

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

May 27, 2025 • 7min
Covid-19 shot recommendations change, Trump weighs Russia sanctions, ancient discovery & more
COVID-19 vaccine recommendations are evolving, sparking discussions around their impact on healthy children and pregnant women. Meanwhile, President Trump expresses his discontent with Russia, hinting at possible sanctions. Tesla faces challenges with declining sales in Europe, and law enforcement is hot on the trail of an escaped inmate. In a fascinating twist, scientists have uncovered ancient tombs in Egypt, shedding light on historical treasures.

May 27, 2025 • 7min
Optimistic Americans, NPR sues, airline’s new bag charges & more
Consumers in the U.S. are feeling optimistic about the economy, but market analysts remain cautious. Legal battles heat up as the Supreme Court prepares to tackle pivotal cases, including LGBTQ rights and NPR’s lawsuit against the Trump administration. Meanwhile, Sean Combs' trial continues to unveil shocking testimonies. On a lighter note, travelers brace for new baggage fees from Southwest Airlines, raising eyebrows in the travel community. Get ready for a whirlwind of legal drama, economic insights, and entertainment news!

4 snips
May 27, 2025 • 6min
Harvard contracts threatened, Philadelphia park shooting, Chinese factory explosion & more
Federal agencies might cancel their contracts with Harvard, igniting a heated legal battle. The podcast covers a tragic shooting in Philadelphia, leaving two dead. In China, rescue operations are underway following a catastrophic chemical plant explosion. A British athlete swims 60 miles around Martha’s Vineyard to promote shark awareness and challenge stereotypes from Jaws. Plus, there’s a nod to innovations in sleep technology.

May 27, 2025 • 7min
Russia facing pressure, more inmates captured, trailblazing politician dies & more
Tensions escalate as Russia faces intense pressure from the US and Europe following record attacks on Ukraine. Israel prepares for a major military offensive in Gaza amid ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire. Locally, capture efforts intensify for escapees from New Orleans, with still two on the run. In England, a tragic incident disrupts celebrations at a Liverpool Football Club parade, leaving dozens injured. The episode also pays tribute to trailblazing civil rights activist and former Congressman Charles B. Rangel.

4 snips
May 26, 2025 • 7min
Memorial Day prices, WWII soldiers returned, future of the penny & more
The podcast explores how President Trump's tariff decisions might inflate Memorial Day shopping costs. It also tells the heartbreaking story of a Gaza doctor who lost most of her children in a strike. A moving segment covers the return of four World War II soldiers to their hometowns for burial. Lastly, experts discuss the fading future of the American penny and what it means for collectors and commerce. Tune in for a mix of poignant tales and economic insights!

4 snips
May 26, 2025 • 7min
Trump criticizes Putin, EU tariff delay, cryptocurrency kidnapping charges & more
Trump expresses discontent with Putin amidst ongoing strikes on Ukraine. He also announces a delay on a hefty tariff on EU goods. In Gaza, a new aid initiative is stirring controversy. Meanwhile, a cryptocurrency investor faces serious kidnapping charges connected to a Bitcoin heist. To round it out, the U.S. men's hockey team achieves a historic victory at the World Championship.

5 snips
May 25, 2025 • 24min
One Thing: ‘Total Disaster’: Why Some Fear Trump’s ‘Big, Beautiful’ Bill
Tammy Luby, a CNN senior writer, shares insights on the contentious One Big Beautiful Bill Act and its far-reaching implications for health and welfare programs. Rachel Scher, a Medicaid recipient diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, voices her concerns about losing vital coverage at a crucial time. They discuss the challenges of new work requirements that threaten the stability of vulnerable populations and highlight personal stories that illustrate the human impact of legislative changes. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on healthcare and policy.

May 24, 2025 • 16min
5 Good Things: Kermit the Frog’s Advice to 2025 Grads
A delightful surprise unfolds as a beloved character from pop culture offers wisdom to graduates. A charity provides prom tickets to students affected by a devastating fire, highlighting the strength of community. Meanwhile, a remarkable man embarks on a cross-country journey to give back amid his own health struggles. Humor and heart collide with the tale of a mini pony’s unexpected adventure. Finally, Galapagos tortoise hatchlings bring joy as they are named after classic characters, reminding us of the beauty in new beginnings.

5 snips
May 23, 2025 • 7min
Nippon-US Steel merger, Germany’s knife attack, Billy Joel cancels tour & more
A controversial U.S.-Japan steel merger gets the green light, shaking up the industry. Nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran face tough challenges, revealing the complexities of uranium enrichment. In Germany, a shocking knife attack leaves many seriously injured. Meanwhile, a jailbreak in New Orleans leads to multiple arrests. Lastly, health issues force Billy Joel to cancel his upcoming tour dates, leaving fans disappointed.

10 snips
May 23, 2025 • 7min
Ban against Harvard paused, stocks tumble, new AI model & more
Harvard University has secured a temporary reprieve from the enrollment ban imposed by the Trump administration, signaling changes in immigration policies. Meanwhile, trade tensions are causing investors to worry, showcased by a downturn in stock markets. An unprecedented surge in Americans seeking British citizenship highlights shifting immigration trends. Additionally, a new AI model, Opus 4, is making waves by promising to enhance efficiency in various tasks, raising questions about the future of work.


