City Cast Denver

Mayor Mike Johnston was in DC on Wednesday for a high-stakes congressional hearing as part of the House Oversight Committee’s investigation into “sanctuary jurisdictions.” With threats of federal funding cuts looming, the mayor defended his approach to immigration and faced hard questions from Republicans, including Rep. Lauren Boebert. We watched the whole marathon hearing, and then we sat down with returning guest and State Sen. Julie Gonzales, who has worked on immigration issues for more than 15 years, to decode the political theater and talk about what’s at stake for Denverites and our new neighbors. We mentioned our interview with Mayor Johnston last week and his comments on how he has been preparing for this investigation. You might also be interested in reading some of the national coverage of Mayor Johnston’s trip to DC, like this report from The Wall Street Journal, or one of these liveblogs of the hearing from our friends at Denverite or The Denver Post. We didn’t even talk about the accusation that Mayor Johnston violated federal law!Senadora Gonzales mentioned the fact that the conservative-leaning Cato Institute has reported that President Trump’s policies are costly and making America less safe. How do you think the mayor did in DC? 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: 720-500-5418Get 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 THIS SATURDAY, 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.For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fmIf you enjoyed the sponsored interview with Eliza Voss, Vice President of Destination Marketing for the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, learn more here. Eliza also mentioned some tips for hiking Maroon Bells and the ACRA’s new destination management plan.Learn more about the other sponsors of this March 6th episode: Arvada Center Clear Creek Makerspace Wolf Theatre Academy at JCC Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Who knows Denver better than Denverites? No one. That’s why we love opening up the City Cast Denver Hotline every episode to hear from you! As we count down the last few days until our big HEYDAY event this Saturday, we’re talking about everything you’ve called in about recently — from federal workers anonymously sharing their local DOGE stories and a leak from inside Juan Padró’s restaurant empire, Culinary Creative Group, to more of your most embarrassing toxic Colorado traits. Paul mentioned the protests outside NOAA in Boulder on Monday [Denver7]. 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.For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fmWhat do you think we should talk about on the podcast next? Got a story idea? A question for us? Or a topic you think we should discuss? 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: 720-500-5418Learn more about the sponsors of this March 4th episode: Arvada Center Clear Creek Makerspace Wolf Theatre Academy at JCC Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

The big news this week is, well, us! Mayor Mike Johnston sat down with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi last week to talk about everything from the tipped minimum wage to his upcoming face-off with Rep. Lauren Boebert — and the interview caught fire. But lot of what the mayor actually said got lost in the noise, so Paul and Bree are clearing up the confusion. Plus, an interesting compromise in a zoning fight in City Park West, and a listener calls in with some jokes for Mr. Johnston before he goes in front of Boebert and the other Republicans on the House Oversight Committee this Wednesday. Paul mentioned this Denver Gazette article that left space open for people to misinterpret the mayor, along with a report from the Common Sense Institute and commentary from Heidi Ganahl and Do Better Denver. Here’s the full instagram post from Weathervane Cafe owner Lindsey Dalton and our previous episode on the zoning debate. 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.For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fmWhat do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬Learn more about the sponsors of this March 3rd episode: Arvada Center Clear Creek Makerspace Wolf Theatre Academy at JCC Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

It’s been seven years since the e-scooter companies unceremoniously dumped fleets of Limes and Birds onto the streets of Denver, and many Denverites are still upset about it! But at the same time, many others have grown to rely on these micro-mobility machines. Councilman Chris Hinds, in particular, has been pushing for tougher regulations for years, and last week he put forth a new proposal to the rest of City Council, citing Denver Health data showing a huge increase in scooter-related accidents in 2024. So we reached out to Lime to hear their side of the story and where they see scooters fitting in Denver’s constantly evolving transportation ecosystem. What do you think about scooters after hearing from the Lime guys? Have you ever tossed a scooter into the creek? Or do you love using them to get around? 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: 720-500-5418‬We also reached out to talk to the other company licensed to operate scooters in Denver, Bird, and here’s the statement they sent us: “We at Bird are excited to work with DOTI and Denver City Council to bring the very best technology and vehicles to the Denver program. We look forward to working collaboratively with our partners to provide feedback on the draft micro-mobility ordinance to fine tune the details, but we are aligned with the vision of continuing to develop a last-mile mobility solution that focuses on safety, equity, and access.”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.For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fmLearn more about the sponsors of this March 3rd episode: Arvada Center Clear Creek Makerspace JCC Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Federal workers across the country are bracing for layoffs, including more than 40,000 right here in Colorado. So, how are Denverites handling all the DOGE cuts? Then, DIA turns 30 today! Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by political consultant Deep Singh Badhesha to talk about everything from the famed airport’s Blucifer conspiracy theories and tales of a luggage-eating baggage system to the renderings of the next Great Hall renovation and a surprising DIA-Elon Musk connection. Plus, a Colorado lawmaker brings her newborn to Congress, a puppy heist in Centennial, and more wins and fails of the week. Paul discussed our latest interview with Mayor Johnston and the 5280 feature on Scott Derrickson, Colorado director of The Gorge — which you can watch now on Apple TV+. Bree mentioned her friend Alisha Sweeney’s long local radio career and the upcoming 303 Day concert. Deep talked about his excitement for the 2026 elections and his new Substack! Producer Olivia would love you to see these pictures of “the Modobag.” 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? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/DenverLearn more about the sponsors of this February 28th episode:CAP ManagementLooking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Regardless of the wacky weather that always hits in March, there’s still plenty of fun to be had in the Mile High this month. Wondering what to do? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! From a local artist’s new show opening in RiNo to a must-try sweet treat from a South Broadway gem, we’ve rounded up our best bets and personal faves just for you to check out in March.If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. 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.For even more tips on how to make the most of March in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. If you enjoyed the sponsored interview with Eliza Voss, Vice President of Destination Marketing for the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, learn more here. Eliza also mentioned some tips for hiking Maroon Bells and the ACRA’s new destination management plan. Learn more about our other sponsors of this February 27th episode: CAP ManagementAnd we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver.Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise. Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Mayor Mike Johnston returns! Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with the mayor ahead of his trip to Washington for a high-profile congressional hearing on his approach to immigration next week, during which he will likely face hard questions from the likes of Rep. Lauren Boebert and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. With federal funding at stake, the mayor discusses his approach to what will surely be a media circus, as well has his thoughts on the recent debates over the tipped minimum wage, walkable and bike-able spaces, Colfax businesses struggling with BRT construction, and the future of downtown — plus, the recent wins he’s proud of and a sneak peak at his next big projects. What do you think about how the mayor is doing? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418Do you have what it takes to win our Denverest Denverite Costume Contest? We’re giving away an amazing prize pack to the person who can impress our panel of celebrity judges with a unique and super Denver-y costume. It’s all going down at HEYDAY, our indoor fair on March 8. To enter the contest and receive access to your 2 free tickets to HEYDAY, simply follow this link to submit your entry form. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fmLearn more about the sponsors of this February 26th episode:CAP ManagementLooking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Is Denver about to get a whole lot noisier? City Council is considering an update to our regulations governing sound, which could mean earlier trash pick-ups and louder public festivals. So producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are talking about what the change would mean, as well as the city’s most common and unique noise complaints. Plus, the debate over lowering the tipped minimum wage is boiling over, with many Democrats lining up to support the local restaurant owners who say they are in crisis. But what about the workers? Then, listeners respond to our segment from last Friday about Denver’s own The Lumineers.Paul talked about a few of the restaurateurs and influencers who testified in favor of the tipped minimum wage bill, labor costs at one Culinary Creative Group restaurant, and mentioned an op-ed from Denver auditor Timothy O’Brien. Still confused about the tipped minimum wage and how it works? Here’s a helpful fact sheet on tipping rules and regulations and a tip glossary from our own Hey Denver newsletter. Bree mentioned some of her writing on the late DIY venue in RiNo, Rhinoceropolis. Do you have what it takes to win our Denverest Denverite Costume Contest? We’re giving away an amazing prize pack to the person who can impress our panel of celebrity judges with a unique and super Denver-y costume. It’s all going down at HEYDAY, our indoor fair on March 8. To enter the contest and receive access to your 2 free tickets to HEYDAY, simply follow this link to submit your entry form. Have you ever had a problem with noise in the city? 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: 720-500-5418‬For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fmLearn more about the sponsors of this February 25th episode:CAP ManagementLooking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Everyone’s got that thing they do as a Denverite that’s not exactly hurting anyone, but probably isn’t something to brag about. Like leaving every Rockies game after three innings because you know how it’s gonna end, or keeping out-of-state tags on your car a little too long after you move here. Host Bree Davies is joined by two longtime Denverites, comedian Kate McLachlan and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to confess their own toxic Colorado traits, and reveal some from listeners. What is your “toxic Colorado trait? We want to hear your most toxic trait! Share it anonymously if you must. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418Do you have what it takes to win our Denverest Denverite Costume Contest? We’re giving away an amazing prize pack to the person who can impress our panel of celebrity judges with a unique and super Denver-y costume. It’s all going down at HEYDAY, our indoor fair on March 8. To enter the contest and receive access to your 2 free tickets to HEYDAY, simply follow this link to submit your entry form. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fmLearn more about the sponsors of this February 24th episode:5280 MagazineLooking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Could ongoing BRT construction mean the end of the road for long-standing Colfax businesses? The public transit project has been in the works for years, but the real impacts of sidewalk closures and disappearing parking spots are finally hitting home. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Westword staff writer Jason Heller to talk through his reporting on how business owners are balancing concerns with the prospect of better bus lanes. Plus, they dig into more news of the week, including The Lumineers’ new album and frontman Wesley Schultz’s guide to Denver, gender-affirming care for kids returning to area hospitals, and the questionable names being thrown around for Denver’s new National Women’s Soccer League franchise.Jason talked about new music from Plague Garden. Bree mentioned a 2013 New York Times article on The Lumineers and budget cuts impacting childcare programs across the state. Paul talked about the “Watershed Alliance" for Sloans Lake. What do you think about The Lumineers? Are they a distinctly Denver band to you? Do you have a great Lumineers story to share? We’d love to hear it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬Do you have what it takes to win our Denverest Denverite Costume Contest? We’re giving away an amazing prize pack to the person who can impress our panel of celebrity judges with a unique and super Denver-y costume. It’s all going down at HEYDAY, our indoor fair on March 8. To enter the contest and receive access to your 2 free tickets to HEYDAY, simply follow this link to submit your entry form. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenverChat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenverSupport City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/DenverLearn more about the sponsors of this February 21st episode: University of Colorado Denver Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise