Join Host Bree Davies and the City Cast Denver crew every weekday morning as we celebrate, explore, and challenge an ever-changing Denver. It’s the daily news podcast for all Denverites — whether you’ve been here for six months or six generations. We’ll break down the news you need (and want) to know with journalists and culture makers; activists and artists; neighbors and ne’er-do-wells — and John Elway, if he ever returns our calls. Learn more and subscribe to our morning newsletter at citycast.fm/denver.
The City Cast Denver podcast is an exceptional source of information and entertainment for anyone looking to stay updated on the happenings in Denver. As a non-native, I appreciate how this team makes me feel like a local and invites me to be part of the conversation. The hosts, especially Bree, bring humor, wit, and passion to each episode, making it enjoyable and engaging. The topics covered are diverse and not the same old headlines every day, providing something new to mull over or laugh about. Overall, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone wanting to love Denver a little bit more.
One of the best aspects of The City Cast Denver podcast is its authentic connection with the city. The team's deep knowledge and understanding of Denver shine through in their discussions and interviews. They feature community voices that often go unheard in larger media outlets, allowing listeners to hear from real stakeholders who are directly involved in the topics being covered. This approach provides an excellent opportunity for listeners to engage with local issues and gain a deeper understanding of diverse communities within Denver. Additionally, the fun food episodes provide great recommendations from local experts, ensuring that listeners are up-to-date with the latest and greatest things to do in the city.
As for the worst aspects, there isn't much negative to say about The City Cast Denver podcast. However, some listeners may find certain episodes triggering or uncomfortable if they haven't acknowledged their privileges or their role in displacing communities due to gentrification. These episodes confront disparities created by privilege head-on and may unsettle those who haven't fully come to terms with these realities. Nevertheless, these nuanced stories are crucial in understanding the complexities of our society.
In conclusion, The City Cast Denver podcast is an outstanding resource for staying informed about greater Denver. It strikes a perfect balance between informative reporting on local events, politics, and culture while also creating a sense of community among its listeners. By featuring diverse voices and perspectives, this podcast provides a platform for marginalized communities and fosters a deeper connection to the city for both newcomers and natives. It's a powerful tool for engaging with local issues and discovering everything Denver has to offer.

Anti-Palantir protesters gathered outside the AI surveillance giant's new headquarters in Cherry Creek on Sunday, while the company's billionaire CEO, Alex Karp, reportedly just bought a massive monastery outside Aspen. So, is Gov. Jared Polis having second thoughts about inviting Palantir to Colorado? Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk through the latest on Palantir, as well as the news that Your Mom's House wasn't paying its taxes. Plus, we hear from a listener about the allegations of a toxic workplace at the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and pick our biggest fails of the year. Patty talked about this 2024 profile of Bowen Yang in The New Yorker. What do you think is the biggest fail of the year? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this December 23rd episode: Simply Eloped Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for up to 20% off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

City Cast Denver listeners nominated Denver's new NWSL franchise, Denver Summit FC, as one of the biggest wins of the year at our Denver-est Denver Awards last week, and the city is undeniably abuzz with excitement over the prospect of a professional womens soccer team. But how much public money should the City of Denver put up to support the team? City Council is voting tonight on the proposal to spend $50 million to buy land and build support infrastructure for a new stadium, so we're revisiting a conversation host Bree Davies had earlier this year with one of the country's foremost experts on the politics of stadiums, CU Denver's own Dr. Geoff Propheter. Denverite reported on the details of the community benefits agreement that Denver Summit FC reached with neighbors of the proposed stadium site. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about public funding to support a new soccer stadium? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this December 22nd episode: Simply Eloped Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

More than 100,000 Coloradans were left without electricity this week as Xcel Energy preemptively shut down power lines to mitigate the risk of wildfire — just like they did last April. But the controversy is way different this time. Comedian and longtime friend of the show JD Lopez returns with producers Olivia Jewell Love and Paul Karolyi to parse the politics of power. Plus, we discuss Denverite's investigation into allegations of toxic work culture at the Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce, pick Denver's Word of the Year 2025, and share our wins and fails of the week. Paul mentioned the podcast he and JD host, “Hold on to Your Butts: A Podcast About Great Franchises that Uhhhhh Lost their Way.” He also talked about the “gonzo lawyer,” the decline of the “slop bowl,” the Broncos' new anime connection, and this reddit thread he posted about Denver's word of the year. Olivia talked about zebra mussels. JD sang “Colorado Christmas” by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. What do you think should be Denver's word of the year? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this December 19th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Foothills Animal Shelter Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE, and she might answer in next week's segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Denverites were going at each other this year, with some juicy fights on and off social media. From politics to restaurants to pop culture, host Bree Davies sits down with producer Paul Karolyi and resident Denver gossip Adrian Felix to hash out the biggest beefs of 2025, and decide who came out on top. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think was this year's “Biggest Beef”? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this December 18th episode: Denver Health Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Denver Botanic Gardens Foothills Animal Shelter Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Neighbors in West Wash Park have now gathered more than 1,000 signatures calling for Mayor Johnston to reverse the city's plan for traffic calming on Alameda Ave. to the original, three-lane proposal. They argue that there's no way the new four-lane plan is just as safe, as DOTI head Amy Ford has argued. But could that possibly be true? CU Denver civil engineering professor Wes Marshall has been watching the debate play out, and he's on today to help cut through the noise — and answer the bigger question: Is Mayor Johnston making Denver streets less safe? Do you think Mayor Johnston is making Denver streets less safe? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Wes Marshall is also the author of “Killed by a Traffic Engineer: Shattering the Delusion that Science Underlies our Transportation System.” Bree quoted a recent Denver Post op-ed by the co-chairs of the DOTI advisory board Aylene McCallum and Allen Cowgill: “The previous administration made great progress in achieving these visions [for a connected Denver], but today, under Mayor Johnston's leadership, that progress has stalled and, in specific instances, has even been reversed.” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm If you enjoyed this interview with Janessa White, the Director & General Manager of Simply Eloped, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 17th episode: Denver Health Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Denver Botanic Gardens Foothills Animal Shelter Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

It's been an unseasonably warm December, and that means the risk of wildfires is relatively high. So, producer Olivia Jewell Love and producer Paul Karolyi discuss how Xcel Energy is preparing for a possible pre-emptive power shutdown this week. Plus, we unravel the mystery of the street safety signs that were hacked last Friday to read “Cars Ruin Cities” and respond to listener questions about movie theaters, tipping, and South Park's latest take on Denver. Paul talked about the controversy around Xcel's unannounced pre-emptive power shutdowns last year. What do you think about all these hacked street signs? What would you put on one? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 16th episode: Denver Health Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Denver Botanic Gardens Foothills Animal Shelter Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for up to 20% off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Coloradans are increasingly disillusioned with traditional political institutions, including the Democratic Party, which polled at 68% unfavorable in a recent Magellan Strategies survey. So why did current State Senator Julie Gonzales, once a darling of the Democratic Socialists of America, decide to run for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat? Gonzales joins host Bree Davies to discuss her relationship with her party, where she sees opportunities to work with Trump, and how her approach would differ from her opponent, incumbent Sen. John Hickenlooper. We've invited Hickenlooper to come on the pod to discuss his campaign soon. What should we ask him about? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Today is the last day to vote for the finalists of the Denver-est Denver Awards! Your vote will determine the winners of Best Artist, Best Small Business, Biggest Win, and more. And don't forget to buy your ticket to the show on Dec. 18 and see the winners announced live on stage at The Oriental Theater. Vote here and get your tickets now! Help us hit the goal for our year-end membership drive! You'll get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. Enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 15th episode: Denver Health Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Denver Botanic Gardens Foothills Animal Shelter Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

After the announcement of State Sen. Julie Gonzales' bid to unseat U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper, stories emerged alleging Democratic Party insiders tried to deter her from running. Comedian Joshua Emerson joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to dissect the details of Hick's primary strategy, as well as Denver's questionable new homeless service provider contracts, disability activists' lawsuit against RTD, and more wins and fails of the week. Help us hit the goal for our year-end membership drive! You'll get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. Enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm Vote for the finalists of the Denver-est Denver Awards! Your vote will determine the winners of Best Artist, Best Small Business, Biggest Win, and more. And don't forget to buy your ticket to the show on Dec. 18 and see the winners announced live on stage at The Oriental Theater. Vote here and get your tickets now! Paul quoted this Denver Post reporting on RTD's on-time performance, in which buses “lagged at 83%” as of July of 2025 (On-time performance for light rail recovered to 91% this year). Paul also discussed the Sports Castle and the Denver Summit FC stadium vote. We mentioned Atlantis ADAPT's lawsuit against RTD and multiple stories on Denver's homeless shelter contracts from Denverite's Kyle Harris. Bree talked about Westwood resident Norma Brambila. Joshua discussed a new Native community-focused housing and healthcare building. What do you think about the Hickenlooper vs. Gonzales race? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this December 12th episode: Denver Health Colfax Ave BID Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE, and she might answer in next week's segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

What gift do you get the Denverite who seems to have everything? Or your friend who suddenly became a minimalist and has, like, no material possessions? Fear not, the Mile High is filled with exciting and unique potential gifts — from newly released books from great local authors to quirky classes they can take! Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Olivia Jewell Love and content creator/political candidate Rayna Kingston to share recommendations for some of the best gifts you can find around Denver this holiday season. Help us hit the goal for our year-end membership drive! You'll get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. Enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm Vote for the finalists of the Denver-est Denver Awards! Your vote will determine the winners of Best Artist, Best Small Business, Biggest Win, and more. And don't forget to buy your ticket to the show on Dec. 18 and see the winners announced live on stage at The Oriental Theater. Vote here and get your tickets now! Where do you like to shop local for holiday gifts? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Rayna mentioned these thrifting accounts for bundled gifts: @thriftgirlieclub and @cherrypickedthreads_. Olivia mentioned some of the neurodivergent friendly programming happening at the Autism Community Store. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 11th episode: Denver Health Colfax Ave BID Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Creative takes on the classic martini, pickles on pizza, and … a hotly contested debate over the tipped minimum wage? It was an up and down year for Denverites looking for a good meal at a fair price. Westword food and drink editor Molly Martin returns to talk about all the hottest trends, most exciting new restaurants, biggest stories, and best bites of the year with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi. Help us hit the goal for our year-end membership drive! You'll get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. Enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm Vote for the finalists of the Denver-est Denver Awards! Your vote will determine the winners of Best Artist, Best Small Business, Biggest Win, and more. And don't forget to buy your ticket to the show on Dec. 18 and see the winners announced live on stage at The Oriental Theater. Vote here and get your tickets now! What was your best bite of the year? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Some of the great places we mentioned: Rougarou Boombots Semiprecious Fellow Traveler Molino Chido Malinche Audiobar Alteño Black Cat Restaurant Golden Banh Mi D'Corazon Los Socios Birreria Curtis Park Deli Odell's Chef's Counter Sushi by Scratch Kizaki Hop Alley Hong Kong Station Istanbul Cafe & Bakery Getright's Riot BBQ Pig and Tiger BearLeek Ma's Kitchen Nana's Dim Sum & Dumplings Paul mentioned the saga of Clever Girl and the record low amount of American adults who say they drink alcohol. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 10th episode: Denver Health Colfax Ave BID Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

State Sen. Julie Gonzales announced yesterday that she's challenging John Hickenlooper for his seat in the U.S. Senate, setting the stage for a very Denver Democratic primary next June. So, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about how this race reflects the broader divide within the Democratic Party, from Gonzales and Hickenlooper's respective policy achievements to their approaches to resisting President Trump. Plus, internal city documents reveal just how much influence a wealthy neighbor had over the change to DOTI's traffic calming plans for Alameda Avenue, and we respond to listener feedback on our interview with RTD CEO Debra Johnson. Bree mentioned the potential redesign of the cloverleaf interchange at Federal Boulevard and Colfax Avenue. Help us hit the goal for our year-end membership drive! You'll get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. Enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm Vote for the finalists of the Denver-est Denver Awards! Your vote will determine the winners of Best Artist, Best Small Business, Biggest Win, and more. And don't forget to buy your ticket to the show on Dec. 18 and see the winners announced live on stage at The Oriental Theater. Vote here and get your tickets now! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about Gonzales vs. Hickenlooper? Who will you vote for? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this December 9th episode: Denver Health Colfax Ave BID Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for up to 20% off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

‘Tis the season for holiday markets, ugly sweater parties, and pop-up bars aplenty — but what about the kids? Where do parents and caregivers take the little ones to have fun without breaking the bank? Last year, host Bree Davies sat down with fellow parents Linnea Covington, managing editor at DiningOut, and David Gilbert, writer and local history buff, to come up with a killer list of fun and affordable ways to keep kiddos entertained — from seasonal light displays to free visits with Santa and more. Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm Bree mentioned a video of the old, elaborate holiday displays at the long-demolished Buckingham Square in Aurora. What's your favorite thing to do with the fam over the holidays? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 There are plenty of things to do for adults, too! Check out our events calendar plus even more news from around the city by subscribing to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 8th episode: Denver Health Colfax Ave BID Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

State Sen. Faith Winter was killed in a car accident last week, and the internet is buzzing with heartfelt tributes, but also rumors about the circumstances and some really nasty speculation. So how should we make terms with her multifaceted legacy? Congressional candidate Melat Kiros joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about Faith Winter and alcohol at the Capitol. Plus, a new local startup wants to sell you a house for $5, a viral video is sparking heated conversations about refugees in Aurora, and the hottest fashion trend in China is “Colorado”? And as always, we wrap with our wins and fails of the week. Paul mentioned Troy Guard's new restaurant and his previous comments about Denver's restaurant scene, as well as a new exhibit at History Colorado and this New Yorker article about America's 250th anniversary in 2026. Bree talked about the federal funding cuts for housing, and a cool new building on Speer. What do you think about the new real estate sweepstakes? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this December 5th episode: Warren Village The People Park Colfax Ave BID Multipass Ballpark Denver Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE, and she might answer in next week's segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

We're celebrating all the Rocky Mountain highs and lows of the year by giving our the inaugural Denver-est Denver Awards! Join us on Dec. 18 for special celebrity guests, live music, comedy, and a formal awards presentation to the Best Artist of the Year, the Best Bar/Restaurant, the Biggest Win, and more. We received hundreds of heartfelt nominations and today on the podcast, host Bree Davies and producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love reveal the finalists for our six categories. Now it's up to you to vote for the winners! Who will you pick for the Denver-est Denverite of the Year? Vote for the finalists now! And get your tickets for the party on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think of the finalists? Tell us who you're voting for and why! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your message on the show: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed the sponsored segment conversation with Maya Osterman-Van Grack, the Executive Director of Programs for Mirror Image, and their Community Engagement Manager, Michael Board, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 4th episode: Women's Bean Project The People Park Colfax Ave BID Multipass Ballpark Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Denver's public transit agency RTD has had a rough couple of years. Almost a full year of track maintenance and slowdowns led to a nearly 20% decline in light rail ridership, but ridership across the network overall is down, too. With even more light rail maintenance expected in the next few years, RTD's budget is projected to hit multi-billion deficits in the early 2030s. So what's the plan to get back on track? And if the answer is more money, who will pay? RTD CEO and General Manager joins producer Paul Karolyi to discuss what she thinks the biggest problems are, her plan for the budget deficit, and what she does when her train is late. Paul referenced Nate Minor's reporting for CPR about the senior leaders who left RTD in recent years and quoted the emailed statement Johnson shared with the Denver Post for this recent story. Johnson quoted some recent data on ridership numbers and talked about RTD's new tap-to-pay technology. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think should be done to improve RTD? We want to hear from you! Would you pay higher sales taxes? Or would you prefer to pay more at parking meters? Or do you think RTD is going well enough as it is? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this December 3rd episode: Warren Village The People Park Colfax Ave BID Multipass Ballpark Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

A fleet of 600 drones is putting on a holiday light show every night over downtown Denver, but that's not the only big new idea Denverites have for downtown. Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the Museum of Ice Cream, giant TV screens, the latest developments for the Denver Pavilions, and more. Plus, a new report finds that Colorado is suffering from record high levels of shoplifting. But is it a crisis? And will lawmakers act? And finally, Edgewater is poised to modify their minimum wage rules, and Mayor Johnston is reportedly interested in doing the same in Denver. Can he convince City Council? What do you think is Denver's Word of the Year 2025? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 2nd episode: The Delores Project The People Park Colfax Ave BID Multipass Ballpark Denver Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for up to 20% off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

The days are getting short and the nights are getting long, but Denver is already feeling the holiday spirit. And we're back with our monthly guide to the best of Denver. That means we've got plenty of recs for how to make the most of your Mile High December, from a cozy greasy spoon cafe in Lakewood to a Christmas-y comedy show sure to make you bust a gut. If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. Also, check out Market in the Park-et's Sweater Fest this weekend! It's a great place to get started on your holiday shopping, and we're sponsoring the “Beautiful Sweater Contest” — Send us your pics! For even more tips on how to make the most of December in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver's take on what to do this month. If you enjoyed today's sponsored interview with Andy Cambron, the CEO of Multipass, learn more here. Check out their upcoming events below! Elf Yoga Krampus Konvention Holiday Tea-Family Experience The Fantastic Hosts' Family Extravaganza Learn more about the other sponsors of this December 1st episode: Warren Village The People Park Colfax Bid Multipass Ballpark Denver And we're also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise. Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our xoptions for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Join City Cast Denver host Bree Davies alongside fellow hosts from Austin, Chicago, DC, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Philly, Pittsburgh, Portland, Salt Lake, Seattle, and the Twin Cities for a special episode that'll help you knock out your holiday shopping early and support small businesses around the country. From a handlebar mount (and app!) that'll turn your phone into a bike cam, to a mustard-of-the-month subscription box, our hosts are here to tell the stories of local businesses in their cities making cool stuff that you can order online right now. Visit our website to find the full list of recommendations with links for holiday shopping! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 26th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off. AEG Presents Ballpark Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Are Denverites going to be talking politics at their Thanksgiving tables or chatting about more palatable topics like the gritty details of Blucifer's backside? Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to talk about Colorado Polling Institute's new poll on Coloradans' outlook on the economy, elected officials, and rise in political violence. Plus, we hear from listeners about the Winchell's Donuts in Longmont and wack people at the airport. Paul mentioned our interview with senator and gubernatorial candidate Michael Bennet and Bennet's housing platform. Bree mentioned our new video out with Dave Chung in the tunnels at DIA. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about the direction Colorado is going? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 25th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off.. AEG Presents Ballpark Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

The Denver metro area has two mayors named Mike who have made homelessness a top priority. Johnston, the Denver liberal, has pursued a “housing first” strategy as he attempts to end unsheltered homelessness in our city, but recently he's been branching out, including a proposal for $11 million to fund a new street ambassador program. Coffman, the Aurora conservative, just opened a new shelter with a support model that features a twist on his “work first” approach. Denverite's Kyle Harris has reported on both, and he's on today with host Bree Davies to compare and contrast. Be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards, presented by our friends at Denver Health! You're cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories! What do you think about the two Mayor Mikes and their divergent strategies? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this November 24th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off. AEG presents upcoming concerts at Red Rocks Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

The Democrats of Colorado are divided this week over a brewing scandal around a swanky “retreat” to a luxury hotel in Vail and who paid for it — a so-called dark money group called One Main Street. 9News anchor Kyle Clark joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about how the Dems are navigating a touchy ethics investigation. Plus, we talk through the viral video of a local food inspector pouring bleach on food at a taco stand and, of course, all our wins and fails of the week. Be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards, presented by our friends at Denver Health! You're cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories! We also discussed the recent fentanyl and meth busts. Paul talked about the Yates Theater project and the Sonnenalp Hotel in Vail. Kyle discussed Lauren Boebert and speed traps in Kersey. Bree mentioned Purnell Steen (who you can hear on this classic episode of the pod), Christmas lights at Civic Center, and the DOTI advisory committee. What do you think about the Dems' ethics scandal? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this November 20th episode: Simply Eloped Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

The Denver International Airport is famous all over the world for conspiracy theories and unsolved mysteries in the tunnels underground — and that's without even mentioning Blucifer! But Thanksgiving is coming up, and tens of thousands of holiday travelers really just need to get to their gate on time. So how does DIA make it all work? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking to YouTuber Dave Chung about our recent investigation behind the scenes at DIA and what we learned about how the infamous airport actually works. Follow Dave Chung on YouTube and check out the videos he made of our visit to DIA! Paul mentioned this petition circulating among airport workers calling for a dedicated security line. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about the role conspiracy theories play at DIA? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 20th episode: Simply Eloped Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

In a video that went viral on Monday, two people wearing City of Denver uniforms can be seen at a roadside taco stand dumping bleach into big jugs of agua frescas, radishes and pickled onions. The video attracted tens of thousands of likes, shares, and outraged comments. But what's the real story behind the shocking imagery? Host Bree Davies talks to Mario Martinez, who documents and promotes Denver's Mexican food scene on Instagram (now as @AnunciosDenver) and then Danica Lee, the longtime director of the Public Health Investigations Division of the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment. Danica asked that we share this recent video that her office made with basic food safety tips. Westword reported on the food safety regulations around al pastor a few years ago. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about the viral bleach video? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 19th episode: Simply Eloped Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

When it was first revealed that Denver was getting a new professional women's soccer team, many Denverites were thrilled! Including Mayor Mike Johnston, who has become Denver Summit FC's chief cheerleader. But he's been in hot water lately with city council, and now they're throwing the brakes on public subsidies he wants for a new soccer stadium. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi have been following the project, and they're breaking down all the latest twists and turns. Plus, some listener questions on bike lanes and Colorado's claims to food fame; and, when is it going to snow already? What do you think about the stadium politics? Should council put up the money? Or should Denver risk losing the NWSL franchise to Lone Tree or Centennial? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards, presented by our friends at Denver Health! You're cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this November 18th episode: Simply Eloped Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Health Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Earlier this month Denver voters approved the Vibrant Denver bond, saying yes to some ambitious city projects -- like the Denver American Indian Cultural Embassy, which will be built in Montbello. City council also recently approved a study to look at potentially widening Peña Boulevard and Mayor Johnston and Denver International Airport CEO Phil Washington announced plans to look at bringing nuclear power to the airport. These projects are going down in Councilwoman Stacie Gilmore's District 11, and she's got a lot to say about it. Gilmore joins host Bree Davies to dig into these city plans, plus share why she thinks the mayor's layoffs are having lasting effects on the trust those workers put into local government. Bree mentioned a recent episode we aired about AI Data Centers, and the Denver Post editorial board's comments on Gilmore and the city layoffs. Oh, and be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards, presented by our friends at Denver Health! You're cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 17th episode: Simply Eloped Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Colorado has some of the highest car insurance rates in the country. Governor Polis has promised to address the issue by installing more cameras at intersections and increasing sobriety checkpoints — but the biggest contributing factor to high premiums? The weather. Then, the Colorado Business Committee For the Arts released a study exploring the economic impacts of the state's cultural sector. But what does a $3.1 billion dollar impact say about the state of Denver's working artists? Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love are joined by artist and educator R. Alan Brooks to dig into the high costs of car ownership, the economics of art, a potential win for Lauren Boebert, DougCo's last attempt at a trans student athlete ban, and more wins and fails of the week. There are still a few seats left to catch R. Alan Brooks' film premiere, “Always, Most of the Time,” at the Lighthouse Writers Workshop tonight! Bree talked about her Uncle Ed's art show tonight at CORE Art Space and Re:Vision firing unionized promotoras. Olivia mentioned the Douglas County School Board's final attempts at banning trans student athletes and Representative Lauren Boebert's demands to release the Epstein files. Alan discussed the ongoing Colfax BRT road construction woes. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this November 13th episode: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Botanic Gardens Curious Theatre Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

On November 9, Pete's University Park Cafe served up its last heaping plates of chicken fried steak and souvlaki and eggs, marking the end for yet another beloved diner. With its closure, Denver not only lost an affordable eatery, but a gathering place and community space that served the Mile High for 30 years. So, what is Denver without its diners? Last year host Bree Davies sat down with her friend, poet and educator Suzi Q. Smith, to talk about these losses and discuss the deep feelings Suzi explores in her Denverse Magazine essay “Toast World: Where Have All the Diners Gone?” Oh, and be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards, presented by our friends at Denver Health! You're cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed the interview with Dr. Eric Doringer from Blue Sky CBD, learn more here. Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER to receive 30% off. Learn more about the sponsors of this November 13 episode: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Botanic Gardens Curious Theatre Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/

This off-year election saw big wins for democrats across the country, including in Aurora. Most notably, GOP rabble rouser Danielle Jurinsky lost her at-large seat as Aurora city council moved more to the left with the 7-4 conservative majority becoming a 6-4 progressive majority. But Aurora Sentinel editor and publisher Dave Perry says the political picture of Colorado's third largest city is more nuanced than just this recent swing. He joins host Bree Davies to dig into what he's seen in his 30 years covering the state's most diverse municipality, and what it means for Aurora to have a now left-leaning council and a lifelong republican for mayor. Bree and Dave discussed his piece on Jurinsky's ouster and Aurora's “council chaos and felony weirdness”, along with unseated council member Steve Sundberg's sexual harassment allegations and the racist commercials he made for his sports bar. Oh, and be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards! You're cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 12th episode: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Botanic Gardens Curious Theatre Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/

As the government shutdown rolls on, the Federal Aviation Administration has instructed airports across the country to cut hundreds of flights to help with staffing shortages. Denver International Airport, however, is trying something unique to support the air traffic controllers and TSA agents working without pay. Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love look into this novel approach, plus discuss the proposed infrastructure improvements along Alameda that some neighbors in West Wash Park put the brakes on, and respond to a listener's thoughts on our ownership of green chile. Bree talked about crossing guard Amy Kenreich and her celebrity crossing guard day. She also mentioned our show with Dan Pashman from The Sporkful on Denver's claims to food fame; you can hear producer Paul Karolyi's episode of The Sporkful on Colorado-Style Pizza. Oh, and be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards! You're cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors can expect a discount code in the inbox later today, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Botanic Gardens Curious Theatre Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Yes, we Denverites love our green chile, but that fiery green-ish, orange-ish stew is hardly known at all in the rest of the country. Instead, we're known for things like the Denver omelet and, oddly, the cheeseburger. So it's time to set the record straight. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi invited the host of the James Beard Award-winning podcast The Sporkful, Dan Pashman, to talk through some of Colorado's greatest claims to food fame (and some we wish we could forget). Go follow The Sporkful wherever you get your podcasts to hear the episode Paul produced about his six-year quest to uncover the truth of “Colorado-style pizza,” and check out Dan's Instagram to see him taste-test Beau Jo's for the first time. What do you think is Colorado's greatest claim to food fame? Is there anything we left out? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this November 10th episode: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Botanic Gardens Curious Theatre Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Democrats celebrated victories across the country on Tuesday, but the story of the election here in Denver is a little more complicated. So now that the dust has settled, what do the results tell us about how Denverites are feeling about the big questions facing our city — affordability, density, safety, crime? Content creator and House District 5 candidate Rayna Kingston (aka, @raynakingdenver) joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the big picture. Plus, Denver's fastest growing company, Palantir, is moving from downtown to Cherry Creek, but their new HQ has already been vandalized? And as always, our wins and fails of the week. Presenting… The Denver-est Denver Awards! You're cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors can expect a discount code in the inbox later today, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories right now! Paul talked about influencer payola, Clerk and Recorder Paul López, our past episode on why Palantir moved to Denver, and Mondoweiss' interview with a local anti-Palantir activist. Bree mentioned the failed effort to form a GID in Cherry Creek, the Chili's on South Monaco, and Aurora city councilmember Danielle Jurinsky. What do you think Palantir moving to Cherry Creek? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this November 7th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off. Denver Film Multipass Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE, and she might answer in next week's segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Twenty years ago, the big question facing the industrial area along the South Platte River north of downtown was what to call it. Now, as many lifelong Denverites are still getting used to “RiNo,” the city's most famous arts district is at another inflection point. The artists who made the area cool are mostly gone, and the business owners have been disagreeing over the future. So as the RiNo Art District is celebrating its 20th anniversary this weekend, host Bree Davies sits down with the organization's new executive director, Daisy Fodness-McGowan, to swap stories of warehouse raves in the 90s and talk about the future of art in RiNo. What do you think about RiNo's new direction? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm If you enjoyed the interview with Dr. Eric Doringer from Blue Sky CBD, learn more here. Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER to receive 30% off. Learn more about the sponsors of this November 6th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER to receive 30% off. Denver Film Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Mayor Mike Johnston celebrated victory on Tuesday night as Denver voters approved his Vibrant Denver bond proposal by wide margins. But not everyone was smiling as the results rolled in. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi break down the numbers from election night — from the flavored tobacco ban to city council at-large election reform — and talk about what it says about where Denver is headed. Plus, we take a look at some surprising results from across the metro area and the country. What do you think about the results of the election? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this November 5th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off. Denver Film Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

It's election day! Last-minute voters are mulling over the mayor's Vibrant Denver bond proposal, the flavored tobacco ban, and more — but where are they getting their information on these important issues? Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about politics influencers and the changing norms on social media, including an interesting post about our interview with gubernatorial hopeful Senator Michael Bennet. Plus, we discuss the potential $50 million remodel of Civic Center Park and Patty answers our new favorite question: If Denver was a house… We talked about this post from Sen. Michael Bennet on X.com featuring a clip from our interview with him last week, and Bennet's recently announced opposition to the Nexstar/TEGNA merger. We also discussed Denverite's coverage of the influencers being paid to promote the Vibrant Denver bond. Patty plugged her event at the Denver Press Club this Thursday: “Consider the Alternative: Open Mic. What do you think about construction? Is it a sign of progress or a nuisance we should postpone? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this November 4th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off. Denver Film Multipass Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

We're deep in the swing of the fall season, and it's chilly! November is lovely month in the Mile High City — a time to enjoy seasonal holiday markets, deliciously warm and savory meals, and special gatherings that give back. From food recs to mountain getaways, we've rounded up a killer list of the best ways to enjoy Denver and beyond this November. Be sure to check out JD's live show, Comedy Killed the Video Star, November 21 at Mutiny Information Cafe and our list of ways to support food access organizations across the city. Paul talked about the podcast he co-hosts with our guest JD Lopez, “Hold on to Your Butts: A Podcast About the Great Franchises That Uhhhh Lost Their Way.” Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm/ If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. For even more tips on how to make the most of October in Denver, we'll have even more tips and suggestions in our newsletter Hey Denver later this week. If you enjoyed today's interview with Andy Cambron, the CEO of Multipass, learn more here. and check our their shows below: Seuss Mace on 11/07 Intemat Basement on 11/07 Bone Thugs N Harmony on 5/22 Learn more about the other sponsors of this November 3rd episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off. Denver Film Multipass And we're also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Earlier this week, host Bree Davies sat down with BoardHawk podcast co-host Alexis Menocal-Harrigan to talk through the Denver Public Schools' Board Races. We heard from listeners aligned with the Denver Teachers Classroom Association that they felt the episode was unfair to their candidates. So, we invited DCTA president Rob Gould on to share his perspective on the same issues: The four school board seats up for grabs, how Superintendent Alex Marrero is doing, and why so many out-of-state donors are interested in the DPS board. Rob discussed the debate around at-large candidate Amy Klein Molk's comments on AI. For details, Chalkbeat reported on the controversy. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about the DPS board races? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

More than ever, Denverites are divided on the issue of surveillance. As lawyers hammer out the details of the city's deal with the surveillance startup Flock, criticism of Mayor Johnston's position and approach is only growing, especially after his comments on Flock's role in the cases of Jax Gratton and reports of a Bow Mar woman wrongly accused of theft. Political activist Adrian Felix joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to debate the issue and speculate about the future. Plus, some LGBTQ businesses were vandalized just as Denver was passed up in its bid to host the 2030 Gay Games — is the Mile High City becoming less hospitable to the queer community? And of course, our wins and fails of the week. Bree discussed the family detained by ICE in Durango, high voter turnout, and Rainbow Dome‘s Deadlifts at the Dome. Paul talked about the performers strike at Casa Bonita, the Halo 3 mural at the Game Stop on Colorado Boulevard, and where you can find local Flock cameras. A celebration of life for Jax Gratton is happening this Saturday at The Pearl. What do you think about the future of Flock in Denver? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this October 31st episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Film Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE, and she might answer in next week's segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Education is on the ballot this year. Voters statewide are looking at propositions LL and MM concerning funding for school lunch programs. In Denver, 11 candidates are vying for four open DPS board seats, and some of those races are getting spicy. DPS Parent and BoardHawk podcast co-host Alexis Menocal-Harrigan has been interviewing the contenders for those open board seats and she joins host Bree Davies to dig into the details. She also gives insight into how state budget shortfalls are impacting students, why the teachers unions vs. reformers narrative is old news, and who these board candidates are. After we recorded, Alexis told us she misspoke about DJ Torres' fellowship with Denver Families. His fellowship came with a $5,000 award, not $1,000. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm How are you voting on the school board races? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this October 30th episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Film Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Ballots are arriving ahead of the November 4 election, and Denverites are weighing Mayor Mike Johnston's big proposal of the year — the “Vibrant Denver” bond. It would represent almost $1 billion in new debt to fund infrastructure projects across the city, but will voters see a future of possibilities? Or will they swayed by the mayor's growing chorus of critics? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with Mayor Johnston to talk about the recent outrage over his extension of Flock surveillance contracts, his handling of the budget, and why he bought the Denver Pavilions mall on 16th Street. Paul referenced our interview with Fire Department Chief Desmond Fulton, “Why Firefighters Are Getting Raises When the City Is Doing Layoffs.” The mayor said that his proposed budgets for the fire and police departments were “mostly flat, but according to Axios Denver the mayor's proposed police budget for 2026 is up 2% to $281 million and according to our reporting his proposed fire budget is up about 1%, or $1.2 million, to $158,081,466. The mayor mentioned a police officer who was shot protecting a migrant shelter. Per Paul's question about the criteria the mayor gave to Flock for any contract extension, the mayor's office shared this press release because the contract itself is still being reviewed by the city's attorneys. What do you think about the mayor's defense of his contracts with Flock? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this October 29th episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Film Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

News broke last week that NBA Hall of Famer and “King of Park Hill” Chauncey Billups was allegedly involved in a multi-million dollar mafia-run poker scheme and potentially sharing insider information on NBA games that he was coaching. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into the downfall of this hometown hero and if it could change the way Denverites feel about sports betting. Then, they discuss Wynkoop's car-free trial period and hear from listeners about the STAR program, gubernatorial frontrunner and Senator Michael Bennet, and shooting police drones out of the sky. Bree mentioned a piece from The Athletic about Chauncey Billups and our past interview with Carleigh Sailon, a clinician who helped launch Denver's STAR Program. We also talked about our Monday interview with Senator Michael Bennet. If Denver was a house, Union Station would be the living room. But what would be the mudroom? Or the bathroom? Or the backyard? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm If you enjoyed the interview with Dr. Eric Dorninger from Blue Sky CBD, learn more here. Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off. Learn more about the sponsors of this October 28th episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Film Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sen. Michael Bennet got fired up when he questioned HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy about vaccines recently. Turns out, he also gets fired up talking about the cost of living with us. Colorado's senior senator returns to the podcast today as the leading candidate to replace Jared Polis as governor. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi talk to Bennet about how his approach to housing density would differ from Polis', whether or not he supports retaliatory congressional redistricting to send more Democrats to DC, and if he would have signed three big bills Polis vetoed — rideshare sexual assault, the Workers Protection Act, and banning rent algorithms. Paul recently spoke with Governor Jared Polis about housing affordability. We also referenced attorney general and gubernatorial candidate Phil Weiser's latest interview with Kyle Clark on 9News, in which he discussed retaliatory redistricting. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this October 27th episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Film Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

In a shocking and ironic revelation, CBS revealed this week that the Denver Post owes the City of Denver around $2 million in unpaid rent on its lease in the Denver Post building at Colfax and Broadway. So, how will that affect the mayor's budget negotiations and the $200 million shortfall the city is dealing with? Then, unnamed business owners told the Denver Gazette that bicycle activists had been terrorizing them both in person and online, but who are these anonymous voices? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dig into the City of Denver's landlord headache, more bicycle drama, Flock surveillance, and wins and fails of the week. Bree talked about her interview with Clerk and Recorder Paul López, DoBetterDNVR's post about Harm Reduction Action Center, and the Buntport Theater. Paul mentioned the Chauncey Billups' indictment and photographer Drew Kartos' reflections on the ‘No Kings' viral moment. Justine discussed the latest drama with Raíces Brewing and the Broncos epic win. What do want us to ask Mayor Johnston? We're sitting down with Mayor Mike soon and we want to hear what questions you have for him! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver or TikTok City Cast Denver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this October 24 episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Health Denver Film Elizabeth Martinez with Compass Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE, and she might answer in next week's segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise