

CNN 5 Things
CNN Podcasts
We bring you 5 stories that will get you up to speed and on with your day. Updates every weekday morning, midday and evening. Plus, 5 Good Things and One Thing on the weekends.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 19, 2026 • 7min
Europe Resists Trump, Springsteen Slams ICE, Valentino Dies and more
Leaders across Europe stand firm against Trump's tariff threat related to Greenland. Bruce Springsteen speaks out against ICE actions, resonating with many Americans. A severe cold snap causes chaos, leading to a 100-car pileup in Michigan. Prince Harry's lawsuit against a tabloid publisher reveals alarming phone hacking allegations. The fashion world mourns the loss of Valentino Garavani, iconic for his vibrant red designs and celebrity clientele.

Jan 19, 2026 • 7min
US-Europe Tensions, MN Church Investigation, Controversial Gaza Board Invites and more
Tensions rise as Trump threatens tariffs over his Greenland ambitions. In Minnesota, a church faces protests due to its pastor's connections with ICE and a Justice Department inquiry. Controversy brews as Trump invites leaders like Putin to his proposed Gaza reconstruction board. Public trust in the release of Epstein case files remains low, with most Americans dissatisfied. Meanwhile, China's birth rate hits an all-time low, raising concerns about its future demographic and economic stability.

Jan 19, 2026 • 7min
Greenland Tariffs, Soldiers to Minneapolis, Spain Train Crash and more
European leaders are voicing their concerns over Trump's tariffs related to Greenland. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has prepared to send over 1,500 troops to Minnesota amid rising tensions. In Iran, thousands of dissenters' deaths were acknowledged by the supreme leader, who laid blame on the U.S. Additionally, a catastrophic train collision in Spain has resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries. The perplexing mystery of the new train and refurbished tracks adds another layer to this tragic incident.

Jan 18, 2026 • 25min
One Thing: ‘We Do Not Want to Become Americans’: Greenlanders on Trump’s Threats
Nic Robertson, CNN's International Diplomatic Editor, offers a compelling on-the-ground look at Greenland's reaction to President Trump's threats to take control of the island. He explores the historical context of U.S. interest and how recent remarks have shifted local sentiments from laughter to concern. Robertson highlights Greenlanders' deep-rooted fears of losing their identity and autonomy, emphasizing their rejection of American-style governance. The discussion also reveals cultural clashes and unique challenges that would arise from a potential takeover.

7 snips
Jan 17, 2026 • 15min
5 Good Things: This Teen Faced the Dark Side of AI and Fought Back
In this engaging conversation, teen activist Elliston Berry bravely shares her journey to combat the dangers of deepfakes, highlighting the importance of education in schools. Melanie Sanders discusses the rise of the We Do Not Care Club, a supportive movement for women in perimenopause. Plus, learn about the groundbreaking release of an autistic Barbie that sparks meaningful conversations. Bereaved parents Susan and Chad Chance honor their child’s legacy through literacy initiatives, showcasing resilience and creativity.

5 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 7min
Trump on Insurrection Act, Kirk Assassin in Court, Miracle Organ Transplant and more
President Trump's threat to invoke the Insurrection Act highlights ongoing tensions in Minnesota. Meanwhile, an Arctic blast may bring snow to parts of the US this weekend. In court news, defense attorneys for the alleged shooter of Charlie Kirk are raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest. On the health front, a man receives a life-changing organ transplant after a groundbreaking procedure involving genetically modified pig organs.

Jan 16, 2026 • 7min
Minneapolis Clashes, Cautious Calm in Iran, Trump’s ‘Unhinged’ Diet and more
Minneapolis sees unrest with clashes and tear gas while Trump threatens the Insurrection Act. A CNN poll reveals that 58% of Americans view his return as a failure. In Iran, a cautious calm returns following weeks of protests. The CIA director's visit to Venezuela raises eyebrows as narco-trafficking concerns come to light. Meanwhile, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. humorously critiques Trump’s fast-food diet, leaving listeners amused and intrigued.

6 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 7min
Unrest in Minneapolis, Trump’s Healthcare Plan, 'Mistake' Deportation and more
Tensions escalate in Minneapolis as protestors clash with federal officers. President Trump reveals a new healthcare plan aimed at reducing costs and increasing transparency. A federal court blocks the DOJ's access to California voter data, raising concerns about voter registration. The administration admits to mistakenly deporting a student, prompting an apology. Meanwhile, South Korea's former president faces a five-year prison sentence for obstruction related to a martial law attempt.

Jan 15, 2026 • 7min
ACLU Sues Feds, Machado at the WH, NCAA Players Charged and more
Don Riddell, a CNN sports reporter, dives into the latest scandal surrounding college players charged in an international sports betting scheme, revealing how bribes impacted NCAA games. The podcast also discusses the ACLU's lawsuit against the government's immigration tactics. Attention shifts to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Machado's meeting with Trump, highlighting shifts in U.S.-Iran tensions. Plus, there's good news for homebuyers as mortgage rates drop, sparking changes in the housing market.

Jan 15, 2026 • 7min
Insurrection Act Threat, Mahmoud Khalil Decision, Greenland Polling and more
Tensions rise as Trump threatens to invoke the Insurrection Act amidst Minneapolis unrest. A federal appeals court reverses the release of activist Mahmoud Khalil, raising legal concerns. Iran warns that its internal instability could spill over into neighboring regions. A recent poll reveals Americans largely oppose U.S. control of Greenland. Additionally, Grok's AI Chatbot will cease digitally altering images to undress individuals after public backlash.


