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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


    • Jul 23, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 27m AVG DURATION
    • 1,703 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

    The Growing Costs of the Iran War

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2026 26:40


    As congressional Republicans commit more money to the Iran conflict, President Trump attends a dignified transfer of remains. The family of Nolan Wells receives few answers after a second autopsy. And an alleged “recruiter” for Jeffrey Epstein is found dead in Paris.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Has Gov't Contained Parasite Outbreak? Lettuce Discuss.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2026 24:46


    As cyclosporiasis cases continue to rise, HHS Sec. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. insists the federal government has outbreaks “under control.” New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill reveals that thousands of non-citizens were added to the voter rolls after a DMV glitch. And Novo Nordisk sues fellow obesity drugmaker Eli Lilly over a critical ad.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Red Sea: A New Front in the War?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2026 27:14


    As fallen American servicemembers are identified, Yemen announces a blockade against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea. U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham takes office. And a federal judge pauses a proposed merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Americans Killed as Iran Expands Battlefield

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2026 28:35


    For the first time in months, U.S. servicemembers are killed near Iran. Andrew and Tristan Tate are arrested by U.S. Marshals, signaling a potential extradition to British authorities. And a cyclosporiasis link to Taco Bell locations in five states doesn't quite explain a much wider outbreak.    Photo Credit: U.S. Central Command Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Are Trump's Election Claims Ready for Primetime?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2026 28:30


    President Trump delivers a White House address with outlandish claims about election security. Sources say Trump's lead teleprompter operator is under scrutiny for bets on speech details. And fearing a “cultural crisis,” Cherokee leaders are trying to teach children to speak an endangered language. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump's AG Pick Swears He's Independent

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2026 27:01


    Attorney general nominee Todd Blanche insists his time working for President Trump will not affect him at the Justice Department. Smoke fills cities across the northern U.S. and Canada. And the Pentagon will start testing testosterone levels in service members over 30. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    ICE Patch: DHS Halts Vehicle Stops, for Now

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2026 28:49


    ICE agents have been told to immediately scale back vehicle stops, sources say, in the wake of deadly shootings. Supreme Court justices ask Congress for security funding amid threats to their safety. And African migrants are being dispatched to the front lines in Russia's war against Ukraine.  AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Iran Blockade is Back

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2026 28:06


    President Trump informs Congress that the U.S. is heading back to battle with Iran, while proposing a toll on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. South Carolina Republicans begin jockeying for the late Lindsey Graham's senate seat. And for the second time in a week, a person is shot dead by ICE agents.  AP Photo/Amirhosein Khorgooi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Sudden Death of Sen. Lindsey Graham

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2026 22:04


    Senator Lindsey Graham unexpectedly dies from a heart condition, prompting tributes in South Carolina. The parents of Nolan Wells call for an independent investigation into his death off the Mississippi coast. And officials warn of an outbreak of cyclosporiasis in more than 30 states. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    So…Are We Back at War with Iran?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2026 25:01


    The U.S. intercepts dozens of missiles and drones from Iran directed toward Gulf neighbors. A former Olympian challenges the Trump administration over his arrest near the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. And continuing heatwaves pose a long-term cost to the American economy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump: Iran Deal is ‘Over'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2026 27:09


    The U.S. launches a series of strikes on Iran, as President Trump declares a ceasefire deal “over.” Maine Democrat Graham Platner drops out of a crucial Senate race. And a deadly ICE-involved shooting results in threats of legal action from Mexico.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    What Happened to Mitch McConnell?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2026 27:49


    Questions grow about the condition of Sen. Mitch McConnell, with few details from his staff, weeks after he was hospitalized. Democrats distance themselves from Senate hopeful Graham Platner as new allegations surface. And Charlie Kirk's family members watch prosecutors present evidence to a Utah judge in a pretrial hearing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Graham Platner's Unraveling Senate Campaign

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2026 25:34


    Top Democrats are pulling endorsements for Graham Platner as new allegations rock his Senate campaign against Republican Sen. Susan Collins in Maine. President Trump arrives at the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey today with demands for allies to contribute more in defense spending. And as “Trump Accounts” launch, parents are weighing options to save for their kids' future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    A Fourth Full of Fireworks

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2026 26:24


    Facing storms and safety warnings, President Trump delivers a July 4th address. FIFA lifts a controversial suspension on American star Folarin Balogun, while a phone call from President Trump prompts questions of political influence. And Brad takes a ride on the historic “Big Boy” locomotive as part of its nationwide whistle-stop tour.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Camden 14: Naming America's First Soldiers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2026 23:27


    In a special edition of “Start Here,” the team travels to the site of the 1780 Battle of Camden. After spending years discovering and unearthing remains of the fallen, researchers have finally given the soldiers a proper burial – and in a first-of-its-kind development, have been able to identify one by name. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Less Cryptic, More Crypto: Trump's Finances Disclosed

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2026 24:54


    President Trump's financial disclosures show billions in profit in 2025 alone, with more than $1 billion in cryptocurrency earnings. Sixteen children are found in squalid conditions in an Ohio home. And a couple is arrested after climbing the spire of the Empire State Building for a proposal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Why the Supreme Court Upheld Birthright Citizenship

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2026 28:43


    In its final rulings of its term, the U.S. Supreme Court upholds the policy of birthright citizenship, while backing state bans on transgender athletes in girls' sports. Meanwhile, new student loan rules kick in today for students nationwide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Win for Snail Mail: The Supreme Court's Ballot Ruling

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2026 28:41


    The Supreme Court issues a surprising ruling on mail ballots, upending President Trump's hope to restrict when they can be counted. Meanwhile, a pair of cases results in conflicting rulings over whether a president can fire agency officials. And aftershocks continue to rattle Venezuela as rescue efforts continue.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Surges

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2026 22:27


    The death toll rises dramatically as bodies are pulled out of earthquake debris in Venezuela. New strikes by Iran raise questions about a ceasefire's stability. And wildfires in Utah and Colorado have now claimed the lives of multiple firefighters.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Supreme Court Backs Trump on Immigration

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2026 26:13


    The Supreme Court sides with the Trump administration in a pair of high-profile immigration cases. Rescuers desperately search for survivors after a pair of earthquakes in Venezuela. And the Strait of Hormuz effectively shuts after an Iranian drone attack.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump Won't Close on Lawmakers' Housing Bill

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2026 27:51


    President Trump refuses to sign a bipartisan affordable housing bill, insisting that Congress pass his SAVE America Act first. Victories for allies of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani prompt a broad conversation about Democratic strategy. And concerns over an island resort pushed by Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner have spiraled into furious national protests in Albania. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Fixer-Upper: Congress Takes a Swing at the Housing Crisis

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2026 25:36


    The House passes a bipartisan bill meant to make it easier to buy a home. The Pentagon asks Congress for $80 billion. And a stifling heatwave in Europe becomes deadly.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Why the Iran Deal Isn't a ‘Nuclear Deal'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2026 28:37


    American negotiators say Iran has agreed to allow nuclear weapons inspectors to examine their stockpiles, but several hurdles remain. United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer resigns, paving the way for Andy Burnham to succeed him. And legendary music executive Clive Davis is dead at 94.  (Photo Credit: Nathan Howard/Pool Reuters via AP) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Not Easy Being Green: Crackdowns at Reflecting Pool

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 27:33


    Facing algae-tinted waters and cost overruns, President Trump blames unnamed saboteurs for ruining the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Iran threatens to close the Strait of Hormuz as talks in Switzerland turn tense. And the killing of a dog by police results in grief and anger in Los Angeles.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Introducing "The Snare"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2026 31:27


    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, "The Snare," hosted by Maggie Rulli. Police in Idaho Falls bring in a young man named Chris Tapp to answer some questions. This will set him and others on a path they never would've predicted. To hear the rest of the series, follow "The Snare" on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠⁠⁠, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump's New Battle: Political Blowback Over Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2026 25:18


    The Trump administration responds to Republican criticism of the Iran ceasefire deal. The Supreme Court unanimously sides with marijuana users in a gun rights debate. And former President Barack Obama opens a presidential center on the South Side of Chicago. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Understanding the Iran Deal, Point by Point

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2026 28:53


    The text of a ceasefire deal between the U.S. and Iran draws scrutiny. President Trump derails the confirmation of the man he nominated to lead the country's intelligence apparatus. And after a dramatic confrontation by victims' families, Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heurmann is sentenced.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Alleged Drone Plot Against the White House

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2026 24:23


    Several suspects are under arrest for an alleged plot to attack Sunday's White House UFC event with drones. The Department of Education announces plans to offload key programs to other agencies. And doctors are growing concerned over surges in off-label use of ivermectin as a cancer treatment. (Photo Credit: Win McNamee/Pool Getty via AP) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Why the Iran Deal Still Isn't Strait-Forward

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2026 28:11


    As President Trump touts an Iran deal to G7 leaders, experts question when exactly the Strait of Hormuz will be opened. California Gov. Gavin Newsom announces that he's being investigated by federal authorities. And UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer proposes a ban on social media for children under 16. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    US & Iran Reach Ceasefire Agreement

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 24:57


    President Trump, along with a series of world leaders, announce the U.S. and Iran have agreed to terms for a ceasefire agreement. Anthropic says it's pulling back an advanced artificial intelligence model after the Trump White House has restricted its use by foreign nationals. And twelve people die in a Missouri plane crash, including eleven skydivers.  AP Photo/Vahid Salemi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Deal or No Deal: Where the Iran War Stands

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 24:19


    President Trump says an agreement with Iran could be signed as early as this weekend. A short-term extension of FISA fails to pass ahead of an expiration deadline. And complications arise as the World Cup heats up in the US.  AP Photo/Amirhosein Khorgooi  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    US strikes multiple targets in Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 25:34


    The downing of an American helicopter by Iran has prompted President Trump to amp up strikes in the country. Bill Gates answers questions in a closed-door session before the House Oversight Committee over his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. And the upcoming UFC fight on the White House lawn is now the subject of a lawsuit.  AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Apache Down: The US Retaliates Against Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 28:12


    An Iranian drone takes down an American helicopter in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting the U.S. to launch new strikes. A controversial murder case that divided a Texas community ends with a 35 year sentence for a teenage defendant. And NASA unveils the astronauts that will take part in its latest mission, Artemis III.  (FILE Photo: U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Olivia Cowart) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    What Trump Said to Netanyahu

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 27:33


    As Iran and Israel pause their assaults, President Trump describes pleading with Benjamin Netanyahu to not endanger peace negotiations. Spencer Pratt fails to make it to a runoff in the Los Angeles mayor's race after a lengthy count. And ABC's Ian Pannell travels to Moscow to ask Russians what they think of Vladimir Putin's war.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Back to Battle? Iran Launches Missiles at Israel

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 27:07


    Iran fires ballistic missiles at Israel, testing the U.S.-Israel alliance. Maine voters weigh new allegations against Democrat Graham Platner. And Canada halts livestock imports from Texas after a second case of screwworm in cattle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump Critic Set to Plead Guilty in Docs Case

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 26:13


    President Trump's former national security adviser John Bolton is expected to plead guilty over mishandling classified documents, sources familiar with the matter tell ABC News. An appeals court panel is set to hear arguments over whether the White House ballroom construction should continue. And new reports surrounding Maine's Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner threaten the party's path to the majority. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The World's Oil Supply is Draining

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 25:16


    Experts warn that the Iran conflict is straining the global oil supply to dangerous levels. A dramatic hostage situation unfolds in a bank building in Bakersfield, California. And families who could be impacted by an expected Supreme Court decision on birthright citizenship speak out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    DOJ to Congress: 'Anti-Weaponization' Fund is Dead

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 26:27


    After a Republican revolt, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche tries to convince Congress that the “anti-weaponization” fund is dead. President Trump picks a new director of national intelligence after Tulsi Gabbard's exit, but questions swirl around his credentials. And marine archaeologists announce the discovery of shipwrecks from the Golden Age of Piracy in Nassau. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Distrust Fund: DOJ Pauses Payment Plan

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 26:15


    In the face of angry Republican lawmakers and skeptical judges, the Trump administration halts the creation of a $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization fund.” Xavier Becerra, Tom Steyer and reality star Spencer Pratt headline a series of California primaries. And a federal appellate court rules the dismissal of transgender service people was likely unconstitutional.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump's Tweaks to the ‘Final' Iran Agreement

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 27:34


    With doubt over a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, Israel resumes its push into Lebanon. A judge reconsiders a settlement that resulted in President Trump's “anti-weaponization fund.” And several Laotian miners escape a flooded cave, but two are still believed to be stranded deep within. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    From Missile Strikes…to a Ceasefire Plan?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2026 23:19


    Sources say American and Iranian diplomats have reached a broad framework for a ceasefire extension, despite strikes from each side this week. Demonstrations outside a New Jersey ICE facility turn into clashes with federal agents. And a raid on the home of a former CIA officer allegedly reveals a trove of gold bars from the spy agency. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    A Chemical Blast Turns Deadly

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2026 28:21


    Authorities believe a chemical tank accident likely killed more than 10 people in Longview, Washington. Sources confirm the Justice Department has opened an investigation into Trump accuser E. Jean Carroll. And police arrest a Google employee over allegations of insider trading on prediction markets.  Photo Credit: City of Longview via AP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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