Meet Peter

If you’ve ever felt the weight of a learning disability, you’re not alone. Many of us grew up believing we were just “bad” at reading, writing, or maths. In this podcast episode, Stephen Martin chats with Peter, a writer living with dyslexia, who shares how he embraced his unique story and turned doubts into fuel for success.

Peter talks about being diagnosed at age six and feeling stuck with the idea that he was “stupid.” Yet his journey shows how self-acceptance and storytelling can reshape your mindset and break through limiting beliefs. He also offers hope to others with dyslexia, spotlighting how our differences can become our greatest strengths.

Early Challenges and Awakening

Peter’s story begins with a diagnosis that carried a lot of baggage. He was just six years old when teachers realised something was different in how he processed words. Like many kids, he thought it meant he was less than others. Despite occasional progress, that nagging voice in his head wouldn’t let him rest.

Over time, he came to see that things weren’t as black and white as his school reports claimed. “Stupid” was simply a word tearing him down when, in reality, dyslexia was just an aspect of who he was, not his entire identity.

Breaking Stereotypes

The real world turned out to be a different kind of classroom filled with fresh perspectives. Peter realised that dyslexia didn’t equal inability. He noticed that his mind worked differently, letting him see patterns and stories others might miss. The same learning disability that once held him back began to spark creativity that many others admired.

Peter set an early goal: just graduate. But after achieving that, he faced the even bigger question of how to navigate a world of adult responsibilities and expectations. He quickly learned that focusing on what he could do, rather than what he couldn’t, was a powerful way forward.

“I initially believed I was stupid because I just couldn’t read like the other kids.” — Peter

Writing a New Story

One of the biggest turns in Peter’s life happened when he decided to write a book. He wanted to help children and young adults with dyslexia see that they’re not alone in their struggles. It took more than four years to complete, mostly because he used his personal journey as the main source of motivation. It wasn’t just about writing faster but about sharing his story in a way that would truly connect with readers.

Storytelling became a fresh avenue for growth. He found that listening to audiobooks, podcasts, and tales of others living with learning disabilities was more engaging than reading dense texts. It helped shape his own writing process and gave him fresh ideas on how to resonate with fellow dyslexics.

The Power of Self-Acceptance

Peter’s journey highlights something valuable: accepting yourself often comes before making any big strides. It’s easy to be weighed down by what you think you lack. However, as Peter discovered, embracing your differences can open doors. Dyslexia became less of a label and more of a puzzle piece that made him... well, him.

It can be tough to stand up and say, “I’m different, but this difference is a superpower.” Peter assures us that once you do, the path becomes clearer. Instead of hiding, you can use your story to lift others who are right where you once were.

Using Your Voice and Story

The final message from Peter’s story is simple: your voice matters. Whether you’re dealing with dyslexia, ADHD, or another challenge, sharing what you’ve gone through can inspire others to do the same. Just remember to keep it authentic and honest. That’s the heart of any good story.

No one’s journey is too small. As Peter shows, even if you stumble at the start, your experiences can have a real impact when you accept them and share them with the world.

Key Takeaways

• Dyslexia can be diagnosed early, but it doesn’t define you.
• Feeling “stupid” often comes from external labels, not reality.
• Graduating is one milestone, but the real world offers new ways to learn.
• Your weaknesses can become strengths when you look at them differently.
• Storytelling unites us and helps others see they’re not alone.
• Self-acceptance is the cornerstone of growth and confidence.

There’s much more to Peter’s story than words on a page. Hear about his biggest hurdles, how he overcame them, and why he believes in sharing the trials and triumphs of dyslexia. Listen to the full conversation in the podcast episode above and discover insights that might just reshape your own journey.