Quote from Fergus McCarthy on March 25, 2025, 3:04 pm

Dyslexia into a superpower: Have you ever had a conversation that made everything click? For James Vincent, UK Performance Director at ActionCOACH, that moment came while listening to entrepreneur and best-selling author Jamie Waller on The ActionCOACH Business Growth Podcast. As Jamie shared his experience with dyslexia, James recognised many of the same challenges – and suddenly, his perspective shifted.

A journey of discovery about dyslexia

"It was like an out-of-body experience," said James. "Jamie spoke about struggling at school, and I could relate to every word. One teacher called me ‘thick’, and that stuck with me. After the interview, I told Jamie I suspected I had dyslexia too. He helped me get tested – and I did! It felt like I had always known. I had masked it throughout my career, pushing doubt aside and focusing on my strengths."

Understanding dyslexia

Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty affecting reading and spelling skills. It impacts around 1 in 10 people in the UK, which means approximately 3.3 million adults in the workplace. Dyslexia isn’t linked to intelligence or poor education. It occurs across all genders, ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

Many adults develop coping strategies, making their struggles less visible. However, recognising dyslexia can unlock unique strengths. Jamie Waller, a passionate advocate, is keen to spread this message.

Turning challenges into strengths

Jamie’s struggles began at school. "Teachers labelled me ‘thick’ or ‘disruptive’. Those labels stuck, but my mum was my rock. She taught me to embrace my differences instead of hiding them."

Having a role model was key for Jamie. "For me, it was a local businessman with a convertible car! Seeing someone successful from my area made me believe I could achieve something too, even without a traditional path."

Diagnosed at 36, Jamie went on to build multi-million-pound businesses. "My email sign-off says it all: ‘Expect small typos but big ideas. Dyslexic thinker.’ My dyslexia gives me a different way of thinking, and that’s my strength."

Advocating for change

Jamie calls for better inclusion in education and workplaces. "Teachers must recognise and support dyslexic minds – it can change a child’s life. Employers should stop seeing dyslexia as a weakness. 40% of self-made entrepreneurs in the UK and US are dyslexic. We think differently, and that’s what businesses need."

A new sense of purpose

For James, discovering his dyslexia changed how he saw himself. "After the initial surprise, I felt proud. Dyslexia isn’t a challenge – it’s a tool. I use it to grow and to support others in my coaching."

This journey has also brought personal meaning. "My daughter is dyslexic too. Now I can guide her, just as Jamie’s mum did for him. I can help her see dyslexia as a strength."

Since the podcast, James has connected with many others. "People have shared their stories with me. It’s been amazing. I urge everyone to listen to the interview. Dyslexia isn’t something to hide – it’s a superpower."

Listen to The ActionCOACH Business Growth Podcast for James’s story, Jamie’s journey, and invaluable business insights. Click here to hear the latest episodes.