

Colorado Matters
Colorado Public Radio
Hosted by Ryan Warner and Chandra Thomas Whitfield, CPR News' daily interview show focuses on the state's people, issues and ideas.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 6, 2025 • 49min
Aug. 6, 2025: Could tracking denied gun sales prevent tragedy?; Many arrested by ICE aren't 'worst of the worst'
When someone tries to buy a gun in Colorado and is denied, it gets flagged. A CPR investigation finds that intelligence is underused. CPR justice reporter Allison Sherry on how this connects to the firebombing in downtown Boulder and to immigration enforcement. Then, Donald Trump promised to deport "the worst of the worst," but an analysis of ICE arrests doesn't square up. Plus, a challenge to rethink the immigration system altogether from a Colorado Book Award winner.

Aug 5, 2025 • 49min
Aug. 5, 2025: Respiratory viruses could awaken dormant cancer cells; Honoring Theodore 'Bubbles' Anderson
New research shows that respiratory viruses, like the flu and COVID-19, could “wake up” dormant cancer cells. We speak with with James DeGregori, the senior author of the study and deputy director of the Colorado Cancer Center. Then, Theodore "Bubbles" Anderson was the only Colorado native to play in the Negro Baseball League. A century later, he's been inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame, thanks to the efforts of sports journalist Justin Adams.

Aug 4, 2025 • 49min
Aug. 4, 2025: Colorado business juggles unpredictable tariffs; Could unclaimed property help state budget?
"Made in America." It's something the president wants to see more of, and it's one reason behind his tariffs. But they're hitting companies that are already making in America. We speak with a local manufacturer about the impact. Then, as the state faces another big budget gap, could it make up the shortfall using Coloradans' unclaimed property? Purplish explores the idea and how to find out if you're owed something. Plus, celebrating a century of lawn bowling!

Aug 1, 2025 • 49min
August 1, 2025: New state historian is a map geek; 748 area code dial tone jam
Colorado's new state historian has dedicated her career to maps -- not just as tools of navigation -- but of influence and conquest. We speak with Dr. Susan Schulten. Also on this Colorado Day, we set the state's new area code to music! Plus a chance to see the governor's mansion. Then, you can vote on your favorite flower at CSU's Flower Trial Garden. And The Barlow are back with upcoming performances with their brand of "Colorado Country."

Jul 31, 2025 • 49min
July 31, 2025: After 35 years, the triumphs of the Americans with Disabilities Act -- and the work still to be done
It was 35 years ago that the Americans with Disabilities Act -- widely known as the ADA -- was signed into law, protecting the rights of people with disabilities in all areas of public life. Today, we look at its impact as it relates to transportation, as an advocate details the work still to be done. Then, a new executive order from President Trump aims to get cities to remove people who are unhoused from the streets. Also, meet Joel Medina — a tattoo artist in Thornton, whose own story of loss, recovery, and second chances is etched into every piece he creates.

Jul 30, 2025 • 49min
July 30, 2025: Former ambassador on diplomacy under Trump; New chapter for Colorado Springs philharmonic
Christopher Hill, a former U.S. ambassador from Colorado who was the nation's top diplomat in five countries under both Republican and Democratic administrations joins us to talk about the nation's new approach to foreign policy. Then, Coach Prime reflects on overcoming bladder cancer. Also, Rep. Gabe Evans' immigration story draws questions. Plus, Ryan Warner shares his favorite book author moments as keynote speaker of the Colorado Book Awards, and a young book collector on her love of reading. Plus, the Colorado Springs Philharmonic gets a new leader.

Jul 29, 2025 • 49min
July 29, 2025: Four Coloradans share the legacy of growing up Black in Cherry Creek
The legacy of Cherry Creek is rooted in Black history and it played a pivotal role shaping Denver into the city that it is today. Chandra moderated a panel discussion called "Legacy of Cherry Creek: Growing Up Black in Denver’s Transforming Neighborhood" in front of an audience this spring. It was hosted by Arapahoe County Libraries to reflect and share the personal stories of four life-long Colorado residents whose families called Cherry Creek home, and some who still do: Former Denver County Judge Gary Jackson; his uncle, Warren Scott, a retired US Post Office Manager; Trudi Morrison, a retired lawyer and former Deputy Sergeant at Arms of the US Senate; and Cleo Parker Robinson, the renowned founder and artistic director of Cleo Parker Robinson Dance in Denver.

Jul 28, 2025 • 49min
July 28, 2025: A psychedelic to treat addiction?; Helping the tiniest of babies survive
Could the psychedelic drug ibogaine help people get off drugs or alcohol and stay off? It's one of the natural substances Colorado voters chose to decriminalize. We examine the research as part of "The Trip: CPR's coverage of Colorado's Psychedelic Journey." Then, being born at 23 weeks used to be a death sentence; now doctors are helping many of these tiny babies survive. Plus, a national Emmy for the documentary, "The Holly." We share our conversation from 2022. And, the story of one of Colorado's strangest and most beloved landmarks.

Jul 25, 2025 • 49min
July 25, 2025: A summer of heat, drought and flooding; 'Western Soul' singer/songwriter at UMS
Do you know the hottest temperature ever recorded in Denver? We find out from Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo as the summer heat carries on. Plus, drought and the risk of flash floods. Then, FEMA cuts funding for water quality projects in Colorado. Plus, Denver singer/songwriter YasmineEmani performs in our studio as she prepares for this weekend's Underground Music Showcase. And later, we try crafting a viral recipe.

Jul 24, 2025 • 49min
July 24, 2025: Fighting backlash, Denver Pride sends powerful message; Aspen trees as wildfire breaks
Amid DEI cuts, the Center on Colfax was expected to lose money this year. However, the organization that runs Denver Pride saw more than 500,000 people turn out this year, despite the backlash from Washington. We spoke with the Center's new CEO. Then, Colorado's Attorney General files a lawsuit regarding law enforcement's cooperation with ICE, as the state responds to subpoenas. Also, aspen trees' role in wildfire prevention. Plus, a tournament to reel in invasive fish, and a play centering on Black women homesteaders.