In this episode of Thriving in Intersectionality, Dr. Lola Adeyemo sits down with Russell Van Brocklen, dyslexia educator, researcher, and advocate, for a conversation about learning differences, identity, confidence, and human potential.
The conversation begins with a reminder that intersectionality extends beyond the identities we immediately see. Learning differences, educational experiences, and the systems that shape opportunity also influence how people move through the world, develop confidence, and see themselves.
Russell shares his personal journey growing up with dyslexia, navigating educational systems that often underestimated his abilities, and facing years of frustration, labels, and barriers. Despite being told what he could not achieve, Russell went on to develop innovative approaches to supporting students with dyslexia and helping families access tools that build confidence and academic success.
Together, Dr. Lola and Russell explore how learning differences impact identity, the importance of looking beyond traditional definitions of intelligence, and the role that schools, families, and communities play in helping people reach their full potential.
This conversation is not just about dyslexia.
It's about what happens when we focus on people's strengths instead of their struggles.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
- Understanding dyslexia beyond common misconceptions
- How learning differences shape identity and confidence
- Navigating educational systems that were not designed for every learner
- The relationship between labels and human potential
- Russell's personal journey from struggling student to dyslexia educator
- Why intelligence and learning style are not the same thing
- Supporting students through strengths-based approaches
- The role of parents, educators, and communities in student success
- Creating more accessible pathways to learning
- Building confidence through accomplishment and belonging
About the Guest
Russell Van Brocklen is a dyslexia educator, researcher, and advocate who helps students and families overcome academic barriers through innovative learning approaches. Drawing on both professional expertise and lived experience, he develops accessible strategies that help students with dyslexia strengthen reading, writing, and academic confidence while focusing on their strengths and long-term potential.
Learn more about his work at Dyslexia Classes.
Reflection Question
What assumptions might we be making about someone's potential based solely on the way they learn, communicate, or process information?
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Thank you for listening to Thriving in Intersectionality with Dr. Lola Adeyemo.
This podcast explores how identity, lived experience, and leadership intersect in today's workplace and beyond. Through conversations with leaders, founders, educators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, we uncover stories and insights that help people thrive across the many intersections of their lives.
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