Anderson Cooper 360

Scott McDonald, a resident of Topanga Canyon, shares his gripping experience of defending his home against raging wildfires. He recounts the intense fear and urgency as thousands were forced to evacuate, while also highlighting the bravery of neighbors who came together to help one another. The emotional toll of loss is palpable, as communities rally to support each other amid the destruction. Additionally, insights from first responders and personal survival stories underscore the resilience of those impacted by the fires.

Anderson is on the scene as at least six fires tear across Los Angeles County forcing the evacuations of residents. Anderson shows how the flames destroyed homes and vehicles in one neighborhood of Altadena, California. At least five people are dead. California Governor Gavin Newsom tells Anderson the death toll  is "likely" to rise. Anderson also talks with a mother and her son who lost their home in Pacific Palisades, other survivors and fire officials working to put out the flames.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CNN's Nick Watt and Natasha Chen are in the Los Angeles community of Pacific Palisades, where more than 30,000 people have been asked to evacuate as a fast-moving wildfire spreads. The city of Los Angeles has declared a state of emergency and will have all resources on deck, said the president of the city council. Plus, President-elect Donald Trump spoke to reporters today and covered a wide range of subjects, including his frustration over the legal cases brought against him and the Biden administration's handling of the transition, his thoughts on special counsel Jack Smith and refusing to rule out using military force to add Greenland to the United States and retake control of the Panama Canal. Kaitlan Collins, anchor of CNN's The Source, and New York Times senior political correspondent Maggie Haberman, break down the new developments. Plus, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced Facebook and Instagram will drop  fact checkers and replacing them with user generated "community notes.” Donie O'Sullivan has details on the new policy and we get perspective from Scott Galloway, Professor of Marketing at New York University's Stern School of Business.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The recent presidential election certification sparks reflections on the contrasts from four years ago and hints at upcoming challenges. Elon Musk stirs controversy with a provocative proposal about British governance, drawing ire from UK officials. Meanwhile, President Biden honors victims of a tragic New Orleans attack, emphasizing community healing. The emotional fallout from January 6th riots reveals deep family rifts, while the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter is explored, highlighting his unique impact amidst today's political climate.

Bourbon Street's security weaknesses come under crucial examination following a deadly attack. Experts call for immediate improvements to protective measures in the area. A complex investigation reveals the struggles of a Green Beret involved in a violent incident, highlighting mental health issues and extremist influences. Meanwhile, legal challenges surrounding presidential immunity are dissected, alongside a startling new advisory linking alcohol use to cancer risks. The podcast also honors the victims of the New Orleans tragedy, showcasing the community's resilience and emotional responses.

Live from New Orleans, the podcast tackles the aftermath of a horrific terrorist attack on Bourbon Street. Conversations reveal the emotional toll on survivors, including a paralyzed survivor's brave recovery journey. Community resilience shines through as locals come together to heal and remember victims. Digital investigations into extremism and the challenges of tracking self-radicalized individuals underscore the complexities of modern threats. Personal stories of loss and a unified spirit highlight the enduring strength of the community.

Judy Woodruff, veteran journalist and former CNN anchor, reflects on her extensive coverage of Jimmy Carter. Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin shares profound insights into Carter's legacy of compassion and service. Personal pastor Tony Lowden reveals intimate anecdotes about the Carter's deep bond and faith. Together, they discuss the significance of Jimmy Carter's contributions to social justice and his enduring love story with Rosalynn. Each guest offers a unique glimpse into the warmth, humility, and legacy of the 39th president.

The unfolding drama around Trump's request to the Supreme Court to pause the TikTok ban raises questions about national security and First Amendment rights. Meanwhile, a chilling survivor's account gives insight into the recent Azerbaijan Airlines crash, revealing potential miscommunications with air defense systems. The troubling surge of AI-generated explicit content raises alarms over privacy violations, particularly for minors. The intricate investigation into a homicide case overlaps with issues of financial guidance in the sports world.

Ret. Lt. General Mark Hertling and aviation analyst Miles O'Brien unravel the mysterious crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines jet, spotlighting shocking claims of a missile strike. They dissect eyewitness accounts and potential causes tied to military tensions. Meanwhile, the broader implications resonate through geopolitical discussions, linking the tragedy to ongoing global power dynamics. As tensions rise, the conversation also touches on urgent safety concerns in urban environments and the alarming spread of bird flu that threatens wildlife.

A House Ethics Committee report reveals shocking allegations against former congressman Matt Gaetz, including payments for sex and drugs with a 17-year-old. The implications for his political future stir debates on loyalty and accountability. Meanwhile, former President Bill Clinton's hospitalization raises health concerns. The political landscape remains turbulent as legal battles unfold, shedding light on complex issues like pardons and the death penalty. Personal stories of resilience add depth, emphasizing the human side of these gripping narratives.