

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

Aug 12, 2025 • 7min
Ukrainians panic, ‘dark money’ donations, Kodak could shutter & more
The Defense Secretary reveals the unprecedented federal oversight of D.C. police amidst a crime decline. Ukrainians express panic over potential territorial swaps with Russia. The Democratic National Committee grapples with the influence of 'dark money' donations. Legionnaires’ disease cases surge in New York City. Meanwhile, iconic camera company Kodak faces financial uncertainty as it fights for survival.

4 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 7min
Trump’s crime warning, inflation numbers, RFK Jr. resignation call & more
President Trump warns of rising crime, highlighting a new emergency declaration in Washington D.C. Economic concerns surface with a 2.7% inflation rate, stirring political debates. Tensions flare over Ukraine as a crucial meeting with Russia looms. Controversy surrounds HHS Secretary RFK Jr. with calls for his resignation. Additionally, the world's largest investment fund reacts to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, underscoring global financial implications.

5 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 7min
DC takeover confusion, food stamp cuts, new Swift album & more
Authorities are in a frenzy over a federal takeover of Washington D.C.'s police forces, raising concerns about crime amid changing roles. Millions are bracing for cuts to food stamps, hitting vulnerable families hard. Tragedy strikes with a deadly explosion at a Pittsburgh steel plant, leaving the community reeling. On a lighter note, excitement surrounds the announcement of Taylor Swift's new album, sparking joy among fans. Tune in for updates on these compelling stories!

Aug 11, 2025 • 7min
DC mayor speaks, PA plant explosion, China tariff deadline extended & more
The mayor of Washington, D.C. pushes for statehood amid federal oversight, citing a drop in crime yet highlighting ongoing challenges. A tragic explosion at an industrial plant in Pennsylvania leaves one dead and multiple injured. Investigations continue into a deadly shooting outside a Target in Texas. Tensions rise as tariff hikes on Chinese goods face delays. Meanwhile, political battles in Texas between Democrats and Republicans stretch into a second week.

Aug 11, 2025 • 7min
Gazans mourn journalists, Tropical Storm Erin, almost-toxic-free coffee & more
Heartfelt funerals are held for brave Al Jazeera journalists killed in Gaza while reporting under fire. A fact check reveals surprising claims about crime in Washington, D.C. Two leading AI chip companies have struck a pivotal deal, aiming to enhance the US tech landscape. Meanwhile, a potential hurricane brews in the Atlantic, marking the start of the season. On a lighter note, safety concerns surrounding coffee prompt a deep dive into how toxic-free our morning brew really is.

Aug 11, 2025 • 6min
DC under federal control, Trump-Putin summit, marijuana classification & more
President Trump unveils plans for federal control in D.C. to tackle crime, while legal developments in the Ghislaine Maxwell case unfold. A crucial summit between Trump and Putin is on the horizon, igniting discussions about the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Meanwhile, proposed changes to federal marijuana policy could be on the table. On a lighter note, AOL bids farewell to dial-up service, marking the end of an era in technology.

Aug 11, 2025 • 7min
Trump’s DC takeover, China chip negotiations, NASCAR celebration backfires & more
The UN has condemned the killing of Palestinian journalists, shedding light on a serious global issue. President Trump’s plans to tackle crime in Washington DC unveil a contentious federal-local dynamic. Tensions rise in US-China trade as computer chip negotiations hit a snag. Wildfires in Colorado lead to an unexpected prison evacuation scenario. Celebrations for a NASCAR driver take a disastrous turn, proving that not all victories go as planned.

5 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 7min
Journalists killed in Gaza, Midwest flooding, Newsom v. Trump & more
A tragic airstrike in Gaza has claimed the lives of four journalists, stirring international concern. Meanwhile, millions face flood alerts in the Midwest, highlighting severe weather emergencies. New details emerge about a shooter at CDC offices in Atlanta, raising domestic security questions. Additionally, Ukraine’s president may feature in a pivotal meeting between Trump and Putin. The podcast also dives into legal tensions as Trump faces off against California Governor Newsom over National Guard deployment, spotlighting the clash between federal and state powers.

Aug 10, 2025 • 19min
One Thing: How Vaccine Opt-Outs Could Put Classrooms at Risk
Philip Huang, the Director of the Dallas County Health and Human Services Department, discusses the alarming rise in vaccine exemptions for U.S. kindergartners and the potential public health risks, particularly amidst a measles outbreak. He emphasizes the balance between individual choice and community immunity. Huang also tackles the misinformation surrounding vaccines that fuels hesitancy and highlights the need for trusted communication to combat public health crises. His insights underscore the urgency of addressing these challenges as schools reopen.

Aug 9, 2025 • 13min
5 Good Things: History at Home Plate: the MLB’s First Female Umpire
Discover a unique club that helps members relieve stress with collective screams. Celebrate the groundbreaking achievements of the first female umpire in Major League Baseball. Dive into the initiative of a world-class chef running a plastic-free restaurant, promoting sustainability. Learn about a vibrant reading game in Michigan that engages thousands. Plus, explore an intergenerational summer camp where youth connect with grandmothers through skill-sharing, creating lasting friendships and enriching experiences.


