Right To Read Initiative

In this compelling episode of the Right to Read Initiative Podcast, Dr. Kathryn Garforth welcomes returning guest Dr. Moustapha Fall to explore the concept of "partial literacy"—a term coined by Dr. Fall himself. Together, they unpack the realities faced by children in Senegal and other African countries, where many grow up speaking their mother tongue but lack opportunities for reading and writing in it. The conversation contrasts this with literacy development in Western contexts, delving into the implications for bilingualism, educational success, and cultural preservation.

Listeners will hear firsthand how colonial history and current language policies impact home and school literacy, the transfer of reading and writing skills between languages, and the unique challenges and opportunities for authentic language preservation in Africa. The episode also touches on ways to overcome partial literacy—emphasizing the importance of environmental and home literacy, community involvement, and designing orthographies that fit the distinctive needs of African languages.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Dr. Moustapha Fall for an insightful discussion on language, identity, and the right to read.

Welcome to the Right to Read Initiative Podcast! In this episode, host Dr. Kathryn Garforth is joined by Dr. Antonio Fierro for an engaging discussion about supporting English language learners whose first language is Spanish. Building on Dr. Antonio Ferrero's personal story and professional expertise, the conversation explores the significance of understanding students’ linguistic backgrounds, the value of maintaining a child’s home language, and the unique challenges posed by transitioning from Spanish to English, particularly given the differences in orthographic transparency. Together, Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Dr. Antonio Fierro share insights on the cognitive demands faced by English learners, the importance of honouring their cultural and linguistic heritage, and practical strategies for educators to better bridge instruction across languages. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or education enthusiast, this episode will deepen your appreciation for language learning and the critical role of intentional, inclusive support in the classroom.

Welcome to the Right to Read Initiative Podcast. In today’s episode, host Dr. Kathryn Garforth sits down with Dr. Antonio Fierro—a renowned educational linguist with a remarkable backstory. Growing up along the U.S.–Mexico border in a Spanish-speaking, high-poverty neighborhood, Antonio’s first literacy was in Spanish. His journey took unexpected turns, from mastering both Spanish and English as a child, to working in federal law enforcement, and ultimately to a career in education and literacy research.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Antonio shares how his lived experiences shaped his understanding of language development, bilingualism, and the challenges faced by English learners. He reflects on the importance of respecting and maintaining home languages, the science of reading, his firsthand encounters with the school-to-prison pipeline, and his transition from law enforcement to the classroom. Along the way, he offers insights drawn from his research and work mentoring educators on how students can be empowered through intentional, explicit instruction—regardless of their linguistic background.

Tune in to hear an inspiring personal story and gain a deeper understanding of the connections between language, literacy, and opportunity.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth as she welcomes back Dr. Martin Bloomfield for a thought-provoking discussion on the ethics of dyslexia, definitions and labeling, and how educational systems and technology shape outcomes for students with reading difficulties. Together, they delve into the impacts of terminology, cross-cultural definitions, and the hidden consequences of current accommodations and assistive technologies. The conversation highlights the pervasive effects of pathologizing language, systemic ableism, and how AI may perpetuate bias against those with dyslexia. Personal stories and global perspectives illustrate the generational trauma and social barriers faced by neurodiverse students and their families. This episode challenges listeners to reconsider common assumptions about inclusion, educational equity, and what ethical responsibility truly means in supporting all learners in our rapidly changing world.

In this powerful episode of the Right To Read Initiative Podcast, host Kathryn Garforth sits down with Kenneth B. Morris Jr., the great-great-great-grandson of Frederick Douglass and great-great-grandson of Booker T. Washington. Together, they explore the transformative legacy of Booker T. Washington, his early years in slavery, and his relentless pursuit of education as a pathway to freedom.

Kenneth B. Morris Jr. shares personal family stories passed down through generations, offering a unique, living connection to American history. Listeners will hear about Washington's journey from a nine-year-old freed from slavery to founding the Tuskegee Institute and revolutionizing Black education in America. The episode also covers Washington's collaborations with key historical figures, the building of Rosenwald Schools, and the significance of family legacy and generational trauma.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in education, Black history, and the ongoing fight for equal access to literacy and opportunity. Tune in for inspiring stories, crucial lessons from the past, and a reminder of our shared responsibility to carry history forward.

In this powerful episode of the Right To Read Initiative Podcast, Dr. Kathryn Garforth sits down with Kenneth B. Morris Jr., descendant of both Frederick Douglass and Booker T. Washington, to explore the legacy of literacy and freedom in the history of his family. Together, they delve into the life of Frederick Douglass—his childhood under slavery, the cruelty he endured, and the extraordinary journey that led him to become one of America’s greatest abolitionists and advocates for education.

Kenneth B. Morris Jr. shares deeply personal insights into Douglass's early experiences, the transformative power of learning to read and write, and the pivotal moments that shaped his pursuit of knowledge and freedom. The conversation also acknowledges the crucial influence of women in Douglass's life, especially Anna Murray, and highlights Douglass’s dedication to human rights and women’s suffrage.

This episode is a meaningful reflection on the ways history continues to impact education, social justice, and equality today. Tune in for inspiring stories of resilience, self-liberation, and the enduring importance of education, as well as a preview of how Douglass's work paved the way for Booker T. Washington’s legacy, to be explored in the next episode.

Whether you’re an educator, student, or history enthusiast, this episode offers valuable lessons and sparks discussions around the power of literacy, the role of history in shaping our future, and the ongoing fight for justice and equality.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Garforth Education Podcast, Dr. Kathryn Garforth welcomes back David Chalk for a candid conversation about imposter syndrome—particularly through the lens of neurodiversity and lived experience. They explore the underlying psychological and neurological mechanisms that contribute to feelings of unworthiness, trauma, and self-doubt, especially for those with unique learning profiles. David shares personal stories from his journey through the education system, his experiences with prosopagnosia (face blindness), and how these challenges shaped his self-perception and fueled imposter syndrome.

Listeners will gain insight into the science of survival instincts, anxiety, and the role of the amygdala, as David explains why our brains are wired for fear and how this can impact daily life and public speaking. Kathryn and David discuss strategies for overcoming self-doubt—like conscious breathing, practicing presence, and embracing flow states—to help individuals regain confidence and thrive both personally and professionally.

Together, they offer an honest and encouraging message: imposter syndrome is a story our minds tell to keep us small, but through self-awareness, supportive relationships, and mindful choices, we can rewrite that narrative and move forward with authenticity and courage. Whether you're a parent, educator, student, or someone striving to overcome self-doubt, this episode is packed with compassionate advice and actionable tools.

Learn what David Chalk feels is the most important thing for parents and loved ones to do to support a child who is struggling at school.

In this heartfelt, Dr. Kathryn Garforth welcomes entrepreneur and dyslexia advocate David Chalk to share his extraordinary journey—one defined by resilience, curiosity, and the power of unconditional support. Despite facing traumatic experiences in the education system and being told he would never succeed, David went on to become a pilot, tech innovator, radio and TV host, and founder of multiple companies. He candidly describes living with dyslexia, ADHD, and prosopagnosia, and how the lifelong impact of educational trauma shaped his self-worth and drive.

David recounts pivotal moments, from solving an engineering problem no one else could, to learning how to fly without prior experience, and founding a $150 million tech business. He speaks on the importance of living in the present, harnessing flow, and believing in oneself—lessons inspired by his mother’s unwavering support. Kathryn and David also discuss why accurate identification of learning differences is crucial, how trauma can shape identity, and the life-changing experience of finally learning to read as an adult.

Tune in for an inspiring exploration of overcoming adversity, redefining success, and why curiosity and unconditional love are essential for every learner.

Join host Kathryn Garforth as she sits down with Dr. Maria Murray, founder of The Reading League, for an inspiring deep dive into the grassroots beginnings and remarkable growth of this movement that’s transforming literacy education. Dr. Murray shares her journey—from recognizing gaps in how reading science was (or wasn’t) reaching teachers, to coordinating the very first packed live event, to fostering a nationwide network now spanning nearly every state.

Together, they tackle big questions: Why has reading science taken so long to reach the classroom? How can schools, educators, and administrators work together to create lasting literacy change? And what does it take to truly support all learners, not just those with specific diagnoses? Hear behind-the-scenes stories about starting state chapters, launching electrifying conferences, and developing valuable resources like The Reading League’s Compass and curriculum evaluation guidelines.

If you care about literacy, advocacy, and the power of community-driven change, this energizing conversation is for you. Tune in for practical insights, a few good laughs, and a vision of a future where every child—and adult—has the right to read.

🌟 Dr. Maria Murray: My Story🌟

Don't miss the first Episode of Season 6!

Join host Dr. Kathryn Garforth on the latest episode of the Right to Read Initiative as she sits down with Elise Lovejoy, the founder of Express Readers, to delve into foundational reading skills and the creation of decodable books for young learners. Elise, a seasoned educator and parent, shares her personal journey, enriched by her experience with a neurodiverse family member, and how it has shaped her empathetic approach to teaching. Together, they discuss the transformative power of phonics and the critical role of connecting with students, especially those with neurodiverse backgrounds. Tune in to understand the importance of phonemic awareness, the use of "pseudo words," and the differences in communication styles when teaching young children versus educators. Elise reveals her path from creating classroom resources to establishing a successful business, overcoming challenges with inspiration from significant educational research. She stresses the need for continuous learning, teacher support, and resource availability, advocating for a systemic shift towards phonetically systematic education methods. This episode is filled with valuable insights on the necessity of adaptable teaching practices, the benefits of decodable books, and practical strategies for fostering student engagement in reading. Discover the importance of building trust with students, leveraging collaboration among educators, and the power of personalized education to meet the unique needs of every child. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or passionate about literacy, this episode offers profound discussions and actionable advice to enhance reading education practices.

In this episode of the Garforth Education Podcast, host Dr, Kathryn Garforth is joined by Dr. Nathaniel Swain to delve into the transformative power of active learning in the classroom. Dr. Swain begins with a powerful quote by Anita Archer, "learning isn't a spectator sport," and emphasizes the need for engaging, participatory teaching strategies. From discussions and partner work to mini whiteboard responses and cold calls, discover how these methods foster an environment where students feel safe to take risks and learn from their mistakes. Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Dr. Swain also discuss how to set students up for success by tailoring questions to their readiness during activities, ensuring every learner is motivated and encouraged to participate. The conversation extends into the responsive and adaptive nature of effective teaching, differentiating between biologically primary and secondary knowledge based on David Geary's work, and the significance of explicitly teaching complex skills. Topics covered include cognitive load theory, the distinction between novice and expert learners, and trauma-informed and culturally responsive teaching. Learn how orchestrating success can motivate students, the benefits of high expectations and norms within the classroom, and the practical implementation of scientifically-backed educational strategies. Dr. Swain shares insights from his book, "Harnessing the Science of Learning," which provides foundational knowledge and practical applications for everyday teachers. The episode also explores differentiation in education, balancing teacher autonomy with accountability, and the ongoing nature of educational research. Join us for an enlightening discussion on making teaching both an art and a science, ensuring effective, evidence-based practices that enhance student learning and teacher satisfaction. Dr Nathaniel Swain is a Teacher, Instructional Coach, and Writer. He works as a Senior Lecturer in Learning Sciences at La Trobe University School of Education and SOLAR LAB, and he produces a blog for teachers called Dr Swain’s Cognitorium. Nathaniel has taught a range of learners in schools and universities, and founded a community of teachers committed to the Science of Learning: THINK FORWARD EDUCATORS, now 25,000 members and growing. Dr Swain is a sought after speaker on educational circuits, and has a new book entitled “Harnessing the Science of Learning: Success stories to help kickstart your school improvement”.

In this episode, Lyn Stone joins Dr. Kathryn Garforth to discuss her thoughts on morphology.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Jennifer Jacobsen discuss the strategies and resources that Jennifer uses in her classroom.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Jennifer Jacobsen talk about her journey.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Heather Willms discuss how to support teachers to make the change.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Heather Willms discuss her journey.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Tiffany James discuss her journey.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth, Tiffany James, and Mike Jones discuss improving literacy for dyslexics.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Elana Gordon discuss her classroom.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Elana Gordon speak about her journey.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Jeremiah Short discuss his approach to teaching.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Jeremiah Short discuss his journey.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Deirdre O'Toole discuss guided reading.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Rick Moore as they discuss his hopes for the future Rick is a retired bus driver. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 37 years. She still works part time as an assistant librarian for SD #61. They have just become great-grandparents and are about to become grandparents for the 4th time. Rick was born and raised in North Vancouver. His parents both grew up in West Van - before the Lions Gate Bridge was built.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Rick Moore as they discuss The Human Rights Case. Rick is a retired bus driver. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 37 years. She still works part time as an assistant librarian for SD #61. They have just become great-grandparents and are about to become grandparents for the 4th time. Rick was born and raised in North Vancouver. His parents both grew up in West Van - before the Lions Gate Bridge was built.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Rick Moore discuss his journey.

Rick is a retired bus driver. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 37 years. She still works part time as an assistant librarian for SD #61. They have just become great-grandparents and are about to become grandparents for the 4th time. Rick was born and raised in North Vancouver. His parents both grew up in West Van - before the Lions Gate Bridge was built.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Fran Blackwood as they discuss decades of work & still no change.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Fran Blackwood discuss her journey as a Parent Advocate.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Linda Rhyne as they discuss her role as a Literacy Consultant. Linda Rhyne is the owner of Linda Rhyne Consulting, a company focused on helping teachers and leaders connect research to practice in a safe & supportive environment. Linda is an award-winning National Board Certified, LETRS and Orton-Gillingham trained educator with 16 years of experience in education including Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, one of the nation's 20 largest urban school districts located in Charlotte, NC. She served in multiple positions in CMS: classroom teacher, literacy facilitator, new teacher support coordinator, and Southeast Learning Community coordinator, with 10+ years of experience as an instructional coach. In her free time, you can find her playing with her two boys, hanging with her husband, reading, and working out.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Linda Rhyne as they discuss her journey.
Linda Rhyne is the owner of Linda Rhyne Consulting, a company focused on helping teachers and leaders connect research to practice in a safe & supportive environment.
Linda is an award-winning National Board Certified, LETRS and Orton-Gillingham trained educator with 16 years of experience in education including Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, one of the nation's 20 largest urban school districts located in Charlotte, NC. She served in multiple positions in CMS: classroom teacher, literacy facilitator, new teacher support coordinator, and Southeast Learning Community coordinator, with 10+ years of experience as an instructional coach. In her free time, you can find her playing with her two boys, hanging with her husband, reading, and working out.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Dr. Kelly Grillo the President of International Dyslexia Association Indiana (IDA, Indiana) as they discuss her thoughts about assistive technology.

Dr. Kelly J. Grillo, earned her PhD at the University of Central Florida. Her research focus is the achievement of students within Inclusive STEM Environments, literacy instruction and explicit-systematic domain specific vocabulary instruction. Currently, Dr. Grillo is a Special Education and Student Services Director at North West Hendricks School Corporation. While serving the front lines Dr. Grillo’s Biology End-of-Course Exam outcomes speak to her expertise, despite disabilities, reading/language barriers, 61% of her students earned a 3 or above in the 2016-2019 school years out of over 500 students being assessed.  

Dr. Grillo has served as a member of the IN*SOURCE board, IM-AT-UDL FL State Oversight Committee, on Florida Council for Exceptional Children State board and as the Education Director of Mills Aviation Charities. Currently, Dr. Grillo serves as the president for the International Dyslexia Association, Indiana. She also serves as an ambassador for Marian University Center for Vibrant Schools focused on Literacy outcomes and Orton Gillingham training across Indiana.  

Dr. Grillo also owns a private company focused on Assistive Technology, called TBD Partners. Technology by Design focuses on access technology. She personally uses AT daily to stay productive and helps people to gain access to accommodations and equipment that increases independence.  Dr. Grillo has numerous publications, conference presentations and awards. She was honored as a nominee in Washington as a STEM Champion for Change. She has earned the distinction of Teacher of the Year multiple times, for the International Council of Exceptional Children (CEC), the International Division of Learning Disabilities and the CEC of Florida. Dr. Grillo is a national advocate for persons with Learning Disabilities and Dyslexia so that she herself can accept her own disability. 

Follow us on Twitter 

@kellygrillo

@IndianaBranch 

@TeachingLD 

@INSOURCE2014

Join Catherine Young Morris and Dr. Kathryn Garforth for their discussion about the importance of decodable texts.  

Catherine Young Morris began authoring decodable text during her daughter’s early elementary years in response to the overwhelming abundance of predictable texts for beginning readers, and underwhelming selection in decodable texts. Needless to say, her daughter could guess with the best of them. With two interdisciplinary degrees focused on social policy and an English minor, she was inspired, as per Toni Morrison, to write the book “you want to read, but … hasn’t been written yet.”  

Catherine’s career began in early childhood development research, and eventually led her to a Product Director role with the Confident Learners K-3 literacy program at The Learning Bar. It was her work at The Learning Bar with literacy experts and educators across Canada that deepened her appreciation of the vital role literacy plays across an individual’s lifespan, as well as how solid the evidence-base is on what constitutes high quality reading instruction. She is the founder of Practice Readers Books, and ever curious about the sciences of reading and learning.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth as she speaks to Decodable book author Catherine Young Morris about her journey.  

Catherine Young Morris began authoring decodable text during her daughter’s early elementary years in response to the overwhelming abundance of predictable texts for beginning readers, and underwhelming selection in decodable texts. Needless to say, her daughter could guess with the best of them. With two interdisciplinary degrees focused on social policy and an English minor, she was inspired, as per Toni Morrison, to write the book “you want to read, but … hasn’t been written yet.”    

Catherine’s career began in early childhood development research, and eventually led her to a Product Director role with the Confident Learners K-3 literacy program at The Learning Bar. It was her work at The Learning Bar with literacy experts and educators across Canada that deepened her appreciation of the vital role literacy plays across an individual’s lifespan, as well as how solid the evidence-base is on what constitutes high quality reading instruction. She is the founder of Practice Readers Books, and ever curious about the sciences of reading and learning.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Rachael Donnelly a School Psychologist and founder and co-host of the School Pysched Podcast as they speak about The Reading League.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Rachael Donnelly a School Psychologist and founder and co-host of the School Psyched Podcast as they speak about her role as a School Psychologist.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth and Rachael Donnelly a school psychologist and founder and co-host of the School Psyched Podcast as they speak about her journey.

Veteran educator Ms. Lynn Givens joins Dr. Kathryn Garforth to discuss things we've known for 20+ years.

Veteran educator Ms. Lynn Givens joins Dr. Kathryn Garforth to discuss her thoughts about reading.

Join Dr. Kathryn Garforth as she speaks with veteran educator Lynn Givens about her journey. Lynn Givens has spent her career supporting struggling readers, as a teacher educator and creating the Connect to Comprehension reading program.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth sits down with Dr. Shelley Blackwell to discuss Implemenation Science. 

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth speaks with Dr. Shelley Blackwell about her role as a MTSS Support Specialist.

In this episode Dr. Kathryn Garforth speaks with Dr. Shelley Blackwell about her journey.

Dr. Kelly Grillo joins Dr. Kathryn Garforth to discuss her role as the Director of Special Education. She is able to use her own life exerience to help the students she advocates for. Her passion is tangible and her desire for every child to have access to a free an appropriate public education.

Dr. Kelly Grillo  joins Dr. Kathryn Garforth  to discuss her journey as a dyslexic throughout her schooling. She discussess how her experiences have impacted her career choices.

Nathaneil Hansford joins Dr. Kathryn Garforth to discuss the importance of using meta-analysis to help inform instruction. They then discuss the research behind the essential elements of reading instruction included as part of the Science of Reading.

Dr. Tim Odegard joins Dr. Kathryn Garforth to discuss how and why it can be difficult to make changes to the education ecosystem. This is an important conversation because even though there are reports and mandates in place for change already available, it takes time to make these changes.