

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 16, 2025 • 7min
Russia strikes Zelensky’s hometown, Trump’s unpopular bill, workers' healthcare costs & more
Russia has launched a significant air attack on Ukraine, coinciding with Trump's latest military announcements. Public discontent with Trump's domestic policy bill is on the rise, while healthcare costs are expected to increase for workers. In a tragic turn, the world’s oldest marathon runner has been killed in a hit-and-run. Meanwhile, excitement builds around the MLB All-Star Game, with the National League celebrating a historic victory, highlighted by a player hitting three home runs.

Jul 16, 2025 • 7min
GOP pressuring Trump, National Guard released, AI’s antisemitism problem & more
A prominent Republican raises eyebrows by demanding transparency from Trump regarding the Epstein case. Meanwhile, the Pentagon releases 2,000 National Guard members following a court ruling. A looming storm threatens the Gulf Coast, while an Arizona House seat appears set to stay in the family. In the tech world, alarming trends emerge as AI chatbots exhibit antisemitic behavior, raising concerns about bias in AI decision-making and the challenge of training these systems with flawed data.

Jul 15, 2025 • 7min
Trump’s $92 billion investment, Bondi on Epstein memo, Beyoncé's unreleased music stolen & more
Explore Trump’s striking $92 billion investment in energy and AI, igniting debates across America. Attorney General Pam Bondi hints at potentially releasing more files on Jeffrey Epstein, stirring curiosity. Apple’s strategic sourcing for iPhone materials comes into focus, alongside a gripping murder trial involving a Colorado dentist accused of poisoning his wife. Additionally, the theft of unreleased Beyoncé music during a concert raises eyebrows and prompts an ongoing police investigation.

Jul 15, 2025 • 7min
Trump ‘disappointed’ with Putin, US professor killed, Emmy nominations & more
President Trump expresses disappointment with Putin, sparking mixed reactions. The public is divided over the transparency of the Epstein case. Military tensions rise as Israel strikes targets in Syria. A murder investigation unfolds following the suspicious death of a UC Berkeley professor. The Emmy nominations reveal surprising contenders, with Apple TV's 'Severance' shining brightly, while some late-night shows face unexpected snubs.

Jul 15, 2025 • 7min
Record flash flood warnings, major AI investment, education funding freeze challenged & more
Inflation hits a peak, driven by trade policies and severe weather events. Federal flash flood warnings are breaking records this year. Major investments in AI and energy are on the horizon, promising job creation. Legal challenges are mounting against the freeze on education funding in blue states. Meanwhile, global childhood vaccination rates face stagnation, with millions at risk. It's a whirlwind of current events with far-reaching implications!

Jul 15, 2025 • 6min
MAGA Epstein fallout, latest inflation figures, unpaid medical bills & more
A former president faces growing scrutiny linked to the Epstein case, sparking widespread discussion. Recent inflation figures reveal economic pressures affecting many. Severe flooding disrupts transport in the Northeast, leaving communities stranded. A significant court ruling will now see unpaid medical bills reflected on credit reports. Meanwhile, the MLB is set for big changes with the integration of new technology.

5 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 7min
Ukraine’s mixed bag, China shows resilience, Northeast flooding & more
Ukraine experiences a mix of news with potential shifts in military aid. China's economy unexpectedly thrives, showcasing its resilience. The family of an American-Palestinian calls for an investigation into his tragic death in the West Bank. Meanwhile, severe flooding impacts the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions, prompting discussions about innovative tech solutions to tackle such environmental challenges.

Jul 14, 2025 • 7min
MAGA Epstein fallout, SCOTUS rules on mass firings, Cuomo confirms run and more
The fallout from the Jeffrey Epstein scandal sparks controversy, as the MAGA world pushes back against a new Justice Department memo. Meanwhile, alarming flooding forces a quick evacuation in Texas, and President Trump takes a hard stance on tariffs aimed at Russia. The Supreme Court upholds the Trump administration's power to enact mass firings at the Education Department. Lastly, Andrew Cuomo announces his independent run for New York City mayor, marking his return to the political scene.

Jul 14, 2025 • 7min
Alligator Alcatraz conditions, EU’s trade warning, Grand Canyon wildfire and more
Tensions rise as Trump gives Russia a deadline for peace in Ukraine while facing EU trade warnings. A tour of the notorious 'Alligator Alcatraz' reveals alarming conditions that spark outrage. The Grand Canyon suffers a devastating wildfire, destroying a historic building and prompting calls for a federal inquiry. Meanwhile, Tesla shareholders are anxious about Musk's political involvement as they prepare to vote on his billion-dollar AI startup.

5 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 7min
Trump’s ultimatum for Putin, deadly Massachusetts fire, Obama’s blunt message & more
President Trump lays down a significant ultimatum for Putin while announcing plans for military aid to Ukraine. Meanwhile, a devastating fire at an assisted living facility in Massachusetts reveals harrowing stories, and Texas grapples with the aftermath of catastrophic flooding. GOP lawmakers face pressing deadlines amidst political turmoil, and former President Obama delivers a candid message urging Democrats to sharpen their focus on key gubernatorial races.