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.…
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In this full-length episode of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, Dr Shae Wissell sits down with Nick Nagzam, host of The Inclusive Shift, to explore neurodiversity in the workplace, parenting neurodivergent children, and the importance of creating environments where people can thrive. Nick shares how his understanding of neurodiversity deepened following the diagnoses of his two sons, one autistic with a…
In Part 3 of our deep dive with Nick, Dr Shae continues the conversation about the realities of parenting neurodivergent children while navigating your own neurodivergent traits. Nick reflects on how neurodivergence often becomes more visible within families as children are diagnosed and parents begin to recognise similar characteristics in themselves. Although he has not received a formal…
In Part 2 of this Deep Dive series, host Dr Shae speaks with Nick Nagzam and introduces the show’s mission to share honest conversations and build community around dyslexia and other neurodivergent conditions, then moves into a discussion about working from home in a global, largely neurodivergent team and how home “distractions” can be less disruptive than office interruptions. Nick shares how…
The office is not always the most supportive place to work. In Part 1 of this Deep Dive series, host Dr Shae speaks with Nick Nagzam about his work and his podcast, The Inclusive Shift, and his journey into advocating for neurodiversity inclusion at work after his two sons were diagnosed (autism with a PDA profile and ADHD, and ADHD). Nick shares how he founded a neurodiversity resource group at…
What if struggling with numbers wasn't just about being "bad at maths"? In this episode of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, Dr Shae is joined by Michael from Dyscastia, an intervention tutor and advocate with lived experience of dyslexia and dyscalculia. Together, they explore the often-misunderstood learning difference of dyscalculia and discuss why awareness remains so low compared to other…
Rethinking Maths, Dyscalculia & Confidence: Scaffolding, Practice, and Practical Tool In part 3 of our latest episode DR Shae and Michael focus on lived experiences of dyslexia and other neurodivergent conditions and explore maths anxiety, shame, and the lasting trauma of school experiences such as being discouraged from using fingers. The conversation reframes “not being good at maths” as a…
In our just released Part 2 of Ep 87 Dyscalculia Explained: Number Sense, Time Blindness, and Building Confidence with Practical Strategies, Dr Shae Marie Wisszell on the Dear Dyslexic Podcast sits down with Michael Shanaha to explore dyscalculia and why it is often invisible due to low awareness, even among maths teachers. Michael explains dyscalculia as a core difficulty with basic number sense…
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…
In this Dear Dyslexic podcast episode, Dr Shae speaks with consultant and leader Ben Walkenhorst about psychosocial hazards and how to create psychologically safe workplaces, especially for neurodivergent people. Ben shares his background (20+ years’ experience across sectors and leading teams up to 200) and his lived experience of dyslexia, including an auditory component and visual stress helped…
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…
Creating Psychologically Safe Workplaces for Neurodivergent Teams In this episode of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, Dr Shae welcomes Ben Walkenhorst from BW Communications for a conversation about creating neurodiversity-inclusive workplaces through psychological safety, effective leadership and thoughtful workplace design. Drawing on his leadership experience across government, private and…
In this episode, Dr Shae from the Dear Dyslexic Podcast welcomes Ben Walkenhorst, consultant at BW Communications, to explore psychosocial hazards in the workplace, psychological safety, and what organisations can do to create environments where people feel safe to be themselves. With more than 20 years of experience across government, private and not-for-profit sectors, Ben shares insights from…
Recorded as a podcast for International Women’s Day, this panel hosted by Dr Shae 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, self-compassion, and career trajectories. The discussion links perimenopause/menopause to reduced capacity to mask, emotional peaks and…
In this special in-studio episode of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, Dr Shae welcomes Dr Kim Percy and UK-based researcher Dr Helen Ross for a conversation about dyslexia, neurodivergence and the challenges many people face during key life transitions. Drawing on her Churchill Fellowship research in Australia, Helen discusses how moving from school to university, training or employment can be a…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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 Deirdre Hardy, a dedicated advocate for young people with neurodivergences. Deirdre is the CEO of Future Connect, an organisation committed to supporting young…
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…
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 dyslexia and felt she too may be dyslexic. Over the last 24 years, she has co-directed and been a senior designer for Designscope, an agency dedicated to…
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, as well as at local and national levels. As a former teacher/SENDCo with over 10 years of experience, I now work as a freelance consultant, researcher, and…
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 industrial and warehousing, sales and marketing, with a specialty in legal recruiting. Her human resources consulting background includes, training, payroll, sponsorship,…
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 Podcast. Head to rethinkdyslexia.com.au to find out more about today’s guest speaker. To keep up-to-date with all our news sign up to our mailing list and follow us…
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 controversial, so we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the topic! Craig is a UK dyslexic academic and a Researcher Development Fellow at Edge Hill…
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 forward-thinking. All it takes, with the help of HR and DEI, is the support our workplace programs provide. That’s the advantage of doing things differently. In…
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 enjoy spending time unpacking life as Dyslexic PhD candidates. A bit about Bill. Trying to get an education with dyslexia resulted in me failing grade two and…
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 Leader with a demonstrated history of working in a range of sectors, I bring strengths in building purposeful cultures, training and development, removing…
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 traumatic times, but in managing day-to-day life. Having lost his brother and 3 close mates to suicide, he is a passionate mental health advocate who specialises…
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 is a passionate mental health advocate who specialises in helping clients sell better, find more time, less stress, and better habits. Gareth’s professional and…
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 paradigms, misunderstandings, false narratives, and a harmful stigma. It is about time to showcase the extraordinary creatives and exceptional problem solvers with…
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 to give him a strong secure attachment, so he may grow up feeling safe, loved and free to be himself. Autumn is a twice-exceptional adult (autism, gifted IQ,…
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 hope you enjoy this podcast as much as Shae enjoyed speaking with Teeny!
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, and employment and industrial relations laws. He has been a barrister for 10 years and, prior to that, was a solicitor for 12 years. Prior to being called to the…
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-Chair. This podcast has been proudly sponsored by IMC training. With more than 25 years of experience, 12 international locations, and 350 employees, imc is the…
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 Dyslexia 2021 Conference. Shae had a round table conversation with Autumn O’Conner, Tammy McGown and Dr. Rebecca Flower on neurodiversity in the workplace.
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 University of Tasmania.
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 Theatre Director and a Disability Advocate with a particular interest in access support for neuro-diverse performing artists. His directing and access work has seen…
