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

An initial report from the Department of Homeland Security claims that two different agents fired their weapons in the shooting that killed Alex Pretti. Death estimates in Iran skyrocket, with American military assets now lingering nearby. And while TikTok has settled ahead of a massive tech trial, many users do not seem happy with a recent American takeover. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the face of bipartisan backlash, President Trump recalls Border Patrol commander-at-large Greg Bovino from Minneapolis. Minnesota officials mount a court challenge to the Trump administration's presence on the streets. And dozens of states are recovering from an icy winter storm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Another demonstrator has been killed by federal agents in Minneapolis - and several videos seem to contradict the Trump administration's initial claims. Revelations about Alex Pretti's concealed carry permit spark a debate over Second Amendment rights at protests. And congressional Democrats threaten a potential government shutdown over ICE funding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Special Prosecutor Jack Smith defends his investigation into President Trump to Congress. “Sinners” sets a new record for Oscar nominations. And a code-breaker claims he's solved the Zodiac case – and that it's connected to another famous murder. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Speaking to leaders in Switzerland, President Trump gives up on a military takeover of Greenland. Jurors acquit a Uvalde, Texas police officer on all charges of child endangerment. And the Supreme Court seems likely to rule against President Trump's attempt to oust Federal Reserve board member Lisa Cook. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump is set to speak at the World Economic Forum after threatening European allies who have defended Greenland. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey are subpoenaed by the DOJ. And closing arguments begin in the trial of a former Uvalde school officer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump sends a late-night text to the Norwegian prime minister, suggesting his Nobel Peace Prize snub justifies military action in Greenland. One year after a measles outbreak in Texas, the U.S. could lose its “elimination status” from the World Health Organization. And China reveals data showing its birth rate plummeted last year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Pentagon has ordered 1,500 active duty troops to be ready to potentially deploy to Minneapolis, sources tell ABC News. President Trump threatens tariffs against European countries who oppose his plans for Greenland. And Prince Harry heads to the U.K. to testify in his lawsuit against the publishers of the Daily Mail. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump threatens to send in federal troops through the Insurrection Act amid heated clashes between protesters and ICE. Venezuela's opposition leader offers up her Nobel Peace Prize in an Oval Office meeting. And more than a dozen college basketball players are charged in an alleged point-shaving scheme to fix games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After evacuating a military base over concerns of violence, President Trump backs down on military threats to Iran. Diplomats from Denmark and Greenland describe disagreements with the White House. And the FBI raids a reporter's home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A human rights group estimates more than 2,000 Iranians have been killed since protests began sweeping the nation. Federal prosecutors resign rather than investigate the victim of a shooting that sparked escalating protests. And Hollywood star Timothy Busfield is booked on child sex abuse charges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Several GOP lawmakers express skepticism about a federal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Thousands of nurses go on strike in New York City. And the futures of transgender athletes hang in the balance in today's Supreme Court hearing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a stunning escalation, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell says he's facing a criminal investigation by a vindictive Trump administration. Anti-ICE protests sweep across hundreds of American cities. And President Trump openly considers military action against Iran amid violent crackdowns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As protests grow across Minnesota and the country, Oregon officials confirm another shooting during an immigration enforcement operation. Several Republican senators send a rebuke to the Trump Administration over Venezuela. And anti-regime protests spread across Iran. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Outcry mounts over a fatal ICE shooting in Minnesota. The U.S. seizes a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic. And the White House doubles down on plans to acquire Greenland. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the wake of a Venezuela raid, Trump Administration officials openly discuss expanding their focus to countries like Colombia and Greenland. The case against a Uvalde police officer goes to trial. And one year after the Los Angeles fires, communities are watching lots sold off to corporate bidders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nicolas Maduro and his wife face charges in American court. Financial markets react to President Trump's designs on Venezuela's oil supply. And Minnesota Governor Tim Walz drops his re-election bid amid accusations of fraud in his state's daycare programs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Nicolas Maduro in an American jail cell, Trump Administration officials oscillate on what it would mean to “run” Venezuela. Anti-Maduro activists consider whether to support the American operation. And we'll get you caught up on the stories you missed over the holidays. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a special edition, ABC's Pentagon reporter Luis Martinez and Latin America reporter Matt Rivers break down the U.S. military's strikes on Caracas and the capture of leader Nicolas Maduro. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this annual fan-favorite special, the Start Here team revisits their favorite “One Last Thing” stories of 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special episode, ABC's Elizabeth Schulze breaks down what to expect from upcoming ‘Trump Accounts' and other new changes this tax season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special episode, ABC Senior White House Correspondent Selina Wang breaks down how an ICE raid on a battery plant in Georgia renewed a debate over foreign worker visas in the U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The DOJ releases a new tranche of Jeffrey Epstein files. A new report shows the economy has been growing faster than anticipated. And Californians prep for severe flooding on Christmas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amid Venezuela patrols, President Trump reimagines his naval fleet. A Russian general is assassinated in a Moscow car bomb attack. And congressional retirements hit a generational high as Republicans debate a post-Trump future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Justice Department releases a limited portion of files pertaining to investigations into Jeffrey Epstein, while some lawmakers argue that the DOJ failed to meet its deadline. The U.S. seizes another ship near Venezuela. And a San Francisco power outage reveals a shortcoming in Waymo's self-driving taxis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The hunt for a mass shooting suspect ends with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, but not before police connect him to a killing at MIT. Today is the deadline for the DOJ to turn over its files on Jeffrey Epstein. And President Trump downgrades the criminal classification of marijuana. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feeling the heat over economic worries, several moderate Republicans buck the White House to force a vote on Obamacare subsidies. Military analysts question how the president will enforce his “blockade” of sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers. And Nick Reiner makes his first court appearance after allegedly murdering Rob Reiner and Michele Singer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles gives an uncharacteristically forthcoming series of interviews, offering blunt assessments of President Trump's team. Police circulate new photos of a person of interest, but have few clear leads in identifying the Brown University shooter. And economists express concern after a new governmental jobs report. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Police arrest the son of filmmaker Rob Reiner and Michele Singer after the couple was found stabbed to death in their home. Australian authorities claim the father and son who attacked a Hanukkah gathering had expressed pro-ISIS ideology. And Attorney General Pam Bondi says the FBI has thwarted a planned New Year's Eve bombing in California. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Police investigate a mass shooting at Brown University. Meanwhile, a shooting at a Hanukkah event in Australia stokes security concerns worldwide. And Americans are killed in combat in Syria for the first time since the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For the second time in a week, Justice Department prosecutors fail to secure an indictment against New York Attorney General Letitia James. The U.S. plans to seize the oil from a tanker leaving Venezuela. And Australian teens struggle through their second day without legal access to major social media sites. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Senate plans to vote on multiple bills to address expiring subsidies for health insurance marketplace plans. The Coast Guard seizes an oil tanker near Venezuela. And the Federal Reserve lowers interest rates, while cautioning about a softening job market. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In an ABC News exclusive interview, the mother of a pregnant woman declared brain dead and kept on life support in Georgia speaks out. President Trump explains some of his reasoning behind the Venezuela strikes. And the debate over whether China should purchase NVIDIA chips from the U.S. continues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Supreme Court signals it's open to overturning a century-old precedent on presidential powers. Paramount attempts a hostile takeover of Warner Brothers Discovery, interrupting a potential merger with Netflix. And prosecutors reveal handwritten notes outlining what they claim were Luigi Mangione's escape plans after allegedly murdering a CEO. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After watching video footage of a controversial boat strike, Democrats press the Pentagon to make it public. A judge makes new charges against James Comey even more unlikely. And Indiana Republicans debate whether to push forward with a new congressional district map. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A grand jury has rejected a new indictment of New York's attorney general, Letitia James. Over four years later an arrest has been made in connection with the pipe bombs placed outside the Republican and Democratic National Committees. And several countries are boycotting Eurovision next year over Israeli participation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sources tell ABC News the Pentagon's watchdog has issued a report critical of Defense Secretary Hegseth's Signal chat use to discuss military attacks targeting Houthi rebels. In a surprise move, President Trump says he's pardoning Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar, who was facing a bribery indictment. And, a doctor who admitted to distributing ketamine to Matthew Perry weeks before he died is sentenced. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defends a pair of deadly strikes, while distancing himself from a key decision. A former Honduran leader is pardoned by President Trump, 40 years before his drug trafficking sentence is up. And ICE prepares for a crackdown on Somali immigrants in Minnesota. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Legal questions swirl around the White House over a pair of strikes in the Caribbean. Lawyers for suspected killer Luigi Mangione argue for the dismissal of a key piece of evidence. And Tennessee voters head to the polls in a closely-watched special election. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. leads to promises from President Trump to pause refugee programs and increase military presence on American streets. A Ukrainian delegation visits Florida to discuss potential peace proposals. And it's the 2,000th episode of Start Here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this special episode, ABC's Matt Rivers investigates the impact of the trade war between the U.S. and China on America's soybean farmers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The FBI reaches out to Congress, asking to speak with lawmakers behind a video to military servicemembers. Public health experts are concerned about a flu variant spreading that is “mismatched” to the current vaccine. And record numbers of Americans are expected to hit the road this Thanksgiving. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices