

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

Jan 18, 2026 • 25min
One Thing: ‘We Do Not Want to Become Americans’: Greenlanders on Trump’s Threats
Nic Robertson, CNN's International Diplomatic Editor, offers a compelling on-the-ground look at Greenland's reaction to President Trump's threats to take control of the island. He explores the historical context of U.S. interest and how recent remarks have shifted local sentiments from laughter to concern. Robertson highlights Greenlanders' deep-rooted fears of losing their identity and autonomy, emphasizing their rejection of American-style governance. The discussion also reveals cultural clashes and unique challenges that would arise from a potential takeover.

7 snips
Jan 17, 2026 • 15min
5 Good Things: This Teen Faced the Dark Side of AI and Fought Back
In this engaging conversation, teen activist Elliston Berry bravely shares her journey to combat the dangers of deepfakes, highlighting the importance of education in schools. Melanie Sanders discusses the rise of the We Do Not Care Club, a supportive movement for women in perimenopause. Plus, learn about the groundbreaking release of an autistic Barbie that sparks meaningful conversations. Bereaved parents Susan and Chad Chance honor their child’s legacy through literacy initiatives, showcasing resilience and creativity.

5 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 7min
Trump on Insurrection Act, Kirk Assassin in Court, Miracle Organ Transplant and more
President Trump's threat to invoke the Insurrection Act highlights ongoing tensions in Minnesota. Meanwhile, an Arctic blast may bring snow to parts of the US this weekend. In court news, defense attorneys for the alleged shooter of Charlie Kirk are raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest. On the health front, a man receives a life-changing organ transplant after a groundbreaking procedure involving genetically modified pig organs.

Jan 16, 2026 • 7min
Minneapolis Clashes, Cautious Calm in Iran, Trump’s ‘Unhinged’ Diet and more
Minneapolis sees unrest with clashes and tear gas while Trump threatens the Insurrection Act. A CNN poll reveals that 58% of Americans view his return as a failure. In Iran, a cautious calm returns following weeks of protests. The CIA director's visit to Venezuela raises eyebrows as narco-trafficking concerns come to light. Meanwhile, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. humorously critiques Trump’s fast-food diet, leaving listeners amused and intrigued.

6 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 7min
Unrest in Minneapolis, Trump’s Healthcare Plan, 'Mistake' Deportation and more
Tensions escalate in Minneapolis as protestors clash with federal officers. President Trump reveals a new healthcare plan aimed at reducing costs and increasing transparency. A federal court blocks the DOJ's access to California voter data, raising concerns about voter registration. The administration admits to mistakenly deporting a student, prompting an apology. Meanwhile, South Korea's former president faces a five-year prison sentence for obstruction related to a martial law attempt.

Jan 15, 2026 • 7min
ACLU Sues Feds, Machado at the WH, NCAA Players Charged and more
Don Riddell, a CNN sports reporter, dives into the latest scandal surrounding college players charged in an international sports betting scheme, revealing how bribes impacted NCAA games. The podcast also discusses the ACLU's lawsuit against the government's immigration tactics. Attention shifts to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Machado's meeting with Trump, highlighting shifts in U.S.-Iran tensions. Plus, there's good news for homebuyers as mortgage rates drop, sparking changes in the housing market.

Jan 15, 2026 • 7min
Insurrection Act Threat, Mahmoud Khalil Decision, Greenland Polling and more
Tensions rise as Trump threatens to invoke the Insurrection Act amidst Minneapolis unrest. A federal appeals court reverses the release of activist Mahmoud Khalil, raising legal concerns. Iran warns that its internal instability could spill over into neighboring regions. A recent poll reveals Americans largely oppose U.S. control of Greenland. Additionally, Grok's AI Chatbot will cease digitally altering images to undress individuals after public backlash.

Jan 15, 2026 • 7min
Iran Executions ‘Stopped’, Another Minneapolis Shooting, Crew-11 Returns and more
Executions in Iran have been halted, raising questions about the nation’s political climate. A federal agent was involved in a shooting in Minneapolis, provoking public protests. In the Senate, a tie-breaking vote was needed to stop a bill that would restrict military actions in Venezuela. Concerns grow as more parents are opting out of childhood vaccines. Meanwhile, Crew-11 astronauts have successfully returned to Earth after their mission. Tune in for insights into these pressing issues.

Jan 14, 2026 • 7min
Trump on Iran executions, ‘Disagreement’ over Greenland, Astronauts’ Early Return and more
A detained Iranian protester faces grim news as concerns about potential execution rise. Tensions brew in the Senate over limiting presidential war powers in Venezuela. Diplomatic discussions unfold with Greenland and Denmark at the White House, revealing a disagreement over military strategies. Legal challenges arise against ICE patrols in Minnesota, while four astronauts make an early return from the ISS due to a medical issue. This mix of human rights, politics, and space travel highlights the day's pressing issues.

Jan 14, 2026 • 7min
New Greenland Threats, US Military Base Evacuation, FBI Raids Reporter's Home and more
Tensions rise as Trump insists on U.S. control of Greenland, sparking local fears about a takeover. Meanwhile, a military base in Qatar is evacuated amid escalating U.S.-Iran relations. A Minnesota court challenges immigration enforcement practices that are under scrutiny. In trade news, China boasts a record surplus despite U.S. tariffs. Additionally, press freedoms are questioned after the FBI raids a journalist's home, seizing devices. Each topic reveals intricate layers of global and domestic policies.


