Nitty-gritty investigative journalism on Question Everything

👂 Across hundreds of episodes, American investigative journalist Brian Reed probes the core of journalism itself on his podcast Question Everything — how truth is erased, distorted, and denied, and who suffers in the fight to reclaim it. The podcast offers a rare insider look at American media while tackling high-stakes, controversial stories with fearless grit.

A little background: The idea for the show grew out of a deeply personal ordeal. Following the runaway success of his hit investigative podcast S-Town, Reed found himself slapped with a lawsuit by the estate of the show’s main subject, claiming the podcast was anything but journalism. Once the suit was settled, Reed decided to launch a brand-new show focused entirely on investigative reporting — one that is equal parts hard-hitting investigation and intimate personal reflection.

How Zuckerberg always escapes the hook: In a recent episode, Reed uncovers the behind-the-scenes drama of an unexpected settlement in a landmark lawsuit filed by 47 US states against Meta a few weeks ago. The tech giant stood accused of deliberately harming children through Instagram and Facebook. Reed sits down with Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti, who led the negotiations on behalf of the states. Together, they dissect how Meta managed to land a quiet settlement without ever admitting wrongdoing — even though the states held a rock-solid case and Meta had already lost two major child safety lawsuits earlier that year.

What worked: Reed is, in our view, one of the most gifted storytellers in audio journalism, and his mastery shows in every episode. He uses a compelling, cinematic narrative style that perfectly matches the gravity of his subjects. In the Meta episode, his ability to break down complex, interwoven legal details makes for a thrilling listen. Since August 2024, the show has covered a remarkably dynamic slate of topics, spanning AI, political maneuvering, and the existential crises facing modern journalists.

What didn’t: Because the podcast leans heavily into American affairs — whether exploring specific court battles, media ethics, or journalism policies under the Trump administration — some global listeners might find the content a bit too niche. That said, the episodes covering Big Tech remain universally engaging, carrying global relevance regardless of where you live.

The verdict: Question Everything is a masterclass in modern journalism. It comes highly recommended for media junkies, followers of US politics, or anyone fascinated by the ongoing drama at the intersection of power, tech, and truth.

WHERE TO LISTEN- You can tune in on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Anghami.