From Tech to Artisan: A Creative Journey Shaped by Dyslexia with Lisa Ramos

Welcome to another exploration into the intricacies of thinking differently! In this episode of Dyslexia Explored, we sit down with the incredibly talented Lisa Ramos, an artisan from California. As a creator of bespoke leather bags and jewelry, Lisa has carved a niche for herself by meshing craftsmanship with ingenious strategies. Her journey with dyslexia serves as a beacon of hope, and she offers actionable insights into thriving in a world that often misunderstands out-of-the-box thinking. Buckle up for an episode that will fuel your optimism and challenge your perceptions.

From Tech to Artisan

Lisa’s career trajectory is far from linear. She started with a degree in sociology, dabbled in tech, and eventually found her passion in handcrafted designs. Lisa didn't discover her dyslexia until later in life, yet, this revelation has been nothing short of transformative. Armed with a newfound understanding of her unique cognitive style, Lisa’s experience emphasizes that dyslexia is an asset, not a hindrance. 

Material Reasoning in Design 

Our guest has a fascinating approach to design, describing her mental role-playing as a "flight simulator for design." This mental modeling helps her preempt potential challenges and creates room for efficiency when the hands finally touch the material. For Lisa, the struggle has often been with memory, particularly remembering finer details. Her workaround? A 'digital memory' created through Google Docs. It acts as an externalized brain, freeing up her mental capacity for more intricate and creative endeavors.

Mastering Executive Function Skills

Lisa didn't merely stumble into success; she methodically designed her week to balance both creativity and business. Her emphasis on executive function skills, especially for individuals who think differently, cannot be overstated. In Lisa's world, the meticulous choice of leather, the attention to stitching, and the emphasis on function as much as form shows how thinking differently can truly be an asset in innovation and craftsmanship. 

A Unique Cognitive Asset

When it comes to processing information, Lisa is quick to point out that many who have dyslexia are adept at seeing overarching themes rather than minute details. Whether it's rewatching films to catch new insights or offering a unique perspective in a business meeting, this form of cognitive flexibility offers a unique way to approach problems. Imagine being able to adapt to new situations effortlessly; Lisa exemplifies how this is not only possible but also advantageous. 

Practical Problem-Solving

This episode wasn't just philosophical musings; it's filled with pragmatic tips that you can apply in your daily life. Take the concept of understanding the 'big picture' before diving into specifics. Lisa gives us an example from her own life, sharing a color-coded system for moving houses, which made a typically stressful process remarkably smooth. It's these practical applications that provide a well-rounded perspective on how to successfully navigate life, especially for those who process information differently.

Breaking Down Stereotypes

While our society has taken steps toward understanding dyslexia, there's much more to be done. Lisa passionately advocates for increased understanding and acceptance. It's not just about accommodating diverse learning styles but also about redefining what we understand as intelligence and competence. 

Key Takeaways and Your Next Steps

From leveraging Google Docs as an extended memory to adopting unique problem-solving strategies, this episode with Lisa Ramos is a treasure trove of insights. She shines a light on the opportunities available when you understand and embrace your unique way of thinking. As you explore the various facets of your own cognitive style, remember that it's not a hindrance but a unique capability that you bring to the table. 

Tune into the full Dyslexia Explored podcast to hear Lisa’s story in her own words. It's bound to leave you inspired and armed with tools to better understand the exciting realm of thinking differently. 

We hope you'll join us for more enlightening episodes that delve into the endless possibilities of dyslexia. Together, let's build a world where different cognitive styles are not just understood but celebrated.