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 steps.Chat about this episode in The Science of Reading Collective.Explore the Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite.Access past show notes.Read the transcripts.
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54:33
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54:33
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, humor, and inspiration of Big Sky.Chat about this episode in The Science of Reading Collective.Explore the Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite.Access past show notes.Read the transcripts.
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53:10
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53:10
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 of how language supports reading success.Chat about this episode in The Science of Reading Collective.Explore the Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite.Access past show notes.Read the transcripts.
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58:46
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58:46
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 to hear.Together, they explore how early identification, systemic support, and a deeper understanding of risk and resilience can transform outcomes for students with dyslexia. They also confront the hidden costs of untreated reading difficulties—including long-term impacts on mental and physical health—and discuss how schools can be either a powerful protective factor or a source of chronic stress.This episode is a compelling call to action—and a hopeful reminder of the difference we can make when we truly see and support every learner.Chat about this episode in The Science of Reading Collective.Explore the Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite.Access past show notes.Read the transcripts.
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59:29
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59:29
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.Chat about this episode in The Science of Reading Collective.Explore the Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite.Access past show notes.Read the transcripts.
Welcome to Literacy Talks, a podcast from Reading Horizons, where reading momentum begins. Each episode features our trio of literacy champions: Stacy Hurst, an assistant professor of reading at Southern Utah University and Chief Academic Advisor at Reading Horizons; Donell Pons, a dyslexia specialist, educator, presenter, and writer, who now works with adults with reading challenges; and Lindsay Kemeny, a dedicated elementary teacher who is a CERI-certified Structured Literacy Classroom Teacher and author of 7 Mighty Moves. Each episode is a conversation among friends with practical literacy strategies, powerful tips, and a real passion for teachers and students alike. Listen, laugh, and learn with Literacy Talks, brought to educators everywhere by Reading Horizons.
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