

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

22 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 16min
Why the U.S. just seized a massive oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast
Bloomberg reporter Eric Martin sheds light on the dramatic U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker, highlighting its implications for Nicolás Maduro's regime. He discusses the escalating tensions between Caracas and Washington and the congressional scrutiny that follows. The conversation also touches on Indiana's redistricting controversy, where GOP members are divided over Trump's demands, and Rachel Weiner explains why the Vision Zero initiative to curb pedestrian deaths has stumbled. A compelling mix of politics and public safety!

7 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 14min
The world’s first teen social-media ban is here. Could the U.S. be next?
Nick Timiraos, Chief Economics Correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, provides insight into internal divisions at the Federal Reserve as rate cuts loom. Justin Elliott, an investigative reporter at ProPublica, unpacks allegations against President Trump regarding mortgage claims and primary residences, noting the complexities involved. Meanwhile, Australia’s controversial social-media ban for teens sparks heated debate over safety versus freedom, while U.S. lawmakers look to similar restrictions amid a growing concern for youth online well-being.

24 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 14min
The affordability problem Trump can’t escape
President Trump is feeling pressure to refocus on economic issues as his poll numbers decline. Meanwhile, Russia's unyielding recruitment strategies, including prisoner enlistment, are keeping its army combat-ready in the Ukraine conflict. In the entertainment world, Paramount is making waves with a massive bid for Warner Bros., aiming to compete with Netflix. Plus, the Louvre deals with unfortunate incidents, including theft and a worker strike. A lot is at stake in politics, war, and the arts.

18 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 16min
Inside the blockbuster Hollywood deal that could upend streaming
President Trump's national security strategy reveals dramatic shifts in U.S. foreign policy, notably a revived Monroe Doctrine and a softer stance towards China and Russia. Netflix's acquisition of Warner Brothers for $83 billion could transform the movie industry, sparking concerns over monopolistic practices. Legal battles loom as the Supreme Court deliberates on Trump's authority to fire independent regulators, impacting agency independence. Also featured are political tensions around Venezuela and the College Football Playoff bracket unveiling.

8 snips
Dec 6, 2025 • 32min
‘The Rest Is History’ hosts on their top moments from America’s past
Dominic Sandbrook, a historian with a flair for modern political history, joins Tom Holland, known for his engaging storytelling on antiquity, to explore pivotal moments in American history. They discuss the global significance of Abraham Lincoln and the tumult of 1968, drawing parallels to today's politics. The duo also delves into the complexities of Mary Todd Lincoln's reputation and the historical roots of populism, linking past events to present-day polarization. Their lively exchanges bring history to life, captivating listeners with fresh perspectives.

10 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 16min
How MAGA is coming around to Trump’s military attacks abroad
Trump's suggestion of a potential land strike in Venezuela is creating a shift in the MAGA camp's stance on regime change. Discussions highlight concerns around military interventions as supporters weigh the implications of a possible U.S. buildup near Caracas. Meanwhile, the World Cup draw promises excitement, with insights into Trump's relationship with FIFA's Gianni Infantino. Lastly, budget cuts are jeopardizing crucial clinical trials, raising alarms about the future of medical research and treatment developments.

9 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 14min
What’s uniting Trump and Hegseth amid mounting GOP scrutiny
A Pentagon report reveals Secretary Hegseth's violation of regulations for sharing sensitive information, yet Trump remains loyal due to Hegseth's 'warrior ethos.' Texas's new bathroom bill raises questions about enforcement and public impact. In a surprising move, Trump pardons Democratic Congressman Cuellar amid bribery charges, complicating GOP strategies. Other discussions include the sentencing of the doctor tied to Matthew Perry's ketamine use and challenges faced by AI chatbots in telling time accurately.

16 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 15min
The major questions facing Hegseth over a Caribbean strike
A controversial 'double tap' strike in the Caribbean raises questions of legality as Defense Secretary Hegseth defends the administration's actions. Trump’s pardon of a former Honduran president sparks political debate amid electoral tensions. Meanwhile, DNA testing reveals unexpected heirs, complicating estate planning for families. ICE plans crackdowns on Somali immigrants in Minnesota, reflecting broader immigration policies. Plus, fans of 'Mad Men' are catching intriguing streaming errors in the show’s 4K release.

9 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 14min
The “world is watching”: Trump faces a big test in Tennessee
Tennessee's competitive House race is grabbing national attention as candidates focus on affordability. A tragic fire in Hong Kong raises questions about safety standards and government accountability, potentially testing Beijing's grip on the region. Basketball legend Michael Jordan's lawsuit against NASCAR challenges the sport's structure and monopoly issues. Additionally, quick insights into a court ruling regarding a judicial nominee and Costco's fight for tariff refunds highlight ongoing political tensions. Finally, the term 'Ragebait' is named Oxford's Word of the Year, reflecting modern social media dynamics.

6 snips
Dec 1, 2025 • 15min
Here’s where your Black Friday returns really end up
Bipartisan scrutiny arises from a strike on a suspected drug boat in the Caribbean, as lawmakers demand transparency. A suspect in a D.C. shooting linked to Afghan resettlement raises immigration concerns. Dive into the chaotic world of Black Friday returns, discovering where all those unwanted items truly end up. Meanwhile, severe winter storms disrupt travel plans, and three octogenarian nuns capture hearts on Instagram, bringing joy in unexpected ways.


