The Jefferson Fisher Podcast The Jefferson Fisher Podcast

ADHD Expert: Why You Feel Motivated But Can't Do Anything

Sep 25, 2026 · 1h 10m

Summary

Dr. Sasha Hamdani discusses ADHD as a regulation disorder affecting emotion and motivation, not just attention. She explains how Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria amplifies perceived threats and offers communication tips like using bullet points and neutral framing. The episode covers diagnostic disparities, the importance of early intervention, and strategies for managing emotional dysregulation in relationships.

Topics discussed

Sponsor: LinkedIn Hiring Pro Host intro and guest background in ADHD Defining ADHD: Attention vs. Regulation Reframing ADHD as a regulation disorder Is ADHD an epidemic? Over vs. under-diagnosis Sponsor: Cozy Earth Holistic view of dysregulation and labeling When does ADHD emerge? Childhood vs. Adulthood The ADHD spectrum and presentation types Socioeconomic disparities in diagnosis Introduction to Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) Communication strategies for ADHD and RSD Navigating conflict: Anxious vs. Avoidant attachment Guest's personal journey: Diagnosis and Med School Sponsor: David Protein Bars Tools for partners: Framing and emotional safety Formatting advice: Bullet points and brevity Neurology of poor filtration and sensory input The link between emotional status and functionality Misdiagnosis: Effort vs. Neurological blockages Handling difficult conversations and people-pleasing Building trust through text and reassurance Managing over-explaining and context in conversation The biggest misconception: Laziness vs. Wiring Household dynamics and supporting deadlines Why feedback feels like a personal attack (RSD) Practical tools: Breathing and prefrontal cortex
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