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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
Sep 22, 2024 • 30min
When Water Turns to Sand
Valerie Kipnis, an NPR Above the Fray fellow, dives deep into the ecological disaster of the Aral Sea, once a thriving lake, now largely a desert. She uncovers how historical water diversion for agriculture led to this environmental tragedy, affecting local communities and farmers in Uzbekistan struggling with water scarcity. Kipnis also discusses innovative solutions being explored to reform agricultural practices and promote sustainable water use. The emotional ties to the Amudarya River highlight a blend of despair and hope in the face of climate challenges.
Sep 21, 2024 • 14min
Latest in U.S. Politics; Escalation in Conflict Between Hezbollah and Israel
A Republican gubernatorial candidate in North Carolina makes shocking comments that could shape the 2024 elections. Meanwhile, tensions escalate between Hezbollah and Israel as airstrikes lead to civilian casualties in Lebanon. The discussion also navigates the controversial hand counting of ballots in Georgia and its political ramifications. Historical context enriches the analysis of how these conflicts could affect broader regional stability and the political landscape, highlighting the interconnectedness of domestic and international issues.
5 snips
Sep 20, 2024 • 13min
Election Workers Voice Concerns, Influencers In Springfield, Sickle Cell Treatments
As the election approaches, officials are anxious about potential conspiracy theories echoing from the past. Meanwhile, influencers are on a wild hunt for debunked claims in Springfield, Ohio. In a separate discussion, patients with sickle cell disease face hurdles in signing up for groundbreaking genetic treatments that could impact their fertility. Join the conversation as these topics reveal the intersection of misinformation, public perception, and medical advancements.
Sep 19, 2024 • 14min
More Explosions In Lebanon, Israeli Covert Operations, Teamsters Won't Endorse
Recent explosive incidents in Lebanon have sparked fear, with locals unplugging devices amid the chaos. Israel's covert operations targeting Hezbollah and Hamas are raising tensions further. In the U.S., the Teamsters Union is making waves by choosing not to endorse any presidential candidate, reflecting shifting dynamics in labor politics. The podcast dives into the emotional impact of the violence in Beirut, highlighting personal stories and the complexities of conflict as political landscapes evolve.
9 snips
Sep 18, 2024 • 13min
Hezbollah Pager Explosions, Fed Interest Rate Decision, Drug Overdose Deaths
Recent pager explosions linked to Hezbollah have resulted in numerous casualties in Lebanon and Syria, raising concerns about regional stability. The Federal Reserve might soon announce a rate cut as economists navigate conflicting trends in inflation and employment. In a more hopeful turn, the U.S. sees its first significant decline in drug overdose deaths in decades, sparking optimism among addiction specialists, though challenges remain. These topics highlight pressing global issues and emerging trends in health and economics.
10 snips
Sep 17, 2024 • 13min
Details Emerge On Alleged Gunman, Rumors Impact Community, Rupert Murdoch's Empire
A gunman with ties to Ukraine attempted to draw soldiers into a controversial cause before his alarming actions targeted a former president. The community of Springfield, Ohio faces heightened tensions and misinformation, leading to canceled events. Meanwhile, Rupert Murdoch is reshaping his will to influence the control of Fox News amid family conflicts. The podcast also touches on Sean Combs' recent legal troubles, adding to the intrigue of power struggles and accountability in both media and individual actions.
Sep 16, 2024 • 14min
Trump Apparent Assassination Attempt, Venezuela Accuses CIA, TikTok Appeal
A man is in custody following an apparent assassination attempt on Donald Trump during a golf outing in Florida. The FBI details the nature of the threat and the suspect's background. Meanwhile, Venezuela's government accuses the CIA of plotting to kill President Nicolás Maduro amid rising political repression. In a legal battle, TikTok fights the U.S. government over its future, balancing national security concerns with free speech rights. The stakes are high as this may affect millions of American users.
8 snips
Sep 15, 2024 • 29min
Men, Beef and a Climate Solution
Julia Simon, NPR's Climate Solutions reporter, dives into the intricate connection between beef consumption and climate change. She reveals how societal norms link masculinity to meat-eating, with men disproportionately contributing to beef consumption. The discussion examines the environmental impact of this habit, particularly methane emissions. Simon champions the potential for climate action through reduced beef intake, while unpacking the rise of 'meatfluencers' and the cultural hurdles men face in embracing plant-based diets. It's a thoughtful exploration of identity, food choices, and sustainability.
Sep 14, 2024 • 17min
U.S. Missile Policy for Ukraine; UAW Strike Anniversary; Civilian Space Tourism
Tom Bowman, a Pentagon correspondent, offers a deep dive into the complexities of U.S. missile policy regarding Ukraine's requests for long-range missiles against Russia. He sheds light on the Biden administration's cautious stance and its implications for the ongoing conflict. The discussion also touches on the anniversary of the UAW strike, where workers express concerns over job security. Additionally, the podcast highlights a groundbreaking moment in civilian space tourism, featuring a non-NASA astronaut's spacewalk, underlining the industry's challenges and potential.
5 snips
Sep 13, 2024 • 17min
Post-Debate Campaigning, Boeing Strike, Transatlantic Tension, Gas Stove Warning
Trump opts out of debating Harris, as both candidates turn their focus to critical swing states. Meanwhile, Boeing faces a major strike after machinists reject a contract, raising issues of safety and wages. On the international front, Biden and the UK Prime Minister may discuss providing Ukraine with long-range weapons. Back home, California pushes for health warning labels on gas stoves, connecting public health concerns with fossil fuel impacts. It's a whirlwind of politics, labor, and health!
