

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 4, 2025 • 7min
Somali Community Fears, DC Pipe Bomber Arrest, Paper Sues Defense Department and more
In this discussion, CNN reporter Ryan Young sheds light on the palpable fear among Minneapolis' Somali community due to recent immigration raids. He highlights community responses, like distributing whistles for alerts. Investigative correspondent Evan Perez provides fascinating insights into the DC pipe bombing case, detailing a significant breakthrough with new leads and an arrest. Together, they tackle urgent issues affecting both local communities and national security.

4 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 7min
Crackdown Underway, Second Strike Footage, Matthew Perry Doctor Sentenced and more
Federal immigration raids are creating a buzz in Minnesota and Louisiana. Meanwhile, Trump is pushing for the release of footage from a controversial drone strike. The administration is also eyeing Australia for insights into enhancing retirement savings. In another twist, a doctor has received a sentence for selling ketamine that was linked to Matthew Perry's tragic passing. Stay tuned for these intriguing developments and more!

Dec 3, 2025 • 7min
Signal Chat Fallout, Epstein Island Photos, Vaccine Schedule Changes and more5
Claire Duffy, a CNN technology reporter, joins to provide insights on a classified report about a controversial group chat linked to the defense secretary. Listeners get a glimpse of newly released photos from Jeffrey Epstein's private island, sparking discussions on accountability. The podcast also covers Trump pardoning Rep. Henry Cuellar amidst his legal troubles. Finally, CDC proposed changes for newborn hepatitis B vaccinations are examined, alongside Trump’s plan to roll back fuel-efficiency rules for cars, aiming to make them more affordable.

Dec 3, 2025 • 6min
New ICE Targets, November Jobs Stats, SF v. Snack Companies and more
Alicia Wallace, a CNN correspondent specializing in business and labor, dives into alarming ADP data indicating a loss of 32,000 private-sector jobs, particularly among small businesses. The discussion highlights the impact on workers in today's economy. Additionally, the podcast touches on the stagnant U.S.-Russia peace talks regarding Ukraine and San Francisco's bold lawsuit against major food manufacturers accused of creating a health crisis. There's also a bizarre tale from New Zealand of a suspect swallowing evidence in a jewelry theft.

7 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 7min
Arctic Weather, Peace Talks Impasse, House Special Election Results and more
Freezing temperatures are gripping over 200 million Americans, causing disruptions and frigid forecasts. Meanwhile, U.S.-Russia talks end without significant progress, raising tensions. In the Caribbean, scrutiny surrounds U.S. military strikes on drug trafficking boats, prompting defense officials to clarify their stance. Tennessee sees a pivotal special election, with Republicans making gains. Lastly, a prominent figure faces lifetime consequences for connections to Jeffrey Epstein, stirring public outrage.

Dec 2, 2025 • 7min
Second Strike Update, Snowstorm Chaos, Dell Donation Pledge and more
Tensions rise as the Trump administration escalates actions against Venezuela. A severe snowstorm wreaks havoc on travel plans, particularly in the Northeast. The accused shooter of two National Guard members appears in court, pleading not guilty. Dell's CEO announces a remarkable $6.25 billion pledge for children's investment accounts. Meanwhile, the courtroom drama unfolds in the Brian Walshe murder trial, with shocking revelations from internet searches.

Dec 2, 2025 • 7min
Putin Talks, Tight TN Special Election, Costco Sues Government and more
A fierce winter storm is hitting the Northeast, bringing rain and snow. Tensions rise as U.S. officials engage in critical talks with Vladimir Putin over Ukraine. In Tennessee, a surprisingly competitive special election could flip the script for Democrats. Meanwhile, a federal immigration operation is set to target New Orleans. And in a surprising twist, Costco is suing the U.S. government over potential tariff refunds, raising questions about presidential authority. Buckle up for a whirlwind of current events!

Dec 2, 2025 • 7min
Freezing Weather, Hegseth Scrutiny, Sean Combs Netflix Battle and more
The country braces for a winter storm, with freezing temperatures and ice warnings affecting 55 million. Tensions rise as the administration shifts blame regarding an unlawful military strike. Senior officials prepare to meet Putin amidst claims of territorial capture in Ukraine. Additionally, the Justice Department gears up for potential new indictments against James Comey. Meanwhile, Sean Combs battles Netflix over a controversial docuseries, raising questions about legal rights and stolen footage.

Dec 1, 2025 • 7min
Venezuela Oval Office Meeting, Bomb Cyclone, Mangione in Court and more
Join Claire Duffy, a CNN tech reporter, as she discusses the capabilities of Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses and their potential to replace smartphones. The conversation also dives into the US military's strikes near Venezuela and the concerns raised by lawmakers. Duffy contributes insights on tech while the podcast covers a powerful winter storm's impact across the US. Additionally, hear updates on Luigi Mangione's court case and get a briefing on Zelensky's comments regarding the complexities in Ukraine's peace negotiations.

5 snips
Dec 1, 2025 • 7min
Trump Admin Alleged ‘War Crime’, Unlawful NJ Attorney, Oxford Word of the Year and more
A bipartisan investigation is delving into a controversial strike during the Trump administration, raising questions about potential war crimes. An appeals court has declared a US attorney's appointment unlawful, stirring legal debates. Updates on the Ukraine peace talks highlight tensions over territorial demands. Meanwhile, new SNAP work requirements could impact millions of food stamp recipients. Additionally, the Oxford Dictionary's word of the year might spark some outrage among listeners.


