April 10, 2025: International torture trial in Denver; Colorado entrepreneur eyes A.I. and audio
A trial is underway in Denver for a man accused of torture in The Gambia. We’ll talk through the accusations and why it’s happening in Colorado. Then, a Colorado entrepreneur is working to bring audio in movies and online content to the next level, using ethically-sourced Artificial Intelligence. Plus, why the pine beetle is spreading again. And a sendoff for a beloved ski lift!
April 8, 2025: Helping student athletes win on the playing field of mental health
Student athletes face a lot of pressure to win. And on the ever-changing playing field of college sports, that can create even more anxiety. Today, we share a panel discussion about stress, students, sports, and solutions, hosted by the CU Anschutz Medical Campus. Then, NCAA President Charlie Baker speaks with CSU President Amy Parsons about the changing collegiate sports landscape. Later, preserving the water in the Arkansas River Basin in southern Colorado.
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.
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 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!
‘Snow Buddies’ help older adults, those with disabilities with free snow removal
Similar programs across Colorado also help those with disabilities.
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.”
March 20, 2025: Living a full life in the face of death; Senior community rallies around displaced residents
People who are dying have a lot to teach us, according to a Denver palliative care chaplain and host of the podcast, “Dying to Tell You,” which features people confronting death by reflecting on life. Then, the senior community rallies around residents displaced by an explosion at their care facility. Also, how Colorado’s black license plates may become a victim of their own success.
March 18, 2025: A mother’s fight for justice; The unseen threat to Colorado’s bighorn sheep
LaRonda Jones, the mother of Kilyn Lewis, wants the new district attorney to reopen the investigation into the death of her son who was shot and killed during an encounter with Aurora police last May. Then, Colorado Parks and Wildlife is keeping a close eye on our iconic state animal, the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep. Plus, how did Colorado’s high country parks come to be? And the legacy of a judicial trailblazer in Colorado.
Judge Zita Weinshienk: A judicial trailblazer in Colorado
Judge Zita Weinshienk was a trailblazer who forged a path for women in Colorado’s judiciary. She was the first woman to serve as a full-time Denver Municipal Court judge, a Denver District Court judge, and a federal judge for the District of Colorado. For Women’s History Month now underway, we reflect on her legacy.
Former Denver First Lady, state lawmaker Wilma Webb reflects on a lifetime of service and legacy in Colorado
Webb said her career has been defined not by personal ambition, but by a desire to create opportunities for others, especially those who have been historically marginalized.
March 13, 2025: Helping extremely premature babies defy the odds; Historic Park Theater’s haunted history
It used to be a death sentence for a baby born 23 weeks early. But many, like Zev Hauser, now survive. Today, we hear from Zev’s mother about the miraculous story of his birth and from his doctor, who says, with proper treatment, babies like Zev can now thrive. Then, the Historic Park Theater may very well be the oldest single-screen movie theater in the country, and its owner says it’s a real haunt! Plus, the “Color Book” starring an Aurora boy screens at the Boulder International Film Festival this weekend. And, we remember the many R&B and jazz legends who’ve recently passed.
March 11, 2025: Wilma Webb on legacy, life, and service to the community
Wilma Webb. Her name is synonymous with Colorado history. The former state lawmaker and first lady of Denver was recently honored for her lifetime of achievements and community service by the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce with the 2024 ATHENA Leadership Award. She spoke with Chandra Thomas Whitfield as part of Women’s History Month.
March 6, 2025: Denver mayor faces Congress on immigration; Continuing role of churches as sanctuaries
There were hours of testimony, accusations and threats on Capitol Hill as Denver Mayor Mike Johnston defended the city’s actions when it comes to immigration. Johnston was part of a panel of mayors called by Republicans to answer questions about their cities’ immigration policies. Then, churches have historically been places of sanctuary. But in the immigration debate now underway, do they still fit into the discussion? Also, dozens of people have been caught in avalanches this winter in Colorado — we re-share one man’s amazing story of survival.
Celebrate Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday… Arvada style!
It’s Fat Tuesday! The season of parades, masquerade balls and lots and lots of fun, would not be complete without a slice or two… (or three)… of king cake!
March 4, 2025: Impact of possible cuts on Medicaid; Flu season questions and answers
As Congress debates a budget that slashes spending, there’s concern those cuts could include Medicaid. We talk through the potential impact to patients, community health centers, hospitals — and the state’s economy. Then, doctors say it’s been quite a flu season in Colorado; we’ll ask about treatment and vaccines. Also, it’s Fat Tuesday, but you don’t have to head down South to get a taste of the official sweet treat of Mardi Gras. We’ll take you to an Arvada bakery that’s been serving up king cake for nearly 20 years!
