Explore every episode of the podcast Literacy in Color: A Science of Reading Aligned Podcast for Educators
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 125. The Alphabet Is More Than a Song: Building Automaticity with Angela Griffith, The Daily Alphabet | 10 Nov 2026 | 00:40:11 | |
Reciting the ABCs is one thing, but using that knowledge is another. What does it really mean for a child to "know their letters," and why do some students struggle to decode even when they can identify letters and produce their sounds? Literacy specialist and founder of The Daily Alphabet, Angela Griffith, helps us explore the critical role of alphabet knowledge in early literacy development. We unpack the difference between letter recognition, letter naming, and letter sequencing, and discuss how alphabet knowledge and phonological awareness work together to support the alphabetic principle. Angela shares why accuracy alone isn't enough, what teachers should investigate when letter knowledge isn't transferring to decoding, and how simple, intentional routines can help students develop automatic letter retrieval. We also discuss the importance of connecting speech to print, integrating handwriting, and moving students into blending and word reading without waiting for them to master every letter. Key Takeaways:
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Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 124. The Upward Spiral of Literacy: Beyond Comprehension to Joyful, Purposeful Reading & Writing with Dr. Molly Ness, Dirigo Literacy | 03 Nov 2026 | 00:41:39 | |
What if we stopped thinking about literacy development as a staircase of isolated skills to master – and started seeing it as an upward trajectory, with each component influencing the next? Dr. Molly Ness returns to the show to introduce The Upward Spiral of Literacy, a new framework designed to bring greater coherence, integration, and optimism to the science of reading conversation. The Upward Spiral illustrates how literacy develops through the interconnectedness of oral language, foundational reading and writing skills, word knowledge, and self-regulated text engagement – culminating in joyful, purposeful reading and writing. We also explore the external influences that help propel literacy development, including literacy-rich environments, data-driven, evidence-based instruction, and courageous literacy leadership. Dr. Ness challenges educators to think beyond comprehension as the ultimate destination. After all, we don't just want students who can read and write; we want students who choose to read and write, find joy in literacy, and use these skills meaningfully throughout their lives. Key Takeaways:
Dr. Ness also shares why literacy is ultimately an issue of social justice – and why shifting our focus from literacy deficits to collective responsibility and upward growth may be exactly what our field needs. Learn More about the Upward Spiral of Literacy:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Listen to Past Episodes with Dr. Molly Ness on Literacy in Color:
Connect with Dr. Molly Ness:
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Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 123. Dyslexia in Adolescence & Beyond: Recognizing Struggles, Building Support, and Empowering Students with Mallary Lattanze (Dyslexia Awareness Month) | 30 Oct 2026 | 01:00:05 | |
Dyslexia doesn't end in elementary school. So what happens when students with dyslexia enter middle school, high school, college, and eventually the workforce? In this special Dyslexia Awareness Month bonus episode, I’m joined by Mallary Lattanze, a Certified Academic Language Therapist, Licensed Dyslexia Therapist, and Vice President of School and District Partnerships at Neuhaus Education Center, for a deeply personal and powerful conversation about navigating dyslexia beyond the elementary years. Mallary opens up about her own experiences growing up with dyslexia – from struggling academically and emotionally to navigating high school and college without the accommodations and support she needed. Despite the challenges, her journey ultimately led her to a career in education and a mission to become the person she needed when she was younger. We explore how dyslexia can continue to impact adolescents and young adults, the warning signs educators may overlook, and the importance of balancing academic expectations with meaningful accommodations and support. Key Takeaways:
Connect with Mallary Latanze: Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 122. Cheers to 2 Years! Literacy in Color's Birthday Party: Big Wishes, Bold Takes & Salty Opinions | 29 Oct 2026 | 01:06:42 | |
Happy 2nd Birthday, Literacy in Color! 🎂🌈 Two years, countless conversations, incredible friendships, and one very COLORFUL literacy community! We're celebrating TWO years of Literacy in Color, and what better way to mark the occasion than by bringing together some of my favorite people in the literacy space for a very special birthday roundtable? I'm joined by eight incredible friends and fellow literacy advocates: Amy Siracusano, Christina Winter, Elizabeth Doherty, Heidi Martin, Jessica Farmer, Justin Browning, Sarah Paul, and Yvette Manns. Because it's a birthday party, of course we have a theme! We're gathering around our virtual birthday table for four conversations:
From the importance of professional learning communities and the power of oral language to courageous leadership, morphology, teacher support, and transforming outdated systems, this conversation is filled with wisdom, laughter, and a whole lot of heart. Above all, this episode is about something bigger than any one person, program, or podcast: the collective power of educators coming together to change literacy outcomes for children. To everyone who has listened, shared an episode, joined a book study, challenged their thinking, or become part of this colorful community over the past two years: THANK YOU! Here's to two years of learning, growing, collaborating, and making literacy a little more COLORFUL! Connect with the birthday roundtable guests! Amy Siracusano
Christina Winter
Elizabeth Doherty
Heidi Martin
Jessica Farmer
Justin Browning
Sarah Paul
Yvette Manns
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Michelle:
Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon:... | |||
| 121. Dyslexia or Language Acquisition? Getting It Right for Multilingual Learners with Karina Cruz (Dyslexia Awareness Month) | 27 Oct 2026 | 01:05:52 | |
What does dyslexia look like across languages? How can educators distinguish between the challenges of learning a new language and an underlying reading disability? In this special Dyslexia Awareness Month episode of Literacy in Color, I'm joined by Karina Cruz, a speech and language specialist, reading interventionist, and Orton-Gillingham-trained educator from Puerto Rico, to explore dyslexia through a multilingual lens. We unpack how dyslexia can manifest differently in Spanish and English, why understanding a student's language and literacy history matters when assessing reading difficulties, and how educators can recognize patterns that go beyond typical second-language acquisition. Karina shares practical strategies for supporting multilingual learners through structured literacy, including leveraging connections between languages, building phonemic awareness, incorporating oral language, and making intentional instructional decisions – even when teachers don't speak their students' home languages. We also explore the realities of dyslexia identification and access to intervention in Puerto Rico, along with Karina's powerful reminder that literacy is not a privilege – it's a human right. Key Takeaways:
Resources and References Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Karina Cruz:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle designed to help you spend less time figuring out what to do with screening data and move more quickly into purposeful, skill-based groups. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,600 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 120. Stop Making Children With Dyslexia Wait for the Help They Need!: The Dyslexia Parent Project with Dr. Brennan Chandler & Missy Purcell (Dyslexia Awareness Month) | 23 Oct 2026 | 01:17:56 | |
How long should a child struggle before we recognize that the instruction they're receiving simply isn't enough? Also, why are so many students with dyslexia still caught in cycles of intervention without meaningful progress? In this Dyslexia Awareness Month bonus episode, I'm joined by two returning guests, Dr. Brennan Chandler and Missy Purcell, who are joining forces through The Dyslexia Parent Project to help families and educators better understand how to advocate for effective literacy instruction. We're moving beyond conversations about dyslexia characteristics and myths to examine what happens when children enter the school system and begin showing signs of reading difficulties. From universal screening and MTSS to special education evaluations and individualized instruction, we explore where students fall through the cracks, as well as what we can do to change that. Brennan shares how schools can use curriculum-based measures, progress monitoring, and data-based decision-making to determine whether students are making meaningful progress. Missy brings her perspective as both a former educator and parent advocate, sharing real experiences of children spending years in intervention without receiving the support they need. We also unpack why simply making progress isn't necessarily enough, why the name of an intervention program matters less than how instruction is individualized, and what it really means to turn up the "dials" of instructional intensity. Key Takeaways
Dyslexia Parent Project
Connect with Brennan Chandler, PhD:
Connect with Missy Purcell:
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Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 119. Scaffolding Complex Texts: Teach the Hard Stuff with Mitchell Brookins, Ph.D. | 20 Oct 2026 | 00:57:57 | |
Are we scaffolding complex texts for students — or unintentionally lowering the intellectual demands of what we ask them to do? Dr. Mitchell Brookins, author of Scaffolding Complex Texts joins the show to share how intentional planning and strategic scaffolding can help students navigate challenging texts, construct meaning, and engage in deeper intellectual work. For years, educators have been encouraged to match students with “just-right” texts. When students spend most of their time reading texts that don't challenge their thinking, expand their vocabulary, or expose them to sophisticated language and ideas – are we really stretching them? The goal, after all, is to develop readers who can think critically, integrate knowledge, make connections, and construct deeper understanding – because complexity is worth it. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Mitchell Brookins:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle designed to help you spend less time figuring out what to do with screening data and move more quickly into purposeful, skill-based groups. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,600 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 118. Parents for Reading Justice: How Parents are Changing the Literacy System with Brett Tingley (Dyslexia Awareness Month) | 16 Oct 2026 | 00:52:54 | |
What happens when parents start fighting for every child's right to learn to read? I'm joined by Brett Tingley, President of Parents for Reading Justice, for a powerful conversation about parent advocacy, dyslexia, and the role families can play in transforming literacy instruction across the country. Brett's journey began as a mom searching for answers when her own child struggled to read. What started as an individual fight for appropriate instruction grew into a movement for systemic change — first within her local school district, then across Ohio, and now through a national network of parent advocates. We explore why Brett calls parents an "untapped lever" in literacy reform, how organized parent groups can influence school districts, legislation, and even teacher preparation programs, and why parent advocacy doesn't have to mean working against educators. In fact, parents and teachers can become some of each other's strongest allies. We also discuss the far-reaching consequences of reading difficulties, the importance of early dyslexia identification and intervention, and how families can move from awareness to meaningful action. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Brett Tingley and Parents for Reading Justice:
Connect with Michelle:
Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| Beyond Phonics Club is Here! Let's Connect the Pieces of Literacy with Michelle Sullivan & Sarah Paul | 15 Oct 2026 | 00:01:34 | |
Phonics is foundational — but it's not the finish line! You've learned about phonemic awareness, phonics, and decodable text — but what happens when words get longer? When spelling gets more complex and sound alone doesn't tell the whole story? When students can read a word but don't fully understand how it works? There's a bigger picture of literacy to explore, and we want to help you connect the pieces! Introducing Beyond Phonics Club! 🎉 Sarah Paul and I created Beyond Phonics Club, our membership community for K-5 educators who want to deepen their understanding of the full picture of the Science of Reading so their students can become stronger readers, spellers, and word learners. Why a membership?When Sarah and I first launched Logos Literacy Academy, we created our Mastering Morphology course and our K–2 Morphology Course & Curriculum to help educators build their linguistic knowledge and bring meaningful morphology instruction into their classrooms. We quickly realized we wanted to offer something more than standalone courses. We wanted a place where professional learning didn't end when the video did. Where educators could ask questions, collaborate, share ideas, and continue growing alongside one another. And where the knowledge gained through professional learning was paired with practical lessons, routines, and resources that made classroom application easier. So, we've reimagined our platform and transitioned to a membership model! Beyond Phonics Club brings together our asynchronous course content, ready-to-use instructional resources, ongoing professional learning, live community calls, and collaborative support — all in one place. Inside the Club, we're exploring how morphology, oral language, decoding, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, syntax, and more work together to strengthen literacy instruction. The best part: This isn't about adding one more thing to your plate. It's about enhancing the instruction you're already doing by making meaningful connections across literacy. We believe educators deserve more than information. They deserve the tools, confidence, and community to put that information into practice. We'd love for you to be part of it! 👉 Explore Beyond Phonics Club & Join the Community Let's keep learning, growing, and connecting the pieces of literacy — together! -Michelle & Sarah Founders of Logos Literacy Academy Connect with Michelle:
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| 117. Beneath the Surface of Words: What English Spelling Reveals and Why It Matters with Sue Scibetta Hegland | 13 Oct 2026 | 01:18:18 | |
What if the English spelling system isn't nearly as irregular as we've been led to believe? What if the letters we sometimes call “silent” are actually telling us something important about a word's structure, identity, or history? Sue Scibetta Hegland, author of Beneath the Surface of Words: What English Spelling Reveals and Why It Matters joins the show for a fascinating conversation about what lies beneath the surface of English spelling. Sue shares how her son's experience with dyslexia sparked her journey into understanding the English spelling system and why learning to read and learning to spell don't always develop in the same way. We explore three foundational concepts: English spelling is structural, spelling reveals the identity of words, and written and spoken language are deeply connected yet distinct systems. Through examples like says, does, been, comfortable, and even leopard, Sue reveals how morphology, phonology, and etymology work together to make English spelling more understandable. We also discuss why graphemes don't always represent phonemes, the different roles of graphemic markers, and how Sue's thinking has evolved as she works on the second edition of her book. Plus, Sue shares insights from her conversations with renowned reading researcher Dr. Linnea Ehri, including the role of morphology in orthographic mapping and why morphological instruction doesn't need to wait until students are older. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Sue Scibetta Hegland:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle designed to help you spend less time figuring out what to do with screening data and move more quickly into purposeful, skill-based groups. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,600 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 116. All 50 States Have Dyslexia Laws... So Why Are Kids Still Being Left Behind? with Missy Purcell (Dyslexia Awareness Month) | 09 Oct 2026 | 00:51:30 | |
All 50 states now have dyslexia legislation on the books. So why are so many students with dyslexia still caught in a “wait to fail” system? Dyslexia advocate, Missy Purcell joins the show to explore the gap between passing legislation and actually changing outcomes for students. Missy shares the deeply personal story of advocating for her own son after watching him go from a child excited to start school to one who was frustrated, anxious, and struggling. That journey, later featured in the Sold a Story podcast, ultimately led Missy from advocating for one child to helping families and educators navigate systems that too often fail to identify and support students early enough. We unpack what “wait to fail” really looks like in schools, what dyslexia legislation can and cannot accomplish, and why screening alone is never enough. Missy shares lessons from Georgia’s evolving dyslexia and early literacy legislation, including what can happen when well-intentioned laws encounter policies and systems that don’t fully reflect their intent. We also discuss the importance of early identification, Child Find and IDEA, the relationship between MTSS and special education evaluation, individualized intervention, teacher knowledge, and why a program alone cannot replace a highly trained, responsive educator. Most importantly, Missy makes the case that dyslexia advocacy does not have to be parents versus teachers. Meaningful change happens when families, educators, school leaders, policymakers, and communities work together – with urgency – to make sure children get what they need before they fail. Key Takeaways:
Resources & References Mentioned:
Connect with Missy Purcell:
Connect with Michelle:
Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 115. From Undiagnosed Dyslexia to Advocacy: Ameer Baraka on the Life-Changing Power of Reading (Dyslexia Awareness Month) | 06 Oct 2026 | 00:46:45 | |
Emmy-nominated actor, dyslexia advocate, and speaker Ameer Baraka explores the human side of unidentified dyslexia. Ameer takes us back to his childhood, when difficulties with reading left him feeling isolated, ashamed, and convinced that he simply wasn’t capable of learning. As his struggles went unidentified, school felt like it wasn’t a place of possibility, and he began searching for another way to make it in the world. It wasn’t until Ameer was incarcerated as a young adult that his educational journey began to change. After being screened for dyslexia and finally having an explanation for the difficulties he had experienced throughout his life, Ameer describes an almost immediate shift in how he saw himself: he wasn’t “stupid.” He could learn. For Ameer, literacy became freedom. Throughout this deeply personal conversation, Ameer shares how learning to read transformed not only his opportunities, but his identity, his sense of hope, and ultimately the trajectory of his life. He also discusses the adults who believed in him when he struggled to believe in himself, the profound influence of his faith, and why he now feels called to advocate for children and incarcerated adults who struggle with literacy. We also discuss what educators may see when reading difficulties show up as something other than reading difficulties – including acting out, frequent physical complaints, avoidance, or the child who quietly disappears into the back of the classroom. Today, Ameer uses his story to advocate for early identification of dyslexia, stronger literacy instruction, prison reform, and greater awareness of the consequences that can occur when children spend years believing they cannot learn. This conversation is ultimately about more than dyslexia. It is about literacy, identity, human potential, faith, and the extraordinary power educators have to help a child see possibilities they may not yet be able to see for themselves. Stay tuned for more details on the film Undiagnosed, a biopic based on Ameer’s life and his experience with dyslexia. It’s the first film of its kind to explore what Ameer calls “the ugly side of dyslexia” – what can happen when a child’s struggles go unidentified and unsupported for far too long. Dyslexia organizations have already reached out in support of the project, and millions of people are anticipating to see this story on screen. Key Takeaways:
See Ameer Baraka on: Connect with Ameer Baraka:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle designed to help you spend less time figuring out what to do with screening data and move more quickly into purposeful, skill-based groups. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,600 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 114. But what exactly are we "waiting to see"? with Barb Golub (Dyslexia Awareness Month) | 02 Oct 2026 | 01:09:38 | |
What does dyslexia actually look like – from preschool through high school – and how can educators recognize when a student’s struggles may be telling us something more? In this Dyslexia Awareness Month bonus episode, Certified Dyslexia Therapist and teacher educator Barb Golub joins the show for an honest, practical, and incredibly fun conversation about recognizing and supporting students with dyslexia. Barb shares the personal story that ultimately led her into dyslexia therapy, and explains why dyslexia can be easy to miss, particularly in bright students who have become skilled at compensating. She walks through signs educators and families might notice at different ages. We also dig into why multilingual learners may be under-identified for dyslexia and why evaluators must consider both language acquisition and reading development rather than defaulting to a “wait and see” approach. They also discuss what needs to change at the systems level, why intervention shouldn't become a permanent placement without meaningful progress, and what general education teachers can do when they suspect a student is struggling – even when they don't have a specialist standing beside them. And because it's Barb, the episode ends with push-ups, miniature tchotchkes, irregular high-frequency words, crispy Diet Coke, and some literacy hot takes… obviously! Key Takeaways:
Connect with Barb Golub:
Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 113. Integrated MTSS: Looking at Academics & Behavior Side by Side with Pam Radford and Dawn Miller, MTSS Innovations | 29 Sep 2026 | 01:03:02 | |
What happens when schools treat academics and behavior as two completely separate systems? Dr. Dawn Miller and Dr. Pamela Radford of MTSS Innovations help us explore what it really means to build an integrated Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS): one that recognizes that students’ academic, behavioral, social, and emotional needs don’t exist in isolation. We unpack the powerful relationship between academic success and behavior, including what can happen when a student’s academic struggles show up as avoidance, disengagement, disruptive behavior, or missed instructional time. We also explore the reverse: how behavioral needs and time away from instruction can compound academic difficulties. Dawn and Pam take us inside an integrated MTSS model, discussing how schools can move away from siloed academic and behavior teams and instead create systems in which educators examine multiple sources of data side by side. We talk about universal screening, attendance, office discipline referrals, behavioral screeners, and implementation data. We also dig into what this means for Tier 1 instruction and evidence-based practices. Dawn and Pam explain why selecting an evidence-based practice isn't simply about finding something that “works”; it's about considering the student, the context, available resources, implementation, and the interaction between academic and behavioral needs. For leaders wondering where to even begin? Dawn offers an important reminder: “don't let perfect be the enemy of good”. You may begin by strengthening one part of your system, but the vision from the beginning should be one of integration. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Pam and Dawn:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle designed to help you spend less time figuring out what to do with screening data and move more quickly into purposeful, skill-based groups. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,600 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community:... | |||
| 112. Routines for Reading Results with Dr. Sarah Brown & Dr. Kelly Powell-Smith | 22 Sep 2026 | 00:53:34 | |
Dr. Sarah Brown and Dr. Kelly Powell-Smith, co-authors of Routines for Reading Results: A Practical Approach for Accelerating Growth, alongside Dr. Stephanie Stollar and Beth Madden unpack the principles of Direct Instruction and explain why effective reading instruction depends not only on what we teach, but on the intentional design and delivery of instruction. They walk through the four phases of learning: acquisition, automaticity, generalization, and adaptation – and explain why students can appear to “get it” during a lesson yet struggle to retain or apply that learning later. The conversation also tackles a common criticism of scripted instruction: Do scripts stifle teacher creativity and responsiveness? Sarah and Kelly explain why thoughtfully designed routines can actually reduce cognitive load for teachers, provide consistency for students, and free educators to focus on the thing that cannot be scripted ahead of time: how students are responding in the moment. They also discuss how these routines can live alongside existing high-quality instructional materials, how educators can use data to identify gaps rather than continually purchasing new programs, and what school leaders can do to support implementation. Key Takeaways:
Resources & References Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Sarah Brown:
Connect with Dr. Kelly Powell-Smith: This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle designed to help you spend less time figuring out what to do with screening data and move more quickly into purposeful, skill-based groups. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,600 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 111. When Language is the Missing Piece: DLD & SWI with Two SLPs, Kathleen Love & Beth Coppoc Gunshor | 15 Sep 2026 | 01:11:56 | |
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) affects approximately 1 in 14 people, yet many educators have never heard of it. So what might DLD actually look like in the classroom? How can we better support students when difficulties with language intersect with dyslexia, ADHD, executive function, reading, spelling, and writing? Speech-language pathologists, Kathleen Love and Beth Coppoc Gunshor take us for a deep dive into DLD and language-based literacy intervention. Kathleen and Beth unpack the differences and overlap among DLD, dyslexia, and ADHD, including why a student who appears inattentive or off-task may actually be struggling with the language demands of a task. They also share subtle signs of DLD educators can watch for: from vague vocabulary and word-retrieval difficulties to challenges following directions, understanding complex sentences, and telling cohesive stories. Then, the conversation turns practical. Kathleen and Beth explore ways educators can manage cognitive load, strengthen vocabulary instruction, and provide the repeated, explicit language experiences students with DLD may need. They also take us inside their intervention practices to show how Structured Word Inquiry (SWI) can extend far beyond spelling – supporting morphology, vocabulary, syntax, semantic networks, executive function, oral language, and even confidence. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Kathleen Love:
Connect with Beth Coppoc Gunshor:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle designed to help you spend less time figuring out what to do with screening data and move more quickly into purposeful, skill-based groups. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,600 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 110. Decodable Texts Done Right: How to Leverage Them for Phonics, Fluency, Vocabulary & Writing with Dr. Wiley Blevins | 08 Sep 2026 | 00:53:55 | |
Decodable texts are an important tool for helping readers apply their phonics knowledge, but are we squeezing everything we can out of them? Dr. Wiley Blevins – longtime educator, researcher, author, and one of the most recognized voices in phonics instruction – shares all about choosing and using decodable texts. When it comes to choosing decodable texts, Wiley shares the prevailing thinking around how decodable a text actually needs to be. We also tackle a question that doesn't always have a neat answer: When are students ready for less-controlled text? Wiley shares what he's currently exploring in his research, why that transition may look different from student to student, and why we shouldn't confuse being able to read a pattern with truly mastering it for spelling. We also get into using decodable texts for all they’re worth. In fact, decodables certainly can go far beyond simply getting students to practice a target phonics pattern. Wiley shares how he uses decodable texts across multiple days and throughout the literacy block to build oral language, fluency, vocabulary, syntax, writing, knowledge-building, and of course, comprehension. He walks us through practical routines teachers can use and explains how decodables can support differentiation for students who need additional practice with previously taught skills. Key Takeaways:
Resources:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Wiley Blevins: This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle designed to help you spend less time figuring out what to do with screening data and move more quickly into purposeful, skill-based groups. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,600 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 109. Phonological Awareness & the Alphabet: What the Research Says – and What We Still Don't Know with Dr. Shayne Piasta | 01 Sep 2026 | 01:12:56 | |
Before we get into what the research currently says about teaching phonological awareness and the alphabet, this episode begins by breaking down some key terminology. What makes a practice evidence-based? What’s the difference between research-based and research-tested? What should we consider when implementing instruction aligned with the Science of Reading? Dr. Shayne Piasta, Distinguished Professor at THE Ohio State University and Faculty Associate at the Crane Center for Early Childhood Research and Policy, helps unpack what we know, what we’re still learning, and how educators can make evidence-informed decisions. We then dig into phonological and phonemic awareness. Dr. Piasta explains what research has established about the importance of PA, why phonemic awareness ultimately matters for reading and spelling, and where questions remain about exactly how PA should be taught. We discuss larger versus smaller units of sound, advanced tasks, group size, dosage, incorporating letters, and even differentiation. Next, we turn to alphabet learning and instruction. Research increasingly supports teaching names and sounds simultaneously. We also discuss what makes certain letters easier (or harder) to learn, the acrophonic principle, letter sequence and pacing, and what effective alphabet instruction can look like in a kindergarten classroom. Finally, Dr. Piasta shares trusted sources for evaluating evidence and reminds us why evidence-informed instruction requires research, professional expertise, and knowledge of the students sitting in front of us. *Please Note: We experienced some audio issues toward the very end of the episode. We did our best to improve the audio quality and appreciate your understanding. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Dr. Shayne Piasta This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle designed to help you spend less time figuring out what to do with screening data and move more quickly into purposeful, skill-based groups. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,600 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here:... | |||
| 108. Making Phonics Richer with Multiple Meaning Words | 25 Aug 2026 | 00:20:07 | |
What if one of the richest language opportunities in your literacy block is already hiding inside your phonics word list? Even the simplest decodable words can carry surprisingly rich meanings. A word like “cap” might be something you wear on your head, the top of a bottle, an action you perform when you cover something, or even part of the phrase “no cap.” Simple to decode doesn't necessarily mean simple in meaning. In this episode, I share a few simple ways to intentionally sprinkle meaning into the decoding and spelling practice you're already doing. Key Takeaways:
We know explicit & systematic phonics helps students unlock the code, but meaning gives them something worth unlocking. Want to go Beyond Phonics? Join Beyond Phonics Club: A Membership Community with Michelle Sullivan & Sarah Paul (Logos Literacy Academy) Inside the Beyond Phonics Club, Michelle Sullivan and Sarah Paul have created ready-to-use lessons and resources, including lessons targeting multiple-meaning words, that help you expand phonics into richer work with meaning, morphology, vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension in mind. Go beyond phonics – without leaving phonics behind! This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 107. Stop Overcomplicating Big Words: How to Teach Polysyllabic Word Reading with Dr. Devin Kearns | 18 Aug 2026 | 01:00:55 | |
What happens after students master single-syllable words in phonics, but the words in their books keep getting longer? Dr. Devin Kearns takes us for a deep dive into polysyllabic word reading and what the research tells us about helping students tackle increasingly complex words. He explains why the transition into longer words presents challenges that simply don't exist in single-syllable words, including the unpredictability of single-letter vowels, reduced vowels & schwa, and the growing prevalence of derivational suffixes. He also challenges some long-standing approaches to syllable division and explains why more rules and terminology aren't necessarily better for students. You'll learn about ESHALOV ("Every Syllable Has At Least One Vowel") as well as the “peeling-off strategy” for recognizing affixes and accessing the base of polymorphemic words. The conversation also explores lexical verification (i.e., set for variability): how readers adjust an initially decoded pronunciation until it connects with a word in their mental lexicon. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Dr. Devin Kearns:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 106. How New York City Is Transforming Reading Instruction with Dr. Katie Pace Miles | 11 Aug 2026 | 00:47:09 | |
What does it actually mean for a word to become "stored" in the brain – and how do we design instruction that helps that happen for every student? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Katie Pace Miles, associate professor at Brooklyn College, founder of The Reading Institute, co-founder of CUNY Reading Fellows, and one of today's leading voices in reading science. She not only shares about the cognitive process of orthographic mapping, but also why understanding how words become permanently stored in memory changes the way we think about reading instruction and intervention. Dr. Miles also shares the fascinating origin story behind Reading Ready, the structured literacy intervention she originally created while teaching her own daughter to read during the pandemic, and explains how both Reading Ready and Reading Go have expanded to support thousands of students through The Reading Institute and CUNY Reading Fellows. She shares the dramatic literacy shifts happening across New York City Public Schools: from increased use of structured literacy and decodable texts to high-impact tutoring, universal screening, and stronger teacher preparation – and what still lies ahead. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Katie Pace Miles:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 105. From Imposter Syndrome to Impact: A Literacy Coach's Journey & the Power of SRSD for Writing Instruction with Leah Ruesink | 04 Aug 2026 | 00:52:20 | |
Transitioning from classroom teacher to literacy coach is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. How do you build trust? Support veteran teachers? Know when to offer advice...and when to simply listen? Today’s episode is part Coaching Conversation, as literacy coach Leah Ruesink shares about her transition to coach and what coaching really looks like behind the scenes. Leah shares some lessons she’s learned along the way, including how to build meaningful relationships, navigate imposter syndrome, and support teachers through instructional change. Then the conversation shifts into one of Leah's greatest passions: writing instruction. Leah introduces listeners to Self-Regulated Strategy Development (SRSD), an evidence-based writing framework that explicitly teaches students how to plan, organize, and write – all while regulating themselves throughout the writing process. So, while this episode speaks directly to a literacy coach’s heart, classroom teachers will walk away with some really practical ideas and valuable insights for explicitly teaching writing in your classrooms. Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Leah Ruesink:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 104. Building the Biliterate Reading Brain: Multi-Component Instruction & Deep Reading with Dr. Maryanne Wolf | 28 Jul 2026 | 00:52:06 | |
One of the most influential voices around “the reading brain”, Dr. Maryanne Wolf, joins the show to tackle that very subject. Our brains were never wired to read. Reading is a learned, plastic circuit that develops through instruction – and how we teach profoundly shapes how that circuitry is built. Dr. Wolf explains dyslexia, why fluency is much more than reading quickly, and why decoding alone is not enough for deep comprehension. She shares the research behind her POSSUM framework and explains why integrating phonology, orthography, semantics, syntax, and morphology creates stronger, more fluent readers. The conversation also turns toward one of today's biggest challenges: the digital age. Dr. Wolf discusses how technology and AI are reshaping the reading brain, why deep reading matters now more than ever, and how parents and educators can intentionally cultivate what she calls a biliterate brain: one that can thrive in both print and digital environments. This episode offers a hopeful vision for building readers who don't simply decode words, but think deeply, read thoughtfully, and engage fully with language. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Maryanne Wolf & Nido Learning:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 103. 5 Quick Tips for b/d Letter Reversals | 21 Jul 2026 | 00:19:59 | |
Letter reversals are one of the most common concerns among parents and teachers. In this episode, we dive into what’s happening in the brain when it comes to letter reversals, when reversals may be expected, and 5 practical tips for fixing b/d reversals specifically. Resource Mentioned:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 102. Powerful Fluency Instruction & Performance-Based Practices with Dr. Chase Young | 14 Jul 2026 | 01:03:31 | |
Fluency serves as the critical bridge between accurate word reading and deep comprehension, so how can we build it? In this episode, Michelle sits down with literacy scholar, author, and educator, Dr. Chase Young shares what fluency really is, why it matters, and how teachers can transform fluency instruction from repetitive practice into engaging, meaningful learning experiences. Chase shares the research behind performance-based fluency instruction, including Reader’s Theater, Poetry Slams, Teddy Talks, and his evidence-based intervention framework, Read Like Us. We discuss how fluency supports comprehension, why repeated reading works, and how teachers can create classrooms where students want to practice reading. Key Takeaways:
Helpful Resources
Connect with Dr. Chase Young:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 101. Science of Reading Hot Topics: Navigating the Nuance with Anna Geiger, Reach All Readers | 07 Jul 2026 | 01:02:43 | |
The Science of Reading has transformed literacy instruction, but with that shift has come a new challenge: navigating the growing number of debates, disagreements, and hot topics within the field itself. Author, podcaster, and doctoral student Anna Geiger of Reach All Readers joins the show to explore the nuance behind some of the most talked-about conversations in literacy today. We discuss what research can (and cannot) tell us, why instructional decisions are not always black and white, and how educators can thoughtfully evaluate practices while keeping student outcomes at the center. From heart words and phonemic awareness to decodable texts, sound walls, and structured literacy approaches, this conversation offers a perspective that encourages teachers to think critically and embrace the complexity of literacy instruction. Whether you're new to the Science of Reading or deep into your own learning journey, this episode will leave you reflecting on what it means to be both evidence-informed and responsive to students. We Discuss:
Resources Mentioned:
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This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 100. A Literacy Manifesto After 100 Episodes: 3 Hills I'd Die On, 3 Things I Hope We Leave Behind, and 3 Things I'm Watching Closely | 30 Jun 2026 | 00:31:36 | |
Happy 100th Episode!!! To celebrate this milestone episode, I share:
Thank you for helping make the first 100 episodes possible. Here's to the next 100! Favorite Episodes Mentioned: This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 99. How PS 152Q Transformed Early Literacy with Reading Ready with Lisa Russo & the 1st Grade Team | 23 Jun 2026 | 00:41:49 | |
What happens when a school decides that "business as usual" is no longer good enough? Principal Lisa Russo and the first-grade team at PS 152Q to discuss their remarkable literacy transformation. After years of using balanced literacy practices, the school shifted toward structured literacy, embraced the science of reading, and implemented a schoolwide intervention block supported by Dr. Katie Pace Miles' Reading Ready intervention program. The team shares their journey from seeing students struggle with foundational skills to creating a system that provides targeted instruction based on student needs. You'll hear how leadership, teacher buy-in, strategic grouping, and a commitment to following the research helped create meaningful change for young readers. Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Lisa Russo & PS 152Q:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 98. Syntax is Everything: The Backbone of Comprehension with Dr. Julie Van Dyke | 16 Jun 2026 | 00:55:00 | |
When educators discuss reading comprehension, the conversation often centers around vocabulary, background knowledge, and comprehension strategies, but what if we've been overlooking one of the most critical components of comprehension all along? Research scientist, Dr. Julie Van Dyke shares about the powerful role syntax plays in reading comprehension. Drawing from decades of research in cognitive psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, and language processing, Dr. Van Dyke explains why syntax is much more than word order; it's the system that helps readers determine who did what to whom and construct meaning moment by moment. We discuss what happens in the brain when we read, why comprehension occurs word by word rather than after a passage is finished, how Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) impacts reading, and practical ways teachers can begin supporting syntactic development in their classrooms. We also dive into Cascade Reading, an innovative tool designed to make sentence structure visible and support comprehension for all learners. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Dr. Julie Van Dyke:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 97. Effective Universal Instruction with Dr. Sarah Brown & Dr. Kimberly Gibbons | 09 Jun 2026 | 00:57:22 | |
Drawing from decades of experience in literacy, school psychology, systems-level leadership, and MTSS implementation, Dr. Sarah Brown and Dr. Kimberly Gibbons explain why strong universal instruction is the true foundation of student success. They explore what Tier 1 actually includes, why intervention alone cannot solve widespread literacy struggles, and how leadership, collaboration, fidelity, coaching, and systems-thinking all work together to improve outcomes for students. Key Takeaways:
Resources:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Sarah Brown:
Connect with Dr. Kimberly Gibbons: This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 96. Reading’s Dynamic Duo: How Fluency & Vocabulary Fuel Comprehension with Melissa Loftus & Lori Sappington | 02 Jun 2026 | 00:59:06 | |
Melissa Loftus and Lori Sappington from the Melissa & Lori Love Literacy podcast take their hosting hats off for the day to share their expertise around fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension – and why comprehension instruction is far more complex than simply teaching “strategies.” Melissa and Lori explain why comprehension is considered an unconstrained skill, how fluent word recognition frees up cognitive space for meaning-making, and why vocabulary and knowledge building are essential for students to truly understand text. Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Melissa Loftus & Lori Sappington:
This podcast is brought to you by Reading Science Academy, where our friend Stephanie Stollar is giving Literacy in Color listeners an exclusive, free grouping resource bundle to help you turn fall screening data into skill-based groups that actually move students forward. Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here. Or, become a member of Reading Science Academy to learn in community and receive research-backed support alongside over 1,400 literacy educators. Connect with Michelle:
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Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Reading Science Academy Get your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color | |||
| 95. Affixes in Action: Our A4 Framework for Teaching Affixes with Sarah Paul and Michelle Sullivan of Logos Literacy Academy | 26 May 2026 | 00:35:30 | |
Exciting news! Sarah & Michelle share their signature A4 Framework for teaching affixes inside of Logos Literacy Academy! Rather than treating prefixes and suffixes as isolated definitions to memorize, we explore how affixes function as meaningful structural units that help words grow and change across the English writing system. If you loved the BASE Framework episode, this conversation is the perfect companion episode! Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Sarah & Michelle:
Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club We'd love to see you inside Beyond Phonics Club!: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 94. Inside 'The Megabook of Vocabulary' with Dr. Tim Rasinski, Melissa Cheesman Smith & Savannah Campbell | 19 May 2026 | 00:50:36 | |
Dr. Timothy Rasinski, Melissa Cheesman Smith, and Savannah Campbell join the show to discuss their newest resource, The Megabook of Vocabulary. They unpack why vocabulary is far more than a list of words to memorize. This conversation explores the research behind vocabulary instruction, why background knowledge matters, and how teachers can intentionally build language-rich classrooms without making vocabulary “one more thing.” The authors also introduce their WISE framework from the book:
You’ll even hear practical classroom ideas for morphology instruction, context clues, nuanced word study, playful word exploration, and how to move beyond rote memorization toward deep, meaningful word learning. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, interventionist, literacy coach, or school leader, this episode is packed with strategies and joyful ideas to help students become truly word conscious. Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with the Guests:
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Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 93. Foundations for Life with Lyn Stone, Lifelong Literacy | 12 May 2026 | 00:53:36 | |
We hear an awful lot about the importance of foundational literacy skills, but exactly belongs in that foundation? Educational linguist and author Lyn Stone discusses her newest resource: Foundations for Life — a structured literacy intervention manual designed for educators, interventionists, and parents supporting developing readers and writers. Lyn also shares her thoughts on the Science of Reading movement and considerations when it comes to thoughtful implementation. This conversation is equal parts intellectually rich, practical, and deeply hopeful for educators looking to better understand how the English writing system actually works – and how to teach it effectively. Key Takeaways
Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Lyn Stone:
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Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 92. From Ox Heads to Silent Letters: The History of the Alphabet with Dr. Danny Bate, author of "Why Q Needs U" | 05 May 2026 | 01:13:18 | |
Linguist and author, Dr. Danny Bate brilliantly shares the fascinating history of the alphabet, while also uncovering some of the logic behind English spelling. You’ll hear about the surprising origins of letters (yes, <A> was once an ox’s head!), that vowels weren’t originally part of the alphabet, how the Great Vowel Shift transformed pronunciation, and of course, “Why Q Needs U”. This episode is a must-listen for educators, language lovers, and anyone who has ever wondered: Why is English spelled this way? Key Takeaways:
Connect with Danny Bate
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 91. Why Vocabulary Changes Everything (and 3 Simple Shifts for Teachers) | 28 Apr 2026 | 00:17:01 | |
Vocabulary may be just one pillar of literacy, but it’s also the thread that connects reading, writing, speaking, and thinking. In this episode, I’m breaking down why vocabulary truly changes everything when it comes to student learning – and why it deserves more intentional focus in our classrooms. I’ll also share 3 simple, high-impact shifts you can make right away to create a more language-rich environment for your students. Key Takeaways
Join us at the Science of Reading Mini-Con this June! Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 90. Teach Your Child to Read at Home with Reading.com | 21 Apr 2026 | 00:36:47 | |
Stephanie Barber (Learning Product Manager) and Molly Sullivan (Curriculum Manager) from Reading.com share how families can support early reading development at home, without needing a background in education. Together, they unpack what makes Reading.com different from typical literacy apps: it’s not a passive, screen-time experience. Instead, it’s built around co-learning, where a caregiver and child work together through short, structured lessons grounded in the Science of Reading. Stephanie and Molly share the “why” behind the platform, how research shaped its design, and the intentional features that support real reading development, from explicit phonics instruction to interactive sound sliders that help children bridge from sounding out to blending words. They also address common concerns around screen time, explain how the app avoids guessing habits like picture cueing, and highlight how even non-educators can confidently teach foundational literacy skills with the right support. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or literacy advocate, this episode offers a powerful look at how thoughtful design can bring evidence-based reading instruction into everyday moments. More About Reading.com
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Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 89. The Structured Literacy Playbook with Dr. Melissa Orkin & Sarah Gannon, Crafting Minds | 14 Apr 2026 | 01:11:40 | |
Dr. Melissa Orkin and Sarah Gannon, co-authors of The Structured Literacy Playbook, join Michelle to unpack what it really takes to move students from accurate decoding to fluent, meaningful reading. They explore how teachers can intentionally plan to build fluency using a backward design approach rooted in the brain science of reading. Drawing on the work of Dr. Maryanne Wolf, Melissa and Sarah introduce the POSSUM framework, a multi-component model that integrates phonology, orthography, semantics, syntax, and morphology within a single lesson. Rather than isolating skills, this approach connects them, reflecting how the reading brain actually works. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Crafting Minds Group:
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Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 88. Montessori Storytelling: The History of English Spelling with Zil Jaeger | 07 Apr 2026 | 00:39:48 | |
In this episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle chats with Montessori educator and literacy advocate Zil Jaeger to explore a powerful instructional tool: storytelling. Zil shares how Montessori storytelling goes far beyond engagement; it’s a structured, intentional approach to building background knowledge, activating imagination, and anchoring learning in meaningful ways. Key Takeaways:
Zil also shares how Montessori & Structured Literacy can align with intention, bringing research-based practices into a Montessori framework in thoughtful, systematic ways. Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Zil Jaeger:
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Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 87. Spelling Matters: What the Research Says About Teaching Spelling with Brennan Chandler, PhD | 31 Mar 2026 | 01:08:18 | |
Dr. Brennan Chandler, assistant professor at Georgia State University and researcher specializing in spelling, reading intervention, and literacy development — particularly for students with persistent reading difficulties unpacks what the research sayings about spelling instruction. He shares insights from his large-scale meta-analysis examining decades of spelling intervention research and explains why spelling has the capacity to be far more than a writing skill; it can be a lexical lever that strengthens both reading and writing. Key Takeaways:
Dr. Chandler also shares actionable guidance for educators, including how just 10–15 minutes of intentional spelling instruction daily can make a meaningful difference. Resources:
Connect with Brennan Chandler, PhD:
Thank you to Reading.com for supporting the production of this episode. Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today.
Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Reading.com Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today! The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 86. Multisyllabic Spelling Made Simpler: 3 Strategies for Spelling Longer Words | 24 Mar 2026 | 00:23:20 | |
Spelling longer words can feel overwhelming for students - even for those who can read them with ease. In this episode, I unpack why multisyllabic spelling is such a leap and, more importantly, what we can do to support students through it. Rather than relying on memorization alone, this episode explores how spelling is deeply connected to the structure of our language. You’ll walk away with three practical strategies that help students approach longer words with confidence. From breaking words into syllables, to leveraging morphology and word relatives, to using a “spelling voice,” this episode offers a toolkit teachers can immediately bring into their instruction. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Thank you to Reading.com for supporting the production of this episode. Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today.
Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Reading.com Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today! The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 85. How to Use Decodable Books (and When to Move Beyond Them) with Elise Lovejoy, Express Readers | 17 Mar 2026 | 00:46:41 | |
In this episode, Elise Lovejoy tackles one of the most important topics in early literacy instruction: how to use decodable books effectively – and how to thoughtfully bridge students from controlled text into authentic reading. Elise explains why decodable texts are such a critical tool for early reading development. She also, though, emphasizes an important truth: decodables are not the entire literacy experience; they are one piece of a larger instructional puzzle. In this episode, you’ll hear Elise discuss practical ways teachers can maximize decodable books for phonics practice, build comprehension within decodable texts, and scaffold students toward more complex and authentic reading experiences. You’ll also gather actionable routines teachers can use during small-group instruction, how to help students develop flexibility when encountering unfamiliar spellings, and the signals that students may be ready to move beyond tightly controlled text. Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned: Connect with Elise Lovejoy of Express Readers:
Thank you to Reading.com for supporting the production of this episode. Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today.
Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: Reading.com Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today! Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 84. Reading Assessment Done Right with Dr. Stephanie Stollar and Kate Winn | 10 Mar 2026 | 00:41:04 | |
Dr. Stephanie Stollar and Kate Winn, co-authors of Reading Assessment Done Right unpack one of the most misunderstood topics in literacy instruction: assessment. Rather than viewing assessment as something teachers must check off their to-do list, they explain how high-quality reading assessments can empower educators and transform instruction. When assessment data is used thoughtfully and linked directly to instruction, it becomes a powerful tool for identifying student needs, targeting support, and ultimately changing reading outcomes. This episode is a must-listen for teachers, literacy coaches, interventionists, and school leaders who want to better understand how to use assessment data to drive meaningful instructional change. Key Takeaways:
Resources:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Stephanie Stollar:
Connect with Kate Winn:
Thank you to Reading.com for supporting the production of this episode. Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today.
Connect with Michelle:
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Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club Reading.com Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today! | |||
| 83. How to Make Read-Alouds More Powerful: Joyful Learning in Action with Yvette Manns, Phonics Read-Alouds | 03 Mar 2026 | 01:18:59 | |
In this conversation, Michelle is joined by literacy advocate and author Yvette Manns to explore the power of read-alouds: both for instruction and for joy. Key Takeaways:
This episode is both inspiring and deeply practical, full of classroom-ready ideas. Phonics Read-Alouds Created by Yvette Manns, the Phonics Read Alouds series blends explicit phonics instruction with rich storytelling. Characters like Bossy R, Magic E, and the Schwa bring abstract phonics concepts to life.
National Schwa Day Founded by Yvette Manns, National Schwa Day is celebrated annually on April 7th. Why April 7th? Listen to the episode to hear the reasoning behind it! What you’ll find in the free Educator Guide:
Download the FREE Educator guide: www.nationalschwaday.org Exciting News: Morphology Read-Aloud Series Michelle and Yvette announce the launch of a brand-new Morphology Read Aloud collection — beginning with: The Always-Finished Suffix -ED This story brings the three sounds of -ed to life through time travel, character development, and embedded word study. 🎉 Use code COLORFUL1 for 15% off (valid through 4/26/26)! Additional Books Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Yvette Manns:
Thank you to Express Readers for supporting the production of this episode. Express Readers creates thoughtfully designed decodable texts that align with the Science of Reading and support developing readers at every stage. You can visit their website to learn more and grab a free sample to try with your students!
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Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Express Readers Get your Free Decodable Book Sample today! https://expressreaders.org/ | |||
| 82. Inside an Upper-Elementary Reading Intervention Toolkit with Sara Marye, Stellar Teacher Company | 24 Feb 2026 | 00:48:29 | |
Sara Marye, founder of The Stellar Teacher Company, joins Michelle to unpack what effective upper-elementary reading intervention can actually look like in the general classroom setting. Together, they explore why students in grades 3–5 may continue to struggle with decoding, how phonics gaps impact both reading and writing, and what classroom teachers can realistically do to support older students who still need foundational skill support. Sara shares the thinking behind the Stellar Reading Intervention Toolkit, including its intentional structure, focus on multisyllabic words, and commitment to dignity-preserving, age-appropriate materials for older students. Key Takeaways
Resources Connect with Sara Marye
Thank you to Express Readers for supporting the production of this episode. Express Readers creates thoughtfully designed decodable texts that align with the Science of Reading and support developing readers at every stage. You can visit their website to learn more and grab a free sample to try with your students!
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Mentioned in this episode: Express Readers Get your Free Decodable Book Sample today! https://expressreaders.org/ The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 81. Articulatory Gestures and Early Literacy: What the Research Actually Says with Deirdre O'Toole, The Playful Classroom | 17 Feb 2026 | 00:51:00 | |
Deirdre O’Toole’s doctoral research focuses on early literacy acquisition, specifically around articulatory gestures and attention to speech production. In recent years, we hear a lot about Sound Walls being “aligned to the Science of Reading”. In this episode, Dee shares what we know from research, what we don’t yet know, and how small instructional shifts (like simply saying “Look at my mouth”) can make a meaningful difference in early reading instruction. Key Takeaways:
Dee also shares insights from her work organizing the Right to Read Ireland conference and advocating for evidence-informed literacy instruction across Ireland. Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Deirdre O’Toole:
Thank you to Express Readers for supporting the production of this episode. Express Readers creates thoughtfully designed decodable texts that align with the Science of Reading and support developing readers at every stage. You can visit their website to learn more and grab a free sample to try with your students!
Connect with Michelle:
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Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Express Readers Get your Free Decodable Book Sample today! https://expressreaders.org/ Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 80. MTSS for Reading Improvement with Dr. Stephanie Stollar & Dr. Sarah Brown | 10 Feb 2026 | 00:57:46 | |
MTSS can serve as a true system of support, not just a sorting mechanism, for improving reading outcomes and Dr. Stephanie Stollar and Dr. Sarah Brown share how. Drawing from their book MTSS for Reading Improvement (published under Solution Tree), the conversation bridges the Science of Reading with practical systems-level decision making that supports teachers and students alike. Rather than treating MTSS as a checklist of structures, Drs. Stollar & Brown emphasize fidelity to outcomes, prevention-first thinking, and instructional coherence across Tier 1, intervention, and leadership practices. Key Takeaways:
Resources:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Stephanie Stollar:
Connect with Dr. Sarah Brown:
Thank you to Express Readers for supporting the production of this episode. Express Readers creates thoughtfully designed decodable texts that align with the Science of Reading and support developing readers at every stage. You can visit their website to learn more and grab a free sample to try with your students!
Connect with Michelle:
Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club Express Readers Get your Free Decodable Book Sample today! https://expressreaders.org/ | |||
| 79. No Fluff, Good Stuff - Gearing Up for the Science of Reading Mini-Con 2026 with Heidi Martin & Friends | 03 Feb 2026 | 00:50:07 | |
In this special Science of Reading Mini-Con hype episode, Michelle Sullivan is joined by the presenters behind the Science of Reading Mini-Con to give listeners an inside look at what makes this conference unlike any other. From powerful sessions and hands-on learning to beachside sound baths, mocktails, and real talk about implementation, this episode is your invitation into a literacy experience that blends research, practice, joy, and community. Meet the Voices Behind Mini-Con:
What You’ll Hear in This Episode
The Big Takeaway: Science of Reading Mini-Con is about bridging research to practice, that’s engaging and effective! Learn More & Register: Visit www.scienceofreadingminicon.com for tickets & all the details! A BIG thank you to Reading.com for being the Premier Sponsor of the Science of Reading Mini-Con 2026! Connect with Michelle:
Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||
| 78. Implementing Structured Word Inquiry with Jennifer A. Constantine & Kara B. Lee | 27 Jan 2026 | 00:57:52 | |
Jennifer A. Constantine and Kara B. Lee are two educators with deep experience in assessment, Orton-Gillingham-based instruction, and dyslexia intervention — yet it wasn’t until they encountered SWI that many long-standing questions about English spelling, meaning, and structure finally clicked into place. In this episode, we unpack what Structured Word Inquiry actually is, how it differs from other approaches, and why it offers a powerful lens for teaching all learners – especially those with dyslexia. Key Takeaways:
Helpful Resources:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Jennifer & Kara:
Connect with Michelle:
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Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY | |||
| 77. English Is Not Crazy: How Structured Word Inquiry Reveals the Logic of Spelling with Dr. Peter Bowers | 20 Jan 2026 | 01:25:10 | |
If you’ve ever said that “English is crazy,” this episode is for you. I’m joined by Dr. Peter Bowers, researcher, educator, and founder of Structured Word Inquiry (SWI). His work has shaped how educators understand the English writing system: not as chaotic or exception-ridden, but as a coherent, meaning-driven system. Dr. Bowers shares the personal moment when English spelling first made sense to him and explains why misconceptions about spelling persist in classrooms today. This episode unpacks what Structured Word Inquiry truly is (and what it is not), why morphology is considered a binding agent, and how spelling, phonology, and meaning are fundamentally interconnected. Key Takeaways:
If you’ve ever felt like English spelling “just doesn’t make sense,” this episode will change the way you see the written word – and the way you teach them. Helpful Resources:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Pete Bowers:
Connect with Michelle:
Want to Support the Podcast?
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
Mentioned in this episode: The Super Popular Suffix <-s> Grab The Super Popular Suffix -s Book + Essie Plushie Bundle for 15% OFF! 🎉 Use code COLORFUL2 at checkout ⏰ Offer valid through November 10, 2026 https://phonicsreadalouds.com/products/suffix-s-book-and-plushie-bundle Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yGBGGY Beyond Phonics Club Find out more about our membership community: https://beyond-phonics-club.circle.so/beyond-phonics-club | |||