Meet Jessica Wheeler | The Dyslexia Diva – Licensed Dyslexia Therapist & Certified Academic Language Therapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jessica Wheeler and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting The Dyslexia Diva was deeply personal. I’ve always had a heart for struggling readers, and watching a child go from frustration to confidence is what drives me. Over time, I became increasingly aware of the heartbreaking connection between low literacy rates in the U.S. and long-term outcomes like poverty and incarceration. I knew I wanted to be part of changing that narrative.

I created The Dyslexia Diva to provide structured, research-based reading intervention in a space that feels warm, encouraging, and empowering. My goal was to build something where kids don’t just improve their reading, but they believe in themselves again.

(I emailed you all 8 answers, I did not realize we only picked one when I worked on it! Can you pick the one you like the best or include them all please if you can!!!! I would appreciate it!!

Additional answers below:

1. What was your thought process behind starting your own business?

Starting The Dyslexia Diva was deeply personal. I’ve always had a heart for struggling readers, and watching a child go from frustration to confidence is what fuels me.

Over time, I became increasingly aware of the heartbreaking connection between low literacy rates in the U.S. and long-term outcomes like poverty and incarceration. I knew I wanted to be part of changing that narrative.

I created The Dyslexia Diva to provide structured, research-based reading intervention in a space that feels warm, encouraging, and empowering. My goal was to build something where kids don’t just improve their reading—they believe in themselves again.

2. Do you have a budget? How do you think about your personal finances and how do you make lifestyle and spending decisions?

As a small business owner, I absolutely work within a budget. Being financially mindful is a form of stewardship, especially when you’re building something from the ground up.

I prioritize spending on anything that directly supports my students and mission—high-quality materials, professional training, and engaging therapy tools.

Personally, I try to live intentionally. That means investing in what matters most, while still leaving space for joy and creativity. Every dollar has a purpose, whether it’s for growing The Dyslexia Diva or making time for rest and fun.

3. Risk-taking: how do you think about risk, and what role has taking risks played in your life/career?

Not all risks feel bold—some unfold quietly, step by step. My path began in public education, teaching 5th grade math and science, even though my heart was in reading and writing.

Eventually, I became a dyslexia teacher and felt something ignite. I didn’t have everything figured out, but I leaned into the pull. I pursued my master’s in Special Education with a focus on dyslexia, and earned my credentials as a Licensed Dyslexia Therapist (LDT) and Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT).

As I saw my students thrive, I realized this work was more than a job—it was a calling. Starting The Dyslexia Divabecame the natural next step. Now, I dream of expanding into a nationwide platform, and even creating a literacy center or membership model.

I also carry a strong desire to bring literacy into prisons. I’ve worked in low-income schools and seen how illiteracy often leads to incarceration. That heartbreak fuels my mission.

4. Where are you from and how did your background and upbringing impact who you are today?

I grew up in Los Angeles and knew early on I wanted to be a teacher. Reading was my escape and comfort growing up—I was the kid who made vocabulary flashcards for fun. I believe God planted that love for language in me young.

In high school, I moved to Texas, where I built my life and career. I also spent years volunteering in church ministries that served people experiencing homelessness, and once again saw how low literacy is linked to poverty.

My faith, life experiences, and love for language are all woven into the heart of The Dyslexia Diva.

5. What is the most important factor behind your success/the success of your brand?

Purpose and passion are at the root of everything. I didn’t start this journey with a blueprint, but I moved with intention.

The support of my family and friends has been foundational—especially my mother, who taught me to lead with integrity and heart.

Being an empath helps me connect deeply with my students. I sense what they need, especially when it comes to confidence and mindset. Creating a space where kids feel seen and safe to grow has made all the difference.

And finally, I lead with excellence. I show up prepared, stay sharp in my training, and deliver the highest quality of support I can—because every student deserves that.

6. What values or principles matter most to you? Why?

My core values include faith, empathy, service, connection, integrity, excellence, and joy.

I walk in obedience to God’s calling on my life. That conviction keeps me grounded.

I connect deeply with people. I love to listen, share stories, and make learning feel human and hopeful. That’s why joy is essential in my sessions—it builds resilience.

Service is the heart of everything I do. I show up with purpose and prepare with care. Families trust me with their most precious gift—their child—and I honor that trust with integrity.

7. Work-life balance: how has your balance changed over time? How do you think about the balance?

Balance has been a journey. At one point, I was teaching full-time, earning my CALT license, completing a master’s degree, volunteering, and managing a home. I was constantly in motion.

I’ve struggled with perfectionism and guilt around resting. Over time, I’ve learned to invest in my health—mentally and physically. I’ve gone to therapy, educated myself on nutrition, and learned to say no.

Now, I protect balance intentionally. I want to give my students the best of me, but not at the expense of my peace.

It’s still a constant adjustment. Life changes, so I monitor and adapt how I use my time to stay aligned with what matters most.

8. What’s the end goal? Where do you want to be professionally by the end of your career?

My vision is for The Dyslexia Diva to become more than a business—it’s a movement.

I dream of launching a literacy center that provides structured therapy, group sessions, workshops, and a membership model for families and educators.

I’m also developing a curriculum for parents of dyslexic or struggling readers, so they can feel confident supporting their children at home.

Eventually, I want to expand nationwide, partner with schools, and bring literacy into underserved communities and correctional facilities.

I want the world to associate The Dyslexia Diva with excellence, sparkle, and heart.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Dyslexia Diva is a private practice that provides structured literacy therapy for students with dyslexia and other reading difficulties. As a Licensed Dyslexia Therapist and Certified Academic Language Therapist, I use research-based, multisensory methods to help struggling readers build confidence, skills, and a love for learning.

What sets my business apart is the personal connection, encouragement, and joy I bring into every session. I’ve built The Dyslexia Diva to be more than just tutoring—it’s a space where children feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Getting to this point took hard work, continuing education, and a deep commitment to my calling. I started this business while earning my master’s degree, working full-time, and training for licensure. It hasn’t always been easy, but every step has been worth it.

I’m proud of how far it’s come and excited for where it’s headed—from growing my private client base to developing resources for families and educators. The Dyslexia Diva is here to make reading success possible, one child at a time.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit, we’d spend time exploring downtown Fort Worth and the Stockyards for classic Texas charm. I’d take them to Kava Kulture in the Alliance area—it’s my go-to chill spot to study and chat. For food, Miss Saigon in Hurst has the best pho around, and HG Supply is a must for their nachos—they’re to die for! We’d mix in a stroll through the Botanic Garden or catch live music downtown. Simple, fun, and full of good vibes.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Without a doubt, I dedicate this shoutout to my mother. She is the strongest, most consistent force in my life and the reason I am who I am today. Her strength, integrity, and unconditional love shaped the foundation of everything I do.

From a young age, she modeled resilience, grace, and hard work, even in the face of adversity. She believed in me before I ever believed in myself, and her encouragement is what gave me the courage to chase big dreams like starting The Dyslexia Diva.

She taught me to lead with compassion, stand firm in my values, and to never give up—especially when the journey gets hard. Her sacrifices, her faith, and her unwavering support mean the world to me. Any success I have is a reflection of the love and strength she poured into me.

Thank you, Mom. This is for you. 💜🦋

Website: https://www.dyslexiadiva.com

Instagram: The Dyslexia Diva ( Link provided on my link Tree)

Linkedin: The Dyslexia Diva (on my link tree)

Facebook: The Dyslexia Diva ( on my link tree)

Other: Link Tree has everything you will need:

https://linktr.ee/dyslexiadiva

Email: DyslexiaDiva@yahoo.com

Image Credits
All taken by me.

Parent permission was given to from student’s father.