USA TODAY

The Excerpt

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About the show

Get context, not just headlines. Every weekday The Excerpt brings USA TODAY's award-winning journalists from across the nation together to unpack America's most pressing stories — from politics and culture to sports and entertainment — with host Dana Taylor.

Newest episodes

SPECIAL | Does distance make the heart grow fonder?

Nov 14, 2026 36 min

This episode of USA TODAY's HUMANKIND series "Is Love Actually" explores the emotional pull of separation and the power of reunion. From military families and love across long-distance relationships. We learn how our body responds to time apart, and how emotional bonds are maintained during separation. Through stories of distance, longing, and return, we examine how love goes the distance. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What is love, actually? We asked scientists.

Nov 13, 2026 13 min

For World Kindness Day we explore the biological phenomenon that is love. USA TODAY’s HUMANKIND series “Is Love Actually” explores how love shapes our lives through real stories and expert insight. Hosts Madeline Gunderson and Ronnie Li join us for a deep-dive on the myriad ways we experience and express love. Let us know what you think of this episode at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The GOP lost big. So why double down on MAGA?

Nov 12, 2026 11 min

Republicans lost control of both chambers of Congress in the midterms. Now Jim Jordan is set to lead House Republicans and Stephen Miller is stepping up as White House chief of staff. USA TODAY Congressional correspondent Zach Schermele digs into what those choices reveal about the GOP’s direction and whether the party is doubling down on MAGA. Share your thoughts with us at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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All episodes

SPECIAL | Does distance make the heart grow fonder?

Nov 14, 2026 36 min

What is love, actually? We asked scientists.

Nov 13, 2026 13 min

The GOP lost big. So why double down on MAGA?

Nov 12, 2026 11 min

DHS spent $128 million. Then the detention plan collapsed.

Nov 11, 2026 10 min

A $128 million immigration detention center never opened. So what went wrong? USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes explains how the costly project unraveled and why plans to turn massive warehouses into detention centers fell apart. Now, new reporting examines what happens to the properties and how much taxpayers could ultimately lose. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How new technology could transform the way we make babies

Nov 10, 2026 11 min

Could the future of having a baby start with a skin cell? Madeline Mitchell, a USA TODAY national news reporter, explores fertility breakthroughs that could transform human reproduction. From eggs and sperm made from skin cells to artificial wombs, we examine what emerging technologies could mean for people struggling with infertility. The conversation also explores embryo screening, “designer babies” and the ethical questions that arise as reproductive science moves into territory once considered impossible. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sarah Huckabee Sanders: Don't blame Trump for the GOP's midterm losses

Nov 9, 2026 18 min

In her first interview since being re-elected, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders talks to USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page about her new book, "Unapologetic." Sanders also reacts to the Republican party's losses during the midterms that cost the party's control of the House and the Senate, and explains why she doesn't think President Trump is to blame. Let us know what you think of this episode at podcasts@usatoday.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Republican wants Pete Hegseth impeached. Here's why.

Nov 6, 2026 14 min

Pete Hegseth is facing a new impeachment push over the Iran war. Could Thomas Massie turn it into a real threat to Trump’s defense secretary? USA TODAY White House Correspondent Bart Jansen explains the case against Hegseth and why Massie is making his move now. Let us know what you think of this episode at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Democrats face a test: Turning midterms power into progress

Nov 5, 2026 14 min

With Congress set for a major shift in power, Democrats face a critical test: turning their newfound leverage into meaningful results. USA TODAY's Chief Political Correspondent Phillip M. Bailey breaks down the road ahead, the biggest challenges and what Democrats and Republicans must accomplish to prove they can deliver for voters in 2028. Read more of our 2026 midterm coverage. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Podcast Preview | Is Love Actually?

Nov 5, 2026 1 min

Introducing “Is Love Actually?”, a five-part series from USA TODAY’s HUMANKIND, where hosts Madeline Gunderson and Ronnie Li put love under a microscope. Binge all five episodes beginning Monday, November 9, wherever you get your podcasts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Democrats hoped for a blue wave in the midterms. It was a tsunami.

Nov 4, 2026 17 min

The Democratic Party has retaken control of Congress after big wins in House and Senate elections. USA TODAY White House Correspondent Francesca Chambers breaks down some of the biggest surprised from the Midterm elections and what it could mean for 2028. Read more of USA TODAY's coverage of the 2026 midterm elections. Share your thoughts with us at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

These Senate races weren’t supposed to be this close

Nov 3, 2026 16 min

Senate control could come down to races that barely looked competitive a year ago. Arit John, a USA TODAY senior politics correspondent, explains why Republicans are spending heavily in Texas, why Iowa has become a true toss-up and how tariffs, gas prices and affordability have transformed the map. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can influencers actually swing the midterms?

Nov 2, 2026 8 min

Republicans built an early advantage with podcasts and online creators. Now Democrats are trying to catch up. USA TODAY Politics Trending Reporter Emily Condon breaks down the growing influencer battle and how today's experiments could reshape political campaigning by 2028. Share your thoughts with us at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Midterm election polls: Why a Democratic wave isn't guaranteed

Oct 30, 2026 14 min

A blue wave could be on the horizon. But how accurate are the polls? USA TODAY chief political correspondent Phillip Bailey breaks down what's at stake in the 2026 midterms, hurdles that pollsters face and the races that could change everything. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Ohio governor race gets personal after a controversial attack ad

Oct 29, 2026 15 min

Republican Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy faces criticism after releasing an attack ad that featured the estranged mother of his opponent, Democrat candidate Amy Acton. Senior correspondent Arit John joins The Excerpt to discuss the ad and why the race for governor is so close. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump’s $1 million voter fraud offer: How would it work?

Oct 28, 2026 16 min

President Trump is offering $1 million for reports of voter fraud that lead to an arrest and conviction. But how would the reward actually work, and how widespread is voter fraud? USA TODAY White House Correspondent Bart Jansen breaks down the offer, the voter fraud evidence and what voters could encounter at the polls. Share your thoughts with us at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is Trump fueling a blue wave?

Oct 27, 2026 13 min

President Donald Trump isn’t on the ballot, but he’s a major force in the midterms as the Senate battleground expands. USA TODAY National News Reporter Zac Anderson explains how Trump is shaping Republican strategy and why once-safe races are getting competitive. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Republicans and Democrats agree on almost nothing

Oct 26, 2026 8 min

Republicans rank patriotism as the value America needs most. Democrats rank it last. USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page examines what a striking new survey reveals about the values dividing the parties and why that gap could make governing after the midterms even harder. Share your thoughts with us at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

500 applications. Still no job.

Oct 25, 2026 18 min

One job seeker has submitted more than 500 applications over two years and still hasn't landed a permanent role. Carl Van Horn, public policy professor at Rutgers University, joins us to examine why hiring has slowed and why many qualified candidates say they're struggling to get interviews. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

New Mexico’s nuclear past collides with U.S. weapons expansion

Oct 23, 2026 9 min

In The Hidden Cost of Nuclear Deterrence, USA TODAY explores how New Mexico still lives with the legacy of the Trinity test, as the U.S. plans to expand nuclear weapons production. This project was produced by USA TODAY's Zulekha Nathoo and Lamar Salter, and was made possible by support from Outrider Foundation and Journalism Funding Partners Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The first 24 hours after deportation to Haiti

Oct 22, 2026 9 min

What happens after a U.S. deportation flight lands in Haiti? USA TODAY National News Reporter Chris Kenning explains what deportees face after arrival, from limited assistance and separation from family to gang-controlled roads, violence and a devastating humanitarian crisis. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can an insult change your vote?

Oct 21, 2026 13 min

Political insults aren't new, but they're becoming a central campaign strategy. Why are candidates in both parties betting on nicknames, personal attacks and viral moments? USA TODAY Senior Political Correspondent Arit John explains what makes these attacks stick, who campaigns are targeting and what voters should remember heading into the 2026 elections. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens if the Colorado River keeps shrinking?

Oct 20, 2026 11 min

As water levels decline at Lake Powell, long-submerged sections of Glen Canyon are reemerging, fueling a renewed debate over the future of the dam itself. Trevor Hughes, national correspondent for USA TODAY, explores what climate change and water shortages could mean for the American West. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Could Latino voters actually turn Texas blue?

Oct 19, 2026 15 min

Could Latino voters help turn Texas blue? Rebecca Morin, USA TODAY senior national news reporter, breaks down what she’s hearing from voters, why some Republicans may split their tickets and how the race involving James Talarico and Ken Paxton could signal a bigger political shift. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Will Trump's Russia diesel deal actually lower prices?

Oct 16, 2026 10 min

A new diesel supply deal between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin aims to ease pressure on fuel markets, but will it make a meaningful difference? Daniel de Visé, personal finance reporter for USA TODAY, breaks down why economists expect only modest relief and what the move could mean for consumers and businesses. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The ketamine blind spot on college campuses

Oct 15, 2026 13 min

Why are more people talking about ketamine? USA TODAY Domestic Security Correspondent Josh Meyer explains what the drug does and why researchers say there's still limited data on its role in sexual assault cases. He also shares what experts say college students and universities may be missing about this powerful anesthetic. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why DOGE is back at the Supreme Court

Oct 14, 2026 9 min

Why is DOGE back before the Supreme Court? USA TODAY Supreme Court Correspondent Maureen Groppe explains the fight over government transparency, what records watchdog groups want to see, and why the ruling could affect how future administrations shield information from public view. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

ICE said it wasn't tracking protesters. Then we got records.

Oct 13, 2026 8 min

USA TODAY Investigative Reporter Nick Penzenstadler explains how reporters fought for months to obtain ICE records and what they uncovered inside an "agitator" tracking system. He also breaks down why the findings are fueling new questions about protest surveillance and government transparency. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why 5 million Americans lost SNAP benefits

Oct 12, 2026 11 min

Five million Americans have already fallen off SNAP rolls, and experts say that may be just the beginning. Sarah D. Wire, senior national news reporter for USA TODAY, explains how new federal requirements are reshaping food assistance programs and what the changes mean for families who rely on SNAP. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Christa Pike's lawyers warned of issues before her botched execution

Oct 9, 2026 9 min

Convicted murderer Christa Pike was sentenced to death by lethal injection on September 30th, but somehow survived. Her situation has surprised many, but new reporting suggests there were warning signs something could go wrong. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The warning signs Nicole Brown Simpson’s family missed

Oct 8, 2026 16 min

Author and domestic violence advocate Denise Brown reflects on the warning signs her family missed before Nicole Brown Simpson’s death. She explains what she later learned about power, control and the cycle of abuse, and what families need to understand when someone they love may be at risk. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

America needs tradespeople. Why can’t they find jobs?

Oct 7, 2026 11 min

America needs electricians, plumbers and other tradespeople. So why are newly trained workers still struggling to get hired? Rachel Barber, USA TODAY money reporter, explains the contradiction behind the skilled-worker shortage and what it could mean for repairs, infrastructure and essential services. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Data centers made this county rich. Then came the backlash

Oct 6, 2026 11 min

For years, Loudoun County, Virginia, treated data centers as an economic success story. Fast-track approvals attracted major developers, and the tax windfall paid for public services across the county. Now residents say the growth has gone too far. USA TODAY National Reporter Christopher Cann examines the backlash and what other communities can learn from Loudoun’s experience. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hakeem Jeffries on the Democratic Party's agenda if they win the House

Oct 5, 2026 22 min

With just over a month to go before the midterm elections, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries joins The Excerpt to discuss the rise of the DSA within the Democratic party, his private meeting with Trump adviser Jared Kushner, and why he believes the U.S. is in the midst of an "AI safety crisis." Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cornell received 1,200 sexual violence reports. Few led to expulsion

Oct 2, 2026 11 min

Cornell University received more than 1,200 reports of sexual violence between 2018 and 2024, but only a fraction resulted in formal investigations and disciplinary action. Kenny Jacoby, investigative reporter for USA TODAY, joins The Excerpt to break down the numbers, the limits of campus misconduct systems and what experts say these outcomes can mean for student trust. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cancer is falling nationwide. Except in Iowa.

Oct 1, 2026 11 min

Cancer rates are declining across most of the United States. But Iowa is moving in the opposite direction. Iowa now has one of the nation's highest cancer incidence rates and is one of only three states where rates continue to rise. So what's different about Iowa? Nick El Hajj, reporter for the Des Moines Register, joins The Excerpt to discuss the theories researchers are investigating, from drinking water and nitrate pollution to radon exposure and other environmental factors. He also shares the stories of Iowa families searching for answers. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gretchen Carlson: The fight isn't over

Sep 30, 2026 14 min

Ten years after taking on Roger Ailes, Gretchen Carlson, former Fox News anchor, reveals what changed for women who speak out and where justice still fails them. She reflects on the personal cost of challenging workplace power and why many women never return to their careers. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can tech companies stop AI deepfakes from spreading?

Sep 29, 2026 15 min

Bad actors rarely remain on a single platform. Sean Litton, former president and CEO of the Tech Coalition, explains how they can move between social media, gaming, messaging and payment services. On USA TODAY's The Excerpt, he also breaks down Lantern, a system that allows companies to share warning signals and uncover harmful activity that might otherwise remain hidden. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A record number of ICE employees are leaving. Why?

Sep 28, 2026 7 min

A record number of employees are leaving ICE, even as the agency hires thousands of workers to expand enforcement operations. Ignacio Calderon, a USA TODAY data reporter, breaks down what federal workforce records reveal about the surge in departures, Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why Republicans are suddenly worried about Texas

Sep 25, 2026 12 min

Texas is rarely considered a political battleground, so why are Republicans spending heavily to defend it? USA TODAY Chief Political Correspondent Phillip M. Bailey explains James Talarico’s rise, Ken Paxton’s vulnerabilities and why affordability, AI, data centers and frustration with Washington are reshaping the Senate race. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump threatens Iran in fiery UN speech. What's next?

Sep 24, 2026 14 min

From Iran and Cuba to Ukraine and NATO, President Trump's UN visit touched nearly every major foreign policy challenge facing the United States. Francesca Chambers, USA TODAY White House correspondent, examines the biggest moment and what to watch as Trump heads into a high-stakes meeting with China's leader. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when the White House bans reporters?

Sep 23, 2026 10 min

This fight is bigger than which reporters enter the White House. BrieAnna Frank, USA TODAY First Amendment reporting fellow, explains why fewer journalists with firsthand access could narrow what the public can independently learn and verify, and how a loss in court could give future administrations more room to restrict the press. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Andy Beshear talks faith and a possible 2028 run for president

Sep 22, 2026 17 min

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear joins USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page on The Excerpt to talk about his new book, the midterms and if he will run for president in 2028. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

She asked for help. Her doctor dismissed her concerns

Sep 21, 2026 11 min

A pregnant mother's struggle with untreated depression became a lasting lesson in what can happen when patients don't feel listened to. Ken Alltucker, a national correspondent for USA Today, discusses new research on healthcare access and why women are more likely to report negative experiences with the healthcare system. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Her father was denied a class trip to D.C. Now she may join the Senate

Sep 18, 2026 10 min

Illinois Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton could make history if she's elected to the U.S. Senate, but her campaign is also rooted in a deeply personal family story. USA TODAY Senior Reporter Jay Stahl joins The Excerpt to discuss how her father's experience with segregation, along with the loss of her father last year, continues to shape her candidacy to replace Sen. Dick Durbin. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AI insiders warn of danger. Will Congress act?

Sep 17, 2026 17 min

After an Anthropic researcher quit and warned about the risks of advanced AI, pressure is mounting on lawmakers to respond. USA TODAY Congressional Correspondent Zach Schermele explains why the warning is getting lawmakers' attention and whether meaningful AI oversight is finally gaining momentum. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Oprah Winfrey reveals how intuition has guided her career and life

Sep 16, 2026 20 min

Oprah Winfrey opens up about trusting her intuition and embracing reinvention as she promotes a new immersive event in Las Vegas April 2-4. In a wide-ranging conversation with USA TODAY Executive Editor of Entertainment Wendy Naugle, she shares why she’s still focused on helping people change their lives and why she believes new beginnings are always possible. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

His father was missing. Then his search for answers began

Sep 15, 2026 19 min

Author and USA TODAY National Enterprise Editor Jeremy Redmon joins The Excerpt to discuss “Tell the Kids I Love Them,” his memoir about war, fatherhood, love and loss. Through audio tapes recorded during the Vietnam War, family memories and years of searching, Redmon pieces together the life of his father, Donald, and confronts the questions his family carried after Donald’s death by suicide. This episode includes discussions of suicide and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support available 24/7. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is HBO's The Pitt about to dominate the Emmys?

Sep 14, 2026 12 min

HBO’s The Pitt enters Emmy night with a leading 25 nominations, but the biggest story may be what its success says about television’s future. Ralphie Aversa, USA TODAY senior entertainment correspondent, joins us to break down the breakout nominees and the industry trends shaping TV right now. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The story behind the firefighters' flag-raising at Ground Zero

Sep 11, 2026 20 min

Thomas E. Franklin, former Bergen Record photographer, reflects on September 11, 2001, recounting his journey into Ground Zero and the split-second decisions that led to one of the most recognizable images in American history. He joins Mike Kelly, a columnist for The Record in New Jersey and USA TODAY, to share what he saw and why the photograph still resonates decades later. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The challenge of teaching 9/11 to kids

Sep 10, 2026 16 min

Twenty-five years after the attacks, today’s students know 9/11 through history lessons rather than personal memory. Dexter Southfield Head of School Peter Folan joins USA TODAY's The Excerpt to explain how educators balance the tragedy of that day with stories of resilience, service, and unity. Hear how schools are helping a new generation understand why 9/11 still matters. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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SPECIAL | Does distance make the heart grow fonder?

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Podcast details

Created by: USA TODAY
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 14, 2026
Episodes: 91
Release period: Daily
Avg. episode length: 13 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

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