Colorado Matters

When your life changes in a big way or uproots you to a new place, how do you find a new sense of belonging? That's the premise of “Voices Unbound: A Conversation on Identity and Belonging.” Four people — from different places and who've lived very different lives — connected with one another to discuss topics like heritage, displacement, assimilation and the desire to belong. 

There was a time, in the early 1900s, when it was widely believed there was life on Mars, and they'd engineered canals to bring water from the poles to cities. There were skeptics, but it's hard to overstate how ingrained this idea of Martian life became. Former NPR science correspondent David Baron, of Boulder, has written, “The Martians: The True Story of an Alien Craze that Captured Turn-of-the-Century America." It was recently named a Colorado Book Award finalist in the history category; Ryan will deliver the keynote at the awards ceremony on September 26, 2026 at the Tivoli in Denver. Baron spoke with Ryan last summer in front of an audience in Colorado Springs, where some of the story unfolds. 

The general election is coming fast, and, today, Colorado Matters kicks off our signature interviews with candidates. We begin with the candidates who want to run your elections and register your businesses -- the contenders for Secretary of State. Republican James Wiley envisions a return to in-person voting, on election day. He'd make vote-by-mail the exception. Democrat Amanda Gonzalez, meanwhile, is focused on maintaining what she believes is a solid system. 

Dementia and caregiving are at the center of the new one-woman show called “No Contract." It opens Thursday at the Dairy Arts Center in Boulder. Playwright and performer Kirsten Wilson spoke with Andrea Dukakis about the deep bond she has with her mother and how their relationship evolved as her mother developed dementia. Then, betting on table tennis generates near a million dollars everyday in Colorado. Ben Markus explains why that's raising concerns about gambling addiction. And a century-old venue in Colorado Springs is brought back from the brink. 

He embedded with the Broncos; today, what ESPN's Seth Wickersham learned about Sean Payton and how it could impact the new season. Then, climate change will force lifestyle and cultural change, says Alan Salazar, the head of Denver Water. Plus, Michelin awards a Denver restaurant with a coveted star while recognizing restaurants in other parts of the state for the first time. 

We visit "Remember the Love: Resilience After 9/11" on the 25th anniversary of the attacks. The exhibition features images from FEMA photographers Michael Rieger and Jim Chesnutt. Before it was safe for the news media to enter ground zero, a Colorado-based team brought the world some of the first images of the aftermath. The show runs through September 27th at the CU Denver Experience Gallery. 

Pixar's "Inside Out" inspired a Colorado psychologist to create "InsideU" to help children understand and navigate emotions. Then, the future of the Colorado River may end up before the Supreme Court, and ongoing water worries after wildfire in the town of Beulah. Later, 14-year-old Jeremiah Daniels will see himself on the jumbotron in Times Square for a National Down Syndrome Society event Saturday. We catch up with the Aurora teen and his parents about representation and inclusion. And a world premiere for the Colorado Children's Chorale at Carnegie Hall! 

Denver and Paonia author Peter Heller says he's often been moved to tears seeing his 2012 novel “The Dog Stars” turned into a major motion picture. Jacob Elordi stars and Ridley Scott directed. Heller discusses the ‘transmogrification” with Ryan Warner at the Denver Press Club. 

Colorado's joined another lawsuit against the Trump Administration, this time over gender affirming care for children. Then, a proposed Buc-ee's along I-25 at Monument Hill is moving forward after months of debate. We'll get context on what's next and how it got to this point with Purplish. Plus, a Colorado Wonders question about potatoes grown in the San Luis Valley. 

We mean business today. First, the airline business. Scott Kirby, the CEO of United, Colorado's largest carrier, sits down Ryan Warner to talk about the carrier's growth here, where airfares are headed, greener aviation fuel, and AI. But as United expands in Denver, why are other companies leaving downtown? J.J. Ament, the president of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, lays out problems, and possible solutions.

Caring for an aging loved one can be one of life's greatest honors, and one of its toughest challenges too. Close to a million people in Colorado are caregiving every day. In a special Aging Matters on Colorado Matters, we get a reality check on caregiving in Colorado, from who's doing it to ways to make it easier, and the joy that comes with it too.Chandra Thomas Whitfield leads a panel discussion at the Highlands Ranch Senior Center that features Kristine Burrows, Colorado's senior specialist on aging; Sara Schueneman, director of AARP Colorado; Cameron Crawford, a caregiver and owner of Next Step Senior Placement; and Gerri Gomez Howard, a caregiver and owner of Gomez Howard Communications.

Even in ICE detention, immigration activist Jeanette Vizguerra found a way to help others struggling with their status. She's unafraid to take on the president. Time magazine recognized her work. A Denver church provided her sanctuary. Today, Vizguerra in her own words, as detention centers swell and Colorado fights for oversight. Then, a classic film with deep Colorado ties. Ryan joins the podcast "Did That Age Well?" to talk about one of his favorite movies, "Roman Holiday" and the iconic Audrey Hepburn. 

When someone dies, what happens to their energy? Some scientists theorize that consciousness could survive physical death. For our series, "Searching for Jobie," Andrea Dukakis asks an experimental quantum physicist about the possibilities. Then, more schools in Colorado are implementing cell phone bans. Plus, a student bicycles more than 2,000 miles to college. Also, as Colorado marks 150 years, we revisit a museum that preserves the legacy of Black pioneers. And a neurosurgeon takes adaptive sports to the racetrack. 

For now, ballots in Colorado will be mailed out per usual, despite moves by the Trump administration. But county clerks have learned to prepare for the extraordinary. Plus, what third party candidates hope to achieve this election cycle. Also, taking stock of Colorado's glaciers and rafting a record-low Arkansas River. And we "Raise the Curtain" on local actor Noelia Antweiler, now starring in two shows at Creede Repertory Theatre. 

Eighty percent of the world's population can't see the Milky Way. Light pollution interferes. Author and adventurer Craig Childs, of Norwood, Colorado, writes about a trek from light to dark in his book, "The Wild Dark: Finding the Night Sky in the Age of Light." It takes readers from the incandescence of Las Vegas to the spangled skies of rural Nevada. It was named a finalist this month for a Colorado Book Award in creative nonfiction. Childs spoke with Sr. Host Ryan Warner at the Mountain Words Festival in Crested Butte in May of 2025 after the book's release. 

Colorado has joined 23 other states in a lawsuit against the U.S. Postal Service tied to a presidential executive order targeting mail-in ballots. This comes as the state celebrates a settlement with Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, over concerns about how it hooks children. Then, wild horses are an iconic image of the American West, but the ability to roam free comes at a cost. Plus, Indie 102.3 marks Colorado's 150th anniversary with music, and we remember the legendary musician and philanthropist, Dolly Parton. 

Trailblazing journalist Patty Calhoun talks about what she's most proud of, what she regrets, and the state's crankiest politician as the publication she founded, Westword, turns 50. Then, a youth corps picks up chainsaws to keep wildfires at bay. Plus, how performing in a play is helping people incarcerated in the Limon Correctional Facility. And researching the connection between a healthy gut and PTSD. 

A new state law took effect this month to protect older Coloradans from fraud. Older Coloradans are especially at risk for scams. In an Aging Matters special, we'll explore the effort to stay one step ahead as scammers get more sophisticated. Plus, it's one of the toughest decisions we face: when to stop driving. We'll talk through what to look for and how to have what can be a hard conversation within the family. 

There's a stalemate between Colorado and the federal contractor running the Aurora immigration detention center over a case of tuberculosis. CPR health reporter John Daley explains the bigger issue it raises. Then, Denver chef Penelope Wong is flying high after winning the James Beard award and landing a deal with United Airlines. Plus, exploring the Borderlands with Ken Salazar, and the nose knows: what should Colorado's state smell be?

Do the math, and this summer's been a sizzler in Colorado and nationwide. We look back, and forward, with Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo. Then, the long restoration of I-70 through Glenwood Canyon after wildfire and floods. Plus, the reason bear encounters are up. And author Hillary Rosner, a Colorado Book Award finalist for "Roam," on stitching together wildlife habitat. Plus, take a test ride in a Waymo.

Dementia is not limited to people. Dogs get it too. Breakthroughs for one species may benefit another. Andrea Dukakis visits a canine lab at Colorado State University for our series Aging Matters. Then, if you're 65 or older, NPR wants you to take on their first Senior Podcast Challenge! Later, CPR investigative reporter Ben Markus explains how the suicide of a man at DIA highlights the state's failure to keep up with the number of people found incompetent to stand trial. Plus, we visit a once-in-a-lifetime assemblage of artifacts in Colorado, including George Washington's spurs and a tape recorder that changed the course of history. They are "Moments That Made Us" at History Colorado. And we reshare the story of a polio survivor as the Trump Administration continues its pushback against vaccines. 

The San Luis Valley grows many of Colorado's potatoes, barley and wheat. But there's another crop that could help farmers weather the drought. We'll explore the Rye Resurgence Project. Then, rideshare companies have new rules they have to follow in Colorado to keep riders safe. We get context from Purplish. Plus, answering a Colorado Wonders question about what drew Nicola Tesla to the state in 1899. 

Republicans in Colorado are divided over their gubernatorial nominee Victor Marx and over the party's general direction. Then, did White House officials brainstorm ways to punish Colorado? Also, Molson Coors reimagines its coal mine in Keenesburg as a solar farm. Then, the urgent effort to save Bent's Old Fort in the San Luis Valley. And we re-share radio poems with David Rothman.

Not that long ago, women seeking a loan or line of credit faced invasive questions from bankers: "Are you planning on having children?" "What type of birth control are you using?" "Where's your husband?" Against that backdrop, in the 1970s, The Women's Bank of Denver was founded, changing financial lives for generations. Their story is now showcased at History Colorado to celebrate the sesquicentennial, with items that include the bank's opening day financial ledger. Senior Host Ryan Warner spoke with financial journalist Grace L. Williams, author of "Give Her Credit: The Untold Story of a Women's Bank That Empowered a Generation" last year at History Colorado Center. We're resharing that conversation as part of the state's 150th birthday. 

Nicki Gonzales, Colorado's new state historian has deep roots in Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico. It's one reason she's forged an expertise in the history of the American West. Particularly interested in race relations and social and political movements, Gonzales has plans for what she hopes to accomplish during her year-long tenure. Then, the neighborhood next to where the Denver Broncos want to build their new football stadium has seen a lot of changes over the years; recently, the area has housed immigrants from around the world, white-collar workers, and a significant Latino population. But Denverite reports that its next chapter has some longtime residents worried. Also, a conversation with one of the first companies in the state to produce mushrooms for psilocybin-assisted therapy. And, Colorado-based writer is back with the second chapter of his Flynn Martin trilogy, "Two Truths and a Lie."

You can draw a line between a protest in Denver and the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. A half century later, the fight for access continues. Today we share some of that history with NPR's podcast, "The Sunday Story," hosted by Ayesha Rascoe with guests Joseph Shapiro from NPR and CPR's Stephanie Wolf, and we look ahead at the current challenges. Then, the world premiere of a play at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts inspired by the movement, called "504: The Musical." Director Ben Raanan and actor Jolee Harston from Phamaly Theatre Company spoke with CPR's Alejandro Alonso Galva for our series "Raise the Curtain." 

Research finds that kids are exposed to online pornography more often, and at younger ages, than ever before, thanks to technology and social media. The effects are often damaging, negatively shaping how they understand relationships, consent, and even their own bodies. We speak with Craig Knippenberg, a licensed clinical social worker, family therapist and author about the trend and what parents need to know. Plus, we revisit concerns about an increase in motorcycle accidents in Colorado with BikerDown, a Lakewood-based non-profit that helps injured riders and their families recover. 

When it comes to wildlife and water use, golf courses have room for improvement. Today, a one-of-a-kind partnership between golfers and the botanic gardens. Then, the town of Kremmling has pulled itself out of a water crisis, for now. And on her album "Appalachia," a Ouray singer-songwriter contrasts her hometown mountains with her adopted Rockies. 

A sheriff's office is under federal scrutiny for its hiring practices; the effects could ripple across the state. Then, filmmaker Rick Vigil is preserving the oral history of people who call the San Luis Valley home. Also, what to know about staying safe from lightning. And singer/songwriter Isaac Slade returns to Colorado to wish his home state a happy 150th. 

Since it became a state 150 years ago, Colorado's political identity has always been hard to pin down. You might say... it's purplish! But it's also been a leader in things like women's suffrage and civil rights. We explore some of that history today with Purplish. Then, the Colorado River makes life possible for some 40 million people from here to Southern California, but making sure there's enough water to go around is getting harder. Plus, new efforts to preserve the state's wetlands. And, Boulder's "Poetry in the Parks" is part scavenger hunt, part performance. 

Colorado just tuned 150. Roy Romer jokes he's been alive for most of that time. The former three-term governor is 97 and just donated his papers to Metropolitan State University of Denver. We ask him to look back, and to look forward, along with MSUD's provost and historian Matt Makley. Then, an Aurora Police Officer is indicted in the shooting death of a Black man during a traffic stop. CPR's Ava Kian speaks with the driver's family. Also, the drought is taking its toll on Colorado's fish, and anglers, as river levels continue to drop. And Colorado bands join in a celebration of Julia Louis Dreyfest. 

Dr. Reiland Rabaka, founder and director of the Center for African and African American Studies at the University of Colorado Boulder (CAAAS), widely known as "The Cause," joined Colorado Matters host Chandra Thomas Whitfield to discuss the Center's fifth anniversary and his work as a scholar and author. The author of the books, The Funk Movement and Black Feminist Funk, Dr. Rabaka shared his reflections (and playlist) that he says trace the cultural and political power of Black music and its role in shaping history. 

In his first interview since qualifying for the ballot, unaffiliated candidate Dr. Shimon Blau introduces himself to Denver voters. He got into the congressional race after Melat Kiros secured the Democratic nomination. Then, it's dry times in La Veta, Colorado. The mayor and town manager discuss life under draconian water restrictions. And ski towns beef up their summer offerings after paltry snowfall. 

Our state is turning 150. We celebrate with "Colorado Saves The World." The new podcast inspired by "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me." That means comedians, headlines and quizzes. They were kind to make Colorado Matters part of their first episode. 

If death is universal, why is it so hard to talk about? Today, in our series "Searching for Jobie," a conversation with a woman who cares for the dying about her efforts to make the subject of death less taboo. Also, what she's witnessed that makes her believe death is not an end. Then, a new medical school in northern Colorado could help with a nationwide doctor shortage. And, doctors can now use an innovative wound care option thanks to a Colorado School of Mines professor. Plus, an apple thought to be extinct is rediscovered in southern Colorado. Also, she's running the length of the Colorado River to highlight its water crisis in a search for solutions. 

Governor Jared Polis joins us for the first time since he freed convicted clerk Tina Peters, since deadly wildfires broke out, and since U.S. News & World Report named Colorado #1 in education. Then, for Colorado's 150th birthday, we got the state an astrological reading. Born August 1st, the state is a Leo. And, The Centennial State's long, bumpy road to statehood.

She hoped to escape Vietnam and reuniting with her mother in Colorado. It led Sister Sen Nguyen to a life of service and a love of learning. For Portraits in Aging, her story about never giving up. Then, multiple award-winning photojournalist Kevin Hartfield reflects on his career milestones and the state of journalism today as he retires as chief photographer from CBS Colorado. And we speak with rising Colorado Rapids soccer star Lucas Herrington, just back from the World Cup playing for his home team of Australia.

The deadly fire on the Colorado/Utah border has claimed the life of a fourth firefighter. 43-year-old Nathan Matthews, of Lincoln, Nebraska, had been hospitalized since the Snyder fire burnover June 27. Also this season, a helicopter pilot died fighting the Gold Mountain fire. How does this affect the mental health of their fellow firefighters? Then, a new exhibit featuring works by the Denver Art Museum's Indigenous artists-in-residence opens Saturday. We speak with two artists whose intricate beadwork reimagines traditional designs. 

Drought and wildfire mean hopes are high for monsoon (from the Arabic word for "season"). Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo returns for our regular climate and weather conversation. Then, among the headstones at Fairmount, we meet the authors of "Historic Cemeteries of Denver." Plus, innovations in water conservation, and a poll takes Coloradans' pulse at our state's sesquisemiquincentennial. 

The Denver-based SafeSport is supposed to protect Olympians and Paralympians from sexual, physical and emotional abuse. Its new CEO, Benita Fitzgerald Mosley, a gold medal Olympian herself, acknowledges it's had its share of challenges. Now, it's striving to repair its relationships with athletes and the public. Then, Durango author Heather Hansman is back on the shelves with “Fierce Country: The Untold Story of Three Women Who Ignited America's Love For The Wild,” a new book that profiles three women who are legends of the outdoor world. 

92-year-old Ed Dwight, of Denver, is a legend. The sculptor and spaceman is the subject of a retrospective at History Colorado. "Casting a Legacy" features his figures of Black cowboys and homesteaders, jazz greats, and civil rights leaders. Then, a United Airlines pilot who was a Make-A-Wish kid pays it forward. Plus, what it takes to turn an office building into housing. 

An off-duty employee at the ICE detention center in Aurora faces charges after police say he shot toward a demonstrator who was struck in the foot amid heightened tension about immigration enforcement. Then, homeowners try to cope after losing everything in the Aspen Acres fire. Plus, the Denver Sports Commission celebrates 25 years of bringing big sports events and sports history to Colorado. Also, journalist and author Linda Stasi's historic novel, "The Descendent" receives a big honor as it becomes a best seller. And the effort to save an endangered fish on the Western Slope brings together the federal government, high school students, and baseball players.