Dyslexia Explored

Darius Namdaran

Sharing dyslexia stories from all stages and walks of life to help parents of Tween/Teens with Dyslexia find practical and helpful tips.

  1. #171: Dyslexia Assessment: Pros, Cons and Guidance with Katrina Cochrane

    6 DAYS AGO

    #171: Dyslexia Assessment: Pros, Cons and Guidance with Katrina Cochrane

    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=escbKatrina’s previous episode: https://tinyurl.com/ysh649tz Nessie Project: https://projectnessie.org/ Adult Dyslexia Center: https://www.adc.org.uk/SENCO: Special Educational Needs CoordinatorDisabled 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-functioningBETT Show: https://www.bettshow.com/ British Dyslexia Association: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.ukInterested in being a guest? Email us at jo@ivvi.app

    1h 16m
  2. #170: Dyslexia, Music and Horses: Playing Through Your Strengths with Annie

    20 JAN

    #170: Dyslexia, Music and Horses: Playing Through Your Strengths with Annie

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

    1h 18m
  3. #169: Guidance and Support for University Students with Dyslexia with Michelle Power

    14 JAN

    #169: Guidance and Support for University Students with Dyslexia with Michelle Power

    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 DSA (Disabled Students' Allowance) UK government funding for students with disabilities, including dyslexia. Link: gov.uk Disabled Students' Allowance Needs Assessment / Assessment of Needs The process to determine what support a student is eligible for under DSA. Reasonable Adjustments Modifications or support provided by universities (e.g., extra exam time). Assistive Technology Software and hardware to support learning (e.g., mind mapping, text-to-speech). Non-Medical Helper (NMH) Support Human support such as study skills tutors or mentors. DSA 1 Letter / DSA 2 Letter Official communications confirming eligibility and approved support. Review of Needs Follow-up assessment if additional needs or evidence arise. HESA (Higher Education Statistics Agency) UK body providing statistics on higher education. Link: HESA HEP (Higher Education Provider) Universities or colleges providing higher education. Learner Support Fund Government fund for apprentices with learning differences. 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 processEligibility and Medical EvidenceDisabled Students Allowance (DSA) WalesNorthern IrelandSAAS funding Scotland - Disabled Students' AllowanceInterested in being a guest? Email us at jo@ivvi.app

    1h 13m
  4. #168: Dyslexia, Text Readers and Empowerment with Jay Giddens

    6 JAN

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

    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-functioningThick 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.ukDyslexic 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

    1h 21m
  5. #167: The AT Superstore: The Significance of Easy-Access Assistive Technology with Matt Dean

    09/12/2025

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

    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-functioningThis podcast is sponsored by:  Ivvi: ⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠ Interested in being a guest? Email us at jo@ivvi.app ⁠

    1h 13m
  6. #166: AI-Driven Innovations for Dyslexia with Craig Steele

    15/10/2025

    #166: AI-Driven Innovations for Dyslexia with Craig Steele

    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/#getintouchBooks: https://cyberskillslive.com/books/email: craig@digitalskillseducation.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@digitalskillseducationThis podcast is sponsored by:  Ivvi: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠ Interested in being a guest? Email us at⁠ jo@ivvi.app⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

    1h 12m
  7. #165: Mind Mapping for Executive Function: Capture, Focus, Adapt with Liam Hughes

    18/09/2025

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

    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 upgradesIvvi: 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-functioningThis podcast is sponsored by:  Ivvi: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ivvi.app/⁠⁠⁠ Interested in being a guest? Email us at⁠ jo@ivvi.app⁠ ⁠⁠⁠

    1h 20m
  8. #164: Dyslexia, Parenting, and Building ivvi: A Family, a Struggle, a Solution with Jo Lee

    19/08/2025

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

    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 ⁠⁠⁠

    1h 5m
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About

Sharing dyslexia stories from all stages and walks of life to help parents of Tween/Teens with Dyslexia find practical and helpful tips.

Information

  • Creator
    Darius Namdaran
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    171
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Darius Namdaran
  • Show Website
    Dyslexia Explored

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