Summary In this episode of the Inclusive Shift, Dr Shae Wissell shares her personal journey with dyslexia and discusses the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the workplace. She highlights the importance of understanding dyslexia as a hidden disability, the financial burdens associated with diagnosis and support, and the emotional toll of navigating systems not designed for neurodivergent brains. Dr Wissell emphasises the need for empathy in leadership, dispels common myths about dyslexia, and advocates using tools and strategies to support dyslexic employees. The conversation also touches on the power of storytelling in creating change and the potential for dyslexic thinking to drive innovation in organisations. Keywords neurodiversity, dyslexia, workplace inclusion, mental health, emotional toll, leadership, self-advocacy, storytelling, innovation, support systems About Shae Dr. Shae Wissell is a thought leader, researcher, and internationally recognised advocate for adults with dyslexia and neurodivergence. A certified practicing speech pathologist, she holds a Master of Public Health and Health Administration and a Doctor of Public Health. With extensive experience in health, not-for-profit, and social enterprise sectors, Shae directs re:think dyslexia and founded the chair of the Dear Dyslexic Foundation, leveraging her lived experience and diverse expertise to provide coaching, advocacy, and workforce solutions. Her research focuses on the lived experiences of Australian adults with dyslexia, examining social inequalities in healthcare, education, employment, relationships, and mental health. A published author and presenter, Shae’s work has been research has been recognised locally and internationally. Shae recently published her second book based on her research and lived experiences Dyslexia: Insights into the hidden disability In and Out of the Workplace. As a coach, Shae empowers dyslexic individuals and entrepreneurs to achieve their goals through empathetic and impactful coaching. She also advises workplaces on creating inclusive environments and shaping policies and training programs to maximise the potential of neurodiverse employees. Shae’s accomplishments include international awards, a bestselling book, The Hobo CEO: A Year in the Life of a Dyslexic Social Entrepreneur, and the host of the Dear Dyslexic and The Hobo CEO podcasts. Her innovative approach to advocacy, research, and education makes her a valuable champion for the dyslexia community. Listen to the Dear Dyslexia Podcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dear-dyslexic-podcast/id1211885219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91noXTMO4WOuFMNF0GT?si=a0d24fe333d54c6a Find Shae on LinkedIn About Nic LinkedIn Getting In Contact LinkedIn: The Inclusive Shift Instagram: The Inclusive Shift Facebook: The Inclusive Shift Schedule a session https://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview
