My top 10 podcast of the year – Episode 3
Sold a Story
We have been teaching kids the incorrect way to read for decades. Outlets, including this one, have reported on how the decision at schools across the country to abandon research-backed methods—namely the ""Science of Reading"" or phonics—in favor of ""decoding"" words based on clues like pictures has taken a major toll on kids' literacy: One in three American fourth graders reads below a basic level. Journalist Emily Hanford, who has been raising the alarm about this problem for years, lays out how America got here in a show that plays like she's unwinding a mystery. Through interviews with teachers, parents, and advocates, she delves into how one education guru managed to convince so many teachers that children decoding text based on pictures was superior to learning to connect letters and sounds—a position she's since doubled back on—how politics played a major role in the education shift, and how we can right the ship. This series was published in 2022, but the host published bonus episodes in 2023, which allows me to extol the virtues of this investigative podcast, if only a little late. 🎶
After listening to 'Sold a Story,' I was completely floored by how something so fundamental as how we teach reading could be so misdirected for so long. Emily Hanford did an incredible job peeling back the layers of that complex issue, making me question everything I thought I knew about education. If you're like me and appreciate podcasts that combine meticulous investigative journalism with a compelling narrative that genuinely makes you think and want to learn more, then you're in for a treat. I've found a few other podcasts that hit that same sweet spot, offering deep dives into important topics that really stick with you. First up, for anyone who found the systemic issues explored in 'Sold a Story' fascinating, I highly recommend 'In the Dark.' This investigative series, particularly its second season, delves into the case of Curtis Flowers, a man tried six times for the same crime. It’s a masterclass in true crime journalism, but it goes beyond just the 'whodunit' to expose the deep flaws within the justice system itself. The hosts, Madeleine Baran and Samara Freemark, are relentless in their pursuit of truth, much like Emily Hanford, and their storytelling is just as gripping. You'll find yourself questioning legal processes and the impact on individuals, much like how 'Sold a Story' made me rethink education policy. Another gem that offers a different, yet equally profound, investigative experience is 'The Retrievals.' This podcast explores the harrowing experiences of women undergoing egg retrieval procedures at a fertility clinic who discovered they were given saline instead of painkillers. It's a deeply empathetic and shocking series that uncovers systemic failures and the devastating impact on individuals, particularly women's bodies and trust in medical institutions. The storytelling is incredibly sensitive but unflinching, providing a voice to those affected and shining a light on medical negligence in a way that’s both informative and emotionally resonant. For those interested in the broader societal implications of personal experiences, similar to how 'Sold a Story' tied individual learning struggles to national policy, 'ParentData' is worth a listen. While not strictly investigative in the same vein, it features Dr. Emily Oster, who analyzes data on parenting and health decisions. It empowers listeners with evidence-based insights to make informed choices. It’s less about uncovering a mystery and more about demystifying common concerns with data, which aligns with the fact-driven approach of 'Sold a Story' that aimed to correct misconceptions. It’s a great way to stay informed on topics that directly affect families and children. Finally, if the narrative style and the exploration of craft appealed to you, though on a different subject, 'A Life in Lyrics' offers fascinating insights. While not an investigative podcast about systemic issues, it dives deep into the creative process and the stories behind famous songs. It’s more about artistic exploration and understanding the human experience through music, but it shares that meticulous, deep-dive quality that makes 'Sold a Story' so engaging. It connects the dots between art and life in a unique way. These podcasts, much like 'Sold a Story,' have that rare ability to pull you into a complex world, educate you, and leave you with a lasting impression. They’re perfect for anyone who loves to learn and isn't afraid to confront uncomfortable truths through brilliant storytelling.