

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 20, 2025 • 7min
Israel mourns released hostages, DOGE dividend, ancient tomb discovery & more
The tragic return of hostages in Israel stirs deep emotions, while the US grapples with potential inflation complications from a quirky 'DOGE dividend.' New definitions of gender terms by health officials spark controversy, raising questions around science and identity. A heartbreaking story unfolds with the suicide of a young girl linked to bullying over her family's immigration status. In a fascinating turn, an ancient tomb belonging to King Thutmose II is uncovered in Egypt, promising new insights into history.

Feb 20, 2025 • 7min
DOGE claims debunked, bishops sue Trump administration, soccer kiss verdict & more
Government layoffs are facing scrutiny, revealing that it's not just low performers being impacted. Catholic bishops are challenging the Trump administration over cuts to refugee funding. A grand jury calls for the dissolution of an Alabama police department due to a corruption scandal. Meanwhile, seven Florida deputies are suspended after a tragic domestic violence case. In sports news, a verdict is reached in the controversial non-consensual kiss involving Spain's former soccer chief, highlighting ongoing issues of sexism in athletics.

Feb 20, 2025 • 7min
Hostage bodies returned, Trump's approval rating, major military budget cuts & more
Four Israeli hostages' bodies have been returned by Hamas, sparking deep emotional responses. A recent poll highlights growing concerns about President Trump's approval ratings. As the Trump administration prepares to label migrants as disease risks, significant military budget cuts have been proposed by the Defense Secretary. Meanwhile, the U.S. braces for even colder temperatures, raising additional worries about safety and preparedness.

Feb 19, 2025 • 7min
Federal firings fallout, NYC mayor in court, a cheaper iPhone & more
Tensions rise as Department of Defense officials brace for impending firings at the Pentagon. In Arizona, a midair collision between two small planes adds to aviation concerns. The corruption case surrounding New York City Mayor Eric Adams reveals fascinating courtroom drama. Meanwhile, Donald Trump takes aim at New York's congestion pricing initiative. On a lighter note, Apple introduces a new budget-friendly iPhone model, ensuring accessibility for all.

Feb 19, 2025 • 7min
Trump vs Zelensky, Target’s DEI debacle, chicken chain relocates & more
Tensions flare as Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky exchange sharp words over Ukraine's peace efforts. The Department of Justice pushes a major appeal regarding Trump's authority to fire a watchdog. Tragedy strikes with two skiers lost in an avalanche in Oregon. Meanwhile, Target faces customer backlash as it scales back its diversity initiatives. On the fast food front, KFC announces its move to Texas, signaling a significant shift amidst fierce competition and declining sales.

Feb 19, 2025 • 7min
Putin praises peace talks, Eric Adams' corruption case, measles outbreak & more
Vladimir Putin shares thoughts on recent talks with the U.S. regarding Ukraine. A federal judge is deliberating over NYC Mayor Eric Adams' corruption case. Despite alarming reports, air travel statistics show it’s safer than it seems. West Texas faces a growing measles outbreak, highlighting the importance of vaccination. Meanwhile, ticket prices for the Four Nations Face-Off Championship soar, competing with Super Bowl costs!

7 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 7min
Zelensky on Trump’s 'disinformation', migrant children services cut, Pope's health & more
Ukraine's president accuses Trump of spreading disinformation about the war, sparking a heated dialogue. Meanwhile, the Trump administration faces criticism for cutting legal services for migrant children. In a surprising twist, Trump also signs an executive order to enhance IVF access. Health updates on Pope Francis reveal his hospitalization status. On the entertainment front, Blake Lively expands her lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, while organized crime is suspected behind thefts affecting NFL stars.

Feb 19, 2025 • 7min
Trump criticizes Zelensky, dangerously low temperatures, A$AP Rocky verdict & more
Tensions rise as Trump criticizes Zelensky following US-Russia talks. Meanwhile, 60 million Americans face perilously low temperatures. Trump also plans tariffs on key imports, causing economic ripples. In Brazil, a former president faces serious charges over an alleged coup attempt. Plus, A$AP Rocky’s assault case concludes with a not guilty verdict, raising questions about the nature of evidence used in court. The discussion hints at future topics surrounding our digital legacies and how we manage our online footprints.

5 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 7min
DOGE data access, measles spreads in Texas, new OPEC+ member & more
A federal judge just ruled on data access that affects Elon Musk. Meanwhile, political leaders are bickering over budget strategies. In health news, Pope Francis is battling pneumonia while Texas faces a measles outbreak with 13 hospitalized. On the global stage, Brazil steps in as the newest member of OPEC+, stirring discussions about environmental impacts. This mix of politics, health, and energy keeps the conversation lively and urgent!

Feb 18, 2025 • 7min
Delta crash landing update, DOGE goes for DOE, Grok 3 goes public & more
Get the latest on a dramatic Delta flight that flipped during landing in Toronto, leaving passengers shaken but safe. Explore the diplomatic dance as the U.S. and Russia prepare to negotiate an end to the Ukraine conflict. Tune in for news on a federal judge's decision granting access to student data, alongside a significant resignation in Washington's U.S. attorney’s office. Plus, discover Elon Musk's latest venture with Grok 3, a new AI model gearing up to shake up the chatbot landscape.


