Episode #49
When Learning Requires a Different Path II Russell Van Brocklen
Text or voice message the show What happens when someone who has struggled deeply with reading and writing begins asking whether the problem is not intelligence or effort—but the way the learning process itself has been designed? In this episode of Pebbles of Light , Anne talks with dyslexia researcher Russell Van Brocklin about his own experience navigating education with significant reading and writing difficulties, the academic experience that became a turning point for him, and the work that followed. Russell describes receiving extensive accommodations during a New York State Assembly internship, only to later have his academic grade changed to failing by his university. He shares how that experience helped set the direction for his later work in dyslexia research and education. The conversation explores Russell’s belief that many dyslexic learners function more like specialists than generalists. He explains why he focuses heavily on a learner’s area of intense interest during intervention and describes his approach to writing, reading, vocabulary, word analysis, articulation, and moving from highly specific ideas toward broader understanding. Russell also walks through practical examples involving children he has worked with and shares student outcomes that he attributes to his methods. Anne and Russell also discuss ADHD, the different ways learning struggles can appear in boys and girls, motivation, frustration, self-confidence, and what can happen when a child begins to experience themselves as capable rather than continually behind. And at the end of the episode, Russell reflects on two educators who became “pebbles of light” in his own life—people whose influence helped shape the work he ultimately chose to pursue. In This Episode Russell’s personal experience with dyslexia and higher education The academic experience that pushed him toward dyslexia research Why he describes dyslexic learners as specialists Working from a child’s strongest interests Using writing as a measurable way to organize ideas Russell’s approach to word analysis and articulation Helping students recognize grammar through reading aloud Vocabulary development through definitions and synonyms Learning differences and motivation ADHD and why some girls’ struggles may be easier to miss Confidence, identity, and the social side of learning challenges The educators who profoundly influenced Russell’s path A Note for Listeners Russell shares his own research, educational framework, and reported student outcomes throughout this conversation. These claims and approaches are presented as his perspective and experience. Families making decisions about dyslexia, ADHD, special education, or learning interventions may wish to consider a range of qualified educational and clinical resources for their individual situation. Connect With Russell Website mentioned in the episode: dyslexicclasses.com Additional resource mentioned by Russell: Skool — search “Dyslexia Classes” [Add any confirmed social media links here] Support Pebbles of Light If these conversations bring something meaningful into your week, you can support the show here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593690/support Support the show Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Affiliate Disclaimer - As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we may earn advertising or referral fees from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Pebbles of Light! Follow Pebbles of Light Website – https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflight YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@pebblesoflightpodcast Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pebblesoflight Instagram – https://instagram.com/PebblesOfLight Guest Applications - https://www.joinpodmatch.com/pebblesoflight Support Pebbles of Light Become a Light Shiner - https://annemaxson.com/pebblesoflightpodcast/#support
