195 | Justin Classen: Risk Reward of High Risk Jobs
ADHD reWired - A podcast by Eric Tivers, LCSW, ADHD-CCSP
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Justin Classen joins me on this episode. Justin is 27-years-old, and a whirlwind of intense, hyper-active energy, born, raised and distracted in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. He received a diagnosis of ADHD only 9-months ago. However, this diagnosis was prolonged by two years, due to lapses in memory to actually attend his evaluation. Considered a “jack of all trades” by those who know him, Justin has found success in a multitude of endeavors, and an acceptance in a profound number of failed ones. Justin is currently maximizing his energy and investing into his careers as a journeyman, industrial scaffolder, exotic dancer, as well as a music producer and nightclub DJ. In this conversation, you will hear Justin talk about his life before and after his ADHD diagnosis, 9-months ago. Justin says that his ADHD diagnosis gave him confidence at work. He describes how his diagnosis and medication have impacted his work as a journeyman on scaffolding. Justin is a man of many interests and passions, and I think you will enjoy this conversation and glimpse into Justin’s life. Connect with Justin Classen: Music - You’ll Learn: [05:27] - Justin talks about his life before his ADHD diagnosis. He shares how he felt he was losing his identity. [07:12] - Justin describes his childhood and schooling. [09:14] - Justin shares how he “discovered” ADHD. [10:42] - Justin explains the ADHD evaluation process in Canada. [14:55] - Justin describes his work as a journeyman working on scaffolding. [16:42] - Justin says that working after his diagnosis gave him confidence. [19:18] - Justin talks about some of the risky behavior he engaged in prior to his diagnosis. [22:19] - Justin explains what a journeyman is. [24:25] - Justin shares how he became an exotic dancer. [29:46] - Justin talks about his current interest in computer processing and building his own instruments. [32:08] - We talk about MIDI. [33:27] - Justin describes his career as a DJ. [38:41] - Now that he has been diagnosed, Justin shares that he needs to go back and review his past. [40:10] - Impulsivity is something that Justin is still struggling with. [42:45] - We talk about fidget items and the need for them. [44:04] - Justin shares that he does not get restful sleep. [47:31] - Justin looks to the future. Use my Audible.com affiliate link for your favorite titles: ADHD reWired’s 200th Episode! Our 200th episode is coming up, and I’d like you to be a part of it. Do you have a great ADHD story, poem, or song? It could be funny, triumphant, inspiring, or even cringe-worthy. Record yourself using a voice recording or memo app on your smartphone. Submissions are due no later than December 19th. You can email me the mp3 file at and put “#200” in the subject line. ADHD reWired Coaching and Accountability Group The 11th season of our ADHD reWired Coaching and Accountability Group starts on January 8th, and it is already full! Our 12th season starts April 16th and registration starts January 16th. To learn more, go to . Support the podcast on Patreon Patreon allows listeners like you to support content creators like me. With a monthly contribution, you can get access to different levels of perks. Learn more at ADHD reWired Facebook Group: If you would like to join the ADHD reWired secret Facebook group, go to and fill out an application. Productivity Q&A Get your ADHD questions answered live! These Q&A sessions take place on the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 12:30pm. Go to . Want to be a guest? Hey! What about you? Do you have a story? Are you a Coach? Are you an ADHD Clinician? If you answered yes to any of these questions and you’d like to be a guest, schedule a pre-interview call .