The Impulsive Thinker®

We celebrate ADHD Entrepreneur success and discuss challenges and solutions. Having lived with undiagnosed ADHD for a large part of his entrepreneurial journey, André Brisson shares his personal stories on how he overcame his undiagnosed symptoms and how he refined his systems, routines and habits once diagnosed with self-awareness and personal growth. André interviews other ADHD Entrepreneurs, ADHD experts, and strength discovery experts covering many topics including their own obstacles and successes, strategies to manage their ADHD, share knowledge to gain insights and more. André is also interviewed by guest hosts to pull out solutions and information from his brain – since his solutions are impulsive thoughts when talking to someone else. André Brisson was diagnosed at 44 with severe ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) level 1 (Asperger's syndrome). He has lived it, researched it, and transformed himself into a successful ADHD Entrepreneur.

Masking Is a Pyrrhic Victory: ADHD Women Suffering in Silence Has a Price 05/07/2026

Masking Is a Pyrrhic Victory: ADHD Women Suffering in Silence Has a Price You keep your head down, play nice, and still get steamrolled by everyone else's expectations. ADHD isn't the problem — it's the world that ignores how you operate. The Impulsive Thinker® and Dr. Stephen Hinshaw call out what everyone else misses about masking, silence, and the cost of being invisible. In This Episode: ADHD in women and girls — what masking really costs The hidden dangers of suffering in silence Research-backed risks that follow when nobody notices What You'll Take Away: Masking is survival, but it comes at a brutal personal cost For women and girls with ADHD, problems snowball until they're unavoidable Suffering in silence leads to real-world risks — including mental health and relationships Negative outcomes aren't fate when the right support shows up One or two people who "get it" can turn everything around ABOUT THIS EPISODE This episode of The Impulsive Thinker® puts a spotlight on ADHD in women and girls, breaking down the silent damage masking causes. The Impulsive Thinker® pushes the conversation past clichés to show how suffering in silence compounds over years. Real data, not empty reassurance — everything discussed has lived experience and research behind it. If you've been told you’re not trying hard enough, or if hiding has become your norm, this is why it matters in your business and life. Built for ADHD entrepreneurs tired of invisible struggles. Hit play and hear what nobody else is saying. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. Books by Dr. Hinshaw The Triple Bind: Saving Our Teenage Girls from Today's Pressures and Conflicting Expectations - The ADHD Explosion: Myths, Medication, Money, and Today's Push for Performance - 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 Understanding ADHD in Women and Girls 05:04 The Impact of Masking and Societal Expectations 06:23 Changing Trajectories and Finding Support © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/41046655

ADHD Women: Dr. Stephen Hinshaw Exposes What Nobody Measured 05/04/2026

ADHD Women: Dr. Stephen Hinshaw Exposes What Nobody Measured What if your “train wreck” 20s and 30s weren’t failure at all — just everyone missing your ADHD diagnosis? The Impulsive Thinker® and Dr. Stephen Hinshaw destroy the old stereotypes on women, masking, and why success leaves so many suffering in silence. In This Episode: What decades-long studies of girls with ADHD actually reveal How masking, missed signs, and stigma sabotage real ADHD Entrepreneur strengths Why negative outcomes are high risk — but not destiny What You'll Take Away: ADHD in women is missed, not rare — the classic “boy” symptoms don’t fit Depression, self-injury, and unplanned chaos spike when diagnosis and support come late Masking isn’t resilience — it’s losing yourself because fitting in means survival Early signs in girls are spacey, scattered, “lazy,” not loud or disruptive Real friends and strategic support matter more than popularity or the perfect image GUEST BIO Dr. Stephen Hinshaw is a psychology professor at UC Berkeley and UC San Francisco. He led the largest long-term study of girls with ADHD, rewriting what we know about women’s ADHD and why it matters right now. Books by Dr. Hinshaw The Triple Bind: Saving Our Teenage Girls from Today's Pressures and Conflicting Expectations - The ADHD Explosion: Myths, Medication, Money, and Today's Push for Performance - ABOUT THIS EPISODE The Impulsive Thinker® sits down with Dr. Stephen Hinshaw to break down the real ADHD experience for neurodivergent women and Entrepreneurs. Hear why most research ignored girls and what that cost in missed diagnoses, shame, and chaos. The episode digs into masking, self-injury, unplanned life consequences, and why classic ADHD stereotypes hurt more than help. Resilience, masking, and entrepreneurial strengths are redefined — no fluff, just blunt reality. This is for ADHD Entrepreneurs sick of society’s measuring stick and shallow advice. If your chaos was survival, not failure — hit play. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 Understanding ADHD in Women 03:56 The Longitudinal Study Insights 08:43 Consequences of Untreated ADHD 13:21 The Importance of Early Diagnosis 18:12 Masking and Societal Expectations 22:50 Finding Strengths and Coping Strategies 27:53 The Path Forward for Women with ADHD © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/41046630

You Don't Have to Obey Every ADHD Urge as an Entrepreneur 04/30/2026

You Don't Have to Obey Every ADHD Urge as an Entrepreneur You don't have to obey every urge your ADHD brain throws at you. Most therapy wasn't built for your wiring. The Impulsive Thinker® breaks down DBT for ADHD Entrepreneurs — and why the system doesn't fit until the neurobiology lines up. In This Episode: Why standard DBT misses the mark for ADHD brains The power of not obeying your impulses in real time How a self-applied DBT workbook tackles emotional dysregulation What You'll Take Away: DBT isn't broken — the system just ignores ADHD neurobiology Clinicians not trained in ADHD cause real gaps in support You don't need permission to start working on yourself now Emotional urgency feels urgent — but you can pause before reacting True results require hard, honest work and owning the black-and-white thinking ABOUT THIS EPISODE This solo episode of The Impulsive Thinker® breaks down Scott Spradlin’s approach to DBT for ADHD Entrepreneurs. The real question: What does it take to make therapy work for a brain that rejects most systems? The Impulsive Thinker® digs into DBT’s structure and why clinicians miss the mark without ADHD-specific training. He calls out the giant gap — nobody answers, "Is it me or my ADHD?" and most systems ignore real neurobiology. Key takeaways include why you don't have to obey every impulse, how crisis pressure tricks your brain, and what genuine self-directed work looks like for ADHD adults. No waiting for the right therapist, group, or diagnosis — start with the workbook now. If you've been told to "just do the work," but nobody talks about the real pain behind it, this episode pulls no punches. ADHD Entrepreneurs ready to stop obeying every urge — this is your episode. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 Understanding DBT and ADHD 02:40 The Importance of Neurobiology in Therapy 05:48 Self-Help and Empowerment through DBT © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40960905

The DBT Skills Workbook for ADHD Entrepreneurs 04/27/2026

The DBT Skills Workbook for ADHD Entrepreneurs Standard DBT isn't built for your ADHD brain. Structure, shame, and overwhelm — sound familiar? The Impulsive Thinker® and Scott Spradlin call out where therapy misses neurodivergent entrepreneurs. In This Episode: Where traditional DBT gets ADHD completely wrong Why shame and guilt dominate the ADHD Entrepreneur experience How DBT can finally work when tailored to your actual brain What You'll Take Away: Regimen isn't the answer — acceptance and flexibility matter more ADHD Entrepreneurs fail therapy when therapy fails them "You don’t have to obey your urges" — that one line changes everything Radical acceptance feels impossible when your brain's invalidated daily Structure must serve you, not the system GUEST BIO Scott Spradlin is a Kansas-based licensed counsellor and co-director at North Star TCC. He's co-authoring the first DBT Skills Workbook built for adult ADHD brains. Books by Scott , with Mariah Spradlin (2026, New Harbinger) (2003, New Harbinger). Follow Scott Facebook: X: Instagram: You might also be interested in: ABOUT THIS EPISODE This episode breaks down why classic DBT does not work for most ADHD Entrepreneurs. The Impulsive Thinker® challenges therapy frameworks with Scott Spradlin, who is rewriting DBT for real neurodivergent adults. They get specific about why structure and homework overload flop for ADHD brains. The conversation uncovers the guilt, shame, and endless "just try harder" messages pushed by society’s measuring stick. They cover how adapted DBT flexes for ADHD — and why flexibility and radical acceptance are what actually help Entrepreneurs. If therapy has ever felt like another system built to kick you out, hit play now. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 Introduction to DBT and ADHD 02:36 Understanding the Shortcomings of Traditional DBT 05:27 Adapting DBT for ADHD: The Neurobiological Perspective 09:47 Balancing Structure and Flexibility in DBT 12:02 Validation vs. Shame in Therapy 12:55 The New DBT Workbook for ADHD Adults 17:09 Distress Tolerance and Radical Acceptance in ADHD 21:05 The Importance of Understanding ADHD in Therapy 23:27 Conclusion and Resources © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40945595

Why Visionary ADHD Entrepreneurs Need a Finisher Beside Them 04/23/2026

Why Visionary ADHD Entrepreneurs Need a Finisher Beside Them You keep doing everything yourself and wonder why nothing gets finished. ADHD isn’t the problem—being measured by society’s stick is. The Impulsive Thinker® gets real about why visionary brains stall and what’s missing. In This Episode: The ADHD debate around medication and side effects Why every visionary needs a finisher — and what happens without one How belief from someone else actually changes outcomes What You'll Take Away: Medication isn’t one-size-fits-all—try it, then decide for yourself Being both the idea generator and finisher is unsustainable for ADHD Entrepreneurs Hiring finishers isn’t a luxury—it’s how your business gets built You need people who see you and actually have faith in you Society’s measuring stick doesn’t fit your brain—stop chasing it ABOUT THIS EPISODE This solo episode of The Impulsive Thinker® tackles ADHD Entrepreneur realities most won’t admit. André Brisson challenges medication myths and the lost value of proper support in business. From medication attempts to building personal systems, ADHD entrepreneurs hear why staying unmedicated isn’t always about stubbornness—it’s about impact and brain wiring. Visionary thinking gets examined: The Impulsive Thinker® explains why execution fails when you don’t have the right finisher beside you. The grind, the lost steam, and the missed outcomes are real. André gets blunt about hiring and why society’s measuring stick screws with your sense of progress. If you never had someone who saw you—and believed you—the episode speaks straight to you. Built for ADHD Entrepreneurs fed up with the “do it all yourself” lie. Press play if you’re done being measured by standards that aren’t yours. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. This conversation was based on my Substack article: - have a read! You might also like: is one of the first psychiatrists to focus on adult ADHD. His insights punch through the surface noise for real ADHD Entrepreneurs who want respect, not pity. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 Navigating Medication and ADHD 02:33 The Visionary-Finisher Dynamic 05:33 The Importance of Support and Belief © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40869460

Dr. Dodson Calls It: ADHD Entrepreneurs Need Implementers, Not More Systems 04/20/2026

Dr. Dodson Calls It: ADHD Entrepreneurs Need Implementers, Not More Systems You can't fake being neurotypical. Meds might help, but systems matter more. If you’re tired of hearing “just try harder,” this is your episode. In This Episode: ADHD thought overwhelm and why “importance” gets you nowhere Personal systems vs. medication for managing ADHD distractions Why neurotypical standards set you up to fail What You'll Take Away: ADHD distraction isn’t external — it’s five conversations in your head at once Medication can help, but it’s never one-size-fits-all Consistency only matters by your measuring stick, not society’s Every ADHD Entrepreneur needs a “finisher” — vision alone doesn’t build a business The mismatch is with society, not your brain ABOUT THIS EPISODE The Impulsive Thinker® questions the world’s measuring stick for ADHD Entrepreneurs. Dr. Bill Dodson confronts what systems and medication actually can — and can’t — do for the ADHD brain in business. They rip open “importance” and expose why urgency moves you — not to-do lists or neurotypical pressure. Partnership, awareness, and owning your difference run through every minute. This isn’t a pep talk. It’s a breakdown of what works, what never will, and why you need to toss out everyone else’s templates. The rules are different, and pretending otherwise keeps you stuck. If playing by their rules is burning you out, hit play now. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. This conversation was based on my Substack article: - have a read! You might also like: GUEST BIO is one of the first psychiatrists to focus on adult ADHD. His insights punch through the surface noise for real ADHD Entrepreneurs who want respect, not pity. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 The Role of Medication and Engagement in ADHD 00:46 Understanding ADHD: The Inner Distractions 02:03 Medication vs. Non-Medication Strategies 03:50 The Importance of Finding the Right Clinician 05:39 The Role of Medication in Managing ADHD 06:51 Unique Strengths of ADHD Minds 09:06 The Need for Advocacy and Support 11:09 Entrepreneurship and ADHD: A Unique Challenge 13:44 The Power of Diverse Teams 15:01 The Value of Coaching and Support 16:34 The Importance of Awareness in ADHD Management 20:04 The Role of a Cheerleader in ADHD Success © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40869435

ADHD Isn't All of You: It's Just a Tool, Not Your Identity 04/16/2026

ADHD Isn't All of You: It's Just a Tool, Not Your Identity ADHD isn’t a superpower. It’s not a deficit. The world is coded for the wrong operating system — and you’re paying the price every day as an ADHD Entrepreneur. In This Episode: Smashed myths about superpower and deficit labels in ADHD Why interest — not importance — drives ADHD Entrepreneurs Society's measuring stick and how it warps your self-perception What You'll Take Away: ADHD is a brain wiring difference — not your identity School and business systems measure you against the wrong standards Interest is a requirement for action, not a preference Success depends on setting up your own measuring stick The system isn’t changing, so you build your own environment ABOUT THIS EPISODE This solo episode of The Impulsive Thinker® tears down the “ADHD is a superpower” myth and sets the record straight. The Impulsive Thinker® exposes why labeling ADHD as better or worse misses the reality for neurodivergent Entrepreneurs. The episode covers how society’s measuring stick punishes difference — and why interest, not importance, controls your motivation. André Brisson explains the impact on business, education, and personal identity for ADHD brains. These topics matter because the system isn’t built for you, and you need tools to build your own way. If you’re ready to stop apologizing — this episode tells you how. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. This conversation was based on my Substack article: - have a read! You might also like: is one of the first psychiatrists to focus on adult ADHD. His insights punch through the surface noise for real ADHD Entrepreneurs who want respect, not pity. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 Debunking the ADHD Superpower Myth 02:54 Understanding ADHD as a Different Operating System 06:02 The Importance of Interest-Based Motivation 08:16 Creating a Personalized Measuring Stick © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40788715

Dr. Dodson: ADHD Strengths Are Only a Problem on Society's Measuring Stick 04/13/2026

Dr. Dodson: ADHD Strengths Are Only a Problem on Society's Measuring Stick Tired of “ADHD is a superpower” platitudes? So is The Impulsive Thinker®. This episode tears the mask off what holds ADHD Entrepreneurs back — and what drives them forward when the world has a problem with difference. In This Episode: ADHD strengths that matter in business (and why nobody talks about the cost) The myth of fitting into the neurotypical system — at school and at work What truly motivates and burns out ADHD Entrepreneurs What You'll Take Away: Lipstick-on-a-pig affirmations don’t help ADHD Entrepreneurs — seeing the difference does The world runs on importance; your brain runs on interest, challenge, novelty, urgency, and passion Consistency isn’t a character problem — it’s a measure from outside your operating system Schools and workplaces punish difference, then beg for it during a crisis Masking for conformity crushes confidence and fuels burnout This conversation was based on my Substack article: - have a read! You might also like: GUEST BIO is one of the first psychiatrists to focus on adult ADHD. His insights punch through the surface noise for real ADHD Entrepreneurs who want respect, not pity. ABOUT THIS EPISODE This episode of The Impulsive Thinker® is a raw look at ADHD strengths, the double-edged reality of out-of-the-box brains, and why forcing yourself into a neurotypical mold never works. The Impulsive Thinker® sits down with Dr. William Dodson to ask why the world still judges ADHD Entrepreneurs by someone else’s measuring stick. They tear down the myth that ADHD is a deficit or a strength — it’s a difference the system refuses to accept. The discussion reveals survival strategies for ADHD Entrepreneurs. From the system’s obsession with conformity to the true sources of ADHD motivation — interest, challenge, novelty, urgency, and passion — nothing is sugarcoated. Real-world failures. Burnout. Hyperfocus at a cost. If you’re tired of repackaged affirmations and want the truth about why your brain and business clash with society’s expectations, this episode delivers. Built for ADHD Entrepreneurs who are done apologizing for not fitting in. If you’ve ever been told your way is wrong — hit play. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 Understanding ADHD: Beyond the Superpower Narrative 02:46 The Positive Aspects of ADHD 05:31 The Challenges of ADHD in a Neurotypical World 08:32 The School System and ADHD: A Mismatch 11:13 Engagement Factors for ADHD Individuals 13:51 Managing ADHD: The Intraspace Nervous System 16:45 Finding Your Unique Path with ADHD 19:41 The Role of Medication and Engagement in ADHD 23:49 The School System and Workplace Challenges © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40777635

Guilt Comes from Inside — Shame Hits from Outside for ADHD Entrepreneurs 04/09/2026

Guilt Comes from Inside — Shame Hits from Outside for ADHD Entrepreneurs Shame isn't your problem. Toxic shame is. The Impulsive Thinker® cuts straight through what most ADHD Entrepreneur podcasts never talk about. In This Episode: The real difference between shame, toxic shame, and guilt Why self-sabotage is just self-protection for the ADHD brain How a shame-bound identity quietly shapes your work and relationships What You'll Take Away: Shame is a social correction tool — but toxic shame attacks your identity Your brain never got the memo that you’re safe now ADHD Entrepreneurs react to toxic shame, not regular shame Self-sabotage is just another name for trying to survive — not thrive Complaints hit like verdicts when toxic shame rewires your system ABOUT THIS EPISODE This episode of The Impulsive Thinker® rips into the difference between regular shame and the toxic stuff that rewires your brain. The Impulsive Thinker® breaks down Dr. Shawn’s blunt take on shame, guilt, and why your brain keeps you stuck. Forget the motivational nonsense — this is about ADHD, Entrepreneurs, and how toxic shame runs on automatic even when your world is safe. Identity, behaviour, and self-sabotage are unmasked for what they are. Shame is a tool — until it turns toxic. Self-sabotage isn’t weakness, it’s your nervous system overcorrecting after years of running defence. Real ADHD Entrepreneur talk without easy answers or stock fixes. If you’re an ADHD Entrepreneur who feels like complaints always land like final judgement — you need this episode. Hit play and see the problem for what it actually is. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 Understanding Shame: The Misconception 02:42 The Role of Toxic Shame vs. Healthy Shame 05:24 Self-Sabotage: A Form of Self-Protection 08:02 Reframing Our Relationship with Shame © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40697990

ADHD Entrepreneurs Collect Shame, Not Feedback — Dr. Shawn Horn Explains Why 04/06/2026

ADHD Entrepreneurs Collect Shame, Not Feedback — Dr. Shawn Horn Explains Why Shame isn’t a quirk — it’s a weapon. If you’re sick of feeling like the problem, this episode puts the truth on the table. The Impulsive Thinker® and Dr. Shawn Horn demolish what you think you know about shame. In This Episode: The difference between shame, toxic shame, and guilt How shame-bound identity hijacks your decisions Why ADHD brains get stuck in people pleasing, perfectionism, and self-protection What You'll Take Away: Shame is a social emotion — it starts outside, then you absorb it Toxic shame attacks your identity, not your actions ADHD Entrepreneurs are experts at hiding, not because they want to, but as self-protection The self-sabotage you feel is a defence against rejection Healthy shame corrects behaviour — toxic shame cripples growth GUEST BIO is a licensed clinical psychologist, TEDx speaker, author, and host of Inspired Living Podcast. She helps neurodiverse entrepreneurs crush toxic shame and build real self-acceptance. Check out her book Thrive Socially with Adult ADHD. ABOUT THIS EPISODE This episode of The Impulsive Thinker® goes hard at shame with Dr. Shawn Horn, breaking down why ADHD Entrepreneurs can’t just “think positive” when the world is hell-bent on making them feel defective. The Impulsive Thinker® sharpens the line between guilt and shame — and why most people get it dead wrong. Expect talk about toxic shame, identity condemnation, and why society’s measuring stick is always pointed at you. Dr. Shawn Horn explains how shame is installed in childhood, why it sticks, and how it keeps you hustling for worth. This isn’t theory — it’s neuroscience and lived reality. You’ll hear how healthy shame sparks change, but toxic shame becomes the filter you see the world through. People pleasing, workaholism, over-functioning — they’re all rooted in this shame-bound identity. Real talk about what that costs you as an ADHD Entrepreneur. If you’re done with being told you’re the problem, you need this episode. High-achieving, neurodivergent, black sheep — get ready to hear the truth. Hit play now. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 — Kicking Off: Shame as Social Emotion for ADHD Entrepreneurs 01:41 — Healthy Shame vs. Toxic Shame: What No One Tells You 04:51 — Shame Reflex, Guilt, and Early Conditioning 06:40 — Shame-Bound Identity and Entrepreneur Behaviour 09:36 — How Toxic Shame Fuels Perfectionism and Numbing 12:09 — Masking, Hiding, and Self-Protection in ADHD 14:18 — Self-Sabotage, "Self-Protection," and The Value of New Narratives 16:05 — Unrealistic Expectations and Society's Measuring Stick 17:44 — Radical Self-Acceptance for Entrepreneurs 19:38 — Judgement vs. Description: Breaking the Shame Loop 22:09 — Practical Takeaways: Moving Away from Shame Toward Behaviour 23:34 — Why Shame Is Useful — Until It's Not 24:27 — Where to Find Dr. Shawn Horn and Next Steps © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40697940

Your Body Decides First: ADHD Entrepreneurs Brain Aren’t Calling The Shots 04/02/2026

Your Body Decides First: ADHD Entrepreneurs Brain Aren’t Calling The Shots You aren't dysregulated — your nervous system is. Your body calls the shots before your brain even shows up. The Impulsive Thinker® breaks down polyvagal theory and why old advice never fit ADHD Entrepreneurs. In This Episode: The three polyvagal zones: green, yellow, and red, and how they control your reactions Emotional vs. nervous system dysregulation — why it’s not about you Hacks to retrain your nervous system and stop sabotaging yourself What You’ll Take Away: 80% of communication is body to brain, not the other way around ADHD brains hit red zone fast — and it’s not a self-control issue Nervous system triggers are wired, not willed Retraining your environment starts with catching triggers early Getting out of red isn’t failing — it’s training reps for green ABOUT THIS EPISODE This solo episode of The Impulsive Thinker® puts the polyvagal theory under the ADHD Entrepreneur lens. The Impulsive Thinker® explains why your nervous system acts first and your brain justifies after. ADHD isn’t a personal flaw — it’s a hardwired difference that shows up in business and stress. Key themes include nervous system dysregulation, green/yellow/red reaction zones, and practical tools for catching triggers early. André Brisson covers why retraining your nervous system (not just your brain) actually shifts your baseline. This episode drops the old “emotional regulation” myth and names the real challenge. If you’ve ever asked “what’s wrong with me,” this is your episode. Stop blaming discipline. Listen for brutal honesty — and practical steps no one else is talking about. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 Understanding the Nervous System's Role 02:44 Emotional Dysregulation vs. Nervous System Dysregulation 05:31 The Importance of Awareness and Retraining 08:37 Building Resilience in the Nervous System 11:20 Living in the Green Zone © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40641375

Shame, Polyvagal, and ADHD Business Fallout - Dr. Shawn Horn Gets Real 03/30/2026

Shame, Polyvagal, and ADHD Business Fallout - Dr. Shawn Horn Gets Real You think you control your reactions. You don't. Your nervous system does. Dr. Shawn Horn and The Impulsive Thinker® break down why that's not your fault — and why every ADHD Entrepreneur needs to stop fighting it. In This Episode: The basics of polyvagal theory and why it matters for ADHD Entrepreneurs How your nervous system triggers automatic shutdown, fight, or social engagement Why most solutions miss the mark — it's not emotional, it's biological What You'll Take Away: Emotional dysregulation is nervous system dysregulation — stop blaming your brain 80% of your reactions are body-driven, not thoughts Digital meetings stress your nervous system more than you think Crying isn't weakness — it's proof you're finally coming out of shutdown You can't outthink a spun-up nervous system. Body first, brain second. GUEST BIO is a psychologist, TEDx speaker, author, and creator of the Inspired Living Podcast. She brings decades of mental health insight — without the therapy buzzwords. ABOUT THIS EPISODE This episode of The Impulsive Thinker® drills into polyvagal theory and what drives your behaviour as an ADHD Entrepreneur. The Impulsive Thinker® talks with Dr. Shawn Horn about why your nervous system calls the shots and how that’s shaping your business and relationships — not your mindset. They cover the real drivers behind anxiety, shutdown, and social misreads. The focus is on how your body auto-selects your response to stress, and why traditional thinking-based approaches fail most ADHD Entrepreneurs. You’ll get the unfiltered truth on why most emotional “hacks” don’t work when your system is already fired up or shut down. Dr. Horn explains how digital interactions hijack your state, and why face-to-face is non-negotiable for real regulation. If you’re tired of experts blaming your “emotional” side or telling you to just think your way through, this conversation is built for you. It’s raw, specific, and rejects every simplistic label you’ve been handed. Hit play — you need this. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 — You’re Not in Control: Nervous System Runs the Show 00:36 — Polyvagal Theory Explained for Entrepreneurs 02:36 — Green, Yellow, Red: The Traffic Light Model 04:23 — Shutdown vs. Fight/Flight: What the Nervous System Really Does 06:27 — What “Activation” Means and How Neuroception Works 08:04 — Why Face-to-Face Matters for ADHD Entrepreneurs 10:21 — Digital Communication, Anxiety, and the ADHD Brain 11:31 — The Body Moves First: Why You Can’t Just Think Your Way Out 13:06 — What to Do in Each State: Tools for ADHD Entrepreneurs 18:09 — How Fast the Body Reacts vs. the Thinking Brain 19:42 — Emotions Are Just Nervous System States 20:13 — How to Burn Off or Reawaken Energy in Yellow/Red Light 22:19 — Crying and Real Regulation: Signs You’re Coming Back Online 23:57 — Why Nervous System Work Beats “Positive Thinking” for ADHD Entrepreneurs 26:29 — Neuroplasticity: Shaping Your Own State (and It’s Not Easy) 28:11 — Stop Asking “What’s Wrong with Me?” — Ask What Your System Needs Now © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40620125

Ignoring the Signs: ADHD Entrepreneurs Always Pay the Price 03/26/2026

Ignoring the Signs: ADHD Entrepreneurs Always Pay the Price Your biggest failure wasn’t a surprise. You saw every warning sign and ignored them. The Impulsive Thinker® lays out why ADHD Entrepreneurs always pay the price for pretending not to see what’s coming. In This Episode: Why ignoring your gut always ends with a sledgehammer moment Victim, growth, and transformation — choosing your mindset as an ADHD Entrepreneur Turning pain into purpose instead of just suffering What You’ll Take Away: The longer you ignore the signs, the harder you get hit — and you knew it was coming “Gut feel” isn’t woo-woo — it’s your early warning system for business and life Victim mode is comfortable but keeps you stuck Growth mode can turn into a trap if you stop pushing Pain without purpose is just suffering — transformation happens when you act ABOUT THIS EPISODE This solo episode of The Impulsive Thinker® is raw on self-sabotage and the cost of ignoring what your ADHD brain keeps telling you. The Impulsive Thinker® pushes beyond surface-level advice — it’s about gut signals, painful wake-ups, and how those sledgehammer moments force change. Key themes for ADHD Entrepreneurs: the cost of ignoring instincts, the energy of unaddressed problems, and why every “blindside” is usually obvious in hindsight. This episode is straight about victim thinking, why growth gets too comfortable, and how transformation happens when pain gets used. If you’ve ever watched disaster coming and denied it, this is your episode. It strips back the comfort and forces you to audit what you’re ignoring today. For ADHD Entrepreneurs dead tired of punishment cycles and ready for change. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 — Big Lessons: Worst Days and the Sledgehammer Analogy for ADHD 01:19 — Missed Signs and the Personal Cost in Business 01:54 — Why Ignoring Problems Makes the Hit Worse 02:34 — Trusting Your Gut vs. Rationalization for Neurodivergents 03:04 — Victim to Transformation: Krista’s Three Phases Explained 04:27 — Situational Mindset — Not Life-Long Labels 05:40 — Audit Your Reactions: Victim, Growth, or Transformation? 06:32 — How Pain Becomes Purpose for the ADHD Entrepreneur 07:20 — Diagnoses as Sledgehammers: Diabetes, ADHD, and Change 08:40 — What Signs Are You Ignoring Right Now? © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40316220

Pain, Power, Profit: How Can ADHD Entrepreneurs Reset 03/23/2026

Pain, Power, Profit: How Can ADHD Entrepreneurs Reset You’re not getting punished by life. You’re getting handed the raw materials for your next transformation. The Impulsive Thinker® and Krista Clive-Smith show what happens when you finally stop fighting and start listening. In This Episode: The “3 phases of living” for ADHD Entrepreneurs: victim, growth, and transformation How pain and setbacks become fuel for business innovation Why ignoring the signs guarantees a bigger wake-up call What You'll Take Away: Resilience isn’t learned — it’s earned from every hard hit you take in business Turning obstacles into purpose and profit isn’t optional — it’s mandatory for ADHD Entrepreneurs Stopping to listen beats fighting against change or symptoms every time Raw internal reflection beats band-aid solutions — brutal honesty is the only way through The longer you ignore the signs, the harder the universe hits GUEST BIO Krista Clive-Smith is a serial entrepreneur and branding expert helping visionaries turn painful lessons into world-class brands. She’s built companies, authored "Get Noticed, Be Remembered", and creates systems for neurodiverse entrepreneurs who refuse to settle. ABOUT THIS EPISODE This episode of The Impulsive Thinker® is for ADHD Entrepreneurs who are tired of blaming themselves for setbacks. The Impulsive Thinker® and Krista Clive-Smith break down how every painful lesson is a sign — and a tool for growth. If you don’t listen, you’re going to get hit harder. You’ll hear why rebuilding from the concrete foundation beats chasing easy wins. The conversation covers what happens when you ignore the obvious — and how those bigger “2x4 wake-ups” are invitations to transform your business and your life. This episode isn’t about feeling good. It’s about getting raw, honest, and real with what’s driving your decisions. ADHD, entrepreneurship, self-management, pain, and personal branding all show up here. It’s a call to rethink how you deal with adversity for actual results. If you’re a neurodiverse entrepreneur who’s always felt out of place — this episode makes it clear. You either stop fighting and start listening, or life keeps handing you bigger lessons. Hit play if you’re ready to build something from your scars. Email me about it at andre@theimpulsivethinker.com. Remember — ADHD failure is measured on society's measuring stick. Not yours. Your brain runs on interest, not importance. That's not a flaw. That's a different operating system. ADHD is not a deficit. It's a difference. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . 00:00 Transforming Pain into Purpose 09:40 The Three Phases of Living 19:19 Lessons from Adversity © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40316165

Chasing Status Is Useless: ADHD Entrepreneurs Need Real Self-Worth 03/19/2026

Tired of Pretending: ADHD Entrepreneurs Need Integrity and Honest Work 03/16/2026

Marketing Myths ADHD Entrepreneurs Need to Ditch Now 03/12/2026

Growth Beyond Referrals: Marketing Truth for ADHD Entrepreneurs 03/09/2026

Growth Beyond Referrals: Marketing Truth for ADHD Entrepreneurs André, The Impulsive Thinker®, sits down with , CEO of , to unravel what hiring a marketing firm means for ADHD Entrepreneurs. Together, they get past the industry jargon to dig into the real goals of marketing: building trust, making measurable connections, and setting up for sustained business growth—not just chasing trends. Christine shares why referrals alone won’t cut it and how a strategic, ongoing approach brings clarity and results. If marketing feels fuzzy or overwhelming, this episode offers straight talk and clear steps for Entrepreneurs ready to turn their marketing from hope into action. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . Guest: is the CEO of , a boutique agency celebrating 21 years in business this month. With a background that spans both large and small agencies, she brings solid foundational training in advertising and has partnered with brands ranging from small startups to large global companies across both B2B and B2C sectors. In addition to her agency experience, Christine is an angel investor, speaker, and mentor who frequently shares her expertise with incubators and through advisory work. She is passionate about all things marketing, business growth, and helping brands achieve their objectives through thoughtful, strategic approaches. 00:00 Understanding Marketing: A Journey Begins 02:51 The Essence of Marketing: More Than Just Ads 05:35 Building Trust in Marketing: The Key to Success 08:36 When to Market: Timing and Readiness 11:20 Components of Marketing: Beyond the Basics 14:29 The Role of a Marketing Firm: Your Strategic Partner 17:27 Finding the Right Marketing Firm: What to Look For 20:07 Collaboration and Communication: The Heart of Marketing 22:59 Marketing as an Ecosystem: Ensuring Alignment 25:53 Conclusion: Embracing Marketing for Growth © 2025 The Impulsive Thinker®. All rights reserved. The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/40203015

Polarizing Beats Vanilla: Branding For ADHD Entrepreneurs 03/05/2026

Perception, Power, and Personal Brand for ADHD Entrepreneurs 03/02/2026

ADHD Creativity: Survival Skills, Not Superpowers 02/26/2026

Time Blindness, Boredom, & Bouncing Back—Inside the ADHD Entrepreneur Mind 02/23/2026

Feeling Uncomfortable in Therapy? That Might Mean You’re Growing 02/19/2026

Why Therapy Misses the Mark for ADHD Entrepreneurs: The Psychological Safety Factor 02/16/2026

Gas, Brake, Repeat: The Push-Pull of AuDHD for ADHD Entrepreneurs 02/12/2026

Unlocking AuDHD: The Overlap of ADHD & Autism for Entrepreneurs 02/09/2026

Unlocking AuDHD: The Overlap of ADHD & Autism for Entrepreneurs André, The Impulsive Thinker®, sits down with neuro-affirming psychotherapist to dig into the reality of living and thriving with AuDHD—where autism and ADHD overlap. This episode is all about ditching black-and-white thinking and understanding how ADHD and autism show up uniquely and together in Entrepreneurs. We talk fidgeting, stimming, masking, and why it matters to tailor strategies to your actual brain, not just a label. If you want to boost your self-awareness, communicate better, and stop measuring your worth by your production, this conversation is for you. Listen in for practical takeaways to support your growth mindset. 🧠Check out the online course - coming soon! Join the waitlist for a special discount! 📃Download my weekly planning tool. 📰Join the newsletter. 🔗Connect with me on . 👣Follow me on . 💻Check out our . 👂🏼We want to hear from you! Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback . Guest: , is a neuro-affirming psychotherapist who has dedicated her career to supporting autistic, ADHD, AuDHD, and PDA children, teens, adults, and families. Her clinical path has been shaped not only by extensive professional trainings, but also by her own lived experience as a multiple neurodivergent person. Rachel brings depth, compassion, and authenticity to every space she enters. Rachel has completed extensive advanced training in neuro-affirming psychotherapy, DBT, DIR/Floortime, and PDA-informed practice. She is also an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider and an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Rachel serves on the advisory board for the Bergen County chapter of CHADD and on CHADD’s National Board of Directors. She has presented at conferences and community events, most recently speaking at the International ADHD Conference on AuDHD. Dr. Megan Anna Neff ADHD & ASD Venn Diagram: 00:00 Understanding AuDHD: A New Perspective 05:05 The Overlap of ADHD and Autism 10:06 Communication Styles: Bridging the Gap 14:31 Camouflaging: The Struggle for Identity 19:04 Navigating Entrepreneurial Challenges with AuDHD 23:17 Final Thoughts: Embracing Neurodiversity The Impulsive Thinker® and ADHD Simplified® are registered trademarks of Objective Engineering Inc. /episode/index/show/theimpulsivethinker/id/39923470

Routine, Rigidity, and Energy: Managing Autism and ADHD as an Entrepreneur 02/05/2026

Understanding Autism vs ADHD: Clarity for the Entrepreneur Mindset 02/02/2026

Moderation Never Works: Addicted ADHD Entrepreneurs Must Choose All In or Out 01/29/2026

Alcohol Isn’t the Problem—Your Thinking Is: Facing Substance Use in ADHD Entrepreneurship 01/26/2026

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