Colorado Matters

There's a lot at stake in this month's primary election, including helping shape who takes control of Congress in the general election in November. We'll break it down with Purplish. Then, the Colorado Rockies will honor Theodore "Bubbles" Anderson in a pregame ceremony on Friday. Anderson was the only Colorado native to play in the Negro Baseball League in an era of racial segregation in America and was inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame last spring.

In its hiring and promotional imagery, the Department of Homeland Security has leaned on a familiar trope: White westerners dominating the frontier. Historian Megan Kate Nelson calls it the frontier myth... that westward expansion was limited to white nuclear families in covered wagons. In her new book "The Westerners," Nelson introduces us to extraordinary historical characters who demonstrate otherwise. We spoke at this year's Mountain Words Festival at Center for the Arts Crested Butte. 

Colorado hasn’t elected a Republican governor in more than two decades. One candidate on the primary ballot thinks a renewed focus on the state budget will be her path to victory. Barbara Kirkmeyer is our guest today. Tuesday, we heard from one of her opponents in the Republican race, Scott Bottoms. The third candidate on the primary ballot, Victor Marx, has declined an interview. All three candidates answered questions for our voter guide.

Since losing her daughter, Jobie, to a brain tumor, CPR's Andrea Dukakis has contemplated whether there's an afterlife. In a new series, "Searching for Jobie," Andrea combines a journalist's lens with a mother's yearning. Then, soccer star Marcelo Balboa, who now calls Colorado home, shares his World Cup experiences as the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off. 

Colorado hasn’t elected a Republican governor in more than two decades. One candidate on the primary ballot thinks unapologetic conservatism will be the key to changing that. Scott Bottoms is our guest today. Thursday, we'll hear from one of his opponents in the Republican race, Barbara Kirkmeyer. The third candidate on the primary ballot, Victor Marx, has declined an interview. All three candidates answered questions for our voter guide.

A pioneer in aging research has died. Tom Johnson proved that genes affect longevity. His work at the University of Colorado spawned an entire scientific field, and led to breakthroughs in diseases like Alzheimer's. For our series Aging Matters, we learn about Johnson’s legacy. Simon Melov worked with him as a post-doc in the 1990s. Melov's now a professor at California's Buck Institute for Research on Aging. Then, former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters is free, but her story's far from over. We get perspective from Purplish.

Come along as Boulder County commissioner and former state lawmaker Claire Levy, who's Jewish, has her German citizenship restored. Then, we hear from the two Democrats vying to be the next governor of Colorado, and we take a closer look at the midterms including how to vote in third party primaries. Then, how a small town public radio station in Colorado is doing after losing a quarter of its budget. Plus, an out of this world contract for Lunar Outpost in Golden. And the Denver Greek Festival celebrates 60 years with music, dancing, food and culture. 

For the first time, the three Republican candidates for Colorado governor took the debate stage together, and the result was unlike any political debate in recent memory. Then, a unique summer camp is supporting families through the complexities of transracial adoption while creating a sense of belonging and safety for adoptees and their parents. Also, the parental paradox of needing child care in order to work, and needing to work in order to pay for child care; one business in Denver is trying to helping its employees find balance. And what "Art from the Yard" says about identity, culture, and control over space. 

The first reform to sports gambling in Colorado was signed into law on Monday. It addresses growing concerns about addiction and financial ruin. CPR investigative reporter Ben Markus has covered sports betting since before it was even legal, and spoke about the changes with Ryan Warner. Then, it's a dream come true for Greek and Indigenous artist Anna Tsouhlarakis whose work is now featured in the Whitney Biennial. And, what stress levels in a tiny pika can tell us about a changing climate. 

Colorado hasn't elected a Republican governor in nearly 30 years. Three Republicans on the primary ballot are hoping to change that. Purplish takes a closer look at the field; yesterday, we heard about the two Democrats on the primary ballot. Then, as the average American farmer nears retirement age, there's growing concern about who will take over for them; a new program hopes to inspire and support the next generation. 

Former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters was released from prison today after Governor Jared Polis commuted her sentence. We ask Matt Crane, executive director of the Colorado County Clerks Association, about the release and the Trump administration's pushback against voting by mail. Then, Purplish breaks down the candidates for governor: today, the two Democrats; tomorrow, the three Republicans. And we share another commencement speech during graduation season; this time, Vice President JD Vance who spoke at the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs.

It stung to hear. Amanda McCracken’s therapist told her, “longing is your lover.” This followed decades of dates, flings, and fantasies, but no committed relationship. The Boulder journalist turned her search for a solution into a cottage industry. She has a podcast called “The Longing Lab.” She did a popular TED Talk. And her new book is “When Longing Becomes Your Lover.” 

Finding affordable child care is a major challenge for many parents, and it's especially true for essential workers on 12 or 48 hour shifts. The system isn’t built for them. That's just one reason CPR News has launched a new series, "Raising Colorado: The untold costs of a broken child care system." It's led by CPR education reporter Jenny Brundin and we're featuring her work today, taking a deeper dive into what's happening. She shares the story of firefighter James Ferraro and his wife Chelsea, a nurse. They're trying to balance work and two young kids with no family in town. Jenny also speaks with Denver-based author Elliot Haspel author of "Raising a Nation: 10 Reasons Every American has a Stake in Child Care for All." 

Julie Gonzales wants to make John Hickenlooper a one-term senator. The state lawmaker is running against him in the Democratic primary and spoke with Ryan Warner about her vision and priorities. Then, a commencement speaker at Front Range Community College who refused to give in to life's obstacles. Plus, how Denver is trying to keep beavers at bay. And meet Lauren Frihauf, the Denver singer/songwriter who made the finals of NPR's Tiny Desk Contest! 

As the United States marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 on July 4th and Colorado prepares to celebrate 150 years of statehood on August 1st, today for our series Aging Matters, we feature “Portraits In Aging,” a series of conversations Chandra Thomas Whitfield had with a diverse mix of Coloradans who talk about what it’s like growing older here. Aging, in their own words. And their perspectives are especially relevant and timely; those age 65 and older are the fastest growing population in our state, impacting everything here from housing to healthcare. 

As Colorado embarks on its psychedelic experiment, people can now receive psilocybin-assisted therapy at healing centers. The state is also grappling with how to enable therapy with the psychedelic ibogaine, which has shown promise for treating addiction. The use of psychedelic-assisted therapy was a component of Colorado’s psychedelic law approved by voters in 2022. We share a conversation from the most recent Aspen Ideas Festival as part of our coverage, "The Trip," about Colorado’s psychedelic journey. Krista Tippett, who created and hosts the podcast “On Being,” interviewed Gül Dölen, a psychology professor at the University of California Berkeley and a leader in psychedelics research. This episode of Colorado Matters originally aired on February 2, 2026 

The Democratic Party formally censured Gov. Jared Polis this week after he commuted the sentence of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters. CPR public affairs Bente Birkeland joins us with context about the censure, and what's next for Peters. Then, Denver7 chief meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo has the weather outlook for the Memorial Day holiday weekend and if this week's rain had any impact on the statewide drought. Plus, an inspiring commencement speech at Red Rocks Community College. And Ryan sits down with Denver Mayor Mike Johnston to ask about the new homelessness count, data centers, crime, rapid bus transit and courting the DNC. 

Ahead of the primary election, we hear from three of the four Democratic candidates for state attorney general. Former federal prosecutor Hetal Doshi, Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty, and attorney David Seligman. They took part in a candidate forum moderated by Chandra Thomas Whitfield at the Colorado Women's Bar Association conference in Vail on Friday, May 15, 2026. The fourth Democratic candidate on the primary ballot, Secretary of State Jena Griswold, did not participate. The two candidates on the Republican primary ballot, Colorado Springs District Attorney Michael Allen and attorney David Willson, were also invited to take part. Allen declined and Willson was unable to attend at the last minute. 

She’s a student of government – and a participant. Melat Kiros is taking a break from graduate school in hopes of pulling off a political victory: Unseating Denver’s longtime congresswoman Diana DeGette. Kiros is our guest today. You can also read and listen to Ryan Warner’s interviews with Wanda James and Diana DeGette. Then, how Steven Ramm, an aerospace engineer at Lockheed Martin, turned spreadsheets into survival skills. Plus, a new magical muse for Denver singer/songwriter Neyla Pekarek who performs this Friday at the Oriental Theater.

A familiar name will be on the Democratic primary ballot in Denver. Diana DeGette wants to stay in Congress, and today makes her case. You can also read and listen to Ryan Warner's interviews with Melat Kiros and Wanda James now. Then, the cost of child care is akin to the cost of college tuition, and it impacts everyone-- even those without kids. CPR education reporter Jenny Brundin leads the new series, "Raising Colorado: The Untold Story of a Broken Child Care System." Plus, Purplish shares some of the state's new laws as the legislative session ends.

There’s a three-way Democratic primary next month to represent Denver and Glendale in Congress. We hear from them this week. A coin toss determined the order. We start with entrepreneur and current CU Regent Wanda James. You can also read and listen to Ryan Warner's interviews with Melat Kiros and Diana DeGette now. Then, what's next for former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters as reaction comes swiftly to the governor's decision to commute her sentence. And, tonight's Local 303 meetup celebrates Colorado artists in May! 

Democrat Michael Bennet hopes to leave the US Senate and become Colorado's next governor. Ahead of the June 30th primary, Bennet is our guest today. Yesterday, we heard from his opponent in the Democratic race, Attorney General Phil Weiser. We asked both what their boldest idea is for Colorado, how they'll achieve it, plus healthcare, water, AI regulation, and the state's now perennial budget gaps. 

The state's top attorney wants to be its next chief executive. Democrat Phil Weiser is running for governor. Ahead of the June 30th primary, Weiser is our guest today. Tomorrow: his opponent in the Democratic race, Senator Michael Bennet. We'll ask both what their boldest idea is for Colorado, how they'll achieve it, plus healthcare, water, AI regulation, and the state's now perennial budget gaps. 

How do you help someone break the cycle of homelessness, if they don't want help? Denverite's Kyle Harris shares one woman's story that raises bigger questions about finding solutions to an issue that can divide communities. Then, a new state law puts portable solar panels within reach, especially for renters. Also, amid drought and water restrictions, one homeowner fights to re-use water. Plus, a "Sex and the City" star has a message for CU-Boulder graduates, CPR's new host of Morning Edition, Bazi Kanani, talks about her journey in journalism, and Aging Matters puts the focus on fitness; it can be as simple as going for a walk. 

As much as we hear about Iran, there's a lot we don't know about daily life and politics there. Shideh Dashti is a professor at the University of Colorado Boulder. She speaks regularly with her father, who lives in Iran, and spoke with Andrea Dukakis, about what he's experiencing. Then, we meet Sam Nilsson, head grower at Phelan Gardens in Colorado Springs, to talk about planting in a drought amid water restrictions. And, a new exhibit at the Pioneers Museum celebrates the art and history of tattoos.

There are new rules of the road for Colorado teens as a new state law requires more training before young drivers can get a permit. There are also new rules for background checks for instructors. Then, hundreds of Colorado moms are dancing their way to better mental and emotional health. We talk with the founders of the Mom Dance Party, back with their 4th annual Mother's Day event on Friday, May 15. Also, it's peak real estate season in Colorado but it's getting harder for home sellers to find buyers. Meanwhile, local colleges and universities are sending graduates out into the world. We're featuring the words of wisdom they hear as they depart: today, a returning graduate at Regis. And, a new wheelchair rugby force to be reckoned with calls Denver home. 

The Sundance Film Festival relocates to Boulder January 21-31, 2027. What will it be like? Who is welcome? Will there be enough popcorn? At this year's CU Conference on World Affairs, Colorado Matters previewed Sundance and discussed its year-round mission, in front of a live audience. Our guests are director Lulu Wang ("The Farewell"), producer and Sundance Institute trustee Gigi Pritzker, and CU-Boulder student filmmaker Kate Yezzi. 

May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Today,  we talk with the head of one publication that’s been telling stories of that community here in Colorado for two decades. We’ll also discuss some recent big milestones in our state and the challenges that persist. "Asian Avenue Magazine" is part of CEME, the Colorado Ethnic Media Exchange, a coalition focused on elevating the voices of diverse and often underserved communities. Annie Guo VanDan is the magazine co-founder and president. Nga Vương-Sandoval is featured on the May cover. She is receiving the Asian American Hero of Colorado Award, largely for her extensive work as the founding executive director of "Refugees + Immigrants United," a Colorado nonprofit dedicated to “empowering, advocating for, and celebrating the voices of refugees and immigrants.” And, we revisit the effort to make sure Denver's Chinatown is not lost to history. 

State democrats want Colorado to push back against ICE, but how is still up for debate. Purplish explains why coming up with a unified approach has proven to be challenging. Then, Gunnison author C. William Langsfeld's debut novel, "Salvation," explores the feelings that unspool after a murder in a small Colorado town, the pitfalls of westerns masculinity, and isolation. And, Colorado Wonders about the lakes in Denver's City Park.

ICE deportations mean criminal suspects in Colorado are not always held accountable. CPR justice reporter Allison Sherry shares her investigation. Then, Denver Health serves people across the state as a "safety net" hospital, which makes it particularly vulnerable to federal cuts. Plus, how an atmospheric scientist at Colorado State University is keeping us safe from "rain bombs." And “12 Tablecloths” by artist Chloé Duplessis tells stories long overlooked of labor, resilience and survival. It's now at the Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center through May 30.

The 1965 Voting Rights Act was designed to ensure the right to vote for all citizens, regardless of race, gender, class, sexual orientation, and background. The Supreme Court rolled back a key provision of the landmark legislation on Wednesday. We talk through what it means, and what protections are in place in Colorado. Then, older Coloradans are especially at risk for scams -- and they can often suffer in silence. For our series Aging Matters, we talk about efforts to stay one step ahead as scammers get more sophisticated. 

April will end with much-needed rain, and even some snow in the mountains. This also marks the start of tornado and severe weather season. Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo is back for our regular chat about weather and climate. Then, "Dude Talk Dinners" help connect men in a non-judgmental environment. Plus, as more people hop on e-bikes, what to know about safety and the rules of the road. 

The murder convictions in one of the most notorious criminal cases in Grand Junction history were tossed out, but there are still unanswered questions about the pipe bombings that killed two people in 1991. Today, we hear from the original public defender in the case against James Genrich, who is now eligible for parole. Then, for "Raise the Curtain," the Arvada Center explores racism in America through theater. And a project to preserve loving memories, through lullabies. 

The ultimate goal of Artemis is to get people to Mars. But there was a time, in the early 1900s, when it was widely believed there was already life there and engineered canals to bring water from the poles to cities. There were skeptics, but it’s hard to overstate how ingrained this idea of Martian life became. Former NPR science correspondent David Baron, of Boulder, has written “The Martians: The True Story of an Alien Craze that Captured Turn-of-the-Century America." He spoke with Ryan Warner last August in front of an audience in Colorado Springs, where some of the story unfolds. 

The Western Slope farming family who introduced the world to Olathe Sweet Corn is scaling back in the face of a rough economy and a pesky crop worm. They talk about the mixed blessing of farming and how you can still get that beloved corn. Then, leading UCLA to a national championship is just the latest chapter in a lifetime of hoops success for sisters Lauren and Sienna Betts. Their coach at Grandview High School in Aurora reflects on their time there as well as the dynamics that drives them. And, Colorado Wonders what state legislators do when they're not in session.

A water project known as The Arkansas Valley Conduit became a political football, with a presidential veto. But for rancher Kevin Karney, of La Junta, it's about quality of life for his community. Then, we visit the Colorado Farm Brewery in Alamosa in the San Luis Valley, where a fifth generation farming family brews beer on land that's been in the family for nearly a century. And Boulder author Erika Krouse is a finalist for the Joyce Carol Oates Prize for her collection of short stories, "Save Me, Stranger." 

Eleven questions could save a life. That's the idea behind a bill in the state legislature right now. It would require law enforcement officers to ask the questions to determine if someone is at risk of dying at the hands of a domestic abuser. We'll explore the issue with Purplish. Then, Denver Center Theatre Company announces its new season. We get a glimpse into how those choices are made with artistic director Chris Coleman us for our series "Raise The Curtain," about Colorado's vibrant theater scene. 

Democracy in the United States is deteriorating according to three studies. We ask about it in "If You Can Keep It," our series about unprecedented presidential policy. Then, the state budget proposal heads to the senate after some drama in the house. Plus, the Republicans hold their state assembly to determine who's on the primary ballot. And, Gil Boggs marks 20 years as the artistic director of Colorado Ballet. He reflects on the challenges he's faced and overcome, and the evolution of ballet productions and outreach in an age of increased competition for entertainment dollars.

Business in Breckenridge is borderline after a lack of snow this past winter. And planning for the future of a ski town is tricky business. We speak with the town manager about tax revenue and diversification, whether it's wildflowers or the arts. Plus, we get a read on just how little snow did fall in high country. Then, plans for a train between Denver and northern Colorado cities may be back on track. And a Colorado Springs bagel shop will represent our state at a big bagel competition this weekend. A chat amid the morning bagel bustle at Bella's. 

State officials want to find a troubling piece of history. But they need help. We'll update the yearslong effort to find a cemetery on the grounds of a former Indian Boarding School in Grand Junction. Then, from a new approach to policing and helping the unhoused, to honoring student athletes and everyday heroes, there's a lot going on in Aurora, Colorado's most diverse city. We speak with the editor of the Aurora Sentinel which is part of the Colorado Ethnic Media Exchange. Plus, a new state law requires schools in Colorado to have policies in place by July about what's allowed for students when it comes to cell phones; some students have thoughts about what to do. And, a pair of sisters from Grandview High School help win the women's college basketball national championship! 

A man who tried to overturn a free and fair election now positions himself as the safeguard. Today, we get reaction to President Trump's vote-by-mail executive order from Matt Crane, the head of the Colorado County Clerks Association. Then, some of Grand Junction's streets are lined with garbage these days, on purpose. It's a picker's paradise! And, an Oscar-winning Colorado filmmaker profiles the singer of what's considered the first gay anthem. Carl Bean would become a minister and a foot solider in the fight against AIDS. The movie, "I Was Born This Way" screens at the Boulder International Film Festival with a panel discussion on Thursday, April 9. 

State lawmakers are turning up the volume, so to speak, on noise limits at venues. How much is too much? And how much say should local communities have? We'll get into the debate with Purplish. Then, what's it like to win a Grammy? Just ask first-time winner and University of Denver professor Remy Le Boeuf! The jazz musician and composer talks about the moment he realized he won, his twin brother who's also a Grammy winner, and what it’s like to see his young daughter experience jazz. 

A premiere at the Boulder International Film Festival this Sunday will be deeply personal for Denver comedian Adam Cayton-Holland. "See You When I See You" is based on his book, "Tragedy + Time." It recounts the suicide of his younger sister, Lydia, his struggle to come to terms, and the stigma around mental health. Ryan Warner spoke with Cayton-Holland in front of an audience at the Newman Center in Denver when the book hit shelves in 2018. 

He prosecuted former clerk Tina Peters. We'll get perspective from Mesa County District Attorney Dan Rubenstein on the resentencing the Colorado Court of Appeals just ordered. Then, measles lingers in the air for hours. It's why vaccination rates must be really high for herd immunity. They no longer are. Plus, the voices of women who ranch on the Western Slope will be preserved at The Library of Congress. 

The Colorado Court of Appeals has upheld the conviction of former Mesa County clerk Tina Peters but ruled she was improperly sentenced and has ordered a new sentencing hearing. Then, Denverite asks if artists will still have a place in the RiNo arts district as it's restructured amid growing popularity. Also, a new library project in Adams County connects book lovers with nature. And, with Artemis II rocketing towards the moon, we revisit a conversation with the first Native American to fly into space who grew up in Colorado. 

The Supreme Court calls Colorado’s conversion therapy ban an “egregious assault” on the First Amendment. We get reaction from the former state lawmaker who sponsored the ban. Plus, AAA on gas prices amid the war in Iran and seasonal fuel changes. Then, a bittersweet farewell to CPR Classical's Karla Walker. Also, Colorado Wonders about the iconic Colorado Trail. And we revisit one of the most peculiar places to watch a movie: The Movie Manor in Monte Vista re-opens for the season Friday.

State lawmakers must cut $1.5 billion to balance the budget. That may come at the expense of  Colorado's Medicaid program. Purplish gets into the complexities. Then, the Democrats' primary ballot is coming into focus after their state assembly. And, for Women's History Month, our colleagues at Indie 102.3 share some sensational musicians in the "Local 303."

Today's cooldown will be short-lived, ushering in more dry, unseasonably warm weather. We get the impact and the outlook in our regular conversation about weather and climate with Denver7 chief meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo. Then, ahead of the state assembly, the four Democrats who want to be attorney general. And Western Slope singer/songwriter Emily Scott Robinson's new album, "Appalachia." 

March is Women's History Month, a time to celebrate the accomplishments of women. And what better way to do so, than with a conversation with three remarkable women who've been inducted into the Colorado Women's Hall of Fame. Velveta Golightly Howell, Jill Tietjen, and Dusti Gurule have shaped our state through activism, community building, and fierce advocacy. Then, when Monica Márquez was sworn-in as the new Chief Justice on the Colorado Supreme Court in 2024, she made history as the first Latina to take on that role. And we also sit down with former state lawmaker and First Lady of Denver, Wilma Webb, who has worked in public service for most of her life. 

A healing experience with psychedelic mushrooms changed a Colorado woman's life and career. We speak with Rhonda DeSantis, the CEO and founder of Psylutions, one of the first companies to grow and manufacture mushrooms for psilocybin-assisted therapy. Plus, should there be regulations to control noise? Then, the courts push back on the Trump administration's vaccination agenda, but doctors in Colorado say the confusion's already taken hold. Plus, some state lawmakers want to restrict some types of gambling; we look at the debate and the realities of gambling addiction. Also, Colorado Wonders about a long-neglected park.