Up First from NPR

NPR
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May 27, 2024 • 14min

Israeli Airstrike In Rafah, Papua New Guinea Landslide, U.S. Military Repatriation

In Rafah, an Israeli airstrike tragically killed 35 Palestinians in a designated safe zone, exposing the chaos that followed. Meanwhile, a devastating landslide in Papua New Guinea left hundreds feared dead, prompting urgent rescue efforts. The discussion also delves into the U.S. military's focus on repatriating the remains of service members from WWII and the Korean War, highlighting the emotional toll on families and the importance of honoring their sacrifices.
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May 26, 2024 • 31min

The Sunday Story: Planet Money Investigates Zombie 2nd Mortgages

Robert Smith and Chris Arnold, NPR Planet Money correspondents, dive into the chilling world of zombie second mortgages. They unravel how homeowners can pay their bills faithfully yet still face unexpected foreclosure. With riveting personal stories, they highlight the emotional toll and legal complexities victims encounter. The discussion wraps up with insights on how homeowners can fight back against predatory lending practices and navigate the murky waters of dormant debts that suddenly awaken.
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May 25, 2024 • 14min

UN Court Rules on Gaza, Four Years After George Floyd's Death, ADHD Cases Rise

A recent ruling by the International Court of Justice urges Israel to pause military actions in Rafah, highlighting a worsening humanitarian crisis. Significant changes in policing practices in Minneapolis are explored, reflecting on the aftermath of George Floyd's death. Additionally, rising ADHD diagnoses among children, particularly girls, have sparked discussions about awareness, screening, and the importance of timely treatment. The episode wraps up with a look at these critical social issues, blending international news with local reform efforts.
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May 24, 2024 • 13min

NCAA Settlement, Louisiana Abortion Pills, Live Nation Antitrust Lawsuit

A groundbreaking $2.8 billion settlement in college athletics paves the way for student-athletes to receive compensation for their contributions. Louisiana has classified abortion-inducing drugs as controlled substances, raising concerns about reproductive rights. Meanwhile, the Justice Department's lawsuit against Live Nation and Ticketmaster takes aim at monopolistic practices in the live entertainment sector. These crucial topics reveal shifting landscapes in sports, healthcare, and the music industry.
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May 23, 2024 • 13min

British PM Sunak Calls Election, Russia Nuclear Weapons Drills, Spring Housing Market

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak calls for a general election amid plummeting approval ratings and public protests. Meanwhile, Russia conducts tactical nuclear drills, citing growing Western threats during the Ukraine conflict. On the home front, the housing market is heating up, with buyers facing fierce competition and rising prices as inventory remains low. As these issues intertwine, the political climate reveals the challenges of leadership and decision-making in both national and personal realms.
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5 snips
May 22, 2024 • 13min

European Leaders Palestinian Statehood, Trump's Florida Case, Hospital Cyberattack

European leaders from Ireland, Spain, and Norway are taking a bold step by formally recognizing Palestinian statehood, sparking diplomatic discussions. Meanwhile, legal battles heat up for Trump as his lawyers argue for the dismissal of charges in Florida. On a darker note, a significant ransomware attack continues to disrupt hospital operations, putting patient care and data security at risk. The intersection of politics, diplomacy, and cybersecurity creates a complex narrative that impacts global relations and healthcare systems.
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4 snips
May 21, 2024 • 13min

ICC Prosecutor Seeks Arrest Warrants, Senate Border Bill, Scarlett Johansson ChatGPT

A probe by the International Criminal Court targets top leaders from Hamas and Israel for serious allegations. Meanwhile, a bipartisan border bill faces another Senate vote amidst political tensions. Scarlett Johansson raises concerns over the unauthorized use of her voice by an AI assistant. The episode also touches on the unexpected death of Iran's president and its potential impact on regional stability, along with a discussion about the intersection of technology and health.
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May 20, 2024 • 13min

Iran's President Dies, Israel's Political Turmoil, Michael Cohen Resumes Testimony

Iran faces political upheaval with the sudden death of President Raisi and the foreign minister in a helicopter crash, triggering emergency meetings and protests. Meanwhile, Israel's political landscape grows tense as Prime Minister Netanyahu grapples with accusations of lacking a strategy in Gaza. In the legal realm, Michael Cohen’s trial heats up with intense cross-examination that could sway the jury's opinion. Lastly, anticipation builds over Julian Assange's impending court decision on his extradition appeal.
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May 19, 2024 • 30min

The Sunday Story: Life in the Shadow of the Philippines' Drug War

Emily Feng, NPR's correspondent and a keen observer of global issues, delves into the tragic realities of the Philippines' drug war. She paints a heart-wrenching portrait of individuals like Tin, a young widow, showcasing the deep scars left by extrajudicial killings. Feng discusses the stark contrast between government narratives and the community's lived realities, shedding light on the ongoing violence under President Marcos Jr. The podcast reveals urgent calls for a humane shift towards rehabilitation amidst a brutal campaign that has affected countless families.
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May 18, 2024 • 15min

Gaza Pier Delivers, Boeing Shareholders Meet, 'Regenerative Farming'

A floating pier built by the U.S. is helping deliver crucial humanitarian aid to Gaza, addressing dire food shortages. Meanwhile, Boeing's tightly controlled annual meeting spotlights the company's struggles with safety issues and public scrutiny. The discussion also dives into the evolving landscape of vegetarian restaurants that are now incorporating meat, raising questions about regenerative farming's role in climate change and soil health. This timely exploration of crisis management and sustainability makes for a thought-provoking listen!

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