

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, 9am, 12pm, 3pm and 6pm Eastern, every weekday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 11, 2025 • 6min
DC under federal control, Trump-Putin summit, marijuana classification & more
President Trump unveils plans for federal control in D.C. to tackle crime, while legal developments in the Ghislaine Maxwell case unfold. A crucial summit between Trump and Putin is on the horizon, igniting discussions about the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Meanwhile, proposed changes to federal marijuana policy could be on the table. On a lighter note, AOL bids farewell to dial-up service, marking the end of an era in technology.

Aug 11, 2025 • 7min
Trump’s DC takeover, China chip negotiations, NASCAR celebration backfires & more
The UN has condemned the killing of Palestinian journalists, shedding light on a serious global issue. President Trump’s plans to tackle crime in Washington DC unveil a contentious federal-local dynamic. Tensions rise in US-China trade as computer chip negotiations hit a snag. Wildfires in Colorado lead to an unexpected prison evacuation scenario. Celebrations for a NASCAR driver take a disastrous turn, proving that not all victories go as planned.

5 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 7min
Journalists killed in Gaza, Midwest flooding, Newsom v. Trump & more
A tragic airstrike in Gaza has claimed the lives of four journalists, stirring international concern. Meanwhile, millions face flood alerts in the Midwest, highlighting severe weather emergencies. New details emerge about a shooter at CDC offices in Atlanta, raising domestic security questions. Additionally, Ukraine’s president may feature in a pivotal meeting between Trump and Putin. The podcast also dives into legal tensions as Trump faces off against California Governor Newsom over National Guard deployment, spotlighting the clash between federal and state powers.

Aug 10, 2025 • 19min
One Thing: How Vaccine Opt-Outs Could Put Classrooms at Risk
Philip Huang, the Director of the Dallas County Health and Human Services Department, discusses the alarming rise in vaccine exemptions for U.S. kindergartners and the potential public health risks, particularly amidst a measles outbreak. He emphasizes the balance between individual choice and community immunity. Huang also tackles the misinformation surrounding vaccines that fuels hesitancy and highlights the need for trusted communication to combat public health crises. His insights underscore the urgency of addressing these challenges as schools reopen.

Aug 9, 2025 • 13min
5 Good Things: History at Home Plate: the MLB’s First Female Umpire
Discover a unique club that helps members relieve stress with collective screams. Celebrate the groundbreaking achievements of the first female umpire in Major League Baseball. Dive into the initiative of a world-class chef running a plastic-free restaurant, promoting sustainability. Learn about a vibrant reading game in Michigan that engages thousands. Plus, explore an intergenerational summer camp where youth connect with grandmothers through skill-sharing, creating lasting friendships and enriching experiences.

Aug 8, 2025 • 7min
Trump-Putin meeting, big 401(k) changes, Apollo 13 astronaut death & more
Discover intriguing insights from President Trump's meeting with Vladimir Putin, exploring potential impacts on global peace efforts. Hear about the stirring protests from Gaza families over Israeli plans. Learn about impending changes to 401(k) investment options, promising new opportunities for savers. Additionally, the podcast pays tribute to the legendary NASA astronaut Jim Lovell following his passing and discusses the increasing wildfire threats in California due to extreme heat.

Aug 8, 2025 • 7min
DOJ probes NY AG, no TX quorum, university's funding fight & more
The Justice Department is diving into a high-profile investigation involving the New York Attorney General and the Trump Organization. Texas politics heat up as Democrats challenge a contentious redistricting plan amidst a quorum crisis. Legal battles unfold over immigration policies linked to Trump officials facing setbacks in court. In a surprising twist, a major ally of Israel opposes its actions in Gaza. Meanwhile, a university tackles a billion-dollar funding challenge, creating ripples in higher education.

Aug 8, 2025 • 7min
Gaza plan pushback, grocery price stress, Superman joins ICE & more
Tensions rise as Palestinians in Gaza reject Israeli plans for takeover, deeming them futile. Meanwhile, Americans are feeling the pinch from skyrocketing grocery prices, prompting shifts in shopping habits. The potential fallout from cuts to mRNA vaccine funding raises alarms about future pandemic preparedness. In a surprising twist, a former superhero actor takes on a role with ICE. Lastly, frustrations bubble over regarding growing disruptions in WNBA games, leaving fans and players alike in disbelief.

Aug 8, 2025 • 7min
Global outcry over Gaza plan, TX redistricting stand-off, poisoned pasta & more.
International leaders are voicing strong opposition to Israel's controversial Gaza control measures. Meanwhile, Texas lawmakers are locked in a heated redistricting battle. The Pentagon plans to reallocate weapons originally intended for Ukraine, raising concerns. In the U.S., dangerous heat is exacerbating wildfire risks. Adding to the intrigue, a bizarre Australian case unfolds as a woman suspected of murder attempted to poison others with a series of tainted dishes.

Aug 8, 2025 • 7min
Gaza war expansion, Russia sanctions deadline, PA shooting & more
Tensions escalate as Israel plans to take over more of Gaza, raising humanitarian concerns amid protests. Political uncertainties loom as Trump's deadline for Russia in Ukraine passes. In California, a new wildfire forces thousands to evacuate their homes. Meanwhile, rising crime rates in Washington, D.C., are causing alarm, highlighted by a shocking ambush on Pennsylvania state troopers. These urgent stories paint a vivid picture of chaos and conflict across multiple fronts.