

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, 9am, 12pm, 3pm and 6pm Eastern, every weekday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 31, 2025 • 7min
Tariffs' legal test, hiking deaths arrest, Trump boosts ratings & more
Trade partners rush to negotiate with the U.S. before looming tariffs hit, facing intriguing legal challenges. Public support for Israel's actions in Gaza is shifting, raising eyebrows. Investigations into a tragic mid-air collision reveal shocking details. In a grim turn, a suspect has been arrested in the mysterious murder of a couple on a hiking trail. Plus, President Trump's unintentional boost to a TV show's ratings leads to amusing critiques and unexpected reactions from the White House.

Jul 31, 2025 • 7min
Ukraine crisis deepens, turbulence injuries, drink mix-up & more
Tensions are rising as Russia continues to make gains in Ukraine, prompting a complex web of political responses. In a surprising twist, countries are pressuring Hamas to transfer power in Gaza. Meanwhile, a sudden bout of turbulence on a Delta flight leaves passengers hospitalized. The episode takes a quirky turn with a recall of a misbranded energy drink that packs an unexpected punch.

Jul 30, 2025 • 7min
Kamala Harris’ future, Colorado dentist verdict, Shannon Sharpe axed & more
The Justice Department is pushing to reveal grand jury testimony related to Jeffrey Epstein, raising transparency questions. Kamala Harris has decided to withdraw from the California gubernatorial race, prompting speculation about her future. A Colorado dentist received a sentence for his wife's murder. Meanwhile, Donald Trump introduces new tariffs affecting trade with Brazil and India. And in sports news, ESPN has parted ways with a prominent former NFL player amid controversy.

Jul 30, 2025 • 6min
Interest rates held again, tsunami warnings ease, Ozzy Osbourne funeral & more
The Federal Reserve has decided to hold interest rates steady despite external pressures, sparking discussions on the economy. After a Russian earthquake, tsunami warnings in the US are easing. In the UK, air travel faced disruptions, while Senate Democrats push for the release of Epstein files using an old law. Meanwhile, fans gather to pay tribute to Ozzy Osbourne at his heartfelt funeral, celebrating a music legend. Plus, there's a sneak peek at a new AI-powered PC aimed at enhancing creativity and productivity.

Jul 30, 2025 • 6min
Natural disaster satellite, Trump’s tariff deadline, sweet snack mashup & more
Tsunami warnings are spiking in the U.S. following a major earthquake in Russia. Meanwhile, a groundbreaking satellite launched by the U.S. and India promises to revolutionize our view of Earth. Economic updates reveal critical GDP numbers just as Trump’s tariff deadline approaches. The CDC welcomes a new leader amidst these shifts. And for a sweet twist, two beloved snacks are teaming up to create delightful new treats!

Jul 30, 2025 • 7min
Tsunami alerts, Biden aides testify, ‘Ozempic face’ & more
Tsunami alerts are still in effect for areas affected by a powerful earthquake off Russia's coast. The U.S. economy shows resilience with a 3% GDP increase, raising questions about current climate policies. Former Biden aides face congressional questioning on his mental decline. Meanwhile, the cosmetic surgery world is buzzing with trends linked to ‘Ozempic face,’ highlighting a new business angle.

Jul 30, 2025 • 7min
Tsunami waves hit, Epstein poached Mar-a-Lago staff, Australia fights YouTube & more
Tsunami waves have begun reaching the US after a major earthquake near Russia, raising concerns on the coast. Donald Trump sheds light on his fallout with Jeffrey Epstein, adding another layer to their complicated history. The podcast also delves into the grim details surrounding the New York City mass shooting victims. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans navigate a controversial judicial nominee amid whistleblower allegations. Finally, Australia makes waves by moving to ban YouTube for kids under 16, shifting its stance on social media's role in education.

Jul 29, 2025 • 7min
Trump on recognizing Palestine, China-US trade talks, NYC gunman details & more
President Trump reacts to the UK's possible recognition of Palestine while Ghislaine Maxwell stirs intrigue with her conditions to testify in Congress. Newly uncovered details about a Manhattan gunman shed light on recent violence. Economic tensions escalate as tariffs loom after pivotal China-US trade talks. Meanwhile, a French town takes a stand on public decency by imposing fines for inappropriate behavior, igniting a debate on tourism and community standards.

Jul 29, 2025 • 7min
Search for NYC shooting motive, UK to recognize Palestine, consumer confidence boost & more
Authorities are investigating a shooting in Manhattan, seeking the motive behind the tragedy. Meanwhile, the UK’s decision to recognize a Palestinian state hinges on certain conditions. There's a surprising boost in consumer confidence, and the government plans to incinerate $9.7 million worth of US-purchased contraceptives. Additionally, the podcast updates listeners on a high-profile murder trial involving a Colorado dentist, adding layers to this week’s pressing topics.

Jul 29, 2025 • 7min
NYC gunman, US snubs climate summit, first transcontinental railway & more
A tragic mass shooting in New York City resulted from a gunman mistakenly targeting the wrong floor, sparking conversations about safety. Meanwhile, Israel is ramping up humanitarian aid in Gaza amid escalating tensions. The U.S. opts out of a significant climate summit, raising eyebrows over climate leadership. As cooler weather approaches in the nation, concerns about severe weather risks loom. In a bold move, Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern propose a $72 billion merger, poised to reshape the freight industry.