Open Record

<p>FOX6 Investigative reporters Bryan Polcyn, Jenna Sachs and Amanda St. Hilaire break down the big stories and what it took to get them. "Open Record" takes you behind the scenes of the investigative reporting unit in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It's the details the reporters couldn't tell you on T.V.</p>

E389: Blazing Paddles

It's the fastest growing sport in America, but if you think pickleball is only played by retirees, think again. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn invites FOX6 anchor Ted Perry on to talk about how pickleball courts are popping up everywhere, including makeshift ones at firehouses across Milwaukee. You'll hear how it's helping crews form important bonds while flexing their competitive spirit. Plus, we talk with the Southeastern Wisconsin Association of Pickleball about the popular sport, and you'll learn about expansive indoor courts popping up across the state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

10-24
45:47

E388: Political Waves

It's an industry constantly riding the ups and downs of political change. While work is booming now for solar companies, next year will bring challenges. Plus, public workers waiting for relief and navigating the confusing landscape of student loan forgiveness. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn invites Contact 6's Jenna Sachs on to talk about two of the latest consumer issues to hit the Contact 6 inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

10-16
45:47

E387: Pursuit of Justice

The Milwaukee Police Department's chase policy is under scrutiny. It's been a deadly year for innocent bystanders and now the big debate for the department: To chase or not to chase. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn invites FOX6 reporter Jason Calvi on to talk about the policy, the problems, and a possible solution that comes in the form of new technology. Plus, we hear from a man who lost his brother in a crash that happened during a high-speed chase. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

10-09
45:47

E386: The First Domino

The man in charge of a controversial beagle-breeding facility in Dane County is now prohibited from practicing veterinary medicine. That surprise decision came out of an emergency meeting of the state veterinary examining board. FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn has been following the story of Ridglan Farms and in this episode of Open Record, Polcyn explains what happens next for the breeding and research farm. Hear why the story is far from over, the things we still don't know regarding Ridglan Farms, and the painful dog research you're paying for. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

10-02
45:47

E385: On a Mission

FOX6 has covered several stories on the remains of fallen soldiers finally identified and returned to Wisconsin. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn and FOX6 anchor and reporter Carl Deffenbaugh share the journey of two families who only recently discovered their shared connection: They both have Milwaukee-area Marines killed in WWII who still need to come home. Carl explains the high-tech search on a remote island in the South Pacific to find a dive bomber and his gunner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

09-25
45:47

E384: Speech Under Fire

The death of Charlie Kirk is putting freedom of speech to the ultimate test. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn invites FOX6 political reporter Jason Calvi on to talk about the politically-charged commentary that's led to a wave of firings across the country. One guest talks about the legal implications and limits of free speech on social media. A second guest explains how a mistakenly-attributed social media post led to a firestorm of angry calls from around the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

09-18
45:47

E383: The Roots of Violence

Adam Procell is serving as the new head of the Milwaukee Office of Community Wellness and Safety. It's an appointment that comes with both support and a few questions. That's because Procell has a story that's unlike almost any other public leader -- he's a convicted killer. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn sits down with Procell to talk about where he came from, how he got here, and what he plans to do in this new role. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

09-11
45:47

E382: Free Rides

More than 8 million riders per year are boarding Milwaukee County Transit System buses without paying the required fare. That's according to a FOX6 Investigators analysis of MCTS data. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn explains the group's new plan to reduce fare evasion as MCTS tries to reverse the growing culture of free rides. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

09-04
45:47

E381 : After the Flood

After devastating floodwaters wreaked havoc on southeast Wisconsin, the extent of the damage is becoming clear. From cleanup and insurance denials to financial assistance and the possibility of federal dollars, thousands in the Milwaukee-area are still navigating the aftermath. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn invites Contact 6's Jenna Sachs on to talk about the fallout from the floods. The team talks to the American Red Cross, an insurance attorney who represents policyholders in challenges cases, and Milwaukee's Commissioner of Public Works. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

08-28
45:47

E380: Having a Ball

The Milwaukee Brewers are bringing the energy and keeping the momentum going as they gear up for playoffs. Packers training camp is off and running as the team looks to the start of the season, which is just weeks away. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn invites FOX6 Sports Director Tim Van Vooren and FOX6 anchor Ted Perry on to talk all things Wisconsin sports. The trio will look at a Brewers season that started off somewhat slow and a Packers season full of hope. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

08-21
45:47

E379: One in a Thousand

Thousands in southeast Wisconsin are grappling with flooded businesses, homes, basements, garages, and cars. This, after torrential rainfall pummeled the Milwaukee area. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn explores the so-called 'Thousand Year' flood to hit the area. FOX6 Chief Meteorologist Tom Wachs explains what happened from a meteorological perspective. Plus, you hear from FOX6 reporter Jason Calvi who has been covering the flooding clean-up since the rains stopped. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

08-14
45:47

E378: Blowing Smoke

Parts of southeast Wisconsin have spent days under an air quality alert this summer, due to wildfire smoke creating unhealthy air quality. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn invites FOX6 Chief Meteorologist Rob Haswell on to talk about the Canadian wildfires. You'll learn why all that smoke is coming to Wisconsin, how weather patterns and other factors are playing a role, and if there's anything we can do about it. You'll also hear from U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany who wrote a letter to the Canadian ambassador. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

08-07
45:47

E377: Significant Pain

In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn explores the seismic shift from the No. 1 source of public funds for animal research and the undercover investigation that shows what they're trying to stop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

07-31
45:47

E376: In Broad Daylight

A 7-year-old boy is abducted in broad daylight. Prosecutors say the kidnappers planned to rob a drug dealer, but ended up holding her child for ransom. In this episode of Open Record, how a search for a boy led to gunshots and why experts say this dramatic abduction is unlike almost any other. FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn invites FOX6 reporter Bria Jones on to talk about the brazen daytime kidnapping of the Milwaukee boy and the local and national attention the case is getting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

07-24
45:47

E375: Shots Fired

On each shift, police officers face a threat they may never see coming. On this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn invites FOX6 reporter and anchor Sam Kraemer on to talk about ambushes and unprovoked attacks. They discuss what goes into the research and training aimed at protecting the people who protect us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

07-17
45:47

E374: Fluid Dynamics

Wisconsin's water war is spreading fast. Fifty-six Wisconsin communities now have bans or restrictions on wakesurfing, covering more than 400 lakes. So far in 2025, state lawmakers have yet to propose any legislation to settle the controversy statewide. On this episode on Open Record, Bryan Polcyn and Jenna Sachs are joined by guests with opposing views -- Cody Kamrowski of Wisconsin Wildlife Federation and Ed Gignac of Wisconsin Watersports Coalition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

07-10
45:47

E373: Emotional Damage

People trusted him with family heirlooms, but years later, they're wondering where their treasured instruments went. Plus, a local woman mourning the loss of her husband now needs to prove she didn't die, too. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn invites Contact 6 reporter Jenna Sachs on to talk about two consumer problems brought to FOX6 that were also deeply personal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

07-03
45:47

E372: Beyond Animals

The FDA calls it a groundbreaking step in new drug development. A plan to phase out animal testing will steer hundreds of millions of dollars toward high-tech alternatives. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn explains how scientists here in Wisconsin are leading the effort to transform pharmaceutical research. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

06-26
45:47

E371: Summerfest 2025

It's time to cue the bands, fire up the grills, chill the beer, and download the Summerfest app! The 57th Big Gig is here and fans are ready to pack the lakefront. In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn invites a trio of special guests to talk all things Summerfest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

06-19
45:47

E370: Innocence Lost

A new online threat is putting Wisconsinites at risk of sexual exploitation. Apps and websites are using artificial intelligence to turn innocent pictures into so-called 'deepfake nudes.' In this episode of Open Record, FOX6 Investigator Bryan Polcyn explains what lawmakers are doing to stop it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

06-12
45:47

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