Best Reluctant Readers Podcasts (2025)

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How to Motivate Reluctant Readers: Mystery Solved! 44:45

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6d ago44:45

44:45

Send us a text Episode 150 PROMISE: This episode gives you easy, evidence-aligned ways to make reading exciting even for kids who say they hate it. VALUE: You’ll learn how a simple gamified approach, Student Detectives, boosts motivation, stamina, and engagement without fancy tech or complicated prep. 🔍 What We Cover How “detective-style” reading t…

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How to Use Nonfiction to Engage Reluctant Readers [Ep. 64] 12:38

22d ago12:38

12:38

Nonfiction doesn’t have to be dry or something students just “get through.” In this episode, we’ll share how high-interest nonfiction can spark curiosity, build confidence, and help even the most reluctant readers see themselves as capable readers. You’ll hear why nonfiction belongs in everyday reading instruction, not just as a single unit, and ho…

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Episode 372: Your New Favorite Pre-Break Activity (That’s Secretly All About Setting) 19:32

3h ago19:32

19:32

Before break energy hits full chaos mode… we’ve got you covered. In today’s episode, we’re bringing on Pat from our curriculum team to share a pre-break activity your students will beg to do again — and yes, it’s sneakily building their understanding of setting too. Fun, meaningful, and totally classroom-ready.…

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Moving Students Beyond Surface-Level Reading [Ep 66] 14:38

3h ago14:38

14:38

In this episode I’m talking about those familiar one-line reading responses like “I liked it” or “I don’t know” and how we can help students move beyond them. Students are capable of deeper thinking, and sometimes they just need a few simple routines to help them slow down, notice more, and explain what they’re seeing in a text. We’ll explore pract…

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Missionary Monday: Visit Australia with Brettnay Brazzell 52:54

22h ago52:54

52:54

The Missionary Monday series has been the most encouraging journey throughout 2025! We have heard from women on every continent and from every stage of life. We have realized that God is at work all over the globe, and there are so many souls that need to hear the Gospel! Join me as I wrap up this series by sharing about our ministry in Parramatta,…

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Episode 371: Monday Mindset: Staying Calm Amidst the Chaos 12:03

2h ago12:03

12:03

Today, we’re talking about staying calm amidst the chaos — especially during this busy season when everything feels louder, faster, and more overwhelming than usual. In this episode, Caitlin shares quick, practical mindset shifts to help you ground yourself, protect your energy, and move through the week with more ease (yes, even when life is wild!…

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Messy Play, Big Learning | S.17 Ep.4 25:47

2h ago25:47

25:47

We connect messy play to meaningful learning, showing how everyday curiosity builds science, technology, engineering, and math skills. From cardboard ramps to kitchen experiments, discover simple ways to weave STEM at home into play without turning it into schoolwork. Support the show Send us an email: [email protected]. Find us on Facebook: @s…

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A Hymn of Hospitality 20:07

1h ago20:07

20:07

"True hospitality consists of giving the best of yourself to your guests." -Eleanor Roosevelt This episode explores a remarkable story from the late 1800s that embodies the essence of true hospitality as we learn the story behind the hymn "Little Is Much When God Is In It." This hymn reflects the profound impact of simple acts of generosity, emphas…

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Episode 370: The Gratitude Writing Activity Your Students Will Actually Love 13:56

4h ago13:56

13:56

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving can feel chaotic — high energy, low focus, zero attention span. But what if it didn’t have to be survival mode? In today’s episode, Caitlin shares a simple gratitude writing project that transforms that busy pre-break day into one of the most meaningful moments of your school year. It’s low-prep, highly engaging, a…

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Episode 369: Monday Mindset: The Hard Truth You Need to Hear 10:37

5h ago10:37

10:37

This week’s Monday Mindset episode dives into one of the hardest parts of personal growth: facing the truths we’ve been avoiding. Caitlin opens up about the “mirror moments” in her life — times when uncomfortable honesty led to deep healing, stronger leadership, and real transformation. Whether you’re a teacher navigating what’s not working in your…

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Babyproofing Basics | S.17 Ep.3 42:58

4d ago42:58

42:58

Exploration and safety for little movers take center stage as we walk room-by-room through simple, research-based ways to prevent injuries at home. From outlets and cords to water temps, gates, tip-overs, and creating safe spaces to explore, you’ll learn practical steps that protect without stifling curiosity. Support the show Send us an email: par…

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Closing Out Our 2025 Homeschool Year 31:13

3h ago31:13

31:13

Join me as I reflect on the best homeschool year yet with my kids! We've laughed, explored, and grown together through learning and adventures. In this episode, I give a glimpse into our daily schedule, favorite curriculum picks, beloved read-alouds, memory work, and more. If you're curious about joyful, family-centered education, this one's for yo…

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S3 | E18: A Certain Slant of Light x C.P. Du Toit 16:08

40m ago16:08

16:08

This episode spotlights the Isekai style fantasy, A Certain Slant of Light by C.P. Du Toit. The author shared a glimpse into book one of this forthcoming trilogy with tips for setting the reading mood for entering another world and even reenacted a scene from the newly crowned queens chambers. Connect with C.P. Du Toit: Instagram Connect with Books…

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Episode 368: Still Using This Simple Idea from 2015 in Your Writing Lessons? 14:14

6h ago14:14

14:14

If your students seem “allergic” to writing — or if teaching writing feels like it’s eating your entire prep time — today's Teaching Middle School ELA episode will completely shift how you see the problem. Caitlin breaks down the simple structure-behind-choice system that skyrockets engagement, eliminates chaos, and actually saves you time. If you’…

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How Nonfiction Pairings Build Understanding and Reading Success [Ep 65] 13:36

7d ago13:36

13:36

Looking for new ways to make reading more meaningful? In this episode, we’ll explore how pairing fiction and nonfiction can benefit all readers, helping every student, from those who need a little more support to those ready for deeper analysis, make stronger connections and think more critically. Together, these texts can deepen comprehension, bui…

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Background Knowledge: Fact vs Fiction What Every Teacher Needs to Know 1:20:57

14h ago1:20:57

1:20:57

Send us a text Episode 149 🎧 What This Breaking News Episode Delivers Dr. Timothy Shanahan joins us to bring absolute clarity to one of the most misunderstood topics in literacy. Educators get a clear explanation of what background knowledge truly is and what it is not. You will learn how to separate fact from fiction and understand what the resear…

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Episode 367: Monday Mindset: Burnout Isn’t a Badge of Honor 12:46

15d ago12:46

12:46

If you’ve ever felt the slow creep of burnout — the shrinking energy, the growing to-do list, the joy that quietly slips away — this episode is going to hit home. Caitlin opens up about her own “burnout wake-up call” in the classroom and the simple but powerful non-negotiables that helped her reclaim her time, energy, and purpose. Whether you’re a …

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Parenting the Newborn Stage | S.17 Ep.2 24:15

15d ago24:15

24:15

From diapers to development, we unpack what parenting in the newborn stage really looks like—routines, safety, sleep, feeding, and self-care. With research-based tips and real-life stories, you’ll learn simple ways to support healthy growth while balancing older siblings and your own wellbeing. Support the show Send us an email: [email protected]…

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Hymns for the Heart: I Must Tell Jesus 19:05

13d ago19:05

19:05

I must tell Jesus all of my trials; I cannot bear these burdens alone; In my distress He kindly will help me; He ever loves and cares for His own. God choses different paths for different people. No matter the trial, He promises to give the grace required to live out the life He has perfectly chosen for each of us. When life brings challenges or so…

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S3 | E17: Opal Watson: Private Eye x Brittany J. Thurman 28:42

14d ago28:42

28:42

This episode spotlights the middle grade detective, Opal Watson: Private Eye by Brittany J. Thurman. The author shared this podcast series to novel adaptation along with tips for setting the reading mood and even reenacted a buzzing airport scene from the book. Connect with Brittany J. Thurman: @britjanee (Instagram) | britjanee (Facebook) | @autho…

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Episode 366: How to Teach Writing With Confidence (Even If You Feel Like a Fraud) 25:18

17d ago25:18

25:18

Teaching writing doesn’t have to feel hard — it just takes one mindset shift and a clear framework. In today's Teaching Middle School ELA podcast episode, Caitlin shares how to trust yourself, your system, and your students so teaching writing feels calm, confident, and easy. Tune in and discover how to step into your power as a writing teacher!…

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The Juicy Truth About Phonics and AI: What No One in Education Wants to Admit 1:05:17

18d ago1:05:17

1:05:17

Send us a text Episode-148 In this episode, we unpack the myth, separate inspiration from evidence, and explain why phonics, though imperfect, remains the most equitable and effective foundation for teaching all children to read, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. In this episode, we unpack the myth, separate inspiration from evidence…

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Episode 365: Monday Mindset: Feeling Stuck? This Episode Will Help You See Why That’s a Good Thing. 6:45

16d ago6:45

6:45

You know that uncomfortable middle space — where you can see the vision of who you’re becoming, but you’re not quite there yet? That’s what today’s episode is all about. Caitlin opens up about her own season of “in-between,” where growth felt slow and uncertain — and how she learned to see that space not as wasted time, but as sacred ground for tra…

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Parenting by Age | S.17 Ep.1 12:05

26d ago12:05

12:05

Parenting by Age is a season of growth that walks families through the parenting journey—from newborns to emerging adults. Blending real-life stories with expert insights, this episode offers research-based guidance to help parents understand development, set realistic expectations, and enjoy each stage along the way. Support the show Send us an em…

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Stop Using RACE: The Better Writing Framework Students Actually Understand 16:16

20d ago16:16

16:16

In today’s episode, Caitlin dives into why the RACE formula falls short for essay writing—and how the EBW Approach takes students from “answering questions” to thinking like real writers. You’ll learn how to recognize when your students are ready to level up, and what simple steps to take to help them move from summary to true analysis. -----------…

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The Pursuit of Perfection 35:17

27d ago35:17

35:17

I struggle with the pursuit of perfection. This has been an area of my life where God has been growing me and changing me. I can easily put expectations and standards on myself that God does not have on me. That brings bondage and oppression when God desires for us to live in freedom. Join me as we chat through these topics of striving, motivation,…

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Episode 364: Make Writing Feel Easy Again: 3 Simple Systems That Actually Work 29:57

23d ago29:57

29:57

Today, on the Teaching Middle School ELA podcast, Caitlin breaks down exactly why writing feels overwhelming — and how the problem isn’t you, it’s the system. You’ll discover three simple, teacher-tested frameworks that will help you: ✅ Simplify writing instruction without reinventing the wheel ✅ Give faster, more meaningful feedback ✅ Bring fun (a…

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Schools Say They Can’t Test for Dyslexia… But Is That True? 1:38:15

27d ago1:38:15

1:38:15

Send us a text Episode 147 Hey No BS Besties 💜 October was Dyslexia Awareness Month and we went LIVE for a special interactive taping of The Literacy View. This conversation gets to the heart of what matters most — truth, clarity, and every child’s right to learn to read. 🧩 Evaluating for Dyslexia in the Schools Can your school psychologist evaluat…

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Missionary Monday: Visit Spain with LouAnn Keiser 46:03

1M ago46:03

46:03

Travel with me and hear about other places, cutlures, and peoples as I interview missionaries around the globe. God is at work in this world! We can have a part in that work! Retired missionary LouAnn Keiser joins us to share about the decades that her family served the Lord in Spain. Her testimony is a beautiful story of God's faithfulness, provis…

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Episode 363: Monday Mindset: What Courage Looks Like in the Classroom (Hint: It’s Not Loud) 9:09

24d ago9:09

9:09

When we think of courage, we often picture grand, dramatic moments — standing up to someone, taking a huge leap, or making a bold change. But in today’s Monday Mindset episode, we’re exploring a different kind of courage — the quiet, everyday kind that often goes unseen. Caitlin shares her own story of rebuilding confidence and identity after a lon…

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Hymns for the Heart: All the Way My Saviour Leads Me 20:12

1M ago20:12

20:12

For I know, whate'er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well. In this episode, we dive into the hymn "All the Way My Savior Leads Me" by Fanny Crosby. We learn that our God is leads us and is trustworthy. Proverbs 16:9 says that the Lord directs our steps. Whatever you are facing in your life, you can find peace in knowing that all the way, your Sav…

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Episode 362: The Mystery Basket Game That Turns Any Lesson Into a Competition 10:31

1M ago10:31

10:31

Ready to turn ordinary review time into pure excitement? In today’s episode of The Teaching Middle School ELA Podcast, we’re bringing you another hit from our Classroom Games Series: Mystery Baskets 🧺✨ This activity works with any ELA concept—grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, root words, you name it—and adds just the right amount of suspense and …

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Episode 361: How to Fix Classroom Culture Fast (Without Starting Over) 43:30

1M ago43:30

43:30

Your classroom culture starts with you. 💛 In this week’s episode, Caitlin shares three powerful mindset shifts that can completely transform how you show up—for yourself and your students. Tune in to discover how small inner changes can create big outer results. From Mark Traver's article: A Psychologist Shares The ‘90-Second Rule’ To Survive Emoti…

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The Most Controversial Conversations in Literacy Right Now 1:35:20

1M ago1:35:20

1:35:20

Send us a text 🔥 Episode 146 ConCon™ Controversial Conversations in Literacy™ Unfiltered. Unapologetic. Unmissable. Unafraid. Real teachers take on the hottest literacy debates from the Science of Reading and phonics to comprehension, instruction, and teacher PD. Authentic talk that bridges research and real classrooms. 🎙️ Watch and listen to The L…

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Healthy Ways to Manage Stress 39:04

1M ago39:04

39:04

God designed our stress levels to fluctuate, but chronic stress is not part of His plan, yet so many find themselves battling this. In today’s fast-paced world, many feel frazzled instead of flourishing. This episode explores the impact of stress on women, practical ways to manage it, and biblical encouragement for finding peace. Scriptures Referen…

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Episode 360: The Knockout Game That Makes Review Days 10x More Fun 9:30

1M ago9:30

9:30

Welcome back to our Games Series! Today, we’re bringing the energy with one of the most exciting review games you’ll ever play in your ELA classroom—Knockout. This game transforms any concept—whether it’s text structures, grammar, or figurative language—into a high-stakes, fast-paced classroom battle. Students aren’t just answering questions; they’…

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S3 | E16: This Ravenous Fate & Our Vicious Descent x Hayley Dennings 13:03

1M ago13:03

13:03

This episode spotlights the sapphic vampire duology, This Ravenous Fate & Our Vicious Descent by Hayley Dennings. Book two of this duo was published earlier this week! In celebration of publication week, the author shared tips for setting the reading mood for a Harlem Renaissance vibe and even reenacted a jailhouse interrogation scene from the book…

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The Free Halloween Escape Room Your Students Will Freak Out Over 10:32

1M ago10:32

10:32

Halloween week in middle school can feel like complete chaos—costumes, candy, and zero focus. But what if you could channel that energy into something productive and fun? In this special bonus episode, Caitlin shares a free, done-for-you Haunted Forest Escape Room that keeps your students engaged, practicing key ELA skills, and (miraculously!) on t…

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S3 | E15: Of Prophecies and Pomegranates x T.C. Kraven 22:27

1M ago22:27

22:27

This bonus episode spotlights the spicy Greek mythology retelling of the god of the dead, Of Prophecies and Pomegranates by T.C. Kraven. In celebration of publication day, the author shared tips for setting the reading mood for a dramatic dark introspective vibe and even reenacted dialogue introduction spoken by The Fates. Connect with T.C. Kraven:…

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Building Better Readers with Short Stories [Ep. 63] 11:25

1M ago11:25

11:25

Short stories are quick to read but powerful when used with purpose. In this episode, we’ll look at how short texts can strengthen reading skills, spark discussion, and build confidence for even the most hesitant readers. You’ll discover how these smaller pieces can fit naturally into your curriculum, giving students frequent opportunities to think…

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How to Encourage a Reluctant Reader 27:57

2M ago27:57

27:57

This school year has been an adventure as I have taught my son how to read. He started the year as quite the reluctant reader. Now as we wrap up the school year, I find him reading lengthy chapter books of his own desire and delight! On this episode, I share some tips I learned while encouraging my reluctant reader. Resources Referenced: NHC Blog: …

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Episode 359: The Treasure Hunt Review Game That Keeps Students Begging for More 9:29

1M ago9:29

9:29

Welcome back to our Games Series! Today’s episode is all about Digging for Treasure — a review game that brings all the excitement of Battleship straight into your ELA classroom. With every correct answer, students get to “dig” for hidden treasures on their grids, turning grammar, vocabulary, and figurative language practice into a fast-paced, stra…

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How to Motivate Kids to Read (Without Bribes or Battles) 19:19

2M ago19:19

19:19

If you’ve ever caught yourself saying, “Just one more page and then you can…”—you’re not alone. When reading turns into a negotiation, rewards can feel like the only way forward. But what if motivation could grow naturally—without stickers, snacks, or standoffs? In this episode of the Engaging Reluctant Readers Podcast, Ellen Westbrook opens up abo…

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Episode 358: How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Other Teachers 27:30

2M ago27:30

27:30

In this episode, we’re tackling something every teacher faces — comparison. Whether it’s classroom decor, lesson ideas, or student success stories, it’s so easy to look at others and feel like we’re falling short. But here’s the truth: your classroom doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s. Your journey doesn’t have to match another teacher’s path.…

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The Dirty Secrets Behind Lesson Planning!! Shhhh 🤫 1:08:16

2M ago1:08:16

1:08:16

Send us a text ✨ Work with us💜 📩 Email: FaithandJudy@theliteracyview .com 🚨 No BS Literacy View Is Now Available to Partner with You 🫵 We collaborate with universities, researchers, schools, districts, teachers, parents, sponsors, and brands. Always No BS. Always unique. For more details visit our website:https://theliteracyview.com/ You can also e…

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Nourishing Foods for Babies & Toddlers with Rebecca Grant 46:56

2M ago46:56

46:56

In this episode, holistic nutritionist Rebecca Grant explores how mothers can make informed choices about their children’s health and nutrition. We discuss the critical role of nourishing foods during preconception, pregnancy, and a child’s early years to establish a foundation for healthy living. Key topics include: Supporting a baby’s gut health …