The news you need to know to start your day. Five top news stories and why they matter. Every weekday, plus Saturdays. Powered by the USA TODAY Network and hosted by Taylor Wilson.
The 5 Things podcast is a diverse, inclusive, informative, and comprehensive news podcast that delivers everything one could seek in a daily news source. With each episode, listeners are guaranteed to learn something new and stay up-to-date on the latest happenings in the world. The podcast serves as a valuable resource for those who want to be informed without having to immerse themselves in all the bad news out there. It is a go-to podcast that provides a quick rundown of the day's most important news stories, making it an essential listen for anyone looking to start their day off well-informed.
One of the best aspects of The 5 Things podcast is its format. The hosts do an excellent job of highlighting the key highlights of the day's news stories, ensuring that listeners get a comprehensive overview while keeping it concise and easy to follow. The diversity of topics covered is also commendable, as it caters to various interests and provides useful information on different subjects. Additionally, the podcast strives to be inclusive by offering a wide range of perspectives and not aligning itself with any particular political affiliation. This balanced approach brings a refreshing and much-needed perspective to the world of news podcasts.
While The 5 Things podcast excels in many areas, there are some aspects that could be improved upon. One common criticism raised by listeners is the musical introduction used in each episode. Some find it unpleasant or jarring, especially when listening early in the morning. A more soothing or professional opening theme may enhance the overall experience for listeners. Additionally, there have been occasional episodes where important details or clarity about certain news topics were lacking. For example, there was confusion regarding which case was being referred to in relation to E Jean Carroll and whether it was related to rape or defamation suits. To maintain its credibility and ensure accuracy, providing clear information on such matters is crucial.
In conclusion, The 5 Things podcast offers a valuable service by providing diverse, inclusive, and informative news coverage that keeps listeners engaged and up to date. While there may be some improvements that could enhance the overall experience, the podcast remains a reliable source of information that delivers what it promises – a concise and comprehensive overview of the day's top news stories. Whether you're a news addict or simply someone who wants to stay informed, The 5 Things podcast is worth subscribing to and listening to daily.
This is banned books week. It's a week that highlights how a few loud voices have shaped what kinds of books are pulled from school and library shelves. Who gets the final word, not on which books should be read, but on access? And what's been the impact on those caught in a fight they didn't start – our teachers and librarians? USA TODAY Books Reporter Clare Mulroy joins USA TODAY's The Excerpt to discuss the banning of books.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
President Donald Trump says Israel and Hamas have agreed to implement the first phase of a White House peace plan aimed at ending Israel's onslaught in Gaza, and securing the release of hostages.USA TODAY Breaking News Reporter Michael Loria has the latest from Chicago, where residents say a Trump immigration blitz is upending daily life.A 29-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the Palisades Fire.USA TODAY Domestic Security Correspondent Josh Meyer breaks down the case against former FBI Director James Comey, after he pleaded not guilty to making false statements.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
We're nearly at the end of day eight of the government shutdown, the first time this has happened since 2018 when President Donald Trump was last in office. Hundreds of thousands of employees who have been deemed non-essential have been furloughed and there's little movement in Washington toward an agreement that would get the wheels churning again. Some would argue that the gridlock in Washington was already a form of government shutdown with Congress deadlocked and not negotiating on many issues of substance as to how we run this country. Where are with the shutdown and what are the key takeaways so far? USA TODAY White House Reporter Bart Jansen joins The Excerpt to unpack the issues.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison has some of the latest from the federal government shutdown, including the president's controversial remarks about furloughed workers.Attorney General Pam Bondi is grilled by and insults Democrats in a Senate hearing.Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe breaks down oral arguments over Colorado's ban on 'conversion therapy.'All four divisional series are in action Wednesday in the MLB Postseason.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
National Guard troops in limbo as Trump battles courts over deploymentsUSA TODAY National News Reporter Karissa Waddick takes a look at Virginia's governor's race.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A federal judge temporarily blocks President Donald Trump from deploying 200 Oregon National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon.USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe looks at the upcoming term for the high court.Trump is warning of 'complete obliteration' if Hamas insists on staying in power in Gaza.USA TODAY Government Accountability Reporter Erin Mansfield talks about the Trump administration's push for control over agencies like the FCC.In this month's edition of Kind Time, hear about a tiny goat who was given a chance to thrive - with the help of a couple of sheepdogs. For more, visit USA TODAY's Humankind.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
It's been two years since the October 7th attacks on Israel. On that day in 2023, Hamas fighters killed 1,200 people and took hundreds hostage. In response, Israel unleashed a military campaign that has brought death and devastation to Gaza. Now President Trump, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by his side, has unveiled a 20-point plan he says will bring a lasting peace to the region. On Oct. 3, Hamas said it agrees to release all Israeli hostages, alive or dead, under the terms of Trump's plan and signalled readiness to immediately enter mediated negotiations to discuss the details. Michael Oren, a former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. and a military historian joins The Excerpt with my colleague USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page to discuss the new peace plan. * Note: This conversation was recorded on October 1, 2025.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
President Donald Trump is calling on Israel to stop its Gaza bombing campaign to secure the safe extraction of remaining hostages, after Hamas agreed to portions of his peace plan.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Bart Jansen has the latest as lawmakers fail to get out of a government shutdown.The shutdown is delaying a key jobs report.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Zac Anderson tells us about Trump's move to freeze funding for Chicago, amid a broader push to withhold funds from blue cities and states.Diddy has been sentenced to 50 months in prison.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
For 75 years, Charles Schultz's Peanuts gang has reflected our humor and hope, as well as our struggle to navigate some of life's everyday curveballs. How is it that the characters he created so poignantly reflect how we experience other people and the world around us? And why do a ragtag group of comic strip kids who debuted in newspapers in 1950 post-war America, still resonate with children and adults around the world? Andrew Blauner, author of “THE PEANUTS PAPERS: Writers and Cartoonists on Charlie Brown, Snoopy & the Gang, and the Meaning of Life,” sat down with USA TODAY's The Excerpt to discuss the 75th anniversary of the Peanuts gang and its enduring impact.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
President Donald Trump's approval ratings are historically low compared to other presidents, but have mostly plateaued in recent months.USA TODAY First Amendment Reporter BrieAnna Frank breaks down a ruling against the Trump administration that found Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem misused their authority to target non-citizen pro-Palestinians for deportation.The White House is encouraging leaders at nine universities to sign a compact committing their schools to adopt President Donald Trump's policy agenda for higher education in exchange for preferential access to federal funds.The Pentagon tells Congress Trump has determined the U.S. is in 'armed conflict' with cartels.USA TODAY National Music Writer Melissa Ruggieri chats about Taylor Swift's new album - "The Life of a Showgirl" - out today.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Once known simply as a gossip guru, Charlamagne tha God – who reaches over 7 million monthly “Club” listeners – still gets "the tea.” USA TODAY Politics Reporter Jay Stahl joins The Excerpt to share excerpts from his sit-down with the political influencer.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
USA TODAY White House Correspondent Francesca Chambers takes a look at how the federal government shutdown is playing out politically, and gives us some insight into how Americans are being impacted.FBI Director Kash Patel says he won't partner with the Anti-Defamation League over a James Comey link.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Bart Jansen explains how concerns over tariffs might loom over 2026 races.We remember Jane Goodall.Jews observe Yom Kippur.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the wake of the controversy surrounding Jimmy Kimmel's week-long suspension from "Jimmy Kimmel Live," FCC Chairman Brendan Carr issued a not-so-veiled threat on a podcast saying "we can do this the easy way or we can do this the hard way." David Inserra, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute and an expert on First Amendment issues, joins The Excerpt to talk through the First Amendment and where the Constitutional line is for those in power.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The federal government shut down at midnight. USA TODAY Senior National Political Correspondent Sarah D. Wire gives us a better sense of one of the key issues at play - a fight over extending insurance subsidies.A judge rules President Donald Trump's deportation moves against pro-Palestinian students are unconstitutional.USA TODAY National Security & World Affairs Reporter Cybele Mayes-Osterman recaps a controversial meeting of top military commanders in Virginia.President Trump announces a deal with Pfizer to lower drug prices.The MLB Playoffs are underway.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
President Donald Trump said he and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have reached a deal for peace in Gaza. But how do leaders in the enclave see the deal? USA TODAY White House Correspondent Francesca Chambers has the latest.Several people - including U.S. citizens - are seeking millions in damages after violent ICE arrests.USA TODAY Congressional Reporter Zach Schermele has the latest as the clock ticks toward a government shutdown.Ghislaine Maxwell's appeal is being considered at the Supreme Court.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
An assailant killed at least four people at a Michigan church during Sunday service. Plus, a suspect has been charged in a Saturday shooting in North Carolina.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will visit Washington Monday.USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes discusses how some who grew up under authoritarian regimes are worried about what's happening stateside.The FBI has fired agents who were photographed kneeling with protesters during 2020 racial justice protests.USA TODAY Senior Reporter Jessica Guynn tells us about Costco - and other retail - superfans.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Former FBI Director James Comey has now been indicted. Who might be next? Is the Trump administration now weaponizing the Department of Justice in order to seek retribution from his political foes? USA TODAY Chief Political Correspondent Phillip M. Bailey joins The Excerpt to dig into this explosive story.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Victim detainees shot by a sniper at a Dallas ICE facility have been identified.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Zac Anderson takes a look at the Epstein documents released this week by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee.The Supreme Court Friday said President Donald Trump, for now, doesn't have to spend billions in foreign aid approved by Congress.USA TODAY Government Accountability Reporter Erin Mansfield breaks down the Department of Justice lawsuits involving six states over voter rolls.Golf's Ryder Cup rolls on after a rough start for Team USA.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Former FBI Director James Comey has been indicted.USA TODAY National Correspondent Rick Jervis has the latest from Dallas after this week's shooting at an ICE facility.Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth orders about 800 senior military leaders stationed around the world to come to a last-minute meeting in the U.S.USA TODAY Congressional Reporter Zach Schermele takes a look at the White House's threat of mass firings as the clock ticks on avoiding a government shutdown.A top Justice Department official reportedly directed several federal prosecutor offices to investigate George Soros' Open Society Foundations network.Amazon will refund millions of Prime customers in a $2.5 billion FTC settlement.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In 1980, the world of arcade games got a jolt that changed the gaming world forever. That's when a round yellow fellow with a large set of chompers known as Pac-Man first came on the scene. It's now been 45 years since the game was first imported to the US from Japan as PuckMan, a name that was quickly changed. It's interesting to note that, in the original game, the few players who completed all levels simply landed on a garbled “kill screen.” How is it that a game with no defined way to even “win” managed to take hold and never let go? Chris Morris, an independent journalist and editor who specializes in the video game and consumer electronics industries, joins USA TODAY's The Excerpt to discuss the outsized cultural impact of Pac-Man.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A shooter opened fire on a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Dallas on Wednesday, killing one detainee and critically wounding two others.Prosecutors are set to seek an indictment of former FBI Director James Comey.USA TODAY Investigative Reporter Nick Penzenstadler tells us about a new gun training program from an unlikely source.Middle class Americans aren't feeling the prosperity.USA TODAY Youth Mental Health Reporter Rachel Hale talks about her visit to a place where children who have lost parents to overdose deaths can go to heal.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Living, working, even vacationing off world is no longer a distant concept. We're approaching a time when humans aren't just visitors to outer space, but could become residents. With the International Space Station set to retire by the end of 2030. Private companies are racing to replace it, as space travel and space mining move from science fiction to becoming everyday realities. How do we balance access, ambition and accountability in the next space race? Namrata Goswami, professor of space security at Johns Hopkins University, joins The Excerpt to explore.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Jimmy Kimmel returned to late-night television Tuesday, where he addressed his show's suspension.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison takes a look at some of the MAGA backlash toward President Donald Trump over free speech concerns.A 59-year-old man has been found guilty of trying to assassinate Trump last year.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy recaps the president's address to the United Nations General Assembly.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
USA TODAY Government Accountability Reporter Erin Mansfield breaks down the president's announcement linking autism to Tylenol.Jimmy Kimmel is returning to late-night television.The White House denies border czar Tom Homan accepted $50,000 from undercover FBI agents.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison takes a look at the preliminary deal TikTok has reached to sell its U.S. operations to an American-based investor group.The MLB Playoffs are almost here, but plenty of races have yet to be decided.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Elected officials, faith leaders, Kirk's colleagues and his loved ones remembered the conservative activist at a service in Arizona Sunday.Top Democratic leaders in Congress demand a meeting with President Donald Trump as a government shutdown deadline nears.USA TODAY Senior National Political Correspondent Sarah D. Wire takes a look at how states are preparing as the Trump administration considers closing FEMA.The United Kingdom, Australia and Canada recognize a Palestinian state, putting the countries at odds with President Donald Trump.USA TODAY Personal Finance Reporter Daniel de Visé breaks down how much the American Dream really costs.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
US-born extremism is on the rise and spreading beyond our borders. The US-based Active Club network is now taking root across the globe. Active Clubs are one of the latest iterations of extremist groups, blending physical training such as mixed martial arts with fascism. What led to the creation of these clubs that use something as innocuous as fitness as a recruitment tool for teaching hate? Heidi Beirich, Chief Strategy Officer & Co-Founder of the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, joins USA TODAY's The Excerpt to discuss her research into the Active Club network.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
USA TODAY Congressional Reporter Zach Schermele has the latest from Capitol Hill where the possibility of a government shutdown looms.President Donald Trump has created new immigration fees, including a "gold card" for foreigners to pay $1 million to remain in the country permanently.The Advisory Committee of Immunization Practices gives new guidance on the MMRV vaccine for young children, while falling short of clear recommendations on eligibility for COVID-19 shots.USA TODAY National Correspondent Michael Collins talks about some concerns from the right amid efforts to shut down and seek retribution against those who have mocked Charlie Kirk's death or have been openly critical of his hardline political views.Charlie Kirk will be remembered Sunday in Arizona.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
President Donald Trump says negative coverage of him by television networks should be grounds for the Federal Communications Commission to revoke broadcast licenses.Tennessean First Amendment Reporter Angele Latham takes a closer look at the conversation about hate speech and free speech.Late-night hosts and comedians speak out after Jimmy Kimmel's sidelining.USA TODAY National Immigration Reporter Lauren Villagran breaks down new data about immigrants in solitary confinement.Clayton Kershaw has announced his retirement after the 2025 season.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
From “follow the science” during COVID to universities accused of activism, the gap between experts and the public is widening. Roger Pielke Jr. explains why expertise doesn't just mean a PhD, how media silos deepen divides, and why experts must serve all Americans—not just those who share their politics.* Please note, this interview was recorded on 8/19/25Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
USA TODAY Personal Finance Reporter Rachel Barber puts the Federal Reserve's latest rate cut in context.President Donald Trump will meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer Thursday, when they're expected to mark a $205 billion package of U.S. investment into Britain.USA TODAY Congressional Reporter Zachary Schermele breaks down dramatic testimony from ousted CDC Director Susan Monarez.Three law enforcement officers were killed and two were injured in a Pennsylvania shooting.Jimmy Kimmel's late-night talk show has been suspended indefinitely following the host's comments on the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Generative AI is now widely used to make artwork, music and even film – valuable cultural contributions that used to be exclusively the province of the creative class. Could AI-generated art start displacing human creators? And what about AI's cultural influence on society writ large? Is AI generated art in the beginning of an artistic revolution or the stuff of a dystopian nightmare? Ramesh Srinivasan, a professor of Information Studies at UCLA, director of the UC Center for Global Digital Culture, and host of the Utopias podcast, joins USA TODAY's The Excerpt to unpack the many ethical and societal issues at play here. Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
According to court documents, the 22-year-old had been planning the attack for a week.USA TODAY Government Accountability Reporter Erin Mansfield discusses how lawmakers grilled FBI Director Kash Patel over the investigation into Kirk's killing.The United States will soon announce a buyer for TikTok, according to President Donald Trump.USA TODAY Movie Critic Brian Truitt talks about the legacy of Robert Redford, who has died at 89.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz posted on X that "Gaza is burning."USA TODAY White House Reporter Zac Anderson has the latest after President Donald Trump said the U.S. military conducted a second strike on what he described as "violent drug trafficking cartels" from Venezuela.Trump officials vow a crackdown on left-leaning groups they contend are promoting political violence.USA TODAY Trending Reporter Greta Cross discusses the apparent framework deal reached between the U.S. and China over the future of TikTok.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox gave some of the latest details on the Utah shooter during his appearances on Sunday news shows.USA TODAY Money Reporter Bailey Schulz breaks down why American farmers are feeling squeezed.A steady ocean pattern has failed for the first time ever observed.USA TODAY World Affairs Correspondent Kim Hjelmgaard wonders what's up with the semicolon.It was one of the most unpredictable Emmy Awards in years. Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@USATODAY.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed while speaking before thousands at Utah Valley College. His death marks a new and unsettling chapter in America's history of political violence. From lawmakers targeted in their homes to assassination attempts on presidential candidates, the toll is rising — and the nation is on edge. USA TODAY National Reporter Will Carless joins The Excerpt from Utah to unpack what we know about the Kirk shooting, why attacks on political figures are escalating, and whether the country is entering a dangerous cycle of retaliation and unrest.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@USATODAY.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
USA TODAY White House reporter Francesca Chambers discusses what Charlie Kirk's death means in this moment for the White House. A U.S. Marine has been fired over a social media post mocking the assassination of Charlie Kirk. A fatal shooting in Chicago after ICE agents shot and killed a man during an attempted arrest. USA TODAY National News reporter Andrea Riquier breaks down how a potential Federal Reserve rate cut, and other pressure points are shaping the economic picture.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@USATODAY.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Authorities have released new video of the suspected shooter of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. In the aftermath of the shooting, USA TODAY Chief Political Correspondent Philip M. Bailey discusses how Democrats are addressing this fraught political moment. Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was convicted yesterday of plotting a coup. A federal judge in New York is allowing a lawsuit to move forward against Saudi Arabia over possible involvement in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Reporter Nancy Cutler of LOHUD.com, part of the USA TODAY network, shares why many of the victims of the 9/11 attacks and first responders continue to battle illnesses. Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@USATODAY.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Patagonia is worth billions. But founder Yvon Chouinard never wanted the title of billionaire. From his days as a dirtbag climber to his reluctant role as CEO, Chouinard built one of the world's most influential outdoor brands — then shocked the business world by giving it all away. Author David Gelles whose biography of Chouinard "Dirtbag Billionaire" is out now, joins The Excerpt to talk about Chouinard's unconventional life, his fight to align business with values, and what his legacy means for capitalism today.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@USATODAY.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at Utah Valley University yesterday. Poland's military said it shot down Russian drones. USA TODAY Deputy World Editor Dan Morrison discusses the fallout.A new federal lawsuit accuses FBI Director Kash Patel of illegally firing top bureau officials. USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page shares her perspective on how the world has changed in the 24 years following the 9-11 terrorist attack. Actress Polly Holliday, who played the iconic southern waitress Flo in the 1970s sitcom “Alice,” died yesterday at the age of 88. Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@USATODAY.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Accurately forecasting hurricanes has improved over the past few decades with the use of satellites, NOAA's airborne Hurricane Hunters and numerical weather prediction models. But with warming waters and the potential for an increase in major hurricanes, every bit of data helps. That's where sharks and their dorsal fins might come in. Researchers are studying sharks to see if they can gather and transmit useful data regarding ocean temperatures. Could sharks, long feared, be poised for an image makeover? Aaron Carlisle, a University of Delaware marine ecologist, who is leading the research initiative joins The Excerpt for a deep dive.Please let us know what you think of this episode by sending a note to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode transcript available here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
USA TODAY White House Correspondent Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy breaks down Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his MAHA Commission's release of their long-awaited second report on childhood health. Immigration arrests begin in Chicago as President Donald Trump's "Operation Midway Blitz" hits a fever pitch. Israel launched an unprecedented airstrike in Qatar on Tuesday. USA TODAY Deputy World Editor Dan Morrison joins us to discuss the escalation of Israel's war against Hamas. The Supreme Court will decide the fate of Donald Trump's global tariffs. The White House will host its first UFC fight next summer on the South Lawn. Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@USATODAY.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A slew of documents about Jeffrey Epstein with purported messages from President Trump and President Bill Clinton have been released.USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe breaks down the Supreme Court's decision to lift restrictions on LA immigration stops. The Department of Homeland Security says it's launching Operation Midway Blitz.President Donald Trump vow to protect prayer in schools.USA TODAY Wellness Reporter Rachel Hale tells why some parents are treating their kid's depression with a controversial remedy.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@USATODAY.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
USA Today Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe shares highlights from an exclusive interview with the Supreme Court justice.Hundreds of South Korean workers detained in Georgia are heading back to South Korea soon.USA TODAY Money Reporter Bailey Schulz breaks down data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showing American moms are leaving the workplace.A 15-year-old is the first millennial Catholic saint.A look at the big wins at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards. Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@USATODAY.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
For Robert F Kennedy Jr, it was never going to be a smooth road as Secretary of Health and Human Services given the controversy surrounding his well-documented vaccine hesitancy. But his stewardship of the agency is now at a crisis point as the nearly 80-year-old CDC, or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reels from a series of worrying red flags. Is this cornerstone agency created to safekeep American public health crumbling? USA TODAY White House Correspondent Swapna Venugopal joins The Excerpt to share highlights from the hearing and talk about what this might mean for Americans' health.Please let us know what you think of this episode by sending a note to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
USA TODAY Money Reporter Bailey Schulz breaks down the latest disappointing jobs report. President Donald Trump says Americans should take vaccines that are “not controversial.” USA TODAY National Security Reporter Cybele Mayes-Osterman tells us about the change in Army recruitment. President Donald Trump has changed the name of the Department of Defense. The Powerball jackpot hits its second-highest jackpot in history, at an estimated $1.8 billion. Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@USATODAY.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was grilled during an explosive hearing Thursday.USA TODAY National Correspondent Chris Kenning discusses what Medicaid cuts mean for parts of the Appalachian U.S.USA TODAY First Amendment Reporting Fellow BrieAnna Frank takes a look at how 'South Park' is satirizing President Donald Trump, and what the First Amendment has to say.Giorgio Armani has died at 91.The NFL is back!Please let us know what you think of this episode by sending a note to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Picture this, a powerful synthetic opioid that quietly morphs into one of the nation's most lethal drug crises. A drug that can be slipped undetected into heroin, counterfeit pills...the nation's bloodstream. You've seen and may have even been touched by the devastating impact of fentanyl. And now, a different class of ultrapotent synthetic opioids called nitazenes are following an eerily familiar path. Just how dangerous are these drugs and where are they coming from? Dr. Gregory McDonald, chair of the Department of Forensic Medicine and Pathology at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, joins USA TODAY's The Excerpt to unpack those questions and more.Please let us know what you think of this episode by sending a note to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
USA TODAY Domestic Security Correspondent Josh Meyer takes a look at Wednesday comments from Epstein victims, as they push for the release of more records.President Donald Trump responds to this week's military parade in China.USA TODAY National Immigration Reporter Lauren Villagran explains how the Trump administration plans to expand ICE detention into the notorious Angola prison.More than 1,000 HHS workers demand RFK Jr. resigns.A judge rules the Trump administration unlawfully cut Harvard's funding.Please let us know what you think of this episode by sending a note to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
America's young men are lost. At least, that's what they're telling us online. From feeling disconnected in school, relationships, and even purpose, to loneliness, our nation's boys are turning to the internet for answers and guidance. And that's where they find the “manosphere”: a world of influencers promoting strength, stoicism… and often, misogyny. “Extremely Normal," a new investigative series by USA TODAY's National Correspondent Will Carless examines how extremist and fringe ideas and movements have moved into America's mainstream. He joins us on USA TODAY's The Excerpt to dive into one part of “Extremely Normal”: The “manosphere.” What is it and how can it devolve from ideas about fitness and discipline into something darker? Will stepped into the manosphere space to see what teenage boys and young men in their 20s are consuming online – and to understand how it's shaping their world view.You can watch Will's full video on this topic here.Please let us know what you think of this episode by sending a note to podcasts@usatoday.com.Episode transcript available here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
An appeals court has rejected President Donald Trump's use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelans.Military strikes killed 11 on an alleged 'drug vessel' from Venezuela.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Bart Jansen breaks down a judge's move blocking President Trump's deployment of the National Guard in California. Plus, Illinois responds to Trump's troop plans.The House Oversight Committee released thousands of pages of documents from the government's investigation of Jeffrey Epstein.USA TODAY First Amendment Reporting Fellow BrieAnna Frank talks about her reporting trips to Smithsonian museums amid Trump criticisms that they're too woke.*This audio was corrected to reflect that the National Museum of African American History and Culture opened in 2016.Please let us know what you think of this episode by sending a note to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
USA TODAY's Zachary Schermele takes a look at some of the major looming issues as lawmakers return from an August recess.China's President Xi Jinping convened the leaders of Russia and North Korea Tuesday.Former CDC directors say Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s health actions should alarm every American.USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe discusses what the high court might consider in a case centered on whether vanity license plates are protected speech.Please let us know what you think of this episode by sending a note to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.