What Happened to News Reporting? How Podcasts and Big Tech Are Shaping the Future

 

Robert Riggs, Semi Retired Investigative Journalist


 

What happened to investigative journalism? That’s the question Robert Riggs—award-winning journalist and host of the *True Crime Reporter® Podcast*—sets out to answer. From his unforgettable coverage of the 1993 ATF raid in Waco, Texas, to exposing corruption within the Texas Parole Board, Riggs has witnessed the transformation of journalism firsthand. Spoiler alert: it’s not all good news. 

You can listen to the enlightening interview as a free podcast on the "Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast" website, on Apple, Spotify and most major podcast platforms.

In today’s world, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Apple, and Spotify have revolutionized how we consume content. While these tools provide new opportunities, they also raise concerns about the survival of investigative journalism, the kind of reporting that once held the powerful accountable. Riggs’ insights, featured on the "Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show" podcast, explore these pressing issues and chart a path forward.

Investigative Journalism: An Endangered Species

“Watchdog reporting” is a phrase Riggs uses to describe the soul of investigative journalism. It’s the work that uncovers systemic corruption, holds leaders accountable, and demands change. But this kind of reporting is expensive, time-consuming, and increasingly rare.  

“Financial pressures are forcing news outlets to prioritize quick, sensational content over deeply researched investigations,” Riggs explains. The decline of advertising revenue, coupled with the rise of free online content, has left many traditional newsrooms strapped for resources. Nonprofits like ProPublica and global collaborations such as the Panama Papers project keep the flame alive, but the reach and impact of investigative journalism have undeniably shrunk.

The ATF Raid in Waco: A Defining Moment in Reporting

The 1993 ATF raid on the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas, remains a stark example of investigative journalism’s potential to inform and impact public discourse. On February 28, 1993, 70 agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms attempted to execute search and arrest warrants for alleged firearms violations. What followed was a violent gunfight that left four federal agents and six Branch Davidian members dead.  

Riggs was there to report on the ensuing 51-day standoff, which captivated the nation. The siege ended in a devastating fire that claimed nearly 80 lives, including 22 children. Through it all, Riggs’ reporting offered context and clarity, diving deep into the cult’s stockpiling of weapons and the apocalyptic visions of its leader, David Koresh. His work earned him widespread recognition, underscoring why investigative journalism is essential.

The Parole Board Scandal That Changed Texas

Riggs’ fearless reporting also played a key role in exposing corruption within the Texas Parole Board. His investigation uncovered a shocking system where bribes and favors—including luxury cars—allowed dangerous criminals to walk free.  

One of those criminals was Kenneth McDuff, a former death row inmate who went on to commit horrific crimes after his parole. Riggs’ reporting not only revealed the flawed system but also ignited public outrage, leading to reforms in Texas’ parole policies. His efforts earned him the prestigious George Foster Peabody Award, proving the power of journalism to bring about meaningful change.

Podcasts: The New Frontier for Investigative Storytelling

With traditional journalism in crisis, podcasts have emerged as a powerful platform for investigative reporting. Riggs’ "True Crime Reporter® Podcast" is a prime example, earning accolades like the Webby Award for Best True Crime Podcast.  

Unlike traditional outlets, podcasts allow journalists to tell in-depth stories without the constraints of tight deadlines or budget cuts. “Podcasts are breathing new life into investigative reporting,” Riggs says. “They let us connect with audiences in ways traditional media no longer supports.”

Podcasts have become a go-to source for listeners seeking immersive, well-researched narratives, proving that investigative journalism still has a home—even if the medium looks different.

Big Tech: Game Changer or Troublemaker?

Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Apple, and Spotify have transformed the media landscape, offering unprecedented reach for creators. However, they also pose significant challenges for traditional journalism.  

These platforms dominate ad revenues, cutting into the financial lifeline of news outlets. Algorithms prioritize content that drives engagement—often sensational or polarizing—over balanced, accurate reporting.  

“Big Tech’s dominance is a double-edged sword,” Riggs explains. While these platforms empower independent creators, they’ve also undermined the business model that sustained legacy media.

The Future of Investigative Journalism

Despite the challenges, Riggs remains hopeful about the future of investigative reporting. Platforms like podcasts and independent media outlets are proving there’s still a demand for thoughtful, in-depth storytelling.  

“Investigative journalism isn’t dead—it’s evolving,” Riggs says. His work, from uncovering corruption in Texas to documenting the tragic events in Waco, is a testament to the enduring power of fearless reporting.  

As Big Tech reshapes the media landscape, one thing is clear: the need for accountability and truth is as important as ever. Whether through traditional outlets or new platforms like podcasts, the legacy of investigative journalism must endure.

Attributions

Dallas Observer

Wikipedia

True Crime Reporter® Podcast

 

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