

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

Nov 21, 2025 • 7min
A ‘Productive' Meeting, Unrest in Tanzania, Dolly Parton’s Health and more
President Trump and Mayor-elect Mamdani find unexpected common ground during a critical White House meeting. Meanwhile, Ukraine faces a tough decision as President Zelensky weighs the risks of Trump's controversial peace proposal. In Tanzania, alarming reports detail violence and unrest following a contested election, raising human rights concerns. Additionally, an officer is acquitted in the tragic shooting of a Black pregnant woman, sparking further outrage. Finally, Dolly Parton's recent health issues keep her away from the public eye, leaving fans concerned.

Nov 21, 2025 • 7min
Mamdani Goes to Washington, Peace Deal Momentum, Another Nigeria School Abduction & more
Donald Trump meets New York's mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani, sparking political tensions. European leaders are assessing a new US peace proposal for Ukraine, focusing on territory and force reductions. In Chicago, a federal case against an ICE protestor collapses, raising concerns about evidence handling. Meanwhile, Nigeria faces another alarming school abduction, highlighting ongoing attacks and issues of religious freedom. Lastly, senior citizens brace for increased Medicare costs.

6 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 7min
Trump’s ‘Execution’ Post, Ukraine Peace Plan Backlash, AI Executive Order and more
Discussion kicks off with President Trump's inflammatory post advocating for the execution of Democratic lawmakers, igniting widespread outrage. Next, a controversial U.S. peace plan for Ukraine, which includes ceding territory to Russia, faces severe backlash. A judge rules the deployment of National Guard troops to DC as illegal, stirring debate over executive power. In Alabama, a new ban restricts transgender books for youth in public libraries. Concerns rise over a draft executive order on AI that could undermine state safety regulations.

Nov 20, 2025 • 7min
Mixed Bag Economy, ‘Seditious Behavior,’ CDC Update and more
Explore the current state of the US labor market, diving into job gains and losses across various industries. Hear about six Democratic lawmakers urging military personnel to resist illegal orders in response to political pressures. Discover the administration's controversial proposal to open federal waters for offshore oil drilling, along with environmental concerns surrounding it. Plus, a look at the CDC's website update that sparked backlash for suggesting links between vaccines and autism.

Nov 20, 2025 • 7min
Strong Jobs Report, Cheney Funeral Snub, Fluoride Safety and more
The September jobs report reveals a mix of 119,000 job gains against rising unemployment, indicating labor market challenges. Notably absent from Dick Cheney's funeral were former President Trump and J.D. Vance, raising eyebrows. A new peace proposal from Trump regarding Ukraine suggests ceding territory, which was previously unthinkable. In a shocking turn, a Florida lawmaker faces indictment for allegedly misappropriating FEMA funds. Lastly, a groundbreaking study offers surprising insights into the cognitive benefits of fluoride after following participants for 40 years.

Nov 20, 2025 • 33sec
8:35AM ET: Long-delayed Jobs Report is Out
The latest job report reveals a gain of 119,000 positions, with unemployment climbing to 4.4%. Later, Tig Notaro opens up about her emotional experience witnessing the death of poet Andrea Gibson. This profound moment has shifted her outlook on life and creativity. The hosts offer a glimpse into this poignant conversation, promising deeper insights in a future discussion.

5 snips
Nov 20, 2025 • 7min
Epstein Files Next Steps, Late Jobs Report, Dozens Killed in Gaza and more
The podcast explores a potential loophole in the release of Jeffrey Epstein's case files, raising questions about government tactics. It also discusses the long-awaited September jobs report and Nvidia's impressive earnings, easing investor concerns. A behind-the-scenes look at the US's peace efforts with Russia reveals uncertainty from Ukraine about their role. In Gaza, recent Israeli strikes have tragically resulted in dozens of Palestinian deaths, highlighting escalating tensions. Finally, there’s a review of a court ruling concerning ICE's use of force in Chicago.

Nov 19, 2025 • 7min
Inside Epstein’s Emails, AI bubble fears, Incoming polar vortex and more
Exploring Epstein's emails uncovers connections to influential figures, raising eyebrows about his powerful network. NVIDIA shares soar after strong AI-driven earnings, hinting at robust chip demand. Legal complications arise for James Comey, with possible flaws emerging in his indictment. Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers urge troops to defy illegal orders, creating waves in military policy discussions. Plus, prepare for an early polar vortex bringing frigid weather to northern regions this December.

Nov 19, 2025 • 7min
Trump to Sign Epstein Bill, Russia-US Peace Talks, Target in Trouble and more
Trump faces criticism from Epstein survivors as he prepares to sign a bill releasing Epstein case files. Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine, but peace talks might be on the horizon. Iran expresses readiness to resume nuclear negotiations with the U.S. Meanwhile, the Trump administration looks to overhaul the Department of Education. Lastly, Target struggles with declining sales, prompting analysis of its merchandise mix and competition challenges.

6 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 7min
Epstein Bill to Trump, Wall Street Jitters, TX Redistricting Blocked and more
Congress is pushing forward a bill to release Jeffrey Epstein's case files, stirring significant reactions. Wall Street is on edge, grappling with market drops and investor anxiety. The DHS is expanding immigration enforcement in southern cities, with recent raids impacting local economies. A federal court blocks Texas' congressional redistricting due to racial gerrymandering, raising concerns for future elections. In sports news, a small island nation made waves by qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, marking a historic achievement.


