Whether a document exists is a yes or no question. But for federal agencies, that question can get a bit more metaphysical.

Feel like your public records request is taking forever? You’re not alone: MuckRock contributor Anais Vaillant crunches the numbers to look at just how much of a waiting game public records have become. Listen in to this week’s episode.

At a time where information is supposed to be easier than ever to access, public records success still requires a lot of patience and a bit of luck.

In the wake of the fatal accident at Six Flags Over Texas mid-July, media have reported an incomplete snapshot of “megacoaster” Texas Giant’s safety history. Data released to MuckRock show a fraught record since the ride’s 1990 grand opening, as well as a $10 million overhaul that changed the coaster from wood to steel in 2011.