The Gist: Episode Summary – "Brian Reed Questions Everything"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Gist
• Host/Author: Peach Fish Productions
• Episode Title: Brian Reed Questions Everything
• Release Date: December 18, 2024

Introduction: In this compelling episode of The Gist, host Mike Pesca engages in an in-depth conversation with acclaimed podcaster Brian Reed. Known for his groundbreaking work on S-Town and Trojan Horse Affair, Reed introduces his latest project, Question Everything, exploring the evolving landscape of journalism and the growing distrust between the media and the public.

Brian Reed’s Journalistic Journey: Brian Reed, celebrated for his exceptional storytelling and investigative prowess, shares insights into his transition from S-Town to his new endeavor.

• Mike Pesca (09:42): "Brian Reed is one of the best podcasters in the business. His podcast S-Town...one of the greatest audio journalism hits."
• Brian Reed (10:37): "Thank you, Mike. Thanks for having me. Nice introduction."

Reed discusses the critical reception of S-Town, particularly the backlash surrounding the posthumous portrayal of its main character, John B. McLemore.

Criticism of S-Town and Shit Town: The conversation delves into the moral and ethical criticisms Reed faced, especially from journalist Gay Alcorn.

• Mike Pesca (11:30): "Criticism of the show was that you didn't really have the right to do this because you didn't have the permission of the deceased."
• Brian Reed (12:46): "Some people were critical of... making a very personal, intimate story about this man after he died, and he couldn't tell you. That was okay."

Reed reflects on the intense critique that S-Town was "beyond the pale," questioning the morality of delving into McLemore's life without explicit permission.

• Brian Reed (13:22): "Some people were saying that this story should never have been made. It was morally indefensible."

The Role and Challenges of Modern Journalism: Reed articulates his vision for Question Everything, emphasizing the deteriorating relationship between journalists and the public.

• Brian Reed (18:37): "My main project is delving into the massive deterioration of the relationship between journalists and everybody else."
• Mike Pesca (19:29): "What can journalists do to gain back trust? It's supposed to be a journalist's job to keep us from that."

Reed identifies key factors contributing to this erosion, including the splintering of the media ecosystem and the decline of local news.

• Brian Reed (21:41): "Overall erosion of trust in institutions...splintering of the media ecosystem...decimation of local news."

Erosion of Trust in Media: The discussion highlights various elements leading to diminished trust in the media, such as misinformation and partisan reporting.

• Mike Pesca (25:23): "The mistakes that stick with people and drive them to embrace facts that aren't facts."
• Brian Reed (26:37): "We can be really dismissive of valid criticism...serving the public requires having a real conversation about what we all want."

Reed underscores the impact of major reporting failures, like the misreporting of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs), and the ongoing disconnect between journalists and their audiences.

Journalistic Objectivity and Bias: A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the concept of objectivity in journalism and its current standing.

• Mike Pesca (38:29): "Journalism schools...required...a journalism degree now. It's a job of the elite."
• Brian Reed (39:02): "I wonder if objectivity has been held up as the most important journalistic principle...we never talk about it."

Reed challenges the traditional emphasis on objectivity, questioning whether it remains the cornerstone of credible journalism or if alternative principles should take precedence.

• Mike Pesca (42:43): "Jettisoning the goal of objectivity is a pretty bad thing...you can't do both."

Potential Solutions to Rebuild Trust: Reed and Pesca explore strategies to mend the frayed relationship between the media and the public, advocating for accountability and a renewed focus on accurate reporting.

• Brian Reed (24:01): "We can be really dismissive of valid criticism from all sorts of corners."
• Mike Pesca (36:38): "Front page of The New York Times is important...journalism schools should expunge...improper journalism."

They discuss the importance of transparency, accountability, and actively addressing past mistakes to restore faith in journalistic institutions.

• Brian Reed (37:52): "We have to be having a real conversation about what we all want...listening to what people want and trying to incorporate that more."

Conclusion: As the episode draws to a close, Mike Pesca and Brian Reed underscore the critical need for introspection within journalism. Reed's Question Everything serves as a call to action for media professionals to reassess their practices, prioritize trust, and engage more genuinely with their audiences.

• Mike Pesca (45:03): "Brian Reed is and was the reporter behind the Trojan Horse Affair and S-Town, and his new podcast from KCRW, Question Everything."
• Brian Reed (45:01): "This is great, Mike, thanks."

The episode wraps up with a teaser for the next segment, promising further exploration of the challenges facing modern journalism.

Notable Quotes:

• Brian Reed (20:12): "You can never unstir the cream from the coffee."
• Mike Pesca (41:59): "Actual libel or slander, probably worse and more actionable."

Key Takeaways:

• Erosion of Trust: Trust in media has significantly declined due to misinformation, biased reporting, and major journalistic failures.
• Redefining Objectivity: Traditional notions of objectivity are being questioned, with a push towards more transparent and accountable journalism.
• Rebuilding Relationships: To regain public trust, journalists must engage in honest conversations, acknowledge past mistakes, and prioritize the needs and desires of their audiences.
• Role of Education: Journalism schools play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of journalists, emphasizing the need for curricula that foster critical thinking and ethical reporting.

The Gist episode featuring Brian Reed provides a profound exploration of the current state of journalism, urging both media professionals and consumers to reflect on the path forward in an increasingly polarized information landscape.