Colorado Matters

Hosted by Ryan Warner and Chandra Thomas Whitfield, CPR News' daily interview show focuses on the state's people, issues and ideas.
Airs Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-10 a.m. & 7 p.m.-8 p.m.; Sundays: 10 a.m.-11 a.m.
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Latest Episodes

A woman is seen holding a Chihuahua. Colorful strings of dog biscuit cutouts hang vertically in the background.

April 3, 2025: An Aging Matters special – is a pet right for you? Plus, refocusing life after retirement

A pet dog or cat are often considered part of the family. But for older adults, they can become much more than that. In an Aging Matters on Colorado Matters special, paring up with a pet, and how to make the decision that’s right for you. Then, a group of Latino seniors finds a solution to unexpected isolation. And people talk about retiring, having enough money is often the first thing that comes up, but there’s a lot more to consider. A program through the University of Colorado Denver called “Change Makers” helps navigate the next chapter in life.
A bottle of the MMR vaccine photographed in Lubbock, Texas, where a measles outbreak has sickened dozens.

April 2, 2025: Measles case confirmed in Colorado; Critical seed lab in Fort Collins could be at risk

The first case of measles has been confirmed in Colorado following a recent outbreak in other states; today, what to know to stay safe. Then, two Colorado researchers trying to prevent HIV grapple with frozen funding. And, a seed vault in Fort Collins critical to state and national food supply could be at risk from federal cuts. Plus, as baseball season begins, we re-share the story of the Sugar Beet League and a Greeley family’s legacy of playing ball.
Keylonie Fenery (left to right), Dennis Crowley and Veronica Seabron

April 1, 2025: A mother’s search for answers; Is film project in Boulder a sign of things to come?

Her adult son was shot seven times in the back by a Douglas County sheriff’s deputy. Today, a mother’s search for answers. Then, as Boulder prepares to host the Sundance Film Festival in 2027, could a film production there be a sign of things to come? Plus, Colorado Wonders why the school year is shorter than other states’. Also, Colorado will be getting 15 new judges. And a chance to celebrate the artistry and legacy of Selena.

March 31, 2025: Deals get made at Sundance; Arctic adventurer goes ‘Into the Thaw’

What to expect from the Sundance Film Festival, courtesy of the town that lost it. From Park City, insight into the minuses and pluses from an art film owner. Then, an Oscar-winning filmmaker in Boulder who helped lure the event. Later, former Rep. Yadira Caraveo, MD, gets candid about mental health. Plus, a frozen world that’s no longer frozen. Arctic adventurer and author Jonathan Waterman, of Carbondale, on the rapid changes facing wildlife, plants, and people.
Photo shows author standing by a microphone reading from her book in front of a large window next to a plant.

March 28, 2025: How to become a changemaker; Snow shoveling programs help both seniors, volunteers

Denver author and entrepreneur Danaya Wilson wants to create change. Her book is “Changemakers Wanted: Your Blueprint for Lasting Impact and Ethical Change.” Then, March and April are two of the snowiest months of the year, so as part of Aging Matters on Colorado Matters, now’s the time to sign up for free snow shoveling, before the next storm. And it turns out the programs benefit not only the recipient, but the volunteer too!
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March 27, 2025: Bennet on ‘wanton destruction’ of federal government; Colorado’s homegrown burger

Colorado’s senior U.S. Senator, Democrat Michael Bennet, is angry at his own party as the Trump administration undertakes what Bennet calls the “wanton destruction” of the federal government. Then, why hot springs operators are concerned about Colorado’s energy future. Plus, the CEO of Good Times talks about tariffs, trends and competition with big burger. And, a Colorado Springs family marks Ramadan.
Adam Cayton-Holland mimics a statue of a lion drinking from a beer stein.

March 26, 2025: ‘Cruelty’ of HIV/AIDS cuts; Adam Cayton-Holland returns to his comedic birthplace

A pediatrician explains how federal funding cuts could undo decades of progress in HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention, at home and abroad. Then, in a special out Friday, Denver comedian Adam Cayton-Holland marks 20 years of stand-up where his career began, at Lion’s Lair Lounge. Plus, “Colorado Wonders” why seatbelt use lags here. And a Ukrainian family faces further uncertainty as they try to make a life in Boulder.
a copy of an old black and white photo resting on patterned fabric

March 25, 2025: Local vs. state control over housing; Sanora Babb’s journey from Dust Bowl to author

The state wants to ease the housing crunch by having cities allow more homes in less space and with less parking. But not everyone agrees it’s the right approach. We’ll explore the debate and how some cities are pushing back with Purplish. Then, from her challenging years on a southern Colorado broomcorn farm to the hills of Hollywood, the story of author Sanora Babb, “Riding Like the Wind.”

Staff

Tom Hesse.
Colorado Matters Western Slope Producer

Tom Hesse