The Science of Reading Formula

Teaching is a rewarding job, but balancing work and personal life can feel impossible. In this episode, we sit down with planner expert Laurel Denise to discuss practical, real-world strategies for teachers to reclaim their time and reduce stress. In this episode, we’ll talk about: The #1 mistake teachers make when trying to balance work and life A simple planning system that helps you stay organi...

Teaching reading to struggling students can feel overwhelming, but with the right interventions, real progress is possible! In this episode, we break down a step-by-step approach to accelerating reading success in young learners. In this episode, you'll learn: Why some students struggle with reading and how to identify gaps. The best assessment tools to pinpoint missing skills. Phonological a...

Are you using a literacy curriculum that truly supports your students' reading success? Research shows that many of the most widely used reading programs do not align with the Science of Reading. But how can you tell if your curriculum is one of them? In this episode, we break down the top warning signs that indicate a curriculum is not evidence-based—and what to do if your school is using on...

Teaching reading with music doesn’t mean you have to sing! Our special guest, Jocelyn Manzanerez, explains how rhythm, beats, and chants can enhance literacy skills—no microphone required.  In this episode, we'll talk about: Why music is a powerful tool for teaching reading skills How rhythm and movement improve phonemic awareness The science behind music and language processing Easy, no-sing...

Teaching multilingual learners can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies, you can help them thrive. In this episode, we break down simple, research-backed techniques that support emergent bilinguals in the elementary classroom. In this episode, we'll talk about: Why multilingual learners should be seen as assets, not challenges. The key stages of language acquisition and how to sup...

Managing a classroom effectively can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with defiant behavior, constant blurting, and disruptive transitions. But with the right strategies, you can create a structured and engaging learning environment that fosters student success. In this episode, we’re diving into proven classroom management techniques with Alex from The Kindergarten Connection —a true expe...

Struggling to help your students blend letter sounds into words? You’re not alone! Many early readers know their letter sounds but face challenges when it comes to smoothly blending them into recognizable words. The good news? Blending is a skill that can be developed with the right strategies and activities. In this episode, we break down simple, research-backed phonemic awareness techniques that...

Teaching as a new educator can feel overwhelming, but what if you had simple strategies to take back control of your time? In this episode, we’re talking with Ashley Smith from Rainbow Sky Creations about practical time management tips for new teachers. Whether you're struggling with endless to-do lists, classroom organization, or work-life balance, these strategies will help you create a mor...

Teaching is rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. In this episode, we explore practical strategies to help teachers avoid burnout and manage stress effectively. In this episode, we'll talk about: The top signs of teacher burnout and how to recognize them early. Simple self-care strategies to maintain mental and emotional well-being. How setting boundaries can transform your work-life bala...

If you've ever dreaded your literacy center time, worried about noise and distractions, or felt anxious when an admin walked in, this episode is for you because I'm sharing actionable tips that will make centers a consistent highlight of your school day. In this episode, I'm diving into surprisingly simple strategies that will transform your literacy centers from "chaotic and s...

Teaching reading in small groups can be overwhelming—but what if you had a simple, structured plan to make it easier and more effective? In this episode of The Science of Reading Formula , we’re diving into a powerful four-step system (ACED) that will help you assess, group, and teach your students efficiently while saving valuable lesson planning time. In this episode, we'll talk about: The...

Are sight word flashcards really the best way to teach reading? If you’ve spent hours drilling flashcards only to see students still struggle, you’re not alone! Research shows that memorizing words visually isn’t how the brain learns to read. In this episode, we'll talk about: Why traditional sight word flashcards don’t work for most students. The science behind how kids truly memorize words...

Teaching digraphs can feel challenging, but what if there was a fun, engaging way to make phonics stick? In this episode, we’re diving into fun digraph chants for kindergarten that get kids moving, chanting, and mastering their phonics skills with ease. In this episode, we’ll talk about: Why movement-based learning improves phonics retention. Five engaging digraph chants for sh, ch, th, ph, and wh...

Teaching today isn’t just about academics—it’s about helping students navigate emotions, build resilience, and feel safe in the classroom. But how do we do that effectively without adding more to an already full plate? In this episode, I sit down with Lana Penley , former principal and author of Unlocking SEL , to explore how social-emotional learning (SEL) can transform your classroom into a calm...

Teaching phonics doesn’t have to be boring! In this episode, we’re diving into five simple, engaging activities that make phonics instruction exciting and effective for early readers. Whether you’re looking for hands-on games, fluency-building strategies, or creative ways to keep students motivated, this episode has you covered! In this episode, we'll talk about: ✔️ Why using a structured pho...

Teaching writing can be challenging, but it’s a vital skill that supports students' reading and communication abilities. In this episode, we explore effective strategies to make writing instruction engaging, structured, and brain-friendly. Our guest, April Smith , shares expert insights on how to overcome common obstacles and create a thriving writing environment in your classroom. In this ep...

Teaching is one of the most rewarding professions—but it also comes with high levels of stress, exhaustion, and burnout. Research shows that K-12 teachers experience more anxiety and burnout than even healthcare workers. So, how can educators protect their mental health and continue doing what they love? In this episode, Dr. Brian Plante , a naturopathic physician, joins us to share science-backed...

Reading aloud isn’t just about fun—it’s one of the most effective ways to develop language comprehension in young learners. In this episode, we dive into simple, brain-friendly strategies to make read-alouds more impactful for K-2 students. In this episode, we’ll talk about: How to structure read-aloud sessions for maximum engagement. The best types of books to choose for language comprehension. E...

What do you do when your administrator doesn’t support the Science of Reading? In this episode, we break down practical strategies to overcome resistance, advocate for evidence-based literacy practices, and continue making an impact on student learning. In this episode, we’ll talk about: How to stay focused on what you can control. Using student data to demonstrate the effectiveness of SOR. Ways t...

Supporting students with dyslexia doesn’t have to feel overwhelming! In this episode, we’re sharing science-backed dyslexia support strategies to help struggling readers build confidence and fluency. Learn how to use multisensory instruction, structured phonics, and effective accommodations to create a dyslexia-friendly learning environment. In this episode, we’ll cover: What dyslexia really is (a...

Teaching reading can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, we’re diving into the things I wish I knew before teaching reading —time-saving, research-backed strategies that make a real difference. In this episode, we’ll cover: The biggest mistakes new reading teachers make Why phonemic awareness and systematic phonics are essential How to use decodable texts instead of leve...

I'm excited to introduce you to Lindsay, a first grade teacher in New York who wasn't getting the results she knew she could be. But then she made a choice that turned it all around. Get ready to be inspired by her goosebump worthy transformation! Show links: Take 15% off your Science of Reading Formula enrollment with code POD15 But hurry! Doors close this Sunday, August 11th. Rate, Rev...

Karen had been teaching for 30+ years but she knew some of her students were slipping through the cracks. They struggled with reading but she didn't know how to help them. And then almost overnight everything changed! Her students' growth soared and her admin team started to notice. Here is her inspiring story of transformation, confidence, and results. Show links: Take 15% off your Scie...

Meet Heidi, a kindergarten teacher from Missouri. She used to spend Sundays planning and prepping for the week ahead and many sleepless nights worrying that students were slipping through the cracks. But then she made a decision that changed her work-life balance forever.  Show links: Take 15% off your Science of Reading Formula enrollment with code POD15 But hurry! Doors close this Sunday, August...

Are your reading lessons falling short? Many common teaching strategies don’t align with how students actually learn to read. In this episode, we’ll break down why reading lessons fail and how to fix them using science-backed methods that improve student outcomes. In this episode, we’ll cover: The biggest reading instruction mistakes teachers make Why phonemic awareness and structured phonics are...