

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

Oct 6, 2025 • 7min
National Guard outrage, Maxwell’s appeal rejected, French PM resigns & more
Legal battles are brewing over National Guard deployments in Democratic-led cities. The Supreme Court has declined to hear a major case, intensifying the situation. Families may soon face challenges due to potential cuts in WIC benefits from a government shutdown. A massive fire has left a South Carolina judge without a home, sparking investigations. Meanwhile, France faces political turmoil as the Prime Minister resigns just weeks into his role, adding to President Macron's challenges.

12 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 7min
Troop deployment pushback, shutdown talks, Nobel prize in medicine & more
Tensions rise as President Trump deploys federalized troops to blue states, met with opposition from governors. The economic fallout of a prolonged government shutdown is addressed, revealing public sentiment on the blame game. In Cairo, ceasefire discussions unfold, focusing on Hamas’s demands. OpenAI aims to expand its computing power with new chip partnerships, potentially reshaping the tech landscape. Lastly, recent Nobel prize winners unveil breakthroughs in treating autoimmune diseases, cancer, and enhancing organ transplant success.

Oct 6, 2025 • 7min
Troops to Portland blocked, Gaza ceasefire negotiations, Everest rescue & more
A judge has blocked federal troop deployments to Portland, igniting state reactions. Ceasefire negotiations between Israel, Hamas, and the U.S. are underway, with Trump expressing cautious optimism. The government shutdown continues to create legislative gridlock, particularly over Medicaid. A blizzard on Mt. Everest has left hundreds stranded, sparking urgent rescue efforts. In other news, former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez is in the spotlight after a stabbing incident that led to his arrest.

7 snips
Oct 5, 2025 • 21min
One Thing: Bad Bunny Is Everywhere. Not Everyone Is Happy About It.
Vanessa Diaz, Associate Professor of Chicana/o and Latina/o Studies, dives into the mega-stardom of Bad Bunny, who is set to headline the Super Bowl despite backlash from some right-wing critics. They discuss his impactful advocacy for LGBTQ rights and sharp criticisms of U.S. immigration policies. The conversation highlights how Bad Bunny’s unique musical style blends Puerto Rican culture with mainstream appeal, and explores the cultural significance of his Super Bowl performance to both Puerto Rico and the NFL's marketing strategies.

Oct 4, 2025 • 13min
5 Good Things: How This School Helps Teens Turn Over a New Leaf
Explore how therapy dogs are helping first responders manage stress, offering comfort in tough times. Hear about striking nurses who rushed to assist victims of a mass shooting, showcasing their dedication. Discover actress Constance Marie's heartfelt sesentaanera fundraiser at 60, celebrating culture and supporting immigrant nonprofits. Unwind at a unique D.C. bar that locks up phones to enhance real-life connections. Finally, learn about a school using outdoor hikes as a form of detention, promoting reflection and community engagement.

Oct 3, 2025 • 7min
‘Diddy’ sentenced, Hamas responds to Trump, protesters vs ICE & more
Sean 'Diddy' Combs faces a significant prison sentence, stirring media buzz. Meanwhile, the looming government shutdown raises concerns about federal funding and potential layoffs. In international news, Gaza ceasefire talks show signs of progress, while Hamas responds to Trump's controversial plan. Additionally, the U.S. military conducts a strike against drug cartels in the Caribbean. Protests erupt near Chicago against ICE actions, highlighting tensions over immigration policies.

5 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 7min
Sean Combs sentencing, Trump's Hamas ultimatum, FDA abortion backlash & more
As the federal government shutdown drags on, funding freezes hit Democrat-run cities hard. Sean 'Diddy' Combs faces a major sentencing hearing, raising questions about his courtroom strategy. In a bold move, Trump issues a stark ultimatum to Hamas amid his controversial peace proposal. The jobs report faces delays, but estimates suggest a potential gain of 50,000 jobs. Meanwhile, the FDA’s approval of a generic abortion pill sparks backlash from opponents, adding fuel to an already heated debate.

Oct 3, 2025 • 7min
Day 3, White House's college demands, Taylor Swift’s new album & more
As the government shutdown drags into its third day, federal workers brace for potential layoffs. The administration demands drastic policy changes from colleges for funding, aiming to reshape admissions processes. FEMA complicates access to emergency grants with new population proof requirements. Meanwhile, Sean Combs faces sentencing today, stirring public interest. And in the world of music, Taylor Swift's new album, 'The Life of a Showgirl', hits the shelves, promising an exciting blend of styles and an accompanying film.

5 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 7min
Shutdown timeline, Tesla’s sales, rogue planet & more
As the government shutdown persists, political tensions rise with potential layoffs looming. A shocking terrorist attack in the UK prompts heightened security measures. Vladimir Putin takes a swipe at Trump while sending alarming warnings to Europe. In the financial realm, Tesla celebrates near-record sales, with Elon Musk's wealth briefly soaring. Meanwhile, astronomers are baffled by a rogue planet experiencing an unprecedented growth spurt, sparking curiosity about its nature and origins.

7 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 7min
‘Imminent’ layoffs, UK synagogue attack, 401(k) change & more
Mass layoffs loom as the government shutdown continues. In Gaza, Israel intercepts nearly all boats in a controversial flotilla. A car ramming and knife attack shakes a British synagogue during Yom Kippur. In Indonesia, rescue efforts see five students saved from a collapsed school, but hope fades for others. Additionally, there's a significant change in 401(k) contribution rules that impacts high earners over 50. Tune in for these urgent updates and more.