Imagine discovering at midlife that your brain operates on an entirely different system than most people around you. That's exactly what happened to Jen Lewis, an ADHD specialist and coach who joins us as our milestone 80th guest on Life, Health and the Universe podcast.
In this fascinating conversation, Jen reveals how her journey from corporate executive to ADHD coach began with her son's early diagnosis, eventually leading to her own "aha" moment of recognition. She brilliantly explains why ADHD isn't simply an attention deficit, but fundamentally a different operating system—one that responds to emotional significance rather than importance alone. "A neurotypical brain is more importance-based," Jen explains, "whereas an ADHD brain is more interest-based or emotional significance-based."
We explore the heart of emotional dysregulation in ADHD, unpacking how Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria creates disproportionate responses to perceived criticism, affecting everything from workplace boundaries to personal relationships. Jen shares powerful stories of transformation, including how simple environmental changes drastically improved her son's behaviour, and how one client shifted from shame to self-acceptance by recognising the wisdom in his unique adaptations.
What truly sets this episode apart is Jen's refreshing philosophy of "flowing in" rather than "fitting in"—challenging the notion that people with ADHD need fixing. Instead, she demonstrates how understanding your unique brain allows you to develop personalised systems that work with your natural patterns instead of against them. Whether you're navigating ADHD yourself, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about neuro-diversity, this conversation offers compassionate insight that goes far beyond conventional understanding.
Ready to discover how understanding your brain's operating system could transform your experience? Listen now, and perhaps you'll recognise some wisdom in what you previously saw as flaws.