Best Reluctant Readers Podcasts (2025)

1
No More "I Hate Reading!"—Fun, Easy Ways to Bring Books to Life for Kids 13:44

23h ago13:44

13:44

Does your child resist reading—or claim it’s just plain boring? You’re not alone. Many kids see books as “work” instead of play—but the magic of storytelling isn’t lost… it just needs a little boost! In this episode of the Engaging Reluctant Readers Podcast, Ellen Westbrook shares creative, low-prep ways to transform storytime from “ugh” to “yay!” …

1
Supporting Struggling or Reluctant Readers | S.16 Ep.7 30:39

15d ago30:39

30:39

Some children face challenges with reading, even after early exposure to books and language. Learn to recognize common signs of struggle and explore simple, effective strategies to provide support at home. Support the show Send us an email: [email protected]. Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent. This institution is an equal opportunity provid…

1
Books and Social-Emotional Learning | S.16 Ep.8 24:33

8d ago24:33

24:33

Books are powerful tools for exploring emotions and building empathy. Stories help children navigate feelings, manage stress, and connect with characters experiencing similar situations. Support the show Send us an email: [email protected]. Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full no…

1
S3| E1: Rainbow x Verde Arzu 17:35

8d ago17:35

17:35

With author Verde Arzu as my special guest, I'm thrilled to kick off Season 3 | Episode 1 of The Books en Vogue Podcast! Verde Arzu joins us to talk about her debut novel, Rainbow, offer advice on how to create a comfortable reading environment, and even act out an explosive passage from the book! Connect with Verde Arzu : Instagram | TikTok | BluS…

1
Literacy in the Community | S.16 Ep.6 27:26

22d ago27:26

27:26

Community spaces like libraries, farmers markets, and local events offer more than entertainment—they provide valuable opportunities to support language and literacy development. Support the show Send us an email: [email protected]. Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discri…

1
How to Build Your Child's Reading Stamina (Without the Battles!) 17:52

22d ago17:52

17:52

Does your child fidget, rush through books, or lose focus after just a few pages? You're not alone—and no, your child isn’t lazy or “bad at reading.” The real challenge may be reading stamina—and the good news? It’s a skill they can build! In this episode of the Engaging Reluctant Readers Podcast, Ellen Westbrook shares practical, low-pressure stra…

1
Reading with Adolescents | S.16 Ep.5 26:43

29d ago26:43

26:43

Reading for pleasure boosts cognitive development and improves literacy, yet interest often declines in the teen years. Explore how reading impacts adolescent thinking, empathy, and emotional growth. Support the show Send us an email: [email protected]. Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. Fo…

1
Elementary Readers: Building a Strong Foundation | S.16 Ep.4 34:23

1M ago34:23

34:23

Shared reading routines, accurate word reading, writing integration, and selecting engaging texts all play a key role in developing strong reading skills during the early school years. Support the show Send us an email: [email protected]. Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-…

1
Why Reading Aloud Still Matters—Even After Kids Can Read Themselves 13:43

1M ago13:43

13:43

Is your child starting to lose interest in reading? If they push back when it’s time to pick up a book—even after they’ve learned to read on their own—you’re not alone. Many parents stop reading aloud once kids become independent readers, but that’s a mistake. In this heartfelt episode of the Engaging Reluctant Readers Podcast, Ellen Westbrook shar…

1
Harnessing AI in Education: Insights from Chelsea Lopez of The Social Institute 30:54

1M ago30:54

30:54

In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Chelsea Lopez, a former special education teacher and current Director of Education Advancement at the Social Institute, discusses the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us…

1
Preschool Literacy: Setting the Stage for Success | S.16 Ep.3 28:13

1M ago28:13

28:13

Preschool is a prime time for building language and literacy skills. Reading at this stage involves emerging abilities that begin to resemble more traditional reading behaviors. Support the show Send us an email: [email protected]. Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrim…

1
Avoid the 4th Grade Reading Slump: How to Keep Your Child on Track from K-4 (Part 2) 24:10

1M ago24:10

24:10

Reading gets real in elementary school. Around 3rd or 4th grade, many kids shift from learning to read to reading to learn—but not every child makes that transition smoothly. This stage is where confidence can soar… or where frustration, fluency struggles, and disinterest take root. In this episode of the Engaging Reluctant Readers Podcast, Ellen W…

1
Exploring the Impact of the California Wildfires on Education: A Conversation with Dr. Breeda McGrath 48:34

2M ago48:34

48:34

In this episode, Dr. Breeda McGrath discusses her experiences in education, particularly focusing on the impact of wildfires on the community and education system in Southern California. She emphasizes the importance of technology in early childhood education and the integration of AI, while also addressing the need for educators to adapt to these …

1
Reading with Infants and Toddlers | S.16 Ep.2 32:37

2M ago32:37

32:37

Reading with the youngest children focuses on talking, listening, and building a strong foundation in language—often referred to as “language nutrition.” Support the show Send us an email: [email protected]. Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or acc…

1
Early Literacy Made Easy: How to Support Pre-Readers from Birth to Preschool (Part 1) 25:54

2M ago25:54

25:54

Did you know your child starts developing reading skills long before they open their first book? From birth to preschool, kids are absorbing language, rhythm, and vocabulary—laying the foundation for a lifetime of reading success. But what should you be doing during this stage? And how can you support your child’s learning without pressure or overw…

1
Transforming Reluctant Readers with Bookji: Insights from Will Peters on Engaging Students through Technology 17:30

2M ago17:30

17:30

In this conversation, Will Peters, the founder of Bookji, discusses his journey in creating a platform aimed at making reading more engaging for students, particularly those who are reluctant readers. He shares insights into the integration of social media elements into the platform, the challenges of navigating the educational landscape, and the i…

1
Foundations of Literacy | S.16 Ep.1 22:24

2M ago22:24

22:24

Before children can read or write on their own, they begin developing key skills that pave the way for literacy. Early literacy builds the foundation for future reading success. Support the show Send us an email: [email protected]. Find us on Facebook: @scienceofparent. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrim…

1
How Busy Moms Can Find Time to Read: No Guilt Tips for Reclaiming Your Reading Life 13:29

2M ago13:29

13:29

Feel like reading is a luxury you don’t have time for? Between parenting, work, and a never-ending to-do list, curling up with a book can feel impossible. But what if reading didn’t have to be one more thing on your plate—and instead became a simple way to recharge, de-stress, and set an inspiring example for your kids? In this episode of the Engag…

1
Crush It From the Start: Top Tips for Instructional Coaches with Dr. Matt Rhoads 32:40

2M ago32:40

32:40

In this episode, Dr. Matt Rhoads discusses his book 'Crush It From the Start: 25 Tips for Instructional Coaches and Leaders' with host Jeffrey Bradbury. They explore the importance of organization, key themes from the book, and practical tips for instructional coaches. Dr. Rhoads emphasizes the significance of understanding cognitive science, effec…

1
Keep Kids Reading Over School Breaks: Low Pressure Tips for Busy Families 12:30

2M ago12:30

12:30

Does your child’s reading routine fall apart over school breaks? Whether it’s summer vacation, winter break, or long weekends, keeping kids engaged with books can be tough—but it doesn’t have to feel like homework! In this episode of the Engaging Reluctant Readers Podcast, Ellen Westbrook shares easy, fun, and low-pressure ways to keep reading in y…

1
Building Trust Through Communication: Expert Strategies for Teachers, Coaches, and Administrators 43:52

2M ago43:52

43:52

In this episode, Jeffrey Bradbury speaks with Erica Bare and Tiffany Burns about their experiences in education, the importance of communication with students, and the launch of their book 'Connecting Through Conversation.' They discuss the challenges and strategies for building relationships with students across different age groups, the significa…

1
Book Rotation Tips: How to Keep Kids Excited About Reading Without Buying More Books 12:15

2M ago12:15

12:15

Are your child’s books collecting dust? Do they insist there’s “nothing to read” even though your shelves are full? You’re not alone—and the solution doesn’t mean buying more books! With a simple book rotation system, you can make your home library feel fresh, fun, and engaging all over again. In this episode of the Engaging Reluctant Readers Podca…

1
Transforming Education: High-Dosage Tutoring with Cignition and the Ohio Department of Education 16:26

2M ago16:26

16:26

I'm excited to share this episode where I chat with Mike Cohen and Mark Mobley from Cignition about their amazing work in high-dosage tutoring. We dive into how they're making learning more collaborative and engaging through their partnership with the Ohio Department of Education. Parents and teachers are loving what they're seeing, and it's clear …

1
Empowering Educators: Insights from Rob Barnett on the Modern Classrooms Project 27:33

2M ago27:33

27:33

In this episode, Rob Barnett discusses his journey as an educator and the founding of the Modern Classrooms Project, which empowers teachers to create self-paced, mastery-based learning environments. He shares insights on the current state of education, the importance of technology in making classrooms more human, and the motivation behind student …

1
Get students thinking, and asking big questions with TCI Social Studies and Science Curriculum 27:04

2M ago27:04

27:04

In this episode, Jeffrey Bradbury welcomes Brian Thomas and Becca Burnfin to discuss the impact of COVID on educational resources, the importance of high-quality instructional materials, and the role of teacher feedback in curriculum development. They explore TCI's approach to creating engaging curriculum for social studies and science, the trainin…

1
Finding the "Just-Right" Book: How to Match Kids with Books They'll Love 11:54

3M ago11:54

11:54

Struggling to find a book your child actually wants to read? You're definitely not alone! Many parents face resistance when suggesting books—and picking the wrong one can turn reading into a chore. But the right book? It can spark curiosity, build confidence, and turn reading into something your child actually looks forward to. In this episode of t…

1
How to Build a Family Reading Habit: The 5B's for a Book-Friendly Home 17:24

3M ago17:24

17:24

Does reading feel like another task on your family's to-do list? Between screens, busy schedules, and after-school activities, and packed schedules, books can easily take a backseat. But what if reading became a natural, enjoyable part of your family's daily routine—without battles or bribes? In this Episode of the Engaging Reluctant Readers Podcas…

1
What is a Reluctant Reader? Signs, Struggles & How to Help 9:45

3M ago9:45

9:45

Does your child avoid books, complain about reading, or act completely uninterested—no matter what you try? You may have a reluctant reader...but you're not alone, and there's plenty you can do to help. In this episode of the Engaging Reluctant Readers Podcast, host Ellen Westbrook (a former reluctant reader herself) breaks down: ☑️ What it really …

1
What is Experiential Education? – Featuring Phil Brown from High5Adventure.com 31:46

3M ago31:46

31:46

In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Phil Brown from High 5 Adventure discusses the principles of experiential education, emphasizing the importance of learning through experiences. He explains how adventure education can foster problem-solving skills and team development among both students and educators. Phil also highlights the significanc…

1
Got a Reluctant Reader? This Podcast is for You! (Trailer) 1:41

4M ago1:41

1:41

Welcome to the Engaging Reluctant Readers podcast! I'm your host, Ellen Westbrook and I'm so excited to share what's coming soon. I can't wait to help you transform your child's reading journey from dread to must-be read—all while rediscovering family reading fun. Every Thursday, I'll bring you quick, practical strategies to help your child build s…

1
Overcoming Educator Burnout: Key Insights and Strategies with Michelle Dickinson and Heather Hartinger 26:37

4M ago26:37

26:37

In this episode of the Digital Learning Today, Jeff welcomes Michelle Dickinson and Heather Hartinger discuss the critical issues of burnout and resilience among educators. They explore the definitions and symptoms of burnout, the importance of self-awareness, and practical strategies for managing stress. The discussion emphasizes the need for educ…

1
Unlocking a Love of Learning with the new Lexile and Quantile Hub from MetaMetrics 17:30

4M ago17:30

17:30

In this conversation, Jeffrey Bradbury interviews Amy Lau, the Director of Learning at MetaMetrics, about the Lexile and Quantile frameworks and the newly launched Lexile Hub. They discuss the importance of accessibility in educational resources, the functionalities of the hub for teachers and parents, and the significance of Lexile and Quantile me…

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Reluctant Readers Podcasts

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