Dyslexia Explored

Latest Episodes:

#168: Dyslexia, Text Readers and Empowerment with Jay Giddens Jan 06, 2026

Show notes

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 jo@ivvi.app

#167: The AT Superstore: The Significance of Easy-Access Assistive Technology with Matt Dean Dec 09, 2025

Show notes

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 jo@ivvi.app ⁠

#166: AI-Driven Innovations for Dyslexia with Craig Steele Oct 15, 2025

Show notes

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: craig@digitalskillseducation.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@digitalskillseducation

This podcast is sponsored by:

Ivvi: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠

Interested in being a guest? Email us at⁠ jo@ivvi.app⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

#165: Mind Mapping for Executive Function: Capture, Focus, Adapt with Liam Hughes Sep 18, 2025

Show notes

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 jo@ivvi.app⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

#164: Dyslexia, Parenting, and Building ivvi: A Family, a Struggle, a Solution with Jo Lee Aug 19, 2025

Show notes

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 jo@ivvi.app⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

Living With Dyslexia: From the Outside In with Jo Lee Aug 05, 2025

Show notes

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 jo@ivvi.app⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

#162: Executive Functioning: Why Processing Matters More Than You Think with Erica Warren Jul 01, 2025

Show notes

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 jo@ivvi.app⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

#161: Mental Health are NOT just Problems: Empowering Neurodiversity with Liz Day Jun 25, 2025

Show notes

When the Neurodiversity Show was cancelled this year, Dr Martin Bloomfield wanted to pay tribute to Arran Smith's original concept, while keeping part of the conversation alive by bringing together some of the speakers, with the support of the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, and created this one-off online event: The Neurodiversity Empowered 2025.

The second of a series of talks from the said event is a keynote speaker Liz Day, focusing on mental health literacy and support strategies for neurodivergent individuals. Liz discusses the importance of recognizing and supporting mental health, not solely as a set of problems but as an overall aspect of well-being. She emphasizes the need for early understanding and support, the significance of resilience, and creating psychologically safe environments. Liz also shares personal anecdotes and research findings, providing practical tools and strategies to empower individuals with neurodivergent traits. The episode highlights the interconnectedness of mental health conditions and the importance of supportive communication and routine-building for both personal and community well-being.
Link:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizdaytqy/
Collectively Diverse Community Interest Company: https://www.collectivelydiverse.co.uk/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@collectively.dive
Touch-Type Read and Spell 10% discount: https://www.readandspell.com/home-course?rfsn=2112066.62e18&utm_source=refersion.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=refersion

This podcast is sponsored by:

Ivvi: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠

Interested in being a guest? Email us at⁠ jo@ivvi.app⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

#160: Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) support for Neurodiverse Children (Toni Horn) Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

The first of a series of talks from the said event is a keynote speaker Toni Horn. Toni shares valuable strategies for supporting neurodivergent children, focusing on topics like social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH), emotional regulation, online engagement, and managing anxiety in neurodivergent children. She provides practical advice on fostering a growth mindset, supporting sleep, and utilizing multi-sensory approaches to aid children with dyslexia and ADHD. The episode emphasizes the importance of role models and clear communication within families, making it an essential listen for parents and educators of neurodivergent children. Stay tuned for the rest of the speakers.

Follow Toni on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonikhorn
Book A Call with Toni: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/appointments/schedules/AcZssZ254maz-q1kq7LaUQqDwpiyQaE-kPoPyhnehty9QtdReNyfdGzazAAD3WIESMQD-35iUpJeA1A9
NeuroEmpower website: https://neuroempower.org/?blog=y

This podcast is sponsored by:

Ivvi: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠

Interested in being a guest? Email us at⁠ jo@ivvi.app⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

#159: Sports, ADHD, and Dyslexia Resilience with Liz Day May 28, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Dyslexia Explored Podcast, host Darius Namdaran introduces Liz Day, a dedicated teacher, and mother who shares her experiences with dyslexia through both her profession and her son's journey. They discuss a range of topics, including the importance of touch typing for dyslexic learners, the unique challenges and advantages dyslexia presents in sports, the interrelation between ADHD and dyslexia, and the significance of mental health. Liz also shares her academic pursuits towards a PhD in mental health literacy among young neurodivergent individuals, highlighting the need for more inclusive educational and health policies. Join this insightful conversation to explore strategies and stories that underscore the strengths and challenges of living with dyslexia and ADHD.

This podcast is sponsored by:

Ivvi: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠

Interested in being a guest? Email us at⁠ jo@ivvi.app⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

Links:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizdaytqy/
Collectively Diverse Community Interest Company: https://www.collectivelydiverse.co.uk/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@collectively.dive
Touch-Type Read and Spell 10% discount: https://www.readandspell.com/home-course?rfsn=2112066.62e18&utm_source=refersion.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=refersion

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