CNN 5 Things

New Mexico is now the first in the nation to offer a key financial lifeline for parents. In DC, a Metro bus driver made a powerful impression on a young rider. A group of nuns in Wisconsin and a Native tribe worked together in a way that hasn’t been done before in the US.  A dog who was missing for five years is now home for the holidays. Plus, this new league held its first draft – meet some of the powerhouse players.    Sign up for the CNN 5 Good Things newsletter here.  Host/Producer: Krista Bo Polanco  Producer: Eryn Mathewson  Showrunner: Faiz Jamil  Senior Producer: Felicia Patinkin  Editorial Support: Chelsea Bailey, Jo Parker, Elliott Proctor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The podcast dives into the White House's reactions to newly released photos from Epstein’s estate, igniting debates on accountability. It details charges against Sherrone Moore, Michigan’s former football coach, highlighting a mix of serious allegations. Meanwhile, the jury deliberates Brian Walshe's fate in a high-profile murder trial. A military leadership shakeup follows controversial Caribbean operations. Finally, there's a breakthrough in combating gonorrhea with new FDA-approved oral antibiotics, marking a significant milestone in public health.

Newly released images from Jeffrey Epstein's estate reveal high-profile figures, including Trump and Clinton, but lack scandalous context. The FDA is gearing up for its strongest warning on Covid vaccines, stirring debates on public trust. Kilmar Abrego Garcia shares his thoughts after being freed from ICE. In Washington, rainfall subsides temporarily, though another storm looms. Meanwhile, Trump aims to become the first sitting president on a $1 coin, challenging tradition.

Claire Duffy, a CNN technology reporter, dives into the controversial features of the Friend wearable device, which raises questions about privacy with its always-listening capabilities. The conversation also explores Disney's exciting partnership with OpenAI allowing users to create videos featuring beloved characters. The podcast covers U.S. sanctions on Venezuela, Indiana Republicans defying Trump on redistricting, and teases a new healthcare plan from the White House, making for a lively discussion on current events.

Manu Raju, a Capitol Hill reporter for CNN, dives into the intricate world of health care legislation, explaining the stalled Senate votes and their implications for Obamacare. He discusses the Justice Department's renewed efforts to indict a political rival of Trump and the recent seizure of a tanker near Venezuela. Raju also touches on the shocking court appearance of Charlie Kirk's murder suspect, and how Indiana's senators have pushed back against Trump's latest redistricting efforts, showcasing the shifting political landscape.

A Maryland judge orders the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia from ICE custody, stirring debate on unlawful detentions. Severe flooding devastates Washington state, while FEMA faces proposed cuts. Tensions escalate between the US and Venezuela amid piracy allegations over an oil tanker. Meanwhile, critical Senate votes on healthcare could reshape American policy. In a shocking turn, a university football coach is arrested shortly after being fired under allegations of misconduct. Buckle up for a whirlwind of current events!

Tensions rise as the U.S. seizes a Venezuelan oil tanker, escalating diplomatic conflict. Heavy rain causes severe flooding in Washington state, prompting urgent evacuations. Ukraine presents a revised peace plan, aimed at easing ongoing conflict in Europe. Donald Trump shares his views on the potential sale of CNN, raising questions about editorial independence. Finally, learn about Trump's pricey new gold card visa program, promising expedited residency for a hefty fee.

Tensions escalate as the U.S. seizes an oil tanker headed to Cuba, provoking Venezuela's ire. The Federal Reserve cuts interest rates amidst inflation talks, impacting market reactions. A significant defense policy bill makes its way through Congress, addressing critical safety concerns. Meanwhile, GOP lawmakers face challenges in agreeing on a new health care plan before a looming deadline. Denmark raises alarms about U.S. economic power, hinting at potential threats from Russia and China.

The Federal Reserve may cut interest rates to boost the job market. A judge has decided to unseal records related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. There have been recent US strikes on suspected drug boats, with some survivors involved. A pro-AI super PAC is launching its first political advertisements, showcasing candidates in Texas and New York. Meanwhile, this year’s Nobel Peace Prize winner was notably absent during the award ceremony.

Donald Trump addresses the affordability crisis, despite labeling it a 'hoax.' Miami makes history by electing its first Democrat mayor in nearly three decades. Tragedy strikes with a shooting at Kentucky State University, prompting a strong response from the university's leadership. Ukraine’s president indicates readiness for elections, provided international security guarantees. A new study reveals how teens increasingly rely on AI chatbots for learning and companionship, raising concerns about their mental health.