I Hate School, But I Love Learning- Franklin J. Macon's Story

Ever wondered how a dyslexic pilot soared to new heights? This episode shares the uplifting story of Frank Makin, a true inspiration for anyone who’s ever struggled with reading or focusing in class. He didn’t let the label of “learning difficulty” define him, and his journey shows why embracing our unique minds can expand life’s possibilities.

Stephen Martin chats with Elizabeth Harper about Frank’s life and how dyslexia and ADHD can actually fuel creativity. They explore hands-on learning and the power of curiosity, reminding us that mistakes aren’t the end of the road—just stepping stones. If you’ve ever felt like school didn’t fit, this conversation might give you the push you need to find your purpose and get creative with your own path.

Frank’s Early Obstacles & Triumphs

Frank didn’t have an easy time at school. Dyslexia can make reading and writing feel like a tough puzzle, and he faced lots of discouragement. He stuck with it though—and not just stuck with it, but pushed far beyond what many thought was possible.

He believed in an idea that might surprise you: sometimes the best learning happens away from a desk. Whether that meant engaging with the planes he loved, fiddling with engines, or scribbling down new ideas in ways that suited him, Frank found his own style.

“Frank never saw dyslexia as a barrier. He saw it as a puzzle to solve, and that shaped his entire life.” — Elizabeth Harper

That sense of experimentation and curiosity guided Frank to become a pilot. He took the step to soar, proving that different ways of thinking can be our biggest strengths rather than drawbacks.

Dyslexia & ADHD: Beyond the Labels

Throughout the conversation, you’ll hear that dyslexia isn’t just about mixing letters. It can also bring a knack for problem-solving and out-of-the-box thinking. ADHD, on the other hand, often pairs with dyslexia. It can lead to hyperfocus when something really lights you up.

When both are combined, it’s a recipe for a curious mind that questions everything. This can be frustrating in a rigid classroom, but it’s brilliant for those who learn best by touching, tinkering, and testing new ideas.

Frank’s story reminds us that these labels don’t limit us. They describe how our brains work, not what we can or can’t do. The takeaway is clear: you can still aim high, even if letters seem jumbled on a page.

The Magic of Curiosity & Purpose

Curiosity is what drove Frank forward. He kept asking “why” and “how,” which fuelled his love for flight. That same drive nudged him toward trying things in unconventional ways. He stayed interested in what excited him, and he found solutions to the stuff that held him back.

Elizabeth notes that once you find your purpose, the steps to get there become more manageable. In a system that often over-focuses on test scores, your mission is to look deeper into what lights your fire and seek out new ways to learn. It’s much easier to keep going when you’re doing something you truly enjoy.

Whether you jump into a hands-on project or watch endless how-to videos, there’s no single path to success. Find what makes you curious, and follow that spark.

Tools, Colleges & Community Support

The discussion also highlights how hands-on learning can help those with dyslexia and ADHD build confidence. It moves you away from the frustration of trying to cram for tests that might not assess what you really know.

Recognising patterns, whether in reading or real-world problem-solving, can make trusting your own brain feel less scary. Don’t let a failed test or negative feedback brand you forever. Failure is a chance to learn. It tells you, “This method might not be right for me, so let’s try another.”

They also point to resources like support groups, specialist tutors, and online communities. Adult dyslexia is more common than you might think, and there’s an entire movement out there to help. Frank’s success is living proof that if one path doesn’t work, you can try another.

• Frank Makin’s story illustrates the challenges faced by dyslexics.
• Dyslexia is often misunderstood; it’s not just about reading and writing.
• Curiosity drives creativity in dyslexic individuals.
• Hands-on learning can be more effective for neurodiverse learners.
• Recognising patterns can aid in understanding complex subjects.
• Failure is a learning opportunity, not a permanent label.
• Finding purpose is crucial for success and fulfilment.
• Educational systems should adapt to diverse learning styles.
• Support and resources are available for dyslexics and ADHD individuals.
• Encouragement and understanding can change lives.

Ready for more? The full episode is waiting for you above, where Stephen and Elizabeth dive deeper into Frank’s mind, explore practical tips for navigating dyslexia and ADHD, and share inspiring insights that might shift your outlook on learning. Have a listen, join our Facebook group, and head over to truthaboutdyslexia.com for even more resources.

We’d love to know your thoughts. When you’re ready, click play and jump into the conversation—it might just spark new ideas for your own journey.