

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

5 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 7min
Funding impasse continues, Gaza aid fleet, NY anti-terror funding & more
Negotiations continue amid a government shutdown, with potential layoffs looming. Israel's military action against a Gaza aid flotilla, featuring activists like Greta Thunberg, has sparked international protests. The DOJ ousts a prosecutor over a misleading social media post. A judge halts significant cuts to anti-terror funding in New York, citing concerns tied to 9/11. Meanwhile, a collision between two planes at LaGuardia raises safety alarms, as one individual sustains minor injuries.

Oct 1, 2025 • 6min
Federal workers’ fate, Trump’s vow to Qatar, Jane Goodall dies & more
Federal workers face uncertainty as a government shutdown looms, potentially leading to layoffs. The Supreme Court temporarily allows a Fed governor to retain her position amid a legal battle. Tensions rise as Trump ramps up deployments of federal troops in response to unrest in cities like Oregon and Memphis. In an unusual move, Trump extends security guarantees to Qatar, highlighting its importance in regional stability. The podcast also honors the legacy of Jane Goodall, who transformed the field of primatology and influenced animal behavior studies.

5 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 7min
Political blame game, workers furloughed, AI cancer treatment & more
Lawmakers are heating up the blame game over the government shutdown, impacting thousands of federal workers and potentially leading to firings. National Guard troops are deployed to Memphis for safety amidst turmoil. Twin hurricanes, Imelda and Humberto, are on the radar, with warnings issued for varying storm paths. Meanwhile, an innovative Trump initiative aims to harness AI in the fight against childhood cancer, offering hope amid research funding cuts.

4 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 7min
Government shutdown, Philippines earthquake, AI actress anger & more
The U.S. government is in a shutdown with significant implications for public services and political drama brewing. A devastating earthquake in the Philippines has left many trapped, with rescue efforts underway amidst chaos. Meanwhile, Hollywood faces backlash as actors voice concerns over the rise of AI actresses, fearing it undermines human talent. The podcast dives deep into these pressing issues, providing insights and updates that impact lives around the globe.

Sep 30, 2025 • 6min
Shutdown looms, Trump-Pfizer deal, tropical traffic jam & more
A crucial government shutdown vote looms as last-minute decisions unfold in the Senate. Hamas faces a tight deadline to review a new U.S. peace plan, while a court ruling blocks the deportation of pro-Palestinian protesters. Trump announces new drug pricing initiatives alongside a deal with Pfizer to lower costs and boost domestic production. Meanwhile, twin hurricanes threaten the East Coast, causing concerns over rip currents and Bermuda's safety. Stay tuned as these significant stories develop!

Sep 30, 2025 • 7min
Shutdown fears, Trump-Hegseth military meeting, troops in Louisiana & more
Amid looming government shutdown fears, thousands of federal workers face potential furloughs. A significant meeting of senior US military officers raises eyebrows as Pete Hegseth pushes for tighter military standards. President Trump suggests using urban areas as training grounds for the National Guard, escalating tensions. Additionally, tragic updates emerge from a Dallas ICE facility shooting. Finally, Afghanistan experiences an internet blackout imposed by the Taliban, leading to widespread isolation.

Sep 30, 2025 • 7min
Shutdown talks, Gaza peace plan, lumber tariffs & more
Negotiations for a government shutdown are stalling, with potential implications looming. Meanwhile, a new peace plan for Gaza is on the table, awaiting Hamas's response. Tariffs on lumber and wooden products are set to take effect soon, possibly raising costs for consumers. A federal judge has intervened to halt job cuts at Voice of America, affecting media operations. Additionally, reports indicate a decline in abortions by medical professionals across the US.

Sep 29, 2025 • 6min
Trump-Netanyahu talks, spending bill impasse, McDonald’s Monopoly reboot & more
Tensions rise as President Trump discusses a 20-point plan for a Gaza ceasefire with Israeli PM Netanyahu. Meanwhile, congressional negotiations over a spending bill hit a standstill, raising fears of a government shutdown. A disturbing attack at a Michigan church draws attention, with an ongoing investigation by the FBI. In business news, Electronic Arts makes headlines with a record $55 billion buyout deal. Lastly, McDonald's reboots its iconic Monopoly game with a fresh digital twist, exciting fans everywhere.

Sep 29, 2025 • 7min
Gaza peace plan, MI church shooting latest, movie tariffs & more
Trump's upcoming Gaza peace plan is generating buzz as he meets with Israel's prime minister. In Michigan, the FBI investigates a tragic church shooting, highlighting local heroism. The White House warns of a looming government shutdown, giving Democrats a critical ultimatum. Meanwhile, Trump announces a controversial 100% tariff on foreign-made movies, stirring concerns in the film industry. Dolly Parton shares news about postponing her Las Vegas residency for health reasons, while Bad Bunny is set to perform at the Super Bowl halftime show, making waves in pop culture.

6 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 7min
Michigan church shooting, troops in Portland, double hurricane threat & more
A tragic shooting at a church in Michigan raises concerns over safety. President Trump plans to deploy federal troops to cities like Portland and Memphis, sparking mixed reactions. NYC Mayor Eric Adams has unexpectedly ended his reelection campaign, leaving the political landscape poised for changes. Meanwhile, the U.S. faces the threat of not one, but two hurricanes, with potential coastal impacts. Discussions continue in Congress to avert a government shutdown, centering on a contentious health care subsidy debate.


