On the Road to Literacy Success

🎙️ VOCAB ISSUES! | Dr. Freddy Hiebert | On the Road to Literacy Success | Season 3, Episode 2

Are we making vocabulary instruction more complicated than it needs to be? And are some of our longstanding instructional practices actually limiting students' opportunities to become skilled readers?

🚐 In this episode of On the Road to Literacy Success, Dr. Staci Bain welcomes renowned literacy researcher Dr. Elfrieda (Freddy) Hiebert for a conversation about vocabulary, text complexity, word recognition, and the research that should be informing literacy instruction.

📚 Together, we explore some BIG questions:

🔹 Are we teaching vocabulary in ways that actu...

Get ready for a special treat! Dr. Inciarte is in the phonemic awareness house. Enjoy! -staci

Season 3 of On the Road to Literacy Success is HERE—and we are kicking it off with an international K–12 conversation about teaching, learning, literacy, and leadership.

Host Dr. Staci Bain is joined by returning guest Dr. Nathaniel Swain and secondary education leader and PhD candidate Rebecca Birch from Australia for a practical conversation that moves from the early grades all the way through secondary school.

Dr. Swain has officially become part of our season-opening tradition. He joined us for Episode 1 of Season 1, returned to open Season 2, and is back again for Season 3—this time bringi...

In this episode of On the Road to Literacy Success, Dr. Staci Bain sits down with educators from McLaurin Elementary School in Mississippi for a powerful conversation about what it takes to transform literacy outcomes from the inside out. Together, they share the story of how McLaurin’s staff embraced the Science of Reading, strengthened Tier 1 instruction, and worked collectively to move student data in meaningful ways.

This episode highlights the real work behind literacy success: strategic planning, teacher learning, coaching, collaboration, trust, and a shared belief that reading failure can and should be prevented. The conversation al...

In this episode of On the Road to Literacy Success, Dr. Staci Bain sits down with Leta Palmiter, CEO of Illuminations Literacy Solutions, creator of Vertical Take-Off Reading, founder and board member of the Illuminations Center for Dyslexia in Meridian, Mississippi, and author of Mississippi Rising: How the Last Became First in Literacy Growth.

Together, they discuss Mississippi’s remarkable literacy journey, the urgency of dyslexia advocacy, and what becomes possible when educators, leaders, families, legislators, and practitioners work together with clarity and purpose.

Leta shares how structured literacy, teacher training, practitioner certification, and innovative to...

In this episode, we connect with Enid Ballot, a deeply committed and knowledgeable literacy expert who has helped shape and expand the national and international Science of Literacy conversation.

Through her leadership in multiple educator communities on social media, Enid continues to push the field beyond narrow conversations about reading alone and toward a fuller understanding of literacy instruction. Together, we discuss vocabulary development, syntax and grammar, handwriting, writing, and the instructional decisions that help students become stronger readers, writers, and thinkers.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that literacy success is not built through i...

On this episode of On the Road to Literacy Success, Dr. Liz Ritz describes how school districts can implement Science of Reading-aligned practices in a way that is cohesive, clear, and coherent across classrooms, schools, and systems.

She shares practical insight into what it takes to move beyond awareness and into implementation: building shared language, supporting teachers, aligning instructional expectations, and creating the conditions for literacy practices to actually take root.

This conversation is for leaders, coaches, and educators who know the goal is not simply to talk about the Science of Reading. The goal...

NOTE: We apologize for the audio quality on Dr. Bain’s track and appreciate your understanding.

Season 2, Ep. 13: A Superintendent’s Message: Centering the Humanity of Our Work w/ Dr. Tim Lawless

In this meaningful conversation, Dr. Tim Lawless reflects on his journey through education and shares a powerful message for teachers, leaders, and school communities: the work is always about people. Together, we discuss what it looks like to lead with love, build trust over time, hire with heart, and create a school culture grounded in honesty, consistency, faith, humor, and human connection.

Th...

In Season 2, Episode 12 of On the Road to Literacy Success Podcast, Staci Bain sits down with Karen Wattenmaker of Edu-Partners to discuss the comprehensive language and literacy work required to build a literate society.

At GoodHumansEducate.com, we aim to support female entrepreneurs who are doing this important literacy work. In this episode, you will gain research insights, helpful instructional moves, and insightful systems advice to move your thinking forward.

Whether you are working to strengthen classroom practice or build stronger MTSS and Tier 1 systems for all students, this conversation will encourage and equip you.<...

In this conversation, Jan Hasbrouck shares practical, research-aligned insight on what strengthens literacy outcomes in real schools.

She explains why explicit instruction remains essential, why many systems are overloaded with assessment, and how leaders can support clearer, more effective literacy implementation. Jan also clarifies what reading fluency actually is—accuracy and automaticity that protect comprehension, not just speed.

This episode offers a grounded, doable lens for teachers and school leaders who want literacy instruction to be more cohesive, clear, and coherent.

Want to grab the book Jan Hasbrouck spoke about?

Grab it...

In this episode of On The Road To Literacy Success, host Dr. Staci Bain sits down with children’s author Kristen Wilks to explore how storytelling helps build strong, motivated readers.

Kristen shares how her love of writing began early, and how she now creates stories that make kids belly-laugh, stay engaged, and feel genuinely connected to the characters. She unpacks what keeps young readers hooked—especially the blend of humor and action—and explains how books can nurture hope and resilience along the way.

The conversation also highlights how schools and author visits can help g...

In this cozy, practical conversation, Dr. Staci Bain sits down with speech-language pathologist and literacy advocate Arti Shah to unpack how language development fuels reading and writing success—from babies (0–3) to early elementary (K–2).

You’ll leave with doable ways to strengthen language at home and at school. Arti Shah is a speech-language pathologist (13+ years) who has worked across early intervention, community health, and schools. She also hosts the podcast Human Chapters, where she explores meaningful “chapters” of people’s lives with deep curiosity and connection.

▶️ To connect with Arti, watch/listen to Human Chapters on YouTube: https...

🎙️ On the Road to Literacy Success Podcast

In this episode of On the Road to Literacy Success, host Staci Bain, Ed.D. sits down with Jennifer Throndsen, founder of Impactful Learning Designs and former Department of Education leader, for a grounded, practical conversation about what Tier 1 instruction actually needs to look like in real classrooms.

Together, they explore why strong literacy outcomes don’t come from initiatives alone—but from clear, cohesive systems that translate into daily instructional practice for teachers. Dr. Throndsen shares her personal journey into education, her passion for teaching, and her unwaverin...

In this episode, Dr. Staci Bain speaks with Jenn and Mel from Teacher Lunch, who share their journey of creating TikToks that bring joy to teachers and celebrate the profession.

They discuss the importance of community, storytelling, and the role of read-alouds in fostering a love for literacy among students. The conversation highlights the significance of collaboration between teachers and librarians, the challenges faced in education, and the joy of making connections with students and fellow educators. You can connect with Jenn and Mel: [email protected].

They are also on IG and TikTok @ JennMel4.<...

In Part 2 of this conversation, we go straight to the heart of what teachers and leaders are wrestling with in Tier 1 literacy: overwhelm, uncertainty, and the pressure to “get it right” for every student in the room.

We talk about the practical moves that help teachers feel more successful right away, from tightening daily Tier 1 routines to finding one small, repeatable win they can lean on when everything feels noisy. Then we zoom out to the school and system level and ask, “What actually gives us hope about the future of Tier 1 literacy?” You’ll hear how strong lea...

In this episode, Dr. Staci Bain sits down with the brilliant and deeply committed Vicki Ferrari to talk about what it really takes to make Tier 1 work in real classrooms.

Together, they dive into the clarity, coherence, and consistency teachers and leaders deserve, and why whole-group instruction remains the most powerful lever for literacy success.

Vicki brings her extensive experience as a school leader to unpack what Tier 1 looks like on the ground, how schools can strengthen alignment, and the practical moves that help teachers feel more confident and supported. From daily routines to instructional...

In this episode of On the Road to Literacy Success, I sit down with THE Erin Jones — author, speaker, equity advocate, and longtime educator whose work reminds us that love + strong instruction can truly change communities. the-erin-jones We talk about what it means to call people in, how to stay grounded in purpose, and why real equity work shows up through relationships and daily instructional practice.

Erin also shares her perspective on direct teaching, belonging, leadership, and her dream for the future of public education.

If this conversation reignited your belief in Tier 1 instruction, visit Go...

In this conversation, Tabatha Mires, the superintendent of Manson School District, shares her journey into education, her leadership philosophy, and the importance of public schools in fostering democracy. She discusses the district's success in improving literacy through direct instruction and the significance of community engagement in education. Mires emphasizes the need for collective efficacy among educators and offers advice for other superintendents on enhancing literacy at a tier one level.

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Timothy Shanahan discusses his book 'Leveled Reading, Leveled Lives' and the implications of leveled reading practices on student growth. He emphasizes the importance of teaching students with grade-level texts and the need for educators to adapt their instructional strategies to ensure all students have access to complex texts. The discussion covers the balance between challenge and support in reading instruction, the efficiency of whole class teaching versus small group instruction, and the necessity of grounding educational practices in research and evidence. Dr. Shanahan advocates for a shift in teaching practices to create a more...

🎙 Empowering Educators: A Conversation with Dr. Nathaniel Swain

Season Two kicks off with a powerful and thought-provoking conversation between Dr. Staci Bain and returning guest Dr. Nathaniel Swain. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of literacy education, from supporting new teachers and principals to building strong Tier 1 systems that help every student thrive.

Dr. Swain shares practical strategies for whole-class teaching, insights on reducing cognitive load, and reflections on balancing professional life with parenthood. He also introduces his new book, Harnessing the Science of Learning—a must-read for educators looking to simplify and strengthen their teach...

🎙️ Leading with Intention: Principal Langerman on Tier 1 Transformation

In this episode of On the Road to Literacy Success, we’re joined by Principal Kristen Langerman of McLaurin Elementary (Rankin County School District, MS), a recognized Mississippi Emerging Science of Reading School.

Principal Langerman takes us inside her school’s journey toward literacy transformation by sharing what it truly means to lead intentionally. From demonstrating instruction to co-teaching and engaging in continuous, focused instructional conversations, she models the kind of leadership that brings Tier 1 to life.

Principal Langerman also shares how her team implemented Educate’s...

In this conversation, Dr. DJ Bolger shares his extensive journey in literacy research, emphasizing the importance of brain imaging and the science of reading movement. He discusses the need for explicit teaching, the role of cultural humility, and the significance of understanding the unique backgrounds of students. Bolger highlights the complexities of reading as a cognitive process and the importance of evidence-based practices in education.

Dr. Bolger discusses the importance of moving beyond "sticking with the script" and "The Simple View"--and MUCH more!

🎙 On the Road to Literacy Success by GoodHumansEducate

Host: Dr. Staci Bain

In this engaging episode, Dr. Leslie Laud shares insights from her extensive experience in writing instruction and its transformative impact on both students and teachers. Dr. Laud discusses her passion for teaching, the effectiveness of evidence-based writing strategies, and the significant gains observed in student performance. The conversation offers practical solutions for K-12 educators, emphasizing the need for professional development and the joy of seeing students thrive in their writing abilities.

📚 Key Takeaways:

In this episode of 'On the Road to Literacy Success', Dr. Staci Bain interviews Kareem Weaver, a civil rights activist and literacy advocate.

They discuss the importance of evidence-based practices in education, the role of leadership in fostering a culture of literacy, and the need for transparency and accountability in schools.

Kareem shares his personal journey in education, highlights unsung heroes in literacy, and emphasizes the significance of cultural context in teaching.

The conversation also touches on the complex relationship between belonging and literacy, and the future of education focused on empowering students to...

In this conversation, Educate's Founder (Staci) interviews Angy Graham, the Executive Director of PK Curriculum and Instruction at Rankin County School District in Mississippi. They discuss how the district achieved significant improvements in literacy outcomes, with 89% of kindergartners reaching grade level according to iReady by the end of 2024. They also talk about the district's focus on Tier 1 instruction, the importance of collaboration and collective practices, and the impact of their efforts on student success. Angy Graham shares the district's journey, the results they have achieved, and their plans for the future. KEYWORDS: literacy success, Rankin County School District, Mississippi...

In this episode of "On the Road to Literacy Success", Educate's Co-Founder interviews Angy Graham, an Executive Director for the Rankin County School District, Mississippi.

They discuss the district's journey towards implementing Educate's K-8 Science of Reading in Tier 1 approach in EVERY classroom and EVERY building.

This Mississippi district has shifted from a balanced literacy approach to a Science of Reading in Tier 1 approach. They have trained all K-8 teachers on Educate's Tier 1, 3-pronged approach.

Executive Director Graham emphasizes the importance of providing an environment where all students can thrive and learn...

Are you ready for the messy work of teaching and learning to make more sense?

In this episode, Nate Joseph, a dynamic researcher and author, provides listeners with clear language on research theories and instructional practices to get us/keep us on the literacy road. With his background as a scholar, educator, and writer, Nate Joseph brings a wealth of knowledge that is both practical and inspiring.

Feeling curious about RtI? Research theories? Classroom practices? Don’t miss this episode!

If you really enjoy it, consider grabbing a copy of Nate’s latest book...

Welcome back to another episode of Educate's "On the Road to Literacy Success"!

We're thrilled to have you with us as we dive back into the heart of literacy instruction. In Part 2, we're continuing our engaging conversation with the insightful Dr. Nathaniel Swain.

In this episode, we’ll explore the dynamics of whole group teaching, break down the literacy block, and discuss why it's essential to stay flexible and adaptable in your teaching approach. If you're interested in diving deeper into whole class teaching, be sure to check out Dr. Swain's website at nathanialswain.com, gr...

Whole class teaching, also known as whole group instruction, often gets dismissed as "rigid", "one-directional", "ineffective". If you find yourself frequently defending whole group instruction, this podcast will uplift your teaching and learning spirit. I

n this episode, Dr. Nathaniel Swain provides countless engaging and effective ways to teach an entire class of students well. As a researcher, author, professor, practitioner, and dad, Dr. Swain brings a rich perspective to this podcast's conversation.

If you find yourself inspired and intrigued, stay tuned for part two of our conversation! You can also preorder Dr. Swain's book...