

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

7 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 7min
UPDATE: India plane crash, protests flare, US diplomats withdrawn & more
A devastating plane crash in India dominates the headlines, raising concerns about air travel safety. Protests erupt across the U.S. in response to immigration policies, coinciding with the withdrawal of American diplomats due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation accuses Hamas of heinous acts against aid workers. Meanwhile, controversial appointments within the CDC spark debate over COVID-19 responses. The episode also pays tribute to a recently deceased Emmy-nominated actor.

Jun 11, 2025 • 7min
Trade deal to-do list, Weinstein retrial verdict, Switch 2 record sales & more
Trade tensions are easing as the Trump administration anticipates more deals with China. Los Angeles faces another curfew amidst widespread protests and over 200 arrests. In an unexpected twist, tensions between Elon Musk and Donald Trump appear to be thawing. The jury has reached a verdict in the Weinstein retrial, marking a significant moment in the legal landscape. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch 2 has made waves with impressive sales figures, showcasing its impact on the gaming industry.

Jun 11, 2025 • 7min
Trump hush money hearing, lawmaker stock market rules, Brian Wilson passes & more
Key figures from the Trump administration are sounding alarms about potential protests. Hear about how Trump is challenging his hush money conviction. There's a focus on lawmakers' questionable stock trades timed with Trump's tariff pause. Riots erupted in Northern Ireland, adding to global tensions. Finally, a heartfelt tribute is paid to Brian Wilson, the creative force behind The Beach Boys, celebrating his impact on music.

Jun 11, 2025 • 7min
Trump admin vs. CA, risks for federal health cuts, ‘Dirty Dozen’ list grows & more
Explore the potential expansion of military authority in Los Angeles as tensions rise under the Trump administration. Discover what significant diplomatic conversations occurred between Trump and Israel regarding Gaza. The latest inflation data surpasses expectations, while a new report highlights the dire consequences of federal health research funding cuts. Additionally, stay informed about new additions to the 'Dirty Dozen' list, spotlighting produce with high pesticide residues and its implications for public health.

Jun 11, 2025 • 7min
Inflation snapshot, Musk 'went too far', US Army bases renamed & more
Immigration raids are escalating in California and Nebraska, sparking protests across major cities. Inflation unexpectedly rises to 2.4%, while Elon Musk revisits his remarks about Donald Trump. Scientists warn of a potential collapse of critical ocean currents that could drastically alter weather patterns. Meanwhile, the U.S. Army is renaming seven bases linked to Confederate leaders, raising significant political discussions about this rebranding and its implications.

Jun 11, 2025 • 7min
Los Angeles curfew, US-China trade truce, FEMA’s days numbered & more
Los Angeles faces unrest as police arrest dozens amidst a curfew. The US and China forge a path toward ending their trade war. President Trump hints at plans to dismantle FEMA, raising concerns about disaster management. The political landscape heats up with New Jersey's gubernatorial race on the horizon. Additionally, Southern Baptists make headlines by endorsing a ban on gay marriage, stirring debates within the community.

Jun 10, 2025 • 7min
CA emergency order, sanctions on Israeli ministers, Meta’s ‘superintelligence’ & more
California is taking legal action to challenge President Trump's military mobilization in Los Angeles, stirring local tensions. Meanwhile, the EU has rolled out sanctions against Russia, while the U.S. targets hardline Israeli ministers. A key advisor's lack of transparency raises eyebrows amid criticism of the U.S. health system. On the tech front, Mark Zuckerberg is pushing forward with ambitious AI projects at Meta, aiming to redefine innovation in artificial intelligence.

Jun 10, 2025 • 7min
Military deployment cost, Greta Thunberg deported, global ‘fertility crisis’ & more
Military deployment costs during LA protests spark intense debate among Pentagon officials. A troubling global economic report suggests slow growth ahead. Trump proposes an innovative investment account for newborns, aiming to secure their financial future. Greta Thunberg shares her thoughts after being deported from Israel, shedding light on her activism. The UN raises alarms about a global 'fertility crisis,' linking financial insecurity to declining birth rates.

Jun 10, 2025 • 6min
Hegseth in the hot seat, ‘a chip shortage on steroids,’ BTS stars discharged & more
Tensions flare in Los Angeles as protests against ICE lead President Trump to deploy more troops. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces tough questions from lawmakers amid ongoing military scrutiny. Trade anxieties loom, particularly for the auto industry if US-China relations worsen. Excitement builds as BTS members complete their military service, signaling potential reunions for their devoted fanbase. Additionally, Sean Combs' trial updates provide insight into his legal battles.

Jun 10, 2025 • 6min
Army celebrations, Austrian school shooting, New Jersey primaries & more
Protesters clash with law enforcement in LA over immigration raids, highlighting ongoing constitutional battles. Meanwhile, Trump celebrates the U.S. Army at Fort Bragg, flanked by concerns over military involvement in domestic issues. A tragic high school shooting in Austria claims nine lives, shocking the global community. As New Jersey gears up for primaries, the political landscape shifts with Trump-backed candidates vying for attention. Lastly, the world bids farewell to funk legend Sly Stone, celebrating his profound impact on music.


