Reveal

Blossom Old Bull, a devoted mother from the Crow Indian Reservation, shares her heart-wrenching journey for justice after her son, Braven Glenn, died in a police chase. Samantha Michaels, a Mother Jones reporter, adds depth with her investigation into the sudden closure of the police department involved. They discuss the community's anguish, the failures of the tribal policing system, and Blossom’s relentless quest for truth amidst bureaucratic chaos. Their emotional stories highlight both personal loss and the glaring need for accountability within law enforcement.

Mike Ergo, a team leader for the US Marines Alpha Company during the Battle of Fallujah, shares a harrowing yet enlightening perspective on his wartime experiences. Alongside journalist Thomas Brennan, they discuss the moral complexities and emotional aftermath of combat. They reflect on the profound grief experienced by families and veterans, highlighting their struggles with loss and the quest for healing. Their stories reveal how the horrors of war shape lasting impressions, echoing a journey of resilience and reconnection in the wake of trauma.

Charles Duke Tanner, a former professional boxer and nonviolent drug offender, shares his compelling journey after his life sentence was commuted by President Trump. He discusses the intricate clemency process and highlights the long waits many applicants face. Tanner also reflects on the harsh realities of the war on drugs and its impact on African American communities. From his boxing triumphs to the emotional weight of incarceration, his story embodies the struggle for redemption and justice in the clemency landscape.

Dinah Rothenberg, a reporter from ACB Stories, dives deep into the plight of refugees in Greece. She discusses the harsh realities faced by migrants, like the emotional journey of Amali and her family fleeing Afghanistan. Rothenberg highlights the alarming crackdown on human rights defenders, with activists like Tommy Olsen being targeted. The troubling environment for asylum seekers is painted vividly, revealing a stark contrast between compassion and governmental hostility, culminating in a poignant reflection on lives lost in the pursuit of safety.

Chris Harland-Dunaway, a dedicated reporter, uncovers a harrowing wartime story as he speaks with Frank Hartzell, a veteran who witnessed the massacre of unarmed German prisoners at Chenogne during World War II. Hartzell shares his chaotic experiences in battle and the chilling orders of 'take no prisoners.' The discussion dives into the moral complexities of wartime actions, addressing uncomfortable truths about accountability. Together, they highlight the emotional burdens carried by veterans and the importance of confronting these hidden narratives.

Valentino Rodriguez, a correctional officer at New Folsom Prison, navigated a toxic work environment that ultimately led to his tragic death. His promotion to an elite unit investigating prison crimes turned into a nightmare, as he faced harassment and isolation from colleagues. His father's relentless search for the truth unveils deeper systemic issues within the correctional system. Alarming statistics on officer misconduct are discussed, alongside the need for reform inspired by Norway's rehabilitation model, highlighting the toll on families affected by this troubling environment.

Shima Oliaee, a reporter and former contestant turned judge, shares her insights on the evolution of the Distinguished Young Women competition. She discusses the intense journey of contestants navigating the pressures of competition while facing the fallout from the Roe v. Wade decision. Alongside fellow contestant Amy Pham, they delve into how these young women grapple with their political beliefs and the emotional turmoil of advocating for women's rights while maintaining friendships. Their experiences highlight resilience and the impact of societal change.

Adrian Walker, a Boston Globe columnist and contributor to the Murder in Boston podcast, discusses the harrowing Stuart case from 1989. He explores how a tragic shooting altered public perception and intensified racial tensions in Boston. The podcast reveals the impact of Chuck Stuart's false accusations against a Black man, shedding light on systemic biases in law enforcement and community relations. Walker emphasizes the enduring emotional scars and the ongoing struggle for justice, illustrating the deeper truths about race and crime that were often overlooked.

Mary Annette Pember, an ICT reporter and citizen of the Red Cliff Band of Ojibwe, uncovers the painful legacy of Indian boarding schools. She investigates the Red Cloud School's history, revealing buried truths through a nun's diary that details finances, the Wounded Knee massacre, and the lives lost. Community voices, including Dusty Lee Nelson, call for reparations from the Catholic Church, seeking transparency and accountability. The dialogue emphasizes the resilience of Indigenous heritage in facing historical injustices.

Mary Annette Pember, a national correspondent for ICT and a citizen of the Red Cliff Band of Ojibwe, shares her extensive reporting on Indian boarding schools and their painful legacy. She talks about Justin Pourier’s haunting discovery of unmarked graves at Red Cloud Indian School and the broader implications for numerous institutions across the country. The discussions highlight emotional testimonies of survivors, the cultural erasure faced by Indigenous communities, and the urgent need for truth and reconciliation in the wake of historical trauma.