In this insightful conversation, Donell Pons sits down with Dr. Tim Odegard, a leading expert in dyslexia research. Odegard shares his personal journey as an individual with severe dyslexia and the challenges he faced with limited support and accommodations throughout his education. He also discusses his extensive professional background, including his training in cognitive sciences, neuroimaging, and dyslexia intervention. 

Odegard provides valuable insights into the legislative efforts in Tennessee and other states to improve reading instruction and support for students with dyslexia, emphasizing the importance of creating an enabling context for policy implementation. This episode offers a unique perspective on the complexities of dyslexia and the critical role of empathy, advocacy, and evidence-based practices in literacy education.

This is part four of the Literacy Talks miniseries Dyslexia Talks, hosted by Donell Pons.

SHOW NOTES
Literacy Leaders:

• Tim Odegard
• Reid Lyon
• Keith Stanovich
• Ameer Baraka
• Samuel Kirk

Resources:

• IDEA
• Tennessee Center for the Study and Treatment of Dyslexia
• AIM Institute for Learning & Research

💬 Want more insights like this?
Subscribe to the Literacy Talks Podcast Digest for episode recaps, resources, and teaching takeaways delivered straight to your inbox!

Do you teach Structured Literacy in a K–3 setting?
Sign up for a free license of Reading Horizons Discovery® LIVE and start teaching right away—no setup, no hassle. Sign-up Now.

Coming Soon: Reading Horizons Ascend™
From Pre-K readiness to advanced fluency, Ascend™ offers a consistent, needs-based reading experience across every grade, tier, and model—so every student can build mastery, one skill at a time. Learn More.