

Apple News Today
Apple News
Join Shumita Basu every weekday morning as she guides you through some of the most fascinating stories in the news — and how the world’s best journalists are covering them.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 7, 2025 • 15min
Trump’s tariffs are raising billions. Where is that money going?
Tariffs affecting nearly 70 countries are raking in billions, but where's all that money going? Political messaging challenges face Republicans as they struggle to sell their agenda amid public discontent. Meanwhile, the impact of aggressive immigration policies brings disturbing cases to light, especially within Latino communities. The episode also touches on a recent shooting, alarming health studies about wildfires, and a surprising alliance aiming to protect Energy Star labels. Tune in to explore these pressing issues!

6 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 15min
The hidden culprit behind your rising electricity bills
Rising electricity bills are hitting households hard, and a significant part of the blame goes to the booming AI industry's data centers. These tech giants are demanding more power, straining utility capacities across states. Meanwhile, California journalists have uncovered a massive database revealing police misconduct, aiming for greater transparency and accountability. The show also touches on Rwanda's deal with the U.S. for migrant processing and an innovative method farmers are using to keep predators at bay.

7 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 14min
How Trump’s Texas power grab could change voting nationwide
Texas is a battleground as lawmakers flee to stop a GOP redistricting power grab that could sway future elections. A deep dive into aggressive ICE tactics reveals shocking arrests, while the economic strain on Lesotho from trade tariffs highlights global ramifications. In other news, controversy surrounds Israel's attorney general amid corruption trials, and the U.S. faces health risks from smoky air due to Canadian wildfires. On a lighter note, mischievous monkeys in Bali have taken thievery to a new level, showcasing their cunning nature.

5 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 15min
How Trump firing a data chief threatens jobs-stats credibility
Trump’s firing of a key labor official raises questions about the credibility of job statistics and the integrity of government data. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine brings to light the plight of missing children taken to Russia. Recent flooding in Texas highlights failures in emergency response, with lawmakers facing tough scrutiny. The podcast also touches on disturbing hostage footage from Hamas and the geological turmoil impacting a Russian region with both earthquakes and volcanic activity.

10 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 14min
How Trump is using tariffs to help a political ally
Trump is shaking things up with hefty tariffs on Brazil, threatening prices on staples like beef and coffee. A controversial judicial nominee raises eyebrows as ties to Trump’s legal woes come under scrutiny. Meanwhile, an alarming new drug stronger than fentanyl is making headlines, contributing to rising overdose deaths. The podcast also touches on the Texas floods, an extraordinary baby born from a decades-old embryo, and the comeback of presidential fitness tests, showcasing how rapidly our world is changing.

19 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 14min
Why we don’t actually know much about Trump’s trade deals
Discover a rare bipartisan effort in Congress addressing America’s housing crisis, aiming to boost construction and tackle challenges for low-income housing. Dive into the severe humanitarian conditions in Gaza, with alarming reports of rising child malnutrition. The podcast also touches on the economic impact of fluctuating tariffs, the implications of global earthquakes, and Beyoncé’s record-breaking achievements in music. Tune in for a blend of politics, humanitarian issues, and cultural milestones.

12 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 13min
Tsunami waves reach U.S. after Russian earthquake. What to know.
A massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake off Russia's coast raised tsunami alarms across the Pacific. The EPA is proposing to loosen greenhouse-gas emission regulations, which could have serious climate implications. There are ongoing hearings about a tragic airline collision near D.C., highlighting staffing challenges in air traffic control. In addition, the podcast discusses the effects of summer heat on mental health, recent tragedies, and Ghislaine Maxwell's offer to testify in exchange for immunity.

5 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 14min
Inside the IRS’s plans to share highly confidential taxpayer data with ICE
The IRS is considering a controversial plan to share taxpayer data with ICE, raising serious privacy concerns. Economic updates suggest significant effects from Trump’s tariffs on inflation and consumer confidence. Investigative reports reveal a troubling history of forced labor in Brazil associated with a major corporation. Additionally, recent tragedies include a shooting in Manhattan and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, alongside new legislative efforts in mental health awareness. Tune in for a deep dive into these pressing issues.

17 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 14min
What millions of student-loan borrowers need to know this week
Israel has paused military operations in Gaza, raising hopes for humanitarian aid amid alarming conditions for children. The discussion also sheds light on the complex challenges of aid distribution and accusations against Hamas regarding aid mismanagement. Meanwhile, borrowers face new federal student loan repayment options as interest begins to accrue. The podcast also touches on the troubling accounts of Venezuelan deportees and explores various news stories including recent violence and music trends.

11 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 15min
What the numbers reveal about Trump’s mass-deportation plan
The podcast explores Trump's ambitious immigration plans, revealing a disconnect between rising arrests and actual deportations amid legal hurdles. Elizabeth Bruenig discusses the troubling rise in U.S. executions, advocating for the abolition of the death penalty. It also highlights shifting European attitudes towards air conditioning as extreme heat intensifies. Additionally, it touches on France's groundbreaking recognition of the Palestinian state and innovative shark tracking methods, all while addressing urgent global issues.