
Apple News Today
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.
Latest episodes

11 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 16min
How a 33-year-old progressive pulled off a huge political victory in New York
Tensions between Iran and Israel create a fragile ceasefire while questions linger about Iran's nuclear program. In a surprising political twist, 33-year-old Zohran Mamdani wins the NYC mayoral primary, signaling a shift in local politics. The health sector sees upheaval as Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. changes vaccine recommendation protocols, causing concerns over public trust. The podcast also touches on ongoing legal challenges, a brutal heatwave, and ambitious athletes pushing for historic records.

9 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 15min
Trump accuses Israel and Iran of violating ceasefire
Tensions between Iran and Israel have led to a surprising ceasefire announcement, hinting at complex geopolitical shifts. In New York City, the primary elections showcase unique ranked-choice voting strategies as candidates vie for influence amidst urban challenges. Meanwhile, major cuts proposed to national parks have sparked backlash, uncovering the environmental implications of the Trump administration's budget. Plus, Supreme Court rulings on immigration and a study revealing rising abortion rates add layers of urgency to current political discourse.

8 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 15min
Three big questions after the U.S. strikes on Iran
U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites spark major geopolitical questions and legal debates. As tensions rise, the impact of a searing heat wave across the country poses additional challenges for vulnerable populations. Meanwhile, emotional reunions unfold as Khalil is released from ICE custody, and Senegal’s women's basketball team faces visa hurdles. The sports scene shines with the Oklahoma City Thunder claiming the NBA championship, plus a young man’s inspiring adaptations of video games showcase resilience and innovation.

Jun 18, 2025 • 16min
How lawmakers are responding to rising political threats
Political violence is on the rise in the U.S., prompting urgent discussions about lawmakers' safety. The dynamics between Israel and Iran intensify, with concerns over nuclear capabilities. Chaos unfolds in Los Angeles as federal raids disrupt immigrant communities, leaving families and lawyers grappling with communication challenges. Aggressive immigration policies emerge alongside personal stories revealing harsh realities. Meanwhile, a controversial arrest raises concerns about law enforcement practices, amid news of Tom Cruise receiving an honorary Oscar.

7 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 16min
What Iranians and Israelis think about their warring leaders
The podcast dives into the complex sentiments of Iranians and Israelis toward their leaders amid escalating conflict. It highlights public anxiety in Iran and strong Israeli support for military action. The chilling rise of political violence in Minnesota raises alarms for democracy. Legal troubles surface around lawmakers’ stock trading practices, fueling concerns about conflicts of interest. Moreover, the Louvre faces strikes due to overtourism, while a quirky trend emerges as fans dress up like Pitbull, showcasing the power of pop culture.

30 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 14min
Suspect found as Minnesota mourns killing of “irreplaceable” politician
Minnesota grapples with the shocking killing of a beloved lawmaker, highlighting political violence's impact on the community. Tensions flare between Israel and Iran, with unexpected military actions shaking the region. Meanwhile, California's Governor Newsom navigates national leadership amid protests, while the fallout from Trump’s policies continues to brew. The discourse also touches on mass demonstrations, shifting immigration enforcement priorities, and a hopeful message from the pope to sports fans. It's a complex mix of local and international crises.

Jun 13, 2025 • 14min
What to know about Israel’s attack on Iran’s nuclear program
The podcast dives into Israel's airstrikes targeting Iran's nuclear program, sparking discussions about regional tensions and military strategy. A heart-wrenching plane crash in Ahmedabad is recounted through eyewitness accounts, revealing the tragic aftermath. Meanwhile, a military parade in D.C. stirs up reflections on the use of military power domestically. Political updates include a contentious spending bill and a senator's dramatic encounter, alongside an inspiring tale of a dentist turned U.S. Open golfer.

Jun 12, 2025 • 15min
The damage that “less lethal” police weapons can really do
A tragic Boeing crash in India claimed over 200 lives, sparking discussions about aviation safety and community impact. Protests in L.A. highlight the controversial use of 'less lethal' police weapons during civil unrest. Trade talks between the U.S. and China are heating up over rare earth minerals, vital for tech industries. Additionally, a surprising correlation surfaces between stricter state gun laws and reduced pediatric fatalities, showcasing the urgent need for better regulations. Shocking news includes Weinstein's guilty verdict and diplomatic shifts between North and South Korea.

13 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 15min
Inside the White House’s detention strategy
Amid protests against ICE raids, an L.A. curfew was imposed, revealing the escalating crackdown on migrants. Unsanitary conditions in overcrowded ICE facilities in Florida are spotlighted. The discussion transitions to 'Les Misérables,' exploring its unexpected resonance with Trump and its themes of social justice during his presidency. Additionally, the Smithsonian's commitment to address bias in its museums is noted, along with promising trends in reducing fentanyl use and the surprising health benefits of singing.

10 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 15min
RFK Jr. ousts his entire vaccine advisory group
Tensions escalate in Los Angeles with military involvement amid immigration raids. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. shakes the health landscape by dismissing the entire vaccine advisory panel, stirring debates on vaccine trust. Meanwhile, emotional reunions unfold as Ukrainian soldiers return from captivity. On the entertainment front, a defamation lawsuit involving Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively gets dismissed. In a stark cultural clash, Iran enforces a crackdown on dog owners, highlighting youth dissent against strict regulations.