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The Science of Reading Formula — Education
The Science of Reading Formula

Welcome to The Science of Reading Formula, the podcast that helps you simplify reading instruction, save time, and support every student’s success—without feeling like you’re running on empty.

I’m Malia Hollowell—a National Board Certified Teacher, author, and founder of Playdough to Plato. Over the past 20 years, I’ve honed my craft, combining science-backed practices with practical solutions to meet the real challenges educators face every day.

Each episode dives into essential pillars of teaching success:

Smart strategies to meet the needs of every student without adding extra stress to your plate.

Honest conversations and tips to tackle teacher burnout and find a balance between school and home life.

Science-backed practices that actually work—saving you time and boosting student results.

Practical tips to streamline your planning and free up time for what matters most.

This is your space to find encouragement, expert insights, and actionable ideas to create a classroom (and life) that works for you. Let’s get started!

Copyright: © 2024 Playdough to Plato, LLC

Latest Episodes:

How to Pass National Board Certification the First Time Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

Earning National Board Certification can feel overwhelming—but what if you could pass on your first try? In this episode, Malia shares the exact strategies she used to do just that, along with the hard lessons she learned along the way.

In this episode, we’ll talk about:

The #1 mistake teachers make when submitting student work samples.
Why choosing “outlier” students is key to showcasing your impact.
How to stay organized (and sane) with early evidence collection.
Why standards alignment should start on day one.
How a support system can make or break your success.

Show Links

National Board Certification
Join Malia on Instagram.
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

Early Signs of Dyslexia in Preschool and Kindergarten with Lori Josephson Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

In this powerful conversation, veteran educator Lori Josephson breaks down what dyslexia really is—and how you can spot the early signs in your preschool and kindergarten students. If you’ve ever had a gut feeling that something was “off” with a student’s reading but didn’t know what to look for or how to help, this episode is your guide.

In this episode, we'll talk about:

The most common myths about dyslexia (and what to stop believing today).
Early red flags to watch for in pre-K and K students.
Why phonemic awareness—not rhyming—is the real key.
What orthographic mapping means and how it affects struggling readers.
Simple strategies you can use right now to support at-risk students.

Show Links

Lori Josephson: Website / LinkedIn / X / Facebook / Instagram / Medium
Calling All Neurons Book
Science of Reading-What I Should Have Learned in College Facebook Group
International Dyslexia Association
GAAB Early Screener
Well Screening
Ladder of Reading by Dr. Nancy Young
Join Malia on Instagram.
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

What's Better: Decodable Books or Leveled Readers? Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

For decades, schools have relied on leveled readers to teach kids how to read—but what if they’ve been setting students up to guess instead of actually read? In this episode, I’m breaking down the difference between leveled readers and decodable books, and why one approach is backed by science while the other reinforces bad reading habits.

We’ll explore what makes decodable books so powerful, how they align with phonics instruction, and when to transition students to authentic texts. If your school still pushes leveled readers, I’ll also share practical ways to advocate for change (with data to back you up!).

In this episode, I'll dive into...

Why leveled readers encourage guessing instead of decoding.
How decodable books strengthen phonics and spelling skills.
When (and how) to transition students from decodable books to authentic texts.
Actionable steps to advocate for research-based reading instruction in your school.

Show Links

Nonfiction decodable books: Penguins
Decodable books
Join Malia on Instagram
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out! Follow right here.

Season One Wrap Up May 30, 2025

Show notes

Season 1 of The Science of Reading Formula podcast was all about giving K-2 teachers practical, no-fluff strategies grounded in research. Whether it was demystifying phonics instruction, navigating structured literacy, or choosing the right decodable texts, each episode tackled real classroom struggles with clarity and compassion. From veteran teachers rethinking old routines to new educators building strong reading foundations from the start, our goal was to support you every step of the way. As we wrap up this first season, we’re celebrating your dedication—and getting ready to bring even more actionable insights in Season 2!

Show Links

Join Malia on Instagram.
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

Science of Reading Strategies for Teaching Sight Words in Kindergarten May 26, 2025

Show notes

If you’ve ever felt pressured to introduce sight words early but weren’t sure how to do it in a way that actually supports reading development, you’re not alone! In this episode, I’m breaking down when and how to introduce high-frequency words the right way—using research-backed strategies that align with the science of reading.

We’ll explore why traditional sight word memorization sets students up for guessing, how to introduce high-frequency words based on phonics skills, and a simple, brain-friendly method to help kids truly map words into memory.

In this episode, I'll dive into...

Why traditional sight word drills don’t work—and what to do instead.
The best order to introduce high-frequency words (hint: it’s NOT random!)
A simple, research-based strategy to help students actually remember sight words.

Show Links

Pack of Sound Maps
Sight Word Lists Sorted by Phonics Skill
Phonics Lessons Vol. 1 (Alphabet)
Phonics Lessons Vol. 2 (Short Vowel Centers)
Phonics Lessons Vol. 3 (Digraphs, Floss Rule & Magic E)
Phonics Lessons Vol. 4 (Beginning and Ending Blends)
Phonics Lessons Vol. 5 (Syllable types & Vowel Teams)
Phonics Lessons Vol. 6 (Diphthongs, R-Influenced Vowels, Prefixes & Suffixes)
Join Malia on Instagram
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out! Follow right here.

Effective Classroom Strategies for Supporting Students with Dysgraphia with Natasha Gray May 19, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever had a student who avoids writing, struggles to stay on the lines, or complains about hand pain when trying to get their thoughts on paper? They may be dealing with dysgraphia—a commonly misunderstood learning disability that affects written expression.

In this episode, I sit down with educational diagnostician Natasha Gray to break down what dysgraphia really is, how it differs from dyslexia, and most importantly, how teachers can provide the right support in the classroom. From assistive technology to small but powerful classroom accommodations, we’re diving deep into strategies that help students succeed.

In this episode, I'll discuss...

Key signs of dysgraphia and how to identify students who may need support.
Simple classroom accommodations to reduce frustration and build confidence.
How assistive technology can help students with writing while still developing handwriting skills.

Show Links

Follow Natasha on Instagram
Spark Learning website
Dragon Naturally Speaking
Letter School
Writing Wizard
Pencil grips
Slant board
Join Malia on Instagram
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out! Follow right here.

Teachers, Turn Your Skills Into Cash! May 12, 2025

Show notes

Let’s be real—teaching is incredibly rewarding, but it doesn’t always cover the bills. If you’ve ever thought about launching a tutoring side hustle but didn’t know where to start, this episode is for you! I’m walking you through how to set up a tutoring business that fits your life, fuels your passion, and brings in extra income—without burning you out.

Whether you're looking to make $500 a month or turn tutoring into a full-time gig, you already have what it takes. Let me show you how to turn your teaching expertise into a thriving side business.

In this episode, I'll discuss...

How to set financial goals, plan your schedule, and price your services with confidence.
Done-for-you templates to simplify contracts, progress tracking, and lesson planning.
Where to find students—including how to tap into our free tutor matchmaking network.
Easy ways to streamline sessions and set boundaries so tutoring stays fun and sustainable.

Show Links

Join the Side Hustle Challenge.
Lemon Tree Literacy on Instagram
Your Reading Tutor on Instagram
LeLab Tutoring on Instagram
Brightest Little Readers on Instagram
Join Malia on Instagram
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out! Follow right here.

Differentiation Strategies for Gifted Students in Elementary School with Melita Haines May 05, 2025

Show notes

When we think about differentiation, we often focus on supporting struggling readers—but what about the students who need more challenge? If you’ve ever had a student who finishes their work in record time or seems disengaged despite their advanced abilities, this episode is for you!

I’m joined by gifted education expert Melita Haines to break down what giftedness really looks like (hint: it’s not always the straight-A student), how to differentiate effectively without adding hours to your workload, and why acceleration and enrichment matter for these learners.

In this episode, Melita and I discuss...

The common myths about gifted students—and what’s actually true.
How to differentiate instruction in a way that challenges without overwhelming.
Practical strategies for supporting gifted readers and writers.
How to work with families to ensure gifted students get the support they need.

Show Links

Gifted Matters website
Follow Melita on Instagram
Gifted Matters on Facebook
Bloom’s Taxonomy
Hoagies' Gifted Education
The Dictionary of Difficult Words
Davidson Institute
Book Creator
Storyboard That
Common Lit
Khan Academy Kids
Evernote
Kidblog
Google Scholar
Spelling City
Penpal Schools
Join Malia on Instagram
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out! Follow right here.

Effective Tier 1, 2, and 3 Reading Interventions for Elementary Teachers Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever wondered why some students seem to pick up reading effortlessly while others struggle—even when you’re teaching the exact same lesson? It’s a lot like learning to ride a bike! Some kids take off immediately, while others need training wheels (and some need one-on-one coaching). That’s where Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 instruction come in.

In this episode, I break down what each tier of instruction actually means, how to identify which students need extra support, and what research-backed interventions are most effective at each level. Whether you're supporting struggling readers or fine-tuning your core instruction, this framework will help you meet every student’s needs with confidence.

In this episode, you'll learn...

The difference between Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 instruction (and why it matters).
How to use small group and one-on-one interventions effectively.
Practical strategies for progress monitoring and adapting instruction.

Show Links

"The Best Order to Teach Phonics" podcast episode
“The Easiest, Fastest Path to Reading Growth” podcast episode
Phonological Awareness Warm Ups
Phonics Interventions
Join Malia on Instagram
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out! Follow right here.

Common Phonics Teaching Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Apr 21, 2025

Show notes

If teaching phonics sometimes feels overwhelming, you’re not alone! With so much conflicting advice out there, it’s easy to fall into common teaching traps that actually slow down student progress. But the good news? Once you know better, you can do better—and I’m here to help!

In this episode, I’m breaking down the four biggest phonics mistakes I see teachers make and, more importantly, how to fix them. Whether it’s moving too fast, skipping phonemic awareness, or relying on outdated strategies, you’ll walk away with clear, research-backed solutions that make phonics instruction easier and more effective.

In this episode, we'll explore...

Why pacing guides shouldn’t dictate when to move on (and what to use instead).
The critical role phonemic awareness plays in phonics success.
Why leveled readers don’t work—and what to use instead.
A better way to teach high-frequency words without memorization.

Show Links

"The Best Order to Teach Phonics" podcast episode
Join Malia on Instagram
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out! Follow right here.

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