Colorado Matters

Although she's been a theater actress for most of her life, Jenna Bainbridge never envisioned herself performing on the grandest of stages -- Broadway. The issue wasn't one of talent or confidence, but rather, accessibility. Partially paralyzed as a child, Bainbridge didn't think she'd find the accommodations necessary for her to live and work in New York. However she's now performing on Broadway in the long-running hit, Wicked.

Rural life often means being exposed to the sun. With it: the risk of skin cancer. But dermatologists can be hard to come by in the country. At least one practice, though, is making investments in small towns. Then, Colorado has taken some costly hits from the Trump Administration in recent months. It might seem punitive, but the growing number has others seeing a pattern. Also, as a store close to her heart changes hands, Kali Fajardo-Anstine, bestselling author of "Woman of Light" and "Sabrina and Corina," provides an ode to the independent bookstore. And, meet our new CPR Classical host, Monique Brooks Roberts. 

Public transit touches nearly every corner of life in Colorado, from how people get to work to how our region grows. But the state's largest transit agency is facing big questions from riders, workers, and lawmakers about reliability, safety and trust. CPR's Haylee May spoke with RTD CEO and GM Debra Johnson. Then, amid DEI backlash, a statewide coalition is working to share the stories of diverse communities here, starting with working to ensure the media outlets they support, stick around. We speak with Brittany Winkfield, the executive director of the Colorado Ethnic Media Exchange. 

This legislative session is the swan song for Colorado's outgoing governor, Jared Polis. He still has a lot on his "to do" list, but policy clashes within his own party could create some challenges. We explore that today with Purplish. Then, a researcher at the Colorado School of Mines has developed a new way to treat deep wounds, and that could just be the beginning for its use. Also, what Colorado's two largest cities are doing to send a message to ICE. Plus, we answer a Colorado Wonders question about the impact of moose on our state. 

You can't go home again, as the saying goes. But Denver author Josiah Hesse did. He returned to Mason City, Iowa — with a journalistic lens— to better understand his evangelical upbringing, and the social and economic forces that shaped it. We spoke in front of an audience at the Denver Press Club for the release of "On Fire for God: Fear, Shame, Poverty, and the Making of the Christian Right – a Personal History." 

Colorado now has a plan to reintroduce wolverines to the state, but meantime, the reintroduction of wolves is on hold for now. Then, cannabis businesses are still waiting for the executive order to reclassify marijuana to take effect. Also, a milestone for the survival rate for all types of cancer combined. We re-visiting Southern Colorado's "Gathering Place" and celebrate a pop culture moment with DeVotchKa. 

An arctic blast is moving into Colorado after months of record warmth; we talk about the impact with Denver7 chief meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo. Then, a survivor of childhood polio shares her story in the face of changing vaccine guidelines. Plus, former Denver Bronco Ryan Harris is back as the team prepares for the AFC championship game without its starting quarterback. And the Local 303 shares new music from Colorado artists for the new year! 

Teachers in Colorado are chronically tired, underpaid, and leaving the classroom in record numbers. A new report from the Colorado Education Association shows the situation is more complicated now because of directives handed down by the Trump administration and new conditions in the classroom. Then, how climate change is shaping some students in Boulder. Plus, as the New Year starts, rethinking sustainability through the clothes we buy. Also, cattle ranchers navigate the hard realities of supply and demand at the Stock Show. Later, restoring the Governor's office to its original grandeur, a chance to get organized, and creating tactile photography. 

Spirituals are rooted in a history of pain and hope. Today, Colorado Matters presents an encore episode: "Journey to Freedom" with the Spirituals Project Choir based at the University of Denver's Lamont School of Music. Our colleagues at CPR Classical spent 2022 sharing spirituals chosen by the choir's director, M. Roger Holland II. The collaboration culminated in a special event at DU's Newman Center. A spiritual singalong with the theme of building community, music that continues to resonate today. 

In his final year as governor, Jared Polis says he wants to "lean into the value of mercy" -- would that apply to jailed former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters? We sat down with Polis after his State of the State address to discuss that as well as housing, healthcare, coal, and why Polis hasn't read the Epstein Files. Then, why the Broncos just might pull off what they failed to do last post-season Saturday against Buffalo. And, rodeo as...diplomacy? Ahead of Canada night at The Stock Show, we speak with a bull fighter-turned-producer from Alberta. 

Former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters gets her proverbial day in the Colorado Court of Appeals. We'll break down the oral arguments and what happens now. Then, Denver's annual Marade marks a milestone this year, and organizers say Dr. King would see it as a fitting tribute. How the event to honor the late Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. came to be, how it got its unique name, and what it took to make it a state, and ultimately federal, holiday. Plus, how AI is helping train Colorado teachers and how students are using it in the classroom. 

One year into President Donald Trump's second term, he continues to break democratic norms. In our series, "If You Can Keep It," University of Denver political scientist Seth Masket provides context as the president intensifies his punishment of Colorado. Plus, Mary Jane turns 50! Also, a Denver man finds hope with a new program to help break the cycle of addiction. And a food bank café takes an innovative approach to hunger and nutrition in Grand Junction. 

It's a common New Year's resolution to start exercising, but after a few weeks, it's easy to lose motivation and fall back into old habits. A fitness expert has ideas on how to get active at any age. Plus, we share another "Portrait in Aging" featuring people in the state's fastest growing population: those 65 and older. Today, the story of 71-year-old Lucy Guo of Denver. Also, the challenge of storage for Colorado law enforcement as evidence goes digital. Then, our discussion continues about how Evangelical Christianity has shaped Colorado Springs and beyond with historian William Schultz, author of "Jesus Springs." And Colorado Wonders, who comes up with the clever messages on E-470's smart signs?

We run down state lawmakers' "to-do" list as they head back to the Capitol this week, with Purplish. Then, the author of the new book, "Jesus Springs" on how evangelical Christianity shaped Colorado's second-biggest city. Plus, join Ryan live and in-person for "On Fire For God" Friday at the Denver Press Club. Also, tempting tastes in the Pikes Peak region with "Side Dish." And we hop on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe. 

Tina Peters is back in court next week as her lawyers try to free her from prison. Unless and until that happens, Colorado may continue to feel the Trump Administration's wrath. Then, after a history of oil booms and busts -- and its most recent collapse, an expert at DU on what comes next for Venezuela. Also, could Denver experience a wildfire? Denverite talks with concerned residents. Plus, an idea that never came to pass: Why can't you check your bags at Denver Union Station when you take the train to the airport? And Colorado Wonders about those funny, punny electronic road signs. 

Women have helped in wartime since the nation's founding, but they've only been allowed to serve in combat for the last 10 years. Today, a call to review the military's physical fitness standards could lead to fewer women on the frontlines. We look at the changing role of women in the US military. Then, when you hear the word “prepper,” you might picture someone stockpiling supplies for doomsday. But disaster preparedness looks a lot different. Also, Dry January doesn't have to mean white-knuckling your way through happy hour. And, Colorado Wonders about those mysterious-looking large domes that are often found along highways while driving the Western Slope. 

The flu picture ain't pretty in Colorado, with numbers and hospitalizations spiking skyward. But we're going to look at it anyhow with Dr. Ken Lyn-Kew, a critical care pulmonologist at National Jewish Health in Denver. Then, they were some of the first black law students at CU, but their names had been lost to history. A trip to the law library sheds some light. Also, local companies, from Denver to Creede, produce plenty of top-notch theater -- that's the focus of a new series, which we raise the curtain on today, with Colorado Springs actor Anne Terze-Schwarz in the spotlight. 

The fastest growing population in Colorado is people 65 and older. But we all age differently; today we hear about misperceptions and opportunities from everyday Coloradans who are part of the state's fastest-growing group, people ages 65 and older. Their personal reflections are featured in a sub-series of our ongoing Aging Matters series, called "Portraits in Aging." Host Chandra Thomas Whitfield takes a closer look at what life is like for older adults across Colorado, exploring how they are living, aging and thriving at this stage of life in their own words. 

Images of overrun apartment buildings in Colorado -- and severed fingers -- landed in the president's Venezuela speech over the weekend, part of Donald Trump's justification for his actions in Venezuela. Justice reporter Allison Sherry provides some context. Then, Colorado had to try hard to become a state. It took five attempts over two decades. In time for this year's sesquicentennial, History Colorado lays out the saga. Also, four generations of the Gresham family have weathered blizzards, drought and long nights in the calving barn -- all on the same land for more than a century. The Gresham Farm was recently named a Centennial Farm. And, Ski Mountaineering is new at this year's Olympics. The games take place in February in Italy. Crested Butte's Cam Smith will be there. 

The legacy of Cherry Creek is rooted in Black history and it played a pivotal role shaping Denver into the city that it is today. Chandra Thomas Whitfield moderated a panel discussion called "Legacy of Cherry Creek: Growing Up Black in Denver's Transforming Neighborhood" in front of an audience this past spring. It was hosted by Arapahoe Libraries to reflect and share the personal stories of four life-long Colorado residents whose families called Cherry Creek home, and some who still do: Former Denver County Judge Gary Jackson; his uncle, Warren Scott, a retired U.S. Post Office Manager; Trudi Morrison, a retired lawyer and former Deputy Sergeant at Arms of the U.S. Senate; and Cleo Parker Robinson, the renowned founder and artistic director of Cleo Parker Robinson Dance in Denver. 

On the first day of the year, a conversation about fresh starts.  Forgiveness is the focus of Kristin Koval's riveting novel, "Penitence." We spoke at Lit Fest last Spring. Then, a final reflection on 2025 with a hall of fame moment for rock legend Joe Cocker who found happiness living in Colorado. 

As 2025 draws to a close, we revisit the stories of four people who now call Colorado home. They have a common bond: They all survived the American tragedy known as Hurricane Katrina, which devastated New Orleans 20 years ago and remains one of the deadliest and most destructive hurricanes in U.S. history. They share their journey from Louisiana to Colorado and how it forever shaped their lives, in a Colorado Matters special: "After the Storm: Reflections on Hurricane Katrina." 

There's promising new research out of Colorado in the effort to treat Alzheimer's disease. The study focused on the drug Leukine, which is already on the market to treat other disorders. Andrea speaks with the study's senior author, Huntington Potter, who directs the University of Colorado Alzheimer's and Cognition Center. Then, another study shows how lifestyle can help prevent memory loss. Also, the city of Denver won't meet its first big climate goals. We ask the mayor why the city is falling short, and about the plan moving forward. 

The expansion of gambling in Colorado means added temptations for problem gamblers. It's led the state to invest millions of dollars to treat gambling addictions. We look at the changes to gambling in Colorado and talk with a therapist and a Denver man in recovery. Then, he dedicated his career to treating patients with lung cancer and never expected that one day, he too would be diagnosed with the same disease. Dr. Ross Camidge shared his story with Andrea in October. 

This is the first day of Kwanzaa, a celebration of African American culture and heritage along with seven guiding principles, such as unity, purpose, and self-determination. Light the kinara with us as we share some of our favorite Kwanzaa memories from our annual Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganzas! Plus, my conversation from August with Denver musical artist Such, whose passion to help others has been a guiding principle in her life. 

A CPR tradition turns 10 this year. The Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza returns with bluegrass, mariachi, comedy and storytime. And as always, we pay homage to Judy Garland. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or simply value togetherness, this audio gift is for you! 

We're counting down to the 10th annual Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza with some of our favorite musical artists over the past decade. Like Hazel Miller and Claire Dunn. Plus a centuries-old classic played on a massive pipe organ inside the historic Central Presbyterian Church in Denver. 

Laughter is fundamental to the holidays. After all, "Ho Ho Ho" is one of Santa's favorite expressions. Which is why comedians have always had a place in our annual Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza. As we celebrate ten years, we've assembled those acts for a special filled with good cheer and memories. 

In the darkness of winter, a celebration comes along to lighten homes, and moods. And in that bright space, enjoy music and conversation about Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights, compiled from our previous Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganzas.  

A CPR tradition turns 10 this year. The Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza returns with bluegrass, mariachi, comedy and storytime. And as always, we pay homage to Judy Garland. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or simply value togetherness, this audio gift is for you! 

Today, Colorado musicians pay homage to Judy Garland, who inspired our annual Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza. The CPR tradition began after Sr. Host Ryan Warner watched Garland's 1963 Christmas special. Enjoy covers by Isaac Slade, Neyla Pekarek, Beth Malone, and Ryan himself (cringe). 

A scary puzzle comes together today: We've had the warm piece, the dry piece, and now wind. We also ask Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo about the chances for a white Christmas. Plus, Colorado ski resorts rely on human-made snow. Also, women sue a dating app company for allegedly enabling a rapist. Later, Colorado's state historian on the sesquicentennial. And new holiday music from Denver pianist Annie Booth, with a nod to Charlie Brown. 

In this Aging Matters special, if you have an older person in your life, or you're just stumped in general about what to give a loved one this holiday season, have you considered the gift of time? Then, how to avoid scams that are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Later, when it comes to downsizing, how do you get rid of decades of stuff? Plus, "Love for our Elders" relieves loneliness through letter writing. 

Colorado is in the top ten states for the most expensive homeowners' insurance, thanks to wildfires and hail. Purplish looks at what can be done to bring the cost down. Then, President Trump says he's pardoned Tina Peters, even though he lacks the jurisdiction to do so; we'll discuss the reasoning and what happens next. Plus some Colorado ranchers are frustrated with federal policy. Then, why are so many people in China wearing hats that say Colorado? And Farmer Dave helps us celebrate Hanukkah with a song in Ladino. 

The effort to extend the tax credit for the Affordable Care Act stalls in Congress, so what's next? Then, President Trump claims he pardoned Tina Peters despite lacking jurisdiction; we revisit the state crimes she was convicted of, and why the prosecutor says it wasn't political. Plus, a new exhibit at the Denver Art Museum features works exclusively by veterans. Also, Longmont author Ingrid Law shares her new book with kids at the Denver Public Library. And the Local 303 for December highlights "high energy emo revival."

As the federal government rolls back vaccination recommendations, where does that leave Coloradans, especially the parents of young children? We hear from a pediatrician and the state epidemiologist, who are working to address confusion -- and provide clarity. Then, art, as a form of healing and rehabilitation. Plus, a local grassroots non-profit celebrates 20 years working to keep Africa on the minds of Coloradans. And it's a Colorado Music Hall of Fame moment for Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats. 

Movement is key to life— for people and wildlife. But the way humans live can impede other species. Ryan speaks with Boulder science reporter Hillary Rosner, of CU, whose new book is "Roam: Wild Animals and the Race to Repair Our Fractured World." 

The Colorado Women's Hall of Fame marks its 40th anniversary this year, and today we're commemorating this milestone, talking with three remarkable inductees who've shaped Colorado through activism, engineering, community building and fierce advocacy. Velveta Golightly Howell is the founder and CEO of Sister-to-Sister, an international network of professional African American women. Jill Tietjen is an electrical engineer, author and former president of the Society of Women Engineers. And Dusti Gurule is president and CEO of the Colorado Organization for Latina Opportunity and Reproductive Rights. 

The story of the tent-like roof at Denver International Airport begins with two architects in a downtown Denver bar. One of the architects, Jim Bradburn, recently died just as the airport turned 30. Today, we hear behind the scenes stories from his collaborator, Curt Fentress. Then, US United hopes to change the culture of divisiveness ahead of National Unity Day on Saturday. Plus, books to enjoy this holiday season, or to give as gifts. And Colorado centenarian Howard Berger celebrates 102! 

Our series continues about unprecedented politics, named for the famous Benjamin Franklin line in 1787: "A republic, if you can keep it." University of Denver political scientist Seth Masket provides historic context. Then, it takes a lot of work to keep Mustang standing strong outside DIA. Also, tech firm Ibotta makes a 10-year commitment to downtown Denver, which other businesses have fled. And the family stories behind Denver's Little Saigon at History Colorado Center. 

Protecting children from the harmful side of social media has been a years-long fight, but Congress may finally be taking action. Today we hear about one mother's determination to bring change in memory of her daughter. Meanwhile, experts will offer research assistance to state legislators next session. Then, they followed the rules set up by the federal government, but still face deportation. It's just one development in the immigration debate affecting thousands of people in Colorado. And, he's the only Colorado native to play in the Negro Baseball League. Now, a century later he finally gets his due. 

For most state jobs, you don't need a college degree. It's the skills that matter. Governor Jared Polis has championed this change in the private sector, as well. Reporter Lawrence Lanahan writes about this trend in a piece titled, “No college degree, no problem? Not so fast!” Then, comedian Tig Notaro remembers Colorado's late poet laureate Andrea Gibson with the new film, "Come See Me in the Good Light." Also, a mother and daughter from Colorado reconnect with their family's World War II legacy in Italy. Plus, pairing wine and solar on the Western Slope.