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
Dec 22, 2024 • 29min
The Luckiest of the Unlucky
Barbara Bradley Hagerty, a former NPR correspondent and author of "Bringing Ben Home," dives into her investigation of Ben Spencer's wrongful conviction. She revisits the crime scene and interviews witnesses, uncovering new evidence that could prove his innocence. Despite this, the courts remain resistant to change. The discussion reveals the harsh realities of the justice system and the complexities of redemption, highlighting Spencer's emotional journey and his reflection on the injustice he endured.
16 snips
Dec 22, 2024 • 27min
The Anatomy of a Wrongful Conviction
Barbara Bradley Hagerty, a former NPR correspondent and author known for her investigative work on law and justice, dives into the wrongful conviction of Ben Spencer, who was sentenced to life despite lacking evidence. She unpacks the flawed system that allowed his case to persist for over three decades. The discussion reveals unsettling truths about the impact of race, socioeconomic disparities, and the inadequacies of eyewitness testimony. The podcast also highlights the arduous journey and unwavering hope of both Spencer and those fighting for his justice.
24 snips
Dec 21, 2024 • 16min
Government Shutdown Averted, German Christmas Market Attack, Netflix And The NFL
Congress has narrowly avoided a government shutdown, with bipartisan efforts resulting in a short-term spending deal. A tragic incident shook a German Christmas market, leaving five dead. Meanwhile, Netflix is diving into live sports again, planning to stream NFL games on Christmas Day despite their previous streaming hiccups. The podcast analyzes the implications of both politics and entertainment on society, alongside the impact of recent events on public safety and political discourse.
32 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 14min
GOP Stopgap Bill Fails, Battle For Ukrainian Town, Syria's Interim Government
Congress faces a critical deadline to fund the government amid intense political drama. A bipartisan plan flops, with significant pressure from figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump disrupting negotiations. In Ukraine, Russian forces suffer heavy losses in their quest for control of a strategic town. Meanwhile, in Syria, the former rebel group now grapples with the complexities of forming a new inclusive government in a fractured country. The stakes are high in both regions, highlighting the interplay of global conflicts and domestic politics.
32 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 13min
Supreme Court Hears TikTok Case, Syrians Return Home, French Rape Trial Verdicts
The Supreme Court's upcoming decision on TikTok could reshape its future in the U.S., raising questions about free speech versus national security. In Syria, many refugees are eager to return home, facing both hope and uncertainty in a transformed country. Meanwhile, a controversial rape trial verdict in France sparks intense global discussions on justice and accountability. These intertwined stories reflect personal struggles and broader societal changes, resonating deeply in today's landscape.
55 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 13min
Murder As An Act Of Terrorism, Fed's Rate Cut Decision, Female Mass Shooters
The podcast dives into the chilling case of a CEO's murder, now classified as an act of terrorism, prompting a discussion on societal reactions and the role of social media. It also explores the Federal Reserve's potential interest rate cut amid ongoing inflation challenges. Additionally, listeners are confronted with the complexities surrounding a rare female school shooter in Wisconsin, unpacking motivations and mental health issues, while emphasizing the evolving landscape of gun violence and the diversity of its perpetrators.
52 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 13min
Trump Meets CEOs At Mar-A-Lago, School Shooting In Wisconsin, Pig Kidney Transplant
The podcast dives into President-elect Trump's high-profile meetings with CEOs and foreign leaders at Mar-a-Lago, showcasing the shift in business influence. A tragic school shooting in Wisconsin is discussed, highlighting the community's response and the bravery of a young student. Additionally, a groundbreaking gene-edited pig kidney is successfully transplanted into a human, pushing the boundaries of medical science. These topics combine to illustrate the dynamic interplay between leadership, tragedy, and innovation.
40 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 14min
Syrian Minorities Fear Retribution, Israel-Hamas Talks, ABC Settles Trump Lawsuit
Syrians express mixed emotions as they navigate the aftermath of their government’s potential collapse, with fears of retribution looming for minorities. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Antony Blinken is making renewed efforts for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict, but uncertainty remains. In a surprising turn, ABC News settles a defamation lawsuit with Trump, raising questions about media and politics. Experts weigh in on the implications for First Amendment rights and the media’s role in political discourse.
12 snips
Dec 15, 2024 • 29min
The Poetic Wealth of Nikki Giovanni
Legendary poet Nikki Giovanni, known for her impactful celebration of Black joy during the Civil Rights movement, shares profound insights in a conversation with Rachel Martin. They reflect on her life at 81, discussing creativity, familial bonds, and the significance of chosen family. Giovanni humorously advocates for the love of dogs and explores themes of resilience and health. With nostalgic memories of cooking with her grandmother, she emphasizes the importance of legacy and connection, reminding us that 'Black love is Black wealth'.
34 snips
Dec 14, 2024 • 15min
S. Korea President, Texas Abortion Lawsuit, Coffee Prices
South Korea is in a political uproar as President Yoon Suk Yeol faces impeachment for attempting to impose martial law. Meanwhile, a lawsuit in Texas against a doctor for prescribing abortion medication highlights the complexities of reproductive rights. On a different note, coffee lovers might want to brace themselves, as a severe drought in Brazil has driven coffee prices to a staggering 47-year high, raising concerns for consumers and the coffee market.
