Reveal
The Center for Investigative Reporting and PRX
Reveal’s investigations will inspire, infuriate and inform you. Host Al Letson and an award-winning team of reporters deliver gripping stories about caregivers, advocates for the unhoused, immigrant families, warehouse workers and formerly incarcerated people, fighting to hold the powerful accountable. The New Yorker described Reveal as “a knockout … a pleasure to listen to, even as we seethe.” A winner of multiple Peabody, duPont, Emmy and Murrow awards, Reveal is produced by the nation’s first investigative journalism nonprofit, The Center for Investigative Reporting, and PRX. From unearthing exploitative working conditions to exposing the nation’s racial disparities, there’s always more to the story. Learn more at revealnews.org/learn.
Episodes
Mentioned books
19 snips
May 3, 2025 • 51min
In Fallujah, We Destroyed Parts of Ourselves
Guests Mike Ergo, a former Marine team leader, and Ronaldo Aponte, a company medic, share gripping insights from the Battle of Fallujah, discussing not only the intense combat but also the deep emotional scars left behind. Kathleen Faircloth remembers her son, a lance corporal who lost his life in the battle, reflecting on the profound impact of war on families. The conversation explores themes of grief, the struggles of veterans adjusting to civilian life, and the urgent need for better mental health support within the military community.
17 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 31min
How Public Schools Became Ground Zero for America’s Culture Wars
In a gripping discussion, investigative journalist Mike Hixenbaugh tackles the heated culture wars infiltrating public schools. The conversation kicks off with Hixenbaugh's shocking personal experience when a protest turned his front yard into a battleground over race and politics. He examines how schools embody broader societal tensions, especially around diversity, equity, and inclusion. Hixenbaugh also explores the fierce opposition at school board meetings, shedding light on the emotional toll on educators and highlighting the role of misinformation in shaping public perceptions.
10 snips
Apr 26, 2025 • 50min
Teaching Kids to Read: How One School District Gets It Right
Emily Hanford, an education reporter and host of APM Reports' 'Sold a Story,' investigates the remarkable reading success of Steubenville, Ohio. She highlights how progressive teaching methods have dramatically improved literacy outcomes, even among low-income students. The district's unique approach prioritizes sounds over names and emphasizes community involvement. Hanford also raises concerns about a new Ohio law that could jeopardize these advancements, making it clear that effective reading instruction is crucial for all students.
35 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 27min
How Trump Exploits Working Class Pain
Arlie Hochschild, a sociologist and author of 'Stolen Pride, Lost Shame,' delves into the economic struggles in rural America and their political implications. She shares insights from her time in Pikeville, Kentucky, where the decline of coal jobs and rising opioid issues have fueled a complex emotional landscape. Hochschild argues that while Trump taps into the pride and pain of these communities, his policies may not provide the tangible benefits they seek. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding these experiences to bridge political divides.
Apr 19, 2025 • 51min
How Police Guns End Up in the Hands of Criminals
Alon Stevens, a reporter for The Trace and host of The Gun Machine podcast, dives into the haunting journey of police guns ending up in criminal hands. He shares the devastating story of Maria Leslie, whose grandson was killed by a Glock once owned by law enforcement. The discussion reveals alarming trends in police firearm disposal practices that lead to these weapons being resold rather than destroyed. Stevens highlights the pressing need for reevaluation of policies and accountability in the face of rising gun violence.
27 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 30min
What Trump’s Tariff Shock Will Cost You
Justin Wolfers, an economist from the University of Michigan known for his insights on happiness and income, discusses the ramifications of Trump's tariffs. He explains how these tariffs deviate from traditional economic principles and could lead the U.S. into an unnecessary recession. Wolfers critiques the unrealistic expectations of job growth tied to these policies and highlights their negative impact on consumer prices and confidence. He also contrasts current tariffs with historical approaches, emphasizing the broader implications for global trade.
30 snips
Apr 12, 2025 • 51min
Trump’s Deportation Black Hole
Noah Lanard, a reporter for Mother Jones, dives into the disturbing cases of Venezuelan men imprisoned without trial in El Salvador's infamous mega-prison, sharing heartbreaking stories of families left in limbo. Carlos Dada, co-founder of El Faro, reveals the alarming deportation agreements between the Trump administration and El Salvador, raising questions about justice and human rights. Together, they unpack the human cost of these policies and the troubling lack of legal oversight, urging listeners to consider the deeper implications of such actions.
Apr 9, 2025 • 29min
Trump’s “Pincer Attack” on Journalism Is Working. But There’s Hope.
David Folkenflik, NPR's media correspondent, breaks down the current media landscape under political pressure, particularly during Trump's second term. He discusses the alarming ways journalism is being targeted, with news organizations facing increased hostility. Folkenflik highlights the erosion of public trust, particularly due to controversial editorial choices. He also explores how journalists can rebuild credibility in a divided society and the implications of funding challenges for public broadcasting amidst rigorous political scrutiny.
6 snips
Apr 5, 2025 • 50min
The Churn
Heidi Aurand, a devoted mother advocating for mental healthcare reform, shares her emotional journey as she fought to support her son Adam through his struggles with severe mental illness. Lou Middleton opens up about his own path to recovery, spotlighting the vital roles of self-awareness and community support. Together, they explore the systemic failures of mental health care in the U.S., the challenges faced by families in crisis, and the urgent need for comprehensive care to prevent further tragedies.
4 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 28min
She Launched “The Daily Show.” Now She’s Fighting Red State Abortion Bans.
Lizz Winstead, co-creator of The Daily Show and founder of Abortion Access Front, shares her journey from comedy to activism. She tackles the complex landscape of abortion rights, highlighting the urgent need for involvement against misinformation and legislative threats. The conversation reveals deceptive tactics used by crisis pregnancy centers and discusses the implications of the Dobbs decision. With humor as a tool, Winstead emphasizes the importance of hybrid activism, calling everyone to action in the fight for reproductive justice.
