121. Living with NLD: Turning Invisible Challenges into Global Connections with Jennifer Purcell

Full of Words

In this insightful episode of the Full of Words podcast, Sue Kennedy and CJ welcome Jennifer Purcell—podcaster, advocate, and communications coordinator at a spiritual community in San Diego. Jennifer shares her personal and professional journey navigating life with Nonverbal Learning Disability (NLD) and chronic migraines, and how these experiences inspired her to launch the podcast Living with an Invisible Learning Challenge.

Jennifer opens up about the challenges of interpreting nonverbal communication, the impact of neurodivergence on everyday activities like driving and working, and the role of technology (and a very supportive family) in helping her thrive. She also discusses how her podcast has become a valuable resource not only for individuals with NLD, but for educators, families, and professionals supporting neurodivergent individuals.

Whether you're seeking practical tools for improving communication, looking to better understand learning differences, or simply curious about the power of storytelling, this episode offers real-life insights with empathy, humor, and inspiration. Tune in now!

👉 Book to be a guest of Jennifer Purcell : https://forms.gle/7uFk3y2j2GhRiCL2A
Highlights:

• ((03:48) – Understanding Nonverbal Learning Disability (NLD) and how it differs from other learning challenges.
• (06:19) – Reflecting on five years of podcasting, including interviews with educators, advocates, and TEDx speakers.
• (09:54) – The reality of driving with NLD: challenges with visual-spatial processing and how modern car tech could help.
• (14:10) – Managing chronic migraines: triggers, treatments, and the daily adjustments they require.
• (22:59) – Using muted television shows as a tool to improve body language recognition—a tip useful for anyone, not just those with NLD.
• (25:44) – Why tone can be difficult to interpret in text, and how Jennifer uses AI to refine communication in personal and professional settings.
• (35:22) – Considering a future book based on Jennifer’s experiences with NLD, migraines, and the podcasting journey.
• (37:57) – The role of emotional support animals in mental health and education: meet Truffles, Jennifer’s long-time companion.
• (46:36) – Reframing help-seeking as strength: Jennifer’s perspective on advocacy, support systems, and paying it forward.
  

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