
Colorado Matters
Hosted by Ryan Warner and Chandra Thomas Whitfield, CPR News' daily interview show focuses on the state's people, issues and ideas.
Latest episodes

Oct 26, 2023 • 52min
Oct. 26, 2023: Report on domestic violence in Colorado; New Speaker of the House
For a second consecutive year, domestic violence deaths are at an all-time high in Colorado. A new report, just released by Colorado's Attorney General's office, provides details. And we hear from a woman who calls herself a victor -- not a victim. Then, the U.S. House is back to work after finally electing a new Speaker. CPR’s Washington, D.C. reporter, Caitlyn Kim, has been following the weeks of drama closely.

Oct 25, 2023 • 50min
Oct. 25, 2023: How life experiences shaped Mayor Yemi Mobolade; Survivor stories from Club Q
We sit down with Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade to talk about how his childhood in Nigeria shaped who he is today. First, Thomas James survived the mass shooting at Club Q. He also helped take down the attacker. Today, he reflects on that decision and why he doesn't consider himself a hero.

Oct 24, 2023 • 50min
Oct. 24, 2023: State lawmakers with roots in Israel, Gaza; Meet ‘the voice’ of the Nuggets
As the war escalates between Israel and Hamas, we hear from state lawmakers with roots in the region. Then, as the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets start their new season, a familiar voice will call the players to the court. Kyle Speller begins his 19th year as the team's stadium announcer. He's also the team chaplain. Plus, how did "No Name" get its name? And rethinking how we buy and discard clothing.

Oct 23, 2023 • 51min
Oct. 23, 2023: Answering your questions on Prop II; Elijah McClain’s mother speaks
CPR’s “Purplish” podcast explains Proposition II, regarding excess tobacco tax money. Then, Elijah McClain’s mother, Sheneen, on the verdict in the first trial for officers charged in the death of her son. Plus, the first Native American on the Water Conservation Board. And, flying insects in a warmer climate. Then, a Colorado legend joins the National Rodeo Hall of Fame.

Oct 20, 2023 • 52min
Oct. 20, 2023: Winter outlook after a warm fall; Determination to ‘Brave the Wild River’
Colorado had a wet spring but it's dry now. What does that portend going into the winter? Denver7 chief meteorologist Mike Nelson joins us for our regular weather and climate discussion. Then, the call goes out for teachers with unique skills. Plus, exploring Denver's old airport tower. Also, the story of the two women who braved a "wild river." And Colorado Wonders questions about license plates.

Oct 18, 2023 • 52min
Oct. 18, 2023: Economic reinvention in Yampa Valley; The ‘Return of the Buffalo’
The Yampa Valley is doing some economic soul-searching, as Colorado weans itself from fossil fuels. We'll visit a historic granary that's been reimagined. There's also a push for a commuter train from Craig to Steamboat. Also, CPR's Caitlyn Kim talks with Rep. Ken Buck about his position on the House Speaker vote. And the new RMPBS documentary, "Return of the Buffalo."

Oct 17, 2023 • 51min
Oct. 17, 2023: Proposition HH and property taxes; Why is leaded fuel still used at small airports?
One of the statewide issues voters will decide in this election is Proposition HH, designed to lower property taxes. We look at both sides with Purplish, CPR's podcast about politics and policy. Then, why do small airports still use fuel containing lead for planes? Also, a new LGBTQ+ community center opens soon in Colorado Springs. And we answer a Colorado Wonders question about the Blue Book.

Oct 16, 2023 • 51min
Oct. 16, 2023: High turnover among county clerks; Aurora NAACP head wants independent monitor
County clerks across Colorado are leaving office – many because of pressure from election skeptics. Then, Mesa County voters will decide whether to extend term limits for jobs including county clerk. And, Aurora NAACP head Omar Montgomery calls for an independent police monitor. Plus, an authentic Indian restaurant in Colorado Springs.

Oct 13, 2023 • 52min
Oct. 13, 2023: The McClain verdicts and police accountability; Coloradan in Gaza
One trial ends with split verdicts for two Aurora police officers and the next trial is beginning in the death of Elijah McClain. We'll take a closer look at police accountability and changes to Colorado law. Then, we speak with a Colorado doctor who is in Gaza, unable to leave. And the U.S. Forest Service is rethinking housing on Forest Service land.

Oct 12, 2023 • 50min
Oct. 12, 2023: Denver Basic Income seeks homelessness solutions; Matthew Shepard’s legacy
There’s no “one size fits all” solution for homelessness, but one big idea being tested is literally giving unrestricted money to those struggling. We ask how the Denver Basic Income Project is working out and hear from a man who says it's transformed his life. Then, 25 years ago... a young college student named Matthew Shepard was brutally attacked and left for dead -- all because he was gay. His parents reflect on his legacy and their ongoing work toward acceptance.