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

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.
Jared Polis speaks with reporters after the State of the State address.

Jan. 10, 2025: Gov. Polis on housing, immigration; CPR News bids a legendary journalist farewell

From increasing Colorado’s stock of starter homes to how the state will cooperate with — or buck — the incoming Trump Administration, Governor Jared Polis goes in-depth after his State of the State speech. Then, a drought of more than 3,000 days ends as the Denver Broncos return to the NFL playoffs. A former player rates their chances. Also, Colorado Wonders about cowboy boot etiquette. And, Colorado Matters says adieu to a legendary journalist. Michelle P. Fulcher is retiring.
CPR Host with guest

Jan. 7, 2025: Exploring senior housing options; ‘Purplish’ previews the legislative session

Many seniors want to stay in their homes. But what happens if aging in place doesn’t work anymore? Expert advice on our series, Aging Matters. Then, the legislature returns to work facing a budget shortfall of more than $600 million. Our public affairs podcast, Purplish, looks at the impact – and what lawmakers still hope to accomplish. Also, a Western Slope university helps first-generation students stay in school.

Staff

Tom Hesse.
Colorado Matters Western Slope Producer

Tom Hesse