When Words Don’t Fit the Rules: Dyslexia, Language, and Creative Expression | Leslie Reed EP 20

She was told she was not good with words, yet today’s guest was able to build a life around language and poetry. In this episode, I sit down with artist, poet, and former healthcare think tank leader Leslie Reed. She shares what it was like growing up unable to read out loud in class, being told she was not smart despite a high IQ, and struggling with spelling across multiple languages. We talk about how dyslexia shaped her relationship with language, not by taking it away, but by deepening it in unexpected ways. Leslie also reflects on her career in philanthropy, where she thrived in big-picture, visionary work but felt the pressure of performing and fitting into expectations, and how stepping away from that world led her back to creativity, poetry, and a more authentic way of expressing herself.If you have ever felt like your struggles with words meant something was missing, this conversation offers a different perspective, one where dyslexia and creativity are not in conflict, but deeply connected.Connect with Leslie ReedInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/leslie_reed_art/Berkeley Wall + Piece: Graffiti Poetry  https://tinyurl.com/fm4wxnc5Connect with Mehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aniahulsman/https://www.aniahulsman.comIf this episode spoke to you, please consider subscribing and leaving a review. It would mean the world to me personally, and it really helps others who need to hear these kinds of stories to find the podcast. Until next time, stay messy. Stay magnificent and stay true to your weird, wonderful self!