Imposter Syndrome and Neurodivergent Brains: Why Success Still Feels Like Failure

Why do so many late-diagnosed neurodivergent adults feel like frauds—even when they’re thriving? In this episode of Divergent Paths, Regina McMenomy, Ph.D., unpacks the neuroscience behind imposter syndrome and explains why it hits harder for people with ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodivergence.

With co-host Russ Catanach, Regina shares personal stories, expert insights, and practical strategies to help you recognize imposter syndrome for what it really is: a stress response shaped by masking, rejection sensitivity, and years of chronic invalidation.

Whether you’ve ever thought “I don’t deserve this” or struggled to believe your own success, this conversation will help you reframe self-doubt and start building confidence from the inside out.

Divergent Paths Consulting: Helping late-diagnosed neurodivergent adults live with clarity, confidence, and ease.

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About Dr. Regina McMenomy PhD,

Regina is an educator, consultant, and founder of Divergent Paths Consulting. With over two decades of experience in higher education and instructional design, she now helps individuals create more inclusive, neurodivergent-affirming spaces. A late-diagnosed ADHDer herself, Regina blends academic insight, personal experience, and a healthy dose of nerdy joy to help others unmask, heal, and thrive.