Show Notes
What if the usual way we teach reading is missing the pathway that works for some dyslexic students? In this episode, Junaid Ahmed talks with Russell Van Brocklin, a dyslexia researcher introduced as New York State Senate-funded and the founder of DyslexiaClasses.com. Russell shares how his own struggles with reading and writing led him to develop a “write first, read next” approach.
Russell explains how he uses students’ interests, sentence-building, spelling practice, and structured writing to teach skills. He also discusses early identification, motivation, and ways to help students move from basic sentences toward more advanced paragraphs. The conversation reflects Russell’s experiences and approach; it isn’t a substitute for individualized educational or clinical guidance.
More from Hacks and Hobbies with Junaid Ahmed
I can’t reproduce The Diary of a CEO’s exact house style, but I can give this an original, curiosity-driven interview-podcast feel, with emotional stakes and an SEO-friendly structure.
What if the right business idea isn’t the one that promises easy money—but the one you can’t stop dreaming about? Jason VanDevere, founder of Goal Crazy and author of Dream Driven, shares how he walked away from a future in his family’s car dealership business to build something of his own.
You may not need more motivation—you may need a system you trust. Goal-setting coach Jason VanDevere joins Junaid Ahmed to explain why good ideas so often stall, and how planning, protected focus time, and clear boundaries can turn intentions into consistent action.
What if success isn’t about chasing the next title—or rushing into the next big opportunity? After more than 30 years in high-stakes corporate roles, Andrew Paetow stepped into a new chapter in real estate on Long Beach Island. In this conversation, he shares how he brought corporate planning and discipline into a smaller business, and why thoughtful decisions can matter more than simply moving fast.
What does it take to trust someone with a million-dollar decision—and how do you know when it’s time to leave a successful career behind? After 32 years in biotech and pharma, Andrew Paetow traded corporate leadership for luxury real estate on Long Beach Island. He joins Junaid Ahmed to share the high-stakes lessons behind that shift, what “success” means to him now, and the trust framework he built over decades of leading teams.