

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 21, 2025 • 7min
Trump’s ‘white genocide’ claims, police reform reversal, Chris Brown bail & more
Tensions escalate as President Trump defends controversial claims about white South Africans during a high-stakes meeting. The administration is facing backlash for rolling back police reform in major cities amid ongoing misconduct issues. Meanwhile, international concerns rise over Israel's potential military moves against Iran. Financial pressures mount for Target due to a rollback of diversity initiatives. In celebrity news, the latest updates on Chris Brown's arrest in the UK add to the drama.

May 21, 2025 • 7min
Johnson’s optimism, rich get richer, travel summer of hell & more
House Speaker Mike Johnson pushes forward with a controversial policy package that seems to favor the wealthiest Americans. Meanwhile, the airline industry braces for a challenging summer after a rough beginning to the year. The podcast also reflects on the recent passing of Democratic Congressman Gerry Connolly and highlights ongoing cleanup efforts from the devastating LA wildfires. Tune in for a deep dive into issues of wealth inequality and their broader implications on American society.

May 21, 2025 • 7min
Elon Musk’s future, melting ice sheets, American veteran released & more
Elon Musk shares his renewed dedication to Tesla, shedding light on his vision. Recent warnings from scientists highlight the alarming state of melting ice sheets. A notable political misstatement from the Homeland Security chief raises eyebrows. In a heartwarming twist, a wrongfully detained American veteran in Venezuela is released. Meanwhile, the trial of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs unveils key testimonies and critical evidence, adding a dramatic flair to ongoing legal battles.

4 snips
May 21, 2025 • 7min
Gaza starvation warning, Russian kill order, ‘Cheers’ actor dies & more
Children in Gaza are facing malnutrition amid rising international pressure on Israel. A proposed GOP tax and spending bill aims to address welfare cuts impacting vulnerable Americans. A chilling radio transmission reveals Russian troops being ordered to kill surrendering soldiers. In New Orleans, a sheriff suspends her re-election campaign after a dramatic escape by inmates. The podcast also pays tribute to a cherished actor from 'Cheers' who has recently passed away.

May 21, 2025 • 6min
Trump’s bill race, Andrew Cuomo investigation, ‘Golden Dome’ plans & more
House Republicans are racing to push through Trump's domestic policy bill, despite some tensions. In international news, South Africa's president visits the U.S. to smooth over relations. Meanwhile, Andrew Cuomo faces a Justice Department investigation related to his pandemic response. The podcast also covers the aftermath of multiple tornadoes in the Southeastern U.S. Finally, there's a curious discussion about Trump’s ambitious plans for a ‘Golden Dome.’

May 20, 2025 • 7min
Covid vaccine shakeup, battle over Trump agenda, Israel trade suspensions & more
Discover the potential impacts of revamped FDA processes on Covid-19 vaccine approvals. Dive into the fractious dynamics within the House GOP as Trump seeks to rally support for his economic agenda. Explore the humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid rising international pressures and investigate how tariffs are influencing Home Depot’s bottom line. Plus, there's a twist in a New Orleans jail break case with an unexpected arrest, keeping the drama alive!

May 20, 2025 • 7min
Trump meets with House GOP, Earth sciences cuts, Mexican Navy ship crash & more
President Trump meets with House Republicans to push his legislative agenda, highlighting conflicts over tax cuts. Federal agencies face significant cuts in crucial earthquake and volcano monitoring programs, raising alarms about environmental safety. There’s also an update on former President Biden's cancer diagnosis that leaves many concerned. Additionally, new revelations surface about a Mexican Navy ship that collided with the Brooklyn Bridge, adding to public safety fears.

May 20, 2025 • 7min
GOP at odds, Qatar jet narrative, thousands of chicks abandoned & more
Tensions rise within the Republican Party as Trump attempts to unify factions over a major tax and spending bill. Severe weather is wreaking havoc across the country, posing a risk of tornadoes. A controversial Qatar jet narrative unfolds, revealing possible miscommunication about its origins. Additionally, a Democratic congresswoman faces legal trouble linked to protests. And in a bizarre twist, a staggering 12,000 chicks were abandoned in a postal truck, raising eyebrows and concerns alike.

May 20, 2025 • 7min
Trump on Capitol Hill, inmate escape fallout, safe sunscreens & more
Political drama unfolds with contrasting views from Trump and Putin after a recent call. Trump is rallying support from GOP hardliners for his major legislation. Meanwhile, Israel faces mounting international scrutiny over its actions in Gaza. The aftermath of a New Orleans jail break is highlighted, with four inmates already recaptured. On a lighter note, there are alarming revelations about the safety and effectiveness of many sunscreens available in the U.S.

May 19, 2025 • 7min
Brooklyn Bridge collision latest, Israel’s new offensive, CBS exec resigns & more
A tragic collision at the Brooklyn Bridge is under federal investigation, raising concerns about safety. In international news, Israel faces pressure from allies over its intensified military operations in Gaza. Sean 'Diddy' Combs' high-profile trial sees new witness testimonies emerge. Meanwhile, a controversial bill from House Republicans on AI regulation faces backlash from over 100 organizations, as CBS News experiences leadership turmoil with the resignation of a key executive.


