Dear Dyslexic Podcast

By Dr Shae WissellEducation Self-Improvement Courses

Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes

October 1090: ADHD, Dyslexia Women’s Health and the Research Gaps We Need to Talk About with Dr Shae and Associate Professor Carolyn Gerwitz Full episode
ADHD, Women’s Health, Brain Fog and the Research Gaps We Still Need to Talk About
In this full episode of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, Dr Shae Wissell is joined by Associate Professor Carolyn Gerwitz for an important conversation about ADHD, women’s health and neurodivergence.
Together, they explore emerging research alongside lived experience, discussing brain fog, diagnosis, self-care, and the significant gaps that still exist in our understanding of neurodivergent women’s experiences.
The conversation highlights why we need to keep bringing research and lived experience together, particularly when experiences have historically been overlooked or poorly understood.
This episode is for neurodivergent people and anyone working across health, education, employment, leadership or community settings who wants to better understand ADHD and women’s experiences of neurodivergence.
At re:think dyslexia, we are committed to making research and lived experience more accessible and helping create more informed, inclusive and neurodivergent-affirming communities.
What surprised you most about this conversation?
#Neurodiversity #ADHD #Dyslexia #WomensHealth #RethinkDyslexia
At re:think dyslexia, we amplify lived experience to build understanding, inclusion and momentum for research.About Dear Dyslexic Podcast
The Dear Dyslexic Podcast amplifies the voices, experiences and expertise of people from the dyslexia and broader neurodivergent communities, creating conversations that inform, empower and inspire. Learn more about re:think dyslexia: https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/
Stay Connected
Thanks for listening to Dr Shae and the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, proudly produced by re:think dyslexia, a certified social enterprise. To stay up to date with our latest episodes, resources and events, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast on your favourite podcast platform. Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91no...
Need Support?
If any of the topics discussed in this episode have caused distress, support is available:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN: 13 92 76
re:think dyslexia Helpline: 1800 13 6327
53 min
October 03Ep 90: Part 3 Perimenopause, Self-Care and research advocacy with Dr Shae and Associate Professor Carolyn Gerwitz
In Part 3, Dr Shae and Associate Professor Carolyn Gerwitz bring together hormones, dyslexia and ADHD, while exploring practical wellbeing, connection and the need for better research.
For organisations and leaders, this conversation is a reminder that neurodivergent experiences can shift across life stages. Awareness helps create workplaces where people feel able to ask for support without judgement.
What would change if more workplaces understood the combined impact of neurodivergence and hormonal change?
At re:think dyslexia, we amplify lived experience to build understanding, inclusion and momentum for research.About Dear Dyslexic Podcast
The Dear Dyslexic Podcast amplifies the voices, experiences and expertise of people from the dyslexia and broader neurodivergent communities, creating conversations that inform, empower and inspire. Learn more about re:think dyslexia: https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/
Stay Connected
Thanks for listening to Dr Shae and the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, proudly produced by re:think dyslexia, a certified social enterprise. To stay up to date with our latest episodes, resources and events, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast on your favourite podcast platform. Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91no...
Need Support?
If any of the topics discussed in this episode have caused distress, support is available:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN: 13 92 76
re:think dyslexia Helpline: 1800 13 6327
18 min
September 2590: Part 2 Perimenopause, Brain Fog & ADHD: How to Tell the Difference (and Why Symptoms Can Worsen)
In Part 2 of this conversation, Dr Shae Wissell and Associate Professor Caroline Gurvich explore one of the most common questions women ask during perimenopause: Is this ADHD, perimenopause, or both?
Together, they discuss the impact of hormonal changes on the brain, including brain fog, memory, attention, and executive functioning. The episode examines why many neurodivergent women report increased challenges during perimenopause and highlights the complexities of diagnosis and support during this life stage.
The conversation also explores an important workplace question: How can employers better support people navigating the intersection of neurodivergence and hormonal transition?
At re:think dyslexia, we believe that greater understanding leads to more inclusive, supportive workplaces where everyone can thrive.
00:00 Welcome to Dear Dyslexic
00:29 Tracking Cycles and Symptoms
02:14 Perimenopause vs ADHD Diagnosis
06:08 Misconceptions and Daily Impact
07:20 What Is Perimenopause
09:16 Brain Fog Explained
11:02 ADHD Worsening in Perimenopause
14:16 Dyslexia and Hormonal Shifts
15:55 Resources and Farewell
About Dear Dyslexic Podcast
The Dear Dyslexic Podcast amplifies the voices, experiences and expertise of people from the dyslexia and broader neurodivergent communities, creating conversations that inform, empower and inspire. Learn more about re:think dyslexia: https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/
Stay Connected
Thanks for listening to Dr Shae and the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, proudly produced by re:think dyslexia, a certified social enterprise. To stay up to date with our latest episodes, resources and events, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast on your favourite podcast platform. Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91no...
Need Support?
If any of the topics discussed in this episode have caused distress, support is available:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN: 13 92 76
re:think dyslexia Helpline: 1800 13 6327
17 min
September 1890: Part 1 Hormones, Menstrual Cycles & ADHD | Dr Shae Wissell & Associate Professor Caroline Gurvich
** Content Warning:** This episode includes discussion of suicide, mental health, and emotional wellbeing.
Have you ever felt like your ADHD suddenly gets worse, even when nothing else has changed? It might not be stress, burnout, or a bad week. It could be hormones.
Could hormones be influencing your ADHD, attention, executive functioning and emotional regulation more than you realise? In this episode, Dr Shae Wissell speaks with Associate Professor Caroline Gurvich from Monash University about the growing evidence linking hormones, cognition and neurodivergence.
In Part 1 of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, Dr Shae Wissell speaks with Associate Professor Caroline Gurvich, Clinical Neuropsychologist, Head of the Cognition and Hormones Group, and Deputy Director of HER Centre Australia at Monash University.
Together, they explore how hormonal fluctuations can influence attention, executive functioning, emotional regulation and daily functioning for neurodivergent people, particularly those with ADHD.
Many people experience changes in concentration, memory, mood and emotional wellbeing during hormonal changes across the lifespan, yet these experiences are often dismissed as stress, burnout or simply having a bad week. This conversation examines the growing evidence connecting hormones, cognition and neurodivergence.
What could change if workplaces, healthcare providers and families better understood the relationship between hormones and ADHD?
About Dear Dyslexic Podcast
The Dear Dyslexic Podcast amplifies the voices, experiences and expertise of people from the dyslexia and broader neurodivergent communities, creating conversations that inform, empower and inspire. Learn more about re:think dyslexia: https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/
Stay Connected
Thanks for listening to Dr Shae and the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, proudly produced by re:think dyslexia, a certified social enterprise. To stay up to date with our latest episodes, resources and events, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast on your favourite podcast platform. Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91no...
Need Support?
If any of the topics discussed in this episode have caused distress, support is available:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN: 13 92 76
re:think dyslexia Helpline: 1800 13 6327
20 min
September 12Ep 89 : Neurodivergent women in STEM: Navigating the Automotive Industry Full Episode
What does it take to build a successful career in engineering and automotive manufacturing while navigating ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, workplace bias, and the challenges of being a woman in STEM?
In this episode of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, Dr Shae sits down with Diana, Senior Project Coordinator and Planner in Toyota's Product Planning Division. Diana shares her remarkable journey from Colombia to Australia and reflects on more than 20 years working across Ford, Holden, and Toyota.
Together, they explore the realities of studying engineering in male-dominated environments, overcoming workplace assumptions, receiving a late diagnosis of ADHD, dyslexia and dysgraphia, and finding practical ways to thrive at work without sacrificing wellbeing.
Diana also shares valuable insights into neurodiversity in the workplace, hybrid work, sensory overload, communication styles, and Toyota's commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB).
Whether you're neurodivergent, a leader looking to build a more inclusive workplace, or someone interested in encouraging more girls into STEM, this episode offers practical insights and powerful lived experience.
Women in STEM
ADHD in the workplace
Dyslexia and dysgraphia
Hyperfocus and burnout
Neurodiversity at work
Inclusive workplace design
Sensory overload strategies
Hybrid work and productivity
Communication and masking
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB)
Engineering careers
Automotive industry insights
Chapters
00:00 Podcast Welcome
00:37 Meet Diana at Toyota
02:31 From Colombia to Cars
03:55 Math Brain vs Recipes
06:10 Women in Automotive
07:48 Engineering Uni Bias
10:14 Late ADHD Discovery
12:46 Hyperfocus Burnout Cycles
15:01 Learning Addiction and Degrees
18:14 ADHD Strengths at Work
20:08 Capture Lists and Structure
24:36 Habits Rewards and Hybrid
29:33 Sleep Pod Reset
30:19 Silence After COVID
31:56 Noise Overload Strategies
33:07 Why Filtering Fails
33:45 Women in STEM Pipeline
37:32 Seatbelts and Bias
40:13 DEIB at Toyota
41:51 Universal Design Wins
47:51 Onboarding for Everyone
50:34 Direct Communication Styles
55:23 Masking and Tone Policing
57:54 Wrap Up and Resources
About Dear Dyslexic Podcast
The Dear Dyslexic Podcast amplifies the voices, experiences and expertise of people from the dyslexia and broader neurodivergent communities, creating conversations that inform, empower and inspire. Learn more about re:think dyslexia: https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/
Stay Connected
Thanks for listening to Dr Shae and the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, proudly produced by re:think dyslexia, a certified social enterprise. To stay up to date with our latest episodes, resources and events, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast on your favourite podcast platform. Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91no...
Need Support?
If any of the topics discussed in this episode have caused distress, support is available:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN: 13 92 76
re:think dyslexia Helpline: 1800 13 6327
#ADHDWomen #WomenInSTEM #NeurodiversityAwareness #DyslexiaAndADHD #RethinkDyslexia
1 hr 1 min
September 05Ep 89 : Part 3 Creating Inclusive Workplaces at Toyota: Neurodiversity, Universal Design & Communication Styles
In Part 3 of our Neurodivergent Women in STEM series, Dr Shae Wissell sits down with Diana from Toyota to explore how neurodiversity, universal design, and communication styles shape inclusive workplaces.
Together, they discuss Toyota’s broader DEIB approach, practical workplace accommodations, hybrid work, onboarding around working styles, and why reframing neurodivergence as a strength benefits everyone. Diana shares how a remote test-trip scenario led to universal
accommodations portable toilets, better catering for cultural needs, and a
new standard process of asking all staff about requirements improving comfort and experience for the whole team despite initial pushback. They discuss reframing neurodivergence as a strength (creativity and connecting the dots), workplace supports like wellness and quiet rooms and hybrid work, and the value of managers researching and enabling tools such as Grammarly and writing aids. The conversation highlights onboarding around working styles,
focusing on strengths over weaknesses, and raising awareness of different
communication styles, masking, and “tone” policing.
Key message
Inclusive workplaces are built when neurodiversity is understood as a strength, communication styles are respected, and universal design is used to support everyone.
Time Stamp
00:00 Welcome to Dear Dyslexic
00:34 Neurodiversity at Toyota
02:11 Inclusive Test Trips
04:31 Strengths and Workplace Design
06:27 Universal Accommodations
08:11 Onboarding for Working Styles
10:54 Communication Styles and Tone
15:43 Masking and Fatigue
18:26 Language and Interrupting
19:51 Wrap Up and Resource
About Dear Dyslexic Podcast
The Dear Dyslexic Podcast amplifies the voices, experiences and expertise of people from the dyslexia and broader neurodivergent communities, creating conversations that inform, empower and inspire. Learn more about re:think dyslexia: https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/
Stay Connected
Thanks for listening to Dr Shae and the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, proudly produced by re:think dyslexia, a certified social enterprise. To stay up to date with our latest episodes, resources and events, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast on your favourite podcast platform. Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91no...
Need Support?
If any of the topics discussed in this episode have caused distress, support is available:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN: 13 92 76
re:think dyslexia Helpline: 1800 13 6327
21 min
August 29Epi 89: Part 2 ADHD at Work: What Actually Works | Neurodivergent Women in STEM
In Part 2 of our Neurodivergent Women in STEM series, Dr Shae Wissell sits down in studio with Diana from Toyota to explore ADHD at work, sensory overload, hybrid work, and the challenges facing women in STEM.
In this episode:
ADHD-friendly productivity strategies that actually work
Why capture lists can be more effective than relying on memory
Flexible routines, task chunking, and managing motivation
Sensory overload, noise sensitivity, and energy management
The benefits of hybrid work for neurodivergent professionals
Breaking down barriers for women in STEM
How engineering design decisions can unintentionally overlook women
Why representation and inclusion start long before the workplace
Key message:
Success isn't about forcing rigid productivity systems. It's about creating flexible, personalized approaches that support neurodivergent minds while building more inclusive pathways for women in STEM.
Time Stamp
0:00 Welcome to Dear Dyslexic
00:34 ADHD Morning Workflow
00:56 Capture List Focus
02:09 Flexible Structure Over Time
04:03 Chunking Big Tasks
05:01 Why Habits Feel Impossible
06:40 Gamifying Daily Routines
08:01 Hybrid Work That Works
10:43 Sensory Overload and Silence
14:09 Women in STEM Pipeline
17:27 Representation in Engineering
18:42 Seatbelts and System Change
20:41 Wrap Up and Resource
About Dear Dyslexic Podcast
The Dear Dyslexic Podcast amplifies the voices, experiences and expertise of people from the dyslexia and broader neurodivergent communities, creating conversations that inform, empower and inspire. Learn more about re:think dyslexia: https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/
Stay Connected
Thanks for listening to Dr Shae and the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, proudly produced by re:think dyslexia, a certified social enterprise. To stay up to date with our latest episodes, resources and events, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast on your favourite podcast platform. Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91no...
Need Support?
If any of the topics discussed in this episode have caused distress, support is available:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN: 13 92 76
re:think dyslexia Helpline: 1800 13 6327
22 min
August 22 89: Part 1 Women in STEM, ADHD & Automotive Engineering with Diana Paez Ortiz from Toyota
In this episode of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, Dr Shae Wissell speaks with Diana, a Senior Project Coordinator and Planner at Toyota, about her journey from Colombia to Australia and into the automotive industry. Diana reflects on her love of mathematics and science, the challenges of studying engineering as a woman in a male-dominated field, and building a successful career across Ford, Holden, and Toyota.
Diana also shares her experience of receiving a late diagnosis of ADHD alongside dyslexia and dysgraphia. She discusses hyperfocus, burnout cycles, continuous learning, and how neurodivergent thinking has shaped both her personal life and professional success. Together, they explore the strengths and challenges of ADHD in the workplace and the importance of creating more inclusive environments for neurodivergent professionals in STEM.
This episode offers valuable insights for women in engineering, neurodivergent adults, employers, and anyone interested in the intersection of neurodiversity and career success.
About Dear Dyslexic Podcast
The Dear Dyslexic Podcast amplifies the voices, experiences and expertise of people from the dyslexia and broader neurodivergent communities, creating conversations that inform, empower and inspire. Learn more about re:think dyslexia: https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/
Stay Connected
Thanks for listening to Dr Shae and the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, proudly produced by re:think dyslexia, a certified social enterprise. To stay up to date with our latest episodes, resources and events, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast on your favourite podcast platform. Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91no...
Need Support?
If any of the topics discussed in this episode have caused distress, support is available:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- 13YARN: 13 92 76
- re:think dyslexia Helpline: 1800 13 6327
21 min
August 15 88: Full Episode |Neurodiversity at Work: ADHD, Autism, Flexible Work & Parenting | Nick Nagzam
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 PDA profile and ADHD, and the other with ADHD. What began as a personal journey became a professional mission, leading Nick to establish a neurodiversity employee resource group within his workplace and advocate for greater awareness, inclusion and flexibility.
Together, Shae and Nick discuss the realities of workplace stigma, the ongoing debate around remote and hybrid work, and why outcome-focused leadership can help organisations unlock the strengths of neurodivergent employees. They also explore the challenges and rewards of parenting, supporting emotional regulation, managing screen time, navigating school experiences, understanding PDA, and accessing support services.
This thoughtful and honest conversation offers practical insights for employers, leaders, parents and neurodivergent individuals, while highlighting the importance of flexibility, understanding and self-compassion.
In this episode, you'll learn about:
Neurodiversity advocacy in the workplace
Building awareness and inclusion initiatives
Flexible work, productivity and wellbeing
Challenges of return-to-office policies
Raising neurodivergent children
Understanding ADHD, autism and PDA
Family routines and support strategies
The role of self-compassion for parents and carers
Key takeaway: "No one is designed to fit a standard operating system. We need to create environments that recognise and support individual differences."
About Dear Dyslexic Podcast
Dear Dyslexic Podcast is produced by re:think dyslexia, hosted by Dr Shae Wissell, sharing lived experience stories, expert insights and practical conversations that support neurodivergent people to thrive. Learn more about re:think dyslexia: https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/
Stay Connected
To stay up to date with our latest episodes, resources and events, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast on your favourite podcast platform.
Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91no...
Need Support?
If any of the topics discussed in this episode have caused distress, support is available:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN: 13 92 76
re:think dyslexia Helpline: 1800 13 6327
42 min
August 08Ep.88 Part 3 | When Your Child's Diagnosis Changes You Too
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 diagnosis, he shares his journey of understanding how his brain works, identifying his triggers, and developing strategies that support both himself and his family.
Together, Dr Shae and Nick discuss the lessons he's learned through podcast interviews, practical organisational tools such as using a physical diary, and the ongoing challenge of staying regulated and choosing supportive language during difficult moments. Nick also speaks openly about parenting a son with a PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance/Pervasive Drive for Autonomy) autism profile, sharing insights into the strong need for autonomy that can shape behaviour and family dynamics.
The conversation explores bedtime challenges, including recent sleepwalking experiences, and the importance of flexibility, understanding, and self-compassion in family life. Throughout the episode, Nick offers an honest perspective on the ups and downs of parenting and the value of giving yourself permission to not have all the answers.
This episode is a reassuring reminder that many parents are navigating similar challenges. Understanding yourself is often an important step towards supporting your children, and self-care is not a luxury but a necessity.
Key Takeaways
Neurodivergence is often recognised across multiple generations within families.
Understanding your own brain can help you better support your children.
Small practical strategies can make a meaningful difference in everyday life.
Parenting neurodivergent children requires flexibility, patience, and self-awareness.
PDA profiles are often linked to a strong need for autonomy and control.
Parents need to prioritise their own wellbeing and mental health.
Giving yourself grace is an important part of the parenting journey.
About Dear Dyslexic Podcast
The Dear Dyslexic Podcast amplifies the voices, experiences and expertise of people from the dyslexia and broader neurodivergent communities, creating conversations that inform, empower and inspire.
Learn more about re:think dyslexia: https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/
Stay Connected
Thanks for listening to Dr Shae and the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, proudly produced by re:think dyslexia, a certified social enterprise.
To stay up to date with our latest episodes, resources and events, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast on your favourite podcast platform.
Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91no...
Need Support?
If any of the topics discussed in this episode have caused distress, support is available:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN: 13 92 76
re:think dyslexia Helpline: 1800 13 6327
15 min

About Dear Dyslexic Podcast

From the publisher's feed

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.

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Dear Dyslexic Podcast

Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes

About Dear Dyslexic Podcast