Rising Above Labels: Breaking Myths Around Dyslexia with Jess Arce

What if the story you were told about yourself… was never true?

For millions of people with dyslexia, childhood is shaped by misunderstanding. Red marks on papers. Frustration in classrooms. Labels like slow, lazy, or not trying hard enough. Over time, those words don’t just hurt — they become beliefs.

In this episode of Taboo Talks, Krystal Casey opens up an honest, compassionate conversation with Jess Arce, a leading voice in dyslexia education and advocacy, about what it really means to rise above labels.

When Labels Become Limitations

Jess grew up dyslexic in an education system that didn’t know how to support her. Like many others, she internalized the belief that she wasn’t smart — even though dyslexia has nothing to do with intelligence.

Dyslexia is not a deficit. It’s a difference in how the brain processes language — often paired with strengths like creativity, innovation, spatial reasoning, and big-picture thinking.

The problem isn’t dyslexia.
The problem is misunderstanding.

Rewriting the Narrative Around Learning Differences

Through her work at I Am Not Dumb, Inc. and 3D Learning Experts, Jess helps individuals and families unlearn shame and replace it with confidence, clarity, and self-trust.

In her conversation with Krystal, she reminds us that intelligence is not linear, standardized, or one-size-fits-all. When we expand how we define “smart,” we expand what’s possible for everyone.

A Message for Parents — and Adults Healing Their Inner Child

This episode is for:

• Parents advocating for children who learn differently

• Educators seeking deeper understanding

• Adults still carrying the weight of old labels

• Anyone who has ever questioned their worth because they didn’t fit into the system

Jess’s story is proof that with understanding, support, and reframed narratives, confidence can be rebuilt — at any age.

Final Takeaway

No one should ever be defined by outdated labels or a system that failed to see their brilliance.

Dyslexia does not limit potential.
Misunderstanding does.

And when we rise above labels, we don’t just reclaim our identity — we help create a more inclusive future for the next generation.

🔗 Explore Jess Arce’s work + download her free book:
👉 https://www.iamnotdumb.com

🎙️ Listen to more Taboo Talks episodes:
👉 https://krystalcasey.com/podcast

🌿 Discover Krystal Casey’s aligned work and resources:
👉 https://krystalcasey.com/links