In this engaging conversation, ADHD coach and entrepreneur Tyler Elstrom shares his insights on harnessing the unique strengths of the ADHD brain. He introduces the 'INCUP' framework, highlighting how curiosity, urgency, and passion can spark motivation and productivity. Tyler delves into the neurochemical advantages of ADHD in entrepreneurship and discusses strategies like body doubling and flexible routines. He emphasizes self-compassion to combat stress and shame, offering listeners practical tools to thrive in both work and life.
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insights INSIGHT
ADHD Brain and Dopamine
ADHD brains have four brain regions developing differently and mainly genetic causes.
Dopamine regulation is key to motivation and focus differences in ADHD.
insights INSIGHT
Dopamine Differences in ADHD
Neurotypical brains get a dopamine surplus to motivate task pursuit and completion.
ADHD brains produce less dopamine for tasks, causing start and focus challenges.
insights INSIGHT
Impact of Early Negative Messages
Kids with ADHD hear 20,000 more negative messages by age 8 than neurotypical kids.
This causes shame and inaccurate self-labels like lazy or undisciplined.
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In this classic work, Csikszentmihalyi investigates 'optimal experience' and reveals that true happiness and satisfaction can be achieved through a state of consciousness called 'flow.' During flow, individuals experience complete concentration on the task, clarity of goals, and immediate feedback. The book demonstrates how this positive state can be controlled and how it can improve the quality of life by unlocking meaning, creativity, and peak performance.
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:
Why ADHD brains don’t respond to rewards the same way—and how to work around it
The five productivity triggers that flood the ADHD brain with dopamine
Why harshness and shame are counterproductive (and what to do instead)
The ONE Thing 