12 Podcasts That Will Keep You On Top Of All The Latest Headlines

By Rose Wythe

June 8, 2020

It's important to be aware of what's going on in the world, especially in these uncertain and historic times. And while you may watch the news on TV, podcasts are also a great way to stay "in the know."

From the pandemic, to the protests, to the upcoming election and everything in between, this year has been full of world-changing events, and there are many great podcasts to listen to stay updated from news platforms across the board.

Take a look below at just some of the podcasts that will keep you on top of all the latest headlines, and you can listen to them all on iHeartRadio.

1. The Daily Zeitgeist

Jack O’Brien and Miles Gray co-host The Daily Zeitgeist, sorting through current events and stories driving the headlines, to help you find the signal in the noise.

2. News O'Clock

Get the good, the bad, and the “wait, what???” of everything that's been happening online and IRL each day with News O'Clock. Hosted by Hayes Brown and Casey Rackham, dropping every weekday evening.

3. Next Question with Katie Couric

Katie Couric has questions. And on her show, Next Question with Katie Couric, she’s determined to find answers—with a little help from the most captivating personalities in news, politics, and pop culture. Join the award-winning journalist as she explores the people, movements, and issues changing our lives and redefining our world.

4. The Daily

This is what the news should sound like. The biggest stories of our time, told by the best journalists in the world. The Daily is hosted by Michael Barbaro.

5. Up First

NPR's Up First is the news you need to start your day. The three biggest stories of the day, with reporting and analysis from NPR News — in 10 minutes. Available weekdays by 6 a.m. ET, with hosts Rachel Martin, Noel King, David Greene and Steve Inskeep. Now available on Saturdays by 8 a.m. ET, with hosts Lulu Garcia-Navarro and Scott Simon.

6. What Next

The problem with the news right now? It’s everywhere. And each day, it can feel like we’re all just mindlessly scrolling. This short daily show is here to help you make sense of things. When the news feels overwhelming, What Next is here to help you answer: What next? Look for new episodes every weekday morning.

7. What A Day

What A Day cuts through all the chaos and crimes to help you understand what matters and how you can fix it—all in just 15 minutes. Comedian Akilah Hughes and reporter Gideon Resnick break down the biggest news of the day, share important stories you may have missed, and show you what “Fox & Friends” would sound like if it were hosted by two people whose parents read to them as children. New episodes Monday through Friday at 5 a.m. EST.

8. Today, Explained

News comes at you fast. Listen to Today, Explained at the end of your day to understand it. With new episodes Monday to Friday, Today, Explained is hosted by Sean Rameswaram and features the finest reporters from the Vox Media Podcast Network and beyond.

9. Pod Save The People

On Pod Save The People, organizer and activist DeRay Mckesson explores news, culture, social justice, and politics with analysis from fellow activists Brittany Packnett and Sam Sinyangwe and writer Dr. Clint Smith III. DeRay also dives in deep with experts, influencers, and diverse local and national leaders to better understand the issues. New episodes every Tuesday.

10. Pod Save America

Four former aides to President Obama—Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer and Tommy Vietor—are joined by journalists, politicians, activists, and more for a no-b******t conversation about politics on Pod Save America. They cut through the noise to break down the week’s news, and help people figure out what matters and how they can help. Text them questions and comments: (323) 405-9944. New episodes Mondays and Thursdays.

11. Post Reports

Post Reports is the daily podcast from The Washington Post. Unparalleled reporting. Expert insight. Clear analysis. Everything you’ve come to expect from the newsroom of The Post. For your ears. Martine Powers is your host, asking the questions you didn’t know you wanted answered. Published weekdays by 5 p.m. Eastern time.

12. Start Here

Start Here is a straightforward look at the day's top news in 20 minutes. Powered by ABC News. Hosted by Brad Mielke.

Photo: Getty Images

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