Brent Sopel: Stanley Cup Winner, Father & Dyslexia Advocate

Looking for a conversation that taps into raw experiences with dyslexia, self-esteem, and everyday mental health? You’re in the right place. This episode of the podcast features an electrifying chat with Brent, who dives into what it felt like when he first realised he was dyslexic and how that shaped his outlook.

We also explored the widespread issue of misdiagnosis, how trigger words can affect relationships, and why mental pain often rivals physical discomfort. If you’ve ever felt the frustration of not being understood or the relief of finally connecting the dots in your life story, you’ll want to keep reading. It’s an inspiring look into the power of self-discovery and empathy.

Discovering Dyslexia and the Impact of Misdiagnosis

Brent opened up about the moment he realised something wasn’t quite clicking. He’d been labelled in ways that never felt accurate. Like many of us, he grew up in a time when subtle learning differences were often brushed aside or misread. It felt like stumbling through a dark corridor without a good map.

That unfamiliar feeling can lead to missed opportunities, especially if you find yourself misunderstood by teachers or peers. You might be told to “try harder” or “focus more,” disregarding the real underlying challenges. Misdiagnosis is a danger zone because it not only delays proper support, it also creates self-doubt that can take years to unravel.

“Sometimes the biggest barrier is in our own heads, but that doesn’t define who we are.” – Brent

How Dyslexia Affects Relationships

It’s amazing how much dyslexia shapes the way we communicate, especially in close friendships or romantic relationships. Brent admitted that even small trigger words, like being called “lazy,” can bring back old insecurities and stir up defensive feelings.

We chatted about the pressure of trying to stay upbeat when you’re constantly second-guessing how you come across. Dyslexia might not always be obvious, so the people closest to you might think you’re spacing out or not listening. That’s rarely the case. You’re just processing the conversation differently. A patient partner or friend who takes the time to learn your quirks is worth their weight in gold.

Boosting Self-Esteem and Handling Triggers

Everyone has trigger words they’d rather not hear, especially if they echo painful past experiences. Dyslexics often carry childhood labels, such as “disorganised” or “scatterbrained.” Over time, those words can feel like stabs at your confidence.

Brent spoke about how crucial it is to separate the label from the person. You’re not “lazy” just because you need more time to finish a reading assignment. You’re not “bad at communication” just because your thoughts race faster than your speech. Taking the sting out of these labels is all about recognising your strengths and building a strong support system.

Of course, that’s easier said than done. The journey to healthy self-esteem often involves mental guard rails we set up to protect ourselves. Therapy, coaching, or simply sharing stories with friends can be powerful. One helpful trick is reframing a challenge as an opportunity to learn something new. Another is remembering you’re not alone, even when life feels isolating.

Mental vs Physical Pain: Where Does Dyslexia Fit?

We often talk about physical pain, like recovering from a sprained ankle, but mental pain doesn’t get the same attention. Dyslexia can lead to everyday mental strain—reading a page twice to grasp its meaning, or re-checking that email to ensure it’s correct. Over time, the frustration builds, and that mental pain feels just as draining as a physical wound that never truly heals.

Brent made a great point by comparing mental and physical resilience. Our minds can adapt when we have the right tools. Think of it like learning to walk again after an injury, except you’re learning to read, write, and communicate in a way that fits your unique brain wiring. The key is to give mental bruises the same care we give our physical ones.

Communication, Depression, and the Path Forward

Open communication is gold for individuals with dyslexia. Without it, negative thoughts can spiral into depression. The effort it takes to explain yourself, or the worry that you’ll be misunderstood, can feel overwhelming. On the podcast, Brent and I explored how unspoken doubts can fester if you don’t clear the air.

Sometimes you need the right words to open up the conversation. Other times, listening is more important. Let the other person share their viewpoint, then step back and reflect. These small moments of connection can lighten the emotional load, especially if you’re prone to overthinking.

Having solid communication habits helps you see that depression is not a permanent identity. It’s a state that can shift with the right support—like therapy, medication, or a compassionate community. The main thing is to keep talking. One good conversation can turn things around faster than you ever imagined.

To see more of Brent’s journey, have a look at this brief video: https://youtu.be/YAtDAxLd-Ps.

• He shares personal struggles with dyslexia.
• He discusses how misdiagnoses can set you back.
• He highlights why clear communication matters.

You’ll find practical insights, a dose of hope, and a reminder that your challenges don’t define you.

Here are a few quick takeaways from this episode:

• Recognise the difference between a label and your genuine self.
• Open communication can ease tensions and prevent misunderstandings.
• Misdiagnosis is more common than you might think, so stay informed.
• Small steps in self-awareness make a big impact over time.

If this sneak peek sparked your interest, be sure to check out the full episode at the top of this page. It’s a conversation that cuts through assumptions, reveals real-life coping strategies, and makes you feel a little less alone as you navigate dyslexia, mental health, and personal growth.

Until next time, keep exploring new perspectives—and remember that every small victory matters.