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
55 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 13min
Federal Worker Surveillance, Trump's Team In Europe, Elon Musk And Mars
Federal workers at the General Services Administration are facing drastic budget cuts, raising concerns about job security and privacy as surveillance measures increase. Meanwhile, Trump administration officials are engaging with European leaders on critical international issues, including NATO and defense spending. In the realm of space exploration, discussions swirl around Elon Musk's ambitions for Mars and his ties with Trump, revealing both exciting opportunities and potential challenges for future missions.
75 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 13min
Jordan's King In Washington, New Tariffs, NYC Mayor's Corruption Charges
King Abdullah of Jordan meets with President Trump, rejecting a controversial proposal about Palestinians. New tariffs on steel and aluminum are announced, raising concerns about their impact on various industries. Legal troubles loom for NYC Mayor Eric Adams as the Justice Department pushes to dismiss corruption charges against him, despite allegations of accepting illegal perks. The podcast explores the diplomatic tensions and complex relationships at play between the U.S. and Jordan during this critical time.
81 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 14min
Trump At The Superbowl, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Turmoil, Air Aid To Gaza
President Trump shares his controversial plans for the Department of Education while stirring discussions about Gaza during a Super Bowl interview. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau faces turmoil with potential closures raising eyebrows. Meanwhile, humanitarian efforts shine as Jordan establishes an air bridge to deliver vital aid to Gaza, highlighting the stark contrast between destruction and hope. Reactions to Trump’s Super Bowl appearance showcase a divided public, while celebrations of the Eagles' victory add a touch of excitement amidst the serious topics.
57 snips
Feb 9, 2025 • 24min
When Chatbots Play Human
The rise of chatbots like Meta's Liv raises questions about their human-like qualities and the implications for identity. As users form emotional bonds with these AI, the risks of dependence and misinterpretation of empathy are explored. The podcast delves into the challenges of distinguishing AI accuracy, cultural representation, and the duality of experiences in interactions with these technologies. Listeners are prompted to consider the impact of these relationships on real human connections and mental health.
176 snips
Feb 8, 2025 • 16min
Trump Administration Latest, USAID Ruling, Super Bowl Preview
Federal judges are stepping in to block several controversial moves by the Trump administration, particularly concerning personnel cuts at USAID. Employees face uncertainty as these legal battles unfold. Meanwhile, excitement brews for the Super Bowl showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, with fun predictions and party food discussions. Plus, there's a dive into the world of human-like chatbots, exploring their effects on businesses and the user experience.
70 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 13min
Trump's Justice Department, Disappearing DEI, Flu Peaks Again
The Justice Department is undergoing major shifts with the new Attorney General, raising concerns about potential firings and changes in federal prosecutions. Corporations are quietly retreating from Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives amid political pressures, with major players like Google and 3M leading the way. Additionally, influenza is peaking early this winter, while COVID-19 cases continue to decline. The discussion also touches on the rise of AI chatbots and their implications for human interactions.
71 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 14min
Deadline For Federal Workers, Reaction To Trump's Gaza Plan, Future Of US Foreign Aid
Federal workers face tough choices as the deadline to accept a resignation offer looms. President Trump's controversial plans for Gaza stir varied reactions, particularly from Palestinians in the West Bank. Discussions reveal deep concerns about the impact of proposed U.S. aid cuts on humanitarian efforts globally. Amidst this, insights into the uncertainty and skepticism federal employees experience add to the complexities of this tumultuous news cycle.
80 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 12min
Trump And Gaza, Migrants At Guantanamo, USAID Staff On Leave
President Trump's provocative vision for U.S. claims in Gaza raises eyebrows, hinting at possible displacement of residents. The arrival of the first planeload of migrants in Guantanamo Bay stirs legal and political debates. Meanwhile, USAID staff face emotional turmoil with looming shutdowns, impacting essential global health initiatives. The podcast delves into these pressing issues, highlighting the complexities of foreign policy and its human consequences.
78 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 14min
Canada Tariffs, Education Department Targeted, DOGE
The U.S. temporarily halts trade wars with Canada, keeping bourbon safe while highlights of ethical concerns swirl around the administration's plans to slash the Department of Education. Tensions escalate as tariffs loom over Canada, inciting grassroots boycotts. Meanwhile, the podcast raises eyebrows over Elon Musk's connections to DOGE and explores the implications of proposed government payroll cuts impacting diversity and funding in education. A blend of serious issues seasoned with engaging dialogue keeps listeners hooked.
74 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 16min
USAID Programs Halted, Netanyahu in Washington, Rubio Visits Panama, Cannabis Safety
Foreign aid programs face a major halt, creating turbulence within USAID and sparking discussions around its future amid Trump administration changes. Meanwhile, Netanyahu's pivotal talks in Washington highlight international diplomacy. In Panama, Marco Rubio addresses foreign influence over the Panama Canal. Additionally, the podcast dives into the cannabis landscape, addressing safety concerns, potency risks, and the challenges of unregulated markets, aiming to guide consumers toward safer products.
