

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 8, 2024 • 11min
Brain worms. A dead bear. What’s the deal with RFK Jr.?
Clare Malone, a journalist from the New Yorker, joins Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his controversial campaigns, and Greg Ip, an economics journalist. They dive into RFK Jr.'s unique presidential run, including a bizarre incident involving a dead bear in his trunk. Greg provides insights on the surprisingly steady economy amid rising unemployment. The discussion also touches on Taylor Swift concert cancellations due to security threats and the drama surrounding Olympic gymnastics results. It’s a mix of politics, economy, and pop culture!

Aug 7, 2024 • 13min
Nancy Pelosi on her role in getting Biden to drop out
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi discusses her influence in Biden's campaign withdrawal and the selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as Kamala Harris's running mate. She highlights the dynamics within the Democratic Party and the need for transparency in political processes. The conversation also touches on the antitrust challenges facing Google, a major ruling on its monopoly practices, and the enthusiasm around the U.S. women's soccer team heading for Olympic gold. Pelosi provides keen insights into the strategic maneuvering within current politics.

Aug 6, 2024 • 13min
Harris picks Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz for VP
Cori Bush, a U.S. Representative from Missouri, discusses her primary challenge and the Democratic Party's divisions over Israel. Rachel Siegel from the Washington Post reassures listeners about the stock market's volatility, emphasizing that a recession isn't imminent. Caleb Melby of Bloomberg Businessweek highlights the serious training gaps among nurse practitioners, warning of tragic patient outcomes linked to inadequate care. They also touch on noteworthy news like Google's antitrust loss and the disruptive potential of AI in college admissions.

Aug 5, 2024 • 12min
Stuck in space? Not according to Boeing and NASA
In this engaging discussion, Marc Fogel shares his harrowing experience of being imprisoned in Russia, with heartfelt insights provided by his sister, Anne. Ruby Mellen highlights the heartbreaking story of Fadi al-Zant, a 6-year-old who's become the face of the devastating hunger crisis in Gaza. The conversation also covers the ongoing struggles of NASA and Boeing with their troubled Starliner mission, while astronauts cling to hope for a resolution. This mix of human resilience and space exploration creates a thought-provoking dialogue.

7 snips
Aug 2, 2024 • 12min
The secretive prisoner swap driven by a relentless mom
Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter freed from Russian custody, shares the gripping details of his and Paul Whelan’s complex prisoner swap. Amy Walter from the Cook Political Report explores the emerging gender dynamics in American politics as the upcoming elections loom. Simone Biles dazzles listeners with her historic Olympic successes, marking her ninth medal and second gold at the Games. The conversation weaves together intense emotional narratives with inspiring triumphs, showcasing the intersection of personal and political battles.

5 snips
Aug 1, 2024 • 14min
Trump spins lies about Harris’s racial identity
Catherine Lucey, a Wall Street Journal journalist, joins presumptive Democratic nominee Kamala Harris to discuss the political landscape. They analyze Trump's recent controversial remarks on Harris's racial identity and how this fuels black voter mobilization. The conversation shifts to the excitement at recent Democratic rallies, highlighting grassroots efforts and strategic connections with influential organizations. They also touch on international issues, like Venezuela's political crisis and the ramifications for American politics.

Jul 31, 2024 • 16min
The origins of JD Vance’s “childless cat ladies” worldview
Jessica Winter, a journalist from the New Yorker, delves into JD Vance's controversial views on family and politics. She examines how Vance's challenging upbringing influences his ideas about parenthood and societal roles. Winter critiques his narrow perspectives on childless individuals in political spaces, revealing the impact of personal experience on public ideology. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of political dynamics, including how figures like Trump and Harris are perceived today.

Jul 30, 2024 • 15min
U.S. gymnastics’ abuse scandal isn’t over
Molly Hensley-Clancy, a sports investigation reporter for the Washington Post, dives into the ongoing abuse scandal in U.S. gymnastics. She reveals how many coaches with allegations still remain in the sport despite promises of accountability. The discussion highlights systemic issues that continue to threaten the safety of young athletes. Hensley-Clancy underscores the inadequacies of SafeSport and emphasizes the urgent need for reform to protect future generations of gymnasts.

Jul 29, 2024 • 13min
How America’s driest state could solve its water problem
Anna Phillips, a journalist from the Washington Post, joins to discuss Nevada's innovative approach to tackling its severe water crisis. She reveals how farmers are grappling with dire groundwater shortages and the complex battle over water rights. The conversation dives into ethical dilemmas faced by agricultural communities and the potential impact of federal aid. Phillips also connects these water issues to broader environmental challenges that affect events like the Olympics, illustrating the intricate relationship between resource management and sports.

7 snips
Jul 26, 2024 • 13min
It’s way too easy to make fentanyl. Here’s why.
Maurice Tamman, a diligent Reuters reporter, shares his eye-opening findings on the startling ease of acquiring fentanyl production ingredients. He discusses the dire public health implications of this accessibility. Meanwhile, Rebecca Lowe, NBC Olympic host, sparks excitement for the upcoming Paris Olympics by spotlighting top athletes like Simone Biles, and delves into the dynamics of her rivalry with Rebecca Andrade. The podcast balances serious topics with sporting enthusiasm, painting a vivid picture of current societal issues.