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  • How can we create a truly inclusive, equitable classroom where every student feels seen, valued, and supported? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jarri Goodman, an educator, faculty coach, and advocate for equity in education, to explore the real barriers students of color face—and the powerful role teachers play in breaking them down.

    We discuss how to move beyond surface-level representation, address implicit bias, and create culturally responsive learning environments where all students can thrive. Plus, Dr. Goodman shares his own personal experiences as a student and educator, highlighting the transformative impact that just one teacher can have.

    In this episode, Dr. Goodman and I discuss...

    How to incorporate diverse voices and experiences into everyday lessons.The impact of implicit bias—and how to recognize and challenge it.Practical ways to strengthen relationships with students and their families.

    Show Links

    Connect with Dr. Jarri Goodman on LinkedIn
    Email Dr. Jarri Goodman for Consulting - [email protected]
    Join Malia on Instagram
    Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

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  • Have you ever felt like teaching reading is an uphill battle—no matter how hard you try, some students just don’t seem to get it? You’re not alone! In this episode, I break down the three essential elements that every successful reading teacher needs to master.

    Using a surprising analogy from the reality show Alone, I’ll show you why the most effective teachers don’t just know what works—they take action and surround themselves with the right support. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or isolated in your reading instruction, these three simple shifts can change everything.

    In this episode, I'll explain...

    Why deep knowledge of the Science of Reading is the first key to success.How to take action with research-based strategies that actually move the needle.The power of community and why you can’t do this work alone.

    Show Links

    Grab the FREE Phonics Starter Kit here!
    Join Malia on Instagram
    Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

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  • If you’ve ever had a student struggle to sound out words or blend sounds together, chances are they need more support with phonemic awareness. Research shows that phonemic awareness is the strongest predictor of future reading success—yet many teachers receive little formal training on how to teach it effectively.

    In this episode, I break down exactly what phonemic awareness is, how it differs from phonological awareness, and why it plays a critical role in developing strong readers. You'll also learn practical, no-prep strategies you can use immediately to help students strengthen their ability to hear, isolate, blend, and manipulate sounds in words.

    In this episode, we'll explore...

    The six essential phonemic awareness skills every student needs.Why phonemic awareness is different from phonics (and why both matter).No-prep, research-based activities to develop phonemic awareness in any grade level.

    Show Links

    All 40 Weeks of Phonological Awareness Warm Ups for Members
    Free 2 Week Sample of Phonological Awareness Warm Ups
    Join Malia on Instagram
    Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

    Rate, Review, and Follow

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  • Have you ever told your students that the word have is a rule breaker because the silent E doesn’t make the A say its name? I used to think that too—until I learned the real reasons silent E exists. Spoiler alert: have isn’t a rule breaker at all!

    In this episode, I’m breaking down the seven jobs of silent E—why it’s not just there to make vowels long, and how understanding its purpose can transform your students’ spelling and decoding skills. Once you know these patterns, you’ll never look at silent E the same way again!

    In this episode, I'll dive into...

    The 7 roles silent E plays in English spelling (hint: it’s not just about long vowels!)Why words like give and have actually follow the rules—not break them.A simple way to teach silent E that makes sense for students.

    Show Links

    Spelling Rule Posters
    Join Malia on Instagram
    Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

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  • Have you ever had a student with autism in your classroom and felt unsure of how to best support them? You’re not alone! In this episode, I sit down with special education teacher Heather Cacioppo to break down simple, evidence-based strategies to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for students with autism.

    We explore common misconceptions, how to recognize early signs, and what teachers can do to provide meaningful support—without overhauling their entire classroom routine. Whether it’s sensory-friendly accommodations or strategies to build social skills, you’ll walk away with practical tools to implement right away.

    In this episode, we'll talk about...

    The biggest myths about autism—and the truth behind them.How to create a sensory-friendly classroom without disrupting learning.Simple ways to support communication and social skills development.

    Show Links

    Full Sped Ahead blog
    Follow Heather on Instagram
    Full Sped Ahead Facebook group
    Board Maker
    Lesson Pix
    Visual Timer
    Squeeze Cheese
    Join Malia on Instagram
    Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

    Rate, Review, and Follow

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  • Have you ever given your students a list of spelling words, drilled them all week, and still watched them struggle on Friday’s test? If so, you’re not alone! In this episode, I’m breaking down the biggest myths about spelling instruction—and sharing research-backed strategies that actually help students retain spelling patterns for the long haul.

    We’ll dive into how spelling and phonics go hand in hand, why memorization doesn’t work, and how to teach spelling in a way that sticks. Plus, I’ll share simple tweaks you can make today to align spelling instruction with the research.

    In this episode, we'll explore...

    Why traditional spelling drills don’t work—and what to do instead.How to integrate spelling into phonics instruction for stronger retention.Easy, evidence-based strategies like sound mapping to make spelling stick.

    Show Links

    Spelling Rule Posters
    Spelling Rules Cheat Sheet
    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! Follow right here.

  • Ever feel like you're running on caffeine and fumes just to make it through the school day? You're not alone! In this episode, I sit down with nutrition educator and coach Kate Lyman to talk about how small, strategic nutrition shifts can boost energy, improve focus, and help prevent teacher burnout.

    We break down the science behind brain fuel and simple, no-stress ways to eat better—even with a packed schedule. From high-protein breakfasts to easy grab-and-go snacks, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to stay energized without overhauling your entire routine.

    In this episode, you'll learn...

    The link between nutrition and teacher burnout (and how to fix it). Quick, high protein breakfasts that actually keep you full. Easy, no-prep snacks to keep in your classroom for all-day energy.

    Show Links

    Check out Kate on Instagram
    The Ultimate Batch Prep Guide
    Oats Overnight
    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! Follow right here.

  • Have you ever had a student who struggles to pronounce words clearly—or one who seems to have trouble following directions or understanding new vocabulary? You might be seeing early signs of speech and language difficulties, which can directly impact reading success.

    In this episode, I sit down with pediatric speech pathologist Rita Shamoun to explore the critical connection between oral language development and literacy. We break down how speech and language delays affect phonemic awareness, reading comprehension, and spelling—and, most importantly, what teachers can do to provide effective support.

    You'll learn:

    The difference between speech and language difficulties—and why both matter for reading.How to spot early signs that a student may need extra support.Why a multidisciplinary approach is key to ensuring students don’t fall through the cracks.

    Show Links

    Wine With Wita Podcast
    Rita Shamoun Speech Pathology Website
    Follow Rita on Instagram
    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! Follow right here.



  • Teaching phonics doesn’t have to feel like reinventing the wheel! In this episode, I'm sharing my favorite multisensory strategies to engage every learner. Whether you’re a new teacher looking to make phonics fun or a veteran searching for fresh ideas, this episode will give you practical tips to elevate your instruction. Learn how multisensory techniques activate multiple parts of the brain, making learning faster, easier, and more enjoyable for kids—without adding extra work to your plate.

    In this episode, we'll talk about...

    Why multisensory phonics instruction works. Simple multisensory phonics activities to try with your students (that don't require any prep!)How to integrate multisensory learning into your day.

    Show Links

    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! Follow right here.

  • Have you ever had a student who was hard of hearing and felt unsure about how to meet their needs? You’re not alone! In this episode, I sit down with Deanna Barlow, an itinerant teacher of the deaf and hard of hearing, to explore practical, research-backed strategies for making literacy instruction more accessible.

    We dive into how hearing loss impacts phonemic awareness, language development, and reading skills—and what you can do to ensure every student thrives. Whether it’s using assistive technology, making simple classroom adjustments, or incorporating visual supports, these strategies will benefit all learners, not just those with hearing challenges.

    In this episode, we'll talk about...

    The connection between hearing loss and phonemic awareness.Easy classroom modifications to support students with hearing loss.How to use assistive technology like FM systems to improve access.

    Show Links

    Join Deanna on Instagram
    Listening Fun Blog
    Tod Pod
    Accommodations Form
    Deanna's TPT Shop
    Learn Sign Language on Lingvano
    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! Follow right here.

  • Are you curious about how AI is reshaping the future of education? This episode of The Science of Reading Formula dives deep into the transformative power of AI in the classroom—specifically for elementary teachers. Join me and my guest Dan Fitzpatrick, author of The AI Classroom for Teachers and Infinite Education, as we discuss the role of AI in enhancing literacy instruction, fostering creativity, and saving teachers countless hours.

    In this episode, we'll talk about...

    How AI tools like ChatGPT can support lesson planning, differentiation, and student feedback.Why strong communication skills are essential for students in an AI-driven world.Practical, time-saving tips to integrate AI into your teaching—without sacrificing quality.

    If you're ready to embrace the possibilities of AI while staying grounded in evidence-based reading strategies, this episode is for you.

    Show Links

    The AI Educator website
    Dan's books: Infinite Education, The AI Educator, and Back to School Guide 24-25
    ChatGPT
    Brisk AI Teaching Assistant
    Google Notebook LM
    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! Follow right here.

  • In this episode, I sit down with one of the show’s favorite guests, Dr. Brian Plante, a licensed naturopathic physician from the Amen Clinics. Dr. Plante shares invaluable insights into preventing and managing burnout—something so many teachers grapple with in their quest to balance teaching responsibilities and personal lives.

    From understanding the difference between stress and burnout to discovering practical strategies for replenishing energy, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you move from surviving to thriving in your classroom and beyond.

    In this episode, we'll talk about...

    The key differences between stress and burnout—and how to recognize the early warning signs.Why boundaries matter and how to set them with courage and compassion.Practical mindfulness and relaxation techniques for reducing daily stress.

    Show Links

    Join Dr. Plante on Instagram
    Psychology Today
    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! Follow right here.

  • One of my favorite ways to learn new teaching strategies is to watch OTHER teachers teaching. That’s why I’m so excited about today’s guest. MeQuel Bolden spends her days supporting teachers in classrooms throughout Washington DC and today she’s sharing her best lessons learned with US so that we can take literacy centers to the next level.

    In this episode, we'll talk about...

    How much time is TOO much time for literacy centers. The most common challenges teachers face with literacy centers and how to overcome them.Tips for setting up literacy centers on a budget.

    Show Links

    Early Literacy Center Observation Sheet
    Follow MeQuel on 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! Follow right here.



  • Teaching advanced phonics can feel like a daunting leap—vowel teams, r-controlled vowels, diphthongs, multisyllabic words... where do you even begin? In this episode, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about teaching phonics to advanced readers.

    Whether you’re supporting students who are ready to level up or those who need extra scaffolding to decode tricky words, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help every reader succeed.

    Discover how to take your phonics instruction to the next level—because your students are ready, and you’ve got the tools to guide them!

    In this episode, we'll talk about...

    What advanced phonics really is and why it’s critical for fluency and comprehension.Common challenges students (and teachers!) face when tackling complex phonics patterns.Proven strategies, like syllable division rules and morphology that make advanced phonics instruction effective and manageable.

    Show Links

    Scope and sequence
    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.

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  • Alright, teachers, today we're diving into the wild world of morphology! (Don’t worry, it’s not as fancy as it sounds.) Morphology is about breaking words into their parts like prefixes, suffixes, and roots. And trust me - it’s a teaching game-changer.

    In this episode, we'll talk about...

    What morphology is.Why it's essential for your reading instruction.Practical strategies to bring it to life in your classroom.

    Show Links

    Morphology Cheat Sheet
    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! Follow right here.

  • Feeling overwhelmed by the shift to the Science of Reading? You’re not alone. Many educators worry that embracing this evidence-based approach means throwing out everything they’ve been doing—but that’s far from the truth.

    The Science of Reading isn’t about reinventing the wheel—it’s about refining what you’re already doing to help your students thrive.

    In this episode, we'll talk about...

    What the Science of Reading really is—and what it isn’t.How to identify and keep the practices that align with research.Simple tweaks to strengthen your instruction without an overwhelming overhaul.

    Show Links

    Grab Your Spot in The Secret to Spotting Reading Gaps (and Filling Them!)
    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! Follow right here.

  • As the new year approaches, it’s the perfect time to hit the reset button and step back into your classroom with a fresh perspective. In this episode, I'm sharing how to set meaningful goals for 2025 using a "word of the year" approach to guide your decisions and actions. Reflect on 2024, choose a focus word, and take small, actionable steps to create a purposeful and joyful year. Tune in for practical tips, real-life success stories, and inspiration to transform your approach to goal-setting.

    In this episode, we'll talk about...

    Tips and strategies to help you feel rejuvenated and energized all year long. How to choose a 'word of the year' and prioritize what you really want and need.Mindset shifts and practical tips that you can implement right away.

    Show Links

    Grab Your Spot in The Secret to Spotting Reading Gaps (and Filling Them!)
    Jumpstart Your 2025 Workbook
    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! Follow right here.

  • 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 lifeA simple planning system that helps you stay organized and stress-freeHow to set boundaries without feeling guiltyEffective strategies for managing time and prioritizing tasksWhy “future task” lists can help you stay focused and productive

    Tune in to learn how you can create a sustainable work-life balance and bring more joy back into your teaching journey!

    Show Links

    Grab Your Spot in The Secret to Spotting Reading Gaps (and Filling Them!)
    Follow Laurel on Instagram//YouTube
    Enjoy 10% off your order with code FORMULA10
    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! Follow right here.

  • 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 awareness strategies to build a strong reading foundation.Step-by-step phonics interventions that accelerate learning.How to reinforce new skills with engaging, repeated practice.

    Whether you’re working with students who have fallen behind or looking for proven methods to boost literacy skills, this episode provides actionable insights you can apply immediately.

    Show Links

    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! Follow right here.




  • 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 one that isn't supporting effective reading instruction.

    In this episode, we’ll talk about:

    Why the top 5 most popular reading curriculums aren’t research-based.The biggest red flags to look for in your literacy program.Why guessing words from pictures is NOT a reading strategy.How to evaluate your curriculum and advocate for evidence-based instruction.

    If you're unsure whether your reading program is truly Science of Reading-aligned, this episode will give you the clarity you need!

    Show Links

    27 curriculum red flags
    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! Follow right here.