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
Jan 17, 2026 • 50min
A Dictator Deposed—What Now for Venezuela?
Freddy Guevara, a Venezuelan opposition leader in exile, shares his harrowing journey through arrest and negotiation while expressing skepticism about the new leadership. Journalist Mariana Zúñiga recounts her gripping experience witnessing the upheaval in Caracas, highlighting the pervasive fear among citizens. Historian Alejandro Velasco delves into the vital role of oil in Venezuela's history and its impact on U.S. relations. Together, they discuss the uncertain future of Venezuela, the implications of Maduro's capture, and the complex road ahead for democracy.
17 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 34min
America’s New Era of Violent Populism Is Here
Join Robert Pape, a University of Chicago political science professor renowned for his research on political violence, as he explores the unsettling rise of violent populism in America. He discusses the implications of Trump's pardons for January 6 insurrectionists, linking demographic shifts to increased political violence. Pape reveals the unexpected backgrounds of many insurrectionists and emphasizes how economic inequality fuels resentment. He also shares glimmers of hope, citing widespread rejection of political violence among Americans.
26 snips
Jan 10, 2026 • 50min
What Police Weren’t Told About Tasers
Nick Berardini, an investigative reporter known for his work on Taser safety, joins former Kansas City officer Matt Masters, whose son was tased and suffered cardiac arrest. They discuss the shocking personal impact of a tool once believed to be safe. Matt reflects on his transformation from a tactical cop to a concerned father after Bryce's incident. The conversation reveals the controversial side of Taser International's marketing and the dangers obscured from officers, including internal research indicating serious health risks associated with Taser usage.
23 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 32min
What Trump’s Venezuela Attack Means for the World
Emma Ashford, a Foreign Policy magazine columnist and senior fellow at the Stimson Center, dives into the recent U.S. military operation to capture Nicolás Maduro. She discusses the aggressive tactics of the Trump administration, coining it the 'Donroe Doctrine.' Ashford highlights international reactions, the potential for destabilization in the region, and the long-term implications for Venezuelan oil and democracy. She also explores the challenges of Venezuelan governance and the risks of increased migration due to instability.
18 snips
Jan 3, 2026 • 51min
The Black Market for a Lifesaving Cat Drug
In a compelling discussion, Alex Goldman, a seasoned host and reporter from Hyperfixed, dives into the intricate world of a black market for a lifesaving cat drug. He shares the touching story of Marlena Arjo and her kitten Otto, who battled feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) against all odds. The podcast reveals the grassroots efforts of cat lovers who connected through Facebook groups to source illegal medication. Goldman also highlights the shifts in veterinary practices and the eventual push to legalize treatment options for FIP, transforming the landscape for desperate pet owners.
7 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 32min
How a Climate Doomsayer Became an Unexpected Optimist
Bill McKibben, a pioneering environmentalist and author of The End of Nature, shares his transformative journey towards optimism in the fight against climate change. He highlights the rapid evolution of solar and wind energy, expressing hope that the current energy transition could reshape civilization. McKibben discusses China's leadership in renewable energy, the need to counteract harmful policies, and the rise of grassroots movements. He emphasizes practical steps towards solar accessibility, underlining a future where clean energy can empower individuals and combat emissions.
Dec 27, 2025 • 51min
A Decade of Reveal
In this engaging celebration of ten years of impactful journalism, investigative reporter Aaron Glantz reveals how he uncovered alarming trends in veterans' opioid prescriptions, highlighting the overdose crisis. He shares the poignant story of Tim Fazio, illustrating how data can empower local journalists. Additionally, insights into reporting on water shortages in California and labor abuses in the Dominican Republic showcase the team's relentless pursuit of truth. Listen as they reflect on how these investigations have shaped awareness and prompted significant reforms.
24 snips
Dec 24, 2025 • 31min
The Bible Says So…or Does It?
Dan McClellan, a religious scholar and TikTok sensation with nearly a million followers, delves into the fascinating intersections of biblical texts and contemporary interpretations. He highlights the disparity between academic insights and popular beliefs, particularly in the realm of empathy and wealth. McClellan also quips about his comic-book T-shirts, making scholarship more accessible. He challenges the notion that the Bible is purely a historical document, arguing for its rhetorical diversity and the way it has been used as a tool for power throughout history.
13 snips
Dec 20, 2025 • 51min
Fancy Galleries, Fake Art
Giselle Rigatau, an investigative reporter known for her deep dives into art fraud, and Jason Hernandez, a lead federal prosecutor specializing in art crimes, unpack a scandal where two prestigious galleries sold over $80 million in fake masterpieces. They discuss the cunning methods behind the operation and the challenges of prosecuting art crimes, shedding light on why galleries escaped indictment. Additionally, they explore a looted Modigliani painting linked to the Panama Papers, revealing the tangled web of ownership and legal battles that followed.
Dec 17, 2025 • 29min
Why Trump Deemed Basic Sanitation Illegal DEI
Catherine Coleman Flowers, an environmental justice activist and author, shares her journey advocating for sanitation equity in America. She highlights shocking sanitation issues in rural and urban areas, emphasizing the impact of aging infrastructure and climate change. Flowers discusses her memoir, "Holy Ground," filled with personal essays aimed at inspiring hope and resilience. She draws intriguing biblical parallels to critique current policies, and identifies emerging environmental threats like data centers, urging communities to take charge in designing fair projects.
