Welcome to episode #109 ! We’re thrilled to be joined by Warwick Donaldson. Warwick Donaldson is the founder and managing director of CapXcentric, a startup consultancy helping founders raise capital with clarity and confidence. After discovering his ADHD in his early thirties, Warwick learned that what once looked like chaos was actually a different kind of focus. Now clean, sober, and running his own business, he’s building a life that works with his brain instead of against it. JN: When did you realize you weren’t neurotypical? – Diagnosis came only a few years ago after a social worker date casually asked if he had ADHD – Spent months reflecting, researching, and taking online ADHD assessments – Finally found an affordable psychiatrist who confirmed the diagnosis – Realized his lifelong intensity and impulsivity now made sense JN: How did the diagnosis change your life? – Radically improved clarity and self-understanding – Medication (Vyvanse) helped reduce impulsivity and emotional volatility – Therapy helped unpack years of negative self-beliefs from being “the difficult kid” – Gained tools for self-compassion and communication JC: What traits stood out as signs of ADHD? – Impulsivity, addictive behaviors, and intense hyperfocus – Addicted to stimulation: partying, smoking, and long techno nights – Difficulty with emotional regulation and rejection sensitivity – Persistent drive and energy — a blessing and curse JN: How did this affect your career path? – Worked in finance, startups, and tech; 13 years across multiple roles – Never lasted long in one job — realized novelty drives motivation – Now runs his own startup consultancy, designed around his ADHD rhythm – Focuses on early-stage founders and capital raises where variety and chaos thrive JC: What changed after you started working for yourself? – Finally able to drop the mask and be authentic – Created “CapXcentric” as a brand that reflects his true personality – Most of his clients also have ADHD, creating mutual understanding and trust – Learnt to stop pretending to fit conventional corporate molds JN: How do you manage focus and prevent burnout now? – No alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes for over two years – Strict work boundaries: 8 AM to 6 PM only, no weekends – Regular walks, gardening, and phone-free mornings – Clear routines and environmental design (no phones in the bedroom, pill boxes next to coffee) JC: How did sobriety change your life? – Forced him to face unresolved issues without escape – Deepened family and partner relationships – Helped rediscover interests outside work – Built real hobbies — gardening, cooking, reconnecting with nature JN: How do you balance your work in a “hustle culture” industry? – Rejects constant-availability culture in startups – Sets firm client boundaries and communicates expectations clearly – Believes productivity comes from structure, not endless hours – “People will adapt faster than you think when you stop replying at midnight.” JC: What’s your advice for others with ADHD? – “Lean into who you are instead of fighting it.” – Design your life around your wiring, not society’s expectations – Self-acceptance is a practice, not a finish line – The earlier you start, the easier life becomes Connect with Warwick: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warwickdonaldson/ Website: https://www.capxcentric.com/ Connect with Jeremy: LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/nageljeremy Email:
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