Reveal Celebrates a Decade of Impactful Investigative Journalism

The investigative journalism program Reveal marks its tenth anniversary, reflecting on its significant contributions to public discourse and accountability. The show first gained national attention when its pilot episode uncovered troubling practices within the Department of Veterans Affairs, specifically highlighting the overprescription of opioids to veterans. This investigation not only exposed systemic issues but also sparked widespread outrage and led to changes in how painkillers are prescribed.

Uncovering the Opioid Crisis

Journalist Aaron Glantz played a pivotal role in the initial investigation, obtaining a decade’s worth of opioid prescription data from the federal government. “Sometimes, you have to sue to get the records,” Glantz noted, indicating the challenges faced in accessing vital information. He added, “I have to think that there were some people over there in DC who were as concerned as we were about this.”

The response to the pilot episode was uncertain at first. Al Letson, the show’s host, expressed his doubts about whether any public radio stations would air the program. The investigation, however, resonated deeply with audiences and prompted Congressional hearings, even during a government lockdown. This momentum has since contributed to a significant shift in veterans’ prescription practices regarding opioids.

A Decade of Investigative Excellence

As Reveal celebrates its ten-year milestone, the program continues to air on over 500 stations across the United States. The anniversary episode revisits some of the most impactful stories from the past decade, including investigations into serious issues such as water shortages in drought-prone California and labor abuses in the Dominican Republic.

The current episode features interviews with the journalists behind these critical reports, providing insights into the aftermath of their findings and the broader implications for society. The rebroadcast of an episode originally aired in March 2025 exemplifies Reveal’s ongoing commitment to shedding light on pressing issues and holding powerful entities accountable.

Through its rigorous investigations and compelling storytelling, Reveal has established itself as a vital force in the realm of public radio, engaging listeners and inspiring change in communities across the globe. As the program looks forward to another decade, it remains dedicated to uncovering the truth and amplifying the voices of those affected by systemic injustices.