From time to time people ask me what podcasts I listen to. I’m a sucker for multitasking, and often when I go for a walk I pop in my earbuds and have a listen. There are loads and loads of podcasts out there, but to ease the load I try and keep it to under 10 per week. Otherwise I’d have that never ending feeling of wishing I could listen to something, but never getting there. I find it’s best to choose something and stick with it. The other point I might add, is that often literacy podcasts have the same guests on, and so the messages can be very similar even though you are listening to another podcast.  So I’ve curated a current list of my favorite shows that offer insightful discussions on literacy, personal development, and professional growth. I love how I get a bit of everything out of these!

First the literacy podcasts:

Melissa and Lori Love Literacy

I love this podcast! I love their delivery and the guests Melissa and Lori have on. The fact they are two passionate educators resonates with me, as well as their journey of development and understanding. I feel I can learn alongside them. Their podcast delves into the science of reading, writing, and learning. With over 200 episodes featuring evidence-based discussions, Melissa and Lori bridge the gap between research and classroom practice, making complex concepts accessible and relatable. 

Listen on Spotify here: 

Reading Road Trip

This is another of my absolute favourites that I have been listening to since its inception. Presented by the International Dyslexia Association Ontario, this podcast is hosted by classroom teacher Kate Winn. Each episode explores evidence-based literacy instruction with esteemed guests, including researchers, authors, educators, and advocates. The practical ideas shared are invaluable for immediate implementation in classrooms, schools, or districts. Kate has a great way of drawing out the learning in a way that we can all understand whilst also offering her insights as a teacher.

Listen on Spotify here

Literacy Talks

Produced by Reading Horizons, this conversational podcast delves into current ideas and articles surrounding evidence-based literacy. Occasionally featuring guests, the discussions have included enlightening conversations about dyslexia and personal stories from individuals who have experienced it firsthand. I really enjoy the frank conversations this trio has, and their episodes on dyslexia last year had me in tears.  Well worth a listen.

Listen on Spotify here

Sold a Story

This was for many a catalyst listen, and one that sparked a huge momentum swing in the US. Even though it is US based, much of the content in this podcast can draw parallels with New Zealand and beyond. There are short episodes which follow up from the main story, I totally recommend a listen. In this investigative series, Emily Hanford examines how certain authors and a publishing company have profited by promoting disproven theories about reading and writing. It’s a compelling exploration of the impact of these theories on education.

Listen on Spotify here.

Human Chapters

Hosted by Arti Shah, this podcast features conversations with individuals from diverse backgrounds. As Arti puts it, “Humans are books,” and each episode delves into a chapter of a person’s narrative. Many episodes highlight prominent literacy champions, offering profound insights into their journeys. I just LOVE Arti, she has such an art for drawing out the story, and she has interviewed some big names in the literacy world. Each of her guests comes in on equal footing, introduced by first name only. Highly recommended, fall in love with Arti like I have.

Listen on Spotify here. 

Because I am also a business owner, I also enjoy listening to a few different types of podcasts. Here are a few from a business perspective:

This Working Life

Balancing my role as a literacy tutor and small business owner, I find this podcast to be a concise 30-minute exploration of work life. While not all content directly relates to my experiences, there’s always a valuable nugget or two about business ownership that I can apply. Each of the episodes delves into anecdotal stories from real-life people, alongside experts in the field of the topic. 

Listen on Spotify here. 

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck Podcast

I love listening to this! It’s like having a couple of friends in your lounge chatting away about life. I generally come away from these listens with a new perspective on something, or at least a good chuckle about a new concept. I love the idea of “premium mediocre”. Honestly, if it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck…. It’s a duck. Hosted by Mark Manson and Drew Bearny, this podcast features a mix of guest appearances, listener questions, and solo episodes. It explores uncomfortable yet transformative questions that encourage introspection and personal growth.

Listen on Spotify here. 

What are your go-to listens? I’d love to know!