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
12 snips
Dec 6, 2025 • 51min
The Gaza Flotilla Story You Didn’t Hear
Dane Hunter, a sailor from the British Virgin Islands, shares his first-hand experiences from the Global Sumud Flotilla aimed at breaking Israel’s blockade of Gaza. He describes the harrowing moments when the flotilla was attacked by drones, and the chilling experience of being boarded at gunpoint by the Israeli Navy. Hunter also discusses the camaraderie among crew members and the harsh conditions in detention. The podcast reveals unexpected impacts on Gaza fishermen and highlights the growing global protests that followed the flotilla's mission.
15 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 37min
One on One With Trump’s Black MAGA Pastor
Lorenzo Sewell, a Detroit pastor and prominent Black conservative, shares his journey from a life in gangs to becoming a key supporter of Donald Trump. He discusses his controversial prayer at Trump’s inauguration, which adapted Dr. King's words, and addresses the challenges of racial definitions with host Al Letson. Sewell defends his conservative beliefs, linking them to his faith and family values while engaging in a spirited debate about the impact of Trump's policies on Black communities. His insights into faith, politics, and personal transformation make for a compelling conversation.
Nov 29, 2025 • 50min
Alabama’s Threats to Prosecute Abortion Helpers
Nina Martin, an investigative reporter focused on reproductive rights, teams up with Janice Fountain, executive director of the Yellowhammer Abortion Fund, to discuss Alabama's harsh abortion laws. They delve into the chilling effect of Attorney General Steve Marshall's threats against those aiding out-of-state abortions. Janice shares how her organization had to pause services to protect clients. The conversation also highlights a recent lawsuit challenging these threats, advocating for the rights to travel and free speech in the face of strict regulations.
10 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 1h 19min
What Is Riley Gaines Hiding? We Investigated.
Madison Pauly, an investigative reporter for Reveal/CIR, digs deep into Riley Gaines, a swimmer turned conservative activist. She highlights how a tied race with a transgender woman propelled Gaines into the spotlight. Pauly reveals the financial engine behind Gaines' anti-trans activism and unpacks the lawsuit she filed against the NCAA, which could reshape trans athlete policies. With insights from former teammates, Pauly explores the undercurrents of sport, politics, and personal narratives that fuel this ongoing controversy.
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.
