Progress Isn’t Linear: A Neurodivergent Reality episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 11, 2026 · 21 MIN

Progress Isn’t Linear: A Neurodivergent Reality

from Living With an Invisible Learning Challenge · host Jennifer Purcell

This episode reframes “two steps forward, one step back” as a natural and meaningful pattern of growth for neurodivergent people and those with invisible learning challenges. Jennifer explains why nonlinear progress happens—due to brain variability, environmental mismatches, and sensory or emotional fatigue—and why a “step back” is often a signal to rest, adjust, or recalibrate rather than a failure. Through reflection and practical strategies, listeners are reminded that progress isn’t erased by setbacks and forward movement still counts, even when the path isn’t linear. https://linktr.ee/JenniferPTTS?utm_source=linktree_profile_shareReferences / Suggested reading​Stark, P. (2022, June 5). The Personal Growth Two-Step. Psychology Today. (Psychology Today)​Neurauter, J. (2017, March 7). Two Steps Forward, One Step Back – Our Heart of Courage. Harmonious Pathways. (Harmonious Pathways)​“The Other Side of Autism” – keyassetskentucky.com: Progression and regression, then more progression and more regression. (Key Assets Kentucky)Scott-Moncrieff, L. (2014). Two Steps Forward, One Step Back: The Dynamics of Learning and Backsliding. (PDF) (ResearchGate)

This episode reframes “two steps forward, one step back” as a natural and meaningful pattern of growth for neurodivergent people and those with invisible learning challenges. Jennifer explains why nonlinear progress happens—due to brain variability, environmental mismatches, and sensory or emotional fatigue—and why a “step back” is often a signal to rest, adjust, or recalibrate rather than a failure. Through reflection and practical strategies, listeners are reminded that progress isn’t erased by setbacks and forward movement still counts, even when the path isn’t linear. https://linktr.ee/JenniferPTTS?utm_source=linktree_profile_shareReferences / Suggested reading​Stark, P. (2022, June 5). The Personal Growth Two-Step. Psychology Today. (Psychology Today)​Neurauter, J. (2017, March 7). Two Steps Forward, One Step Back – Our Heart of Courage. Harmonious Pathways. (Harmonious Pathways)​“The Other Side of Autism” – keyassetskentucky.com: Progression and regression, then more progression and more regression. (Key Assets Kentucky)Scott-Moncrieff, L. (2014). Two Steps Forward, One Step Back: The Dynamics of Learning and Backsliding. (PDF) (ResearchGate)

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This episode is 21 minutes long.

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This episode was published on January 11, 2026.

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This episode reframes “two steps forward, one step back” as a natural and meaningful pattern of growth for neurodivergent people and those with invisible learning challenges. Jennifer explains why nonlinear progress happens—due to brain variability,...

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