The Dyslexic Maverick with Nancy Disbrow

In this episode of The Dyslexic Maverick , Nancy sits down with Dave Thompson — ADHD and dyslexic thinker, visiting scholar at Vanderbilt's Frist Center for Autism and Innovation, and author of Brainstorm: A Guide to Neurodivergent Talent and the Future of Work . They unpack: What neurodiversity really means (it's not just "them" — it's all of us) Why some workplaces feel like "penguins in the des...

What if there was a simple, side-effect-free way to calm your brain, regulate mood, and boost focus in minutes? In this powerful live session, Nancy sits down with amino acid therapy expert Lori Hammer to try something she's never done before - test amino acids on-air, in real time, to balance her neurotransmitters and calm her ADHD brain. You'll see it all unfold: from nervous laughter to emotion...

In this honest, grounded conversation, Nancy sits down with Dustin Dale, founder of Beyond the Horizon Consulting, executive coach, bestselling author, and keynote speaker to talk about leadership, dyslexia, resilience, and the experiences that shape how we show up at work and in life. Dustin shares his story of growing up dyslexic, navigating serious childhood health challenges, and learning earl...

In this episode of the Dyslexic Maverick Podcast, host Nancy Drow interviews Jordan Rappel, a recent business graduate from Bowling Green State University who has dyslexia. They discuss Jordan's journey from diagnosis in first grade to navigating college life, including the accommodations and strategies she utilized to succeed academically. Jordan shares insights on the importance of self-advocacy...

In this episode, Scott shares his inspiring journey of living with dyslexia and how he transformed what many see as a challenge into one of his greatest strengths. From the struggles he faced in school to the powerful mindset shifts that changed his path, Scott's story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of believing in your unique way of learning. Discover how Scott navigat...

In this episode of the Dyslexic Maverick Podcast, Nancy welcomes Mara Ryan, a passionate advocate for dyslexia and ADHD. Mara shares her journey from understanding her daughter's challenges with dyslexia to writing a dyslexia-friendly children's book titled 'Lucky Dog.' She discusses her motivations, the process of creating the book, and her hope to foster confidence in young readers with similar...

In this episode, Nancy chats with Jamal Waterburn, a pharmacist turned tech consultant and podcast host who discovered he was autistic in his 40's. His story is full of twists, resilience, and real talk about navigating work and life with a differently wired brain. You'll hear Jamal open up about: Bouncing from pharmacy to tech (and finally finding his groove). What it was like getting diagnosed l...

In this episode Nancy sits down with Brady Douville a commercial loan officer, connector, and creative problem-solver with a background in insurance, banking, and property management. Diagnosed with ADHD in high school, Brady has built a career that plays to his strengths: building relationships, thinking outside the box, and finding solutions that others might miss. You'll hear Brady share: How h...

In this episode, host Nancy Disbrow speaks with Alyssa Garrity, a certified speech pathologist in Lenexa, Kansas. They discuss the advantages of classical education for children with dyslexia and ADHD, sharing personal experiences and the structured, systematic approach of classical schools. Alyssa highlights the importance of direct phonics instruction, structured lessons, and engaging, hands-on...

In this episode, we explore amino acid therapy with our special guest, Lori Hammer. Lori, who has a degree in psychology and is a CEU-certified nutritional therapist, shares her personal journey of overcoming an eating disorder, anxiety, and depression through amino acid therapy. Learn the science behind amino acids and their role in balancing neurotransmitters Discover how targeted amino acids ca...

In this episode of the Dyslexic Maverick Podcast, host Nancy Disbrow introduces the second season of her podcast with her mother, Martha Hummel, as the special guest.    The episode offers a deep dive into Nancy's childhood struggles with dyslexia and ADHD, from early signs noticed in preschool to challenges faced in school and eventual successes. The conversation highlights the importance of reco...

In this final episode of season one of the Dyslexic Maverick podcast,  Nancy interviews her father, Jon Hummel. They discuss the discovery of dyslexia in their family, Jon's personal struggles and triumphs with dyslexia and ADHD growing up, and his successful career path. Jon shares stories about overcoming academic challenges, the value of experiential learning, and transitioning from military se...

In this episode, we delve into how designing workplaces with differences in mind can significantly boost productivity and employee morale. Learn about the 30% productivity increase witnessed through visual changes and the universal benefits of inclusive accommodations. Discover how having a licensed social worker on staff helps address mental health challenges that one in four people face, offerin...

In this episode, Nancy and Jess , a dynamic PhD candidate in astronomy at Vanderbilt University, explore Jess's journey from being a musician to an aspiring astrophysicist. Diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, and OCD, Jess discusses how she navigates and leverages her neurodivergent brain to thrive in her field.   The conversation delves into the intricacies of galactic archaeology, Jess's struggle with...

In this episode of the Dyslexic Maverick podcast, Nancy Disbrow is joined by Seth Rodman, a Registered Nurse and board-certified nurse coach specializing in ADHD. Together, they explore the intersection of ADHD, nutrition, and mindfulness.  Seth shares his personal journey with ADHD, revealing how martial arts and proactive meal planning have been key strategies for managing his symptoms. They dis...

In this episode, Nancy and Nina Leibel, the founder of Neosity, an ecosystem for neurodivergent talent. They discuss a range of topics, including ADHD, dyspraxia, and the importance of creating neuro-inclusive workplaces. Listen for practical ways for companies to better support neurodivergent talents and create environments where everyone can thrive. These strategies include communication strateg...

In this episode of the Dyslexic Maverick podcast, Nancy Disbrow, speaks with Justin Sternberg. Justin, an executive producer and senior projects manager at ABC 13 KTRK in Houston, Texas, shares his journey with dyslexia and ADHD, diagnosed early in life, and how his parents' advocacy played a crucial role in his education. He discusses the importance of understanding neurodiversity in the workplac...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Samantha (Sammie) Kelly, the Advocate, Coach, and Founder of Beyond Neurodiversity. Sammie brings her personal journey and professional expertise to the forefront as she shares her insights on leading with compassionate curiosity, her first hand experience with ADHD, and embracing neurodiversity in the workplace.   Diagnosed with ADHD with an Inattentive...

Join host Nancy Disbrow as she chats with Rachel Robertson, a multiply neurodivergent occupational therapist and co-founder of Diverge Community Services. Nancy and Rachel explore the challenges and triumphs of living with ADHD, dyslexia, and autism while sharing personal anecdotes and tips. The episode covers everything from neurodivergent-friendly events and workplace adjustments to the often mi...

In this episode of the Dyslexic Maverick podcast, Nancy talks with Kristen, aka the Mindfully Mended Mama, about her journey after learning she has ADHD and dyslexia. Kristen shares her experiences from being diagnosed later in life, detailing how it affected her through different stages.   During the conversation, we explore: Coping with an ADHD and dyslexia diagnosis What ADHD burnout looks like...

In this episode, Nancy interviews Dr. Piper Hutson, a researcher in neurodiversity, art, and health. They explore neurodivergent work conditions, the role of the arts, and her extensive contributions to the field. The discussion dives into different types of dyslexia, personal experiences in corporate environments, and actionable insights for leaders to support neurodivergent employees. Dr. Hutson...

In this episode, Nancy sits down with Stephanie, an occupational therapist certified in autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing, and co-founder of Diverge Community Services. Stephanie's journey is one of resilience and passion, inspired by her sister's medical needs, which led her to a life dedicated to helping neurodivergent individuals thrive. Together, they explore:  What do occupation...

Wondering how to introduce the topic of neurodiveristy to your workplace? Our first guest, Dave Thompson, has helped companies do exactly that and so much more! As a self-advocate with ADHD, Dyslexia, and Sensory Processing issues, Dave Thompson has been an educator, innovator, and advocate in the field of Neurodiversity Employment since 2010. As Director of Strategic Programs for Potentia Workfor...

In this insightful episode of The Dyslexic Maverick Podcast , Nancy sits down with Nikki, an accessibility design consultant, to discuss embracing neurodiversity in the workplace and creating inclusive digital environments. Both Nancy and Nikki share their personal experiences with ADHD and dyslexia, offering valuable insights into the challenges neurodiverse individuals face and how organizations...

If you have ever felt like your brain was wired a little differently than others, and it's left you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or unintelligent - I'm so glad you're here. You don't need to 'try harder,' focus more, 'get serious' about your work - you just need to understand your neurospicy noggin to maximize your impact. If we haven't met before, I'm  Nancy . Owner of Neuro-osity, a coaching...