From Challenge to Creativity: A Conversation with Award-Winning Author Dyonne Josiah
In this week’s episode, Jen sits down with Dyonne Josiah, an award-winning self-published author whose journey is rooted in resilience, self-discovery and a deep commitment to inclusivity. Growing up with dyslexia, Dyonne faced negative educational experiences that made learning feel discouraging rather than empowering. Yet through the support of key figures in her life and her own determination to express herself creatively, she transformed those challenges into a powerful mission: creating stories where all children feel seen.
Dyonne shares how early encounters with unsupportive educators shaped her self-perception, then how the encouragement of others eventually helped redirect her path. She opens up about navigating school with dyslexia, the emotional weight that came with it and the freedom she found when she finally embraced storytelling. Her children’s book, How Do You Get a Baby?, reflects her passion for representation. Through imaginative characters and accessible storytelling, Dyonne ensures that children with disabilities and learning differences recognize themselves in the pages.
This conversation is a reminder that one person’s creative spark can illuminate a path for so many others. Dyonne’s dedication to inclusivity continues to guide her future work and the personal growth she’s experienced through writing is evident in every step of her journey.
Key Takeaways
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Dyonne’s journey reflects the power of resilience.
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Supportive figures can significantly impact one’s path.
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Dyslexia can present unique challenges in education.
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Inclusivity in children’s literature is essential.
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Representation matters for children with disabilities.
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Dyonne’s book encourages exploration and curiosity.
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Family support is crucial in pursuing one’s dreams.
Episode Highlights
[02:49] Dyonne's Creative Journey and Background
[04:13] Impact of Teachers on Dyonne's Life
[11:00] The Role of Family Support
[13:03] Understanding Dyslexia and Its Challenges
[19:18] Inspiration Behind Writing the Book
[22:04] Overview of How Do You Get a Baby?
[23:41] Inclusivity in Children's Literature
Resources Mentioned:
Dyonne’s Website https://canaryryland.com/
Dyonne’s Book https://canaryryland.com/product/how-do-you-get-a-baby/
Connect:
https://www.youtube.com/@canaryanddyonne
Jennifer Ginty
Podcast Host/Founder of My Moody Monster
Jennifer is a single mom and entrepreneur who lives with Complex PTSD and Major Depressive Disorder from childhood trauma. Throughout her life, Jen has learned valuable coping skills and has made it her mission to help others to better understand their own emotions.
Jen has faced obstacles in her healing journey - from becoming a mother without a healthy parental model of her own to overcoming her inner saboteur while coping with the symptoms of CPTSD and Depression. She has spent the last 4 years developing My Moody Monster - a pull apart plush toy that has helped children to get out their frustrations in a safe way and giving families a tool to talk about emotions and communication.
Jen believes by sharing her own story she can help others to know they are not alone. Her YouTube channel features her Moody Talks focusing on an emotion each month and teaching coping skills that have helped her with her own mental health.
After being featured on multiple mental health and parenting podcasts, Jen had a powerful realization: her story of pushing away the hard work of facing her trauma was just one journey, and there are countless other journeys out there—each just as important and impactful. This is what inspired her to create "When Not Yet Becomes Right Now", a space for exploring the many different paths we take in life.
Learning Safer Coping Through Art with Maggie Parr
