Up First from NPR
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NPR's Up First is the news you need to start your day. The three biggest stories of the day, with reporting and analysis from NPR News — in 10 minutes. Available weekdays at 6:30 a.m. ET, with hosts Leila Fadel, Steve Inskeep, Michel Martin and A Martinez. Also available on Saturdays at 9 a.m. ET, with Ayesha Rascoe and Scott Simon. On Sundays, hear a longer exploration behind the headlines with Ayesha Rascoe on "The Sunday Story," available by 8 a.m. ET. Subscribe and listen, then support your local NPR station at donate.npr.org.Support NPR's reporting by subscribing to Up First+ and unlock sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org/upfirst
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 24, 2025 • 28min
How Katrina Transformed New Orleans Schools
Aubrey Uhaus, an education reporter for WWNO in New Orleans, dives into the monumental changes in the city's school system post-Hurricane Katrina. The conversation spans the rise of charter schools and the challenges that plagued public education before and after the storm. Uhaus explores the mixed outcomes of these reforms, highlighting shifts in teaching staff and community responses. She also discusses innovative strategies in certain charter schools, emphasizing a need for diverse educational approaches to cater to student needs.
84 snips
Aug 23, 2025 • 15min
DOJ’s Maxwell Transcripts, Possible Interest Rate Cut, DC Immigrants Fearful
The release of transcripts from Ghislaine Maxwell's interviews reveals shocking insights into her connection with Epstein and raises questions about the DOJ's transparency. Meanwhile, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell hints at potential interest rate cuts, sparking economic discussions. Immigrant communities in D.C. are living in fear, avoiding church services amidst heightened law enforcement presence. And for lighthearted relief, a segment humorously unmasks common misheard song lyrics while stressing the importance of local connections.
153 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 15min
Famine in Northern Gaza, Epstein Docs, CA/TX Maps
Northern Gaza faces a catastrophic famine, with half a million people in urgent need of aid amid military tensions. Recent revelations about Jeffrey Epstein prompt a release of documents by the Justice Department, raising transparency concerns. California's new redistricting plan aims to counter Republican influence in Texas, highlighting the ongoing political maneuvering in the state. These pressing topics reflect the intersection of humanitarian crises and political dynamics that shape today's news landscape.
132 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 13min
Israel Calls Reservists, NATO & Ukraine, Hurricane Erin
Israel is mobilizing 60,000 reservists for a significant military operation in Gaza City, even as ceasefire talks are underway with Hamas. Meanwhile, NATO is preparing security assurances for Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions with Russia. The impact of Hurricane Erin is causing floods and evacuations in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, raising safety concerns and straining local resources. The podcast delves into these timely and critical global issues, offering insights into complex geopolitical dynamics and natural disasters.
89 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 12min
Governors and the National Guard, Europe and Ukraine, Texas Redistricting
Governors are sending National Guard troops to D.C. to support crime crackdowns, raising questions about politicization. Meanwhile, European leaders contemplate security guarantees for Ukraine amid ongoing tensions. In Texas, redistricting efforts could bolster Republican power in upcoming elections, stirring controversy among Democrats. The podcast delves into the implications of these developments for U.S. security and international relations.
144 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 13min
Trump and Ukraine, Kremlin's View, California Redistricting
President Trump is strategizing on peace talks to end the war in Ukraine while tensions with Russia escalate. The Kremlin's perspective on these developments is also explored. Meanwhile, California lawmakers are embroiled in a redistricting battle to counteract a Trump-supported initiative in Texas aimed at influencing the midterms. The intricate dance between world leaders around Ukraine’s future showcases the complexities of international diplomacy.
178 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 13min
Zelenskyy Meets Trump, Gaza Latest, More National Guard Troops to D.C.
President Trump is set to host Ukraine's Zelenskyy, stirring discussions on geopolitical strategies. In Israel, protests grow over hostage negotiations amidst military plans in Gaza City. Meanwhile, National Guard troops are being deployed to Washington, D.C., raising concerns among local leaders about their impact on the community. With rising tensions in the capital, the importance of unity and calm is emphasized as the new school year approaches.
56 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 17min
The Horror of Codependency
Join actress Alison Brie, known for her roles in Mad Men and GLOW, as she dives into the intriguing dynamics of long-term relationships in her new horror film, Together. She explores the theme of codependency, revealing how love can sometimes bind individuals in unexpected and frightening ways. Talk turns personal as she reflects on the challenges of merging identities while preserving individuality and shares humorous insights from her creative collaboration with husband Dave Franco. This engaging discussion blends romance, horror, and the complexities of commitment.
111 snips
Aug 16, 2025 • 15min
After The Summit, The Week In Politics
Tensions rise following a lengthy summit between Trump and Putin, with no major agreements on Ukraine. The political landscape heats up as Trump faces backlash over his redistricting demands and ongoing Epstein-related controversies. Judicial decisions spark debates in Congress over disclosure laws. Meanwhile, reflections on political events blend serious insights with lighter relationship advice from actors, providing a unique take on current affairs.
138 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 12min
Trump and Putin Meet For A Summit in Alaska. What Are the Views From Moscow and Kyiv?
A high-stakes summit unfolds as Trump and Putin meet in Anchorage to discuss the Ukraine conflict. Perspectives from Moscow and Kyiv reveal a tense atmosphere, with Ukrainian fears of being sidelined. The podcast dives into the historical context and significance of this diplomatic event. Mixed feelings among Ukrainians reflect a weariness for negotiations, coupled with a fierce commitment to national sovereignty. The intricate dynamics of U.S.-Russia relations and the potential ramifications of the summit hold listeners' attention.
