Start Here

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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


    • Jan 5, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 27m AVG DURATION
    • 1,555 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 Wants to “Run” Venezuela. What Does That Mean?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 25:41


    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

    BREAKING: US Strikes Venezuela, Captures Maduro

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2026 18:34


    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

    One More Last Thing

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 28:08


    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

    ‘Trump Accounts' Are About to Open. What Are They?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 27:08


    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

    Visa Declined: The Battle Over Foreign Workers

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 24:47


    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

    Epstein Files: Investigating Potential ‘Co-Conspirators'

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2025 28:35


    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

    The Tanker Seizures Aren't Just About Venezuela

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 28:34


    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 DOJ Releases (Some of) the Epstein Files

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2025 25:13


    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

    Brown University Manhunt Ends in Suspect's Death

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2025 27:26


    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

    Code Red: Some Republicans Defect Over Obamacare

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2025 28:42


    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

    Worth Your Wiles: Trump's Chief of Staff Sounds Off

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2025 28:30


    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

    Rob Reiner's Son Arrested in Parents' Murder

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2025 31:13


    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

    A Series of Shootings Shock the World

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2025 28:27


    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

    Another Grand Jury Refuses to Indict Letitia James

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2025 28:20


    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

    Emergency Call for Obamacare Subsidies

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2025 25:19


    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

    Exclusive: Heartbreak and “Heartbeat Laws”

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2025 28:42


    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

    SCOTUS Considers: Who Can the President Fire?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2025 28:38


    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

    Will Pentagon Release Full Video of Boat Strike?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2025 27:23


    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

    No True Bill: Grand Jury Rejects Charges Against NY AG

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2025 22:30


    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

    Pentagon Watchdog's "Signalgate" Report

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 27:36


    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

    Compliance of the Caribbean: Hegseth Defends Strikes

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2025 27:24


    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

    Secretary on Defense: Questions Over Caribbean Strikes

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2025 28:37


    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

    Aftermath of the DC National Guard Shooting

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2025 25:29


    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

    Soy Be It: How a Trade War Hit Farms

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2025 25:31


    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

    Orders of Magnitude: FBI to Question Lawmakers

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 18:45


    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

    Comey & James Cases Dismissed

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2025 28:35


    In a blow to the Justice Department, a federal judge tosses the charges against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. The Pentagon announces it's investigating Sen. Mark Kelly. And a death on a cruise ship prompts questions about the victim's own stepbrother.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    MAGA's Confusing Weekend

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2025 26:11


    President Trump bewilders allies with his praise of incoming New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Diplomats scramble to craft a peace plan in Ukraine. And a new feature upends X accounts by disclosing their country of origin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    “Punishable By Death”: Trump Troubles the Capitol

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2025 28:40


    Amid indictments and censures, President Trump suggests certain Democrats face charges that carry the death penalty. The Justice Department abandons a case against a woman who was shot by a Border Patrol agent. And Ukraine ponders a U.S.-backed peace plan that would give large swaths of land to Russia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump Signed the Epstein Bill. Now What?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2025 27:29


    President Trump signs the Epstein measure he once opposed, while the Justice Department struggles to explain why it's pursuing new Epstein-related investigations. A US Attorney admits the indictment used to charge James Comey was never actually read by a grand jury. And Nvidia shrugs off concerns of an “A.I. Bubble.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Congress Compels Release of Epstein Files

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 22:56


    After a resounding vote to release the Jeffrey Epstein files, the bill is expected to head to President Trump's desk. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visits the U.S. for the first time in seven years. And the NTSB says a single loose wire caused a power outage on the cargo ship that ultimately crashed into Baltimore's Key Bridge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Epstein Files Vote

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2025 28:36


    As the House prepares to vote to release the Jeffrey Epstein files, questions remain over whether the Department of Justice will release everything. President Trump declines to rule out U.S. troops in Venezuela, but says he's open to talks with Nicolas Maduro. And a federal judge suggests "government misconduct" may have tainted the Trump administration's case against James Comey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The MAGA Rift Between DJT and MTG

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2025 23:00


    President Trump calls Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene a “traitor” for her stance on releasing the Jeffrey Epstein files. A new federal immigration crackdown begins in Charlotte, North Carolina. And missing a loved-one who is no longer with us? Well, there's an app for that. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Case Against Trump's Hand-Picked Prosecutor

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2025 28:48


    In a pivotal court hearing, lawyers for James Comey and Letitia James challenge the authority of new US Attorney Lisa Halligan. Government employees report back to work following the end of the shutdown. And House Republicans sound off on senators who included a surprising provision in their bill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Epstein Email: Trump “Knew About the Girls”

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 27:20


    Emails from the late Jeffrey Epstein released by congressional members show several direct references to President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, while the White House denies Trump had any knowledge of Epstein's actions, lawmakers push through a discharge petition for more documents. And Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's allies are embroiled in a corruption scandal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Back to Work: House Expected to End Shutdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2025 24:46


    House members are expected to end the shutdown as early as today - if they can get back to Washington in time. ByHeart expands its voluntary recall on baby formula. And a California man describes getting hundreds of messages from women who have been targeted by scammers using his photo.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Furious Democrats: Shut Down Schumer

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2025 28:03


    As the Senate officially sends its shutdown-ending resolution to the House, progressive Democrats focus their ire on Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. The Supreme Court takes up a case that could profoundly affect mail-in voting rules. And House Democrats demand to know whether Jeffrey Epstein's accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell is receiving preferential treatment in federal prison.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Surprise Senate Deal to End Shutdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 28:29


    In a surprise move, several Senate Democrats cross the aisle to end the shutdown. A series of judicial rulings leaves some SNAP recipients with benefits, and others without. And two MLB pitchers are indicted over alleged sports betting.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Introducing "The Hand in the Window"

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2025 27:01


    Today, we're sharing something a little different: it's the first episode of the newest true crime series from ABC Audio and 20/20, "The Hand in the Window." In this episode, a 911 call becomes the first step in an investigation that would reveal sinister and shocking crimes. To catch new episodes early, follow "The Hand in the Window" for free on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Spotify⁠, ⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Turbulence Ahead: Shutdown Cancels Flights

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2025 25:01


    Federal officials begin canceling flights due to shutdown-induced staffing shortages. The Trump White House finalizes a deal to make obesity drugs cheaper for millions of Americans. And the FBI warns of criminals impersonating ICE agents. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Longest Shutdown in History

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 28:49


    With Democrats motivated by election results, the government shutdown hits a new record while consequences mount. Rescue workers are still looking for victims of a UPS cargo plane crash. And the Supreme Court sounds skeptical of President Trump's constitutional authority to issue tariffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Democrats Dominate Election Night

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 26:01


    On an anticipated election night, Democrats cruise to victories up and down the ballot. The Supreme Court prepares to hear a challenge to President Trump's tariff policies. And the case of a “sandwich-thrower” raises questions in Washington over protests and police. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Election 2025: The Races to Watch Tonight

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2025 28:04


    Voters head to the polls in what is being framed as a referendum on President Trump, along with the Democratic Party. A civil war in Sudan bursts into the international spotlight. And the Trump White House agrees to disperse some more SNAP funds.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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