Podcast appearances and mentions of clara shelton

Carolina Acosta didn't grow up speaking Spanish or doing family game nights. Then she made a Spanglish drinking game. And it blew up. Host and producer: May Ortega Mixed by: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Project Manager: Rebekah Romberg Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Episode art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's members and staff. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

Obed Manuel remembers the best taco he ever had: the ones his parents sold, walking door-to-door in their Dallas neighborhood. With long drives, some sorrow, lots of joy and a little smoked meat, those memories shaped him into the father he is now. Host and producer: May Ortega Mixed by: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Project Manager: Rebekah Romberg Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Episode art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's members and staff. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

Artist Jasmine Dillavou fights for space in a mostly-white profession, fueled her passion for art that highlights Latino joy. Host and producer: May Ortega Mixed by: Emily Williams Editors: Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Project Manager: Rebekah Romberg Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Kibwe Cooper, Luis Antonio Perez Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Episode art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's members and staff. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

We'll be back next week with a new episode. In the meantime, we're excited that our friends at Off the Walls are taking over the feed this week – with the people and the stories behind Denver's street art. Listen to all five episodes of Off the Walls on CPR.org or wherever you listen to podcasts. To see photos of the mural “Huitzilopochtli,” visit CPR.org. Credits for “The Hummingbird Warrior” from Off the Walls: Hosts: Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams Editor: Jo Erickson Written and reported by Emily Williams and Kibwe Cooper Mixed by Kibwe Cooper Denverite editor: Obed Manuel Additional editorial support: Kevin Beaty, Erin Jones, Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Theme music by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Executive producer: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Kevin Beaty, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kyle Harris, Desiree Mathurin, Kim Nguyen, Maria Juliana Pinzón, Clara Shelton, Rebecca Tauber, Isaac Vargas, Arielle Wilson. This show was produced with support from PRX, and is made possible in part by a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and a grant from the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation. Off the Walls is a production of Denverite and Colorado Public Radio — part of the NPR Network. Credits for ¿Quién Are We?: Host and producer: May Ortega Mixed by: Emily Williams Editors: Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Project Manager: Rebekah Romberg Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Kibwe Cooper, Luis Antonio Perez Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Cover art: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's members and staff. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

Jennifer Serrano and Veronica Vasques are former enemies, turned lovers and business owners of a design company called JZD. But being Latina and queer can come with both opportunities and obstacles – including from one of the biggest corporations of all: Target. Host and producer: May Ortega Mixed by: Emily Williams Editors: Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Project Manager: Rebekah Romberg Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Kibwe Cooper, Luis Antonio Perez Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Episode art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's members and staff. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

Growing up in beautiful, tropical Costa Rica led anthropologist Fernando Villanea to fall in love with the biology of nature. And it's led him down a path of passion, success and a yearning for home as he studies one of the most interesting animals of all: us. Host and producer: May Ortega Mixed by: Emily Williams Editors: Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Project Manager: Rebekah Romberg Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Kibwe Cooper, Luis Antonio Perez Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Episode art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's members and staff. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

A family trauma expert, Mariel Buque, guides us through her own path of acceptance and healing. Her perspective was shaped by her family's difficult transition from the Dominican Republic to New Jersey. Host and producer: May Ortega Mixed by: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Project Manager: Rebekah Romberg Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Episode art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's members and staff. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

In June 2020, as Black Lives Matter protests filled Denver's streets, the city's walls and streets were also painted with images and messages of the movement. Denver commissioned a large Black Lives Matter street mural. Well-known Denver muralist Thomas "Detour" Evans painted a series of portraits of Black people killed at the hands of police. But a lot of that art was temporary; it's been painted over or has faded away. Artist Adri Norris and activist Lindsay Minter reflect on why that is and what that means. The mural of Breonna Taylor by artists Thomas "Detour" Evans and Hiero Veiga can be found at 2845 Walnut Street in Denver. To see photos of the mural, visit CPR.org/podcast/off-the-walls. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the murals and special places you've heard about on Off the Walls. It features a map of some of the coolest public art in Colorado, plus photos of the murals we talk about on the show. To check it out, go to apple.co/Off-The-Walls. Hosts: Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams Editor: Jo Erickson Written and reported by Kibwe Cooper Mixed by Kibwe Cooper Denverite editor: Obed Manuel Additional editorial support: Kevin Beaty, Erin Jones, Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Theme music by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Photography: Kevin Beaty Executive producer: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kyle Harris, Desiree Mathurin, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Rebecca Tauber, Isaac Vargas, Arielle Wilson. This show was produced with support from PRX, and is made possible in part by a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and a grant from the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation. Off the Walls is a production of Denverite and Colorado Public Radio — part of the NPR Network. Denverite.com

Denver artists Grow Love and Alexandrea Pangburn had noticed a pattern: Most of the opportunities for muralists were going to men. When they connected with other female artists who felt the same way, the idea for Babe Walls — a mural festival celebrating all female and non-binary artists — was born. Babe Walls would showcase local talent and, hopefully, spark some change. But for the artists behind what was originally going to be a one-time event, Babe Walls has had more impact than they'd ever expected. The Babe Walls 2021 murals can be found along the Ralston Creek Trail in Arvada, where Ralston Road meets Lamar Street. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the murals and special places you've heard about on Off the Walls. It features a map of some of the coolest public art in Colorado, plus photos of the murals we talk about on the show. To check it out, go to apple.co/Off-The-Walls. Hosts: Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams Editor: Jo Erickson Written and reported by Emily Williams Mixed by Emily Williams Denverite editor: Obed Manuel Additional editorial support: Kevin Beaty, Erin Jones, Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Theme music by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Photography: Kevin Beaty Executive producer: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kyle Harris, Desiree Mathurin, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Rebecca Tauber, Isaac Vargas, Arielle Wilson. This show was produced with support from PRX, and is made possible in part by a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and a grant from the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation. Off the Walls is a production of Denverite and Colorado Public Radio — part of the NPR Network. Denverite.com

When Fathima Dickerson was approached by an artist who wanted to paint a mural of her, she was surprised. To Fathima of Welton Street Café—Denver's oldest Black-owned restaurant—it seemed random. But to the artists, Jodie Herrera and Miles Toland, Fathima embodied the idea of community they wanted to capture in their Five Points mural. As Fathima navigates challenges and changes with Welton Street Café, the mural has served as a source of hope. You can find the mural in a parking lot off Walnut Street between 27th and 28th Streets in Denver. To see photos of the mural, visit CPR.org/podcast/off-the-walls. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the murals and special places you've heard about on Off the Walls. It features a map of some of the coolest public art in Colorado, plus photos of the murals we talk about on the show. To check it out, go to apple.co/Off-The-Walls. Hosts: Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams Editor: Jo Erickson Written and reported by Kibwe Cooper Mixed by Kibwe Cooper Denverite editor: Obed Manuel Additional editorial support: Kevin Beaty, Erin Jones, Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Theme music by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Photography: Kevin Beaty Executive producer: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kyle Harris, Desiree Mathurin, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Rebecca Tauber, Isaac Vargas, Arielle Wilson. This show was produced with support from PRX, and is made possible in part by a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and a grant from the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation. Off the Walls is a production of Denverite and Colorado Public Radio — part of the NPR Network. Denverite.com

Painting his first mural was a powerful experience for artist David Ocelotl Garcia. But a few years ago, that mural, "Huitzilopochtli," was painted over, without permission. David set out to bring the mural back, but he didn't know how that would go. No one in Colorado had attempted what he was going to do. In the process, David discovered the beauty in not just making art, but reviving it. To learn more about the Chicano/a/x Murals of Colorado Project, visit chicanomuralsofcolorado.com. You can find the mural at 2895 West 8th Ave in Denver. To see photos of the mural, visit CPR.org/podcast/off-the-walls. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the murals and special places you've heard about on Off the Walls. It features a map of some of the coolest public art in Colorado, plus photos of the murals we talk about on the show. To check it out, go to apple.co/Off-The-Walls. Hosts: Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams Editor: Jo Erickson Written and reported by Emily Williams and Kibwe Cooper Mixed by Kibwe Cooper Denverite editor: Obed Manuel Additional editorial support: Kevin Beaty, Erin Jones, Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Theme music by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Photography: Kevin Beaty Executive producer: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kyle Harris, Desiree Mathurin, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Rebecca Tauber, Isaac Vargas, Arielle Wilson. This show was produced with support from PRX, and is made possible in part by a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and a grant from the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation. Off the Walls is a production of Denverite and Colorado Public Radio — part of the NPR Network. Denverite.com

Emanuel Martinez started a community mural movement in Denver in the early 1970s, bringing colorful life to the local Chicano Movement. His mural "La Alma" is a central part of the historic La Alma Lincoln Park neighborhood where he painted it more than 45 years ago. But other murals Emanuel painted at the time have been wiped out. And now, someone very close to him is fighting for Chicano murals like his to be protected and preserved. You can find the mural at the La Alma Recreation Center at 1325 W 11th Ave in Denver. To see photos of the mural, visit CPR.org/podcast/off-the-walls. To learn more about the Chicano/a/x Murals of Colorado Project, visit chicanomuralsofcolorado.com. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the murals and special places you've heard about on Off the Walls. It features a map of some of the coolest public art in Colorado, plus photos of the murals we talk about on the show. To check it out, go to apple.co/Off-The-Walls. Hosts: Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams Editor: Jo Erickson Written and reported by Emily Williams and Kibwe Cooper Mixed by Kibwe Cooper Denverite editor: Obed Manuel Additional editorial support: Kevin Beaty, Erin Jones, Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Theme music by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Photography: Kevin Beaty Executive producer: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kyle Harris, Desiree Mathurin, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Rebecca Tauber, Isaac Vargas, Arielle Wilson. This show was produced with support from PRX, and is made possible in part by a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and a grant from the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation. Off the Walls is a production of Denverite and Colorado Public Radio — part of the NPR Network. Denverite.com

The season ends with Vic Vela coming to terms with one of the biggest health scares of his life, while also navigating an emotional, historic championship run for his beloved Denver Nuggets. Over the last few months Vic recorded audio diaries of his experiences. He shares some of his best and worst days as he copes with a health crisis that nearly took his life — along with edge-of-your seat playoff basketball musings — all while trying to stay sober and taking things one day at a time. You can also check out Vic's original memoir episode from Season 1. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Erin Jones Mixed by: Kibwe Cooper Additional editorial support: Rebekah Romberg, Emily Williams, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Matthew Fisher always felt like an outsider. He struggled to make friends and was overcome by mood swings. By age 13, he turned to drugs and alcohol to cope. His father, Steven, watched from the sidelines, desperately trying to help his son. This is the story of how a father and son found recovery and healed their rocky relationship. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editor: Jo Erickson Additional editorial support: Erin Jones, Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Khadi Oluwatoyin was always a high achiever. She excelled in law school and got her dream job, as a lawyer in New York City, in her early twenties. Racial and gender barriers didn't stop her. Nothing stood in the way of her career, except alcohol. But when Khadi sought help for her drinking, she often found she was the only Black woman in the room. So she created her own recovery group for Black women and nonbinary folks to help others — and herself — through recovery. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Emily Williams Editor: Jo Erickson Mixed by: Kibwe Cooper Additional editorial support: Erin Jones, Rebekah Romberg, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Aaron Taylor was a standout athlete at the University of Notre Dame. He went on to become a Super Bowl champion with the Green Bay Packers. But behind all that success, Aaron was a high-functioning alcoholic. After an injury ended his career, Aaron had to come to terms with his addiction and heal the childhood trauma he had never addressed. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Kibwe Cooper Editor: Rebekah Romberg Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Pebe Sebert's dreams of becoming a professional songwriter started coming true when Dolly Parton recorded one of her songs and it became a hit. But Pebe felt like a fish out of water, and she used alcohol to deal with those feelings. Other drugs came into the mix, too. But after she had her daughter Kesha, Pebe knew something had to change -- and years later, Kesha became the pop star Pebe always dreamed of being. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Emily Williams Editor: Erin Jones Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Rebekah Romberg, Kibwe Cooper, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Growing up, Natalie Hodges practiced the violin every moment she could. She was good, and the practice made her excellent. She started down the path of becoming a professional violinist until debilitating performance anxiety put a wrench in her dreams. But it helped her discover the root of her problems -- and put her on the road to recovery. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editor: Erin Jones Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Drew Robinson was a talented professional baseball player. It seemed like all his goals were coming to fruition. But he couldn't shake a sense of deep inadequacy. Those feelings eventually brought him to the darkest moment of his life. In that moment, he realized he was here for good reasons, and he committed to living. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editor: Jo Erickson Additional editorial support: Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams, Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Like her father, Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys, Carnie Wilson found solace and joy in music. She started the group Wilson Phillips with her sister and childhood friend. But then, it turned out she inherited some of her father's addiction issues, too. With the help of her community, she rose from her darkest place. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Kibwe Cooper Editor: Rebekah Romberg Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Across the U.S.-Mexico border, the Colorado River once flowed freely into the ocean. When the freshwater and saltwater met, it created an explosion of life in the desert. But most of that lushness dried up when people used up the river. We meet people who have worked for decades to restore parts of the delta's lost wetlands. They created a historic agreement between the two countries that designates some river water for the environment. That means that sometimes, this dry delta flows with water again, and occasionally, the river meets the ocean. The final installment in our 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visit cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Additional Production: Erin Jones and Rachel Estabrook In-Country Interpreter: Jesús Galaz Tape Translator: Carlos Aguilar Voiceovers: Jean Inaba and Jessie Jacobs Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Rachel Estabrook, Chuck Murphy, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas, Rebekah Romberg Thanks also to Kevin Beaty, Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Shawn Lucero, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

Crops like alfalfa that feed cows are the biggest user of the Colorado River, to satisfy our cravings for nachos and burgers. Cutting back on farms' water use is the biggest way we can live in a drier West. One Indigenous farm manager is trying to do it — to grow food with much less water. His story reveals how to get other farms to be more efficient, too, in part by changing what and how they grow. Part 9 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visit cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Rachel Estabrook, Chuck Murphy, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

If we turned off every tap in every city in the southwest, we still wouldn't solve the Colorado River crisis. That's because 80 percent of the water goes to agriculture — to the lettuce and melons in your produce section, the half-and-half you put in your coffee every morning. Those farmers have some of the preeminent rights to the river. So what if the government paid them to keep their water in the river instead? Part 8 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visit cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Rachel Estabrook, Luis Antonio Perez, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

What we pay for water doesn't reflect how scarce it is with climate change. Could cities get people to use less water by charging more for it? Decades ago, Tucson did this, and it worked. But the political consequences may have scared off other cities. Now, in an increasingly dire situation along the Colorado River, what if a bunch of cities priced water differently, to change our behavior? Part 7 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Rachel Estabrook Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Rebekah Romberg Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

The idea of drinking recycled wastewater, even if it's highly treated, grossed people out for a long time. But increasingly, it's part of the answer for how we can live in the West as the region and its rivers dry out. This episode goes to two Colorado cities, and a home in California, to show how we can reuse more of the water we already use, to make our Colorado River supplies go further. It's part of the CPR News climate solutions podcast, Parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written and reported by Rachel Estabrook Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Rebekah Romberg Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, and Arielle Wilson.Colorado in Depth and Parched are productions of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

Americans flush toilets with water that's good enough to drink. We could cut how much water cities need if we reused that water, or flushed without sapping our fresh mountain supplies. From at-home solutions to citywide scale, wastewater reuse and recycling are gaining momentum, and could be on the verge of a breakthrough.  Part 6 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Rachel Estabrook Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Rebekah Romberg Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

Most people in the West live in cities, and cities can do a lot to change how they use water. We head deep into the glittery, neon heart of Las Vegas. There, under the Bellagio Fountain, we learn that this city of excess is a world leader in water conservation. What is Vegas doing, and how might people who live in other Colorado River cities follow its lead? Part 5 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Additional Production and Editing: Rachel Estabrook Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

On the beach in Southern California, it's easy to look at the Pacific Ocean and wonder what would happen if we could drink it. It's already happening in some places, and others from Arizona to the California coast want to expand desalination. If big cities there use more of the ocean and less of the Colorado River, would that leave more water for the southwest? Part 4 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas and Joe Wertz Editors: Rachel Estabrook, Erin Jones Production and Mixing: Rebekah Romberg Additional Production: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas, Emily Williams Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

What if we could get more water, instead of just living with less? The idea of pulling water from another river, like the Mississippi, has tantalized people in the southwest for decades. We meet a farmer in Arizona who's become today's big champion for this big idea. Also, an engineer in Colorado and someone with an up-close view of the Mississippi explain what it would take to bring more water to the Colorado River states. Part 3 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Rachel Estabrook and Joe Wertz Editor: Erin Jones Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg,  Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

Indigenous tribes lived with the water's flow for thousands of years. Then, they were shut out of decision making about the Colorado River. In this episode, we go to the Jicarilla Apache Reservation to learn what that's meant for tribes, and how it's contributed to the river drying up. We also meet someone from a very different background in Boulder, Colorado. Together these men are urgently trying to do the same thing: Get everybody to the table to come up with solutions together--solutions to serve everyone who depends on the river. Part 2 of a 10-part series. For more CPR News coverage of the Colorado River, visited cpr.org/parched. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas with Taylar Dawn Stagner Written by Michael Elizabeth Sakas and Taylar Dawn Stagner Editors: Rachel Estabrook, Erin Jones Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg,  Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Jeremy Wade Shockley, Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

The U.S. southwest is in a water crisis; it's a front line of climate change. This show takes you to places that rely on the Colorado River, to explore what we can do to ensure life in the region as it dries out. In this first episode, we get high up in the Rocky Mountains to see where our water comes from, and see ground zero for our water problems — the Hoover Dam — where we meet someone who predicted this crisis years before it happened. It's all to answer the question: Just how screwed are we? Part 1 of 10. Host: Michael Elizabeth Sakas Written by Rachel Estabrook Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and Mixing: Emily Williams Theme song by Kibwe Cooper. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner Additional Production Support: Alison Borden, Kibwe Cooper, Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg, Taylar Dawn Stagner, Andrew Villegas Thanks also to Sarah Bures, Hart Van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson and Kevin J. Beaty. Parched is a production of the Climate Solutions team of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio — part of the NPR Network.

At sunset on the eve of her 50th birthday, CMarie hikes up a slickrock ridge with her dog Carhartt. She passes petroglyphs, and cottonwoods, and at the top of the ridge, as the sun disappears over the mountains, she slips on a red evening gown. The light soaks into her hair and skin, and CMarie greets a new decade. This episode takes place on Navajo, Pueblo, and Ute homelands. Do you want to reach out to the team? Email us at terrafirma@cpr.org. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the special places in nature that you've heard about in this podcast. It's a list of beautiful settings in the Rocky Mountains, handpicked by CMarie Fuhrman. To check it out, go to apple.co/terra-firma-guide. Host and Writer: CMarie Fuhrman Field Recordist: Jacob Job Outdoor audio recorded at Oregon Trail Ruts State Historic Site near Guernsey, Wyoming Editor: Erin Jones Producers: Rebekah Romberg, Kibwe Cooper Art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producer: Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Emily Williams Thanks also to Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Martin Skavish and Jon Pinnow Terra Firma is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio.

Leaning against a ponderosa on a ridgeline, CMarie watches a storm roll in. CMarie knows this storm, this nature, has something to teach her. The flowers on the mountainside opposite look like eyes; like the eyes of her ancestors, asking her to learn from and fight for nature. This episode takes place on Nimiipuu, Tukadeka, and Shoshone Bannock homelands. Do you want to reach out to the team? Email us at terrafirma@cpr.org. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the special places in nature that you've heard about in this podcast. It's a list of beautiful settings in the Rocky Mountains, handpicked by CMarie Fuhrman. To check it out, go to apple.co/terra-firma-guide. Host and Writer: CMarie Fuhrman Field Recordist: Jacob Job Outdoor audio recorded at Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Editor: Erin Jones Producers: Rebekah Romberg, Kibwe Cooper Art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producer: Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Emily Williams Thanks also to Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Martin Skavish and Jon Pinnow Terra Firma is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio.

Late at night, after a long day of emails and meetings, CMarie climbs on top of a horse. She rides without saddle or bit into a frozen meadow under snowcapped peaks. There, with the bobcats and the aspen and the snow, she feels as big as the wild itself. This episode takes place on Ute homelands. Do you want to reach out to the team? Email us at terrafirma@cpr.org. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the special places in nature that you've heard about in this podcast. It's a list of beautiful settings in the Rocky Mountains, handpicked by CMarie Fuhrman. To check it out, go to apple.co/terra-firma-guide. Host and Writer: CMarie Fuhrman Field Recordist: Jacob Job Outdoor audio recorded at Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Editor: Erin Jones Producers: Rebekah Romberg, Kibwe Cooper Art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producer: Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Emily Williams Thanks also to Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Martin Skavish and Jon Pinnow Terra Firma is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio.

In the tundra's quiet, unburdened by the chaos of technology, CMarie listens to the wind over the lichens and reflects on the word "rawah," which her ancestors, the Ute, spoke: "wild place." This episode takes place on Eastern Shoshone and Cheyenne homelands. Do you want to reach out to the team? Email us at terrafirma@cpr.org. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the special places in nature that you've heard about in this podcast. It's a list of beautiful settings in the Rocky Mountains, handpicked by CMarie Fuhrman. To check it out, go to apple.co/terra-firma-guide. Host and Writer: CMarie Fuhrman Field Recordist: Jacob Job Outdoor audio recorded in the Rawah Wilderness in Colorado Editor: Erin Jones Producers: Rebekah Romberg, Kibwe Cooper Art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producer: Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Emily Williams Thanks also to Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Martin Skavish and Jon Pinnow Terra Firma is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio.

Returning to the river to witness the annual kokanee salmon migration, CMarie starts to see the seasonal red of the fish everywhere. The kokanee mating, the flowers on the hillside, all these fleeting rituals, are miracles. This episode takes place on Shoshone-Bannock, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla homelands. Do you want to reach out to the team? Email us at terrafirma@cpr.org. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the special places in nature that you've heard about in this podcast. It's a list of beautiful settings in the Rocky Mountains, handpicked by CMarie Fuhrman. To check it out, go to apple.co/terra-firma-guide. Host and Writer: CMarie Fuhrman Field Recordist: Jacob Job Outdoor audio recorded at Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Editor: Erin Jones Producers: Rebekah Romberg, Kibwe Cooper Art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producer: Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Emily Williams Thanks also to Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Martin Skavish and Jon Pinnow Terra Firma is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio.

In the birthplace of the Colorado River in Rocky Mountain National Park, CMarie remembers an early-morning robin song from her childhood. It's a song that stirs an ancient recognition, and it sings us home. This episode takes place on Cheyenne, Ute, Eastern Shoshone, and Arapahoe homelands. Do you want to reach out to the team? Email us at terrafirma@cpr.org. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the special places in nature that you've heard about in this podcast. It's a list of beautiful settings in the Rocky Mountains, handpicked by CMarie Fuhrman. To check it out, go to apple.co/terra-firma-guide. Host and Writer: CMarie Fuhrman Field Recordist: Jacob Job Outdoor audio recorded at Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Editor: Erin Jones Producers: Rebekah Romberg, Kibwe Cooper Art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producer: Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Emily Williams Thanks also to Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Martin Skavish and Jon Pinnow Terra Firma is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio.

On a trail thousands of years old, CMarie sits among the wildflowers near the South Fork Salmon River and watches a tractor cover a fifty-year-old logging road. Maybe someday a woman sitting with her dog in the same place won't know a logging road was ever there at all. This episode takes place on Nimiipuu, Tukadeka, Shoshone Paiute, and Shoshone Bannock homelands. Do you want to reach out to the team? Email us at terrafirma@cpr.org. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the special places in nature that you've heard about in this podcast. It's a list of beautiful settings in the Rocky Mountains, handpicked by CMarie Fuhrman. To check it out, go to apple.co/terra-firma-guide. Host and Writer: CMarie Fuhrman Field Recordist: Jacob Job Outdoor audio recorded at Sequoia National Park, California Editor: Erin Jones Producers: Rebekah Romberg, Kibwe Cooper Art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producer: Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Emily Williams Thanks also to Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Martin Skavish and Jon Pinnow Terra Firma is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio.

On a late afternoon in autumn, when the sun bends the shadows and gives a gold tip to the crowns of Doug fir and lodgepole, CMarie Fuhrman walks into the forest with her cello. Playing for the first time in years, her mind drifts to the ancient death of a robin, the recent death of an elk, the way humans play guns and cellos both. This episode takes place on Cheyenne and Arapahoe homelands. Do you want to reach out to the team? Email us at terrafirma@cpr.org. We've collaborated with Apple Maps to create a guide to the special places in nature that you've heard about in this podcast. It's a list of beautiful settings in the Rocky Mountains, handpicked by CMarie Fuhrman. To check it out, go to apple.co/terra-firma-guide. Host and Writer: CMarie Fuhrman Field Recordist: Jacob Job Outdoor audio recorded at Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Editor: Erin Jones Producers: Rebekah Romberg, Kibwe Cooper Art: Maria Juliana Pinzón Executive Producer: Brad Turner Additional Editorial Support: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Emily Williams Thanks also to Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Martin Skavish and Jon Pinnow Terra Firma is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio.

When a teenager in Chicago had an unwanted pregnancy, she was ready to put her baby in the foster care system. Instead, that baby -- Dimitra Trejo -- was adopted by a family friend and came of age in South Texas. Dimitra's relationship with her adoptive mother, plus learning at an unexpected moment that she was adopted, made life hard. Now, she's a mother herself. And her experiences with her birth mother and adoptive mother have shaped how she will raise her son. Hey friends! The ¿Quién Are We? team loves making this show for you ... and wants to know how you think we might make future episodes better. Would you take a minute and complete this survey?  https://forms.gle/GG6yDNA3HLWA7u1dA Thank you for your feedback! Host and producer: May Ortega Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Mixing: Luis Antonio Perez Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Jo Erickson, Ana Campbell Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Cover art: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's Latino Audience Working Group. QuienAreWe.org Twitter: @MayVOrtega, @COPublicRadio

As a child in front of the TV, at block parties, at school; Manuela Sanchez loved to dance. Then when she discovered she could pursue her passion as a career, her life changed. And even as her identity as an Afro Dominicana strengthened her love of dance, she struggled — as an arts pioneer in her family and in the largely white world of her profession. Host and producer: May Ortega Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Mixing: Patrice Mondragon Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Jo Erickson, Ana Campbell Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Cover art: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's Latino Audience Working Group. QuienAreWe.org Twitter: @MAyVOrtega, @COPublicRadio

Growing up in Texas, Jose Borjon's mom raised him to love his community and help the people around him. He never would have guessed that his passion for serving others would take him all the way from the Rio Grande Valley to Washington, D.C. Host: May Ortega Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Mixing: Luis Antonio Perez Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Jo Erickson, Ana Campbell Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Cover art: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's Latino Audience Working Group. QienAreWe.org Twitter: @MayVOrtega, @COPublicRadio

Welcome to ¿Quién Are We?, a show about Latino identity and the beautiful things that make us who we are. If you like what you hear, check out more episodes at quienarewe.org. Denise Soler Cox was lonely growing up outside New York City. Her parents were Puerto Rican, and the dominant culture in her town was white. It wasn't until she grew up and moved away that she realized there was a whole community of people who feel just like her. She knew she had to share this community with others, and so the idea for a film was born. The only thing she needed to figure out was how to make a film.Learn more about Denise Soler Cox and her film, “Being Eñye,” at projectenye.com.Host and producer: May OrtegaLead producer and mixing: Luis Antonio PerezEditors: Andrew Villegas, Ana Campbell, Erin JonesAdditional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Jo EricksonTheme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production MusicCover art: Mia RincónExecutive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin DaleThanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges andCPR's Latino Audience Working Group. QuienAreWe.orgFollow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

Victor Sosa always loved plants. But it wasn't until the Denver entrepreneur saw a post online that he realized he might be able to turn his passion into a business opportunity. He didn't just make the sale. He made houseplants accessible to his community in a whole new way. Host and producer: May Ortega Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Mixing: Rebekah Romberg Additional producers: Jo Erickson, Ana Campbell Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Cover art: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's Latino Audience Working Group. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega Find The Plant Room on Instagram: @PlantRoomDenver

Sometimes you need a little extra motivation, and music is a great place to look for it. A well-crafted song can tell a story that makes listeners feel confident, carefree or powerful. If you love uplifting choruses and pounding beats, check out these empowerment anthems by artists like Run-DMC, Koji Kondo and Jane Zhang. Stuff to think about after you've listened: What kinds of sounds are empowering to you? How would you include them in a song you are creating? When you want to feel empowered, what song is your go-to? What story does it tell? Ready to explore more empowering musical stories? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians use sound to tell stories about our lives. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts: Rebekah Romberg and Luis Antonio Perez Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Additional production and editing: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer and David Ginder at CPR Classical, Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, Jon Pinnow, Doug Clifton and all the teachers, parents and students who listened and helped us develop this podcast.

We all struggle with how to cope when we lose someone we care about. So how do musicians use those universal feelings to tell stories about death and grief? This episode looks at some moving examples, including music from songwriter Chalino Sánchez, composer Benjamin Britten and the musical Dear Evan Hansen. And just a quick note: this episode is a little sadder than most of our episodes, so you might feel some strong feelings if you listen. Stuff to think about after you've listened: What musical sounds represent death to you? How might that be different from another person you know? Which song from the episode stands out to you as a way to think about death? Ready to explore more musical stories about death? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians express emotions through sound. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts: Rebekah Romberg and Luis Antonio Perez Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Additional production and editing: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer and David Ginder at CPR Classical, Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, Jon Pinnow, Doug Clifton and all the teachers, parents and students who listened and helped us develop this podcast.

Protest music is about highlighting problems in society and calling for change. And telling a story through music is an especially powerful way to move a listener to action. Check out some potent sonic storytelling about human rights, the environment and anti-colonialism from artists like Yothu Yindi, Hurray For The Riff Raff and Joni Mitchell. Content warning: This episode covers some topics that might be unsettling for some younger listeners. It's the kind of material you might learn in a high school history class, rather than in elementary school history. You might want to listen to a different episode of Music Blocks if you're around younger ears. Stuff to think about after you've listened: Is there something you want to protest? What sounds would you use to communicate your protest? What songs do you know that would support something you want to protest? Ready to explore more protest music? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians use sound to tell stories about our lives. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Additional production and editing: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer and David Ginder at CPR Classical, Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, Jon Pinnow, Doug Clifton and all the teachers, parents and students who listened and helped us develop this podcast.

Brandon Vargas feels incredible pride when he thinks of his grandmother's green chile recipe. So he set out to recreate it for his friends and family. There was just one catch: She never wrote down the recipe. Host and producer: May Ortega Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Andrew Villegas, Dennis Funk, Brad Turner Mixing: Pedro Lumbrano Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Jo Erickson, Erin Jones Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Cover art: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's Latino Audience Working Group. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

Music gives us a soundtrack for some of the most memorable moments in each of our stories, from graduation ceremonies to holiday celebrations. Here's a look at festive sounds and traditional stories from around the world. Each song might not tell a story of its own, but this music helps frame our own personal stories in potent ways. Stuff to think about after you've listened: We mentioned weddings, sporting events, graduation, and holiday ceremonies in our episode. What kinds of ceremonies do you think deserve their own kind of music? What is a favorite song that you hear at a ceremony? Ready to explore more music from all kinds of ceremonies and celebrations? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians use sound to tell stories about our lives. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Additional production and editing: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer and David Ginder at CPR Classical, Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, Jon Pinnow, Doug Clifton and all the teachers, parents and students who listened and helped us develop this podcast.

A great song might not heal a broken heart, but it's a moving way to tell a story when someone or something leaves you feeling shattered. Here's a look at the clever techniques musicians use to share stories of heartache. Get ready for sad, weary sounds from Ella Fitzgerald, Katy Perry and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Stuff to think about after you've listened: Are there particular sounds, artists, or songs that you connect with feeling heartbreak? Which of the songs in the episode stood out to you with a connection to your experience with heartbreak? Ready to explore more music about home? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians use sound to tell stories about our lives. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts: Rebekah Romberg and Luis Antonio Perez Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Additional production and editing: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer and David Ginder at CPR Classical, Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, Jon Pinnow, Doug Clifton and all the teachers, parents and students who listened and helped us develop this podcast.

Music is a powerful way to tell a story about the place you call home. A composer could write music about a place using a simple and evocative melody. A songwriter might write an anthem to evoke a sense of unity and pride. In this episode, we hear musical stories about home from artists like Jean Sibelius, Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, Bruce Springsteen and Howard Shore – along with a pair of memorable national anthems. Stuff to think about after you've listened: Is there a song that reminds you of home or a place where you really feel like you belong? If you created a song about your home, what sounds or musical ideas would you use? Ready to explore more music about home? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians use sound to tell stories about our lives. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Additional production and editing: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer and David Ginder at CPR Classical, Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, Jon Pinnow, Doug Clifton and all the teachers, parents and students who listened and helped us develop this podcast.

In this episode, it's our host's turn to tell her own story! Growing up in Texas, May Ortega thought she had a pretty good idea of who she was. But but when she became a journalist, she realized that to report on other people, she had to figure out her own story. Host: May Ortega Produced by: Erin Jones Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Rebekah Romberg, Ana Campbell Mixing: Pedro Lumbrano Additional production: Jo Erickson Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Cover art: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's Latino Audience Working Group. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

Work is a big part of life. Sometimes you have a dull job to do, and music helps take your mind off it. And sometimes we like to hear stories that celebrate hard work and achievement. Here's a look at how musicians like Harry Belafonte, Waylon Jennings, Drake and Dolly Parton use their songs to tell stories about work. Stuff to think about after you've listened: Do you have a playlist with your favorite style of music to listen to while you work or study? If you created a song about your work, what sounds or musical ideas would you use? Ready to explore more musical love stories? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians express emotions through sound. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts: Rebekah Romberg and Luis Antonio Perez Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Additional production and editing: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer and David Ginder at CPR Classical, Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, Jon Pinnow, Doug Clifton and all the teachers, parents and students who listened and helped us develop this podcast.

Love is a favorite topic for songwriters. That's partly because music is such a great way to tell a love story. Here's a look at how artists like Taylor Swift, José Alfredo Jiménez and Giacomo Puccini use sounds to tell stories of romance, longing and unabashed adoration. Stuff to think about after you've listened: What are sounds, artists, or songs that you associate with feeling love?  This episode mentions romantic love and familial love. What other kinds of love have you experienced? Can you name a song that captures that kind of love?  Ready to explore more musical love stories? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians express emotions through sound. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Additional production and editing: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer and David Ginder at CPR Classical, Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, Jon Pinnow, Doug Clifton and all the teachers, parents and students who listened and helped us develop this podcast.

Denise Soler Cox was lonely growing up outside New York City. Her parents were Puerto Rican, and the dominant culture in her town was white. It wasn't until she grew up and moved away that she realized there was a whole community of people who feel just like her. She knew she had to share this community with others, and so the idea for a film was born. The only thing she needed to figure out was how to make a film. Learn more about Denise Soler Cox and her film, “Being Eñye,” at projectenye.com. Host and producer: May Ortega Lead producer and mixing: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Andrew Villegas, Ana Campbell, Erin Jones Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Jo Erickson Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Cover art: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's Latino Audience Working Group. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

Allan Benavides grew up in Southern California, in a family that loved baseball. Despite his family's wishes, he couldn't be a player. Still, he dreamed of working with the sport in some way. Eventually he landed his dream job — in a town that was much whiter than the one he was from. Could he create a new sense of community and pride there among Latino baseball fans? Host and producer: May Ortega Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Andrew Villegas, Ana Campbell, Erin Jones Mixing: Pedro Lumbrano Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Jo Erickson Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Cover art: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's Latino Audience Working Group. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

When Jon Baron's plan to attend college didn't work out, he realized something was missing from his life. So he worked his way into Denver's vibrant brewing scene, where he grew to love the techniques behind brewing. Still, it took a special drink from his heritage, brewed with centuries of myth and meaning, to find what he'd been missing. Host and producer: May Ortega Lead producer and mixing: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Andrew Villegas, Ana Campbell, Erin Jones Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Jo Erickson Theme music by Pedro Lumbrano; additional music courtesy Universal Production Music Cover art: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Kim Nguyen, Brittany Werges and CPR's Latino Audience Working Group. QuienAreWe.org Follow May on Twitter: @MayVOrtega

When journalist Ted Jackson set out to do a story on homelessness, he never imagined he'd meet a former NFL player who'd made it to three Super Bowls. But there was unhoused Jackie Wallace, a former cornerback facing a long journey of recovery. After Ted wrote a story about Jackie, the two became good friends. But then, as the years passed, Jackie disappeared -- twice. Yet Ted refused to let Jackie slip away. This is the powerful story of their friendship. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editor: Erin Jones Additional producers: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Morgan Sinclair wrestled with his identity as a trans man growing up. He turned to drugs to numb his feelings, and struggled with addiction. As a teen, he found a way to break free through rehab, as well as Denver's unique 5280 High School. Now, at age 19, he's four years sober, out and proud -- and has his whole life ahead of him. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Erin Jones Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Lissa Yellow Bird-Chase is an Arikara woman who, after years of struggling with addiction and abusive relationships, has found healing, recovery, and purpose in investigating unsolved murders. The story of her spiritual path to recovery is memorable and moving. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Back From Broken is conducting an audience survey so that we can learn a bit more about you and get your feedback. Please take a few minutes to tell us about yourself, and share your thoughts about this show, by visiting backfrombroken.org/survey. Thank you! Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Rebekah Romberg, Erin Jones Additional producer: Jo Erickson Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Leah V got married young. Her relationship was tumultuous, with high highs and low lows -- including a physical altercation that ended with Leah in jail. But therapy changed her life and allowed her to heal. Now, she's a successful writer and social media influencer, and a role model to others. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Back From Broken is conducting an audience survey so that we can learn a bit more about you and get your feedback. Please take a few minutes to tell us about yourself, and share your thoughts about this show, by visiting backfrombroken.org/survey. Thank you! Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editors: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones Additional producer: Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Actor Jim Belushi is famous for his work on shows like Saturday Night Live and movies like About Last Night. He also knows firsthand the pain of losing a loved one who struggled with drugs. Jim shares moving memories of his late brother John Belushi, and talks about coping with grief and finding a way to move forward. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Back From Broken is conducting an audience survey so that we can learn a bit more about you and get your feedback. Please take a few minutes to tell us about yourself, and share your thoughts about this show, by visiting backfrombroken.org/survey. Thank you! Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Erin Jones Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Lynn Chen faced comments about her weight from her family at an early age. Later, when she became an actor, she heard about her weight from her Hollywood colleagues. She developed an eating disorder, but found an unusual way to get help and heal. The actor, who appeared on “Grey's Anatomy,” speaks candidly about food, eating disorders, body image, and boundaries. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editor: Erin Jones Additional producers: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

At an early age, Shane Price realized he could pour on the charm with women, and at 16 years old he started his career as a pimp. After a violent incident left him shaken, Shane made changes to his life. Today, he works in Black communities as a leading figure in advocating for prison reform. He's also the director of Power of People Leadership Institute in Minnesota, which offers support to ex-offenders. This is the story of how his transformation came together. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Back From Broken is conducting an audience survey so that we can learn a bit more about you and get your feedback. Please take a few minutes to tell us about yourself, and share your thoughts about this show, by visiting backfrombroken.org/survey. Thank you! Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Erin Jones Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Tierre Caldwell grew up without a father in a violent gang setting in Minneapolis. As a teenager, he developed addictions to drugs and alcohol. After an argument, he shot a man and was sent to prison for seven years. He wound up in solitary for six months, where he had no choice but to stop using and face his demons. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you're struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Back From Broken is conducting an audience survey so that we can learn a bit more about you and get your feedback. Please take a few minutes to tell us about yourself, and share your thoughts about this show, by visiting backfrombroken.org/survey. Thank you! Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Erin Jones Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

After the lessons of rail, the Denver region might just be ready to move into a bus-centric transit future that better addresses climate change, air quality, and inequity. But there's one unfulfilled promise standing in the way: the Boulder train. Is it time for locals to let that go, or is there hope on the horizon? Part 4 of 4. Hosted and reported by Nathaniel Minor Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and mixing: Rebekah Romberg Additional production: Luis Antonio Perez Theme song by Daniel Mescher. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner  Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Alison Borden, Rachel Estabrook, Ana Campbell, Sherkiya Wedgeworth-Hollowell, Andrew Villegas, Dave Burdick  Archival tape thanks: Heather Dalton and Dominic Dezzutti at CPT-12; Tim Wieland and Steve Vriesman at CBS4 Denver; Kevin Krug at KMGH Denver7. Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg. Ghost Train is a production of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. www.cpr.org/podcast/ghost-train On Twitter: @COPublicRadio @nbminor

Today's episode is a special preview of another CPR News podcast called Ghost Train. Hosted by reporter Nathaniel Minor, it's about building a greener transportation system in Colorado – and whether the plans of decades ago should still be setting our course for the future. Denver-area taxpayers have made a massive investment in rail transit over the last 17 years. But these billions of dollars have done little to shift how people move around here. Why is that? You'll hear the complete first installment of Ghost Train in this episode. To hear the rest of the series follow Ghost Train at this link: https://www.cpr.org/podcast/ghost-train/ This is an installment of Colorado In Depth. It's a podcast featuring documentary news, investigations and special reporting, all from the CPR newsroom. Subscribe for stories from the plains to the mountains, the Western Slope to the Four Corners. Hosted and reported by Nathaniel Minor Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and mixing: Rebekah Romberg Additional production: Luis Antonio Perez Theme song by Daniel Mescher. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner  Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Alison Borden, Rachel Estabrook, Ana Campbell, Sherkiya Wedgeworth-Hollowell, Andrew Villegas, Dave Burdick  Archival tape thanks: Heather Dalton and Dominic Dezzutti at CPT-12; Tim Wieland and Steve Vriesman at CBS4 Denver; Kevin Krug at KMGH Denver7. Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg. Ghost Train is a production of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Thanks also to Matt Herz and Sarah Bures.

The Denver metro area's rail system mostly neglects the dense, walkable parts of the city. Why is that? And now, after we've spent decades prioritizing freedom in how we get around, is it time to change the way we live? Part 3 of 4. Hosted and reported by Nathaniel Minor Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and mixing: Rebekah Romberg Additional production: Luis Antonio Perez Theme song by Daniel Mescher. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner  Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Alison Borden, Rachel Estabrook, Ana Campbell, Sherkiya Wedgeworth-Hollowell, Andrew Villegas, Dave Burdick  Archival tape thanks: Heather Dalton and Dominic Dezzutti at CPT-12; Tim Wieland and Steve Vriesman at CBS4 Denver; Kevin Krug at KMGH Denver7. Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg. Ghost Train is a production of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. www.cpr.org/podcast/ghost-train On Twitter: @COPublicRadio @nbminor

Sam Chesser loved the transit system when he visited New York City. So Sam, like many voters, supported a vision he thought would make his beloved hometown, Denver, just as accessible. That allowed transit planners to spend billions of dollars laying rail track. But almost two decades later, who actually uses it? Part 2 of 4. Hosted and reported by Nathaniel Minor Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and mixing: Rebekah Romberg Additional production: Luis Antonio Perez Theme song by Daniel Mescher. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner  Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Alison Borden, Rachel Estabrook, Ana Campbell, Sherkiya Wedgeworth-Hollowell, Andrew Villegas, Dave Burdick  Archival tape thanks: Heather Dalton and Dominic Dezzutti at CPT-12; Tim Wieland and Steve Vriesman at CBS4 Denver; Kevin Krug at KMGH Denver7. Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg. Ghost Train is a production of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. www.cpr.org/podcast/ghost-train On Twitter: @COPublicRadio @nbminor

With a brown cloud hovering overhead and a second-place football team, Denver had dreams of becoming a world-class city. But it wasn't until the turn of the millennium that it found a way to get there: trains. Part 1 of 4. Hosted and reported by Nathaniel Minor Editors: Erin Jones, Joe Wertz Production and mixing: Rebekah Romberg Additional production: Luis Antonio Perez Theme song by Daniel Mescher. Additional music via Universal Production Music. Artwork: Mia Rincón Executive producers: Kevin Dale, Brad Turner  Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Alison Borden, Rachel Estabrook, Ana Campbell, Sherkiya Wedgeworth-Hollowell, Andrew Villegas, Dave Burdick  Archival tape thanks: Heather Dalton and Dominic Dezzutti at CPT-12; Tim Wieland and Steve Vriesman at CBS4 Denver; Kevin Krug at KMGH Denver7. Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg. Ghost Train is a production of CPR News and Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. www.cpr.org/podcast/ghost-train On Twitter: @COPublicRadio @nbminor

For a long time, a common refrain has been that more than half of restaurants close before even making it a year. Now think of the chances of survival if you opened one right before the pandemic — right before restaurants around the world had to shut down their in person business. As the virus has ebbed and flowed, the number of customers coming in has fluctuated wildly, but some of these businesses in Colorado have survived through mandates, inflation, supply chain issues, staffing shortages and now omicron. This is the story of Zomo Asian + American Eatery in Englewood. It's a family story and a survival story. And in the end, it's an ominous story about how long businesses can really survive in the face of a new, infectious wave of the pandemic. See photos, a timeline and more on this story: https://www.cpr.org/2021/12/13/from-dawn-to-dinner-at-a-family-owned-restaurant-that-has-survived-the-pandemic/ This is an installment of Colorado In Depth. It's a podcast featuring documentary news, investigations and special reporting, all from the CPR newsroom. Subscribe for stories from the plains to the mountains, the Western Slope to the Four Corners. Written and reported by Sarah Mulholland, Ryan Warner Editing: Rachel Estabrook Host: Rachel Estabrook Executive producer: Kevin Dale Mixing and Sound Design: Patrice Mondragon Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Mia Rincon, Matt Herz, Rebekah Romberg, Brad Turner, Hart Van Denburg and Sarah Bures.

Some of the biggest wildfires in Colorado have cost lives and caused millions of dollars in damage. But without knowing how they started exactly, Coloradans can't change policies to try to prevent new ones. And no one gets held accountable. CPR reporters Ben Markus and Veronica Penney explain what they found when they analyzed eighteen years of federal wildfire data, and talked to nearly a hundred people to understand the real world consequences of not being able to pinpoint how fires start in the age of climate change. See photos, graphs and more on this story: https://www.cpr.org/2021/11/11/colorados-biggest-wildfires-are-mostly-human-caused-and-unsolved/ This is the first installment of Colorado In Depth. It's a podcast featuring documentary news, investigations and special reporting, all from the CPR newsroom. Subscribe for stories from the plains to the mountains, the Western Slope to the Four Corners. Written and reported by Ben Markus, Veronica Penney Additional reporting: Sam Brasch Editing: Chuck Murphy, Rachel Estabrook Host: Rachel Estabrook Executive producer: Kevin Dale Mixing and Sound Design: Pedro Lumbrano Additional production: Luis Antonio Perez Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Mia Rincon, Matt Herz, Rebekah Romberg, Brad Turner, Kevin J. Beaty, Hart Van Denburg and Eli Imadali.

If you Google the question "Is marijuana racist?" there's no shortage of articles available to try and answer the question definitively. But the racial baggage behind the word is much more complicated than a simple yes or no answer. Cannabis journalist Abdullah Saeed and cannabis historian Isaac Campos join us to unpack it all, and to figure out how this history fits into today's discussions about equity. This story is Part 8 of 8 in a series called Fair Shake, about what drug laws and the cannabis business can teach us about social equity in the U.S. Written by Ann Marie Awad Reported by Ann Marie Awad, Jo Erickson Lead producer: Matthew Simonson, Jo Erickson Editor: Curtis Fox Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional production: Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Illustrator: Jonell Joshua Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Rachel Estabrook, Francie Swidler. OnSomething.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

It doesn't get much better than feeling confident, triumphant and optimistic. Translating a really good feeling into music opens the door for lots of creativity. Here's a peek at how musicians like Janelle Monae, Lil Nas X, Shania Twain, Jimmy Cliff, Gustav Holst and Nina Simone made incredible sounds about feeling great. Stuff to think about after you've listened: What is a groove that you want to hear when you feel good? When we feel good, we often want to move and dance. What are songs that make you feel good and want to move or dance? Ready to explore more music about feeling good? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians express emotions through sound. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts and Producers: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Editors: Jo Erickson and Dennis Funk Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer at CPR Classical, Bruce Trujillo and Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, and all the teachers and students who shared feedback and attended virtual focus groups as we developed this podcast.

Sometimes a musical phrase or a single line of lyrics can unlock those bad feelings we've tried to hide. Music can be a powerful way to capture the mood when we feel anxious, chaotic or a little bit numb. This episode features music about feeling bad from Olivia Rodrigo, Beyoncé, Radiohead, Hakki Bulut, Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard. Stuff to think about after you've listened: “Bad” can be a vague description of a feeling. What were some of the “bad”-feeling music selections that stood out to you from the episode? Would you describe the emotion in that music a different way? What's a song you know that you associate with feeling bad? Ready to explore more music about feeling bad? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians express emotions through sound. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts and Producers: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Editors: Jo Erickson and Dennis Funk Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer at CPR Classical, Bruce Trujillo and Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, and all the teachers and students who shared feedback and attended virtual focus groups as we developed this podcast.

Disgust is a powerful emotion, but you might be surprised at the nuanced music it can inspire. We'll hear deeply personal statements alongside stunning protest music from artists like Billie Holiday, Anderson .Paak, Billie Eilish, Agnes Obel, Daniel Viglietti and Krystof Penderecki. Content warning: This episode covers some topics that might be unsettling for some younger listeners. It's the kind of material you might learn in a high school history class, rather than in elementary school history. You might want to listen to a different episode of Music Blocks if you're around younger ears. Stuff to think about after you've listened: What sounds would you choose to express the feeling of disgust? What are some things that make you feel disgusted? Can you write a short poem or rhyme to express these things? Ready to explore sounds connected to disgust? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians express emotions through sound. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts and Producers: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Editors: Jo Erickson and Dennis Funk Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer at CPR Classical, Bruce Trujillo and Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, and all the teachers and students who shared feedback and attended virtual focus groups as we developed this podcast.

Surprises can be wonderful or shocking, delightful or jarring. And when musicians find clever ways to surprise listeners, things get really interesting. Here's a look at unpredictable music from Björk, Igor Stravinsky, Bobby “Blue” Bland, Claude Debussy and The Yoshida Brothers. Stuff to think about after you've listened: Which of the ideas of surprise in music that were featured in this episode do you want to listen to again? What are some ways to use sound that are surprising to you? Ready to explore more surprising sounds? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians express emotions through sound. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts and Producers: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Editors: Jo Erickson and Dennis Funk Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer at CPR Classical, Bruce Trujillo and Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, and all the teachers and students who shared feedback and attended virtual focus groups as we developed this podcast.

Grab a box of tissues. This episode of Music Blocks is about the powerful and inventive ways musicians take sadness and turn it into memorable music. We'll hear examples from Four Tet, Charles Mingus, Samuel Barber, Joeboy, Youssou N'Dour and Neneh Cherry. Stuff to think about after you've listened: Sometimes when we are sad, we want to feel that emotion. Are there songs that you play that help you to feel sad? Think about a person or an event that you want to write a sad song about. What kinds of sounds would you use? Ready to explore more sad sounds? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians express emotions through sound. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts and Producers: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Editors: Jo Erickson and Dennis Funk Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer at CPR Classical, Bruce Trujillo and Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, and all the teachers and students who shared feedback and attended virtual focus groups as we developed this podcast.

Angry music can feel potent, like a release of pressure for a singer or a musician. So how do musicians express anger in creative ways? Check out some anger-inspired sounds from Fela Kuti, Alabama Shakes, The Clash, Netta and Coolio. Stuff to think about after you've listened: What is a style of music that you turn to when you are angry? What are some sounds that you associate with feeling angry? Ready to explore more angry songs? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians express emotions through sound. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts and Producers: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Editors: Jo Erickson and Dennis Funk Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer at CPR Classical, Bruce Trujillo and Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, and all the teachers and students who shared feedback and attended virtual focus groups as we developed this podcast.

Fear is primal. It's how we react to the unknown. And when composers and songwriters set out to make frightful music, it opens up a world of creative possibilities. We'll hear vivid examples from John Williams, Modest Mussorgsky, John Carpenter, Christian Scott and The Shirelles. Stuff to think about after you've listened: What do you think is the best way to express fear in music? Which song in the episode was the most fearful to you? Ready to explore more frightful music? Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians express emotions through sound. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts and Producers: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Editors: Jo Erickson and Dennis Funk Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer at CPR Classical, Bruce Trujillo and Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, and all the teachers and students who shared feedback and attended virtual focus groups as we developed this podcast.

Happiness is one of the most basic human emotions and a feeling composers often express through music. But what makes a piece of music sound joyful? Hear how Pharrell Williams, Ludwig van Beethoven, Red Velvet, Prince Nico Mbarga and John Coltrane have conveyed happiness through their music. Stuff to think about after you've listened: What are some sounds that you associate with happiness? What are songs that you listen to when you are experiencing happiness? What made you choose these songs? Ready to explore more music about happiness? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music. This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians express emotions through sound. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org. Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: Hello@MusicBlocksPodcast.org Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio. Hosts and Producers: Luis Antonio Perez and Rebekah Romberg Editors: Jo Erickson and Dennis Funk Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D. Executive Producer: Brad Turner Thank you: Monika Vischer at CPR Classical, Bruce Trujillo and Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, and all the teachers and students who shared feedback and attended virtual focus groups as we developed this podcast.

Ann first met Logan Kinamore in 2014, when she was a young journalist covering her first story about drug policy. Kinamore is a harm reduction activist based in Louisiana, who has his own history of substance abuse. That's actually how he learned about the harm reduction movement -- which advocates for more compassion and less criminalization of drug users. Now, that movement has taken hold in Oregon, where voters considered a landmark harm reduction policy in the 2020 election. In a special solutions-focused episode of On Something, we dive deep into the philosophy of harm reduction and what the Oregon measure could mean for the future. This story is Part 7 of 8 in a series called Fair Shake, about what drug laws and the cannabis business can teach us about social equity in the U.S. Written and reported by Ann Marie Awad Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Dennis Funk, Jo Erickson Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional production: Rebekah Romberg Illustrator: Jonell Joshua Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Rachel Estabrook, Francie Swidler. OnSomething.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

Psychedelics are more than just cutting edge -- they're trendy. Whether it's tech workers micro dosing LSD in Silicon Valley, or Gwyneth Paltrow discussing ayahuasca on her Netflix show, there is a cultural fixation on psychedelics beyond the breakthroughs being made in the lab. But Charlotte James and Dre Wright are working to remind people that these are not just medicines, but sacred medicines, used for centuries by Indigenous people -- who are now in danger of being written out of the next chapter of psychedelic history. This story is Part 6 of 8 in a series called Fair Shake, about what drug laws and the cannabis business can teach us about social equity in the U.S. Written and reported by Ann Marie Awad Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editors: Dennis Funk, Jo Erickson Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional production: Luis Antonio Perez Illustrator: Jonell Joshua Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Rachel Estabrook, Francie Swidler. OnSomething.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

In 2012, Fred Harris watched legalization pass him by from a prison cell in Colorado. Despite being the first state to legalize recreational cannabis, the law didn't account for people like Fred, who were still serving cannabis-related sentences. That meant getting out of prison would be no easy feat -- even after his son, Arzelle Lewis, called in celebrities and NBA stars to help plead his dad's case. This story is Part 5 of 8 in a series called Fair Shake, about what drug laws and the cannabis business can teach us about social equity in the U.S. Written and reported by Ann Marie Awad Additional Reporting: Allan Tellis, Rebekah Romberg Lead producers: Luis Antonio Perez Editor: Dennis Funk Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional production: Jo Erickson Illustrator: Jonell Joshua Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Rachel Estabrook, Francie Swidler. OnSomething.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

Ronnie Bell is a pot farmer in California's Inland Empire. Despite living in a state where weed is legal, Ronnie's farm is not. Since the state passed recreational legalization in 2016, counties like his have ramped up law enforcement to try and stamp out underground pot growers and dealers. But Ronnie and his neighbors say that selling legal weed has become too big of a business for them to step out of the shadows. This story is Part 4 of 8 in a series called Fair Shake, about what drug laws and the cannabis business can teach us about social equity in the U.S. Written and reported by Ann Marie Awad, with Stephanie Lai Lead producers: Rebekah Romberg, Matthew Simonson, Kristy Totten Editor: Dennis Funk Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional producers: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Gary Hardcastle Illustrator: Jonell Joshua Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Rachel Estabrook, Francie Swidler. OnSomething.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

This spring, the nation held its breath as Derek Chauvin, the officer charged with murdering George Floyd, went on trial. Was the officer a single bad apple, or a symptom of a broken system? Nekima Levy-Armstrong is a former law professor who gave up her career to become a full-time activist. Since then, she's spent the better part of a decade pushing for police reform, and played a pivotal role in the movement that followed Floyd's death. In this year when rethinking law enforcement is at the center of a global conversation, Nekima is working to hold those in power accountable for change. Hosted and produced by Jo Erickson Editor: Dennis Funk Production and mixing: Rebekah Romberg Theme music by Daniel Mescher. Additional music via Firstcom. Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional editorial support: Luis Antonio Perez, Rachel Estabrook, Elena Rivera Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Mia Rincón, Dave Burdick, John Mossman. SystemicPodcast.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

Mildred Barnes Griggs wanted to get into the cannabis business to revitalize the economy of her small hometown of Marianna, Arkansas. But when she and her expert team applied for a license to grow, all they got was disappointment. Their application was supposed to be judged on merit, but, in this case, the meaning of merit isn't all that clear. This story is Part 3 of 8 in a series called Fair Shake, about what drug laws and the cannabis business can teach us about social equity in the U.S. Written and reported by Ann Marie Awad, with Mona Zhang of Politico Lead producers: Luis Antonio Perez & Rebekah Romberg Editor: Dennis Funk Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional producers: Jo Erickson Illustrator: Jonell Joshua Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Rachel Estabrook, Francie Swidler. OnSomething.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

On this episode, we follow an officer in leadership who's working to reform policing from the top down. As director of public safety in the small community of Franklin Township, New Jersey, she's taking a hard look at the diversity of her department, and addressing how officers interact with the community they serve. Hosted and produced by Jo Erickson Editor: Dennis Funk Production and mixing: Rebekah Romberg Theme music by Daniel Mescher. Additional music via Firstcom. Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional editorial support: Luis Antonio Perez, Rachel Estabrook, Elena Rivera Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Mia Rincón, Dave Burdick, John Mossman. SystemicPodcast.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

Against the backdrop of George Floyd's death and nationwide Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, Colorado legislators won praise for swiftly passing an ambitious law meant to punish future abuses by police officers. But part of the genesis for that law began in 2019 amidst a different set of police protests after the death of a Black man in Colorado Springs. That moment left a grieving family searching for answers in a complicated and frustrating legal system. Hosted and produced by Jo Erickson Editor: Dennis Funk Production and mixing: Rebekah Romberg Theme music by Daniel Mescher. Additional music via Firstcom. Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional editorial support: Luis Antonio Perez, Rachel Estabrook, Elena Rivera Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Mia Rincón, Dave Burdick, John Mossman. SystemicPodcast.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

Massachusetts won national praise for being the first state to legalize recreational weed with an eye to equity. Voters in 2016 said they wanted a cannabis industry that somehow included people who were impacted by the War on Drugs. But since then, those very people have been squeezed out of the industry -- people like Chauncy Spencer. He grew up in Boston, sold weed when he was young, and paid the price for it. When he tried to open a legal pot shop, he faced surprising competition from another entrepreneur who was quietly backed by a major corporation. This story is Part 2 of 8 in a series called Fair Shake, about what drug laws and the cannabis business can teach us about social equity in the U.S. Written and reported by Ann Marie Awad, with Dan Adams of the Boston Globe Lead producers: Jo Erickson, with mixing by Matt Simonson Editor: Dennis Funk Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional producers: Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg Illustrator: Jonell Joshua Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Rachel Estabrook, Francie Swidler. OnSomething.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

Meet two Black police officers — a young officer in the Minneapolis suburbs and a veteran sheriff's deputy in Colorado Springs — working to protect their communities. In the wake of George Floyd's death and the nationwide protests that followed, these two women offer a glimpse of what it's like to serve in law enforcement at a time when policing itself is under fire. They also speak frankly about how their jobs and their identities sometimes come into conflict. Hosted and produced by Jo Erickson Editor: Dennis Funk Production and mixing: Rebekah Romberg Theme music by Daniel Mescher. Additional music via Firstcom. Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional editorial support: Luis Antonio Perez, Rachel Estabrook, Elena Rivera Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Mia Rincón, Dave Burdick, John Mossman. SystemicPodcast.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

Welcome to Season 3 of On Something, and Part 1 of a series we're calling Fair Shake. This season, On Something explores the pursuit of social equity in the cannabis industry, and what it can teach us creating a fairer society. But first of all, what does social equity even mean? University of Toronto Professor Awkwasi Owusu-Bempah is here to get us all on the same page, and remind us of the stakes. Activist Sonia Erika, who helped legalize in Massachusetts, shares her story of fighting for social equity in the first state to require it -- sort of. Written and reported by Ann Marie Awad Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editor: Dennis Funk Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Additional producers: Jo Erickson, Rebekah Romberg Illustrator: Jonell Joshua Thanks also to Kim Nguyen, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Rachel Estabrook, Francie Swidler. OnSomething.org On Twitter: @COPublicRadio

Hunter Biden’s struggle with addiction has been intense — and very public. His battle with alcohol and cocaine addiction came under scrutiny as his father, Joe Biden, ran for president. But with the support of his family, Hunter found the help he needed. His recovery story, which he shared in his book “Beautiful Things,” offers hope to those who are still struggling. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Brad Turner Editor: Dennis Funk Producers: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Kevin Griffin was a talented musician who struggled with addiction, felt diretionless in life and eventually became homeless. Until he discovered Buddhism and a recovery program -- and wrote a book that blended the two concepts and helped countless readers struggling with their own addictions. One of those readers was Vic Vela, Back From Broken's host. That connection adds a personal angle to an episode that's full of surprises and hope. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editors: Dennis Funk, Ann Marie Awad Producers: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1