Systemic Erasure Through Interest Convergence: A Critical Reading of Emily Hanford’s 'Sold A Story' Podcast

• In Event: Following Policy to Witness the Harms of Epistemic Hierarchy

Abstract

This qualitative study analyzes the first ten episodes of Emily Hanford’s podcast ‘Sold a Story ‘using Critical Race Theory (CRT) as both a theoretical framework and an analytic tool, with a focus on Derek Bell’s interest convergence theory. While the podcast critiques contemporary literacy methods and exposes conflicts of interest among educators and publishers, it omits any substantive discussion of how race shapes persistent disparities in reading outcomes. By advancing a reform agenda palatable to middle-class white families—centered on curriculum rather than structural change — Hanford reinforces deficit narratives and erases the experiences of children of color. This study examines how the podcast’s framing aligns with dominant interests while marginalizing racialized perspectives in literacy education and reform.

Authors

• Ronnie Angel Chavez, Arizona State University

• Jeanne M. Powers, Arizona State University