

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 11, 2025 • 7min
Musk targets CFPB, a notable flu season, JFK assassination records discovered & more
Elon Musk's controversial access to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau raises eyebrows amid a significant power shake-up. Flu season reports show hospitalizations at a 15-year high, prompting discussions on health strategies. Tensions brew over the Federal Reserve's role in interest rate decisions amidst political pressures. Meanwhile, the FBI unveils thousands of newly discovered records related to JFK's assassination, shedding light on a case that continues to captivate the public.

Feb 11, 2025 • 7min
Trump’s Middle East deal, AZ plane crash, Super Bowl ratings & more
President Trump is pushing for a controversial Gaza plan during his talks with Jordan’s King. Legal hurdles are piling up for his administration on various fronts, including healthcare changes. A small jet linked to Mötley Crüe's frontman met an unfortunate fate in Arizona. Meanwhile, the Super Bowl pulled in impressive ratings again, showcasing its continued appeal. From international negotiations to celebrity mishaps, the fabric of current events is intricately woven together.

Feb 11, 2025 • 7min
Trump wants watchdog shut down, hair straightening products, Super Bowl protestor & more
President Trump raises alarms about the future of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and discusses his concerns over Ukraine's resources. As severe winter storms hit parts of the U.S., the FDA considers banning a harmful chemical found in hair straightening products, sparking debates around health and safety. Meanwhile, a prominent artist claims responsibility for a protest during the Super Bowl halftime show, bringing attention to the motivations behind the demonstration and the NFL’s reaction.

Feb 11, 2025 • 7min
'Let hell break out,’ Musk’s OpenAI offer, egg buying cap & more
Tensions rise as Trump pressures Israel over hostages, declaring ‘all bets are off’ if demands aren't met. The Justice Department pushes to drop charges against NYC's mayor, stirring political debate. Meanwhile, grocery stores impose limits on egg purchases due to a shortage caused by bird flu. Adding to the tech drama, Elon Musk eyes a takeover of OpenAI, amidst skepticism over his intentions. Google Maps also makes waves by renaming the Gulf of Mexico, showcasing a unique blend of politics, commerce, and social issues.

4 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 7min
‘Buyout’ pause extended, NIH research funding cap, trio of storms & more
A federal judge has extended the pause on Trump's buyout plan amidst legal challenges from over a dozen states. Meanwhile, NIH funding cuts threaten vital research, potentially impacting $4 billion in annual funding. Scientists are on alert due to a new bird flu variant discovered in Nevada dairy cattle, and immigration courts are overwhelmed with over 4 million cases. Additionally, severe winter storms are expected across the U.S., bringing snow, ice, and rain to various regions, anticipating major disruptions.

4 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 7min
Ceasefire in jeopardy, egg crisis, WWII playground discovery & more
Tensions rise as Hamas accuses Israel of violating a ceasefire deal, raising concerns about ongoing conflicts. Meanwhile, America's egg crisis deepens due to avian influenza impacts on farmers. A dramatic explosion at a Pennsylvania chemical plant adds to the day's urgency. In a surprising twist, WWII-era unexploded bombs were discovered in a children's playground in England, forcing a temporary closure for safety measures. Stay updated on these crucial events that shape our world.

Feb 10, 2025 • 7min
Hamas delays next hostage release, border spy planes, free coffee & more
Hamas has delayed the release of hostages, blaming Israel for breaking a ceasefire. Meanwhile, President Trump’s proposed tariffs could shake up trade with Canada and Mexico. The U.S. military is deploying spy planes to monitor drug cartels along the southern border. Areas hit by recent winter storms are bracing for more weather challenges. Plus, a coffee chain is treating its loyalty members to free coffee, showcasing creative customer engagement.

Feb 10, 2025 • 7min
Tit-for-tat tariffs, consumer watchdog targeted, Super Bowl ads & more
China's new tariffs on US goods are stirring up tensions, with potential economic impacts for American communities. Meanwhile, Elon Musk's battle against a federal financial watchdog raises eyebrows. On the negotiation front, Ukraine's president hints at talks with Russia. The Super Bowl offers entertaining commercials and standout performances like Kendrick Lamar and SZA. Lastly, a decline in marriage rates in China suggests shifting societal values.

Feb 10, 2025 • 7min
Consumer watchdog HQ shut, Super Bowl LIX, Ed Sheeran busted & more
A federal financial watchdog has shut down its headquarters, forcing employees to work from home amidst mounting political changes. The Super Bowl saw the Philadelphia Eagles clinch victory with a thrilling performance, highlighted by Kendrick Lamar's halftime show. In international news, Israel is withdrawing troops from a crucial area, paving the way for displaced Palestinians. Additionally, Ed Sheeran's busking performance in India was unexpectedly halted by the police, adding a twist to his tour.

Feb 9, 2025 • 26min
One Thing: The Real-Life Impact of DOGE’s Cuts
Teddy Ruge, founder of Raintree Farms in Uganda, and Brian Aliganyira, director of ARC Wellness Hub, dive into the real-life impacts of U.S. foreign aid cuts. They discuss how these cuts, spurred by political decisions, have devastating effects on local economies and vital healthcare for vulnerable communities, particularly the LGBTQ population in Uganda. The conversation highlights the struggles against Uganda's anti-gay laws and the urgent need for sustainable solutions in the face of adversity, emphasizing resilience and the human cost of policy changes.


