

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

10 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 7min
Trump-Putin Meeting Fizzles, Trump’s Potential DOJ Payout, ICE Shooting and more
A planned meeting between Trump and Putin seems to have stalled, with Trump suggesting he might seek $230 million from the DOJ. Recent polls indicate a growing sentiment against authoritarianism in the U.S., resonating with the ‘No Kings’ protests. In international news, the bodies of hostages taken by Hamas have been returned to Israel. Additionally, tensions rise in Los Angeles as two people are shot during an ICE operation.

Oct 21, 2025 • 7min
Trump-Putin summit stalled, Vance in Israel, Giuffre’s memoir & more
Plans for a Trump-Putin summit have hit a standstill, raising questions about U.S.-Russia diplomacy. Meanwhile, J.D. Vance expresses optimism regarding the fragile ceasefire in Israel during his visit. An ICE operation in Los Angeles results in two injuries after a firearm discharge. A pardoned Capitol rioter faces new charges for threatening a Democratic leader. Additionally, Virginia Giuffre’s memoir unveils shocking allegations, including claims of abuse by a prominent public figure.

6 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 6min
Shutdown stalemate, NC congressional map, White House demolition & more
The government shutdown is now three weeks in, with no side willing to budge. North Carolina's Republican senators have approved a new congressional map, aiming to strengthen their grip on House seats. Meanwhile, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy begins a five-year prison sentence for his role in a criminal conspiracy. Florida's attorney general is targeting Roblox over child safety concerns amid troubling allegations. Plus, renovations at the White House are underway as part of a $200 million ballroom project.

5 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 7min
National Guard ruling, Trump-Putin meeting uncertainty, NFL player death & more
A court ruling allows for the federalization of the National Guard in Portland, sparking debate over law enforcement's role. Uncertainty looms over a postponed Trump-Putin meeting, raising questions about future relations. In Japan, historic news unfolds as Sanae Takaichi becomes the first female leader of the Liberal Democratic Party. Tragically, former NFL player Doug Martin dies following an arrest, drawing attention to issues surrounding police encounters. A controversial nomination falters over explosive allegations of racism.

5 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 7min
AWS outage recovery, Trump threatens Hamas, kiwis as medicine & more
A massive outage at Amazon Web Services has disrupted services worldwide, prompting investigation into its causes. As the government shutdown continues, federal workers face ongoing hardships. President Trump threatens to eradicate Hamas if ceasefire conditions aren't met. The audacious Louvre heist remains unsolved, with thieves still at large. Meanwhile, new research suggests that kiwis, along with rye bread and water, can effectively relieve chronic constipation.

5 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 7min
Amazon outage ‘mitigated,’ US-Colombia feud escalates, peanut allergy prevention & more
A significant internet outage affected millions globally, but experts believe the impact could have been worse. Tensions rise as President Trump threatens tariffs on Colombia amidst escalating diplomatic disputes. Security concerns surface with the FBI investigating a suspicious hunting stand near Air Force One's landing zone. In more positive news, recent research shows that introducing peanuts to infants can significantly decrease allergy development. The latest developments in these stories offer a blend of urgency and hope.

10 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 6min
Online outage, Gaza ceasefire test, ‘No Kings’ protests & more
A massive global outage disrupts major platforms like Amazon and Fortnite, leaving millions groggy online. The Gaza ceasefire is tested but manages to hold amidst ongoing tensions. In a twist, President Trump engages with the 'No Kings' protests through AI-generated memes. Meanwhile, the government shutdown leads to mass furloughs for nuclear security staff. And if that's not enough, a daring jewelry heist at the Louvre has thieves making off with royal treasures. What a whirlwind of news!

Oct 19, 2025 • 20min
One Thing: Cartels, The CIA, and Trump’s True Intentions in Venezuela
In this discussion, Natasha Bertrand, a CNN correspondent focusing on national security, and Steven Dudley, co-director of InSight Crime, dive deep into U.S. military actions in Venezuela. They explore Trump’s authorization of CIA operations, raising questions about drug enforcement versus regime change. Bertrand highlights the escalating tensions surrounding Maduro’s government, while Dudley explains the disconnect between military strikes and the reality of drug trafficking, especially concerning fentanyl. Their insights reveal the multifaceted motives behind the U.S. strategy.

Oct 18, 2025 • 14min
5 Good Things: Hundreds of Spooky Displays for a Sweet Cause
A dad’s Halloween display evolved into a nationwide movement, raising nearly $1 million for kids with cancer. Discover the mystery of redfish with unique tail markings that intrigue anglers and scientists alike. Meet the first American champion at the Cheese Olympics, who shares her journey amid challenging tasks. High school students in NYC flex their culinary skills with winning recipes that now grace cafeteria menus citywide. Plus, Italy's 100-year-old barista continues to brew joy for her community, proving age is just a number!

Oct 17, 2025 • 7min
Trump meets with Zelensky, Prince Andrew’s royal titles, weekend forecast & more
Trump and Zelensky discussed Ukraine's plea for advanced missile systems at the White House. The former president is taking his fight over National Guard deployment to the Supreme Court. A controversial US strike raises questions about drug trafficking law. Prince Andrew has relinquished his royal titles amid Epstein-related scandals. Meanwhile, a severe weather threat looms over the South and Midwest as storms approach, with warnings of damaging winds and tornadoes.


