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

11 snips
May 16, 2025 • 30min
Injunction Junction: SCOTUS Weighs Limits on Judges
Stephen Portnoy, ABC's national correspondent, discusses a crucial Supreme Court case that could redefine federal judges' ability to issue nationwide injunctions. He dives into the ramifications of judicial limits on executive power, sparking debate over individual rights. The conversation also touches on Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's bold peace talks with Putin, illustrating the intricate realities of global diplomacy. Additionally, groundbreaking gene therapy successfully saves a baby’s life, showcasing the transformative potential of CRISPR technology in modern medicine.

11 snips
May 15, 2025 • 30min
SCOTUS Considers Birthright Citizenship
Tune in as Devin Dwyer, an ABC News Senior Washington Reporter, and Jay O'Brien, an ABC News reporter covering Capitol Hill, dive into the Supreme Court's pivotal case on birthright citizenship. They explore the legal complexities and emotional stakes behind this contentious issue. The discussion also touches on ongoing political debates over Medicaid cuts and recent encouraging trends in opioid overdose deaths. Discover how these topics intertwine and impact millions while providing a gripping insight into current legislative battles.

May 14, 2025 • 30min
Cassie Faces Diddy in Court
Aaron Katersky, ABC's chief investigative correspondent, offers gripping insights into the trial of Sean 'Diddy' Combs, featuring powerful testimony from key witness Cassie Ventura about her tumultuous decade-long relationship with him. Alex Stone reports on the emotive resentencing of the Menendez brothers, who are now eligible for parole after years of legal battles. The discussion also touches on President Trump's plans to lift sanctions on Syria, highlighting the intertwining of celebrity culture and significant legal shifts.

5 snips
May 13, 2025 • 28min
Trump’s Middle East Maneuver
In this discussion, Jordana Miller, ABC's correspondent in Jerusalem, shares insights on the recent hostage handover involving Hamas and Adan Alexander, the last American captured. She analyzes President Trump’s diplomatic strategy during his Middle East trip, hinting at potential normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel. The chat also touches on the temporary U.S.-China tariff relief, exploring its implications for global trade and the arrival of South African refugees in the U.S., framing it within the legacy of apartheid.

12 snips
May 12, 2025 • 32min
Scoop: Qatar's Luxury Jet Offer to Trump
Jonathan Karl, ABC's chief Washington correspondent, reveals the intrigue behind Qatar's opulent offer of a luxury jet to the Trump administration. He discusses the ethical dilemmas of accepting such extravagant gifts and the potential implications for U.S. foreign relations. Meanwhile, Matt Rivers, reporting from Peru, shares insights on the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, touching on his call for social justice and peace in conflict zones like Gaza. Together, they explore the intersection of politics and spirituality in today's climate.

May 10, 2025 • 50min
The American Pope: Leo XIV
Witness the historic election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff born in Chicago. Dive into the excitement of the papal conclave, complete with the emotional tension and traditional rituals marking the event. Explore Leo's transformative experiences that shaped his vision for leadership, focusing on humility and social justice. Celebrate the reactions from St. Peter’s Square and Chicago as the new pope calls for peace and unity. This moment heralds a new era for the Catholic Church and offers hope for a divided world.

May 9, 2025 • 26min
The First American Pope
Terry Moran, ABC News senior national correspondent, reports live from Vatican City about the groundbreaking election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, stirring excitement and hope. Karen Travers, ABC News White House correspondent, delves into a newly announced trade framework between the U.S. and U.K., discussing its implications for agriculture and automotive sectors. The podcast also touches on the impending re-entry of a Soviet-era spacecraft, exploring the risks of space debris and its potential consequences.

10 snips
May 8, 2025 • 27min
Conclave Day 1: Black Smoke
As the papal conclave unfolds, excitement builds in Rome with crowds anxiously awaiting the next pope. Innovative games like Fanta Papa blend tradition with modern fun in predicting outcomes. Meanwhile, troubling discussions arise about deporting migrants to Libya, raising serious ethical questions. On the lighter side, the TSA clarifies the current status of the Real ID requirement for air travel, attempting to ease travelers' concerns without compromising security. Plus, allergy sufferers face new climate-related challenges this season.

16 snips
May 7, 2025 • 28min
Who Could Become Pope?
Terry Moran, ABC's senior national correspondent reporting from Rome, discusses the impending papal conclave and the frontrunners like Cardinal Pietro Perolin and Cardinal Antonio Tagle. He explores the critical issues facing the Catholic Church, from financial struggles to ideological divides. Pierre Thomas, ABC's Chief Justice Correspondent, dives into the troubling online exploitation network known as 764, shedding light on its national security risks and the urgent need for parental awareness. Together, they tackle these pressing global concerns.

14 snips
May 6, 2025 • 30min
Israel’s New Plan to Seize Gaza
Ian Pannell, ABC's chief foreign correspondent, shares alarming updates on Israel's military strategy in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis unfolding from it. He discusses the potential displacement of Palestinians and the complex political implications. Meanwhile, Father Tom Reese, a Jesuit priest and senior analyst, reveals the intriguing rules and history of papal conclaves, including the ceremonial smoke signals that signal a new pope's election. Their conversations blend urgent global issues with the timeless traditions of the Catholic Church.