

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

Dec 5, 2025 • 46sec
7:05 PM ET: SCOTUS Greenlights New TX Congressional Map
The Supreme Court has given the green light for Texas to implement a redistricting map that benefits Republicans. This decision comes just in time for the upcoming midterm elections in 2026. The implications of this move could reshape political dynamics in the state and beyond. Tune in for intriguing insights on how this ruling will influence the electoral landscape!

Dec 4, 2025 • 7min
Boat Strike Briefing, Vaccination Vote Delayed, Walshe Trial Witness and more
Lawmakers are locked in debate over a controversial boat strike near Venezuela, sparking heated discussions. Meanwhile, CDC advisors have postponed a crucial vote on changing hepatitis B vaccine recommendations amidst confusion. The Somali community in Minnesota voices strong sentiments against immigration enforcement actions. A significant arrest in the D.C. pipe bomb investigation raises new questions. Additionally, a key witness provides startling testimony in Brian Walshe's murder trial, revealing intricate details about his relationship.

Dec 4, 2025 • 7min
Somali Community Fears, DC Pipe Bomber Arrest, Paper Sues Defense Department and more
On-the-ground reporters share chilling accounts from the Somali community in Minneapolis, detailing their fear amid ICE immigration raids. In New Orleans, local sources discuss community preparedness for similar enforcement. CNN journalists provide a major update on the DC pipe bombing case, leading to a significant arrest. Insights are also shared on Putin's aggressive claims regarding Ukraine, following tense peace talks. Lastly, alarming findings on rising global child mortality rates highlight a worrying trend linked to funding cuts.

Dec 4, 2025 • 7min
Crackdown Underway, Second Strike Footage, Matthew Perry Doctor Sentenced and more
Federal immigration raids in Minnesota and Louisiana aim for mass arrests, stirring controversy. A report reveals Defense Secretary's misuse of a messaging app for sensitive info. President Trump supports releasing footage of a second drone strike on a drug trafficking boat. Officials are analyzing Australia's retirement savings model for potential U.S. improvements. Lastly, a doctor faces sentencing linked to supplying ketamine to Matthew Perry, shedding light on the ongoing discussion around mental health and substance use.

Dec 3, 2025 • 7min
Signal Chat Fallout, Epstein Island Photos, Vaccine Schedule Changes and more5
A controversial group chat involving the Defense Secretary raises concerns about operational security. New images from Jeffrey Epstein’s private island reveal troubling insights. President Trump has pardoned Rep. Henry Cuellar, stirring political waters. The CDC is reevaluating the timing of newborn hepatitis B vaccinations, with significant implications. Lastly, Trump’s plan to revamp fuel economy standards aims to make new cars more affordable.

Dec 3, 2025 • 6min
New ICE Targets, November Jobs Stats, SF v. Snack Companies and more
Alisha Wallace, a CNN reporter specializing in labor and employment data, joins the discussion. She reveals alarming new numbers from the ADP report indicating a loss of 32,000 jobs in November, particularly affecting small businesses. The podcast also covers new ICE operations targeting undocumented communities in New Orleans and Minnesota. Additionally, San Francisco's lawsuit against major food manufacturers for public health harms raises eyebrows. Lastly, a bizarre crime story unfolds involving a man in New Zealand accused of swallowing evidence.

Dec 3, 2025 • 7min
Arctic Weather, Peace Talks Impasse, House Special Election Results and more
Freezing temperatures impact over 200 million people across the U.S. as a Canadian cold front sweeps in. Tensions rise following a lack of progress in Moscow peace talks, with no compromises reached. Scrutiny increases over U.S. military strikes on drug trafficking boats, leading to defense leaders distancing themselves from the actions. In Tennessee, a special election sees Republican Matt Van Epps projected to win. Additionally, Larry Summers faces a lifetime ban from the American Economic Association due to ties with Jeffrey Epstein.

Dec 2, 2025 • 7min
Second Strike Update, Snowstorm Chaos, Dell Donation Pledge and more
The Trump administration is ramping up its campaign against Venezuela. We’ll tell you where a winter storm is causing the worst travel conditions. The man accused of shooting two National Guard members last week made his first court appearance. A tech giant and his wife are investing billions of dollars in American children. Plus, what happened on day two of Brian Walshe’s murder trial. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 2, 2025 • 7min
Putin Talks, Tight TN Special Election, Costco Sues Government and more
A winter storm is lashing the Northeast with rain and snow. Critical talks between senior US officials and Russian President Vladimir Putin are underway. We explain why a special election in deep red Tennessee is closer than expected. The Trump administration’s immigration crackdown is heading to another city. Plus, what’s behind Costco’s suit against the Trump administration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 2, 2025 • 7min
Freezing Weather, Hegseth Scrutiny, Sean Combs Netflix Battle and more
People across the country are set to face snow, ice and freezing temperatures. The Trump administration is shifting responsibility for a possible illegal strike onto a US Navy admiral. Senior US officials are set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow today. The Justice Department is preparing another case against former FBI director James Comey. Plus, Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ lawyers are threatening legal action over a new Netflix documentary series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


