Desmond Tutu, Denver, and more: 5 podcast episodes from this week’s headlines

Lots of updates this week. On our round-up from the headlines, we’ve included news episodes about COVID-19, the Delta and Omicron variants, and vaccines. The world lost Desmond Tutu and President Biden paid tribute this week. There was a shooting in Denver, Colorado, and a podcast episode shared the tragic details.

Extreme weather is hitting the country with record cold streaks and warm temperatures in different regions. Flights have experienced delays and cancellations due to the weather and/or COVID-19.

Tune into our round-up to get up-to-speed with this week’s news.

Up First

On this episode of NPR’s “Up First” hear about the CDC’s new recommendations, reducing quarantine time to 5 days for asymptomatic people testing positive for COVID-19. Football Hall of Famer, Superbowl winning coach, and video game culture icon John Madden died at age 85. This year, auto industry supply shortages on items like computer chips drove up prices, and this episode assessed what this means for the future.

CNN 5 Things

Hear updates on the January 6th Capitol riot investigation and the Biden administration’s stance on holding back certain documents in this episode of CNN’s “5 Things.” Omicron is surging, and children’s infection rates ages 5-11 have increased. This episode shares vaccine statistics for kids. Parts of the United States like California’s Sierra Nevada are receiving record-breaking snowfalls. Some Americans can return to the United States with expired passports, if they meet certain criteria.

Global News Podcast

Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who helped end apartheid in South Africa, passed away at age 90. He advocated for human rights, was an inspiration for generations, and won the Nobel Peace Price in 1984. President Biden joined tributes to Tutu at this week’s services. This episode also reports on the rise of COVID-19 and its variants, and the impact it is having on airlines and cancelled flights.

5 Things

On this episode of USA Today’s “5 Things,” hear about the shooting spree in multiple locations in Denver. At least 4 are dead and the suspect was killed. The jury in Ghislaine Maxwell’s trial is still deliberating. The NHL is returning this week after a break. In New York City, Apple has closed its stores temporarily, offering pick-up only options. The nation is experiencing extreme cold and heat waves this week in different regions. Flights have been cancelled and/or delayed due to weather or COVID-19.

NPR News Now

Long-time Senate leader Harry Reid died on Tuesday at age 82, representing Nevada for over 30 years. This episode reports on COVID-19 testing shortages, long wait times, and pop-up drive-in sites offering free PCR and antigen tests. This week, the White House advised companies to stay on high alert for cyberattacks, and recommends taking safety measures including changing passwords. Also hear about France’s COVID-19 statistics and the country’s possibility of vaccine mandates.