A Mother’s Determination: Wesleyne Whittaker on Advocating for Her Dyslexic Son | Dont Call on Me, The Dyslexia Podcast Ep. 14
Dont Call On Me, The Dyslexia Podcast
Release Date: 01/07/2025
Dont Call On Me, The Dyslexia Podcast
In this episode, Megan and Eryn sit down with learning specialist David Wildkress. With over two decades of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals, David brings both professional expertise and deep personal insight into what it means to live and thrive with complex neurodiverse profiles. David shares stories from his childhood growing up in a neurodivergent household, including the later-in-life diagnoses of his two older brothers with Autism and ADHD. He reflects on how those revelations reshaped his understanding of family dynamics, connection, and support. David’s unique...
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On this episode of Don't Call On Me, The Dyslexia Podcast, hosts Megan and Eryn welcome Meghan Buchanan—Aerospace Engineer, adventure athlete, and fierce advocate for dyslexia awareness. Meghan shares her inspiring journey of overcoming childhood adversity, defying stereotypes as a neurodivergent woman in STEM, and pushing the limits of human endurance in the world’s harshest environments. From summiting Everest to her quest to complete the Adventurers Grand Slam, Meghan proves that resilience and determination can break any barrier. Tune in as she discusses how dyslexia shaped her GGRIT...
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In this moving episode of Don't Call On Me - The Dyslexia Podcast, Megan and Eryn sit down with Dr. Jeffrey Karp, PhD. to explore a pivotal moment that changed the course of his life. As a young child struggling in school, unable to read, recall, or conform to classroom norms, Jeffrey felt lost, anxious, and misunderstood. But during a summer in special education, a single question opened a door: “How did you think about that?” That moment sparked a journey of self-awareness, process-oriented thinking, and ultimately, empowerment. Join us as Jeffrey shares how that question led him to...
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In this episode of the Don't Call on Me Dyslexia Podcast, hosts Megan and Eryn sit down with Mallary Lattanze—a certified academic language therapist (CALT), dedicated advocate, and leader in the dyslexia community. Mallary shares her personal journey as a diagnosed dyslexic, her experiences as a classroom teacher, and her impact on dyslexia education through both public and private schools. From developing instructional materials for Houston ISD during the pandemic to leading as the President of the Houston Branch of the IDA, Mallary has made a lasting difference in the lives of students...
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In this episode of the Don't Call On Me, The Dyslexia Podcast, Megan and Eryn sit down with Shahrzad Davani, a director, producer, and creative force behind hit projects like Abbott Elementary, St. Denis Medical, and How to Die Alone. With experience spanning directing, producing, and writing, Shahrzad has played a key role in shaping compelling narratives across film and television. Tune in as she shares insights into the entertainment industry, her creative journey, and the power of storytelling to inspire and connect audiences. to discuss CALT therapy. to discuss advocacy...
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In this episode of the Don't Call On Me Podcast, Megan and Eryn sit down with Robbi Cooper, a dedicated leader from Decoding Dyslexia Texas, whose mission is to Educate, Advocate, and Legislate for students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and other specific learning disabilities. She works tirelessly to improve outcomes by collaborating with parents, schools, districts, and policymakers—both in Texas and beyond. From shaping legislation to serving on key committees, her advocacy is driven by a deep commitment to ensuring students have access to education, early intervention, and the tools they...
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In this episode of the Don't Call On Me Podcast, Megan and Eryn sit down with Missy Purcell, a former balanced literacy teacher whose perspective on reading instruction was transformed when her son was diagnosed with dyslexia. Faced with the gaps in his education, Missy discovered the power of evidence-based instruction and became a passionate advocate for structured literacy. Now, she’s on a mission to ensure every child learns to read. Tune in as she shares her personal journey, insights on the shift from Balanced Literacy to the Science of Reading, and ideas for parents and educators who...
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In this episode of the Don't Call On Me Podcast, Megan and Eryn sit down with Nicola Lott, a passionate advocate for neurodiverse learners. As a dyslexic person from a family of dyslexics, Nicola experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating an education system that wasn’t designed for her. From boarding school struggles to discovering her love for teaching in Japan, Nicola’s unconventional path led her to become an interventionist, to pursue a master's degree, and to launch an organization supporting Canadian educators. Nicola shares her insights on what it truly means to...
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In this episode of Don’t Call on Me, Megan and Eryn speak with Josh Dominelli, an inspiring adult diagnosed with dyslexia in first grade. From an early age, Josh committed himself to the hard work of learning, adapting, and thriving despite the challenges dyslexia presented. Josh shares insights into how his diagnosis shaped his education, career, and personal growth. With a lifelong dedication to learning and perseverance, Josh’s journey highlights the importance of resilience, self-advocacy, and embracing the unique strengths that come with dyslexia. Tune in to hear Josh’s...
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In this inspiring episode of The Don’t Call on Me Podcast, Megan and Eryn sit down with Scott Lindsey—a creative powerhouse who has turned his dyslexic challenges into a multifaceted advantage. Growing up in a Louisiana school system that misunderstood dyslexia, Scott faced significant setbacks, from being held back to enduring ridicule in the classroom. Yet, his natural creativity became his saving grace. Scott’s path includes time in the advertising world, rising to lead successful campaigns and develop groundbreaking innovations. His journey includes success in coding, in developing...
info_outlineIn this heartfelt episode of the Don't Call On Me Podcast, Eryn and Megan sit down with Wesleyne Whittaker, a former chemist turned business owner, to discuss her journey as a mother advocating for her dyslexic son. Wesleyne shares how she recognized early signs that her son learned differently and the challenges she faced in securing the proper diagnosis and support.
Through years of research, perseverance, and navigating family dynamics, Wesleyne ensured her son received the intervention and therapy he needed to thrive. She recounts how this journey transformed their relationship and turned nightly reading sessions from a battle into a joy. Wesleyne’s story is a testament to the power of advocacy, education, and a parent’s unwavering belief in their child’s potential.
Tune in to hear Wesleyne’s inspiring insights on how the right tools and support can change the trajectory of a dyslexic child’s education—and life. This episode offers hope and practical advice for parents navigating a similar path.
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