Why do so many neurodivergent adults resist going to bed even when they're exhausted? In this episode of Divergent Paths, Dr. Regina McMenomy and co-host Russ Catanach explore the psychology and neuroscience behind revenge bedtime procrastination, a common but misunderstood behavior where people delay sleep to reclaim autonomy and personal time.

This episode explores why neurodivergent brains often don’t "power down" like those of neurotypical individuals and what we can do about it. Learn how overstimulation, delayed melatonin release, and unmet emotional needs fuel this cycle, and why rest is more than a luxury—it’s a right.

Plus, Regina shares gentle, practical strategies that support your nervous system without relying on shame or willpower.

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

Join N.E.R.D.s (free peer support)

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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.

About Russ Catanach

Russ is a marketing executive, podcast host, and longtime friend of Regina’s who brings curiosity, candor, and levity to every conversation. As the co-host of Divergent Paths, Russ plays the role of thoughtful interviewer and relatable everyman, helping unpack complex topics in a way that’s both grounded and accessible.

Is it emotional immaturity or the long-term impact of masking, trauma, and survival mode? In this heartfelt episode of Divergent Paths, Dr. Regina McMenomy explores how neurodivergent individuals often experience delayed or disrupted emotional development, not because they’re broken, but because they’ve been adapting to environments that never fully accepted them. Co-host Russ Catanach asks the big questions as Regina shares lived experiences, cultural insight, and unfiltered emotion, including tears on the mic for the first time. If you’ve ever felt behind in your emotional growth or misunderstood for your reactions, this episode will make you feel seen.

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

Join N.E.R.D.s (free peer support)

Book a Free Discovery Call with Regina

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.

About Russ Catanach

Russ is a marketing executive, podcast host, and longtime friend of Regina’s who brings curiosity, candor, and levity to every conversation. As the co-host of Divergent Paths, Russ plays the role of thoughtful interviewer and relatable everyman, helping unpack complex topics in a way that’s both grounded and accessible.

What exactly is a special interest and why are they so essential to neurodivergent people? In this episode of Divergent Paths, Dr. Regina McMenomy breaks down how special interests go far beyond hobbies. From emotional regulation to identity formation, we explore the deep role these passions play for ADHD and autistic folks. Joined by co-host Russ Catanach, Regina shares personal stories, clinical insights, and cultural observations about how special interests fuel joy, soothe overwhelm, and sometimes become lifelines. Whether yours is dinosaurs, data, or DIY crafts, this episode validates why it’s more than “just a phase.”

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

Join N.E.R.D.s (free peer support)

Book a Free Discovery Call with Regina

About Dr. Regina McMenomy, Ph.D.

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 and organizations 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.

About Russ Catanach

Russ is a marketing executive, podcast host, and longtime friend of Regina’s who brings curiosity, candor, and levity to every conversation. As the co-host of Divergent Paths, Russ plays the role of thoughtful interviewer and relatable everyman, helping unpack complex topics in a way that’s both grounded and accessible.