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

10 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 28min
Why Texas Floods Turned So Deadly
Mireya Villarreal, an ABC News correspondent based in Texas, discusses the devastating flash floods that have taken over 70 lives, including children. She highlights the chaos faced by families during these disasters and the critical importance of timely emergency alerts. Villarreal emphasizes the need for improved infrastructure and communication as climate change intensifies such events. Additionally, she touches on the mixed impacts of recent legislative changes on American families amidst ongoing trade uncertainty.

11 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 27min
The Diddy Verdict
A jury acquits Sean “Diddy” Combs on serious charges while leaving him convicted on others, igniting discussions about justice and legal implications surrounding sex trafficking. Meanwhile, the U.S. pauses certain arms shipments to Ukraine, raising questions about military support. In a tragic case, Brian Koberger pleads guilty to murdering four students in Idaho, spotlighting community grief. Additionally, unexpected connections between pizza orders and military logistics at the Pentagon spark intrigue and highlight unique dining culture.

11 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 29min
Diddy Jury: 4 of 5 Charges Decided
Join Jay O'Brien, Capitol Hill correspondent for ABC News, and Matt Gutman, Chief national correspondent for ABC News, as they dissect the near-unanimous jury decisions against Sean 'Diddy' Combs while grappling with unresolved allegations. The conversation shifts to the heated Medicaid funding debate in the Senate, revealing deep political divisions. Plus, hear about the shocking ambush of Idaho firefighters responding to a blaze, illustrating the dangers faced by first responders and the community's emotional aftermath.

7 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 26min
Will the Senate Pass Trump’s Tax Bill?
The Senate is embroiled in fierce debates over a significant tax bill, grappling with key amendments and looming debt ceiling concerns. In a shocking development, the suspect in the Idaho college murders agrees to a guilty plea, raising unanswered questions for victims’ families. Meanwhile, Trump's recent executive order lifts sanctions on Syria, tying U.S. policy to the region's complex landscape. To lighten the mood, discover the quirky trend of pickle-flavored cocktails, stirring up both excitement and skepticism in the mixology world.

7 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 25min
Senate Nears Vote on GOP Tax Bill
Allie Pokoran, an ABC reporter specializing in Senate coverage, dives into the heated debates surrounding the GOP's tax policy bill. She highlights the struggle among Republican lawmakers to secure votes for significant tax cuts while navigating the political fallout from dissenting senators. Pokoran also discusses the Supreme Court's impactful ruling on birthright citizenship, revealing its implications for immigration policy. Plus, concerns about NOAA cuts jeopardizing hurricane forecasting add another layer of urgency to the conversation.

7 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 24min
The Supreme Court's Final Cases
Devin Dwyer, ABC's senior Washington reporter, shares his insights on the Supreme Court's final rulings, including the contentious issue of birthright citizenship. Aaron Katursky, ABC's chief investigative correspondent, reports live from the Sean Combs trial, discussing the serious charges of racketeering and sex trafficking. Additionally, they delve into the lavish wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez in Venice, igniting local protests over tourism and economic inequality. The contrasting narratives of justice and celebration highlight intriguing societal tensions.

8 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 30min
Trump Fights Iran Strike Skepticism
Brittany Shepard, ABC News national politics reporter, dives into President Trump's reaction to intelligence assessments regarding U.S. strikes on Iran. She highlights the complex narratives surrounding military actions and their geopolitical implications. The discussion also shifts to the surprising political rise of Zohran Mamdani in New York City's mayoral primary, showcasing innovative campaigning strategies. Additionally, the challenges faced by the medical community amidst vaccine controversies bring forward critical insights into public health and policy debates.

9 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 27min
Report: US Strikes Did Not 'Obliterate' Iran Nuke Sites
Jay O'Brien, ABC's Capitol Hill correspondent, dives into the recent U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, revealing their limited impact on Iran's program and sparking a debate in Congress about the constitutionality of military action. He also discusses alarming incidents at French music festivals, where 145 attendees reported being pricked by syringes, raising concerns about public safety. O'Brien emphasizes the complex geopolitical implications and the ongoing struggles between military effectiveness and legislative oversight.

Jun 24, 2025 • 29min
Trump Proclaims Iran-Israel Ceasefire
President Trump has declared a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, but contradictions arise as missile strikes continue. The nuances of peace talks are examined, raising skepticism about Iran's intentions. Meanwhile, New York's mayoral race heats up with candidates adapting to a complex voting system. A personal account of a detained Syrian student sheds light on the struggles for justice and identity amid political turmoil. Lastly, a Supreme Court case challenges religious freedom in the context of personal grooming rights.

12 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 29min
US Strikes Iran… Now What?
In this discussion, Steve Ganyard, a retired Marine Corps Colonel and ABC News contributor, dives deep into the implications of US military strikes on Iran's nuclear sites. He unpacks Operation Midnight Hammer, revealing its surprising tactics and strategic planning. Ganyard highlights the political rifts within the Republican Party concerning military decisions, and the potential for backlash in the Strait of Hormuz. The conversation also touches on Iran's turbulent political history and the complex dynamics shaping U.S.-Iran relations.