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Send us Fan Mail Many people believe accomplishments only count if they come with awards, degrees, promotions, or major milestones. But positive psychology tells us something very different. In this final episode of the PERMA well-being series, I explore the "A" for Accomplishment and explain why recognizing everyday successes is one of the most overlooked ways to improve well-being. Whether you've raised a family, survived difficult seasons, completed a workout, made dinner, showed kindness to someone, or simply got out of bed during a difficult day—these are accomplishments worth acknowledging. For dyslexic adults especially, it's easy to focus on what still feels difficult while overlooking everything you've already achieved. By shifting your attention toward consistent progress instead of perfection, you build confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of self. This episode also concludes the PERMA series by bringing together Positive Emotions, Engagement (Flow), Relationships, Meaning & Mattering, and Accomplishment into one practical framework for flourishing. https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail What if the foundation of well-being isn't just finding meaning—but first knowing that you matter? In this episode of Unmasking Dyslexia, I explore the "M" in the PERMA model of well-being, expanding on Martin Seligman's original concept of meaning by introducing what I believe is an equally important element: mattering. Drawing from Positive Psychology, my master's research, and my coaching work with neurodivergent adults, I explain why understanding your own value creates the confidence, resilience, and self-awareness needed to thrive. You'll discover how identifying your strengths, values, and unique way of processing the world can help you move beyond self-doubt and recognize the meaningful contribution you bring to others. Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail How does dyslexia affect your relationships long after school is over? In this episode of Unmasking Dyslexia, I explore one of the most overlooked aspects of dyslexia—its impact on relationships. While most conversations focus on reading and education, dyslexia also shapes how we communicate, interpret conversations, build trust, and connect with others throughout adulthood. Drawing from both my personal experience and my master's research, I introduce the idea of safe and unsafe relationships, explaining why feeling accepted and understood can have a profound effect on well-being. You'll also learn why dyslexic communication often follows patterns rather than linear conversations, how this can be misunderstood, and practical ways to improve understanding while remaining authentic to how your brain naturally works. https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail Why do some dyslexics become so absorbed in creative projects that they lose all sense of time? Could this actually be one of the hidden strengths of the dyslexic brain? In this episode of Unmasking Dyslexia, I explore the "E" in the PERMA model of well-being—Engagement—and explain why meaningful experiences and the psychological concept of flow are essential for flourishing. You'll discover what flow really is, why challenge and skill must work together to create it, and why many dyslexics naturally experience deep immersion while creating, researching, solving problems, building, gardening, writing, or making art. I also challenge the way dyslexia research often limits itself to reading, overlooking the many environments where dyslexic strengths truly emerge. This episode will help you recognize where you naturally experience flow and how intentionally creating more of these moments can improve creativity, resilience, well-being, and self-understanding. https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail Why do so many dyslexic individuals experience overwhelm, and what can we do about it? In this episode of Unmasking Dyslexia, Carleen begins a new series exploring the PERMA model of well-being, developed by Martin Seligman, through the lens of dyslexia. The first pillar—Positive Emotions—isn't about pretending to be happy all the time. Instead, it's about learning practical skills that help regulate emotions, reduce overwhelm, and improve overall well-being. Carleen introduces two simple but powerful strategies she uses personally and with clients: HeartMath breathing and emotion labeling. Together, these tools can help calm the nervous system, improve emotional regulation, strengthen working memory, and create greater resilience in everyday life. This episode is perfect for dyslexic adults, parents, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the emotional side of neurodiversity. https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail Should you choose coaching or therapy? Many people use the terms interchangeably, but coaching and therapy serve different purposes and understanding the difference can help you choose the support that's right for you. In this episode of Unmasking Dyslexia, I explore the similarities and differences between coaching and therapy, both from an academic perspective and through the lived experiences of clients who have participated in both. As a Positive Psychology Coach with a background in Applied Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology, I've found that many people benefit from both approaches but for different reasons. In this episode, we discuss: ✅ The key differences between coaching and therapy  ✅ Why therapy often focuses on understanding the past  ✅ How coaching focuses on growth, goals, and future possibilities  ✅ The role of values, strengths, and self-confidence in coaching  ✅ A real client perspective on experiencing both therapy and coaching  ✅ How coaching supports personal and professional development  ✅ Why healing and growth often work together Whether you're navigating a dyslexia diagnosis, pursuing personal growth, or simply curious about the coaching process, this episode will help clarify how these two powerful approaches can support your journey. 🎙️ Unmasking Dyslexia explores dyslexia beyond reading and writing—examining identity, well-being, relationships, personal growth, and the unique strengths of neurodiverse minds. 📌 Interested in Positive Psychology Coaching? Connect with me through the links below to learn more about how coaching can support your growth and well-being journey. Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Unmasking Dyslexia, I explore one of the most misunderstood concepts in positive psychology: well-being. Many people believe well-being means being happy all the time, but true well-being is much deeper than that. It includes our emotions, relationships, accomplishments, health, financial stability, personal growth, meaning, purpose, and even the difficult experiences that shape who we become. As someone with dyslexia and a Master's in Applied Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology, I've discovered that increasing well-being can have a profound impact on how we experience life—and even how we navigate our dyslexic challenges. In this episode, we discuss: ✅ The difference between happiness and well-being  ✅ Why toxic positivity can be harmful  ✅ The role of emotions in personal growth  ✅ Relationships and their impact on well-being  ✅ Meaning, mattering, and purpose  ✅ Psychological richness and learning from life's challenges  ✅ Why embracing both success and struggle creates a fuller life If you've ever wondered how to create a more meaningful and fulfilling life, this episode is for you. 🎙️ Welcome to Unmasking Dyslexia—where we explore dyslexia beyond reading and writing, and uncover how it influences identity, relationships, well-being, and human potential. Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail In this deeply personal episode of Unmasking Dyslexia, Carleen explores the grief process that can follow a late dyslexia diagnosis and why so many dyslexic adults experience emotional upheaval after finally receiving answers. While society is beginning to highlight the strengths and gifts associated with dyslexia, this episode creates space for the other side of the journey — the grief, loss, confusion, and identity shifts that can surface after diagnosis. Carleen discusses:  Why late diagnosis can feel emotionally overwhelming  The grief of missed support and misunderstood childhood experiences  How dyslexics often internalize negative labels  Why hope can temporarily disappear after diagnosis  The connection between wellbeing and dyslexic challenges  The importance of self-acceptance, nervous system regulation, and healing  How positive psychology, resilience, and post-traumatic growth can help rebuild identity This episode also introduces Snyder’s Hope Theory and offers a guided visualization exercise to help listeners reconnect compassionately with their younger selves. If you’ve recently been diagnosed with dyslexia or are struggling to redefine who you are after diagnosis, this conversation reminds you that grief is normal, healing is possible, and your story is still unfolding. Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Unmasking Dyslexia, Carleen explores why receiving a late dyslexia diagnosis can feel emotionally overwhelming and deeply life-changing. Beyond simply explaining reading or memory struggles, a diagnosis can force individuals to completely re-evaluate their identity, relationships, past experiences, and self-worth. Carleen shares her personal experience of being diagnosed at 49 years old and discusses the grief, relief, nervous system response, and emotional reframing that can follow an adult dyslexia diagnosis. She challenges the medical model that focuses only on deficits and instead encourages listeners to see dyslexia through a neurodiversity lens — as a different processing style rather than something “wrong.” This episode also highlights: • Why late diagnosis can trigger an identity crisis • The emotional impact of reinterpreting childhood experiences • How labels influence self-perception • Why dyslexics often internalize harmful narratives • The importance of rebuilding identity through strengths and self-understanding • How positive psychology coaching can support the healing process If you’ve recently discovered you’re dyslexic later in life, this episode reminds you that you are not broken — you simply process the world differently. https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Unmasking Dyslexia, Carleen explores an often-overlooked question: Do dyslexics experience pain differently? Drawing from scientific research and personal experience, this episode dives into how dyslexia may influence pain thresholds, body awareness, headaches, stomach pain, and sensory processing. Carleen discusses studies showing that dyslexic individuals may require more pressure to notice pain in their limbs and extremities, while simultaneously experiencing increased sensitivity to internal pain signals like headaches and stomach discomfort. Through stories, science, and reflection, this episode challenges the idea that dyslexia only impacts reading and learning. Instead, it explores dyslexia as a full-body neuroprocessing difference that may shape how individuals experience and interpret the world around them. Topics include: • Dyslexia and pain thresholds • Why dyslexics may process body signals differently • Sensory integration and proprioception • The connection between dyslexia, headaches, and stomach pain • Personal reflections on injury, pain tolerance, and resilience • Why dyslexia extends far beyond the classroom This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences and join the conversation around the hidden sensory and physical dimensions of dyslexia. Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail What does dyslexia have to do with constipation? More than you might think. In this episode, we explore the emerging connection between dyslexia, gut health, and the brain. While dyslexia is often viewed as a learning difference, it is also a neurodiverse profile—meaning the entire system, including the body, can be impacted. Inside this conversation: The connection between the gut microbiome and brain function Why neurodivergent individuals may experience more digestive challenges The role of stress and anxiety in digestion How gut health can influence cognitive function and dyslexic traits The emerging research linking dyslexia with stomach aches and constipation Why this isn’t “just physical”—it’s neurological and systemic We also explore interoception (your awareness of internal body signals) and how stress impacts digestion, potentially intensifying dyslexic challenges like word recall and processing. This episode is educational, empowering, and yes… a little bit of potty talk. ✨ Because understanding your body helps you understand your brain. Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail Do dyslexics stim? It’s a question that often gets dismissed—but the answer reveals something much deeper about dyslexia, neurodiversity, and how the brain regulates itself. In this episode, we unpack the truth: dyslexia is not just a learning difference—it is a neurodiverse profile. And like many neurodivergent individuals, dyslexics engage in forms of stimming, often without even realizing it. You’ll learn: What stimming actually is and why it matters The different types of stimming (tactile, visual, auditory, movement, oral, and cognitive) Why many dyslexics say “I don’t stim”—but actually do How masking hides self-regulation behaviors The connection between stimming, anxiety, and focus Why these behaviors are not flaws—but intelligent adaptations From fidgeting and rereading to shifting your weight or chewing your cheek, many everyday behaviors are actually forms of self-regulation. This episode invites you to rethink what you thought you knew about dyslexia—and to see yourself with more clarity, compassion, and understanding. ✨ You’re not broken. You’re wired differently—and intentionally. Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail Do dyslexic individuals mask? Absolutely — and often more than they even realize. In this episode of Unmasking Dyslexia, we break down the hidden ways dyslexics mask in everyday life to fit into a world that doesn’t fully understand how their brain works. From memorizing information and overstudying to using humour, perfectionism, and rehearsed conversations — many of these behaviours aren’t personality traits… they’re coping strategies. In this episode, we explore:  What masking looks like for dyslexic individuals  Why dyslexics often hide their challenges The difference between masking and personality  Common masking behaviours like:  Memorizing instead of processing  Overstudying to feel “safe”  Using humour or self-deprecation  Suppressing needs  Rehearsing conversations (social scripts)  The “class clown” vs. “quiet achiever” patterns  How masking impacts wellbeing and identity Many dyslexics grow up adapting to survive socially and academically, often without realizing it. This episode invites you to pause and ask:  How much of what I do is actually masking? If you’re dyslexic — or support someone who is — this conversation can help bring awareness, validation, and a new lens to everyday behaviours. 👍 Like, subscribe, and share to help shift the narrative around dyslexia and neurodiversity. Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail Have you ever heard someone say “everyone is a little dyslexic”? For many dyslexic individuals, this phrase minimizes the real challenges that come with a dyslexic brain — challenges like spelling, word retrieval, working memory, rapid naming, and executive functioning. But here's the deeper issue: society often only uses this phrase when referring to dyslexia’s difficulties, not the abilities that can come with dyslexic thinking. In this episode of Unmasking Dyslexia, we explore: Why the phrase “everyone is a little dyslexic” can be misleadingThe difference between dyslexic challenges and dyslexic abilitiesHow dyslexic brains excel at big-picture thinking, pattern recognition, and rapid problem-solvingResearch describing languishing vs. thriving dyslexic identitiesHow mindset influences whether dyslexic individuals struggle or thriveDyslexia is not simply a list of deficits. It is a different way the brain processes information, one that can come with both real challenges and powerful abilities. The question becomes:  Will you focus only on the challenges, or learn how to access what your brain does best? This episode invites dyslexic individuals, educators, parents, and anyone interested in neurodiversity to rethink what dyslexia really means. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe and share to help change the story around dyslexia.  Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail Do dyslexic individuals show more facial expressions and emotional reactions? Some research suggests they might. In this episode, we explore studies showing that dyslexic individuals may have a stronger emotional response to visual stimuli, which can be seen through facial expressions, heart rate, and the body’s sympathetic nervous system. This means dyslexics may naturally express emotions more openly on their faces, making their reactions easier to read during conversations or emotional moments. In this episode, we discuss: Why dyslexic individuals may show stronger facial expressiveness How emotional processing and visual stimuli influence reactions Why dyslexia and autism can show different emotional expression patterns The strengths and challenges of being emotionally expressive Why research findings don’t apply to every dyslexic individual Facial expressiveness can make dyslexics powerful communicators, but it can also lead to misunderstandings when others interpret expressions incorrectly. If you’re dyslexic, you might recognize this experience — your face showing exactly what you're thinking or feeling before you even say a word. 👍 If this episode resonates with you, like and subscribe to help others better understand the dyslexic brain and the many ways neurodiversity shows up in everyday life. Support the show Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference. If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.  To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com  Book a coaching session here: https://www.carleenross.com/book-online Enrol in one of her programs here: https://www.carleenross.com/virtual-programs Or connect with her directly, email her at [email protected].