If you’ve ever struggled to get started, finish what you begin, or felt like your brain just doesn’t operate like everyone else’s—you’re not alone. Jay sits down with ADHD coach and entrepreneur Tyler Elstrom to unpack what’s really going on in the ADHD brain, from dopamine regulation to executive function to emotional overwhelm.

Tyler introduces the “INCUP” framework—five triggers that can help neurodivergent people enter flow, stay productive, and feel fulfilled: Interesting, New, Challenging, Urgent, and Passionate. When these five levers are present, the ADHD brain actually produces more dopamine than a neurotypical brain—and that’s where the superpower lies.

This episode is packed with practical strategies for tapping into motivation without relying on shame or stress. Tyler and Jay talk about everything from time blindness to body doubling to why a $7 coffee might just be the best investment you can make in your focus. Whether you have ADHD or love someone who does, this episode is a compassionate, empowering deep dive into a better way of working.

Challenge of the Week:

When you fall short—miss a deadline, forget something, or show up late—say “Oops” and move on. Practice offering yourself grace instead of shame. This one small habit can completely change your relationship with productivity and self-worth.

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To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: the1thing.com/pods.

We talk about:

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  Why ADHD brains don’t respond to rewards the same way—and how to work around it

  
  


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  The five productivity triggers that flood the ADHD brain with dopamine

  
  


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  Why harshness and shame are counterproductive (and what to do instead)

  
  

Links & Tools from This Episode:

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  Tyler Elstrom’s website: ADHDTyler.com

  
  


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  Follow Tyler on Instagram: @tylerelstrom_

  
  


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  Read Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

  
  


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  Free Resources

  
  


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  Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email podcast@the1thing.com or send us an audio note at Speakpipe.com/the1thing.

  
  

Produced by NOVA