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GeezerVison is showing www.npr.org — NPR - Breaking News, Analysis, Music, Arts & Podcasts

NPR - Breaking News, Analysis, Music, Arts & Podcasts Top stories in the U.S. and world news, politics, health, science, business, music, arts and culture. Nonprofit journalism with a mission. This is NPR.

NPR - Breaking News, Analysis, Music, Arts & Podcasts

Swing Shift

Following big Democratic wins, these swing voters are looking for results

Swing voters Theresa from Pennsylvania, Jason from North Carolina and Gerald from Georgia. All three voted in this year's midterms and all three have mixed emotions about the results.

Swing voters Theresa from Pennsylvania, Jason from North Carolina and Gerald from Georgia. All three voted in this year's midterms and all three have mixed emotions about the results. Tara Anand for NPR hide caption

Tara Anand for NPR
Swing voters Theresa from Pennsylvania, Jason from North Carolina and Gerald from Georgia. All three voted in this year's midterms and all three have mixed emotions about the results.

Swing voters Theresa from Pennsylvania, Jason from North Carolina and Gerald from Georgia. All three voted in this year's midterms and all three have mixed emotions about the results. Tara Anand for NPR hide caption

Tara Anand for NPR

For the swing voters NPR is regularly checking in with as part of its Swing Shift series, the election results brought mixed emotions, as does the pending Democratic control of Congress.

  • Independent Rep. Kevin Kiley says voters want 'checks and balances' in government
Congress

House votes to effectively end the impeachment effort against Pete Hegseth

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth takes questions from reporters during a news conference at the Pentagon on Nov. 10, 2026.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth takes questions from reporters during a news conference at the Pentagon on Nov. 10, 2026. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images hide caption

Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth takes questions from reporters during a news conference at the Pentagon on Nov. 10, 2026.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth takes questions from reporters during a news conference at the Pentagon on Nov. 10, 2026. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images hide caption

Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

House Republicans managed to short-circuit a floor vote on the impeachment effort brought against the Defense Secretary by Kentucky Republican Thomas Massie.

House votes to effectively end the impeachment effort against Pete Hegseth

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Politics

Kennedy relatives join the fight against Trump's arch, alleging harm to JFK's grave

The gravesite of former President John F. Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery is on the same axis as the Lincoln Memorial (seen in the distance).

The gravesite of former President John F. Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery sits on the same axis as the Lincoln Memorial (seen in the distance). Kennedy's ancestors say Trump's 250-foot arch would not only disrupt the view between the monuments, but cast a shadow over his grave. Jewel Samad/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Jewel Samad/AFP via Getty Images
The gravesite of former President John F. Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery is on the same axis as the Lincoln Memorial (seen in the distance).

The gravesite of former President John F. Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery sits on the same axis as the Lincoln Memorial (seen in the distance). Kennedy's ancestors say Trump's 250-foot arch would not only disrupt the view between the monuments, but cast a shadow over his grave. Jewel Samad/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Jewel Samad/AFP via Getty Images

Nine members of the Kennedy family have joined the legal fight against Trump's D.C. arch, arguing it would disrupt views and cast shadows over their ancestors' graves at Arlington National Cemetery.

Elections

Democrat Scott Colom wins Mississippi Senate race

Scott Colom speaks with attendees at an event held at the Two Mississippi Museums in Jackson, Miss. on Aug. 1, 2026.

Scott Colom speaks with attendees at an event held at the Two Mississippi Museums in Jackson, Miss. on Aug. 1, 2026. Sarah Warnock/AP hide caption

Sarah Warnock/AP
Scott Colom speaks with attendees at an event held at the Two Mississippi Museums in Jackson, Miss. on Aug. 1, 2026.

Scott Colom speaks with attendees at an event held at the Two Mississippi Museums in Jackson, Miss. on Aug. 1, 2026. Sarah Warnock/AP hide caption

Sarah Warnock/AP

Democrat Scott Colom has won election to the U.S. Senate in Mississippi, according to a race call by the Associated Press, defeating Republican Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith.

Only on NPR

Swatters are using AI voices to deceive 911 dispatchers, and it's only getting worse

A dispatcher with Anne Arundel County Fire Department  answers a 911 emergency call from their department dispatch center in Glen Burnie, Md. in 2020.

A dispatcher with Anne Arundel County Fire Department answers a 911 emergency call from their department dispatch center in Glen Burnie, Md., in 2020. 911 dispatchers have long dealt with swatting calls, where callers report a bomb threat, mass shooting or some other kind of life-threatening emergency with the intention of initiating a massive emergency response. Now, AI-generated voice calls are posing a new challenge. Alex Edelman/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Alex Edelman/AFP via Getty Images
A dispatcher with Anne Arundel County Fire Department  answers a 911 emergency call from their department dispatch center in Glen Burnie, Md. in 2020.

A dispatcher with Anne Arundel County Fire Department answers a 911 emergency call from their department dispatch center in Glen Burnie, Md., in 2020. 911 dispatchers have long dealt with swatting calls, where callers report a bomb threat, mass shooting or some other kind of life-threatening emergency with the intention of initiating a massive emergency response. Now, AI-generated voice calls are posing a new challenge. Alex Edelman/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Alex Edelman/AFP via Getty Images

Swatters are increasingly using AI technology that creates synthetic voices or sound effects to generate remarkably believable fake emergency calls to law enforcement.

AI is making it harder to detect fake emergency calls

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Machine Gods

What now for Nvidia's Jensen Huang, and should Congress ban RSI?

Home Page Top Stories
Kevin Roose and Casey Newton look suggestively to camera while biting a finger over a green background. Nvidia’s CEO Jensen Huang appears between the two hosts, seemingly in the middle of a speech.
Machine Gods Media LLC
Kevin Roose and Casey Newton look suggestively to camera while biting a finger over a green background. Nvidia’s CEO Jensen Huang appears between the two hosts, seemingly in the middle of a speech.
Machine Gods Media LLC

It might be the biggest tech scandal of the year, and possibly the most significant intelligence breach since the Cold War. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang admitted to an affair, following reports that Alice Huang, the woman involved, is a suspected Chinese intelligence asset.

Jensen Huang’s Nvidiotic Spy Scandal + Can Dems Pass AI Regulation?

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Explainer Transportation

Why is gasoline suddenly under $4 a gallon?

AUSTIN, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 26: A gas pump is seen in a vehicle on November 26, 2025 in Austin, Texas.

AUSTIN, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 26: A gas pump is seen in a vehicle on November 26, 2025 in Austin, Texas. Brandon Bell/Getty Images hide caption

Brandon Bell/Getty Images
AUSTIN, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 26: A gas pump is seen in a vehicle on November 26, 2025 in Austin, Texas.

AUSTIN, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 26: A gas pump is seen in a vehicle on November 26, 2025 in Austin, Texas. Brandon Bell/Getty Images hide caption

Brandon Bell/Getty Images

The average price of a gallon of gasoline dipped below $4 this week for the first time in months. Does that mean more relief is coming for drivers?

Obituaries

Actor Stacy Keach, who played a private eye and plenty more, dies at 85

Stacy Keach had a long, prolific career that spanned stage and screen.

Stacy Keach had a long, prolific career that spanned stage and screen. Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images hide caption

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Stacy Keach had a long, prolific career that spanned stage and screen.

Stacy Keach had a long, prolific career that spanned stage and screen. Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images hide caption

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

Known as TV's detective Mike Hammer, Keach was a prolific actor on stage and screen. His wide-ranging roles included cops, cowboys and Shakespearean characters.

National

Federal government failed to hold Epstein accountable, Republican committee says

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., talks to reporters as he arrives for the deposition of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates before the House Oversight Committee on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in Washington.

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., talks to reporters as he arrives for the deposition of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates before the House Oversight Committee on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) Jose Luis Magana/FR159526 AP hide caption

Jose Luis Magana/FR159526 AP
House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., talks to reporters as he arrives for the deposition of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates before the House Oversight Committee on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in Washington.

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., talks to reporters as he arrives for the deposition of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates before the House Oversight Committee on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) Jose Luis Magana/FR159526 AP hide caption

Jose Luis Magana/FR159526 AP

The Republican chair of the House Oversight Committee released a scathing report after a 15-month investigation into Jeffrey Epstein and his associates. It faulted the federal government with decades of failing to hold Epstein accountable.

Federal government failed to hold Epstein accountable, Republican committee says

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Environment

World's fastest ocean liner is sunk to break another record: largest artificial reef

The SS United States, without its smokestacks, at port in Mobile, Ala., before its sinking on Wednesday.

The SS United States, without its smokestacks, at port in Mobile, Ala., before its sinking on Wednesday. Destin-Fort Walton Beach/Screenshot by NPR hide caption

Destin-Fort Walton Beach/Screenshot by NPR
The SS United States, without its smokestacks, at port in Mobile, Ala., before its sinking on Wednesday.

The SS United States, without its smokestacks, at port in Mobile, Ala., before its sinking on Wednesday. Destin-Fort Walton Beach/Screenshot by NPR hide caption

Destin-Fort Walton Beach/Screenshot by NPR

The SS United States broke trans-Atlantic speed records. On Wednesday, it was sunk off the Florida coast and will become a diving destination and home for marine life.

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Diplomacy

Russia and Ukraine agree to a prisoner exchange as talks end with no big breakthrough

Rustem Umerov, Head of Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine, third from the right, speaks during the coordination meeting before the trilateral talks between Russia and Ukraine mediated by the US in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026.

Rustem Umerov, Head of Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine, third from the right, speaks during the coordination meeting before the trilateral talks between Russia and Ukraine mediated by the US in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026. Altaf Qadri/AP hide caption

Altaf Qadri/AP
Rustem Umerov, Head of Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine, third from the right, speaks during the coordination meeting before the trilateral talks between Russia and Ukraine mediated by the US in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026.

Rustem Umerov, Head of Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine, third from the right, speaks during the coordination meeting before the trilateral talks between Russia and Ukraine mediated by the US in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026. Altaf Qadri/AP hide caption

Altaf Qadri/AP

Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a large exchange of prisoners of war. U.S.-mediated talks in Abu Dhabi led to this decision, marking the biggest humanitarian release since the war began in 2022.

Criminal Justice

Prisons in Germany and Norway serve as a model for better U.S. conditions

The Vera delegation, which includes several New Yorkers, is given a tour through the Moabit correctional facility in Berlin, Germany. Roughly a dozen people, wearing headphones, stand in the center of a prison block where nets are seen above them along with stairs and hallways to prison cells.

The Vera delegation, which includes several New Yorkers, is given a tour through the Moabit correctional facility in Berlin, Germany. Lena Mucha hide caption

Lena Mucha
The Vera delegation, which includes several New Yorkers, is given a tour through the Moabit correctional facility in Berlin, Germany. Roughly a dozen people, wearing headphones, stand in the center of a prison block where nets are seen above them along with stairs and hallways to prison cells.

The Vera delegation, which includes several New Yorkers, is given a tour through the Moabit correctional facility in Berlin, Germany. Lena Mucha hide caption

Lena Mucha

American prison officials are looking to European nations like Germany and Norway for a roadmap on how to design a prison that emphasizes rehabilitation and a successful return to life on the outside.

Congress

Jim Jordan elected new House GOP leader as the party looks to rebuild from midterms

U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (C), Republican from Ohio, is seen here ahead of a meeting with House Republicans, where they elected their party's leadership for the 120th Congress. Jordan emerged from a two-man contest victorious, and will lead Republicans as they navigate life in the minority.

U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (C), Republican from Ohio, is seen here ahead of a meeting with House Republicans, where they elected their party's leadership for the 120th Congress. Jordan emerged from a two-man contest victorious, and will lead Republicans as they navigate life in the minority. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP via Getty Images)/AFP hide caption

(Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP via Getty Images)/AFP
U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (C), Republican from Ohio, is seen here ahead of a meeting with House Republicans, where they elected their party's leadership for the 120th Congress. Jordan emerged from a two-man contest victorious, and will lead Republicans as they navigate life in the minority.

U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (C), Republican from Ohio, is seen here ahead of a meeting with House Republicans, where they elected their party's leadership for the 120th Congress. Jordan emerged from a two-man contest victorious, and will lead Republicans as they navigate life in the minority. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP via Getty Images)/AFP hide caption

(Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP via Getty Images)/AFP

Jordan, a close Trump ally and co-founder of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, will succeed Mike Johnson, who says he's stepping down as the chamber's top Republican.

House Republicans to elect a new leader as they look to rebuild from midterm defeat

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Here to Help

Volunteer musicians play songs for veterans who are hospitalized

After playing and singing "Little Wonders," by Rob Thomas for Army veteran John Fay at the DC VA Medical Center’s Hospice Unit, Musicians On Call performer, Dante Ciolfi, thanks Fay for his service.

After playing and singing "Little Wonders," by Rob Thomas for Army veteran John Fay at the DC VA Medical Center's Hospice Unit, Musicians On Call performer, Dante Ciolfi, thanks Fay for his service. Tyrone Turner/WAMU for NPR hide caption

Tyrone Turner/WAMU for NPR
After playing and singing "Little Wonders," by Rob Thomas for Army veteran John Fay at the DC VA Medical Center’s Hospice Unit, Musicians On Call performer, Dante Ciolfi, thanks Fay for his service.

After playing and singing "Little Wonders," by Rob Thomas for Army veteran John Fay at the DC VA Medical Center's Hospice Unit, Musicians On Call performer, Dante Ciolfi, thanks Fay for his service. Tyrone Turner/WAMU for NPR hide caption

Tyrone Turner/WAMU for NPR

Volunteer musicians play for veterans and others who are hospitalized. They're part of Musicians On Call, a group that spreads the healing power of music.

Volunteer musicians play songs for veterans who are hospitalized

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Life Kit

New recipes and decorating ideas to try this Thanksgiving

Life Kit is here to help you host a memorable and calm Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving or good ol' fashioned fall dinner party.

Life Kit is here to help you host a memorable and calm Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving or good ol' fashioned fall dinner party. filadendron/Getty Images hide caption

filadendron/Getty Images
Life Kit is here to help you host a memorable and calm Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving or good ol' fashioned fall dinner party.

Life Kit is here to help you host a memorable and calm Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving or good ol' fashioned fall dinner party. filadendron/Getty Images hide caption

filadendron/Getty Images

Whether you're hosting friendsgiving or Thanksgiving, we've got foolproof turkey recipes, advice on how to stay present while hosting, and directions on how to create a stunning floral arrangement.

From the Archives
Parallels

A Daughter Explores Her Father's PTSD, From Vietnam Until Today

Tom Frame, an Army staff sergeant in Vietnam, has battled post-traumatic stress ever since the war, as have many of his fellow soldiers.
Enlarge this image

Tom Frame, an Army staff sergeant in Vietnam, has battled post-traumatic stress ever since the war, as have many of his fellow soldiers. Courtesy of Kara Frame hide caption

Courtesy of Kara Frame

Tom Frame, an Army staff sergeant in Vietnam, has battled post-traumatic stress ever since the war, as have many of his fellow soldiers.

Courtesy of Kara Frame
Tom Frame, an Army staff sergeant in Vietnam, has battled post-traumatic stress ever since the war, as have many of his fellow soldiers.
Enlarge this image

Tom Frame, an Army staff sergeant in Vietnam, has battled post-traumatic stress ever since the war, as have many of his fellow soldiers. Courtesy of Kara Frame hide caption

Courtesy of Kara Frame

Tom Frame, an Army staff sergeant in Vietnam, has battled post-traumatic stress ever since the war, as have many of his fellow soldiers.

Courtesy of Kara Frame

NPR's Kara Frame traces her father's PTSD, and those of his Army comrades, back to a terrible battle in Vietnam. In a short documentary film, she also explores the impact it's had on their families.

  • 'They are my men': A 50-year veterans reunion helped my dad process a brutal battle
National

Supreme Court clears the way for a border wall in a beloved Texas wilderness

In September, Texas landowners filed a separate lawsuit over the federal government's border barrier plans in the Big Bend area, claiming their constitutional rights are being violated.

In September, Texas landowners filed a separate lawsuit over the federal government's border barrier plans in the Big Bend area, claiming their constitutional rights are being violated. Carlos Morales

/for NPR.
hide caption

Carlos Morales

/for NPR.
In September, Texas landowners filed a separate lawsuit over the federal government's border barrier plans in the Big Bend area, claiming their constitutional rights are being violated.

In September, Texas landowners filed a separate lawsuit over the federal government's border barrier plans in the Big Bend area, claiming their constitutional rights are being violated. Carlos Morales

/for NPR.
hide caption

Carlos Morales

/for NPR.

The Trump administration filed an emergency relief request with the high court earlier in October asking for the construction to continue while a lawsuit over the plan moves forward.

Climate

Oil giant ExxonMobil left Venezuela years ago. Now it's considering a return

Earlier this year ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods attended a meeting at the White House where he told attendees that Venezuela was "uninvestable". Now the company has signed a memorandum of understanding with the country

Earlier this year ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods attended a meeting at the White House where he told attendees that Venezuela was "uninvestable". Now the company has signed a memorandum of understanding with the country. Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images
Earlier this year ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods attended a meeting at the White House where he told attendees that Venezuela was "uninvestable". Now the company has signed a memorandum of understanding with the country

Earlier this year ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods attended a meeting at the White House where he told attendees that Venezuela was "uninvestable". Now the company has signed a memorandum of understanding with the country. Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images

ExxonMobil has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Venezuelan government and its state-owned oil company to explore opportunities in the country.

Far-Flung Postcards

Greetings from Senegal, where breakdancers are competing in the Youth Olympics

FarFlungPostcard_S.jpg
Ricci Shryock for NPR
FarFlungPostcard_S.jpg
Ricci Shryock for NPR

Senegal's breakdancers have been practicing for their country's historic hosting of the Youth Olympic Games this month. It's the first time Africa is hosting an Olympic event.

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Europe

An Iran-backed trio is accused of plotting attacks on a U.K. base hosting U.S. jets

A B-1 bomber takes off from RAF Fairford in Fairford, England, Sept. 29, 2026.

A B-1 bomber takes off from RAF Fairford in Fairford, England, Sept. 29, 2026. Alastair Grant/AP hide caption

Alastair Grant/AP
A B-1 bomber takes off from RAF Fairford in Fairford, England, Sept. 29, 2026.

A B-1 bomber takes off from RAF Fairford in Fairford, England, Sept. 29, 2026. Alastair Grant/AP hide caption

Alastair Grant/AP

Iran-backed operatives have been charged over nearly 20 attacks, including a plot on a U.K. base housing U.S. troops. Separately, a U.S. soldier is held in the U.K. on Russia spying claims.

UK probes alleged Iran-backed plot against base hosting US forces

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Law

Justices seem split over federal agencies' ability to fine for law violations

The U.S. Capitol is seen behind signage for U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C. in August 2025.

The U.S. Capitol is seen behind signage for U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C. in August 2025. Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images
The U.S. Capitol is seen behind signage for U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C. in August 2025.

The U.S. Capitol is seen behind signage for U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C. in August 2025. Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images

The Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday in a case related to temporary worker visas. The company involved says enforcement issues should go through the courts, not the federal agency alone.

SCOTUS Sun Valley Arguments

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Law

Both sides now? Critics slam DOJ moves to dismiss convictions of Trump allies

Steve Bannon, former adviser to President Trump, attends a pre-trial conference hearing in a fraud case against him in February 2025.

Steve Bannon, former adviser to President Trump, attends a pre-trial conference hearing in a fraud case against him in February 2025. Steven Hirsch/POOL/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Steven Hirsch/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
Steve Bannon, former adviser to President Trump, attends a pre-trial conference hearing in a fraud case against him in February 2025.

Steve Bannon, former adviser to President Trump, attends a pre-trial conference hearing in a fraud case against him in February 2025. Steven Hirsch/POOL/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Steven Hirsch/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

The DOJ moved to dismiss criminal convictions of former Trump adviser Steve Bannon and of the Oath Keepers, in what it calls "the interests of justice." Critics are crying foul.

Middle East conflict

What Trump meant when he said the U.S. is cutting aid to Israel

An Israeli Air Force AH-64 Apache attack helicopter fires a rocket while flying along the border between northern Israel and southern Lebanon, on March 18.

An Israeli Air Force AH-64 Apache attack helicopter fires a rocket while flying along the border between northern Israel and southern Lebanon, on March 18. Jalaa Marey/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Jalaa Marey/AFP via Getty Images
An Israeli Air Force AH-64 Apache attack helicopter fires a rocket while flying along the border between northern Israel and southern Lebanon, on March 18.

An Israeli Air Force AH-64 Apache attack helicopter fires a rocket while flying along the border between northern Israel and southern Lebanon, on March 18. Jalaa Marey/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Jalaa Marey/AFP via Getty Images

President Trump says he's halting aid to Israel. Israelis are worried. But experts say the U.S. is just shifting aid from the State Department to the Pentagon, with less congressional oversight.

What Trump meant when he said the U.S. is cutting aid to Israel

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Economy

Gas dips below $4 but inflation remains stubbornly high

The average price of regular gasoline dipped below $4 a gallon for the first time in ______, according to AAA.

The average price of regular gasoline dipped below $4 a gallon for the first time in ______, according to AAA. Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images
The average price of regular gasoline dipped below $4 a gallon for the first time in ______, according to AAA.

The average price of regular gasoline dipped below $4 a gallon for the first time in ______, according to AAA. Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images

Gasoline prices fell below $4 a gallon Tuesday for the first time in three months — but the overall cost of living remains stubbornly high.

Gas prices dip below $4 but inflation remains stubbornly high

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  • The average cost for a new car in the U.S. hits a record high: over $51,000
  • Americans across the economic spectrum feel a 'panic' about finances, author says Fresh Air

Federal mine regulators move to loosen a major black lung safety rule

LPM News

Members of the National Black Lung Association held a rally outside the Department of Labor in 2025, demanding a stricter silica dust rule be enforced. Instead, mine regulators are working to loosen some requirements. Justin Hicks/AMSN hide caption

Justin Hicks/AMSN

Members of the National Black Lung Association held a rally outside the Department of Labor in 2025, demanding a stricter silica dust rule be enforced. Instead, mine regulators are working to loosen some requirements. Justin Hicks/AMSN hide caption

Justin Hicks/AMSN

Mine regulators released changes that would give mines more discretion over toxic silica dust monitoring. Black lung prevention groups call it an "earlier death sentence."

Analysis Planet Money Newsletter

Why did California's billionaire tax fail to surf the blue wave?

Ultrasound Technologist Mayra Castaneda speaks in front of healthcare workers holding placards in support of the Billionaire Tax during a media briefing in Los Angeles on April 27, 2026. Healthcare workers and allies outlined the next steps in their effort to get California's Billionaire Tax on the ballot for the November election, with their efforts already exceeding 1,500,000 signatures collected from across the state. The initiative would levy a one-time 5% tax on California billionaires. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP via Getty Images)

Ultrasound Technologist Mayra Castaneda speaks in front of healthcare workers holding placards in support of the Billionaire Tax during a media briefing in Los Angeles on April 27, 2026. Healthcare workers and allies outlined the next steps in their effort to get California's Billionaire Tax on the ballot for the November election, with their efforts already exceeding 1,500,000 signatures collected from across the state. The initiative would levy a one-time 5% tax on California billionaires. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP via Getty Images) FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images/AFP hide caption

FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images/AFP
Ultrasound Technologist Mayra Castaneda speaks in front of healthcare workers holding placards in support of the Billionaire Tax during a media briefing in Los Angeles on April 27, 2026. Healthcare workers and allies outlined the next steps in their effort to get California's Billionaire Tax on the ballot for the November election, with their efforts already exceeding 1,500,000 signatures collected from across the state. The initiative would levy a one-time 5% tax on California billionaires. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP via Getty Images)

Ultrasound Technologist Mayra Castaneda speaks in front of healthcare workers holding placards in support of the Billionaire Tax during a media briefing in Los Angeles on April 27, 2026. Healthcare workers and allies outlined the next steps in their effort to get California's Billionaire Tax on the ballot for the November election, with their efforts already exceeding 1,500,000 signatures collected from across the state. The initiative would levy a one-time 5% tax on California billionaires. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP via Getty Images) FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images/AFP hide caption

FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images/AFP

Democrats won big in the midterms. California's billionaire tax flopped. Could a wealth tax fare better in Washington?

  • California voters defeat billionaire tax proposal that divided Democrats
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It's Been a Minute

Middle age doesn't need to be a crisis

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allison aubrey wide

So you're getting older. Now what? Buy a sports car? Quit your job? Take up the fiddle? NPR's Allison Aubrey has a much more interesting take on what makes midlife worth celebrating.

Middle age doesn’t need to be a crisis

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Movie Interviews

In 'Gentle Monster,' a pervert's normality is the horrifying factor

Léa Seydoux stars as pianist Lucy Weiss, who reinterprets love songs written by men, in the film Gentle Monster.

Léa Seydoux stars as pianist Lucy Weiss, who reinterprets love songs written by men, in the film Gentle Monster. Frédéric Batier/Netflix hide caption

Frédéric Batier/Netflix
Léa Seydoux stars as pianist Lucy Weiss, who reinterprets love songs written by men, in the film Gentle Monster.

Léa Seydoux stars as pianist Lucy Weiss, who reinterprets love songs written by men, in the film Gentle Monster. Frédéric Batier/Netflix hide caption

Frédéric Batier/Netflix

Léa Seydoux talks about what she calls her first "complex" lead role in English in the film Gentle Monster. She plays a concert pianist whose life falls apart after her husband is accused of a crime.

In 'Gentle Monster,' a pervert's normality is the horrifying factor

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Audio story 🎧
Fine Art

Tattoo artists are carrying Rembrandt's art into a new era — and a new medium

Photo shows a detail from a portrait in the exhibition of Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669), "Rembrandt Search of a genius", which opened 30 March 2006 in the Rembrandthuis (House of Rembrandt) in Amsterdam.

Photo shows a detail from a portrait in the exhibition of Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669), "Rembrandt Search of a genius", which opened 30 March 2006 in the Rembrandthuis (House of Rembrandt) in Amsterdam. Juan Vrijdag/Getty Images hide caption

Juan Vrijdag/Getty Images
Photo shows a detail from a portrait in the exhibition of Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669), "Rembrandt Search of a genius", which opened 30 March 2006 in the Rembrandthuis (House of Rembrandt) in Amsterdam.

Photo shows a detail from a portrait in the exhibition of Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669), "Rembrandt Search of a genius", which opened 30 March 2006 in the Rembrandthuis (House of Rembrandt) in Amsterdam. Juan Vrijdag/Getty Images hide caption

Juan Vrijdag/Getty Images

The Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam hosted an unusual exhibit in recent weeks — a renowned tattoo artist inking the Dutch master's designs on visitors' skin.

REMBRANDT TATTOO ARTIST

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Only on NPR

How word of mouth is helping an Amish community's fight against measles

Clinical services supervisor Dale Weiser poses for a portrait at the Chester County Health Department in West Chester, Pa., on Oct. 28, 2026.

Clinical services supervisor Dale Weiser poses for a portrait at the Chester County Health Department in West Chester, Pa., on Oct. 28, 2026. Daniel Vasta for NPR hide caption

Daniel Vasta for NPR
Clinical services supervisor Dale Weiser poses for a portrait at the Chester County Health Department in West Chester, Pa., on Oct. 28, 2026.

Clinical services supervisor Dale Weiser poses for a portrait at the Chester County Health Department in West Chester, Pa., on Oct. 28, 2026. Daniel Vasta for NPR hide caption

Daniel Vasta for NPR

In Pennsylvania, health officials use a quiet vaccination campaign designed to win the trust of the state's Amish community, which has been hit hard by the measles outbreak.

How word of mouth is helping an Amish community’s fight against measles

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Appeals court panel ends temporary ban on tear gas near Portland ICE building

OPB
Tear gas is deployed as hundreds of people protest outside of the ICE building in Portland, Jan. 31, 2026.

Tear gas is deployed as hundreds of people protest outside of the ICE building in Portland, Jan. 31, 2026. Eli Imadali /OPB hide caption

Eli Imadali /OPB
Tear gas is deployed as hundreds of people protest outside of the ICE building in Portland, Jan. 31, 2026.

Tear gas is deployed as hundreds of people protest outside of the ICE building in Portland, Jan. 31, 2026. Eli Imadali /OPB hide caption

Eli Imadali /OPB

A panel of judges in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit spiked two temporary bans on chemical munitions use outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Portland.

News

Testing the new generation of AI-enabled fire-extinguishing drones

Fire crews in Aspen, Colorado are training to pilot new drones like these by manufacturer Seneca. They can drop up to 1,000 gallons of fire-suppressing foam.

Fire crews in Aspen, Colorado are training to pilot new drones like these by manufacturer Seneca. They can drop up to 1,000 gallons of fire-suppressing foam. Halle Zander hide caption

Halle Zander
Fire crews in Aspen, Colorado are training to pilot new drones like these by manufacturer Seneca. They can drop up to 1,000 gallons of fire-suppressing foam.

Fire crews in Aspen, Colorado are training to pilot new drones like these by manufacturer Seneca. They can drop up to 1,000 gallons of fire-suppressing foam. Halle Zander hide caption

Halle Zander

Drone makers are testing new, big drones that can deliver water or fire retardant with AI assistance. Aspen, Colorado is the first place trying them out. Cool and expensive? Yes. Effective? TBD.

Testing the new generation of AI-enabled fire-extinguishing drones

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Audio story 🎧
Media

Russia's most famous independent newspaper has shut down after more than 30 years

Sergei Sokolov, editor-in-chief of the Novaya Gazeta daily, applauds outside the offices of the newspaper in Moscow on Nov. 9, 2026. The editorial staff of Novaya Gazeta has announced that the newspaper will cease publication on Nov. 9.

Sergei Sokolov, editor-in-chief of the Novaya Gazeta daily, applauds outside the offices of the newspaper in Moscow on Nov. 9, 2026. The editorial staff of Novaya Gazeta has announced that the newspaper will cease publication on Nov. 9. Tatyana Makeyeva/Getty Images hide caption

Tatyana Makeyeva/Getty Images
Sergei Sokolov, editor-in-chief of the Novaya Gazeta daily, applauds outside the offices of the newspaper in Moscow on Nov. 9, 2026. The editorial staff of Novaya Gazeta has announced that the newspaper will cease publication on Nov. 9.

Sergei Sokolov, editor-in-chief of the Novaya Gazeta daily, applauds outside the offices of the newspaper in Moscow on Nov. 9, 2026. The editorial staff of Novaya Gazeta has announced that the newspaper will cease publication on Nov. 9. Tatyana Makeyeva/Getty Images hide caption

Tatyana Makeyeva/Getty Images

Russia's top independent newspaper is closing after more than 30 years amid state pressure and censorship laws. Its founder won the Nobel Peace Prize and several of its journalists have been killed.

Russia’s most famous independent newspaper has shut down after more than 30 years

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WATCH

  • Fat Joe: Tiny Desk Concert
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Fat Joe: Tiny Desk Concert

The Bronx emcee's unpredictable set features a laundry list of guest appearances and hits from across three decades.

Life Kit: Tools to help you get it together

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Life Kit

How to be a better movie watcher, according to film critics (plus a handy brochure!)

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Bag of popcorn.
Malaka Gharib/NPR

This guide — which comes with a fun brochure you can download and print at home — offers advice on how to pick a film, get outside your comfort zone and deepen your enjoyment of movies.

How to be a better movie watcher, according to film critics (plus a handy brochure!)

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Life Kit

7 surprising ways the public library can save you money

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Library card.
Kaz Fantone/NPR
Library card.
Kaz Fantone/NPR

Baking pans, legal help, language classes and more — libraries can provide so much more than books. See if your local branch offers these free or discounted resources and services.

Life Kit Parenting Update
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Life Kit: Parenting

Using AI chatbots can impact your teen's mental health. Here's what to do

Life Kit Parenting Update
NPR
aibotsteen.jpg
MariamArsaliaa/Getty
aibotsteen.jpg
MariamArsaliaa/Getty

Using chatbots for emotional support can pose risks to teens' mental health. How should parents talk to their teens about using chatbots safely? And what's the best way to have those conversations without causing conflict? On this episode, NPR's Rhitu Chatterjee speaks to experts about how to support your teen's mental health and talk to them about AI.Life Kit's episode on helping a child at risk of suicide.Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekitSign up for our newsletter here.Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at [email protected] the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit

Using AI chatbots can impact your teen's mental health. Here's what to do

Listen · 21:17 21:17
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Life Kit

Done with dating apps? How to meet people in real life

Illustration of two people. One is standing, facing the viewer, the other is walking toward the left side of the frame. They both have smartphones in their hands, but they look up at each other and make eye contact. They stand in front of a large illustrated heart and are surrounded by smaller hearts, symbolizing the concept of dating and flirting in real life.
lucky sun/Getty Images
Illustration of two people. One is standing, facing the viewer, the other is walking toward the left side of the frame. They both have smartphones in their hands, but they look up at each other and make eye contact. They stand in front of a large illustrated heart and are surrounded by smaller hearts, symbolizing the concept of dating and flirting in real life.
lucky sun/Getty Images

Does talking to a cute stranger make your palms sweat? Confidence coach Regina Bonds offers advice on to how to put yourself out there, including how to show interest without coming off as creepy.

Grow your dating confidence and ask someone out IRL

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Life Kit

Life Kit Courtesy of NPR hide caption

Courtesy of NPR
Life Kit

Life Kit Courtesy of NPR hide caption

Courtesy of NPR
International Politics

U.S. boycotts U.N. human rights review for second year running

The U.N. Human Rights Council meets at the Palais des Nations in Geneva on September 30, 2026. The United States has boycotted its human rights review for the second year running.

The U.N. Human Rights Council meets at the Palais des Nations in Geneva on September 30, 2026. The United States has boycotted its human rights review for the second year running. Lian Yi/Xinhua via Getty Images hide caption

Lian Yi/Xinhua via Getty Images
The U.N. Human Rights Council meets at the Palais des Nations in Geneva on September 30, 2026. The United States has boycotted its human rights review for the second year running.

The U.N. Human Rights Council meets at the Palais des Nations in Geneva on September 30, 2026. The United States has boycotted its human rights review for the second year running. Lian Yi/Xinhua via Getty Images hide caption

Lian Yi/Xinhua via Getty Images

The U.S. has skipped a key U.N. human rights review for the second year running. Rights groups warn the absence risks undermining global accountability.

U.S. boycotts U.N. human rights review for second year running

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Global Health

Get in, loser: Broadway's newest 'Mean Girls' are ready to insult (and enlighten) you

(L-R) Nia Otchere-Sarfo, Jordan Rice, Lucia Aremu, Denee Benton, Heather Alicia Simms, Erin Morton, Jasmine Amy Rogers and Patina Miller during the opening night curtain call for Manhattan Theatre Club's production of "School Girls; Or The African Mean Girls Play" on Broadway at The Samuel J. Friedman Theatre on September 28, 2026 in New York City.

(L-R) Nia Otchere-Sarfo, Jordan Rice, Lucia Aremu, Denee Benton, Heather Alicia Simms, Erin Morton, Jasmine Amy Rogers and Patina Miller during the opening night curtain call for Manhattan Theatre Club's production of "School Girls; Or The African Mean Girls Play" on Broadway at The Samuel J. Friedman Theatre on September 28, 2026 in New York City. Bruce Glikas/Getty Images hide caption

Bruce Glikas/Getty Images
(L-R) Nia Otchere-Sarfo, Jordan Rice, Lucia Aremu, Denee Benton, Heather Alicia Simms, Erin Morton, Jasmine Amy Rogers and Patina Miller during the opening night curtain call for Manhattan Theatre Club's production of "School Girls; Or The African Mean Girls Play" on Broadway at The Samuel J. Friedman Theatre on September 28, 2026 in New York City.

(L-R) Nia Otchere-Sarfo, Jordan Rice, Lucia Aremu, Denee Benton, Heather Alicia Simms, Erin Morton, Jasmine Amy Rogers and Patina Miller during the opening night curtain call for Manhattan Theatre Club's production of "School Girls; Or The African Mean Girls Play" on Broadway at The Samuel J. Friedman Theatre on September 28, 2026 in New York City. Bruce Glikas/Getty Images hide caption

Bruce Glikas/Getty Images

"School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play," is ending a Broadway run this week and celebrating with livestream broadcasts. We interviewed the Tony-nominated playwright, Jocelyn Bioh.

Short Wave podcast: Revealing the science behind everyday mysteries

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Short Wave

How this year's record El Niño could hit your wallet

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Small silver-colored fish (members of the anchovy family, a wide group of forage fish found mostly in marine waters) lie piled on top of of one another.

The Peruvian anchoveta is one of the most commercially important fish species in the world. But the industry could be upended by this year's super El Niño. Frans Sellies/Getty Images hide caption

Frans Sellies/Getty Images
Small silver-colored fish (members of the anchovy family, a wide group of forage fish found mostly in marine waters) lie piled on top of of one another.

The Peruvian anchoveta is one of the most commercially important fish species in the world. But the industry could be upended by this year's super El Niño. Frans Sellies/Getty Images hide caption

Frans Sellies/Getty Images

Peru's anchovy industry, the largest single-species fishery in the world, is being rocked by the ongoing El Niño . It's not the first time the fishery has been impacted by the natural weather phenomenon — El Niño gets its name from Peruvian fishermen. And it's a stark reminder of the reverberating economic consequences of El Niño events, which can cost the global economy trillions of dollars. Interested in more news and weather-related science? Email us your question at [email protected] public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show's perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.

How this year's record El Nino could hit your wallet

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Short Wave

How do astronomers find distant planets ... if we can't see them?

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NPR
An illustration of the GAIA telescope, launched by the European Space Agency (ESA) in 2013. Using GAIA data, astronomers can observe a key factor in exoplanet discovery: planetary wiggles.

An illustration of the GAIA telescope, launched by the European Space Agency (ESA) in 2013. Using GAIA data, astronomers can observe a key factor in exoplanet discovery: planetary wiggles. NASA/ESA hide caption

NASA/ESA
An illustration of the GAIA telescope, launched by the European Space Agency (ESA) in 2013. Using GAIA data, astronomers can observe a key factor in exoplanet discovery: planetary wiggles.

An illustration of the GAIA telescope, launched by the European Space Agency (ESA) in 2013. Using GAIA data, astronomers can observe a key factor in exoplanet discovery: planetary wiggles. NASA/ESA hide caption

NASA/ESA

Dune. Star Wars. Alien. Science fiction movies love alien worlds, and so do we. But how do scientists find planets outside our solar system in real life? One way is by looking for the stars that wiggle. Historically, astronomers have measured those wiggles via the Doppler method, carefully analyzing how the star's light shifts. Thanks to new data from the GAIA telescope, scientists have a much better picture of distant stars' wiggles — and the exoplanets that cause them.Want to hear more about exoplanet discoveries? Send us an email at [email protected]. Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.

How do astronomers find distant planets ... if we can't see them?

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Short Wave

Could Dune really exist? What scientists think of our favorite sci-fi worlds

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A scene from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures' action adventure "DUNE: PART TWO," a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
Enlarge this image

A scene from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures' action adventure "DUNE: PART TWO," a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures hide caption

Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures

A scene from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures' action adventure "DUNE: PART TWO," a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures
A scene from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures' action adventure "DUNE: PART TWO," a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
Enlarge this image

A scene from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures' action adventure "DUNE: PART TWO," a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures hide caption

Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures

A scene from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures' action adventure "DUNE: PART TWO," a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures

The sci-fi film Dune: Part Two is out in theaters now. The movie takes place on the harsh desert planet, Arrakis, where water is scarce and giant, killer sandworms lurk just beneath the surface. But what do planetary scientists and biologists think about the science of these worms, Arrakis and our other favorite sci-fi planets? Today on the show, Regina G. Barber talks to biologist (and Star Trek consultant!) Mohamed Noor and planetary scientist Michael Wong about Dune, habitable planets and how to make fantasy seem more realistic. Want more of the science behind your favorite fictional worlds? Email us at [email protected]. Listen to Short Wave on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts.

Could Dune really exist? What scientists think of our favorite sci-fi worlds

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Short Wave

An 'Ozempic baby boom'? The GLP-1 pregnancy plot twist

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The blue striped silhouette of a pregnant person standing faced left amid a pink background.

What's the latest on how GLP-1 medications affect pregnancy? J Studios/Getty Images hide caption

J Studios/Getty Images
The blue striped silhouette of a pregnant person standing faced left amid a pink background.

What's the latest on how GLP-1 medications affect pregnancy? J Studios/Getty Images hide caption

J Studios/Getty Images

The explosion of GLP-1 drugs has created a gray zone for pregnancy. That recently prompted the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists to issue its first ever guidance on the topic. In a twist, the drugs may boost fertility for some, leading to more pregnancies – a phenomenon known on social media as "Ozempic babies". But doctors caution against using the drugs during pregnancy itself. In fact, the more we looked into this story, the more twists and nuances we found. So, we brought Dr. Amy Valent of Oregon Health and Science University onto the show to break down the latest on what's known about how these drugs affect fertility and pregnancy. Interested in more health news? Email us your question at [email protected] public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show's perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.

An ‘Ozempic baby boom’? The GLP-1 pregnancy plot twist

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Short Wave

When are we due for a giant earthquake? Scientists weigh in

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An image of a seismograph, with lines zigzagging up and down to indicate earthquake intensity. Image is lit red on the left and green on the right.

How do scientists forecast so much about the cause, effect, and scope of earthquakes… when they still don't know when those quakes are going to happen? Tim Phillips Photos/Getty Images hide caption

Tim Phillips Photos/Getty Images
An image of a seismograph, with lines zigzagging up and down to indicate earthquake intensity. Image is lit red on the left and green on the right.

How do scientists forecast so much about the cause, effect, and scope of earthquakes… when they still don't know when those quakes are going to happen? Tim Phillips Photos/Getty Images hide caption

Tim Phillips Photos/Getty Images

Their whole life, producer Hannah Chinn has known about the Big One: a massive earthquake forecasted to hit the West Coast. Scientists say it'll destroy buildings, collapse bridges, flood coastal towns and permanently shift the landscape. But how exactly do scientists know this much about the scope of earthquakes if they can't even predict when those earthquakes are going to happen? Together with host Emily Kwong, Hannah goes on a quest for answers. Plus, they get into what a Cascadia earthquake has in common with a Thanksgiving turkey.This story is part of Nature Quest, our monthly segment that brings you a question from a Short Waver who is noticing a change in the world around them. Have an environment-based question you want us to investigate on the next Nature Quest? Email us your question at [email protected] out our previous episode on earthquake prediction.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.Listen to Short Wave on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.This episode was produced by Hannah Chinn and Rachel Carlson. It was edited by Rebecca Ramirez. Tyler Jones checked the facts. The audio engineer was Kwesi Lee. Special thanks to scientists Paul Lundgren and Suzanne Carbotte.

Nature Quest: The Earthquake Prediction Problem

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