Hi, I’m Ashley Cleek, a radio producer at Reveal.
It's January. I don’t make resolutions. But I do find myself looking every year for new ways to insert some joy into my life and the world around me. This year, so far, that’s meant: a visit to the plant lady, matching toenail polish with my family, and coffee and pastries on repeat. And now, I’m bringing this desire for joy to my job at Reveal.
As a producer here, I do a lot of research and scouting stories. Last year, I spent months talking to teachers in Florida to understand how the state’s curriculum was being altered and whitewashed, and investigated the ramifications of a dubious adoption in Utah. My colleagues have investigated botched drug testing of new mothers, and victims of abuse being charged for false reporting. These stories are intricate and necessary and we’ll always keep telling them. But right now in the middle of this endlessly gray winter, I’m seeking a spark.
So, we’ve decided to apply our investigative skills to stories that are a little easier on all our nervous systems. A treat, if you will. Inconsequential investigations.
Maybe you need something investigated: Is there a question that’s always puzzled you—like that strange maple syrup smell in New York City? Did you lose something we could help you find? Is there an unsolved mystery on your block or in your house? Maybe there's a family myth you’ve always wanted to get to the bottom of?
Send us your questions, your confusions, your mystifications that could use an investigative reporter. There’s no story too weird or too small—we’re currently looking into the sudden disappearance of a much-loved gosling!
We are here to lend you our reporting skills. Fill out this form. Or email us at inconsequential@cir.org.
Can’t wait to get sleuthing.
—Ashley Cleek
P.S. Several billionaire media owners are set to descend upon Washington for Donald Trump's second inauguration. Mother Jones will also be in attendance—but, of course, with a very different agenda. And we'd love to invite you to a post-inauguration chat, led by David Corn, about what our reporters saw on the ground as the new administration takes shape. That discussion will take place via Zoom on Wednesday, January 22, at 7 p.m. ET. Please make sure to RSVP!
