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

Jan. 23, 2025: Colorado may be in conflict with new immigration directives; Remembering Bill McCartney

New guidelines from the Trump administration regarding federal standards on immigration enforcement could conflict with state laws. Just how far will the new federal directives on immigration enforcement go? And, how far will Colorado go to stop them? Then, the University of Colorado remembers Bill McCartney, the winningest football coach in school history. Also, an up and coming writer and director from Denver talks about his new film, “Breakup Season.” And, what a way to “kick off” the year for Colorado born-and-raised jazz musician Tony Exum, Jr.
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser

Jan. 22, 2025: Colorado defends birthright citizenship; January 6th pardons include Coloradans

A day after Donald Trump was sworn in as president, Colorado’s attorney general sued him over changes to birthright citizenship. Phil Weiser joins AGs from Maine to Hawaii in challenging President Trump’s executive order, titled, “Protecting The Meaning and Value of American Citizenship.” Then, the January 6th pardons include at least 20 Coloradans. Plus, a DACA recipient on his constant fear of deportation. And how wildfire inspired author Laura Pritchett.
A wolf sprints out of a gray metal crate

Jan. 21, 2025: More wolves released in Colorado; Ripple effect of wildfires on insurance rates

Colorado has released more wolves to the Western Slope, this time in Eagle and Pitkin counties, but the effort to reintroduce the endangered species continues to divide. Then, how the wildfires in California could have a ripple effect on home insurance in Colorado, which is already outpacing the national average. Plus, how a small Colorado business is bracing for tariffs. And former Denver Nugget and NBA superstar, the late Dikembe Mutombo, is honored for his humanitarianism.
The Palisades Fire burns a neighborhood in California

Jan. 16, 2025: Colorado firefighters in California; Artist Kristopher Wright focuses on togetherness

The wildfires in California are a haunting reminder of the firestorm that swept through Boulder County here in Colorado. We’ll talk about lessons learned as Colorado firefighters respond to help our neighbors in the west. Then, creating “Roads to Recovery” to help people experiencing chronic homelessness. Also, artist Kristopher Wright’s new exhibit is all about community. And, a new literary arts organization based in Colorado Springs.
Liver donor riding bike with husband.

Jan. 15, 2025: Robotic surgery a game changer for organ transplants; The evolution of ‘norm violations’

For a long time, liver donors could expect a big scar and a three-month recovery from surgery. Now, Colorado doctors are using robots to retrieve organs from living donors for transplant. We’ll hear why it’s a game changer. Then, a new look at old political norms. Plus, how teachers are grappling with cell phones in school. And how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. came to hear one of his favorite hymns for the first time in Colorado.
Psilocybin mushroom cultivation, May 29, 2019. (Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite)

Jan. 14, 2025: Healing Centers mark new era for psilocybin; Colorado’s new judicial district

Colorado is once again on the forefront of legalizing another federally-controlled substance: psilocybin, also known as magic mushrooms. CPR’s Molly Cruse and Alejandro Alonso Galva talk about what’s in store with “The Trip: CPR’s Coverage of Colorado’s Psychedelic Journey.” Then, Colorado gets a new judicial district for the first time in 60 years. Plus, Purplish looks at how the legislative session is shaping up. Also, a new directory will be a health resource for Black Coloradans. And commemorating the MLK Holiday in Colorado.

Staff

Tom Hesse.
Colorado Matters Western Slope Producer

Tom Hesse