Podcast appearances and mentions of mandy connell

Get ready for a lively discussion on everything from food to politics on this episode of The Mandy Connell Show. Mandy Connell is joined by her guest, Dave Chung, a local food enthusiast who shares his passion for exploring the hidden gems of Denver's culinary scene. From hand-pulled noodles to dumplings, Dave takes listeners on a tour of the city's best-kept secrets. In this episode, Mandy and Dave dive into the world of food, discussing the evolution of Denver's restaurant scene and the importance of supporting local businesses. They also talk about the challenges faced by small business owners, including rising costs and the impact of the minimum wage increase. Mandy shares her own experiences as a YouTube creator, highlighting the importance of authenticity and transparency in her content. But it's not all about food - Mandy also tackles some serious topics, including the Memorandum of Understanding between Iran and the US. Cliff May, a expert on the subject, joins the conversation to share his insights on the negotiations and the Iranian regime's tactics. Mandy and Cliff discuss the complexities of the situation and the potential consequences of the MoU.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's episode, Mandy Connell dives into the world of pharmacy benefit managers, a crucial but often misunderstood aspect of the healthcare system. With the rising costs of prescription drugs, it's essential to understand how these middlemen impact the prices we pay. Joining Mandy is Antonio Ciaccia, president of 3 Axis Advisors, who sheds light on the complex relationships between pharmacy benefit managers, drug companies, and insurance providers. The conversation delves into the history of pharmacy benefit managers, their role in negotiating discounts, and the conflicts of interest that drive up prices. Mandy and Antonio discuss how the system is designed to favor the interests of the middlemen, rather than the patients, and how this leads to inflated prices and unnecessary costs. They also explore the example of GLP-1 medications, which have seen a significant price drop when purchased outside of the traditional insurance system. Plus it's time for our monthly check in with Justin and Brad of Bell and Pollock for Ask the Attorneys! And Dave Fraser from FOX31 stops by for Weather Wednesday!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mandy Connell's latest episode is a wild ride, tackling everything from the "goblintimacy" dating trend to the US funding of biological research in Ukraine. The conversation starts with a humorous take on dating, where Mandy shares her thoughts on the idea of showing up on a first date as your "real goblin self." She also dives into the world of politics, discussing the recent controversy surrounding Denver Public Schools Superintendent Alex Marrero and the potential implications of his departure. The episode also covers some serious topics, including the rise of Anti-Semitism in Boulder, Colorado, and the importance of teaching children about the Holocaust. Mandy shares a disturbing story about a student who was subjected to anti-Semitic bullying in a Boulder Valley school, and the lack of action taken by the school district. She also discusses the recent FBI bust of an alleged attack on the White House, which was motivated by anti-Semitic views. In addition to these serious topics, the episode touches on some lighter subjects, such as the importance of weightlifting for longevity and the benefits of combining aerobic exercise with resistance training. Mandy also shares a fascinating story about a study that found that lifting weights can reduce the risk of dying prematurely from any cause, including heart disease and neurological diseases. The most egregious ballot situation comes from my friend Jon Caldara, whose delightful adult son Chance is the life of the party, but he does have Down’s Syndrome so he’s never registered to vote. But guess who got mailed a ballot?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Mandy Connell Show, Mandy Connell dives into the recent Iran deal and its implications for the Middle East. They also discuss the recent UFC event at the White House and the importance of appreciating the little things in life. Mandy shares her thoughts on the Iran deal, expressing her frustration with the agreement and its potential consequences. The episode also covers a range of other topics, including the upcoming primary elections in Colorado and the qualifications of the candidates running for office. Mandy discusses the recent controversy surrounding Jenna Griswold, a candidate for Attorney General, and her questionable claims about her background and experience. The conversation also touches on the importance of appreciating the little things in life and the dangers of "life dysmorphia" - the tendency to compare ourselves to others and feel unhappy with our own lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mandy Connell dives into the controversy surrounding the Southern Poverty Law Center, an organization that was once a beacon of hope for fighting racism and hate, but has since been accused of losing its mission and becoming a "grift." Mandy shares her thoughts on how the organization's actions have led to a culture of division and hate, and how it's time for a change. The conversation also touches on the future of electric vehicle charging, as Mandy talks to Sam Say and John Patterson of Ev Charge, a Colorado-based startup that's creating a peer-to-peer EV charging network. They discuss the challenges of building a reliable charging infrastructure and how their platform can help homeowners monetize their existing charging equipment. From the impact of the Iran war on the global oil market to the importance of supporting Israel, this episode covers a wide range of topics that will keep you engaged and informed. Mandy also shares her thoughts on the importance of being mindful of the companies we support and the impact of our consumer choices. She discusses the rise of the gig economy and how it's changing the way we think about work and leisure. And, as always, she tackles some of the lighter side of life, including the joy of popping bubble wrap and the importance of taking breaks. If you're interested in learning more about the Southern Poverty Law Center's controversy, the future of electric vehicle charging, and the importance of being mindful of our consumer choices, tune in to this episode of The Mandy Connell Show. Join the conversation and let us know what you think!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Mandy Connell Show, Mandy Connell dives into a thought-provoking conversation with a self-proclaimed democratic socialist, Deep Singh Badhesha. As a first-generation American, Deep shares his fascinating story of growing up in a conservative Colorado Springs community and how his experiences shaped his views on politics and social issues. From his early days as a libertarian to becoming a passionate advocate for democratic socialism, Deep's journey is a compelling exploration of the complexities of the American left. The conversation touches on a range of topics, including healthcare, government accountability, and the challenges of implementing a universal healthcare system. Mandy and Deep engage in a respectful and insightful discussion, challenging each other's perspectives and ideas. The episode also delves into the complexities of socialism and capitalism, with Deep arguing that socialism has failed in the past due to human nature, but also highlighting the successes of collectivist societies like China. Meanwhile, Representative Jeff Crank joins the show to discuss the war in Iran and the potential implications for the midterms. He shares his thoughts on the current situation and the need for a more nuanced approach to dealing with Iran. The conversation also touches on the importance of regular order in the legislative process and the need to address the country's growing deficit. Plus FOX31 Chief Meteorologist Dave Fraser stops by for a quick update on today's crazy weather!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a shocking revelation, a Medicaid scam in Colorado has been exposed, with a home health agency bilking the state out of $24 million. The agency, Ongoing Home Health, was recruiting homeless people and enrolling them in Medicaid, then paying them $150 per week to stay in houses owned by the agency's associates. But here's the kicker: the agency was also creating a church front to launder the money, making it look like donations to the church. This is not an isolated incident, as similar scams have been uncovered in other states. In this episode of The Mandy Connell Show, host Mandy Connell dives into the details of this Medicaid scam, discussing the agency's tactics and the potential consequences for those involved. She also talks to investigative journalist David Migoya, who broke the story, about the investigation and the impact on the community. The conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in government accountability and the importance of investigative journalism. The episode also touches on the Democratic governor's debate, where the candidates' plans for Colorado's economy and business environment were put under the microscope. Mandy shares her thoughts on the debate and the implications for the state's future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mandy Connell's latest episode is a wild ride, covering everything from the Colorado gubernatorial debate to the latest news on SpaceX's IPO. The show starts with a discussion about the upcoming debate, where Mandy shares her thoughts on the energy and tone she expects from the moderators. Mandy discusses the importance of electability in a candidate and how Victor Marx's past actions and statements may not be the best fit for the job. She also talks about the need for voters to consider the potential consequences of their choices, especially when it comes to down-ticket races. The conversation also touches on the topic of women in politics and how some of them seem to be more focused on drama and attention than on serving the people. In a lighter moment, Mandy shares her excitement about SpaceX's upcoming IPO and the potential for Elon Musk to become a trillionaire. She also talks about the importance of being cautious when it comes to investing in the stock market and the need to do your own research before making any decisions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of the show is a real treat, folks! We've got a fantastic conversation with the one and only Kenny Wayne Shepherd, blues mastermind and guitar virtuoso. But before we dive into that, our host Mandy Connell tackles some serious topics, from the absurdity of expecting women to perform at work despite debilitating period pain to the importance of exposing kids to nature and its benefits for their immune systems. She also shares her thoughts on the Colorado education system, which is, quite frankly, embarrassing. Mandy's conversation with Kenny Wayne Shepherd is a must-listen. They talk about his incredible journey from a 16-year-old prodigy to a blues legend, and how he's evolved as a musician over the years. Kenny shares stories about his early days, including how he learned to play the guitar from his grandmother and how he met Stevie Ray Vaughan. He also talks about his latest project, a cover album that's sure to delight fans of rock and roll.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mandy Connell dives into the world of entertainment, discussing the rise of clean comedy and its growing popularity. She's joined by Christian Toto, a renowned entertainment expert, to explore the reasons behind this trend. Plus, they discuss the latest news in the world of movies, including the success of indie films like "Backrooms" and "Obsession." Mandy and Christian discuss the challenges facing the film industry, including the impact of social media on movie stars and the importance of finding a balance between technology and traditional methods in education. Mandy talks about the upcoming 250th birthday celebration of the United States and how it's being overshadowed by politics. They also touch on the topic of CTE, or chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and the recent donation of former hockey player Claude Lemieux's brain to the Boston University CTE Center. This episode also covers a range of other topics, from the job market and the impact of automation on employment to the latest news in the world of sports. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's Friday, and Mandy Connell is kicking off the weekend with a bang! In this episode, she dives into a heated discussion about the proposed Initiative 1.5, which aims to dedicate more money to Colorado's roads. But, as Mandy points out, it's not just about the roads - it's about the politicians' intentions and the voters' rights. She's joined by Tony Milo, the President and CEO of the Colorado Contractors Association, who explains the initiative and its potential impact on the state's infrastructure. Mandy and Tony discuss the current state of Colorado's roads, which are in dire need of repair. They also touch on the recent bill, HB 26.14.30, which would reduce funding for roads if Initiative 175 passes. Mandy shares her concerns about the bill and its potential consequences, and Tony explains how the initiative would work and its benefits. The conversation is informative, engaging, and thought-provoking, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in Colorado politics and infrastructure. But that's not all - Mandy also talks about her recent experience with a comedian, Brian Posehn, who was awkward during their interview. She shares some hilarious stories about their conversation and how it went off the rails. And, as always, she takes listener questions and shares her thoughts on various topics, from the Pontiac Aztec to the importance of hunting and fishing in Colorado. Willie B makes an appearance to talk about the ugly Aztec.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mandy Connell dives into the world of politics, discussing the recent debate between Scott Bottoms and Barb Kirkmeyer, and the latest news on the Colorado governor's race. But it's not all politics - they also tackle some bizarre topics, like the best way to brush your teeth (spoiler alert: it's not like Bryce Harper's method). In this episode, Mandy discusses the upcoming election, the latest news on the Colorado governor's race, and the importance of being informed voters. Mandy also delves into some lighter topics, like the best way to get to the airport on time (early, of course!) and the latest trends in social media. Mandy also discusses the latest news on the Biden tapes and the Department of Homeland Security's plans to stop processing international flights in sanctuary cities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's episode, Mandy Connell dives into a heated debate about data centers, AI, and the future of work. She shares a fascinating story about a developer in Denver who's trying to revitalize the city's downtown area by converting an old office building into apartments, but is facing significant challenges due to new green energy standards. Mandy also discusses the controversy surrounding Medicaid's coverage of surgeries for trans individuals and how it's sparking a conversation about fairness and equality. The episode touches on the importance of creativity and innovation, with Mandy sharing a study about how walking can boost creativity and productivity. She also talks to Sean, the owner of The Grecian Grazer in Parker, Colorado, about his experience with a "bagel war" and how small businesses can deal with online negativity. Additionally, Mandy discusses the benefits of AI and data centers, and how they're shaping the future of work. As Mandy navigates these complex topics, she encourages listeners to think critically about the issues and consider multiple perspectives. She also shares her own experiences with AI and data centers, and how they're impacting her life and work. If you're curious about the future of work, the impact of data centers, and the importance of creativity and innovation, tune in to this episode of The Mandy Connell Show to hear Mandy's insightful discussion and expert insights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of the Mandy Connell Show is a thought-provoking conversation that delves into the importance of remembering our past and its relevance to the present. Deborah Flora sits in for Mandy Connell and discusses a range of topics, from the 25th anniversary of 9/11 to the current state of American society. Deborah shares her personal experiences and insights on the significance of remembering historical events, such as 9/11, and how they shape our understanding of the world today. She also explores the current state of American society, including the rise of socialism among young people and the importance of teaching Judeo-Christian principles in schools. The conversation also touches on the topic of religious literacy and how it affects our understanding of American history and values. The episode also features a discussion on the recent case of Jefferson County School District, where parents are fighting for their right to know about their children's overnight accommodations on school trips. Deborah talks to Vincent Wagner from Alliance Defending Freedom about the case and its implications for parental rights and religious freedom. As Deborah wraps up the episode, she shares some encouraging news about the younger generation, highlighting a study that shows a significant increase in young people buying Bibles and returning to their faith. She emphasizes the importance of hope and faith in shaping the future of our country and encourages listeners to tune in to the full episode to hear more about these topics and how they relate to our daily lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mandy Connell shares her thoughts on the recent Governor's forum and Victor Marx's Facebook live. She discusses how Marx's performance was more about self-aggrandizement than substantial policy discussions. Mandy highlights the lack of originality in Marx's talking points, which seemed to be a mix of what other candidates had already said. She also expresses frustration with Marx's approach to dealing with Democrats, which she believes is unrealistic. Additionally, Mandy touches on the recent bill proposed by lawmakers to provide special security and legal protections for elected officials, which she finds ironic and concerning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mandy Connell discusses the recent White House Correspondence dinner incident, where a gunman attempted to shoot President Trump. She shares her personal experience of attending the event and the Secret Service's swift response. Mandy also touches on the topic of the left's response to the incident, highlighting the contrast between their condemnation of violence and their own violent rhetoric. Additionally, she delves into the world of Gen Z, discussing their financial decisions and the importance of saving and investing wisely.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mandy Connell is joined by George Taylor, the DEA's Diversion Program manager, to talk about National Prescription Take Back Day. George shares the importance of safely disposing of unused medications to prevent addiction and potential loss of life. He explains how the event provides a safe and anonymous way for community members to turn in their unwanted, unused, and expired medications. George also discusses the everyday opportunity to dispose of medications through the DEA's year-round take back campaign and the process of safely collecting and incinerating the substances.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mandy Connell discusses a thought-provoking conversation with an exiled Iranian journalist and activist, and Daniel, a veteran of the Israeli Defense Forces. They share their insights on the complex relationship between Iran and Israel, and the role of the Iranian people in the fight against the Islamic Republic. The conversation touches on topics like anti-Semitism in Iran, the Israeli military's efforts, and the importance of a strong home front in times of war. Mandy also plays a snippet of their in-depth interview, which is available on her blog.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mandy Connell discusses the Iran situation, questioning the effectiveness of President Trump's approach and the potential consequences of his actions. She also touches on the concept of war crimes, highlighting the complexities of international law and the need for a nuanced discussion. Additionally, Mandy shares her thoughts on the importance of accountability and the need for a more thoughtful approach to addressing global conflicts. The conversation also delves into the world of artificial intelligence, exploring the potential benefits and limitations of AI systems.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Mandy Connell Show, Krista Kafer sits in for Mandy Connell and dives into two timely topics. Christy discusses the issue of gerrymandering in Colorado, where some Democrats want to manipulate the state's electoral map to eliminate Republican representation. She also shares her thoughts on the book "In COVID's Wake, How Politics Failed Us" by Stephen Makado and Francis Lee, which explores how politics failed to effectively address the COVID-19 pandemic. Krista also touches on the importance of vaccination and the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, host Mandy Connell is filling in for the show, discussing the latest news and current events. She touches on the recent change in leadership at the Department of Homeland Security, with Mark Wayne Mullen taking over from Christy Noam. Mandy shares her thoughts on the situation and invites listeners to share their opinions. The conversation also delves into the situation in Iran, with a focus on the country's military capabilities and the potential implications of a conflict. Additionally, Mandy discusses the importance of being informed and critical when using AI tools, and invites Joe Levi, CEO of Noise Media, to share his expertise on the topic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AI tech giant Palantir moved its HQ from Denver to Miami this week, notifying the world via a single tweet. Was this abrupt relocation in response to ongoing protests outside its Denver office or Colorado's first-in-the-nation AI bill or something else entirely? Political commentator Adrian Felix joins producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to dig into the controversial company's departure, plus the uncertain future of Leven Supply after being seized for unpaid taxes, and our wins and fails of the week. What do you think about Palantir leaving town? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Adrian talked about the proposal to legalize prostitution, which we discussed earlier this week on the pod. Bree discussed the hand painted sign stolen from Duke's Good Sandwiches and Burgers and the local sign painters who created it. Paul mentioned RTD moving forward with its renaming of Civic Center Station despite pushback, Chad McWhinney and Kimbal Musk in the Epstein Files, and the Poetic Kinetics art installation coming to downtown this summer.  For more on Scott Bottoms' allegation of a “pedophile ring” at the Capitol, Mandy Connell pressed him on it on KOA yesterday.  After we recorded this episode, we heard back from AG Phil Weiser's office about Palantir and CO's AI law. His spokesperson says that they have not had any conversations with Palantir and that Weiser's position on the AI law remains unchanged since the CU Denver Artificial Intelligence Symposium last fall, when he said his office was going to “hold off on any rule making process to implement the law until after the 2026 legislative session concludes and the General Assembly has an opportunity to make substantive changes to the AI law. This approach will allow us to create the initial rules from a place of more certainty and stability in the underlying law as well as enable us to best use and conserve our limited law enforcement resources.” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter at denver.citycast.fm. Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Mandy took some time out of her Mandy Connell Adventure overseas in South Korea & Japan to check in with Ross!

DOWNLOAD THE STOCK SHOW MANDY CONNELL SONG and reach out to Justin Renaud via his new website here if you want to join his band!

Renowned Denver talk radio host Mandy Connell joins us for a thought-provoking journey through the intricate world of political perceptions and familial stories. With Mandy's seasoned political insight, we dissect how figures like Donald Trump have molded public opinion and policy over the years. Amidst our serious discourse, we share personal anecdotes that lighten the mood, including the unforgettable saga of our childhood cat's infamous gerbil meal and the timeless wisdom of engaging with aging parents through the art of storytelling.   Our conversation takes a critical look at national security, intelligence reforms, and the essential need for government accountability. We tackle controversial proposals, such as overhauling the FBI's leadership and the creation of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission aimed at addressing deep state misdeeds. By examining the challenges of misinformation during election cycles, we underscore the pressing demand for fiscal reform and transparency in governance, drawing inspiration from modern business icons like Elon Musk and Warren Buffett to visualize a future of transparent and responsible leadership.   Exploring the nuances of media manipulation and political accountability, we question the integrity of campaign advertising and the resilience of American democracy post-January 6th. We discuss shifts within the Democratic Party, the contentious topic of benefits for undocumented immigrants, and the ramifications of government leaks on public perception. Wrapping up with a candid look at media bias, we emphasize the vital need for inclusivity and honesty in journalism to mend the cultural and political divides that challenge our nation. Join us as we navigate these complex issues, with the hope of fostering a more transparent and equitable political landscape.   CHAPTERS    (00:00) - Trump's Plan to Dismantle Deep State (11:24) - Reforming National Security and Intelligence (18:09) - Media Manipulation and Political Accountability (21:45) - Government Spending and Debt Crisis (26:57) - Government Bureaucracy Reform and Accountability (38:05) - Urgent Need for Congressional Term Limits (47:13) - Media Bias and Hope for America (51:44) - Podcast Promotion and Call to Action  

This week Michelle shares her interview from earlier this month on the Mandy Connell Show! And it's all about strength training. Michelle has had the privilege of being on Mandy's show close to 50 times over the last five years, and this is her favorite conversation they've ever had. You can listen to Mandy's appearance on episode 31, Healthy Habits, from all the way back in April 2022 here.And, catch episode 53, From Insecure to Inspiring: Anthony Rodriguez and His Weight Loss Journey, with her incredible executive producer, AROD, here.Huge shout out to AROD and the team for facilitating this feed drop!Learn more about MAKE Wellness: makewellness.comRegister here to join my Virtual Peptide Party!https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAscuCqrjkpHNzkSBid0kGl3Rx2zkTEAxiTConnect with Mandy:koacolorado.iheart.com/featured/mandy-connell/about/FB: Mandy ConnellIG: @themandyconnellCatch Mandy Connell Show weekdays on KOA 850 AM, 94.1 FM in Denver and on iHeartRadioConnect with Michelle:betterbeings.netIG: @betterbeingsusYouTube: Michelle Zellner - Be A Better Being Podcast playlist

With Dan once again buried in depositions, Heidi Ganahl fills in along with Ryan to recap the second night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention, with KOA's Mandy Connell joining with a live report from Chicago.

From halfway around the world, Dan takes a break from his 30th anniversary vacation in Switzerland and joins the show for a victory lap on his correct prediction (from over a year ago) that Joe Biden would not finish the 2024 race as the Democrat nominee for President.Also, introducing the debut of Heidi Ganahl as guest host - as well as a visit from another familiar voice, KOA's Mandy Connell. 

Tune in here to this Friday's segment of The Brett Winterble Show with Mandy Connell! We're joined by Mandy Connell from KOA to discuss the upcoming Cruise and Tour trip down the Danube! This Christmas trip is going to be a coalition of like minded listeners from KOA and WBT full of gourmet meals, spectacular places lit by Christmas lights, and great memories. Connell and Brett kick the segment off talking about how well the listeners of each respective station will gel together as they are all like minded people. Connell shares stories of previous trips where listeners who went say that they made life long friends on the trip.  They also discuss the Folds of Honor group that is going on the trip. Connell who is married to a veteran who suffered from significant battle injuries shares the joy she feels being on the trip alongside true American patriots. To reserve your spot on this all-inclusive trip down the Danube or for more information call (800)383-3131 Listen here for all you need to know about this cruise down the Danube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tune in here to this Friday edition of the Brett Winterble Show!   Brett kicks off the program with Pete Kaliner for this week's Friday Hangover segment, they talk about today being Good Friday, and the politically correct way to refer to elderly people.  Brett shares a clip of Karine Jean-Pierre discussing the "surge" of crime under Trump's administration and how well the Biden administration has done cutting down on crime statistics. This may come as a surprise to anyone able to see but not to worry it's true, just ask KJP.  Bo Thompson from Good Morning BT is also here for this Friday's episode of Crossing the Streams. Brett and Bo talk about how fast the news cycle switches from topic to topic, rarely covering an event through to the end, and March Madness. Bo also shares what he and Beth have coming up on Good Morning BT next week!  We're also joined by Mandy Connell from KOA to discuss their upcoming Cruise and Tour down the Danube!  Listen here for all of this and more on The Brett Winterble Show!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The penultimate program - Peter Boyles joins us in studio to reflect and talk about the radio industry. Our friend Mandy Connell calls in. We wrap the hour with friend Frank DeAngelis, the former principal at Columbine. Thank you, friends.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Arizona GOP moving variety of conspiracy-fueled voter suppression bills | Bill authorizing universal youth mental health screenings at school is moving in Colorado legislature | New Colorado GOP chair is a fringe character, prominent conservatives announce they're leaving the Party | VP Harris announces Biden Administration disbursement of $200 million in wildfire preparedness and mitigation funds | Billy Idol in DenverSong playsIntro by hostWelcome to High Country - politics in the American West. My name is Sean Diller; regular listeners might know me from Heartland Pod's Talking Politics, every Monday.Support this show and all the work in the Heartland POD universe by going to heartlandpod.com and clicking the link for Patreon, or go to Patreon.com/HeartlandPod to sign up. Membership starts at $1/month, with even more extra shows and special access at the higher levels. No matter the level you choose, your membership helps us create these independent shows as we work together to change the conversation.Alright! Let's get into it: ARIZONA MIRROR:Conspiracy theories still dominate Arizona Senate Elections CommitteeBY: JOE DUHOWNIK/COURTHOUSE NEWS SERVICE - MARCH 21, 2023 4:18 PMNearly a month after Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes released documents further disproving claims of widespread fraud in the 2020 election, Senate Republicans continue to make the same claims in the election committee.The most recent tantrum came during testimony regarding HB2415, which would remove people from the active early voting mailing list if they go a full year without participating in an election. Republicans said it's a way to declutter the list.Opponents argued that the bill would only disenfranchise voters, as many only vote in presidential elections every four years, and could be removed from the mail ballot list without knowing it.“Conspiracy theories” also came up again later in the committee meeting, this time in regard to HB2591, which would prohibit voters from using ballot drop boxes outside the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and would require that drop boxes be inside or attached to county buildings and be under 24/7 video surveillance. Bill sponsor Gail Griffin, a Republican state representative from Tucson, said she's seen video of “people with boxes coming and dumping ballots,” though she maintained that “2,000 Mules” - a propaganda film about imagined “ballot mules” stuffing ballots in the 2020 election. The fantasy about ballot mules is a cornerstone of the bigger fantasy that Joe Biden stole the 2020 election, even though he won by 3 full percentage points and 7 million votes.Democrats said restricting the times when voters can drop off ballots will make it harder for some to cast their vote. Republicans' only response was that those folks would need to use one of the less accessible options that remain if they want to vote. Cool. The Republican-dominated committee supported five more measures they say will increase election integrity. Republican state Representative Austin Smith sponsored HB2552 to preemptively prohibit ranked choice voting in Arizona. A companion bill already passed through the Senate in February.Jodi Liggett, a lobbyist representing the Arizona League of Women Voters, said more than 60% of Arizona voters support ranked choice voting, which is used in Maine, Alaska, and multiple cities like New York and San Francisco.“There should be no reason to preemptively silence the voice of your own constituents,” she told the committee.The committee ended with discussion on HB2613, which would require that all vote recording tabulation machines be 100% sourced from and built in the U.S. in response to fantasies about foreign tampering of voting machines in the 2020 election - where Donald Trump lost to Joe Biden by 3 full percentage points and 7 million legally cast votes. Jen Marson, representing the Arizona Association of Counties, said the machines used now are already manufactured in the U.S., but some parts, like plastics and electronics, are sourced from other countries.The bill's GOP sponsor said he doesn't know that U.S. companies have the capacity to completely home-grow the voting machines, but “if there is a need, I do believe that the American engineering mindset would step up.”For my part - I'll just say his point makes absolutely no sense.This article was first published by Courthouse News Service and is republished under their terms of use.UCLA HEALTHSuicide rate highest among teens and young adultsMarch 15, 2022By Sandy CohenNote: This article was updated Feb. 23, 2023.Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among people age 15 to 24 in the U.S. Nearly 20% of high school students report serious thoughts of suicide and 9% have made an attempt to take their lives, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.Recent weeks have brought heartbreaking examples of this trend, including the March 1 death of Stanford soccer captain Katie Meyer, 22; and Ohio State football player Harry Miller's revelations that he attempted suicide, shared his struggles with his coach and got help. Miller announced his medical retirement from football on March 10 in a Twitter post that's been shared more than 10,000 times.“This is not an issue reserved for the far and away,” wrote Miller. “It is in our homes. It is in our conversations. It is in the people we love.”Carl Fleisher, MD, who specializes in adolescent and child psychiatry at Boston Child Study Center in Los Angeles said “Teenagers and young adults have had rising rates of suicide compared to 10 or 15 years ago, Young people are particularly vulnerable to suicide. The things that make them vulnerable are where they stand socially and where they stand developmentally.”Developmentally, their judgment and decision-making abilities are still coming online. The prefrontal cortex — the brain's executive control center — doesn't fully develop until one's mid-20s.That makes young people more impulsive "They're not going to weigh risks and consequences in quite the same way older folks will.”Socially, teens and young adults don't have the same connections older adults do. Someone who is married, has a long-term partner or has children or grandchildren is in a different place socially than someone who is just coming into their own, living with roommates or alone.The isolation of the pandemic exacerbated social disconnection even more.So it's good to hear that a bill that would make it easier… Colorado Newsline article followsCOLORADO NEWSLINE:BY: SARA WILSON - MARCH 20, 2023 2:54 PM…  for schools to provide mental health assessments, and connect students to therapy, passed the Colorado House of Representatives on Monday.House Bill 23-1003 would allow public schools to participate in a voluntary mental health screening program for sixth through twelfth graders and refer them to treatment if needed, primarily through the state's existing free youth therapy program, called I Matter.Bill sponsor Rep. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, a Commerce City Democrat, said she was motivated to run the legislation after alarming statistics from the Colorado Healthy Kids Survey that showed nearly 40% of Colorado youth reported feeling depressed for at least two straight weeks.“That's a pretty significant indicator for severe depression,” she said. “I wanted to come up with a way for kids to learn about therapy and access to therapy through screenings in school. We have the I Matter program, so we have somewhere kids can go for help.”In a post-pandemic environment in which Children's Hospital Colorado declared a state of emergency for youth mental health, Michaelson Jenet said screening can be a powerful preventative tool for students under profound pressures.Parents could opt their child out of the assessment, but students 12 years and older would be able to participate even if their parents don't want them to.Under the program, if the provider finds that a student could benefit from treatment, their parents will be notified and given information about the I Matter program, which has provided free therapy services to over 5,500 Colorado youth since it launched in October 2021.If the assessment provider finds that a student is in crisis — at-risk for attempting suicide, physical self-harm or harming others, for example — the school would follow its crisis response protocol.The Colorado Health Institute endorsed the concept of universal mental health screenings in schools in a report published earlier this month.The report authors wrote “Schools are uniquely positioned to help address this (mental health) crisis by meeting youth where they already spend most of their day. Screening all students for social and emotional needs strengthens prevention, detection, and early intervention.”Organizations including the National Association of School Psychologists, the National Research Council, the Institute of Medicine, the Healthy Schools Campaign, Mental Health America also recommend screening all students.Republicans in the House opposed the bill on the grounds that a program where students could participate even if parents opt out violates parental rights. Most of the floor debate centered on whether 12 years old is too young for students to decide whether to undergo a mental health assessment. Existing Colorado law allows minors 12 years and older to seek therapy without their parent or guardian's consent.Democrats hold healthy majorities in both the House and Senate this session.The legislation now heads to the Senate, where it is sponsored by Democratic Sen. Lisa Cutter of Littleton.COLORADO SUN: and on the other side of the aisle: The new chair of Colorado's GOP says people concerned he will end all hope of Republicans winning here, should “relax”.Jesse Paul and Sandra Fish3:20 AM MDT on Mar 16, 2023Dave Williams' election as Colorado GOP chair has prompted prominent Republicans to announce they are leaving the party and heightened the possibility that unaffiliated Coloradans, who make up nearly half of the state's electorate, could be shut out of the GOP's future primaries.Mandy Connell, a conservative talk radio host, tweeted her exit from the GOP on Saturday just after the election denier and former state representative was chosen to lead Republicans for the next two years.Connell told The Colorado Sun, “I hoped the Republican Party could move beyond Donald Trump and looking backwards at the 2020 election. With the election of Dave Williams for the Colorado chairmanship, it is apparent that they are not ready to do that. And I am.”The GOP has steadily lost registered voters in Colorado over the past two decades, a slide that accelerated after Trump took office. The share of registered Republicans declined to 24.2% in January from 31.1% in January 2016. There are no statewide elected Republicans, and the party is in a big minority in the legislature and in the congressional delegation following a disappointing 2022 election cycle that only saw the GOP lose more political power.Some in the party fear Williams, who beat six other chair candidates, may lead to further decline. Dick Wadhams, who was Colorado GOP chair from 2007 to 2011 and now works as a Republican political consultant, worries the “party will have no credibility” if Williams pursues the agenda he campaigned for chair on.Williams says his detractors should “relax.”“I can understand why some people are concerned, especially because of the fearmongering of Dick Wadhams,” Williams said. “But the truth is I'm only here to go attack Democrats, and if they can't get behind that then I'm not sure what else is going to unite us.”Williams, who vowed to be a “wartime” leader of the Colorado GOP, was a divisive figure during his time in the state legislature - and last year he lost a primary challenge to Republican Congressman Doug Lamborn by just shy of 20 points.Williams was elected chair by the Colorado GOP's state central committee, which is made up of about 400 people. During the event Saturday in Loveland, Williams focused his message on defending Donald Trump and preventing unaffiliated voters from participating in GOP primary elections, something Colorado voters approved in 2016. Ari Armstrong, a columnist for Complete Colorado, tweeted that he is leaving the party. “Colorado GOP leaders have made abundantly clear that theirs is the party of conspiracy mongering and petty bigotry,” he said. “The state party is not serious about winning elections or helping to guide policy. Enough.”Denver Post columnist Krista Kafer also hinted on Twitter at a switch: “I think I'll be doing the same (as) Mandy Connell. When I rejoined the party I had hoped it was changing. It is in other states but not here. The lunatic fringe is ascendant.” and speaking of the lunatic fringeCOLORADO NEWSLINE:Feds to send nearly $200 million to help communities prepare for wildfiresBY: JACOB FISCHLER - MARCH 21, 2023 4:30 AM     Vice President Kamala Harris and other administration officials said Monday that the Biden administration will send $197 million from the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law to help communities prepare for wildfires this summer.The funding represents the first round of a new $1 billion Community Wildfire Defense Grant program authorized under the $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill that President Joe Biden signed in 2021. Grants in the first year of the program would be available for more than 100 projects in 22 states, according to a White House fact sheet.The funding is meant to help communities prepare for wildfires, which Harris said was preferable to responding to fires already wreaking havoc.“The best time to fight a fire is before it starts,” she said on a Monday call with reporters.The funding announced Monday can be used to write or update wildfire preparedness plans or on other mitigation efforts, such as clearing highly flammable brush.Among the largest grants was a $9.9 million disbursement to the Grant Soil and Water Conservation District in eastern Oregon to clear hazardous fuels from evacuation routes on county roads.The New Mexico nonprofit Cimarron Watershed Alliance also received $8 million to create defensible space around homes and fuel breaks designed to stop a fire's spread.Archuleta County, Colorado, will receive $1.1 million to remove hazardous fuels over 600 wooded acres.Gila County AZ will receive $341,000 for evacuation planning and clearing flammable brush around buildings Communities in Alaska, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, South Dakota, Wiscons, North Carolina and Georgia will also receive grants.A full list of grants announced Monday is available here.The Vice President said the remaining roughly $800 million will be released over the next four years.Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said “This is an initial round of funding - a critical down payment.”The Forest Service, which is part of the Agriculture Department, judged grant applications on three criteria: communities that have experienced a severe disaster, are at high risk of a wildfire and are low income. All grants announced Monday met at least two of the three criteria and most met all three, he said.Wildfires have become more destructive in recent decades for a variety of reasons, including hotter and drier weather because of climate change, as well as increased development in areas at high risk of fire.CONCERT PICK OF THE WEEK: You might know him from the movie “Big” - it's Billy Idol! Mission Ballroom in Denver on Tuesday April 4th at 8pm - that's election night and that's also a kickass venue to see rock and roll giant like Billy. Information at billyidol.net - and don't use .com because there is no redirect.Welp, that's it for me! From Denver I'm Sean Diller. Original reporting for the stories in today's show comes from the Arizona Mirror, Colorado Newsline, Courthouse News Service, UCLA Health, Colorado Sun, and Denver's Westword.Thank you for listening! See you next time.

Arizona GOP moving variety of conspiracy-fueled voter suppression bills | Bill authorizing universal youth mental health screenings at school is moving in Colorado legislature | New Colorado GOP chair is a fringe character, prominent conservatives announce they're leaving the Party | VP Harris announces Biden Administration disbursement of $200 million in wildfire preparedness and mitigation funds | Billy Idol in DenverSong playsIntro by hostWelcome to High Country - politics in the American West. My name is Sean Diller; regular listeners might know me from Heartland Pod's Talking Politics, every Monday.Support this show and all the work in the Heartland POD universe by going to heartlandpod.com and clicking the link for Patreon, or go to Patreon.com/HeartlandPod to sign up. Membership starts at $1/month, with even more extra shows and special access at the higher levels. No matter the level you choose, your membership helps us create these independent shows as we work together to change the conversation.Alright! Let's get into it: ARIZONA MIRROR:Conspiracy theories still dominate Arizona Senate Elections CommitteeBY: JOE DUHOWNIK/COURTHOUSE NEWS SERVICE - MARCH 21, 2023 4:18 PMNearly a month after Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes released documents further disproving claims of widespread fraud in the 2020 election, Senate Republicans continue to make the same claims in the election committee.The most recent tantrum came during testimony regarding HB2415, which would remove people from the active early voting mailing list if they go a full year without participating in an election. Republicans said it's a way to declutter the list.Opponents argued that the bill would only disenfranchise voters, as many only vote in presidential elections every four years, and could be removed from the mail ballot list without knowing it.“Conspiracy theories” also came up again later in the committee meeting, this time in regard to HB2591, which would prohibit voters from using ballot drop boxes outside the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and would require that drop boxes be inside or attached to county buildings and be under 24/7 video surveillance. Bill sponsor Gail Griffin, a Republican state representative from Tucson, said she's seen video of “people with boxes coming and dumping ballots,” though she maintained that “2,000 Mules” - a propaganda film about imagined “ballot mules” stuffing ballots in the 2020 election. The fantasy about ballot mules is a cornerstone of the bigger fantasy that Joe Biden stole the 2020 election, even though he won by 3 full percentage points and 7 million votes.Democrats said restricting the times when voters can drop off ballots will make it harder for some to cast their vote. Republicans' only response was that those folks would need to use one of the less accessible options that remain if they want to vote. Cool. The Republican-dominated committee supported five more measures they say will increase election integrity. Republican state Representative Austin Smith sponsored HB2552 to preemptively prohibit ranked choice voting in Arizona. A companion bill already passed through the Senate in February.Jodi Liggett, a lobbyist representing the Arizona League of Women Voters, said more than 60% of Arizona voters support ranked choice voting, which is used in Maine, Alaska, and multiple cities like New York and San Francisco.“There should be no reason to preemptively silence the voice of your own constituents,” she told the committee.The committee ended with discussion on HB2613, which would require that all vote recording tabulation machines be 100% sourced from and built in the U.S. in response to fantasies about foreign tampering of voting machines in the 2020 election - where Donald Trump lost to Joe Biden by 3 full percentage points and 7 million legally cast votes. Jen Marson, representing the Arizona Association of Counties, said the machines used now are already manufactured in the U.S., but some parts, like plastics and electronics, are sourced from other countries.The bill's GOP sponsor said he doesn't know that U.S. companies have the capacity to completely home-grow the voting machines, but “if there is a need, I do believe that the American engineering mindset would step up.”For my part - I'll just say his point makes absolutely no sense.This article was first published by Courthouse News Service and is republished under their terms of use.UCLA HEALTHSuicide rate highest among teens and young adultsMarch 15, 2022By Sandy CohenNote: This article was updated Feb. 23, 2023.Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among people age 15 to 24 in the U.S. Nearly 20% of high school students report serious thoughts of suicide and 9% have made an attempt to take their lives, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.Recent weeks have brought heartbreaking examples of this trend, including the March 1 death of Stanford soccer captain Katie Meyer, 22; and Ohio State football player Harry Miller's revelations that he attempted suicide, shared his struggles with his coach and got help. Miller announced his medical retirement from football on March 10 in a Twitter post that's been shared more than 10,000 times.“This is not an issue reserved for the far and away,” wrote Miller. “It is in our homes. It is in our conversations. It is in the people we love.”Carl Fleisher, MD, who specializes in adolescent and child psychiatry at Boston Child Study Center in Los Angeles said “Teenagers and young adults have had rising rates of suicide compared to 10 or 15 years ago, Young people are particularly vulnerable to suicide. The things that make them vulnerable are where they stand socially and where they stand developmentally.”Developmentally, their judgment and decision-making abilities are still coming online. The prefrontal cortex — the brain's executive control center — doesn't fully develop until one's mid-20s.That makes young people more impulsive "They're not going to weigh risks and consequences in quite the same way older folks will.”Socially, teens and young adults don't have the same connections older adults do. Someone who is married, has a long-term partner or has children or grandchildren is in a different place socially than someone who is just coming into their own, living with roommates or alone.The isolation of the pandemic exacerbated social disconnection even more.So it's good to hear that a bill that would make it easier… Colorado Newsline article followsCOLORADO NEWSLINE:BY: SARA WILSON - MARCH 20, 2023 2:54 PM…  for schools to provide mental health assessments, and connect students to therapy, passed the Colorado House of Representatives on Monday.House Bill 23-1003 would allow public schools to participate in a voluntary mental health screening program for sixth through twelfth graders and refer them to treatment if needed, primarily through the state's existing free youth therapy program, called I Matter.Bill sponsor Rep. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, a Commerce City Democrat, said she was motivated to run the legislation after alarming statistics from the Colorado Healthy Kids Survey that showed nearly 40% of Colorado youth reported feeling depressed for at least two straight weeks.“That's a pretty significant indicator for severe depression,” she said. “I wanted to come up with a way for kids to learn about therapy and access to therapy through screenings in school. We have the I Matter program, so we have somewhere kids can go for help.”In a post-pandemic environment in which Children's Hospital Colorado declared a state of emergency for youth mental health, Michaelson Jenet said screening can be a powerful preventative tool for students under profound pressures.Parents could opt their child out of the assessment, but students 12 years and older would be able to participate even if their parents don't want them to.Under the program, if the provider finds that a student could benefit from treatment, their parents will be notified and given information about the I Matter program, which has provided free therapy services to over 5,500 Colorado youth since it launched in October 2021.If the assessment provider finds that a student is in crisis — at-risk for attempting suicide, physical self-harm or harming others, for example — the school would follow its crisis response protocol.The Colorado Health Institute endorsed the concept of universal mental health screenings in schools in a report published earlier this month.The report authors wrote “Schools are uniquely positioned to help address this (mental health) crisis by meeting youth where they already spend most of their day. Screening all students for social and emotional needs strengthens prevention, detection, and early intervention.”Organizations including the National Association of School Psychologists, the National Research Council, the Institute of Medicine, the Healthy Schools Campaign, Mental Health America also recommend screening all students.Republicans in the House opposed the bill on the grounds that a program where students could participate even if parents opt out violates parental rights. Most of the floor debate centered on whether 12 years old is too young for students to decide whether to undergo a mental health assessment. Existing Colorado law allows minors 12 years and older to seek therapy without their parent or guardian's consent.Democrats hold healthy majorities in both the House and Senate this session.The legislation now heads to the Senate, where it is sponsored by Democratic Sen. Lisa Cutter of Littleton.COLORADO SUN: and on the other side of the aisle: The new chair of Colorado's GOP says people concerned he will end all hope of Republicans winning here, should “relax”.Jesse Paul and Sandra Fish3:20 AM MDT on Mar 16, 2023Dave Williams' election as Colorado GOP chair has prompted prominent Republicans to announce they are leaving the party and heightened the possibility that unaffiliated Coloradans, who make up nearly half of the state's electorate, could be shut out of the GOP's future primaries.Mandy Connell, a conservative talk radio host, tweeted her exit from the GOP on Saturday just after the election denier and former state representative was chosen to lead Republicans for the next two years.Connell told The Colorado Sun, “I hoped the Republican Party could move beyond Donald Trump and looking backwards at the 2020 election. With the election of Dave Williams for the Colorado chairmanship, it is apparent that they are not ready to do that. And I am.”The GOP has steadily lost registered voters in Colorado over the past two decades, a slide that accelerated after Trump took office. The share of registered Republicans declined to 24.2% in January from 31.1% in January 2016. There are no statewide elected Republicans, and the party is in a big minority in the legislature and in the congressional delegation following a disappointing 2022 election cycle that only saw the GOP lose more political power.Some in the party fear Williams, who beat six other chair candidates, may lead to further decline. Dick Wadhams, who was Colorado GOP chair from 2007 to 2011 and now works as a Republican political consultant, worries the “party will have no credibility” if Williams pursues the agenda he campaigned for chair on.Williams says his detractors should “relax.”“I can understand why some people are concerned, especially because of the fearmongering of Dick Wadhams,” Williams said. “But the truth is I'm only here to go attack Democrats, and if they can't get behind that then I'm not sure what else is going to unite us.”Williams, who vowed to be a “wartime” leader of the Colorado GOP, was a divisive figure during his time in the state legislature - and last year he lost a primary challenge to Republican Congressman Doug Lamborn by just shy of 20 points.Williams was elected chair by the Colorado GOP's state central committee, which is made up of about 400 people. During the event Saturday in Loveland, Williams focused his message on defending Donald Trump and preventing unaffiliated voters from participating in GOP primary elections, something Colorado voters approved in 2016. Ari Armstrong, a columnist for Complete Colorado, tweeted that he is leaving the party. “Colorado GOP leaders have made abundantly clear that theirs is the party of conspiracy mongering and petty bigotry,” he said. “The state party is not serious about winning elections or helping to guide policy. Enough.”Denver Post columnist Krista Kafer also hinted on Twitter at a switch: “I think I'll be doing the same (as) Mandy Connell. When I rejoined the party I had hoped it was changing. It is in other states but not here. The lunatic fringe is ascendant.” and speaking of the lunatic fringeCOLORADO NEWSLINE:Feds to send nearly $200 million to help communities prepare for wildfiresBY: JACOB FISCHLER - MARCH 21, 2023 4:30 AM     Vice President Kamala Harris and other administration officials said Monday that the Biden administration will send $197 million from the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law to help communities prepare for wildfires this summer.The funding represents the first round of a new $1 billion Community Wildfire Defense Grant program authorized under the $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill that President Joe Biden signed in 2021. Grants in the first year of the program would be available for more than 100 projects in 22 states, according to a White House fact sheet.The funding is meant to help communities prepare for wildfires, which Harris said was preferable to responding to fires already wreaking havoc.“The best time to fight a fire is before it starts,” she said on a Monday call with reporters.The funding announced Monday can be used to write or update wildfire preparedness plans or on other mitigation efforts, such as clearing highly flammable brush.Among the largest grants was a $9.9 million disbursement to the Grant Soil and Water Conservation District in eastern Oregon to clear hazardous fuels from evacuation routes on county roads.The New Mexico nonprofit Cimarron Watershed Alliance also received $8 million to create defensible space around homes and fuel breaks designed to stop a fire's spread.Archuleta County, Colorado, will receive $1.1 million to remove hazardous fuels over 600 wooded acres.Gila County AZ will receive $341,000 for evacuation planning and clearing flammable brush around buildings Communities in Alaska, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, South Dakota, Wiscons, North Carolina and Georgia will also receive grants.A full list of grants announced Monday is available here.The Vice President said the remaining roughly $800 million will be released over the next four years.Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said “This is an initial round of funding - a critical down payment.”The Forest Service, which is part of the Agriculture Department, judged grant applications on three criteria: communities that have experienced a severe disaster, are at high risk of a wildfire and are low income. All grants announced Monday met at least two of the three criteria and most met all three, he said.Wildfires have become more destructive in recent decades for a variety of reasons, including hotter and drier weather because of climate change, as well as increased development in areas at high risk of fire.CONCERT PICK OF THE WEEK: You might know him from the movie “Big” - it's Billy Idol! Mission Ballroom in Denver on Tuesday April 4th at 8pm - that's election night and that's also a kickass venue to see rock and roll giant like Billy. Information at billyidol.net - and don't use .com because there is no redirect.Welp, that's it for me! From Denver I'm Sean Diller. Original reporting for the stories in today's show comes from the Arizona Mirror, Colorado Newsline, Courthouse News Service, UCLA Health, Colorado Sun, and Denver's Westword.Thank you for listening! See you next time.

Michael Harrison interviews KOA, Denver talk show host Mandy Connell about women in radio as well as techno/social change.

Mandy Connell is currently living the dream as the Noon to 3pm host on KOA radio and the owner of the Ladies Chit Chat Club Show podcast. She is a native Floridian who got to Colorado just as fast as she could after radio gigs in Orlando, Gainesville, and Fort Myers/Naples, Florida with a three year stop in Louisville, Kentucky. She is currently #46 on the Talkers Magazine Heavy Hundred Talk Show Hosts and lives with her husband, daughter and Saint Bernard while keeping tabs on her two grown sons and two grandchildren. She has been an avid follower of politics until the 2016 election broke her. Now she follows it begrudgingly.Connect with Mandy:Websites: www.ladieschitchatclub.com; www.koanewsradio.comFacebook: @themandyconnellInstagram: @themandyconnellTwitter: @mandyconnell

The Voices of iHeart Denver is a special holiday edition of the TIFG podcast. You'll hear from the likes of Dave Logan, Big Al, Ross Kaminsky, Mandy Connell, Leland Conway, Ryan Edwards, Benjamin Allbright, Michael Brown, and many more on what brings them joy and happiness in their life. They'll also share some keys to being grateful around the holiday season, and some family traditions that they love.