Jan. 21, 2026: Arctic blast after record warmth; a polio survivor’s story; Broncos’ outlook without Bo Nix
An arctic blast is moving into Colorado after months of record warmth; we talk about the impact with Denver7 chief meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo. Then, a survivor of childhood polio shares her story in the face of changing vaccine guidelines. Plus, former Denver Bronco Ryan Harris is back as the team prepares for the AFC championship game without its starting quarterback. And the Local 303 shares new music from Colorado artists for the new year!
As an arctic blast moves in, Colorado’s been weathering a winter of record warmth
Colorado seems to be flirting with winter, but not committing. In metro Denver this week, flakes seemed to melt as soon as they fell. An arctic blast is now moving in, but it comes after months of record-setting warm weather across the state which could impact water supply and drought conditions well into the year. We talk about it with Denver7 chief meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo in our monthly conversation about the interplay between weather and climate in Colorado.
Jan. 16, 2026: Polis talks Tina Peters and ‘the value of mercy’; Broncos Super Bowl push; Rodeo diplomacy
In his final year as governor, Jared Polis says he wants to “lean into the value of mercy.” Would that apply to imprisoned former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters? In an interview after his final State of the State address, we also discuss housing, healthcare, coal, and why Polis hasn’t read the Epstein Files. Then, why the Broncos just might pull off on Saturday what they failed to do last post-season against Buffalo. And, rodeo as… diplomacy? Ahead of Canada Night at The National Western Stock Show, we speak with a bull fighter-turned-producer from Alberta.
Ahead of ‘Canada Night,’ rodeo as diplomacy
Sunday at the National Western Stock Show, it’s Canada Night at the rodeo. Bullfighter-turned-producer Kynan Vine, of Okotoks, Alberta, discusses rodeo’s ability to melt away borders.
Jan. 14, 2026: ‘If You Can Keep It’ on retribution, presidential power; Mary Jane celebrates 50!
One year into President Donald Trump’s second term, he continues to break democratic norms. In our series, “If You Can Keep It,” University of Denver political scientist Seth Masket provides context as the president intensifies his punishment of Colorado. Plus, Mary Jane turns 50! Also, a Denver man finds hope with a new program to help break the cycle of addiction. And a food bank café takes an innovative approach to hunger and nutrition in Grand Junction.
Jan. 12, 2026: State lawmakers’ to-do list; How evangelical Christianity shaped Colorado Springs
We run down state lawmakers’ “to-do” list as they head back to the Capitol this week, with Purplish. Then, the author of the new book, “Jesus Springs” on how evangelical Christianity shaped Colorado’s second-biggest city. Plus, join Ryan live and in-person for “On Fire For God” Friday at the Denver Press Club. Also, tempting tastes in the Pikes Peak region with “Side Dish.” And we hop on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe.
Listen: Why A Line passengers can’t check bags at Union Station
The idea was floated, but never came to pass.
Jan. 9, 2026: Tina Peters’ latest appeal; Venezuela’s future; Could wildfire strike Denver?
Tina Peters is back in court next week as her lawyers try to free her from prison. Unless and until that happens, Colorado may continue to feel the Trump Administration’s wrath. Then, after a history of oil booms and busts — and its most recent collapse, an expert at DU on what comes next for Venezuela. Also, could Denver experience a wildfire? Denverite talks with concerned residents. And an idea that never came to pass: Why can’t you check your bags at Denver Union Station when you take the train to the airport?
Jan. 7, 2026: Colorado’s flu spike; History of CU’s first Black law students; Inside thespians’ minds
The flu picture ain’t pretty in Colorado, but we look at it anyhow with Dr. Ken Lyn-Kew, a critical care pulmonologist at National Jewish Health in Denver. Then, they were some of the first Black law students at CU, but their names had been lost to history. Also, local companies, from Denver to Creede, produce top-notch theater. That’s the focus of a new series, which we raise the curtain on today, with Colorado Springs actor Anne Terze-Schwarz.
Jan. 5, 2026: President cites Colorado to justify Venezuela raid; The saga of statehood; Olympic skimo
Images of overrun apartment buildings in Colorado and of severed fingers landed in President Trump’s Venezuela remarks over the weekend. CPR Justice reporter Allison Sherry provides some context.
Jan. 1, 2026: As a new year begins, a fresh start with forgiveness; A music legend found home in Colorado
On the first day of the year, a conversation about fresh starts. Forgiveness is the focus of Kristin Koval’s riveting novel, “Penitence.” We spoke at Lit Fest last spring. Then, a final reflection on 2025 with a hall of fame moment for rock legend Joe Cocker who found happiness living in Colorado.
Dec. 25, 2025: Celebrate the season with the 10th Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza!
A CPR tradition turns 10 this year. The Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza returns with bluegrass, mariachi, comedy and storytime. And as always, we pay homage to Judy Garland. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or simply value togetherness, this audio gift is for you!
Dec. 24, 2025: On Christmas Eve, a musical extravaganza spanning ten years!
We’re counting down to the 10th annual Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza with some of our favorite musical artists over the past decade. Like Hazel Miller and Claire Dunn. Plus a centuries-old classic played on a massive pipe organ inside the historic Central Presbyterian Church in Denver.
Dec. 23, 2025: Spreading laughter and cheer with the Holiday Extravaganza!
Laughter is fundamental to the holidays. After all, “Ho Ho Ho” is one of Santa’s favorite expressions. Which is why comedians have always had a place in our annual Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza. As we celebrate ten years, we’ve assembled those acts for a special filled with good cheer and memories.
Dec. 22, 2025: An extravaganza of Hanukkah stories, music and connection!
Dec. 22, 2025: An extravaganza of Hanukkah stories, music and connection!
Dec. 19, 2025: The 10th Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza
A CPR tradition turns 10 this year. The Colorado Matters Holiday Extravaganza returns with bluegrass, mariachi, comedy and storytime. And as always, we pay homage to Judy Garland.
