Podcasts about Literacy

Managing Director of Innovation DuPage, Dan Facchini, joins Jon Hansen on Your Money Matters to discuss how their programs are helping businesses and organizations grow. They are joined by Scott Hubbard of Hubbard Communications, who discusses how they are helping leaders communicate ideas, build confidence, and focus on emerging leader development through hands-on, behavior-based coaching. For more […]

What happens when a love of books becomes a mission to help an entire community? Samantha Heil shares how Book Fair at Bel Air is creating opportunities for readers and authors to connect, belong, and grow.In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, the career educator, literacy expert, and author explains how a conversation at Panera Bread inspired a literary event that welcomed more than 2,400 attendees in 2026. Now, she is building year-round programming that reaches beyond the fair.Samantha discusses affordable workshops, community-led book clubs, outreach to assisted living residents, and plans to help children who cannot easily access books. She also shares opportunities to support emerging authors and previews the 2027 Book Fair at Bel Air, including announced headliner Christina Lauren.You'll hear:Why Samantha believes reading can strengthen empathy and connection.Her perspective on audiobooks and welcoming every kind of reader.How BFBA Makes, Reads, After Dark, and Cares expand the mission.Ways businesses can help authors participate through table sponsorships.Her long-term vision for a literacy center in Harford County, Maryland.Explore events, support opportunities, and updates at Book Fair at Bel Air.Thank you to our sponsoring partner, Freedom Federal Credit Union, for supporting this conversation.Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a reader, educator, author, or community leader. Join the conversation at Conversations with Rich Bennett.Send us Fan MailCommunity Wellness Day - Sloan Bella Collective Healing Arts and Music FestivalEvents – Lovli LifeFreedom Federal Credit UnionHELPING YOU REACH YOUR FINANCIAL DREAMSDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTokSponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCastSubscribe by Email

Edwin Cheung went over budget while planning his wedding, so he went on TikTok to offer sponsorship opportunities at his wedding ceremony and reception. Jon Hansen chats with Edwin about how his video has gotten traction and whether companies have reached out to him.

Craig Bolanos, Co-founder and Wealth Advisor at VestGen Wealth Partners, joins Jon Hansen on Your Money Matters to discuss the latest market numbers. Craig breaks down why September is not a good month for the markets. For more information, go to GetRetiredStayRetired.com.

In Part 2 of our "Leading Adolescent Literacy" mini-series, literacy leaps across content areas. With content literacy, content area teachers (our content experts) employ the science of reading instructional routines to teach their curriculum. Marietta City Schools' Director of Structured Literacy Mary Hannah Gaddis returns to the podcast to unpack content literacy strategies that support students from class to class. When no teacher opts out of strengthening literacy, content literacy offers consistency, becoming a valuable ally and reliable vehicle through which students gain all knowledge. 

In this episode, Hsien talks with Dr. Mary Ellen Macdonald, a social scientist and palliative care researcher working in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Hsien and Mary Ellen discuss the importance of grief literacy, death literacy, and person-centered care in palliative medicine. We also chat about grief at work, and how timing played an important role in community expressions of grief in Nova Scotia. Read more about Mary Ellens work here: https://medicine.dal.ca/departments/department-sites/medicine/divisions/palliative-medicine/our-people/faculty/maryellen-macdonald.html    Visit our website to learn more about our work, check out the book and workbook, view our resources and to join our newsletter: https://www.waitingroomrevolution.com/  Our theme song is Maypole by Ketsa and is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0

Sean O'Kane, Senior Reporter for Transportation at TechCrunch, joins Jon Hansen to discuss the latest stories in tech. Sean and Jon discuss today’s meeting with tech leaders at the White House and the next steps for AI and data centers.

67% of people fear they'll run out of money in their lifetime. Tim Stearns, owner and president of TJ Stearns Financial Planning & Benefits, joins Jon Hansen to recap the financial education event he facilitated with WGN Radio's David Hochberg.  Plus, Jon and Tim discuss concerns about Social Security running out of money and why retiring […]

On this Salcedo Storm Podcast:Chris & Sean talk about the press wars raging on, fake-Republicans and a tearful goodbye to an MLB legend!

Gary Pattengale, Advanced Planning Specialist and Wealth Advisor at Mesirow, joins Jon Hansen on Your Money Matters to talk about required minimum distributions for taxes. Plus, Roth conversion opportunities and deadlines you should have to avoid penalties. For more information, visit www.mesirow.com or call 877 Mesirow.

When was the last time you read a book? Literacy rates have plummeted across the developed world since the advent of the smartphone and the consequences for society are chilling, says James Marriott. But why does it matter that fewer of us are reading books? And what happens if we all just stop?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: James Marriott, columnist, The Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Jennifer Kennedy.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: The death of reading puts the world in a perilous placeFurther listening: Inside the British town contaminated by forever chemicalsClips: ABC, DW News, Good Morning America, TMZ, Tucker Carlson Network.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Presented by Bobbie Burnham, Assistant Commissioner, Office of Teaching and Learning, Minnesota Department of Education; Dr. Claudia Ladd, Literacy and Early Childhood Division Administrator, CLSD Language and Literacy Director, and Education Innovation Research Grant Director, Wyoming Department of Education; and Maya Valencia Goodall, Chief Impact Officer, CORE LearningThis edWeb podcast is sponsored by CORE Learning.The webinar recording can be accessed here.This third edWeb podcast of Structured Language & Literacy Week for Leaders gives district and state leaders a clear look at how literacy legislation becomes literacy practice. The panelists share how state leadership interprets policy and the decisions that shape how it moves forward across districts.Key topics covered include:From Legislation to Action: How state leaders interpret literacy policy and translate it into practiceLessons Learned: Course corrections made along the way, and what they would do differentlyConstraints and Directives: What state leaders wish districts understood about the pressures they navigateBuilding Coherence: How shared understanding between state and district leaders supports smoother implementationAccelerating Progress: What has worked well enough that other states could learn from it directly, rather than starting from the beginningBy the conclusion of the session, listeners are able to:Understand how legislation moves from policy into practice at the state levelIdentify constraints and directives that shape state-level decision makingApply lessons learned from other states to accelerate their own progressListeners walk away with a clearer picture of the state-level view, along with practical insight they can use to build coherence and accelerate their own progress. This edWeb podcast is of interest to K-12 state leaders, district leaders, and policymakers.This edWeb podcast is part of Structured Language & Literacy Week for Leaders.Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.

This podcast will focus on a paediatric approach to advocacy and assessment pertaining to literacy in school-aged children. After listening to this episode, listeners will be able to (1) define literacy and identify why screening for early childhood literacy is important, (2) identify ways pediatric care providers can screen for literacy, and (3) describe ways in which pediatricians can advocate for literacy development in children. This podcast was created by Doris Goubran, a 3rd year medical student from the University of Manitoba, in collaboration with Dr. Kawamura and Dr. Orsino, Developmental Pediatricians from Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, as well as Dr. Mitchell, a General Pediatrician at the Stollery Children's Hospital. There are no conflicts of interest to disclose by the authors.

Presented by Laura Mendes, M.Ed., Director of Literacy, Springfield Public Schools (MA); Gabi Bell Jiménez, Ph.D., Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Milwaukee Public Schools (WI); and Maya Valencia Goodall, Chief Impact Officer, CORE LearningThis edWeb podcast is sponsored by CORE Learning.The webinar recording can be accessed here.This second edWeb podcast of Structured Language & Literacy Week for Leaders gives district leaders a practical, real-world look at how to move a literacy system from where it stands today toward a clear, shared vision. The panelists have done exactly that and walk through the concrete steps behind their districts' progress.Key topics covered include:Assessing the Starting Point: How to take an honest look at where a district's literacy system currently standsSetting a North Star: How to define a clear, shared vision for systemwide literacy impactPractical Implementation Steps: The concrete actions districts take to move from vision toward realityMeasuring Progress: The data and markers districts use to know they are moving in the right directionLessons Learned: The course corrections districts have made along the way, and what they would do differentlyBy the conclusion of the session, listeners are able to:Apply a framework for assessing their own district's current literacy starting pointDraft or refine a North Star vision for systemwide literacy impactIdentify practical, sequenced steps for moving their own district forwardSelect meaningful data points to track progress along the wayListeners walk away with a roadmap, not just a vision, that they can begin applying in their own district right away. This edWeb podcast is of interest to K-12 district leaders, instructional leaders, and school administrators.This edWeb podcast is part of Structured Language & Literacy Week for Leaders.Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.

In this powerful episode of LoveTalk Network, Coach kerri and Cathy talk with two women who are passionate about helping kids succeed through reading. First, Amy Wilke, Executive Director of Education Connection, shares how her organization partners with churches and volunteers across 19 Central Texas school districts to provide one-on-one literacy support. Discover why third grade is the critical turning point (“learning to read” vs. “reading to learn”), the heartbreaking statistic that 1 in 6 children who aren’t reading by third grade never graduate high school, and how just 30 minutes a week can make a lasting difference. Then, award-winning children’s author Lisa Pritchard joins the conversation. Creator of the Dirt Dog and Friends series including Tiny Tot Tiger Says Happy Birthday America, Lisa shares how God redirected her from writing devotionals into creating beautiful children’s books that teach Biblical values, kindness, and character with fun, engaging stories. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, retiree, or someone looking for a meaningful way to serve, this episode will inspire you to invest in the next generation through the simple power of reading. Learn more / Get involved: • Education Connection www.education-connection.org • Lisa’s books www.dirtdogandfriends.com (also on Amazon)

When your phonics screening check results make your stomach drop, what do you actually do next? In this return episode of the Structured Literacy Podcast, Jocelyn treats the check like a blood pressure reading: it tells you whether to look closer, and the score sheets tell you where. She explains how to tell students who know the code but stumbled on the format (special hint: alien names) from those with real gaps, and why accent is never an error. She also covers why whole-class phonics and rigid pacing guides may be quietly holding students back. You'll leave with a practical, step-by-step plan for the weeks after the check, and a reminder that the data is feedback, not a verdict on you as a teacher.Has something in this episode resonated with you? Get in touch! Get ready for 2027! Explore our expert-led professional learning and development options in literacy strategy and explicit teaching. Visit our website to discover programs tailored for your school, from 12-month partnerships and action-focused teach-along courses to leader programs that promote real classroom impact. Partner with us to empower your team and make lasting changes that connect to everyday teaching.Boost your students' success. Visit jocelyncemaeducation.com Quick LinksJocelyn Seamer Education HomepageThe Resource RoomYoutube channelFacebook Page#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics

Liz Glazer! Comedian! Friend! Delight! More! Liz is the best. When there's a milestone to celebrate, she's here. This is one of those times. We have a delightful conversation, like we always do. Stop reading about it and start listening to it! (Or read as much as you want. Literacy is important.) She's great, you're great, this conversation is great, enjoy!

Barry Ritholtz Chairman & CIO Ritholtz Wealth Management and author of How Not to Invest, joins Jon Hansen to talk about his new book and share tips to help you save money.

Anna Dixon, Chicago-based illustrator and live pet portrait artist, joins Jon Hansen to talk about her appearance at the Cubs game today to draw portraits for fans, how she got started as an illustrator and more! For more information visit annadixonart.com/contactanna/.

Rick Desecki, Beautification Liaison, Village of Schiller Park, joins Jon Hansen to talk about what he is doing to beautify the great town of Schiller Park.

Dr Megan J. Hall joins Talking Tudors to explore women's literacy and education in medieval England, tracing how reading and writing shifted from church-centred training to household and aristocratic learning between 1100–1300 and beyond. They discuss educational settings and curricula for girls and boys, the role of saints and literary models, and how modern research reshapes our assumptions about women's intellectual contributions. CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR, SIMPLY TUDOR TOURS! https://simplytudortours.com/ SUPPORT TALKING TUDORS ON PATREON! https://talkingtudors.podbean.com/ JOIN 365 DAYS IN ELIZABETHAN ENGLAND https://www.nataliegrueninger.com/2026/05/17/365-days-in-elizabethan-england/ VISIT DR MEGAN J. HALL'S OFFICIAL WEBSITE https://www.meganjhall.com/ COULD MEDIEVAL WOMEN READ? https://sites.nd.edu/manuscript-studies/2021/04/14/could-medieval-women-read/ Learn more about your Natalie Grueninger: https://www.nataliegrueninger.com  

Presented by Marisa Ramirez Stukey, Ph.D., Chief Academic Officer, The Reading League; Danielle (Nell) Thompson, Ph.D., Founder and CEO, The Transformative Reading Teacher Group and The Big Sky Literacy Summit; and Dale Webster, Ph.D., President, CORE LearningThis edWeb podcast is sponsored by CORE Learning.The webinar recording can be accessed here.This first edWeb podcast of Structured Language & Literacy Week for Leaders gives district and school leaders a balcony view of how literacy professional learning is being built and sustained across the country. The panelists work directly with districts nationwide, giving them a rare vantage point on what is working and where systems are still catching up.Key topics covered include:Teacher Knowledge in Practice: How strong professional learning builds and sustains deep content knowledge for teachers of reading and writingCoaching and Implementation: What effective, ongoing coaching looks like once initial training endsLeadership Development: Why training school and district leaders is just as critical as training teachersBy the conclusion of the session, listeners are able to:Identify patterns in how districts nationally are building literacy professional learning systems, not just one-time trainingsConnect teacher knowledge, coaching, and instructional materials into one coherent systemApply a broader, national perspective to their own professional learning planningListeners walk away with a wider view of what strong literacy professional learning looks like across the country, along with ideas they can bring directly into their own systems. This edWeb podcast is of interest to K-12 school leaders, district leaders, and professional learning coordinators.This edWeb podcast is part of Structured Language & Literacy Week for Leaders.Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.

For the last twenty or so years, educators, parents, and researchers have lamented what they believe is a decline in reading for pleasure among adults. The concern is that the increase in daily screen time, including time with TVs, computers, and smartphones, would cut away at the practice of reading. A new study published in iScience found that leisure reading, also known as reading for pleasure or fun, had declined by forty percent from 2003 to 2023. More specifically, the percentage of people who daily read for pleasure dropped from twenty-eight percent, to sixteen percent. We can assume that adults who are not readers will mostly raise kids who aren't readers. We applaud the growing movement to get our kids reading more, which requires that we adults be reading more as well. Reading improves literacy skills and prevents cognitive decline. For the Christian, reading the Bible, both alone and together, feeds our spiritual growth. Is your family reading?

Dennis Rodkin, residential real estate reporter for Crain's, joins Jon Hansen on Your Money Matters to talk about his article on how other Midwestern cities are building the supply of new homes. Why is there a gap in the supply of affordable housing in the city? Dennis and Jon discuss what changes could supplement current efforts and why previous […]

Caren Gertner, President & Managing Partner at the Law Office of Gertner & Gertner, joins Jon Hansen on Your Money Matters. Caren talks about appealing your property taxes, how and when to file an assessment appeal, and she answers listener questions! For more information, visit gertnerandgertnerltd.com or call 312-782-9222.

IRS Tax Attorney Steven A. Leahy of the Law Office of Steven A. Leahy, PC with Opem Tax Advocates, joins Jon Hansen on Your Money Matters. The two discuss important upcoming deadlines, contract work, and more! For more information, visit fightbacknow.com.

Segment 1: Frank Wasilewski, CEO of Access joins the show joins the show to discuss aging at home. From elevators and lifts to home accessibility, Frank discusses changes that can prevent injuries and help people live more comfortably as they age. Segment 2: Tammy Bilek, owner of Honoring Aging and a Certified Senior Move Manager, joins […]

Attorney John Heggie of Heggie Law Firm speaks about the importance of having an estate plan. If you don't have a plan for what's yours, the government will decide for you. John explains why planning around your goals will help prevent headaches for you and your family. To find more information about how Attorney Heggie can help you, […]

Tonya Urkoski, Sales Manager at Villa St. Benedict, joins Your Money Matters to talk about senior living. Tonya talks about the communities they have, the amenities they offer, and how far in advance you should start looking into senior living. For more information, visit www.benedictineliving.org or call (630) 895-7872.

Mark Hamrick, Chief Economic Analyst for The Hamrick Brief, joins Jon Hansen to discuss how average hourly earnings rose 3.1 percent while consumer prices rose 3.4 percent. What does this mean for the economy? Jon and Mark break it all down. Stay updated with Mark by visiting thehamrickbrief.substack.com.

Tammy Bilek, owner of Honoring Aging and a Certified Senior Move Manager, joins Jon Hansen to talk about downsizing. Tammy and Jon talk about letting go of items, keeping what brings you joy, and showcasing treasures that you love. Honoring Aging will help you relocate or age in place and release what you don't need.

Frank Wasilewski, CEO of Access, joins Your Money Matters to discuss aging at home. From elevators and lifts to home accessibility, Frank discusses changes that can prevent injuries and help people live more comfortably as they age. To learn more about what Access can do for you, go to allaboutaccess.com or call 630-616-6249.

Show Notes: slpnow.com/270What does literacy-based therapy actually look like in a real session? In this episode, I walk through Dr. Ukrainetz's five-step framework and share how I use it across about a month of therapy. We cover Pre-Story Knowledge Activation, Shared Reading, Post-Story Comprehension, Focused Skill Activities, and the Parallel Story. I also share a real example from my work with sixth graders and explain why background knowledge can make or break comprehension. If you want a simple, practical way to plan mixed groups, this framework can help you work smarter, not harder.Sign up for a free trial of SLP Now at slpnow.com/pod!

Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems that shape the future of education, focusing on Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and the latest Educational Technology Trends. In this episode, Dr. Carrie Stubbs discusses the critical importance of early childhood education, the impact of AI on learning, and how educators can leverage technology to support student development from the earliest years. She emphasizes the need for intentionality in tech use and shares practical insights for teachers and coaches. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards." Strategic Vision for Digital Learning:Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.Curriculum Design and Implementation:Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.Effective Instructional Coaching:Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage. Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! In This Episode … The importance of the first five years in brain developmentImpact of screen time on young childrenAI's role in personalized learning and literacyThe concept of the 'baton pass' in education transitionsStrategies for supporting foundational skills in early learnersThe role of instructional coaches in AI integrationPersonal branding for educators and teachersResources for understanding AI in education Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Episode and Guest02:17 The Shift in Early Childhood Needs: The “Wild West”04:05 Foundational Skills and the Impact of Screen Time06:54 Common Misconceptions About Early Childhood Development08:52 The “Baton Pass” in Early Education Transitions11:11 Resources and Support for Early Childhood Education12:22 AI's Role in Education and Future Opportunities15:14 Using AI for Literacy and Research Skills19:45 Supporting Literacy Development with AI21:10 The Future of Student Skills in an AI World22:33 The Role of Instructional Coaches in AI Integration26:47 Personal Branding and Educator Creative Outlets30:12 Closing Remarks and Where to Find More Information About our Guest: Dr. Kari Stubbs Dr. Kari Stubbs is a PhD educator and edtech executive who has spent her career at the intersection of technology, learning, and child development. A former ISTE board member, she has worked alongside school districts across the country helping them think carefully about where and how technology serves students best. In her current work she sits with early childhood directors who describe a kindergarten readiness crisis unlike anything they have seen before. Children arriving without the foundational skills that make learning possible. She believes the edtech conversation is asking the right questions about technology after children arrive in school buildings. Her work asks what happened in the five years before they got there. The First Five: Before Screens is her free weekly newsletter and forthcoming book built around brain based parenting strategies for the first five years of a child's life. It sits at the intersection of neuroscience, intentional parenting, and the urgent question of how we raise children who are genuinely ready to learn, connect, and thrive in a world shaped by AI. She spent fourteen years at BrainPOP, whose mission to ignite curiosity about the world within and around young learners deeply informed her thinking about how digital tools can support rather than replace the human interactions that build developing brains. Links of Interest Website:https://substack.com/@drkaristubbs Let's Work Together Contact Me Today:https://www.teachercast.net/contact Follow on Social Media LinkedIn:https://www.teachercast.net/linkedinTwitter/X:https://www.teachercast.net/twitterBlueSky:https://bsky.app/profile/jeffreybradbury.bsky.socialYouTube:http://teachercast.net/youtube Subscribe to This Podcast Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-learning-today/id546631310Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/0n6S0WcyzQ1rpKWJ8iZPLJ?si=a1227a7c5e0b48e4 Check Out Additional TeacherCast Programming Digital Learning Today:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-learning-today/id546631310Ask the Tech Coach:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-the-tech-coach/id1067586243The Jeff Bradbury Showhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828 Book Jeff for your Next Event Jeff Bradbury (ISTE “20 to Watch” Award Winner and ISTE Certified Educator) is available for keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and live event broadcasting. With expertise in educational technology and professional development, Jeff brings engaging content and practical strategies to conferences and professional learning events. Visit Jeff's Website:https://jeffreybradbury.comContact Jeff Directly:https://jeffreybradbury.com/contact/ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ [gravityform id="2" title="true"]

Are we living in the new Dark Ages? Despite vast technological advances, our societies are increasingly looking like those that preceded the advent of literacy. So argues journalist James Marriott, who sees in our abandonment of reading a threat to democracy and a reversal of many of the Enlightenment's gains. He and EconTalk's Russ Roberts trace literacy from its fragile first days in ancient Mesopotamia through to the printing press and the "Reading Revolution" of the mid-to-late 18th century, exploring how--and whether--its spread shaped major historical events. They analyze Marriott's claim that reading grounds politics in rationality, consider the role of the Republic of Letters in driving Europe's Industrial Revolution, and debate whether a book or a movie is better at conveying complexity. Marriott ends with a consolation: Just as fast food gave rise to the gym, informational junk food may give rise to reading as an intentional discipline.

This week on the Business of Good, presented by BCU: CASA of McHenry County. CASA stands for court-appointed special advocate. This organization is bringing hope to children who have experienced abuse and neglect and advocates for their safety, well-being, and future success. To learn more about how BCU can help you with your banking, visit www.bcu.org.

It’s not too early to talk about tax season. Gary Pattengale, Advanced Planning Specialist and Wealth Advisor at Mesirow, joins Jon Hansen on Your Money Matters to talk about tax loss harvesting and offsetting realized gains. Gary shares tips and reminders to help you be as prepared as possible for tax season. For more information, […]

Merrrrrrrrrry Happy! It’s Christmastime, y’all! At least it is as far as COMMERCE is concerned and we’re got a new Berenstain Bears book! It’s “The Berenstain Bears’ 12 Days of Christmas” and it’s a little bit religious, a little bit secular, and a whole lot I-don’t-think-a-mayor-is-allowed-to-do-that. It’s a bunch of fun!

Literacy development doesn't end when students learn to read, and supporting adolescent readers requires attention not only to skills, but also to identity, confidence, and dignity. In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, Andrew Easton welcomes Dr. Naomi Watkins, Secondary English Language Arts Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education, for a conversation about what adolescent literacy truly requires. Drawing from her experiences as a middle school English teacher, literacy researcher, instructional coach, and statewide leader, Naomi explores why literacy development must continue well beyond the elementary years. She unpacks the differences among foundational literacy, content-area literacy, and disciplinary literacy, while illustrating how students need different kinds of support as texts, expectations, and learning contexts become more complex. The conversation also examines the deeply human side of literacy. For adolescents who have struggled with reading for years, those experiences can shape how they see themselves as learners. Naomi discusses the importance of preserving student dignity, building confidence through meaningful skill development, and providing intervention that is targeted, effective, and designed to help students move forward. Andrew and Naomi also consider the systems that make this work possible from strong Tier 1 instruction and specialized intervention to helping educators across content areas recognize the role language plays in learning. Ultimately, the conversation points to literacy as more than an academic skill. Reading, writing, speaking, listening, and story help young people make sense of themselves, others, and the world around them.

The Grow Clinton Podcast returns with Episode 266, featuring Tammy McClimon of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in Clinton County, Iowa. Tammy joins us to share program updates, discuss the local impact of this remarkable literacy initiative, and reflect on the enduring importance of the vision Dolly Parton began in 1995.For three decades, Dolly Parton's Imagination Library has helped put books directly into the hands of young children, creating meaningful opportunities for families to read, learn, and grow together from the earliest years.A Legacy That Begins With BooksDolly Parton's Imagination Library is a book-gifting program that mails free, high-quality, age-appropriate books to enrolled children from birth through age five, regardless of family income. What began in Dolly Parton's hometown of Sevier County, Tennessee, has grown into an international effort supporting children and families across the United States and several other countries.The program is built on a simple but powerful idea: early access to books can foster a lifelong relationship with reading. Each monthly delivery gives children something of their own, creates opportunities for parents and caregivers to read aloud, and helps make literacy part of everyday family life.Since its founding in 1995, the Imagination Library has reached extraordinary milestones. The organization launched a national replication effort in 2000, delivered its 200 millionth book in 2023, and celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2025. In 2024, one in seven children under age five in the United States received an Imagination Library book each month.Tammy McClimon Shares Clinton County UpdatesIn Episode 266, Tammy McClimon updates listeners on Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in Clinton County and discusses what the program means for local children, parents, caregivers, educators, and the broader community.Her conversation with Grow Clinton highlights the value of investing early in children's development. Access to books supports more than reading readiness—it encourages parent-child connection, sparks imagination, and gives families practical tools to make learning part of daily life.Literacy Is Community DevelopmentEconomic and community development starts with people, and supporting young children and families is among the most meaningful long-term investments a region can make.A child who grows up surrounded by books has more opportunities to develop language, curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning. Families benefit from shared reading routines. Schools and early-childhood providers benefit when children arrive more prepared to engage with learning. Over time, these investments help strengthen the workforce, quality of life, and sense of opportunity that define a thriving community.Dolly Parton's Imagination Library demonstrates how a program with a deeply personal origin can become a powerful community asset. Its success depends on local champions, volunteers, funders, caregivers, and organizations that recognize the value of helping every child get a strong start.Thank You, Imagination Library!Grow Clinton extends its sincere appreciation to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library and to the local leaders, partners, and supporters who make the Clinton County program possible.Catch all of the Grow Clinton Podcast episodes, available wherever you listen to podcasts.- Apple Music- Spotify- Amazon Music- Buzzsprout- Overcast- YouTubeFor more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast.Have an idea for a show topic or guest? Email podcast@growclinton.com.    Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

Where do teachers learn to maximize the value of planning periods in their schedules? Teacher and productivity coach, Carla Erskin, reports that "Planning periods have long been treated as empty space on the master schedule, resulting in a missed opportunity to recognize the effective use of that time as professional practice and to help teachers develop the knowledge and skills it requires." What are some first steps coaches and leaders might take? Read Carla's article, "Are Schools Squandering Teacher Planning Periods" here.  Visit Carla's website, Sustainable Teaching Solutions here. Subscribe to the Steve Barkley Ponders Out Loud podcast on iTunes or visit BarkleyPD.com to find new episodes!  

What if reading could do more than build literacy skills? What if books could help us regulate stress, strengthen empathy, foster connection, and support our overall well-being? In this episode of Restorative Works!, host Dr. Claire de Mézerville López speaks with literacy and teacher educator Stephanie Affinito about the connection between literacy, wellness, relationships, and restorative practices  Stephanie invites us to explore what happens when educators expand their understanding of literacy beyond academic skills. She discusses how books and stories can help children and adults explore identity, develop empathy, and see experiences through different perspectives. When educators make reading social and invite students to share their reading lives, books can become a pathway to stronger relationships and a greater sense of community.  The conversation also considers how this approach can support teacher wellness, particularly at a time when educators face significant stress and burnout. Rather than treating reading as another obligation, they discuss the importance of rediscovering reading as a source of pleasure, wellness, inspiration, and connection.  Stephanie is a book-loving, notebook-hoarding literacy educator on a mission to change lives one book and one notebook at a time. She podcasts weekly on books and reading, writing, notebooks, and everything in between on Restorative Reading & Writing for Wellness. She also chats with a new children's literature author every week on her KidLit Love podcast.  Tune in to discover how reading can become part of a restorative practices culture in schools and communities, not just something we teach, but something we live. 

Tammy Bilek, owner of Honoring Aging and a Certified Senior Move Manager, joins Jon Hansen to talk about downsizing. Tammy explains how Honoring Aging will provide personalized support throughout the relocation process, and they discuss the emotional side of getting rid of your items. Whether your goal is to age in place or to relocate, […]

Ted Rossman, Principal Consumer Finance Analyst at Money Management International, joins Jon Hansen to talk about how to get out of credit card debt. Ted shares how companies lure you into getting a credit card with a low interest rate and later switch to a high fee. Jon and Ted talk about balance transfers, medical debt, […]

Rae Kaplan, student loan attorney at Kaplan Law Firm, joins Jon Hansen to talk about how she’s starting to see more student loans forgiven. Plus FAFSA updates and why everyone should fill out their FAFSA. For more information on how Rae can help you with your loans, visit www.financialrelief.com or call 312-294-8989.

Support #Millennial!⁠⁠⁠ Visit Patreon.com/millennial to get exclusive bonus episodes, live stream access, and more! Visit our merch store: ⁠⁠https://shop.millennialshow.com⁠⁠ Follow the show in your favorite podcast app and leave us a review! This week we're doing a little housekeeping and a deep dive into our inbox for your feedback! First, we're in the Dumpster Fire Corner fact-checking whether food recalls are actually getting worse (spoiler: sort of, and it's messier than it looks), the US looking to import previously-rejected beef, a legal loophole being used against wild horses, and why the internet is losing it over Beyoncé sampling Selena. Then we spend time sharing listener responses to our recent episodes on the literacy crisis, America's 250th birthday, Looksmaxxing, and more. We're also rounding up notes from past episodes, including perfect attendance flashbacks, brutal middle school grading standards, an Andor love letter that might make you start the show immediately, and a "stooping it" porch culture recommendation that sounds like the best kind of third space. As always, we've got our weekly recs (Laura's got a book pick with Verity by Colleen Hoover, Pam's recommending The Very Definition of Love by Sophia Benoit), and After Dark is waiting for Patrons and Apple Podcast subscribers with a fun continuation of our friendship deep-dive series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Show Notes: slpnow.com/269In this episode, I break down what literacy-based therapy actually is. I share how I use one text, like a picture book, article, or reading passage, to anchor a full unit of therapy. That gives students meaningful, language-rich practice instead of isolated drills.I also talk about why this approach works. We look at Dr. Ukrainetz's framework, repeated exposure, background knowledge, and one study showing stronger gains in comprehension and story retell with contextualized intervention. I also share how this helped me plan for a triple-digit caseload while still individualizing sessions.Resources mentioned:Dr. Ukrainetz's literacy-based therapy frameworkGillam, Gillam, and Reese (2012)Sign up for a free trial of SLP Now at slpnow.com/pod

Literacy is so essential to how we live, communicate, learn, build relationships, and participate in society that we rarely consider how many people in our lives and communities have not had access to it. The numbers tell a story that demands our attention and requires a solution that is embedded into our social systems. Today, 140 million American adults cannot read beyond a 5th or 6th grade level. This is a crisis and a generational barrier to parents who want their children to succeed but are unable to assist them in the journey. As Dr. Heather Jenkins, my guest on this episode of Power Station says, we have a history in this country of gatekeeping the pathway to literacy. As President and CEO of The Literacy Lab, she is building and implementing a model of learning that demonstrates what is possible when we value our educators and the children in their care. Dr. Jenkins wants to know why America's literacy emergency is not a national conversation. After learning about the efficacy of the Literacy Lab's training, teaching, professional development and advocacy you will wonder why this vital organization's work is not headline news.

Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems that shape the future of education, focusing on Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and the latest Educational Technology Trends. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury interviews Caroline Davidson from World Book about literacy, content knowledge, and innovative tools like Classmate to support teachers and students. They explore strategies for integrating literacy across content areas and supporting diverse learners. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards." Strategic Vision for Digital Learning:Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.Curriculum Design and Implementation:Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.Effective Instructional Coaching:Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage. Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! In This Episode … The process of creating an encyclopedia and updating contentThe importance of literacy as a gatekeeper to knowledgeHow to support students with varying literacy levelsThe launch and purpose of World Book's Classmate platformStrategies for integrating literacy into content areas Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest07:08 Supporting students with prior knowledge and content familiarity08:01 Understanding the difference between literacy and content knowledge09:27 The importance of practice and explicit instruction in literacy10:58 Cognitive load and prior knowledge in reading comprehension12:10 Supporting new students and diverse learners13:29 Introduction to World Book's Classmate platform14:41 How Classmate supports literacy and content knowledge15:14 Literacy as a gatekeeper to knowledge16:36 Assessing student literacy and decoding skills18:10 Supporting teachers without an ELA background19:32 Supporting literacy in non-ELA content areas21:17 Getting started with Classmate for teachers22:11 Using Classmate to enhance content and literacy23:41 Embedding literacy supports with AI tools24:15 The role of instructional coaching in literacy support25:17 Making literacy part of classroom culture26:40 Advice for teachers starting the school year28:21 Resources to learn more about World Book and Classmate28:52 Lightning round: book recommendations and classroom routines Resources Mentioned in This Episode: https://classmate.worldbook.com/ About our Guest: Caroline Davidson Caroline Davidson is the Associate Manager of Learning Design at World Book, where she shapes educational resources that support meaningful learning. A former classroom teacher, she spent years working with students in grades 4–6 and holds endorsements in Reading K–12 and Mathematics K–8. She earned her M.A. in Differentiated Instruction, bringing both hands-on teaching experience and academic expertise to her work in creating effective, learner-centered content. Meet ClassMate by World Book Meet ClassMate by World Book — the reading and learning platform built for and trusted by middle school teachers! For over 100 years, World Book has inspired curiosity and built reliable knowledge. ClassMate carries that legacy forward. Unlike AI tools built on the open web, ClassMate works exclusively within World Book's expert-written, editorially reviewed content library. Teachers create engaging classroom activities quickly and with confidence. The result: students build knowledge, strengthen literacy, and think critically, while educators spend more time teaching. Links of Interest https://classmate.worldbook.com/https://www.facebook.com/WorldBook/https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-book/https://www.instagram.com/worldbookinc/ Let's Work Together Contact Me Today:https://www.teachercast.net/contact Follow on Social Media LinkedIn:https://www.teachercast.net/linkedinTwitter/X:https://www.teachercast.net/twitterBlueSky:https://bsky.app/profile/jeffreybradbury.bsky.socialYouTube:http://teachercast.net/youtube Subscribe to This Podcast Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-learning-today/id546631310Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/0n6S0WcyzQ1rpKWJ8iZPLJ?si=a1227a7c5e0b48e4 Check Out Additional TeacherCast Programming Digital Learning Today:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-learning-today/id546631310Ask the Tech Coach:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-the-tech-coach/id1067586243The Jeff Bradbury Showhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828 Book Jeff for your Next Event Jeff Bradbury (ISTE “20 to Watch” Award Winner and ISTE Certified Educator) is available for keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and live event broadcasting. With expertise in educational technology and professional development, Jeff brings engaging content and practical strategies to conferences and professional learning events. Visit Jeff's Website:https://jeffreybradbury.comContact Jeff Directly:https://jeffreybradbury.com/contact/ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ [gravityform id="2" title="true"]

Bonus Episodes on patreon: https://patreon.com/veryreallygood HELLO! Another week, and another episode where we talk about movies, leaving your child on top of Mount Fuji, going on stage with Simple Plan, enrolling your kid at Ai school, and look at women testing their boyfriends on if they can pronounce words. Literacy is awesome. 0:00 intro 1:40 actors blowing up on set 4:20 gladiator and wicked 8:50 leaving your child on a mountain 21:00 kurtis and simple plan 28:12 jacob has shows! 32:57 Enrolling at Ai School 49:35 Testing if your bf can read Follow Me: https://instagram.com/kurtisconner/ https://twitter.com/kurtisconner https://youtube.com/user/kurtisconner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices