CNN 5 Things

The Surprising Power of Self-Compassion

September 19, 2026·16 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

From Florida to French Polynesia, conservationists are finding creative ways to help coral reefs beat the heat from El Niño. What started with one trash-collecting barrier has grown into a network of more than 400 cleaning up Indonesia’s waterways. Africa’s largest IPO launched this week, opening the door for everyday Nigerians to own a piece of a landmark project. A new study reveals a surprising connection between caring for others and caring for yourself. Plus, meet a 2026 CNN Hero who’s helping thousands of stray cats in California get the care and, sometimes, forever homes they need.  Host/Producer: Krista Bo Polanco  Producer: Eryn Mathewson   Senior Producer: Felicia Patinkin  Editorial Assistance: Nimi Princewill, Yoyo Chow, Bijan Hosseini, John Lewis, Meg Dunn, Christie O’ Reilly  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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