The Gift of Dyslexia: The Book that Completely Changed my World

In this podcast episode, Donna Stevenson, Head of Training and Assessment at Success With Dyslexia (SWD), reflects on the evolving perception of dyslexia over the past 30 years. Highlighting changes since the 1990s, when dyslexia was not well-understood, Donna discusses the current shift in how companies view neurodiversity. Contrasting the limited teacher training on specific learning difficulties in the past, Donna emphasizes the growing awareness and acceptance of dyslexia in education and workplaces. Drawing from her extensive experience at the British Dyslexia Association (BDA), she shares insights into supporting both children and adults with dyslexia. Donna underscores the importance of sharing lived experiences to enhance understanding and foster success with dyslexia. Join her in exploring the transformation of dyslexia perceptions and her mission at SWD to provide global support through training and assessment.

Host Matthew Head reflects on 2024’s standout moments from *The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show*. Featuring CEOs, MPs, Olympians, and tech innovators, the episode explores powerful stories of resilience, discovery, and success. Guests share how dyslexia shaped their lives and careers—Matt Hancock MP discussed his diagnosis at Oxford, while Jamie Waller shared the life-changing impact of discovering his dyslexia at 36 after selling a multi-million-pound business.

Other stories highlight the importance of early diagnosis, tailored support, and assistive tools like audiobooks. Guests reflect on how dyslexia often runs in families, with children’s diagnoses prompting parents to explore their own traits.

This inspiring year-end episode weaves a narrative of shared humanity, showing that embracing dyslexia and finding the right support unlocks new paths to growth and success. A celebration of the unique journeys that make the dyslexic community resilient and extraordinary.

Emily Gee, a dyslexic, dyscalculic, and dyspraxic individual, struggled in school but found solace in performing arts. Despite academic challenges, performing boosted her confidence and became her forte. Supported by understanding teachers and parents, Emily embraced her strengths, overcoming insecurities. Unlike dyslexia, dyscalculia lacks awareness and support in education. Emily, now advocating for the Dyscalculia Network, aims to raise awareness and early intervention for dyscalculia. Her journey underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing strengths over weaknesses. This podcast episode resonates with parents of children displaying signs of dyslexia, dyspraxia, or dyscalculia, offering insights and encouragement.