A summary of the latest news headlines in three minutes or less, updated every morning and afternoon.
The CNN News Briefing podcast is an excellent source for those who want to stay informed without being overwhelmed by excessive news coverage. As a visually impaired individual in my late 70s, I appreciate the concise and encapsulated format of the podcast. With just four or five episodes per day, each lasting less than six minutes, I can quickly get the information I need to stay engaged without feeling terrified. CNN has earned my trust as a reliable news source, and their daily updates are outstanding. They go in-depth on important subjects on Sunday mornings and provide extra details when necessary. Overall, I would give this podcast a 10 plus rating.
One of the best aspects of The CNN News Briefing podcast is its cheerful and informative approach. The host, Jo Beck, brightens my day with her enthusiasm and positivity, especially when the news itself is less than uplifting. The format of the show is short and straight to the point, making it easy to digest essential information in a short amount of time. Additionally, I appreciate that they cover international news as well, although I wish there were more regional updates from different parts of the world.
On the downside, some listeners may find the repetitive nature of certain ads off-putting. While the content of the podcast itself is fantastic, frequent ads can be distracting and may cause some listeners to turn off or even delete the program altogether. It would be beneficial if CNN could vary their advertisements or find other ways to support their podcast without interrupting the flow of information.
In conclusion, The CNN News Briefing podcast is an invaluable resource for those seeking concise and trustworthy news updates. Its short length and informative nature make it perfect for individuals like myself who don't have much time to spare or are visually impaired. While there may be some drawbacks such as repetitive ads, overall it provides exactly what I need to stay current with world affairs without feeling overwhelmed by excessive news coverage. I highly recommend adding this podcast to your library.

The Department of Justice has unredacted additional names in the Jeffrey Epstein files after mounting pressure from lawmakers. The Guthrie family is deploying a new strategy in the search for their missing 84-year-old mother. Federal immigration officials are testifying before Congress today, as lawmakers clash over funding for the Department of Homeland Security. US military forces have boarded a sanctioned oil tanker in the Indian Ocean, though its connection to Venezuela is unclear. Plus, a new study suggests drinking tea and coffee may help reduce the risk of a major neurodegenerative disease. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Savannah Guthrie pleads for help as second deadline passes. Lawmakers say six men are being protected by over-redaction in the Epstein files. The U.S. Military struck another alleged drug-trafficking boat in the Pacific Ocean. Lindsay Vonn will need to have multiple surgeries on her leg and 19 Buddhist monks are set to complete their 2,300 mile walk for peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie is pleading to the public for her mother's return. Jeffery Epstein's accomplice sent a clear message to President Donald Trump in exchange for clemency. We'll explain where talks to fund the Department of Homeland Security stand ahead of a Friday deadline. Israel has taken steps to tighten its grip on the occupied West Bank. Plus, a Team USA athlete responds to Trump lashing out a fellow Olympian on social media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the deadline for a purported ransom note nears, police search for new evidence at Nancy Guthrie's home. Jeffrey Epstein's convicted accomplice is expected to sit for a deposition on Capitol Hill. Meanwhile, newly released Esptein files continue to rock the British establishment. We have an update on Lindsay Vonn's condition after a race-related crash. Plus, Elon Musk teases development plans for the moon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The desperate search for Nancy Guthrie continues, with a ransom deadline set for 5pm Monday. Ghislaine Maxwell appears for a virtual deposition by House Oversight Committee. Lindsey Vonn is in “stable condition” after undergoing surgery to treat a fracture in her left leg following her crash in the downhill final on Sunday. Jury selection starts today for father of Appalachee HS shooter in Georgia. Plus, reviews of the Super Bowl Half-Time Show and Ads. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Critics fear ICE is using a growing slate of facial recognition and surveillance tools to track not only undocumented immigrants, but also protesters opposing operations in Minneapolis and beyond. So with Democrats and Republicans at odds over changes to ICE ahead of a looming deadline to fund the Department of Homeland Security, what data is being collected and what does it mean for the average American? For more: ICE shunned body cams in Minnesota. So why are agents using phone cameras? --- Guests: Nicole Cleland & Juliette Kayyem, CNN Senior National Security Analyst Host: David Rind Producer: Paola Ortiz Showrunner: Felicia Patinkin Photo: John Moore/Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

TMZ's founder reveals details about a purported ransom note in the suspected abduction of a “Today” show anchor's mother. US stocks marked a record turnaround. Authorities made a new arrest in the 2012 Benghazi terror attack. Luigi Mangione made an outburst in court over a dramatic change in his state murder trial. Plus, the outrage surrounding a video removed from President Donald Trump's social media account. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

US and Iranian officials met today, as the US continues a major military buildup in the region. Authorities searching for Nancy Guthrie say a “consequential” deadline was included in one of the purported ransom notes they reviewed. The US military conducted another strike against an alleged drug-trafficking boat. A major automaker is reevaluating its electric vehicle investments as shares tumble. Plus, the Milano-Cortina Winter Games begin and an injured American ski star checks an important box. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are in Oman today for high-stakes nuclear talks with Iran's Foreign Minister. The FBI is now offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to recovery of Nancy Guthrie. TrumpRx, the Trump administration's much-anticipated direct-to-consumer drug platform, went live on Thursday. The Olympic opening ceremony starts this afternoon and the 90 year old man has been to every Super Bowl, says this will be his last. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We start with updates from law enforcement on the search for a “Today” show anchor's missing mother. The White House says President Donald Trump is willing to consider some of Democrats' demands for ICE reforms. A controversial rule threatens some federal workers' job security. Talks intended to end the war in Ukraine yielded little progress for a peace deal. Plus, what the launch of the Trump administration's direct-to-consumer drug platform could mean for patients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nancy Guthrie's children speak out after law enforcement receives unverified ransom notes. Some Epstein survivors have accused the department of Justice of botching the latest release of case files. The Trump Administration is pulling back federal law enforcement officer from Minnesota, but questions remain. New data confirms your hunch about the labor market. Plus, we explain why a new Trump administration push could mean higher energy bills for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NBC's Savannah Guthrie and her siblings released a video Wednesday night. President Trump acknowledged the need for a different approach to immigration enforcement. The Executive editor of the Washington Post is defending the decision to cut a third of the paper's staff. The Supreme Court allows California to use a new congressional map. Plus, a teen battling leukemia is headed to the Super Bowl, compliments of Make A Wish. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We start with key takeaways from President Donald Trump on Iran and the immigration crackdown in Minneapolis. The Supreme Court has greenlit a blue state's new congressional map. The fate of the man who tried to assassinate Trump at his golf course in 2024 has been sealed. The Washington Post, owned by Jeff Bezos, made dramatic cuts. Plus, one of the deadliest attacks this year in an African country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DHS personnel are leaving Minneapolis, though Border Czar Tom Homan has outlined conditions. Investigators are reviewing new evidence in the search for Nancy Guthrie. Lawmakers have sidestepped a government shutdown but another deadline looms. US, Ukrainian and Russian peace deal negotiators are meeting in Abu Dhabi. Plus, ahead of the Super Bowl, some of your favorite snacks are getting cheaper. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump signed a spending package to open the government back up. Authorities found blood inside the home of Nancy Guthrie. Powerful men respond to details in the latest release of the Epstein files. US skier Lindsey Vonn will compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics, and we have a winner in the Westminster Dog Show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Donald Trump has signed a massive funding bill that will fully reopen the government. Two incidents took place between the US and Iran on international waters, days before nuclear talks. Arizona investigators are pleading for help in the search for a “Today” show anchor's missing mother. Disney's hunt for a new leader is over. Plus, an American skiing superstar is keeping her Olympic dream alive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Donald Trump and House Speaker Johnson are pressuring Republican hold outs to back a bill aimed at ending the partial government shutdown. President Trump is also proposing an overhaul of the current election system. Washington and Tehran have tentatively agreed to resume nuclear talks. Elon Musk has been summoned for questioning after X's offices in Paris were raided by police. Plus, we'll tell you why NASA's Artemis II mission has been delayed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump calls on the GOP to “Nationalize” future elections. Authorities are investigating the disappearance of the mother of NBC's Savannah Guthrie as a crime. Bill and Hillary Clinton have agreed to appear for in-person depositions in Washington, DC. Elon Musk merged two of his companies, xAI and SpaceX. Plus, trailblazing women set to make history at the Winter Olympics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We start with major changes to the Trump administration's immigration crackdown in Minneapolis. House Speaker Mike Johnson faces a key hurdle to reopen parts of the federal government. President Donald Trump struck a deal to lower tariffs on a US trading partner. We have an update from authorities investigating the disappearance of a “Today” show anchor's mother. We'll explain why Trump is threatening to sue Grammy host Trevor Noah. Plus, a man on trial for a high-profile double-murder case learns his fate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Donald Trump is frustrated with Department of Justice officials tasked with reviewing “politicized justice.” The House is preparing to vote on a deal aimed at averting a full government shutdown. Target's new CEO is stepping in as the company navigates economic and political strain. The US and Iran are working toward a new nuclear deal. Plus, police and rescue teams are searching for the mother of an NBC "Today" anchor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The DOJ says they may appeal a ruling that allowed a 5-year-old and his father to go back to Minneapolis. Deputy AG Todd Blanche says there will be no new charges stemming from the latest release of the Epstein files. The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington will close for roughly two years to allow for extensive renovations. Bad Bunny won Album of the Year and a steakhouse chain is launching a limited edition “steak commitment ring” in time for Valentine's Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

TikTok was on the verge of being banned in the US as President Donald Trump took office last year. Now, its US operations are in the hands of new owners after a deal backed by the Trump administration. Since those owners took control, some users on the left claim they've been having trouble posting about sensitive topics like ICE or Jeffrey Epstein. So is this a tech hiccup, or a possible sign of political censorship? For more: The Trump-approved US TikTok is off to a rough start --- Guest: Lisa Eadicicco, CNN Tech Editor Host: David Rind Producer: Paola Ortiz Showrunner: Felicia Patinkin Photo Credit: Brook Joyner/CNN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This album started as a family project and turned into a Grammy nomination. The internet rallied behind a 92-year-old woman still working to make ends meet. An FDA-cleared brain treatment is offering hope to people with depression who've tried everything else. Meet the crew tasked with fighting and preventing wildfire disasters in Los Angeles. Plus, these divers rescued a ray and what happened next shocked them. Sign up for the CNN 5 Good Things newsletter here. Host/Producer: Krista Bo Polanco Showrunner: Faiz Jamil Senior Producer: Felicia Patinkin Editorial Support: Dan Bloom, Cindy Von Quednow, Hyan de Freitas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We start with new details on the latest batch of Jeffrey Epstein files released today. Nationwide demonstrations against ICE patrols are underway, as we follow updates on two journalists taken into custody. The federal government may be barreling toward a brief shutdown over the weekend. Parts of the US are bracing for another round of snow and freezing temperatures. Plus, sad news about a legendary actress who brought some of the most memorable moms to life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Department of Justice is releasing more of its files related to Jeffrey Epstein. A former CNN news anchor has been taken into custody after covering an anti-ICE demonstration. Protests against the Trump administration's immigration crackdown are being organized nationwide. President Donald Trump has named who he wants to be the next Federal Reserve Chair. And, a judge has made a key ruling in Luigi Mangione's federal case. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A deal is in place to avoid a government shutdown but lawmakers still need to clear the final hurdle. President Donald Trump says there will be no federal law enforcement drawdown in Minnesota. Venezuela has made it easier for oil companies to operate there. A Panama Supreme Court ruling could curb China's influence over the Panama Canal. Plus, why President Trump is suing the IRS in a personal capacity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Senate blocked a massive funding bill as a partial government shutdown looms. We'll tell you where President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown in Minnesota stands. A former Illinois deputy convicted of fatally shooting a Black woman has been sentenced. Trump updated reporters on issues including Venezuela and Ukraine during his Cabinet meeting today. Plus, how a man who tried to free Luigi Mangione ended up in police custody. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Border czar Tom Homan says he's ordered federal immigration authorities to work on an eventual drawdown plan in Minnesota. Meanwhile, a prominent lawmaker is throwing their hat in the ring to become Minnesota's next governor. Another storm is brewing for this weekend, focusing on the Southeast, but the Northeast will feel some of it too. Oil prices rose the morning, as President Donald Trump weighs a military strike on Iran. Plus, how AI landed some tourists in hot water – or rather it didn't. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Minnesota leaders faced tough questions from residents at a CNN town hall about the unrest in the city. White House and Senate leaders inch closer to a deal to avoid another government shutdown. President Donald Trump continues weighing a potential strike on Iran as talks between Washington and Tehran falter. Fewer Americans have signed up for ACA coverage in the wake of premium subsidies expiring. Plus, why Tesla is pulling back from the vehicles that made it a household name. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We start with the Federal Reserve's latest decision on interest rates, as it fights to maintain its independence. We have updates on Alex Pretti's fatal shooting investigation and the attack against a Minnesota lawmaker. The FBI is investigating voter fraud claims in a crucial swing state. We have key takeaways from Secretary of State Marco Rubio's Senate hearing. Plus, we'll tell you what President Donald Trump is calling the centerpiece of his affordability agenda. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar was attacked last night in Minneapolis. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is set to announce the central bank's decision on interest rates. We explain why US forces are conducting military exercises in the Middle East. New figures capture how many Russian soldiers have died in the war in Ukraine. Plus, a major tech company is laying off thousands amid an AI shift. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The White House appears to be changing its stance on the shooting of 37-year-old Alex Pretti. The man accused of attacking Rep. Ilhan Omar during a town hall in Minnesota has been arrested. A new report shows consumer confidence is down, though there is a bright spot. The NTSB presented findings and recommendations from its extensive investigation into a deadly midair collision last year. Plus, another winter storm is expected to hit parts of the US this weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Donald Trump says he's standing behind his Homeland Security secretary amid ICE controversy in Minnesota. The US is sending ICE agents to the Winter Olympics, but officials say it's not what you think. Another big winter storm in the US may be on the way. The measles outbreak in South Carolina just reached a troubling milestone. Plus, social media giants are expected to plead their case in a landmark trial this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The White House appears to be shaking up its strategy in Minnesota, as Melania Trump issues a rare political statement. Dangerous conditions remain across much of the US following a massive winter storm. Department of Homeland Security activity in Minnesota is now affecting a broader funding package for federal agencies. The NTSB is finalizing its investigation of one of the deadliest commercial aviation accidents in the US. Plus, an American favorite to win the Australian Open just got knocked out of the tournament. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The top US Border Patrol official will leave Minneapolis today, as courts decline to put guardrails on federal agents. Some TikTok US users say they're concerned about censorship over ICE content. Officials in Mississippi and Tennessee officials are grappling with “devastating” ice damage. We explain why President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on South Korean goods. Plus, India and the European Union have inked a landmark trade deal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Donald Trump and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz spoke today, as a key player in the federal immigration crackdown in the state is being sidelined. We'll explain what the latest deadly shooting in Minneapolis could mean for the fate of a government funding deal. Dangerously cold air is expected to break records in parts of the US this week. We have a tragic update on a private jet crash in Maine. Plus, Venezuela's acting president is putting the US on notice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Donald Trump has sent Border Czar Tom Homan to oversee ICE operations in Minneapolis. More than 250 million people remain under extreme cold alert in the US. A carrier strike group has moved closer to Iran, as Trump weighs potential strike options. A ferry carrying more than 350 people has sunk in the southern Philippines. Plus, what prompted the EU's extensive probe into X's chatbot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We start with reactions to the shooting of a man in Minneapolis. A major winter storm has caused casualties and left thousands without power in the US. First responders remain at a private jet crash site in Bangor, Maine. There are conflicting accounts over what led to the deaths of two Palestinian children in Gaza. Plus, we now know which teams will face-off in Super Bowl LX Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The White House says President Donald Trump is going to travel the country starting this week, selling his economic accomplishments ahead of the midterms. But after calling affordability a Democrat-led ‘hoax,' will anyone buy it? We break down three recent Trump administration proposals about housing, health care, and credit cards and examine whether they could actually bring down prices. For more: Affordability may finally be improving. Trump's scorched-earth tactics are only part of the reason --- Guest: Tami Luhby, CNN Senior Writer Host: David Rind Producer: Paola Ortiz Senior Producer: Faiz Jamil Showrunner: Felicia Patinkin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One of the only pig kidney recipients in the world just made medical history, again. Cursive is making a comeback nationwide, but these middle schoolers were ahead of the curve. A group of Buddhist monks are walking across the US with an inspiring message. We tell you about a TikTok trend that's encouraging to cut down on screen time. Plus, as Hollywood spotlights table tennis, an American phenom shares how the sport changed her life. Sign up for the CNN 5 Good Things newsletter here. Host/Producer: Krista Bo Polanco Producer: Eryn Mathewson Showrunner: Faiz Jamil Senior Producer: Felicia Patinkin Editorial Support: Kameryn Griesser, Melani Bonilla, and Andy Buck Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Millions across much of the US are bracing for catastrophic ice and snow. Hundreds of anti-ICE protesters in Minnesota are hitting the streets in the bitter cold. President Donald Trump's recent comments about NATO troops offended some US allies in the alliance. We have an update on the trial of a Virginia man accused of a double-homicide. Plus, a former Olympic snowboarder turned one of FBI's most wanted fugitives is in US custody. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices