
CNN 5 Things
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.
Latest episodes

May 15, 2025 • 21min
Trial by Jury: Cassie’s Words Hit Hard. Will Diddy's Team Pivot?
Mark O’Mara, a criminal defense attorney and CNN legal analyst known for handling high-profile cases, shares insights on the emotional fallout from Cassie Ventura's testimony against Sean Diddy Combs. He delves into the potential shifts in the defense's strategy following her harrowing revelations of abuse. The conversation also explores the challenges of managing sensitive testimony, the implications of graphic evidence, and the financial motivations at play in this high-stakes trial, making it a riveting yet complex legal battle.

May 14, 2025 • 7min
Tax bill debate, Cassie’s second day in trial, MLB’s historic decision & more
The podcast dives into the heated debate over President Trump's tax and spending cuts, highlighting key struggles among lawmakers and health policy tensions. In a gripping courtroom drama, Cassie Ventura takes the stand in Sean 'Diddy' Combs' trial, revealing shocking testimonies. There's also news on a detained scholar sparked by free speech issues. To cap it off, Major League Baseball makes headlines with a groundbreaking decision to reinstate two infamous players, signaling a new era for the sport.

May 14, 2025 • 6min
Tariffs’ impact on ports, US drug overdose deaths, flooding rescues & more
Discover how recent tariff reductions between the U.S. and China could revitalize American ports, while concerns linger over federal funding cuts impacting progress on drug overdose deaths. Dive into the latest changes in national intelligence as key officials are dismissed, raising questions of politicization. Hear urgent tales of flooding rescues in Virginia and Maryland, coupled with an inspiring survival story of a rock climber who beat the odds after a near-fatal mishap. Adventure and urgency collide in this exciting discussion!

May 14, 2025 • 7min
Qatar deal, GOP advances tax bill, screwworm fears & more
President Trump received a grand welcome in Qatar as the two nations struck a significant arms deal. Meanwhile, the UN is urging an end to Israel's blockade on Gaza. The tax reform package inches closer to a crucial vote in Congress. In an unusual twist, the U.S. halts livestock transport to prevent the spread of a bizarre flesh-burrowing larva. Additionally, France is facing alarming news with the rise of crypto-related kidnappings.

4 snips
May 14, 2025 • 6min
Trump lands in Qatar, Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’, city’s first Black mayor & more
President Trump has just arrived in Qatar after a significant meeting with Syria's leader, stirring discussions about Middle Eastern relations. Meanwhile, Newark Liberty International Airport faces potential flight restrictions as the FAA engages with airlines to address delays. Texas grapples with extreme heat, while another state deals with flooding. In Europe, new sanctions target Russia's 'shadow fleet.' Additionally, history is made as Omaha elects its first Black mayor, marking a key political milestone.

May 14, 2025 • 7min
Tariff roll-back starts, Menendez brothers resentenced, grocery staple gets cheaper & more
Tariffs between China and the US are rolling back, but prepare for price surprises on some goods. In a shocking twist, the Menendez brothers face resentencing related to their infamous past. Cassie Ventura returns to the courtroom, bringing more drama to a high-profile trial. On a brighter note, good news for grocery shoppers: egg prices are finally falling! Join the discussion on how these events shape our economy and daily life.

May 13, 2025 • 7min
Israel targets Hamas leader, GOP's tax plans, Google’s scam solution & more
The podcast delves into recent military actions, highlighting Israel's targeting of Hamas leader Mohammed Sinwar. It discusses major political happenings, including President Trump's Middle East visit and the controversial GOP tax proposals. The legal drama in the Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial adds a captivating angle to current events. Additionally, innovations from Google aimed at combating text message scams are explored, showcasing the intersection of technology and everyday life.

May 13, 2025 • 7min
Syria sanctions, more Harvard funding pulled, Cassie Ventura testimony & more
President Trump outlines the U.S. position in the Middle East while the administration cuts funding to Harvard. In Ukraine, President Zelensky discusses goals for a meeting with Putin. Cassie Ventura testifies in Sean Combs' high-profile trial, revealing dramatic insights. Meanwhile, Texas braces for a brutal heat wave, with temperatures reaching triple digits. The National Weather Service issues health warnings amid this alarming trend of extreme heat across the nation.

May 13, 2025 • 7min
Trump’s Saudi deals, Biden's physical decline, Kim Kardashian testifies & more
Inflation took an unexpected dip, while U.S. tariff revenue soared. President Trump’s new deals with Saudi Arabia are raising eyebrows. In Gaza, a staggering one in five people are facing starvation. A revealing book highlights concerns regarding President Biden's health in his final months in office. Meanwhile, Kim Kardashian gives emotional testimony about her harrowing Paris robbery, shedding light on trauma and resilience.

May 13, 2025 • 7min
Inflation shock, Newark safety concerns, Menendez brothers’ resentencing & more
Recent inflation figures reveal a surprising slowdown, dropping to a four-year low. Meanwhile, President Trump is seeking US investments during his trip to Saudi Arabia. Newark Liberty International Airport faces safety concerns, raising eyebrows among travelers. In a surprising twist, a former president has won a mayoral election while detained abroad. Lastly, the Menendez brothers may have a chance at freedom as legal proceedings unfold.