits down with executive coach Frankie Berkoben to unpack the complex intersection of ADHD, executive function, and product leadership. Together, they explore how ADHD traits like systems thinking, emotional intelligence, and comfort with ambiguity make product people exceptional—and why those same strengths often lead to burnout, inconsistency, or shame in traditional work environments.

This conversation doesn’t offer productivity hacks or time-boxed silver bullets. Instead, it’s a candid, deeply validating discussion about how to build careers, teams, and work cultures that actually work for neurodivergent brains. Whether you have a diagnosis, suspect you might, or simply want to lead with more nuance and empathy, this one’s worth a listen.

Resources from this episode:

• Subscribe to The Product Manager newsletter
• Connect with Frankie on LinkedIn
• Check out Frankie’s website

Chapters

1. ADHD in Product Leadership (00:00:00)

2. Executive Functioning and the Brain's C-Suite (00:08:28)

3. From Self-Judgment to Self-Compassion (00:14:38)

4. Systems Thinking and Communication Challenges (00:21:47)

5. Complexity, Teams, and Complementary Strengths (00:35:19)

6. Creating Neuro-Inclusive Workplaces (00:43:57)