Keeping up with what’s happening in the world can feel like a lot sometimes. There’s so much information out there, and it’s hard to know what to pay attention to. But good news: podcasts make it easy to get your daily dose of current events. You can listen while you’re commuting, doing chores, or just relaxing. With so many choices, finding the best daily news podcasts can be tricky. We’ve put together a list of 15 top options that deliver clear, important news every day. This list has something for everyone, whether you like a quick overview or a deeper dive into specific topics.
Key Takeaways
- Podcasts offer a convenient way to stay informed on daily news.
- There are many types of news podcasts, from quick summaries to detailed discussions.
- Some podcasts focus on specific regions, like American news, while others cover global events.
- You can find podcasts that lean right, left, or stay neutral.
- Many of the top news podcasts are available for free on popular platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
1: The Daily
Okay, so if you’re even remotely into podcasts, you’ve probably heard of The Daily. It’s kind of a big deal. Produced by The New York Times, this podcast really digs into one or two of the most important news stories each day. I mean, who hasn’t heard of The New York Times, right?
What sets The Daily apart? Well, it’s not just about reading headlines. They bring in Times journalists to share their insights and experiences. It’s like getting the inside scoop straight from the source. The episodes usually drop around 6 AM on weekdays, so you can catch up on your commute. It’s a pretty solid way to start the day, honestly.
I find that the hosts, Michael Barbaro, Natalie Kitroeff, and Rachel Abrams, do a great job of making complex issues understandable. They don’t dumb it down, but they also don’t leave you feeling lost in jargon. It’s a nice balance.
- Concise coverage of American news.
- Episodes are uploaded by 6am every weekday.
- Features interviews with Times journalists.
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2: NPR News Now
NPR News Now is a great way to stay informed if you’re short on time. It delivers the day’s biggest stories in quick, five-minute updates. Updated hourly, it keeps you in the loop on breaking news. The reporting is factual and sticks to the essentials. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a fast news update.
This podcast is perfect for staying current on both American and international happenings, from politics to natural disasters. It’s a concise way to get your daily dose of news.
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3: What Next
“What Next,” presented by Slate, offers a concentrated examination of the day’s most significant story. Hosted by Mary Harris, this podcast distinguishes itself through its in-depth analysis and interviews, providing listeners with a more profound understanding of current events. It’s not just about knowing what happened, but understanding why it matters. The podcast typically runs for about 20-30 minutes, making it a manageable listen for those seeking substance without a huge time commitment.
“What Next” often explores topics that are overlooked by mainstream news outlets, offering a fresh perspective on complex issues. It’s a great way to stay informed and challenge your own assumptions.
Here’s what makes “What Next” stand out:
- In-depth Analysis: The podcast goes beyond surface-level reporting, providing context and background information.
- Expert Interviews: Mary Harris interviews experts and stakeholders to offer diverse perspectives.
- Focus on a Single Story: Each episode focuses on one major news event, allowing for a more thorough exploration.
If you’re looking for a podcast that will make you think, consider What Next. It’s a smart and engaging way to stay informed.
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4: The Economist Podcasts
If you’re already reading The Economist, you might like their podcasts too. It’s like getting more of what you already enjoy, but in audio form. The podcast dives deeper into current events, offering a global perspective.
It’s cool because you get different reporters hosting, so you get a well-rounded view of the news. They cover stories from all over, not just the US. It’s a good way to stay informed about what’s happening around the world. If you are looking for business stories, this podcast has you covered.
It’s a solid choice if you want something that’s both informative and insightful, without being too overwhelming. It’s like having a smart friend explain the news to you.
Here’s what you can expect:
- In-depth analysis of global events
- Insights from various reporters
- A focus on international news
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5: Morning Joe
Morning Joe, hosted by Joe Scarborough, Mika Brzezinski, and Willie Geist, brings the energy of cable news to your podcast feed. It’s like tuning into the Morning Joe show but without having to actually turn on the TV.
The podcast dives deep into American politics, dissecting the day’s headlines with a focus on elections, polls, and debates. It’s a mix of facts and opinions, often featuring guests from reporters to influencers, adding different perspectives to the conversation.
Here’s what you can expect:
- In-depth political discussions
- Interviews with politicians and newsmakers
- A conversational style that blends news with informal banter
If you’re looking for an insider’s take on American politics, this podcast might be for you. It’s tailored for those who want to stay informed and maybe even get a little fired up about the day’s events. It’s a good way to get your daily political news fix.
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6: The NewsWorthy
Staying up-to-date with current events can feel like a chore, but The NewsWorthy aims to change that. Hosted by Erica Mandy, this podcast delivers the day’s news in about 10 minutes. It’s designed for people who want to stay informed but don’t have a lot of time.
The NewsWorthy breaks down stories from various sectors, including politics, technology, and entertainment. It’s a quick and easy way to get your daily dose of news without feeling overwhelmed. The podcast prides itself on being fair and fun, making it a refreshing alternative to more serious news programs. It’s like getting your news from a friend who always knows what’s going on, but doesn’t bore you with the details.
I find it’s a great way to start the day, especially when I’m short on time. It gives me a good overview of what’s happening without getting bogged down in the details. Plus, the host has a really engaging style that makes the news feel less like a lecture and more like a conversation.
Here’s what makes The NewsWorthy stand out:
- Concise delivery: Episodes are short and to the point.
- Wide range of topics: Covers news from different areas.
- Neutral perspective: Aims to present the news fairly.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to stay informed, daily news podcast The NewsWorthy is worth checking out.
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7: Today Explained
Okay, so “Today, Explained” is Vox’s attempt at making the news, well, less confusing. It’s a daily podcast, and they really try to break things down. I think the goal is to give you the important stuff without making your brain hurt. It’s hosted by Sean Rameswaram and Noel King, who try to guide you through the day’s big stories.
It’s one of those podcasts that tries to give you the facts without a lot of extra stuff. They have fact-checkers, which is a nice touch, and they focus a lot on American politics, but they also cover important world events. If you want something that’s pretty straightforward, this might be it.
It’s good for people who want to understand the news but don’t have a ton of time. They try to explain the background and what might happen next. It’s not super flashy, but it gets the job done. If you are looking for unbiased news, this might be a good option.
Here are some things that make it stand out:
- Daily episodes that are easy to digest.
- Focus on explaining the “why” behind the headlines.
- Dedicated fact-checking to ensure accuracy.
I think it’s a solid choice if you want to stay informed without getting overwhelmed. It’s not my personal favorite, but I can see why a lot of people like it. It’s reliable and explains the day’s news in a way that’s pretty easy to follow.
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8: Global News Podcast
This podcast from the BBC is a solid choice if you want to stay informed about world politics without feeling like it’s a chore. It really gets into the big stories, like the pandemic, what’s happening in the U.S., and the climate situation.
Basically, it’s a reliable source that keeps things short and to the point. You can expect coverage of everything from the cost of living crisis to climate change.
It’s released twice on weekdays and once on weekends, so you get regular updates on how things are developing around the world. Each episode gives you stats, explanations, and reports from people on the ground, plus interviews with important people.
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9: The Daily Beans
This podcast is women-owned and operated, which is pretty cool. Hosted by Dana Goldberg, it’s known for its progressive liberal perspective on U.S. political news. She doesn’t hold back, offering her opinions alongside the facts, and often has interesting guests. It’s definitely a podcast for those who like their news with a strong point of view.
Fans appreciate the unfiltered discussions and interviews, especially those with figures like Michael Cohen. There’s a certain energy to it that keeps things interesting. If you’re looking for something that isn’t afraid to speak its mind, The Daily Beans might be up your alley.
It’s a podcast that doesn’t shy away from controversy, which can be refreshing in a world of carefully curated news. Goldberg’s approach is to be direct and honest, even if it means ruffling some feathers.
Here are a few things that stand out:
- Uncensored discussions
- Progressive viewpoint
- Interviews with cultural figures
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10: Daily Tech News Show
Want to stay informed about the ever-changing world of technology? The Daily Tech News Show might be just what you need. It keeps you updated on the latest happenings in cryptocurrency, social media, and AI.
Technology’s influence on society and the economy is undeniable. Staying informed about tech advancements is more important than ever. Tom and Sarah provide insights into tech security, new products, and the metaverse.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Coverage of the latest tech news.
- Insights into the security of current technologies.
- Updates on upcoming products.
- Discussions about the development of the Metaverse.
This podcast is great for anyone who wants to stay ahead of the curve in the tech world. It offers a comprehensive look at the latest trends and developments, making it easy to understand complex topics.
It’s a solid choice for up-to-date technology news.
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11: Start Here
“Start Here” from ABC News is a concise daily news podcast that gets straight to the point. It’s designed for people who want to stay informed but don’t have a ton of time. I find it useful when I’m rushing in the morning and need a quick update.
The podcast typically runs for about 20 minutes, offering a focused look at the day’s top stories. They usually cover a few key issues, providing enough detail to keep you in the loop without overwhelming you. It’s a good option if you’re looking to start your podcast listening habit.
What I appreciate most is their ability to break down complex topics into easy-to-understand segments. It’s not just about reporting the news; it’s about explaining why it matters. This makes it a great choice for anyone who wants to go beyond the headlines.
Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect:
- Format: Short, focused segments on top news stories.
- Length: Around 20 minutes per episode.
- Frequency: Daily, Monday through Friday.
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12: The Gist
I’ve been listening to The Gist for a while now, and it’s one of those podcasts that consistently makes me think. Hosted by Mike Pesca, it’s been around for over seven years, making it one of the longest-running daily news podcasts out there. What sets it apart is its willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. Pesca doesn’t shy away from critiquing ideas from across the political spectrum, which is refreshing in today’s polarized media landscape.
It’s not just about politics, though. The Gist covers a range of topics, from breaking news to sports and entertainment. Each episode is around 30 minutes, which is perfect for my commute. It’s a great way to stay informed without feeling like you’re stuck in an echo chamber. If you’re looking for a podcast that offers thoughtful and unpredictable analysis, The Gist is worth checking out.
The Gist is a podcast that offers a unique perspective on current events. It’s not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom and provides listeners with a more nuanced understanding of the world around them.
Here are a few reasons why I enjoy The Gist:
- It challenges my own assumptions.
- It covers a wide range of topics.
- The host is engaging and knowledgeable.
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13: The Globalist
The Globalist is Monocle Magazine’s flagship podcast, focusing on international news. It’s a solid choice if you want a daily rundown of what’s making headlines around the world. Each weekday, Monday to Friday, they put out about an hour’s worth of coverage.
It’s a good way to stay informed, especially if you’re interested in European headlines and current affairs. They also cover business stories, so it’s not just politics. The podcast features some of the publication’s best writers, which is a plus.
It’s a pretty straightforward way to get your daily dose of international news without having to dig through a bunch of different sources. If you’re short on time but still want to know what’s going on globally, this could be a good fit.
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14: The Brief
The Brief, brought to you by Time Magazine, is designed for those who want information without the fluff. It focuses primarily on American news but also covers global conflicts. If you’re looking for a quick and informative recap of the day’s news, this might be a good choice.
The podcast prides itself on delivering information that is primarily focused on America, while also honing in on wider conflicts. It’s a reliable and informative all-rounder that specializes in keeping things concise, covering topics from American politics to the ongoing climate crisis.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Concise summaries: Episodes are short, perfect for busy people.
- Focus on key issues: They cut through the noise to deliver what matters.
- American and global perspectives: You get a mix of domestic and international news.
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15: Breaking Battlegrounds
Breaking Battlegrounds offers a deep look into the political landscape, focusing on key races and policy debates. It aims to provide listeners with a balanced perspective, featuring interviews with strategists and candidates from both sides of the aisle. The podcast tries to cut through the noise and offer clear analysis, which is something I appreciate. It’s not always easy to find unbiased political coverage, but this podcast seems to make a real effort. I find myself tuning in when I want to understand the details of a particular political issue or race. It’s a good way to stay informed without getting overwhelmed by partisan rhetoric. If you are looking for political podcasts, this might be the one for you.
The podcast’s focus on specific races and policy debates makes it a valuable resource for anyone trying to stay informed about the current political climate. It’s a good way to get beyond the headlines and understand the nuances of the issues at stake.
Here are some things I like about it:
- In-depth analysis of political races
- Interviews with strategists and candidates
- Balanced perspective
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Conclusion
So, there you have it. We’ve gone through a bunch of daily news podcasts, and hopefully, you found some new ones to check out. It’s pretty clear that podcasts are a great way to stay on top of what’s happening in the world, whether you like a quick summary or something more in-depth. There are so many choices out there, so you can definitely find a podcast that fits what you’re looking for. Just pick one, hit play, and you’ll be caught up in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I listen to daily news through podcasts?
Podcasts are super easy to get into! You can listen to them on your phone, tablet, computer, or any smart device. Just make sure you have an internet connection to play them. Most people use apps like Spotify or Apple Podcasts to find and listen to their favorite shows.
Is “The Daily” podcast free to listen to?
Yes, “The Daily” is totally free! You can find it on popular podcast apps like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can listen to new episodes every weekday, and all their past episodes are also available for free.
Who typically listens to “The Daily” podcast?
Lots of different people listen to “The Daily”! It’s popular with folks who want quick, clear updates on current events. The audience is pretty evenly split between men and women, and the average listener is around 58 years old.
What’s the best app for listening to news podcasts?
There are many great apps for listening to news podcasts. Spotify and Apple Podcasts are two of the most popular because they have tons of different shows. If you have an iPhone, Apple Podcasts is built right in. Spotify works on both iPhones and Android phones. You can use Spotify for free, but if you don’t want ads, you’ll need to pay for a premium account.
How do I choose the best daily news podcast for me?
When picking a news podcast, think about what you care about most. Do you want a quick summary of the day’s headlines, or do you prefer a deep dive into one big story? Also, consider the podcast’s point of view. Some are more neutral, while others might lean a certain way politically. Our list has a mix, so you can find one that fits your style.
Do daily news podcasts usually provide transcripts or show notes?
Yes, many daily news podcasts offer transcripts or show notes. These are written versions of what’s said in the episode. They can be really helpful if you want to read along, quickly find a specific piece of information, or if you prefer reading over listening. Check the podcast’s website or the episode description in your podcast app to see if they offer these.
