I Have ADHD Podcast 350 From Cemetery Shifts to a Career That Fits: Matt’s ADHD Comeback Story
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Nov 11, 2025 Matt Cicarelli, a basketball referee and devoted listener, returns to share his inspiring journey from unemployment to finding a fulfilling job at a supportive agency that truly understands ADHD. He recounts a zig-zag path through grocery and cemetery jobs, the relief of working where he can drop the mask, and the importance of a boss who values neurodiversity. Matt also discusses emotional regulation techniques he honed as a referee, illustrating how to stay calm under pressure—both on the court and at home.
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Environment Transforms ADHD At Work
- Matt emphasized that a boss who 'gets' ADHD changed his entire experience by offering trust and permission to ask questions.
- He described dropping the exhausting mask because the environment allowed vulnerability without judgment.
Admitting Gaps Builds Competence
- Matt realized admitting gaps and asking questions is professional strength, not weakness.
- He learned that saying 'let me get back to you' or asking to be shown builds competence over time.
Ask To Be Educated
- Do be vulnerable and ask clarifying questions instead of faking understanding.
- Matt showed that asking his boss to 'educate me here' led to trust and a clear answer that improved future work.