

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

Feb 24, 2025 • 7min
Musk email rift, LA immigration enforcement, Pope health update & more
Elon Musk's email has stirred up tensions among federal workers, revealing internal rifts in government agencies. As Ukraine braces for uncertainty on the anniversary of the invasion, LA sees heightened immigration enforcement, leading to clashes between agents and activists. Meanwhile, Germany's political landscape shifts rightward after a snap election. Plus, listeners get a crucial health update on Pope Francis. This episode offers a glimpse into crucial global events and their local implications.

Feb 23, 2025 • 24min
One Thing: ‘This Shouldn’t Be Their Reality’: Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
The podcast presents a gripping exploration of the fear felt by undocumented immigrants amid mass deportation efforts. It shares personal stories illustrating the chilling impact on families, particularly in schools and healthcare settings. A poignant account of an 11-year-old girl highlights the emotional toll of anti-immigrant policies. The discussion also critiques the dangerous rhetoric shaping societal attitudes and underscores the urgent need for community support amidst rising anxiety.

Feb 22, 2025 • 15min
5 Good Things: These Young Emoji Designers Want to Make History
A remarkable story unfolds as a California woman utilizes 3D printing to rebuild her life after losing her home. A father's initiative highlights the need for educational toys featuring Black historical figures. A youth group in London pushes for emojis reflecting Black and mixed-race hairstyles, aiming for greater representation. Innovative farming solutions emerge from a space robotics engineer addressing challenges in aging agricultural workforces. Additionally, a trending poem inspires individuals to reconnect with their younger selves.

Feb 21, 2025 • 7min
AP sues Trump, Mangione’s court appearance, Tesla recall & more
The Associated Press is suing the Trump administration for blocking access to briefings, igniting a legal battle over media rights. In a high-stakes court appearance, Luigi Mangione faces scrutiny in a shocking murder case involving a healthcare CEO. Meanwhile, a judge has canceled New York Mayor Eric Adams' trial, although corruption charges loom over him. The Los Angeles Fire Department is undergoing changes following devastating wildfires. Tesla is also making headlines with its second-largest recall this year due to serious safety issues.

Feb 21, 2025 • 7min
Pentagon firings paused, more measles cases, beards in baseball & more
The Pentagon has paused mass firings of civilian workers amidst growing public discontent over inflation. Meanwhile, West Texas is seeing an uptick in measles cases, highlighting urgent public health concerns. A new poll shows an increase in Americans identifying as LGBTQ+, reflecting shifting societal norms. In a surprising move, the New York Yankees have lifted their long-standing facial hair ban, allowing players to embrace personal expression. This change marks a cultural evolution in Major League Baseball.

Feb 21, 2025 • 7min
Voter anger over Trump's firings, Pope's health, polar vortex & more
Voter frustration in Georgia is boiling over as Congressman Rich McCormick faces tough questions about federal layoffs. Meanwhile, updates on the hostage situation reveal ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas. Delta Airlines is making headlines with compensation for a Toronto plane crash. In other news, the Vatican shares the latest on the Pope's health. Lastly, the polar vortex is leaving much of the U.S. in a deep freeze, but there's a hint of warmer weather just around the corner.

Feb 21, 2025 • 7min
Republican clash, alternative Gaza plan, Mangione in court & more
GOP Senators are aligning on a new budget blueprint, but tensions loom as factions may clash soon. Arab leaders gather in Saudi Arabia to propose an alternative to Trump's Gaza plan. Meanwhile, Luigi Mangione faces court over the high-profile murder case of United Healthcare's CEO. Germans prepare for a snap election this weekend, and in sports news, Major League Baseball is parting ways with ESPN, signaling big changes ahead. Keep an eye on these unfolding stories!

Feb 21, 2025 • 7min
Israeli hostage body, Senate vote-a-rama, Musk ‘living the meme,’ & more
Israel confirms a returned body isn’t the hostage they believed it to be, raising tensions. In D.C., Senate Republicans race through a crucial budget decision. Elon Musk steals the spotlight at a Conservative conference with a chainsaw entrance. Meanwhile, over 170 migrants are moved from Guantanamo Bay to Venezuela. On the lighter side, an electrifying overtime finish defines the first-ever 4 Nations hockey championship, showcasing the thrill of international competition.

Feb 20, 2025 • 7min
Hochul won’t oust Adams, US stocks tumble, NBA star’s season-ending injury & more
New York's governor will not remove Mayor Adams, sparking discussions about potential changes. Meanwhile, Ukraine's President Zelensky is navigating strained ties with Washington. Wall Street is jittery over Walmart's economic forecast, contributing to a stock market plunge. In sports, NBA star Victor Wembanyama's season ends prematurely due to a serious injury, raising questions about his promising future. The podcast dips into the challenges of managing digital legacies in today's world.

Feb 20, 2025 • 7min
Defense and IRS cuts, new FBI director, former NFL player's arrest & more
Trump's administration might be slashing jobs at the Pentagon and IRS, stirring political debate. Kash Patel has been confirmed as the new FBI director amid bipartisan discussions. In New York, the National Guard has been activated due to an illegal strike by corrections officers. South Korea's impeached president faces trial for insurrection. Adding intrigue, a former NFL player's unexpected arrest during a city council meeting leaves everyone talking.


