We start with a back-to-school tradition that might make you want to kiss your mom. Kids with chronic illnesses took charge on a special day, thanks to 16 different law enforcement agencies. This <a href="https://animalrescuecorps.org/">nonprofit</a> helps thousands of injured and neglected animals find forever homes.  A teen gets the quinceañera of a lifetime, with a little help from the internet.  Plus, the celebrity engagement of the summer sparked some sweet inspiration. Sign up for the CNN 5 Good Things newsletter <a href="https://www.cnn.com/newsletters">here</a>.  Host/Producer: Eryn Mathewson Producers: Ifeoma Dike and Leying Tang  Showrunners: Faiz Jamil &amp; Felicia Patinkin  Special Thanks: Christie O’Reilly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

Mahjong: It’s Not Just Your Grandma’s Game Anymore

Starting August 8, 2026 all new episodes can be found over in the CNN 5 Things feed.  Search "CNN 5 Things" wherever you get your podcasts.



How about a break — for your ears? At CNN, we know the news can be a lot to take in. So each week, 5 Good Things offers you a respite from the heavy headlines and intense news cycle. Treat yourself to something fun and uplifting every Saturday as we share the bright side of life from all over the globe.