Literacy in Color: A Science of Reading Aligned Podcast for Educators
Literacy in Color is a podcast for elementary teachers, literacy coaches, and reading interventionists who want to apply the Science of Reading in engaging ways. Hosted by Michelle Sullivan, a seasoned literacy expert with over a decade of experience, the show offers practical tips, proven strategies, and creative ideas for phonics, morphology, vocabulary, and comprehension. Each episode aims to make literacy instruction colorful and impactful, helping all learners become confident readers.
Episodes
97. Effective Universal Instruction with Dr. Sarah Brown & Dr. Kimberly Gibbons
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, c
96. Reading’s Dynamic Duo: How Fluency & Vocabulary Fuel Comprehension with Melissa Loftus & Lori Sappington
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
95. Affixes in Action: Our A4 Framework for Teaching Affixes with Sarah Paul and Michelle Sullivan of Logos Literacy Academy
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
94. Inside 'The Megabook of Vocabulary' with Dr. Tim Rasinski, Melissa Cheesman Smith & Savannah Campbell
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 maki
93. Foundations for Life with Lyn Stone, Lifelong Literacy
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 Read
92. From Ox Heads to Silent Letters: The History of the Alphabet with Dr. Danny Bate, author of "Why Q Needs U"
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 epi
91. Why Vocabulary Changes Everything (and 3 Simple Shifts for Teachers)
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
90. Teach Your Child to Read at Home with Reading.com
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 ch
89. The Structured Literacy Playbook with Dr. Melissa Orkin & Sarah Gannon, Crafting Minds
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 int
88. Montessori Storytelling: The History of English Spelling with Zil Jaeger
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:Why storytell
87. Spelling Matters: What the Research Says About Teaching Spelling with Brennan Chandler, PhD
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 explai
86. Multisyllabic Spelling Made Simpler: 3 Strategies for Spelling Longer Words
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
85. How to Use Decodable Books (and When to Move Beyond Them) with Elise Lovejoy, Express Readers
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 li
84. Reading Assessment Done Right with Dr. Stephanie Stollar and Kate Winn
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
83. How to Make Read-Alouds More Powerful: Joyful Learning in Action with Yvette Manns, Phonics Read-Alouds
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:The difference between reading for pleasure and instructional read-aloudsHow read-alouds build oral language, vocabulary, and connectionPractical instructional moves to make read-alouds more impactfulThe TAPES Method (Tell, Act, P
82. Inside an Upper-Elementary Reading Intervention Toolkit with Sara Marye, Stellar Teacher Company
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 student
81. Articulatory Gestures and Early Literacy: What the Research Actually Says with Deirdre O'Toole, The Playful Classroom
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”)
80. MTSS for Reading Improvement with Dr. Stephanie Stollar & Dr. Sarah Brown
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 treat
79. No Fluff, Good Stuff - Gearing Up for the Science of Reading Mini-Con 2026 with Heidi Martin & Friends
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
78. Implementing Structured Word Inquiry with Jennifer A. Constantine & Kara B. Lee
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 othe
77. English Is Not Crazy: How Structured Word Inquiry Reveals the Logic of Spelling with Dr. Peter Bowers
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
76. K–2 Morphology Made Meaningful: Teaching Word Structure Through Bases with Sarah Paul and Michelle Sullivan of Logos Literacy Academy
Michelle Sullivan is joined by her co-founder of Logos Literacy Academy, Sarah Paul, for a deep dive into K–2 morphology through a base-centered lens.Together, they unpack a question teachers hear all the time:“Morphology is important… but isn’t that for later?”Michelle and Sarah explain why morphology does not start with Greek and Latin – and why young learners are more than ready to explore word
75. Bringing Word Inquiry to Life with Picture Books with Fiona Hamilton, Lauren Hateley-Crowe and Angela Brienza of Engage with the Page & Search Engage
Returning guest Fiona Hamilton, an international literacy consultant and founder of Word Torque, unites with her partners Lauren Hateley-Crowe and Angela Brienza – the team behind Engage with the Page and Search Engage. Together, they help teachers bring meaningful, joyful word inquiry into their daily read-alouds.Together, they unpack how their collaboration began, why picture books are such powe
74. Inside Project Read AI: What Educators Need to Know About AI and Structured Literacy with Viv Ramakrishnan
Artificial intelligence is everywhere – but what does it actually mean for structured literacy and foundational skills instruction?In this episode, I sit down with Viv Ramakrishnan, co-founder of Project Read AI, to unpack what educators truly need to understand about AI, large language models, and how thoughtfully designed technology can support (not replace) teachers.We explore why tools like Ch
73. Why These Holiday Words Are Spelled the Way They Are: Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa
Holiday Word Study: Christmas, Hanukkah, and KwanzaaIn this cozy, end-of-year episode, we’re slowing things down for a short and joyful holiday word study investigation. Instead of a full instructional deep dive, this episode invites you to get curious about three words we hear everywhere this time of year:ChristmasHanukkahKwanzaaTogether, we explore where these words come from, what their spellin
72. Raising Up Readers: Scaffolding Strategies to Help Students Access Challenging Text with Jennifer Throndsen
In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Jennifer Throndsen, author of Raising Up Readers: 25 Scaffolding Strategies to Help Students Access Challenging Texts, breaks down what it really takes to accelerate reading achievement for all learners, including multilingual students and those reading multiple years below grade level. Drawing from decades of experience across classroom, district, and state sys
71. Uncomplicate Ed: How the Science of Learning Transforms Classrooms with Ashley Doty
In today’s episode of Literacy in Color, we’re chatting with Ashley Doty, founder of Uncomplicate Ed, an organization dedicated to making teaching and learning clearer, simpler, and more effective. Drawing on two decades of experience across the education landscape (and even a past life as a theater educator!), Ashley brings both heart and science to this conversation.They dig into what the scienc
70. How Effective Literacy Instruction Breaks the School-to-Prison Pipeline with Hilderbrand Pelzer III
In this powerful and deeply moving episode, Michelle welcomes Hilderbrand Pelzer III — award-winning principal, author of Unlocking Potential, national speaker, and a transformational leader whose work inside one of the largest jail systems in America has reshaped conversations about literacy, justice, and hope.Michelle heard Hilderbrand as a keynote speaker at The Reading League Conference and wa
69: What Are Kindergarten Reading Levels? The Hidden Problems Behind Levels A–D
In this solo episode, we take an honest, unflinching look at what are traditionally called Kindergarten Reading Levels: Guided Reading Levels A, B, C, and D — and why these levels do not reflect how children actually learn to read.If you’re a kindergarten teacher, literacy coach, interventionist, or a parent of a beginning reader, this episode will give you the clarity you’ve been craving.Key Take
68. It’s Never Too Late: Helping Older Struggling Readers Succeed with Linda Farrell & Michael Hunter of Readsters
In this powerful episode, Michelle is joined by legendary reading experts Linda Farrell and Michael Hunter, Founding Partners at Readsters. With more than 40 years of experience helping struggling readers — from kindergarten through adulthood — Linda and Michael break down what effective intervention truly looks like, why older learners often continue to slip through the cracks, and how to use ass
67. Small Groups, Big Results with Dr. Julia B. Lindsey
In this episode, Michelle talks with Dr. Julia Lindsey about her brand-new book “Small Groups, Big Results: Evidence-Based Routines to Get Every Child Reading ”, a practical guide to designing effective small-group instruction with the Science of Reading in mind. Julia shares her journey to researcher and author, and explains why the “leveled-text ladder” needs to be left behind. Together they exp
66. Writing Instruction: When You Have the Strategies but Not the System with LaNesha Tabb
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed teaching writing, you’re not alone. In this episode, Michelle sits down with educator, author, and founder of Reimagine Writing, LaNesha Tabb, to talk about her framework in building confident, independent writers.For years, LaNesha admits she either “barely taught writing” or avoided it altogether — not because she didn’t care, but because it felt impossible to man
65. Supporting Students with Dyslexia Online with Michelle Breitenbach, Read to Rewire (Dyslexia Awareness Month)
October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, and today’s conversation shines a light on the power of online instruction to reach and teach our one in five students with dyslexia.In this episode, I’m chatting with Michelle Breitenbach, founder of Read to Rewire, certified dyslexia practitioner, and creator of the Online with Ease Academy, where she trains teachers to bring multisensory, structured literacy
64. My SOR Betrayal List (and the Podcast's 1st Birthday!)
Literacy in Color is officially ONE year old!I’d like to start this anniversary episode from a place of gratitude with a huge THANK YOU to my Top 10 Guest Episodes of the Year: Dr. Stephanie Stollar, Justin Browning, Lindsay Kemeny, Sarah Paul, Fiona Hamilton with Rebecca Loveless, Dr. David Kilpatrick, Dr. Molly Ness, Dr. Treasa Bowe, Christina Winter, and Jake Daggett.To celebrate this milestone
63. The Power of Parent Advocacy with Melanie Brethour, Soar with Dyslexia (Dyslexia Awareness Month)
October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, and every Friday Michelle is highlighting voices who are changing the landscape for students with dyslexia and their families.In this episode, Michelle sits down with Melanie Brethour, a Montreal-based resource teacher, founder of Decoding Dyslexia Quebec, and the voice behind Soar With Dyslexia. Inspired by her son’s journey with dyslexia, Melanie has become a
62. The Science of Learning: What Every Teacher Needs to Know with Dr. Shane Saeed
How does the brain actually learn or remember something new? In this fascinating episode of Literacy in Color, Dr. Shane Saeed joins Michelle to break down the Science of Learning in a way that’s simple, practical, and classroom-ready.Shane is an Elementary ELA Curriculum Coordinator, national presenter, and author who has spent years helping teachers translate research into action. Together, they
61. From Screening to Support: Coaching Teachers to Reach Every Learner with Jean Peake (Dyslexia Awareness Month)
In this Dyslexia Awareness Month bonus episode of Literacy in Color, I’m joined by Jean Peake, Lower School Literacy Specialist and Orton-Gillingham Practitioner. Jean shares about the importance of early screening, diagnostic assessments, and data-driven interventions – especially for those with dyslexia. Jean’s insights are both practical and heart-centered, reminding us that literacy work is ab
60. Making Reading Research Accessible with Dr. Neena Saha
Research should guide our teaching, but too often, it feels locked away in academic journals, filled with jargon, or disconnected from classroom realities.In this episode of Literacy in Color, I talk with Dr. Neena Saha: educator, researcher, EdTech innovator, and creator of the Reading Research Recap. She’s on a mission to make reading research clear, digestible, and actionable for teachers. So,
59. Teaching Beyond the Diagnosis with Casey Harrison, The Dyslexia Classroom (Dyslexia Awareness Month)
What does it really mean to teach beyond the diagnosis? In this inspiring Dyslexia Awareness Month conversation, I sit down with Casey Harrison—Licensed Dyslexia Therapist, Certified Academic Language Therapist, and founder of The Dyslexia Classroom®—to unpack how we can meet the academic needs of students with dyslexia and nurture their confidence, self-understanding, and advocacy skills.Casey ha
58. Teaching Phonemic Awareness: A Guide for Educators with Dr. Jane Ashby
Phonemic awareness (PA) interestingly is one of the most debated areas of literacy instruction. Should it be taught with letters, without letters, or both? Which tasks matter most? And how much is enough?In this episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle sits down with Dr. Jane Ashby, professor, researcher, and first author of Teaching Phonemic Awareness in 2024: A Guide for Educators. This conversati
57. What Does Dyslexia Really Look Like – and What Can We Do About It? with Heather O'Donnell, New Paltz Multisensory Tutoring (Dyslexia Awareness Month)
We’re kicking off Dyslexia Awareness Month with a conversation that every educator and parent needs to hear: what does dyslexia really look like – and what can we do about it? In this episode of Literacy in Color, I sit down with Heather O’Donnell, founder of New Paltz Multisensory Tutoring, Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner, and Associate-level Orton-Gillingham Academy member. Heather has built a
56. Coaching Outside the Box: Creative Ways to Support Teacher Growth with Christina DeCarbo (Literacy Coaching Conversations)
In this Coaching Conversation, I sit down with Christina DeCarbo, a Pre-K–5 literacy coach, teacher, national presenter, and curriculum author from Northeast Ohio. Christina is also known as Miss DeCarbo, and her work is fueled by a passion for making professional learning engaging, joyful, and practical.Christina shares her journey from first-grade teacher to literacy coach, including her school’
55. What Real Implementation Looks Like with Justin Browning, SOR for More
We all know the saying “when you know better, you do better.” But what happens when we know better…and still don’t see the needle move in reading outcomes?In this episode of Literacy in Color, I sit down with Justin Browning, national literacy consultant and founder of SoR for More, to talk about the missing piece: implementation.Justin draws from years of experience as a teacher, instructional co
54. Blending Strategies
Have you ever had a student rattle off the sounds in a word—/b/… /a/… /t/, only to say “tab,” “balloon,” or even “chicken”? If so, you’re not alone. And here’s the thing: these blending errors aren’t always decoding issues. Often, they’re tied to working memory.In this solo episode of Literacy in Color, we unpack why blending matters, what research tells us, and most importantly, practical scaffol
53. The High Frequency Word Project with Rebecca Loveless & Fiona Hamilton
What if high-frequency words aren’t “irregular” after all?In this episode of Literacy in Color, I sit down with Rebecca Loveless and Fiona Hamilton, co-authors of The High Frequency Word Project, to dig into the stories behind some of the most common words in English.Too often, these little “function words” get handed to students on flashcards with the message: just memorize it. But Rebecca and Fi
52. Phonemic Awareness Research Unpacked with Dr. David Kilpatrick
In this pivotal episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle is joined by psychologist, professor, and reading researcher Dr. David Kilpatrick to untangle some hotly debated ideas surrounding phonemic awareness in the Science of Reading community.This conversation isn’t about taking sides in the “with letters vs. without letters” debate. It’s about getting honest about what the research says, and more i
51. Rethinking Sight Words with Pryor Rayburn, Orton Gillingham Mama
In this episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle sits down with THE Orton Gillingham Mama, Pryor Rayburn to take a deep dive into the hot-button world of sight words and high-frequency word instruction.Pryor busts through common myths, clears up confusing terminology, and explores brain-based practices for teaching high frequency words through the lens of orthographic mapping. Whether you’ve relied
50. The Truth About Progress Monitoring: Myth Busting with Shannon Moore, Moore Literacy Leaps
In this episode, Michelle is joined by instructional coach and literacy specialist Shannon Moore of Moore Literacy Leaps to bust four major myths about progress monitoring in reading instruction.Together, they tackle what progress monitoring really is (and what it’s not), how it fits into the MTSS framework, and why all students, not just those below grade level, deserve targeted goals and regular
49. Set for Variability with Jen Yagid and Wendy Darasz, Informed Literacy
What does it really mean to be “set for variability”? In this episode, Michelle is joined by Jen Yagid and Wendy Darasz of Informed Literacy to break down this complex-sounding but classroom-friendly concept. Together, they demystify set for variability, explore its role in decoding, and share practical classroom examples.If you’ve ever wondered how to support students in correcting their own misp
48. SOR Mini-Con 2025 Recap with Heidi Martin, Jessica Farmer & Yvette Manns
In this heartfelt roundtable episode, Michelle is joined by her Science of Reading sidekicks, Heidi Martin, Jessica Farmer, and Yvette Manns to reflect on the very first Science of Reading Mini-Con! From spark-filled sessions to swag bags and sound baths, this conversation is full of gratitude, laughter, and heartfelt takeaways.They revisit each session, share their most memorable moments, and get
47. Why Representation in Children’s Books Matters—Especially for Black Boys with Tiffany Obeng, Sugar Cookie Books
In this powerful episode of Literacy in Color, I’m joined by lawyer-turned-author Tiffany Obeng, founder of Sugar Cookie Books. Together, we unpack the significance of representation in children’s literature, especially for Black boys, and how her “Andrew Learns” series is challenging the traditional narratives and creating space for all kids to feel seen, celebrated, and inspired.Tiffany shares w
46. Making Words Stick with Dr. Molly Ness on Orthographic Mapping
In this powerful episode, we welcome back Dr. Molly Ness, literacy researcher, educator, and co-author of “Making Words Stick”, the latest release from the Scholastic Science of Reading in Practice series. Together with Dr. Katie Pace Miles, Molly has created a teacher-friendly guide to help educators understand orthographic mapping and implement a 4-step routine that supports the mapping process.
45. A Global Lens on Morphology, Etymology & Literacy Instruction with Dr. Treasa Bowe
In this episode of Literacy in Color, we’re heading across the pond to Ireland for a powerful conversation with Dr. Treasa Bowe, an international literacy leader and passionate advocate for morphology, etymology, and meaningful instruction. With over two decades of teaching experience in both Ireland and the U.S., Dr. Bowe brings a truly global lens to literacy education.Together, we explore what
44. 4 Warm-Up Drills for Effective Phonics Instruction
In this episode of Literacy in Color, we’re diving into 4 quick, high-impact phonics drills that spark engagement and build automaticity, without eating up your entire lesson time.These warm-ups aren’t about “drill and kill.” Instead, they’re short, intentional routines that help students review and retrieve previously taught phonics content. Whether you’re a classroom teacher or interventionist,
43. Rock Your Literacy Block with Lindsay Kemeny
In this episode of Literacy in Color, I’m joined by the incredible Lindsay Kemeny, a trusted voice in the Science of Reading community and author of Seven Mighty Moves and Rock Your Literacy Block. Lindsay shares her journey into structured literacy, sparked by her son’s dyslexia diagnosis, and how that led to a complete transformation in her teaching and professional work.We dive into her brand-n
42. Is the Science of Reading for Multilingual Learners? with Alejandra Ramirez
In this episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle sits down with Alejandra Ramirez, a seasoned bilingual educator, reading coordinator, and literacy leader, to explore one of the most important questions in today’s classrooms: Is the Science of Reading for Multilingual Learners?With over a decade of experience in dual language programs and extensive training in LETRS and Esperanza, Alejandra brings a
41. Small Groups Aligned with the Science of Reading with Christina Winter, Lead in Literacy
In this episode of Literacy in Color, I’m joined by my dear friend, Christina Winter from Lead in Literacy. Together, we dive into one of the hottest topics in structured literacy: small group instruction.While some Science of Reading conversations debate whether small groups have a place in the literacy block, Christina reminds us that when done correctly—grounded in assessment, efficiency, and a
40. Why Read-Alouds Matter: Equity, Comprehension, and Book Access with Dr. Molly Ness
In this powerful episode of Literacy in Color, we are joined by Dr. Molly Ness to explore the deep impact of read-alouds, particularly think-alouds, as well as book access.. Dr. Ness, educator, author of Read Aloud for All Learners, and host of the End Book Deserts podcast, brings her research, experience, and passion to this conversation about how language comprehension is often overlooked, but a
39. Mastering Morphology - Introducing Logos Literacy Academy with Sarah Paul & Michelle Sullivan
In this special episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle is joined by her brilliant friend, Sarah Paul, to officially unveil their new course: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every Educator.Together, Michelle and Sarah share the backstory behind their collaboration (Logos Literacy Academy), reflect on their own morphology journeys, and talk candidly about the challenges teachers face when tryi
38. Tier 1 Engagement Strategies with Jake Daggett
I’m joined by the one and only Jake Daggett—educator, foundational literacy director, and all-around engagement strategist. If you've ever seen his viral phonics videos, you already know the energy and intentionality he brings to instruction. But there’s more to Jake than claps and chants—he’s deeply rooted in brain-based research and committed to helping all learners access joyful, responsive Tie
37. The Impact of Language and Leadership in Literacy with Dr. Danielle 'Nell' Thompson, The Transformative Reading Teacher Group
In this deeply moving episode, Dr. Danielle “Nell” Thompson shares her powerful journey from a small town in North Dakota to Bush Alaska, all the way to becoming a transformational coach and the founder of the Big Sky Literacy Summit. Together, we explore how language is the foundation of literacy—not just for academic success, but for human connection, dignity, and transformation.We also dig into
36. Tips for Teaching the Alphabet with Heidi Martin, Droppin' Knowledge with Heidi
In this episode of Literacy in Color, I’m chatting with Heidi Martin—also known as Droppin’ Knowledge with Heidi—to unpack what research says about effective alphabet instruction. Together, we explore common debates, research-based tips, and engaging strategies to teach the alphabet more effectively.From ditching letter-of-the-week traditions to embracing articulation and embedded mnemonics, this
35. Why Transcription Skills Matter in Early Writing Instruction with Amy Siracusano
In this insightful episode, I sit down with literacy expert, Amy Siracusano, to unpack the critical role that transcription skills play in early writing development. Together, we explore why handwriting, spelling, and fine motor skills aren’t just mechanical tasks—they’re foundational tools that unlock a child’s ability to communicate their thoughts effectively.Amy breaks down the research, shares
34. Orthographic Mapping, Sight Words & High-Frequency Words: What Every Teacher Should Know
In this solo episode of Literacy in Color, we’re cutting through the confusion around sight words, high-frequency words, and orthographic mapping. You’ll get a clear, research-backed understanding of how the brain actually learns words — and why traditional memorization strategies just don’t cut it.Michelle breaks down why every word "wants to grow up and become a sight word" and shares how teache
33. Spelling Error Analysis with Sydney Bassard, The Listening SLP
What can spelling errors really tell us about a student’s literacy development?In this episode of Literacy in Color, I sit down with Sydney Bassard, speech-language pathologist and founder of The Listening SLP, to dig into the power of spelling error analysis. Sydney breaks down the five types of spelling errors teachers should be aware of, explains what these errors reveal about processing, and s
32. Crafting High-Quality Decodable Books with Brooke Vitale, Charge Mommy Books
In this episode of Literacy in Color, I'm joined by Brooke Vitale—veteran children’s book editor, author, and founder of Charge Mommy Books—to explore the art and science behind writing truly high-quality decodable books. With over 15+ years in publishing (including experience at Penguin and Disney!), Brooke brings a deep understanding of storytelling and language development to the world of struc
31. Stop the Robotic Reading – Building Fluency with MeQuel Bolden
In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by literacy coach and consultant MeQuel Bolden. With over a decade of classroom experience and a deep commitment to structured literacy, MeQuel shares insight into what reading fluency really is—and what it’s not.We unpack common fluency misconceptions, dive into what’s happening in the brain when students become fluent, and share research-aligned strategi
30. Making Sense of Suffixes: Inflectional vs. Derivational Suffixes
In this solo episode, Michelle Sullivan breaks down one morpheme type: suffixes. You’ll learn the difference between inflectional and derivational suffixes, how they operate in our language system, and why understanding suffixes is critical for building skilled readers, spellers, and thinkers.Michelle takes you on a deep dive into how suffixes shape grammar and meaning. From tweaking verb tense to
29. Hands-On Phonemic Awareness Activities with Kristina Harrill
In this episode, Kristina Harrill, founder of Sweet for Kindergarten, joins me to share her passion for phonemic awareness and hands-on learning. We discuss the importance of bridging phonemic awareness and phonics instruction, debunk the myth that phonemic awareness has to be done in the dark, and dive into engaging, multisensory activities teachers can implement right away. Whether you’re an edu
28. Clearing up Misconceptions around MTSS with Dr. Stephanie Stollar
Dr. Stephanie Stollar, co-author of “MTSS for Reading Improvement” & founder of Reading Science Academy, joins me to break down MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) and clear up common misconceptions surrounding this framework. Many educators see MTSS as just an intervention model, but it’s so much more—it’s a system-wide approach to improving reading outcomes for all students. We discuss th
27. Celebrate National Schwa Day: What's the Schwa Sound & How to Teach It with Yvette Manns, Author of Phonics Read-Alouds
What exactly is the schwa sound, and why is it such an important part of the English language? Yvette Manns, author of the Phonics Read-Alouds series and founder of National Schwa Day, joins me to dive deep into everything schwa—what it is, how it functions in words, and why teaching it explicitly is a game-changer for reading and spelling instruction. We also chat about the official National Schw
26. Morphology 101
Morphology is one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, components of your literacy block. In this episode, I break down the basics of morphology and explain why it’s essential for structured literacy to help students read, spell, and understand words more effectively. If you’ve ever wondered why students struggle with multisyllabic words, spelling patterns, or vocabulary — morphology might
25. Why are Decodable Texts Important? with Hooked on Comics
Brittany and Jackie from Hooked on Comics join us to discuss why decodable texts are essential for building foundational reading skills. We dive into what makes a text truly decodable, how these texts support structured literacy, and their unique approach to creating engaging decodable comics. Whether you’re new to using decodable texts or looking for creative ways to integrate them into your inst
24. Morphology Roundtable with Sarah Paul, Savannah Campbell, and Michelle Sullivan
In this episode of the Literacy in Color podcast, Michelle Sullivan, Sarah Paul, and Savannah Campbell join forces for a morphology roundtable discussion! They’re answering some of your most pressing morphology questions from social media:Why does teaching morphology matter?When should we begin teaching morphology, and how can it be introduced to younger learners in developmentally appropriate way
23. Why is Reading Fluency Important? with Dr. Heather Kenny from Unleashed Innovation
Why is reading fluency important? Dr. Heather Kenny from Unleashed Innovation joins me to unpack the critical role of fluency in reading development. Together, we explore why fluency is often described as the bridge between word recognition and language comprehension, discuss research-backed insights, and share actionable strategies to address fluency challenges. Dr. Kenny’s expertise provides cla
22. What is Reading Fluency? with Jessica Farmer from Farmer Loves Phonics
What is reading fluency? Jessica Farmer, a literacy advocate and professional learning facilitator, joins me to discuss the essential role of fluency in reading development. Together, we explore what fluency truly means, why it’s much more than speed, and how teachers can assess and improve fluency in their classrooms. Packed with practical strategies, research-based insights, actionable tips, AND
21. When Reading Skills Aren't Clicking with Naomi O'Brien
What do you do when reading skills aren’t clicking for your students? Join me and the incredible Naomi O’Brien from Read Like a Rockstar Teaching as we tackle this critical question. Naomi shares her expertise in foundational skills in a structured literacy setting to help educators shift their instruction and support every reader. Whether you’re struggling to meet the needs of diverse learners or
20. What to Do With All Those Leveled Books in a SoR Classroom
If you’ve been shifting to a Science of Reading approach, you might be wondering: What do I do with all the leveled texts in my classroom library? Should I toss them? Let them collect dust? Fear not—this episode is here to help! Today, we explore 6 practical and intentional ways to repurpose your leveled readers so they align with structured literacy principles. These tips will help you use those
19. Oral Language & Reading with Elizabeth Doherty, The Reading SLP
Elizabeth Doherty, known as The Reading SLP, joins us to discuss the critical role oral language plays in reading development. As a speech-language pathologist (SLP) with extensive experience, Elizabeth shares her insights into how oral language connects to reading comprehension, the importance of addressing oral language challenges, and actionable strategies to support language development in sch
18. 5 Tips for Small Group Reading Success
Small group reading instruction is where the magic happens! In this episode, we dive into five actionable tips to help you make the most of your small group time. Whether you're working on phonics, fluency, or comprehension, these strategies will ensure your instruction is intentional, impactful, and student-centered. Get ready to streamline your process and make a bigger difference for your reade
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