Listener sentiment
Start Here's core audience remains deeply loyal, with the most recent reviews returning to overwhelmingly positive territory after the boycott wave that swept through the September 2025 window has subsided. Listeners consistently praise Brad Mielke's clear, conversational delivery, the show's efficient twenty-minute format, and its signature "One Last Thing" segment with its accompanying puns and sound bites — many describe it as an indispensable part of their morning routine and a rare news source that keeps them informed without overwhelming them. The earlier surge of negative ratings tied to ABC's suspension of Jimmy Kimmel has largely receded, though it left a mark: a cluster of long-time listeners who framed their departures around ABC's editorial decisions rather than Start Here's own reporting. Residual criticism is more modest and splits in several directions — a few reviewers want less repetitive political coverage and more diverse topics, one flags an excessive ad-to-content ratio, and a recurring but minority current alleges bias from both left and right, with some pointing specifically to Middle East coverage framing. A recent reviewer also noted a behind-the-scenes team member's departure with warmth, suggesting the show's staff changes are noticed and appreciated by its attentive audience.
Apple4.0 · 555
Summary generated Jul 31, 2026
