

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

Nov 7, 2025 • 7min
Mass Flight Cancellations, Kremlin Rift Rumors, Suspicious Package and more
Airports are struggling as hundreds of flights are canceled due to FAA staffing cuts, leaving travelers in frustration. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is contemplating an appeal that could challenge its same-sex marriage ruling. In international news, Israel has launched strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, raising tensions in the region. Additionally, rumors swirl about a possible leadership rift in the Kremlin, fueled by the mysterious absence of key officials. Lastly, a suspicious package at an army base has resulted in multiple illnesses.

7 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 7min
Flights Cancelled, $1T Pay Package, DC Sandwich Thrower and more
Travel chaos is hitting hard with hundreds of flight cancellations due to FAA cuts. A high-stakes meeting at the White House focuses on Russian oil, while a military strike in the Caribbean targets a suspected drug boat. In tech news, Elon Musk inches closer to becoming the world’s first trillionaire with a massive pay package approved by shareholders. Lastly, a court ruling leads to the acquittal of a man infamous for throwing sandwiches, leaving many in disbelief over the trial's outcome.

Nov 6, 2025 • 7min
SNAP Fully Covered, Passport Policy Ruling, Obesity Drug Prices and more
A federal judge mandates full coverage for SNAP benefits amid a looming government shutdown. The Supreme Court upholds the controversial policy requiring passports to match sex assigned at birth. A jury awards $10 million to a Virginia teacher shot by a student, citing school negligence. Pricing agreements are unveiled by the White House to lower costs for obesity drugs. Additionally, a judge restricts federal agents' use of force in response to recent unrest in Chicago.

Nov 6, 2025 • 7min
Travel Chaos, AI Job Cuts, Nancy Pelosi Retires and more
Travel disruptions loom as the FAA plans to cut 10% of flights due to staffing shortages. AI's impact on jobs is highlighted, with October seeing record layoffs attributed to technology. In political news, Nancy Pelosi announces her retirement after four decades in leadership. Meanwhile, President Trump will skip COP30, leaving Governor Newsom to represent the U.S. Lastly, the FDA issues a warning about unlicensed Botox, emphasizing the importance of seeking treatment from qualified professionals.

Nov 6, 2025 • 6min
Flight Cuts, Asia Typhoon, Hostage Abuse and more
Airports face flight cuts due to a government shutdown, raising concerns for travelers. A deadly storm has hit the Philippines, with more severe weather on the horizon. Investigations continue into a tragic cargo plane crash in Kentucky. A chilling account emerges from a freed Israeli hostage detailing harrowing experiences in Gaza. Meanwhile, hockey history is made as Alex Ovechkin scores his 900th goal, marking a significant milestone in the sport.

Nov 5, 2025 • 7min
SCOTUS on Tariffs, Reactions to Mamdani’s Win, FAA Flight Cuts and more
Discover the latest on a Supreme Court hearing scrutinizing Trump's tariffs, where justices from both sides raised tough questions. There’s an update on a UPS plane crash investigation revealing shocking findings about engine issues. Reactions pour in from Trump and other leaders following Zohran Mamdani’s surprising mayoral victory in New York City. The FAA warns of potential flight cuts at major airports due to staffing shortages if the government shutdown continues. Plus, new arrests linked to a terror plot tied to an online group are making headlines.

Nov 5, 2025 • 7min
Record-Breaking Shutdown, Election Night Highlights, Winter Blast and more
The government shutdown has reached a record-breaking 36 days, impacting services and prompting behind-the-scenes negotiations. Last night, Democrats celebrated significant election victories, including first female governors in Virginia and New Jersey. Positive news emerged from the job market, with reports of 42,000 new private sector jobs. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is set to hear a case on Trump's emergency tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Plus, an Arctic cold front is bringing winter-like temperatures across the eastern US.

9 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 7min
Mamdani Wins, VA and NJ Elections, Louisville Plane Crash and more
Zohran Mamdani makes history as NYC's youngest and first Muslim and South Asian mayor. Big wins for Democrats in gubernatorial races across Virginia and New Jersey signal noteworthy political shifts. California voters approve a redistricting plan that favors Democratic congressional candidates. In tragic news, a UPS plane crash in Kentucky claims at least seven lives, prompting an NTSB investigation. Meanwhile, new research raises concerns about melatonin's link to heart failure, revealing critical limitations in the study.

Nov 4, 2025 • 7min
High-stakes Races, Airport Delays, Jeep SUVs Recalled and more
Key races across the country are heating up as voters prepare to make critical decisions. Travel anxiety rises with an impending government shutdown threatening mass delays. Authorities have made arrests linked to an explosion at Harvard Medical School. A major recall of 375,000 Jeep SUVs could spark safety concerns over battery fires. Additionally, a new UN report warns that the world is on track to exceed the 1.5C warming threshold in just a decade.

Nov 4, 2025 • 7min
Dick Cheney Dies, Polls Open, Sudan Crisis and more
The passing of former Vice President Dick Cheney sparks discussions on his controversial legacy. As voters head to the polls for key local elections, tensions rise amid reports of threats at polling stations. The UN raises alarm bells about the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, calling for urgent action. Meanwhile, two major restaurant chains, Denny's and Pizza Hut, are undergoing significant transformations as Denny's heads for private equity and Yum Brands explores options for Pizza Hut.


