

CNN 5 Things
CNN
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 24, 2025 • 21min
One Thing: Might at the Museum: Trump Targets the Smithsonian
Leah Wright Rigueur, a political historian and associate professor at Johns Hopkins University, dives into President Trump's controversial critiques of the Smithsonian. She discusses how these attacks may distort American history, particularly the narratives around slavery and race. The conversation highlights the challenges museums face balancing political influence with historical accuracy. Rigueur emphasizes the need for responsible representation and the importance of preserving complex narratives to educate future generations.

Aug 23, 2025 • 14min
5 Good Things: The Cyclist With a New Heart & Medal for Team USA
A heartwarming tale unfolds as athletes with new hearts strive for greatness at the World Transplant Games. A young boy's accidental 911 call leads to a magical birthday surprise for his brother. Meanwhile, two siblings, separated for decades, find each other through modern technology. In a quirky competition, a couple from Wisconsin shatters records at the Wife Carrying World Championship. Finally, a historic church relocation in Sweden tells a story of community and nostalgia, blending joy with a sense of heritage.

Aug 22, 2025 • 7min
Bus crash latest, Maxwell interview released, fall-like weather & more
A tragic bus crash in New York brings heart-wrenching updates on injuries and fatalities. Ghislaine Maxwell's prison interview reveals shocking insights into her ties with Jeffrey Epstein. Tensions rise as Trump shares his views on peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Meanwhile, a pause on work visas is affecting many. And just when summer heat felt endless, a refreshing hint of fall weather is on the way!

Aug 22, 2025 • 7min
NY bus crash, Kilmar Abrego Garcia released, tourist hotspot critter & more
A tragic bus crash in New York leaves multiple people dead, shaking the community. The DC National Guard receives new orders as the former President plans a crackdown on crime. Meanwhile, a Maryland father, wrongfully deported, continues his legal battle. In business news, a settlement looms between Elon Musk’s X and ex-Twitter employees. Lastly, a tourist destination in Spain faces an unexpected visitor: venomous sea slugs, stirring concern among travelers.

Aug 22, 2025 • 7min
Rate cuts hint, John Bolton raided, rainbow crosswalk removed & more
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell hints at possible interest rate cuts, aligning with pressure from President Trump. An FBI raid targets John Bolton's home and office. Texas inches closer to finalizing its congressional redistricting plan. Crime stats raise eyebrows as GOP states send more National Guard to D.C. Meanwhile, outrage erupts over the removal of a rainbow crosswalk in Orlando, a symbolic LGBTQ memorial, igniting a debate between residents and state officials.

Aug 22, 2025 • 7min
Gaza is starving, SCOTUS health grants ruling, AI winter & more
A UN report highlights a devastating famine in Gaza, complicating the already dire humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, tensions remain high in Ukraine after a recent summit. The Supreme Court's ruling on Trump's health grants raises questions about funding. In a somber note, Uvalde school officials are holding back critical documents from the shooting. Lastly, the podcast explores the uncertain future of the AI industry, with fears of an impending 'AI winter' as the market faces significant challenges.

Aug 22, 2025 • 7min
Famine in Gaza, ‘Alligator Alcatraz' ruling, Erik Menendez parole & more
Famine looms over Gaza as a humanitarian crisis unfolds amid military actions. A federal judge made a pivotal ruling on the controversial detention camp nicknamed 'Alligator Alcatraz.' Meanwhile, the fate of redistricting bills in California raises political eyebrows. Hurricane Erin poses risks along the coast, even as it drifts away. In criminal news, the Menendez brothers face significant setbacks, with parole denied for one, highlighting their notorious past.

6 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 6min
Villanova University ‘hoax’, Trump joins DC patrol, Cracker Barrel’s new logo & more
A university president addresses a hoax active shooter incident, highlighting campus safety concerns. Meanwhile, Trump aligns with law enforcement amid a crackdown initiative. Redistricting efforts in California and Texas grab attention. In international news, the Israeli military prepares for action in Gaza, while Hurricane Erin's path is tracked. On a lighter note, a restaurant chain faces backlash after a costly rebranding and logo update, rattling investors.

Aug 21, 2025 • 7min
Civil fraud ruling, CDC layoffs, Menendez parole hearings & more
Donald Trump celebrates a legal win in a New York fraud case. California and Texas are battling over redistricting maps that could reshape political futures. The CDC faces massive layoffs, raising concerns about transparency. The Menendez brothers' parole hearings may open the door for their freedom. Lastly, TikTok’s safety comes into question as discussions about its impact on young users' mental health heat up.

Aug 21, 2025 • 7min
Trump's penalty overturned, East Coast braces, attack's manpower problem & more
A court has thrown out Trump's civil fraud penalty, shaking up the political landscape. As Hurricane Erin approaches, residents from Florida to Maine are bracing for impact. Meanwhile, Israel faces challenges with exhausted troops in Gaza City. Tensions remain high as the Kremlin dashes hopes for a Ukraine-Russia meeting. In a lighter note, a judge promotes kindness by dismissing a ticket for a parent rushing to care for their sick child. Plus, there's a heartfelt tribute to a social media star known for their compassion.