Investigative Reporter - Crime Junkie

Investigative Reporter This is a full-time position located in Indianapolis, Indiana; New York, New York; or remote based on experience. About the Investigative Reporter The Investigative Reporter plays a critical role in developing and delivering in-depth stories for Audiochuck’s flagship true-crime show, Crime Junkie. This position requires strong investigative instincts, the ability to uncover new information, and the discipline to produce fact-driven, emotionally resonant narrative storytelling. The role involves conducting thorough research, leading first-person interviews, synthesizing complex material, and writing long-form investigative narratives that uphold the highest standards of journalism while aligning with Audiochuck’s commitment to ethical and impactful storytelling. What You’ll DoInvestigative Reporting • Report original true-crime stories that inform, engage, and drive meaningful impact • Work as part of a reporting team to investigate and produce long-form, magazine-style stories for audio and video platforms • Conduct research using public records, court documents, investigative files, and reputable media sources • Submit and manage FOIA requests and conduct detailed reviews of case documentation • Stay current on public corruption, government investigations, and legal developments relevant to assigned stories Interviews & Source Development • Conduct sensitive interviews and build trusted relationships with victims, families, eyewitnesses, experts, and law enforcement • Approach reporting with trauma-informed and ethical practices • Maintain confidentiality and professionalism throughout the reporting process Writing & Story Development • Write and refine long-form narrative scripts that are factually accurate and compelling • Transform complex investigations into clearly structured, audience-driven stories • Draft blog posts to accompany podcast episodes on the Crime Junkie website • Review scripts for pronunciation, context accuracy, and clarity Legal & Editorial Collaboration • Work closely with legal and editorial leadership to ensure compliance with media law and risk mitigation • Partner with episode producers, social producers, and audio and video teams to shape multi-platform content • Review video edits for on-screen text and visual accuracy • Flag potential legal, editorial, or sourcing concerns early Workflow & Communication • Manage multiple stories across different stages of research, reporting, and production • Meet established deadlines for reporting, scripting, and production milestones • Develop and pitch original story ideas • Engage in consistent communication with show leadership and hosts • Ensure social and episode producers are informed of reporting developments from the outset What Success Looks LikeStorytelling • Investigations are transformed into compelling, well-structured narratives • Scripts engage audiences while maintaining clarity and integrity Accuracy • All reporting is factual, contextualized, and responsibly framed • Pronunciations, names, and characterizations are verified • Commitments made to sources during reporting are honored Execution • Deadlines are consistently met • Multiple stories are effectively managed in parallel • Potential challenges are surfaced early and addressed proactively Collaboration • Strong partnerships are built across reporting, production, legal, and editorial teams • Communication is clear, proactive, and solutions-oriented What You’ll Bring to the Table • 5 years of experience in investigative journalism, reporting, or documentary storytelling • Demonstrated experience uncovering original information and producing long-form narrative reporting • Strong writing and narrative development skills • Experience working with legal review processes and sensitive subject matter • Excellent research skills, including familiarity with public records and FOIA processes • Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment • Strong editorial judgment and ethical reporting standards Preferred • Experience in true crime, investigative audio, or documentary media • Experience working in a multimedia newsroom environment • Familiarity with podcast production workflows What Audiochuck Will Bring to the Table • Commitment to intentional leadership development • Dedication to company culture and promoting mental health • A collaborative and passionate team aligned around advocacy and impact • Opportunity to contribute to impactful investigative storytelling Reference: ECNJOBID-66-249-66-162 in the application