Ep 87. FULL EPISODE | Unpacking Dyscalculia - A Conversation with Michael Shanahan

What if struggling with numbers wasn't just about being "bad at maths"? In this episode of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, Dr Shae is joined by Michael from Dyscastia, an intervention tutor and advocate with lived experience of dyslexia and dyscalculia. Together, they explore the often-misunderstood learning difference of dyscalculia and discuss why awareness remains so low compared to other neurodivergent profiles. Michael shares his personal journey and professional insights, explaining how dyscalculia affects number sense, understanding value, time, money, fractions, measurement, and many everyday tasks that others often take for granted. The conversation also highlights the differences between dyscalculia and maths difficulties associated with working memory or processing speed challenges. The episode offers practical, confidence-building strategies for learners, families, educators, and support professionals, emphasising explicit teaching, concrete representations, repetition, and mental maths approaches that help make mathematical concepts more accessible. Whether you're a parent, educator, person with dyscalculia, or simply want to better understand neurodivergent learning differences, this episode provides valuable insights and practical takeaways. In this episode: What dyscalculia is—and what it isn't How dyscalculia affects everyday life Number sense, time blindness, and understanding value Common misconceptions about maths difficulties Practical support strategies that build confidence Resources for parents, educators, and learners Featured Resources 📚 The Dyscalculia Toolkit — Ronit Bird 📺 Maths Explained — Steven Chinn Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introductions & Background 10:43 – Understanding Dyscalculia 01:18:13 – Building Confidence & Resources About Dear Dyslexic Podcast The Dear Dyslexic Podcast amplifies the voices, experiences, and expertise of people from the dyslexia and neurodivergent communities, creating conversations that inform, empower, and inspire. 🔗 Learn more about re:think dyslexia: https://rethinkdyslexia.com.au/ 🎧 Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91no... ▶️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel! #DearDyslexicPodcast #Dyscalculia #Dyslexia #Dyscastia #DrShae #Neurodiversity #LearningDifferences #RethinkDyslexia #InclusiveEducation #DyscalculiaAwareness #NeurodivergentVoices #EducationSupport