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The Colorado news you need in less than 15 minutes a day, from Colorado Public Radio’s newsrooms. Get connected with your community and understand how the biggest stories in Colorado impact your life. Available each weekday morning at 6:00 a.m. with hosts Bazi Kanani and Arlo Pérez Esquivel. Follow this show, and consider donating to support future episodes at cpr.org.
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Dinosaur National Monument has its first new dinosaur discovery in a century. Then, when Xcel cut power in December to guard against wildfire, it left hundreds of Boulder businesses in the dark, and sent their bottom lines into the red. Plus, Colorado is trying again to unlock disaster funding for fires and floods, after it was denied by President Trump. And data centers are driving a historic construction boom. Now state lawmakers will consider two very different options for dealing with them. Finally, a tiny skateboard subculture has a new gathering spot on West Colfax — it’s the return of the fingerboard! Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s Ishan Thakore on the losses companies suffered from Xcel’s public safety blackouts.
KRCC’s Briana Heaney on Colorado appealing disaster aid rejection for 2025 fires and flooding.
CPR’s Sam Brasch on dueling data center proposals at the legislature.
Denverite’s Kevin Beaty on a Lakewood gathering spot for fingerboarding enthusiasts.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Haylee May. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Arlo Pérez Esquivel, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
A recent survey shows Colorado teachers are unhappy with their jobs, and it’s driving them away from the profession. Then, a Denver band is in a fight with its AI twin. We talk to its members about a case of mistaken identity – and what they can do about it. And, you might want to think twice about using the phrase rodeo clown. Protecting the riders in the ring is no joke.As promised, you can find Colorado's current custom license plate auction here.Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s Jenny Brundin reports on what’s driving Colorado teachers away from work.
Hear more about Canada night at the The National Western Stock Show on the Colorado Matters podcast.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
The tourism boom in Colorado’s mountains hasn’t totally gone bust, but resort communities are definitely feeling the slowdown, and making plans for an uncertain future. Then, a special tribute on this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, looking back at a hymn King first heard in Denver and carried with him for the rest of his life. And forty years after it began, how Colorado became home to one of the largest MLK commemorations in the country.Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
The Associated Press on the Bronco’s win and Bo Nix’s season-ending injury.
CPR’s Sarah Mulholland on the decline in mountain tourism
CPR’s Elaine Tassy on Dr. King’s connections to Colorado
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Bazi Kanani and Arlo Pérez Esquivel. It’s edited and produced by Bazi Kanani, Megan Verlee and Arlo Pérez Esquivel. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
In his last State of the State speech, Gov. Jared Polis focused on the cost of health care, the impacts of the Trump administration -- and renewed his pitch to officiate Taylor Swift's wedding. Then, dire warnings about how many people would lose their health insurance this year in Colorado's marketplace haven't come to pass, but covering higher premiums is putting some families in a bind. Plus, we hear from two iconic Broncos superfans ahead of Saturday's playoff game at Mile High.If you’re enjoying the show, please leave us a review to help others find us. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR's Molly Cruse on Xcel's planned power cuts for Friday's high wind day.
CPR’s Bente Birkeland on Polis’ last State of the State address.
CPR’s Caitlyn Kim and John Daley on how Coloradans are making due without enhanced health care subsidies.
CPR’s Tony Gorman reports on Broncos super fans and the road to Super Bowl LX.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
The wrong audio file for today's episode was originally uploaded. The correct audio is available now, but if you downloaded the episode, you may need to remove it and download again.There’s new information about the dozens of gas stations — and hundreds of drivers — affected by last week’s diesel fuel contamination. Plus, Denver may move to ban law enforcement from concealing their identities behind masks, while Aurora’s newly liberal city council condemns ICE actions in their city, and around the country. Then, Colorado has a plan to bring back a species eradicated from Colorado a century ago: the wolverine. And finally, as Deadheads around the world share their stories about the late Bob Weir, we remember the time he came back to visit the Colorado high school that once kicked him out!Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
Denverite’s Paolo Zialcita lists the stations that got tainted gas.
Denverite’s Kiara DeMare reports on Aurora City Council declaring its opposition to ICE tactics. Denverite’s Kyle Harris reports on a Denver proposal to ban law enforcement from wearing face masks.
CPR’s Tom Hesse reports on Colorado's wolverine reintroduction plan.
KRCC’s Shanna Lewis reports on Bob Weir’s Colorado school days.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Bazi Kanani and Arlo Pérez Esquivel. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
The 2026 legislative session begins today and we’ll preview the politics, policies and pressures expected to shape the next four months. Plus, more Colorado students are graduating high school on time — and fewer are dropping out, than ever before. And a Colorado nonprofit is giving women and their families the stability needed for a better life. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s Bente Birkeland and Capitol News Alliance colleagues report on the drama unfolding among state lawmakers as they return to the statehouse.
And go deeper on what to expect for the 2026 session in a new episode of Purplish.
CPR’s Jenny Brundin on the latest enrollment, graduation and dropout numbers.
CPR’s Haylee May profiles the Women’s Bean Project.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Haylee May. It’s edited and produced by Stephanie Wolf, Haylee May, Megan Verlee, Mateo Schimpf and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
Almost six years after Suzanne Morphew’s disappearance, her husband Barry pleaded not guilty Monday in an Alamosa courtroom. We catch up on the complicated case. Then, Denver is preparing for the next phase of its expansion plans at Denver International Airport — and that includes more work on the C Concourse. Plus, it’s something everyone who goes to the airport notices eventually: that little red barn sitting next to Peña Boulevard. But what’s its story?Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
Denverite’s Kyle Harris on Aldi’s Colorado expansion plans.
CPR’s Ben Markus on Barry Morphew’s arraignment.
Denverite’s Paolo Zialcita reports on DIA’s latest expansion plans.
The Denver Post’s Sam Tabachnik on the little red barn next to Pena Boulevard.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
A lot fewer people are dying of violence in Denver, and changing police practices get some of the credit. Also, being an Xcel customer could be getting more expensive — again. Then, why the BLM is struggling to find buyers for recent lease sales in Colorado. Plus, E-470 drivers know the tollroad’s signs can be good for a chuckle, but who comes up with those punny slogans?If you’re enjoying the show, please leave a review; it helps other Coloradans find us. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
Denverite’s Kyle Harris on what’s behind the drop in Denver homicides.
Denverite’s Paolo Zialcita on Denver Water’s rate hike.
CPR’s Ishan Thakore on the BLM’s bidless auctions.
CPR’s Nathan Fernando-Frescas uncovers the story behind those funny electronic signs on E-470.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Stephanie Wolf, Bazi Kanani, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
The woman killed by an ICE officer in Minneapolis had roots in Colorado. Plus, how Venezuelans with ties to our state view the U.S. raid to seize President Nicolas Maduro. Then, the clip-clop of cattle hooves on downtown streets means the Stock Show is back in town — we have advice for making the most of it. And finally, we remember Rambin’ Roy Smith and the artistic oasis he built in the San Luis Valley.Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
NPR and the AP on the Minneapolis woman killed by ICE and her roots in Colorado.
CPR’s Caitlyn Kim on the failed effort to overturn Trump’s veto of the Arkansas Valley Conduit Bill.
CPR’s Sandy Battulga and Denverite’s Kevin Beaty on the Stock Show parade.
Denverite’s Paolo Zialcita on what you need to know for going to the Stock Show.
CPR’s Stephanie Wolf’s 2018 profile of Ramblin’ Roy.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Arlo Perez Esquivel, Stephanie Wolf, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
Body cameras are helping law enforcement do their jobs, but the footage they create is also bogging down the system. Can police and prosecutors keep up with mounting piles of digital evidence? Then, the Trump administration is putting conditions on funding meant to keep our state prepared for things like natural disasters, or even terrorist attacks. Colorado may have to reduce or eliminate local emergency management programs as a result. And, a family farm in Elbert County shares the secret to surviving 100 years.Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s Allison Sherry reports on law enforcement’s struggle to keep up with their own evidence.
CPR’s Ishan Thakore reports on the loss of FEMA funding in Colorado.
CPR’s Hayley Sanchez visited the Gresham’s Centennial Farm.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Bazi Kanani, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
$300 million — that’s how much in public benefits the Trump administration says it will block from coming to Colorado, money that pays for child care subsidies, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families and other programs. Officials say they’re concerned about fraud, but Colorado’s leaders say the freeze is about punishment, not policy. Then, what do new federal vaccine guidelines for children mean for families here? And the playoff-bound Broncos have a new set of supporters cheering them on: fans of a Japanese anime franchise about… horse-girls.If you’re enjoying Colorado Today, please leave us a review. And you want to get in touch, just drop us a line at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s Caitlyn Kim & Molly Cruse on the Trump administration’s latest funding freeze for Colorado.
CPR’s John Daley on Colorado’s reaction to the new federal vaccine schedule.
Denverite’s Kiara DeMare with an update on the Leetsdale construction site fire.
Denverite’s Paolo Zialcita reports on why fans of Umamusume are falling for the Broncos.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Haylee May. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Arlo Perez Esquivel, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
The current flu season is shaping up to be one for the record books -- why, and how can you protect yourself? Then, authorities have released more information about the victim, and mountain lion, involved in last week's fatal attack in Larimer County. Plus, with federal tax credits for home solar installation long gone, what will happen to Colorado's solar industry? And finally, we hear about the Adams County animal shelter's wild year of caring for thousands of rescued animals.Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s John Daley on Colorado’s bad flu season.
CPR’s Tony Gorman with the latest on the mountain lion attack.
CPR’s Ishan Thakore on Colorado’s home solar industry.
CPR’s Tony Gorman on the Riverdale Animal Shelter (with, yes, the picture of Nacho Cheese, the kitten)
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
Colorado unexpectedly entered the international spotlight after President Trump cited the state while justifying military action against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro… claims that don’t fully line up with what’s known about gang activity here. Then, in the wake of the state’s first potential mountain lion fatality in decades, we look at why encounters with the big cats, while still rare, become more likely this time of year. Plus, a judge blocks Colorado’s plan to require health warning labels on new gas stoves. And we explore the strange industrial relics still standing in the state’s high country.Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s Allison Sherry reports on what’s known about Venezuelan gang activity in Colorado.
CPR’s Tony Gorman with the latest on the possible New Year’s Day mountain lion attack.
CPR and KRCC on Trump’s veto of Rep. Boebert’s Arkansas Valley Conduit bill.
CPR’s Climate Team on the order keeping a coal-fired power plant open in Craig.
CPR’s Sam Brasch on the legal challenge to Colorado’s gas stove warning law.
CPR’s Stina Seig answers the question, ‘what are those bee-hive-looking things above Redstone?’
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
From up-front pricing for online purchases to more paid leave for parents of preemies, a lot of interesting state laws took effect on New Year's Day. Then, former Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell, who died this week at age 92, had a remarkable life, one that included truck driving, Olympic judo, master jewelry design, and a stint driving the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree. Plus, the 'Snowstradamous' of OpenSnow, meteorologist Joel Gratz, pulls back the veil on what might lie in store for Colorado's anemic snowpack. And finally, OpenAir Local Music Director Alisha Sweeney looks back at some significant Colorado music moments of 2025, and shares some acts to watch in 2026.Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s Bente Birkeland reports on new state laws taking effect in the new year.
CPR's Megan Verlee, Tony Gorman and Caitlyn Kim on the life of former Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell.
CPR's Molly Cruse with an update on the state's lousy snowpack.
Indie 102.3 hosts share their favorite tracks from 2025.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Stephanie Wolf, Corey Jones, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
A U.S. District Judge in Colorado said that immigration agents can no longer arrest people based on suspicion -- what will that mean for deportations in the state. Then, as the federal government moves to downgrade cannabis on the drug schedule, many people have questions. We have some answers. And jazz pianist Annie Booth shares her love of a holiday classic.This is our final episode of Colorado Today for the year. The show will return January 2nd, with all-new stories of the events and people that shape our state. All of us at Colorado Today wish you a happy New Year and a bright start to 2026!Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR's Ishan Thakore on Saturday's protest against the president's plan to dismantle NCAR.
CPR’s Allison Sherry reports on warrantless arrests in Colorado and the release of immigration activist Jeanette Vizguerra.
CPR’s Sandy Battulga answers your questions about Trump’s executive order on rescheduling cannabis.
CPR’s Michael Hughes produces a holiday-themed music lift with Denver jazz pianist Annie Booth.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Mateo Schimpf, Arlo Pérez Esquivel, and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Sandy Battulga, Megan Verlee, Michael Hughes and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
Denver will end this year well short of where it needs to be to meet an ambitious goal of going carbon-neutral by 2040. We look at why the city is so far behind, and we ask the mayor if Denver can get back on track. Then, at Colorado ski resorts, Mother Nature is getting lots of help from snow-makers this year. Is this the future of skiing? Plus, a visit to a high school shop class where students are tackling real world problems. Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members. Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s Sam Brasch on how Denver’s mayor says the city can get back on track to its climate goals.
CPR’s Molly Cruse on snowmaking at Keystone.
CPR’s Jenny Brundin writes about an “empathy engineering” class.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Corey Jones and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
President Trump is downgrading how federal authorities view marijuana, which could open new doors for research, and make life easier for Colorado's industry. Then, three stories about people taking what doesn't belong to them: tips for keeping your packages safe from porch pirates; Douglas County cracks down on shoplifting; and a Lakewood man's surprisingly successful effort to track down his stolen possessions.Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s Sarah Mulholland, John Daley and Bente Birkeland on marijuana reclassification
Zack Newman's Colorado Sun article on how Bret Dallas, with help from the internet, solved his own burglary
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Sandy Battulga, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
Just as the state braces for dangerous winds, a pioneering weather research lab in Boulder could be shut down, and Colorado Democrats say the threat has more to do with politics than science. Then, we check in on how Coloradans are feeling about the economy. Plus, the surprising origin story behind DIA’s iconic tented roof: how budget pressures shaped one of the world’s most recognizable airport designs.Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s Sam Brasch reports on the White House’s promise to dismantle NCAR.
CPR's Steph Rivera on Coloradans' economic struggles.
CPR’s collected Silent Recession reporting.
Listen to Andrea Dukakis’ interview with the architect who designed DIA’s tent-like roof on Colorado Matters. Or get the backstory in her Denverite article.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Bazi Kanani. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
Six women accuse the world’s largest online dating company of enabling sexual assault after they were attacked by a Denver man using its apps. Then, Colorado’s massive new wildlife overpass is officially complete — but how will the animals know how to use it? Plus, a throwback to Colorado’s Wild West roots, as cattle thefts are making a troubling comeback across the state.Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
The Dating Apps Reporting Project covers a lawsuit against Match Group, filed by six women who were drugged and raped or sexually assaulted by the same Denver man they met on dating apps. And here’s the initial 18-month investigation.
KRCC’s Shanna Lewis reports on North America’s biggest wildlife overpass.
CPR’s Haylee May reports on cattle rustlin’.
This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Dan Boyce. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Megan Verlee, Haylee May and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
The investigation into a state public health lab found out-of-date equipment, chronic understaffing, and a culture of fear. What does it mean for the safety of your food and water? Then, we’ll see warm temperatures and wind gusts of up to 75 mph on the Front Range this week. That’s a recipe for dangerous fire conditions, and possibly power cuts. And, from the reigning champion to some intriguing also-rans, it’s CPR's 17th annual Classical Carol Countdown.Email us at coloradotoday@cpr.org. Colorado Today is supported by CPR’s members.Read more on the stories in today’s show:
CPR’s Ben Markus reports on data manipulation at CDPHE’s water lab.
The final results of CPR Classical's 17th Annual Carol Countdown
You can listen to Kabin Thomas' Carol Countdown special and find a holiday-free classical stream at our website. Tickets and information for Tuesday night's Holiday Brass concert are at the Colorado Symphony's website.This episode of Colorado Today is hosted by Arlo Pérez Esquivel and Haylee May. It’s edited and produced by Mateo Schimpf, Stephanie Wolf, Megan Verlee and Tyler Bender. The executive producer is Megan Verlee. Theme music by Pedro Lumbraño.
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