

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

Jun 10, 2025 • 7min
700 Marines activated, poor work schedules, Israeli hostage video & more
Protests in Los Angeles ignite a military response, activating hundreds of Marines and Guardsmen. Concerns rise among GOP lawmakers over a controversial government funding package. Workers are facing the challenges of unpredictable schedules affecting their lives. A heart-wrenching video of an Israeli soldier, taken hostage, emerges. On a lighter note, Apple reveals exciting new features like live translation and an AI workout buddy, while teasing consumers with a potential upgrade to their latest iPhones.

Jun 9, 2025 • 6min
CA vs. Trump, newborns' investment account, Justin Baldoni lawsuit update & more
California is taking bold legal actions against Trump, focusing on his deployment of National Guard troops. In a surprising twist, Trump proposes a $1,000 investment account for newborns to set them up financially for the future. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has raised eyebrows by dismissing top vaccine experts. In international news, a presidential candidate in Colombia is critically injured after being shot. Meanwhile, a judge has ruled on a defamation lawsuit involving Hollywood star Justin Baldoni, adding to the drama.

Jun 9, 2025 • 7min
CA governor to sue Trump, Harvard visas resume, consumer sentiment report & more
Protests in LA have sparked significant discussion about immigration policies and their implications. Visa processing for Harvard students is back on track after legal changes. A new survey reveals a boost in consumer sentiment, shedding light on public optimism. Meanwhile, Israel is preparing to deport activists from a humanitarian mission. The podcast adds depth to the troubling resurgence of the death penalty in the U.S., raising ethical questions amidst these unfolding events.

Jun 9, 2025 • 7min
US-China trade talks, Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap, runaway pet zebra & more
Violent protests erupted in Los Angeles over immigration enforcement, leading to numerous arrests. Meanwhile, US and China are engaged in crucial trade talks, focusing on export controls. A significant prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine has been initiated, amid discussions on mortgage lending industry disruptions. Adding a touch of whimsy, the story of a runaway pet zebra from Tennessee captures attention, reminding us that the news can be both serious and silly.

4 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 7min
National Guard in LA, Army celebrations, French Open comeback & more
Tensions rise in Los Angeles as protests erupt over the National Guard's deployment amid immigration raids. Meanwhile, important US-China trade discussions are taking place in London. It's a big week for the U.S. Army, celebrating its 250th birthday. Apple is gearing up for some significant device updates, hoping to regain its footing. Plus, after a thrilling five and a half hour match, find out who triumphed in the French Open men's finals.

9 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 7min
LA protest clashes, Israel detains Greta Thunberg, TikTok skin care worries & more
Protests erupt in Los Angeles, leading to numerous arrests, as tensions rise over social issues. In an unexpected twist, Israel detains activists and intercepts an aid ship heading for Gaza, including Greta Thunberg. TikTok's influence sparks debate about skincare advice aimed at young girls, raising serious concerns. Finally, the podcast highlights the glamorous winners of the Tony Awards, celebrating the best in theater from the recent ceremony.

Jun 8, 2025 • 21min
One Thing: How Trump’s Coal Cuts are Hitting His Diehards
Kyung Lah, a CNN Senior Investigative Correspondent, sheds light on the harsh realities facing coal miners amidst Trump's push to revitalize the coal industry. She discusses the alarming health impacts of black lung disease exacerbated by budget cuts to safety regulations. Lah emphasizes the disillusionment of miners in West Virginia who feel abandoned by promises of support. The podcast also reveals the emotional toll on families suffering from insufficient government aid, underscoring the urgent need for accountability in health care for these vulnerable communities.

Jun 7, 2025 • 16min
5 Good Things: Alaska Man vs. 700-pound Boulder
A hiker in Alaska defies the odds after a 700-pound boulder falls on him, showcasing human resilience. In war-torn Kiev, a café filled with cuddly piglets offers solace amid chaos. Clownfish are adapting to climate change, highlighting nature's survival tactics. In Kentucky, horses aid men battling addiction, helping them regain their footing. A toddler’s unique healing journey involving fish skin and a love for the Little Mermaid adds a touch of magic, illustrating the power of unconventional recovery methods.

Jun 6, 2025 • 7min
Abrego Garcia returns, DOGE data ruling, US-China trade talks & more
A Maryland man faces charges after being mistakenly deported to El Salvador. The Supreme Court's ruling on DOGE data is hailed as a win for the Trump administration. Tensions rise as the U.S. and China prepare for renewed trade negotiations. Additionally, California's federal funding is at risk due to controversial funding cuts. Meanwhile, Israel ramps up efforts to combat Hamas amidst ongoing regional conflicts.

Jun 6, 2025 • 7min
Education SCOTUS appeal, Trump to sell his Tesla, WA mass shooting foiled & more
The Trump administration's appeal to the Supreme Court over changes to the Department of Education ignites political discussion. A public feud unfolds between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, creating headlines. Meanwhile, a controversial decision to keep an aging coal plant operational could cost Midwest energy customers millions. Authorities successfully thwart a potential mass shooting plot in Oregon. Plus, North Korea's unexpected revival of a downed destroyer raises eyebrows among naval analysts.


