The Science of Reading Formula

Missy Purcell was a teacher. Her son went to a “good” school. But in third grade, she realized something no one else had: he couldn’t read. In this powerful conversation, Missy shares the story that shocked her district—and later, the country—when she told it on Emily Hanford’s Sold a Story . What happens when a bright, well-behaved child falls through the cracks of a balanced literacy system? And what does it take to finally get him the instruction he deserved? This episode is part personal wake-up call, part rally cry for educators who want to get it right. If you’ve ever wondered whether your reading block is working for all kids… don’t miss this one. In this episode, we'll talk about: The moment Missy realized her son had been “passing” without reading. How balanced literacy hides real reading struggles. Why compliant kids are the easiest to overlook. What Sold a Story revealed about systemic failure. How teachers can shift without shame—and start making change now. Show Links Missy's Website // Instagram // Facebook Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

Is play just for fun—or is it doing something deeper? In this episode, I sit down with Kristen Day, founder of Butterfly Hill Nature Preschool and a fierce advocate for honoring how young children actually learn. We dig into the real science behind play-based learning—what it does for the brain, how it shapes behavior, and why removing it from early childhood classrooms may be doing more harm than we realize. Whether you're feeling pressure to “get more academic” or just need language to advocate for more play in your day, this episode will leave you feeling grounded, validated, and inspired to make small changes that matter. In this episode, we'll talk about: What the research really says about play-based learning. Why risky play (yes, even stick sword fights!) builds essential life skills. What happens when children don’t get enough time to play. Practical ways to bring meaningful play back into your PreK–2 classroom. How to talk to admin about protecting playtime—using research, not guilt. Show Links Kristen Day's Website // Instagram // Facebook Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

Still asking your students to guess word meanings from context? It’s time for a change. In this episode, Natalie Wexler breaks down the science of how vocabulary really works—and why it’s the key to unlocking reading comprehension. You’ll learn how to move beyond surface-level word lists and start building deep, long-term word knowledge using techniques grounded in cognitive science. In this episode, we'll talk about: Why context clues often lead students away from true understanding. How long-term memory supports comprehension—and how to build it. The three-step process for helping students retain and apply new words. How to use writing and oral language to deepen vocabulary. Ways to integrate vocabulary across subjects—even in math and science. Show Links Natalie Wexler's Website / Book / LinkedIn Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

Why do some kids act out, melt down, or shut down—no matter how consistent or calm we are? In this powerful episode, I’m joined by internationally respected occupational therapist Kim Barthel, who helps us unpack the neuroscience of behavior. We talk about how trauma affects student behavior, what’s really happening when kids dysregulate, and why traditional behavior plans often miss the mark for the kids who need our help the most. If you’ve ever felt helpless in the face of a child’s big emotions—or exhausted from trying to manage it all—this conversation will leave you feeling grounded, validated, and better equipped to support every learner in your room. In this episode, we'll talk about: How trauma affects student behavior—and what we often miss Why some kids explode, while others shut down completely What “co-regulation” looks like in real-life classrooms How your own nervous system impacts your students What you can do tomorrow to create more safety and connection Show Links Kim's Course: Trauma Sensitive Education (Use MALIA20 for 20%off!) Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

What if your voice was the key to calming chaos in your classroom? In this episode, voice expert Tracy Goodwin shares how tone, pace, and presence can either soothe or activate a child’s nervous system—especially those who are dysregulated. You’ll learn simple shifts you can make to use your voice as a powerful tool for connection, co-regulation, and classroom calm. In this episode, we'll talk about: How your voice impacts student behavior and emotional safety. The science behind tone, cadence, and nervous system response. Why some calm voices still feel “tense” to kids—and how to fix it. Simple strategies to use your voice for co-regulation. How to build student trust without raising your volume. Show Links Tracy Goodwin Website / Instagram / LinkedIn Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

What if your students could finally retain what you teach—and you could stop second-guessing every phonics lesson? In this episode, veteran first grade teacher Rose shares how she went from overwhelmed and unsure… to confident and clear—thanks to her first step inside The Science of Reading Formula : our four-week bootcamp called The Reading Roadmap. If you’re tired of piecing together your reading instruction, this conversation is the encouragement and direction you’ve been looking for. In this episode, we’ll talk about: Why so many teachers feel stuck teaching reading—and how to break free. The very first step Rose took to start seeing real student growth. How the Reading Roadmap gives you just what you need (without the overwhelm). What changed in her confidence, planning time, and student results. How to know if you’re ready to join The Science of Reading Formula . Show Links Preview the Vault of Tools & Trainings Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

What if leadership is the reason your reading scores aren’t moving? You’ve trained your teachers. You’ve rolled out new curriculum. But something still isn’t working. In this episode, Terrie Noland reveals how leadership—yes, even well-meaning leadership—can quietly block or boost reading success. It’s not about blame. It’s about getting real. In this episode, we'll talk about: Why literacy leadership is the missing link in most schools. The difference between knowledge, wisdom, and curiosity. How school leaders unintentionally block reading success. Small “micro-moves” that drive big culture change. How to inspire teachers and build buy-in without burning out. Show Links Connect with Dr. Noland on LinkedIn Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

You’re told to teach with fidelity—but what if the curriculum itself isn’t aligned with the science of reading? In this episode, Kari Kurto from The Reading League breaks down how to evaluate your materials, spot red flags, and use the Curriculum Navigation Reports and Compass tools to make better instructional decisions—without starting from scratch. In this episode, we'll talk about: How to tell if a curriculum is really SoR aligned. The top red flags to watch for in your materials. Why “fidelity” isn’t always the best approach. Free tools to help you evaluate and improve. How to make change—even if your district isn’t there yet. Show Links The Reading League Website Curriculum Decision Maker's Page The Reading League's Evaluation Guidelines Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

Ever feel like one more behavior outburst might push you over the edge? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re breaking down practical, real-life strategies that help K–2 teachers handle challenging behaviors without shame, power struggles, or burnout. If behavior’s been the hardest part of your day—you’re going to feel seen and supported here. In this episode, we'll talk about: Why behavior feels harder than ever—and what’s really going on. Simple tools that help kids express needs before they escalate. How to build strong classroom systems that support every child. The one strategy you need for that student who always pushes back. Ways to stay calm (even when you feel like yelling). Show Links Allie's Miss Behavior Blog / Instagram Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence RULER Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

Teaching kids to decode words is essential, but what happens when they can read the words and still don’t understand what they’re reading? In this episode, we dive deep into the often overlooked role of academic language in reading comprehension. Language expert Trina Spencer joins us to explain why strong language skills are the true foundation of literacy and what teachers can start doing right away to help students build them. If you’ve ever had students who read fluently but struggle to make meaning from text, this conversation will shift the way you think about comprehension instruction. In this episode, we'll talk about: Why spoken language, not phonics, is the true foundation of reading comprehension. What academic language really is and why it is much more than just vocabulary. The different types of academic vocabulary, including general academic words, domain-specific words, polysemous words, and morphologically complex words. A powerful 30-second strategy that helps students learn new words independently using inferential thinking. Why read-alouds alone are not enough for building strong language comprehension and what teachers can do instead. Simple shifts teachers can make to help students develop the language skills needed for reading success. Show Links Dr. Trina Spencer's website // on LinkedIn // free resources Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

What if reading isn’t just a skill we teach—but a right we protect? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Tanji Reed Marshall, a powerful voice in education who invites us to rethink what it really means to teach every child how to read. We go beyond the buzzwords and into the heart of why literacy matters—not just for achievement, but for identity, dignity, and opportunity. This conversation will challenge you (in the best way), ground you in purpose, and give you the language to advocate for real change—without needing to overhaul your classroom. In this episode, we'll talk about: What it really means to honor literacy as a human right. How to spot the invisible barriers some students face. Why representation in literacy materials matters more than we think. What small shifts can make your instruction more inclusive. How to keep growing—without guilt, overwhelm, or perfectionism. Show Links Dr. Tanji Reed Marshall 's website // on LinkedIn // on X (formerly Twitter) Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

You’ve heard all about the science of reading—but what about the science of writing ? Most K–2 teachers are handed phonics programs with zero guidance on how to actually teach writing. That changes today. In this episode, Joan Sedita pulls back the curtain on what your teacher prep program never taught you. She introduces her powerful Writing Rope framework, shares why oral language matters more than perfect spelling in the early years, and gives you permission to start where your students are—scribbles, drawings, and all. Whether you're teaching kinders who can’t write a sentence or second graders stuck in short, choppy responses, this episode will transform how you think about writing instruction. In this episode, we'll talk about: The 5 strands of writing all K–2 teachers should be weaving into their day. Why “just wait until they can write” is the wrong advice for early learners. Easy ways to turn drawing and talking into real writing progress. How to make writing a daily routine—even in 15 minutes or less. Show Links Keys to Literacy Joan Sedita's Books on Amazon Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

What happens when a veteran teacher discovers that her reading instruction isn’t working—not even for her own son? In this episode, Lindsay Kemeny, author of 7 Mighty Moves , shares the pivotal moment that changed everything and walks us through the practical shifts she made to align her classroom with the science of reading. In this episode, we'll talk about: The 7 Mighty Moves and how to apply them without a complete overhaul. Why decodable texts are helpful—but not forever. How to design a reading block that actually works for your students. The difference between engagement and entertainment. What to do if you’re overwhelmed and don’t know where to start. Show Links Lindsay Kemeny Instagram // LinkedIn // Podcast // Website 7 Mighty Moves Rock Your Literacy Block Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

What if your MTSS system actually worked—and didn’t leave teachers or students overwhelmed? In this episode, Dr. Joan Schumann shares the exact strategies she used to build a Multi-Tiered System of Support that’s practical, sustainable, and truly effective. Whether you're a classroom teacher, coach, or school leader, this conversation will help you rethink how you use data, strengthen Tier 1, and support interventionists—without burning everyone out. In this episode, we'll talk about: The #1 mistake schools make with MTSS (and how to avoid it). How to know if it’s a student issue… or a Tier 1 issue. A simple 75/75 rule that streamlines your intervention process. What to do when your Tier 2 students aren’t progressing. How to train and support interventionists (even if they’re brand new). Show Links Joan's website / LinkedIn MTSS Association Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

Some students can sound out every letter in a word… but still not read it. In this episode, literacy interventionist Beth Gaskill helps us unpack why that happens and what to do about it. We’re talking about the “fuzzy middle” between phonemic awareness and fluent reading, and why simple, consistent, multisensory routines can make all the difference. In this episode, we'll talk about: Why some kids can sound out words but still can’t blend. The role of working memory in decoding struggles. Simple multisensory activities (like socks, beans, and chairs!) What to try before reaching for letter tiles. How to support students who freeze when it’s time to blend. Show Links Big City Readers Website // Instagram // Podcast Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

What if Tier 2 didn’t feel like a last-ditch effort—but your most powerful tool for early reading success? In this episode, I sit down with Linsey, a school-based SLP who built a Tier 2 intervention program that’s catching struggling readers before they fall behind. Short, targeted, and backed by real results—you’re going to want to hear how she’s doing it. In this episode, we'll talk about: What makes most Tier 2 interventions ineffective—and how to fix it. A simple framework for high-impact small group instruction. The role of adaptive instruction and visual supports in closing gaps. How early data collection leads to better outcomes. Why collaboration across roles is the secret to success. Show Links Linsey's Website Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

You know the type—students who can read every word but still have no idea what they just read. In this episode, literacy expert Dr. Tim Shanahan breaks down why this happens and what you can do about it. Get ready for myth-busting moments and practical tools you can use in your classroom tomorrow. In this episode, we'll talk about: Why kids who read fluently may still struggle to comprehend. The myth of “just right” texts—and what to do instead. How vocabulary, background knowledge, and morphology support comprehension. Sentence-by-sentence questioning that rewires student focus. Writing and read-aloud strategies that strengthen understanding. Show Links Shanahan on Literacy Blog "Leveled Reading, Leveled Lives" by Dr. Tim Shanahan Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

Have you ever wondered why there is a silent W in the word two? In this episode, we explore a surprisingly powerful concept that helps students unlock word meaning just by noticing how a word is spelled. It is called a phonestheme, and once you understand it, you will start seeing these hidden clues everywhere. We look at how sound clusters like TW, GL, and SN give hints about a word’s meaning and how this awareness helps students become more confident readers. You will also learn how to introduce these ideas in your classroom in a simple and meaningful way without needing a special curriculum or extra prep. This episode connects spelling, meaning, and morphology in a way that is fun, easy to apply, and deeply engaging for young learners. In this episode, we'll talk about: How the word "two" evolved and what its spelling reveals. What phonesthemes are and how they work across many English words. Why this awareness supports vocabulary growth and decoding. How to introduce these concepts in early elementary classrooms using natural conversations. Show Links Phonesthemes Chart Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

Teaching students how to read longer words shouldn’t feel like a lesson in rule-breaker management. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Devin Kearns, a leading researcher in early literacy, who shares a simpler, more flexible way to teach multisyllabic word reading—without relying on confusing syllable rules that don’t always work. If you’ve ever watched your students freeze at the sight of a longer word, this conversation is going to change the way you teach. In this episode, we'll talk about: Why traditional syllable division rules fall apart in real classrooms. Two simple principles to make decoding multisyllabic words easier. A step-by-step strategy that helps students self-correct when decoding. How to help students feel confident—even when their first try isn’t perfect. Why it’s okay to let go of perfection and focus on flexibility. Show Links Devin Kearns Website / Phinder How Many Syllables? Differentiation Podcast Episode Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

Can kids really build phonological awareness by pretending to sell you a $1 million cup of ice cream? According to literacy expert Beck Goodman… yes! In this episode, we’re unpacking how to teach phonological awareness through play—with fun, simple strategies that actually work. In this episode, we'll talk about: The spectrum of play-based learning—and where structured lessons fit in. Easy phonological awareness games using sensory bins, storytelling, and locks! What to do when your kids get wiggly, distracted, or “misbehave.” How to partner with families to build early literacy skills at home. Why modeling sounds (even silly ones) is your most powerful teaching tool. Show Links Beck Goodman Website / Instagram / TikTok Willoughby Wallaby Woo Join Malia on Instagram. Become a Science of Reading Formula member! Rate, Review, and Follow If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!