Literacy in Color: A Science of Reading Aligned Podcast for Educators

Michelle Sullivan • Literacy Coach & Science of Reading Advocate
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Literacy in Color is the go-to podcast for elementary teachers, literacy coaches, and reading interventionists who are passionate about bringing the Science of Reading to life in vibrant, engaging, and effective ways. Hosted by Michelle Sullivan — a seasoned literacy expert & Science of Reading advocate - with over a decade of experience as a reading interventionist & literacy coach — this show is designed to help you captivate your learners, boost reading fluency, and foster a deep understanding of language. Each week, you’ll discover practical tips, proven strategies, and creative ideas to make your literacy instruction colorful and impactful. From phonics and morphology to vocabulary building and comprehension techniques, we’ll explore the full spectrum of evidence-based practices that support all learners on their journey to becoming confident readers. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting out, “Literacy in Color” will empower you with the tools, inspiration, and know-how to make literacy instruction not just effective, but truly unforgettable. Are you ready to teach colorfully? Hit subscribe and join us each week for a splash of fun, insight, and colorful learning. Connect with me on Instagram @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom for more tips, resources, and community!

  1. 90. Teach Your Child to Read at Home with Reading.com

    13H AGO

    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 child work together through short, structured lessons grounded in the Science of Reading. Stephanie and Molly share the “why” behind the platform, how research shaped its design, and the intentional features that support real reading development, from explicit phonics instruction to interactive sound sliders that help children bridge from sounding out to blending words. They also address common concerns around screen time, explain how the app avoids guessing habits like picture cueing, and highlight how even non-educators can confidently teach foundational literacy skills with the right support. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or literacy advocate, this episode offers a powerful look at how thoughtful design can bring evidence-based reading instruction into everyday moments. More About Reading.com Website: https://www.reading.comVisit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today.Instagram: @_readingcomYouTubeReading.com’s ABC SongEmail: stephanie.m@teaching.com Connect with Michelle: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Want to Support the Podcast? Make a Donation to Support Production Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Logos Literacy AcademyCourse 1: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every EducatorCourse 2 & Curriculum: K-2 MorphologyMonthly Coaching Calls: Logos Live

    35 min
  2. 89. The Structured Literacy Playbook with Dr. Melissa Orkin & Sarah Gannon, Crafting Minds

    APR 14

    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 introduce the POSSUM framework, a multi-component model that integrates phonology, orthography, semantics, syntax, and morphology within a single lesson. Rather than isolating skills, this approach connects them, reflecting how the reading brain actually works. Key Takeaways: An explanation of the POSSUM FrameworkThe role of retrieval (RAN) in fluency and reading developmentHow to design small-group instruction using a backwards planning approachWhat to try when students get “stuck” in sound-by-sound reading“Winning strategies” and other high-leverage routines – like syntactic phrasing Resources Mentioned: Book: The Structured Literacy Playbook by Dr. Melissa Orkin, Sarah Gannon, and Alexandria OsburnStructured Literacy Game Plan Generator (One Month Trial) - Backward planning tool that generates lessons!Decoding Duo ResourcesMorphology AnthologyRAVE-O Program (Intervention) This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Crafting Minds Group: Website: https://www.craftingmindsgroup.com/Instagram: @craftingmindsgroup Email: melissa@craftingmindsgroup.com & sarah@craftingmindsgroup.com Connect with Michelle: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Want to Support the Podcast? Make a Donation to Support Production Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Logos Literacy AcademyCourse 1: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every EducatorCourse 2 & Curriculum: K-2 MorphologyMonthly Coaching Calls: Logos Live

    1h 10m
  3. 88. Montessori Storytelling: The History of English Spelling with Zil Jaeger

    APR 7

    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 storytelling is foundational to Montessori educationThe concept of cosmic education and helping students see the interconnectedness of knowledgeThe “whole-to-parts” approach and how it supports schema-building and retrievalHow storytelling strengthens memory through curiosity, imagery, and repetitionZil’s “Story of English Spelling” & why English spelling is not random and how history lives inside words - Through timelines, maps, and multisensory storytelling, students begin to understand why words are spelled the way they are. Zil also shares how Montessori & Structured Literacy can align with intention, bringing research-based practices into a Montessori framework in thoughtful, systematic ways. Resources Mentioned: Zil’s Story of English Spelling: https://www.ziljaeger.com/shop/p/englishspellingEtymonline (Etymology Dictionary)Book: The High Frequency Word Project by Rebecca Loveless & Fiona HamiltonBook: Dictionary of Word Origins by John AytoBook: Oxford School Dictionary of Word Origins by John AytoBook: Spell It Out by David CrystalBook: Language Visible by David Sacks This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Zil Jaeger: Website: www.ziljaeger.comInstagram: @ziljaeger Connect with Michelle: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Want to Support the Podcast? Make a Donation to Support Production Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Logos Literacy AcademyCourse 1: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every EducatorCourse 2 & Curriculum: K-2 MorphologyMonthly Coaching Calls: Logos Live

    38 min
  4. 87. Spelling Matters: What the Research Says About Teaching Spelling with Brennan Chandler, PhD

    MAR 31

    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 explains why spelling has the capacity to be far more than a writing skill; it can be a lexical lever that strengthens both reading and writing. Key Takeaways: Why spelling is essential for building strong word representationsCommon misconceptions (including the infamous “Friday spelling test”)What current research says actually works in spelling instructionThe impact of technology (spellcheck, AI, predictive text) on literacy developmentPractical ways teachers can embed effective spelling instruction into their day Dr. Chandler also shares actionable guidance for educators, including how just 10–15 minutes of intentional spelling instruction daily can make a meaningful difference. Resources: A Meta-Analytic Review of Spelling Interventions for Students With or At-Risk for Learning Disabilities - Chandler, B. W., Toste J. R., Novelli, C., Rodgers, D., Hardeman, E. (2025)Article: ​​Why your kid can't rely on tech tools to spellSpelling Mastery (Direct Instruction program) Connect with Brennan Chandler, PhD: Website: brennanchandler.comIG: @BrennanChandlerPhDLinkedIn: Brennan Chandler, PhD Thank you to Reading.com for supporting the production of this episode. Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today. Instagram: @_readingcomYouTube: ReadingComFacebook: Reading.comPinterest: Reading_com Connect with Michelle: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Want to Support the Podcast? Make a Donation to Support Production Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Logos Literacy AcademyCourse 1: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every EducatorCourse 2 & Curriculum: K-2 MorphologyMonthly Coaching Calls: Logos Live Mentioned in this episode: Reading.com Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today!

    1h 6m
  5. 86. Multisyllabic Spelling Made Simpler: 3 Strategies for Spelling Longer Words

    MAR 24

    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 practical strategies that help students approach longer words with confidence. From breaking words into syllables, to leveraging morphology and word relatives, to using a “spelling voice,” this episode offers a toolkit teachers can immediately bring into their instruction. Key Takeaways: Spelling multisyllabic words requires more than phonology; students need access to structure and meaning as well.Syllabication helps reduce cognitive load by chunking words into manageable parts.Every syllable has at least one vowel (ESHALOV): a helpful anchor for spelling longer words.Morphology provides stability; morphemes maintain consistent spellings even when pronunciation shifts.Word relatives can unlock tricky spellings (i.e. preside → president).A spelling voice can support memory by making less obvious spellings more transparent.Strong spellers use metacognition; they choose strategies flexibly depending on the word.English spelling is not random: it reflects the interaction of phonology, morphology, and etymology. Resources Mentioned: Building BRIDGES: A Design Experiment to Improve Reading and United States History Knowledge of Poor Readers in Eighth Grade - O’Connor, Beach, Sanchez, Bocian, & Flynn - ESHALOV principle (Every Syllable Has At Least One Vowel)Helping Students With Dyslexia Read Long Words by Devin Kearns & Victoria WhaleyLogos Literacy AcademyCourse: Mastering MorphologyCourse & Curriculum: K-2 MorphologyMorphology Membership (Coaching Calls & Resources)Book: Seven Mighty Moves by Lindsay Kemeny (Spelling Voice Strategy mentioned)Multisyllabic Words Skill Explainer from Reading Universe This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Thank you to Reading.com for supporting the production of this episode. Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today. Instagram: @_readingcomYouTube: ReadingComFacebook: Reading.comPinterest: Reading_com Connect with Michelle: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Want to Support the Podcast? Make a Donation to Support Production Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Logos Literacy AcademyCourse 1: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every EducatorCourse 2 & Curriculum: K-2 MorphologyMonthly Coaching Calls: Logos Live Mentioned in this episode: Reading.com Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today!

    22 min
  6. 85. How to Use Decodable Books (and When to Move Beyond Them) with Elise Lovejoy, Express Readers

    MAR 17

    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 literacy experience; they are one piece of a larger instructional puzzle. In this episode, you’ll hear Elise discuss practical ways teachers can maximize decodable books for phonics practice, build comprehension within decodable texts, and scaffold students toward more complex and authentic reading experiences. You’ll also gather actionable routines teachers can use during small-group instruction, how to help students develop flexibility when encountering unfamiliar spellings, and the signals that students may be ready to move beyond tightly controlled text. Key Takeaways: Why decodable texts are essential for practicing newly taught phonics skillsThe difference between using decodables intentionally vs. using them like leveled readersWhy comprehension should still be addressed within decodable textsPractical small-group routines for using decodable books effectivelyHow to help students develop flexibility with spelling and pronunciationSigns that students are ready to move beyond tightly controlled textWhy teachers should use decodable texts and authentic texts side-by-side Resources Mentioned: The Teachers TableLyn Stone’s Book: Foundations for Life Connect with Elise Lovejoy of Express Readers: Website: Express ReadersInstagram: @expressreadersLinkedIn: Express ReadersFacebook: Express Readers Inc. Thank you to Reading.com for supporting the production of this episode. Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today. Instagram: @_readingcomYouTube: ReadingComFacebook: Reading.comPinterest: Reading_com Connect with Michelle: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Want to Support the Podcast? Make a Donation to Support Production Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Logos Literacy AcademyCourse 1: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every EducatorCourse 2 & Curriculum: K-2 MorphologyMonthly Coaching Calls: Logos Live Mentioned in this episode: Reading.com Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today!

    45 min
  7. 84. Reading Assessment Done Right with Dr. Stephanie Stollar and Kate Winn

    MAR 10

    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 directly to instruction, it becomes a powerful tool for identifying student needs, targeting support, and ultimately changing reading outcomes. This episode is a must-listen for teachers, literacy coaches, interventionists, and school leaders who want to better understand how to use assessment data to drive meaningful instructional change. Key Takeaways: How assessment data can transform classroom decision-makingCommon mistakes schools make when using assessment dataWhy schools must sometimes de-implement ineffective assessmentsThe four key types of reading assessment and how they work together: Universal Screening, Diagnostic Assessments, Progress Monitoring, Outcome AssessmentsHow teachers can interpret assessment data and trends over time Resources: Book: Reading Assessment Done Right by Stephanie Stollar & Kate WinnBook: MTSS for Reading Improvement by Stephanie Stollar & Sarah Brown from Solution Tree (or on Amazon)FREE Resource: The Reading MTSS Reflection Guide Previous Podcast Episode with Dr. Stollar: Episode 28. Clearing up Misconceptions around MTSSPrevious Podcast Episode with Dr. Stollar: Episode 80. MTSS for Reading Improvement This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Stephanie Stollar: Website: www.readingscienceacademy.com/Instagram: @ReadingScienceAcademyFacebook: Stephanie Stollar ConsultingLinkedIn: Stephanie StollarJoin Dr. Stollar’s Reading Science Academy MembershipThe MTSS Collective Connect with Kate Winn: Podcast: Reading Road Trip from IDA OntarioWebsite: http://thismomloves.ca/Instagram: @katethismomloves Thank you to Reading.com for supporting the production of this episode. Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today. Instagram: @_readingcomYouTube: ReadingComFacebook: Reading.comPinterest: Reading_com Connect with Michelle: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Want to Support the Podcast? Make a Donation to Support Production Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Logos Literacy AcademyCourse 1: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every EducatorCourse 2 & Curriculum: K-2 MorphologyMonthly Coaching Calls: Logos Live Mentioned in this episode: Reading.com Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today!

    40 min
  8. 83. How to Make Read-Alouds More Powerful: Joyful Learning in Action with Yvette Manns, Phonics Read-Alouds

    MAR 3

    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, Point, Explain, Show) for vocabulary instructionThe origin story of the Phonics Read Alouds seriesInformation on how to celebrate National Schwa Day on April 7th!The launch of a brand-new Morphology Read-Aloud series This episode is both inspiring and deeply practical, full of classroom-ready ideas. Phonics Read-Alouds Created by Yvette Manns, the Phonics Read Alouds series blends explicit phonics instruction with rich storytelling. Characters like Bossy R, Magic E, and the Schwa bring abstract phonics concepts to life. Website: www.phonicsreadalouds.comInstagram: @phonicsreadalouds National Schwa Day Founded by Yvette Manns, National Schwa Day is celebrated annually on April 7th. Why April 7th? Listen to the episode to hear the reasoning behind it! What you’ll find in the free Educator Guide: Classroom activitiesSchwa parade word cardsDigital blending board activities (sponsored by Blend)Celebration ideas Download the FREE Educator guide: www.nationalschwaday.org Exciting News: Morphology Read-Aloud Series Michelle and Yvette announce the launch of a brand-new Morphology Read Aloud collection — beginning with: The Always-Finished Suffix -ED This story brings the three sounds of -ed to life through time travel, character development, and embedded word study. 🎉 Use code COLORFUL1 for 15% off (valid through 4/26/26)! Additional Books Mentioned: Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters by John SteptoeI Am Every Good Thing by Derrick BarnesCityrella by Yvette Manns This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Yvette Manns: Website: https://www.yvettemanns.com/Instagram: @phonicsreadalouds & @the_lit_teacherFacebook: Phonics Read-AloudTikTok :@PhonicsReadAloudsEmail: info@phonicsreadalouds.com Thank you to Express Readers for supporting the production of this episode. Express Readers creates thoughtfully designed decodable texts that align with the Science of Reading and support developing readers at every stage. You can visit their website to learn more and grab a free sample to try with your students! https://expressreaders.org/Instagram: @expressreadersLinkedIn: Express ReadersFacebook: Express Readers Inc. Connect with Michelle: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Want to Support the Podcast? Make a Donation to Support Production Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Logos Literacy AcademyCourse 1: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every EducatorCourse 2 & Curriculum: K-2 MorphologyMonthly Coaching Calls: a href="https://logosliteracyacademy.thrivecart.com/logos-live/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 18m
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Literacy in Color is the go-to podcast for elementary teachers, literacy coaches, and reading interventionists who are passionate about bringing the Science of Reading to life in vibrant, engaging, and effective ways. Hosted by Michelle Sullivan — a seasoned literacy expert & Science of Reading advocate - with over a decade of experience as a reading interventionist & literacy coach — this show is designed to help you captivate your learners, boost reading fluency, and foster a deep understanding of language. Each week, you’ll discover practical tips, proven strategies, and creative ideas to make your literacy instruction colorful and impactful. From phonics and morphology to vocabulary building and comprehension techniques, we’ll explore the full spectrum of evidence-based practices that support all learners on their journey to becoming confident readers. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting out, “Literacy in Color” will empower you with the tools, inspiration, and know-how to make literacy instruction not just effective, but truly unforgettable. Are you ready to teach colorfully? Hit subscribe and join us each week for a splash of fun, insight, and colorful learning. Connect with me on Instagram @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom for more tips, resources, and community!

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