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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


    • Oct 16, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 27m AVG DURATION
    • 1,501 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

    Will SCOTUS Weaken the Voting Rights Act?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 25:12


    In a far-reaching case, the Supreme Court examines key provisions of the Voting Rights Act. Three weeks after winning a special election, Representative-elect Adelita Grijalva, D-Ariz., is still blocked from being sworn in. And the average price of a new car rises to an unprecedented $50,000. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hostages and Prisoners Are Still Coming Home

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 28:59


    As Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners are reunited with their families, Israel waits for the return of more hostage remains. The Trump administration prepares to offer Argentina $20 billion in bailout funds. And family members are furious after Philadelphia's medical examiner declares their daughter died by suicide – with more than 20 stab wounds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Next Phase of the Gaza Ceasefire

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 23:50


    The remaining Israeli hostages are reunited with their families as many questions remain about what comes next in Gaza. New tariffs on lumber and wood product imports are set to take effect, potentially raising housing costs. And a New Orleans family finds an ancient Roman grave marker in their backyard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Israel's Hostages Come Home

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 26:35


    Israeli hostages return from Gaza, as President Trump travels to the Mideast to cement the end to the war in Gaza. Meanwhile, the president starts following through on a threat to lay off government workers. And an explosion at a Tennessee munitions plant leaves 16 people dead.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    How Trump Pushed a Ceasefire Over the Line

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2025 28:47


    The Israeli government signs off on a Gaza ceasefire agreement. New York Attorney General Letitia James is indicted by a federal grand jury. And ABC investigates the exploding business of scams via Bitcoin ATMs.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Ceasefire in Gaza

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2025 28:14


    Israel and Hamas announce a peace deal that could eventually end the war in Gaza. Police arrest the man they believe started the devastating Palisades Fire in California. And former FBI Director James Comey pleads not guilty in an unprecedented arraignment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump's New Shutdown Threat

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2025 28:57


    The Trump White House suggests not issuing backpay to furloughed workers after the government shutdown ends. Attorney General Pam Bondi goes on the attack during a hearing about Justice Department policies. And the Supreme Court appears skeptical of a Colorado law banning conversion therapy.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    National Guard's Next Destination: Chicago

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2025 23:33


    A federal judge declines to block the Trump administration from sending National Guard troops to Chicago. The government shutdown enters its seventh day, with lawmakers facing questions about funding, services, and Jeffrey Epstein. And France's prime minister becomes the fourth to resign in the last year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Judge to Trump: No Troops in Portland for Now

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 28:38


    A judge issues a restraining order, telling the White House it cannot send any National Guard troops, from any state, to Portland, Oregon. Israel and Hamas spark hope in Gaza by moving forward with a potential peace plan. And the Supreme Court begins its new term today, with questions about executive power looming large. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Sentencing of Sean "Diddy" Combs

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 23:48


    In a letter to the judge overseeing his case, Sean “Diddy” Combs says he takes "full responsibility and accountability" for his actions ahead of his sentencing. The government will not release its monthly jobs report because of the shutdown, forcing economists to analyze private data. And a superintendent's immigration case rocks the school district in Des Moines, Iowa. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The “Imminent” Shutdown Layoffs

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2025 24:05


    The White House warns of “imminent” layoffs of federal workers on the first day of the government shutdown. National Guard troops begin training in Portland, Oregon as President Trump says U.S. cities should be military "training grounds." And we remember conservationist and primate expert Jane Goodall. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Shutdown Begins

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2025 28:37


    The federal government shuts down, setting up a bitter, protracted political battle. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth outlines policy changes at the Pentagon. And people who knew the man who opened fire on a Michigan church say he harbored deep resentment toward the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Washington Hurtles Toward a Shutdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 27:58


    Ahead of a midnight deadline tonight, attendees leave a White House meeting predicting a government shutdown. President Trump pressures Hamas with a new peace proposal. And Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth convenes an unprecedented military meeting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Church Shooting in Michigan

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 25:48


    A shooting at a church in Michigan becomes the latest site of American gun violence. A potential government shutdown looms over Capitol Hill this week. And President Trump takes birthright citizenship to the Supreme Court again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Vanished: The Search

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 39:48


    Today, we're bringing you episode two of the latest true crime podcast from 20/20 and ABC Audio, "Vanished: What Happened to Vanessa." In episode two, the search for Vanessa starts to stretch over days, then weeks. Her family grows frustrated and finds their own ways to bring awareness to Vanessa's case. Meanwhile, the military's investigation is hindered by early missteps.  To hear the rest of the series, "Vanished: What Happened to Vanessa" for free on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Vanished: "I'm Gonna Find You"

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2025 37:24


    This weekend, we're sharing something special with you. Today, we're bringing you the first episode of the latest true crime podcast from 20/20 and ABC Audio, "Vanished: What Happened to Vanessa." Tomorrow, we'll share episode two. In episode one, Private First Class Vanessa Guillén shows up for work one morning at the Fort Hood Army base and disappears without a trace. When she stops responding to text messages, her tight-knit family in Houston immediately sounds the alarm. Who was Vanessa Guillen? How did this strong 20-year-old soldier suddenly go missing on a military base? And why does she inspire an international movement? Tune in again tomorrow for episode two. You can also hear the rest of the series by following "Vanished: What Happened to Vanessa" for free on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    James Comey Indicted

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 28:59


    U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan secures an indictment against former FBI Director James Comey, igniting a potential crisis at the Justice Department. Police describe meticulous planning by the gunman who opened fire on an ICE facility in Dallas. And schools describe a booming market for security measures – without clear indications that it's having an effect. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    ICE Facility Targeted by Sniper

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 25:56


    A sniper opens fire on an immigration facility in Dallas. Sources tell ABC that a new U.S. attorney in Virginia will attempt to charge former FBI Director James Comey with a crime, despite a memo circulating at the DOJ finding no probable cause. And a typhoon rips through the Philippines, Taiwan and Hong Kong, killing dozens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Ukraine U-Turn at the UN

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 28:24


    President Trump reverses course on Ukraine, encouraging Volodymyr Zelenskyy not to give up any land to Russia as part of a peace deal. Secret Service agents uncover what they call a plot to disable American telecom systems. And the man accused of planning to kill Trump last year on his golf course is convicted by a jury. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump's Autism Announcement

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 28:48


    Defying medical experts, the Trump administration makes sweeping claims about potential causes and cures for autism. Sources describe the deal in place to transfer TikTok ownership. And President Trump heads to New York to speak to the United Nations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump to DOJ: Prosecute, Or Else

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 23:34


    President Trump replaces a handpicked federal prosecutor who declined to bring charges against New York Attorney General Letitia James. Family and fans gather to remember Charlie Kirk. And Oktoberfest venues raise the price of beer, angering local customers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The CDC's New Prescription for Child Vaccines

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2025 27:31


    A panel of CDC advisors limits options for children getting the MMRV vaccine. A debate rages over the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel. And the FTC sues Ticketmaster and Live Nation over what it calls deceptive ticketing practices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    A Loan at Last: Fed Cuts Interest Rates

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 28:31


    The Federal Reserve announces the first in what could be a series of interest rate cuts. Former CDC Director Susan Monarez tells Congress that RFK Jr. had her fired because she wasn't willing to sign off on vaccine policy changes sight-unseen. And Israel's military moves in on Gaza, as hundreds of thousands of Palestinians leave town.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Suspect Charged in Charlie Kirk's Death

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2025 28:49


    Prosecutors lay out charges, and preliminary evidence, against suspect Tyler Robinson. A judge tosses out a key charge against the man suspected of killing the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. And FBI Director Kash Patel clashes with members of Congress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    WH Officials: Time to “Go After” Left-Wing Radicals

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 28:28


    Vice President JD Vance, joined by White House officials, suggests going after left-wing organizations that contribute to political violence – without naming specific groups. President Trump announces a strike against another ship emanating from Venezuela. And Russia holds large-scale military exercises with Belarus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    What We Know About Charlie Kirk's Alleged Killer

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 24:56


    Sources describe how a Utah man went from a bright student to the prime suspect in an assassination investigation. Memphis prepares for a potential deployment of National Guard troops on its streets. And as schools grapple with artificial intelligence in the classroom, one program is using A.I. to compress schoolwork into just two hours a day.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    BREAKING: Charlie Kirk Shooting Suspect in Custody

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 44:23


    Listen to ABC News' special coverage of an FBI news conference on the Charlie Kirk shooting investigation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Manhunt for Charlie Kirk's Killer

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 25:06


    Police ask the public for help to identify the killer of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Amid bipartisan calls to turn down the political temperature, fingerpointing continues over who is to blame. And a new inflation report shows the impact of tariffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Killing of Charlie Kirk

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 26:23


    Conservative activist Charlie Kirk is killed while visiting a college campus, setting off new concerns about political violence. NATO scrambles jets to shoot down Russian drones in Polish airspace. And NASA says it's found compelling evidence of ancient life on Mars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Breaking: Charlie Kirk shot during event at Utah university

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 6:20


    Charlie Kirk, the founder of the conservative youth activist organization Turning Point USA, was shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, according to law enforcement sources. We'll be back in the morning with our regular episode, but for now here's ABC News' Kyra Phillips and chief investigative correspondent Aaron Katersky as the news unfolded Wednesday afternoon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Israel Strikes Qatar

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 27:46


    Israel launches a missile strike in the capital of Qatar, targeting Hamas leadership. The Justice Department brings charges in the shocking stabbing of a young woman on a Charlotte train. And revised jobs numbers fuel concern about a brittle economy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Dems Release Pages from Epstein's “Birthday Book”

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2025 28:37


    Congressional Democrats obtain, then release, a note they claim Donald Trump once sent to Jeffrey Epstein. Gunmen open fire in the streets of Jerusalem. And the Supreme Court allows the Trump administration to press forward with aggressive immigration raids. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Russia's Biggest Attack Yet

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 26:57


    For the first time since invading Ukraine, Russia hits a government stronghold in Kyiv. President Trump denies he's calling for a “war” in Chicago, despite using that word in a social media post – but previews new immigration action in Democratic-led cities. And the man accused of plotting an assassination on Trump's golf course heads to trial.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    RFK Jr. Faces the Senate

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 27:19


    In a contentious Senate hearing, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defends his decisions on vaccine policy. Economists fret about the American job landscape. And London crews try to dismantle a collection of trash in the Thames known as “Wet Wipe Island.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Epstein Victims: Release the Files

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 28:51


    A woman once referred to only as “Minor Victim 1” is one of several Jeffrey Epstein victims demanding Congress compel the release of investigative files. Florida officials call for the end of vaccination mandates in the state. And a military strike on a boat allegedly carrying drugs out of Venezuela raises questions about the Trump's administration's muscular stance toward Latin America.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Congress is Back. So Are the Epstein Debates.

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 27:41


    Congressional Republicans return to a firestorm surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein files. President Trump says he'll be sending National Guard troops into Chicago. And the White House aims to move Space Command from Colorado to Alabama. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The Legal Battle Over Hundreds of Guatemalan Children

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2025 27:19


    A judge pauses the repatriation of hundreds of migrant children to Guatemala. Pharmacies in several states are telling customers they can't get a COVID vaccine without a prescription. And amid tariff threats, India's prime minister signals a willingness to ally with China and Russia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    "Highballed"

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 23:13


    In a Labor Day special, ABC's Rachel Scott describes how disproportionate property taxes, and the subsequent financial toll, are forcing people from their homes. This piece is a collaboration between ABC News and ABC Owned Television Stations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    CDC You Later: Workers Walk Out

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 28:43


    CDC workers walk out, protesting the ouster of the agency's director. Survivors of Hurricane Katrina reflect on its impact, 20 years later. And Indiana University welcomes back an infamous mascot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Minneapolis Catholic School Shooting

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 28:17


    A shooting at a Catholic school Mass kills two students and injures several more. Public health officials erupt as the White House announces the firing of CDC Director Susan Monarez. And experts home in on the perpetrators of a series of swatting incidents. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Fed Up: Lisa Cook Refuses to Be Fired

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 28:28


    In a dramatic confrontation, a member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors disputes President Trump's authority to fire her. Drugmaker Eli Lilly claims a GLP-1 is on track for FDA approval after a successful trial. And while Indiana Republicans consider a new congressional map, a judge tells Utah to examine their current one.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    "Tragic Mishap": Deadly Airstrikes on Gaza Hospital

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 27:14


    Five journalists are among the 20 people killed in an Israeli strike on a hospital in Gaza. Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the man who was wrongfully deported to El Salvador, is detained by ICE again. And the family of one of Jeffrey Epstein's accusers speaks out after the government releases audio of an interview with Ghislaine Maxwell.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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