In this episode of the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, hosts Darius Namdaran and Jo Lee welcome back Katrina Cochrane, a notable expert in the field of dyslexia. They delve into the complexities of dyslexia assessments and explore when and why it might be beneficial to pursue an assessment. Katrina, a former head of education at the British Dyslexia Association and founder of Positive Dyslexia, shares her personal and professional insights, including the costs and benefits associated with dyslexia assessments. They also discuss the importance of understanding one's dyslexia profile, the evolving tools and technologies available for support, and the significance of assessments at various stages of life, especially for access to university accommodations. The episode also highlights Katrina's upcoming courses and conferences aimed at providing further support and resources for dyslexic individuals and their families.

This podcast is sponsored by: 

• Get ivvi notes now: ⁠⁠⁠https://ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠ 

Links: 

• Ivvi: https://www.ivvi.app/ 
• what is dyslexia: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/dyslexia/about-dyslexia/what-is-dyslexia 
• How to mindmap: https://www.bulletmapacademy.com/mindmap-beginners 
• Positive Dyslexia:  ⁠www.positivedyslexia.co.uk⁠ 
• Positive Dyslexia Ltd 2026 Events: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/positive-dyslexia-ltd-2026-events-and-services-4804262?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=creatorshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=odclsxcollection&utm-source=cp&aff=escb
• Katrina’s previous episode: https://tinyurl.com/ysh649tz 
• Nessie Project: https://projectnessie.org/ 
• Adult Dyslexia Center: https://www.adc.org.uk/

• SENCO: Special Educational Needs Coordinator
• Disabled Students Allowance: https://www.ivvi.app/dsa-for-dyslexia 
• Toe by Toe: https://toe-by-toe.co.uk/ 
• OCN London: https://ocnlondon.org.uk/ 
• Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning
• BETT Show: https://www.bettshow.com/ 
• British Dyslexia Association: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk

Interested in being a guest? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, hosts Darius Namdaran and Jo Lee welcome Annie, a young student who shares her inspiring dyslexia journey. Annie, currently in her final year of A Levels in England, opens up about her struggles with dyslexia, her passion for music and horses, and the unique coping mechanisms she developed over time. The conversation delves into how Annie navigated her challenges, including learning to read music and dealing with anxiety. She also highlights her love for orchestra, the transformative power of her equestrian experiences, and the supportive role of her friends. This episode offers an insightful and heartfelt look at overcoming obstacles and finding joy through personal strengths and interests.

This podcast is sponsored by: 

• Get ivvi notes now: ⁠⁠https://ivvi.app/⁠⁠ 

Links: 

• Ivvi: https://www.ivvi.app/ 
• what is dyslexia: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/dyslexia/about-dyslexia/what-is-dyslexia 
• How to mindmap: https://www.bulletmapacademy.com/mindmap-beginners 
• Annie Backstory: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/93-tackling-common-entrance-exams-with-a-child/id1387645599?i=1000500937934 
• Shostakovich symphony 5: https://open.spotify.com/track/0P0LAsqiavYc6V54JSeseB?si=e9a5526dc94f471b 
• Denise Dyslexia Coaching: https://www.instagram.com/dyslexiacoaching

Interested in being a guest? Email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠ 

In this episode of the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, hosts Darius Namdaran and Jo Lee welcome guest Michelle Power, an expert in the process of obtaining Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA). Together, they explore the journey of applying for DSA, especially for students with dyslexia. Michelle shares her extensive experience from being an Assistive Technology Officer to a DSA Needs Assessor and discusses the step-by-step process of securing support, the importance of university disability support staff, and how to overcome common barriers in the application process. This comprehensive discussion also covers the needs assessment, the kind of support available, and advice for both students and parents on navigating this crucial aspect of receiving an equitable education.

This podcast is sponsored by: 

• Get ivvi notes now: ⁠https://ivvi.app/⁠ 

Valuable Terms & Acronyms

1. DSA (Disabled Students' Allowance)

• UK government funding for students with disabilities, including dyslexia.

• Link: gov.uk Disabled Students' Allowance

2. Needs Assessment / Assessment of Needs

• The process to determine what support a student is eligible for under DSA.

3. Reasonable Adjustments

• Modifications or support provided by universities (e.g., extra exam time).

4. Assistive Technology

• Software and hardware to support learning (e.g., mind mapping, text-to-speech).

5. Non-Medical Helper (NMH) Support

• Human support such as study skills tutors or mentors.

6. DSA 1 Letter / DSA 2 Letter

• Official communications confirming eligibility and approved support.

7. Review of Needs

• Follow-up assessment if additional needs or evidence arise.

8. HESA (Higher Education Statistics Agency)

• UK body providing statistics on higher education.

• Link: HESA

9. HEP (Higher Education Provider)

• Universities or colleges providing higher education.

10. Learner Support Fund

• Government fund for apprentices with learning differences.

11. Access to Work

• UK government program for workplace disability support.

• Link: Access to Work

Links: 

• Ivvi: https://www.ivvi.app/ 
• what is dyslexia: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/dyslexia/about-dyslexia/what-is-dyslexia 
• How to mindmap: https://www.bulletmapacademy.com/mindmap-beginners 
• Disabled Students Allowance: https://www.ivvi.app/dsa-for-dyslexia 
• Aventido: https://aventido.com/ 
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michelle-power-117aa132b 
• Disabled Students' Allowance Application process
• Eligibility and Medical Evidence
• Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) Wales
• Northern Ireland
• SAAS funding Scotland - Disabled Students' Allowance

Interested in being a guest? Email us at [email protected] 

In this episode of the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, hosts Darius Namdaran and Jo Lee dive into the significance of text readers for individuals with dyslexia. Joined by Jay, a seasoned professional in assistive technology and dyslexia advocate, they unpack the wide-ranging benefits of text readers. Jay shares his personal journey with dyslexia, the challenges he faced growing up, and how technology has transformed his life. He emphasizes how tools like text readers can reduce cognitive load, aid in proofreading, and turn reading into a more accessible and enjoyable task. Exploring both the emotional and practical impacts, this conversation is a rich resource for anyone looking to better understand and implement assistive technologies in educational and professional settings.

Links: 

• Ivvi: https://www.ivvi.app/ 
• what is dyslexia: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/dyslexia/about-dyslexia/what-is-dyslexia 

• Disabled Students Allowance: https://www.ivvi.app/dsa-for-dyslexia 
• ReadSpeaker: https://www.readspeaker.com/ 
• TextAid: https://www.readspeaker.com/solutions/text-to-speech-online/readspeaker-textaid/ 
• Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning
• Thick no more podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/thick-no-more/id1829509350 
• BETT Show: https://www.bettshow.com/ 
• British Dyslexia Association: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk
• Dyslexic font: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/156-dyslexie-font-creator-christian-boer-talks-about/id1387645599?i=1000700776361 

This podcast is sponsored by: 

• ivvi: https://www.ivvi.app/ 

Interested in being a guest? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, hosts Darius Namdaran and Jo Lee welcome Matt Dean from Aventido. Matt shares his extensive experience in the world of assistive technology (AT), particularly in the realm of disability students allowance (DSA) and workplace tech solutions. The discussion traverses Matt's journey from marketing and factory management to becoming a co-founder of Aventido, a company dedicated to bringing emerging assistive technologies to students and professionals. They delve into the significance of tools like speech-to-text, text-to-speech, and mind mapping for individuals with dyslexia, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. The episode highlights the evolution of tech solutions and how they are becoming increasingly accessible and vital for educational and workplace success. Tune in to learn about the practical applications of assistive technology, the importance of site licenses in schools, and valuable advice for parents and educators navigating the AT landscape.

Links: 

• Ivvi: https://www.ivvi.app/ 
• what is dyslexia: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/dyslexia/about-dyslexia/what-is-dyslexia 
• How to mindmap: https://www.bulletmapacademy.com/mindmap-beginners 
• Disabled Students Allowance: https://www.ivvi.app/dsa-for-dyslexia 
• Aventido: https://aventido.com/ 
• AT Superstore: https://atsuperstore.com/ 
• TES Show in london: https://tessendshow.co.uk/ 
• Jack Churchill Scanning Pens Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/85-scanning-pens-on-independent-reading-with-confidence/id1387645599?i=1000493756366 
• Skill Bridge: http://skillbridge.tech/ 
• Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning

This podcast is sponsored by: 

• Ivvi: ⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠ 

Interested in being a guest? Email us at [email protected] ⁠

In this episode of the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, host Darius Namdaran and new co-host Jo Lee welcome Craig Steele, a computer scientist with a unique background in theater studies. Craig shares his extensive experience in education and technology, particularly focusing on non-formal education and assistive technology for the past 15 years. The discussion delves into the intersection of dyslexia and AI, exploring how AI tools can be utilized to support learners with dyslexia. Craig also discusses his upcoming participation in the Dyslexia Scotland education conference and his Churchill Fellowship project aimed at learning international AI practices. This episode provides valuable insights into the practical applications of AI in education, the ethical considerations, and the future of assessment in the age of AI.

Link for Craig:

• Website and newsletter: https://digitalskillseducation.com/#getintouch
• Books: https://cyberskillslive.com/books/
• email: [email protected]
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@digitalskillseducation

This podcast is sponsored by: 

• Ivvi: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠ 

Interested in being a guest? Email us at⁠ [email protected]⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, host Darius Namdaran is joined by Liam Hughes of Biggerplate to discuss mind mapping as a powerful tool for individuals with dyslexia. Liam shares his personal story of discovering mind mapping software in university, which helped him overcome his struggles as a slow reader and pass critical exams. They explore the history of mind mapping, the differences between hand-drawn and digital versions, and how it functions as a "thinking tool" to organize complex information rather than just a note-taking method. The conversation also covers how mind mapping aligns with learning science principles like dual coding and schemas and supports executive functions that can be challenging for those with dyslexia. Join this insightful discussion to learn about the practical applications of mind mapping and its future with AI integration.

Links: 

• Biggerplate: https://www.biggerplate.com/ 
• Discount code:  DYSEXPLORED for 50% discount on upgrades
• Ivvi: https://www.ivvi.app/ 
• what is dyslexia: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/dyslexia/about-dyslexia/what-is-dyslexia 
• How to mindmap: https://www.bulletmapacademy.com/mindmap-beginners 
• Tony Buzan: https://tonybuzan.com/ 
• use your head tony buzan: https://a.co/d/2VAUbpi 
• mind genuis: https://www.mindgenius.com/ 
• mind manager: https://www.mindmanager.com/en/?link=wm 
• imindmap: https://imindmap.app/ 
• executive function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning

This podcast is sponsored by: 

• Ivvi: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠ 

Interested in being a guest? Email us at⁠ [email protected]⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, host Darius Namdaran welcomes back Joe Lee, his co-founder and wife, to discuss how coaching strategies can aid individuals with dyslexia. Leveraging her extensive experience as a life and business coach, Joe breaks down the distinctions between various forms of coaching and counseling. She delves into two essential models: the Drama Triangle and Appreciative Inquiry, offering insights on how these can transform the perception of dyslexia from a hindrance to a source of strength. Through engaging discussions and practical examples, this episode provides valuable perspectives on overcoming dyslexia-related challenges and emphasizes the importance of focusing on one's strengths.

Link:

• Jo Lee Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-lee-21a234155/ 
• Jo Lee Coaching: https://www.joleecoaching.com/ 

This podcast is sponsored by: 

• Ivvi: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠ 

Interested in being a guest? Email us at⁠ [email protected]⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Dyslexia Explored, host Darius Namdaran interviews his wife Jo, an accomplished pharmacologist, scientific researcher, life coach, and business coach who later co-founded an AI software company. Despite not having dyslexia herself, Joe has extensively lived in and supported a family deeply intertwined with the condition. They discuss Joe's unique perspective from understanding dyslexia through her husband and daughters' experiences, the emotional wake-up calls that spurred deeper learning, and how their combined strengths led to the creation of Ivie, a revolutionary AI-powered mind-mapping tool. The episode dives into the family's journey, touching upon Joe's initial learning curve, the coping strategies her family developed, and the evolving support system they've built over the years.

• 
  Jo Lee Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-lee-21a234155/ 
• Jo Lee Coaching: https://www.joleecoaching.com/ 

This podcast is sponsored by: 

• Ivvi: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠ 

Interested in being a guest? Email us at⁠ [email protected]⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, host Darius Namdaran dives into the critical topic of executive function and its impact on individuals with dyslexia. Joined by Dr. Erica Warren, an expert in the field, they explore the intricacies of working memory and how understanding it can be a game changer. They discuss practical strategies like using whiteboards and mind maps, and how leveraging AI tools like ivvi Notes can support executive functions. Dr. Warren also breaks down different types of dyslexia, emphasizing the importance of explicit instruction and personalized approaches. This episode is brimming with actionable insights and strategies to help people with dyslexia harness their unique strengths and improve their cognitive skills.

• Your Professional Processing Inventory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=yppi 
• Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning 
• Cognitive Flexibility:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/dyslexia-and-executive-function 
• Dyslexia Quiz: ⁠⁠https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/⁠⁠
• Inhibitory Control:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/poor-executive-functioning?_pos=3&_sid=19d2b3888&_ss=r 
• Visualization:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/the-key-to-improved-attention-and-memory-for-optimal-learning?_pos=8&_sid=a9d61809a&_ss=r 
• Inner Voice:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/inner-voice-app?_pos=1&_sid=604e0b13e&_ss=r 
• Working Memory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/working-memory 
• https://goodsensorylearning.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://learningspecialistcourses.com⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessment⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dropintoyourbestself.com/
• https://learningtolearn.biz/ 

This podcast is sponsored by: 

• Ivvi: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠ 

Interested in being a guest? Email us at⁠ [email protected]⁠ ⁠⁠⁠