

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

Dec 11, 2025 • 7min
Abrego Garcia Release, Senate Health Care Votes, Fired Football Coach Jailed and more
A Maryland judge orders the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia from ICE custody, stirring debate on unlawful detentions. Severe flooding devastates Washington state, while FEMA faces proposed cuts. Tensions escalate between the US and Venezuela amid piracy allegations over an oil tanker. Meanwhile, critical Senate votes on healthcare could reshape American policy. In a shocking turn, a university football coach is arrested shortly after being fired under allegations of misconduct. Buckle up for a whirlwind of current events!

6 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 7min
Tanker Seizure Escalation, WA Floods, Trump on CNN Sale and more
Tensions rise as the U.S. seizes a Venezuelan oil tanker, escalating diplomatic conflict. Heavy rain causes severe flooding in Washington state, prompting urgent evacuations. Ukraine presents a revised peace plan, aimed at easing ongoing conflict in Europe. Donald Trump shares his views on the potential sale of CNN, raising questions about editorial independence. Finally, learn about Trump's pricey new gold card visa program, promising expedited residency for a hefty fee.

Dec 10, 2025 • 7min
Oil Tanker Seized, Fed Lowers Rates, Denmark Security Concern and more
Tensions escalate as the U.S. seizes an oil tanker headed to Cuba, provoking Venezuela's ire. The Federal Reserve cuts interest rates amidst inflation talks, impacting market reactions. A significant defense policy bill makes its way through Congress, addressing critical safety concerns. Meanwhile, GOP lawmakers face challenges in agreeing on a new health care plan before a looming deadline. Denmark raises alarms about U.S. economic power, hinting at potential threats from Russia and China.

Dec 10, 2025 • 7min
Interest Rates, Epstein Records Ruling, Pro-AI Midterm Ads and more
The Federal Reserve may cut interest rates to boost the job market. A judge has decided to unseal records related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. There have been recent US strikes on suspected drug boats, with some survivors involved. A pro-AI super PAC is launching its first political advertisements, showcasing candidates in Texas and New York. Meanwhile, this year’s Nobel Peace Prize winner was notably absent during the award ceremony.

Dec 10, 2025 • 6min
Trump Affordability Speech, Democrat Miami Mayor, Teen Chatbot Use and more
Donald Trump addresses the affordability crisis, despite labeling it a 'hoax.' Miami makes history by electing its first Democrat mayor in nearly three decades. Tragedy strikes with a shooting at Kentucky State University, prompting a strong response from the university's leadership. Ukraine’s president indicates readiness for elections, provided international security guarantees. A new study reveals how teens increasingly rely on AI chatbots for learning and companionship, raising concerns about their mental health.

Dec 9, 2025 • 7min
Trump on Affordability, Epstein Files Latest, Campus Shooting and more
President Trump tackles affordability in Pennsylvania, facing mixed reactions to his economic policies. Legal developments surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein files gain momentum as a judge clears the way for release. The latest on Russia-Ukraine peace talks highlights Zelensky's proposals and election issues. A tragic shooting at a Kentucky campus leaves one dead and another critically injured. In a surprising twist, a Tufts University student regains a chance to work after a judge sides with her First Amendment rights.

Dec 9, 2025 • 7min
‘A+++++’ Economy, Campaign Spending Caps, Child Social Media Ban and more
President Trump reflects on his economic achievements, giving himself an impressive grade. He discusses a controversial military strike in the Caribbean while avoiding operational critiques. The Supreme Court is faced with a challenge to campaign spending caps, stirring up concerns about corruption. Trump escalates tensions with European allies, labeling them as decaying. Meanwhile, Australia takes a bold step by banning children under 16 from social media to combat harmful effects and addictive practices.

Dec 9, 2025 • 7min
SCOTUS Firings Case, Revoked Visa Data, ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’ Update and more
A recent Supreme Court ruling could expand presidential power to fire agency leaders without cause. Ukraine's president remains adamant about not ceding territory to Russia, even amid peace talks. The State Department revealed the revocation of 85,000 visas in the past year, shedding light on troubling trends. In a tech twist, Trump has eased export controls on critical AI technology. Meanwhile, after some drama, Jimmy Kimmel's talk show contract has been extended through 2027.

Dec 8, 2025 • 6min
SCOTUS FTC Hearing, Farm Aid Package, Japan Earthquake and more
A fired FTC commissioner is at the center of a Supreme Court case that could reshape the balance of power. President Trump's $12 billion farm aid plan aims to support struggling farmers, but delays in payments have left many frustrated. Alina Habba, a Trump ally, steps down from her position after a court ruling against her service. Also, former FBI agents are suing Kash Patel over alleged rights violations related to a controversial image. Finally, Japan grapples with the aftermath of a powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake, causing widespread disruption.

Dec 8, 2025 • 7min
New WBD Bid, SCOTUS Presidential Power Case, AI Executive Order and more
Paramount's ambitious takeover bid for Warner Bros. Discovery aims to challenge Netflix's dominance in the streaming arena. Meanwhile, Trump faces a pivotal Supreme Court case that could redefine presidential authority over independent agencies. He also plans an executive order to block state-level AI regulations, stirring debate about national competitiveness. In international news, Zelensky meets with key European leaders, addressing important peace proposals. Finally, highlights from this year's Golden Globe nominations include a new category for podcasts.


