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Dear Dyslexic Podcast

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Rating
★★★★★
5
from
2 reviews
This podcast has
84 episodes
Language
English
Publisher
Shae Wissell
Explicit
No
Date created
2017/03/03
Latest episode
2026/01/28
Average duration
35 min.
Release period
35 days

Description

Welcome to the Dear Dyslexic Podcast Series. These podcasts share stories of the lived experiences of people who have dyslexia and other learning disabilities, as well as those who care for, live and or work with us. Shae Wissell the creator of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast Series states "I wanted to use podcasts as the medium to share unique stories of everyday Australians who have dyslexia and other learning disabilities, to shine a light on the success and the challenges of life with dyslexia. Without the reading barrier, we can all listen and learn." You can listen to a variety of guest speakers from authors, to actors, entrepreneurs and every day dyslexic people not just surviving but thriving!

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Podcast episodes

Check latest episodes from Dear Dyslexic Podcast podcast


Why Educator Belief Matters More Than Diagnosis: Transforming TAFE for Neurodivergent Students
2026/01/28
In this powerful episode of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, host Dr Shae Wissell sits down with Brad Beach, Director of Strategy, Quality and Learning at TAFE Gippsland, to explore dyslexia and neurodivergence in vocational education. Brad shares his personal journey as a dyslexic student—from struggling in remedial reading classes to accidentally getting into Melbourne University and eventually leading educational innovation. His story highlights the transformative power of educator belief, referencing John Hattie's research showing that an educator's belief in a student is the strongest predictor of success. The conversation tackles critical topics including: The challenges and opportunities of the "neurodivergent" label Why universal design alone isn't enough—students need individualized support Educational trauma and its lasting impact on dyslexic individuals TAFE Gippsland's groundbreaking program for students experiencing intersectional disadvantage, achieving 90-100% retention rates The importance of wraparound services and trauma-informed teaching approaches Moving beyond the "superpower" narrative to focus on practical strategies and strengths Brad offers invaluable advice for educators: ask students what they need, provide information in multiple formats, leverage technology, and above all—believe in your students' potential. A must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone interested in creating truly inclusive learning environments. A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I'm Dr Shae Wissell and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexic Podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s guest speaker. To keep up-to-date with all our news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. You can also listen to our Dear Dyslexic Podcast as well! If you haven’t done so yet go to your favoured podcast platform and subscribe, rate and review this podcast. Join me next time for another conversation on Hobo CEO. If you found any of this content distressing, seek support: · LifeLine on 13 11 14 · BeyondBlue counsellor on 1300 22 4636
82. Speech Pathologist Decodes Dyslexia: Myths, Assessments, and Lifelong Support
2025/11/29
Ever wondered why speech pathologists are unsung heroes in the world of dyslexia? In this eye-opening episode of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, we dive deep into the fundamentals of dyslexia, bust myths about assessments, and explore how early intervention can transform lives—plus, practical tips for navigating co-occurring challenges like ADHD and dysgraphia. Joining us is Elise Cassidy, a passionate speech pathologist and founder of Code Read Network, a leading organization dedicated to raising dyslexia awareness in Australia. With over 30 years of experience in literacy and language development, Elise specializes in supporting children and adults with dyslexia, speech sound disorders, and related learning difficulties. She's driven campaigns like the iconic "Light Up Red for Dyslexia" initiative, which has illuminated landmarks across the country to spotlight dyslexia awareness month, and runs Little Voices, a clinic focused on empowering young people with dyslexia through tailored interventions, assistive technology, and multidisciplinary approaches. Elise unpacks the core of dyslexia, explaining how it stems from phonological processing and speech sound system challenges—far beyond just "speech" as many assume. We explore the pivotal role of speech pathologists in early identification, intervention, and assessments, including why they're essential for children and adults alike. The conversation tackles the barriers to diagnosis in Australia, such as high costs and limited access, and advocates for accessible screening tools like those from Read3. Elise shares insights on co-occurring conditions like ADHD, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, offering strategies for executive functioning support, assistive technology (from text-to-speech to AI tools), and building "super glue" memory through repetition. For more on Elise's work, visit Little Voices: https://www.littlevoices.net.au/ A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I'm Dr Shae Wissell and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexic Podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s guest speaker. To keep up-to-date with all our news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. You can also listen to our Dear Dyslexic Podcast as well! If you haven’t done so yet go to your favoured podcast platform and subscribe, rate and review this podcast. Join me next time for another conversation on Hobo CEO. If you found any of this content distressing, seek support: · LifeLine on 13 11 14 · BeyondBlue counsellor on 1300 22 4636
I Got Diagnosed With ADHD at 40+| What I Wish I'd Known Sooner
2025/10/30
For years, I thought I was just busy. Running a podcast, a charity, doing my doctorate, working full-time, raising a child - that's just life, right? But when I was diagnosed with combined ADHD (moderate to severe) in my 40s, everything finally made sense. In this deeply personal episode, I'm stepping away from our usual dyslexia focus to share my own ADHD diagnosis journey - the signs I missed for decades, the internal chaos I thought was normal, and why getting help changed everything. What I cover: - Why I never thought I could have ADHD (despite working with it for years) - The signs I dismissed: constant internal dialogue, unfinished tasks, extreme fatigue, childhood anxiety - How medication helped me in ways I never expected - Why the "everyone's a bit ADHD" narrative is harmful - Addressing the over-diagnosis myth - and why women in their 40s+ are finally getting diagnosed - Why men are likely underdiagnosed (and what we can do about it) - The link between ADHD and dyslexia (they highly correlate) Key takeaway: If these traits are impacting your quality of life consistently - not just occasionally - that's when it might be ADHD. Everyone forgets things sometimes, but if it's life-altering where you can't function, that's different. Resources mentioned: ADHD Australia: https://adhdaustralia.org.au/ (trusted partner with excellent resources and conference content) Contact Rethink Dyslexia for support with ADHD diagnosis: rethinkdyslexia.com.au Shae's book: Dyslexia: Insights into the hidden disability in and out of the workplace https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/dyslexia-insights-into-the-hidden-disability-in-and-out-of-the-workplace/ About Dr. Shae: Shae is a Doctor of Public Health, Certified Practicing Speech Pathologist, founder of Rethink Dyslexia, and host of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast. She was diagnosed with combined ADHD (inattentive and hyperactive, moderate to severe) in her 40s. Timestamps: 00:00 "I never thought I could have ADHD" 01:09 Why I'm sharing this now 03:25 When the narrative around ADHD became harmful 04:12 My journey: from focus on dyslexia to recognizing ADHD 06:00 The signs I dismissed for years 08:00 The "unfinished tasks" pattern 10:00 Childhood anxiety and sleep struggles 11:00 Getting assessed: the diagnosis process 11:10 How medication changed everything 13:00 "Everyone's a bit ADHD" - why this narrative is wrong 14:00 What medication actually did for me 17:17 The over-diagnosis myth (and the UK data) 19:00 Why women seek help more than men 21:03 Encouraging everyone to seek support 23:04 What diagnosis gave me: understanding, language, calm If you're struggling with constant mental fatigue, internal chaos, or feeling like life is harder for you than everyone else - you're not alone. Reach out. Get assessed. There is support.
Dear Dyslexic Podcast | A New Chapter: Now With VIDEO
2025/09/30
Welcome to a new chapter of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast. In this special launch video, Dr Shae Wissell shares how the show is evolving to bring stories of dyslexia, ADHD, and neurodiversity to life through video as well as audio. The podcast has always been about real lived experience, honest conversations, and reshaping the way society understands and supports neurodivergent adults. Now you can watch as well as listen — connecting even more deeply with the people and stories that matter. Subscribe today and join us on this journey, one story at a time.
Ep 79: Neurodivergence & Substance Use: Breaking the Stigma with Erin Lalor AM
2025/08/27
Dr. Erin Lalor AM joins us in this episode to explore the complexities of neurodivergence and substance use, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals at the intersection of these experiences. Drawing on her extensive background in clinical psychology and research, Dr. Lalor delves into personal insights, societal stigma, and evidence-based approaches to supporting neurodivergent individuals living with substance use challenges.
Ep 78: Understanding ADHD: Insights from a Dad's Perspective
2025/07/29
Have you ever felt the weight of navigating a world that doesn’t quite understand the unique challenges of neurodivergence? In this heartfelt episode, Shae sits down with Derek McCormack from the Raising Children Network. Derek shares what it’s been like parenting neurodivergent children, navigating complex emotions, diagnoses, and shifting perspectives. From exploring emotional load to advocating in school systems, Derek’s insights are real, relatable, and deeply needed.
Ep 77: Late Diagnoses and Neurodivergent Identity: Monique Mitchelson's Journey
2025/06/29
Have you ever felt like you were navigating a world that just didn't understand you? In this powerful episode, we're joined by clinical psychologist Monique Mitchelson to explore the rich landscape of neurodivergence - from late diagnoses to celebrating neurodivergent identity. Monique brings a rare perspective as both a psychologist and someone with lived experience of autism and ADHD. Based in Brisbane, Australia, she's become a leading voice in neurodiversity advocacy through her clinical work and popular podcast with over 2.5 million listeners. Her journey is particularly compelling - from initially training in clinical psychology to discovering her own neurodivergence during professional development with autism expert Tony Attwood. From unpacking school report cards to examining workplace accommodations, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in neurodiversity. Whether you're personally navigating these experiences, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking to understand more about cognitive diversity, you'll find Monique's perspective both enlightening and empowering. Featured Resources: The Neurodivergent Skills Workbook for Autism and ADHD by Monique Mitchelson Want to hear more from Monique? Check out her podcast here and connect with her work here. A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I'm Dr. Shae Wissell, and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexia Podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s discussion. To keep up to date with all our news, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. You can also listen to our Hobo CEO podcast as well! If you haven’t done so yet, go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe, rate, and review this podcast. Join me next time for another insightful conversation on Dear Dyslexia Podcast. If you found any of this content distressing, seek support: LifeLine – 13 11 14 BeyondBlue Counsellor – 1300 22 4636
Ep 76: Why Dyslexic Leaders Hide—And How to Change It (Ft. Saraya O’Connell)
2025/05/29
What happens when a dyslexic woman who was told she’d "never be anything" becomes a trailblazing leader in disability inclusion? In this raw and powerful episode, Saraya O’Connell from Hotel Etico—Australia’s first social enterprise hotel—opens up for the first time about her dyslexia, ADHD, and how she turned workplace struggles into superpowers. Saraya is the General Manager of Hotel Etico, a groundbreaking not-for-profit hotel in the Blue Mountains that trains and employs young adults with disabilities in hospitality. A dyslexic and ADHD leader, she’s spent years masking her neurodivergence while advocating for systemic change in employment. Diagnosed with dyslexia at 15 (after teachers called her "stupid"), Saraya left school early, climbed the ranks in hospitality and disability sectors, and now champions inclusive hiring practices—all while navigating the invisible challenges of neurodiversity. In this episode, we discuss a range of significant topics, including: ● The emotional toll of educational trauma and being underestimated. ● Disclosure struggles: Why even disability sector leaders hide their dyslexia. ● Workplace strategies for dyslexia/ADHD (like handling forms and multi-step instructions). ● How Hotel Etico is revolutionizing hospitality inclusion—and why the industry is embracing it. ● The recent ADHD diagnosis that explained her "chaos superpower." ● Vulnerability in leadership: Why Saraya is finally going public with her story. A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I'm Dr. Shae Wissell, and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexia Podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s discussion. To keep up to date with all our news, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. You can also listen to our Hobo CEO podcast as well! If you haven’t done so yet, go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe, rate, and review this podcast. Join me next time for another insightful conversation on Dear Dyslexia Podcast. If you found any of this content distressing, seek support:
Ep 75: How AI Is Empowering Dyslexic and Neurodivergent Minds: Tools, Tips, and Transformation
2025/04/29
Ever felt like your brain just works differently — and wished technology could meet you halfway? In this empowering solo episode, Dr Shae Wissell shares why AI has become a game-changer for dyslexics and other neurodivergent minds, offering practical ways to turn daily challenges into new superpowers. In today’s episode, Dr Shae Wissell, researcher, advocate, and proud dyslexic and dysgraphic, dives deep into how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way neurodivergent individuals work, learn, and live. From writing struggles to planning overwhelm, Shae shares personal stories and practical tools that have helped her — and can help you too — reclaim time, energy, and confidence. Topics Discussed: Why AI is not "cheating" — it's an accommodation, like glasses How ChatGPT, Grammarly, Siri, and other tools support writing and proofreading Using speech-to-text apps to unlock faster communication Reducing cognitive overload with planning and time management AI tools The importance of remaining the subject matter expert (and not blindly relying on AI) How AI levels the playing field for dyslexic and neurodivergent individuals Shae’s favourite tools: Google NotebookLM, Speechify, Goblin Tools, and more Practical first steps to start using AI without feeling overwhelmed A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I'm Dr Shae Wissell and you have been listening to the Hobo CEO podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s guest speaker. To keep up-to-date with all our news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. You can also listen to our Dear Dyslexic Podcast as well! If you haven’t done so yet go to your favoured podcast platform and subscribe, rate and review this podcast. Join me next time for another conversation on Hobo CEO. If you found any of this content distressing, seek support: LifeLine on 13 11 14 BeyondBlue counsellor on 1300 22 4636 Contact Shae: Website https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rethink_dyslexia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-shae-marie-wissell-b95aaa31/
Ep 74: “That’s Just Scott”: Unseen Dyslexia & the Realities of Neurodivergence
2025/03/29
In a world where disability often gets lost in the noise of bureaucracy, how do we ensure that every voice is heard? In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Peter Smith, the Director and Founder of the Center for Disability Employment Research and Practice (CDERP). With over 15 years of experience in the field, Peter has dedicated his career to improving employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities. His journey began at Sydney University, where he recognised the lack of focus on disability and employment. Under the mentorship of leading experts, Peter has developed a robust evidence base for disability employment methodologies and has established accredited training programs tailored for Australia. His work spans across various countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and even Saudi Arabia, making him a global advocate for disability rights. In this episode, Peter and I discuss a range of significant topics, including: ● The current landscape of disability employment in Australia and the impact of the NDIS. ● The challenges faced by individuals with dyslexia and other neurodivergent conditions in accessing support. ● The importance of integrity and evidence-based practices in disability advocacy. ● The umbrella effect of the neurodivergent movement and its implications for various disabilities. ● Personal anecdotes and lessons learned from Peter's extensive career in the field. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that not only sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities but also inspires hope and action for a more inclusive future. A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I'm Dr. Shae Wissell, and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexia Podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s discussion. To keep up to date with all our news, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. You can also listen to our Hobo CEO podcast as well! If you haven’t done so yet, go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe, rate, and review this podcast. Join me next time for another insightful conversation on Dear Dyslexia Podcast. If you found any of this content distressing, seek support:
Ep 73: Redefining Leadership Through a Neurodivergent Lens: Dr. Annalisa Contos’ Journey
2025/02/28
We are joined in this episode by Dr. Annalisa, the founder of Atom Consulting, a company dedicated to helping water utilities manage their risks, particularly in water quality. With a rich background in consulting and a personal journey through neurodiversity, Annalisa has become a passionate advocate for individuals with learning differences. After her elder son was diagnosed with autism, she pursued her own diagnosis of ADHD in her 40s, leading her to a deeper understanding of neurodiversity. Annalisa's commitment to inclusivity in the workplace is evident in her efforts to bridge the gap between neurodiverse talent and the skills shortage in the water sector. In this episode, we discuss significant topics such as the challenges and triumphs of adult diagnoses, the importance of creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals, and practical strategies for leaders to support their teams. Annalisa shares her personal experiences with ADHD and dyslexia, the tools she has developed to navigate her professional life, and her vision for a more inclusive workplace. A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I'm Dr. Shae Wissell, and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexia Podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s discussion. To keep up to date with all our news, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. You can also listen to our Hobo CEO podcast as well! If you haven’t done so yet, go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe, rate, and review this podcast. Join me next time for another insightful conversation on Dear Dyslexia Podcast. If you found any of this content distressing, seek support:
Ep 72: Is Dyslexia a Label, a Disability, or a Superpower?
2025/01/30
Did you know that most research on dyslexia focuses on children, leaving a massive gap in understanding how it impacts adults—especially in professional settings? In this episode of the Dear Dyslexia Podcast, host Dr. Shae Wissell dives into her groundbreaking research on the challenges faced by dyslexic adults in the workplace. She sheds light on the barriers they encounter, from stigma and lack of support to the often-overlooked emotional toll of navigating a world designed for neurotypical individuals. Dr. Wissell explores: · The urgent need for workplace policies that accommodate dyslexic professionals · How self-advocacy and awareness can reshape career opportunities · The emotional and mental health impact of workplace struggles · Why research on adult dyslexia—particularly in Australia—remains limited and what can be done about it This episode is a must-listen for employers, educators, and anyone passionate about creating a more inclusive and supportive world for neurodivergent individuals. Read more about the research here: https://bit.ly/3CxDtXF A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I'm Dr. Shae Wissell, and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexia Podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s discussion. To keep up to date with all our news, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. You can also listen to our Hobo CEO podcast as well! If you haven’t done so yet, go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe, rate, and review this podcast. Join me next time for another insightful conversation on Dear Dyslexia Podcast. If you found any of this content distressing, seek support:
Driving Inclusivity: Transforming the Automotive Industry and Beyond with Raffy Sgroi
2024/12/01
Get ready for an eye-opening episode of the Dear Dyslexic! This week, we dive into the world of inclusive business practices and the remarkable journey of a powerhouse in the automotive industry. In this episode of the Dear Dyslexic podcast, host Dr Shae Wissell sits down with Raffy, a dynamic leader in the automotive industry and a passionate advocate for inclusive business practices. Raffy has been a trailblazer in her field for over 20 years, running a successful auto mechanic business with her husband. She is also the founder of Sage Advice, a business coaching service aimed at helping other companies to implement inclusive and diverse workplaces. Guest Background and Achievements Raffy’s journey began in Milan, Italy, but she has called Australia home for the past 24 years. Her background in the automotive industry, combined with her personal experiences, has driven her to create a business environment that is not only profitable but also purposeful. Raffy is also a full-time carer for her brother-in-law with Down syndrome, further fueling her passion for inclusivity in the workplace. Under her leadership, her business has become a model for sustainability and gender diversity, boasting several female apprentices and a strong focus on waste minimisation. Topics of Discussion • Inclusive Business Practices: Raffy shares her insights on creating an inclusive environment within a traditionally male-dominated industry. • Sustainability: Learn about Raffy’s efforts in waste minimisation and creating a greener workshop. • Personal Journey: Raffy’s transition from Milan to Australia and how her heritage influences her work. • Empowering Women: The importance of female representation in the automotive industry and how Raffy is paving the way for future generations. • Sage Advice: The inception and development of her business coaching service, aimed at helping other businesses thrive through inclusivity. Tune in to hear Raffy’s inspiring story and gain valuable insights into how inclusive business practices can lead to greater success and fulfilment. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, or just someone interested in making a positive change, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt stories. A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I’m Dr Shae Wissell and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexic podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s guest speaker. To keep up-to-date with all our news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. You can also listen to our Dear Dyslexic Podcast as well! If you haven’t done so yet go to your favoured podcast platform and subscribe, rate and review this podcast. Join me next time for another conversation on Dear Dyslexic Podcast show If you found any of this content distressing, seek support: · LifeLine on 13 11 14 · BeyondBlue counsellor on 1300 22 4636 TAGS: inclusive business practices, automotive industry, gender diversity, sustainability, business coaching, small business, neurodiversity, workplace inclusivity, female empowerment, waste minimization, down syndrome advocacy, entrepreneurial success, workplace culture
Ep 70: From Hidden to Hero: Embracing Dyslexia in Entrepreneurship with Nigel Lockett
2024/10/30
Imagine keeping a part of yourself hidden for over 50 years – a part of you that defines not just who you are, but how you think, work, and see the world. In today’s episode, Dr Shae Wissell sits down with Nigel Lockett, the Dyslexic Professor, to unravel the profound journey of embracing dyslexia and redefining it as a strength in the world of entrepreneurship. Episode Summary In this insightful conversation, Nigel Lockett, Emeritus Professor of Entrepreneurship and seasoned mentor, delves into his journey from keeping his dyslexia a closely guarded secret to ultimately sharing it with the world. Nigel, currently an Emeritus Professor at the University of Strathclyde, shares how his life transformed once he began openly identifying as a dyslexic academic and entrepreneur. He’s known for his work mentoring startup founders through initiatives like TwinklHive and Qualitas GP Pathway to Partnership and his pivotal role as Chair of Songs, Signs & Sounds, a social enterprise start-up. Nigel’s story is one of resilience, from early experiences of feeling “thick” and “lazy” to realising his own strengths as a serial entrepreneur and advocate for neurodiversity. Together with Shae, they explore topics such as the relationship between dyslexia and entrepreneurship, the role of collaboration, and the power of cognitive diversity in building strong, innovative teams. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Introduction 01:20 – Finding Out About Dyslexia 04:46 – Family and Dyslexia 08:16 – Journey into Entrepreneurship 12:21 – Choosing to Disclose 18:04 – Embracing Empathy and Scanning Environments 22:39 – ‘Dyslexia Superpower’ 26:06 – The Value of Cognitive Diversity 30:30 – Turning Around a University Department 36:39 – Public Reaction to Disclosure 42:39 – Closing Thoughts on Disclosure and Diversity A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I’m Dr Shae Wissell and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexic podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s guest speaker. To keep up-to-date with all our news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. You can also listen to our Dear Dyslexic Podcast as well! If you haven’t done so yet go to your favoured podcast platform and subscribe, rate and review this podcast. Join me next time for another conversation on Dear Dyslexic Podcast show If you found any of this content distressing, seek support: · LifeLine on 13 11 14 · BeyondBlue counsellor on 1300 22 4636 Episode Summary In this insightful conversation, Nigel Lockett, Emeritus Professor of Entrepreneurship and seasoned mentor, delves into his journey from keeping his dyslexia a closely guarded secret to ultimately sharing it with the world. Nigel, currently an Emeritus Professor at the University of Strathclyde, shares how his life transformed once he began openly identifying as a dyslexic academic and entrepreneur. He’s known for his work mentoring startup founders through initiatives like TwinklHive and Qualitas GP Pathway to Partnership and his pivotal role as Chair of Songs, Signs & Sounds, a social enterprise start-up. Nigel’s story is one of resilience, from early experiences of feeling “thick” and “lazy” to realising his own strengths as a serial entrepreneur and advocate for neurodiversity. Together with Shae, they explore topics such as the relationship between dyslexia and entrepreneurship, the role of collaboration, and the power of cognitive diversity in building strong, innovative teams. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Introduction 01:20 – Finding Out About Dyslexia 04:46 – Family and Dyslexia 08:16 – Journey into Entrepreneurship 12:21 – Choosing to Disclose 18:04 – Embracing Empathy and Scanning Environments 22:39 – ‘Dyslexia Superpower’ 26:06 – The Value of Cognitive Diversity 30:30 – Turning Around a University Department 36:39 – Public Reaction to Disclosure 42:39 – Closing Thoughts on Disclosure and Diversity A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I’m Dr Shae Wissell and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexic podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s guest speaker. To keep up-to-date with all our news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. You can also listen to our Dear Dyslexic Podcast as well! If you haven’t done so yet go to your favoured podcast platform and subscribe, rate and review this podcast. Join me next time for another conversation on Dear Dyslexic Podcast show If you found any of this content distressing, seek support: · LifeLine on 13 11 14 · BeyondBlue counsellor on 1300 22 4636
Ep 69: Unleashing Neurodivergent Potential
2024/09/29
Discover how embracing neurodiversity can unlock hidden potential and transform workplaces with Mel Webster, a leader who proudly wears her ADHD and dyslexia as badges of strength. Mel Webster is the CEO of ADHD Australia, a passionate advocate for neurodiversity, and a proud individual with ADHD and dyslexia. With a background in working with individuals on the autism spectrum and a personal journey of diagnosis and parenting a neurodivergent child, Mel brings a wealth of experience and insight to the conversation. In this episode, Melissa and Dr. Shae explore: ● Personal journey of diagnosis and acceptance of ADHD and dyslexia ● The intersection of ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurodevelopmental conditions ● Challenges and strengths associated with ADHD and dyslexia in educational and professional settings ● The importance of disclosure and creating psychologically safe workplaces ● Strategies for building confidence and having courageous conversations about neurodiversity ● The role of leadership in fostering inclusive environments ● The impact of the recent Senate inquiry on ADHD and potential shifts in supporting adults with ADHD ● The need for greater understanding and support for individuals with dyslexia, especially those significantly impacted ● The power of hyperfocus and creativity as strengths in neurodivergent individuals The conversation touches on strategies for building confidence, the role of leadership in fostering inclusivity, the impact of recent policy changes, and the need for greater understanding and support for individuals across the neurodiversity spectrum. Melissa’s Details: Find out more about Melissa here Find out more about ADHD Australia here. A Note From Our Director and Podcast Host: I'm Dr Shae Wissell and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexia Podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today's guest speaker. To keep up-to-date with all our news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. You can also listen to our Hobo CEO Podcast as well! If you haven't done so yet go to your favoured podcast platform and subscribe, rate and review this podcast. Join me next time for another conversation on D‌ear Dyslexia. If you found any of this content distressing, seek support: ● LifeLine on 13 11 14 ● BeyondBlue counsellor on 1300 22 4636

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