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

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April 15, 2025: A measles checkup; State lawmakers working to preserve trans rights

For the first time in nearly three decades, Colorado has three confirmed cases of the measles. But it’s not considered an outbreak yet. Then, as the federal government rolls back rights for transgender Americans, Colorado is moving to expand protections. We’ll look at the debate with Purplish. Plus, rural Colorado braces for Medicaid cuts and the impact of tariffs.
FORT LEWIS COLLEGE NATIVE AMERICAN INDIGENOUS EDUCATION

April 14, 2025: New Fort Lewis president on supporting Indigenous, first-gen students; ’12 Tablecloths’

She was the first in her family to go to college. Now she’s a college president, helping other first-gen students navigate higher ed. We speak with the new president of Fort Lewis College, Dr. Heather Shotton, about job readiness in rural Colorado. Then, the San Luis Valley braces for cuts to Medicaid. And artist and historian Chloé Duplessis’ new exhibit, “12 Tablecloths” at the Trinidad History Museum, gives a seat at the table to Black domestic workers whose stories were nearly forgotten.
A black and white courtroom sketch of defendant Michael Correa who is on trial in federal court in Denver for acts of torture.

April 10, 2025: International torture trial in Denver; Colorado entrepreneur eyes A.I. and audio

A trial is underway in Denver for a man accused of torture in The Gambia. We’ll talk through the accusations and why it’s happening in Colorado. Then, a Colorado entrepreneur is working to bring audio in movies and online content to the next level, using ethically-sourced Artificial Intelligence. Plus, why the pine beetle is spreading again. And a sendoff for a beloved ski lift!
Amadou (right) and Abou Diop leave the Aurora ICE Processing Center

April 9, 2025: ICE’s ‘collateral arrests’ include a former slave; Choir director finds harmony off stage

In rounding up the “worst first,” immigration agents also conduct what they consider “collateral arrests.” Then, the French ambassador to the US visits Colorado where he discusses aerospace and business opportunities amid tariffs. Also, the region’s new EPA administrator on energy, climate change, and clean air & water. And later, creating harmony in the workplace.

April 8, 2025: Helping student athletes win on the playing field of mental health

Student athletes face a lot of pressure to win. And on the ever-changing playing field of college sports, that can create even more anxiety. Today, we share a panel discussion about stress, students, sports, and solutions, hosted by the CU Anschutz Medical Campus. Then, NCAA President Charlie Baker speaks with CSU President Amy Parsons about the changing collegiate sports landscape. Later, preserving the water in the Arkansas River Basin in southern Colorado.
A 10th grade student is seen standing next to a bookshelf in a library. She is wearing white and black top with squiggly lines.

April 4, 2025: Teens share their love for reading; ‘Pinch Hitting’ tells the story of an unexpected hero

Today, we’ll bust some myths about young people and reading. As much as kids are on their phones, many crave paper. Plus, book bans, the hottest genres among young adults, and the role of school libraries in 2025. Then, proxy voting on Capitol Hill. Plus, dedicated volunteers are keeping Colorado Springs clean. Later, survivors of sexual assault are empowered with Rise art. And ‘Pinch Hitting’ tells the story of an unlikely hero in baseball.
A woman is seen holding a Chihuahua. Colorful strings of dog biscuit cutouts hang vertically in the background.

April 3, 2025: An Aging Matters special – is a pet right for you? Plus, refocusing life after retirement

A pet dog or cat are often considered part of the family. But for older adults, they can become much more than that. In an Aging Matters on Colorado Matters special, paring up with a pet, and how to make the decision that’s right for you. Then, a group of Latino seniors finds a solution to unexpected isolation. And people talk about retiring, having enough money is often the first thing that comes up, but there’s a lot more to consider. A program through the University of Colorado Denver called “Change Makers” helps navigate the next chapter in life.

Staff

Tom Hesse.
Colorado Matters Western Slope Producer

Tom Hesse