Colorado Matters

COVID-19 hospitalizations in Colorado are as high as they’ve been in almost a year, although nowhere near their peak last winter. We get perspective from two intensive care physicians. Plus, how vaccines are creating islands of safety in the state. Then, our seasonal questions for a gardening expert as fall and winter take hold. And, music from The Mananas.

Coaches increasingly are considering players’ mental health on and off the field, from elite to youth athletes. Then, spotlighting workers’ rights issues as HelloFresh employees consider a union. Plus, the Aspen Institute’s conversation with the now-late General Colin Powell about leadership. And the bitter rivalry between the Broncos and the Raiders.

Public affairs editor Megan Verlee explains Amendment 78 and Proposition 120, two finance-related statewide ballot measures. Bente Birkeland and Jenny Brundin walk through Proposition 119, which raises taxes on recreational cannabis for after-school programs. Then, life a year after the East Troublesome fire. And, “Discovering the Colorado Plateau.”

Hundreds of Coloradans are behind NASA’s Lucy Mission to explore the asteroids near Jupiter. Then, a judge will now rule if a defamation lawsuit filed by a former Dominion employee can move forward against the Trump campaign and others. Plus, soccer standout Kellyn Acosta. And the rock ‘n’ roll legacy of “The Family Dog.”

Robots, technology, jobs and the economy. Add in a global pandemic. It means big changes in the workforce. But just because a job can be automated, doesn’t mean it should be. And what are the most robot-proof jobs? David Brancaccio, host of the Marketplace Morning Report, sat down with Colorado Matters host Avery Lill recently at Denver Startup Week.

Stephen Trimble’s book, “The Mike File,” explores the realities of mental illness and inadequate care through the real-life story of two brothers. Then, a new exhibit highlights the history of Indigenous slavery in Southern Colorado. And using virtual fences to herd cattle and save grassland.

Stacey Abrams, the voting rights activist and former Georgia gubernatorial candidate, comes to Colorado this week. She’d like to see the election system here replicated in her own state and nationwide. Then, the complexities of repatriating art and antiquities. Plus, Colorado wonders about land-locked pelicans. And the music of Denver-based singer Katiria.

“Turn the Page with Colorado Matters” features a conversation with bestselling novelist Peter Heller about his new book, “The Guide.” Heller answers questions from Ryan Warner and from readers. How does he begin to write his novels? How did “The Guide” become a thriller? Plus, how he processes grief, and does he ever say ‘goodbye’ to his characters?