Media Insider: CNN Franchises Newsletter, Japanese Outlets Oppose Tokyo Olympics, REI Creates Inclusive Content

Welcome to Media Insider, PR Newswire’s roundup of media news stories from the week.

DIGIDAY | SARA GUAGLIONE
CNN is turning its 5 Things newsletter into a franchise that spans podcasting and TV

CNN Digital is expanding its 5 Things email newsletter into its own franchise. The daily newsletter was recently adapted to a TV segment on CNN’s “New Day” morning program and a short-form podcast. The company says the 5 Things newsletter captures more than a third of its total newsletter subscriptions and the podcast now accounts for 43% of CNN’s total podcast downloads. Both make money for the company through ad sales. CNN Digital is also exploring adding international and evening versions of the newsletter and more daily editions of its podcast.

More CNN news: CNN Chief Jeff Zucker Says ‘CNN+’ Streaming Service is In The Works.

NEW YORK POST | AMANDA WOODS
Major Japanese newspaper calls for cancellation of Tokyo Olympics

The Asahi Shimbun newspaper became the first of Japan’s major outlets to take a stand against moving forward with the Tokyo Olympics. Despite its position as an event sponsor and contributor of nearly $3.5 billion, Asahi joins several regional outlets that have already voiced opposition. An editorial released by the newspaper stated, “We demand Prime Minister Suga to calmly evaluate the circumstances and decide the cancellation of the summer event.” The editorial also pointed out that the International Olympic Committee and local organizers have repeatedly resisted cancelling the Summer Games even though the country struggles to contain a new wave of COVID-19 cases.

Read next: Canada wants to force YouTube, TikTok, and other video- and audio-sharing sites to prioritize more Canadian content.

ADWEEK | LUCINDA SOUTHERN
The Economist Is Selling Courses

In collaboration with online education firm GetSmarter, The Economist launched an online executive education program called Economist Education. The company announced the first six-week course titled “The New Global Order: How Politics, Business and Technology Are Changing” and said the next course will launch around September and focus on business writing and professional communication. Around 200 people from 40+ countries have signed up for the first course, which is priced at $2,090. This marks an ambition for the company to grow adjacent businesses and diversify its revenue sources.

ICYMI: Just days after Alden Global Capital completed its acquisition of Tribune Publishing, the CEO was fired and newsroom employees were offered buyouts.

MEDIAPOST | RAY SCHULTZ
Outdoor Brand REI Launches Unit To Produce Content To Support Climate, Inclusion

REI launched an in-house unit to produce content that supports the co-op’s climate, equity, and diversity goals. Co-op Studios will create films, podcasts, and other content that supports and prioritizes storytelling from Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), and other underrepresented groups. Upcoming projects include: a podcast series called “Hello, Nature,” hosted by Misha Euceph; a digital show featuring chef and avid rock climber James Beard; and the relaunch of a digital publication for members. Paolo Mottola, REI director of content and media, stated, “The outdoors is for everyone, and content is a powerful and relevant way to bring that belief to our members and new audiences.”

Another big story from the week: Associated Press admits it made mistakes in firing of Emily Wilder and is launching a review of its social media policies.

THE VERGE | ASHLEY CARMAN
Twitter previews Ticketed Spaces, says it’ll take a 20 percent cut of sales

Twitter previewed its new live audio feature called Ticketed Spaces. Ticketed Spaces allows users to monetize their time on the app by hosting paid live audio rooms. To apply to host a live audio room, users must have 1,000 followers, hosted three spaces in the past 30 days, and be at least 18 years old. The company partnered with Stripe to handle payments and it says users will receive 80% of revenue after Apple and Google’s in-app purchase fees are taken. Ticketed Spaces will launch to users in the U.S. only in the next couple of weeks.

Read next: Florida governor signs law to block social media companies from knowingly “deplatforming” Florida politicians.

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Erin Wade is a Senior Customer Content Specialist with PR Newswire. She is also an animal lover and aspiring world traveler. Tune into her insights as a social curator at @TotalCSR.