

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

5 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 7min
Election Day, Longest Shutdown, Israeli Military Scandal and more
Millions are casting their votes in critical elections across New York, New Jersey, and Virginia. The government shutdown is on track to break records due to stalled negotiations and GOP leverage. A major Israeli military scandal unfolds with the arrest of a top lawyer linked to serious allegations. In North Korea, the symbolic figurehead Kim Jong-nam has died, marking a significant political shift. Meanwhile, Starbucks makes waves by selling a majority stake in its China operations for nearly $4 billion.

Nov 3, 2025 • 7min
SNAP Half Covered, Alleged Terror Plot Charges, Trump’s Pardon Comments and more
The podcast dives into critical news with a focus on federal rulings impacting food stamp benefits during a government shutdown. It details an alarming alleged ISIS-inspired plot in Michigan aimed at a Halloween attack. Discussions also revolve around Trump considering military action in Nigeria and a fired Fed governor expressing her views on monetary policy for the first time. Lastly, Trump's controversial pardon of the Binance founder sparks debate about its implications on U.S. operations.

5 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 6min
Key Elections, Portland Troops Order, FDA Resignation and more
Two key elections in Virginia and New Jersey have Democrats on high alert as they may signal midterm trends. A judge's ruling affects President Trump's deployment of the National Guard in Portland during protests. In a poignant moment, Israel has received the remains of three more hostages, while a controversial plan for Gaza's militant movements is on the table. Meanwhile, the FDA faces internal turbulence as a top official resigns amid misconduct allegations, shaking up the agency's leadership.

10 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 6min
Negative Trump Polls, UK Train Stabbing, NYC Marathon and more
The government shutdown is causing serious issues for food benefits and air travel. Recent polling shows troubling numbers for Trump, with high-stakes elections looming. A shocking mass stabbing in England left nine critically injured. Meanwhile, a devastating earthquake in Afghanistan has resulted in fatalities and significant damage. Lastly, the NYC marathon saw a new record, showcasing human endurance amidst chaos.

Nov 2, 2025 • 22min
One Thing: Latinos Shifted Right in 2024. Has Trump 2.0 Scrambled Things?
Kennith Gonzalez, a key figure in New Jersey's Republican Latino outreach, shares insights on how the GOP is connecting with Hispanic voters, focusing on local issues that resonate with them. Hector Lora, the Mayor of Passaic, discusses the impact of immigration enforcement on his community and his support for Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill. The conversation highlights the evolving political landscape, Latino voter priorities on safety and affordability, and the need for parties to address these concerns to maintain voter trust.

Nov 1, 2025 • 15min
5 Good Things: This Grandma Went From Beginner Swimmer to Record Breaker
This episode features inspiring stories from around the world. Meet blind athletes advocating for baseball as a Paralympic sport. A man in Texas ensures Halloween fun for families in need with costume giveaways. Heartwarming reunions take center stage as a US Air Force sergeant reconnects with her retired K-9 partner. In Minnesota, a young girl makes a miraculous recovery just in time for a birthday celebration. Plus, hear about an 80-year-old lady who became an Ironman record holder after learning to swim at 59!

Oct 31, 2025 • 7min
SNAP Benefits Rulings, Disney Drops Channels, Gold Toilet Auction and more
Rulings on food stamp benefits steal the spotlight amid a government shutdown. President Trump's absence from a major summit raises eyebrows. A lawsuit exposes shocking conditions at an ICE facility near Chicago. YouTube TV subscribers face disappointment as Disney channels are dropped due to a contract dispute. And in a bizarre twist, an 18-carat gold toilet is set to auction for a staggering $10 million. These stories highlight a week filled with controversy and intrigue!

Oct 31, 2025 • 7min
‘Nuclear’ Shutdown Option, ISIS-inspired Plot Foiled, Covid-19 Autism Link and more
President Trump proposes a controversial plan to end the government shutdown, urging the Senate to ditch the filibuster. The FBI thwarts a terrorist plot linked to ISIS in Michigan, catching suspects in their teens. New York City faces catastrophic flooding, resulting in tragic losses and severe transportation chaos. In royal news, Prince Andrew loses his titles following troubling allegations from Virginia Giuffre. A concerning study highlights a potential link between maternal COVID-19 during pregnancy and increased autism risks in children.

Oct 31, 2025 • 6min
Trump Targets Filibuster, Hostage Remains Returned, Flight’s Emergency Landing and more
Trump is pushing for the elimination of the Senate filibuster to end the government shutdown, potentially impacting millions relying on SNAP benefits. Meanwhile, Israel has received the remains of two hostages amid rising fears of escalating strikes in Gaza. Hurricane Melissa is making its presence felt in Bermuda, causing damage across the Caribbean. A JetBlue flight experienced a sudden altitude drop, leading to several passengers being hospitalized. Lastly, a concerning listeria outbreak has been linked to grocery store pasta salads.

Oct 30, 2025 • 7min
Fight over SNAP Benefits, Shot Teacher Testifies, Royal Titles Revoked and more
A federal judge may decide on the future of food stamp benefits amid rising reliance on food banks. A dramatic US-China trade deal is set to revive soybean exports. A Virginia teacher bravely testifies after being shot by a 6-year-old, sparking legal action against school officials. Hurricane Melissa leaves a trail of destruction in the Caribbean, with ongoing rescue efforts in its wake. Finally, King Charles revokes Prince Andrew's royal titles amidst intense scrutiny over his past associations.


