

CNN 5 Things
CNN Podcasts
We bring you 5 stories that will get you up to speed and on with your day. Updates at 6am, 12pm, and 6pm Eastern, every weekday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 7, 2025 • 22min
One Thing: Understanding Trump's Seismic Assault on Legal Immigration
Fear grips immigrants as Trump's policies restrict legal immigration, following a controversial National Guard shooting. The Somali community in Minneapolis feels the impact of inflammatory remarks and heightened Department of Homeland Security actions. Legal pathways become increasingly clogged with application pauses and halted ceremonies, creating anxiety among green card holders. Experts discuss how anti-immigrant rhetoric shapes public opinion and scrutinize long-term consequences for the immigration system.

Dec 6, 2025 • 13min
5 Good Things: The TikToker Who Changed a Veteran’s Life
A heartwarming daddy-daughter dance at a prison restores family bonds, while one creator raises over $1.5 million to support an elderly veteran in need. Two innovative teens develop a resource that helps New Yorkers find affordable housing. New research reveals that our brains may remain in adolescence until around age 32, shedding light on maturity. Additionally, a social twist on chore nights helps friends tackle mundane tasks together, making them more enjoyable. Small acts of kindness and community continue to inspire and uplift.

Dec 5, 2025 • 7min
Birthright Citizenship Case, Epstein Files Pathway, FIFA World Cup Matchups and more
Joan Biskubic, a CNN correspondent specializing in legal analysis, breaks down the Supreme Court's deliberations on birthright citizenship and its implications for the 14th Amendment. Matt Egan, a CNN business reporter, shares eye-opening insights on the latest economic data, focusing on inflation and the affordability crisis affecting consumers. The discussion also touches on the upcoming FIFA World Cup matchups, adding a dose of sports excitement to the mix.

Dec 5, 2025 • 7min
Child Vaccination Change, Netflix Deal, Pipe Bomber Motive and more
The CDC's bold move to change childhood hepatitis B vaccinations sparks a heated debate about individual choice versus universal mandates. A recent Trump administration strike on a drug trafficking boat faces criticism and concerns over its justification. In a surprising twist, Netflix's bid for Warner Bros. could transform the media landscape. The arrest of the D.C. pipe bomb suspect reveals a motive tied to beliefs about the 2020 election. Finally, Jakarta surpasses Tokyo to become the world's most populated city, highlighting rapid demographic shifts.

Dec 5, 2025 • 7min
Strike Briefings, TX Redistricting Decision, Eurovision Boycott and more
Lawmakers are divided over video from controversial strikes on a drug trafficking boat. The Supreme Court has upheld a Texas congressional map supported by the Trump administration, stirring political tensions. Letitia James won't face indictment in the mortgage fraud case, but the story isn't over yet. In Gaza, the leader of an anti-Hamas militia has been killed, heightening regional instability. Meanwhile, several countries have decided to boycott the Eurovision Song Contest due to Israel's participation amid ongoing protests.

Dec 5, 2025 • 36sec
7:20 PM ET: Grand Jury Declines to Re-indict Letitia James
A grand jury has just declined to re-indict New York Attorney General Letitia James over mortgage fraud charges. The podcast dives into the implications of this decision and the Justice Department's latest efforts that have come to an end. Tune in for insights on the broader impact of legal challenges facing public officials!

Dec 5, 2025 • 46sec
7:05 PM ET: SCOTUS Greenlights New TX Congressional Map
The Supreme Court gives the green light to Texas's new redistricting map, a move that tilts the scales in favor of Republicans for the upcoming midterms. This decision has huge implications for the electoral landscape in Texas. Tune in to hear the breakdown of what this means for voters and the political climate.

Dec 4, 2025 • 7min
Boat Strike Briefing, Vaccination Vote Delayed, Walshe Trial Witness and more
Lawmakers are divided after a classified briefing about a controversial boat strike near Venezuela. Tensions flared during discussions on changing childhood vaccine schedules, as outside doctors clashed with newly appointed advisors. In Minnesota, the Somali community responds to immigration enforcement with a strong message for President Trump. Meanwhile, new developments in the DC pipe bomber investigation unfold, alongside gripping testimony in Brian Walshe’s murder trial that hints at personal connections.

Dec 4, 2025 • 7min
Somali Community Fears, DC Pipe Bomber Arrest, Paper Sues Defense Department and more
In this discussion, CNN reporter Ryan Young sheds light on the palpable fear among Minneapolis' Somali community due to recent immigration raids. He highlights community responses, like distributing whistles for alerts. Investigative correspondent Evan Perez provides fascinating insights into the DC pipe bombing case, detailing a significant breakthrough with new leads and an arrest. Together, they tackle urgent issues affecting both local communities and national security.

4 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 7min
Crackdown Underway, Second Strike Footage, Matthew Perry Doctor Sentenced and more
Federal immigration raids are creating a buzz in Minnesota and Louisiana. Meanwhile, Trump is pushing for the release of footage from a controversial drone strike. The administration is also eyeing Australia for insights into enhancing retirement savings. In another twist, a doctor has received a sentence for selling ketamine that was linked to Matthew Perry's tragic passing. Stay tuned for these intriguing developments and more!


