CNN Brings Video Podcasts to Streaming App Through Lemonada Media Partnership
CNN, the global news network has announced a strategic partnership with Lemonada Media to bring a curated slate of video podcast episodes to its recently launched streaming app—marking a significant evolution in how the network is responding to changing audience consumption habits.
The move signals CNN’s growing focus on personality-driven, long-form nonfiction content, as demand for video-first podcasts continues to surge across platforms such as YouTube, Spotify, Netflix, and iHeartRadio.
Over the past few years, podcasts have evolved from audio-only experiences into visually rich, platform-agnostic storytelling formats. CNN’s latest partnership reflects this shift.
Under the new agreement, CNN will stream new weekly video podcast episodes and select library content from Lemonada Media’s roster of acclaimed creators. These shows will be accessible directly within the CNN streaming app, alongside existing CNN Originals and network programming.
According to CNN executives, the decision was driven by audience data showing rising engagement with video podcasts, especially those centered around culture, mental health, self-improvement, and human connection.
“The rapid growth of video podcasts underscores the appetite for smart, personality-driven nonfiction content—an area where CNN has long been a leader,” — Amy Entelis, Executive Vice President, CNN
Why Video Podcasts Matter More Than Ever
Video podcasts are no longer a niche format. They represent one of the fastest-growing content categories in digital media, blending the intimacy of podcasts with the discoverability and engagement of video platforms.
Key trends fueling the rise:
Viewers increasingly watch podcasts rather than just listen
Algorithms favor long-form, personality-led video
Advertisers see higher engagement and recall in video formats
Audiences prefer authentic, conversational content over traditional studio programming
CNN’s expansion into this space allows the network to stay competitive while leveraging its editorial credibility and production expertise.
Lemonada Media: A Strategic Content Partner
Founded with a mission to produce meaningful, emotionally resonant storytelling, Lemonada Media has built a strong reputation for high-quality podcasts that focus on human experiences, growth, and curiosity.
The CNN partnership gives Lemonada’s video-first podcasts access to a broader, more global audience—while CNN benefits from a ready-made slate of proven content.
Lemonada’s CEO on the partnership:
“As demand for video podcasts continues to grow, we’re thrilled to bring our standout slate of video content to new audiences and broaden access for existing fans,” — Stephanie Wittels Wachs, CEO, Lemonada Media
Video Podcasts Coming to the CNN Streaming App
The initial rollout includes a diverse lineup of shows featuring well-known voices from entertainment, journalism, psychology, and lifestyle media.
Newly Available Lemonada Video Podcasts on CNN
🎙️ Hasan Minhaj Doesn’t Know
Hosted by comedian and commentator Hasan Minhaj
Features wide-ranging conversations with leaders from:
Politics
Culture
Technology
Known for humor-driven yet deeply insightful dialogue
🎭 Don’t Listen to Us
With Mandy Patinkin and Kathryn Grody
A family-centered advice show
Combines humor, life lessons, and lived experience
Appeals to multigenerational audiences
🧠 Alive with Steve Burns
Explores adulthood, identity, and purpose
Thoughtful, reflective conversations
Appeals to millennials and Gen X listeners navigating life transitions
🌍 The Dan Buettner Podcast
Focuses on longevity, health, and purposeful living
Inspired by Buettner’s “Blue Zones” research
Strong crossover appeal for wellness-focused audiences
New Weekly Video Episodes Launching Soon
In addition to library content, CNN will debut new weekly video episodes of select shows exclusively on its platform.
Upcoming Premiere:
📅 Since You Asked with Lori Gottlieb and Gretchen Rubin
Premiering January 20, 2026
Features advice, psychology, and happiness research
Blends therapeutic insight with practical life strategies
CNN’s Existing Podcast Footprint Continues to Grow
CNN has already experimented with podcast-to-video expansion through internal productions.
Currently available on the CNN app:
All There Is with Anderson Cooper
Select CNN Originals adapted for podcast video formats
More CNN-produced and partner-led video podcasts are expected to roll out in the coming weeks, according to the network.
How This Fits Into the Bigger Streaming Landscape
CNN’s move mirrors a broader industry trend where major platforms are racing to secure premium podcast video content.
Similar industry moves include:
Netflix streaming video podcasts from:
Spotify
iHeartMedia
Barstool Sports
iHeartMedia enabling video podcasts via RSS feeds on iHeartRadio
Spotify and YouTube aggressively promoting video-first podcasting
This competition highlights a growing belief that video podcasts are the next evolution of talk-based media.
Creator Concerns: Revenue and Platform Control
While video podcasts unlock new opportunities, they also raise concerns among creators.
Key issues creators are watching:
Platforms often take 40%–50% of revenue
Limited control over advertising inventory
Discoverability tied to platform algorithms
Notably, iHeartRadio has positioned itself as a creator-friendly alternative, offering free video podcast hosting similar to its audio model—an approach CNN observers will watch closely.
What This Means for CNN’s Digital Strategy
The Lemonada partnership is not just about podcasts—it’s about future-proofing CNN’s content ecosystem.
Strategic benefits for CNN:
Expands into lifestyle and wellness verticals
Attracts younger, digital-first audiences
Increases time spent on platform
Diversifies content beyond breaking news
By blending trusted journalism with conversational storytelling, CNN aims to redefine what a modern news streaming app can offer.
What’s Next?
Industry analysts expect CNN to:
Expand partnerships with independent podcast networks
Develop more in-house video-first shows
Explore hybrid monetization models
Use video podcasts to drive subscription growth
As audience habits continue to evolve, CNN’s bet on video podcasts could prove to be a defining move in its next digital chapter.
