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
32 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 30min
Jeffrey Goldberg on Signalgate, Pete Hegseth, and the Risk of WWIII
Jeffrey Goldberg, Editor-in-chief of The Atlantic and a seasoned journalist, shares insights from being unintentionally included in a secret chat about military actions in Yemen. He discusses the alarming implications of the Trump administration's decision-making on national security. The conversation touches on escalating tensions with Iran, the precarious situation in Taiwan, and the role of journalism in safeguarding democracy. Goldberg also emphasizes the need for empathy in society and the importance of balanced reporting amid chaotic political landscapes.
26 snips
Jun 28, 2025 • 51min
Elon Musk and JD Vance Want You to Breed. A Lot.
Kiera Butler, a National Correspondent for Mother Jones, and Rob Schenck, a former leader in the Christian nationalist movement, dive into the intriguing pronatalist movement. They explore how billionaires like Elon Musk and conservative values intersect in a push for higher birth rates to purportedly save civilization. The conversation covers embryo optimization, the ethics of who should reproduce, and Schenck’s transformative journey from advocating for abortion rights to grappling with the moral implications of his past actions in the political arena.
Jun 25, 2025 • 30min
Mohsen Mahdawi Fought ICE and Won His Freedom. For Now.
Mohsen Mahdawi is a Palestinian activist and Columbia University student who faced arrest by ICE after a citizenship interview. He discusses his traumatic childhood in a West Bank refugee camp and how witnessing injustice has shaped his activism. Mohsen shares his experiences of fear and anxiety surrounding immigration policies, as well as the emotional turmoil of his detainment. He emphasizes the need for solidarity and support for pro-Palestinian activism at universities, shedding light on the challenges confronting students in the current political climate.
Jun 21, 2025 • 51min
The 13th Step
Lauren Chooljian, an investigative reporter at New Hampshire Public Radio, dives into the alarming issue of sexual misconduct in addiction treatment. She reveals the pervasive problem known as '13-stepping,' where vulnerable women are exploited by powerful men in recovery. Chooljian shares chilling stories of intimidation faced during her investigation into Eric Spofford's allegations and highlights another case involving Chris Bathum's fraud and abuse. The podcast serves as a powerful call for accountability and justice in the addiction recovery landscape.
14 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 28min
“Madness”: A Retired Brig. General Slams Trump’s Military Power Grab
In this engaging conversation, Retired Brigadier General Greg Smith, who dedicated 35 years to the Army National Guard, shares his unsettling observations on the military's increasing political role, particularly in response to immigration protests. He critiques the use of the National Guard for enforcing federal agendas, questioning the implications for constitutional rights. Smith draws on personal experiences managing civil unrest to emphasize the delicate balance between security and free speech, raising vital concerns about military loyalty and public trust.
20 snips
Jun 14, 2025 • 51min
2024 Broke the Democrats. Can They Put Themselves Back Together?
Tim Murphy, a dedicated reporter for Mother Jones, dives into the fractured landscape of the Democratic Party as it faces unprecedented challenges. He discusses the alarming drop in support from traditional bases in immigrant communities, particularly in cities like New York. With a critical mayoral election on the horizon, Murphy examines the clash between centrist and progressive candidates, highlighting the urgent need for the party to reconnect with disillusioned voters. Personal anecdotes reveal the real-life impact of political shifts on communities, sparking a vital conversation about the party's future.
18 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 26min
Trump’s Trade War Is Stressing Red State Farmers
In this engaging discussion, Bryant Kagey, a Missouri farmer feeling the impact of tariffs firsthand, shares his journey navigating uncertainty in agriculture. He reflects on his support for Trump and questions the long-term strategy behind the trade war. Kagey details the fluctuating market conditions that threaten his soybean sales to China. The conversation also touches on generational farming challenges, the shift towards modern practices, and the complex relationship between politics and rural livelihoods, highlighting a critical moment for American farmers.
12 snips
Jun 7, 2025 • 51min
50 States of Mind
Shima Oliaee, a seasoned reporter and host of The Competition, and Amy Pham, a determined competitor from Tennessee and daughter of Vietnamese immigrants, dive deep into the intense world of the Distinguished Young Women competition. They explore the dreams and challenges facing young women, particularly in the wake of the Roe v. Wade decision. The conversation touches on navigating personal beliefs amidst competition, the powerful bonds of friendship, and the role of advocacy and art in a politically charged environment.
9 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 29min
David Hogg’s Fight for the Future of the Democratic Party
David Hogg, gun control activist and the first Gen Z vice chair of the DNC, is shaking up the Democratic Party from within. He talks about his bold initiative to spend $20 million supporting younger candidates to challenge incumbents. Hogg emphasizes the need for new leadership and accountability, especially in the wake of disappointing election results. He shares his journey from surviving the Parkland shooting to advocating for gun safety, highlighting the importance of empowering young leaders to create meaningful political change.
May 31, 2025 • 50min
The EEOC’s Identity Crisis
Join Abby Vesoulis, a national politics reporter for Mother Jones, as she delves into the unsettling evolution of the anti-DEI movement and its impacts on the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The discussion highlights the alarming shift away from protections for LGBTQ individuals and the challenges faced by those like Dylan Bringuel, who experienced immediate discrimination at work. Vesoulis explores how political maneuvers have redefined discrimination narratives and the ongoing cultural conflict surrounding diversity and inclusion initiatives.
