Best Direct Instruction Podcasts (2025)

1
S4E36: Bonnie Grossen and Kurt Engelmann on Full Immersion Direct Instruction 56:53

11d ago56:53

56:53

In this episode of The Direct Instruction Podcast – cross-posted on Progressively Incorrect – I’m joined by Bonnie Grossen and Kurt Engelmann, two long-time advocates and practitioners whose work has shaped the real-world application of schoolwide Direct Instruction. After engaging conversations with both of them—on everything from implementation a…

1
S4E37: John Tanner on Tests, College, and Cheating Scandals 47:41

1d ago47:41

47:41

In this episode of Progressively Incorrect, I sat down with a personal friend whose work I deeply respect: John Tanner. His leadership in education has weathered storms—most notably, false accusations of cheating after huge gains in achievement were obtained at his school. But what shines through is his steadfast belief in the life-changing power o…

1
Student-Centric Learning with Dana Younes 56:58

18h ago56:58

56:58

In this episode, Nancy Jenkins, a trust-based observation trainer, interviews Dana Younes, a first-year special education teacher at Bahrain Bayan School. Dana passionately discusses her teaching philosophy, emphasizing student autonomy, engagement, and personalized learning. She shares her comprehensive approach to understanding each student's nee…

1
How to implement the science of reading with young learners - with Amie Burkholder 26:01

5d ago26:01

26:01

221: What should K-2 teachers know about teaching phonemic awareness, phonics, handwriting, and more? Teacher and author Amie Burkholder gives us practical tips in this quick and powerful episode! Click here for this episode's show notes. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking for printable resources that align with the science of reading? Click h…

1
A Principal's Perspective on Trust-Based Observations with Carrie Davis 34:29

8d ago34:29

34:29

In this episode, the focus shifts from teachers to a principal's perspective on implementing trust-based observations (TBO). Host Craig interviews Carrie Davis, principal of Robertson Elementary in Yakima, Washington. Carrie discusses her journey from initial skepticism to a strong advocate of TBO, detailing how it transformed her relationships wit…

1
A lively discussion about syntax, grammar, and punctuation - with Lyn Stone 47:05

12d ago47:05

47:05

220: I take every opportunity I can to learn from Lyn Stone, so I was thrilled to sit down and "rapid fire" questions I had after reading the wonderful second edition of her book, Language for Life. I promise you'll be entertained and come away with new understandings after listening to this episode! Click here for this episode's show notes. Get my…

1
Fostering Growth through Trust with Rose Picard 16:15

16d ago16:15

16:15

In this bonus episode, Craig Randall engages in a post-podcast discussion with Rose Picard. They delve into the impact of different types of principal support and the value of trust-based observations in fostering professional growth among teachers. Rose shares personal experiences with different principals and how trust-based observations have sha…

1
Coffee With Rhadi | Why I Trained My Son Like a Champion Not a Friend | The Truth Behind His Flag Bearer Moment 7:44

17d ago7:44

7:44

http://www.JudoIsLife.net - I’ve trained my son since he was four years old—not to be my friend, but to become the man God called him to be. That meant tears, tough love, and years of discipline he didn’t always understand. But today, I watched him walk as the flag bearer for Team USA at the World University Games… and I saw the fruit of obedience.…

1
Thoughtfully meeting the needs of advanced readers - with Dr. Amanda Nickerson 38:45

19d ago38:45

38:45

219: Advanced readers often get overlooked. Dr. Amanda Nickerson helps us understand how we can nurture these students and help them reach their fullest potential within the MTSS framework. Click here for this episode's show notes. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking for printable resources that align with the science of reading? Click here to …

1
Coffee With Rhadi | I Love My Job But… | Late Night Meanderings 9:10

21d ago9:10

9:10

http://www.TheUnspokenStruggles.com In this episode Dr. Ferguson talks about how much he loves his job but how difficult it is at the same time. He also encourages the listener to thank someone important in life who has provided help or a kind words along the way. Please visit: www.CoffeeWithRhadi.com - Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.c…

1
Coffee With Rhadi | How To Move On When You Can’t Move Away | Stop Begging For Half-Love 7:34

22d ago7:34

7:34

http://www.CoffeeWithRhadi.com - Are you stuck loving someone you can’t fully walk away from? Maybe you share kids, a job, family, or a life that’s hard to untangle. Maybe you’ve outgrown the cycle but you can’t change your ZIP code — yet. In this raw, unfiltered talk, I’ll break down how to take your power back when your heart wants to stay but yo…

1
The Power of Positive Reinforcement with Xavier Juarez 33:55

23d ago33:55

33:55

In this episode, Craig Randall interviews Xavier Juarez, a dedicated fifth-grade teacher from Robertson Elementary. Xavier shares his journey into teaching, highlights the importance of creating a positive classroom environment, and discusses strategies for behavior management and student engagement. This episode also explores the implementation of…

1
Coffee With Rhadi | Sport: The Jealous Lover That Demands Loyalty and Sacrifice 3:55

24d ago3:55

3:55

http://www.CoffeeWithRhadi.com - Here We talk about how sport is a jealous lover that demands our full commitment and devotion. If we cheat on sport by skipping practice, being distracted, or not giving it our all, it will leave us and our dreams behind. To achieve greatness, we must be faithful and sacrifice everything for sport. Please visit: www…

1
[Listen again] "I didn't believe him" - How one mom learned that her son's school wasn't teaching him to read - with Dr. Irene Daria 40:34

27d ago40:34

40:34

183: Irene's kindergarten son was attending a prestigious Manhattan public school. When he told her that the school wasn't teaching him to read, she didn't believe him. When she finally realized he was right, she set out on a challenging journey to save his academic life. You won't want to miss this one! Click here for the show notes from this epis…

1
Innovative Techniques in Dyslexia Support with Rose Picard 28:14

30d ago28:14

28:14

In this episode, Craig Randall talks with Rose Picard, a dedicated reading literacy specialist at the Briarwood School in Houston, Texas, about trust-based observations, individualized education plans, and effective classroom management for students with learning disabilities.By Craig Randall

1
S4E35: Stephanie Stollar, Diane Kinder, and Marcy Stein on MTSS and Direct Instruction 52:02

1M ago52:02

52:02

In this episode of The Direct Instruction Podcast - cross-posted on Progressively Incorrect - I’m joined by Stephanie Stollar, Diane Kinder, and Marcy Stein—three educators and researchers whose work intersects at the heart of effective instruction and systems-level change. After engaging conversations with each of them around Multi-Tiered Systems …

1
[Listen again] All about teaching English Spelling - with Dr. Louisa Moats 35:16

1M ago35:16

35:16

151: What an honor to speak with Dr. Louisa Moats about the English language! She explains why it's so important to teach spelling, why English isn't as irregular as some think, the usefulness and limitation of syllable types, and how to help students who struggle with spelling. Dr. Moats is a treasure! Click here for the show notes from this episo…

1
Trust, Play, and Learning with Krystal Merriel 28:39

1M ago28:39

28:39

In this episode, Craig Randall interviews Krystal Merriel, an inspiring pre-kindergarten teacher from Soap Lake, Washington. Krystal shares her journey from being a student in the same school district to becoming a teacher, discussing her passion for relationship-building, innovative teaching strategies, and classroom management techniques that mak…

1
What to say to your child's teacher when your child is struggling with learning to read - with Michelle Henderson 43:50

1M ago43:50

43:50

218: Are you concerned about your child's lack of progress in learning to read? Michelle Henderson, reading specialist and parent coach, explains what rights you have and offers advice for gently (and firmly) addressing the issue with your child's teacher. This episode is for any parent who has concerns about their child's reading progress. Click h…

1
Fostering Productive Struggle with Sonia Juaregui 31:36

1M ago31:36

31:36

In this episode, Craig Randall speaks with veteran teacher Sonia Juaregui about her innovative teaching strategies, including the concept of 'The Pit' from visible learning, and the impact of Trust Based Observations on her growth and teaching practice. Sonia details her methods of fostering productive struggle and neuro-linguistic programming to s…

1
Justin Poore | Lead Producer of Cleo Abram's Huge if True 58:14

2M ago58:14

58:14

Learn more about Justin at https://www.youtube.com/@CleoAbram Learn more about the podcast at ⁠https://jackvaughan.com Today I’m speaking with Justin Poore — an animator and the producer of Huge if True — a show by Cleo Abram that’s had a ton of attention and engagement over the last few years, recently reaching 6 million subscribers on YouTube. Cl…

1
S4E34: Jonah Davids on the Debates Over Restorative Justice and SEL 34:47

2M ago34:47

34:47

In this episode of Progressively Incorrect, I’m joined by Jonah Davids. Jonah and I met while participating in a panel discussion around declining behavior in schools (listen here), which led me to invite him to discuss the evidence base behind Restorative Justice and Social-Emotional approaches in education. Are we on track or has there been … Con…

1
"There's research for that!" - with Dr. Heidi Anne Mesmer & Dr. Katie Hilden 55:15

2M ago55:15

55:15

217: What does it mean when we say that research supports a specific practice? And what DOES research say about decodable text, comprehension strategies, phonemic awareness, and more? Dr. Heidi Anne Mesmer and Dr. Katie Tilden join us to discuss their new book, There's Research for That, and how research can answer common questions teachers ask as …

1
Learning by Doing in Special Education with Isaiah Glenn 29:13

2M ago29:13

29:13

In this episode, Craig Randall interviews Isaiah Glenn, a special needs educator at Tuttle School, part of Briarwood School in Houston, Texas. Isaiah shares his unconventional journey into teaching, the challenges and rewards of working with special needs children, and the importance of social skills training. They also discuss the impact of Trust-…

1
What do students need to learn, and what do only teachers need to know? - with Dr. Devin Kearns 36:38

2M ago36:38

36:38

216: Have we overcorrected in our enthusiasm for structured literacy? Dr. Kearns challenges teachers to find the right balance between what students need to know versus what technical knowledge belongs solely in a teacher's toolkit. A thought-provoking listen! Click here for this episode's show notes. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking for pri…

1
S4E33: Peps Mccrea on Great Teaching and Human Flourishing 46:57

2M ago46:57

46:57

In this episode of Progressively Incorrect, I am delighted to host Peps Mccrea, the Director of Education at Steplab and the mind behind the must-read online newsletter, Evidence Snacks. Peps has dedicated his career to improving education through evidence-based practices. His latest project includes Great Teaching, Unpacked, a Netflix-style docume…

1
The Hero's Journey & Teaching Life Lessons through Literature with Lauren Turley 31:03

2M ago31:03

31:03

In this episode of 20 Minutes of Teaching Brilliance on the Road with Trust Based Observations, Craig Randall interviews Lauren Turley, a ninth grade English teacher from Cardinal Mooney High School in Sarasota, Florida. They discuss Lauren's teaching journey, her approach to classroom management, the integration of higher order thinking skills in …

1
Anything but boring: The power of direct instruction - with Dr. Zach Groshell 52:26

2M ago52:26

52:26

215: Dr. Zach Groshell explains what direct instruction is and why it's so effective for student learning. He also shares specific classroom strategies teachers can start using right away. Click here for this episode's show notes. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking for printable resources that align with the science of reading? Click here to l…

1
Encouraging Student Engagement with Marcee McLain 29:07

2M ago29:07

29:07

In this episode, Craig Randall interviews Marcee McLain, a fifth-grade teacher at Soap Lake Elementary. Marcee shares her journey into teaching, her methods for fostering creativity, and the importance of building strong relationships with students. The discussion also touches on the positive impact of Trust-Based Observations in her classroom.…

1
Grant Shaddick | Tella, Editing Agents, Video in the Cloud, Design Constraints, and Screencasting 1:43:43

2M ago1:43:43

1:43:43

Today I’m speaking with Grant Shaddick, CEO of Tella. Tella is a recording and editing tool that is totally cloud-based. It’s like Loom but more HQ, and it handles a lot of the post-production for you. I’ve used Tella for a couple of years now and have been using it more recently as I’ve moved to more off-the-cuff production. It’s been a really del…

1
Coffee With Rhadi | 41 Is Coming: The Power of One More (Don’t Quit at 40!) 10:11

2M ago10:11

10:11

http://www.JudoIsLife.net - “Don’t you dare quit at 40. Because 41 is coming.” In this high-impact episode of Coffee With Rhadi, Olympian and mindset coach Dr. Rhadi Ferguson breaks down the undeniable power of One More—in life, in training, in faith, and in purpose. Inspired by Ed Mylett’s The Power of One More, Dr. Ferguson delivers a message for…

1
Audrey Havey | Riot Games, Visual Communication, Esports, Art Direction & Experiments 1:44:23

2M ago1:44:23

1:44:23

Learn more about Audrey at https://www.audreyhavey.com Learn more about the podcast at https://jackvaughan.com Today I’m speaking with Audrey Havey - a freelance designer, illustrator, and motion designer. I know Audrey through her YouTube channel where she teaches and vlogs on a wide variety of topics. And as I discovered her work i really wanted …

1
How to use the MTSS framework to transform school reading achievement - with Dr. Sarah Brown & Dr. Stephanie Stollar 43:19

2M ago43:19

43:19

214: Dr. Sarah Brown and Dr. Stephanie Stollar join me to talk about implementing the science of reading through the MTSS framework. We define MTSS, discuss practical tips for implementation, and address things to avoid. Be sure to get their new book, MTSS for Reading Improvement. Click here for this episode's show notes. Get my book, Reach All Rea…

1
From Evaluation to Empowerment with Lizz Chappell 33:45

2M ago33:45

33:45

In this episode, Craig Randall discusses impactful teaching with Lizz Chappell. They delve into building student rapport, the importance of trust, encouraging student vulnerability, and the role of interest in learning.By Craig Randall

1
Coffee With Rhadi | Stony The Road We Trod: The Pain, The Process, and The Promise 7:27

2M ago7:27

7:27

http://www.JudoIsLife.net - "Stony the road we trod, bitter the chastening rod..." In this fiery and soul-stirring episode of Coffee With Rhadi, 2004 Olympian and high-performance coach Dr. Rhadi Ferguson unpacks what it really means to walk the hard road toward greatness. This isn't just about sports. It's about life, struggle, legacy—and the powe…

1
Coffee With Rhadi | The 3 Abilities Every Athlete Needs to Master 4:32

2M ago4:32

4:32

http://wwwJudoIsLife.net - Welcome to Coffee With Rhadi — where we talk truth, toughness, and transformation. In today’s episode, Dr. Rhadi Ferguson — Olympian, coach, and former D1 football player — delivers a powerful message for athletes at every level. 💡 The 3 best abilities aren’t what you think... It’s not speed. It’s not strength. It’s not t…

1
Coffee With Rhadi | Loud But Loving: How to Argue Without Disrespect 8:15

3M ago8:15

8:15

http://www.CoffeeWithRhadi.com - In today’s episode of Coffee With Rhadi, we tackle one of the most important — and overlooked — skills in life: how to argue respectfully. We live in a world where shouting has replaced listening, and where disagreements often lead to division. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Join me as I share: 🔥 A personal sto…

1
1432. Retelling a Story for Vocabulary Acquisition (SLA #94) 11:02

3M ago11:02

11:02

In this episode of SLA Insights, Dr. Jennifer Noonan discusses various techniques for vocabulary learning, focusing on the method of retelling stories as a means of indirect vocabulary acquisition. She emphasizes the importance of comprehension and context in learning new words, and outlines the process of preparing texts for students. The episode …

1
The principal's role in using MTSS to improve reading outcomes - with Sharon Dunn 43:38

3M ago43:38

43:38

213: Sharon Dunn, a former principal of a high-poverty school, shares the process that she and her staff used to drastically improve reading outcomes. This episode offers a blueprint for principals looking to lead meaningful reading improvement in their own schools. Click here for this episode's show notes. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking f…

1
S4E32: Rachel Ball on Scaffolded Instruction and Adaptive Teaching 50:08

3M ago50:08

50:08

In this episode of Progressively Incorrect, I am delighted to host Rachel Ball, Coaching Development Lead at Steplab and a passionate advocate for effective teaching based on the science of learning. Rachel will explore her new book, The Scaffolding Effect, and the Explicit Instruction Conference we are both keynoting in New Mexico (sign up here!).…

1
1431. "Recycled Words" Procedure for Vocabulary Acquisition (SLA #93) 13:13

3M ago13:13

13:13

In this episode of SLA Insights, Dr. Jennifer Noonan discusses vocabulary learning and acquisition, focusing on a specific procedure called 'Recycled Words.' This method, developed by Mary E. Blake and Patricia Majors, involves a series of steps designed to enhance vocabulary learning through various activities and modes. The conversation covers th…

1
[Listen again] How to use assessment data within MTSS - with Dr. Stephanie Stollar 33:50

3M ago33:50

33:50

Dr. Stephanie Stollar has been supporting schools to use MTSS to improve reading outcomes for more than 25 years. She explains the importance of using screening data to reflect the effectiveness of Tier 1 instruction, how to use assessment data to form differentiated small groups, and how to avoid common mistakes that schools make when implementing…

1
Classroom Mastery with Clarissa Larsen 30:23

3M ago30:23

30:23

In this episode, Craig interviews Clarissa Larson, a passionate and dedicated sixth-grade teacher from Central Washington. Clarissa shares her journey into teaching, the impact of her mother on her career, and her innovative teaching strategies. Topics include the importance of classroom management, the benefits of starting as a paraeducator, build…

1
Mengh-Hsueh Lin | Motion, Anime, Instructional Design, and a New Chapter 37:42

3M ago37:42

37:42

Today I’m speaking with Meng-Hsueh Lin, an animator and motion designer. He’s worked with studios like Ordinary Folk, Coat of Arms, Awesome Inc as well as clients like Disney, Airbnb, and Volkswagen. We spoke about: His CS degree His passion for anime His experience with School of Motion Freelancing and collaborating with studios like OF Riggi…

1
1430. Imaging, Instantiation, and the Key Word Technique for Vocabulary Acquisition (SLA #92) 11:00

3M ago11:00

11:00

In this episode of SLA Insights, Dr. Jennifer Noonan discusses effective strategies for improving vocabulary learning, focusing on three main techniques: imaging, instantiation, and the keyword technique. Each method emphasizes the importance of creating strong memory traces through intentional engagement with vocabulary. The episode also addresses…

1
What is the science of implementation? - with Laura Stewart 52:14

3M ago52:14

52:14

212: How do we bridge research to classroom practice? The answer lies in the science of implementation. Laura Stewart walks us through the five stages of implementation - this episode is a must-listen for anyone whose school is ready for change! Click here for this episode's show notes. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking for printable resource…

1
Twisha Patni | Buck, Multidisciplinary Design, Process, Illustration Systems and Google Gemini 1:03:13

3M ago1:03:13

1:03:13

Learn more about Twisha at https://www.twishapatni.com Learn more about the podcast at https://jackvaughan.com Today, I’m speaking with Twisha Patni, an Art Director & Graphic Designer. She’s worked with brands such as Apple, Spotify, Netflix, NYTimes, The Economist, and is now at Buck. We spoke about — Being multidisciplinary — How she’s developed…

1
1429. Matthew 26 Part 2 (Living in Greek 64) 9:04

3M ago9:04

9:04

This conversation explores the 26th chapter of Matthew, focusing on key events such as Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane, his betrayal by Judas, the trial before the high priest, and Peter's denial. Each segment delves into the emotional and spiritual significance of these moments, providing insights into the themes of faith, betrayal, and redemption.Tun…

1
1428. Vocabulary Flashcards (SLA #91) 17:40

3M ago17:40

17:40

In this episode of SLA Insights, Dr. Jennifer Noonan discusses the effectiveness of vocabulary flashcards for language learning. She emphasizes the importance of repetition and direct learning, providing strategies for selecting words, creating flashcards, and practicing with them. The episode covers various techniques to enhance vocabulary acquisi…

1
Why implementation is the missing piece - with Justin Browning 53:50

3M ago53:50

53:50

211: Implementation specialist Justin Browning joins me to discuss the challenges of implementation, the importance of strong leadership, and what really matters for lasting change. Click here for the show notes from this episode. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking for printable resources that align with the science of reading? Click here to l…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Direct Instruction Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide