In this episode, Rebecca talks with Nate Jones, FOIA director at The Washington Post, about the strategies, challenges, and importance of public records reporting. Drawing from decades of experience filing thousands of FOIA requests, Nate explains how journalists can better navigate federal and state transparency laws, from crafting effective requests to pushing back against delays and excessive redactions.

They discuss why public records remain one of the most powerful tools in journalism, how reporters can uncover stories hidden inside government systems, and why persistence is often the key to success. Nate also shares practical advice for reporters working with email requests, appeals, and data-driven investigations, while reflecting on the growing role of AI, the challenges facing FOIA systems nationwide, and what reforms could improve public access to information in the future.