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In the two years since Russia invaded Ukraine, thousands of soldiers on both sides have been killed and multiple cities have been destroyed. Recently, Ukraine has been forced to retreat from the city of Avdiivka amid dwindling ammunition supplies. Meanwhile, Western unity has started to show cracks and billions of dollars in US aid have been held up amid hesitation from congressional Republicans. In this episode, we hear from soldiers on the frontlines about what it's like to fight with a lack of ammo and how two years of war have changed the country.  Guest: Ivana Kottasová, CNN International Senior Producer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the aftermath of special counsel Robert Hur's report stating that President Joe Biden would present to a jury as a “well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory,” age and mental competency are once again being talked about on the campaign trail. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley has continually attacked Biden and former President Donald Trump over their age, while also proposing politicians over age 75 take a mental competency test. In this episode, we examine how older voters in South Carolina feel about age as a campaign issue ahead of the state's Republican primary.  Guest: Kylie Atwood, CNN Correspondent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Despite blockbuster jobs numbers, robust consumer spending, and easing inflation, many Americans do not feel good about the US economy. The negative feelings are especially strong amongst young people struggling to pay their bills. Meanwhile, many are finding it hard – if not impossible – to imagine they will ever own a home. In this episode, we examine how Gen Z is turning to TikTok for financial advice and whether these negative feelings could impact President Joe Biden's reelection chances.  Guest: Vanessa Yurkevich, CNN Business and Politics Correspondent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In December, the Colorado Supreme Court shocked the political world when it removed former President Donald Trump from the state's 2024 ballot under the 14th Amendment's “insurrectionist clause.” The US Supreme Court is set to hear oral arguments in the case this week following a fast-tracked appeals process. In this episode, we examine the untested legal theory, Trump's defense, and how the justices' decision could reverberate well beyond this year's election.  Guest: Joan Biskupic, CNN Senior Supreme Court Analyst Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On February 3, 2023, a Norfolk Southern train carrying toxic chemicals derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, igniting a massive inferno which spewed poisonous chemicals in the air. In the days and weeks after, some residents who had evacuated wondered whether it would ever be safe enough to return to their homes. Nearly a year later, that sentiment remains along with anger pointed at the federal government and Norfolk Southern over what some see as an inadequate response. In this episode, we hear from affected residents and business owners about their uncertain futures.  Guest: Jason Carroll, CNN Correspondent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After former President Donald Trump's resounding win in Iowa, the Republican primary shifts to New Hampshire. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley are banking on undeclared voters to swing their way as Trump sharpens his attacks against the only two candidates left in the race. In this episode, we hear how those independents could change the dynamic of the race and why President Joe Biden's campaign is quietly concerned about the Democratic primary in the state.  Guest: Kasie Hunt, CNN Chief National Affairs Analyst  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Iowa Republicans will gather this week to pick a nominee for president in the first party event of the 2024 primary. While former president Donald Trump holds a large lead in the polls, undecided voters have been weighing whether his multiple criminal indictments and efforts to overturn the last election mean it's time to move on. In this episode, we hear from a group of Iowans about how they feel about the rest of the field and examine what to watch for on caucus night.  Guest: John King, CNN Chief National Correspondent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Border crossings along the US-Mexico border reached a record high last month, overwhelming resources in border communities and adding urgency to immigration reform negotiations on Capitol Hill. While migrant encounters have dropped in recent days, the issue will remain a lively political issue as presidential primaries get underway and House Republicans begin impeachment proceedings against Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas. In this episode, we examine the reality on the ground and hear how the impacts of policies in Texas are being felt in communities across the country.   Guest: Ed Lavandera, CNN Senior National Correspondent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we enter 2024, all eyes will be on the Iowa caucuses later this month to see if Republican voters have any appetite for moving on from former President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, the Republican frontrunner continues to make statements on the campaign trail that experts say sound increasingly authoritarian. What should we make of the stark rhetoric? In this episode, we hear a conversation between CNN's Audie Cornish and Kristen Holmes about what exactly Trump has planned for a possible second term.  Listen to “The Assignment with Audie Cornish” here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We do our best on this show to stay on top of the news – but even we couldn't cover everything in 2023. In this episode, we hear from a group of CNN correspondents and reporters about what we missed - and what we should be looking out for in 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky came to Washington DC earlier this week to plead with Congress to come together on $61 billion in new aid for the country in its war against Russia. His visit comes amid a failed Ukrainian counteroffensive and improved Russian performance on the battlefield. In this episode, we hear how Ukrainian forces are adapting to waning Western support and why this is a moment Russian President Vladimir Putin may be able to seize on in Moscow.  Guest: Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Chief International Security Correspondent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A high-profile criminal trial is underway in Atlanta that could have major implications for the music industry. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has alleged Grammy-winning rapper Young Thug is the cofounder of a criminal street gang responsible for violent acts and is pointing to his song lyrics as proof of the gang's existence. In this episode, we examine the case and the controversy around the RICO statue used to charge it – the same law used to indict former President Donald Trump and 18 co-defendants in connection with their alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Guest: Ryan Young, CNN Correspondent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the last few years, Anderson Cooper has been going through boxes of things that belonged to belonged to his dad, who died when he was 10, his brother, who died when he was 21, and his mom, who died in 2019. He documented that journey in the first season of his podcast, “All There Is.” Now the podcast is back for a new season. In this episode, we hear from Anderson about what drove him to keep exploring grief and loss and how he brought what he learned with him to cover the Israel-Hamas war.  Guest: Anderson Cooper, CNN Anchor  Listen to “All There Is” here.  If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health matters, please call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 to connect with a trained counselor, or visit the 988 Lifeline website.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the COP28 climate conference kicks off this week, world leaders will gather to discuss potential solutions to the crisis. Experts are increasingly looking at how artificial intelligence can help address certain aspects, despite a lack of regulation around the emerging technology. In this episode, we examine how AI could be used and look at whether the infrastructure needed to run the programs may actually end up harming the environment.  Guests: Rachel Ramirez, CNN Climate Reporter  Clare Duffy, CNN Technology Reporter  Read more at CNN's Road to COP28 here.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After Title 42 expired in May, some expected an influx of migrants to descend on communities along the US-Mexico border. While overall encounters dropped in October, some people say they are experiencing a growing number of migrants arriving on their properties. In this episode, we hear from some in the San Diego area about what they're experiencing and explore why most migrants actually want to be encountered by border authorities. Guest: David Culver, CNN Senior National Correspondent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Earlier this year, record-setting wildfires in eastern Canada sent plumes of unhealthy air over US cities normally unaccustomed to wildfire smoke. Experts say climate change is making fires like these more likely and more intense. In today's episode, we hear how a previous blaze in Canada changed how firefighters do battle with the flames and what it can tell us about how the building industry needs to adapt.  Guest: John Vaillant, author of “Fire Weather: A True Story from a Hotter World”  Read more at CNN's Road to COP28 here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Israel moves troops into Gaza and continues to launch airstrikes as retaliation for the deadly Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack, thousands of civilians remain in the crosshairs. What does that mean for US support of Israel? In today's episode, we explore how President Joe Biden is weighing humanitarian concerns with fears of a wider war in the region.  Guest: Phil Mattingly, CNN Anchor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Four former allies of former President Donald Trump have pleaded guilty in the Georgia election subversion case in recent days, with all agreeing to testify on behalf of the prosecution at future trials. Meanwhile, a New York judge overseeing Trump's civil fraud trial fined the former president $10,000 on Wednesday for violating a gag order. In today's episode, we look at how the growing legal pressure could impact the former president as he balances the courtroom with the campaign trail.  Guest: Paula Reid, CNN Chief Legal Affairs Correspondent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new state law in Florida is making it easier for conservative groups to get certain books removed from school libraries. It has turned school board meetings into spectacles, with parents and outside voices reading out explicit passages from books without context to argue that they should not be available to minors. In today's episode, we explore the tactics and hear from students about how they feel about the effort by adults to control which books they have access to.  Guest: Elle Reeve, CNN CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

The Hamas assault on Israel has shocked the world and sparked fierce retaliation from Israel. Thousands of people have been killed in both Israel and Gaza, while Hamas claims to be holding over 100 people hostage. In today's episode, we hear from our teams on the ground in Israel and people living through the conflict.  Guests: Nic Robertson, CNN International Diplomatic Editor  Becky Anderson, CNN International Anchor  Clarissa Ward, CNN Chief International Correspondent  Listen to Tug of War here.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

In 2020, firearms surpassed motor vehicle accidents to become the No. 1 killer of children and teens in America. More than 1,300 children and teens have been killed by a gun so far this year, prompting calls for stricter regulations. However, behind those statistics and policy debates are devastating stories of loss and families left behind to pick up the pieces. In today's episode, we hear one of those stories and look at how the parents of Anthony Alexander, Jr. are hoping their son's legacy will bring about positive change in their community. Guest: Alisha Ebrahimji, CNN Digital Writer  Read more from CNN Digital here.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

Hunter Biden is due in court this week on federal gun charges after becoming the first child of a sitting president to be charged by the Justice Department. Separately, House Republicans held their first public hearing last week in the impeachment inquiry into his father - President Joe Biden – despite failing to show any evidence that the president himself received foreign money. There can be a lot to keep track of, so: what are the facts, and what is just political posturing? In today's episode, we examine the long legal saga of Hunter Biden and how it could impact the 2024 presidential race.  Guest: Kara Scannell, CNN CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

After the apparent death of Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin last month, there were questions about the future of the mercenary group and what Russian president Vladimir Putin would do to take back control. In today's episode, CNN travels to the Central African Republic to see what that future looks like on the ground. We examine why Wagner remains popular there despite Prigozhin's death and look at why Russia continues to expand its reach into Africa. Plus, we get an update on the war in Ukraine as President Volodymyr Zelensky pleads with Western countries for more aid. Guest: Clarissa Ward, CNN Chief International CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

Last week, the FDA and CDC signed off on updated Covid-19 vaccines that target currently circulating variants. It comes amid a recent uptick in hospitalizations and deaths in the United States ahead of winter that could see threats from three respiratory viruses – coronavirus, flu and respiratory syncytial virus. In today's episode, we answer some frequently asked questions about the updated Covid-19 vaccines and look at how we should approach the virus nearly more than three years after its emergence. Guest: Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN Chief Medical Correspondent  Listen to Chasing Life here.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

After a series of incidents in San Francisco, California authorities have asked General Motors to take some of its Cruise robotaxis off the road. It comes not long after California regulators gave the greenlight for Cruise and its competitor Waymo to charge for robotaxi rides in the city at any time of day. So what does that mean for the future of driverless cars? In today's episode, we examine what it's like to ride in one and why the technology has become a flashpoint in multiple cities.  Guest: Veronica Miracle, CNN CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

As a new NFL season kicks off this week, old questions about the game's safety are being asked following Damar Hamlin's on-field cardiac arrest and Tua Tagovailoa's multiple concussions last year. And it's not just the pros: youth leagues around the countries have adjusted practice routines and safety protocols to guard against injuries that can carry long-term impacts. In today's episode, we examine football's deadly history and how it's informing today's game. Plus, CNN gets a look at new technology that could one day predict injuries before they happen.  Guest: Coy Wire, CNN Sports Anchor & CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

Eight Republican presidential candidates took the stage in Milwaukee last week for the first primary debate of the 2024 campaign. Notably missing, however, was frontrunner Donald Trump, who surrendered to Fulton County authorities a day later in the Georgia 2020 election subversion case. In today's episode, we head to Milwaukee to recap the moments that mattered and to get a sense of how the debate could shape the race going forward.  Guests: Dana Bash, CNN Anchor & Chief Political Correspondent  Jeff Zeleny, CNN Chief National Affairs Correspondent  Kit Maher, CNN Campaign Embed To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

It's been over a week since blazing wildfires ripped through the island of Maui, killing over 100 people and causing billions of dollars of damage. While the outpouring of support has been significant, some locals have voiced anger over the official response, lingering tourist presence, and real estate speculators trying to buy up land. In today's episode, we hear stories of survival and look at how disasters like this one are forcing communities to ask tough questions about how prepared they are for stronger and faster wildfires.  Guest: Bill Weir, CNN Chief Climate Correspondent  For more on how you can help the Hawaii wildfire victims, go here.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

Thousands of Hollywood actors and writers have been on strike for weeks demanding raises, regulation of artificial intelligence, and residuals from content created for streaming services. Meanwhile, thousands of hotel workers and public sector employees in Los Angeles have also staged work stoppages as they push for better wages. However, this uptick in labor unrest goes well beyond California. In today's episode, we look at what's driving a surge in union membership across the country and look at how presidential politics could play a role in a potential autoworkers strike. Guest: Vanessa Yurkevich, CNN Business and Politics CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

Donald Trump was indicted Tuesday on criminal charges by a federal grand jury in special counsel Jack Smith's investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 election, the latest in a series of unprecedented criminal indictments against the former President. In today's episode, we examine the historic charges and how it appears prosecutors plan to make their case. Plus, a look at how the Republican frontrunner is expected to navigate a packed courtroom calendar while on the campaign trail.  Guest: Elie Honig, CNN Senior Legal AnalystTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

A new group of drugs for type 2 diabetes and obesity have shown to be more effective for weight loss than any previous medications. Some medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have surged in popularity thanks in part to celebrity use. But who should be taking them? And are they safe? In today's episode, we break down the future of the weight loss industry and examine why some of these medications could also help curb addictive behaviors.  Guest: Meg Tirrell, CNN Medical Correspondent To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

Throughout the month of July, scorching temperatures have broken records on several continents — the latest in a trend caused by the climate crisis. Meanwhile, in the US, extreme rainfall has led to devastating floods and toxic wildfire smoke has drifted down from Canada, prompting unhealthy air alerts in multiple cities. In today's episode, we break down why this moment is uniquely dangerous and look at how the climate crisis is already forcing people's hands about where to live.  Guest: Bill Weir, CNN Chief Climate CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

The 2023 Women's World Cup gets underway this week in Australia and New Zealand, featuring the largest field in tournament history. It comes a year after US Soccer and the United States Women's National Team struck a deal over equal pay. However, advocates say many disparities remain between the men's and women's games on the global stage. In today's episode, we examine what strides towards equality are being made and get a preview of this year's top teams and players.  Guest: Amanda Davies, CNN Sports AnchorTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

At least 12 candidates have announced a run for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, setting up a crowded field ahead of the first primary debate next month. Former President Donald Trump still holds a strong lead in polling despite multiple criminal indictments, so will any candidate be able to unseat him? We look at exactly who is running and examine the different visions of the Republican party they are pitching to voters.  Guest: Jake Tapper, CNN Anchor and Chief Washington CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

More than a week after the aborted Wagner rebellion, it's unclear what comes next for Russia and President Vladimir Putin. The eventual fate of Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin is also murky after striking a deal with Belarus to end the insurrection. In today's episode, we head to Moscow to get a view from the ground and examine what the greatest challenge to Putin's leadership in decades says about his military's performance in Ukraine.  Guest: Matthew Chance, CNN Senior International CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

A record number of anti-LGBTQ bills have been proposed across the country this year, including a new push to ban access to gender-affirming health care for transgender youth. Beyond the debates and protests, some families are grappling over how to relate to the trans people in their lives. In today's episode, we hear about a Black minister's ongoing journey to accept his transgender daughter.  Guest: Adrienne Broaddus, CNN Correspondent  If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health matters, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 in the US.   The International Association for Suicide Prevention and Befrienders Worldwide have contact information for crisis centers around the world. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

Last month, some of the top voices in artificial intelligence put out a warning about the technology, saying “mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority.” How seriously should we take a warning like that? In today's episode, we examine what's behind calls for stricter regulation and explore some of the ways AI is already being used in politics and health care. Guest: Donie O'Sullivan, CNN CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

Former President Donald Trump has been indicted on 37 counts in the special counsel's classified documents probe, the first time in American history a former president has faced federal charges. It sets up an unprecedented legal clash between President Joe Biden's Justice Department and his potential 2024 general election opponent. In today's episode, we break down what we know about the charges against Trump and his aide Walt Nauta. Guest: Paula Reid, CNN Senior Legal Affairs CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

After weeks of intense negotiations, the Senate passed a bill late Thursday evening that will avert a first-ever US default just days ahead of the deadline. In today's episode, we examine why neither party is particularly thrilled about the deal and why a similar standoff in 2011 could foreshadow struggles for Republicans as they try to implement spending cuts.  Guest: Tami Luhby, CNN Senior WriterTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

In 2021, a blog post forced the US Coast Guard to confront a problem that had gone unchecked for years. A 19-year-old woman said she was raped while training to work on commercial ships. Then more sexual assault survivors in the industry came forward. In today's episode, we hear why these women went public and what's being done about it. Read more here.  Guest: Blake Ellis & Melanie Hicken, CNN Investigates Senior WritersTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

This week marks one year since 19 students and two teachers were killed in a shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. In that time, victims' families say they have not received sufficient answers from authorities as to why they waited 77 minutes before breaching the classroom. In today's episode, we hear why CNN agreed to show some parents unreleased body camera footage and examine how surviving students are coping. Guest: Shimon Prokupecz, CNN Senior Crime & Justice CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy

Many Western cities are grappling with large encampments on the streets as homeless populations grow. In Phoenix, a judge recently ordered one such encampment to be cleared after local residents sued the city for violating public nuisance laws. In today's episode, we hear from people living in that camp about what comes next and why advocates fear similar legal strategies could soon be used in other cities. Guest: Gabe Cohen, CNN CorrespondentTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy