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
192 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 13min
Minneapolis Mass Shooting, CDC Director Fired, Biden Admin and Gaza Aid
A shocking shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis claimed the lives of two children, leaving the community in mourning and grappling with heroism among survivors. In health news, the sudden firing of the CDC director has caused turmoil, leading to resignations within the agency. Meanwhile, a deep dive into the Biden administration reveals internal conflicts over humanitarian aid for Gaza, showcasing the complexities of U.S. foreign policy amidst ongoing turmoil in the region.
167 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 13min
Fed Governor Legal Fight, DNC Summer Meeting, Taylor Swift Engaged
A Federal Reserve governor is challenging Trump’s authority to dismiss her, stirring debate about presidential power. The DNC faces internal struggles as it seeks a fresh strategy for the upcoming elections. Meanwhile, Taylor Swift's engagement to Travis Kelce ignites excitement, with fans speculating about its influence on her next album. The blend of serious political issues and lighthearted celebrity news makes for an engaging mix!
187 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 13min
Fed Governor Fired, Trump Expands National Guard, Abrego Garcia Back in Custody
In a twist of political drama, President Trump moves to dismiss a Federal Reserve governor, sparking debates over political influence in monetary policy. The podcast dives into the controversial cashless bail system and its effects on crime in D.C. It also highlights the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who faces deportation amid complicated legal battles and discussions about immigration policies. The episode examines the balance of power between the presidency and federal agencies, making for an engaging analysis of current events.
160 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 13min
Trump Threatens Chicago, DOJ Latest, US-South Korea Summit
President Trump threatens to deploy the National Guard in Chicago, igniting a fierce debate with local leaders. The latest developments reveal a Justice Department interview with Ghislaine Maxwell, shedding light on Epstein's notorious dealings. Meanwhile, a crucial summit between the U.S. and South Korea focuses on strengthening military alliances and navigating trade negotiations, showcasing the complexities of regional security amidst rising tensions with China. It's a whirlwind of politics, crime, and international relations.
28 snips
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.
104 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.
150 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.
139 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.
94 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.
152 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.
