Designing in 5D: Dyslexia, Creativity & the “Spaghetti Brain” — Tools That Actually Work (with Russell Van Brocklin)

In today’s episode of Designing in 5D, Jodi sits down with Russell Van Brocklin—founder and dyslexia researcher—whose work has helped students make jaw-dropping progress in reading and writing in a matter of months.

Jodi opens up about feeling like she may have undiagnosed dyslexia and the “spaghetti brain” experience so many creatives relate to. Russell breaks down what dyslexia can look like in real life (and why it often gets missed), why motivation matters more than most people realize, and the simple shifts that can help kids (and adults) learn faster—without years of expensive intervention.

You’ll also hear practical guidance for parents and teachers, including:

• Why dyslexic learners often thrive when you start with their specialty (and what happens when you don’t)
• The “specific-to-general” learning approach that helps ideas finally organize
• A short, repeatable writing method that builds grammar + spelling through read-it-out-loud correction
• How the right environment—less clutter, warm dimmable light, fewer distractions—can support focus
• How Russell thinks about AI as a tool for efficiency (without replacing human connection)

If you’re a parent, educator, creative, or someone who’s always felt like your brain works differently, this conversation will leave you with clarity, language, and tools you can actually use.

Learn more + download Russell’s free guide: dyslexicclasses.com
And if you want to explore intentional design that supports real life (and real brains), learn more about Elizabeth Erin Designs and our process.

Remember to like, share, and follow the show—because you never know who needs this episode.