EP. 9: Beyond the Quick Fix | The Truth About ADHD, Dopamine & Lasting Happiness | ADHD with Jenna Free
Release Date: 05/26/2025
EP. 12: Our Obsession With Efficiency - Why ADHD Brains Need Sustainability Over Speed | ADHD with Jenna Free
ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your free ADHD Regulation Guide here - Chapters 00:00 Understanding Efficiency in ADHD 08:13 The Cycle of Survival Mode and Efficiency 14:50 Shifting from Efficiency to Sustainability 27:11 Rethinking Rushing and Efficiency Summary In this episode, I discuss the concept of ADHDers obsession with efficiency. I explore how the obsession with efficiency can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and frustration, particularly when in survival mode. We are talking about the importance of shifting focus from efficiency to sustainability, advocating for a more regulated approach to tasks that...
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EP. 11: Are You Happy? The Big Question Every ADHDer Needs to Ask | ADHD with Jenna Free
ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your free ADHD Regulation Guide here - Get your spot now in ADHD Groups (June 9th - 13th only) - Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Purpose of Life 10:00 Shifting Perspectives on Life 20:08 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments 28:20 Connecting with What Truly Matters Summary In this episode of the ADHD with Jenna Free podcast, we dive into the profound question of life's purpose, what is all this running around and list checking off even for?!?! I emphasize the importance of stepping out of survival mode to gain perspective on what truly matters in life. Because a dysregulated brain is a...
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EP. 10: Finding Calm in Chaos | How to Regulate Your ADHD Brain During Life's Hardest Moments | ADHD with Jenna Free
ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your free ADHD Reset Guide here - Chapters 00:05 Navigating Life's Challenges with ADHD 04:56 Understanding Dysregulation and Its Justifications 06:09 The Human Experience of Grief and Regulation 07:16 The Role of Regulation During Hard Times 13:31 Fighting Reality: Acceptance and Moving Forward Summary In this episode of the ADHD with Jenna Free podcast, I dive into the complexities of regulating emotions during significant life events (think job loss, illness of a family member etc - but this can also be related to smaller but still impactful things like a stressful season at...
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EP. 9: Beyond the Quick Fix | The Truth About ADHD, Dopamine & Lasting Happiness | ADHD with Jenna Free
ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your free ADHD Regulation Guide here - Chapters 00:00 Understanding Dopamine and ADHD 03:45 The Impact of Quick Dopamine Hits 10:16 The Pursuit of Pleasure vs. Meaning 15:36 Healthy Ways to Boost Dopamine 19:52 Finding Fulfillment Beyond Quick Fixes 26:49 Regulation and Long-Term Happiness Summary In this episode of the ADHD with Jenna Free podcast, we explore the relationship between dopamine and ADHD, discussing how dopamine affects mood, motivation, and behavior. I dive into the importance of understanding dopamine's role in ADHD and the potential pitfalls of seeking quick...
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EP. 8: Bandaids vs. Breakthroughs | The Critical Difference in ADHD Management That Changes Everything | ADHD with Jenna Free
ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your new and improved free ADHD Reset Guide here - Chapters 00:06 Understanding ADHD Approaches 04:56 The Band-Aid Approach vs. Transformation 14:19 Information Overload and Implementation 23:05 The Three Types of Regulation Summary In this episode, I discuss two primary approaches to managing ADHD: the band-aid approach, which focuses on quick fixes, and the transformational approach, which emphasizes internal work and awareness. I highlight the importance of understanding dysregulation and its impact on the effectiveness of ADHD management tools (yes even using calendars can get...
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EP. 7: Smartphones & ADHD: A Complicated Relationship | How Your Device Is Changing Your Brain | ADHD with Jenna Free
ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your free ADHD Regulation Guide here - Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Smartphone Addiction and ADHD 04:29 Understanding the "Alternative Effect" 09:43 Radical Approaches to Technology Separation 15:00 Exploring Practical Solutions for Phone Use 20:35 Flexible Strategies for Managing Phone Addiction 30:59 Mindset of Curiosity and Reflection Summary In this episode of the ADHD with Jenna Free podcast, I discuss the relationship between smartphones and ADHD, exploring the addictive nature of technology and its impact on attention and regulation. I introduce the concept of the...
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EP. 6: Perfectionism: The Hidden Defense Mechanism & Why Your ADHD Brain Craves Impossible Standards | ADHD with Jenna Free
ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your free ADHD Regulation Guide here - Chapters 00:00 Understanding Perfectionism and ADHD 02:52 The Fight or Flight Response and Its Impact 06:05 Perfectionism as a Defense Mechanism 12:02 Challenging Perfectionism and Embracing Imperfection 18:01 Practical Strategies for Overcoming Perfectionism 23:56 Finding Balance and Freedom from Perfectionism Summary In this episode we are exploring the complex relationship between perfectionism and ADHD. We talk about how perfectionism stems from a fight or flight response, acting as a defense mechanism against fear of failure and...
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EP. 5: Acceptance ≠ Complacency: The Powerful Truth About Embracing Your ADHD Brain | ADHD with Jenna Free
ADHD with Jenna Free
ADHD Groups is now open: while spots are available - You can get your free ADHD Regulation Guide here - Chapters 00:00 Understanding Acceptance in ADHD 06:52 The Impact of Fighting Reality (not accepting) 13:13 Dysregulation and Energy Management 19:01 Sustainable Change Through Acceptance 25:05 Curiosity Over Judgment Summary Today we are discussing the importance of acceptance in managing ADHD and the detrimental effects of fighting reality (when we do not accept what is). Acceptance does not equate to complacency but rather allows us to move forward and make change. We will be...
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EP. 4: ADHD Revealed: The SURPRISING Truth About How Fight-or-Flight Is DRIVING Your Symptoms | ADHD with Jenna Free
ADHD with Jenna Free
You can join the free ADHD workshop here - Chapters 00:00 Understanding ADHD Symptoms and Fight or Flight 03:17 The Connection Between Anxiety and Overthinking 08:48 Emotional Dysregulation Explained 12:47 Real-Life Examples of Emotional Responses 18:31 The Impact of Fear and Urgency on Motivation 25:33 Decision Fatigue and Overwhelm 31:38 Overcoming Executive Function Challenges 36:47 The Path to Regulation and Understanding ADHD Summary In this episode we explore the intricate relationship between ADHD symptoms and the fight or flight response. We talk about the importance of awareness in...
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EP. 3: The Hidden Trap of ADHD Motivation: Why Fear & Urgency Are SABOTAGING Your Success | ADHD with Jenna Free
ADHD with Jenna Free
You can join the free ADHD workshop here - Chapters 00:00 The Freedom of Choice in Regulation 02:22 Understanding Motivation and Its Impact 07:12 Transitioning from Fear-Based to Desire-Based Motivation 11:27 The Journey of Regulation and Overcoming Resistance 20:45 The Importance of Connection and Enjoyment in Life 26:01 Personal Transformation Through Regulation Work Summary Today we are exploring the difference between fear-based and desire-based motivation, highlighting being in fight or flight (motivated by fear) can lead to a cycle of stress and burnout. I encourage you to recognize...
info_outlineYou can get your free ADHD Regulation Guide here - adhdwithjennafree.com/adhdguide
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Dopamine and ADHD
03:45 The Impact of Quick Dopamine Hits
10:16 The Pursuit of Pleasure vs. Meaning
15:36 Healthy Ways to Boost Dopamine
19:52 Finding Fulfillment Beyond Quick Fixes
26:49 Regulation and Long-Term Happiness
Summary
In this episode of the ADHD with Jenna Free podcast, we explore the relationship between dopamine and ADHD, discussing how dopamine affects mood, motivation, and behavior. I dive into the importance of understanding dopamine's role in ADHD and the potential pitfalls of seeking quick dopamine hits through activities like scrolling and substance use. We are challenging this stereotype by discussing the pursuit of pleasure (hedonia) with the pursuit of meaning and fulfillment (eudaemonia), advocating for healthier ways to boost dopamine through engaging activities that promote long-term happiness and growth. I am sharing the need for regulation and awareness in managing dopamine levels and finding true fulfillment in life.
Takeaways
- Dopamine is crucial for mood, motivation, and attention.
- People with ADHD may produce less dopamine than those without.
- ADHD medications often work by increasing dopamine levels.
- Quick dopamine hits can lead to a crash and feeling worse.
- The brain seeks balance and homeostasis after dopamine spikes.
- Survival mode leads to short-sighted decision-making.
- Healthy dopamine boosts come from activities like exercise and connection.
- Finding fulfillment requires growth and long-term goals.
- Regulation is key to managing dopamine and achieving happiness.
Connect with Jenna