

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

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.

Sep 28, 2025 • 20min
One Thing: How Trump’s Immigration Agenda Could Spark a US Brain Drain
Aizada Marat, founder and CEO of Alma, shares her inspiring journey from Kyrgyzstan to the U.S. She discusses the proposed $100,000 H-1B visa fee, highlighting the potential negative impact on startups and innovation. Aizada emphasizes the risks of losing talented immigrants and challenges the narrative that they undermine American wages. She also raises concerns about companies opting for remote hiring to avoid costs, ultimately questioning policies that seem contradictory to the U.S. reputation for valuing skilled talent.

Sep 27, 2025 • 14min
5 Good Things: The Lucky Guy with a Tooth for an Eye
The Chicago River Swim makes a splash once again after nearly a century. In Alaska, Fat Bear Week celebrates nature's robust wildlife. A groundbreaking surgery using a tooth helps restore vision for one lucky man. New satellites aim to revolutionize wildfire detection, offering rapid response capabilities. A Texas family rejoices as they expect their first daughter in over 100 years, breaking a long-standing streak.

10 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 7min
Trump denies enemies list, Kimmel’s show restored, ICE officer backlash & more
President Trump hints at further actions against his political opponents following Comey's indictment. Meanwhile, Jimmy Kimmel's show makes a comeback after a blackout sparked by free speech debates. An incident involving an ICE officer and an asylum seeker raises serious concerns about agency conduct. In a bid to reset military culture, top military officials meet to discuss new standards. Lastly, a developing storm system poses risks for the southeast U.S., prompting concerns over potential flooding.

Sep 26, 2025 • 7min
Netanyahu’s UN speech, stubborn inflation, government shutdown looms & more
Israel's prime minister delivered a passionate speech at the UN, criticizing Iran and Western policies, while also pledging to oppose a Palestinian state. The indictment of former FBI director James Comey grabs attention, revealing significant political tension. Inflation is on the rise as consumer spending increases, leaving many anxious about financial stability. Meanwhile, a potential federal government shutdown looms, complicating Senate negotiations. Adding a dash of celebrity drama, chefs clash over the proposed ban on PFAS in cookware.

6 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 7min
Comey indictment, imported drugs tariffs, Hamas interview & more
James Comey has been indicted, stirring discussions around the origins of the case linked to the 2016 Russia probe. President Trump is implementing a hefty tariff on imported medications and other goods. CNN's interview with a senior Hamas official sheds light on their perspective regarding recent events. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth calls for a mysterious gathering of US military leaders. Russia's decision to ban fuel exports adds another layer to the geopolitical landscape influenced by recent conflict.

Sep 25, 2025 • 7min
ICE shooter’s note, Amazon’s historic settlement, ‘Diddy’ in court & more
Authorities reveal new findings in the Dallas ICE field office shooting, shedding light on the gunman’s motives. Trump stirs the pot discussing the pressure to indict former FBI Director Comey. An unusual meeting is called by the Defense Secretary, raising eyebrows about military protocols. Amazon faces a historic $2.5 billion settlement with the FTC regarding Prime subscriptions. Meanwhile, Sean 'Diddy' Combs appears in court, seeking to appeal his conviction ahead of sentencing. This whirlwind of news covers a lot of ground!

5 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 7min
US economy’s comeback, struggling Starbucks, abortion drug questions & more
Exciting economic news reveals a surprising 3.8% growth in the US GDP, fueled by strong consumer spending. Meanwhile, Starbucks plans to close hundreds of stores and lay off employees due to weak sales. The FDA is set to study the safety of the abortion drug mifepristone, prompting important discussions. A potential deal for US TikTok gains momentum as it nears approval. In international news, a former French President is sentenced to prison for a scandal linked to his campaign financing.

10 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 7min
Federal layoffs threat, James Comey indictment, Jimmy Kimmel ratings & more
The White House warns of potential federal layoffs amid a looming government shutdown. A shooting at an ICE detention facility in Dallas raises concerns about targeted violence. Former FBI director James Comey could face an indictment for alleged perjury related to his testimony on the Russia probe. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority president is set to address the UN General Assembly. In lighter news, Jimmy Kimmel returns to late-night with record-breaking ratings, despite some networks opting out of airing his show.

Sep 24, 2025 • 7min
ICE detainee killed, Joe Rogan defends Kimmel, fed workers rehired & more
A deadly shooting at an ICE facility in Dallas raises security concerns. Joe Rogan defends Jimmy Kimmel after the comedian's show is suspended by ABC. Controversy brews as a DOJ official retracts a letter about an FBI agent linked to Sandy Hook. Meanwhile, the Trump administration is reaching out to former federal workers for rehire after layoffs. Lastly, forecasters are monitoring potential hurricane systems that could impact the U.S. as the season winds down.


