

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 21, 2025 • 7min
Israeli hostage body, Senate vote-a-rama, Musk ‘living the meme,’ & more
Israel confirms a returned body isn’t the hostage they believed it to be, raising tensions. In D.C., Senate Republicans race through a crucial budget decision. Elon Musk steals the spotlight at a Conservative conference with a chainsaw entrance. Meanwhile, over 170 migrants are moved from Guantanamo Bay to Venezuela. On the lighter side, an electrifying overtime finish defines the first-ever 4 Nations hockey championship, showcasing the thrill of international competition.

Feb 20, 2025 • 7min
Hochul won’t oust Adams, US stocks tumble, NBA star’s season-ending injury & more
New York's governor will not remove Mayor Adams, sparking discussions about potential changes. Meanwhile, Ukraine's President Zelensky is navigating strained ties with Washington. Wall Street is jittery over Walmart's economic forecast, contributing to a stock market plunge. In sports, NBA star Victor Wembanyama's season ends prematurely due to a serious injury, raising questions about his promising future. The podcast dips into the challenges of managing digital legacies in today's world.

Feb 20, 2025 • 7min
Defense and IRS cuts, new FBI director, former NFL player's arrest & more
Trump's administration might be slashing jobs at the Pentagon and IRS, stirring political debate. Kash Patel has been confirmed as the new FBI director amid bipartisan discussions. In New York, the National Guard has been activated due to an illegal strike by corrections officers. South Korea's impeached president faces trial for insurrection. Adding intrigue, a former NFL player's unexpected arrest during a city council meeting leaves everyone talking.

Feb 20, 2025 • 7min
Israel mourns released hostages, DOGE dividend, ancient tomb discovery & more
The tragic return of hostages in Israel stirs deep emotions, while the US grapples with potential inflation complications from a quirky 'DOGE dividend.' New definitions of gender terms by health officials spark controversy, raising questions around science and identity. A heartbreaking story unfolds with the suicide of a young girl linked to bullying over her family's immigration status. In a fascinating turn, an ancient tomb belonging to King Thutmose II is uncovered in Egypt, promising new insights into history.

Feb 20, 2025 • 7min
DOGE claims debunked, bishops sue Trump administration, soccer kiss verdict & more
Government layoffs are facing scrutiny, revealing that it's not just low performers being impacted. Catholic bishops are challenging the Trump administration over cuts to refugee funding. A grand jury calls for the dissolution of an Alabama police department due to a corruption scandal. Meanwhile, seven Florida deputies are suspended after a tragic domestic violence case. In sports news, a verdict is reached in the controversial non-consensual kiss involving Spain's former soccer chief, highlighting ongoing issues of sexism in athletics.

Feb 20, 2025 • 7min
Hostage bodies returned, Trump's approval rating, major military budget cuts & more
Four Israeli hostages' bodies have been returned by Hamas, sparking deep emotional responses. A recent poll highlights growing concerns about President Trump's approval ratings. As the Trump administration prepares to label migrants as disease risks, significant military budget cuts have been proposed by the Defense Secretary. Meanwhile, the U.S. braces for even colder temperatures, raising additional worries about safety and preparedness.

Feb 19, 2025 • 7min
Federal firings fallout, NYC mayor in court, a cheaper iPhone & more
Tensions rise as Department of Defense officials brace for impending firings at the Pentagon. In Arizona, a midair collision between two small planes adds to aviation concerns. The corruption case surrounding New York City Mayor Eric Adams reveals fascinating courtroom drama. Meanwhile, Donald Trump takes aim at New York's congestion pricing initiative. On a lighter note, Apple introduces a new budget-friendly iPhone model, ensuring accessibility for all.

Feb 19, 2025 • 7min
Trump vs Zelensky, Target’s DEI debacle, chicken chain relocates & more
Tensions flare as Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky exchange sharp words over Ukraine's peace efforts. The Department of Justice pushes a major appeal regarding Trump's authority to fire a watchdog. Tragedy strikes with two skiers lost in an avalanche in Oregon. Meanwhile, Target faces customer backlash as it scales back its diversity initiatives. On the fast food front, KFC announces its move to Texas, signaling a significant shift amidst fierce competition and declining sales.

Feb 19, 2025 • 7min
Putin praises peace talks, Eric Adams' corruption case, measles outbreak & more
Vladimir Putin shares thoughts on recent talks with the U.S. regarding Ukraine. A federal judge is deliberating over NYC Mayor Eric Adams' corruption case. Despite alarming reports, air travel statistics show it’s safer than it seems. West Texas faces a growing measles outbreak, highlighting the importance of vaccination. Meanwhile, ticket prices for the Four Nations Face-Off Championship soar, competing with Super Bowl costs!

7 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 7min
Zelensky on Trump’s 'disinformation', migrant children services cut, Pope's health & more
Ukraine's president accuses Trump of spreading disinformation about the war, sparking a heated dialogue. Meanwhile, the Trump administration faces criticism for cutting legal services for migrant children. In a surprising twist, Trump also signs an executive order to enhance IVF access. Health updates on Pope Francis reveal his hospitalization status. On the entertainment front, Blake Lively expands her lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, while organized crime is suspected behind thefts affecting NFL stars.


