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A straightforward look at the day's top news in 20 minutes. Powered by ABC News. Hosted by Brad Mielke.

ABC News


    • Apr 22, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 27m AVG DURATION
    • 1,634 EPISODES

    4.6 from 5,547 ratings Listeners of Start Here that love the show mention: thanks brad, abc news, perfect amount of news, love brad, listen to start, news to start, brad asks, brad always, mielke, brad does a great, start my day without, heh heh, listen to brad, day s news, news i need, go to news source, best daily news podcast, brad is the best, love start, day with this podcast.


    Ivy Insights

    The Start Here podcast is an essential listen for anyone looking to stay informed on the latest news and current events. Hosted by Brad Mielke, this podcast offers a comprehensive overview of the top stories of the day, providing listeners with a well-rounded understanding of what's happening in the world. With its informative and engaging format, Start Here succeeds in delivering serious reporting alongside more lighthearted and quirky stories, making it a unique and enjoyable listening experience.

    One of the best aspects of Start Here is its ability to strike a balance between serious news coverage and more light-hearted content. Brad Mielke has a talent for weaving together important headlines with interesting and offbeat stories, ensuring that listeners are not only well-informed but also entertained. This combination allows for a more engaging listening experience that keeps audiences coming back for more.

    Additionally, Start Here excels in providing unbiased reporting on major news topics. In an era where media outlets often cater to specific political ideologies, it's refreshing to find a podcast that prioritizes journalistic integrity over political fidelity. The ABC News team behind Start Here consistently delivers objective viewpoints on current issues, giving listeners the opportunity to form their own opinions based on accurate information.

    While there are many positive aspects to Start Here, it's important to note that some may find the show's humor and lightheartedness inappropriate for serious news coverage. While Brad Mielke's sly humor adds personality and charm to the podcast, some listeners may prefer a more traditional approach to news reporting without jokes or comedic interludes.

    In conclusion, The Start Here podcast is a must-listen for anyone seeking a balanced and informative overview of the day's top headlines. With its unique combination of serious reporting and entertaining storytelling, this podcast keeps listeners engaged while keeping them up-to-date on current events. Whether you're looking for comprehensive news coverage or simply want to start your day off with a fun and informative podcast, Start Here is a fantastic choice.



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    Latest episodes from Start Here

    Trump Extends Ceasefire…Indefinitely?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2026 26:36


    With a deadline approaching, President Trump extends a ceasefire with Iran. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) resigns under pressure. And the Justice Department files charges against the Southern Poverty Law Center.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Virginia is for Voters: Will Redistricting Measure Pass?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2026 25:57


    Control of Congress could hang in the balance as Virginia Democrats press voters to approve a new state electoral map. Embattled Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer resigns from President Trump's cabinet. And singer-songwriter D4vd is charged with first-degree murder.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Ships Back Under Fire in the Strait of Hormuz

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 25:42


    Hopes fade for renewed peace talks as the U.S. and Iran open fire at ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The Trump administration opens its refund portal for businesses that paid now-disallowed tariffs. And police face nearly a thousand animal rights activists at a beagle breeding and research facility in Wisconsin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Begins

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026 27:35


    A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon begins to take effect. American farmers share how they're handling the economic impacts of the Iran war. And two Supreme Court justices' comments on the direction of the high court are raising eyebrows. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The DOJ is Still Knocking on the Fed's Door

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 27:28


    Despite a judge blocking subpoenas, federal prosecutors show up at the Federal Reserve, as President Trump once again threatens to fire chair Jerome Powell. Iranian ships begin testing the U.S. blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. And in a case that could reshape the entertainment industry, a jury rules that concert behemoth Live Nation has acted like a monopoly.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Peace of the Puzzle: Israel & Lebanon Are Talking

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2026 26:45


    As the U.S. tries to get Iran back to the table for peace talks, diplomats from Israel and Lebanon meet in Washington. Brian Hooker is released from a Bahamian jail without charges, telling ABC News he'll keep searching for his wife Lynette. And a suspect heads to court after being accused of attacking the home of OpenAI executive Sam Altman.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Resign-o-Rama: Swalwell & Gonzales Call It Quits

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 28:29


    Facing potential expulsion from Congress, Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) and Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) each announce they'll step down over sexual misconduct allegations. A naval blockade takes effect in the Strait of Hormuz. And Catholics react to President Trump's rants about Pope Leo XIV.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    How US And Iranian Negotiations Fell Apart

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 26:17


    As negotiations with Iran fall apart, Trump says the U.S. Navy will begin a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Viktor Orbán loses his reelection bid for prime minister in Hungary. And Representative Eric Swalwell suspends his California governor campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Why the Ceasefire Could Hinge on Israel

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2026 27:26


    Israel agrees to negotiate with Lebanon, but refuses to stop its attacks on Hezbollah with a ceasefire hanging in the balance. Brian Hooker is arrested in Bahamas in connection with the disappearance of his wife. And the Artemis II crew prepares to splash down on Earth.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Ceasefire Confusion

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2026 26:53


    As bombs rain down on Lebanon, Iran and the US accuse each other of misinterpreting the terms of their ceasefire. President Trump seems open to a “tolling” system in the Strait of Hormuz. And Rex Heuermann changes his plea in the Gilgo Beach serial murder case.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    US & Iran Reach Ceasefire...For Now

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2026 26:31


    Officials from the U.S. and Iran declare they've reached an agreement for a two-week ceasefire, but it's unclear exactly what each side is conceding. Vice President JD Vance stumps for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban ahead of a crucial election. And doctors hope newly FDA-approved devices will mitigate the need for amputations due to Type 2 diabetes.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Tonight, or Else: Trump's New Deadline for Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2026 26:55


    President Trump threatens to demolish critical infrastructure if Iran does not agree to his terms by this evening. The Artemis II crew emerges from the far side of the moon. And a decision that could dismiss Steve Bannon's onetime conviction raises broader questions about presidential immunity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Inside the US Rescue Missions in Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 25:50


    Two airmen have now been rescued after a U.S. fighter jet was shot down over Iran on Friday. An executive order challenges mail-in voting, but several new lawsuits argue the order is unconstitutional. And today is a big day for the crew of the Artemis II mission, as they travel farther than any human has before.  Photo Credit: U.S. Air Force Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Why Trump Fired Pam Bondi

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2026 28:19


    President Trump removes Pam Bondi as attorney general. Congressional Republicans say they have a plan in place to fund the Department of Homeland Security. And oil prices surge after Trump's address on Iran. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump: Mission Almost Accomplished

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2026 27:29


    In a primetime address, President Trump promises to “finish the job,” without clarifying what that entails. The Supreme Court debates the Trump administration's case against birthright citizenship – with the president in the room. And as Artemis II takes off, SpaceX prepares for a stratospheric public stock offering. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    SCOTUS Rules Against Conversion Therapy Ban

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2026 26:44


    The Supreme Court overturns a ruling upholding bans on “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ youth. A federal judge orders a halt to construction on the White House ballroom. And with Trump poised to make an announcement on the Iran war, Israel announces a plan to demolish homes in Lebanon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Who is Trump Negotiating With?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2026 28:11


    As President Trump threatens more strikes on Iran, analysts raise concerns about the closure of another key shipping route. Despite a blockade, a Russian tanker is allowed to deliver oil to Cuba. And deposition video sheds light on the early days of DOGE cutbacks.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Will US Launch Ground Operation in Iran?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 26:40


    As more troops arrive in the Middle East, American officials refuse to rule out the potential for a ground operation in Iran. An executive order promises to pay TSA officers, but Congress can't agree on funding the rest of the Department of Homeland Security. And a record number of Republican members of Congress are retiring before the midterms, complicating GOP efforts to retain control. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Senate to TSA: We Have a Deal

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026 28:55


    President Trump and the Senate seem to have landed on a last-ditch measure to fund much of the Department of Homeland Security. Federal authorities charge a pair of siblings for allegedly planting a bomb at a US air base. And doctors sound the alarm of the growing number of children participating in online gambling.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    A Historic Verdict Against Big Tech

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2026 28:43


    In a landmark verdict, a jury finds tech firms Meta and YouTube responsible for harm to an underage user. The White House defends its 15-point Iran plan. And, a TSA officer says he's down to his last $100 as a partial government shutdown continues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    End of the Line for DHS Shutdown?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2026 28:51


    Members of Congress float - and then quickly toss - a plan to end a government shutdown stalemate. An emboldened Russia launches its largest aerial attack yet against Ukraine. And artificial intelligence firm Anthropic takes the Pentagon to court over a “supply chain risk” designation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    LaGuardia Air Traffic Controller: “I Messed Up.”

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2026 28:57


    Two pilots are dead after an Air Canada flight crashed into a fire engine at New York's LaGuardia airport. President Trump backs off a self-imposed threat to bomb Iran's power plants, citing ongoing negotiations. And the U.S. Supreme Court appears poised to overturn mail-voting guidelines in more than 30 states. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Have an ICE Flight: Trump's Plan for Airport Lines

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 26:30


    As TSA agents wait for paychecks, federal officials scramble to send ICE agents to assist at airports. President Trump threatens to strike Iranian energy infrastructure. And analysts react to the president's acknowledgement that the White House is “considering” drawing down forces in the Middle East. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Dolores Huerta Speaks Out

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2026 27:41


    In a network exclusive, Dolores Huerta tells ABC that she was raped by labor icon Cesar Chavez. As oil prices skyrocket, the Pentagon says it could need $200 billion amid the war in Iran. And Meta appears to be giving up on its plans for the “metaverse.”  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Iran & Israel's Scorched-Earth Energy Strikes

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 28:34


    An Israeli strike on an Iranian gas field sends oil prices skyrocketing, sparking an outcry from Middle East neighbors. Sen. Markwayne Mullin faces a surprise grilling in his confirmation hearing for Homeland Security Secretary. And labor rights icon Cesar Chavez is suddenly under scrutiny after posthumous accusations of sexual misconduct.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Iran War Within MAGA

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2026 28:45


    A top Trump adviser resigns over the Iran conflict, underlining a deep divide among MAGA loyalists. Cuba is blanketed by an electrical blackout. And a new report suggests more Americans than ever are being buried by credit card debt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Israel: Limited Ground Operations Begin in Lebanon

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 28:29


    With nearly a million Lebanese residents displaced from their homes, some Israeli troops begin pushing into southern Lebanon. President Trump pushes Congress to vote on legislation that would dramatically reform voter ID laws. And federal prosecutors ask a judge to allow them to subpoena Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Strait Talk: Trump's Ask to Allies

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 26:42


    President Trump calls on other countries to help re-open the Strait of Hormuz. The Pentagon identifies the six servicemembers who died in a refueling plane crash. And airline executives beg Congress to end its shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Introducing "Bridge of Lies"

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2026 28:58


    Today, we're sharing something a little different. This is the first episode of the latest true crime podcast from 20/20 and ABC Audio, "Bridge of Lies," hosted by Juju Chang. In episode one of "Bridge of Lies," a call about an abandoned car on a bridge in New Jersey touches off a search for a missing person. The driver of the car is 19-year-old Sarah Stern, an aspiring artist. Authorities try to piece together what happened in the hours before she disappeared. To hear the rest of the series, follow "Bridge of Lies" on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Spotify⁠, ⁠Amazon Music⁠, or wherever you listen to podcasts. WARNING: This program includes discussions of suicide. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide -- free, confidential help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call or text the national lifeline at 988. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Synagogue Attack in Michigan

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2026 22:50


    A truck ramming at a Detroit-area synagogue is being investigated as a targeted attack. The White House initiates a new plan to lower oil prices. And the Oscar race is far from certain ahead of Sunday's Academy Awards.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Iran's ‘Burn the Oil' Strategy

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 25:36


    Iran attacks a series of oil tankers around the Persian Gulf, as several countries decide to draw on their strategic oil reserves. California police departments are warned of potential Iranian drone attacks. And lawmakers demand answers on a strike that hit an Iranian elementary school.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Voices from Iran: ‘This Was OUR Fight.'

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 28:39


    After mixed messages from President Trump, the U.S. military steps up its attacks in Iran. Meanwhile, Iranians express conflicted opinions about their views on war. And New Mexico agents search Jeffrey Epstein's ranch for the first time, years after his death. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Crude Awakening: Could Oil Force Trump's Hand?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 28:30


    President Trump tries to stop panic in oil markets, but refuses to shift course on war in Iran. Russia seizes on energy shortages as an opportunity to sidestep sanctions. And law enforcement officials warn about awakening Iranian “sleeper agents.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Iran's New Supreme Leader

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 25:07


    Iran's clerics choose a new ayatollah. American officials face questions over a strike at a girls' school. And New York police say a pair of men threw improvised explosive devices during a clash with anti-Islam protesters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Kristi Noem Ousted from DHS

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026 28:52


    After an escalating series of controversies, President Trump dismisses DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. Israel tries to destroy Hezbollah with a series of strikes on Beirut. And oil prices skyrocket, spooking the stock market and economists alike. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Torpedo Away: Historic US Strike on Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 28:44


    For the first time since World War Two, a U.S. submarine destroys a foreign warship. Kurdish fighting forces say they're ready for a ground invasion of Iran. And the Texas Senate primary set a record for Democratic turnout, underlining the stakes of midterm elections.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Gov't to Americans in Mideast: Get Out

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 28:37


    With Iran hitting embassies and residential areas around the Middle East, Americans scramble to escape the region. The Pentagon names the first U.S. troops killed in the Iran conflict. And senators grill Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Fog of Words: Trump's Shifting War Rationale

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2026 28:24


    President Trump says he foresees an Iran war extending four weeks or more, while the White House offers conflicting justifications for military action. The Pentagon readies for inevitable American casualties. And midterm primaries begin in Texas, Arkansas and North Carolina. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Ayatollah is Dead. What Now?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2026 27:22


    In a special edition of Start Here, we'll break down this weekend's historic strikes on Iran, the counterattacks, and the long-term goals of the Trump Administration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Breaking: US & Israel Attack Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2026 10:04


    President Trump announces that U.S. and Israeli forces have begun a “major combat operation” in Iran, signaling a far more aggressive campaign than prior strikes. ABC's Chief Foreign Correspondent Ian Pannell reports on the attacks - and counterattacks - from Tel Aviv.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Swear to Claude: The Pentagon's AI Ultimatum

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 26:43


    Artificial intelligence company Anthropic appears poised to ignore a deadline from the Pentagon to fully integrate its systems with the military. Hillary Clinton sharply criticizes the House Oversight Committee's handling of a closed-door deposition. And American officials confirm some of the men shot off the Cuban coastline were from the U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Are Iran Missile Strikes Inevitable?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2026 26:58


    With missile threats growing, Iran and U.S. negotiators meet in Geneva. A shoot-out at sea raises questions about vessels near Cuba. And documents suggest that Jeffrey Epstein managed to hide evidence from investigators for more than a decade. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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