CNN 5 Things

A tragic plane crash by Azerbaijan Airlines raises questions about external factors. Tensions surface over U.S. visas for skilled workers, revealing divisions within political support. NATO plans to enhance its Baltic Sea presence amid concerns. Mortgage rates rise, affecting home buyers as the year closes. In a curious twist, research on bird droppings in New Jersey might help predict the next pandemic, highlighting an unexpected connection between nature and public health.

A second black box has been retrieved from a devastating plane crash in Azerbaijan, with suspicions pointing to Russia's involvement. South Korea's acting leader has been impeached again, shaking up the political landscape. Millions traveling during a bustling weekend in the U.S. are bracing for severe weather disruptions. A dramatic scene unfolded when an Israeli airstrike hit near a WHO official in Yemen, while airport security comes under scrutiny after another stowaway incident on a Delta flight.

A tragic plane crash in Azerbaijan claimed 23 lives, possibly linked to a Russian anti-aircraft system. In Gaza, the freezing conditions have led to heartbreaking losses among newborns. International students are on high alert due to looming travel bans. While the Amazon strike has concluded, the Teamsters are cautioning that updates are still to come. In a shocking incident, a cab driver in New York struck six people in Midtown, adding to the day's dramatic news.

A tragic attack in Ukraine has left many without heating amid the winter chill. In Gaza, an Israeli strike has killed five journalists, raising alarms about press safety in conflict zones. Trump's comments about the Panama Canal are under scrutiny, possibly as tactical moves. Meanwhile, health warnings emerge as bird flu devastates big cats in Washington state, and the FDA sounds the alarm over potential salmonella in Costco eggs. Dive into these critical conversations that intertwine global conflict and public health.

American Airlines faced nationwide flight delays due to a tech issue, causing travel headaches. A suspect was arraigned for a tragic subway fire incident in New York City. On a lighter note, one million taxpayers are set to receive surprise payments next month. Former President Bill Clinton has been released from the hospital, adding a touch of good news. Plus, weather updates suggest Rudolph might have a challenging route this holiday season!

Matt Gaetz vehemently denies new allegations from a House Ethics report, stirring up controversy. Meanwhile, Bill Clinton has been hospitalized just before the holidays, raising health concerns. In a bold political move, President-elect Donald Trump hints at U.S. expansion into Panama, Greenland, and Canada. Tragically, a blast at an explosives factory in Turkey has claimed lives. On a brighter note, NASA's solar probe is set to bring humanity closer to the sun than ever before.

The podcast dives into the House Ethics Committee's revealing report on Matt Gaetz, laying bare serious allegations and legal troubles. Luigi Mangione's arraignment for a high-profile murder case adds drama, while Blake Lively's sexual harassment claims spark conversations about workplace issues in Hollywood. International tensions simmer as Ukraine accuses Russia of misleading North Korean soldiers with fake IDs. Plus, listeners can look forward to lower holiday gas prices, averaging $3.01— the best savings since 2020.

President Biden is making headlines by commuting federal death sentences for dozens of inmates. A chilling attack during a Christmas market in Germany raises concerns. The automotive world is abuzz with rumors of a major merger between two giants. In NYC, a tragic incident involving a woman set on fire in the subway highlights urban safety issues. Meanwhile, last-minute holiday shoppers face challenges as strikes affect their shopping experience. Find out how these stories intertwine in today's discussion.

Olivia Kooner, a resident of Burnsville, North Carolina, shares her heart-wrenching experience as a survivor of Hurricane Helene. She recounts the chaos during the storm and the ongoing struggles three months later, including housing instability and inadequate support from FEMA. Olivia discusses the emotional toll of adapting to a new normal, especially during the holidays, and reflects on the divide in her community between long-time residents and newcomers. Her story highlights the resilience of those navigating life as climate refugees.

A traveling musician brings joy across the U.S. through uplifting performances in disaster-affected areas. The youngest World Chess Champion receives a hero's welcome in his hometown. A son honors his beloved Santa father by launching a toy store and giving back to families in need. Innovative research on mouse sperm in space raises questions about human survival beyond Earth. Meanwhile, AI is being harnessed to create personalized music playlists for those with memory loss disorders, showcasing music's power in mental health.