Literacy Talks

EXPLORE

Society & Culture

© 2024 PodJoint

https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts221/v4/03/4f/9d/034f9d91-dcdc-d4a2-ee1d-495d58775156/mza_13029126076715136165.jpg/600x600bb.jpg

Literacy Talks

Reading Horizons

106 episodes

6 days ago

In this special recap episode, Stacy Hurst and Donell Pons share key takeaways from the 2025 International Dyslexia Association Conference. While Lindsay Kemeny wasn’t able to attend, she joins the conversation to reflect on the insights and themes that emerged — including the newly revised definition of dyslexia, the critical role of literacy leadership, and the power of early, high-quality instruction. Whether you attended or not, this episode offers a practical and reflective look at what ...

Show more...

All content for Literacy Talks is the property of Reading Horizons and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

In this special recap episode, Stacy Hurst and Donell Pons share key takeaways from the 2025 International Dyslexia Association Conference. While Lindsay Kemeny wasn’t able to attend, she joins the conversation to reflect on the insights and themes that emerged — including the newly revised definition of dyslexia, the critical role of literacy leadership, and the power of early, high-quality instruction. Whether you attended or not, this episode offers a practical and reflective look at what ...

Show more...

Episodes (20/106)

Literacy Talks

Inside Literacy: What Mattered Most at IDA 2025

In this special recap episode, Stacy Hurst and Donell Pons share key takeaways from the 2025 International Dyslexia Association Conference. While Lindsay Kemeny wasn’t able to attend, she joins the conversation to reflect on the insights and themes that emerged — including the newly revised definition of dyslexia, the critical role of literacy leadership, and the power of early, high-quality instruction. Whether you attended or not, this episode offers a practical and reflective look at what ...

6 days ago

44 minutes

Literacy Talks

Through the Eyes of Dyslexia: A Mother-Son Story

In this deeply personal episode of Literacy Talks, host Donell Pons sits down with her son Bridger for a heartfelt conversation about growing up—and parenting—through the lens of dyslexia. From early signs and school struggles to moments of breakthrough and discovery, their dialogue offers a rare, honest look at how learning differences affect families, relationships, and self-perception. Bridger shares what it was like to navigate a world that didn’t seem built for how his brain works, how s...

1 week ago

50 minutes

Literacy Talks

Reflections from the Reading League Conference 2025

Fresh from the Reading League Conference in Chicago, the Literacy Talks trio—Stacy Hurst, Donell Pons, and Lindsay Kemeny—share highlights, favorite sessions, and key insights that left a lasting impression. From impactful keynotes to deep dives into phonological awareness, explicit instruction, AI in education, and writing practices, this episode is packed with thoughtful takeaways. Join the conversation as they reflect on what inspired them, what challenged their thinking, and what they’re ...

2 weeks ago

50 minutes

Literacy Talks

Free Literacy Sites We Actually Use (and Love)

Looking for free, practical literacy tools that really work? In this episode, the hosts of Literacy Talks share their favorite go-to websites for everything from decodables and syntax support to articulation videos and classroom-ready texts. It’s an honest, unsponsored round-up of resources we use, trust, and recommend. Do you teach Structured Literacy in a K–3 setting? Sign up for a free license of Reading Horizons Discovery® LIVE and start teaching right away—no setup, no hassle. Sign-up ...

3 weeks ago

55 minutes

Literacy Talks

Handwriting, Spelling, and Student Voice: A Writing Deep Dive

Writing is anything but simple. In this episode, the hosts break down the foundational elements of writing instruction—from the mechanics of handwriting and spelling to the role of oral language and student motivation. They share insights, personal stories, and practical strategies for supporting students at every stage, with a special focus on transcription, composition, and the power of student voice. It's a thoughtful, down-to-earth conversation about what it really takes to help students ...

1 month ago

50 minutes

Literacy Talks

Pet Peeves, Round 3: The Gripes That Just Won’t Quit

We’re back with more of the literacy gripes that make us wince, laugh, and think deeper. In our third pet peeves episode, the Literacy Talks team—Stacy, Donell, and Lindsay—sound off on persistent myths, misplaced blame, phonics fluff, and why reading will never be obsolete. With listener submissions in the mix, this candid conversation is part venting session, part professional reflection. If you’ve ever cringed at a reading log or been told teachers are the problem (spoiler alert: they’re n...

1 month ago

55 minutes

Literacy Talks

100 Episodes Later: Our Never-Aired First Episode

We made it to 100 episodes! To celebrate, we’re doing something special—sharing the very first episode we ever recorded, one that never made it to air… until now. It’s raw, real, and full of heart. Join us as we look back on where it all began, reflect on how much has changed, and reconnect with the passion that started it all. Do you teach Structured Literacy in a K–3 setting? Sign up for a free license of Reading Horizons Discovery® LIVE and start teaching right away—no setup, no hassle. ...

1 month ago

1 hour 2 minutes

Literacy Talks

The Great Syllable Debate: Balancing Science, Structure, and Student Needs

In this episode, the hosts dive into the so-called “Great Syllable Debate,” unpacking recent research and long-standing practices around syllable instruction. From the reliability of syllable division rules to the role of flexibility, they explore what today’s educators need to consider when teaching students to read multisyllabic words—especially those with dyslexia or other reading challenges. It’s a conversation grounded in science, shaped by classroom experience, and focused on helping ev...

1 month ago

48 minutes

Literacy Talks

Making MTSS Work: Real Talk with Stephanie Stollar and Sarah Brown

In this episode of Literacy Talks, we sit down with Dr. Stephanie Stollar and Dr. Sarah Brown—two leading voices in reading improvement and MTSS. Together, they unpack what MTSS really means, how it connects to the science of reading, and why it's more than just moving students through tiers. With candid insights, practical tools, and a clear call for systems-level change, this is the real talk educators need to hear. You'll come away informed, inspired, and ready to take meaningful next step...

2 months ago

54 minutes

Literacy Talks

From Cookies to Keynotes: Our Big Sky Conference Recap

What do cookies, comprehension, and courageous teaching have in common? They were all part of this year’s Big Sky Literacy Summit—and our team was there to take it all in! In this episode, Stacy, Lindsay, and Donell share their favorite sessions, most powerful moments, and the insights that influenced their thinking. From the sweet story of the “last cookie” to profound reminders about the power of oral language, teacher knowledge, and resilience in education, this recap captures the heart, h...

2 months ago

53 minutes

Literacy Talks

Breaking Down the Language Domains with Dr. Tiffany Hogan

In this episode, Dr. Tiffany Hogan joins the Literacy Talks team to unpack the five domains of language—phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics—and why understanding them is essential for effective literacy instruction. With clear explanations, real classroom examples, and insights into language-related neurodiversities, this conversation brings research and practice together in practical, actionable ways. Tune in for an engaging discussion that will deepen your understanding...

2 months ago

58 minutes

Literacy Talks

What Schools Must Understand About Dyslexia — with Tim Odegard

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Dr. Tim Odegard—renowned dyslexia researcher and advocate—joins hosts Stacy Hurst, Lindsay Kemeny, and Donell Pons for a conversation that challenges conventional thinking and calls for urgent change in how schools approach dyslexia. From his own journey as an undiagnosed struggling reader to his groundbreaking research on the intersection of literacy and mental health, Dr. Odegard shares insights that every educator, policymaker, and parent needs...

2 months ago

59 minutes

Literacy Talks

No Merch, No Problem: Why SSSR Was Worth It — with Researcher Jake Downs

In this episode, the Literacy Talks team is joined by researcher Jake Downs for a lively recap of the Society for the Scientific Study of Reading (SSSR) Conference. From practitioner-day takeaways and cutting-edge studies to unexpected laughs and zero conference swag, they unpack the insights, surprises, and trends shaping the future of literacy instruction. Do you teach Structured Literacy in a K–3 setting? Sign up for a free license of Reading Horizons Discovery® LIVE and start teaching r...

3 months ago

57 minutes

Literacy Talks

Back to School, Back to Basics: A Reading Reset

In this season-opening episode of Literacy Talks, Stacy Hurst, Donell Pons, and Lindsay Kemeny kick off the school year with a powerful conversation about the value of a reading reset. Whether you're a classroom teacher, literacy coach, or tutor, this episode will help you reflect, refocus, and realign your instruction with what matters most: evidence-based reading practices grounded in Structured Literacy. From analyzing student data and setting intentional goals to refining your Tier 1 in...

3 months ago

48 minutes

Literacy Talks

From Mighty to Masterful: Lindsay Kemeny’s Next Chapter

In this special summer bonus episode of Literacy Talks, co-host Lindsay Kemeny steps into the spotlight to share the story behind her newest book, Rock Your Literacy Block. Building on the foundation of Seven Mighty Moves, Lindsay reveals how her latest work takes teachers deeper—offering a practical, behind-the-scenes look at how to structure a powerful, flexible, and evidence-based literacy block. With insights from her own classroom, reflections on teacher feedback, and inspiration drawn f...

4 months ago

45 minutes

Literacy Talks

From FOMO to Front Row: A Deep Dive into the Reading League Summit

What happens when leading voices in literacy come together—not to lecture, but to listen, question, and grow? In this bonus episode, Donell Pons recaps her experience at the 2025 Reading League Summit, joined by co-hosts Stacy Hurst and Lindsay Kemeny and special guests Kari Kurto and Andrea Setmeyer of The Reading League. Together, they explore what made the summit so impactful—from thoughtfully curated panels and civil discourse among top researchers to the “just right” tone set by Andrea’s...

6 months ago

50 minutes

Literacy Talks

Season Finale: Highlights, High Points, and Lessons in Structured Literacy

As we wrap up Season 7 of Literacy Talks, we reflect on a powerful journey through the lens of the 75th Anniversary Issue of the International Dyslexia Association. In this special finale, hosts Stacy Hurst, Donell Pons, and Lindsay Kemeny revisit the insights, standout moments, and expert voices that shaped a season devoted entirely to Structured Literacy. From defining integration to honoring teacher-researcher collaboration, we explore what’s evolved, what endures, and what’s next in ...

6 months ago

32 minutes

Literacy Talks

What Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan Taught Us About Structured Literacy for Multilingual Learners

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan—renowned author, educator, and advocate for multilingual learners—to explore how Structured Literacy can empower every student. From bridging language and culture to practical classroom strategies, Dr. Cárdenas-Hagan shares inspiring insights and actionable tools for supporting English learners in meaningful, evidence-based ways. She dives into the importance of oral language, cross-linguistic connections, and how all teachers—regardle...

6 months ago

51 minutes

Literacy Talks

The Magical Intersection: Where Structured Literacy Meets Tiered Instruction

In this episode, the Literacy Talks team dives into Dr. Tim Odegard’s compelling article from Perspectives on Language and Literacy—“Structured Literacy: The Backbone of a Robust Literacy Ecosystem.” Join Stacy, Donell, and Lindsay as they explore what it really means to teach at the “magical intersection” of instruction and student engagement. From tiered systems of support (MTSS/RTI) to the practical realities of implementing Structured Literacy in the classroom, this episode offers both in...

6 months ago

52 minutes

Literacy Talks

Expert Insights with Dr. Louise Spear-Swerling: Prioritizing the "How" in Literacy Instruction

In this episode of Literacy Talks, we’re joined by the incomparable Dr. Louise Spear-Swerling—professor, researcher, and long-time advocate for evidence-based reading instruction. Building on her article in the 75th anniversary issue of Perspectives on Language and Literacy, Dr. Spear-Swerling dives into the how of Structured Literacy instruction and why it’s just as critical as the what. Together with hosts Stacy Hurst, Donell Pons, and Lindsay Kemeny, Dr. Spear-Swerling explores what it rea...

7 months ago

46 minutes