
CNN One Thing
You’ve been overwhelmed with headlines all week – what's worth a closer look? One Thing takes you beyond the headlines and helps make sense of what everyone is talking about. Host David Rind talks to experts, reporters on the front lines and the real people impacted by the news about what they've learned – and why it matters. New episodes every Wednesday and Sunday.
Latest episodes

Feb 12, 2025 • 23min
When Trump and Musk Meet Checks and Balances
As many of President Donald Trump’s sweeping executive actions get challenged in court, some on the right are suggesting his presidential power could exceed certain legal rulings. We examine the implications of ignoring court orders and what could put us on a path towards a constitutional crisis.Guest: Paula Reid, CNN Chief Legal Affairs CorrespondentHave a tip or question about the new Trump administration? Call us at 202-240-2895. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 9, 2025 • 27min
The Real-Life Impact of DOGE’s Cuts
Teddy Ruge, a sustainable farming advocate from Uganda, and Brian Aliganyira, director of a health clinic for the LGBTQ community, share their insights on the consequences of foreign aid cuts. Ruge discusses how funding pauses affect local farmers, employment, and environmental practices. Aliganyira highlights the challenges of providing health services under oppressive laws, particularly the impact on HIV treatment and mental health. Their conversation reveals the urgent need for international support to assist vulnerable communities in navigating these crises.

Feb 5, 2025 • 22min
Musk and Trump Take a Wrecking Ball to DC
Some federal employees are on edge as Elon Musk continues his work on behalf of President Donald Trump to overhaul the federal government in unprecedented ways. We examine just how sweeping his actions are and why resistance to them is growing. Guest: Zachary Wolf, CNN Politics Senior WriterSign up for the CNN What Matters newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 2, 2025 • 23min
More Planes, Fewer Air Traffic Controllers: Recipe for Disaster?
In the days since the deadly midair collision outside Washington DC, questions are being asked about what could have contributed to the tragedy. We hear from an expert who says the push for more flights isn’t making jobs easier for a workforce already stretched thin.Guest: David Soucie, CNN Safety Analyst/Author, ‘Safer Skies’ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 29, 2025 • 20min
Trump’s ‘America First’ Agenda Meets China’s AI Advancement
Matt Egan, a CNN business reporter and AI expert, dives into the implications of a Chinese startup's groundbreaking AI model challenging U.S. tech. He discusses how this could disrupt Wall Street, affecting stock prices and triggering regulatory scrutiny. Egan also raises concerns about censorship in Chinese technology and the risks of using AI influenced by political agendas. Moreover, he highlights the urgent need for the U.S. to reevaluate its approach to AI development amid intense global competition and national security threats.

14 snips
Jan 26, 2025 • 25min
The Movement Behind Trump’s DEI Takedown
Rene Marsh, a CNN correspondent with deep insights into politics, discusses the Trump administration's aggressive actions against DEI initiatives within federal agencies. She highlights the controversial placement of federal DEI employees on leave and the cultural backlash surrounding diversity initiatives. Rene delves into how these actions could ripple through corporate America, prompting businesses to rethink their own DEI efforts. The conversation also touches on the emotional toll on federal workers, particularly veterans, as they confront uncertainty in their roles.

Jan 22, 2025 • 20min
Trump Floods the Zone. Here’s What Matters.
President Donald Trump issued a slew of executive actions after taking office for the second time on Monday. We examine which ones are having an immediate impact and what they can tell us about what the next four years may bring.Guest: Betsy Klein, CNN Senior White House Producer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 19, 2025 • 27min
Federal Workers Prepare for Trump, Musk, and Uncertainty
As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take power for a second time, we hear from two government workers who have mixed feelings about potentially being on the receiving end of his campaign promises. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 17, 2025 • 24min
How Long Will the Gaza Deal Stop the Fighting?
Hamas and Israel have reached an agreement on a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza, providing hope to war-weary Palestinians and family members of Israeli hostages. However, implementation could prove challenging and grim.Guest: Jeremy Diamond, CNN Jerusalem Correspondent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 15, 2025 • 25min
How Serious is Trump About the Panama Canal?
President-elect Donald Trump has not let up on recent suggestions that the US should retake the Panama Canal. While the idea has been rejected by the Panamanian government, officials working at the canal are not laughing it off. Guest: Phil Mattingly, CNN Chief Domestic Correspondent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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