Apple News Today

Why older workers are taking more entry-level jobs

<p>The Supreme Court hears oral arguments today in a case involving President Trump&rsquo;s attempt to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook. Chris Rugaber of the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-jerome-powell-lisa-cook-supreme-court-7f135bd222013d4fe61eb8f03c663676">Associated Press </a>joins to discuss how it could affect the central bank&rsquo;s future.</p> <p>A jury in Texas will decide if an officer who responded to the mass school shooting in Uvalde can be held responsible for his alleged inaction. The <a href="https://apple.news/AGEvsGJLNSP6RnCbPPB9-mg">Wall Street Journal</a>&rsquo;s Elizabeth Findell breaks down the case.</p> <p>Gen Z is having a tough time breaking into the job market as baby boomers remain in the workforce. The <a href="https://apple.news/Aczsr1_qnQwKgLiSZRtjLaA">Washington Post</a>&rsquo;s Taylor Telford explains how factors like AI and economic uncertainty are making it hard to get entry-level jobs.</p> <p>Plus, France&rsquo;s president sent a <a href="https://apple.news/AH3tsVD3AR4muXqEmM9FwLA">message</a> to Trump at Davos, and the second lady announced that she&rsquo;s <a href="https://apple.news/AMIkMQIDESV6EhIwA0K5b0g">pregnant</a> with her fourth child.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

How Trump’s Greenland threats could spark a new trade war

<p>President Trump said his renewed efforts on taking over Greenland are partially tied to him not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. The <a href="https://apple.news/AeQnmlKU_RBCGsawBHB5-IQ">Wall Street Journal</a>&rsquo;s Kim Mackrael joins to discuss how European leaders are responding.</p> <p>Polls show Democrats with a lead over Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections. Patrick Marley of the <a href="https://apple.news/AbTs9UB9hSvWjBgL4pgeNeQ">Washington Post</a> explains how Trump is attempting to alter how the midterms are conducted.</p> <p>A proposal for a one-time tax on California&rsquo;s billionaires has spurred infighting amongst Democrats. <a href="https://apple.news/Ahi-sdFanTQWMi-xlO2UyqA">Time</a> reports on the details of the proposed tax, and how billionaires are pushing back.</p> <p>Plus, authorities in Spain say at least 40 are dead after the country&rsquo;s worst rail <a href="https://apple.news/Ab5Yntg04QeKbpeiVbg8WhA">disaster</a> in a decade, Iran&rsquo;s state TV was <a href="https://apple.news/AQYAA39qZRD-x6zolj3AwHA">hacked</a>, and <a href="https://apple.news/AUiVvBGY_SgCTCa4Yv65h9w">remembering</a> the legendary fashion designer Valentino following his death aged 93.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

The true toll of the Los Angeles fires

<p>From <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/apple-news-in-conversation/id1577591053?i=1000745352420"><em>Apple News In Conversation</em></a>: In January 2025, catastrophic wildfires tore through Los Angeles, destroying entire neighborhoods and leaving devastation that continues today. MS NOW senior reporter Jacob Soboroff reported live from the blaze in his hometown of Pacific Palisades &mdash; and is now out with a new book, <a href="https://books.apple.com/us/book/firestorm/id6745510650" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Firestorm: The Great Los Angeles Fires and America&rsquo;s New Age of Disaster</em></a>, a deeply reported account of the chaos and enduring fallout. Soboroff sat down with <em>Apple News In Conversation</em> host Shumita Basu to share what he witnessed on the ground and what the fires revealed about a city &mdash; and a country &mdash; unprepared for the disasters ahead.</p>

Machado gave Trump her Nobel medal. He still won’t support her.

<p>President Trump met with Venezuelan opposition leader Mar&iacute;a Corina Machado at the White House. <a href="https://apple.news/A04T3KKu6RQiev_CTwaaXzQ">The Wall Street Journa</a>l&rsquo;s Vera Bergengruen breaks down what happened at the meeting.</p> <p>As ICE enforcement continues in Minnesota, residents have taken to the streets in community patrols to track the movement of agents. Madison McVan of the <a href="https://apple.news/AsJKN0Cn9SValVRQwjh6XOA">Minnesota Reformer</a> explains how efforts to deter ICE have grown since the shooting of Renee Good.</p> <p>Ticket prices for the upcoming men&rsquo;s World Cup have reached exorbitant prices even after efforts by FIFA to bring them under control. <a href="https://apple.news/ASPokR04sRdi5AHdUR_6WMQ">The Athletic</a>&rsquo;s Henry Bushnell joins to discuss how prices got so high in the U.S. as other countries have offered much cheaper tickets for previous World Cups.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span></p> <p>Plus, the number two at ICE stepped down to make a run for <a href="https://apple.news/A-xCjJB1VTNK0tNtYewbEuQ">Congress</a>, and how Australia&rsquo;s social media ban is already having an <a href="https://apple.news/APS7MAONvTBiy4pFALmpVkQ">impact</a>.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

How Elon Musk sparked a global backlash over his Grok chatbot

<p>Elon Musk&rsquo;s AI chatbot caused global outrage after it flooded X with sexually explicit images. Raphael Satter of <a href="https://apple.news/AWX6WlCfRSxmirPgN0C8F8A">Reuters</a> joins to discuss how the photos proliferated so quickly — and what governments are doing about it.</p> <p>The Trump administration is halting all immigrant visas from 75 countries. The <a href="https://apple.news/A5tQ3gqWxTbusYUPIl2OpuA">Washington Post</a>&rsquo;s David Nakamura explains how the move fits into Trump&rsquo;s larger immigration crackdown.</p> <p>After two years of no formal education, the children of Gaza City have returned to makeshift classrooms for school. The <a href="https://apple.news/AFNaiJacOSpKd1kFcYFit2g">BBC</a> reports on how classes are lively and the mood is hopeful despite remaining anxiety over the war.</p> <p>Plus, the U.S. and Denmark remain at odds over the future of <a href="https://apple.news/AQrecrxqCQt6EYiGPozDeTA">Greenland</a>, Iran temporarily closed its <a href="https://apple.news/AgrOHti6wRTifPH-KkLDtew">airspace</a>, and why some people are being left out of this year&rsquo;s Super Bowl halftime <a href="https://apple.news/AqdCVgeIITzeU254b_Z6IdQ">crew</a>.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

Thousands feared dead as protests engulf Iran

<p>President Trump said help is on the way to Iran as protesters face a brutal government crackdown. <a href="https://apple.news/AxqzCZI8LRYKbSt5JIiL1cg">The Atlantic</a>&rsquo;s Arash Azizi explains what might come next for the Islamic Republic.</p> <p>Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are set to meet with representatives from Greenland and Denmark in Washington. The <a href="https://apple.news/A9OgSCVsaQgGcyuXpd_e2Iw">Wall Street Journal</a>&rsquo;s Max Colchester breaks down what&rsquo;s at stake for both sides.</p> <p>AI data centers have brought together a diverse set of opposition. Evan Halper of the <a href="https://apple.news/Ar7ds4rqLToiX35vcl2Fn2A">Washington Post</a> joins to discuss how the issue entered the national political conversation.</p> <p>Plus, multiple federal prosecutors <a href="https://apple.news/A5wWkMQj1SjKtbPKyN4doTQ">resigned</a> in response to the DOJ&rsquo;s investigation into the shooting of Renee Good, the Clintons <a href="https://apple.news/APmTpkg9WS6-6JheiMKsqOg">refused to testify</a> in the Epstein inquiry, and the uniquely American accent that&rsquo;s <a href="https://apple.news/AovlTatURTjSRd9AEPE4YLw">disappearing</a>.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span></p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

How ICE accountability has changed under Trump

<p>After the shooting of Renee Good, officials and the public have called for greater accountability for ICE agents. Julia Ainsley of <a href="https://apple.news/A4Rsd5LG2TrKKzumncD0uCg">NBC News</a> explains how changes at DHS have made that difficult.</p> <p>The Supreme Court hears oral arguments today that could have big implications for transgender athletes. <a href="https://apple.news/AAAgXp9VHSOKAQ9XjWY5csQ">USA Today</a>&rsquo;s Maureen Groppe breaks down the case.</p> <p>Starter homes used to be a cornerstone of the real-estate market, but no longer. The <a href="https://apple.news/AcoSCo0AmRUGB4iipgppImQ">Washington Post</a>&rsquo;s Julie Weil joins to discuss how would-be first-time buyers are being priced out of the market.</p> <p>Plus, former Federal Reserve chairs came out in <a href="https://apple.news/A94li-jZBT3C_FHZjSFBKLw">support</a> of Jerome Powell, why some 15,000 New York City nurses are on <a href="https://apple.news/Ajqr4ZytGRc-wfYZmDYNeww">strike</a>, and the newest addition to the <a href="https://apple.news/ATKPmUg2EQWK6e4YFHfvz_Q">Barbie</a> lineup.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

Powell’s stunning rebuke to Trump as DOJ launches criminal probe

<p>Federal prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. In response, Powell issued an extraordinary public rebuke. The <a href="https://apple.news/AoeM1575zTVe93-DTyj92Qw"> Wall Street Journal</a> has the latest.</p> <p>As many as 500 people have died in Iran during two weeks of protests and unrest. Jon Gambrell of the <a href="https://apple.news/A4a1wZsXCSN27mRtX9h_1IA">Associated Press</a> joins to discuss the crackdown on demonstrators and why Trump has opened the door on taking action against Tehran.</p> <p>Tens of thousands took to the streets of Minneapolis to protest the presence of ICE in the city after an officer killed local resident Renee Good. <a href="https://apple.news/ADDr40qPVQ5WxIocweHoF1w">Reuters</a> reports on how the Department of Homeland Security is sending even more agents to the state in response.</p> <p>Plus, authorities in Mississippi <a href="https://apple.news/AftLNWGWGQW2h6OQbiC3gXA">arrested</a> an individual in connection with a fire at a historic synagogue, the National Portrait Gallery <a href="https://apple.news/ALMhYkGV9QVGOx_qG_ZnBkA">updated</a> Trump&rsquo;s portrait, and the big <a href="https://apple.news/AOYVE8phHQNKqD4pJ4XWnvQ">winners</a> at this year&rsquo;s Golden Globes.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

Trump didn’t take military action against Venezuela in his first term. Here’s what changed.

<p>From<em> <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/apple-news-in-conversation/id1577591053">Apple News In Conversation</a></em>:&nbsp;The recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela has raised many questions about what&rsquo;s actually driving the Trump administration&rsquo;s aims in the region. To break down what&rsquo;s known &mdash; and unknown &mdash; about this unprecedented action, <em>Apple News In Conversation </em>host Shumita Basu talked with <a href="https://apple.news/A3IjPOcBhS9uG1kFfvns0PA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>New Yorker</em></a> staff writer Jonathan Blitzer, who has been reporting on immigration and foreign policy for years. They discuss how Venezuela became a target of the current administration, and how this tenuous situation could evolve moving forward.</p>

Another shooting sparks anger as ICE protests grow

<p>Federal agents with U.S. Customs and Border Protection shot two people in Portland, Oregon, on Thursday. <a href="https://apple.news/AMtTy14shSiOMERW1sDqQFQ">ABC News</a> has the latest. Meanwhile, Minnesota officials say they were shut out of the investigation into the killing of a woman by ICE.</p> <p>White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller usually sticks to domestic policy issues. In this week&rsquo;s <a href="https://apple.news/AEy3fSRUdRg611eDQix5Vyg">Apple News In Conversation</a>, Jonathan Blitzer of the <a href="https://apple.news/A3IjPOcBhS9uG1kFfvns0PA">New Yorker</a> discusses why Miller is wading into Trump&rsquo;s plans in Venezuela.</p> <p>In the aftermath of the killing of UnitedHealthcare&rsquo;s CEO, corporations have changed how they think about security. The <a href="https://apple.news/AkVKHR177Q2uf9j7NdNLOWQ">Wall Street Journal</a>&rsquo;s Chip Cutter joins to discuss what companies are doing to better protect executives.</p> <p>Plus, lawmakers passed an <a href="https://apple.news/AqOWgchcDSAy9hl9cbfGsPQ">extension</a> of ACA subsidies, NASA says astronauts are coming home from the ISS <a href="https://apple.news/A7ZQRaIrcR_2TGIq2ca7PZw">early</a>, and the NFL playoffs kick off with some fresh faces at <a href="https://apple.news/AjG1qCWtUR0i3oHr-f5uANw">quarterback</a>.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

A woman is shot and killed by an ICE agent. What to know.

<p>An ICE officer shot and killed a woman in Minneapolis on Wednesday. The <a href="https://apple.news/A76FTKJzyTjmk2Pz15waC3w">Minnesota Star Tribune</a>&rsquo;s Sofia Barnett explains why local and federal authorities have conflicting views of what happened.</p> <p>The White House is continuing to assert control over Venezuela&rsquo;s oil resources. <a href="https://apple.news/At1lcYRW9Q1iw4xY4xsFdWg">Bloomberg</a>&rsquo;s Kevin Crowley joins to discuss why pulling oil out of the country might be harder than expected.</span></p> <p>The federal government issued new dietary guidelines and an updated food pyramid. <a href="https://apple.news/AsjkB5pH7T7CMdwA-vc2mag">Stat</a>&rsquo;s Sarah Todd breaks down the new recommendations and how they differ from past iterations.</p> <p>Plus, Alaska&rsquo;s capital is <a href="https://apple.news/A9LHQtCsJSLiXWUU9WY5xrQ">buried</a> under snow and running out of places to shovel it, Trump is pulling out of one of the oldest climate <a href="https://apple.news/AzwSEyvfqQdK1MijNbImGXA">treaties</a>, and how some Americans are falling out of love with <a href="https://apple.news/A4Mzu-uQNQ3KNKRRudGiDLw">pizza</a>.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

Why this year’s flu season feels so much worse

<p>Health-care subsidies that millions of Americans depend on for insurance have officially expired. The <a href="https://apple.news/AIyLlruKPQAyqB1MJkK1LGQ">Washington Post</a>&rsquo;s Peter Whoriskey joins to discuss how some families are dealing with the sudden rise in costs.</p> <p>A person on the crypto-betting site Polymarket won $400,000 wagering that Nicol&aacute;s Maduro would soon be out as Venezuela&rsquo;s leader. Alexander Osipovich of The <a href="https://apple.news/AgJ76d0bCR9-kzScOLr6sgA">Wall Street Journal</a> explains why the timing of the bets might be suspicious.</p> <p>Doctors are seeing a surge of patients with serious flu-like symptoms. <a href="https://apple.news/ADBgj5iQWS-q3I-ZMotdYWQ">NBC News</a>&rsquo;s Erika Edwards breaks down why flu season is so bad this year.</p> <p>Plus, the White House left the door open to military <a href="https://apple.news/AnYHzin4EQ262-i8105QT3Q">force</a> in Greenland, Trump announced a <a href="https://apple.news/AVt5Udw3BSAGmG9tGJfiNIQ">deal</a> on Venezuelan oil, and more <a href="https://apple.news/A31SGJ0aYQX-7flQIj9EZyQ">details</a> emerged about the people killed during the operation to capture Maduro.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

Inside Maduro’s defiant first day in court

<p>Ousted Venezuelan President Nicol&aacute;s Maduro and his wife appeared in a Manhattan courtroom Monday. Eric Tucker of the <a href="https://apple.news/AczwolyTkSW2ZBxUvgk-7LQ">Associated Press</a> breaks down the charges and how the case compares with that of another deposed Latin American leader.</p> <p>New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani immediately turned to signing executive orders to kick off his term. <a href="https://apple.news/AmA_pn_qFSm2QIjpE0NZo7A">The City</a>&rsquo;s Katie Honan joins to discuss how he&rsquo;s managing his first days in office.</p> <p>Minnesota Governor Tim Walz says he will not seek a third term. The <a href="https://apple.news/AaoC0KwhCR1CQNHiycY_5bQ">Minnesota Star Tribune</a>&rsquo;s Nathaniel Minor explains how criticism over Waltz&rsquo;s handling of fraud scandals led to the decision.</p> <p>Plus, how federal health authorities are significantly <a href="https://apple.news/AXzRij3KVTmiMFfoCG4k5FA">changing</a> the childhood-vaccine schedule, a plaque <a href="https://apple.news/A3Hn521xLQBu6WyTpRUa8Wg">honoring</a> police who defended the Capitol on January 6 is nowhere to be seen, and the U.S. has a new <a href="https://apple.news/AXq1BEm5MQmOFWEP94g9HYQ">lightning</a> capital.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

What’s next after Trump vows to “run” Venezuela

<p>President Trump said the U.S. is in charge in Venezuela after American forces carried out strikes in the country and captured President Nicol&aacute;s Maduro. <a href="https://apple.news/AlLxGHKDdTNOR6yU8zt6cvg">ABC News</a> reports on big questions that remain over how the U.S. will carry out its agenda.</p> <p>Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assumed the role of interim president over the weekend. The <a href="https://apple.news/A0aAHBe5RSl6VQPtgP-SoIw">New Yorker</a>&rsquo;s Jon Lee Anderson joins to discuss why opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Mar&iacute;a Corina Machado is being sidelined.</p> <p>Secretary of State Marco Rubio will oversee the Trump administration&rsquo;s efforts in Venezuela after Maduro&rsquo;s ouster. The <a href="https://apple.news/A_mBFD5XzR12C-HuGp8VCaw">Washington Post</a> reports on the daunting task ahead of him.</p> <p>Plus, authorities <a href="https://apple.news/AZYxZDSF6SUuAloB2PXqLyg">identified</a> all of the victims in a deadly fire at a Swiss ski resort, the CDC said flu cases <a href="https://apple.news/AYdfEpYg8SC6Fk_68u1ejbw">spiked</a> in the U.S. in December, and the newest artistic <a href="https://apple.news/AO3t_nofHSyKGGpLPIo-ntA">creations</a> entering the public domain in 2026.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

Rebroadcast: The secret to finding joy in running

<p>From<em> <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/apple-news-in-conversation/id1577591053">Apple News In Conversation</a></em>: <em>This is an episode from our archives.</em></p> <p>Martinus Evans did not have an easy start to running. Weighing over 300 pounds, he set out to finish a marathon after a doctor told him to &ldquo;lose weight or die.&rdquo; He writes about his running journey in his book, <a href="https://books.apple.com/us/book/slow-af-run-club/id6443367648" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Slow AF Run Club: The Ultimate Guide for Anyone Who Wants to Run</em></a>. In this week&rsquo;s episode of <em>Apple News In Conversation</em>, Evans talks with host Shumita Basu about the lessons he&rsquo;s learned from being a &ldquo;back-of-the-packer.&rdquo;</p>

Rebroadcast: An FBI agent went undercover in America’s extremist groups. Here’s what he learned.

<p></p> <p><em>This episode from our <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/apple-news-in-conversation/id1577591053">Apple News In Conversation</a> archives is our most-listened-to interview of the year. It was originally published in June 2025.</em></p> <p>In his 22-year career in the FBI, undercover agent Scott Payne infiltrated some of the most dangerous criminal and extremist groups in America, from a motorcycle gang called the Outlaws to a white-supremacist group known as the Base. Payne shares his firsthand case accounts of gathering intelligence and stopping illegal activity in his memoir, <a href="https://books.apple.com/us/book/code-name-pale-horse/id6469529888" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Code Name: Pale Horse; How I Went Undercover to Expose America&rsquo;s Nazis</em></a><em>. </em>His story is also featured on the latest season of the <em>Slate</em> podcast <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-hot-hate-agent-pale-horse/id1591461032" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>White Hot Hate</em></a>. Payne sat down with <em>Apple News In Conversation</em> host Shumita Basu to talk about some of his most harrowing moments on the job and the growing threat of extremism in the U.S.</p>

What Trump’s tariffs mean for holiday shopping

<p>It&rsquo;s the first holiday season since President Trump&rsquo;s tariffs came into effect. <a href="https://apple.news/AMsoMX2ccTdmtxlNN7LWekg">NBC</a>&rsquo;s Kayla Steinberg explains why some shoppers received a big surprise on their online orders.</p> <p>Congress left Washington for the holidays after one of the least productive years in modern history. <a href="https://apple.news/Aub6wcwq0TbewQeKw1xpBtA">NPR</a>&rsquo;s Barbara Sprunt breaks down the factors that have caused the stagnation.</p> <p>Former ICE officials say families are being detained for prolonged periods of time to speed up deportations. Anna Flagg of the <a href="https://apple.news/A7hFWEYb7R5GUHSF6H8lLTw">Marshall Project</a> joins to discuss how Trump administration policies have swept thousands of children into custody.</p> <p>Plus, the State Department <a href="https://apple.news/Ade9-mzf-TgOg93LYRhsf_w">recalled</a> more than two dozen diplomats from around the world, tricky weather will <a href="https://apple.news/AEFM2GbXcQr2u1jaJYVX8bA">complicate</a> travel during the holidays, and how to <a href="https://apple.news/AGnGZ_V5kQzmiO5S3PFST6A">avoid</a> being singled out by the TSA.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Gideon Resnick.</p>

Why the Epstein files raised more questions than answers

<p>The Department of Justice released a trove of heavily redacted documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. <a href="https://apple.news/Ajqy2g8_pQC2xTFkEA5989w">The Atlantic</a>&rsquo;s Charlie Warzel explains why they left many people unsatisfied.</p> <p>The U.S. military pursued a third oil tanker near Venezuela after taking previous action against two other ships. Benoit Faucon of the <a href="https://apple.news/AUlQ11ridR3iM5v8ztYOPRA">Wall Street Journal</a> breaks down the latest escalation in the region.</p> <p>Some conservatives say they will support a run by Vice President JD Vance in the 2028 presidential election if he enters the race. Jonathan Cooper with the <a href="https://apple.news/A-sdK12aHTUeicCwKGIBPcw">Associated Press</a> joins to discuss how one organization is already laying the groundwork for a potential Vance campaign.</p> <p>Plus, why flood-infrastructure grants were held up as Washington state dealt with record <a href="https://apple.news/A8FbVNA4DSFWj-wsnqKGPGQ">rainfall</a>, how a power outage left robotaxis <a href="https://apple.news/Agg8NiDkvRpywy3n-GgIJwQ">stranded</a>, and the blue pit viper that <a href="https://apple.news/AzSUabgk8QbmNYOt8Sorjjw">supercharged</a> the box office.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Gideon Resnick.</p>

The best music, movies, and TV of 2025

<p>From <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/apple-news-in-conversation/id1577591053?i=1000741910533"><em>Apple News In Conversation</em></a>: The end of the year is a moment to reflect on the art and culture that stood out. <em>Apple News In Conversation </em>host Shumita Basu sat down with two culture critics &mdash; Sam Sanders, the host of <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sam-sanders-show/id1771084688" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>The Sam Sanders Show</em></a> on KCRW, and Anne Helen Petersen, creator of the podcast and newsletter <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-study-podcast/id1718662839" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Culture Study</em></a> &mdash; to break down their top releases. They talk about the music, film, and TV they loved most in 2025. Plus, our listeners share their own picks for this year&rsquo;s can&rsquo;t-miss shows and albums.</p>

What to know about the suspected Brown University shooter

<p>Police say the man suspected of carrying out the deadly mass shooting at Brown University is dead. <a href="https://apple.news/A_qDFSG2SSmKypAC733dIXA">NBC News</a> reports on how he is also suspected of the killing of a professor at MIT.</p> <p>A Russian envoy is set to meet with U.S. officials over the weekend in Miami for talks on ending the war in Ukraine. The <a href="https://apple.news/Anx_4KI6ZSIWLgYOVRBmPDQ">Wall Street Journal</a>&rsquo;s Max Colchester explains why many European leaders are now preparing their citizens for a potential conflict with Russia.</p> <p>Trump has issued more executive orders in 2025 than his entire first term. Emily Davies of the <a href="https://apple.news/A88iqxy2UTNm84FnNfleLsA">Washington Post</a> joins to discuss how the president has turned to executive orders as policy and communications tools.</p> <p>Plus, the Kennedy Center might soon be <a href="https://apple.news/AizUF-feDTo2p5p1bieC0fw">renamed</a>, the Trump administration says it&rsquo;s <a href="https://apple.news/A0aNlO37MQ1SzhHJnBJ1Jqg">cutting</a> funding of transgender care for minors, and a look back at some of the <a href="https://apple.news/AWXUG9-KaRUOMpXNTYTPSTQ">best</a> movies, music, and TV from the past year.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Gideon Resnick.</p>

Trump says he’s fixing the economy. Voters are still unhappy.

<p>In a prime-time address, President Trump said the economy has vastly improved since he took office. The <a href="https://apple.news/AbyylV8OASbGza2yuX5o_jw">Washington Post</a>&rsquo;s  Jacob Bogage joins to discuss why everyday Americans don&rsquo;t feel the same way.</p> <p>Trump wants a former county clerk who was convicted of tampering with voting machines freed from prison. Yvonne Wingett Sanchez of <a href="https://apple.news/A537nHl50RQyibQeUELp__A">The Atlantic</a> explains why that&rsquo;s unlikely.</p> <p>A statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee in Emancipation Hall in Washington, D.C, has been replaced by one of civil-rights hero Barbara Rose Johns. <a href="https://apple.news/AgQoHlptDRC-gHcZtIPtdEw">NPR</a>&rsquo;s Rachel Treisman tells her story.</p> <p>Plus, why four Republicans <a href="https://apple.news/AGTQpIAE0SHKoAt7CcfKgQA">defied</a> House Speaker Mike Johnson to force a vote on ACA subsides, NASA has a new <a href="https://apple.news/ANM9j1fUYRy6fkftj7jdm6Q">administrator</a> after a yearlong confirmation process, and the Oscars are <a href="https://apple.news/Ac3mErUxlTZGO1jfSdjk3UA">headed</a> exclusively to YouTube.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Gideon Resnick.</p>

Why Republicans are struggling to unify on health care

<p>House Republican leadership says there will be no vote on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies that are set to expire. <a href="https://apple.news/AXFR9SXLoT4yI3u8zPiF2_Q">Politico</a>&rsquo;s Jordain Carney joins to discuss why the GOP hasn&rsquo;t been able to rally behind a health-care strategy.</p> <p>Funeral services for some of the Bondi Beach victims were held in Sydney, and an alleged gunman has been <a href="https://apple.news/AwZfZ7oo5TKyCcXeflyt6eA">charged</a> with 59 offenses. The <a href="https://apple.news/AWjxHwqHMQT2fCFeEDrY0fg">Washington Post</a> reports on why the black flag of ISIS keeps showing up at scenes of immense violence.</p> <p>Authorities in Rhode Island released a new image and video of a person of interest in the Brown University shooting. Jennifer McDermott of the <a href="https://apple.news/AJjU78eV9RpCUY_z4HHLw5g">Associated Press</a> details why some Providence residents are frustrated with the investigation.</p> <p>Plus, officials in Los Angeles officially filed <a href="https://apple.news/A-uXc-FvFTYuj0khnHfzAXA">charges</a> in the killing of Rob and Michele Singer Reiner, the Department of Defense says it won&rsquo;t publicly <a href="https://apple.news/AHNX3ECNCSd-EckU9oD6LeA">release</a> the video of a controversial boat strike, and why more people are <a href="https://apple.news/AyURvojQ1SLSCr4QjdxS4Rw">listening</a> to Christmas music for longer periods of time.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Gideon Resnick.</p>

Rob Reiner’s impact on American politics and culture

<p>Authorities in Los Angeles will soon consider charges in the killing of iconic film director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer. <a href="https://apple.news/AW0eECVRuTYuZ3QX8xfIw7Q">Politico</a> reports on Reiner&rsquo;s life as a political activist.</p> <p>Jimmy Lai, a major pro-democracy leader in Hong Kong, was convicted of collusion and sedition. <a href="https://apple.news/AUtd--UtESsq7D2y74xGJiA">Hong Kong Free Press</a> editor Tom Grundy breaks down the case and its implications.</p> <p>An investigation revealed how major dollar-store chains routinely overcharge customers. <a href="https://apple.news/AAPcZjsB7RO26ocD-j-0M3A">The Guardian</a>&rsquo;s Jocelyn Zuckerman explains how shelf prices don&rsquo;t always match what shows up at the register.</p> <p>Plus, a JetBlue flight narrowly <a href="https://apple.news/AIvn1ylpbTVyIaGz3eh92tg">averted</a> a collision with a U.S. military plane, how the victims of the Brown University shooting are being <a href="https://apple.news/AH6XA9vc9RNquANdIFmnbBw">remembered</a>, and why the man being <a href="https://apple.news/AyrSisrA-TfWR7IXbHZcE2g">hailed</a> as a hero for disarming a shooter in the Bondi Beach attack says he&rsquo;d do it all again.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Gideon Resnick.</p>

How a mass shooting shook Australia’s Jewish community

<p>Australians are in shock after two gunmen opened fire at Bondi Beach in Sydney, killing at least 15 people. <a href="https://apple.news/AmmGDZPpPT0yh0ium6SncdA">CBS News</a> reports that the suspects are a father and son.</p> <p>Talks over ending the war between Russia and Ukraine accelerated over the weekend. The <a href="https://apple.news/AEp7LMHd3RhKOI02zn-busA">Wall Street Journal</a>&rsquo;s Laurence Norman details why big differences remain for both sides.</p> <p>Authorities in Rhode Island are still searching for a suspect in the deadly mass shooting on the campus of Brown University. The <a href="https://apple.news/AO79ID4dtR6-bmKBeMzP5vQ">Washington Post</a> reports that the initial person of interest has been released.</p> <p>Plus, more rain is on the way as Washington state battles severe <a href="https://apple.news/A1i7IWC83QeG-PLajoSdEgQ">flooding</a>, the surprising <a href="https://apple.news/Ah6ST-MmDTiec8KYMRVa1ZA">return</a> of a 44-year-old NFL quarterback, and legendary actor Dick Van Dyke&rsquo;s <a href="https://apple.news/Anqx-XARcRWSPoHKfLmCTIw">message</a> on his 100th birthday.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Gideon Resnick.</p>

How RFK Jr.’s tumultuous past has shaped his convictions

<p>From <em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/apple-news-in-conversation/id1577591053">Apple News In Conversation</a></em>:&nbsp;Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is one of the most influential &mdash; and controversial &mdash; figures in American public health. And some of the changes he&rsquo;s pushing, especially around vaccines, have drawn sharp criticism and resistance from many scientific experts. In a recent <a href="https://apple.news/AWoElVDRST3KLOvZt3IkG-Q" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Atlantic</em></a> profile, staff writer Michael Scherer examined how Kennedy&rsquo;s background, including immense privilege and trauma, has shaped the perspective he now brings to his role at HHS. Scherer interviewed and traveled with Kennedy to report his piece. He sat down with <em>Apple News In Conversation</em> host Shumita Basu to discuss Kennedy&rsquo;s worldview and what it could mean for federal public-health policy.</p>

Inside the Nobel Peace Prize winner’s alliance with Trump

<p>Venezuela&rsquo;s opposition leader made a daring escape to Oslo shortly after the Nobel Peace Prize award ceremony. The <a href="https://apple.news/AON6tcEzHQbK1ZQuaRcm68g">Wall Street Journal</a>&rsquo;s Vera Bergengruen details the perilous journey.</p> <p>Lawmakers in the Senate failed to pass separate bills aimed at easing health-insurance costs that are set to skyrocket at the end of the year. <a href="https://apple.news/AaiwbKcNfRmaUylDB4zSevw">Axios</a> reports on what happens next.</p> <p>The Atlantic&rsquo;s Michael Scherer has spent hours talking to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In this week&rsquo;s <a href="https://apple.news/AZUGN4ohHR1Cv5411DepR1w">Apple News In Conversation</a>, Scherer explores how the health secretary&rsquo;s past shaped who he is today.</p> <p>Plus, Indiana Republicans <a href="https://apple.news/AW-ahhu8gTMWmwzWmAf5N8Q">rejected</a> Trump&rsquo;s redistricting efforts, Kilmar Abrego Garcia was <a href="https://apple.news/AjHB7m9sBQDmZko0Lz2QjHA">released</a> from immigration detention, and Mickey Mouse is formally entering the <a href="https://apple.news/AKRmOdEjpRaisgepC2m3cIg">AI</a> world.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

Why the U.S. just seized a massive oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast

<p>The U.S. seized a Venezuelan oil tanker, in an escalation in tensions between Caracas and Washington. <a href="https://apple.news/A-T725clQQpu6baaDODOnbA">Bloomberg</a>&rsquo;s Eric Martin explains how the move further ramps up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicol&aacute;s Maduro.</p> <p>Indiana is the latest state in the spotlight over redistricting, as lawmakers there prepare to vote on a new congressional map requested by President Trump. <a href="https://apple.news/A_RjaDH3bRZO93AgiDUxQEw">Indianapolis Star</a> reporter Kayla Dwyer joins to discuss why the measure is dividing Republicans in the state.</p> <p>A nationwide initiative called Vision Zero was supposed to stop pedestrian traffic deaths. Rachel Weiner of the <a href="https://apple.news/AelKzJ4upRqiHKlQMEP8ybg">Washington Post</a> details why it didn&rsquo;t work.</p> <p>Plus, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates for the third <a href="https://apple.news/AkvCKwk-lRGmwx4q4A-gU9g">consecutive</a> time, the U.S. might require visa applicants to show their social-media <a href="https://apple.news/A-f4LiN6OS9iD2o3AfNFbBg">history</a>, and how In-N-Out Burger entered the <a href="https://apple.news/ARb33Jt3nQdmUeAkVBpkW1w">“6-7”</a> conversation.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

The world’s first teen social-media ban is here. Could the U.S. be next?

<p>Australia&rsquo;s social-media ban for under-16s takes effect today. <a href="https://apple.news/AS2oEKnl_SgmQZ-eCUhGxTA">NBC News</a> reports on how the law is dividing Australians between those who see it as an overreach and those who view it as necessary protection.</p> <p>The Federal Reserve is expected to make another rate cut today despite opposition from some members of its board. The <a href="https://apple.news/A6Q1--fGQQuiEhldsNoniqw">Wall Street Journal</a>&rsquo;s Nick Timiraos explains how both internal and external pressures are shaping the decision.</p> <p>President Trump has accused political foes of mortgage fraud for claiming more than one primary residence. <a href="https://apple.news/Af9xzZhyNSJiHFHaujaOuVw">ProPublica</a>&rsquo;s Justin Elliott breaks down how Trump himself has engaged in the same behavior.</p> <p>Plus, Miami elected a <a href="https://apple.news/A8HslIQcwRROiY7wIukeFYg">Democratic mayor</a> for the first time in nearly 30 years, why this year&rsquo;s Nobel Peace Prize recipient will not <a href="https://apple.news/Ast6nyY4LTAi3rw8qQS7lEA">receive</a> the award in person, and Denmark is to end letter <a href="https://apple.news/AbvS1m6TlRhywXjWq5t_L1g">delivery</a> after four centuries.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

The affordability problem Trump can’t escape

<p>President Trump used to talk about the economy a lot more. As his poll numbers slip, he might have to again. Josh Dawsey, reporter at the <a href="https://apple.news/AGiieN7eYRoKWloX2xt0zlg">Wall Street Journal</a>, explains.</p> <p>Over four years of war with Ukraine, Russia has been able to keep raising an army to fight. Ekaterina Bodyagina, a reporter for <a href="https://apple.news/AncNK7x0tTduD3S5e-hDh9A">Politico</a>, joins to discuss how Russia has sustained such a relentless force.</p> <p>Paramount launched a hostile bid for Warner Bros. after losing out to Netflix in acquiring the historic studio. <a href="https://apple.news/AtzFbYq6MRHmwqZGayNdZzQ">NPR</a> reports on why Paramount thinks its bid is better for Warner Bros. and consumers.</p> <p>Plus, one of Trump&rsquo;s handpicked U.S. attorneys <a href="https://apple.news/AqL7ik08fTjeJwkXxUPjNjQ">resigned</a>, why Congress may <a href="https://apple.news/AVytY1ULcRs2vAJLn1hEVwA">withhold</a> a portion of the Pentagon&rsquo;s travel budget, and how the Louvre&rsquo;s bad year just got a little <a href="https://apple.news/AbVUk8VANQfi8ylUbTyxD9w">worse</a>.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>

Inside the blockbuster Hollywood deal that could upend streaming

<p>Netflix announced it is acquiring Warner Brothers. <a href="https://apple.news/Ak1molISkQ4GGq7cNQtPOSw">Los Angeles Times</a> reporter Meg James details how the deal could upend the movie business in unprecedented ways. This morning, <a href="https://apple.news/ABS7puK53TqW6IK8jxjNriA">CNBC</a> reports that Paramount has launched its own hostile bid.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span></p> <p>President Trump released his strategy on national security, offering a glimpse into the administration&rsquo;s evolving foreign policy. <a href="https://apple.news/AEC2mNb-jRiuyRFBF7hQHKw">Bloomberg</a> reports the document codifies a number of norm-shattering policies that condemn allies, traditional enemies and addresses a number of domestic issues.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span></p> <p>The Supreme Court weighs arguments today over whether Trump has the authority to to fire certain government regulators. <a href="https://apple.news/AqpMNKEidQtiewR8h5WRM7Q">The Washington Post&rsquo;s</a> Justin Jouvenal joins to discuss the ramifications of the court&rsquo;s decision on regulatory independence and Trump&rsquo;s battle gains the federal workforce.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span></p> <p>Plus, the U.S. <a href="https://apple.news/A-VSSaWaiRWCGt56PmuogxA">condemned</a> the death of a Venezuelan opposition figure, why Trump is <a href="https://apple.news/APs13iCBPTViaRCF0BcruuA">attacking</a> a Democrat he just pardoned, and the dramatic <a href="https://apple.news/Anv1WvlSQTYSyV1R1kZKx5A">unveiling</a> of this year&rsquo;s college football playoff bracket.</p> <p>Today&rsquo;s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.</p>