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
14 snips
Nov 22, 2025 • 51min
In Rural America Public Radio Saves Lives
This episode features Senator Lisa Murkowski, a U.S. Senator from Alaska, and Sage Smiley, news director at the bilingual public radio station KYUK. They discuss the crucial role KYUK plays in emergency communications, especially during crises like the recent typhoon that struck Alaska. Murkowski highlights the devastating impact of funding cuts on public media and its essential service for rural communities. Smiley shares stories of how bilingual broadcasts save lives, providing vital updates on weather and safety in the region.
8 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 33min
Why America Is Obsessed With True Crime
Incarcerated journalist John J. Lennon, author of *The Tragedy of True Crime*, dives deep into the ethics of the true crime genre. Having committed murder in 2001 and now reflecting from behind bars, he critiques the genre’s exploitation of tragedy as entertainment. Lennon shares his journey from a life-changing prison stabbing to discovering journalism, arguing that true crime feeds a thirst for punishment. He also discusses how his writing aims to humanize inmates and challenges conventional storytelling by focusing on their lives beyond their crimes.
Nov 15, 2025 • 50min
In a Mississippi Jail, Inmates Became Weapons
Mukta Joshi, a reporter who delved into the alarming practices at Rankin County Jail, is joined by investigative reporters Nate Rosenfeld and Brian Howey. They discuss the disturbing actions of the ‘blue wave’—trustee inmates who enforced violence under guards’ orders. With firsthand accounts, they reveal a systemic culture of abuse and cover-ups that spanned over a decade. The investigation uncovers how even jail officials allegedly participated in and ignored brutalities, raising serious questions about the justice system's integrity in this Mississippi jail.
14 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 40min
Executions Are Rising in the US. This Reverend Witnesses Them.
Jeff Hood, an Old Catholic priest and death row spiritual advisor, shares his profound experiences with capital punishment and racial justice. He recounts his journey from conservative roots to radical activism influenced by community and tragic events. Jeff illustrates the emotional toll of sitting in execution chambers and the complex humanity of inmates. He discusses the challenges of being a white Southern reverend advocating for justice and how capital punishment reflects America’s troubling trajectory toward violence.
Nov 8, 2025 • 50min
The Deputies Who Tortured a Mississippi County
Investigative reporters Brian Howey and Nate Rosenfield expose the dark realities within the Rankin County Sheriff's Department. Howey shares harrowing firsthand accounts from Andrea Dettore-Murphy, who witnessed brutal raids by the so-called 'Goon Squad.' The duo discusses the systematic abuse, corroborated by over 50 victim testimonies and misleading taser logs. They delve into the community's outrage, federal investigations, and the aftermath for both victims and perpetrators, provoking serious questions about accountability and policing practices in the area.
15 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 26min
I Study Fascism. I’ve Already Fled America.
In this engaging discussion, Jason Stanley, a philosophy professor and expert on fascism, shares his insights on the alarming trends in American politics. He boldly describes the current regime under Trump as authoritarian and outlines how education plays a crucial role in shaping nationalist narratives. Stanley discusses why he views America as experiencing a ‘coup’ and the global rise of far-right movements. He also reflects on his move to Canada, which allows him greater freedom to advocate for democracy and address the moral crises of our time.
Nov 1, 2025 • 51min
An Atrocity of War Goes Unpunished
Madeline Barron, an investigative reporter known for her work on high-profile justice issues, delves into the Haditha massacre where 24 civilians were killed by U.S. Marines. She discusses her motivation to confront the lack of accountability for these war crimes. Barron recounts poignant survivor testimonies and highlights the struggle to obtain military records. The discovery of a previously unreported 25th victim adds a chilling layer to the narrative, underscoring systemic failures in military justice and the ongoing pursuit of truth.
22 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 32min
America Had a Black President. Then Came the Whitelash.
Jelani Cobb, a New Yorker staff writer and the dean of Columbia Journalism School, discusses how the death of Trayvon Martin ignited a decade of social change. He reflects on the defining moments of the Black Lives Matter movement and evaluates President Obama's complex legacy amidst rising political hostility. Cobb shares insights on the challenges facing journalism in today's polarized climate and emphasizes the importance of integrity and transparency in media. His recent book, 'Three or More Is a Riot,' encapsulates these pivotal themes.
Oct 25, 2025 • 51min
A Midnight Phone Call. A Missing Movie. Decades of Questions.
Join Ashley Kleek, a Reveal producer, on a quirky journey as she investigates the mystery of a late-night call from indie rock star Jeff Mangum to her college radio show. Garrison Hayes, a Mother Jones video correspondent, searches for his long-lost short film, revealing the emotional weight of recovered memories. Meanwhile, Yo-Wei Shah, host of Proxy, shares her experience of meeting her doppelganger and the surprising connections that emerge from their similarities. It's a delightful exploration of personal mysteries and emotional truths!
Oct 22, 2025 • 24min
Al Letson at No Kings: Hope, Fury, and Inflatables
Al Letson dives into the vibrant atmosphere of the No Kings protest, where 7 million voices rallied against perceived authoritarianism. Attendees wore inflatable costumes and displayed heartfelt messages, highlighting concerns over immigration raids and civil rights. Protesters pushed for stronger Democratic action and D.C. statehood, while reflecting on historical movements. The discussions extend to the dangers posed by funding cuts in research and the implications of U.S. policy on global issues. It's an urgent call for unity and resistance in the face of democracy's threats.
