

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

Dec 19, 2024 • 7min
6 PM ET: Mangione in court, new government spending proposal, DEI at risk & more
A shocking court appearance unfolds as a suspect in the murder of a healthcare CEO faces justice. Meanwhile, House Republicans unveil a plan to keep the government funded through March. Investigations deepen around a man linked to a Wisconsin school shooting, raising concerns for the community. Political debates heat up over potential cuts to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, igniting discussions on their impact. Additionally, Syria's ongoing power transition adds an international dimension to current events.

Dec 19, 2024 • 6min
3 PM ET: Shutdown looming, Putin on Trump, life expectancy bounces back & more
Urgent negotiations are underway as a government shutdown looms, with potential fallout from political clashes. Putin expresses a willingness to meet Trump, raising eyebrows over future U.S.-Russia relations. Meanwhile, the Biden administration's fleeting climate efforts face skepticism ahead of crucial decisions. In economic news, unemployment claims stabilize after an earlier holiday spike. On a brighter note, life expectancy in the U.S. shows signs of recovery post-pandemic, highlighting a small victory amidst ongoing challenges.

Dec 19, 2024 • 7min
12 PM ET: Trump prosecutor disqualified, spending showdown, Amazon strikes & more
A Georgia appeals court has disqualified the prosecutor in the Trump election interference case. Meanwhile, a murder suspect linked to a major CEO is being extradited to New York. Congressional leaders are racing against time to prevent a government shutdown amid demands from Trump. In labor news, thousands of Amazon workers are striking for better conditions. Plus, astronauts on NASA's Starliner are facing an extended stay in space due to launch delays.

Dec 19, 2024 • 7min
9 AM ET: Funding deadline looms, Mangione in court, phone chatbot & more
A potential government shutdown looms as Congress scrambles after a bipartisan funding bill fell through. In France, a woman honors other victims amid a high-profile mass rape trial linked to her former husband. Weather is creating travel headaches for many this holiday weekend. Meanwhile, a new phone feature allows users to chat with an AI, raising questions about emotional reliance on technology. Plus, there's a sneak peek at an exciting upcoming New Year's Eve event.

Dec 19, 2024 • 7min
6 AM ET: Spending bill scrapped, shooting victims named, mass rape sentencing & more
A bipartisan spending bill has been scrapped, leaving lawmakers in turmoil. The tragic victims of a school shooting in Wisconsin have been identified. In France, a pivotal verdict was reached in a mass rape trial, raising calls for change. Meanwhile, tensions escalate in the Middle East as airstrikes target Houthi positions in Yemen. On a lighter note, the U.S. has successfully eradicated invasive murder hornets, showcasing a rare environmental victory.

Dec 18, 2024 • 6min
6 PM ET: Dow dives, hopes for a ceasefire, sauce in the spotlight & more
The Dow's dramatic plunge of over 1,100 points raises eyebrows amid fears over the Federal Reserve's interest rate moves. Meanwhile, political tensions simmer with the GOP's shaky funding plans and talks of a possible ceasefire in Gaza. On the culinary front, a new KFC spinoff aims to catch the attention of Gen Z with trendy sauce offerings. Plus, President Biden is reportedly making moves on climate action as he approaches the end of his term.

Dec 18, 2024 • 6min
3 PM ET: Fed slashes rates, severe bird flu case, TikTok’s challenge & more
The Federal Reserve has implemented a notable interest rate cut, potentially signaling a pause in future adjustments. In political news, House Republicans are focusing on Liz Cheney in the ongoing Jan. 6 investigation. A severe human case of H5N1 bird flu has been reported by the CDC, raising health concerns. TikTok's future in the U.S. hangs in the balance as the Supreme Court considers a crucial case. Meanwhile, Poland is taking bold action by auctioning frozen butter to combat rising food prices ahead of elections.

Dec 18, 2024 • 7min
12 PM ET: SCOTUS takes on TikTok ban, Gaetz report, Hawaii woman home & more
The Supreme Court is set to review TikTok's challenge against a potential ban, raising important First Amendment debates. Meanwhile, the House Ethics Committee is poised to unveil a report on Matt Gaetz's alleged misconduct. In crime news, doubts linger over the prosecution of a high-profile murder case, and authorities are investigating motives behind a recent school shooting. Additionally, a Hawaiian woman shares her harrowing experience after weeks of being missing, shedding light on her ordeal.

Dec 18, 2024 • 7min
9 AM ET: Trump’s tech meetings, Russia detains bombing suspect, transgender storyline cut & more
President-elect Trump is meeting with major tech leaders to reshape their relationship as he navigates political chaos. In Russia, a suspect linked to the killing of a senior general has been detained, raising tension. Indiana has marked a grim milestone with its first execution in 15 years, and the media is abuzz over Disney's decision to cut a transgender character from an upcoming animated series. These topics highlight the intersections of politics, justice, and media representation in today’s society.

Dec 18, 2024 • 7min
6 AM ET: School shooting vigil, interest rate cuts, longest spacewalk & more
A heartfelt candlelight vigil in Wisconsin honors the victims of a tragic school shooting. Lawmakers are in a heated debate over a bill aimed at preventing a government shutdown. Anticipation builds around potential interest rate cuts by the Fed. Meanwhile, Honda and Nissan are considering a merger, shaking up the auto industry. On a lighter note, a record has been set for the longest spacewalk, showcasing new frontiers in space exploration.


