

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

10 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 15min
Stories of survival and loss after the Texas floods
Texas faces a tragic aftermath as deadly floods have claimed over 100 lives, with heartbreaking rescue stories emerging. The Trump administration's funding freezes are sparking a budgetary showdown with Congress, impacting critical sectors. Abortion bans have led to alarming health risks for those facing miscarriages, with increased complications like blood transfusions. A personal account highlights the dire need for timely reproductive healthcare. Also discussed are updates on the Epstein case and unexpected Wimbledon results.

30 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 15min
Tragedy in Texas: how flash flooding devastated a county
Flash flooding in Texas has tragically claimed over 80 lives, highlighting the urgent need for better disaster preparedness. Meanwhile, a contentious bill from congressional Republicans alters Medicaid and clean-energy funding. On a more positive note, a Nebraska meatpacking plant is implementing changes to enhance safety and attract workers. In international news, ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas are underway, and France has lifted a century-old swimming ban in the River Seine, while a remarkable time capsule has been discovered in Nebraska.

24 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 16min
What to know about the government’s new database to track citizens
The Senate's narrow passage of Trump's tax-and-spending bill raises concerns ahead of the House vote. A new national citizenship-data system has sparked heated debates about privacy and voter eligibility. California's rollback of a major environmental law aims to speed up construction, but faces pushback from activists. Additionally, the University of Pennsylvania's ban on transgender athletes in women’s sports stirs controversy, while France takes steps to quit smoking for children's health. A miraculous Disney rescue adds a touch of hope.

50 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 15min
Inside the GOP’s unprecedented move to claim tax-cut extensions are free
Senate Republicans are employing a controversial strategy to label tax-cut extensions as 'free,' stirring debate over its implications for the federal budget. Humanitarian crises in Sudan are highlighted through a heartbreaking story of a young boy, underscoring the urgent need for aid amidst war. Additionally, the Trump administration's use of a repurposed app to encourage self-deportation sparks discussion on immigration tactics. The podcast also touches on a tragic hate crime in Boulder and the promising expansion of the WNBA with new teams.

36 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 16min
How Medicaid work requirements have failed before
The podcast dives into the failure of Medicaid work requirements, highlighting past state implementations and their outcomes. It also discusses a Supreme Court ruling on birthright citizenship and the controversial construction of a migrant detention center in Florida’s Everglades. The tragic ambush of firefighters in Idaho is covered, raising concerns over arson while exploring broader implications related to the U.N.’s assessment of Iran's nuclear capabilities. Plus, there’s a mention of a scare during a Texas concert featuring Beyoncé.

20 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 16min
Tough, principled, and kind — the legacy of a slain Minnesota lawmaker
Reflecting on the legacy of Melissa Hortman, the first woman to lie in state at the Minnesota Capitol, colleagues share heartfelt memories of her leadership. The podcast also highlights the emotional plight of an Iranian asylum-seeking family impacted by ICE actions. There's an intriguing analysis of rising voter support among diverse demographics ahead of the 2024 election. Finally, discussions about Anna Wintour’s exit from Vogue and insights into 'F1 The Movie' reveal the intense training actors underwent for an authentic racing experience.

24 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 14min
Why it’s been so hot in June, and when to bring the kids inside
Explore the chaotic aid distribution in Gaza and understand the ramifications of ICE raids on U.S. industries. Discover how a heat dome is causing record-breaking temperatures across the country, impacting over 128 million Americans. Learn tips for keeping kids safe in extreme heat and find out how pets can cope during these sweltering days. Delve into NATO's spending challenges and the public's mixed feelings about Jeff Bezos's lavish wedding. This podcast covers diverse themes, from climate issues to current political controversies.

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.