Stay ConnectedStarting August 2, 2026 all new episodes can be found over in the CNN 5 Things feed. Search “CNN 5 Things” wherever you get your podcasts.
You’ve been overwhelmed with headlines all week – what’s worth a closer look? One Thing takes you beyond the headlines and helps make sense of what everyone is talking about. Host David Rind talks to experts, reporters on the front lines and the real people impacted by the news about what they’ve learned – and why it matters.
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After a series of incidents in San Francisco, California authorities have asked General Motors to take some of its Cruise robotaxis off the road. It comes not long after California regulators gave the greenlight for Cruise and its competitor Waymo to charge for robotaxi rides in the city at any time of day. So what does that mean for the future of driverless cars? In today’s episode, we examine what it’s like to ride in one and why the technology has become a flashpoint in multiple cities.
Guest: Veronica Miracle, CNN Correspondent
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As a new NFL season kicks off this week, old questions about the game’s safety are being asked following Damar Hamlin’s on-field cardiac arrest and Tua Tagovailoa’s multiple concussions last year. And it’s not just the pros: youth leagues around the countries have adjusted practice routines and safety protocols to guard against injuries that can carry long-term impacts. In today’s episode, we examine football’s deadly history and how it’s informing today’s game. Plus, CNN gets a look at new technology that could one day predict injuries before they happen.
Guest: Coy Wire, CNN Sports Anchor & Correspondent
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Eight Republican presidential candidates took the stage in Milwaukee last week for the first primary debate of the 2024 campaign. Notably missing, however, was frontrunner Donald Trump, who surrendered to Fulton County authorities a day later in the Georgia 2020 election subversion case. In today’s episode, we head to Milwaukee to recap the moments that mattered and to get a sense of how the debate could shape the race going forward.
Guests: Dana Bash, CNN Anchor & Chief Political Correspondent
Jeff Zeleny, CNN Chief National Affairs Correspondent
Kit Maher, CNN Campaign Embed
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It’s been over a week since blazing wildfires ripped through the island of Maui, killing over 100 people and causing billions of dollars of damage. While the outpouring of support has been significant, some locals have voiced anger over the official response, lingering tourist presence, and real estate speculators trying to buy up land. In today’s episode, we hear stories of survival and look at how disasters like this one are forcing communities to ask tough questions about how prepared they are for stronger and faster wildfires.
Guest: Bill Weir, CNN Chief Climate Correspondent
For more on how you can help the Hawaii wildfire victims, go here.
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Thousands of Hollywood actors and writers have been on strike for weeks demanding raises, regulation of artificial intelligence, and residuals from content created for streaming services. Meanwhile, thousands of hotel workers and public sector employees in Los Angeles have also staged work stoppages as they push for better wages. However, this uptick in labor unrest goes well beyond California. In today’s episode, we look at what’s driving a surge in union membership across the country and look at how presidential politics could play a role in a potential autoworkers strike.
Guest: Vanessa Yurkevich, CNN Business and Politics Correspondent
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Donald Trump was indicted Tuesday on criminal charges by a federal grand jury in special counsel Jack Smith’s investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 election, the latest in a series of unprecedented criminal indictments against the former President. In today’s episode, we examine the historic charges and how it appears prosecutors plan to make their case. Plus, a look at how the Republican frontrunner is expected to navigate a packed courtroom calendar while on the campaign trail.
Guest: Elie Honig, CNN Senior Legal Analyst
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A new group of drugs for type 2 diabetes and obesity have shown to be more effective for weight loss than any previous medications. Some medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have surged in popularity thanks in part to celebrity use. But who should be taking them? And are they safe? In today’s episode, we break down the future of the weight loss industry and examine why some of these medications could also help curb addictive behaviors.
Guest: Meg Tirrell, CNN Medical Correspondent
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Throughout the month of July, scorching temperatures have broken records on several continents — the latest in a trend caused by the climate crisis. Meanwhile, in the US, extreme rainfall has led to devastating floods and toxic wildfire smoke has drifted down from Canada, prompting unhealthy air alerts in multiple cities. In today’s episode, we break down why this moment is uniquely dangerous and look at how the climate crisis is already forcing people’s hands about where to live.
Guest: Bill Weir, CNN Chief Climate Correspondent
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The 2023 Women’s World Cup gets underway this week in Australia and New Zealand, featuring the largest field in tournament history. It comes a year after US Soccer and the United States Women’s National Team struck a deal over equal pay. However, advocates say many disparities remain between the men's and women’s games on the global stage. In today’s episode, we examine what strides towards equality are being made and get a preview of this year’s top teams and players.
Guest: Amanda Davies, CNN Sports Anchor
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At least 12 candidates have announced a run for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, setting up a crowded field ahead of the first primary debate next month. Former President Donald Trump still holds a strong lead in polling despite multiple criminal indictments, so will any candidate be able to unseat him? We look at exactly who is running and examine the different visions of the Republican party they are pitching to voters.
Guest: Jake Tapper, CNN Anchor and Chief Washington Correspondent
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