

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

Feb 26, 2025 • 7min
Zelensky WH visit, renewable energy U-turn, basketball legend retires & more
The White House is under scrutiny for involving Elon Musk in cabinet discussions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is making headlines with a potential Washington visit. BP is reversing its course on renewable energy investments, stirring debate. A major pharmaceutical company is ramping up U.S. manufacturing for weight loss and diabetes drugs. Meanwhile, basketball superstar Diana Taurasi bids farewell after an illustrious 20-year career, reflecting on her journey and legacy.

Feb 26, 2025 • 7min
Trump’s first cabinet meeting, first measles death, WaPo’s big change & more
President Trump’s first Cabinet meeting took a surprising turn with Elon Musk in attendance, raising eyebrows about job security. A deadly measles outbreak in West Texas marks a serious health crisis. The Washington Post is shifting its editorial policy to spotlight personal liberties, sparking debate. Meanwhile, a legal case in India highlights the right to compensation for wasted time, shining a light on consumer rights in the media landscape.

Feb 26, 2025 • 7min
Cabinet meeting tension, Trump Gaza video, mystery Congo illness & more
Tension brews in a cabinet meeting with Elon Musk's unexpected presence. Meanwhile, a video shared by Trump paints Gaza as a resort, starkly contrasting with the dire humanitarian crisis as infants tragically succumb to hypothermia. The podcast also reveals firings among NSA staff for inappropriate chats and alarming near-miss incidents at US airports. To top it off, there's a chilling report on a mysterious illness in Congo causing rapid fatalities.

Feb 26, 2025 • 7min
Ukraine mineral deal, Adnan Syed conviction, Trump's ‘gold cards,’ & more
A new natural resources deal between the U.S. and Ukraine is set to reshape reconstruction efforts, highlighting international diplomacy. Meanwhile, a fragile ceasefire paves the way for a potential prisoner swap between Israel and Hamas. Legal complexities surround Adnan Syed as prosecutors abandon efforts to vacate his conviction. In a surprising political twist, Trump proposes ‘gold cards’ for wealthy immigrants, stirring up domestic debates.

Feb 25, 2025 • 7min
Musk email confusion continues, Southwest flight's near-miss, TX lottery investigation & more
Chaos ensues as one million federal workers respond to a confusing email from the White House. A near-miss between planes raises safety concerns on a Chicago runway. In Chile, a massive blackout leaves most of the country in the dark. Texas is investigating potential fraud linked to lottery jackpots, prompting legal debates around virtual ticket sales. With egg prices soaring due to bird flu, could vaccinating chickens be the solution?

Feb 25, 2025 • 6min
Protests over DOGE, consumer confidence sinks, fabrics giant shutters & more
A massive protest against DOGE is causing waves, while American consumers face growing economic worries. Tragedy strikes with a deadly highway overpass collapse in South Korea. Legal tensions rise with a high-profile death penalty case at the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, a beloved fabric retailer, cherished by quilters for generations, is shutting its doors, marking the end of an era.

Feb 25, 2025 • 7min
US-Europe rift, Musk’s new federal contract, Gaza ceasefire & more
The rift between the US and Europe over Ukraine negotiations reveals deep geopolitical struggles. Elon Musk's company secures a new contract, raising eyebrows about potential budget cuts. In health news, updates on Pope Francis add urgency to ongoing global discussions. The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is on thin ice as Israel seeks to extend it. Meanwhile, a GOP presidential hopeful is gearing up for another run in Ohio, showcasing the dynamic landscape of political aspirations.

5 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 7min
Musk’s second chance, podcaster’s FBI role, Denny’s egg surcharge & more
Elon Musk is stirring the pot by giving federal workers a second chance to report their achievements, or face dismissal. Meanwhile, some House Republicans are pushing back against Trump’s plans. In a surprising twist, a podcaster has been named deputy director of the FBI. The case against Brian Kohberger unfolds with genetic genealogy evidence. Plus, Denny’s is looking to increase egg prices due to supply issues. It's a wild mix of politics, crime, and dining surprises!

Feb 25, 2025 • 7min
UN vote shock, baby death arrest, Starbucks layoffs & more
The US shocked allies by opposing a UN resolution on Ukraine, signaling a growing rift. Elon Musk's controversial email was a source of chaos for federal workers. Pope Francis is recovering well in the hospital after pneumonia. A tragic incident in Paris led to the arrest of a US teen linked to a newborn's death. Meanwhile, Starbucks announced more than 1,000 layoffs and a menu overhaul to combat declining sales, aiming to refresh its offerings and enforce in-person work for corporate staff.

Feb 24, 2025 • 7min
Musk’s ultimatum, AP’s lawsuit, Roberta Flack dies & more
As Ukraine marks a grim anniversary of invasion, President Trump discusses U.S. aid amidst international tensions. Confusion mounts over Elon Musk's email threatening federal employees with deadlines. Legal battles unfold as the Associated Press pushes against restrictions at presidential events. Plans to house migrants in Guantanamo Bay face delays. The music world mourns the passing of legendary soul singer Roberta Flack, celebrating her impactful legacy.


