

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

Oct 29, 2025 • 7min
Fed Cuts Rates, Bahamas on Alert, Louvre Heist Suspects and more
We start with the Federal Reserve’s lowest interest rates in three years. The Bahamas braces for Hurricane Melissa amid its destructive aftermath in parts of the Caribbean. The clock is ticking to cover food stamp benefits for millions of Americans. We have an update on the Louvre jewelry heist investigation. Plus, a trial is underway in the case of a Virginia teacher shot by a 6-year-old student. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 29, 2025 • 7min
Trump-Xi Meeting, Melissa Hits Cuba, Interest Rates Cut and more
Here’s what we’re expecting from President Donald Trump’s much anticipated meeting with China’s leader Xi Jinping. After causing devastation in Jamaica, Hurricane Melissa is now lashing Cuba. Israel has given an update on the ceasefire in Gaza. The Federal Reserve is set to cut interest rates today – and we’ll explain why it may be the last time for a while. Plus, the drama from last night’s World Series match between the Toronto Blue Jays and the LA Dodgers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 29, 2025 • 7min
Israel Strikes Gaza, Melissa Devastation, Trump’s South Korea trip and more
Dozens of people have been killed by Israeli strikes in Gaza, threatening the ceasefire. Jamaica has been declared a “disaster area” after Hurricane Melissa tore through the country. We have the key takeaways of Trump’s visit to South Korea. Obamacare enrollees are getting their first look at next year’s prices, with premiums soaring. Plus, is Trump walking back on talks of a third term? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 28, 2025 • 7min
Monster Melissa, ICE Shake-Up, Biden Autopen Report and more
The Category 5 storm Melissa hitting Jamaican shores is now the second-strongest hurricane in Atlantic history. ICE may be getting another shake-up from the Trump administration. We tell you why the Israeli Prime Minister’s office is accusing Hamas of violating the Gaza ceasefire agreement. A new UN report accuses Russia of committing crimes against humanity in Ukraine. Plus, former President Joe Biden’s use of the autopen is under fresh scrutiny. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 28, 2025 • 7min
Melissa Hits Jamaica, US-Japan Deal, Amazon Layoffs and more
Jamaica is bracing for the strongest storm on the planet this year. A key mineral framework deal has been agreed between the US and Japan. There may be hope for some federal workers who have missed their pay checks. Amazon is set to make massive job cuts today. Plus, the prison release date for Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has been announced. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

4 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 7min
Hurricane Melissa, Third-Term Talk, Houston Serial Killer Speculations and more
Hurricane Melissa, a powerful Category 5 storm, poses a serious threat to Jamaica, leading to urgent evacuation orders. Millions could lose their SNAP benefits due to the ongoing government shutdown. Former President Trump hints at a potential third run in 2028, raising eyebrows. In a grim update, Hamas transfers another deceased hostage to Israel amidst ongoing tensions. Meanwhile, Houston officials dismiss rumors of a serial killer linked to recent bayou deaths, assuring the public there’s no evidence connecting the cases.

Oct 27, 2025 • 7min
Worst Flight Delays, Trump MRI Scan, Halloween Candy Prices and more
The second leg of President Donald Trump's diplomacy tour in Asia has begun in Japan. Yesterday saw the worst flight delays since the government shutdown began. Trump’s admission he had an MRI scan has raised fresh concerns about his health. We explain why Canada and the US could be losing their measles elimination status. Plus, why Halloween Candy may taste differently this year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 27, 2025 • 7min
US-China Trade Deal, Category 5 Hurricane, Louvre Heist Arrests and more
The US and China have agreed the outline for a trade agreement after weeks of tensions. A British commentator has been detained by ICE during his speaking tour of the US. Jamaica is preparing for what could be a devastating Category 5 hurricane. Two US navy planes crashed in the South China Sea yesterday. Plus, we have an update on the Louvre museum theft. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 26, 2025 • 22min
One Thing: Why Job Hunting Feels Impossible Right Now
Job hunting has become an uphill battle for many, as two seekers share their frustrating experiences. Key insights reveal a struggling labor market, with disparities affecting various groups, notably Black women. Economists weigh in on recession indicators and shifting trends in hiring, emphasizing the impact of AI on entry-level jobs. Despite a resilient economy, rising long-term unemployment raises concerns about future stability. Overall, the struggles in job searching paint a complex picture of the current workforce landscape.

Oct 25, 2025 • 13min
5 Good Things: Some Good News That’s Totally Nuts
A wildlife expert performed a tiny transplant surgery. A Texas volleyball team serves an epic surprise for their school’s beloved custodian. New research brings good news to parents hoping to prevent peanut allergies. A retired computer technician in Florida is paying it forward to people in need. And in Chicago, second chances are in full bloom for at-risk youth, thanks to this CNN Hero.
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Host/Producer: Krista Bo Polanco
Producer: Eryn Mathewson
Showrunner: Faiz Jamil
Senior Producer: Felicia Patinkin
Editorial Support: Dan Dzula, Kathleen Toner, Christie O’Reilly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


