Advertise on podcast: Literacy Matters: Empowered Conversations

In this episode of Literacy Matters: Empowered Conversations, Justin Browning, founder of SoR for More, joins Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift to explore why professional learning often fails to translate into classroom practice. Together, they discuss the knowledge-to-action gap, the dangers of “knowledge bombing,” the role of courageous leadership, and how side-by-side coaching and strong systems can turn literacy goals into lasting results for teachers and students.

Writing doesn't just reflect learning, it helps drive it. In this episode of Literacy Matters: Empowered Conversations, Nicole Iorio, Senior Manager of Curriculum Design and Content Development at Learning Without Tears, joins Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift to discuss why reading and writing must be taught together, how research translates into classroom practice, and what students need to become confident readers, writers, and communicators.

In this episode of Literacy Matters: Empowered Conversations, Dr. Steve Graham shares decades of research on what it takes to develop confident, capable writers. From foundational skills and effective writing instruction to the role of feedback, motivation, and AI, Dr. Graham explains how educators can help students move beyond simply telling what they know to transforming knowledge through writing. Discover why writing remains one of the most powerful tools for thinking, learning, and literacy growth.

In the latest episode of Literacy Matters: Empowered Conversations, Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift sits down with North Syracuse UPK Coordinator Kate DeBottis to explore how strong pre-K programs raise expectations while keeping joy at the center. From oral language as the foundation of literacy to turning everyday moments into powerful learning opportunities, this conversation highlights practical strategies that support teachers, families, and young learners—without losing the playfulness that makes early childhood so impactful.

In this episode of Literacy Matters: Empowered Conversations, Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift talks with early literacy expert Jake Daggett about what effective literacy instruction really looks like in Pre-K. Together, they challenge common misconceptions, explore the power of oral language, repetition, and retrieval practice, and share practical ways to embed literacy throughout the day. Jake offers a fresh perspective on creating joyful, inclusive learning environments where every child is invited to build strong literacy foundations.

Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift is joined by Montessori educators, Kelly Maly and Virginia Boulware, to explore how oral language supports literacy. Learn practical strategies—from turn-and-talks to read-alouds—that build vocabulary, confidence, comprehension, and help students move from chit chat to academic language.

Before students become readers and writers, they are speakers and listeners. In this episode, Dr. Terrie Noland explores oral language as the true foundation of literacy—what she calls the “word well.” She shares how language shapes the brain for reading, why it must be intentionally developed, and how educators can build stronger outcomes through purposeful talk in everyday instruction.

At PS 94 in Brooklyn, Principal Cristina Gonzalez shows how equity lives in everyday decisions. In this episode of Literacy Matters: Empowered Conversations, Cristina shares how to support teachers, honor student thinking, and build systems rooted in belonging and high expectations—making it possible for the entire school community to succeed.

Equity isn’t a program—it’s a daily practice. In this episode, Cornelius and Kass Minor, founders of The Minor Collective, explore how belonging is shaped in small instructional moments—how we respond to mistakes, define rigor, and support students struggling to express ideas in writing—and how minor shifts create classrooms where every student feels seen and capable.

In this episode of Literacy Matters: Empowered Conversations, Denise Johnson, Curriculum Director and Building Principal at Lawrence Public Schools in Kansas, shares how leaders can strengthen writing instruction through intentional scheduling, explicit modeling, and classroom support—bridging theory to practice and addressing writing as the missing link in literacy efforts.

Sentence-level writing is often overlooked, yet it plays a critical role in literacy development. Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift and Dr. Sean Datchuk explore how sentences bridge oral language, reading, and writing, and share research-based, practical ways educators can strengthen writing instruction across grade levels.

This episode brings the dysgraphia conversation into classrooms. Jaime Drew, district-level Reading Specialist from Magnolia ISD, shares practical strategies teachers can use right away, from simple Tier 1 writing routines to brain-body connections and family partnerships. Together, Cheryl and Jaime explore sustainable ways schools can support students whose writing challenges affect learning and confidence.

In Part 2, the conversation turns to action. Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift and occupational therapist Katrina Erickson discuss what effective dysgraphia support looks like in schools, from instruction and practice to accommodations that build access, confidence, and long-term success for students.

In this Season 5 opener of Literacy Matters: Empowered Conversations, Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift and occupational therapist Katrina Erickson explore what dysgraphia is—and isn’t. They examine how it differs from lack of instruction, early classroom signs, and why accurate identification matters for student confidence and support.

Dr. Leslie Laud explains how explicit writing strategies, modeling, and goal setting help students take ownership of their writing. She shares practical, research-based approaches for supporting diverse learners, strengthening vocabulary and structure, and building confident, independent writers through consistent routines and student-centered assessment. Social: @thinkSRSD