

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 25, 2025 • 6min
Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s fate, FEMA’s ‘Katrina Declaration’, Lil Nas X charged & more
Gilmar Abrego Garcia faces a pivotal moment as his deportation is temporarily halted. FEMA employees challenge the Trump administration's authority amidst ongoing debates. A rare case of a flesh-eating parasite raises health concerns in the U.S. In groundbreaking news, another pig organ has been successfully transplanted into a human. Additionally, the music scene hits a snag as Lil Nas X faces legal charges following a confrontation with police.

4 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 7min
'Specialized' National Guard units, ‘double-tap’ attack in Gaza, Apple gets sued & more
Trump aims to beautify Washington, D.C., through new measures punishing flag desecration. Meanwhile, Israel faces significant backlash after another deadly attack in Gaza. A memoir from one of Jeffrey Epstein's accusers is set to release, raising more questions about accountability. On the tech front, xAI takes Apple and OpenAI to court, spotlighting the ongoing struggles in the AI landscape. Tune in for a mix of serious discussions and insights into the complexities of modern life!

Aug 25, 2025 • 7min
Cashless bail ban, US-South Korea meeting, DNC’s money problems & more
A controversial executive order halting cashless bail is at the forefront of the political arena. The legal battle of Kilmar Abrego Garcia against deportation takes center stage. In a significant diplomatic move, President Trump is set to meet South Korea’s new leader. Meanwhile, the DNC struggles with financial debts that could affect upcoming campaigns. To top it off, new shipping tariffs may disrupt online shopping experiences for many.

Aug 25, 2025 • 7min
Gaza hospital hit, Abrego Garcia in custody, sneaky inflation & more
A hospital strike in Gaza claims many lives, sparking outrage from Illinois leaders over Trump's National Guard plans for Chicago. In a twist, Kilmar Abrego Garcia is now in ICE custody after turning himself in. Meanwhile, a Ukrainian journalist, imprisoned in Russia for years, experiences newfound freedom. The discussion also dives into the sneaky phenomenon of 'sneakflation,' revealing how hidden price hikes are impacting consumers’ wallets. Expect humor as they analyze political antics through a quirky lens.

Aug 25, 2025 • 7min
Armed troops in DC, raging wildfires, US Open chaos & more
National Guard troops are now armed in Washington DC amid rising crime concerns, with potential expansions to other cities on the horizon. In international news, Israel's military is ramping up its operations in Gaza City, even as ceasefire talks linger. Wildfires rage in California and Oregon, with dire consequences for residents. Meanwhile, the US Open faced unexpected drama when a photographer disrupted play, leading to tension and a controversial chair umpire decision. It’s a whirlwind of issues on both national and global stages.

Aug 24, 2025 • 21min
One Thing: Might at the Museum: Trump Targets the Smithsonian
Leah Wright Rigueur, a political historian and associate professor at Johns Hopkins University, dives into President Trump's controversial critiques of the Smithsonian. She discusses how these attacks may distort American history, particularly the narratives around slavery and race. The conversation highlights the challenges museums face balancing political influence with historical accuracy. Rigueur emphasizes the need for responsible representation and the importance of preserving complex narratives to educate future generations.

Aug 23, 2025 • 14min
5 Good Things: The Cyclist With a New Heart & Medal for Team USA
A heartwarming tale unfolds as athletes with new hearts strive for greatness at the World Transplant Games. A young boy's accidental 911 call leads to a magical birthday surprise for his brother. Meanwhile, two siblings, separated for decades, find each other through modern technology. In a quirky competition, a couple from Wisconsin shatters records at the Wife Carrying World Championship. Finally, a historic church relocation in Sweden tells a story of community and nostalgia, blending joy with a sense of heritage.

Aug 22, 2025 • 7min
Bus crash latest, Maxwell interview released, fall-like weather & more
A tragic bus crash in New York brings heart-wrenching updates on injuries and fatalities. Ghislaine Maxwell's prison interview reveals shocking insights into her ties with Jeffrey Epstein. Tensions rise as Trump shares his views on peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Meanwhile, a pause on work visas is affecting many. And just when summer heat felt endless, a refreshing hint of fall weather is on the way!

Aug 22, 2025 • 7min
NY bus crash, Kilmar Abrego Garcia released, tourist hotspot critter & more
A tragic bus crash in New York leaves multiple people dead, shaking the community. The DC National Guard receives new orders as the former President plans a crackdown on crime. Meanwhile, a Maryland father, wrongfully deported, continues his legal battle. In business news, a settlement looms between Elon Musk’s X and ex-Twitter employees. Lastly, a tourist destination in Spain faces an unexpected visitor: venomous sea slugs, stirring concern among travelers.

Aug 22, 2025 • 7min
Rate cuts hint, John Bolton raided, rainbow crosswalk removed & more
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell hints at possible interest rate cuts, aligning with pressure from President Trump. An FBI raid targets John Bolton's home and office. Texas inches closer to finalizing its congressional redistricting plan. Crime stats raise eyebrows as GOP states send more National Guard to D.C. Meanwhile, outrage erupts over the removal of a rainbow crosswalk in Orlando, a symbolic LGBTQ memorial, igniting a debate between residents and state officials.


