

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

Sep 30, 2025 • 7min
Shutdown talks, Gaza peace plan, lumber tariffs & more
Negotiations for a government shutdown are stalling, with potential implications looming. Meanwhile, a new peace plan for Gaza is on the table, awaiting Hamas's response. Tariffs on lumber and wooden products are set to take effect soon, possibly raising costs for consumers. A federal judge has intervened to halt job cuts at Voice of America, affecting media operations. Additionally, reports indicate a decline in abortions by medical professionals across the US.

Sep 29, 2025 • 6min
Trump-Netanyahu talks, spending bill impasse, McDonald’s Monopoly reboot & more
Tensions rise as President Trump discusses a 20-point plan for a Gaza ceasefire with Israeli PM Netanyahu. Meanwhile, congressional negotiations over a spending bill hit a standstill, raising fears of a government shutdown. A disturbing attack at a Michigan church draws attention, with an ongoing investigation by the FBI. In business news, Electronic Arts makes headlines with a record $55 billion buyout deal. Lastly, McDonald's reboots its iconic Monopoly game with a fresh digital twist, exciting fans everywhere.

Sep 29, 2025 • 7min
Gaza peace plan, MI church shooting latest, movie tariffs & more
Trump's upcoming Gaza peace plan is generating buzz as he meets with Israel's prime minister. In Michigan, the FBI investigates a tragic church shooting, highlighting local heroism. The White House warns of a looming government shutdown, giving Democrats a critical ultimatum. Meanwhile, Trump announces a controversial 100% tariff on foreign-made movies, stirring concerns in the film industry. Dolly Parton shares news about postponing her Las Vegas residency for health reasons, while Bad Bunny is set to perform at the Super Bowl halftime show, making waves in pop culture.

6 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 7min
Michigan church shooting, troops in Portland, double hurricane threat & more
A tragic shooting at a church in Michigan raises concerns over safety. President Trump plans to deploy federal troops to cities like Portland and Memphis, sparking mixed reactions. NYC Mayor Eric Adams has unexpectedly ended his reelection campaign, leaving the political landscape poised for changes. Meanwhile, the U.S. faces the threat of not one, but two hurricanes, with potential coastal impacts. Discussions continue in Congress to avert a government shutdown, centering on a contentious health care subsidy debate.

Sep 28, 2025 • 20min
One Thing: How Trump’s Immigration Agenda Could Spark a US Brain Drain
Aizada Marat, founder and CEO of Alma, shares her inspiring journey from Kyrgyzstan to the U.S. She discusses the proposed $100,000 H-1B visa fee, highlighting the potential negative impact on startups and innovation. Aizada emphasizes the risks of losing talented immigrants and challenges the narrative that they undermine American wages. She also raises concerns about companies opting for remote hiring to avoid costs, ultimately questioning policies that seem contradictory to the U.S. reputation for valuing skilled talent.

Sep 27, 2025 • 14min
5 Good Things: The Lucky Guy with a Tooth for an Eye
The Chicago River Swim makes a splash once again after nearly a century. In Alaska, Fat Bear Week celebrates nature's robust wildlife. A groundbreaking surgery using a tooth helps restore vision for one lucky man. New satellites aim to revolutionize wildfire detection, offering rapid response capabilities. A Texas family rejoices as they expect their first daughter in over 100 years, breaking a long-standing streak.

10 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 7min
Trump denies enemies list, Kimmel’s show restored, ICE officer backlash & more
President Trump hints at further actions against his political opponents following Comey's indictment. Meanwhile, Jimmy Kimmel's show makes a comeback after a blackout sparked by free speech debates. An incident involving an ICE officer and an asylum seeker raises serious concerns about agency conduct. In a bid to reset military culture, top military officials meet to discuss new standards. Lastly, a developing storm system poses risks for the southeast U.S., prompting concerns over potential flooding.

Sep 26, 2025 • 7min
Netanyahu’s UN speech, stubborn inflation, government shutdown looms & more
Israel's prime minister delivered a passionate speech at the UN, criticizing Iran and Western policies, while also pledging to oppose a Palestinian state. The indictment of former FBI director James Comey grabs attention, revealing significant political tension. Inflation is on the rise as consumer spending increases, leaving many anxious about financial stability. Meanwhile, a potential federal government shutdown looms, complicating Senate negotiations. Adding a dash of celebrity drama, chefs clash over the proposed ban on PFAS in cookware.

6 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 7min
Comey indictment, imported drugs tariffs, Hamas interview & more
James Comey has been indicted, stirring discussions around the origins of the case linked to the 2016 Russia probe. President Trump is implementing a hefty tariff on imported medications and other goods. CNN's interview with a senior Hamas official sheds light on their perspective regarding recent events. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth calls for a mysterious gathering of US military leaders. Russia's decision to ban fuel exports adds another layer to the geopolitical landscape influenced by recent conflict.

Sep 25, 2025 • 7min
ICE shooter’s note, Amazon’s historic settlement, ‘Diddy’ in court & more
Authorities reveal new findings in the Dallas ICE field office shooting, shedding light on the gunman’s motives. Trump stirs the pot discussing the pressure to indict former FBI Director Comey. An unusual meeting is called by the Defense Secretary, raising eyebrows about military protocols. Amazon faces a historic $2.5 billion settlement with the FTC regarding Prime subscriptions. Meanwhile, Sean 'Diddy' Combs appears in court, seeking to appeal his conviction ahead of sentencing. This whirlwind of news covers a lot of ground!


