podcast
CNN 5 Things
We bring you 5 stories that will get you up to speed and on with your day. Updates at 7am, 12pm, and 6pm Eastern, every weekday.

A legendary US Paralympian adds to her medal collection. CNN trekked deep into Thailand’s jungles to follow the surprising journey of a young tiger that’s giving conservationists hope. How the singer behind the hit song from “K-Pop Demon Hunters” reinvented herself after rejection. A car salesman found a way to stand out at his job, and his videos have gone viral. Plus, college students nationwide are training puppies with a purpose.
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Host/Producer: Krista Bo Polanco
Producer: Eryn Mathewson
Senior Producer: Felicia Patinkin
Editorial Support: Allison Cho, Coy Wire, Will Ripley, Rosanna Philpott, Xavian Wu
Mar 14, 2026
We start with the rising death toll on civilian and military personnel in the war, as protests against the US and Israel take place across Iran. A federal judge has thrown a wrench into the Justice Department’s investigation of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. New details are emerging about the man who plowed into a Michigan synagogue. A deadly shooting at a Virginia university is now being investigated as terrorism. Plus, we tell you why millions more people may be advised to take cholesterol-lowering medication.
Mar 13, 2026
The US military is confirming the death of six US service members in Iraq, while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth gives an update on the war with Iran. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer addressed an incident involving a man who rammed a car into a synagogue near Detroit. New data shows US economic growth was weaker than expected late last year. A bipartisan group of senators passed a bill aimed at improving housing affordability. Plus, Iran’s men’s soccer team spoke out about its participation in the upcoming World Cup.
Mar 13, 2026
A first message attributed to the new Iranian Supreme Leader has been released. Investigators probe for the motive in the Michigan Synagogue attack. Students stop a gunman who opened fire at Old Dominion University. NASA sets April 1 as the launch date for the historic Artemis mission. Plus, an AI tool is being developed to help people talk with their plants.
Mar 13, 2026
We start with attacks at a Michigan synagogue and a university in Virginia. An expert warns about the impact the war with Iran is having on people in the Middle East. There may be a glimmer of hope for homebuyers despite the war’s impact on the housing market. A police shooting probe in Connecticut reveals a surprising new detail. Plus, a drastic weather pattern shift is coming.
Mar 12, 2026
Amid continued bombardment, Iranian state TV reads out a statement attributed to the new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. Oil prices rose again as more ships are attacked near the Strait of Hormuz – we'll explore what the Trump administration is doing to alleviate the pain at the pump. Meanwhile, other prices could soon rise. Devastating storms that hit the Eastern and Central US are leaving death and destruction behind. Plus, Team USA gets some help from Italy at the World Baseball Classic.
Mar 12, 2026
Israel and Hezbollah escalate attacks across the Lebanese border. Iran increased bombings on oil depots and tankers in gulf region. FBI has joined the search for a missing retired Air Force Major General. An NYPD officer speaks out on an attempted attack on NYC Mayor’s mansion. Plus, an Iowa fisherman has set the world record for catching a 71 pound carp.
Mar 12, 2026
President Donald Trump celebrates his economic agenda as Iran escalates its attacks in a key oil route. New details are emerging about a strike on a school in southern Iran. Severe weather ramps up in parts of the US. House lawmakers zero in on Jeffery Epstein’s finances as part of their ongoing investigation. Plus, good news for international travelers amid a partial US government shutdown.
Mar 11, 2026
A Western Intelligence source tells CNN that Russia is sharing advanced drone tactics with Iran. A new report predicts inflation will rise – we break it down. Iran attacked two ships in the Strait of Hormuz, while member countries of the International Energy Agency say they will release 400 million barrels of oil into the market. An investigation found a surprising percentage of fruit and vegetables contain “forever chemicals.” Plus, an Iranian soccer player offered asylum in Australia has a change of heart.
Mar 11, 2026
Iran is reportedly laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Millions are under a storm threat, today, after tornadoes hit the central US. Alabama’s Governor grants clemency to a death row inmate. Georgia House race for former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s seat is headed to a runoff. Plus, see how the stars will dine at the official Oscars after-party.
Mar 11, 2026






