‘A Neglected Metropolis,’ the Allure of the Suburbs, and a BBQ Spot Gets Smoked
Mar 7, 2025
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Stand-up comedian Joshua Emerson joins the discussion about Denver's image as a 'neglected metropolis.' They dig into the disparities between the mayor's narratives on crime and the concerns from local lawmakers. Emerson also touches on the appeal of suburban living, reflecting on recent culinary ups and downs, including the struggles of local BBQ joint AJ’s Pit. Tensions between urban development and community needs are explored, alongside a lighter take on city dynamics and upcoming local events.
The podcast explores contrasting narratives about crime in Denver, highlighting political agendas that shape public perception and safety concerns.
Discussions on revitalization efforts for downtown Denver emphasize the need for community-focused events to attract visitors and support local businesses.
An examination of urban versus suburban living preferences reveals a disconnect between government development goals and residents' desires for space and affordability.
Deep dives
Youth Theater Opportunities
The episode highlights the Maisel Arts and Culture Center's Wolf Theater Academy, which offers acting, musical theater, and improv classes for students from kindergarten to 12th grade. The program includes two-week sessions that focus on popular plays like Disney's The Little Mermaid and Seussical Junior, allowing students to immerse themselves in the arts. The academy fosters a professional and inclusive environment, enhancing creativity, teamwork, and self-confidence among the participants. Additionally, a technical apprenticeship program is available for teens interested in mastering set building, lighting, sound, and props, providing them with hands-on experience in theater production.
Crime Narratives in Denver
A discussion is presented about the varying perceptions of crime in Denver, particularly following the mayor's congressional testimony asserting that the city is not experiencing a crime crisis. This contrasts with the perspectives of local Republicans, who claim to feel unsafe working in Denver. The episode explores how narratives around crime are shaped and influenced by political agendas, as well as the city’s upcoming plans to revitalize areas like the 16th Street Mall. The contrasting views among these political factions highlight a broader concern around public safety and the political implications of crime statistics.
Downtown Revitalization Efforts
Plans for the revitalization of downtown Denver are discussed, including efforts to attract visitors back to the 16th Street Mall. A proposal has been made to spend $1.5 million to activate the mall for its grand reopening, coinciding with a local outdoor festival. The conversation touches on the need for strong local businesses and community-focused events to enhance the area’s appeal. However, there is concern about the disproportionate focus on downtown versus investment in other neighborhoods, like Colfax, which also suffer from various challenges but may not receive the same level of attention or funding.
Suburban Living Preferences
The podcast addresses the ongoing debate around urban versus suburban living in Colorado, questioning whether residents truly prefer denser urban developments over the sprawling suburbs. Many Coloradans favor the suburban lifestyle due to factors such as space, affordability, and access to the mountains, which complicates the push for denser developments by local officials. While many urban planners advocate for transit-oriented development to reduce environmental impacts, the reality is that a significant portion of the population still opts for suburban living despite the drawbacks of longer commute times. This conversation reflects on people's aspirations and values concerning housing and living environments, illustrating a disconnect between government planning and public preference.
Cultural Events and Community Engagement
The episode highlights various cultural activities and events happening in Denver, including the upcoming 'Heyday,' an indoor fair featuring local vendors and entertainment. The discussion underscores the importance of community engagement in fostering a lively and connected urban atmosphere. These events serve not only as entertainment but also as opportunities to support local businesses and strengthen community ties. Listeners are encouraged to participate in these events, reinforcing the idea that active engagement and support for local initiatives can enhance the cultural fabric of Denver.
Has Denver become a “neglected metropolis”? The entire GOP caucus at the state legislature signed onto a letter to Mayor Mike Johnston this week saying they feel unsafe going to work. But the mayor told a very different story about our not-so-Mile-High crime rates to Congress in his big hearing on immigration on Wednesday. So what’s really happening on the ground? One of our favorite regular guests, stand-up comic Joshua Emerson, joins Producer Paul Karolyi and Host Bree Davies to talk about the crime narrative and some big new plans to turn it around. Plus, the allure of the suburbs and our wins and fails of the week.
“I’m incredibly proud of this city and the way we all came together to respond to a crisis with humanity and compassion. Denver showed the world that we can solve hard problems together, and I’m glad we got to tell that story to the members of Congress who actually have the power to fix our broken immigration system.”
Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com.
What do you think about downtown?Do you have a favorite spot that gets you down there? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418
For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.
