The Dyslexic Maverick with Nancy Disbrow

24. Dreamers & Schemers: Why Neurodiverse Teams Win with Dave Thompson

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 desert" * The difference between dreamers and schemers — and why you need both * How neurodivergent leaders can thrive without burning out * What psychological safety actually looks like at work If you've ever felt out of place in your job — or you're building a team and want to get it right — this conversation will shift how you see talent, leadership, and the future of work. Connect with Dave Thompson: https://www.brainstormneurodiversity.com/book [https://www.brainstormneurodiversity.com/book] Connect with Nancy Disbrow: The Dyslexic Maverick [https://bio.site/thedyslexicmaverick]

23. I Tried Amino Acids Live - Here's What Happened to My ADHD Brain

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 emotional stillness, Nancy walks through how different amino acids (like L-tryptophan, GABA, tyrosine, and glutamine) affect her mind and body while Lori explains the science behind each. This episode is a rare combination of vulnerable experimentation and expert insight into how targeted amino acid therapy can help with: ✔️ ADHD, anxiety, and mood regulation ✔️ Sugar cravings and emotional reactivity ✔️ Brain-gut connection and neurotransmitter health ✔️ The real reason some "messy" leaders are actually wired for brilliance Whether you're neurodivergent or just curious about brain optimization - this one's a game-changer. Lori Hammer: Connect with Laurie [https://linktr.ee/takebackmybrain?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=f9954588-ea82-4a4e-8235-69b0caa69f11] Follow Laurie on Instagram: Take Back My Brain [https://www.instagram.com/takebackmybrain/] Connect with Nancy: The Dyslexic Maverick [https://bio.site/thedyslexicmaverick]

22. No Excuses Leadership: Dyslexia, Grit, and Becoming Who You're Meant to Be with Dustin Dale

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 early lessons around grit, humility, and perseverance. Together, Nancy and Dustin explore how differently wired brains often develop strong emotional intelligence, resilience, and leadership instincts not because it's easy, but because it's necessary. In this episode, you'll hear conversations around: * Growing up dyslexic and misunderstood in school * How early adversity shapes resilient, self-aware leaders * Why leadership is caught, not taught * Emotional intelligence as a real-world leadership advantage * How challenge and struggle can become a strategic edge * What it means to keep chasing the next version of yourself It's a real, motivating conversation for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone who's ever felt "different" and wondered if that difference might actually be their edge. About Dustin Dale Dustin Dale is the founder of Beyond the Horizon Consulting and the creator of the Lead by Serving leadership framework. He is a bestselling author, award-winning speaker, and executive coach who equips leaders to inspire trust, reduce turnover, and build organizations worth following. With experience across multiple industries, Dustin is known for blending servant leadership with a no-excuses mindset helping leaders grow personally while driving meaningful, sustainable business results. YouTube [https://youtube.com/@thebeyondthehorizonexp?si=V6vZDBmjgJpj8bqG] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustindaleservantleader/] Website: Dustin Dale [https://www.dustin-dale.com/]

21. Navigating College with Jordyn Ruppelli

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, the benefits of certain study techniques, and the role of supportive professors. The conversation also touches on future career aspirations and the significance of embracing and being proud of one's dyslexic brain.

20. Turning Dyslexic Thinking Into a Strength with Scott Wagner

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 navigated the obstacles of dyslexia, developed strategies that worked for him, and ultimately turned his differences into a driving force for success. His journey sheds light on the realities of dyslexia while offering hope, encouragement, and practical insight for anyone facing similar challenges. Key takeaways: -Overcoming the early struggles of dyslexia -Discovering the power of mindset shifts -Developing strategies that work for unique learners -Building confidence through persistence -Turning challenges into lifelong strengths