In this episode, we’re diving into the terms neurotypical and neurodivergent — where they come from, what they actually mean, and why the definitions we’ve been given don’t always tell the full story. Who decides what’s “typical” or “average” anyway? And how does the DSM-5 shape our understanding of difference?
We’ll also explore:
• The origins of the term neurodivergent — from Harvey Blume (1998) to Judy Singer’s advocacy.
• Why separating neurotypical from neurodiverse can create unhelpful “us vs. them” thinking.
• The idea of Complementary Cognition, introduced by Helen Taylor — a theory that celebrates all processing styles as essential for human evolution.
• How dyslexic brains might just be the next step in our collective creativity and innovation.
• Through storytelling and research, Carlene reframes what it means to be different — showing how every brain has a purpose and every perspective has value.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Introduction
0:40 – What does “neurotypical” really mean?
2:30 – The DSM-5 and who decides what’s “normal”
5:10 – Understanding spectrum experiences
7:30 – Mild, moderate, and severe dyslexia — what that really means
11:15 – The hidden ways dyslexics “mask” during assessments
14:00 – Origins of the term “neurodivergent”
17:45 – The role of Judy Singer and the rise of neurodiversity
19:10 – Why “us vs. them” misses the point
21:00 – Helen Taylor’s Complementary Cognition
22:45 – Dyslexic processing as a gift for human evolution
24:30 – Closing reflections: There’s nothing wrong with you — you were meant to think this way.
Key Takeaways:
• “Normal” is a construct — not a scientific truth.
• Every brain is unique, and difference is essential for human growth.
• Dyslexia exists on a spectrum — mild, moderate, and severe experiences all matter.
• The idea of Complementary Cognition shows how diverse minds move humanity forward.
• Dyslexics are not broken — we are beautifully designed to see the world differently.
#UnmaskingDyslexia #CarleenRoss #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergent #Neurotypical #DyslexiaAwareness #ComplementaryCognition #PositivePsychology #HumanEvolution #DifferentNotDeficient #XMenOfThinking #mindfulscience
Show Notes:
Learn more about where the term neurodiversity came from here: https://www.carleenross.com/neurodiversity
Read Helen Taylor's paper:
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/cambridge-archaeological-journal/article/evolution-of-complementary-cognition-humans-cooperatively-adapt-and-evolve-through-a-system-of-collective-cognitive-search/F198B30682343E92C7E9C986332D380A?utm_campaign=shareaholic&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=bookmark

Thank you for listening to Unmasking Dyslexia. This podcast is dedicated to reframing how we understand dyslexia—shifting the narrative from deficit to difference.

If you found today's episode valuable or think someone you know could benefit from its message, please share it. By doing so you become apart of the positive shift society needs around what it means to be dyslexic.

To learn more about Carleen Ross’s work in positive psychology, coaching, and neurodiversity advocacy, visit https://www.carleenross.com or to connect with me directly, email me at [email protected].