Podcast host discovered he had dyslexia during filming

Have you ever had a conversation that made you stop and think, that sounds like me?

For James Vincent, our UK Performance Director, the moment came during an episode of The ActionCOACH Business Growth Podcast. As entrepreneur and best-selling author Jamie Waller shared his experience with dyslexia, James realised he shared many of the same challenges – and suddenly everything clicked!

The pieces fell into place and something he’d perceived to be a weakness was transformed into a newfound source of pride – and even a superpower. 

A moment of realisation

“It was like an out-of-body experience,” said James. “While Jamie was speaking, I was relating with more and more of what he was saying – it was surreal! He mentioned struggling at school, which was something I’d also experienced – one teacher had called me ‘thick’, and it was something that’d really stayed with me.

“After the interview, I told Jamie I suspected I had dyslexia too, and he hooked me up with some tests - low and behold, I had it! In that moment of realisation, you feel like you always knew you had it. I’d felt like I’d probably masked over it throughout my career, pushing those feelings of doubt aside and focusing on the strengths I knew I had.”

If you want to know more about dyslexia as a business owner and more about Jamie’s story, please read our other blog on how to harness dyslexia, by clicking here. 

A journey of pride and purpose

For James, finding out he had dyslexia wasn’t just a moment of personal revelation – it was a turning point for how he viewed himself and his future. “After the initial surprise, I felt really proud. It gave me a whole new perspective. I don’t see dyslexia as a challenge anymore – I see it as a tool. It’s something I can use, not only to grow myself but to help other people in my coaching too. I instantly found myself relating more deeply to others with dyslexia.”

This newfound understanding has also more of a personal meaning for James. “My daughter is dyslexic too. Knowing I can help her by sharing my own experience, I can be the kind of support for her that Jamie spoke about – someone who helps her see her differences as a strength.”

Since his conversation with Jamie, James has noticed a ripple effect in his life. “Honestly, everything has worked out for the better since the interview. So many people have reached out to me to share their own stories - it’s been amazing to connect with them.

“I implore people to go and check the interview out, it really shows that anything is possible when you put your mind to it. Dyslexia isn’t something to hide or feel ashamed of – it’s a superpower waiting to be embraced.”

To hear how James came to realise his dyslexia diagnosis and more inspiring stories like Jamie’s, while gaining a whole host of valuable insights into business growth, tune into The ActionCOACH Business Growth Podcast. Click here to listen to the latest episodes.