Dear Dyslexic Podcast

In this episode of Dr Shae and the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, our host Shae,welcomes Michael from the podcast Dyscastia to discuss dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, and why there aren’t enough conversations about these learning difficulties. Michael explains his view on labels, using “disability” for official funding and support contexts and preferring “difficulty” personally, while questioning the term “difference.” He shares his work as an intervention tutor supporting children with dyslexia, dyscalculia, and related neurodivergence such as ADHD and autism, and describes the morphology-focused “word cracking” software and the Literacy Support Kit he developed with Sally Andrew to better support students for whom some programs move too quickly. Michael also recounts his varied career path, his late identification through his children’s diagnoses, and his lived experience of autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and dysgraphia. 00:00 Podcast Mission 00:36 Meet Michael 01:34 Labels Disability Or Difficulty 03:08 Tutoring And Tools 06:00 From Teaching To Tutoring 06:55 Family Diagnoses Spark Journey 08:28 Career Path And Wrap Up 09:00 Resources And Support Lines

Neurodivergence, Feedback & Psychological Safety at Work (Dear Dyslexic Podcast)This episode of the Dear Dyslexic podcast explores how feedback and workplace practices can impact neurodivergent people, including those with dyslexia, ADHD, and autism, particularly when feedback feels overly critical or triggering due to past experiences. The conversation focuses on the role of great leadership in giving feedback privately and safely, discussing practical adjustments like changing red markup colors and reframing “feedback” as “advice.” It also covers how constant check-ins can raise anxiety and suggests creating adult-adult relationships where employees have permission to speak up about what works for them. The guest emphasizes the importance of training leaders in psychological, social, and emotional dynamics and neurodivergence, linking psychological safety to improved productivity and business outcomes, alongside growing legal and regulatory obligations in Australia.00:00 Welcome to Dear Dyslexic00:33 Feedback and RSD02:13 Better Ways to Give Feedback03:54 Advice Not Feedback04:20 Checking In Without Anxiety06:05 Adult Adult Leadership07:27 Training Leaders on Neurodiversity10:11 Business Case and Compliance12:22 Wrap Up and Next Episode15:19 Resources and Sign Off

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:

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:

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

What if the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals are more about survival than adaptation? In this episode of the Dear Dyslexia podcast, Dr. Shae Wissell dives deep into a thought-provoking discussion with Dr Neil Alexander Passe, a researcher and advocate who is reshaping our understanding of neurodivergence and its impact on daily life. Dr Neil Alexander Passe, a respected researcher in the field of dyslexia and neurodivergence, returns to the show to share his latest insights. With years of experience studying the nuances of neurodiversity, Neil has authored numerous papers and is a strong voice for the neurodivergent community. His work primarily focuses on understanding how neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with hidden disabilities, navigate the world through strategies like 'passing'—a concept that involves concealing their differences to fit into societal norms. In this episode, Dr. Neil and Dr. Shae explore: The impact of COVID-19 on students with neurodivergence, particularly in the context of educational accommodations like the use of laptops during exams. The concept of 'passing' versus 'masking'—how neurodivergent individuals might hide their differences to avoid stigma and the implications of this on their mental health and well-being. The broad and often problematic use of the term 'neurodivergence,' and whether it dilutes the unique challenges faced by individuals with specific conditions like dyslexia, autism, and ADHD. The role of coping strategies in helping neurodivergent individuals succeed in environments that are not inherently supportive of their needs. This conversation not only challenges existing narratives but also offers new perspectives on how we can better support neurodivergent individuals in various aspects of life, from education to the workplace. 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

Dive deep into the world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with Dr. Jamica Nadina Love, a trailblazer making waves across the education sector and beyond. Get ready to challenge your perspectives and understand the true power of intersectionality. Guest Introduction: In this episode, we welcome Dr. Jamica Nadina Love, a renowned DEI expert and transformative leader. As the first Chief Diversity Officer at the historic Virginia Military Institute and the founder of Higher Dimensions Consulting LLC, Dr. Love has dedicated her career to fostering inclusive and equitable environments. With a master’s degree in counseling psychology and significant contributions in higher education, she has been recognized as one of Virginia Business News' 100 People to Meet in 2022. Dr. Love's journey began with a focus on supporting international college women and has since expanded to include pivotal roles at esteemed institutions such as Mount Holyoke College and Northeastern University. Her commitment to advocacy, particularly for women and BIPOC individuals, underscores her dynamic speaking and training style, leaving a lasting impact on individuals and organisations alike. Key Topics Discussed: 1. Intersectionality and Labels: Dr. Love unpacks the concept of intersectionality, exploring how various identities intersect and contribute to unique experiences of discrimination and privilege. She explains the significance of understanding these intersections to create more inclusive and supportive environments. 2. The Evolution of DEI: From her early days working with international women at the Showa Boston Institute to her current role in consulting, Dr. Love shares her insights on how DEI initiatives have evolved. She emphasizes the importance of education in embracing diversity and how different identities add value to organizations. 3. Transforming Organizational Culture: Dr. Love discusses the paradigm shift from seeking a "cultural fit" to a "cultural add," advocating for the inclusion of diverse perspectives to drive innovation and growth. She shares practical strategies for organizations to broaden their hiring pools and create a more inclusive culture. 4. Overcoming Fear and Embracing Diversity: Addressing common fears associated with DEI efforts, Dr. Love offers guidance on how individuals and organizations can navigate these challenges. She highlights the importance of thoughtful speech, the impact of unintentional harm, and the need for continuous learning and awareness. 5. Personal and Professional Growth: Reflecting on her own career, Dr. Love shares her motivations and experiences that have shaped her journey. She underscores the value of mentorship, volunteer work, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge in the DEI field. Join us for this enlightening conversation with Dr. Jamica Nadina Love, and learn how to transform your approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Discover the power of intersectionality and the impact it can have on creating a more equitable and inclusive world. Tune in now and be part of the change! A note from our director and podcast host: I’m Dr Shae Wissell and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, brought to you by re:think dyslexia. To keep up-to-date with all our news, sign up to our mailing list and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you haven’t done so yet, subscribe to your favourite podcast platform, rate, and review this podcast. Join me next time for another conversation on the Dear Dyslexic Podcast series. If you would like to sponsor a podcast contact hello@rethinkdyslexia.com.au and help us continue to share stories of young people and adults with dyslexia and other neurodivergences!