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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We're one year out from the 2026 midterm elections! In a special edition of “Start Here,” Brad will talk to the team about polls, political dynamics, and the concerns of American voters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With SNAP cuts looming this weekend, Americans are also getting health insurance sticker shock. President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping strike a temporary deal on some contentious trade topics. And Trump orders a restart of nuclear testing programs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Officials in Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba describe dozens of fatalities in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. An Illinois deputy is convicted of murdering Sonya Massey. And educators take the stand in a civil lawsuit against an assistant principal after a 6-year-old shot a teacher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hurricane Melissa arrives in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm. Israel fires on Gaza amid escalating hostilities with Hamas. And Amazon lays off more than 10,000 workers, citing artificial intelligence advancements. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

States sound the alarm to residents, saying that the government shutdown will pause food program benefits this weekend. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino will stand before a judge in Chicago after allegedly tossing a tear gas canister into a crowd. And Jim Morrison, the man who skied down Mount Everest, describes his historic run to ABC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Police arrest two suspects in the Louvre heist case as they allegedly try to flee France. The White House reaches a framework trade agreement with China ahead of a meeting between President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping. And Jamaica braces for Hurricane Melissa as it rapidly gains strength. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The FBI arrests 34 suspects, including a current NBA player and coach, in a sweeping gambling investigation. President Trump pardons a cryptocurrency mogul who pleaded guilty to money laundering violations. And Hollywood artists are quickly engaging with artificial intelligence programs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sources tell ABC News the White House's entire East Wing will be demolished, contrary to some of President Trump's earlier claims. A military strike in the Pacific Ocean opens up a new front in the war on drugs. And ABC gets an exclusive look at Google's new step in “quantum computing.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trump's planned summit with Putin is canceled. Former special counsel Jack Smith disputes claims he tapped senators' phones. And authorities thwart a potential Atlanta airport mass shooting plot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Senate Democrats block the GOP's government funding bill for an 11th time, Washington eyes November for a potential resolution. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals rules that President Trump can deploy the National Guard to Portland. And, U.S. envoys meet in Israel to discuss the fragile Gaza ceasefire after a weekend of flare-ups. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Millions of protesters take to the streets for “No Kings” protests. President Trump threatens foreign aid to Colombia amid growing criticism of military strikes on suspected drug transports. And thieves break into the Louvre in broad daylight, stealing the crown jewels of France. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices