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
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.
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.
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!
4 snips
May 17, 2024 • 13min
Biden's Morehouse College Speech, Alabama Autoworkers Union Vote, Daniel Perry Pardon
President Biden's address at Morehouse College stirs campus protests and mixed reactions from students about his ability to connect with them. Meanwhile, Alabama autoworkers prepare to vote on unionizing at a Mercedes-Benz plant, highlighting the struggle for workers' rights amidst tough opposition. A pardon for Daniel Perry by Texas Governor Greg Abbott raises heated discussions about self-defense laws and the justice system, revealing deep divides in political perspectives and social justice.
May 16, 2024 • 13min
U.S. Presidential Debates, Arms Transfer to Israel, Assassination Attempt in Slovakia
President Biden and Donald Trump prepare for surprising early debates, adding an entertaining twist to their rivalry. The U.S. navigates a $1 billion arms transfer to Israel, stirring discussions amid heightened scrutiny. Meanwhile, an assassination attempt on Slovakia's Prime Minister raises alarms about political stability and nationalistic tensions ahead of European elections. These topics fuse drama and urgency, reflecting the chaotic landscape of contemporary politics.
May 15, 2024 • 12min
Putin Visits China, Credit Card Users Max Out, Canadian Wildfires Spread
Vladimir Putin's diplomatic visit to China marks a strategic alliance amid rising tensions with the West. The discussion explores how the Ukraine conflict shapes trade relations while credit card debt burdens younger and lower-income Americans. Meanwhile, Canadian wildfires threaten communities and air quality, prompting urgent evacuations. The intertwining of economic challenges and environmental crises paints a stark picture of the current landscape.
8 snips
May 14, 2024 • 13min
Russia's New Ukraine Offensive, New Tariffs On China, Fentanyl Smuggling Increases
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's surprise visit to Kyiv comes amid a tense new Russian offensive, challenging Ukrainian forces. President Biden’s upcoming tariffs on Chinese goods aim to strengthen domestic manufacturing, impacting electric vehicles and semiconductors. Meanwhile, the alarming rise in fentanyl smuggling from China and Mexico poses a serious crisis, with drug-related deaths surging despite extensive border security efforts.
May 13, 2024 • 13min
Haitian Gang Leader, Michael Cohen Testifies, Israeli Artillery Strikes Gaza
The podcast dives into the chaos in Port-au-Prince, where gang leaders firmly control the city and pose significant challenges to governance. It spotlights Michael Cohen's testimony about election interference, raising questions about loyalty and legality. Amid escalating Israel-Gaza conflict, hear about the dire humanitarian crisis facing civilians in Rafa, juxtaposed with Israel's Memorial Day observance. The conversation also touches on the potential impact of a third-party candidate in the upcoming presidential election, highlighting an engaging mix of politics and social issues.
May 12, 2024 • 18min
The Sunday Story: Wild Card with Rachel Martin
Rachel Martin takes a playful approach to existential questions, inviting guests to share pivotal personal stories through an interactive game format. She explores the importance of authenticity in dialogue, reflecting on the impact of influential figures like Oprah Winfrey. Nostalgic memories from childhood visits to her grandmother's house reveal the joys of family bonds. The engaging 'Wild Card' game sparks deeper conversations about faith, self-discovery, and the complexities of life, making serious topics more relatable and enjoyable.
