Teaching, Reading, and Learning: The Reading League Podcast

As a student growing up with a learning difference, Rupen Fofaria brings a particular empathy and vulnerability to his writing. He offers a storyteller’s sensibility in his reporting, and his work truly embodies the Gandhi quote he lives by: “In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” In this podcast episode we’ll dig into the power of story, Rupen’s background and influences (including his life-changing moment with Mr. Boggs), and the journey that has brought him to focus his reporting on the intersection of literacy and equity.

Audie Alumbaugh is an extraordinary advocate for the children of Arkansas, traveling the state supporting families as they navigate the education system, and working with legislators and the governor to pass important legislation over the last ten years. In this podcast episode, she’ll share her journey and her relentless pursuit of literacy for all; as she states, “society will not rest until we get this fixed.” You will leave this podcast inspired and moved.

Shawn Anthony Robinson has an amazing and inspiring story to tell. In this episode, you’ll learn about his journey from special education to learning to read, then going on to receive bachelors, masters, and doctorate degrees. You’ll also hear about the scope and impact of his work, which he describes as the intersection of race, giftedness, and dyslexia. Finally, you’ll meet “Dr. Dyslexia Dude,” his autobiographical superhero graphic novel series.

Matthews Elementary in New Madrid County, Missouri resides in one of the poorest congressional districts in the U.S. and was chronically low-achieving in the area of reading. In this episode, you’ll hear the inspiring story of two educational leaders who transformed this school and district to ensure that all children could learn to read. As principal Angie Hanlin and Superintendent Sam Duncan led this change process, they adopted the mantra: “It doesn’t matter about the past. What matters is now; no blaming, only fixing.” Angie and Sam share their journey and lessons learned, including the relentless nature of pursuing change, the power of high expectations, the importance of giving everyone a voice, and the key to owning your data. They will also discuss their respective roles as leaders and change agents, and how they are driven to never give up on what they consider their moral obligation to their students.

Jan Hasbrouck is a well-known and respected researcher, teacher, and author, with a career dedicated to serving students. In this episode, you’ll learn about her beginnings and early influences as a teacher, how her work continues to evolve, and her commitment to remaining humble, curious and collaborative. This is a delightful conversation with a very generous educator whose work has positively impacted teachers and children everywhere.

Dr. Pam Kastner is one of the most generous teachers in the field of reading, sharing her unparalleled collections of resources, hosting learning events, and serving as a literacy leader in her state of Pennsylvania and nationally. She is a true “teacher’s teacher,” believing in and providing multiple points of entry to teachers in their professional learning. In this podcast episode, Pam discusses ways to support our collective efficacy. She also unpacks the idea that sometimes behavior can persuade belief. Pam’s thoughts and words will touch a chord, as she imparts some great words of wisdom: Be kind, celebrate wins along the way, and keep all of our work anchored to kids. We are helping them become the person they are meant to be. Pam considers herself a “literacy warrior.” She is indeed.

Dr. Maryanne Wolf is one of the most recognized and respected international figures in the field of literacy. She is an author, researcher, and educator whose work has had a profound impact on our understanding of the reading brain, dyslexia, and effective reading instruction. She is a passionate advocate for teachers and children, and believes that literacy is a basic human right across every zip code. This conversation is rich with big ideas on many topics, including multiple literacies, the importance of the printed page, and the miracle of communication. Maryanne underscores and exemplifies the richness of living a literate life, and the joy of curiosity and learning.

Parker Palmer is a world-renowned author, educator, and activist who focuses on issues in education, community, leadership, and social change. This episode touches on a wide range of relevant topics, including the importance of healthy dialogue, listening well, why community is critical, and how we can cultivate relentless gratitude. Parker infuses the discussion with his abundant wisdom and humor, and makes clear his immense respect and compassion toward educators. Because of the breadth and depth of this conversation, we’ve divided it into two parts. Give yourself the gift of time, to savor the words and presence of Parker Palmer.

Like many teachers, Jessica Pasik came into the profession for deeply personal reasons and to answer a calling. Also like many teachers, her initial training did not prepare her in evidence-aligned practices. Jessica talks about her “aha” moment, how she saw results with her students, and how it changed her practice forever. From her boots-on-the-ground perspective, Jessica addresses common misconceptions around the science of reading, along with the community and culture necessary to nurture and sustain long-term change. This lively discussion will resonate with any of us who have traveled the journey to the science of reading. Jessica’s commitment and passion will inspire you, as she reinforces that as educators we always strive to learn, grow, and move forward. “These are OUR kids, we all own them, we are all responsible for instructing them.” –Jessica Pasik

Dr. Tim Shanahan’s distinguished career has led him from teaching first grade to leading groundbreaking research panels. With over 200 publications on literacy, his work emphasizes how to improve reading achievement based on the research. He is considered one of the premier literacy educators, is widely followed through his blog and on social media, and is a sought-after speaker. In this episode, Tim reflects on his legacy, his ongoing work, and what he sees as our greatest challenges in the teaching profession.

Dr. Louisa Moats is a renowned teacher, psychologist, researcher, and author. In this episode, she talks about her beginnings in the field, why there are still barriers to translating evidence to teaching practice, the essential next steps we need to take to ensure all teachers can teach all kids to read, and her greatest hopes for the teachers and children of this country.