

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

Dec 5, 2025 • 7min
Strike Briefings, TX Redistricting Decision, Eurovision Boycott and more
Lawmakers are divided over video from controversial strikes on a drug trafficking boat. The Supreme Court has upheld a Texas congressional map supported by the Trump administration, stirring political tensions. Letitia James won't face indictment in the mortgage fraud case, but the story isn't over yet. In Gaza, the leader of an anti-Hamas militia has been killed, heightening regional instability. Meanwhile, several countries have decided to boycott the Eurovision Song Contest due to Israel's participation amid ongoing protests.

Dec 5, 2025 • 36sec
7:20 PM ET: Grand Jury Declines to Re-indict Letitia James
A grand jury has just declined to re-indict New York Attorney General Letitia James over mortgage fraud charges. The podcast dives into the implications of this decision and the Justice Department's latest efforts that have come to an end. Tune in for insights on the broader impact of legal challenges facing public officials!

Dec 5, 2025 • 46sec
7:05 PM ET: SCOTUS Greenlights New TX Congressional Map
The Supreme Court gives the green light to Texas's new redistricting map, a move that tilts the scales in favor of Republicans for the upcoming midterms. This decision has huge implications for the electoral landscape in Texas. Tune in to hear the breakdown of what this means for voters and the political climate.

Dec 4, 2025 • 7min
Boat Strike Briefing, Vaccination Vote Delayed, Walshe Trial Witness and more
Lawmakers are divided after a classified briefing about a controversial boat strike near Venezuela. Tensions flared during discussions on changing childhood vaccine schedules, as outside doctors clashed with newly appointed advisors. In Minnesota, the Somali community responds to immigration enforcement with a strong message for President Trump. Meanwhile, new developments in the DC pipe bomber investigation unfold, alongside gripping testimony in Brian Walshe’s murder trial that hints at personal connections.

Dec 4, 2025 • 7min
Somali Community Fears, DC Pipe Bomber Arrest, Paper Sues Defense Department and more
In this discussion, CNN reporter Ryan Young sheds light on the palpable fear among Minneapolis' Somali community due to recent immigration raids. He highlights community responses, like distributing whistles for alerts. Investigative correspondent Evan Perez provides fascinating insights into the DC pipe bombing case, detailing a significant breakthrough with new leads and an arrest. Together, they tackle urgent issues affecting both local communities and national security.

4 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 7min
Crackdown Underway, Second Strike Footage, Matthew Perry Doctor Sentenced and more
Federal immigration raids are creating a buzz in Minnesota and Louisiana. Meanwhile, Trump is pushing for the release of footage from a controversial drone strike. The administration is also eyeing Australia for insights into enhancing retirement savings. In another twist, a doctor has received a sentence for selling ketamine that was linked to Matthew Perry's tragic passing. Stay tuned for these intriguing developments and more!

Dec 3, 2025 • 7min
Signal Chat Fallout, Epstein Island Photos, Vaccine Schedule Changes and more5
Claire Duffy, a CNN technology reporter, joins to provide insights on a classified report about a controversial group chat linked to the defense secretary. Listeners get a glimpse of newly released photos from Jeffrey Epstein's private island, sparking discussions on accountability. The podcast also covers Trump pardoning Rep. Henry Cuellar amidst his legal troubles. Finally, CDC proposed changes for newborn hepatitis B vaccinations are examined, alongside Trump’s plan to roll back fuel-efficiency rules for cars, aiming to make them more affordable.

Dec 3, 2025 • 6min
New ICE Targets, November Jobs Stats, SF v. Snack Companies and more
Alicia Wallace, a CNN correspondent specializing in business and labor, dives into alarming ADP data indicating a loss of 32,000 private-sector jobs, particularly among small businesses. The discussion highlights the impact on workers in today's economy. Additionally, the podcast touches on the stagnant U.S.-Russia peace talks regarding Ukraine and San Francisco's bold lawsuit against major food manufacturers accused of creating a health crisis. There's also a bizarre tale from New Zealand of a suspect swallowing evidence in a jewelry theft.

7 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 7min
Arctic Weather, Peace Talks Impasse, House Special Election Results and more
Freezing temperatures are gripping over 200 million Americans, causing disruptions and frigid forecasts. Meanwhile, U.S.-Russia talks end without significant progress, raising tensions. In the Caribbean, scrutiny surrounds U.S. military strikes on drug trafficking boats, prompting defense officials to clarify their stance. Tennessee sees a pivotal special election, with Republicans making gains. Lastly, a prominent figure faces lifetime consequences for connections to Jeffrey Epstein, stirring public outrage.

Dec 2, 2025 • 7min
Second Strike Update, Snowstorm Chaos, Dell Donation Pledge and more
Tensions rise as the Trump administration escalates actions against Venezuela. A severe snowstorm wreaks havoc on travel plans, particularly in the Northeast. The accused shooter of two National Guard members appears in court, pleading not guilty. Dell's CEO announces a remarkable $6.25 billion pledge for children's investment accounts. Meanwhile, the courtroom drama unfolds in the Brian Walshe murder trial, with shocking revelations from internet searches.


