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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:

Culturally Responsive Teaching Strategies with Dr. Jarri Goodman Apr 14, 2025

Show notes

How can we create a truly inclusive, equitable classroom where every student feels seen, valued, and supported? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jarri Goodman, an educator, faculty coach, and advocate for equity in education, to explore the real barriers students of color face—and the powerful role teachers play in breaking them down.

We discuss how to move beyond surface-level representation, address implicit bias, and create culturally responsive learning environments where all students can thrive. Plus, Dr. Goodman shares his own personal experiences as a student and educator, highlighting the transformative impact that just one teacher can have.

In this episode, Dr. Goodman and I discuss...

How to incorporate diverse voices and experiences into everyday lessons.
The impact of implicit bias—and how to recognize and challenge it.
Practical ways to strengthen relationships with students and their families.

Show Links

Connect with Dr. Jarri Goodman on LinkedIn
Email Dr. Jarri Goodman for Consulting - drjarrigoodman@gmail.com
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.

Science-Backed Strategies for Struggling Readers Apr 07, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever felt like teaching reading is an uphill battle—no matter how hard you try, some students just don’t seem to get it? You’re not alone! In this episode, I break down the three essential elements that every successful reading teacher needs to master.

Using a surprising analogy from the reality show Alone, I’ll show you why the most effective teachers don’t just know what works—they take action and surround themselves with the right support. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or isolated in your reading instruction, these three simple shifts can change everything.

In this episode, I'll explain...

Why deep knowledge of the Science of Reading is the first key to success.
How to take action with research-based strategies that actually move the needle.
The power of community and why you can’t do this work alone.

Show Links

Grab the FREE Phonics Starter Kit here!
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.

The #1 Predictor of Reading Success (And How to Teach It!) Mar 31, 2025

Show notes

If you’ve ever had a student struggle to sound out words or blend sounds together, chances are they need more support with phonemic awareness. Research shows that phonemic awareness is the strongest predictor of future reading success—yet many teachers receive little formal training on how to teach it effectively.

In this episode, I break down exactly what phonemic awareness is, how it differs from phonological awareness, and why it plays a critical role in developing strong readers. You'll also learn practical, no-prep strategies you can use immediately to help students strengthen their ability to hear, isolate, blend, and manipulate sounds in words.

In this episode, we'll explore...

The six essential phonemic awareness skills every student needs.
Why phonemic awareness is different from phonics (and why both matter).
No-prep, research-based activities to develop phonemic awareness in any grade level.

Show Links

All 40 Weeks of Phonological Awareness Warm Ups for Members
Free 2 Week Sample of Phonological Awareness Warm Ups
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.

7 Surprising Jobs of Silent E (That Most Teachers Don't Know) Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever told your students that the word have is a rule breaker because the silent E doesn’t make the A say its name? I used to think that too—until I learned the real reasons silent E exists. Spoiler alert: have isn’t a rule breaker at all!

In this episode, I’m breaking down the seven jobs of silent E—why it’s not just there to make vowels long, and how understanding its purpose can transform your students’ spelling and decoding skills. Once you know these patterns, you’ll never look at silent E the same way again!

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

The 7 roles silent E plays in English spelling (hint: it’s not just about long vowels!)
Why words like give and have actually follow the rules—not break them.
A simple way to teach silent E that makes sense for students.

Show Links

Spelling Rule Posters
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.

Understanding Autism with Heather Cacioppo Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever had a student with autism in your classroom and felt unsure of how to best support them? You’re not alone! In this episode, I sit down with special education teacher Heather Cacioppo to break down simple, evidence-based strategies to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for students with autism.

We explore common misconceptions, how to recognize early signs, and what teachers can do to provide meaningful support—without overhauling their entire classroom routine. Whether it’s sensory-friendly accommodations or strategies to build social skills, you’ll walk away with practical tools to implement right away.

In this episode, we'll talk about...

The biggest myths about autism—and the truth behind them.
How to create a sensory-friendly classroom without disrupting learning.
Simple ways to support communication and social skills development.

Show Links

Full Sped Ahead blog
Follow Heather on Instagram
Full Sped Ahead Facebook group
Board Maker
Lesson Pix
Visual Timer
Squeeze Cheese
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.

Stop the Spelling Struggle! The Smarter Way to Teach Words Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever given your students a list of spelling words, drilled them all week, and still watched them struggle on Friday’s test? If so, you’re not alone! In this episode, I’m breaking down the biggest myths about spelling instruction—and sharing research-backed strategies that actually help students retain spelling patterns for the long haul.

We’ll dive into how spelling and phonics go hand in hand, why memorization doesn’t work, and how to teach spelling in a way that sticks. Plus, I’ll share simple tweaks you can make today to align spelling instruction with the research.

In this episode, we'll explore...

Why traditional spelling drills don’t work—and what to do instead.
How to integrate spelling into phonics instruction for stronger retention.
Easy, evidence-based strategies like sound mapping to make spelling stick.

Show Links

Spelling Rule Posters
Spelling Rules Cheat Sheet
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.

Snack Smarter, Teach Better with Kate Lyman Mar 03, 2025

Show notes

Ever feel like you're running on caffeine and fumes just to make it through the school day? You're not alone! In this episode, I sit down with nutrition educator and coach Kate Lyman to talk about how small, strategic nutrition shifts can boost energy, improve focus, and help prevent teacher burnout.

We break down the science behind brain fuel and simple, no-stress ways to eat better—even with a packed schedule. From high-protein breakfasts to easy grab-and-go snacks, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to stay energized without overhauling your entire routine.

In this episode, you'll learn...

The link between nutrition and teacher burnout (and how to fix it).
Quick, high protein breakfasts that actually keep you full.
Easy, no-prep snacks to keep in your classroom for all-day energy.

Show Links

Check out Kate on Instagram
The Ultimate Batch Prep Guide
Oats Overnight
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.

How to Support Early Literacy Through Speech and Language Development with Rita Shamoun Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever had a student who struggles to pronounce words clearly—or one who seems to have trouble following directions or understanding new vocabulary? You might be seeing early signs of speech and language difficulties, which can directly impact reading success.

In this episode, I sit down with pediatric speech pathologist Rita Shamoun to explore the critical connection between oral language development and literacy. We break down how speech and language delays affect phonemic awareness, reading comprehension, and spelling—and, most importantly, what teachers can do to provide effective support.

You'll learn:

The difference between speech and language difficulties—and why both matter for reading.
How to spot early signs that a student may need extra support.
Why a multidisciplinary approach is key to ensuring students don’t fall through the cracks.

Show Links
Wine With Wita Podcast
Rita Shamoun Speech Pathology Website
Follow Rita 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.

Multisensory Phonics Activities That Work Feb 17, 2025

Show notes

Teaching phonics doesn’t have to feel like reinventing the wheel! In this episode, I'm sharing my favorite multisensory strategies to engage every learner. Whether you’re a new teacher looking to make phonics fun or a veteran searching for fresh ideas, this episode will give you practical tips to elevate your instruction. Learn how multisensory techniques activate multiple parts of the brain, making learning faster, easier, and more enjoyable for kids—without adding extra work to your plate.
In this episode, we'll talk about...

Why multisensory phonics instruction works.
Simple multisensory phonics activities to try with your students (that don't require any prep!)
How to integrate multisensory learning into your day.

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! Follow right here.

What You Didn't Know About Hearing Loss and Learning with Deanna Barlow Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever had a student who was hard of hearing and felt unsure about how to meet their needs? You’re not alone! In this episode, I sit down with Deanna Barlow, an itinerant teacher of the deaf and hard of hearing, to explore practical, research-backed strategies for making literacy instruction more accessible.

We dive into how hearing loss impacts phonemic awareness, language development, and reading skills—and what you can do to ensure every student thrives. Whether it’s using assistive technology, making simple classroom adjustments, or incorporating visual supports, these strategies will benefit all learners, not just those with hearing challenges.

In this episode, we'll talk about...

The connection between hearing loss and phonemic awareness.
Easy classroom modifications to support students with hearing loss.
How to use assistive technology like FM systems to improve access.

Show Links
Join Deanna on Instagram
Listening Fun Blog
Tod Pod
Accommodations Form
Deanna's TPT Shop
Learn Sign Language on Lingvano
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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