Dear Dyslexic Podcast
Education & Explainer
About
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!
Episodes
- "The Intersection of Neurodivergence and Workplace Safety" with Ben Walkenhorst - Pt 3
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,…
- Neurodiversity at Work: Strategies for Safety and Success with Ben Walkenhorst - Pt 2
Creating Psychologically Safe Workplaces for Neurodivergent Teams | Dear Dyslexic Podcast This Dear Dyslexic podcast episode introduces the show’s focus on lived experiences of dyslexia and other neurodivergent conditions, then explores st…
- Lived Experiences and Insights with Ben Walkenhorst - Part 01
The Dear Dyslexic Podcast introduces its mission to share honest conversations about dyslexia and other neurodivergent conditions and welcomes guest Ben Walkenhorst, a consultant at BW Communications with over 20 years’ experience across g…
- Embracing Neurodiversity: Insights from the International Women's Day Panel on Late Diagnosis
Recorded as a podcast for International Women’s Day, this panel brings together Nicci Richman, Dr Kim Gordon, and Dr Annalisa Contos, to share experiences of late diagnosis (ADHD, autism, dyslexia/dysgraphia) and how it reshaped identity,…
- 84. "Dyslexia Unplugged: Conversations Across Continents"
In a first in-studio Dear Dyslexic Podcast interview, the host chats with Dr. Kim Percy and UK-based Dr. Helen Ross about dyslexia and broader neurodivergence in adulthood, focusing on transition points from school to university or work. H…
- 83. Why Educator Belief Matters More Than Diagnosis: Transforming TAFE for Dyslexic Students
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 shar…
- 82. Speech Pathologist Decodes Dyslexia: Myths, Assessments, and Lifelong Support
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…
- 81. I Got Diagnosed With ADHD at 40+ | What I Wish I'd Known Sooner
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 fi…
- 80 Dear Dyslexic Podcast | A New Chapter: Now With VIDEO
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…
- Ep 79 - Neurodivergence & Substance Use: Breaking the Stigma with Dr Erin Lalor AM
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 backgroun…
- Ep 78: Understanding ADHD: Insights from a Dad's Perspective
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…
- Ep 77: Late Diagnoses and Neurodivergent Identity: Monique Mitchelson's Journey
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…
- Episode 76: The Power of Vulnerability: How Hotel Etico’s Saraya Rewrote Her Story
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—…
- Ep 75: How AI Is Empowering Dyslexic and Neurodivergent Minds: Tools, Tips, and Transformation
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, offerin…
- Ep 74 “That’s Just Scott”: Unseen Dyslexia & the Realities of Neurodivergence
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…
- Ep 73: Redefining Leadership Through a Neurodivergent Lens: Dr. Annalisa Contos’ Journey
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 th…
- Ep 72: Is Dyslexia a Label, a Disability, or a Superpower?
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 in…
- Ep 71: Driving Inclusivity: Transforming the Automotive Industry and Beyond with Raffy Sgroi
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 podcas…
- Ep 70: From Hidden to Hero: Embracing Dyslexia in Entrepreneurship with Nigel Lockett
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 Profe…
- Ep 69: Unleashing Neurodivergent Potential: ADHD Australia CEO Mel Webster on Workplace Transformation
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 adv…
- Ep 68 From Classroom to Career: How Dyslexics Pass, Mask, Cope and Succeed with Dr Neil Alexander Passe
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,…
- Ep 67: Building Inclusive Workplaces: Deirdre Hardy's Strategies for Young Neurodivergents
Are you ready to hear how one organisation is making a difference in the lives of young people with neurodivergences? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Deirdre Hardy from Future Connect! In this episode, we are thrilled to host De…
- Ep 66: The Business Case for Inclusion: Dr. Jamica Nadina Love on Cultural Add
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 in…
- Ep 65: The Impact of Late Dyslexia Diagnosis: A Conversation about art, resilience and self discovery with Kim Percy
n this episode, Shae has an open discussion with Kim Percy, where they talk about life and parenthood as a late-diagnosed dyslexic. After her youngest son was diagnosed in year 2, Kim found herself relating to many of his experiences with…
- Ep 64 Unlocking Potential: A Dyslexic Journey with Dr. Helen Ross
In this fun podcast Dr Shae Wissell speaks with Dr Helen Ross about living with dyslexia and undiagnosed ADHD. Helen is a dyslexia expert and Special Educational Needs specialist with experience in independent and public education sectors,…
- Episode 63 with Dana Neiger, Author/CHRO/Co-Founder at HIVE Talent Acquisition Firm
In this episode, Shae speaks with Dana Neiger, Author/CHRO/Co-Founder at HIVE Talent Acquisition Firm Dana's recruiting experience covers a wide range of industries such as accounting and finance, construction, engineering, light industria…
- Episode 62 Dr Malvika Behl dyslexia and mental health across the generations
This episode may contain sensitive discussions if you find any of this content distressing, seek support: Life Line on 13 11 14 BeyondBlue counsellor on 1300 22 4636 Im Dr Shae Wissell and you have been listening to the Dear Dyslexic Podca…
- Episode 61: Craig Collins Lexism – The Othering and discrimination of dyslexics
In this episode, Shae speaks with Craig Collinson. Shae and Craig share their insights into their research and Craig's fascinating topic Lexism” – the Othering and discrimination of dyslexics. This conversation may come across as a bit con…
- Episode 60 Tap into funding through our re:think Workplace Inclusion Program
Every workplace needs a dyslexic or ten. Problem solver. Lateral thinker. Emotionally intelligent. Creative. Intuitive. Empathic. People with dyslexia have the kind of strengths that help an organisation be more dynamic, innovative and for…
- Episode 59 with Bill Goh on Life as a Dyslexic PhD candidate
In this episode, Shae speaks with Ph.D. colleague and peer Bill Goh. Together they discuss a number of topics from accessing a diagnosis, educational trauma, advocacy and PhD life. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as Shae and Bill en…
- Episode 58 with Nicci Richman Neurodivergent OD Consultant
Welcome to episode 58 with Nicci Richman. Nicci is a neurodivergent Organisational Development professional, supporting businesses to embrace inclusive design that optimises performance, productivity and belonging. She is an effective Lead…
- Episode 57: Part 2 with Garth Robinson from Mindhabits
In the second part of this two-part series, Shae speaks with Gareth Robinson from Mindhabits. Gareth shares with Shae the Habit Staker and how by creating tiny habits every day we can start to manage and cope not just during stressful and…
- Episode 56 with Garth Robinson from Mindhabits
In this two-part series, Shae speaks with Gareth Robinson from Mindhabits. Gareth shares with Shae how tiny habits can help us manage and cope during stressful and traumatic times. Having lost his brother and 3 close mates to suicide, he i…
- Episode 55 with Mark Long, I AM LEX
In this episode, Shae speaks with Mark Long from I AM LEX. Mark created a brand new communication tailored for the 21st century by rebranding the dyslexic identity to reflect the modern age ~ I AM LEX. Dyslexia is riddled with old paradigm…
- Episode 54 life as a neurodivergent parent with Autumn O’Connor and Tammy McGown
In this episode, Shae speaks with Autumn O’Connor and Tammy McGown about raising children as neurodivergent parents the ups, downs, and the many laughs along the way. Autumn O'Connor is a new mother to a wonderful little man; learning how…
- Episode 53 Councillor Teeny Brumby
In this episode, Shae speaks with Councillor Teeny Brumby from Burnie, Tasmania. Teeny is an effervescent and outgoing Wife and Mum of four children who LOVES op-shopping, coffee and public speaking and is an amazing dyslexic advocate. We…
- Episode 52 Dyslexia and Workplace Law
In this episode, Shae speaks with Ben Fogarty. Ben is a barrister at Denman Chambers, with expertise in discrimination law (specialising in disability discrimination), administrative law, criminal law, guardianship and mental health law, a…
- Episode 51 with Natalia Lyckowski Leader Global Neurodiversity @ IBM Business Resource Group Co-Chair.
In this episode, Shae speaks with Natalia Lychowski who is proudly neurodivergent Nat is a Business Transformation Analyst, the Global Neurodiversity Advancement Leader, and Leader of Global Neurodiversity @ IBM Business Resource Group Co-…
- Episode 50 Neurodiversity in the workplace special edition podcast
We are so excited to be launching our 50th podcast, with nearly 25000 downloads worldwide our podcasts continue to be a valuable resource to our growing community! This is a special edition podcast episode from our Living Successfully with…
- Episode 49 with Darlene McLennan ADCET
In this podcast Shae speaks with Darlene McLennan is the Manager of the Australian Disability Clearinghouse on Education and Training (ADCET) and the National Disability Coordination Officer for Tasmania. Both of which are hosted by the Un…
- Episode 48 Disability and Advocacy in the Workplace with Dan Graham and Sally Close
This is a special podcast episode, a round table conversation from our 2021 Conference. In this podcast, Shae had a round table conversation with Dan Graham and Sally Close about the role of advocacy in the workplace. Dan Graham is a Theat…
- Episode 47 with Pennie Aston CEO of GroOops
In this episode, Shae speaks with the wonderful Pennie Aston. Founder and CEO of GroOops Dyslexia Aware Counselling.
- Episode 46 with Alison Edgar The Entrepreneur’s Godmother
In this episode, Shae speaks with Alison Edgar, The Entrepreneur’s Godmother and Managing Director of Sales Coaching Solutions is an author, entrepreneur, speaker, and thought leader.
- Episode 45 with Sally Close dyslexia and neurodiversity in the workplace
In this episode, Shae speaks with Sally Close on dyslexia and neurodiversity in the workplace. Introducing Sally Close – Business Improvement Consultant. Sally Close left her corporate career armed with 20+ years of leadership experience t…
- Episode 44 with Jane Kjersten
In this episode, Shae welcome's Jane Kjersten back to the show to talk about Dyslexia and Trauma. Jane is a therapist who has worked with individuals, couples and families who live with learning disabilities/difficulties.
- Episode 43 with Professor Stephen MacDonald
In this episode, Shae speaks with fellow dyslexic Professor Stephen Macdonald. Stephen is a Professor of Social Science at the University of Sunderland. Stephen is currently the research lead for the School of Social Sciences and Head of t…
- Episode 42 with Professor Amanda Kirby
In this episode, Shae speaks with Professor Amanda Kirby MBBS MRCGP PhD. As the founder and CEO of Do-IT Solutions, Professor Amanda Kirby is very unusual and has the unique experience of straddling health, education, and the workplace. Am…
- Episode 41 with Rocking Dan the Music Man
Welcome to the first of our episode Dear Dyslexic Podcast Series for 2021!! In episode 41, Shae speaks with Rocking Dan the Music Man. We have had a lot of different guests on our show who advocate and work in the education space but we ha…
- Special Edition podcast episode 40 with Tricia Malowney Disability and Human Rights Advocate
We have launched a Special Edition podcast to celebrate and acknowledge International Day of People with Disabilities and its our 40th episode can you believe that!!In this episode, Shae speaks with Tricia Malowney Disability and human rig…
- Episode 39 with Autumn O'Connor
Autumn O'Connor is an autistic twice-exceptional (gifted) adult with dyslexia and dyscalculia, holding also a diagnosis of anxiety and dysthymia. She only received her autism diagnosis later in life (age 37). Her special interests are tedd…