Colorado Matters

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August 12, 2026: A protest that helped launch a movement Aug 12, 2026

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You can draw a line between a protest in Denver and the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. A half century later, the fight for access continues. Today we share some of that history with NPR's podcast, "The Sunday Story," hosted by Ayesha Rascoe with guests Joseph Shapiro from NPR and CPR's Stephanie Wolf, and we look ahead at the current challenges. Then, the world premiere of a play at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts inspired by the movement, called "504: The Musical." Director Ben Raanan and actor Jolee Harston from Phamaly Theatre Company spoke with CPR's Alejandro Alonso Galva for our series "Raise the Curtain."

August 11, 2026: Why kids are more susceptible than ever before to porn and what parents need to know Aug 11, 2026

Show notes

Research finds that kids are exposed to online pornography more often, and at younger ages, than ever before, thanks to technology and social media. The effects are often damaging, negatively shaping how they understand relationships, consent, and even their own bodies. We speak with Craig Knippenberg, a licensed clinical social worker, family therapist and author about the trend and what parents need to know. Plus, we revisit concerns about an increase in motorcycle accidents in Colorado with BikerDown, a Lakewood-based non-profit that helps injured riders and their families recover.

August 10, 2026: Creating a sustainable golf course that's wildlife, pollinator and plant-friendly Aug 10, 2026

Show notes

When it comes to wildlife and water use, golf courses have room for improvement. Today, a one-of-a-kind partnership between golfers and the botanic gardens. Then, the town of Kremmling has pulled itself out of a water crisis, for now. And on her album "Appalachia," a Ouray singer-songwriter contrasts her hometown mountains with her adopted Rockies.

August 7, 2026: Investigating law enforcement's hiring practices; A sense of place in the San Luis Valley Aug 07, 2026

Show notes

A sheriff's office is under federal scrutiny for its hiring practices; the effects could ripple across the state. Then, filmmaker Rick Vigil is preserving the oral history of people who call the San Luis Valley home. Also, what to know about staying safe from lightning. And singer/songwriter Isaac Slade returns to Colorado to wish his home state a happy 150th.

August 6, 2026: Colorado's political history filled with firsts amid attempted setbacks; Colorado River water plan Aug 06, 2026

Show notes

Since it became a state 150 years ago, Colorado's political identity has always been hard to pin down. You might say... it's purplish! But it's also been a leader in things like women's suffrage and civil rights. We explore some of that history today with Purplish. Then, the Colorado River makes life possible for some 40 million people from here to Southern California, but making sure there's enough water to go around is getting harder. Plus, new efforts to preserve the state's wetlands. And, Boulder's "Poetry in the Parks" is part scavenger hunt, part performance.

August 5, 2026: At age 97, Roy Romer says he's humbled as he reflects on Colorado, state of politics today Aug 05, 2026

Show notes

Colorado just tuned 150. Roy Romer jokes he's been alive for most of that time. The former three-term governor is 97 and just donated his papers to Metropolitan State University of Denver. We ask him to look back, and to look forward, along with MSUD's provost and historian Matt Makley. Then, an Aurora Police Officer is indicted in the shooting death of a Black man during a traffic stop. CPR's Ava Kian speaks with the driver's family. Also, the drought is taking its toll on Colorado's fish, and anglers, as river levels continue to drop. And Colorado bands join in a celebration of Julia Louis Dreyfest.

August 4, 2026: Celebrating 5 years with 'The Cause' at CU Boulder with music that helped shape history Aug 04, 2026

Show notes

Dr. Reiland Rabaka, founder and director of the Center for African and African American Studies at the University of Colorado Boulder (CAAAS), widely known as "The Cause," joined Colorado Matters host Chandra Thomas Whitfield to discuss the Center's fifth anniversary and his work as a scholar and author. The author of the books, The Funk Movement and Black Feminist Funk, Dr. Rabaka shared his reflections (and playlist) that he says trace the cultural and political power of Black music and its role in shaping history.

August 3, 2026: Meet the independent candidate in CD-1; La Veta, Colorado is desiccated Aug 03, 2026

Show notes

In his first interview since qualifying for the ballot, unaffiliated candidate Dr. Shimon Blau introduces himself to Denver voters. He got into the congressional race after Melat Kiros secured the Democratic nomination. Then, it's dry times in La Veta, Colorado. The mayor and town manager discuss life under draconian water restrictions. And ski towns beef up their summer offerings after paltry snowfall.

July 31, 2026: Celebrate Colorado's 150th with comedy, current affairs and quizzes Jul 31, 2026

Show notes

Our state is turning 150. We celebrate with "Colorado Saves The World." The new podcast inspired by "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me." That means comedians, headlines and quizzes. They were kind to make Colorado Matters part of their first episode.

July 30, 2026: Searching for Jobie with an end of life doula; Apple tree once thought extinct rediscovered Jul 30, 2026

Show notes

If death is universal, why is it so hard to talk about? Today, in our series "Searching for Jobie," a conversation with a woman who cares for the dying about her efforts to make the subject of death less taboo. Also, what she’s witnessed that makes her believe death is not an end. Then, a new medical school in northern Colorado could help with a nationwide doctor shortage. And, doctors can now use an innovative wound care option thanks to a Colorado School of Mines professor. Plus, an apple thought to be extinct is rediscovered in southern Colorado. Also, she's running the length of the Colorado River to highlight its water crisis in a search for solutions.

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