

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

5 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 7min
Sean Combs sentencing, Trump's Hamas ultimatum, FDA abortion backlash & more
As the federal government shutdown drags on, funding freezes hit Democrat-run cities hard. Sean 'Diddy' Combs faces a major sentencing hearing, raising questions about his courtroom strategy. In a bold move, Trump issues a stark ultimatum to Hamas amid his controversial peace proposal. The jobs report faces delays, but estimates suggest a potential gain of 50,000 jobs. Meanwhile, the FDA’s approval of a generic abortion pill sparks backlash from opponents, adding fuel to an already heated debate.

Oct 3, 2025 • 7min
Day 3, White House's college demands, Taylor Swift’s new album & more
As the government shutdown drags into its third day, federal workers brace for potential layoffs. The administration demands drastic policy changes from colleges for funding, aiming to reshape admissions processes. FEMA complicates access to emergency grants with new population proof requirements. Meanwhile, Sean Combs faces sentencing today, stirring public interest. And in the world of music, Taylor Swift's new album, 'The Life of a Showgirl', hits the shelves, promising an exciting blend of styles and an accompanying film.

5 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 7min
Shutdown timeline, Tesla’s sales, rogue planet & more
As the government shutdown persists, political tensions rise with potential layoffs looming. A shocking terrorist attack in the UK prompts heightened security measures. Vladimir Putin takes a swipe at Trump while sending alarming warnings to Europe. In the financial realm, Tesla celebrates near-record sales, with Elon Musk's wealth briefly soaring. Meanwhile, astronomers are baffled by a rogue planet experiencing an unprecedented growth spurt, sparking curiosity about its nature and origins.

7 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 7min
‘Imminent’ layoffs, UK synagogue attack, 401(k) change & more
Mass layoffs loom as the government shutdown continues. In Gaza, Israel intercepts nearly all boats in a controversial flotilla. A car ramming and knife attack shakes a British synagogue during Yom Kippur. In Indonesia, rescue efforts see five students saved from a collapsed school, but hope fades for others. Additionally, there's a significant change in 401(k) contribution rules that impacts high earners over 50. Tune in for these urgent updates and more.

5 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 7min
Funding impasse continues, Gaza aid fleet, NY anti-terror funding & more
Negotiations continue amid a government shutdown, with potential layoffs looming. Israel's military action against a Gaza aid flotilla, featuring activists like Greta Thunberg, has sparked international protests. The DOJ ousts a prosecutor over a misleading social media post. A judge halts significant cuts to anti-terror funding in New York, citing concerns tied to 9/11. Meanwhile, a collision between two planes at LaGuardia raises safety alarms, as one individual sustains minor injuries.

Oct 1, 2025 • 6min
Federal workers’ fate, Trump’s vow to Qatar, Jane Goodall dies & more
Federal workers face uncertainty as a government shutdown looms, potentially leading to layoffs. The Supreme Court temporarily allows a Fed governor to retain her position amid a legal battle. Tensions rise as Trump ramps up deployments of federal troops in response to unrest in cities like Oregon and Memphis. In an unusual move, Trump extends security guarantees to Qatar, highlighting its importance in regional stability. The podcast also honors the legacy of Jane Goodall, who transformed the field of primatology and influenced animal behavior studies.

5 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 7min
Political blame game, workers furloughed, AI cancer treatment & more
Lawmakers are heating up the blame game over the government shutdown, impacting thousands of federal workers and potentially leading to firings. National Guard troops are deployed to Memphis for safety amidst turmoil. Twin hurricanes, Imelda and Humberto, are on the radar, with warnings issued for varying storm paths. Meanwhile, an innovative Trump initiative aims to harness AI in the fight against childhood cancer, offering hope amid research funding cuts.

4 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 7min
Government shutdown, Philippines earthquake, AI actress anger & more
The U.S. government is in a shutdown with significant implications for public services and political drama brewing. A devastating earthquake in the Philippines has left many trapped, with rescue efforts underway amidst chaos. Meanwhile, Hollywood faces backlash as actors voice concerns over the rise of AI actresses, fearing it undermines human talent. The podcast dives deep into these pressing issues, providing insights and updates that impact lives around the globe.

Sep 30, 2025 • 6min
Shutdown looms, Trump-Pfizer deal, tropical traffic jam & more
A crucial government shutdown vote looms as last-minute decisions unfold in the Senate. Hamas faces a tight deadline to review a new U.S. peace plan, while a court ruling blocks the deportation of pro-Palestinian protesters. Trump announces new drug pricing initiatives alongside a deal with Pfizer to lower costs and boost domestic production. Meanwhile, twin hurricanes threaten the East Coast, causing concerns over rip currents and Bermuda's safety. Stay tuned as these significant stories develop!

Sep 30, 2025 • 7min
Shutdown fears, Trump-Hegseth military meeting, troops in Louisiana & more
Amid looming government shutdown fears, thousands of federal workers face potential furloughs. A significant meeting of senior US military officers raises eyebrows as Pete Hegseth pushes for tighter military standards. President Trump suggests using urban areas as training grounds for the National Guard, escalating tensions. Additionally, tragic updates emerge from a Dallas ICE facility shooting. Finally, Afghanistan experiences an internet blackout imposed by the Taliban, leading to widespread isolation.


