Author: Matt

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Welcome to another episode of The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show! In today’s conversation, Matt sits down with Danielle Cudjoe-Michalski, founder of Thinking Light Coach. Danielle is not only an Associate Director Project Manager Vaccine at GSK but also a proud co-founder of the GSK Neurodiversity network.

Join Matt and Danielle as they delve into her personal journey, discussing the challenges she faced during her degree studies and how managing dyslexia at the time influenced her choice of study. They explore the early stages of Danielle’s career and the perseverance it took for her to secure a position at GSK. An interesting anecdote arises when Danielle recounts an encounter with a colleague who unintentionally “outed” her dyslexia while reading her handwritten notes. From there, Danielle candidly shares her experience of working multiple jobs and the eventual burnout that ensued. Together, they uncover the valuable lessons she learned and how she continues to navigate her mind and preserve her brain energy to prevent further burnout.

Listen in as Danielle reveals her process of self-discovery within her job, identifying her strengths and finding a role that suits her unique style. The conversation also delves into the establishment of the new diversity network at GSK, highlighting the importance of fostering inclusivity within the workplace. Furthermore, Danielle discusses the challenges and rewards of setting up her coaching business while juggling a full-time job.

Tune in to this enlightening episode as Danielle Cudjoe-Michalski shares her empowering story of resilience, growth, and the pursuit of a fulfilling career while embracing neurodiversity within the GSK organisation.

Key Topics:

• Danielle’s personal struggle during her degree studies and the impact of dyslexia management on her chosen field
• The hurdles Danielle faced and her determined journey to secure a job at GSK
• An unintended revelation of dyslexia by a colleague and the subsequent lessons learned
• Navigating multiple jobs and the importance of maintaining mental well-being
• Discovering strengths and finding a job that aligns with individual work style
• The significance of the GSK Neurodiversity network and its impact on fostering diversity and inclusion
• Establishing a coaching business alongside a full-time job and the challenges involved

Join us in this inspiring episode with Danielle Cudjoe-Michalski as she shares her empowering story of resilience, growth, and the pursuit of a fulfilling career while embracing neurodiversity at GSK. Gain valuable insights and practical advice for individuals living with dyslexia and anyone seeking to create an inclusive workplace environment.

Selected Links:

• Danielle’s
  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram
• Thinking Light Coach
• GSK
• GSK – Disability Concordance Network
• Chemistry Degree
• BTEC
• Microbiologist
• MHRA
• Surface Dyslexia
• DSE
• PRINCE 2
• PMP Project management
• Professor Sara Rankin
• ICF qualification
• Grammarly
• Notion

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In this episode of The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show, Matt talks to Dr. Brock Eide, co-author of the book, The Dyslexic Advantage, about the unique brain structures and strengths associated with dyslexia.

Matt introduces Dr. Brock Eide, a neuro-learning expert, and co-author of The Dyslexic Advantage. They discuss Dr. Eide’s background in medicine and his interest in dyslexia.

Dr. Eide shares his first experience with dyslexia and how it affected his family. He talks about his children’s experiences and how it sparked his interest in dyslexia research.

Dr. Eide talks about how he and his wife Fernette wrote The Dyslexic Advantage and the response they received. They discuss the paradigm shift in the way dyslexia is viewed and the strengths associated with it.

Dr. Eide talks about the updated edition of the book and the new research that supports the dyslexic advantage. He discusses the unique brain structures and organization of people with dyslexia and the special talents and skills that come with it.

Matt and Dr. Eide wrap up the episode by discussing the importance of understanding dyslexia and its strengths. They encourage listeners to learn more about dyslexia and to embrace the dyslexic advantage.

Selected Links:

• The Dyslexic Advantage – Amazon – Audible
• Dyslexic Advantage non-profit organization
• University of Pennsylvania
• Neurologist
• Cardiologist
• Public Accountant
• Game Theory
• Max Planck – Physicist
• Richard Branson
• Made By Dyslexia
• British Dyslexia Association
• Chat GPT
• GCHQ
• Go – the game
• Deepmind

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Welcome to episode 50 of The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show! In this special episode, host Matt is joined by his old friend Richard Elliott Kirk, who appeared on the first two episodes of the podcast. As they catch up, they discuss how the podcast has grown since its launch in July 2021 and some of the highlights from previous episodes.

Matt and Richard reminisce about their friendship that has lasted over 25 years, including Matt’s role as one of the best men at Richard’s wedding. They also share the genesis of The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show and how it has evolved since the first two episodes that Richard was on.

Listeners can expect to hear interesting highlights from previous episodes, such as Matt’s love of motor racing and his interview with racing driver Ben Hurst. Matt and Richard also recommend two very different episodes to new listeners to showcase the breadth of the podcast.

The discussion takes a deeper dive into Matt’s experience of dyslexia and how his understanding of it has evolved since launching the podcast. They share some life hacks and tips for public speaking, as they recall Matt’s talk at two Dyslexia Shows.

For long-term listeners, Matt and Richard reflect on the three rapidfire questions that Matt asks every guest on the podcast and some of the most interesting answers they’ve heard.

Join Matt and Richard as they celebrate this special milestone episode of The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show and look forward to what’s to come.

Selected Links:

• Episode 1 – Dyslexia In The Workplace
• Episode 2 – Dyslexia Correction
• Mario Kart Double Dash!!
• Davis Program
• Book – Gift of Dyslexia
• Episode 31 – Dekko Comics, Using Illustration To Bring Learning To Life With Rossie Stone
• Race Car Driver episode – Episode 13 – Dyslexia As A Racing Driver With Ben Hurst
• Formula 1 drivers – Lewis Hamilton, Nigel Mansell and Jackie Stewart
• Other podcasts Matt has been a guest on
  • Dyslexia Explored episode 104
  • Step By Step Dyslexia Solutions Podcast
  • Nerodiversity Stories
  • The Unconventionall Podcast
• Episode 26 – Phillip Ruddock On Reteaching GCSE’s, Self-Perception And Our Dyslexic Connection
• GCSE English
• Episode 40 – Alex Onalaja On Entrepreneurship, School In Nigeria And Personal Development
• Dyslexia Show
• Matt’s RGU Alumni Video
• The Tim Ferriss Show
• Loch Lomond Scotland
• Hack – Record A Presentation And Then Write It Down
• Episode 46 – Dyslexia In Recruitment And Irish Education With Alanah Herron
• Episode 24 – Building Brands, Word Play And Learning About Dyslexia While Recording The Podcast With Jason Flinter
• Episode 21 – Ian Sudlow-Mckay On Dyslexia As A Librarian And Taking 3 Master Degrees
• St Andrews University
• Dewey Decimal system 
• CIMA accounting qualifications
• Chat GPT
• Writing Helper
• Hack – Timing With Tomatoes To Boost Productivity (Pomodoro Timer)
• Hack – Skill swap
• Hack – Find The Colour When Speaking (Colour coding notes)

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Introduction: Welcome back to the Dyslexia Life Hacks Show! In this episode, Matt is joined by civil engineer and podcast host Michael Fisher. Michael shares his journey of discovering he was dyslexic at six years old and struggling to receive the right support. We discuss the challenges of finding the right support and fitting in with peers while dealing with dyslexia.

Michael’s Dyslexia Journey: Michael talks about his experience of being taken out of his current school and put into a specialist school to receive the support he needed. We discuss how dyslexia support is often stigmatized and the challenges that come with carrying specialist equipment in classrooms. Michael shares his passion for reading and his daily routine to ensure he can consume books efficiently.

Dyslexia in Engineering: As fellow engineers, Matthew and Michael discuss what it’s like to be dyslexic in their profession and how dyslexia helps them. Michael goes into great detail about how his dyslexia has informed his work as a civil engineer and now in a management role. We discuss how embracing our differences can lead to better outcomes and how dyslexia has given Michael a unique perspective on problem-solving.

Leadership and Passion: Michael is passionate about great leadership and shares his experience of learning how to apply good leadership skills. We discuss how dyslexia thinking can tie into leadership and how Michael applies his skills as a leader. Michael discovered his joy in editing podcasts and started his own business, Fisher Audio Cast, which focuses on podcast production, marketing, and growth.

Conclusion: This episode covers a lot of ground on Michael’s dyslexia journey, reading habits, and passion for leadership and podcasting. Don’t forget to follow the Dyslexia Life Hacks Show on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on future episodes. Thank you for listening.

Selected Links:

• Michael’s
  • LinkedIn
  • Podcast – Leadership in Construction – Apple, Spotify
• Fisher Audio Cast
• Civil Engineering
• Automotive Engineering
• Loughborough University
• HND – Higher National Diploma
• AutoCAD
• Nauance Dragon
• Breadboard
• Book – Sapiens
• Marginal Gains
• Book – Atomic Habits
• CAD Programs – Revit, Solidworks, Civil 3D
• Gary V
• Simon Scenic
• Some of Michael’s Favourite Leadership in Construction episodes
  • Authentic – John Chubb
  • Inspire – Dave Stitt
  • Why Investment is needed in Leadership -Nathanael Pickett
  • Why Mental Fitness is Essential to change the Construction Industry – Tom Foster

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Welcome to The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show with host Matthew Head. In this episode, Matt speaks with Dr. Chris Arnold, founder of Dyversity Lab, a global network of people who naturally think differently. Dr. Arnold shares his dyslexia story and how his experiences have shaped his career in advertising and leadership style. He discusses the challenges he faced in school and how his dyslexia has influenced the way he thinks and approaches problem-solving.

Chris delves into the topic of dyslexia in the workplace. He shares insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that dyslexics face and how dyslexia can be an asset in certain industries, including advertising. He shares stories from his successful career at Saatchi and Saatchi, where he worked as a director and leveraged his dyslexic thinking to create innovative campaigns.

He then introduces the concept of being a 2d thinker vs 3D thinker and explains how dyslexics can leverage their unique cognitive abilities to excel in certain areas. He also shares information about the “Think Like a Dyslexic” programme, which is designed to help individuals and companies tap into the strengths of dyslexic thinking.

Finally, Dr. Arnold hints at his upcoming flip book, which promises to provide even more valuable insights into the advertising experience. He invites listeners to check out the Dyversity Lab website for more information and resources.

Thank you for tuning in to The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show with host Matt and guest Dr. Chris Arnold of Dyversity Lab on Dyslexia, Advertising, and Diverse Thinking. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed the episode.

Selected Links

• Dyversity Lab
• Chris on LinkedIn
• Creative Orchestra
• Saatchi and Saatchi
• ADHD
• Flat Lands Book
• Marketing Kind
• EY
• Chris Book – Ethical Marketing and the New Consumer: Marketing in the New Ethical Economy

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In this episode of The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show, Matt is talking too Arun Iyer, a specialist occupational health advisor. Arun works for Health Partners Group and has extensive experience working with people with dyslexia. He’s here to discuss how occupational health assessments can help people with dyslexia in the workplace.

Background:
Arun shares his background and how he became an occupational health advisor. He also talks about his experience working with people with dyslexia and the challenges they may face in the workplace.

Occupational Health Assessments:
Arun explains what occupational health assessments are and who can benefit from them. He discusses how they differ from medical assessments and the role of the occupational health advisor in conducting the assessment.

Helping People with Dyslexia:
Arun explains how occupational health assessments can identify workplace adjustments that can benefit people with dyslexia. He discusses the different types of workplace adjustments that can be made and how these assessments can help employers understand their legal responsibilities in accommodating people with dyslexia.

What to Expect:
Arun walks us through what a typical occupational health assessment involves. He discusses the different types of assessments that may be conducted depending on the person’s needs and situation. He also talks about how to prepare for an occupational health assessment and what to bring to the appointment.

Conclusion:
Arun summarizes the key points of the conversation and encourages people with dyslexia to consider getting an occupational health assessment to help them in the workplace. He reminds employers of their legal responsibilities to accommodate employees with dyslexia and emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about dyslexia in the workplace and promoting inclusivity.

Outro:
Thank you for listening to The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show. We hope you found today’s episode informative and helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us on social media or through our website. Don’t forget to subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode!

Selected Links

• Health Partners Group
• Occupational Medicine
• Lexxic – Episode 12 – Nicola James On Occupational Psychology, Lexxic And Developing Neurodiversity At In The Workplace
• Genius with in
• Access to Work
• The Equality Act
• Group 3 LGV driver

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In this episode of the Dyslexia Life Hacks Show, Matt is talking to Alanah Herron who is a talent acquisition specialist for Car Trawler. 

During this podcast Matt and Alanah talk at length about the Irish education system in and what it’s like to be educated in that country. 

They talk about her career in HR starting at H&M, where they didn’t use email. Then to working for Ralph Lauren, and now at Car Trawler. Alanah went through quite a lot of career growth as well as her personal growth with her feelings about being dyslexic.

Now she works in recruitment, the conversation goes into how the recruitment process works, but could be changed to be more inclusive for people who are Neurodiverse. 

Selected Links

• Car Trawler
• Irish School system
• Irish language
• UCAS points with UK Degrees
• H&M
• Read Aloud
• Ralph Lauren

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In this episode of the Dyslexia Life Hacks show matt is talking to Arron Smith. He is the founder of the Dyslexia Show and a dyslexic entrepreneur. 

Aaron has previously been on the podcast, and you can find out more about his backstory and the setting up of the Dyslexia Showing in episode 17.

The dyslexia show is a live event happening in the NEC in Birmingham on the 24th and 25th of March 2023. There is a range of exhibitors and speakers, split across various sections including education, parent, workplace and individual. There is a keynote theatre and an innovation theatre. Matt is the compere for the innovation theatre as well as speaking at the show on the Saturday. 

In this podcast, we take a look at what is happening in the 2023 Dyslexia Show and look back on the 2022 show. Getting Aaron’s personal insight in what it is like to now run one show and the learning he is taking forwards into the 2023 show. They take a deep dive into the background planning behind putting on a show like this and what there is to look forward to add the show for anybody planning to visit. Remember to book your tickets if you are interested in coming to the show before they sell out. 

Selected Links

• Dyslexia Show 2023
• Arron’s
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
• UK Lock Downs
• NEC Birmingham
• Matt Hancock
• British Dyslexia Assocation
• BET
• Special Education london
• Autism Show
• Glenfield Tunnel Leicester
• Text Help
• Natalie Brooks – Podcast episode
• Armelle McGeachie – Podcast episode
• The Invisible Gift Podcast
• Helen Arkell
• Succeed with Dyslexia
• Made by Dyslexia