Lauren Sanchez, 56, appeared emotional during a live interview on Today in New York City, as she discussed the struggles of living with dyslexia, a challenge she shares with her son. Sanchez, who was promoting her new children’s book The Fly Who Flew Under The Sea, revealed how she had hidden her own dyslexia for years and only discovered it at the age of 19. She recalled how her community college teacher, Lori, had urged her to get tested after noticing her struggle with spelling.
Sanchez shared a particularly poignant moment about her son Evan Whitesell, who also has dyslexia. During her wedding to Jeff Bezos in June 2025, Evan gave a speech that touched on his own experiences with the learning difficulty. “It was the most meaningful and impactful moment at my wedding… besides getting married to Jeff,” Sanchez said, fighting back tears. She revealed that Evan had struggled with spelling in school and remembered how, in the fourth grade, he told himself, “I can do it.”
Sanchez expressed her pride in her son’s resilience, noting that his words had inspired her so much that she now has a sign in their home reading “I can do it.” The interview highlighted the deep connection between mother and son as they navigated their shared battle with dyslexia.
Sanchez also discussed her family life, including her role as a mother to her children Evan, Ella, and her daughter from her previous marriage, as well as her thoughts on the term “Empty Nester.” “I don’t like it,” she said, humorously suggesting “Egg Launcher” or “Bird Launcher” as alternatives.
In a lighthearted moment, Sanchez shared her excitement for her second children’s book, emphasizing the importance of reading to children. She also touched on the power of oxytocin that reading releases, explaining how crucial it is for emotional bonding.
Before her appearance on Today, Sanchez used a clever marketing tactic to promote her book by carrying a handbag with the cover of The Fly Who Flew Under The Sea printed on it. The bag was a stylish addition to her chic outfit, which included a white skirt suit with a bow on the jacket and pointy Louboutin heels.
The book, illustrated by Raleigh Stewart, is an undersea adventure about a fly named Flynn who takes a wrong turn on the way to Cape Canaveral and ends up discovering the wonders of the ocean. The story aims to inspire curiosity, resilience, and an appreciation for the planet, all while introducing STEM concepts.
Sanchez’s dedication to her family and her work was evident throughout the interview, and her emotional moments provided a glimpse into her life as a mother, author, and advocate for dyslexia awareness.
