This episode is produced in partnership with the Georgia Interfaith Public Policy Center.

Host Mickey Desai sits down with children’s author and entrepreneur Tiffany Obeng, founder of Sugar Cookie Books, to explore a powerful and often overlooked truth: inclusion in the workforce doesn’t begin in college or even high school—it begins with literacy in early childhood.

Tiffany shares her perspective on what she describes as a literacy crisis, particularly among underrepresented communities, and explains how reading proficiency as early as fourth grade can shape a child’s long-term trajectory. From the realities of the school-to-prison pipeline to the role of disengagement in education, the conversation draws a clear line between early literacy and future workforce participation.

A central theme of the discussion is representation. Tiffany highlights how the lack of diverse characters—especially Black boys—in children’s books contributes to disengagement, reinforcing the idea that reading isn’t “for them.” Through her own work, including more than 27 children’s titles, she aims to change that narrative by creating books where children can see themselves reflected, celebrated, and inspired.

The episode also examines the role of traditional publishing as a gatekeeper, the limitations of current diversity metrics in literature, and the broader cultural barriers—including book deserts and book bans—that restrict access to inclusive stories. Together, these challenges underscore that improving literacy is not just about teaching children to read, but about giving them meaningful reasons to want to.

Looking forward, Tiffany introduces her theory that early literacy—combined with intentional exposure to career pathways through books—can organically build a more diverse and prepared workforce. By engaging children as young as five with stories that spark imagination and possibility, we can begin to reshape talent pipelines long before hiring decisions are made.

The conversation closes with practical ways listeners can get involved, from supporting diverse authors and recommending inclusive books to libraries, to simply reading regularly with the children in their lives. Whether through advocacy or everyday actions, everyone has a role to play in expanding access to literacy and opportunity.

Key Topics Covered:

The current state of reading literacy and why it matters
The connection between literacy and the school-to-prison pipeline
Representation in children’s books and its impact on engagement
The role of publishers in shaping access and visibility
Book deserts, book bans, and barriers to inclusive literacy
How early literacy can influence workforce diversity
Practical ways individuals can support literacy and inclusion

Guest:Tiffany Obeng – Author and Founder of Sugar Cookie Books

Website: sugarcookiebooks.com

Personal site: tiffanyobeng.com

Social: @sugarcookiebooks (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn)

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The Literacy Crisis We Can’t Ignore