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
37 snips
Mar 2, 2025 • 31min
Who Will Win at the Oscars
Linda Holmes and Stephen Thompson, co-hosts of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, dive into the exciting world of the Academy Awards. They share insights on the fierce competition between blockbusters and critic favorites, like 'Dune: Part Two' and 'The Substance.' Predictions for major awards, particularly Best Picture and standout performances, spark engaging debate. The duo also touches on overlooked films and the evolving landscape of storytelling in cinema, all wrapped in their trademark wit and analysis.
106 snips
Mar 1, 2025 • 16min
Zelenskyy-Vance-Trump Blow Up, DOJ Demotions, Feds Plan for Bird Flu
Leah Douglas, a Reuters reporter focused on agriculture and energy policy, dives into the urgent bird flu crisis impacting poultry farmers and soaring egg prices. She discusses the government's response and the health risks to humans. The conversation also touches on the high-stakes standoff between Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy and Trump, revealing the political fallout and Ukrainians' reactions to perceived threats to U.S. support. Douglas provides insightful perspectives on these critical issues, showcasing the intertwining of global politics and agriculture.
91 snips
Mar 1, 2025 • 24min
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Says She's Fighting President Trump's "Illusion of Power"
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the progressive Representative for New York's 14th district, dives deep into the current political landscape. She critiques President Trump's administration, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming support from working-class voters. Ocasio-Cortez tackles issues like Medicaid budget cuts and the complexities of immigration policies under both Trump and Biden. She reflects on the Democratic Party's need for accountability and justice while cautioning against dismantling essential systems that protect vulnerable populations.
70 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 14min
Zelenskyy Visits DC, Tate Brothers In Florida, USAID Standoff, AOC and DOJ
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy visits Washington, D.C., aiming for a deal on rare earth minerals to bolster U.S. support. The Tate brothers make headlines in Florida as they face human trafficking charges, stirring public controversy. Amid these events, the Supreme Court weighs in on frozen funds at USAID, highlighting tensions over foreign aid. Additionally, Rep. Ocasio-Cortez seeks clarity from the Justice Department about a potential investigation into her activities.
52 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 13min
Foreign Aid Terminated, Migrants At Guantánamo, Legal Challenges To Federal Firings
A dramatic cut in U.S. foreign aid contracts could spell disaster for global humanitarian efforts. Personal stories emerge from two Venezuelan immigrants at Guantanamo, spotlighting allegations of mistreatment and the stark realities of detention. Meanwhile, a legal battle unfolds over the Trump administration's firings of probationary federal workers, raising questions about workers' rights. These stories intertwine to paint a complex picture of international relations and domestic policy challenges.
64 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 13min
House Budget Plan, DOGE Resignations, Battle Against Bird Flu
House Republicans are locked in a fierce debate over a sweeping new budget plan, grappling with internal divisions and party-line disagreements. Meanwhile, a shakeup in Elon Musk's DOGE team sees civil servants resigning amidst rising tensions. On another front, egg farmers are battling an alarming bird flu outbreak, raising concerns about their livelihoods and the need for effective containment strategies. As vaccination plans loom, worries about economic fallout from international trade restrictions are mounting.
69 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 15min
Federal Worker Email Confusion, UN On Ukraine, Colorado River, France Surgeon Trial
Federal workers are scratching their heads over a confusing directive requiring them to report their activities. Meanwhile, tensions at the UN reflect the fallout of the U.S. distancing itself from European allies regarding Ukraine. The Colorado River faces significant funding cuts, leaving its future uncertain. In France, a surgeon stands trial for grave abuse against young patients, raising questions about systemic failures to protect the vulnerable. All these topics weave together a rich tapestry of current events, ethics, and international relations.
64 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 14min
Federal Worker Confusion, European Leaders In DC, German Election, Greenpeace Lawsuit
Federal workers are left baffled by a directive requiring a report on their accomplishments, raising concerns about job security. Meanwhile, European leaders are rallying in Washington to discuss strategies regarding Ukraine and aligning U.S. foreign policy. Germany's political landscape shifts with the appointment of a new Chancellor. Additionally, Greenpeace faces a massive lawsuit accused of inciting protests against an oil pipeline, highlighting ongoing tensions in the fight for environmental advocacy and free speech.
126 snips
Feb 23, 2025 • 22min
Alternate Realities
Zach Mack, a dedicated reporter, shares his personal journey navigating the fallout of his father's deepening obsession with conspiracy theories. He recounts how these beliefs strained family ties amid the turbulent backdrop of the pandemic. The discussion highlights emotional confrontations over differing views, the rise of self-proclaimed prophets, and the challenge of maintaining familial bonds. Ultimately, it’s a heartfelt exploration of truth, belief, and the complexities of love within a family divided.
61 snips
Feb 22, 2025 • 15min
Pentagon Upheaval, Hamas Releases More Hostages, NY State Prisons
A significant shift in military leadership leads to debates over diversity and strategy within the Pentagon. As tensions rise, Hamas releases more hostages, intensifying the emotional narrative of ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, unrest brews in New York State prisons as correctional officers protest dire working conditions, prompting the governor to deploy National Guard troops. These stories reveal a landscape of upheaval and pressing issues at home and abroad.
