Harvey Hubbell Show n Tell Podcast

In Part 2, Harvey and Dena Mortensen continue their conversation about what it really takes to strengthen literacy instruction across schools and districts. Dena speaks to the importance of supporting teachers through change, building professional community, and keeping students at the center of every instructional decision. They also revisit the upcoming Hopeville screening in Waterbury, CT, discussing how events like this spark connection, understanding, and shared purpose among educators, families, and community members. This episode closes with a message of commitment, collaboration, and hope for the future of literacy.
 

In Part 1 of this conversation, Harvey speaks with Dena Mortensen, Assistant Professor of Literacy, Elementary, & Early Childhood Education, and former Head of ELA for Waterbury Public Schools. Dena reflects on her work leading literacy change in a large urban district, the instructional challenges teachers face, and what meaningful, sustained support for educators truly looks like. She also shares her role in the film Hopeville: How to Win the Reading Wars and talks about the upcoming Hopeville screening in Waterbury, CT, where the community will come together around the movement for stronger reading outcomes. This episode sets the stage for a thoughtful and inspiring discussion about leadership and hope.

In this episode, Harvey speaks with Stephanie Mitchell, M.A., Partner at The Bertram Group and a specialist in helping students with learning differences find the school or post-secondary environment that allows them to thrive. With over 15 years of experience in one-to-one remediation, transition planning, and boarding school and college advising, Stephanie works closely with families to understand each student’s strengths, needs, and identity — and to match them with environments that truly fit. Drawing on both her professional expertise and her personal experience as a parent, she offers insight into navigating middle school through young adulthood with clarity, confidence, and compassion. This conversation highlights the importance of supportive transitions, intentional planning, and believing in every learner’s potential.

In this episode, Harvey speaks with Jeffrey Ruggiero, Associate Head at The Southport School, where he has spent more than 30 years working in special education as both a teacher and administrator. With advanced training in dyslexia, language-based learning issues, ADHD, and executive function, Jeffrey focuses on building instructional environments where students can thrive. As an Orton-Gillingham certified practitioner and dyslexia specialist, he blends research-driven reading instruction with student-centered support that empowers learners. Harvey and Jeffrey also discuss the upcoming screening of Hopeville in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and the importance of bringing communities together around literacy change.
 

In Part 2 of Harvey’s conversation with Dr. Augusto Buchweitz, the discussion turns toward the practical implications of brain research for teaching and learning. Dr. Buchweitz explains how neuroscience can inform early literacy instruction, the challenges of scaling evidence-based practices across diverse educational systems, and the promise of technology when it is grounded in science — not trends. Together, they explore how educators, families, and policymakers can use research to support all learners, especially those historically underserved.
 

In this episode, Harvey speaks with Dr. Augusto Buchweitz, Associate Professor of Psychological Sciences whose research explores early literacy, brain development, bilingualism, and dyslexia — particularly in underserved communities across Latin and Central America. Dr. Buchweitz discusses the relationship between language and the developing brain, the importance of equitable access to evidence-based literacy instruction, and his work bringing GraphoGame to children in Brazil through EdTech innovation. This conversation connects research to real-world challenges — showing how neuroscience can guide practical solutions that support all learners.

In Part 2, Harvey and Clarice Jackson continue their powerful conversation about literacy, equity, and community leadership. Clarice dives deeper into the work of Black Literacy Matters — from supporting families and training educators to influencing policy and reshaping narratives around reading instruction. She shares her vision for sustainable literacy change and the hope that drives her forward. This episode is a call to action rooted in lived experience, practical advocacy, and unwavering belief in what every child deserves.
 

In Part 1 of this discussion, Harvey speaks with Clarice Jackson, founder and CEO of Black Literacy Matters, an organization committed to ensuring that Black students receive access to effective, evidence-based literacy instruction. Clarice shares her personal journey as a parent advocating for her daughter, how that experience opened her eyes to systemic inequities, and why she stepped forward to build a movement. This episode explores the intersection of literacy, justice, and empowerment — and the urgent need to close opportunity gaps through instruction that works.

In Part 2 of Harvey’s conversation with Dr. Caroline Wilcox Ugurlu, we continue exploring how the Letters Are Characters approach empowers children to become confident early readers. Dr. Wilcox Ugurlu discusses practical strategies parents and educators can use, the importance of emotional connection in early literacy, and how small, consistent moments of playful learning make a lasting impact. This closing conversation highlights the joy, empathy, and research foundation behind her work — and offers encouragement for anyone supporting a child’s reading journey.

Recorded in person, Harvey speaks with Dr. Caroline Wilcox Ugurlu, creator of the Letters Are Characters program — a playful, compassionate, and research-informed approach that helps parents support early reading readiness at home. Drawing on her experience as a scientist, educator, and parent, Dr. Wilcox Ugurlu offers fresh insight into how children develop relationships with letters, sounds, and stories. In Part 1 of this conversation, we explore the foundations of early literacy, the emotional experience of learning to read, and how joyful engagement can build confidence rather than stress. It’s a warm and empowering discussion for anyone raising or teaching beginning readers.