

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 24, 2025 • 6min
Macron at the WH, judge blocks DOGE, end of an era at NBC & more
A crucial meeting between Trump and Macron unfolds as tensions rise over Ukraine. Legal battles heat up with a judge blocking sensitive data access, sparking debates on privacy. The Trump administration faces fresh scrutiny with shifts in immigration policies, including migrant shelter closures. In broadcasting news, Lester Holt marks the end of an era as he steps down from NBC Nightly News, leaving behind a legacy of trust and excellence. The future of news leadership is now in question.

Feb 24, 2025 • 7min
Federal workers sue, eggs from Turkey, an upside-down flag & more
Elon Musk's ultimatum to federal workers sparks outrage and legal action. Apple plans a massive $500 billion investment in the U.S. amid tariff threats. In an unusual turn, Turkey steps in to alleviate the egg shortage crisis in America. Tensions rise in the West Bank with increased arrests of Palestinians. Meanwhile, an upside-down American flag at a national park symbolizes the struggles faced by federal workers amid these changes.

Feb 24, 2025 • 7min
Justifying job backlash, Israeli tanks in West Bank, SAG awards & more
Tension brews in the Trump administration as agency heads resist requests to justify their roles. Israeli tanks make a rare return to the West Bank, sparking legal and humanitarian debates. A controversial plan for deporting unaccompanied migrant children by the White House raises eyebrows. In cultural news, leaders from France and the UK head to Washington amid global conflicts. Plus, the SAG Awards see a powerful speech by Jane Fonda calling for greater activism.

Feb 24, 2025 • 7min
Musk email rift, LA immigration enforcement, Pope health update & more
Elon Musk's email has stirred up tensions among federal workers, revealing internal rifts in government agencies. As Ukraine braces for uncertainty on the anniversary of the invasion, LA sees heightened immigration enforcement, leading to clashes between agents and activists. Meanwhile, Germany's political landscape shifts rightward after a snap election. Plus, listeners get a crucial health update on Pope Francis. This episode offers a glimpse into crucial global events and their local implications.

Feb 23, 2025 • 24min
One Thing: ‘This Shouldn’t Be Their Reality’: Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
The podcast presents a gripping exploration of the fear felt by undocumented immigrants amid mass deportation efforts. It shares personal stories illustrating the chilling impact on families, particularly in schools and healthcare settings. A poignant account of an 11-year-old girl highlights the emotional toll of anti-immigrant policies. The discussion also critiques the dangerous rhetoric shaping societal attitudes and underscores the urgent need for community support amidst rising anxiety.

Feb 22, 2025 • 15min
5 Good Things: These Young Emoji Designers Want to Make History
A remarkable story unfolds as a California woman utilizes 3D printing to rebuild her life after losing her home. A father's initiative highlights the need for educational toys featuring Black historical figures. A youth group in London pushes for emojis reflecting Black and mixed-race hairstyles, aiming for greater representation. Innovative farming solutions emerge from a space robotics engineer addressing challenges in aging agricultural workforces. Additionally, a trending poem inspires individuals to reconnect with their younger selves.

Feb 21, 2025 • 7min
AP sues Trump, Mangione’s court appearance, Tesla recall & more
The Associated Press is suing the Trump administration for blocking access to briefings, igniting a legal battle over media rights. In a high-stakes court appearance, Luigi Mangione faces scrutiny in a shocking murder case involving a healthcare CEO. Meanwhile, a judge has canceled New York Mayor Eric Adams' trial, although corruption charges loom over him. The Los Angeles Fire Department is undergoing changes following devastating wildfires. Tesla is also making headlines with its second-largest recall this year due to serious safety issues.

Feb 21, 2025 • 7min
Pentagon firings paused, more measles cases, beards in baseball & more
The Pentagon has paused mass firings of civilian workers amidst growing public discontent over inflation. Meanwhile, West Texas is seeing an uptick in measles cases, highlighting urgent public health concerns. A new poll shows an increase in Americans identifying as LGBTQ+, reflecting shifting societal norms. In a surprising move, the New York Yankees have lifted their long-standing facial hair ban, allowing players to embrace personal expression. This change marks a cultural evolution in Major League Baseball.

Feb 21, 2025 • 7min
Voter anger over Trump's firings, Pope's health, polar vortex & more
Voter frustration in Georgia is boiling over as Congressman Rich McCormick faces tough questions about federal layoffs. Meanwhile, updates on the hostage situation reveal ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas. Delta Airlines is making headlines with compensation for a Toronto plane crash. In other news, the Vatican shares the latest on the Pope's health. Lastly, the polar vortex is leaving much of the U.S. in a deep freeze, but there's a hint of warmer weather just around the corner.

Feb 21, 2025 • 7min
Republican clash, alternative Gaza plan, Mangione in court & more
GOP Senators are aligning on a new budget blueprint, but tensions loom as factions may clash soon. Arab leaders gather in Saudi Arabia to propose an alternative to Trump's Gaza plan. Meanwhile, Luigi Mangione faces court over the high-profile murder case of United Healthcare's CEO. Germans prepare for a snap election this weekend, and in sports news, Major League Baseball is parting ways with ESPN, signaling big changes ahead. Keep an eye on these unfolding stories!


