
CNN 5 Things
We bring you 5 stories that will get you up to speed and on with your day. Updates at 6am, 9am, 12pm, 3pm and 6pm Eastern, every weekday.
Latest episodes

Jun 25, 2025 • 6min
Trump defends strike damage, NATO defense spending, rare new sea & more
President Trump defends his claims about U.S. airstrikes on Iran, challenging contrary intelligence. NATO gains praise for increased defense spending under his influence. A federal court orders the correction of a wrongful deportation. Controversy brews over misleading claims made to CDC advisors related to vaccines. Meanwhile, an unexpected rare inland sea forms in one of the driest regions, showcasing nature's surprises.

Jun 25, 2025 • 7min
US strike damage, NYC political earthquake, record-breaking heat & more
A recent revelation suggests that U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities caused less damage than previously claimed. NYC politics shocked many as unexpected primary results emerged. Meanwhile, efforts to protect federal employees' collective bargaining rights face a setback. The Eastern U.S. battles record-breaking heat waves. Sweetening the mix, Malala Yousafzai unveils a new initiative to boost women's participation in sports globally. Get ready for a whirlwind of news and inspiring stories!

Jun 24, 2025 • 7min
US strike assessment, Mozambique child kidnappings, Bobby Sherman dies & more
The podcast opens with an assessment of U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, emphasizing their limited impact and the political tension surrounding them. It also covers the aftermath of a jury verdict related to the January 6 Capitol riots, revealing ongoing national division. Furthermore, there's alarming news about a surge in child kidnappings in Mozambique, raising urgent human rights concerns. Lastly, the entertainment world mourns the passing of a classic teen heartthrob, reflecting on his impact in Hollywood.

Jun 24, 2025 • 7min
Fragile Israel-Iran ceasefire, US braces for cyberattacks, McDonald’s boycott & more
Tensions surge as a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran faces challenges, with missile strikes escalating the situation. Iranian hackers are reportedly targeting U.S. infrastructure, raising concerns about cybersecurity. Meanwhile, consumer spending is dwindling, prompting worries about the economy. Boeing faces scrutiny following last year's alarming flight incident, and a growing movement pushes for a McDonald’s boycott aimed at corporate accountability and fair taxation. This mix of geopolitical and economic issues creates a compelling landscape.

Jun 24, 2025 • 6min
Trump’s anger, Diddy’s defense plans, syringe attack & more
Tensions rise as President Trump reacts strongly to a ceasefire breach in the Middle East while his administration scrambles to rehire laid-off staff. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell dampens hopes for lower interest rates. Sean “Diddy” Combs opts not to testify in his ongoing trial. Meanwhile, a troubling incident at a music festival in France sees 145 attendees report being pricked by syringes, prompting a significant police response and investigation into the matter.

Jun 24, 2025 • 6min
Trump’s ceasefire outburst, Iran strike poll, plastic packaging concerns & more
Tensions escalate in the Middle East as President Trump reacts to ceasefire violations. Public opinion on U.S. military action against Iran reveals deep divisions. A tragic boating accident in Lake Tahoe leads to a grim tally of lives lost. Meanwhile, concerns about contaminated pre-packaged food highlight growing environmental health issues. As Trump heads to a NATO meeting, the dynamics of international negotiations with allies and Russia add to the unfolding drama.

Jun 24, 2025 • 7min
Ceasefire questions, traveling for abortions, extreme heat peaking & more
Tensions escalate as accusations fly over a ceasefire between Iran and Israel. Thousands are traveling for abortions, highlighting the changing landscape of reproductive rights. In New York City, voters are gearing up to elect their Democratic mayoral candidate. Meanwhile, record-breaking heat is sweeping the eastern U.S., raising serious health concerns. The temperature in Central Park hits historic highs, prompting discussions about the impact of extreme weather.

Jun 23, 2025 • 6min
Iranian strikes intercepted, SCOTUS deportation case, July 4th BBQ cost & more
Tensions rise as President Trump responds to Iran's missile threats targeting US bases. In the US, a Supreme Court ruling brings significant implications for migrant deportations. Tragedy strikes Lake Tahoe as a freak storm causes havoc. Meanwhile, the CDC's vaccine advisers gear up to hear from a former anti-vaccine leader. Lastly, get ready for soaring prices on your favorite BBQ essentials this Independence Day.

Jun 23, 2025 • 6min
Iran attacks US bases, markets react to strike, out-of-this-world light show & more
Tensions escalate as Iran retaliates against U.S. military strikes, causing fluctuations in oil and stock markets. Meanwhile, a devastating heat wave grips the eastern U.S., impacting over 150 million people. In a twist of legal drama, a prisoner's fight against having his dreadlocks cut could redefine religious rights. Lastly, revel in incredible cosmic discoveries, including breathtaking images of galaxies, sparking conversations about body positivity and weight-loss medications.

Jun 23, 2025 • 6min
Iran regime change, church shooting stopped, grocery store closures & more
The podcast dives into rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran, sparked by controversial comments on regime change. It also covers the legal struggles of Sean Diddy Combs as his federal trial wraps up. In a heroic turn of events, police prevented a church shooting in Michigan. Additionally, listeners will learn about Kroger's closure of around 60 stores in the wake of a failed merger and a glimpse at Dell's innovative AI technology designed to boost productivity.