The Milan Cortina Winter Games have begun, and some athletes have already made history.  We tell you how one state went from the bottom to the top for fourth grade reading and math. A project born out of a family’s loss hopes to save lives by publishing letters written by strangers with reasons to stay. This shellfish was extinct for over 200 years in Dublin Bay until now – and the reason it’s back might surprise you. Plus, a teenage boy is being called a hero after a family kayaking trip turned dangerous. 

Host/Producer: Krista Bo Polanco 

Producer: Eryn Mathewson, Joshan Chana

Showrunner: Faiz Jamil 

Senior Producer: Felicia Patinkin 

Editorial Support: Samantha Lindell  
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He Forgot They Were Married, So He Proposed Again

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.