For news hounds, keeping up with today's trending topics can feel like a fulltime job. We know. We live it all the time, day in and day out. It isn't easy being an informed citizen in today's fast paced media environment.

That's why we are trying something new — on camera.

"Getting you up to speed," a video series sponsored by Cadillac, gathers the trending stories and presents them in a short, two-minute (ish) segment so you, too, can stay abreast of what's happening in Houston. Hosted by friendly personalities who report and offer entertaining commentary, this web series is your ticket to zapping through the talk of the town.

To kick off the program, CultureMap welcomes Nicole Hickl to the team. Hickl — a graduate of the University of St. Thomas with a degree in communications and a minor in psychology, and a former Houston Texans cheerleader — had been with KAVU Newscenter 25 and 104-7 KVIC radio in Victoria before joining our digital news crew. We're sure you'll find her — plus her co-host Maggie Flecknoe, who you'll meet in future episodes — charming, savvy and sassy.

Watch the video (above) and follow along. We've included links to the trending stories below so you can get more in-depth coverage.

• Mark Cuban is not impressed with Austin's University of Texas college scene: Billionaire wants more options by John Egan
• The Texas Caribbean: Sleek new island hideaway is full of Houston connections — and NASA architect power by Shelby Hodge
• Johnny Manziel's surprise Houston visit is full of meaning: Potential No. 1 pick wouldn't miss this night by Shelby Hodge
• Where To Eat Right Now: 10 love-happy, must-try restaurants for February by Eric Sandler