ADHD entrepreneurs often struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, and overthinking. In this episode, Mikey Schumacher shares how embracing imperfections and insecurities became a powerful business strategy and storytelling tool.
You’ll learn how ADHD business coaching, executive function support, and community can help small business owners reframe setbacks, improve productivity, and scale a business with ADHD. This conversation resonates with pain points like burnout prevention, delegation, and decision-making—offering practical solutions for sustainable growth and authentic leadership.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS & TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - Introduction to ADHD Entrepreneurship and Founder Growth
05:15 - Failing Forward and Overcoming Business Setbacks
12:30 - The Comfort of Plush Toys for Adults
19:45 - Building Community for ADHD Creators
27:10 - Embracing Creative Chaos and Overcoming Overthinking
About Mikey Schumacher
Mikey, who lives in Oceanside, California, and is the youngest of six children, is a lifelong entrepreneur with a passion for creating meaningful products.
From lemonade stands and failed T-shirt ventures to a master’s degree in entrepreneurship from USC, Mikey’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and turning setbacks into springboards. Now, with the viral success of But Cute, Mikey empowers people of all ages to embrace their quirky, anxious, or imperfect sides—one plush toy at a time.
Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:
1. Learning by Failing Forward
Mikey shares how every “failed” business (including a Kickstarter flop and one epic T-shirt company bust) was actually just a bootcamp for founder growth.
2. Why Comfort Objects Are Powerful (at ANY Age)
Explore the real science and sentimental magic behind plush toys—and why adults are snatching them up too.
3. Turning Insecurity into Community
Discover how But Cute’s Discord became a safe haven for people to share insecurities and get massive support, no judgment.
4. Practical Advice for Overthinkers
Hear Mikey’s simple but game-changing reminder: “Don’t predict the future. Take one step at a time.” (Diann co-signs HARD.)
5. Creative Chaos is Your Friend
Peek into Mikey’s wild idea process: fusion-creature brainstorming, accidental croissant claws, and the beauty of letting go of perfection.
Mentioned during this episode:
Squishmallows
Labubu
Connect with Mikey & But Cute
- But Cute Website
- TikTok: @butcutetoys
- But cute club Discord channel
Join the Conversation!
Are you an adult with an emotional support plushie? Has a comfort item helped your mental health?
Follow but cute, join their discord community and tag them on social media on posts that focus on embracing imperfections.
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© 2025 ADHD-ish Podcast. Intro music by Ishan Dincer / Melody Loops / Outro music by Vladimir / Bobi Music / All rights reserved.