City Cast Denver
Join Host Bree Davies and the City Cast Denver crew every weekday morning as we celebrate, explore, and challenge an ever-changing Denver. It’s the daily news podcast for all Denverites — whether you’ve been here for six months or six generations. We’ll break down the news you need (and want) to know with journalists and culture makers; activists and artists; neighbors and ne’er-do-wells — and John Elway, if he ever returns our calls. Learn more and subscribe to our morning newsletter at citycast.fm/denver.*Named Westword's Best Podcast of 2021, 2023
Mon, April 14, 2025
Does Denver Have a Dog Poop Problem?
It’s a simple question with a deceptively complicated answer: Does Denver have a dog poop problem? When our CEO David Plotz came to Denver, he was overwhelmed with Mile High piles of dog poop, and he asked us to figure it out. So we put the call out to listeners, and dozens and dozens of you called and wrote in with tips, ideas, and steaming hot takes. Producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love enlisted one of our favorite regular contributors, Helen Xu, to track down the most promising leads and we’ve got some very real answers to share. Wanna hear even more from our dog poop investigation? Become a member for Paul’s unedited interview with Vince Voll, the dog poop entrepreneur, and dig into all of Helen’s data in our newsletter Hey Denver. Sign up now at denver.citycast.fm ! If you would like to contract Vince Voll for dog waste cleaning services, you can reach him at (719) 371-8289 , and if your apartment building has a dog poop mystery on its hand, you might be interested in Pooprints . Paul also mentioned this blog post from Denver Parks & Rec about the public health impact of dog poop. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Does Denver have a dog poop problem? We still want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 14th episode: The Delores Project Denver Health Energy Outreach PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Le
Fri, April 11, 2025
Local Tariff Turmoil, Nuggets Nation Rocked, and a Republican Stands Up to Trump
President Trump’s tariffs have already hit Denver, causing massive drops in stock prices and higher costs for businesses and consumers. But are they hitting us harder than other cities? Then, the Nuggets canned their beloved coach, Michael Malone, and opted not to renew the contract of General Manager Michael Booth. Fans and sports analysts alike flipped out — but could this be the vibe shift the Nuggs need? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by standup comedian and Casa Bonita performer Joshua Emerson to dig into these news stories and share all our wins and of the week. Does Denver have a dog poop problem? We want to know what you think! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 We talked about Westword’s coverage of the Bike Lane Uprising app . Bree mentioned Nuggets coverage on the DNVR Nuggets and Locked on Nuggets podcasts, and Bill Simmons’ show . She also talked about the benefit show for local photographer Michael McGrath. Paul talked about Rep. Jeff Hurd (R-D3) , Wynkoop Brewing near Union Station, and the proposal for Denver to spend $70 million on the NWSL stadium. Joshua mentioned City Cast CEO David Plotz’s observation about Denver’s dog poop and Sundance’s Indigenous Program . Grab tickets to Joshua’s new show, Dead Man Talking , tonight at the Savoy! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . <
Thu, April 10, 2025
Why Denver Is the Place To Open a Record Store Right Now
Despite the steady increase in annual sales of vinyl records since 2008, record stores across the country have been closing — except in Denver! The Mile High record store scene is as strong as ever. We’ve got new shops popping up and old favorites like Wax Trax expanding to new locations. Record Store Day , aka Black Friday for music lovers, is this Saturday, April 12, so host Bree Davies is sitting down with Denver Post arts and entertainment reporter John Wenzel to talk about how Denver is bucking the national trend and where you can get all the special releases. For a full list of participating record stores across the state, see Record Store Day’s official roundup . Bree mentioned Wax Trax’s “rules” for Record Store Day. For more on the Vinyl Me Please saga, check out John and Bree’s previous conversation on City Cast Denver. What’s your favorite record store in Denver? Are you going to be there on Saturday? Shout out your fave and tell us why! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this April 10th episode: Visit Port Aransas Denver Urban Gardens PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 09, 2025
Is Immigration Dividing Local Liberals? Plus, Rebranding YIMBY and Scary Bike Lanes
Is biking downtown a dream or nightmare? Could Ezra Klein’s “ Abundance Agenda ” work in Denver? Where do local liberals really stand on President Trump’s immigration crackdown? We’ve been getting tons of texts, voicemails, and emails about recent episodes of the podcast, so today host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are dipping into the mailbag to discuss these topics and more! Do you have a question for us about Denver? We would love to know what you’re wondering. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this April 9th episode: Visit Port Aransas Denver Urban Gardens PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 08, 2025
What Will Colorado Get Out of Hosting Sundance?
Two weeks ago Sundance Film Festival announced it was leaving Utah and moving to Colorado . Following nearly a year of negotiations, the potential offer of millions in tax incentives for the local film industry, and a battle against Cincinnati and Sundance’s original home of Park City, Boulder ultimately won the bid. After decades in one place, what made this movie institution decide to head to Colorado? And what could it mean for our state’s existing film industry? We’re revisiting a conversation from earlier this year that host Bree Davies had with Ali Vallarta, the host of City Cast Salt Lake and former Sundance staffer, to talk about the potential impacts of this big move. This episode first ran on January 16, 2025. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver and Youtube Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Visit Port Aransas Denver Urban Gardens PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 07, 2025
Trump is Targeting Colorado College Students. What Do We Know So Far?
International students from Colorado State University in Fort Collins and the University of Colorado’s Boulder and Colorado Springs campuses recently had their visas revoked by the U.S Department of Homeland Security. But reasoning for the revocations remains unclear, and the schools have not provided much information on the status of their students. Denver Post reporter Elizabeth Hernandez sits down with host Bree Davies to talk through what we know about the students so far and share what immigration law experts see in these unprecedented cases of visa revocation. What do you think? Are you an international student living in Colorado or know someone who is? We want to hear from you. You can choose to remain anonymous — text or leave us a voicemail 720-500-5418. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 7th episode: Port Aransas Denver Urban Gardens PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 04, 2025
Will Colorado Expand Protections For Trans People? Plus, Dumb April Fools Jokes and Senate Dogs
Monday was Trans Day of Visibility and Senate Democrats introduced two new bills that would expand protections for trans Coloradans — and in particular, trans kids — and no GOP Senators supported the legislation. Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love are joined by KUNC government and politics reporter Lucas Brady Woods to dig into how these bills could impact everything from school dress codes to gender-affirming care. Then, Olivia brings a list of the best and worst April Fools' Day pranks from politicians across the state — including Governor Polis’ South Park statehouse portrait. Plus, police on ponies, dogs in the Capitol, and more wins and fails of the week! Bree mentioned the KUNC podcast The Colorado Dream and its season called “The Hate State.” She also talked about Brittany Petterson’s baby in DC (again), the study of the impacts of the fentanyl criminalization bill and the fundraiser for Rainbow Dome . Olivia talked about the police horse force downtown and the Onyx, Denver’s brand new women’s rugby team . Lucas talked about frustrations with the vacancy process , the semi-positive ending for state budget cuts and Rep. Karen McCormick's Golden Retriever, Pippin, and other dogs of the Capitol. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Watch the Friday show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver Follow
Thu, April 03, 2025
The Mercury Cafe Is Gone. Will The Pearl Live up to Expectations?
Old Denver vs. new Denver. It’s a fight as old as the city. But as the Mile High inevitably changes, can these opposing forces work together to make something great? After a 50 year run, the Mercury Cafe closed its doors and this month, The Pearl opened up in its place. The new owners say they want to honor the legacy of the Merc, but — are they obligated to? New owners Dom Garcia, Ashlee Cassity, and Sheli Gilman sit down with host Bree Davies to talk about changes they are making to the place, why your favorite piece of Mercury Cafe ephemera may have disappeared from its walls, and how they feel about workers unionizing. Bree mentioned a previous City Cast Denver interview with former Mercury Cafe owner Danny Newman . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this April 3rd episode: Bookshop.org - Use code CITYCAST to get 15% off your next order CAP Management Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 02, 2025
Our Fave Rooftops, Patios, and Outdoor Spots Around Denver
More sunny days are on the way and we know you want to be outside to make the most of the Mile High’s gorgeous spring weather. But we know a good patio is more than just an umbrella and some chairs, so we went looking for the outdoor spots to hang in the Denver metro and beyond. From downtown rooftops to earthy, cozy patios on riverbanks, host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love are joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to round up their fave places to grab a drink and socialize outside. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Where are your fave rooftops and patios around Denver? Tell us! Text or leave a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Bookshop.org - Use code CITYCAST to get 15% off your next order CAP Management Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 01, 2025
Is ICE’s Detainment of Jeanette Vizguerra Legal? Plus, State Budgets and Brass Bands
It’s been two weeks since ICE picked up immigration activist Jeanette Vizguerra and her lawyers are now arguing that her detainment is unconstitutional and violates the First Amendment. Meanwhile at the statehouse, lawmakers are debating the financial impacts of reproductive healthcare access on the state’s budget after voters enshrined the right to abortion in the Colorado constitution last year. Host Bree Davies is joined by Denver Post immigration reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton to discuss her latest coverage, and a listener calls in with a list of brass bands to know around the Mile High. Listener Billy from Lakewood recommended Guerilla Fanfare Brass Band , Badaboom Brass Band , Gora Gora Orkestar , and Brothers of Brass . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Bookshop.org - Use code CITYCAST to get 15% off your next order CAP Management Midrolls Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 31, 2025
Your Guide to April 2025 in Denver
Ahh April, a time of rebirth, rejuvenation, of coming back to life after a long winter. So what new and interesting things are popping up around town? Where are the fresh and exciting ideas that will define the rest of Denver’s year? We’ve got plenty of recommendations and tips on our monthly guide to Denver, from a surprising strawberry and olive cocktail to a Rockies Opening Day party you don’t want to miss. If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you , with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. For even more tips on how to make the most of April in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like CAP Management and Bookshop.org (Use code CITYCAST to get 15% off your next order). And we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise . Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 28, 2025
Mayor Johnston’s Secret Group Chat, Homeless Service Cuts, and Taking Down the Trump Portrait
While President Trump is dealing with his own group chat drama, Mayor Mike Johnston is under fire for using the encrypted messaging system Signal to conduct official city communications. But is the mayor’s secret “Strike Force” an issue of transparency or just business as usual? Then, City Council made a surprise move this week, rejecting a $3 million contract with the service provider Salvation Army over safety concerns at one of Denver’s homeless shelters. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by former mayoral candidate and returning fave Lisa Calderón to dig into all the drama — plus, a new food hall, dems respond to the presidential portrait drama, and more wins and fails of the week. Paul talked about Chef Jose Avila’s new spot and the Trump portrait at the statehouse . Bree mentioned the death of Brian Vogt , the CEO of Denver Botanic Gardens, and new speed cameras . Lisa mentioned her organization Women Uprising . What do you think about the mayor’s use of Signal? Should they add Paul to the group chat? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this March 28th episode: 5280 Magazine Bookshop.org - Use code CITYCAST to get 15% off your next order Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at<a href="https://citycast.fm/adverti
Thu, March 27, 2025
An Expert’s Guide to Biking in Denver
One of our infamous spring blizzards could still be on the horizon — but for now the weather in Denver is gorgeous! It’s a great time to pump up those tires, grease up that chain, and hop on your bike. Whether you’re exploring a new part of the city, navigating an unfamiliar route, or swerving around potholes, biking in Denver can be kinda of hairy. So we’re revisiting a great chat host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi had with a person who knows Denver by bike as well as anyone — veteran bike courier Matt Sanchez. Matt shares the best and worst places to ride your bike in Denver. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Do you have a favorite bike trail or path? What do you think Denver’s bike infrastructure is missing? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: 5280 Magazine Bookshop.org - Use code CITYCAST to get 15% off your next order Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 26, 2025
Spring Arts Guide: Twilight Art Tours, Free Outdoor Concerts, and More!
Spring is here, and the Mile High has no shortage of arts events to fill your calendar. From provocative museum exhibitions and twilight art tours to festivals big and small, there are so many ways to enjoy the creativity of this city! Host Bree Davies sits down with radio host and venue owner Bruce Trujillo and City Cast Denver regular Joshua Emerson to share our top picks for arts happenings in Denver and across Colorado this spring. Check out all the happenings at Bruce’s new venue, Manos Sagrados, in Aurora. Find out about Joshua’s upcoming shows and support his trip to Edinburgh Fringe Festival this summer! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What’s your favorite thing that secretly lights up at night? We want to know where to walk in the spring twilight! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 26th episode: 5280 Magazine Bookshop.org - Use code CITYCAST to get 15% off your next order Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 25, 2025
Who Still Loves Illegal Pete’s? Plus, Bernie’s Biggest Crowd and a Clapback in the Tipping Debate
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) spoke to a massive crowd when their “fight oligarchy” tour stopped in Civic Center Park on Friday. Sanders claims it was the “largest rally” he’s ever had , but just how many folks were there? Host Bree Davies and Producer Paul Karolyi were at the park and dug into all the conflicting claims. Then we open up the City Cast Denver mailbag for some burning hot takes, including a spicy one from a Denver representative who is co-sponsoring the tipped minimum wage bill and a passionate defense of Illegal Pete’s CEO Pete Turner . Rep. Alex Valdez was responding to comments that Councilperson Sarah Parady made on our show last week. Don’t miss our interview with Pete Turner if you haven’t heard it yet! The band Paul struggled to pronounce is named Xiuhtezcatl . Here’s the New York Times article he mentioned about the controversy around the name “Illegal Pete’s.” Did you go to the rally? What did you think of it? The City Cast Denver Hotline is always open — give us a call or shoot us a text: 720-500-5418 and tell us what you’re thinking. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 25th episode: 5280 Magazine Bookshop.org - Use code CITYCAST to get 15% off your next order Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices </p
Mon, March 24, 2025
Why Denver’s Firefighters Are So Mad at Their Chief and The Mayor
An overwhelming 64% of Denver’s firefighters voted last month that they have “no confidence” in their fire chief, Desmond Fulton. But Mayor Mike Johnston holds the power to hire and fire the chief, and he brushed off the firefighters’ vote. So as the fire union prepares for another round of collective bargaining with the city, producer Paul Karolyi is sitting down with CBS investigative reporter Brian Maass to break down where the bad blood between the Fire Dept. and the mayor started, dig into some fresh data on what the Fire Dept. actually does, and talk about where the complicated internal politics of the department will go from here. Do you or someone you know have experience working at the Denver Fire Department? We would love to talk to them about the diversity question and everything else. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and we will reach out: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 24th episode: 5280 Magazine Bookshop.org - Use code CITYCAST to get 15% off your next order Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 21, 2025
The Big Bernie/AOC Rally, License Plate Drama, and New Stadium, Same Traffic?
It was a big week for rallies and protests — supporters of detained immigration activist Jeanette Vizguerra took to the streets, union workers gathered at the Capitol, and Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are slated for a big rally in Civic Center Park this evening. Will Denver Dems show up to “fight oligarchy”? Our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval joins producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to dig into the local Democratic divide, plus the implications of a brand new stadium at the site of the old Gates Rubber Plant, the uncertain future of Glendale’s long-awaited entertainment district, and more wins and fails of the week. Paul talked about Denver Bike Fest (April 26, City Park), the latest Glendale lawsuit , the Denver Post’s congressional vote tracker , the CSU vegetable bracket , and the Denver Gazette’s history of Gates Rubber Plant . Bree mentioned the money raised by black license plates and the Westwood Rec Center . Justine talked about Denver’s FEMA money and un-banned books . The song you heard at the end of this episode is “<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0k31ZT14VWvkvWFxw1txZ5?si=PyrapeR
Thu, March 20, 2025
Denverites Are Turning On Illegal Pete’s. Here’s What Pete Has To Say.
For almost 30 years, Illegal Pete’s has been a local darling. While Chipotle went global, Pete’s Mission-style burritos came with killer queso and great margs — and they supported local artists and community groups, too. But over the last couple years, something has changed. People are swapping stories of food poisonings, cuts to worker benefits, and less-than-awesome queso. So what happened? Producer Paul Karolyi put that big question to Illegal Pete’s founder and CEO Pete Turner, because he’s got some explaining to do. Paul mentioned Denver Gazette’s reporting on the letter that Turner and some other downtown restaurant owners sent to Mayor Mike Johnston complaining about how slow downtown’s economic recovery has been. He also recommends this fun queso taste test that Westword’s food editor and friend of the show Molly Martin did a few months ago. What do you think about Illegal Pete’s? Do you love it more than ever? Have you had bad experiences? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 20th episode: Denver Health Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 19, 2025
Why ICE Just Detained a Famous Local Immigration Activist
While on lunch break from her job at Target, ICE officers detained local immigration rights activist Jeanette Vizguerra on Monday afternoon, immediately drawing the country’s attention to Denver. Back during the first Trump administration in 2017, Vizguerra first captured national attention when she took sanctuary in Denver churches to avoid deportation. She was even named to Time Magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in the World of 2017. Activist and former state representative Tim Hernández returns to talk with host Bree Davies about Vizguerra’s precarious situation, what local politicians are saying about this case, and what it all means for bigger immigration fights to come. Tim mentioned Gov. Polis’s State of the State , the arrest of Columbia University student Mahmoud Khalil , and his own work on a law he helped pass to allow state identification to be issued to undocumented Coloradans. He also talked about a Rally in support of Vizguerra happening today on Auraria Campus as well as a GoFundMe to help her family with legal assistance. Here’s the rest of the 9News clip we shared during the show. Denver7’s Brandon Richard shared Gov. Polis’s full statement on Vizguerra’s detention on X. What do you think about the detention of Jeanette Vizguerra? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 19th episode: <a hr
Tue, March 18, 2025
Is Denver Ready for ‘One Fair Wage’? Plus, a BRT Setback and the Bernie/AOC Rally
The Democrats in Washington are divided over how best to resist the new Trump administration, so we’re looking today at how local liberals are doing it. Some are vandalizing Tesla dealerships. Some are filling the rooms at our congressional delegation’s town halls. And some are looking forward to the big Bernie/AOC rally at Civic Center Park this Friday . Progressive champion and at-large councilwoman Sarah Parady joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the latest action and all the other big stories of the week — from a setback for the tipped minimum wage bill and the latest intrigue on the planned BRT on Federal, to the debates over widening Peña Blvd. and the defunct Park Hill Golf Course . Sarah mentioned some ethical, sustainable poop bags . Paul talked about the national push for One Fair Wage . Where do you stand on the Trump resistance question? Of everything liberal Denverites are trying, what do you think is the most effective way to push back? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 18th episode: Denver Health Babbel - Get up
Mon, March 17, 2025
Will Your Favorite Hot Spring Be Sacrificed for Cheaper, Greener Energy?
When it comes to green energy, Colorado Governor Jared Polis likes solar and wind. He’s open to nuclear. But he’s ALL IN on geothermal, and his allies in the state legislature are pushing a measure this session to accelerate geothermal drilling across the state. So what does that mean for our many beloved hot springs? Colorado Sun reporter Parker Yamasaki has been hearing from hot springs operators across the state who are worried, and her colleague Tracy Ross has been reporting on the state’s most promising geothermal project at Mt. Princeton. They join producer Paul Karolyi to talk about whether there’s enough hot water to go around. Paul talked about the case studies in Iceland and Japan . Would you give up your favorite hot spring for cheaper electricity? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 17th episode: Denver Health Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 14, 2025
The Merc Is Dead, Pharmacies Are Dying, but Cracker Barrel Will Live Forever
When the South Park guys bought Casa Bonita, their credo was simple: Change Nothing, Improve Everything. Now another iconic Denver institution is changing hands — this time The Mercury Cafe — and the new operators are promising the same. But they’re changing the name to The Pearl, so what else is in store for the 50-year-old bastion of alternative culture and community? Denverite neighborhoods reporter Paolo Zialcita joins producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to talk about what’s next . Plus, we discuss Paolo’s reporting on why so many local pharmacies are struggling and share our wins and fails of the week. Do you think Denver has a dog poop problem? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 You’re invited! Regular guest Joshua Emerson stars in a new short film premiering at The Holiday Theater on March 25, and Paul will be moderating a discussion afterwards with Joshua and the filmmaker, Gabriel Fermin. Tickets are cheap! Get yours today . Paul talked about Cracker Barrel , Meati , and this great episode of The Journal podcast on Walgreens. Olivia mentioned a sunglasses heist . Paolo talked about paid parking at Cherry Creek Mall. We also mentioned the reality TV show “Love is Blind” coming to Denver for its ninth season. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Inst
Thu, March 13, 2025
What’s the Real Reason Restaurants Are Closing? Plus, Denver’s Best Bánh Mì, and Downtown Green Chile
What exactly is bánh mì? New versions of the classic Vietnamese sandwich with all kinds of surprising fillings are popping up on menus across the metro area, and our new food correspondent Helen Xu says a Denver-style could even be emerging. So producer Paul Karolyi is sitting down with Helen to talk everything bánh mì . Plus, we’ve got the latest twists and turns in the debate over some local restaurants’ proposal to lower the tipped minimum wage, and Helen did her own deep dive into the hotly contested data on restaurant closures. The important question may not be how many, but which ? Check out Helen’s spreadsheet on restaurant closures since January 2023 and let us know what you see in the data! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your take on the show: 720-500-5418 The Colorado Center on Law and Policy published its own analysis of the restaurant closure data on Tuesday. Their analysis also challenges the narrative that a rising tipped minimum wage has been the culprit for an increase in recent closures. Paul talked about the One Fair Wage movement. Helen was on the pod a few weeks ago to talk about other ways to look at the tipped minimum wage debate . For more, you can hear Paul’s interview with Culinary Creative Group CEO Juan Padró and former Bell Policy Center president Scott Wasserman on why they think lowering the tipped minimum wage is the best way to address restaurant closures. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 13th epis
Wed, March 12, 2025
What City Cast CEO David Plotz Really Thinks of Denver and the Future of This Podcast
David Plotz has been podcasting for a long time. Twenty years ago, he sat down in a conference room with his colleagues Emily Bazelon and John Dickerson to record the very first episode of Slate’s Political Gabfest . Since then, he’s gone on to be Slate’s editor, the CEO of Atlas Obscura, and now the CEO of City Cast, the nationwide network behind City Cast Denver. He was also in town this past weekend to attend our big HEYDAY event, so producer Paul Karolyi sat down with David to talk about his outsider’s take on Denver, the one problem he thinks Denver really needs to solve, and share some insights into the business behind this podcast. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 12th episode: Arvada Center Port Aransas 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 11, 2025
How Much Is Denver Cooperating With ICE? Plus, HEYDAY Highlights and New Private Security Downtown
“Who is Abraham Gonzalez?” That pointed question to Mayor Mike Johnston during his big congressional hearing last Wednesday sparked a wave of fresh reporting on how exactly Denver is coordinating with ICE — or not. So today Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about what national Republicans saw that the local media might be missing. Plus, there’s a new private security force on the streets in LoDo and listeners have thoughts on Mayor Mike and the state of downtown. Paul mentioned Kyle Clark’s post-hearing interview with Mayor Johnston on 9News, the Denver Post’s article on what Republicans could be planning next, and some conservative coverage of the sanctuary cities hearing. You can learn more about the new Ballpark GID and its mission here . How much do you think Denver should be coordinating with ICE? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 11th episode: Arvada Center Port Aransas 5280 Magazine Looking to adv
Mon, March 10, 2025
Why Is Widening Peña Boulevard So Controversial?
What’s the best way to get to DIA? The A Line is not the most accessible option for everyone, and Peña Boulevard always seems to be slammed with traffic. With the airport already crazy crowded, and plans in the works for even more growth, city and airport leaders have been talking a lot over the past few years about expanding the highway. But then last week, the expansion proposal hit a roadblock, with City Council postponing a vote on a key contract. So today, we’re sharing a conversation we had back in August 2023 with Denver Post reporter Jon Murray about why this highway expansion is so controversial. DIA celebrated its 30th anniversary last week, with airport officials announcing plans for $12.8 billion worth of improvements and expansions over the next 12 years, including a seventh runway. What do you think should be done about the airport commute problem? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 10th episode: Arvada Center Port Aransas 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 07, 2025
‘A Neglected Metropolis,’ the Allure of the Suburbs, and a BBQ Spot Gets Smoked
Has Denver become a “neglected metropolis”? The entire GOP caucus at the state legislature signed onto a letter to Mayor Mike Johnston this week saying they feel unsafe going to work. But the mayor told a very different story about our not-so-Mile-High crime rates to Congress in his big hearing on immigration on Wednesday. So what’s really happening on the ground? One of our favorite regular guests, stand-up comic Joshua Emerson, joins Producer Paul Karolyi and Host Bree Davies to talk about the crime narrative and some big new plans to turn it around. Plus, the allure of the suburbs and our wins and fails of the week. Paul talked about the recent drama at AJ’s Pit BBQ , Rep. Emily Sirota’s “junk fees” bill , and the conflicting crime data . Bree mentioned Tyler Campo’s memorial. Joshua talked about the Avs’ hot streak and <a href="https://denvergazette.com/sports/colorado-avalanche/avalanche-crosby-trade-friday-faceoff/article_72164bf0-f536-11ef-a29b-7fc6dd766dfb.html?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=DG%20Push%20Friday%20Faceoff%20Should%20the%20Colorado%20Avalanche%
Thu, March 06, 2025
We Watched All 6 Hours of Mayor Johnston's Congressional Hearing
Mayor Mike Johnston was in DC on Wednesday for a high-stakes congressional hearing as part of the House Oversight Committee’s investigation into “sanctuary jurisdictions.” With threats of federal funding cuts looming, the mayor defended his approach to immigration and faced hard questions from Republicans, including Rep. Lauren Boebert. We watched the whole marathon hearing, and then we sat down with returning guest and State Sen. Julie Gonzales, who has worked on immigration issues for more than 15 years, to decode the political theater and talk about what’s at stake for Denverites and our new neighbors. We mentioned our interview with Mayor Johnston last week and his comments on how he has been preparing for this investigation. You might also be interested in reading some of the national coverage of Mayor Johnston’s trip to DC, like this report from The Wall Street Journal, or one of these liveblogs of the hearing from our friends at Denverite or The Denver Post . We didn’t even talk about the accusation that Mayor Johnston violated federal law! Senadora Gonzales mentioned the fact that the conservative-leaning Cato Institute has reported that President Trump’s policies are costly and making America less safe . How do you think the mayor did in DC? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us THIS SAT
Wed, March 05, 2025
Anonymous Federal Workers Tell All, Tipped Employees Push Back, and More Toxic Colorado Traits
Who knows Denver better than Denverites? No one. That’s why we love opening up the City Cast Denver Hotline every episode to hear from you! As we count down the last few days until our big HEYDAY event this Saturday, we’re talking about everything you’ve called in about recently — from federal workers anonymously sharing their local DOGE stories and a leak from inside Juan Padró’s restaurant empire, Culinary Creative Group, to more of your most embarrassing toxic Colorado traits. Paul mentioned the protests outside NOAA in Boulder on Monday [Denver7]. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think we should talk about on the podcast next? Got a story idea? A question for us? Or a topic you think we should discuss? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 4th episode: Arvada Center Clear Creek Makerspace Wolf Theatre Academy at JCC Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 04, 2025
Does Mayor Mike Have Tipping Fatigue? Plus, Restaurant ‘Bullies’ and a Coffee Shop Compromise
The big news this week is, well, us! Mayor Mike Johnston sat down with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi last week to talk about everything from the tipped minimum wage to his upcoming face-off with Rep. Lauren Boebert — and the interview caught fire. But lot of what the mayor actually said got lost in the noise, so Paul and Bree are clearing up the confusion. Plus, an interesting compromise in a zoning fight in City Park West, and a listener calls in with some jokes for Mr. Johnston before he goes in front of Boebert and the other Republicans on the House Oversight Committee this Wednesday. Paul mentioned this Denver Gazette article that left space open for people to misinterpret the mayor, along with a report from the Common Sense Institute and commentary from Heidi Ganahl and Do Better Denver . Here’s the full instagram post from Weathervane Cafe owner Lindsey Dalton and our previous episode on the zoning debate . Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becom
Mon, March 03, 2025
Lime Is Sorry for Dumping All Those Scooters in Denver
It’s been seven years since the e-scooter companies unceremoniously dumped fleets of Limes and Birds onto the streets of Denver, and many Denverites are still upset about it! But at the same time, many others have grown to rely on these micro-mobility machines. Councilman Chris Hinds, in particular, has been pushing for tougher regulations for years, and last week he put forth a new proposal to the rest of City Council, citing Denver Health data showing a huge increase in scooter-related accidents in 2024. So we reached out to Lime to hear their side of the story and where they see scooters fitting in Denver’s constantly evolving transportation ecosystem. What do you think about scooters after hearing from the Lime guys? Have you ever tossed a scooter into the creek? Or do you love using them to get around? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 We also reached out to talk to the other company licensed to operate scooters in Denver, Bird , and here’s the statement they sent us: “We at Bird are excited to work with DOTI and Denver City Council to bring the very best technology and vehicles to the Denver program. We look forward to working collaboratively with our partners to provide feedback on the draft micro-mobility ordinance to fine tune the details, but we are aligned with the vision of continuing to develop a last-mile mobility solution that focuses on safety, equity, and access.” Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this March 3rd episode: Arva
Fri, February 28, 2025
DOGE Cuts Hit Denver, DIA’s Next 30 Years, and a Viral Puppy Heist
Federal workers across the country are bracing for layoffs , including more than 40,000 right here in Colorado. So, how are Denverites handling all the DOGE cuts? Then, DIA turns 30 today! Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by political consultant Deep Singh Badhesha to talk about everything from the famed airport’s Blucifer conspiracy theories and tales of a luggage-eating baggage system to the renderings of the next Great Hall renovation and a surprising DIA-Elon Musk connection. Plus, a Colorado lawmaker brings her newborn to Congress, a puppy heist in Centennial, and more wins and fails of the week. Paul discussed our latest interview with Mayor Johnston and the 5280 feature on Scott Derrickson , Colorado director of The Gorge — which you can watch now on Apple TV+. Bree mentioned her friend Alisha Sweeney’s long local radio career and the upcoming 303 Day concert . Deep talked about his excitement for the 2026 elections and his new Substack ! Producer Olivia would love you to see these pictures of “ the Modobag .” Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tick
Thu, February 27, 2025
Your Guide to March 2025 in Denver
Regardless of the wacky weather that always hits in March, there’s still plenty of fun to be had in the Mile High this month. Wondering what to do? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! From a local artist’s new show opening in RiNo to a must-try sweet treat from a South Broadway gem , we’ve rounded up our best bets and personal faves just for you to check out in March. If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more tips on how to make the most of March in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. If you enjoyed the sponsored interview with Eliza Voss, Vice President of Destination Marketing for the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, learn more here . Eliza also mentioned some tips for hiking Maroon Bells and the ACRA’s new destination management plan . Learn more about our other sponsors of this February 27th episode: CAP Management And we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise . Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter
Wed, February 26, 2025
Mayor Johnston on the Minimum Wage, Car-Free Priorities, and His Showdown with Boebert
Mayor Mike Johnston returns! Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with the mayor ahead of his trip to Washington for a high-profile congressional hearing on his approach to immigration next week, during which he will likely face hard questions from the likes of Rep. Lauren Boebert and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. With federal funding at stake, the mayor discusses his approach to what will surely be a media circus, as well has his thoughts on the recent debates over the tipped minimum wage, walkable and bike-able spaces, Colfax businesses struggling with BRT construction, and the future of downtown — plus, the recent wins he’s proud of and a sneak peak at his next big projects. What do you think about how the mayor is doing? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Do you have what it takes to win our Denverest Denverite Costume Contest? We’re giving away an amazing prize pack to the person who can impress our panel of celebrity judges with a unique and super Denver-y costume. It’s all going down at HEYDAY , our indoor fair on March 8. To enter the contest and receive access to your 2 free tickets to HEYDAY, simply follow this link to submit your entry form . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this February 26th episode: CAP Management Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 25, 2025
Is Denver About To Get Noisier? Plus, Democrats vs. Working People and Lumineers Nation, Rise Up!
Is Denver about to get a whole lot noisier? City Council is considering an update to our regulations governing sound, which could mean earlier trash pick-ups and louder public festivals. So producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are talking about what the change would mean, as well as the city’s most common and unique noise complaints. Plus, the debate over lowering the tipped minimum wage is boiling over, with many Democrats lining up to support the local restaurant owners who say they are in crisis. But what about the workers? Then, listeners respond to our segment from last Friday about Denver’s own The Lumineers. Paul talked about a few of the restaurateurs and influencers who testified in favor of the tipped minimum wage bill, labor costs at one Culinary Creative Group restaurant, and mentioned an op-ed from Denver auditor Timothy O’Brien . Still confused about the tipped minimum wage and how it works? Here’s a helpful fact sheet on tipping rules and regulations and a tip glossary from our own Hey Denver newsletter. Bree mentioned some of her writing on the late DIY venue in RiNo, Rhinoceropolis . Do you have what it takes to win our Denverest Denverite Costume Contest? We’re giving away an amazing prize pack to the person who can impress our panel of celebrity judges with a unique and super Denver-y costume. It’s all going down at HEYDAY , our indoor fair on March 8. To enter the contest and receive access to your 2 free tickets to HEYDAY, simply follow this link to submit your entry form . Have you ever had a problem with noise in the city? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even m
Mon, February 24, 2025
What’s Your ‘Toxic Colorado Trait’?
Everyone’s got that thing they do as a Denverite that’s not exactly hurting anyone, but probably isn’t something to brag about. Like leaving every Rockies game after three innings because you know how it’s gonna end, or keeping out-of-state tags on your car a little too long after you move here. Host Bree Davies is joined by two longtime Denverites, comedian Kate McLachlan and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to confess their own toxic Colorado traits, and reveal some from listeners. What is your “toxic Colorado trait? We want to hear your most toxic trait! Share it anonymously if you must. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Do you have what it takes to win our Denverest Denverite Costume Contest? We’re giving away an amazing prize pack to the person who can impress our panel of celebrity judges with a unique and super Denver-y costume. It’s all going down at HEYDAY , our indoor fair on March 8. To enter the contest and receive access to your 2 free tickets to HEYDAY, simply follow this link to submit your entry form . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this February 24th episode: 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 21, 2025
Is Colfax OK? Plus, Saving Sloan’s Lake and How ‘Denver’ Are The Lumineers?
Could ongoing BRT construction mean the end of the road for long-standing Colfax businesses? The public transit project has been in the works for years, but the real impacts of sidewalk closures and disappearing parking spots are finally hitting home. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Westword staff writer Jason Heller to talk through his reporting on how business owners are balancing concerns with the prospect of better bus lanes . Plus, they dig into more news of the week, including The Lumineers’ new album and frontman Wesley Schultz’s guide to Denver , gender-affirming care for kids returning to area hospitals, and the questionable names being thrown around for Denver’s new National Women’s Soccer League franchise. Jason talked about new music from Plague Garden . Bree mentioned a 2013 New York Times article on The Lumineers and budget cuts impacting childcare programs across the state. Paul talked about the “Watershed Alliance" for Sloans Lake . What do you think about The Lumineers? Are they a distinctly Denver band to you? Do you have a great Lumineers story to share? We’d love to hear it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Do you have what it takes to win our Denverest Denverite Costume Contest? We’re giving away an amazing prize pack to the person who can impress our panel of celebrity judges with a unique and super Denver-y costume. It’s all going down at HEYDAY , our indoor fair on March 8. To enter the contest and receive access to your 2 free tickets to HEYDAY, simply follow this link to submit your entry form . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at <a href="https://denver.citycast.fm/subscribe-hey-denver-newsletter-colorado
Thu, February 20, 2025
Guns, Condos, and Ethics: Inside the Capitol’s Biggest Fights of 2025
A little over a month into the 2025 state legislative session, and things are already heating up — Will this finally be the year lawmakers can coax Denver developers to build condos? Will a new gun control bill make it across the governor’s desk? Is the labor movement on the precipice of a long-awaited victory or yet another setback? And what about the state senator who recently resigned in part over allegations that she put her aides to work bartending at political fundraisers? Chief legislative reporter Marianne Goodland of Colorado Politics joins host Bree Davies to take us inside the biggest battles going down under the gold dome. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 20th episode: University of Colorado Denver Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 19, 2025
Who Won the King Soopers Strike? Plus, Hard Facts on Restaurant Closings and First Friday for Cars!
The King Soopers strike is over… for now. As the company and the union return to the bargaining table, we question what really brought them to this latest agreement? Producer Paul Karolyi tells host Bree Davies about recent conversations he had with strikers on the picket line and how they characterized the public’s response to the labor dispute. Then, frustrated downtown restaurant owners sent a letter to Mayor Johnston blaming him for a laundry list of issues impacting their businesses. But the data paints a more complex picture. Bree and Paul dig into these stories plus a listener’s thoughts on the conundrum facing First Fridays on Santa Fe . What do you think about the King Soopers strike? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this February 19th episode: University of Colorado Denver Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise <
Tue, February 18, 2025
You’re Not a True Denverite Until…
How do you know you’re a true Denverite? Was it when you found yourself in the midst of a Chipotle vs. Illegal Pete’s fight? Or that time you woke up at 6 a.m. to meet friends for a hike while still nursing a hangover from a wild show at Red Rocks? We’re revisiting a conversation host Bree Davies had last year with two hilarious guests — Lee Robinson and Kate McLachlan of Dyketopia — to help finish this sentence: You’re not a real Denverite until… UPDATE: After we recorded, we learned that Snooze takes reservations now, but only on weekdays. You can also join their waitlist online, though you’d miss out on some sweet, sweet brunch anticipation time! Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 18th episode: University of Colorado Denver Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 14, 2025
Will Santa Fe Lose Its Art Walk? Plus, Downtown Protesters Attacked and a Kendrick Lamar Sighting
Is the Art District on Santa Fe’s First Friday summer art walk event in danger of going away ? Concerns over crowd sizes at this annual block party has the city hesitant to issue needed permits, leaving the popular event in limbo. Then, a group of women on their way to a protest last weekend were accosted downtown by two men in a truck, and told Westword they didn’t feel like law enforcement took the incident seriously. Host Bree Davies is joined by returning faves Hey Denver newsletter editor Adrian González and politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dig into these stories, plus the King Soopers picket lines’ impact on Girl Scout cookie sales , Kendrick Lamar’s Denver rec center appearance , and more wins and fails of the week. Justine talked about the City of Denver’s Black History Month public art tour . Adrian discussed United Airlines’ new flight training center and Osaka Ramen’s impending closure . Bree mentioned the Denver Coliseum being used as a temporary shelter and the children who froze to death in Detroit. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.
Thu, February 13, 2025
All Your Legal ’Shroom Questions Answered
Psychedelic-assisted therapy centers are set to open this spring across Colorado and applications to operate them in Denver are rolling in. But how does this new type of treatment fit into the complicated and often gray areas within decriminalized psychedelics? What types of practitioners can offer this kind of therapy? And who could benefit from the treatment? Tiney Riccardi at the Denver Post has been reporting on the long, strange trip to regulate magic mushrooms and similar substances in the state. She joins host Bree Davies to dig into the details of these therapy centers and explains what you need to know as the industry grows and evolves. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 13th episode: Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 12, 2025
Are Labor Costs Really the Reason Dining Out Is So Expensive?
Is legislation the best way to help Denverites avoid paying $20 for a mediocre cheeseburger? Some leading Democrat lawmakers are set to introduce a new bill this week to put some legislative heft behind the proposal you heard about first on our show last week — to essentially lower the tipped minimum wage. Some restaurateurs say it’s their only hope. But this stuff is confusing! So producer Paul Karolyi is continuing the conversation with former-restaurant-worker-turned-food-reporter Helen Xu. She recently reported for Westword on some more creative (and risky) ways local restaurants are trying to offer more value, and she’s on to put this new “tip credit” proposal in context and demystify the minimum wage debate. We’ve got a sneak peek for you of the full text of the draft legislation that Rep. Steve Woodrow (Denver) and state Sen. Judy Amabile (Boulder) are reportedly planning to introduce this week. And don't miss our episode full of recommendations for our favorite cheap eats . Paul mentioned Matthew Fritz-Maur, the executive director of Denver Labor, and the city’s chief watchdog of wage theft complaints. You can hear him on an episode from last year , and get in touch with Denver Labor if you suspect you’ve been a victim of wage theft. Which Denver restaurant offers the best value? We’re looking for great deals, specials, happy hours, or flat out bargains! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter <s
Tue, February 11, 2025
Who Is King Soopers Suing? Plus, the 16th Street Rebrand and a Jurassic Correction
The King Soopers strike is about to enter its second week, and there’s a new lawsuit from the company in the mix — but the union is pushing back. Then, as 16th Street continues to hobble along, will rumors of a rebrand and dropping of the word “mall” really be the solution? Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love take a closer look at both sides of the picket line, discuss what the word mall even means in 2025, and share a listener’s correction of our Jurassic Park reference on last Friday’s show . Bree mentioned our episode about the King Soopers strike from last week. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/a
Mon, February 10, 2025
The Anatomy of an ICE Raid
The threat of ICE raids is looming over the Denver metro area now that President Trump’s ‘Operation Aurora’ has officially begun. A reported 30 people were arrested in the first official immigration enforcement raids last Wednesday, but rumors are swirling about what exactly happened (and where those 30 people are being held). Denver Post immigration reporter Megan Ulu-lani Boyanton has been on the ground tracking the raids, and she joins host Bree Davies to break down exactly what we know, what we don’t, and what’s coming next. Megan also responds to and explains Border Czar Tom Homan’s allegation that ICE failed to hit its goal of arresting 100 people because the “local media” tipped off activist groups. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 10th episode: Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <
Fri, February 07, 2025
Anti-Trump Protests Erupt, ICE Raid Realities, and Dinos in RiNo
Thousands of Coloradans gathered at the Capitol on Wednesday for the biggest local protest since Trump was re-elected president. As photos and videos spread online, federal immigration officers conducted raids across the metro area, with reports of agents showing up at apartment complexes, school bus stops, and workplaces. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by activist and former legislator Tim Hernández to talk about where the growing anti-Trump energy will go from here. Plus, all the other big stories of the week, including the new dinosaur-themed establishment coming to RiNo, the ongoing Colfax Swastika saga, and our wins and fails. Tim talked about the latest council moves on needle exchange sites and the Westwood paletero cart art show happening at Re:Vision tonight. Bree mentioned Denverite’s coverage of the ICE raids at Aurora apartment complexes and Children’s Hospital’s ending gender-affirming care for youth in the wake of Trump’s threats on federal funding. Paul talked about a Denver7 Facetime interview , the fate of the Colfax swastikas , and the Comcast-Altitude deal . Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . What do you think about the fractured Trump resistance? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at <a href="h
Thu, February 06, 2025
What's At Stake For Both Sides of the King Soopers Strike?
More than 10,000 grocery workers are set to walk off their jobs at 77 King Soopers stores across the Denver metro area today — three years after they went on strike in 2022, winning a slew of compromises from the company. But after the failed merger between the parent companies of King Soopers and Safeway in 2024, as well as three years of inflation, the situation inside Denver’s grocery stores has changed a lot. So host Bree Davies is speaking with UFCW Local 7 president Kim Cordova, who called the strikes, and then King Soopers president Joe Kelley about how negotiations broke down and what’s at stake. Joe Kelley mentioned several times that King Soopers has published their “ last, best, and final offer ” to the union. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 6th episode: Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 05, 2025
A Big, Scary Idea To Save Denver Restaurants
Ask diners. Ask servers. Ask restaurateurs. You can even ask the governor ! They’ll all tell you it's time to talk about the crisis happening in Denver’s restaurants. But everyone defines it a little differently. Some are sick and tired of paying $20 for a mediocre cheeseburger. Others point to recent reports of restaurants closing — more than one in five since 2021 — and no one can agree on what to do. One of city’s most successful restaurateurs, Culinary Creative Group founder and CEO Juan Padró , has been lobbying local politicians, and he joins producer Paul Karolyi alongside former president of Bell Policy Center Scott Wasserman to talk through a big idea they think can help. For background, Culinary Creative Group owns more than a dozen bars and restaurants in Denver, including A5, Mister Oso, Bar Dough Fox and the Hen, and the various Tap & Burgers. If all this jargon about Colorado’s minimum wage law is still confusing, we recommend this helpful breakdown from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment and this glossary from our newsletter Hey Denver. What do you think should be done about Denver’s restaurant “crisis”? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Suppo
Tue, February 04, 2025
A Big Win for Cars in RiNo, Another Swastika on Colfax, and a Shocking Number of Unpaid Parking Tickets
In an email sent late Friday, the RiNo Art District announced that cars would be returning to the 2900 block of Larimer Street , ending a nearly five-year experiment born early in the pandemic. So as the pedestrian-friendly open space went back to traffic as usual over the weekend, urbanists organized a protest, and producer Paul Karolyi was on the scene. He joins host Bree Davies to talk about who’s responsible for this turnaround and all the other big stories of the week — from the appearance of a second swastika in the window of a building on East Colfax to some upcoming Trump protests and the King Soopers strike set to begin this Thursday. Plus, we have an answer to our question of just how many unpaid parking tickets are floating around out there? Paul mentioned the 50 Protests 50 States protest planned for February 5th at the Colorado State Capitol. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about car-free streets? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 4th episode: Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, February 03, 2025
Can Denver’s Tech Scene Bounce Back and Bring Downtown With It?
Denver’s economy boomed in the 2010s, thanks in large part to a thriving community of local tech start-ups and entrepreneurs, which produced a handful of companies that have grown to rival some Silicon Valley giants — iBotta , HomeAdvisor , Guild Education , etc. But many of those success stories turned sour over the past 18 months, with layoffs, remote work, and cancelled downtown leases dominating the headlines. So, producer Paul Karolyi is sitting down with one of the city’s most insightful tech analysts, Jeff Casimir of the Turing School of Software and Design , to talk about where he sees signs of life, the Elon Musk effect on the local scene, and what the new dynamics mean for all Denverites. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this February 3rd episode: Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 31, 2025
Will Mayor Mike Face Congress? Plus, ICE Raid Uncertainty and Smashing the Colfax Swastika
Mayor Johnston released his big, new goals for 2025 this week, but is he going to have any time to work on them when the Trump administration is focusing so much of its new immigration crackdown on the Denver metro? Denver7 reporter Brandon Richard joins producer Paul Karolyi and stand-up comic Joshua Emerson to talk about what he learned at Johnston’s press conference yesterday, and break down all the rumors swirling about impending ICE raids coming to Aurora and surrounding areas. Plus, our wins and fails of the week. Paul mentioned the contract King Soopers negotiated with the UFCW Local 7 in 2022. Denver7 also shared the company’s most recent offer to the union, as of Jan. 2, 2025. Paul also talked about Manny Rutinel’s congressional campaign and the swastika situation on East Colfax. Joshua talked the federal spending freeze and the reddit saga of ‘ sleepytawni .’ Brandon talked about his interview with Debra Johnson and Colorado’s decrease in traffic fatalities . Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm .
Thu, January 30, 2025
Your Guide to February 2025 in Denver
February may be the shortest month of the year, but it doesn’t have to be any less awesome. Survive the winter doldrums with our monthly guide to Denver! In this episode, we’ve got expert tips and recommendations that you won’t hear anywhere else, from a suburban pretzel shop with unforgettable architecture to a brand new short film on Max created by Denverites and shot right here in Denver. If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more tips on how to make the most of February in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like the Denver Art Museum and Clear Peak Fertility . And we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise . Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 29, 2025
What’s Real and What’s Rumor As Trump’s Immigration Crackdown Begins
Amid last year’s national hysteria over Tren de Aragua — the Venezuelan gang that had allegedly “taken over” several apartment buildings in the Denver metro — then-presidential candidate Donald Trump came to Colorado to announce his plans for a massive crackdown on immigration, dubbed “Operation Aurora.” Now that Trump is in office, social media is rife with stories of ICE raids, security breaches, and people being detained — so how can you tell what’s fact and what’s fiction? Host Bree Davies sits down with Westword staff writer Bennito Kelty , who has been covering the immigration issue in his hometown of Aurora, to discuss the actual impacts of a second Trump presidency and if any of the rumors are true. Bree mentioned Bennito’s deep dive on GEO Group , the for-profit prison company running the Aurora ICE facility. She also mentioned Congress’s request for Mayor Johnston to come and testify on Denver’s sanctuary city policies in February. For more, the Colorado Sun recently reported that Trump’s Department of Justice recently ordered several local non-profits to stop their work, which will leave many people in the ICE facility in Aurora and at the immigration courts in Denver without access to legal representation. We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Denver swag. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: <a
Tue, January 28, 2025
Will King Soopers Employees Strike? Plus, a ‘Historic’ Rent Decrease and Pink Cocaine
It’s been three years since more than 8,000 grocery workers went on strike across the Denver metro area, but the contract they ultimately won has already expired! Negotiations on a follow-up are at a standstill, so will we see another King Soopers strike? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are previewing the strike authorization vote King Soopers workers are set for later this week and breaking down all the other big stories of the week, from the big Tren de Aragua raid to the reports of a “historic” drop in the average Denver rent . Plus, we respond to a listener question about the word “community.” Check out our coverage of the previous King Soopers strike in 2022 where we heard from striking workers as well as UFCW Local 7 president Kim Cordova . Bree mentioned the Rocky Mountain DEA’s X account . Paul talked about his interview with Drew Hamrick of the Apartment Association of Metro Denver. We looked up pink cocaine after we recorded, if you’re also curious what it is . What do you think about a possible King Soopers strike? Would it change your grocery shopping habits? We NEED to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at <a href="https://www.hey
Mon, January 27, 2025
How Communal Living Is Making Denver More Affordable
As the Mile High deals with high rental and housing costs, an increasing number of Denverites are finding creative and innovative ways to live here affordably. Recently, the Boulder Housing Coalition purchased a historic mansion in Capitol Hill with plans to convert what was once a single-family home into a collaborative living space for up to 22 people. Host Bree Davies recently toured the elegant residence with realtor and co-buying expert Sarah Wells to learn more about how this type of housing creates not only an affordable option for city living, but a new way to think about what it means to share a home. Are you interested in living at The People’s Mansion? The Boulder Housing Coalition is accepting interest forms now . Sarah is also hosting a free online class on February 11 for folks interested in learning more about co-buying. Bree mentioned X Denver. Don’t miss our episode breaking down all the latest drama from their corporate communal living experiment. Have you ever tried group living? Would you recommend it? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Make your voice heard! We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey —it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www
Fri, January 24, 2025
Will Trump Take Away EV Rebates? Plus, ICE Rumors and the New Politics of Wolves
As President Trump plots the end of federal subsidies for electric vehicles, Denverites are buying Teslas, Nissan Leafs, Chevy Bolts, and other EVs at record rates. Will Trump’s plans impact our state’s love affair will gas-free cars? Then, voters approved the reintroduction of gray wolves in 2020, but now that 29 wolves are ranging across our state, the program has sparked conflict between ranchers, ecology advocates, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by CPR’s climate reporter Sam Brasch to dig into these stories — plus, an exciting new play at the DCPA, a state budget fight brewing over controversial weight loss drugs, and more wins and fails of the week. Sam mentioned his brother Jake Brasch’s new play, “The Reservoir,” the new range rider job to help with wolf reintroduction, and this discussion on wolf restoration Feb. 6. Paul talked about the Utah Hockey Club , a local setback for GLP-1 drugs, and the recent parking ticket texting scam . Bree discussed Detour’s new piece at DIA and the Colorado Rapid Response Network’s work to debunk or confirm ICE raid rumors. Make your voice heard! We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey —it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full d
Thu, January 23, 2025
More Restaurant Awards Are Out! But Is It All Just Hype?
Sometimes it feels like the local restaurant scene runs on hype. Just yesterday, the James Beard Foundation announced the semifinalists for their prestigious 2025 awards, including a bunch of local favorites. But especially as inflation pushes up the cost of going out to eat, do any of those accolades matter to eaters? Writer and former fine-dining server Jake Browne wrote a biting critique of one local awards favorite and the whole hype machine, and he joined host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to discuss it on the show last summer — just a few days before the Michelin Guide re-upped BRUTØ’s star. Bree mentioned the James Beard Foundation’s announcement yesterday of the semifinalists for their 2025 awards. Paul mentioned this great article from The New York Times about how the Michelin Guide’s business model has changed and why Michelin came to Colorado in the first place. Make your voice heard! We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Denver swag. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . What do you think is Denver’s most overhyped restaurant? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this January 23rd episode: <
Wed, January 22, 2025
Are ICE Raids Imminent? Plus, Listener Mailbag on Downtown Crime and ‘Class Traitor Joes’
Now that Donald Trump has been sworn back in as president, Denverites are bracing for change, especially on the issue of immigration. The Wall Street Journal reported over the weekend that the president is getting to work on his mass deportation plan, with ICE raids potentially happening in Denver as soon as this week. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about how the mayor, Denver Public Schools, and the conservative suburbs are responding. Plus, we have been getting tons of great questions and comments, so we’re responding to a few of our favorites on crime downtown, the appeal of the suburbs, and “ Class Traitor Joe’s .” Bree talked about Casa de Paz . Paul recommends this explainer for the rights you should know when it comes to possible ICE raids and deportations, as well as some of the Denver Post reporting on Mayor Johnston and Douglas County, Superintendent Marrero’s letter to DPS principals, and our friends at City Cast Chicago’s take on the immigration situation . He also mentioned this breakdown of Trader Joe’s legal actions against the NLRB. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat
Tue, January 21, 2025
How the Starbucks Union Is Fueling CO’s Big New Labor Fight
In the spring of 2022, baristas at the Starbucks on Rock Creek Circle in Superior became the first Colorado location to unionize. Liza Nielsen was on the front lines of that union battle as a barista and shift organizer. Fast forward to today — she’s taking the cause to the Colorado Senate where she will be testifying in favor of the Worker Protection Act . Host Bree Davies sits down with the former barista-turned-labor-activist to talk about the fight labor organizers have been itching to have with Governor Jared Polis and what a change in our unique labor laws could mean for local Starbucks employees. Bree mentioned this poll that the Colorado Chamber of Commerce commissioned earlier this month. For more data and background research on the effect of Colorado’s unique second-election system, we recommend this terrific article from Tamara Chuang and Parker Yamasaki at The Colorado Sun. What do you think about this new labor fight? Should Colorado abolish the second election? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this January 21st episode: Babbel - Get up to 60%
Fri, January 17, 2025
Tragedy on 16th St. Mall, The Mayor’s Surprising Veto, and a Ginormous New Park
Four stabbings along the 16th Street Mall last weekend left two people dead and put downtown back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Was the tragic violence just another sign of an increasingly unsafe city? Or an outlier on the path back to a vibrant, thriving downtown? Former mayoral candidate and criminal justice reform advocate Lisa Calderón joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to discuss the vibe shift downtown and all the other big stories of the week — from the mayor’s needle exchange veto to the massive news about the future of the Park Hill Golf Course. Paul quoted from former mayor Wellington Webb's comments at the PHGC press conference, Mayor Johnston’s statement on vetoing the needle exchange proposal and the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment’s 2024 report on syringe access. He also mentioned the Uber lawsuit and a “ true old-school Chinese breakfast .” Bree mentioned our episode about the City of Denver’s bison herd. Lisa talked about trouble at the Denver Fire Department and our mountain parks . We are hiring! We’re looking to hire a social media manager, so if you love Denver and get what makes a great Instagram post, we want to hear from you. Apply here: https://apply.workable.com/city-cast/j/5854FBA163/ Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . What do you think about the mayor after this hard week? We want to hear from you! And especially if you have any questions you want us to ask him. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the s
Thu, January 16, 2025
The Real Story Behind Sundance’s Possible Move to Colorado
Boulder is currently one of three finalists to become the new home of one of the most famous and influential cultural events in the world: Sundance Film Festival. Governor Jared Polis and his allies in the legislature are reportedly hoping to lure the fest with millions in tax incentives, but film lovers up and down the Front Range are divided, and no one is sure what the impact on Boulder would really be. So Host Bree Davies is sitting down with Ali Vallarta, the host of City Cast Salt Lake and former Sundance staffer, to talk about why Sundance might leave Utah, and what it would mean for Colorado. For more on Sundance’s connections with Colorado, check out our episode with reporter Jay Bouchard on the future of The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park and their Sundance-affiliated film center. And don’t miss Ali’s last appearance on City Cast Denver when we hashed out SLC’s obsession with Denver. Sundance is expected to announce their decision about a possible move later this month ahead of this year’s fest. So we want to hear from you! Should Colorado be pushing this hard to lure Sundance? What do you think? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text with your name and neighborhood to 720-500-5418 Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this January 16th episode: Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choi
Wed, January 15, 2025
AG Phil Weiser on the Rent Algorithm, Cellphone Bans, and His Run for Governor
Colorado’s Governor Jared Polis is term-limited, and the election to replace him is still 23 months away. But that didn’t stop Attorney General Phil Weiser from jumping in to the race to replace him! Just a couple weeks off his campaign announcement, Weiser returns to the show today to talk to host Bree Davies about his early-bird strategy, how he’d bring a Denverite’s perspective back to the governor’s mansion (where Polis doesn’t even live!), the latest updates on his biggest lawsuits and investigations, and his favorite flavor of La Croix. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about Phil Weiser’s run for governor? Would you vote for him? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this January 15th episode: Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 14, 2025
A Final Resolution for the Park Hill Golf Course? Plus, Needle Exchange Politics and Weird Buildings
The mayor is in the final stages of negotiating a future for the Park Hill Golf Course, according to CBS Colorado . But would a major land swap change much for the neighbors living around this 155 acres of dead grass? Then, City Council voted on some big changes to needle exchange sites in Denver last night, but the mayor still has final say. It’s Tuesday, and Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are digging into the biggest stories of the week -- plus, they answer one listener’s question: What is with those quirky buildings around town that look like they’ve been swallowed by another structure? Bree mentioned our coverage of the ongoing Park Hill Golf Course saga, which we summed up in this episode from January 2023 . Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . What is your “toxic Colorado trait”? We want to hear from you! Anonymously or not, text or leave us a voicemail, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this January 14th episode: Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, January 13, 2025
Previewing the State Legislature’s Biggest Fights: Our Massive Deficit, the Rent Algorithm, and a Colorado DOGE?
The many esteemed lawmakers of Colorado’s 75th General Assembly returned to the Capitol last week for four months of high-stakes legislative action! So we’re looking ahead to the biggest stories to watch, fights to come, and potential triumphs of the session — plus a few predictions and inside scoops. Politics contributor Deep Singh Badhesha joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about some of the new faces, new battles, and familiar ideas we are likely to hear about this time around. From multiple housing bills to perhaps a DOGE of Colorado’s own , we’re breaking down what it all could mean for Denver. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . What are you watching for from state lawmakers this year? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver?
Fri, January 10, 2025
Who Would Pay for a New Broncos Stadium? Plus, a New Big Blue Animal and Snow Tires
The Broncos are headed to the playoffs for the first time in nine years. But do they deserve a new stadium? And should taxpayers pay for it? It’s Friday and we’re looking back at the biggest news of the week, starting with an investigative series from the Denver Post digging into the economics and politics of big stadium projects . Then, beyond Blucifer and the big blue bear, is there a third big blue creature out there? Host Bree Davies, producer Paul Karolyi, and politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval dig into these stories, plus the District 31 senate vacancy vote, a loss for the local music scene, and more highs and lows of the week. Bree talked about our interview with historian David Forsyth about Manhattan Beach and Roger the Elephant. She also mentioned Jason Heller’s memorial piece in Westword about the passing of musician Luke Fairchild and you heard from one of his many bands, Kingdom of Magic . She also discussed the Park People’s Denver Digs Trees low-cost tree program. Paul mentioned this 1998 article about Kyle Shanahan and the Broncos’ campaign for a new stadium, the Littleton rezoning situation , and Matt Ball . Justine talked about snow tires and the state budget deficit . What is your “toxic Colorado trait”? It you’re brave enough to share, we want to hear it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood — or stay anonymous if you really want to — and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get
Thu, January 09, 2025
How Much Does the Stock Show Really Mean to Denver?
The National Western Stock Show is a Denver tradition — for 119 years, this event highlighting our livestock and agriculture industry has been bringing farmers, ranchers, and cowfolk from all over the country to the Mile High City each January. But once upon a time, this crucial economic and cultural legacy almost pulled up stakes and left for good. Last year, producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies spoke with some of the key players in that drama about what happened when Denver almost let a beloved piece of living history leave town forever. How much does the stock show matter to you as a Denverite? Is there an event you never miss? Or a favorite rodeo memory? Or do you wish the stock show left town for good? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Bree mentioned National Western Stock Show CEO Paul Andrews’ recent decision to step down after this year’s show. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 08, 2025
What’s In and What’s Out in Denver in 2025
What will 2025 yield for Denver? When it comes to new trends, spicy predictions, and future forecasts, there’s a lot on the horizon for the Mile High City. Will psychedelic-assisted therapy finally go mainstream? Are immersive art experiences played out? Will local politicians stop embarrassing themselves on Twitter? Host Bree Davies and producers Olivia Jewell Love and Paul Karolyi lay out what’s in — and what’s out — for Denver this year. Paul mentioned local journalist Scott Carney’s book about Wim Hof . Bree talked about Jonathan Shikes’ piece about the green-and-white license plates for The Denver Post. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . What do you think is IN or OUT in Denver in 2025? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 07, 2025
Restaurants vs. Foie Gras ‘Terrorists,’ the Westside’s Gentrification Face-Off, and Renters Clap Back
What’s the best way to make a change in your community? You could gather signatures and put a question on the ballot, like some animal welfare activists did last year. Or, you could put on a mask, grab a bullhorn, barge into a local restaurant, and demand they stop serving foie gras, a French delicacy made from fattened duck or goose liver. That’s exactly the tactic a new group of animal lovers have been trying, and the results are… mixed. Producer Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love are talking about these so-called “foie gras terrorists,” as well as an under-the-radar zoning change making waves on the west side of town and listener responses to our episode yesterday about Denver rents with Drew Hamrick of the Apartment Association of Metro Denver. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . Paul quoted this video of Anthony Bourdain on foie gras, this video The Duck Alliance shared with us of their NYE action at Mizuna, and Westword’s coverage of the Duck Alliance’s previous activities in Denver. What do you think about the foie gras protests? We want to hear from you! Is foie gras delicious? Should Denver ban it? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denv
Mon, January 06, 2025
Construction Is Booming! Why Aren’t Rents Coming Down Faster?
If it seems like Denver’s skyline has been full of cranes lately, it’s not just you. The city has seen record construction of new apartment buildings over the past two years. But according to data from CoStar and the Apartment Association of Metro Denver, the average rent is either stagnant or falling slightly by $16 per month . So today we’re trying to understand what’s happening in the local rental market by talking to the landlords directly: Drew Hamrick is the general council and senior VP of government affairs for the AAMD, which means he’s the chief advocate for local landlords at the state capitol. We’re talking about why landlords aren’t dropping rents faster, the recent White House report on rent-setting algorithms, and why he thinks rents could skyrocket in the next couple years. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about rent-setting algorithms? Should they be banned? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 03, 2025
The Mayor’s New Man to Save Downtown, Violence Against Journalists, and Phil Weiser for Governor?
The new year is not yet a week old, and there are already tons of local stories to catch up on. Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to speculate about Mayor Mike Johnston’s new hire to help shape the future of downtown, Bill Mosher, including his connections with the Colorado Convention Center scandal of 2018. They also preview the 2026 governor’s race now that AG Phil Weiser has thrown the first official hat into the ring, discuss the recent attack on a TV journalist in Grand Junction, and look back on former President Jimmy Carter’s fascinating legacy in Denver. And of course, our first round of wins and fails of 2025. Paul mentioned this piece by Colorado Politics reporter Marianne Goodland and the fate of Merf’s hot sauces . What do you think local journalists’ role in covering Trump 2.0? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 02, 2025
Your Guide to January 2025 in Denver
Welcome to the new year in Denver! From warming up with a coffee flight to a hot tip on a discount for electric snowblowers, we’ve got some great recommendations for how to make the most out of your January in the Mile High City. If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com . For even more tips on how to make the most of January in Denver, c heck out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month . And we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise . Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 30, 2024
How The Denver Foodie Went Viral for All the Wrong Reasons
Back in October, one of the Mile High’s most popular social media influencers, The Denver Foodie, found himself at the center of perhaps the biggest local scandal of the year. Restaurants claimed that he had ripped them off, while some of his fellow influencers came forward with allegations of content theft. At the height of uproar, host Bree Davies talked with 9News investigative reporter Jeremy Jojola, who dug into these allegations and even talked with the guy behind the account, Jonathan Davis, to get the full story. Now that the dust has settled, we’re bringing back this conversation for the insights it gives us into the local food media scene and how Denverites choose where to eat. We talked about Jeremy’s initial investigation and reporting on the alleged food influencer scam. Later that week, The Denver Foodie ( @WhatsUpDenver303 ) released a video in response to the 9News piece. Bree also interviewed local creators Amanda Bittner ( @TheAmandaBittner ) and Ashley ( @ColfaxThings ) about the business of influencing in Denver . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this December 30th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 26, 2024
Why It’s So Hard to Date in Denver
Given how many people have flocked to Denver because of our proximity to the mountains, craft beer scene, or recreational marijuana, you’d think it’d be easier than ever for singles to connect. But maybe shared interests aren’t the problem; maybe it’s a question of shared goals? Or maybe the apps just aren’t as effective as we’d like to think they are? Westword’s Hannah Metzger and Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton from the Denver Post have both been reporting on dating in the Mile High, and earlier this year they joined host Bree Davies to share their insights into how people are — or aren’t — having luck finding partners. We’re revisiting this conversation today to dig into the pros and cons of Denver’s dating scene, whether or not the apps have become obsolete, and how the city’s stereotypes affect how we date. Hannah reported on our city’s dating scene being a “dumpster fire” and also recapped the Denver edition (and all-time least-successful season) of “Married at First Sight.” Megan interviewed the guys who took out a billboard looking for love for their single brother and wrote about how “Menver” has fizzled out ; she also joined us in February to talk about dating stereotypes . Do you have a Denver dating horror story or meet-cute anecdote to share? Leave us a voicemail or shoot us a text at 720-500-5418 and you might hear it on the show! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this December 26th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 23, 2024
Colorado’s Biggest Viral Moments (Where Are They Now?)
When Donald Trump started talking about Aurora being “taken over” by gangs during the presidential campaign, many Denverites looked around and thought, “huh?” It’s always kind of awkward when someone or something in Colorado goes viral like that, and the Tren de Aragua moment was far from the first time a Colorado story went global. Whether for ridiculous or tragic reasons, these viral moments stick around in our collective memory … and maybe they also say something about who we are. So today, we’re revisiting a conversation host Bree Davies had earlier this year with politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval and local history aficionado David Gilbert about some of Colorado’s biggest viral moments ever. Watch the whole “ Fresh Prince of Denv-Air ” video if you dare! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What viral moments did we miss? We want to hear about the ones that made you laugh, cry, or shake your head in disbelief at the crazy things Coloradans are capable of! Seriously, we know there’s probably a ton more that we forgot. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this December 23rd episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 20, 2024
Demolishing Old Colfax, That Anonymous Governors Poll, and Merry Zyn-Mas!
What better time than the holidays for another round of the age-old Denver debate of old vs. new? We’re looking back at the biggest stories of the week, from the Landmark Preservation Commission’s ruling on the fate of two rundown yet historic East Colfax mansions to the latest moves to block the construction of new gas stations in Lakewood and Denver . Stand-up comedian and returning guest JD Lopez joins producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love and brings a heaping helping of holiday hijinks to our last Friday news round-up of the year. And of course, we close it out with a special Xmas edition of our wins and fails of the week: The Naughty and Nice List. What’s the historic building you’d hit the streets to defend? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 How diverse were City Cast Denver’s guests this year? Paul discussed our 2024 diversity report , which we are proud to share every year. We are hiring! Are you a great writer who loves Denver? Or do you know such a person? We are looking for a temporary newsletter writer to be the voice of our newsletter Hey Denver. Here’s the link to apply: https://apply.workable.com/city-cast/j/FF0BF9E3A1/ Paul referenced this story about Christmas lights in Castle Rock and the anonymous governors poll . Olivia talked about cows and Arvada’s toppled tree . JD talked about local comedian David Germain and the GoFundMe for his family . UPDATE: After we recorded this episode on Thursday morning, an ICE spokesperson said that 16 people have
Thu, December 19, 2024
How Undemocratic Is Colorado's Legislature? Plus, Inside the Latest Vacancy Election
What really goes down inside the shadowy backroom where political deals are made? Nearly a third of our state lawmakers have been elected by small groups of party leaders known as “vacancy committees,” and typically all that wheeling and dealing plays out behind closed doors. So today, as about 110 Democrats in central Denver prepare to elect a replacement for State Sen. Chris Hansen, we’re taking you inside the proverbial shadowy backroom. Our newest politics correspondent Deep Singh Badhesha is on with producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the latest drama surrounding vacancy committees and share highlights, analysis, and predictions from the debate they moderated Tuesday night for the candidates running to replace Hansen in the SD31 vacancy election . Paul mentioned Monica VanBuskirk’s shoes , which were made by Nix & Ness . The Denver Democrats streamed the debate on YouTube, so if you want to watch and see for yourself what we’re talking about, you can find the video recording here . To hear from Hansen himself, he sat for an interview about his surprise resignation with Denver7 last month. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this December 19th episode: Meow Wolf - Use code 4PACK at checkout when you purchase your tickets online. PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Denver Health University of Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for
Wed, December 18, 2024
The Best Bites We Ate in 2024
With food prices on the rise, it was a challenging year for Denverites who love to eat. But who are we to back down from a challenge! Westword food & drink editor Molly Martin and contributor Jake Browne join producer Paul Karolyi to talk about 2024’s most exciting new restaurants, biggest trends, saddest closings, and their best bites of the year. Plus, a round of predictions for 2025. Do you have a prediction for how Denverites will eat and drink in 2025? We want to hear it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Molly mentioned her recent list of Denver’s top 100 restaurants and her article comparing local bagel prices. Paul mentioned this New York Times article on how the junk food industry is responding to the rise of Ozempic. If you haven’t heard it already, don’t miss the episode Paul mentioned about Jake’s experience at BRUTØ. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 18th episode: Meow Wolf - Use code 4PACK at checkout when you purchase your tickets online. PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Denver Health University of Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 17, 2024
What’s Wrong With CO’s Economy? Plus, ‘Brain Rot’ and a Flavored Tobacco Clapback
New data from CU Boulder’s Leeds School of Business shows that Colorado’s economy — once a national leader — took a big turn this year, with our GDP growth ranking 41st in the country . Maybe that’s why Governor Jared Polis was so eager to take a literal table saw to a pile of regulations last week? Stand-up comic Joshua Emerson joins producer Paul Karolyi to dig into the data. Plus, we want your help picking Denver’s Word of the Year! And we respond to a listener’s fiery hot take on Denver’s proposed flavored tobacco ban . Paul also mentioned this report saying Colorado is the 6th most regulated state in the country and Vivek Ramaswamy’s response to Gov. Polis’s latest stunt. What do you think should be Denver’s Word of the Year? Paul put out the call on the Denver subreddit , but we think you can do better! Text us or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 City Cast Denver is hiring! We’re looking for a temporary newsletter editor to join our team starting in March. So if you’re a great writer who loves Denver (or know someone who might fit the bill), here’s the link to apply: https://apply.workable.com/city-cast/j/FF0BF9E3A1/ Go see Joshua’s fantastic new documentary! For the latest info on planned screenings at Mutiny Information Cafe and the Buntport Theater, follow him on Instagram . He’s also crowdfunding for support finishing the movie and getting more people to see it. You can pitch in here . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: <a href="https:/
Mon, December 16, 2024
How the FBI Stopped Colorado’s Nation-Leading Bank Robbery Spree
While they may seem like a long-forgotten exploit of our Wild West history, bank robberies are a big problem in Colorado right now. Over the past few years, the local FBI office has cracked down and cut our annual bank robbery total from a nation-leading 191 in 2021 to 104 in 2023 . But that still ranks Colorado third in the country behind Illinois and California! So why is this particular crime so prevalent here? And what does a modern bank robbery even look like? Host Bree Davies sits down with Mark Michalek, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Denver office, to understand how he’s working with Denver metro area police to stop bank robberies. Mark talked about Metro Denver Crime Stoppers , a program that community members can contact any time if they have information on unsolved crimes in the area. Bree mentioned the recent local case of the “ penguin bandit .” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Why do you think so many bank robberies happen in Colorado? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this December 16th episode: Meow Wolf - Use code 4PACK at checkout when you purchase your tickets online. PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Denver Health University of Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 13, 2024
Does RTD's CEO 'Despise' Denver? Plus, Mayor Mike Takes on Parking and Elon Musk vs. Denver Water
Will Denver take the lead and embrace housing density? Or will car lovers prevail and get their coveted parking spots? It’s Friday, and we’re looking back at the news of the week — including Mayor Mike Johnston’s new plan for eliminating minimum parking requirements and CPR’s explosive story on RTD CEO Debra Johnson reportedly “despising” Denver . Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by fave guest Deep Singh Badhesha to dig into these parking and the messy politics of transit, as well as the Nuggets’ stinker of a loss, Elon Musk’s comments on a Denver Water project , and more wins and fails of the week. Join Paul and Deep next Tuesday, December 17, at Town Hall Collaborative for some festive holiday fun and a live debate with candidates vying for the Senate District 31 vacancy . We’re bringing this traditionally secretive vacancy process out of the shadows! RSVP for free to save yourself a seat! What do you think about the mayor’s proposal to remove parking minimums? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Paul talked about our show with CU Denver professor Ken Schroeppel about why he thinks Denver should enact parking maximums ; he also discussed RTD’s new tap-to-pay system . Bree mentioned the passing of Barnum gardener and resident Kurtis Keele , the screening of Joshua Emerson’s documentary this weekend and his crowdfunding campaign , and the Latkes and Lights event at the JCC. Deep talked about the Nuggets’ embarrassing loss and the potential implications of Albertsons <a href="h
Thu, December 12, 2024
2024 in Review: Biggest Win? Cutest Couple? Biggest Clusterfun?
It’s the big City Cast Denver Year-in-Review Spectacular! Who had the biggest year in Denver? Who made the news for all the wrong reasons? And really, where does Mayor Mike Johnston’s jacket sit in the competition for “Most Denver-est” person, place, or thing of 2024? From a massive W for YIMBYs and land-use nerds to thirsty politicians trying anything to go viral, we’re looking back at this year in the Mile High City. Host Bree Davies and producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love share their thoughts on Denver’s biggest wins, most epic flops, and greatest moments in the year that was. What do you think was the biggest win of the year in Denver? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 12th episode: Office of Climate Action PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery CAP Management Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 11, 2024
What the New JonBenét Ramsey Documentary Doesn’t Reveal
When 6-year-old JonBenét Ramsey was found murdered in her family’s home in Boulder in 1996, the story made national headlines. Almost 30 years later, the death remains unsolved but the true crime machine has consumed it, producing endless speculation, conspiracy theories, and plenty of sensational media coverage. This month, Netflix released “ Cold Case: Who Killed JonBenét Ramsey,” putting Colorado and this gruesome crime once again in the spotlight. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by regular guest Justine Sandoval to dig into the controversy around the coverage of this murder and discuss why yet another documentary doesn’t seem to bring anything new to a case that is still unsolved. We discussed the footage from Geraldo Rivera’s “mock trial” in 1997, but neglected to mention Westword’s report that Rivera recently apologized to John Ramsey for the episode. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about JonBenet Ramsey and the true-crime machine? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed the interview with Ethan Hemming, the President and CEO of Warren Village, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this December 11th episode: Office of Climate Action PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery CAP Management Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 10, 2024
Will Denver Ban Flavored Tobacco Sales? Plus, Listeners Respond to Caring for Denver Investigation
It’s Tuesday, and we’re talking about the biggest stories of the week. First, Mayor Mike Johnston is poised to reverse one of his predecessor’s most controversial decisions and approve City Council’s proposal to ban sales of flavored tobacco , including Zyn. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the changing politics of bubble gum vape juice, as well as some ongoing pizza drama and hear listeners responses to our conversation about CPR’s Caring for Denver investigation . Paul discussed the Colorado Sun’s reporting on Beau Jo’s 50th anniversary in 2023 and our episode about the new Zyn plant being built in Aurora and Gov. Polis’s comments about that plant. What do you think about the proposed flavored tobacco ban? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 10th episode: Office of Climate Action PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery CAP Management Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 09, 2024
Gov. Polis’ Big New Transit Plan: More Buses, Fewer Cars, and 3,000 Miles of Bike Lanes?
Governor Jared Polis is finally turning his attention to an issue guaranteed to divide Denverites: transportation. Last month, he published a beefy new document laying out his vision for how he wants to change the way Coloradans get around over. His ambitious goals over the next decade include reducing the climate impacts of driving, getting more people out of their cars, and making public transit more efficient and useful. So what will this all mean for Denverites’ everyday lives? Southwest Energy Efficiency Project’s Transportation and Land Use Policy Manager Matt Frommer joins host Bree Davies to break down the plan and speculate about how Polis might try to achieve his lofty new goals. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this December 9th episode: Office of Climate Action PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery CAP Management Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 06, 2024
Taxpayers Spent $170M On What?! Plus, Civic Center’s Controversial New Look and Drones for Xmas
It’s Friday and we’re looking back at the biggest stories of the week. First, a big new investigation from CPR reveals that a foundation meant to support mental health and substance use treatment problems may be sending millions in taxpayer dollars to some potentially shady places. Then, the new plan for Civic Center Park has sparked controversy over a proposed modern redesign of the historic space. Host Bree Davies is joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval and Westword staff writer Catie Cheshire to dig the oversight scandal and the park plans, as well as the sad ending of Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs, the Parade of Lights turning 50, and more wins and fails of the week. By focusing on the stories and issues shaping our neighborhoods, City Cast Denver bridges gaps and connects the dots in Denver. Become a member today to support local journalism that connects. Catie mentioned fellow Westword writer Jason Heller’s piece digging into the latest chapter in the Tattered Cover saga and a new book on Nikola Jokić from former Denver Post reporter Mike Singer. Justine talked about the new Engines Off For Food Trucks program . What do you think about the plans for Civic Center Park ? We want to hear your take! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: <a href="https://membership.cityc
Thu, December 05, 2024
Even Denny’s is Closing. What is Denver Without Diners?
The Denny’s on Alameda and Santa Fe closed last month without warning. But that was just the latest diner casualty in a city already severely lacking in late night food options. The loss of this particular type of restaurant struck at something deeper for Suzi Q. Smith — the poet, performer, and educator grew up in Denver’s vast constellation of diners, finding a place where she could hang out as a teen with not much money, but a whole lot of time. Suzi explores these sacred places in her Denverse Magazine essay “Toast World: Where Have All the Diners Gone?” Host Bree Davies sits down with her friend to talk about what it means when a city loses its diners. By focusing on the stories and issues shaping our neighborhoods, City Cast Denver bridges gaps and connects the dots in Denver. Become a member to support local journalism that connects. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What is your all-time favorite “third space” in Denver? Past or present, we want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed the interview with Ethan Hemming, the President and CEO of Warren Village, learn more here. Learn more about other the sponsors of this December 5th episode: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Unit E Records <a href="https://colfaxave.com/colfax-programs/https://colfaxave.c
Wed, December 04, 2024
Sexy Food Hall Flop, Fancy Apartment Nightmares, and Forgetting the Eiffel Tower
It’s Wednesday and we’re looking at the news of the week. First, the owner of a bunch of strip clubs hoped to open a Hooters-like experience in a south Denver food hall space. Though the sexy food court idea never came to fruition, the Cherry Creek Food Hall & Brewery did open, but flamed out two years later. Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love dig into the uncertain future of the food hall trend, plus another addition of landlord watch featuring a mess left behind by X Denver — the “coliving” apartment complex and private social club that made big promises but now has tenants crying foul. Plus, a listener correction about our previous correction regarding the demolished Omaha-Grant Smelting Company smoke stack. Bree mentioned our previous episode on the private social club phenomenon in Denver. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver By focusing on the stories and issues shaping our neighborhoods, City Cast Denver bridges gaps and connects the dots in Denver. Become a member to support local journalism that connects today at membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this December 4th episode: <a href="https://www.betterhelp.com/get-started/?go=true&slug=citycast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=2687&utm_term=citycast&promo_code=citycast&landing_page_img=https%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F4yQxzdH.jpeg&aff_channel=podcast&discount_rate=10&discount_period=P1M&date_interval=P1M&percentage_off=10&amount=1&amount_spelled_out=one&unit=month&gor=st
Tue, December 03, 2024
The Best Kid-Friendly Holiday Fun in Denver
There’s no shortage of fun stuff to do with kids around Denver this season. But how do parents and caregivers make the most of the holidays without stressing out or emptying their wallets? Host and mom Bree Davies is joined by fellow parents Linnea Covington , managing editor at DiningOut, and David Gilbert, writer and local history buff, to map out the best ways to make memories with your kiddos during this most wonderful time of the year. From free hot cocoa and no-cost holiday scavenger hunts to elaborate light displays and visits with Santa, we’ve rounded up a variety of options that children — and the adults tagging along — can enjoy! Bree mentioned a video of the old, elaborate holiday displays at the long-demolished Buckingham Square in Aurora. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this December 3rd episode: If you enjoyed the interview with Denon Moore, the Business Support Director of Colfax Bid, learn more here. BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Unit E Records Colfax Bid <a href="https://denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Agencies-Departments-Offices-Directory/Climate-Action-Sustainability-and-Resiliency/Cutting-Denvers-Carbon-Pollution/Zero-Wa
Mon, December 02, 2024
Your Guide to December 2024 in Denver
Welcome to December in Denver, a time for gathering with friends, supporting the city’s many local businesses, and soaking up the holiday season! We’ve rounded up our top recommendations for places to shop, new social experiences to try, and more ways enjoy this month in the Mile High City. From a chocolate lover’s paradise and a delicious afternoon tea to a drive-thru holiday light show and a legendary live music performance , we’ve got your December calendar packed with fun. If you’re new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. For even more tips on how to make the most of December in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. And if you want an insider’s guide to the Mile High EVERY week, for as little as $8 a month you can sign up to become a City Cast Denver member today and enjoy our members-only email that lays out cool events each Monday! City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Unit E Records Colfax Bid Office of Climate Action Interested in advertising with City
Wed, November 27, 2024
What Denver Is Doing To Build Bike Lanes, Fix Sidewalks, Increase Composting, and More
From bike lanes and sidewalks to trash pick-up and snow plowing, Denver’s Department of Transportation and Infrastructure is in charge of the big things that make our city work. And if such issues make the news — like when Denver cyclists rallied against the city’s decision to ditch new bike infrastructure or when composting services got a big boost — someone has to answer for these choices. Amy Ford is the head of Denver DOTI and joins host Bree Davies to dig into some of the city’s biggest decisions that impact how we interact with this place every day. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the other sponsors of this November 27th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Unit E Records Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 26, 2024
Mayor Johnston’s Tiananmen Square Comments, a Senate Exodus, and Casa Bonita Goes Union
It’s Tuesday, and we’re flipping through the headlines you need to know before the holiday break. First, the 160th anniversary of the Sand Creek Massacre is on Friday, and Colorado is still grappling with how we’ve interpreted our own shameful history. Then, Mayor Johnston is already backtracking on some controversial comments he made on Trump’s “Operation Aurora,” DPS votes to shut down more neighborhood schools , and state legislators look to overhaul the system for filling vacant seats. Host Bree Davies is joined by Westword editor Patty Calhoun to dig into these headlines plus the Casa Bonita union vote and more. Bree and Olivia talked about our show last week on endangered architecture with Historic Denver’s John Deffenbaugh; here’s the correct information on the location of our smoke stacks in the City and County’s seal. Bree also mentioned our list of local volunteer opportunities we published in the Hey Denver newsletter. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the other sponsors of this November 26th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Unit E Records Looki
Mon, November 25, 2024
The 9 Best Bars in Denver (Plus, Some Honorable Mentions)
Denver’s got no shortage of places to grab a drink — from fancy lounges with cocktail programs to those down and dirty dives that serve up cheap shots with a smile, there’s a place for every taste. But how do you choose? Westword food and drink editor Molly Martin just published the paper’s annual “Best Bars We Can’t Live Without” and it’s a wonderful doozy of a list! She joins host Bree Davies and politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dig into the Mile High’s vast selection of watering holes, and share thoughts on the best bars in Denver. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the other sponsors of this November 25th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Unit E Records - Use promo code CITYCAST for a free vinyl record with subscription Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 22, 2024
Colfax and Broadway’s Future, Trump’s Pro-Fracking Denver Pick, and a Pizza Comeback
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy Chris Wright — also known as the guy who drank fracking fluid on camera to “prove” it was safe — is President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Department of Energy . Who is Wright, and what would his appointment mean for the climate crisis? Then, the city has proposed building pickleball courts to fill the vacant lot at Colfax and Broadway. Will pickleball players go for it? Host Bree Davies is joined by stand-up comedian Joshua Emerson and Denver Post environmental reporter Noelle Phillips to talk climate change, local recreation, Westernaires’ problematic Native American reenactments , a new pizza spot coming to Cap Hill, and more wins and fails of the week. Bree mentioned the proposed pedestrian bridges to the Capitol and the Evans School going from an artist studio space to a beer garden . Joshua discussed the Douglas County School District and their decision to postpone an AP African American studies course . What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this November 22nd episode: Meow Wolf PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery <a href="https://www.denverhealth.org/services/emergency-medicine/urg
Thu, November 21, 2024
Is Denver Pricing Out Its Artists?
We know art is big business in this city — world-renowned artists exhibit their work here, live music dominates our many music venues, and Denver has become a go-to place for hit Broadway shows. But what about the artists who live here? Like other working people, creatives often hold down multiple jobs just to afford living here. Recently, writer and photographer Manuel Aragon wrote about the affordability crisis many artists face — and offered some creative solutions Denver could embrace to keep artists in the Mile High City. He joins host and fellow arts advocate Bree Davies to talk about the state of the arts, his concerns about actual affordability, and his hope for the city to be a place that embraces the people who make this place look, sound, and feel so unique. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed the interview with Denon Moore, the Business Support Director of Colfax Bid, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this November 21st episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Meow Wolf Denver Health Unit E Records Warren Village Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 20, 2024
Which Old Buildings in Denver Are Worth Saving?
It’s an age-old question in Denver: Which buildings are worth preserving, and which ones, well, aren’t? From gentrification and housing affordability to the impacts on a city’s cultural significance and the built environment, historic preservation plays varying roles across Mile High neighborhoods. Host Bree Davies sits down with John Deffenbaugh, the president and CEO of Historic Denver , to talk through his philosophy on preservation, and take a look at some current properties with fates being debated over — like Elitch Gardens, the Zuni Street power plant, a mid-century modern office building in City Park West, and more. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 20th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Meow Wolf Denver Health Unit E Records Warren Village Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 19, 2024
A Controversial Polis Endorsement, RiNo’s Uncertain Future, and Recycling Woes
It’s Tuesday, and we’re looking at the big stories of the week. First, President-elect Donald Trump’s pick of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services has sparked national concerns due to RFK’s skepticism over vaccines. More surprising? Gov. Jared Polis’ endorsement of him . Meanwhile, the future of RiNo’s business improvement district is uncertain — some property owners who lobbied for the creation of BID now want to get rid of it , arguing in a petition that the BID’s job is done. Host Bree Davies and Westword editor Patty Calhoun dig into the governor’s latest drama and RiNo’s predicament; then, producer Olivia Jewell Love joins to talk about one listener’s concerns when it comes to recycling in Denver. Bree talked about an RFK Jr. exposé in Vanity Fair from earlier this year, plus her piece for Westword on some of RiNo’s past history as an arts hub . We mentioned another Colorado connection in recent Trump cabinet nominations. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 19th episode: Meow Wolf PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Denver Health Unit E Records Warren Village Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver?
Mon, November 18, 2024
Here’s How To Help Your Denver Neighbors Right Now
The presidential election left many folks feeling discouraged and defeated. But it also energized people looking to plug in and start helping their neighbors right now — but how? And where? And beyond performative allyship, how do you actually make a difference? Host Bree Davies sits down with Tran Wills , a longtime business owner and organizer in Denver, to lay out the most effective ways to use your time, resources, and expertise to help your community in this moment. These are the organizations we mentioned in this episode: Struggle of Love Foundation Mutual Aid Monday Southwest Denver Coalition Servicios de la Raza HAND Planned Parenthood Trans Continental Pipeline And we will have plenty more resources and organizations to share later this week in our newsletter, Hey Denver, which you can subscribe to right now for free! Know of a local nonprofit or mutual aid group that should be on our radar? Let us know! Email us at denver@citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 18th episode: Meow Wolf PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Denver Health Unit E Records Warren Village Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for po
Fri, November 15, 2024
Did a Local Lawmaker Betray His Voters? Plus, the Future of Ranked Choice Voting and an Epic HGTV Fail
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, after winning re-election in a landslide last week, State Senator Chris Hansen just announced that he’s is leaving his seat for a big payday in the private sector. But questions are swirling: Why such bad timing? And are the Dems making backroom deals to replace him? Then, mega-millionaire Kent Thiry’s ranked choice voting ballot measure went down in flames, but his work tweaking Colorado’s elections process may be far from over. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Denverite’s new editor Andy Kenney to talk vacancy committee shenanigans, money in elections, a reality TV contractor’s allegedly shoddy work, your bridge security DIA hack, and more wins and fails of the week. Andy talked about his profile of Kent Thiry for CPR and Wax Trax opening a new location at Stanley Marketplace. Paul talked about Wyatt’s Towing , this hilarious piece about HGTV’s “Rico to the Rescue,” and Ridley Scott and Paul Mescal adapting a local author’s book . Bree discussed an upcoming resource list we’re going to be publishing in our newsletter. Subscribe now at denver.citycast.fm ! What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Arvada Center PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cas
Thu, November 14, 2024
Voters Just Passed a $975M Bond for DPS. So Why Are Schools Closing?
Just 18 months after an emotional board debate ended with three schools closing, DPS superintendent Alex Marrero has proposed the closure or consolidation of ten more schools in the district. The news came just after election day, leaving the community with less than two weeks to share their thoughts ahead of a school board vote on November 21. But beyond declining enrollment and funding issues, what else is DPS weighing this time? And what’s different about their approach? Former education policy advisor, DPS parent, and Boardhawk columnist Alexis Menocal Harrigan joins host Bree Davies to explain why you should care about your neighborhood school closing, even if you aren’t a parent. You can read Alexis Menocal Harrigan’s monthly column about DPS and education in Denver at Boardhawk. Check out the DPS board’s calendar for more information on community meetings about school closures and an upcoming public comment session. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 14th episode: Arvada Center PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 13, 2024
How Colorado Dems Withstood the Red Wave
Between the presidential elections of 2020 and 2024, every single state in the country shifted to the right… except Colorado. While Democrats lost close congressional races in CO’s Congressional District 3 and District 8, the Democratic Party here made significant gains across the state. So what are the local Democrats doing right that the national party could learn from? Colorado Democratic Party chair Shad Murib returns to the show with host Bree Davies to talk about the strategic choices he made over the past few years and what he thinks the Harris/Walz campaign did wrong. What do you think about the Democrats’ success in Colorado? We want to hear from you! Text us or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this November 13th episode: Arvada Center PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 12, 2024
Why the Mayor’s Sales Tax Failed, Casa Bonita Union Busting, and Changes Coming for Recycling and Composting
It’s Tuesday, and we’re looking at the biggest stories of the week ahead. First, Mayor Johnston’s big proposal of a sales tax for affordable housing failed in last week’s election, so what will Mayor Mike tackle next? Another strategy to fund affordable housing or something else entirely? Then, changes to the Mile High’s trash collection service are on the horizon — will less recycling and more composting have better outcomes for the environment? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi do some post-election analysis, dig into the hot trash debate, and talk about one listener’s comments about the physical side effects of being a decade into cannabis legalization. We discussed the post-mortem for 2R that Kyle Harris reported for Denverite. What do you think Mayor Mike should focus on next? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this November 12th episode: Arvada Center PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 11, 2024
Denver's Hottest New Bars and Restaurants (And Saddest Closings)
Whether you’re looking for a great cheap eat or a splurge night out, there’s never been a better time to eat well in Denver. New bars and restaurants are opening all the time! Every month, our newsletter editor Peyton Garcia rounds up all the new spots that opened (and all the ones that closed), so today we’re trying something new on the podcast. Peyton joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the most exciting openings and the most lamentable closings, plus all the other food news, trends, and gossip that hungry Denverites need to know. What’s your favorite donut in Denver right now ? We need to know! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Bree mentioned her conversation with Chereka and Fathima Dickerson about their family’s Welton St. Cafe and Peyton’s interview with Michelin Star-winning chef Johnny Curiel. Peyton mentioned DJ Bear Grillz’s interview with Westword . Paul talked about Bo Porytko’s great quotes and alluded to our ongoing conversation about restaurants closing and the tipped minimum wage. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this November 11th episode: Arvada Center PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 08, 2024
Trump’s Plans for Denver, ‘Operation Aurora’ vs. Actual Aurora, and a Weird Weed Week
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the news of the week — which was all about the election. With a second Trump term on the horizon, what will it mean for Colorado? Will he make good on his mass deportation plans, dubbed ‘Operation Aurora’? Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi and Colorado State Senator and Democratic Majority Whip Julie Gonzales to hash out the Trump effect, plus discuss the rebirth of Welton Street Cafe , a contradictory weed-related election outcome in Colorado Springs, and more wins and fails of the week. Paul talked about the new cannabis venture from the founders of Green Dragon dispensary. Bree mentioned the unionization attempts and the recent call for a boycott of the Mercury Café. Julie discussed the impending release of the list of schools up for closure around DPS. What do you think Denver can expect from another Trump administration? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this November 8th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Arvada Center PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 07, 2024
Denver’s Population Is Declining. Does It Matter?
If the election showed us anything, it’s that the U.S. is changing — issues like migration, the climate, declining birth rates, and housing costs are shaping how people vote and where they choose to live. Here in Colorado, our population is growing at its slowest recorded pace . So what does it all mean for Denver? Earlier this year, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sat down with Colorado state demographer Elizabeth Garner to discuss the end of Denver’s booming population growth and how recent local demographic changes are affecting housing affordability, the labor force, and the city’s future. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this November 7th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 06, 2024
How Denver Voted on the President, Sales Taxes, and Animal Welfare
The United States of America will have a new president. Here in Denver, we obviously voted for Harris, but it was Trump who declared victory as swing state after swing state was called in his favor Tuesday evening. But what about the big local and state races that will affect the lives of Denverites every single day? What does this election say about us? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are breaking down all the results we know so far, from the split decision on sales taxes to the surprise rejection of open primaries/ranked choice voting. We’ll be talking more about the results as more votes come in, so we want to hear from you! What do you think about the Mayor’s big sales tax proposal going down? Or Colorado voters deciding to codify the right to an abortion in the state’s constitution? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this November 6th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 05, 2024
Who Is the Elections Breach Whistleblower? Plus, Northside Bikers Unite and Shy Trump Voters
It’s Election Day! We’re talking about the biggest stories of the week — Governor Jared Polis says everything has been fixed after the secretary of state’s election security breach, but we still have questions as Coloradans steel themselves to watch the results roll in tonight. Then, Five Points business owners say the light rail on Welton Street has been a business killer for decades, and they want it gone . Meanwhile on the Northside, cyclists took to the streets over a drastically diminished plan for a new bike lane. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by Westword editor Patty Calhoun to talk elections security and unpopular transit decisions, plus hear from listeners about voting for Trump in deep blue Denver. For more on the Libertarian Party's legal case against the secretary of state's office over the elections security breach, CPR is covering the proceedings . Paul mentioned his reporting on the Trump rally in Aurora and alluded to local billionaire Robert Smith’s involvement with Spangalang Brewery . We also talked about last week’s episode with the rapping realtors’ viral moment, plus Kyle Clark’s Next segment about that cringeworthy video. Patty talked about Jena Griswold’s press conference about 11 ballots in Mesa County. What do you think about the light rail line on Welton St.? Should it be removed? Or fixed? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/CityCastDenve
Mon, November 04, 2024
Inside the Fight for the Youth Vote (Sponsored by New Era)
Why don’t more young people vote? There are a million reasons why the youth demographic isn’t always represented in our politics, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If more young people got out to vote, they could make a real change. So the fight is on! New Era Colorado’s organizing director Arianna Morales joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about her work getting young people to vote and shy it matters. Learn everything you need to know about voting in this November’s election at neweracolorado.org . Do you know a young person voting for the first time? Tell them to call in and tell us what they care about! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member today: membership.citycast.fm/denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 04, 2024
How Trump, Harris Would Change the Lives of Newcomers in Denver
When it comes to immigration, former president Trump has drawn national attention to Aurora with his exaggerated claims that a Venezuelan gang has “taken over.” Locally, Mayor Johnston has focused on welcoming newcomers to Denver, redirecting public money into emergency support and opportunities for these people to build new lives. But lost somewhere in the middle is a skyrocketing backlog of asylum seekers, waiting around in a Mile High limbo to see a judge who will decide their fate. Colorado Sun reporter Jennifer Brown spent weeks inside the immigration court and at the ICE detention facility in Aurora to understand why the wait times are getting longer, meet some of our new neighbors, and figure out who has the power to help. We strongly recommend Jennifer Brown and Ernesto Cabral’s three-part series on the skyrocketing backlog of asylum cases in Denver’s immigration courts ( Part 1 , Part 2 , and Part 3 ) in the Colorado Sun. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about the backlog of asylum seekers in Denver? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 4th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, November 03, 2024
The Four Cities That Could Decide the Election
This week we’ll be sharing results from our local elections and discussing what they mean for Denver. But we can’t help but wonder… what’s going on with our City Cast colleagues in swing states? As America white-knuckles its way into one of the closest presidential elections in modern history, City Cast CEO David Plotz sits down with the hosts of our shows in swing state cities: Madison, Philly, Pittsburgh, and Las Vegas. In this special episode, our crew of hosts gives you a locals’ look inside how their cities are preparing for the presidential election and its aftermath. From a peek inside the Pennsylvania election warehouse where mail-in ballots will be counted, to a glimpse at how Dane County, Wisconsin’s early voting is going, you’re invited to hear what the swing states are talking about…with each other. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 01, 2024
A ‘Major’ Elections Security Breach? Plus, Big Cats Big Money and a Whitewashed Chicano Mural
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the biggest news of the week. First, Secretary of State Jena Griswold is in hot water after a spreadsheet with sensitive election-related passwords was exposed online. Will this flub have an impact on voter turnout? Will Griswold resign? Then, the future of big cat hunting is up for debate as millions of dollars pour into both sides of a surprisingly complex ballot question. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by returning fave, Aspen Times politics reporter Elliot Wenzler , to talk about Griswold’s rough week and how the effects of our 2020 wolf reintroduction vote will influence the way Denverites think about big cats, plus an Aurora councilwoman’s NSFW texts , at tattoo shop gets phallic revenge , and another Chicano mural is whitewashed with no warning. Here are some links to Elliot’s coverage of the mountain lion hunting ban measure and the stress of wolf reintroduction on CPW. Paul found some unedited footage of the phallic paintings on the tattoo shop and played a clip of Kyle Clark’s interview on 9Newwith the Secretary of State. Bree mentioned Denver’s push to get incarcerated people to the polls , David Ocelotl Garcia’s previously whitewashed — and then restored — mural, “Huitzilopochtli”, and a piece from the GES Gazette, “Can Art Survive Here?” . What do you think about the proposal to ban big cat hunting? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at <
Thu, October 31, 2024
Your Guide to November 2024 in Denver
Welcome to November, a chilly month in the Mile High City — perfect for getting cozy indoors or enjoying the beauty of our seasonal weather. We’ve rounded up our top recommendations for things to do and see, places to sip and savor, and ways to give back around Denver and beyond. From a hidden gem pie shop in the suburbs and some killer chili-cookoffs to the best Día de los Muertos celebrations and ways to give back to your neighbors, we’ve got your November calendar covered! If you’re new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. For even more tips on how to make the most of November in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. And if you want an insider’s guide to the Mile High EVERY week, for as little as $8 a month you can sign up to become a City Cast Denver member today and enjoy our members-only email that lays out cool events each Monday! Bree mentioned this great story from Jennifer Brown at The Colorado Sun about newcomers to Denver and what it’s like navigating the local immigration bureaucracy. City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors: Denver Heath Denver Public Library - RSVP to the grand reopening here ! Denver Film - Get your tickets for the 2024 Denver Film Festival here! BetterHelp - get 10% off at <a href="https://www.betterhelp.com/get-started/?go=true
Wed, October 30, 2024
Balloon Boy, Rapping Realtors, and More of CO’s Biggest Viral Moments
Every so often, something really weird happens in Colorado, and sometimes it goes mega-viral, making the world stop and look in our direction. So what do they see? Apart from the fact that Coloradans are capable of some pretty hilarious, bizarre, and sometimes awful things, what do our biggest viral moments say about us? Host Bree Davies sits down with a couple of our favorite guests — politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval and local history aficionado David Gilbert — to revisit some of Colorado’s biggest viral moments. Watch the whole “ Fresh Prince of Denv-Air ” video if you dare! What viral moments did we miss? We want to hear about the ones that made you laugh, cry, or stare dumbfounded at the crazy things Coloradans are capable of! Seriously, we know there’s probably a ton more that we forgot. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver If you enjoyed the sneak peek at Denver Public Library’s central branch and the interview with Rachel Fewell, learn more about the grand reopening here . Learn more about the sponsors of this October 30th episode: Denver Heath Denver Public Library - RSVP to the grand reopening here Denver Film - Get your tickets here! BetterHelp - get 10% off at <a href="https://www.betterhelp.com/get-started/?go=true&slug=citycast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=2687&utm_term=citycast&promo_code=citycast&landing_page_img=https%3A%2
Tue, October 29, 2024
Was Mayor Mike ‘Factually Incorrect’? Plus, Michael Bennet vs. Dark Money
There’s only a week left until Election Day! So we’re digging into all the latest election news and gossip as millions and millions of dollars are flooding the local airwaves with campaign ads. First, political insiders are saying that that the polls on Proposition 131 (aka, open primaries and ranked choice voting) are tightening, despite all the backers’ endorsements and fundraising. Then, was Mayor Mike Johnston “ factually incorrect ” when we asked him about the sales tax hike he put in front of Denver voters to fund affordable housing? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking politics, checking some facts, and fielding some listener questions and hot takes on the local races. Sen. Michael Bennet laid out his case against open primaries and ranked choice voting. For more, Paul interviewed Kent Thiry and Amber McReynolds to better understand their case for the proposed reforms, as well as State Rep. Emily Sirota about why she’s so firmly against them. How are you planning to vote on Prop 131? We want to hear from you ! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Don’t miss our interview with Mayor Mike Johnston from last week! In addition to discussing his sales tax hike proposal in detail, he also talked to us about restaurants and the tipped minimum wage conundrum, cracking down on traffic violations, and his excitement for KroenkeTown. Bree also mentioned her conversation with former city councilwoman Robin Kniech about how Johnston’s proposal fits into the city’s recent history on affordable housing. If you enjoyed the interview with Matthew Campbell, Artistic Director of the Denver Film Festival, learn more here . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/city
Mon, October 28, 2024
Predictions, Rumors, and Insider Info on CO's 8 Congressional Races
Election Day is coming up next week, and the battle for Congress could come down to Colorado, where eight seats are up for grabs. So who are the candidates? What’s at stake? And most importantly, who’s going to win? Producer Paul Karolyi is joined by Democratic strategist Ian Silverii , and his friend and former foil on 9News, Republican strategist Kelly Maher , to break down the tightest races and the most important issues from both sides of the aisle. Paul quoted this article about abortion and same-sex marriage in the District 8 race from the Colorado Sun. For even more Colorado politics with Ian, check out the podcast he co-hosts Get More Smarter ! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Who do you think is going to win in the tightest race, for District 8 — Evans or Caraveo? We want to hear what you think! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member today: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this October 28th episode: Denver Heath Denver Public Library - RSVP to the grand reopening here Denver Film Fest - Get your tickets here! BetterHelp - get 10% off at <a href="https://www.betterhelp.com/get-started/?go=true&slug=citycast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=2687&utm_term=citycast&promo_code=citycast&landing_page_img=https%3A%2F%2Fi
Fri, October 25, 2024
Who’s at Risk of E. coli? Plus, Blatant Election Lies and KroenkeTown Here We Come!
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, an E. coli outbreak linked to Quarter Pounders at McDonald’s led to one death in Mesa County, dozens more with grisly symptoms, and lots of questions about Colorado’s unique relationship with food safety. Plus, Denver Post reporter Joe Rubino takes host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi inside City Council’s vote green-lighting local billionaire Stan Kroenke’s plan to build a whole new downtown neighborhood in the parking lots around Ball Arena. Finally, we share our wins and fails of the week. Bree talked about podcast episode about Super Size Me from Maintenance Phase and The Sporkful , as well as the Denver Voice and political misinformation in the form of a text message. Paul talked about The Ginger Pig , our episode on DOTI’s decision to roll back plans for a protected bike lane, and this op-ed by Governor Jared Polis on “food freedom.” What do you think about McDonald’s rough week? Is it going to affect how you vote? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: <a href="https://membership.citycast.f
Thu, October 24, 2024
All 12 Denver Ballot Measures, Explained
There’s less than two weeks until Election Day, and Denverites have been tasked with deciding a dozen measures and amendments. So if you’re dragging your feet to fill out your ballot, don’t worry — we’re here to help! Last week in front of a sold-out crowd at Town Hall Collaborative, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi were joined by Westword editor-in-chief Patty Calhoun and political consultant Deep Singh Badhesha to discuss the biggest issues facing Mile High voters. From collective bargaining for city employees to the proposed fur ban, we dug into the ballot, made some predictions, and talked about what the outcomes could say about Denver’s future and our priorities. Paul mentioned our episode with Denver Health CEO Donna Lynne in which she made the case for a “yes” on Ballot Question 2Q , as well as this article from the New York Times by Ted Genoways about undocumented workers in the meat industry. Mayor Mike Johnston was on the show yesterday advocating for Ballot Question 2R, his sales tax hike to fund affordable housing. For even more election coverage, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter Hey Denver, where editor Peyton Garcia breaks down everything you need to know about how, when, and where to vote! What do you think about all these ballot questions? We want to hear your hot takes, questions, or last-minute arguments for or against! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Public Library - RSVP to the grand reopening here Denver Art Museum Looking t
Wed, October 23, 2024
Mayor Johnston on Raising Your Taxes, Crime at Natural Grocers, and Struggling Restaurants
Mayor Mike Johnston just hit his goal of getting 2,000 people off the streets before the end of the year. However, the housing fight is far from over — he’s also been hard at work pushing Ballot Issue 2R , which, if passed, would increase the city’s sales tax to fund a new affordable housing plan. But with Mile High residents already struggling with the cost of living, is a regressive tax really the answer? The mayor joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi for his regular check-in to make his case for higher taxes. Plus, Mayor Mike wades into the minimum wage debate, explains why he thinks adding more police officers to the force will mean fewer people of color being incarcerated, and answers listener questions about crime on Colfax and dangerous drivers. Are you going to vote for Mayor Johnston’s sales tax hike to fund affordable housing? Why or why not? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this October 23rd episode: Denver Public Library - RSVP to the grand Reopening here Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 22, 2024
Did a Bike Lane Get Scrapped Over a Leaked Email? Plus, Maurice Sendak, Budget Battles, and Deep-Fried Turkey
It’s Tuesday and we’re looking at the stories Denverites are talking about this week. First, city officials have rolled back plans for a protected bike lane on W. 29th Ave — again. Not only are cycling advocates upset , but a leaked email from the City and the parking plight of one homeowner are making the debate even more complicated. Then, as housing continues to be a top concern, the mayor and city council are tussling over Denver’s 2025 budget and what should — and shouldn’t — be included. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into the thorniest debates, plus your questions on the fate of key structures at Elitch Gardens pending the area’s redevelopment and where to find deep fried turkey for Thanksgiving. Bree also talked about the new Maurice Sendak show at the Denver Art Museum. If you want to weigh in on what’s in Denver’s budget for 2025, City Council is hosting a public hearing on Oct. 28. You can sign up to speak here. Have thoughts on the W. 29th Avenue bike lane debate or Denver bike lanes in general? Give us a call or send us a text on the Big Bad Bike Lane Hotline: 720-500-5418 . Thank you so much to everyone who signed up during our fall membership campaign! But it’s not too late to support the hard work we do every day. Your membership helps us cover the cost of bringing you the local stories you care about. So if you believe in what we do, become a member of City Cast Denver today. Every member makes a difference! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/denver-central-library-grand-reopening-celebration-ticket
Mon, October 21, 2024
Amid Union Push, Two Casa Bonita Performers Tell All
In the documentary “¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor!,” Matt Stone and Trey Parker depict themselves as saviors of the Pink Palace, spending unexpected millions to bring Lakewood’s beloved eatertainment icon back from bankruptcy. But a few weeks after the documentary’s premiere, it’s become clear that the South Park creators haven’t figured it all out quite yet. Two Casa Bonita performers — WM. Riley Holmes and our regular guest Joshua Emerson — join producer Paul Karolyi today to talk about why they and more than 70 of their colleagues have petitioned to form a union with IATSE and Actors Equity, and discuss Matt and Trey’s response. We broke the story of the Casa Bonita performers pushing to unionize in our newsletter Hey Denver last week. Subscribe now and never miss another important update! Our fall campaign is happening now! It takes a lot to keep City Cast Denver and Hey Denver running strong. Your membership helps us cover the cost of bringing you the local stories you care about. If you believe in what we do, become a member of City Cast Denver today. Every member makes a difference! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about the unionization effort at Casa Bonita? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this October 21st episode: Denver Film Fest Denver Public Library - RSPV to the grand Reopening here Denver Art Museum <
Fri, October 18, 2024
What’s in the Secret Aurora Gang Video? Plus, Denver’s Wildest Urban Legends and MAKfam’s Cup Crooks
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, Aurora councilwoman Danielle Jurinsky made an appearance at Trump’s rally at the Gaylord last Friday, now she claims she’s in possession of “haunting” video related to Venezuelan gang activity and is calling for an investigation into Denver Mayor Mike Johnston. Then, a reddit thread popped up with some wild urban legends about the Mile High City. Are any of them true? Producer Paul Karolyi, host Bree Davies, and producer Olivia Jewell Love dig into the lore, speculate about Jurinsky’s video, and share their wins and fails of the week. Our fall campaign is happening now! It takes a lot to keep City Cast Denver and Hey Denver running strong. Your membership helps us cover the cost of bringing you the local stories you care about. If you believe in what we do, become a member of City Cast Denver today. Every member makes a difference! Paul spoke in more detail about his experience at the Trump rally on friend of the show JD Lopez’s podcast Left Hand Right Brain. He also talked about CBS’s 2023 report on Denver sending newcomers to Aurora, the mysterious building at Denver Federal Center, new business filings , and a big pumpkin . Olivia talked about some great voter guides for suburban elections and MAKfam . Bree mentioned our episodes about those “We Buy Ugly Houses” signs and Denver’s old Chinatown , as well as the Broadway Halloween Parade this weekend. What should we ask Mayor Johnston next week? Something about the election? How he feels about the Broncos’ rookie quarterback
Thu, October 17, 2024
Denver Health Is in a ‘Death Spiral.’ Should We Raise Taxes To Help?
Denver’s safety net hospital is in a “death spiral.” Denver Health officials told City Council earlier this year that they are facing a $155 million deficit due to all the uncompensated care they provide unhoused people, migrants, and anyone else who needs medical attention — and they want Denver voters to help pay the difference! Denver Health CEO Donna Lynne joins host Bree Davies to share the unique funding situation Denver Health faces compared to other safety net hospitals around the country and make her case for your vote on a 0.34% sales tax increase this fall. Our fall campaign is happening now! It takes a lot to keep City Cast Denver and Hey Denver running strong. Your membership helps us cover the cost of bringing you the local stories you care about. If you believe in what we do, become a member of City Cast Denver today. Every member makes a difference! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Will you vote to increase taxes for Denver Health? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 16, 2024
Colfax’s Crime Problems, Employee Ownership Promises, and Campaign Mailer Mania
It’s Wednesday, and we’re breaking down the biggest stories of the week. First, Natural Grocers announced the closure of its Capitol Hill location at the end of the month, citing crime and safety issues. But a look at the crime data points to a more complicated situation on Colfax. Then, employee ownership is on the rise in Colorado and has emerged as a big issue in the debate over the proposed slaughterhouse ban in Denver. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are taking a look at what employee ownership really means — for the contested Globeville slaughterhouse, but also Fancy Tiger Crafts Co-op and Beau Jo’s. Our fall campaign is happening now! It takes a lot to keep City Cast Denver and Hey Denver running strong. Your membership helps us cover the cost of bringing you the local stories you care about. If you believe in what we do, become a member of City Cast Denver today. Every member makes a difference! Paul talked about Jason Blevins’ coverage in the Colorado Sun of the Beau Jo’s employee-ownership announcement that never materialized and our previous coverage of the “Colorado-style pizza” saga. He also mentioned Fancy Tiger’s employee-ownership transition and the recent announcement that the craft store is closing . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about employee ownership? Do you have personal experience to share? We’d love to hear about it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at<a href="ht
Tue, October 15, 2024
The Local Stories About to Be National
Back by popular demand, City Cast CEO David Plotz sits down with hosts from across the country to talk about what stories they're watching in their hometowns that are likely to impact yours too. Hear from Chicago's own Jacoby Cochran along with hosts from our daily local shows in Austin, Boise, D.C., Pittsburgh, and Salt Lake. City Cast is now in 13 cities across the country! Joining our member community is the best way to support what we do. Get all the details and sign up here . Looking to advertise on City Cast? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, October 12, 2024
Who Will Set the Vision for RTD?
On Monday, Oct. 7, in conjunction with the Denver Press Club , host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi moderated a forum for the candidates running to represent central and southeast Denver on the RTD Board — Kiel Brunner , Bob Dinegar , and Chris Nicholson . Please enjoy this recording of our live conversation with the RTD District A candidates, and don’t forget to vote! There are several RTD Board seats up for grabs this election — find out which district you live in and more information on the RTD Board before filling out your ballot! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 11, 2024
CO’s Tightest Race Heats Up, Trump’s Visit, and Ink! Coffee Goes Bankrupt
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the news of the week! First, after promising to come see the alleged Venezuelan “gang takeover” situation for himself, former president Donald J. Trump is scheduled to visit Aurora today. But what does he think he’s gonna see from the Gaylord , anyway? Then, the hottest local election is in the new Congressional District 8, with money pouring in and attack ads all over the internet. Our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk Evans/Caraveo, Trump’s visit, and dissect the politics of gentrification as the local coffee chain Ink! declares bankruptcy, seven years after their notorious 2017 faceplant . Plus, our wins and fails of the week. We are off on Monday for Indigenous Peoples Day! We’ll be back in your podcast feed on Tuesday to kick off our fall membership campaign. Get hyped! Help us crush City Cast Salt Lake! Sign up for ad-free podcast listening today: membership.citycast.fm/denver Bree mentioned Artcade happening downtown this weekend. Paul talked about the new Boulder-set movie Elevation . Justine talked about the Denver Post’s endorsement of Proposition 79 . Don’t miss our contributor Joshua Emerson’s “ Bad Indian ” documentary premiere and comedy show at The Bug on Monday evening! Tickets are going fast! What do you think about gentrification in 2024? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: <a href
Thu, October 10, 2024
Our Search for the Mythical Yawlp Inside Meow Wolf [Sponsored]
Get ready for a Cosmic Howl! It’s that time of year at Convergence Station when the veil between worlds becomes thin and all sorts of spooky creatures slip into our world. We heard rumors about a particularly rare beast haunting Eemia, and today you’re invited to join host Bree Davies on a search for the elusive garbage loving Yawlp. Meow Wolf is hosting a month of spooktacular events and activities at Convergence station, including the big Cosmic Howl Celebration on Oct. 31! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 10, 2024
New Dirt Emerges in the Denver Foodie Scandal
The internet is abuzz with allegations that a local food influencer has been ripping off restaurants and stealing from other creators. 9News investigative reporter Jeremy Jojola dug into The Denver Foodie’s alleged scamming and even convinced the guy behind the account, Jonathan Davis, to do a phone interview. But things only got weirder from there. New accusations are flying, including at Jojola himself, and Davis is facing a lawsuit with another huge local instagram account. Host Bree Davies sits down with Jojola to lay out the facts and explain what he found when he went behind the Instagram filter. We talked about Jeremy’s initial investigation and reporting on the alleged food influencer scam. Earlier this week, The Denver Foodie ( @WhatsUpDenver303 ) released a video in response to the 9News piece. Bree also interviewed local creators Amanda Bittner ( @TheAmandaBittner ) and Ashley ( @ColfaxThings ) about the business of influencing in Denver. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this October 10th episode: Denver Film Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Meow Wolf BetterHelp - g
Wed, October 09, 2024
City Council’s Biggest Vote of the Decade
Coming up on October 21, City Council is going to make its biggest decision of not just the year, but probably the entire decade, with ramifications every Denverite who spends time downtown will feel. One of our local billionaires, Stan Kroenke, is proposing to build what could become a new downtown neighborhood, and this vote is council’s opportunity to check his plans for 6,000 residences, new bike and pedestrian bridges, and a 3-acre “signature park.” Will there be enough affordable housing? Bike lanes? Private security? And what will we call the area? City Councilmember Jamie Torres represents the area, and she joins host Bree Davies to take us inside the negotiating room ahead of the vote later this month. City Council is hosting a public hearing on Kroenke’s plans ahead of the vote on Oct. 21, so you have a chance to make your voice heard ! Councilmember Torres mentioned our explainer of Denver’s 14 historic “view planes.” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think we should call it? We like KroenkeTown, but we want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this October 9th episode: Denver Film Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Meow Wolf BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at <a
Tue, October 08, 2024
The Slaughterhouse Whistleblower, ‘Cocks on Colfax,’ and The Denver Foodie’s Follower Count
It’s Tuesday, and we’re digging into all the stories Denverites are talking about this week. First, The Denver Post published a sensational op-ed from a whistleblower who used to work at the slaughterhouse in Globeville that animal welfare advocates are trying to shut down with an upcoming ballot measure. So is this guy legit? Or just a political pawn? Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are talking about Paul’s recent sit-down with the whistleblower in question, Jose Huizar. Plus, Denver’s last lesbian bar is closing (or maybe just rebranding?), the blowback from last week’s local influencer expose , and a listener puts us on a parking mystery at Mission Ballroom. Come see us live! Join us on Oct. 17 for “ Ballots & Beverages ” at Town Hall Collaborative. We’ll be breaking down all 12 questions in front of Denver voters with some special guests. RSVP today! Bree mentioned this reporting from Out Front on the rumors that Jody Bouffard is planning to reopen Blush & Blu as a gay bar. What do you think about Blush & Blu’s potential rebrand? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this October 8th episode: Denver Film Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Meow Wolf PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery <a href="https://www.betterhelp.com/get-star
Mon, October 07, 2024
Why Strip Clubs Are Being Investigated for Wage Theft
Denver’s biggest strip club operator, RCI Holdings, sued Denver Labor last week in an attempt to block wage-theft investigators from looking at their internal company documents. The club owners allege that the investigators are using “overreaching and unjustified” subpoenas in an “alarming abuse of power.” But in fact, there are plenty of reasons to believe the workers at these clubs aren’t getting a fair shake. Denver Post reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton joined host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi last year to give us the inside scoop on Denver’s precarious strip club industry. This episode originally aired on August 7, 2023. Join us live and in person TONIGHT! We are moderating a forum of candidates running in the most exciting and dramatic RTD Board election… maybe ever? The forum starts at 7 p.m. at the Buell Public Media Center, and it’s free and accessible. RSVP here. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Do you have a great Denver strip club story? We want to hear it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed the interview with Jess Welser, B:CIVIC'S Director, l earn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this October 7th episode: Denver Film Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Meow Wolf BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options f
Fri, October 04, 2024
Will Colfax Survive BRT? Plus, Bad Drivers and a Hot Dog Family Secret
It’s Friday and we’re rounding up the biggest news of the week. First, construction is imminent on the much-anticipated Bus Rapid Transit project along Colfax . Will the roadwork impact access to local businesses in a lasting way? Will the famous strip lose its character? Will drivers actually get out of their cars and get on the bus? Host Bree Davies is joined by Pete’s Satire bartender and AAA spokesperson Skyler McKinley and Sie FilmCenter’s artistic director Keith Garcia to discuss these changes to the neighborhood where they both work and live. Then, producer Olivia Jewell Love ranks her least-favorite halloween candy and the crew discuss the closure of Natural Grocers and Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs , Mutiny Information Cafe’s grand reopening , and more wins and fails of the week. Bree mentioned her 2023 interview with Amy Cara, one of the developers behind Cherry Creek West project, which was approved by City Council this week. Skyler discussed RTD’s lack of transparency around the firing of its police chief. Keith talked about the upcoming Denver Film Festival . What do you think about the BRT construction’s impact on Colfax businesses? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors
Thu, October 03, 2024
6 Epic Outdoor Adventures for Your Fall
Sure you could fight the traffic up to Kenosha Pass, but there are so many ways to enjoy a Colorado fall besides leaf peeping. It’s the prime season for fishing, spooky hikes near the city, and even some great off-the-beaten-path nature areas under your nose right here in Denver! Host Bree Davies is joined by a couple of returning favorites — our green chile and politics correspondent Justine Sandoval and comedian and outdoor educator Eeland Stribling — to discuss their picks for some epic adventures to enjoy outside this fall. Don’t miss Eeland in the finals of Comedy Works’ New Faces contest on Oct. 16! It’s at 7 p.m. at Comedy Works Downtown . Vote for Eeland! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver What’s your favorite Colorado fall adventure? We’d love to hear about it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this October 3rd episode: Denver Health Town Hall Collaborative Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 02, 2024
Inside the Social Media Scandal Rocking the Restaurant Scene
More than 221,000 people rely on The Denver Foodie on Instagram for hot local food takes and recommendations for great new places to eat. But now he’s mired in scandal and rebranding amid allegations of stealing content, ripping off clients, and selling out to soulless chains. So we’re going inside the local influencer economy to understand where The Denver Foodie went wrong and how these local sponsored content deals are driving the restaurant hype machine with two of our favorite local Instagrammers — Amanda Bittner ( @theamandabittner ) and Ashley ( @ColfaxThings ). Ashley mentioned a previous episode where she helped us design the “First Time on Colfax Starter Pack” meme ! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this October 2nd episode: Denver Health TownHall Collaborative Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 01, 2024
RTD's Biggest Problem, Coors Fashion Sightings, and a Bake Fest Preview
It’s Tuesday, and we’re talking through the biggest stories of the week. Everyone is talking about RTD, with eight board seats on the ballot and Governor Polis making big plans for our public transit provider. The stakes are surprisingly high! Then, reporters have called out the transit agency for a lack of transparency and CEO Debra Johnson’s non-response about the murky details regarding the ousting of RTD’s police chief haven’t helped. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking through the state of our beleaguered transit provider, plus a few listener comments on Coors and Denver Bake Fest this weekend. Come see us live! You can RSVP now to our FREE and ACCESSIBLE forum with all three candidates running to represent District A on the RTD Board. It’s next Monday, October 7. Do you have any questions for the RTD Board candidates? We need your help! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Paul mentioned reports from Chase Woodruff at Colorado Newsline, 9News’ Kyle Clark , and CPR’s Nate Minor on the state of RTD. Bree talked about Brandon Richard from Denver7’s questioning of RTD’s CEO and Minor’s coverage of the agency’s accessible rideshare program . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this October 1st episode: Denver Health Town Hall Collaborative PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on
Mon, September 30, 2024
Your Guide to October in Denver
If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. Welcome to October in the Mile High City! To celebrate the spooky season, we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do, see, eat, and explore in and around Denver — like a trip to the Monster Mash Bash puppet house on 1491 S. Newton Street, a killer party at the historic Richthofen Castle , a visit to the very scary DIY haunted junkyard , and more. Bree mentioned our recent episode about the history of Riverside Cemetery. For even more tips on how to make the most of October in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Denver Health and Town Hall Collaborative . And we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise . Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 27, 2024
Trump’s Aurora Obsession, Coors and Project 2025, and Nuggs on TV
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the news of the week. First, former president Donald Trump is officially obsessed with baseless claim that a Venezuelan gang has “taken over” Aurora and keeps threatening to come to Colorado to do… something? But will he actually make good on his claims? The Lever founder David Sirota joins producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to talk about how Trump’s rhetoric is affecting Aurora, swaps wins and fails of the week, and share some reporting from his new podcast Master Plan , which reveals the Coors family’s connections to Project 2025. Check out Master Plan wherever you listen to podcasts! Join us on Oct. 7 as we moderate a forum for the candidates running to represent District A on the RTD Board! RSVP here. We talked about Kroenke Sports and Entertainment’s new deal with 9News to create a streaming service so locals can watch Nuggs and Avs games. Paul mentioned Governor Polis’ response to president Trump’s comments on Aurora, the outcome of an ethics investigation into Glendale’s mayor, and Cherry Creek West’s rezoning . Bree talked about La Fiesta and the Denver Police Department’s new crackdown on expired license plates . What do you think about Coors in 2024? Is the company’s brand fashionable or skunked? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver</a
Thu, September 26, 2024
12 Radical Ideas to Make Downtown Cool Again
Despite recent exciting developments -- like buzzy restaurants earning Michelin stars and the 16th Street Mall’s slow renovation reveal, downtown is still getting a bad rap. So what could city leaders do to bring workers back and attract more visitors to this unique part of Denver? We’re revisiting a conversation from earlier this year where host Bree Davies, producer Paul Karolyi, and our politics and green chile correspondent, Justine Sandoval, brainstorm a bunch of big ideas to get people excited for the future of downtown. Bree mentioned the Cinderella City Project , pencil smokestack art , and Lawrence Halprin’s original Skyline Park design. She also talked about our episode on the likelihood of changing downtown’s empty office buildings into housing . Do you have a big idea that could bring life back to downtown? We want to hear it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 26th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery B:CIVIC Logan School Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 25, 2024
The Creme de la Crust! Denver’s Best Bakeries
Lots of people tried their hands at baking bread back when COVID was keeping us home, but some took it even further, sharing their newfound passions with the world and opening bakeries. Now Denver is in the midst of a bakery boom, and the carb competition is on! Cookbook author and bakery aficionado Allyson Reedy joins producer Paul Karolyi to share some recommendations of their favorite bakeries around Denver — from the spot with that one to-die-for item you’ll never forget to the olive loaf that’s worth a drive across town. Plus, Allyson shares the local picks made her newest cookbook, “ 30 Breads to Bake Before You Die. ” Tickets are still available for the second annual Denver Bake Fest on Saturday, October 5. If you know the person who brought the peanut butter and cheez-it cookies last year, please reach out! Paul would love to hear from you: paul.karolyi@citycast.fm. Paul mentioned this BusinessDen article featuring some spicy comments about Call Your Mother from Zaidy’s owner Joel Appel. What is your favorite bakery in Denver? We want to hear about your spot and why you love it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 25th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery B:CIVIC Logan School Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 24, 2024
Fur Ban Exceptions, Homeless Support Cuts, and a Cap Hill Mystery
It’s Tuesday, and we’re digging into the biggest stories of the week. First, two local organizations based on innovative strategies for helping our unhoused neighbors — the Denver Basic Income Project and the Denver VOICE — have run into serious funding trouble and could be on the verge of shutting down. Producers Olivia Jewell Love and Paul Karolyi talk about how they may or may not fit into Mayor Mike Johnston’s vision for ending unsheltered homelessness in Denver. Then, why does the proposed fur ban have so many exceptions? And finally, a listener question about an eyesore in Cap Hill. Olivia mentioned this Westword article on the fur ban that Denverites will vote on this November. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver What do you think about the DBIP and Denver VOICE? We want to know what those organizations mean to you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this September 24th episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery B:CIVIC Logan School Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, September 23, 2024
Denver Wage Theft is Not Just a Restaurants and Strip Clubs Problem
Wage theft is a big problem in Denver, and it’s getting worse. The Denver Auditor’s Office recovered more than $2 million in stolen wages last year, but according to today’s guest, that is just a drop in the bucket. Matthew Fritz-Mauer is the executive director of Denver Labor, the division of the auditor’s office that investigates and remediates wage theft, which recently deployed its new subpoena power in an investigation into three local strip clubs. He’s on today with producer Paul Karolyi to talk about how pervasive wage theft is across a variety of industries, what you should do if you suspect you’re a victim, and break down the strip club investigation. Matthew referenced this Westword article on his office issuing its first subpoenas to three local strip clubs. Do you think you might be a victim of wage theft? Definitely get in touch with Matthew and Denver Labor , but we want to hear the story, too! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 23rd episode: PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery B:CIVIC Logan School Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 20, 2024
The Slaughterhouse Vote, Deepfakes and Our AI Mayor, and RiNo’s Big Record Scratch
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, a surprisingly contentious debate is brewing over two questions facing Denver voters this November: Should the city ban fur and slaughterhouses ? Plus, Mayor Mike Johnston is hosting the country’s first ever city-led AI summit this week. So we’ve got a couple of political strategists and friends of the pod — Justine Sandoval and Deep Singh Badhesha — joining producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the local politics of meat, AG Phil Weiser going after deepfakes , and AI Taylor Swift, and swap their Rocky Mountain highs and lows of the week. Try Sunny for yourself! Paul mentioned History Colorado’s upcoming community conversation on the effort to build a museum dedicated to Latino history in Colorado, as well as the production issues at Vinyl Me, Please . Justine mentioned seeing Usher (in all his shirtless glory) at Ball Arena this week, and Trump’s announcement of his upcoming Aurora visit . And Deep mentioned the Broncos’ poor start this season and Denver Labor’s first-ever subpoena issued . What do you think about the slaughterhouse ban? We want to hear what you think about local meat politics! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 20th episode: Life Surge What the Buff Podcast <
Thu, September 19, 2024
Comedy is Booming. Why Are So Many Great Spots Closing?
This is the biggest week of the year for Denver comedy, with High Plains Comedy Festival returning to S. Broadway for its 11th year, Comedy Works reporting a return to pre-pandemic numbers, and occasionally comedic Broncos legend Peyton Manning interviewing Larry David on stage at the Paramount Friday night . But amid all the excitement, three of Denver’s buzziest comedy venues are shutting down . Denver Post arts and culture reporter John Wenzel and stand-up comic Joshua Emerson join producer Paul Karolyi to talk about how Denver’s real estate market is affecting the local comedy boom. Where is your favorite place to see comedy in Denver? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 19th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Life Surge What the Buff Podcast Meow Wolf PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 18, 2024
Bigfoot Who? Colorado's Got Its Own Bigger, Scarier Mythical Beast
Have Coloradans spent too much time chasing Bigfoot when we have a cryptid native to our own Rocky Mountains hiding under our noses? The researchers at History Colorado have been digging into the archives, and they’ve uncovered stories of a creature that is almost too bizarre to believe — a “mountain whale” called the Slide-Rock Bolter. But true or not, these stories have a lot to say about Colorado’s past and present. So today, History Colorado’s foremost expert on the Slide-Rock Bolter, Lucy Snow, joins producer Paul Karolyi to tell the tale of the Slide-Rock Bolter, Colorado’s mountain cryptid who has a taste for tourists and leaves wreckage in its path. Have you ever seen a slide-rock bolter? We want to hear your story! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Don’t miss William T. Cox’s original description of the Slide-Rock Bolter legend! Originally published in 1910, it’s very short and fun. History Colorado is putting on an event in honor of the Slide-Rock Bolter on September 27. Tickets are still available for Creeporado: An Evening of the Strange and Unusual . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 18th episode: Life Surge What the Buff Podcast Meow Wolf PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 17, 2024
Trump’s Deportation Plan for Aurora, Kroenke’s New Downtown, and NIMBY Coffee
Former president Donald Trump doubled down on his erroneous statement at last week’s debate that a Venezuelan gang has “taken over” Aurora, Colorado, suggesting at a Friday news conference that if he wins a second term in office he would order a mass deportation of Venezuelan newcomers, starting in the Denver suburb. So Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about Aurora’s moment on the national stage and dig into the other big stories of the week — from a couple of hotly contested historic preservation fights and a new vision for Speer Boulevard to the latest big step forward for Nuggets owner Stan Kroenke’s dream of developing the parking lots around Ball Arena. Paul referenced this Instagram post from the Weathervane Cafe about 1709 N. Williams St., and this episode of The Daily about Trump’s suggestion that Haitian newcomers are “eating dogs” in Springfield, Ohio. Patty talked about Aurora’s cultural renaissance and referenced two of Westword writer Bennito Kelty’s recent articles on the Venezuelan gang hysteria in Aurora: “ Amid National Spotlight, Aurora Disputes Venezuelan Gang Has ‘Taken Over’ City ” “ Tren de Aragua's Lack of Identifying Symbols, Frequent Impostors Could Spur Overreaction, Crime Writer Says ” What do you think about the way Trump is talking about Aurora? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: <a href="https://membership.citycast.fm/den
Mon, September 16, 2024
The Hard Truth of Denver’s Uniquely High Minimum Wage
Minimum wage in Denver is going up again in January, and the number of restaurants is going down . While Denver’s restaurant community boasts a brand new Michelin star as of last week, more and more restauranteurs are leaving the Mile High in pursuit of greener pastures. So what exactly is happening that’s making it so hard to run a great restaurant here? The Colorado Restaurant Association ’s CEO Sonia Riggs and government affairs director Colin Larson join host Bree Davies to talk about how Denver’s unique minimum wage laws affect the restaurant business, why services fees probably aren’t a cure-all and some of the reasons behind that mediocre $20 cheeseburger . Starting Jan. 1, Denver’s minimum wage will be $18.81 per hour for non-tipped workers, up from $18.29, and $15.79 per hour for tipped workers, providing that they earn $3.02 in tips. The City of Denver has a breakdown of why our minimum wage is going up again this year. Bree quoted this great article in the Denver Post by Allyson Reedy: “ Overpriced Denver restaurants need a reality check for their inedible chicken and $20 cocktails .” For further listening, we talked about the real value to be found at one of Denver’s Michelin star winners and broke down last week’s announcement of new Michelin winners. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver What do you think about Denver’s minimum wage going up?</st
Fri, September 13, 2024
Shoplifting Crackdown, Trump Talks Aurora, and the End of E-Scooters?
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the news of the week. First, grocery stores across the metro area are locking down everything from laundry detergent to coloring books. But is the shoplifting hysteria just a symptom of the hypercharged political climate? Then, Lyft is “exploring alternatives for our dockless bikes and scooters” and being vague about if they will continue to operate in Denver at all. Denver Post neighborhoods reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton joins producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to dig into the biggest stories of the week plus loud trash trucks, a comic book store’s big milestone, former president Trump talking about Aurora at the presidential debate, and more wins and fails of the week. Paul talked about the Tren de Aragua hysteria , Mile High Comics’ 50th anniversary , and Redeemer Pizza’s third anniversary party . Bree mentioned an article on the failure of self-checkouts and a piece on digging into the actual data on organized retail crime. She also talked about goth-punk shop FashioNation, which we profiled back in 2022 . Megan talked about Lincoln’s, the new downtown speakeasy with $5 drinks. Have you seen any new anti-theft measures in local stores? We want to know what you think about the alleged rise in shoplifting. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our mor
Thu, September 12, 2024
What if Denver Banned New Gas Stations?
For the last few weeks, Denver’s top elected officials have been debating a very big new idea: What if Denver didn’t allow for the construction of any more gas stations in certain parts of the city? Amanda Sawyer, Diane Romero-Campbell, and Paul Kashmann have touted the proposal as a step toward making the Mile High more walkable, more amenable to new housing, and less car-reliant. But how would banning one type of business lead to a more pedestrian-friendly Denver? Senior associate and urban planner at Progressive Urban Management Associates Naomi Grunditz Lacewell joins host Bree Davies explain how making moves to change the built environment could impact the way Denver neighborhoods look, feel, and function. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this September 12th episode: Levitt Pavilion Life Surge Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 11, 2024
Everything We Learned From the Casa Bonita Documentary
Casa Bonita finally opens reservations to the public — no special invitation needed — this month! But before the new chapter begins, we’re revisiting the whole CB saga with the new documentary “¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor!” From the cliff divers’ death trap and a rooftop graveyard full of murdered pigeons to an ancient and dangerous HVAC system and the health department nightmare that was Casa’s kitchen, the doc exposes just why, exactly, Matt Stone and Trey Parker had to dump $40 million into the strip mall restaurant to save it. Producer Paul Karolyi and Host Bree Davies are joined by City Cast Denver regular and CB entertainer Joshua Emerson to dig into the surprising story of one of the greatest second acts in Colorado history. ¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor! is showing at the Alamo Drafthouse locations all across the metro area and is coming to Paramount+ later this fall. Did you see ¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor!? We want to know what you think! How many sopaipillas would you give it out of 5? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 11th episode: Levitt Pavilion Life Surge Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 10, 2024
Who Just Won a Michelin Star? (And Who Got Snubbed?)
Exactly one year after giving out its first stars to Colorado restaurants, the Michelin Guide is back with an updated guide to our local restaurant scene in 2024. So we’re skipping our usual Tuesday news round-up, and Westword food editor Molly Martin is joining producer Paul Karolyi to dish on the most surprising winners, biggest snubs, and what Monday's announcement means for Denver chefs, restaurateurs and eaters. Molly has a list of all the new winners , and the article she wrote last week with her predictions. We also discussed Jake Browne’s hilarious review of Brutø and our conversation with Jake about it on the podcast last week. What do you think about the new winners this year? Do you have a fave that got snubbed? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your take on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 10th episode: Levitt Pavilion Life Surge Arvada Center PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, September 09, 2024
What Are CO Politicians Doing Behind Closed Doors?
In the past few weeks, we’ve heard concerns over Governor Polis’s property tax deal being done “behind closed doors.” We watched as the GOP barred the press from covering controversial leadership votes. And now some Democratic lawmakers who were accused of shutting out reporters are simultaneously being honored as “defenders of the free press.” What is going on with Colorado politicians and transparency — or a lack thereof? Colorado Politics reporters Marianne Goodland and Ernest Luning join host Bree Davies to talk about what local elected officials are keeping from the press and why voters should care. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver What do you think about transparency in our politics? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this September 9th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Levitt Pavilion Life Surge Arvada Center YMCA of Denver - Sign up for a free 7 day trial membership Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit
Fri, September 06, 2024
Downtown's New Hope, 600 Noise Complaints, and Grocery Price Gouging
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the news of the week! First, Denver Police are banning food trucks in LoDo on the weekends in an effort to curb late-night violence, and the mayor has a new $500-million plan to fix downtown . But will these moves make the city center any better? Then, the brand new Ford Amphitheater in Colorado Springs just opened in August, and the noise complaints are piling up — is the venue exceeding decibel limits or are the neighbors just grouchy? Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by former journalist and local history aficionado David Gilbert to discuss these topics plus the downfall of the Brown Palace , the city’s top sandwich artists, and more wins and fails of the week. We talked about an excellent piece on the past and present of downtown by Robert Sanchez for 5280 Magazine. David mentioned a talk he’s doing next year for the Englewood Historical Society. How do you feel about downtown? Are you hopeful? Do you like the mayor’s plans? We want to hear your stories and hot takes! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 6th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Colfax Ave BID - Get your tickets to the Colfax Crawl! YMCA of Denver - Sign up for a free 7-day trial membership All American Reptile and Plan
Thu, September 05, 2024
Michelin Star Hype, BRUTØ Gets Dragged, and High-Dollar Dining Tourism
The Michelin Guide returns to Colorado next week to award its highly-anticipated stars to local restaurants with the right kind of high-end culinary chops. So, who will make the cut? Can last year’s winners retain their glory? And what does it all mean for Denver’s dining scene anyway? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by writer and former fine-dining server Jake Browne to dig into the Mile High’s more recent foray into the world of Michelin glory and what Colorado has to gain from rockstar chefs and big-ticket culinary tourism. We discussed Jake’s review of BRUTØ for Westword. Paul mentioned this great article from The New York Times about how the Michelin Guide has changed and why Michelin came to Colorado last year. What do you think about the Michelin Guide on its first anniversary in Colorado? We want to hear your predictions, hot takes, and feelings about food media! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: https://membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 5th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Colfax Bid - Get your tickets to the Colfax Crawl! YMCA of Denver - Sign up for a free 7 day trial membership All American Reptile and Plant Expo - Use code City for 10% off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 04, 2024
Casa Bonita’s Grand Opening, Aurora’s 'Gang Takeover,' and the Worst Street Art Ever
It’s Wednesday, and we’re talking about the biggest news of the week. First, no more waiting for that elusive email invite — starting September 16, Casa Bonita will be open to anyone who wants to make a reservation. But old school CB fans are in store for some big changes with even bigger implications for the workers. What does it mean for the longevity of the Pink Palace? Then, the alleged takeover of some poorly managed apartment buildings in Aurora by the Tren de Aragua gang from Venezuela made national news , but there’s a lot of confusion over what’s really going on. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into these stories, plus those racist signs that appeared around Denver over the weekend. Bree talked about past guest Alfonso Espino’s interviews with renters at one of the buildings allegedly “taken over” by Tren de Aragua and her interview with “professor of fun” David Thomas on what makes Casa Bonita textbook fun. We also talked about an interview Mayor Mike Coffman and Mayor Mike Johnston did with Kyle Clark on 9News. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about tipping at Casa Bonita? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this September 4th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Colfax Ave BID - Get your tickets to the Colfax Crawl! <a href="https://den
Tue, September 03, 2024
Your Guide to September in Denver
If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. Welcome to September, our gateway month to the fall season full of opportunities to see beauty in Colorado! We’re taking you through some of our best picks of stuff to do, see, eat, and drink this month — like a hot new “carbon positive” bar opening with a killer view of the city, a quirky miniatures show, the best spot for leaf-peeping, and more. For even more tips on how to make the most of September in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Colfax Ave BID, PineMelon , Babbel, YMCA of Metro Denver , and the All American Reptile and Plant Expo ! And we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Member ticket giveaway! If you are a member and you want a chance to win two free tickets to the Shake and Break Showdown cocktail competition at Denver Food + Wine Fest this weekend, fill out this form ! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise . Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 30, 2024
Is Englewood the New Denver? Plus, Crazy Squirrels and the NYT’s Updated Guide to the Mile High
It’s Friday and we’re talking about the biggest stories of the week. First, is the big exodus of businesses from South Broadway really that bad for Denver and good for Englewood? Times are always changing in the Mile High City, but the vibe shift is real. Then, the New York Times took another stab at its visitor’s guide to “36 Hours in Denver,” and we have thoughts. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Westword staff writer and returning fave Catie Cheshire to dig into these stories — plus our wins and fails of the week. Paul talked about the time he accidentally almost joined the Clayton Members Club; he also mentioned some hope for downtown , and an AI true crime story . Bree talked about Westword’s profile of an unhoused handyman who died by suicide , country music star Scott McCreery , and local author Manuel Aragon’s stunning photos of Lakeside . Catie mentioned the power outages along Broadway. Denver Food + Wine Fest ticket giveaway! If you are a member and you want a chance to win two free tickets to the Shake and Brake Showdown cocktail competition this weekend, fill out this form . We’re also giving away a pair of tickets to new members who join before Sept. 4. So if you want ad-free listening, a weekly members-only events newsletter, and the chance to win two tickets, become a member today ! What do you think about Englewood? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.in
Thu, August 29, 2024
Crazy Fun Facts About Our Famous Chiles, Peaches, Melons, and Corn
It’s the most delicious time of year here in Colorado. The farmers markets are buzzing, the roadside chile stands are roasting, and the locally grown produce is overflowing from grocery store shelves all across the metro area. So we got our whole team together to do some research and swap crazy, fun facts about Palisade peaches, Rocky Ford melons, Olathe sweet corn, and of course Pueblo chiles. Olivia would like to let you know that there’s a big truckload sweet corn sale coming up on September 7 at Mile High Thrift. Do you know any crazy fun facts about peaches, chiles, melons or corn? We’d love to hear them! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Recommended Reading Paul learned about Pueblo chiles and Dr. Michael Bartolo from these articles by Colorado Country Life and History Colorado . Olivia discussed “ professor corn ,” the cornsilk earworm , the correct pronunciation of Olathe , and the economics of sweet corn . Peyton shared highlights from the history of Palisade peaches , and previewed the <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/paper/ep/redirect/external-link?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbusiness.palisadecoc.com%2Fevents%2Fdetails%2F2024-palisade-peach-festival-11266
Wed, August 28, 2024
Which Novels Tell Denver's Story Best?
Which novels would you recommend to give someone an honest view of what Denver is really all about? Because this sure ain’t the dusty cowtown of Louis L’Amour’s dime store Westerns, and it’s not just a way point for another adventure in the wilderness either. One of Denver’s most acclaimed novelists, Peter Heller, has a new book out this month, and he recently wrote a “ literary road guide ” to Denver for The New York Times, featuring a wide range of novels about our city. So we brought him back on the show to talk through his list and give us a preview of his new book “ Burn .” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What are your favorite books about Denver? We want your help putting together the definitive literary guide to the Mile High. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this August 28th episode: Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 27, 2024
Coach Prime’s Lost Shine, Record Evictions, and Why Chipotle Left Denver
It’s Tuesday, and we’re digging into all the stories Denverites are talking about this week. First, football is back! ESPN is broadcasting CU head coach Deion Sanders and the Buffs’ season opener from Folsom Field in Boulder this Thursday evening, but unlike at every home game last season, tickets are not sold out. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi talk about the fizzling enthusiasm for Coach Prime and his uneasy relationships with the press and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia . Then, we discuss the CEO carousel at Denver’s most famous burrito company (and revisit why Chipotle left the Mile High in the first place), and respond to your comments and questions on landlords and A/C in DPS. How do you feel about Coach Prime going into his second season at CU? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this August 27th episode: Denver Health PineMelon - Use promo code LABORDAY for $100 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 26, 2024
Should Safeway and King Soopers Be Allowed To Merge?
Ever since the parent companies of King Soopers and Safeway agreed to a $24.6 billion merger back in 2022, many Denverites have been worried about the future of their neighborhood grocery stores. Colorado’s Attorney General Phil Weiser investigated the deal and filed a lawsuit to block it back in February, and then the Federal Trade Commission followed with a challenge of their own a few weeks later. The FTC’s case is going before a federal judge in Portland, Oregon, in a trial starting today , and Weiser’s is set to begin here in Colorado next month. Host Bree Davies spoke with Weiser earlier this year about why he felt it was necessary to intervene. What do you think about King Soopers and Safeway merging? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver and get ad-free listening by becoming a member: https://membership.citycast.fm/denver If you enjoyed the interview with Daniel Marginson, the R&D Director of Wana Brands, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this August 26th episode: Denver Health Wana Brands Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 23, 2024
Who Needs Air Conditioning? Plus, Canceling Buffalo Bill and Spotting Wolf Pups
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, DPS students returned to hot, sweaty classrooms this week as 29 Denver public schools are still without air conditioning. DPS leaders have a plan to help , but is anyone asking the right questions about the cost of a cool, consistent 72°? Chalkbeat Colorado bureau chief Melanie Asmar and stand-up comedian Joshua Emerson join producer Paul Karolyi to talk A/C in DPS, as well as a new city-led reconsideration of historic Denverite William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, and our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. Paul mentioned the ALLCITY Network’s fundraising , REI’s recent stumbles , $5 cocktails , and this episode of The Daily about air conditioning. Joshua talked about Denver’s latest jobs report and wolf pups . Melanie discussed peaches on pizza and compost pick-ups expanding What do you think about the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave & Restaurant & Gift Shop? We’d love to hear about your experiences and thoughts about the city-owned landmark! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Wana Brands PineMel
Thu, August 22, 2024
How Renters Are Fighting Back Against Rats, Trash, and Conflicts of Interest
Trash mountains, rat infestations, no hot water for days — every day seems to bring a new horror story about unlivable conditions facing renters across the metro area. Out in Aurora, dozens of tenants were forced onto the streets when the city condemned their apartment building (and the landlord blamed a Venezuelan gang). Meanwhile, in Denver, a group of tenants is calling on the state attorney general to investigate alleged conflicts of interest around the city’s new rental licensing program. Denver Post neighborhoods reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton and Westword reporter Catie Cheshire join host Bree Davies to discuss their recent reporting on tenant issues, the landlords behind the horror stories, and the new tools some renters are using to push back. Bree mentioned Hey Denver‘s’ guides on getting your safety deposit back , how to form a tenants union , and other resources for renters in Denver. You are officially enlisted to Landlord Watch! If you’re a renter, we want to hear about your experiences, good or bad. Do you have a great landlord you want to shout out? Or a terrible landlord story to tell? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: https://membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Wana Brands Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 21, 2024
The 8 Most Denver Spots You Should Visit Right Now
Heartbreak — it’s a familiar feeling for Denverites over the past few years as too many longtime favorites shut down. Soon, you won’t be able to stand on 13th Ave. with another late-night slice from Benny Blanco’s. You’ll never catch a matinee at The Esquire or the Chez Artiste ever again. Mutiny Info Cafe is pulling up stakes for Englewood and The Mercury Cafe is up for sale again . The future of Denver’s most defining institutions is unclear — so we’re celebrating the ones that are still going strong! Oak Creek bar owner and AAA spokesperson Skyler McKinley and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval join host Bree Davies to celebrate the reliable restaurants, bars, and attractions that still make Denver feel like Denver. Bree mentioned her Westword cover story on the youth boxing program at 20th Street Rec Center. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What are your favorite Old Denver spots? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this August 21st episode: Meow Wolf Wana Brands Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 20, 2024
Biker Jim is Back! Plus, an Affordable Housing Win and a Bike Lane Setback
It’s Tuesday, and we’re digging into the biggest stories of the week. First, a surprising twist in the saga of Biker Jim. Denver’s iconic hot dog entrepreneur walked away from his eponymous restaurant earlier this year amid a sticky legal situation , but now he’s back — and he brought dessert . Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about Biker Jim’s next act, as well as the resolution of the 29th Ave. bike lane battle and an update on Cherry Hills Village’s effort to stop an affordable housing project. Finally, we respond to one of the many voicemails we received after Friday’s episode about dying restaurants and the minimum wage and pick a winner for our Q BBQ Fest VIP ticket giveaway. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about Biker Jim opening in Milk Market? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Q BBQ Fest (8/23-24) Wana Brands PineMelon : Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megap
Mon, August 19, 2024
The Best Denver Burger for Every Occasion
Smashed with crispy edges or thick and juicy? Plain or piled high with a crazy array of toppings? American cheese, blue cheese, or no cheese? These are just some of the factors we considered when taking a closer look at Denver’s burger scene. From the most affordable to the most indulgent, host Bree Davies is joined by Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia and Westword food and drink editor Molly Martin to examine and rate the Mile High’s best patties between two buns. Want more Denver burger content? Check out our burger battle episode from way back in 2021, or get a little history on the Cherry Cricket from when we stopped by to learn more about the famous burger dive’s origins . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Check out Meow Wolf’s Adulti-Verse , returning Wednesday, September 4th! Fall asleep, get pain relief, or just chill out with Wana Brands’ Optimals line Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 16, 2024
Who's Killing Local Restaurants? Plus, Property Tax Intrigue and Widening Federal
We’re rounding up all the news you need to know this week. First, the number one issue dominating Colorado politics for the past year and a half has been, shockingly, property taxes. With surprising alliances forming and accusations flying across the aisle, Governor Jared Polis yesterday called for (another) special legislative to negotiate a deal to avert rapid tax hikes. One of Denver’s most entertaining political analysts, Deep Singh Badhesha (aka @deepnotshallow ), joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to dig into the political intrigue and explain why even non-property owners should care. Then, is the rising minimum wage killing Denver’s favorite restaurants ? And our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. Bree talked about the latest CDOT plans for BRT on Federal and Northside community icon Gil Carpinelli (here’s a link to the GoFundMe ). Paul discussed Denver’s unspent sales tax revenues and Bo Nix . Deep mentioned the Tina Peters conviction and the Denver metro’s 2024 point-in-time homelessness count . Want to help us celebrate 900 episodes? Become a member today! For as little as $8 a month, you can support local journalism — and right now, if you sign up to be a member (or already are one) you can win VIP tickets to the Q BBQ Fest on August 23-24! All you have to do to win is let us know how City Cast Denver/Hey Denver have made you feel connected to Denver. Did we introduce you your favorite lunch spot or recommend an event where you met your best friend?Whoever sends us the best story by Monday morning wins a pair of VIP tix! Email us at denver@citycast.fm or leave us a voicemail at 720-500-5418! Let us know you’re a member, share your story and you could win! What do you think?
Thu, August 15, 2024
900th Episode Extravaganza: Listener Comments, Questions, and Hot Takes
We’re celebrating 900 episodes, and we want to celebrate you! Since we began the City Cast Denver podcast and companion Hey Denver newsletter back in 2021, we have relied on you, our brilliant and hilarious listeners and readers, to share story ideas, hot takes, and questions that make us think. So to mark the big milestone, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are digging deep in the inbox to share your questions and comments on everything from dating in Denver and scooter struggles to the hottest (and coldest) takes on firefighting and local ice cream purveyors. Here’s to 900 more! Want to help us celebrate 900 episodes? Become a member today! For as little as $8 a month, you can support local journalism — and right now, if you sign up to be a member (or already are one) you can win VIP tickets to the Q BBQ Fest on August 23-24! All you have to do to win is let us know how City Cast Denver/Hey Denver have made you feel connected to Denver. Did we introduce you your favorite lunch spot or recommend an event where you met your best friend?Whoever sends us the best story by Monday morning wins a pair of VIP tix! Email us at denver@citycast.fm or leave us a voicemail at 720-500-5418! Let us know you’re a member, share your story and you could win! Paul recommends this article for further reading on the firefighter question: “ As Wildfires Burn, Are U.S. Cities Spending Too Much on Their Fire Departments? ” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this August 15 episode: Choir League Q BBQ Fest (Aug. 23-24) See “Waitress: The Musical” at the Arvada Center Denverse Magazine PineMelon : Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 14, 2024
Will Nuclear Power Return to Colorado?
In the super-charged partisan atmosphere of an election year, one contentious issue has emerged as a beacon of bipartisanship: Nuclear power. Both Republicans and Democrats backed Denver congresswoman Diana DeGette’s bill facilitating the construction of new reactors with cutting-edge designs, and last month President Biden signed it into law . But today’s nuclear cheerleaders could learn something from the past — so we are sharing a short audio documentary that our producer Paul Karolyi created about Colorado’s first and still only nuclear power plant, Fort St. Vrain, back in 2019. This audio documentary originally aired on the podcast Range & Slope and an abbreviated version aired on Colorado Public Radio on August 29, 2019. The song featured at the end of this story is an original composition by Jesse Wooten of Creekbed . Paul also recommends this recent article about the current debate over bringing nuclear power back to Colorado from Allen Best at the local energy blog Big Pivots. Even if Colorado does build a new reactor or convert an old coal plant to nuclear, we wouldn’t be the first state to test out a next-gen nuclear reactor. Billionaire Bill Gates was in Wyoming in June to break ground on a new reactor being built by TerraPower. Do you know any crazy fun facts about Colorado produce? We’re working on an episode about Olathe sweet corn, Palisade peaches, Rocky Ford melons, and Pueblo chiles, and we need your help! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name, neighborhood, and something people should know about Colorado’s favorite produce, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: https://membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Choir League See “Waitress: The Musical” at the Arvada Ce
Tue, August 13, 2024
Should Denver Buy an Old Power Plant? Plus, CO’s Biggest Election Denier on Trial
It’s Tuesday, and we’re digging into the biggest stories of the week. First, what should the City of Denver do with a decommissioned, old power plant? The clock is ticking for a potential purchase, so producer Paul Karolyi is sitting down with Westword editor Patty Calhoun to discuss why Xcel Energy hasn’t demolished the plant in Sun Valley and the possibility that it could be converted into a new food hall , as neighbors have been hoping for years. Plus, Colorado’s most famous election denier could be going to prison. As the jury deliberates in the case of former Mesa County clerk Tina Peters , Paul and Patty review the arguments on both sides and the implications for November’s election. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed the interview with Jacob Smith, the executive director of National Organizations for Youth Safety, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this August 13th episode: Choir League See “Waitress: The Musical” at the Arvada Center Denverse PineMelon : Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 12, 2024
The Mayor’s Big Idea for Affordable Housing, Explained
When Mayor Mike Johnston took office last year, he focused on Denver’s homelessness crisis, then the strain caused by thousands of migrants arriving from South and Central America. Now, he’s turning his attention to affordable housing, with a proposal that will likely be in front of Denver voters in November: Should Denver increase sales taxes by 0.05% to raise as much as $100 million per year for affordable housing? Robin Kniech led the charge on affordable housing as at-large member of city council for 12 years, and she’s on today with host Bree Davies to talk about the gaps she sees in the mayor’s proposal and how she thinks it could reshape our city. What do you think about a sales tax hike to fund affordable housing? Will you vote for it? Or not? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: https://membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Choir League See “Waitress: The Musical” at the Arvada Center Denverse PineMelon : Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 09, 2024
Venezuelan Gang Hysteria, Declining Birth Rates, and a Blow to S. Broadway
It’s Friday, and we’re breaking down the biggest stories of the week. First, a notorious Venezuelan gang called Tren de Aragua has reportedly arrived in Denver, and they’ve already been connected to a violent jewelry store robbery , a condemned apartment complex in Aurora, and some rumored violence at a political rally. So is this gang a big problem or just another scapegoat? City Cast newsletter editor Adrian González joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about newcomer narratives, a report about plummeting birth rates, and our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. We’re giving away tickets to see some awesome chamber music! If you want to support us and see a great concert, sign up to become a member of City Cast Denver today. We’re giving away a free pair of tickets to any show on the Friends of Chamber Music’s fall season to each of the first four people who become members today. Sign up for as little as $8/month right here: https://membership.citycast.fm/denver Paul mentioned Bree’s interview with César Cuauhtémoc García Hernández , author of “ Welcome the Wretched: In Defense of the ‘Criminal Alien .’” He also talked about the new gondola project in Idaho Springs and the Chez Artiste closing . Bree mentioned Mutiny Information Cafe moving to Englewood and Wash Park’s 125th anniversary . Adrian discussed llamas in the San Luis Valley and bike lane plans . Paul also recommends this recent analysis of the effects of U.S. sanctions foreign economies and politics from the Washington Post. What do you think about Tren de Aragua? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Text or leave us a voic
Thu, August 08, 2024
Is This Finally the End of Predatory Towing?
More than 200 new laws went into effect in Colorado this week, touching on everything from concert ticket pricing transparency to gig driver protections , and each of those laws has a backstory. One in particular comes after years of back and forth between lawmakers and Wyatt’s Towing, the company Attorney General Phil Weiser found guilty of “deceptive and unfair business practices.” So will this new law finally protect Denverites from predatory towing? Denver Post reporter Sam Tabachnik has been reporting on Wyatt’s for years, and he joins host Bree Davies to explain what you need to know about this new law. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Sign up as a member today for ad-free listening: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed the interview with Daniel Marginson, the director of R&D with Wana Brands, learn more here . Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Try the new Wana Optimals from Wana Brands See “Waitress: The Musical” at the Arvada Center Regional Air Quality Council - Sign up for summer ozone text alerts Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 07, 2024
9 Fun Tourist Attractions Without Huge Crowds
A record 37.4 million domestic tourists visited Denver last year, according to new data from the city’s tourism office . But with all the crowds at Red Rocks and Rocky Mountain National Park, it feels like those people just hit all the same spots! So whether you’re entertaining visitors or looking for somewhere off the beaten path to explore for yourself, we’re here to help. Stand-up comedian JD Lopez joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to swap stories and share recs for family-friendly, outdoorsy, and adult-oriented destinations we love around the state. Don’t miss JD perform at Comedy Works’ New Faces contest next Wednesday, August 14. You can also follow JD on instagram and his podcast Left Hand Right Brain . What are your off-the-beaten-path spots in Colorado? We want your help to beat the crowds! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: https://membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: See “Waitress: The Musical” at the Arvada Center Regional Air Quality Council - Sign up for summer ozone text alerts Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 06, 2024
The New Scooter Debate, Lakeside’s Nepotism Problem, and Strippers at First Friday
It’s Tuesday, and Westword editor Patty Calhoun is joining us to help break down the biggest stories of the week. First, who is responsible for e-scooters unsafely zipping down sidewalks? Denverites have been having that debate ever since the scooter companies first arrived in 2018, and now City Councilman Chris Hinds has a new idea to promote safe scooting . So we’re talking e-scooters, the nepotism scandal rocking Denver’s tiny suburb of Lakeside, and an interesting new vendor that made an appearance at First Friday on Santa Fe last week. Bree mentioned this past episode about Denver’s legendary lost music venue, The Family Dog. Paul quoted from this article on municipal firefighter budgets: “ As Wildfires Burn, Are U.S. Cities Spending Too Much on Their Fire Departments? ” What do you think about scooters on the streets of Denver in 2024? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver If you enjoyed the interview with Jacob Smith, the executive director of National Organizations for Youth Safety, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: National Organization of Youth Safety - #NYTEC2024 (Sept. 20 and 21) See “Waitress: The Musical” at the Arvada Center Regional Air Quality Council - Sign up for summer ozone text alerts Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. PineMelon : Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 05, 2024
Denver's Best Cheap Eats
Denverites are fed up! And not well fed. Because the price of going out to eat feels like it keeps going up! After scouring the city for an affordable breakfast sandwich, the owner of a local ice cream shop recently started selling his own at a Saturday morning pop-up, proclaiming “the city desperately needs this!” So we felt inspired to help, too. One of our favorite regular guests — stand-up comedian Joshua Emerson — joins today to share recommendations for the best cheap eats in Denver. We’ve got the full list of our recommendations on our website: denver.citycast.fm . But we want to hear from you, too! Where is your favorite affordable meal in Denver? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Arvada Center Regional Air Quality Council - Sign up for summer ozone text alerts Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 02, 2024
Fires on the Front Range, a Chocolate Heist, and Hundreds of Dead Fish
It’s Friday, and we’re digging into the biggest stories of the week. First, wildfire smoke shrouded the Mile High skyline all week long as multiple wildfires on the Front Range spread to more than 9,000 acres , as of Thursday afternoon. CSU climate geographer Lauren Gifford joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about how climate change is moving so fast that even the fish in Sloan’s Lake are feeling the heat . Then, to celebrate Colorado’s 148th birthday, we’ve got another installment of our famous “1-Star Review Game” where we guess what local something disgruntled internet reviewers are complaining about! Finally, our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. It's not too late to win cool prizes and have fun on your bike in our Bike Scavenger Hunt! We partnered with Bike Streets to share riddles every week in our newsletter, and all you have to do for the chance to win is snap a selfie at the secret bike-friendly destination around Denver. Sign up now! The Kiltro song we played at the end of this episode is “ The Drunk .” Bree talked about Cultura Craft Chocolate . Paul mentioned a lawsuit against DPD , our limited-run special series about Colorado congresswoman Lauren Boebert, and played a funny reel shared by a fav librarian follower on our Instagram about the Rockies . Paul also recommends this article on the question of firefighting budgets in cities like Denver: “ As Wildfires Burn, Are U.S. Cities Spending Too Much on Their Fire Departments? ” We need your help! Do you have a favorite off-the-beaten-path tourist destination? Denver saw record tourism last year, and the hot spots are packed. So we’re compiling a list of underrated destinations to take out-of-towners. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your take on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastd
Thu, August 01, 2024
Your Guide to August in Denver
If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you , with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. School is starting up again soon, but it’s not too late to squeeze a few last drops out of summer. To get in the Olympic spirit, we’re putting an international twist on our monthly guide to the city, with tons of insider tips on how to make the most of August in Denver, from a mouth-watering Hong Kong-style french toast at a buzzy new restaurant to a scary cool new exhibit at one of our favorite local museums. For even more tips on how to make the most of August in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Culinary Dropout . And we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise . Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 31, 2024
Will Colorado Lead On Abortion Again This Year?
Colorado has long been a stronghold for people across the country seeking abortion access — and when Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, local reproductive health care providers began to see an unprecedented amount of patients seeking care . But there’s still a conservative majority on the Supreme Court and anything could happen in November, so local reproductive health care advocates are rallying to strengthen Colorado’s protections even more. Our state politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval — who has also been a reproductive justice advocate for more than a decade — joins host Bree Davies to go back through Colorado history to explain how we got here, and why she’s working on a new ballot measure to further defend abortion access. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this July 31st episode: Culinary Dropout Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 30, 2024
A Northside Bike Lane Battle, Glendale’s New Glamour, and Your Dating Stories
It’s Tuesday and we’re digging into the biggest stories of the week. First, the mere proposal of a new bike lane on the Northside already has people up in arms over precious parking spots. But does a lack of parking really add up to a loss of customers? Then, Glendale has been trying for decades to revive itself as an entertainment destination for adults. With the new “4 Mile District” breaking ground and Alamo Drafthouse signing on, could this finally be the tiny municipality’s moment? Plus, listeners weigh in “Peter Pan syndrome” and its impact on dating in Denver. Paul recommends this super wild breakdown of the whole 4 Mile District Saga (so far) from the Glendale Cherry Creek Chronicle and this more measured report from Westword in 2015. He is also delighted to share the Mike Dunafon/Wyclef Jean collab, “ The Trap .” Newsletter editor Adrian González pointed us in the direction of this CityLab article on the bike lane situation: “ Note to Store Owners: Not All Holiday Shoppers Drive .” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about the new bike lane coming to W 29th Ave.? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this July 30th episode: Culinary Dropout PineMelon : Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 29, 2024
How to Camp Like a Colorado Pro
Enjoying a Colorado summer on these super hot days can be tough — but a easy solution? A quick camping trip in the much cooler Rocky Mountains. We’re bringing you an episode from a while back featuring City Cast Denver’s own outdoor pro Peyton Garcia, and camping novice Paul Karolyi. Together they dig into the best places to pitch a tent, what to bring, what to expect, and more tips for a smooth and simple adventure. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Culinary Dropout by Fox Restaurant Concepts Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 26, 2024
Could Polis Be VP? Plus, Top 5 Trader Joe’s Snacks and Stolen Steaks
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up this week's news. In the wake of the news about President Biden dropping out of the race and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris, will Colorado democrats change their campaign strategies? Then, with a new Trader Joe’s slated to open in Westminster in 2025, producer Olivia Jewell Love is back with another hot City Cast Denver Top 5 list, this time, Trader Joe’s snacks. She’s joined by host Bree Davies and politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to also talk about Governor Polis’ spirited CNN comments , VP Harris’s embracing of Brat Summer, the joys of Everything But the Bagel cashews, and, of course, our wins and fails of the week. We shared clips of non-Gen Zers talking about VP Harris and “Brat Summer” on CNN and Fox News . Bree talked about the burglary at Columbine Steak House and Urban Peak’s new “Mothership” housing . Olivia discussed Crush, the rescued lobster , and the end of the non-compete era for workers. Justine mentioned the horrifying treatment of Terrell Davis by United Airlines and the Mestizo-Curtis Park Pool getting a much-needed remodel. We’re doing a Bike Scavenger Hunt with Bike Streets! Check out our Hey Denver newsletter for more information, then get on your bicycle and play along! What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more n
Thu, July 25, 2024
Are Dating Apps Dead in Denver?
Young people have long flocked to Denver for our proximity to the mountains, Red Rocks’ stellar concert calendar, tons of local breweries, and even access to local weed. But do they ever come here for… love? If so, how do single Denverites even meet? Westword’s Hannah Metzger and Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton from the Denver Post have both been reporting on dating in the Mile High and have some interesting insights into how people are — or aren’t — having luck finding partners. They join host Bree Davies to dig into why the apps aren’t always the place to be and how much this city’s stereotypes can help or hinder singles looking to make meaningful love connections. Hannah reported on our city’s dating scene being a “dumpster fire” and also recapped the Denver edition (and all-time least-successful season) of “Married at First Sight”. Megan interviewed the guys who took out a billboard looking for love for their single brother and wrote about how “Menver” has fizzled out ; she also joined us a few months a go to talk about the dating stereotype . Do you have a Denver dating horror story — or a metro area meet-cute anecdote to share? Leave us a voicemail or shoot us a text at 720-500-5418 and you might hear it on the show! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Denver Health <a href="https://get.babbel.com/eg_podcast_flags_ame_usa-en?bsc=podcast-citycast&btp=default&utm_campaign=podcast-citycast&utm_content=podcast
Wed, July 24, 2024
The Case Against Ranked Choice Voting
With a little less than two weeks left to gather the signatures needed, canvassers are working hard to get Initiative 310 on the ballot. This piece of legislation could fundamentally change the way we vote in Colorado, introducing the concept of ranked choice voting. Supporters of RCV say it would level the playing field for third party candidates and offer voters more options at the ballot box. However detractors — like today’s guest, Representative Emily Sirota — are concerned that RCV could interfere with our perfectly good system for casting votes and lead to issues like ballot spoilage. Emily joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about her last-minute amendment that could challenge the future implementation of something like RCV, and why she’s so concerned about the intentions of the big money donor behind Initiative 310. Earlier this month, Paul interviewed the folks behind Initiative 310 about why they think Colorado is ready for ranked choice voting. Still confused about what, exactly, RCV is and how it works? We published an explainer, which you can read here , and you can learn more about open primaries from our friends at Colorado Public Radio. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Denver Health Babbel</a
Tue, July 23, 2024
Key Takeaways From Mayor Johnston’s State of the City
After a year in office, what does Mayor Mike Johnston think he’s accomplished? Yesterday he gave the annual State of the City speech at the Paramount Theater, pointing out his housing wins and what he sees as a successful approach to welcoming newcomers. He also unveiled some projects in the works, like plans for creating a more vibrant downtown, the development of a “trust patrol” with Denver police, and a new citywide volunteer effort called “Give 5 Mile High”. But when it comes to sweeping political speeches, the devil is in the details — host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love dive deeper into the mayor’s words, actions, and the numbers to figure out what it all means for Denver and the mayor’s few years. Olivia mentioned Kyle Harris’ Denverite piece on the businesses on Broadway and the website for the Give 5 Mile High program where you can submit to be a community partner. You can watch the State of the City on the City of Denver’s Youtube; the Denver Gazette also has a full transcript of the speech . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Denver Health Babbel : Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST PineMelon : Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery <a href="https://scphotel.com/col
Mon, July 22, 2024
Mayor Johnston on One Year in Office, a Housing Tax, and Why He Gets a B+
Thanks to our sponsors at the Colfax Ave BID for helping us end our Colfax Week with a bang! All week long we’ve been talking about the colorful, complex, and celebrated street known as Colfax Avenue. For the week’s grand finale, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi talked to Mayor Mike Johnston in front of a live audience, on perfect summer Colfax evening. Johnston rates his performance as mayor so far, discusses his approval ratings, and even weighs in on President Biden’s future. Then, Paul and Bree challenged the Mayor to a lightning round, revealing his taste in craft beer and his bike-to-work habits. You don’t wanna miss it. Thank you to all our loyal City Cast listeners who came to hang Friday night! It was great seeing you there. We’d love it if you would tag us @citycastdenver in your Instagram posts or chat about your experience on r/CityCastDenver . If you couldn’t make it this time, we hope to see you at the next one! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this July 22nd episode: Meow Wolf Denver Health Babbel : Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST SCP Colorado Springs Hotel: Book with code CITYCAST for 20% off weekday stays! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at</
Fri, July 19, 2024
Aurora’s New Nicotine Factory, Rich Suburbs Problems, and DCPA’s Big Flop
Celebrate the end of Colfax Week with our Ultimate Colfax Playlist ! Presented by our sponsors at the Colfax Ave BID, you can listen along and enjoy special deals up and down Colfax this weekend at Colfax’s Independents Day It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First up, rich people in the ‘burbs are trying to block an office-to-residential building conversion and definitely don’t want a McDonald's in their neighborhood. Then, Aurora unveiled plans for a new Zyn factory , but will it be built soon enough to get Gen Z the flavored nicotine packets they love ? Producer Paul Karolyi and Host Bree Davies are joined by Colorado Community Media’s DougCo and Castle Rock reporter McKenna Harford to dig into these stories, plus DCPA’s controversial new immersive show , where to find real French bread, and more highs and lows of the week. Are you down for a Bike Scavenger Hunt ? We’re partnering with Bike Streets for a two-month bike adventure taking you to some of our favorite spots all over the city. Get the week’s clue in our newsletter every Friday, solve the riddle, send us a selfie outside the destination, and you’ll be eligible to win some epic prizes! McKenna mentioned this story about a Castle Rock church wanting to open a homeless shelter and the French bakery in a King Soopers. Bree talked about <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/give-myrna-lemus-estrada-a-proper-goodbye"
Thu, July 18, 2024
Denver’s Best Late-Night Eats
Colfax Week Continues! Thanks to our sponsors at the Colfax Ave BID . Denver’s never had a ton of great options to eat out late at night — even on Colfax, where hundreds of hungry concert-goers and bar patrons pour out onto the sidewalks after last call. Ever since the pandemic, Denver’s night owls have been left hungrier than ever. But a couple of recent announcements offer a glimmer of hope: Rosenberg’s Bagels is opening a new late-night slider pop-up , and Little India on 6th Avenue is going 24/7 . So host Bree Davies and her favorite late-night dining companion — artistic director for the Sie FilmCenter Keith Garcia — are on today to survey the great local options we do have and share their faves. What’s your favorite late-night spot? We want to hear what’s good after midnight. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Lavender Festival ” at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms (July 20-21) Colfax AVE Bid Friends of Chamber Music - Use code FCMST20 on the promotions tab on the ticketing page for a 20% discount. Regional Air Quality Council The University of Denver - Apply for DU’s new affordable housing certificate program by July 31! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 17, 2024
Rep. Diana DeGette on the Trump Assassination Attempt and How Biden Can Still Win
We’re stepping away from Colfax Week for an exclusive interview with Denver’s longtime congresswoman on this historic moment in the presidential race, presented by our sponsors at Colfax Ave BID . Ever since President Biden’s dismal debate performance a few weeks ago, an increasing number of Democrats in Congress have called on him to step aside as the party’s nominee, including Colorado Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen , and even more have expressed doubts about his chances in November, including Colorado’s Sen. Michael Bennet . Then a shooter attempted to assassinate former president Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania this past weekend, and the entire dynamic of the race changed — or did it? Diana DeGette has represented Denver in Congress since 1997, and she’s on today to talk about where she thinks the Democrats should go from here. Bree mentioned this New York Times report that Democratic leaders are pushing to get Biden the formal party nomination in Ohio as early as next week. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Lavender Festival ” at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms (July 20-21) Colfax Ave BID Friends of Chamber Music - Use code FCMST20 on the promotions tab on the ticketing page for a 20% discount. Regional Air Quality Council The University of Denver - Apply for DU’s new affordable housing certificate program by July 31! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices.
Tue, July 16, 2024
Local Reactions to Assassination Attempt, LoDo Violence, and Bathroom Thoughts
It’s Tuesday and we’re breaking down the biggest stories of the week. First, after the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump over the weekend, Colorado politicians on both sides of the aisle are jockeying for command of the narrative . Then, Denver Police implemented over the weekend a new program to tackle LoDo’s late-night violence issues . Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the local political implications of the assassination attempt, LoDo’s let-out problem, and respond to a listener’s brilliant idea for public bathrooms. We’re compiling the ultimate Colfax Playlist! Send us your favorite songs and a little story as to why these tracks summon thoughts of our famous street and we might add it to our mixtape! Call or text the always-open Colfax Playlist Hotline at 720-500-5418 or connect via email: denver@citycast.fm. Paul mentioned our special, limited-run podcast series ‘ Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose .’ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colfax Ave BID “ Lavender Festival ” at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms (July 20-21) Friends of Chamber Music - Use code FCMST20 on the promotions tab on the ticketing page for a 20% discount. Regional Air Quality Council The University of Denver - Apply for The University of Denver's new affordable housing certificate program by July 31! PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adch
Mon, July 15, 2024
The Best and Worst Bathrooms on Colfax
Welcome to Colfax Week! We’ve teamed up with the Colfax Ave BID for a weeklong celebration of Denver’s most iconic street. The 26-mile long strip is notorious, charming, and unexpected — and no where better embodies Colfax’s complex personality quite like the bathrooms of some of our fave establishments. AAA Spokesperson and Oak Creek Tavern owner Skyler McKinley and politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval join host Bree Davies to break down some of the best — and worst — places to visit on Colfax when nature calls. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Come party with us! Join us at the Colfax Indie Bash this Thursday, July 18, for a live taping of City Cast Denver, as well as local eats, a caricature artist, belly dancer, and more! The party is free, but space is limited — RSVP for your spot now and we will see you there! Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Apply for The University of Denver's new affordable housing certificate program by July 31! Friends of Chamber Music - Use code FCMST20 on the promotions tab on the ticketing page for a 20% discount. Regional Air Quality Council “ Lavender Festival ” at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms (July 20-21) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, July 13, 2024
Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose: Our Evening With Lauren Boebert
This is the final episode of a special, limited-run podcast series, Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose , from City Cast Denver. Don’t miss the whole series, available now in this podcast feed or on our website . June 25 was a big election day for Congresswoman Lauren Boebert. She had five opponents for the Republican nomination in her new district in Colorado and, as we’ve learned in this limited-run podcast series, a whole lot of baggage. But we’re done dissecting her controversies and analyzing her strategies. On this final episode, arriving two weeks after her decisive victory in the CD4 Republican primary, it’s time to sit down at her kitchen table and hear her side of the story. Check out our coverage of Boebert's decisive victory in the CD4 Republican primary for a full breakdown of the results. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 12, 2024
Biden Divides Local Dems, Busting Denver Stereotypes, and a Ren Faire Intruder
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, how are Denverites feeling about Mayor Johnston after his first year in office? What about his work on homelessness or revitalizing downtown? A new poll shows all. Then, Democrats across the country are divided on President Biden’s chances at re-election in November, and local politicians are speaking out. Big thinker and local business owner Deacon Rodda joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to dig into those stories and swap Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. Join our bike scavenger hunt! We’re partnering with Bike Streets to bring you an an eight-week challenge to get to know the Mile High from two wheels. Check out the Hey Denver newsletter every Friday for a chance to win some EPIC prizes at the end. The first clue drops today — play along and sign up for Hey Denver if you haven’t already! Bree mentioned Sen. Michael Bennet’s Wednesday interview on CNN and Rep. Diana DeGette’s reflection on a recent meeting with the president. You’re invited to join us next week at the Colfax Indie Bash! We’re gonna record a live podcast on stage with Mayor Mike Johnston, and we’d love to see you there. RSVP for FREE right here . Paul discussed the latest dog park news out of Westminster and the bear at the Ren Faire . Bree talked about Herma n’s Hideaway and the Cherry Cricket . Deacon shouted out Paul Da
Thu, July 11, 2024
Burning Questions About This Weekend’s Heat Wave
Denver is projected to see a three-day streak of temperatures over 100 degrees this weekend . So, what is causing these high temps? And what does this mean for our day-to-day lives? 9News meteorologist Chris Bianchi joins host Bree Davies to break down the heat wave, the broader context, and share some advice to consider before you venture outside this weekend. For more weather news and analysis, we think Chris is really good on TikTok . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver How are you planning to beat the heat this weekend? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Blanco Cocina + Cantina Babbel “ Lavender Festival ” at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms (July 20-21) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 10, 2024
A Millionaire’s Case for Major Elections Reform
In a presidential election year when democracy itself is under threat, local political megadonor Kent Thiry is proposing a massive reform to Colorado’s elections. But Initiative 310 will only make it onto our November ballots if the campaign can collect 125,000 signatures by the first week of August. So producer Paul Karolyi sat down with Thiry and one of his top allies — former Denver Elections director Amber McReynolds — to talk about how this reform would work, why both Democrats and Republicans are so mad at them, and whether or not Thiry is just clearing the path for his own long-anticipated run for governor. Oh, and you better believe Paul asked what’s up with Thiry’s reported obsession with The Three Musketeers. Initiative 310 would implement “open primaries” and ranked choice voting in elections for federal and state offices in Colorado. We recently published an explainer for ranked choice voting, which you can read here , and you can learn more about open primaries from our friends at Colorado Public Radio. Paul mentioned the 2017 episode of Last Week Tonight where John Oliver explored the dialysis industry and poked fun at Thiry for dressing up like The Three Musketeers. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about Kent Thiry and Initiative 310? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Blanco Cocina + Cantina Babbel “ Lavender Festival ” at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms (July 20-21) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our op
Tue, July 09, 2024
Expired Plates Crackdown, Union Station’s $11M Facelift, and Justice for Drones
It’s Tuesday, and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, Union Station is set to unveil the results of a six-month, $11-million renovation this weekend, but is this a revolution for the transit hub? Or yet another evolution in its 110-year history? Then we discuss the Denver Police Department's crack down on what is apparently a huge public safety issue: expired car registrations and temporary plates. Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to share license plate hacks, Union Station secrets, and respond to a listener comment on our skepticism ahead of Denver’s Fourth of July drone show last week. Paul quoted Axios Denver’s coverage of a recent public safety survey . Patty mentioned Councilman Flynn’s “ investigation ” into expired license plates, and we discussed Karl Christian Krumpholz’s terrific comic history of Union Station. What do you think about DPD cracking down on expired license plates? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver If you enjoyed today's sponsored interview with the Regional Air Quality Council’s Communications and Programs Coordinator, Kelsey Simpkins, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 9th episode: Regional Air Quality Council Blanco Cocina + Cantina PineMelon Babbel “ Lavender Festival ” at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms (Ju
Mon, July 08, 2024
Who Belongs on the Mt. Rushmore of Denver Food?
Who is responsible for making the Mile High’s food scene stand out? What restaurants have created the culinary landscape we know today as unmistakably Denver? In other words, if there was a Mt. Rushmore of this city’s dining innovators, who would be immortalized? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by Westword’s food editor Molly Martin to dig into our culinary history and create the ultimate list of the people behind the biggest influences on the tastes, innovations, and culture of Denver. Paul mentioned the Jason Sheehan piece on Biker Jim that sparked this conversation. Molly talked about Bill St. John’s remembrance of Mel and Janie Master, which first mentioned the idea of a culinary Mt. Rushmore. Bree talked about Adam Cayton Holland’s reporting on the Chubby’s family saga , Alan Prendergast’s story on the formation of Greektown , Patty Calhoun’s look back at the fern bars of Denver, and History Colorado’s entry on “Daddy” Bruce Randolph Sr . and the Epworth Foundation’s Feed-A-Family program . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Blanco Cocina + Cantina Babbel Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at<a href="https://c
Fri, July 05, 2024
Here's What the Entire Country Is Talking About
City Cast CEO David Plotz sits down with hosts from all 13 City Cast daily local podcast hubs to talk about what stories they’re watching in their hometowns that are likely to impact yours too. Listen in for how Bree Davies's story stacks up against the rest. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 03, 2024
Is Lakeside Unsafe? Plus, Murky Homelessness Spending and ‘Chipotle Boys’
It’s only Wednesday, so we’re rounding up a short week of news before the holiday weekend! First, a new investigation from the Denver Post attempts to answer the question of the summer: Why is the Cyclone rollercoaster at Lakeside Amusement Park still closed? Then, concerns linger about just how much money Mayor Johnston is spending on homelessness, especially after SCOTUS’s recent ruling on camping bans . Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by a returning fave — comedian and Casa Bonita gorilla Joshua Emerson — to discuss all these stories, plus our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. Paul promised details on the City of Denver’s first-ever drone show for the Fourth of July ( July 3, Civic Center Park ) and gave a shout out to the Chipotle Boys . Bree mentioned Dozens reopening and Sol Tribe’s closure and how to get in touch with tattooists and piercers as they move to new shops. Joshua talked about Denver’s dual MVPs , the last days of the Esquire Theatre , and his collaboration “Knowing You, Denver,” opening at the Denver Art Museum this week. Come party with us on Colfax! RSVP today for the Colfax Indie Bash where we’ll be chatting with Mayor Mike Johnston and celebrating all things Colfax on July 18. Get the deets and save the date here! What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow
Tue, July 02, 2024
The Hidden History of Early Denver's Sex Workers
Thoughts of the Wild West illicit imagery of cowboys, miners, railroad workers, land speculators; jobs often held by men. But in the early days of Denver women were also working — businesswomen, called madams, ran parlor houses and brothels that served the growing city, and many women were employed as sex workers at these Lower Downtown establishments. Host Bree Davies sat down last year with History Colorado’s Assistant Curator of Serials, Ann Sneesby-Koch , to dig into the nuanced, complicated, and fascinating world of early sex work in late 1800s Denver. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Central City Opera PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 01, 2024
Your Guide to July in Denver
If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. July in Denver means it’s time for hot dogs, swimming pools, and summer fun! We’ve got plenty of super local recs, hidden gems, and some tips for keeping cool in the Mile High, like taking a dip at an off-the-radar reservoir or hitting up an indoor art show with prints inspired by cats! Come party with us at the Colfax Indie Bash! We’re doing a live podcast recording on July 18 with a very special guest, and we’d love to see you there. There’ll be food, drinks, and plenty of Colfax-y goodness. RSVP here! For even more tips on how to make the most of July in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like PineMelon and Central City Opera. And we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise . Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 28, 2024
Why Progressives Lost, Dems’ Cringey Stunt, and Colorado’s Scariest Animals
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the news of the week. First, the primaries are over! Now it’s time for the Democrats and Republicans to do some soul searching — where will these two internally divided parties go from here? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by our politics and green chile correspondent, Justine Sandoval, to dig into the details of the big losses and surprising wins from this primary. Then, it’s really summer now and that means lots of outdoorsy activities and chance encounters with wild animals. Producer Olivia Jewell Love joins to share her list of the top five scariest creatures in Colorado. And of course, our wins and fails of the week. The team talked about Tiffany Caudill’’s post on X on election night and this video of the Colorado Democrats trolling GOP party chair Dave Williams . Bree mentioned Jason Sheehan’s brilliant tribute to Biker Jim. Paul discussed our interview with Congresswoman Lauren Boebert and Bennito Kelty’s piece for Westword about Bike to Work Day . Justine talked about the first case of West Nile in Colorado this year. We want to hear from you! Who would you nominate to be on Denver’s culinary Mt. Rushmore? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: RAQC Denver Health <a href="https
Thu, June 27, 2024
The Antisemitic Assassination That Shocked Denver
Forty years ago, a group of white supremacists calling themselves The Order of Death gunned down one of Denver most beloved talk radio hosts, Alan Berg, in the driveway of his home on Adams St. off Colfax. The antisemitic attack was a shock to our city, but as antisemitism and far-right extremism have surged once again, it’s more important than ever to understand what happened and why. KNUS host Peter Boyles was Berg’s colleague and friend, and he’s on today to share his story of the attack and explain how it shaped the radio business to this day. Don’t miss Peter’s piece on the 40-year anniversary of Berg’s assassination that ran in The Denver Post earlier this month. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: RAQC Denver Health Denver Century Ride Babbel Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 26, 2024
The Primary Election Results You Need to Know
Coloradans voted in primary elections all across the state yesterday, with hotly contested races deciding the future of both the Democratic and Republican parties. Here in Denver, voters picked our next district attorney and decided the political future of two firebrand progressive legislators in House Districts 4 and 6. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi were up late watching the results roll in, and they’re breaking down everything you need to know. Find the latest local results at Denver Elections and statewide results at the secretary of state’s website . Bree mentioned this Denver Post article on dark money in these primaries. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about the results? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: RAQC Denver Health Denver Century Ride Babbel Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 25, 2024
16th St. Blues, Losing Neighborhood Restaurants, and a Ranked Choice Clap Back
It’s Tuesday, and we’re digging into the biggest stories of the week. The 16th Street Mall is still under construction , tourists have yet to return in full, and office vacancies remain high, leaving some local business owners to wonder if they can survive. Plus, the Harvey Park Grille looked to be the beginning of a neighborhood renaissance — until it closed after just four months in business. Was southwest Denver not ready for such a hip restaurant, or were there more factors at play? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into the latest on the 16th St. Mall and dish on neighborhood restaurants. Plus, a listener’s spicy comment on ranked choice voting. Also, it’s election day! Don’t forget to vote! Paul and Bree discussed past guest (and Bree’s former boss) Brad Segal, who guested on our episode from last year about converting downtown office buildings to residences. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What is the best restaurant in your neighborhood? We want to hear about the spot that does everything right! Or the spot that just does enough. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Regional Air Quality Control Council Denver Health Denver Century Ride PineMelon Babbel Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, June 24, 2024
How to Beat The Heat This Summer
Summer in Denver has officially begun and temps are hitting the 90s. So where do you go in this city for a chilly respite? Host Bree Davies is joined by newsletter editor Peyton Garcia and producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to share their favorite places to cool off — from cheap or free options to some pricey picks if you’re really desperate to beat that heat! Some links to learn more about all the things we talked about: National Science Foundation Ice Core Facility (Lakewood) Colorado Ice Works (Englewood) Hessaire MC18M Swamp Cooler IKEA Scavenger Hunt Free days at various museums Tubing in Golden , The Golden Mill (Golden) Great Wolf Lodge (Colorado Springs) Go dip your feet in a mountain creek (Maybe Estes Park ?) Ride the Pegasus Shuttle This episode originally aired on August, 17, 2023. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 24th episode: RAQC New Era Colorado Denver Health Denver Century Ride For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, June 22, 2024
Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose: New District, New Boebert
This is the fifth episode of a special, limited-run podcast series, Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose , from City Cast Denver. Catch the first four episodes on our website: denver.citycast.fm ! When Lauren Boebert announced late last year that she was moving to run for Congress in a whole new district, the experts all thought she was toast. But here we are on the eve of Colorado’s Republican primaries on June 25, and she is the clear frontrunner to win. She’s polling 35% ahead of her closest opponent, and she raised more money than all five of them combined. So on the fifth episode of this limited podcast series, we’ve got the story of how she came back from the Beetlejuice scandal stronger than ever. Heidi Beedle mentioned evangelical leader Lance Wallnau’s description of Trump as a “ modern-day King Cyrus .” For more from Heidi, you can find their latest reporting at the Colorado Times Recorder . Bree Davies is our host. Paul Karolyi reported and produced this episode with tons of support from the rest of the team at City Cast, including but not exclusively Wil Fulton, Olivia Jewell Love, Andi McDaniel, Xandra McMahon, David Plotz, Andrea Silenzi, and Noah Sniderman. Our music is by Don Chicharrón and Los Mocochetes . Thanks also to Joshua Emerson for production support. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about Congresswoman Lauren Boebert? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 21, 2024
Barnes & Noble & Tattered Cover, Pride So Corporate, and Our Pride Guide
It’s Friday, and we’re digging into the biggest stories of the week. First, Barnes & Noble put in the most competitive bid to purchase Tattered Cover , which is facing bankruptcy after more than 50 years as Denver’s most iconic, independent bookstore. Plus, as Denver Pride celebrates 50 years this weekend, we wonder: Is this celebration of a revolution too corporate ? Host Bree Davies is joined by Kate McLachlan of the Dyketopia podcast and the Sie FilmCenter’s Keith Garcia to talk big money influence in Denver and share their top picks for how to celebrate Pride right in the Mile High. Bree mentioned the latest Masterpiece Bakeshop legal case , the LGBTQ+ community’s boycott of Coors , and local artist Sofie Birkin’s work for Starbucks . Keith shouted out the Playhaus and Junk Drawer parties, both happening this weekend, and CinemaQ going down in August. Kate talked about children’s camp classic “ Mother Goose Rock ‘n’ Rhyme ” — catch her at Pride Comedy Night and the Dyke Drama movie series. What do you think about corporate money in Pride? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: <
Thu, June 20, 2024
The Living Legacy of Denver's Forgotten Amusement Park
How did an entire amusement park, one complete with a zoo, a steamboat on Sloan’s lake, and death defying stunts, seemingly disappear out of Denver’s memory? Manhattan Beach opened in 1890 and set the groundwork for the parks we love today like Elitch Gardens and Lakeside. Host Bree Davies sits down with David Forsyth, author of “The Amusement Park at Sloan's Lake: The Lost History of Denver's Manhattan Beach,” to chat about Manhattan Beach in its heyday, the fierce amusement park rivalries of the 19th and 20th centuries, and how Manhattan Beach’s legacy continues to shape Denver. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Central City Opera New Era Colorado PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 18, 2024
Yvie Oddly on RuPaul, Denver Drag, and Their Black Panther Roots
RuPaul’s Drag Race has rocketed many drag performers from primetime TV to international stardom — including multiple queens from right here in Denver. In their new book, “All About Yvie: Into the Oddity,” RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 11 winner Yvie Oddly explains how growing up in the Mile High City as a Black queer kid played into their formation as an artist, musician, and performer. Yvie will be appearing at the Tattered Cover to talk about their new book this Thursday, June 20 ; (it’s currently sold out, but check back for openings!) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PineMelon Central City Opera New Era Colorado If you enjoyed today's interview with RAQC's Communications and Programs Coordinator, Kelsey Simpkins, learn more here. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, June 17, 2024
6 Awesome Outdoor Adventures for Your Summer
Summer is heating up, so it’s the perfect time to pack up your bag and get out there! Even if it’s just to part of the city you’ve never been to before. Host Bree Davies is joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval, as well as local comedian and outdoor educator Eeland Stribling to recommend some epic outdoor adventures to take this summer, from the best spot to kayak on the South Platte downtown to hiking through the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Eeland mentioned his “Comedians on the Fly” series on Youtube, and you can keep up with him on Instagram. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . What outdoor adventure are you planning this summer? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Monarch Casino PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, June 15, 2024
Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
This is the fourth episode of a special, limited-run podcast series, Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose , from City Cast Denver. Don’t miss the first episode, “ The Escort Rumors ,” the second, “ How The Boebert Brand Was Born ,” or the third, “ The Pueblo Problem .” It all started because Congresswoman Lauren Boebert got caught in a lie. She said that all she did was dance and sing too loud during Beetlejuice: The Musical. She joked about getting kicked out and missing the end of the show. But when people saw what she really did on the high-resolution surveillance footage that leaked to the press, it changed the course of her career forever. So on the fourth episode of this limited podcast series, we’ve got the story of how the Beetlejuice scandal played out, and what it meant to the people who supported her most. Bree Davies is our host. Paul Karolyi reported and produced this episode with tons of support from the rest of the team at City Cast, including but not exclusively Wil Fulton, Olivia Jewell Love, Andi McDaniel, Xandra McMahon, David Plotz, Andrea Silenzi, and Noah Sniderman. Our music is by Don Chicharrón and Los Mocochetes . Thanks also to Joshua Emerson for production support. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about Congresswoman Lauren Boebert? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at <a href="https://denver.citycast
Fri, June 14, 2024
Debating Democracy, RTD’s Rough Week, and Indian Restaurant Ripoffs
It’s Friday, and we’re digging into the biggest stories of the week. First, local multimillionaire Kent Thiry is bankrolling a new campaign to reform Colorado’s elections, and the signature-gathering kicked off this week. Will you give the DaVita founder’s ideas your John Hancock? Plus, public transit riders face “ mounting disruptions ” as RTD struggles with outages and maintenance issues, according the Denver Post. Colorado Newsline senior reporter Chase Woodruff and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval join producer Paul Karolyi to break down those stories and, of course, share our wins and fails of the week. Confused about how ranked choice voting works? Check out the explainer we published in our newsletter this week. Paul referenced Chase’s excellent analysis of how effective Kent Thiry’s last few election reforms and suggests this longread from The Lever on Kent Thiry’s political ambitions . He also referenced CoLab’s recent Voter Voices survey , and the John Oliver clip of Kent Thiry. Justine talked about Sony Pictures buying Alamo Drafthouse and the labor organizing at local Live Nation venues. Paul highlighted this BusinessDen article about Indian restaurants. Chase talked about the new Denver museum and Manny Barella . What do you think about ranked choice voting? Would you prefer voting that way? Or not? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: <a href="htt
Thu, June 13, 2024
Why Leora Joseph Wants to Be District Attorney
Most Colorado voters have received their primary ballots already and the local race for the city’s next District Attorney is certainly one to watch. Two Democratic challengers are facing off over growing concerns around gun violence, police misconduct, fentanyl-related crimes, and more. Host Bree Davies chatted with both candidates individually ahead of the upcoming election. Today, meet candidate Leora Joseph, a former prosecutor who currently runs the Office of Behavioral Health at the Department of Human Services. Check out our show from yesterday for a conversation with the other DA candidate, John Walsh. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Monarch Casino Pine Melon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 12, 2024
Why John Walsh Wants to Be District Attorney
Primary ballots are officially out and Denverites will be voting on the city’s next District Attorney. Two Democratic challengers are up for the task, which includes addressing growing issues around gun violence, police misconduct, fentanyl-related crimes, and more. Host Bree Davies chatted with both candidates individually ahead of the upcoming election. Today, meet candidate John Walsh, a longtime Denver resident and former U.S. Attorney for Colorado. Tomorrow, hear Bree chat with candidate Leora Joseph. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Monarch Casino Pine Melon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 11, 2024
The Making of Casa Bonita 2.0 and DAM's Latest Indigenous Artifact Issues
The Denver Art Museum is under scrutiny after the Denver Post reported that members from the vast Indigenous community recently claimed the institution "does not seem they are willing to work with tribes,” in regards to returning stolen artifacts. This isn’t the first time the museum has been in hot water for an alleged unwillingness to repatriate artifacts — back in April, Alaskan tribes came to the museum to claim lost relics , but left empty handed. Navajo tribal member and comedian Joshua Emerson is back to chat with host Bree Davies about the complexity behind this repatriation law and what it means when the Native community is treated as a monolith. Plus, Joshua gives some insider insight into “¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor!”, the new documentary about the making of the Pink Palace 2.0. Joshua mentioned the DAM’s Native Arts Artist-In-Residence program and the creation of the Indigenous Community Advisory Council . History Colorado , the Bureau of Indian Affairs , and the National Parks Service all have additional information on the Native American Graves and Protection and Repatriation Act. Bree mentioned the DAM’s instagram post from over the weekend, as well as our conversation with Sam Tabachnik about his investigative reporting on the museum’s connections to the illicit antiquities trade in 2022. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: <a href="https://m
Mon, June 10, 2024
The Mile High’s Best and Worst Tourist Traps
It’s no secret — Denver is a tourist destination. But knowing which attractions are worth your time and money can be tricky. If you want to really wow your friends from out of town, which destinations are just tourist traps , and which ones are the real gems, you know — the tourist treats ? Last year, host Bree Davies, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia, and producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love built a list of their can’t-miss and definitely-pass attractions from downtown D-town to the ski towns of the Rockies. We want to hear from you, too! What are the Denver-area tourist attractions that you really unabashedly love? And which made you feel empty inside? Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood on the Tourist Trap Hotline, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Here are links to all the places we mentioned: Royal Gorge Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave The Denver Zoo Downtown Aquarium Water World Manitou Cliff Dwellings Tiny Town Winter Park Peyton mentioned a 2022 Westword investigation into the Downtown Aquarium — we chatted with reporter Catie Cheshire about her findings. Bree also mentioned our tour of Water World last summer. Paul brought up Raven Payment’s Twitter thread on the Manitou Cliff Dwellings Every weekday, you can get even more recommendations for fun stuff to do in our Hey Denver newsletter! Subscribe here or by texting “Denver” to 66866 For even more news from around the city, subscribe
Sat, June 08, 2024
Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose: The Pueblo Problem
This is the third episode of a special, limited-run podcast series, Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose , from City Cast Denver. Don’t miss the first episode, “ The Escort Rumors ,” or the second, “ How The Boebert Brand Was Born .” As a first-term member of Congress, Lauren Boebert made a name for herself by doing exactly what the conservatives of rural Colorado sent her to Washington to do: Confront Democrats. She accused a fellow representative of being a terrorist, attempted to impeach President Joe Biden, and heckled the president during his 2022 State of the Union. But being a member of Congress isn’t just about headline-grabbing antics. So on the third episode of this limited podcast series, we’ve got the story of what this celebrity MAGA warrior has actually done as a legislator and how it affected a very important group of her constituents — veterans in Pueblo, Colorado. Bree Davies is our host. Paul Karolyi reported and produced this episode with tons of support from the rest of the team at City Cast, including but not exclusively Wil Fulton, Olivia Jewell Love, Andi McDaniel, Xandra McMahon, David Plotz, Andrea Silenzi, and Noah Sniderman. Our music is by Don Chicharrón and Los Mocochetes . Thanks also to Joshua Emerson for production support. Paul mentioned a Boebert profile that ran in Politico on September 13, 2023, with the headline “ Lauren Boebert Ditches the MAGA thing in Colorado ,” featuring quotes from Colorado senator John Hickenlooper (D-CO). Thanks to Colorado League of Women Voters for their permission to play a clip from their candidate forum , dated October 12, 2022. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about Congresswoman Lauren Boebert? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your
Fri, June 07, 2024
Kyle Clark on His Big Week, the GOP’s Pride Fail, and Zipper Merge Fever!
It’s Friday and we’re rounding up the news of the week. First, Kyle Clark’s stellar performance as a moderator for the Congressional District 4 debates caught the attention of Jimmy Kimmel, so we had to ask him about it. The 9News anchor also joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the Colorado GOP’s weird week involving the slandering of Pride and a friendly nod to the Westboro Baptist Church. Then, an epic city council sidewalk disappointment , a celebration of the zipper merge , and more wins and fails of the week. We talked about our special series Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose , as well as both Kyle and Bree’s interviews with congressional district candidate Valdamar Archuleta. Kyle mentioned 9News’ review of the handling of the initial investigation into Elijah McClain’s death and Paul shouted out Representative Steph Vigil’s legislation supporting gig workers . Bree talked about American Culture’s show this weekend at D3 Arts — and you can hear “Hey Brother, It’s Been a While” , the band’s latest release on Bandcamp. For more on the Westboro Baptist Church, Paul recommends this interview with former Westboro member Megan Phelps-Roper . It’s from a podcast he produced a few years ago, hosted by the badass local pastor Nadia Bolz-Weber. What do you think about Kyle Clark’s performance at the CD4 debate last week? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycast
Thu, June 06, 2024
Why a Gay Republican in Denver is Rejecting His Own Party's Endorsement
This week, the Colorado GOP sent out an email with the subject line, “God Hates Pride.” The email, containing a picture of a laser-eyed Jesus over a pride flag with the phrase “God Hates Flags”, saw a lot of pushback online — even from within the party. One of the most outspoken critics of the email is Valdamar Archuleta, a gay Republican running to represent Denver in Congress. In a video posted to X , Archuleta condemns the email and rejects the Colorado GOP’s endorsement of his campaign. He joins host Bree Davies to talk about why he felt the email went too far and whether he still feels welcome in his own party. Bree mentioned a CPR News story on the Colorado GOP’s attack on Pride Month; she also talked about the myths around statistics of people who actually perpetrate sex crimes against children. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Central City Opera Arvada Center Summer Concert Series Museum of Outdoor Arts Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 05, 2024
Goodbye Free Fares, Front Range Rail Dreams Deferred, and Banning Cell Phones
For two summers in a row, RTD ran its “Zero Fare for Better Air” free transit promotion to combat emissions. This year riders won’t be so lucky , with state funding for the program going elsewhere. That could be the least of Denverites’ worries however, with multiple central light rail lines downtown being shut down over the next few months for maintenance. And what about Governor Polis’ dream of a Front Range Passenger Rail ? CPR growth and transportation reporter Nathaniel Minor joins host Bree Davies to breakdown these big transit stories, plus dig into concerns over a new law targeting cell phone usage while driving and more. Nate’s story on pedestrian activist Phyllis Mack: https://denverite.com/2024/05/17/honoring-late-denver-pedestrian-activist-phyllis-mack/ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Central City Opera Arvada Center Summer Concert Series Museum of Outdoor Arts Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 04, 2024
Odor in the Court! Plus, Predatory Towing Crackdown and a Carpetbagger in Congress
Some residents living within smelling distance of the Nestlé Purina PetCare plant in Elyria-Swansea have had enough, and have filed a class action lawsuit against the global enterprise. Could the operation’s odiferous offenses be bad enough to be considered unlawful? Then, Governor Polis signed HB 1051 into law last week , taking aim at the predatory towing practices of Wyatts Towing in particular. Host Bree Davies is joined by Westword editor Patty Calhoun to talk the gentrification of stinky air issues, private business-specific legislation, carpetbagger Congresswoman Lauren Boebert, and more news of the week. Bree mentioned a previous episode about Senator Julie Gonzales’ towing woes and Skyler McKinley’s deep dive into the history and water-conscious future of Riverside Cemetery . Patty talked about her co-ownership of the Wonder View Tower , which resides in congressional district 4. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Central City Opera Arvada Center Summer Concert Series Museum of Outdoor Arts PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, June 03, 2024
Is This the Wildest Primary Season Yet?
Primary ballots hit mailboxes this week! A record number of incumbents are having to defend their seats , and fundraising numbers are through the roof. Some interesting patterns are emerging too, as both the Democrats and Republicans are seeing more division within their own parties. Colorado Politics statehouse reporter Marianne Goodland joins host Bree Davies to talk about the hottest primary battles to watch, where the money is coming and going, and why so many politicians are eager to oust colleagues from their own parties. Bree mentioned our previous interview with House District 4 Representative Tim Hernández. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Which primaries are you watching? We want to know what you think! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Central City Opera Arvada Center Summer Concert Series Museum of Outdoor Arts Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, June 02, 2024
“The Lunch-Meat Mafia” from Lever Time
We are excited to share a bonus episode with you this weekend. It’s the latest from friend of the show David Sirota and Lever Time , the flagship weekly podcast from The Lever . Sirota founded The Lever a few years ago as a fully subscriber-supported, independent news organization, and they’ve already made a splash in DC. The Lever’s reporting has helped lead to new protections for airline refunds and increased scrutiny and oversight over the tragic rail disaster in East Palestine, Ohio. This episode of Lever Time highlights a story playing out much closer to home. It’s about JBS, the company that runs the giant meatpacking plant in Greeley. Here’s how the Lever Time team describes it: Behind nearly every hamburger or chicken nugget handed out in a school cafeteria is JBS Foods, a multi-billion dollar conglomerate run by a billionaire butcher family who bribed their way to become the world’s largest meat processor. Today on Lever Time, we look at how JBS captured the meat market, harmed workers, pulverized the environment, and generally tainted all your lunch meats with a hefty dose of corporate corruption. Every year, the U.S. government gives JBS Foods millions of dollars in subsidies, on top of the millions more it pays the company to supply meat for school lunches and the military. Despite JBS’ long history of illegal behavior, its market dominance has made it impossible for the government to avoid working with them, according to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. JBS isn’t an outlier; today, a handful of companies control most of the country’s agricultural supply. We covered JBS a couple years ago on City Cast Denver when the company was launching a new plant-based “start-up” called Planterra. That episode, dated July 27, 2022, is called “ Why a Global Meat Company is Going Plant-Based in Denver .” JBS has since shut down Planterra . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about JBS? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for po
Sat, June 01, 2024
Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose: How The Boebert Brand Was Born
This is the second episode of a special, limited-run podcast series, Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose , from City Cast Denver. Don’t miss the first episode, “ The Escort Rumors .” In the fall of 2019, Beto O’Rourke was the politician to watch. An energetic young Dem who gave Ted Cruz a run for his money in the 2018 Texas Senate race, Beto ran for president on a strong gun control message! Then one day at a rally, a woman shows up to confront the candidate with a gun on her hip. On the second episode of this limited podcast series, we learn how Lauren Boebert built the Boebert brand. Bree Davies is our host. Paul Karolyi reported and produced this episode with tons of support from the rest of the team at City Cast, including but not exclusively Wil Fulton, Olivia Jewell Love, Andi McDaniel, Xandra McMahon, David Plotz, Andrea Silenzi, and Noah Sniderman. Our music is by Don Chicharrón and Los Mocochetes . Thanks also to Joshua Emerson for production support. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about Congresswoman Lauren Boebert? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 31, 2024
Police Hiring Scandal, Speed Trap Bonanza, and a Stuffed Raccoon
In a press conference earlier this week, head of the Civil Service Commission Niecy Murray blamed Mayor Mike Johnston for pressuring the Denver Police Department to lower standards for law enforcement applicants . But just hours after her public statements, Murray was fired. On the other side of town, Morrison’s new cameras have ticketed more than 9,000 drivers for speeding along the town’s main strip in less than two weeks. Are more cameras the answer slowing traffic down? Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Denverite transportation and city politics reporter Rebecca Tauber to dig into these stories plus Shaun White in Denver, Antiques Roadshow filming in the Mile High, and more wins and fails of the week. Paul mentioned local law enforcement’s recent embrace of drones , summer gas price hikes , and this weekend’s Outside Festival . Bree talked about Denver Police Salary numbers and the mayor’s less than tasteful social media post . Rebecca mentioned Denverite’s taxidermy - ed newsroom raccoon and and a local trivia outfit, Geeks Who Drink . What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other li
Thu, May 30, 2024
Your Guide to June in Denver
If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you , with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. We are finally in the days of late sunsets and warm weather, and the City Cast Denver team has lots of ideas for how to spend your long summer days and nights. From hitting up the hottest Pride parties to crushing a cold glass of sangria, get ready to make this June the best one yet! For even more tips on how to make the most of June in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Denver Health AND PineMelon . And we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise . Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 29, 2024
Our Favorite Hikes Near Denver
With the weather warming up, it’s a great time for Denverites to escape the heat of the city and hit the trails. Whether you’re looking for a stunning view or a physical challenge, we’ve got tons of great hiking options for the outdoor novice to the expert adventurer. Last summer, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia joined producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to help narrow down our favorite hikes near the Mile High. Here are links to all the hikes we mentioned: South Loop Trail at Elk Meadow Park (Near Evergreen) Enchanted Mesa behind Chautauqua Park (Boulder) Fountain Valley Loop Trail at Roxborough State Park (Near Morrison) Brother’s Lookout and Three Sisters Loop (Near Evergreen) Trail to the A (Outside Fort Collins) Picketwire Canyon Trail (Near Rocky Ford) Silverdale Heritage Trail (Near Georgetown) Sky Pond (Rocky Mountain National Park) Fancy Pass and Missouri Lakes Loop (Near Leadville) Bree also talked about the Hanging Lake Trail reconstruction and the reservation system hikers can use to access the trail. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PineMelon <a href="http://
Tue, May 28, 2024
City Council Members Talk Protest Arrests, Low Approval Ratings, and Wage Theft
A new survey shows that both the mayor and city council’s approval ratings are well below 50%. But Denver’s at-large council members, Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez and Sarah Parady, say there’s some context missing in the media’s presentation of the data . The council members join host Bree Davies to dig into the survey, plus talk about how the Denver Police Department handled the protester arrests at Auraria Campus, why city council approved a contentious shelter funding contract with the Salvation Army, and what the Governor’s recent veto of a wage theft bill says about our state leader’s priorities. Bree mentioned the Colorado Fiscal Institute’s wage theft report . We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Denver swag. Thanks! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise <
Fri, May 24, 2024
Hot Garbage Summer, Putting Teens To Work, and Fentanyl Hysteria
This week Mayor Johnston rolled out a new program that would pay teens extra money for working a summer job. Will the infusion of cash be an effective way to curb youth violence? Meanwhile, the Colorado GOP sent a letter to families encouraging them to pull children out of public schools before they “turn more kids trans” — but the political benefit of this maneuver remains to be seen. Then, the Mile High’s new compost program was supposed to do wonders for our waste, but it seems more like hot garbage. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by comedian and Casa Bonita immersive actor Joshua Emerson to dig into these stories, plus the mayor’s low approval ratings, Denver sports fans’ low morale, and the low blows of a new hysteria-laced documentary on fentanyl. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 23, 2024
Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose: The Escort Rumors
This is the first episode of a special, limited-run podcast series, Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose , from City Cast Denver. Between heckling President Biden’s State of the Union address in 2022 and her big night out at a production of “Beetlejuice” last year, Lauren Boebert is perhaps the most infamous member of Congress. But alongside the headlines, there are a million salacious stories swirling around about her personal life. On the first episode of this limited podcast series, we track one of the most sensational allegations into the dark underbelly of American politics. Bree Davies is our host. Paul Karolyi reported and produced this episode with tons of support from the rest of the team at City Cast, including but not exclusively Wil Fulton, Olivia Jewell Love, Andi McDaniel, Xandra McMahon, David Plotz, Andrea Silenzi, and Noah Sniderman, Our music is by Don Chicharrón and Los Mocochetes . Thanks also to Joshua Emerson for production support. Paul mentioned this New York Times article on recent defamation lawsuits. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf’s Danceportation Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 22, 2024
The Secrets Beneath Denver's Oldest Operating Cemetery
At first glance, Riverside Cemetery’s parched plots might appear to be abandoned — but a closer look reveals the graveyard is actually ahead of the curve when it comes to water conservation. The dusty burial ground is also the city’s oldest-operating cemetery, home to headstones for some of the Mile High’s earliest and most important figures — including Clara Brown and Silas Soule, and the most Civil War veterans of any graveyard in the state. As Memorial Day approaches, Skyler McKinley went digging around to find out more about the long lost history of important Denverites and what the future could look like if more cemeteries embraced an environmentally-conscious approach. Read Skyler’s cover story on Riverside Cemetery for Westword this week. Bree and Skyler also talked about the Tabor Grand Opera House , which once stood at 16th and Curtis Streets. We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Denver swag. Thanks! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf’s Danceportation Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 21, 2024
Crime Stat Hysteria and Illegal Hot Dogs in LoDo
It’s Tuesday and we’re rounding up the big stories of the week. First, the anti-war protest camp that ran for more than three weeks on Auraria campus was dismantled over the weekend , but questions remain over what led to the decision. Then, is violent crime a growing issue for Colorado? According to a new report from US News and World Report , we’re the 3rd most dangerous state in America — but a closer look at the data reveals a more complex picture. Finally, the City of Denver says sales of illegal hot dogs are on the rise , leaving us wondering: what’s so bad about an non-permitted dog? Host Bree Davies is joined by Westword editor Patty Calhoun to dig into these stories, plus a listener comment shines a light on the Stanley Hotel’s recent film industry past. Bree mentioned a statement posted to Instagram by the Students for a Democratic Society after the dismantling of the Auraria encampment. We also discussed our previous episode on the fate of the Stanley Hotel and the original Stanley Film Festival that ran from 2013-2015. We also talked about our past episode on auto theft numbers going down. We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Denver swag. Thanks! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf’s Danceportation <a href="https://pinemelon.co
Mon, May 20, 2024
Why These Denver Parking Lots Are the Worst
From Whole Foods in Cherry Creek to Costco in Arvada, the Denver metro area is home to many terrible parking lots. But which ones are the absolute worst to navigate, and what makes them so bad? Host Bree Davies is joined by Denver Post neighborhoods reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, who went on a mission to find out what makes the parking lot predicament so messy in the Mile High. Plus, readers and listeners share their thoughts and feelings about their least favorite parking situations in the city. Bree talked about the dream many environmental activists have for public transit to Red Rocks . She also mentioned our episode with Ken Schroeppel of Denver Infill where we talked about the parking conundrum with new developments in Denver . 9News shared information on the Auraria campus anti-war encampment dismantling on Friday. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf’s Danceportation! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 17, 2024
Avs and Addiction, a Dem Against Gay Marriage, and Bye-Bye Endless Shrimp
Without leading scorer Val Nichushkin, will the Avs be able to take the Stanley Cup again? This week the team’s forward was suspended for six months , continuing his path in an NHL player support program to address undisclosed issues. Then Regina English, a democratic representative from Colorado Springs, voted against gay marriage in a state where it has been legal for a decade. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dig into these stories, plus Red Lobster’s abrupt exit from the metro area, the town of Vail canceling an artist’s residency over politics, and more wins and fails of the week. Paul recommended David Foster Wallace’s classic article, “ Consider the Lobster .” You heard “This Time is Forever” from Dave Devine’s band Delby L’s Steve Albini-engineered record, Nine Skies . Pauls thread on r/ColoradoSprings. Paul referenced this CBS story about Val Nichushkin’s playoff absence last year. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Check out the summer concert series at the Arvada Center ! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit mega
Thu, May 16, 2024
The Uncertain Future of Colorado's Most Iconic Hotel
The Stanley Hotel has been a tourist stop in Estes Park for decades since the iconic place appeared in Stephen King’s The Shining. But back in December of 2023, it looked like the hotel was getting a new owner and a new lease on life — except that big real estate deal never came together, leaving lots of questions about the fate of the historic property. After months of speculation, renewed interest in the building and its grounds becoming a hub for filmmakers, and potential plans to amp up its ties to horror movie history, things might be actually changing. Host Bree Davies sits down with 5280 Magazine’s Jay Bouchard, who has been investigating the complex prospect of a rebirth for the Stanley Hotel. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Check out the summer concert series at the Arvada Center ! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 15, 2024
Denver’s Forgotten Queer History
Denver has emerged as the only U.S. city left out of 10 places worldwide being considered for the 2030 Gay Games . The games — which began in 1982 and happen every four years — invite over 10,000 LGBTQ+ people to compete in more than 30 different sports. With Denver being a serious contender for this celebrated event, no better time than now to look back at this city’s storied LGBTQ+ history and culture. Back in 2022, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi went on a tour of Capitol Hill with comics artist and historian B. Erin Cole to learn all about the gayborhood’s deep roots in the Mile High. Don't miss the very first episode of our spinoff podcast ' Lauren Boebert Can't Lose ' coming out later today. Subscribe right now wherever you get your podcasts, and tell a friend! B. Erin Cole’s illustrated map of queer Capitol Hill can be found as part of History Colorado’s Rainbows and Revolutions exhibit, on view now. Find more of B. Erin’s work here . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Check out the summer concert series at the Arvada Center ! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 14, 2024
The ‘Spicy Food’ Problem, A Hot Springs Expansion, and Nuggets Bounce Back
Is our food really too spicy ? Venezuelan newcomers are saying so — but the guy who dropped off a “boxes and boxes” of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos at an encampment is not the only reason why some are now demanding more from the city. Then, the Glenwood Springs Hot Springs’ long-awaited renovations are finally complete , but will they be enough to set the historic mineral water resort from tough competition in the canyon? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into these stories, plus the Nuggets’ big playoffs comeback and a listener comment on road rage. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Check out the summer concert series at the Arvada Center ! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, May 13, 2024
What Denverites Need To Know About CO's New Laws
The dust is still settling after state lawmakers wrapped up their legislative session last week, and it was a big one! After opening with a ferocious debate over Gaza and calls for decorum, the session featured more than 700 bills and somehow wrapped with a handful of bipartisan agreements. Today Host Bree Davies is joined by longtime statehouse political reporter Marianne Goodland to recap some of the biggest stories of the session and how lawmakers made it all happen. Marianne discussed the lingering debate over RTD reform. We covered that issue a few times recently: Is the State About To Boost Funding For RTD? (April 24, 2024) Is Governor Polis Trying To Take Over RTD? (April 3, 2024) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Arvada Center’s Summer Concert Series Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 10, 2024
A Concert Ticket Fix, Road Rage, and Jamal Murray’s Tantrum
A new bill could require concert ticket sellers to show the actual price of tickets upfront. But data shows that might not be the root of the problem. Plus, a recent study found that Colorado ranks in the top five for road rage , including a higher than national average for gun violence-related incidents. Local music industry veteran Bruce Trujillo and award-winning comedian Joshua Emerson join host Bree Davies to break down the biggest stories of the week, including the Nuggets’ bad playoffs behavior, a certain concert to avoid, and more. Bruce shouted out Girls Rock Denver ! She also is opening Manos Sagrados , a new art and performance space, in Aurora this summer. Joshua’s got a show coming up at Denver Fringe Festival in June! Bree cited some data first reported by KDVR about road rage and aggressive driving calls to the Colorado State Patrol. She also talked about her mom, Brooke, being honored for National Nurses Week ! Joshua talked about Sam Tallent’s book, Running the Light, about life on the road as a stand-up comic. Bree talked to Sam on our show a couple years ago to hear more and swap stories. What do you think about road rage? Do Denverites especially have a problem with it? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Wine Board Levitt Pavillion <
Thu, May 09, 2024
Why Denver Still Lags Behind Other Cities on Homelessness
The City of Denver spent at least $274 million to combat the homelessness crisis between 2021 and 2024, but according to a new investigation from the Denver Gazette , our results lag far behind other cities like Seattle and Houston. Reporters Chris Osher and Jenny Deam dug into a trove of data and sought out service providers, former city workers, federal officials, and people experiencing homelessness to learn more about where Denver is falling short. They join host Bree Davies to try to explain why the problem is getting worse and how our new mayor Mike Johnston’s approach differs from other cities. Check out our recent interview with Mayor Johnston , where he discusses the current state of his administration’s approach to homelessness. Here’s the housing dashboard Mayor Johnston uses to track his progress. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about Denver’s current approach to homelessness? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Wine Board Levitt Pavillion Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 08, 2024
Introducing ‘Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose’
The first episode of ‘Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose’ is coming on May 15. What do you think about Congresswoman Lauren Boebert? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 You can also email us at denver@citycast.fm and support the show by becoming a member at membership.citycast.fm . Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 08, 2024
RiNo’s Vinyl Future, Music Promoter Arrested, and Meow Wolf’s Growing Pains
Expansions, mismanagement, and a major arrest — we’re rounding up the biggest news stories of the Denver art scene this week. After years of rumors, former jam band promoter and venue owner Jay Bianchi was finally arrested on charges of sexual assault . Then, Meow Wolf is sending mixed signals with a major expansion announcement in the midst of company-wide layoffs, while the leadership at Vinyl Me, Please’s new record pressing plant in RiNo have just been fired and sued by their own board. Host Bree Davies sits down with Denver Post entertainment reporter John Wenzel to dig into the details of everything going down in the arts world. John joined us back in 2022 to talk about Denver Meow Wolf workers unionizing and in 2023 to talk about Vinyl Me, Please and a new “music district” in RiNo . Also, check out our past episode with one of the women who accused Bianchi of sexual assault way back in 2021. Listen to John’s band Undersale on Bandcamp and find more information about their show with Guided By Voices this Friday, May 10, at the Marquis Theater. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Wine Board Levitt Pavillion Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 07, 2024
Lawmakers Who Drink, Banning Rent Algorithms, and an Exciting Announcement
Stories about alcohol abuse at the state capitol are nothing new, but a series of high-profile incidents have cast the boozy culture of politics into the spotlight. So as lawmakers are sprinting to the end of the legislative session this week, host Bree Davies sits down with producer Paul Karolyi to talk about alcohol’s role in politics, plus we’ve got the latest updates on the Palestinian solidarity protest ongoing at Auraria and the bill that would’ve banned algorithms from determining your rent . City Cast Denver members listening on the ad-free feed also get an exclusive preview of a special project we’re gearing up to release later this month. If you’re not a member yet and you want to hear that sneak peek for yourself, sign up today at membership.citycast.fm. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PineMelon -- the farmers market, delivered. PineMelon is a new generation online grocery platform with a strong commitment to supporting local farmers and delivering fresh, quality ingredients to our customers. Use the code CITYCASTDENVER to get $75 off your first grocery order today! Colorado Wine Board Levitt Pavillion Denver Botanic Garden’s Spring Plant Sale Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, May 06, 2024
What Federal ‘Rescheduling’ Means for the Local Weed Scene
Cannabis has been a "Schedule I" drug for decades, meaning the federal government regulates it the same way as heroin. But that could be changing soon, with the recent surprise news of a potential rescheduling . Host Bree Davies sits down with former cannabis reporter, founder of Grasslands PR Agency, and industry insider Ricardo Baca to learn more about why local cannabis leaders are so excited about this and how it could change the world of legal weed as we know it. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about the future of weed? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Wine Board Levitt Pavillion Denver Botanic Garden’s Spring Plant Sale Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 03, 2024
Campus Protest Impasse, Very Online Politicians, and a Hot Dog Bust
It’s Friday, and we’re breaking down the biggest stories of the week. First, more and more students and community members are gathering on the Tivoli Quad at Auraria to protest Israel’s war on Hamas, and negotiations with the administrators are at a standstill. So we’ve got the editor in chief of Metro State’s student-run newspaper, Sara Martin, joining host Bree Davies and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to talk about rising tensions on campus ahead of graduation next week. Plus, decorum was supposed to be a priority at the legislature, but state lawmakers keep slugging it out on social media. And finally, DPD’s conspicuous arrest of a hot dog vendor and more of our wins and fails of the week. We talked about Jesse Paul of the Colorado Sun’s post on X about legislators’ social media squabbles as well as Marianne Goodland’s story on this issue from Colorado Politics. Sara mentioned her staff’s recent Society of Professional Journalists awards ; follow Sara’s work on Twitter and in The Metropolitan . Justine mentioned the JeffCo GOP’s controversial fundraiser guest and the Cobalt Abortion fund . Bree talked about the old Denver matchbooks story from Denverite and Westword’s piece on hot dog vendor Alejandro Ramirez’s arrest. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: <a href="https://northdenver.fetchpetcare.c
Thu, May 02, 2024
Mayor Johnston on Campus Protests, @DoBetterDNVR, and Running for President
Between the Gaza protests at the Auraria campus and the increasingly acrimonious debate over homelessness, Mayor Mike Johnston has a lot on his hands. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sat down with Johnston to discuss the biggest issues facing his administration, including his confrontation with student protesters last Friday, the anti-homeless Instagram account @DoBetterDNVR, and the proposal to give collective bargaining rights to the thousands of City of Denver employees. Plus, the mayor has an update on the massive development planned around Ball Arena, why he’s still ordering sweeps of encampments , and what he thinks about the 30-plus tracks on Taylor Swift’s new album. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fetch! Your trusted pet sitters and dog walkers Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 01, 2024
Your Guide to May in Denver
If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you , with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Denver community. It’s May in the Mile High City — the days are getting longer, meaning more time in the sunshine. From getting outside for a weekday lunch date to making a quick drive to the foothills for drinks by the South Platte River, we’ve rounded up our best recs, tips, and must-sees for this almost-summer month. For even more tips on how to make the most of May in Denver, check out our newsletter Hey Denver’s take on what to do this month. Peyton mentioned Denver Water’s Backstreet Boys parody about Denver’s summer water rules and Hey Denver’s list of Denver’s best sports bars . Bree talked about our recent episode with gardening expert Ann Marie Award, who shared tips on low-water plant options. City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Fetch! And we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more membership.citycast.fm about how to become a member of City Cast Denver. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise . Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 30, 2024
Why Did DPD Arrest Gaza Campus Protesters? Plus, a Weird Bookstore Mystery
It’s Tuesday, and we’re breaking down the biggest stories of the week. First, student protesters have been living in tents on Tivoli Quad at Auraria campus for six days, calling for the colleges to divest from Israel and winning support from some local elected officials and a civil rights legend. But the cops also made an appearance, so we’re talking about what’s next for the students’ so-called occupation. Producer Olivia Jewell Love visited Auraria yesterday morning and tells host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi what she saw and heard. Then, we follow up on a listener’s plea for answers in the curious case of a strange bookstore. Bree mentioned a letter signed by local legislators in support of the protests. We also discussed the Yelp reviews for 32nd Ave. Toys and Books . What do you think about local bookstores? Have you ever browsed and then bought the book online? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fetch! PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 29, 2024
Your Denver Gardening Questions, Answered
It’s that time of year to start digging around in the dirt and laying the foundation for a bountiful summer garden. But our arid, urban environment presents some unique challenges, so how do you actually decide what to grow where? What if you don’t have much space? Or any outdoor space at all? Host Bree Davies is joined by our favorite gardening expert Ann Marie Awad to answer listener questions about shade, ground cover, tomatoes, and everything in between. Ann Marie sung the praises of CSU extension , a great resource for all your questions about Colorado’s unique natural environment. Also, here’s the hookup for the “ Instagram tomato lady ” we raved about and a great list from the Denver Post for some upcoming plant sales! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fetch! Pet Care Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 26, 2024
How Faster Buses Will Reshape Denver As We Know It
Construction is set to begin this summer on one of the biggest transportation infrastructure projects Denver has ever seen: BRT, also known as Bus Rapid Transit . It’s a nifty name for a simple concept — buses that go faster and arrive more frequently — but the implications for how Denverites could move around our city are mind-boggling. At the annual Transportation Solutions conference yesterday, host Bree Davies sat down CDOT BRT program manager Ryan Noles, Minneapolis-St. Paul’s arterial BRT director Katie Roth, and executive director of National Organizations for Youth Safety Jacob Smith to talk about what’s gonna happen when the rubber hits the road. Do you have questions about BRT? Are you excited? Are you dreading the traffic during construction? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and we’ll do our best to get you answers: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: 104.7 The Drop Monarch Casino Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 25, 2024
Why Conservatives Can’t Stop Talking About Trans People
Conservatives have been ramping up their attacks on trans people across the country, including right here in Colorado. But local Democrats just passed two big bills advancing trans rights, despite hours of testimony that included dehumanization and deadnaming (i.e. calling someone by their birth name after they’ve gone through a gender transition). Colorado Times Recorder reporter Heidi Beedle has been on the anti-trans hate beat for years, attending far-right rallies and talking to conservatives across the Front Range — she’s on with host Bree Davies to discuss these latest attacks, how Democrats are pushing back, and how she expects this issue will play into the big elections later this year. For more, check out Heidi's latest reporting on the far-right’s anti-trans efforts. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: 104.7 The Drop Monarch Casino Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 24, 2024
Is the State About To Boost Funding for RTD?
After years of rumors and speculation, Governor Jared Polis and some of the leading Democrats in the statehouse put forth a serious proposal a couple of weeks ago to reform the Denver metro area’s public transit operator, RTD. It turns out that many Denverites agree that RTD could be better, but no one agrees on how to fix it ! So producer Paul Karolyi is sitting down with one of the primary sponsors of the big RTD reform bill, Rep. Meg Froelich of Englewood, to talk about why the initial proposal flopped, what Polis and his allies are thinking now, and where the calls for reform go from here. Rep. Froelich mentioned the bill to eliminate parking minimums in new development projects. When we last talked about that proposal on the podcast, our guest Dr. Ken Schroeppel said we could go even further . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think should be done to fix RTD? We want to hear from public transit users! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: 104.7 The Drop Monarch Casino Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 23, 2024
Rockies’ Viral Fail, Polis Sides With Renters, and Local Startup Strikes Gold!
It’s Tuesday, and host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are rounding up the biggest stories in Denver this week. We’re talking about why even the FAA is now trying to figure out what’s wrong with the Colorado Rockies , Colorado’s new law protecting renters from “discriminatory evictions ,” and what a Denver startup’s big IPO means for the city. Plus, we answer a listener question about the WNBA coming to Denver. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: 104.7 The Drop Monarch Casino Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 22, 2024
The Battle for Denver's Best Bagel is On!
Denver’s never really been a big bagel town… until now! In the past year, several hot new bagel shops have opened their doors, offering carb-tastic delights the Mile High has never tasted before. So how do some of these buzzy new bagel-makers stack up to the OGs? Host Bree Davies and our resident foodie slash newsletter editor Peyton Garcia are joined by two bona fide bagel fanatics — Denverite transportation reporter Rebecca Tauber and listener Shira Weiner — to taste test Moe’s, Rosenberg’s, Call Your Mother, and Rich Spirit. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: 104.7 The Drop Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 19, 2024
Meow Wolf Layoffs, Nightmare Denver Blunt Rotations, and To Catch a Predator
It’s Friday, and we’re looking back at the biggest stories of the week. First, Meow Wolf announced 165 layoffs this week, including 50 at Denver’s Convergence Station, which turns three years old in September. So host Bree Davies, producer Paul Karolyi, and one of our favorite regular guests — stand-up comic and Casa Bonita entertainer Joshua Emerson — are talking about where Meow Wolf goes from here. Plus, we’re celebrating 420 early with our dream (and nightmare) blunt rotations, Denver style. And as always, our wins and fails of the week. Bree mentioned our episode with David Thomas , the professor of fun; our visit to the nightclub inside Convergence Station ; the Lost Highways episode on the DPD ; our walking tour of Cap Hill’s LGBTQ history ; her interview with former Miss America Marilyn Van Derbur; and our coverage of the allegations facing Jay Bianchi . Paul talked about Colorado’s new neural data protection law and Mayor Johnston’s latest encampment sweep . Joshua discussed DU’s big hockey win . Bree mentioned the charges against Jay Bianchi and a child sex abuse vote at the statehouse. Bree asked which legislator was the only one not to vote for the neural data bill . Check out all the votes on all the different versions of the bill here. How do you feel about Meow Wolf after almost three years in Denver? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around
Thu, April 18, 2024
A 420 Friendly Guide to Denver’s Best Munchies
Clouds of pot smoke will undoubtedly be billowing above the annual 420 festival in Civic Center Park this Saturday, but the big downtown concert is far from the only way to celebrate the high holiday. Host Bree Davies sits down with producer Olivia Jewell Love and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to share their best bets for the most over-the-top local drinks, meals, and desserts to satisfy your munchies (or if you’re just craving a fun food adventure!) Plus, Olivia shares your responses to her request for Denver’s best nachos. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think is the best “over the top” dish in Denver? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Museum of Outdoor Arts presents “ La Primavera Festival ” PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 17, 2024
Denver’s Best and Worst Streets to Bike On
It’s time to pump up those tires, grease up those chains, and hop on a bike! Whether you’ve got a nice new e-bike or you’re dusting off old reliable, we’re coming up on the best time of year to enjoy a bike ride in Denver. So instead of getting caught up in the usual debates over bicycles — not enough dedicated lanes! Too many angry drivers! — we’re sitting down with someone who knows our city’s bike infrastructure as well as anyone. Matt Sanchez has been a full-time bike courier for 11 years, and he’s on with his guide to under-appreciated gems, routes to avoid, and a fresh new perspective on biking in Denver. Paul mentioned our upcoming live podcast as part of “The Road Ahead 2024” event with Transportation Solutions , which you can get tickets to now! What would you ask Mayor Mike Johnston? We’re sitting down with the mayor later this month, and we want your help! Do you have a question for the mayor? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it in the interview: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Museum of Outdoor Arts presents “ La Primavera Festival ” PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 16, 2024
Could the Assault Weapons Ban Pass? Plus, Shelter Security Concerns and John Leguizamo
It’s Tuesday, and we’re rounding up the stories that matter in Denver this week. First, the Colorado House of Representatives passed a bill on Sunday that would ban the sale of assault weapons. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the changing debate around guns and the battle to come in the Senate. Plus, Mayor Mike Johnston offered some harsh words to Salvation Army over escalating security concerns at the former DoubleTree shelter, and a major celebrity sighting in Westwood. Finally, your comments on the Xcel blackouts last week. Bree talked about The Pest . Axios Denver’s Alayna Alvarez has more details on John Leguizamo’s visit to Westwood. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver What do you think about an assault weapons ban? Would you like to see the state senate pass it? Or not? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Museum of Outdoor Arts presents “ La Primavera Festival ” PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 15, 2024
Data Shows Denver is Over the Subaru
Is the stereotype that Coloradans love Subarus actually true? Based on the commercials alone, it seems like subies are the brand built for our outdoor lifestyle — just imagine throwing your muddy hiking boots in the back, driving up steep inclines, and parking in front of those awesome mountain views. But is the Subaru really the most popular car in Colorado? Back in May of last year, Host Bree Davies was joined by Subaru driver Ann Marie Awad and reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, who looked at the stats for the Denver Post. Megan mentioned Denver gets 360 days of sunshine per year, one of our fav myths to bust. We had our weather guy Andy Stein on in 2021 to break that one down . We also discussed the surprising origin of those NATIVE bumper stickers. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Museum of Outdoor Arts’ La Primavera Festival PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 12, 2024
Xcel’s Big Fail, a $25K Facebook Block, and the 'Chile Crunch' Trademark
It’s Friday and we’re looking back at a big week in Denver. First, the wind! Xcel Energy preemptively shut off power to thousands of residents of the metro area ahead of last week’s windstorm, and that… didn’t go over well. So we’ve got CSU climate geographer Lauren Gifford joining producer Paul Karolyi and politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to talk about Xcel, some controversial proposals to change public comment at Denver City Council, as well as this week’s wins and fails. Justine talked about The Village and La Plaza CO . Lauren mentioned about this First Friday staple . Paul discussed the “chile crunch” trademark , Nathan MacKinnon’s MVP night , the Drip Coffee protests , and native plants in city parks . What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Wanna win a couple of free VIP tickets to an amazing new wine fest? Wine Spectator’s Grand Tour in Denver on May 11, and we want to see you there! All you’ve got to do is join our membership program today. We’ll select the 5th new member to win the tix. But every single member will receive a discount code for $100 off the price of admission on Monday. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/Denver . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Visit <a href="https://meowwolf.com/visit/denver?utm_
Thu, April 11, 2024
Can Mayor Johnston Reduce Gun Violence by 20%?
Colorado recorded a record-high number of gun deaths in 2021, according to the Colorado Sun . While gun violence has waned since then, it’s not decreasing fast enough for many Denverites, including Mayor Mike Johnston. He announced last week his new plan to reduce gun crime in Denver by 20% in 2024 by expanding the city’s focus on high-crime areas known as “hot spots.” So host Bree Davies is sitting down with former mayoral candidate and criminal justice professor Lisa Calderón to talk about how Johnston’s strategy compares with his predecessor and what she’d be doing differently. Bree mentioned the new plan Mayor Mike Johnston announced Wednesday to fund newcomer response, including budget cuts to many city departments. Lisa talked about this community event coming up on May 13. Do you have a question for Mayor Mike? We’re sitting down with the mayor later this month, and we want your help! Do you have a question you want to ask him? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your question on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Visit Meow Wolf ! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 10, 2024
Is Denver’s Population in Decline?
Is Denver still a growing city? According to the data, no — but it’s a little more complicated than that. For a city defined by its booms and busts, the Mile High’s attractiveness, affordability, job market, and birth rates are all constantly changing. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with Colorado state demographer Elizabeth Garner to find out what, exactly, our population trends say about a city that has been shaped by oil and gas, tech, and John Denver. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Visit Meow Wolf ! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 09, 2024
GOP vs. the Press, Cherry Creek Rises, and a Pizza Truce
Over the weekend, Colorado Sun politics reporter Sandra Fish was asked to leave the Colorado GOP’s big assembly in Pueblo after party chair Dave “Let’s Go Brandon” Williams deemed her reporting “unfair.” But is it fair to boot a journalist from an event just because you don’t like their reporting? Then, the downtown doldrums saga continues as Cherry Creek’s real estate attracts national attention. How can two areas of the same city less than five miles from each other have be experiencing such drastically different economic outlooks? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi tackle these questions and take a moment to reflect on a long-running pizza beef that may have finally come to an end. We mentioned both our Cherry Creek Week series from last year about the tension around growth and development in the area, as well as our our Pizza Week series from 2022. Do you have Denver gardening questions? Our gardening expert can help! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it an upcoming episode: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 08, 2024
The Contested Future of a Demolished Neighborhood
In 1965, a massive flood devastated the Mile High City. Auraria was hit particularly hard and plans were put in motion to demolish the mostly Hispanic neighborhood and replace it with a college campus. By 1972, the whole blocks were scraped away and hundreds of Aurarians had been moved out Then, it seemed that most people forgot it existed at all. But more than 50 years later, the displaced Aurarians haven’t forgotten. Host Bree Davies sits down with Denver Post reporter Elizabeth Hernandez to discuss the community’s latest battle with the college campus. Elizabeth’s recent reporting on the displaced Aurarians covers the meeting where the latest version of the Auraria Community Master Plan was discussed. The Denver Public Library also offers a full timeline and history of Denver’s oldest neighborhood prior to and after displacement. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Wine Board Urban Bush Women at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 05, 2024
Wage Theft Hypocrisy, Breweries Keep Closing, and ‘Love Is Blind’ Sightings
It’s Friday and we’re looking back at the biggest stories of the week. First, while Denver’s auditor’s office has been busy recovering more than $2 million in stolen wages , a state lawmaker was removed as a sponsor of a wage theft bill after allegedly committing wage theft in her own office! Then, South Broadway staple Grandma’s House announced its closure at the end of April, joining 17th Ave.’s Alpine Dog and a list of more than 30 craft breweries to close across the state in the past year — is the era of the craft brew over? Host Bree Davies is joined by returning fave, comedian and Casa Bonita performer Joshua Emerson, and longtime beertender Cory Helie to talk wage theft, beer, plus our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the Week. If you think you have been a victim of wage theft, the auditor’s office would love to hear from you. Get in touch with them here! Joshua talked about the luxury apartment building in Englewood that is falling apart and Love is Blind’s Colorado rendezvous . Bree mentioned Denverite and fellow George Washington Patriot Chauncey Billups’ induction into the NBA Hall of Fame , and the “the PP Man” brick design on the apartment building on south Federal. Cory talked about the Nuggets superfan who got banned from Ball Arena and Lady Justice Brewing’s new digs . You can also catch Cory as host of the Ratio Free Comedy Show every Wednesday night at Ratio Beerworks. What do you think we should ask Mayor Mike Johnston in a couple weeks? We want to know what you want to hear from the mayor! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: <stron
Thu, April 04, 2024
Your Questions on @DoBetterDNVR, Members Clubs, and Those ‘Green’ Buildings
After 9News anchor Kyle Clark discussed the increasingly popular (and controversial) instagram @DoBetterDNVR with us last Friday, the anonymous posters behind the account sent a brigade of their followers to share their thoughts with us. So we’re opening up the mailbag and talking about all the comments, questions, and feedback. And we’re not just addressing the instagrammers posting photos of unhoused people in crisis without their consent, but also listeners’ thoughts on private members clubs, the legal dispute between two Mexican restaurants, and those two ‘green’ new buildings, The Populus and One River North. If you missed any of those episodes, here are the links to find them: ‘Inevitable’ Shelter Deaths, Poop in the Park, and Kyle Clark! Private Member Clubs Are Thriving. Are You Cool (And Rich) Enough to Join? Inside the Two 'Green' New Buildings Rising in Denver Mexican Food on Trial, Banning Assault Weapons, and Casa Bonita Is 50 Bree mentioned a show at MCA Denver featuring nonconsensual photography and this piece on the crime data by Chase Woodruff. Paul mentioned this Colorado Polling Institute poll from last August For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support us by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Wine Board Urba
Wed, April 03, 2024
Is Governor Polis Trying To Take Over RTD?
What lengths will Governor Jared Polis go to to get his Front Range Passenger Rail? He and some senior Democrats are just starting to roll out their plan right now, and it is far-reaching — they’re talking about taxing rental cars to fund the project and cutting two thirds of the RTD board seats . CPR’s Andy Kenney joins producer Paul Karolyi to explain how the governor’s big plan could affect Denver’s public transportation system, and then former State Speaker of the House Terrance Carroll joins to explain why he’s already speaking out against it. Paul would like to add some context from this poll from the Colorado Polling Institute last year, showing that a majority of Denverites have a favorable opinion of RTD. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Wine Board Urban Bush Women at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 02, 2024
Boebert Gets a Boost, Tattered Cover For Sale, and Your Big Dog Poop Ideas
It’s Tuesday, and we’re talking about the biggest stories shaping Denver today. First up, Congresswoman Lauren Boebert got a big boost from Republican Party leaders last week, so we’re surveying the state of the races to represent Denver, Colorado Springs, the Eastern Plains and the Western Slope ahead of the congressional primaries in June. Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk through the latest developments. Plus, Patty’s got the scoop on possible changes coming to the city-owned Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave, the Tattered Cover’s bankruptcy , and the historic preservation fight over El Chapultepec. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Colorado Wine Board Newman Center for the Performing Arts Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 01, 2024
Your Guide to April in Denver
Happy April, Denver! As we inch closer to real spring and out of the grasp of false spring, we can expect to see our fair Mile High City blooming this month. But which of the proverbial flowers will be worth stopping to smell? Producer Paul Karolyi is joined by newsletter editor Adrian Gonzalez and producer Olivia Jewell Love to share our top picks to eat, drink, do, and experience around Denver this month. Paul recommended this podcast episode with Adam McKay on Hattie McDaniel. Links to all our picks: City Cast Denver Live on April 25! - “ Mile High Mobility Through Bus Rapid Transit ” Pizza Beer at New Belgium Brewing Fruta preparada/Prepared fruit (maybe at La Michoacana ?) “ Gone With The Wind ” 85th Anniversary Showing (Estes Park) Colorado Rockies schedule Hang out in a park (maybe join a sports league ?) ThriftCon Eat some nachos ( Maybe at a place from this thread ?) Find a new hobby at The Craft Box ( Wheat Ridge ) What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Colorado Wine Board Newman Center for the Performing Arts Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about y
Fri, March 29, 2024
‘Inevitable’ Shelter Deaths, Poop in the Park, and Kyle Clark!
It’s Friday and we’re looking back on the biggest stories of the week. 9News anchor Kyle Clark joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to break down the escalating controversy around the recent killings at the former DoubleTree shelter off I-70 and Quebec. One council member is blaming the contractor, but is this all Mayor Johnston’s problem to solve? Plus, the metro area’s biggest dog park is being overwhelmed with dog poop and, as always, our wins and fails of the week. We discussed Mayor Johnston’s All In Mile High Dashboard . Check out his progress for yourself! Bree talked about Curious Theater and the Denver Basic Income Project . Paul mentioned empty warehouses , Denver’s pizza reputation , and this now-gone piece of art on the Cherry Creek Trail. Kyle talked about Denver’s minority entrepreneurship fund and the Vine St. Pub . What do you think about year two of Mayor Johnston’s quest to end homelessness? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by b
Thu, March 28, 2024
Private Members Clubs Are Thriving. Are You Cool (and Rich) Enough To Join?
Socializing is a hot commodity in the Mile High, and there are plenty of bars, parks, and adult-oriented entertainment spaces catering to folks looking for community. But in the last few years, a new type of organization has risen to meet growing demand from a higher-end clientele: The private members club. So our producer Paul Karolyi decided to see for himself. Host Bree Davies sits down with Paul to talk about his experience applying to be a potential insider at one of these spaces , how their inclusivity policies work in practice, and what their “curated” approach to recruitment says about Denver’s social fabric today. For more, BusinessDen reported on the Clayton Members Club & Hotel back when it opened in 2021, and 5280 Magazine reported on Clayton’s inclusivity policies . What do you think is the best way to make friends in Denver? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Rocky Mountain PBS Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 27, 2024
A Local’s Guide to 36 Hours in Denver
A few years back, The New York Times spent some time in Denver and came back with a visitor’s guide that we found… lacking. They missed out on some of the most quintessential Denver experiences, so we set out to plan the perfect Mile High long weekend for ourselves. Politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval joined host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi last summer to put together the ultimate 36 hours in Denver, full of the best restaurants, attractions, and outdoorsy stuff to please visitors and locals alike. Paul mentioned our episode on DIA conspiracy theories . Bree talked about the Forney Museum’s old home in REI, and the story behind the historic brick building , which you can read about in our newsletter, Hey Denver ! Here’s a list of all the places we recommended: Colorado Tick’s Club (Curtis Park) Blucifer (DIA) RTD’s A-Line Union Station (Union Station) The Confluence (Highland) “Confluent People” by Emanuel Martinez (Auraria) Starbucks at the REI (Auraria) Little Man Ice Cream (LoHi) Bruto (Union Station) Bodega (Sunnyside) Red Rocks (Morrison) Dinosaur Ridge Trail (Morrison) J’s Noodles (Westwood) Miss Saigon (formerly Pho 79; Westwood) Meow Wolf (Sun Valley) Raíces</
Tue, March 26, 2024
Mexican Food on Trial, Banning Assault Weapons, and Casa Bonita Is 50
Alma Fonda Fina is one of the buzziest new restaurants in town — but a lawsuit over the potential theft of “trade secrets” and a non-compete clause could shut the operation down. Turns out My Neighbor Felix isn’t feeling so neighborly towards its former employees, and now the two LoHi eateries will duke it out in court. Meanwhile, Casa Bonita celebrates 50 years (but you still can’t make a reservation!), and a new push to ban assault weapons has East High School students taking the fight to social media. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into these stories, plus your comments on Buc-ee’s and Johnson’s Corner. We played the audio from this East Students Demand Action Instagram reel . Bree mentioned past City Cast Denver episodes on the gun debate featuring East students Clara and Gracie Taub and Senator Tom Sullivan . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think of the My Neighbor Felix/Alma Fonda Fina dispute? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Rocky Mountain PBS Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 25, 2024
Inside the Two 'Green' New Buildings Rising in Denver
There are two very distinctive, very green buildings being built in Denver right now — maybe you’ve seen them? One purports to be the country’s first “carbon positive” hotel with a facade reminiscent of an aspen tree, and the other has got a giant crack down the middle that’s going to be filled with native plants and tenants doing yoga. So what does this architectural mini-movement say about Denver today? Denverite senior reporter Kyle Harris recently toured both The Populus and One River North , and he’s on today with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to give us the inside story. Oh, and we’ve got pics of both of these buildings on our Instagram so you can see them for yourself. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Rocky Mountain PBS Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 22, 2024
Buc-ee's vs. Johnson’s Corner, Widening Peña Blvd., and Elevator Crimes?
It’s Friday and we’re talking about all the biggest stories in Denver this week. First up, the hotly contested debate over widening Peña Blvd divided City Council on Monday night , with arguments touching on equity, climate concerns, and the future of DIA. Westword reporter Catie Cheshire is on with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi with the inside scoop. Plus, we’ve been hearing for years that the long-awaited Buc-ee's in Johnstown would be “more than a gas station,” so we went to see for ourselves. And finally, our wins and fails of the week. Catie talked about bald eagles and the Colorado schools in March Madness . Bree mentioned RTD elevators and the Oriental Theater . Paul talked about the Business Impact Opportunity Fund and High Line Canal Trail . He also recommends this classic Westword story about how Johnson’s Corner stopped being what it used to be. Wanna get us a third birthday present? Become a member of City Cast Denver today! You’ll get an ad-free podcast feed and, if you’re one of the first to join on Friday March 22, a shot at winning a City Cast mug. Learn more and sign up at membership.citycast.fm/Denver . What do you think about the Buc-ee's hype? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: <a href="https://live-du-newman-center.pantheonsite.io/performances/newman-center-presents/aoife-odonovan-hawkt
Thu, March 21, 2024
Fashion Police: Colorado Politicians Edition
Denver’s fashion sense is, well, questionable. So it’s no wonder GQ once named Governor Jared Polis as the “ worst-dressed congressman ever .” And boy oh boy, is he far from the only local elected who’s made some bold choices! But do our politician’s sartorial choices matter? And what do they say about us? Host Bree Davies sits down with fashion expert and her lifelong friend David Casados to break down some of our local reps’ most iconic looks and dish on what they’re all about. We posted all the pics Bree and David discussed to our instagram ( @citycastdenver ) so you can follow along as you listen. Who do you think are the most — and least — fashionable local politicians? We want to hear your hottest takes! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Newman Center for the Performing Arts PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 20, 2024
Denver’s Best Ramen: Inside the March Madness for Foodies
Over the past few years, ramen shops have proliferated across Colorado, as more and more Denverites hop on the broth-y, noodle-y hype train. So it made sense to the editors of the Denver Post to move past burgers, tacos and pizza for their annual March Madness local food bracket this year — it’s ramen time! And now that we’re down to just the Final Four contenders, host Bree Davies sits down with bracket architect and Denver Post editor Jonathan Shikes and Gil Asakawa, author of “ Tabemasho! Let’s Eat ” and expert on Japanese food in America, to talk about the big first-round upsets, cinderella stories, and which shop is the favorite to win it all. Voting on the Final Four of the Denver Post’s ramen bracket is open now ! There are also still tickets available for Denver Ramen Fest this weekend at the Stockyards Event Center. For more from Gil and Shikes, Gil was on the show most recently talking about his book on Japanese food in America, and Shikes’ most recent appearance was discussing New Belgium Brewing’s rebrand of their flagship beer, Fat Tire . What’s your favorite ramen in Denver? We need to know. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Become a member of City Cast Denver today: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Newman Center for the Performing Arts PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone
Tue, March 19, 2024
Brown Palace Layoffs, Saving El Chapultepec, and Your Fave Grocery Stores
It’s Tuesday and we’re talking about the biggest stories of the week. First up, downtown is going through a rough patch, and while that can be challenging for many businesses, others see opportunity! Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the brewing fight over plans to demolish Denver’s most storied jazz bar, El Chapultepec, and the shocking news that The Brown Palace just laid off all its doormen and bell staff. Plus, we hear about listeners’ favorite grocery stores in the city. The Denver Post published an editorial yesterday calling for El Chapultepec to be preserved. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Newman Center for the Performing Arts PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 18, 2024
The Case for Radical Parking Reform
Driving around downtown Denver, you’d be forgiven for getting frustrated about parking. But is the solution to our parking woes more spaces? Or fewer? State lawmakers are working on a bill to ban parking minimums, and Governor Jared Polis sounds excited about it . But CU urban planning professor Ken Schroeppel thinks we could take it a step further, by enacting parking maximums . He joins host Bree Davies to explain why less parking might be the best way to fix downtown. Ken founded the DenverInFill blog to track development around the city in 2004. Check out the archives for nearly two decades of hi-def photos of a changing Denver! For more, the Denver Post reported on the parking debate a couple weeks ago. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Newman Center for the Performing Arts PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 15, 2024
Boebert vs. Buck, America’s Worst Grocery Stores, and Peña Blvd. Confusion
It’s Friday and we’re talking about the biggest stories of the week. First, Rep. Ken Buck announced this week that he’s leaving Congress even earlier than expected, throwing another wrench in an already chaotic race to represent Colorado’s Congressional District 4. So host Bree Davies, producer Paul Karolyi, and politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval are talking through the implications of what CD4 candidate (and Buck’s fellow representative) Lauren Boebert called a “ swampy backroom deal .” Plus, four Denver-area grocery stores ranked among the worst in the country , and our wins and fails of the week. Paul mentioned the city’s new plan for the Cherry Creek Trail and construction on Peña Boulevard . Justine talked about Frozen Dead Guy Days and the latest push for funeral home regulation ( Here's a link to our recent, eye-opening ep on the topic). Bree talked about the micro-community in Overland . What do you think about Boebert’s chances in CD4? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Get your Annual Portal Pass to Meow Wolf today! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choic
Thu, March 14, 2024
Sen. Michael Bennet on Why TikTok Has Got To Go
If Sen. Michael Bennet had his way, TikTok would already be banned. But after more than a year of intense lobbying, he’s finally going to have his chance to cast that vote. The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill on Wednesday compelling the Chinese company ByteDance to sell TikTok, and if they won’t, to ban the app for good. So we’re revisiting a conversation host Bree Davies had with Bennet last spring about why he feels so strongly TikTok has to go, despite how many Denverites love it. Here is some of Sen. Bennet’s correspondence on the topic: 1. Sen. Bennet’s letter requesting Apple and Google remove TikTok from their app stores 2. Sen. Bennet’s statement after his meeting with the TikTok CEO 3. Sen. Bennet’s Digital Platform Commission Act For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Get your Annual Portal Pass to Meow Wolf today! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 13, 2024
Demolishing El Chapultepec, Landlord Watch: Algorithm Edition, and Your Bike Lane Comments
When Denver’s most historic jazz club was sold in 2021, developer Kenneth Monfort said he didn’t want to “erase El Chapultepec out of the history books.” But now, the real estate mogul says the building will have to be demolished. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the future of The ‘Pec, then our latest edition of Landlord Watch highlights a new bill that could stop the use of algorithms to determine rent prices , plus tenants at the Welton Park apartments have been without hot water for a week ?! And listeners respond to the ongoing drama that is the Broadway bike lane. Paul mentioned a post on X from former DPS board vice president Auon’tai Anderson about the water situation on Welton Street, as well as a 9News report on the building and a piece from Business Insider on the business benefits of bike lanes . Bree mentioned the “junk fee” lawsuit we discussed back in January . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Have you got a bad landlord story to share? Landlord Watch needs your help! Hit us with stories, tips, or questions about how to deal with your landlord. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Get your Annual Portal Pass to Meow Wolf today! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/adv
Tue, March 12, 2024
City Council Soda Fight, Avs/Nuggs TV Hopes, and Who’s Unionizing Now?
It’s Tuesday and we’re looking at the biggest stories of the week. First, it’s been five years and the Avalanche and Nuggets still aren’t available on most Denver TVs! Kroenke Sports & Entertainment just hired a new guy who is promising to end the Altitude Sports vs. Comcast dispute for good , so can he pull it off? Then, Denver City Council is considering a proposal to ban sugary drinks in kid’s meals at fast food restaurants , which one man says is just politicians attempting to “micromanage” their constituents. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dissect these stories and share listener comments on The Epoch Times’s billboards and how, exactly, you’re supposed to eat oysters. We went deep on the Altitude/Comcast dispute with our pal Jake Shapiro from Denver Sports back in 2021. Bree mentioned an episode of the If Books Could Kill podcast about the book “Nudge” by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . What do you think about a ban on sugary drinks? We want to hear from you (especially if you work for Pepsi)! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Get your Annual Portal Pass to Meow Wolf today! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 11, 2024
Denver’s Best Bars (for St. Paddy's and Beyond)
What’s the best bar in Denver? Is it the bar with the highest average rating on Yelp? Is it the diviest dive that ever dove ? Or somewhere new and fresh? With St. Paddy’s Day coming up this weekend, producer Paul Karolyi is sitting down with two people who know Denver’s bar scene as well as anyone — AAA spokesman, Oak Creek Tavern owner , and part-time bartender at Pete’s Satire Skyler McKinley, and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval — to pick Denver’s best bars. We are gonna have a huge list of St. Paddy’s Day stuff to do in our newsletter Hey Denver later this week, subscribe now at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Get your Annual Portal Pass to Meow Wolf today! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 08, 2024
Who Really Won the Primaries? Plus, CPR’s Layoffs and a Celebrity Stoner Fail
Even with record low voter turnout , President Biden and former President Trump easily cruised to victory in Colorado’s presidential primaries on Tuesday. But will “noncommitted” voters, RFK Jr., and Nikki Haley’s popularity in Denver signal trouble for the parties this November? Then, stoner comedian Nick Swardson bombed his set in Beaver Creek , blaming edibles, alcohol, and altitude — but he’s still headlining three nights at Comedy Works in Denver this weekend! Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dig into these stories, plus Russell Wilson’s goodbye, local media layoffs, and more rocky mountain highs and lows of the week. Bree mentioned the forgotten Beau Monde Mall and photos that surfaced on Reddit. Paul talked about Ben Markus’s report on CPR’s layoffs and RFK Jr.’s relative strength in Colorado. Justine talked about two anti-abortion bills that both died in committee in the Colorado house this week. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices </p
Thu, March 07, 2024
Why Denver’s Hottest Chef Walked Away From a Michelin Star
Chef Michael Diaz de Leon had a great 2023. For his work at the buzzy Mexican-inspired fine-downtown dining spot BRUTØ, he was nominated for a James Beard Award. Then one of his dishes appeared on the New York Times’ list of Best American Dishes of 2023. Then, in October, a Michelin star. So why did he quit? Producer Paul Karolyi sits down with Diaz de Leon to talk about why he left a Michelin star behind and what he’s cooking up next. Plus, Michelin wasn’t the only one-star review Diaz de Leon has earned, so Paul asked him to respond to some of BRUTØ’s one-star reviews on Yelp. Diaz de Leon’s “taco omakase” pop-up at Hop Alley this month is sold out, unfortunately, but you can be first to know about his next project by following him on Instagram @michaeldleon . While you’re waiting for his next pop-up, here are the spots where Chef Michael says he likes to eat: Hop Alley (RiNo) sắp sửa (East Colfax) Alma Fonda Fina (Highlands) Somebody People (South Broadway) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 06, 2024
WTF is Wrong With Colorado’s Funeral Industry?
Last month, boxes of cremated remains were found in the home of a funeral director, along with a decomposing body discovered in a hearse in his backyard. But this was far from the only disturbing case — over the last few years, local funeral homes have been caught illegally selling body parts , giving families “ashes” of loved ones that turned out to be concrete mix, and abandoning corpses in 70 degree rooms for years. This week lawmakers introduced legislation to fix a long deregulated industry. But how did Colorado become the place with the most lax regulations and oversight in the country? We asked an expert. Here’s the full text of Senate Bill 174, Regulate Mortuary Science Occupations . Learn more about Faith Haug’s department and the mortuary science program at Arapahoe Community College . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 05, 2024
Gaza Protest Vote, Labor Union Drama, and Real OG Denver Bagels
Colorado’s presidential primaries are today, and we already know who’s going to win. But local Palestinian solidarity groups have launched a last-minute campaign for Denverites to vote for “noncommitted delegate” on the Democratic primary ballot, so there’s still plenty of intrigue for host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to parse. Plus, Denver’s most powerful union isn’t more powerful than local labor laws. And finally, we respond to your ideas for fixing downtown and share comments responding to our new regular segment, Landlord Watch. Bree mentioned a few episodes of Ezra Klein’s podcast about the non-committed vote and his case for why Biden should walk away from running again. Paul talked about the “uncommitted” vote in Michigan last week and the last time the president of the UFCW Local 7 got in hot water with the union’s members. We also talked about the current plans for The 5280 Trail . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 04, 2024
Your Guide to March in Denver
It’s March, Denver’s snowiest month of the year — but that won’t stop any true Denverite from getting out and enjoying the city. From skijoring with your pup and seeing sandhill cranes’ mating dances to slurping the best oysters and green milkshakes around, there’s plenty to do, see, experience, and imbibe across the Mile High City. Producer Paul Karolyi, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia, and producer Olivia Jewell Love sit down to map out the perfect March, complete with a St. Patrick’s Day-inspired, “green” themed twist. Here are the links to our picks: Skijoring with your dog (Statewide) Ft. Greene’s Reading Den (Globeville) Monte Vista Crane Festival (Monte Vista) Oyster Month at Jax Fish House (Various locations) Milkshakes at Slater’s 50/50 (Five Points) Curly Steak Fries at Music City Hot Chicken (Baker) Space Explorers The Infinite (Aurora) Danish Frog Cake at Taste of Denmark (Lakewood) Shepherd’s Pie at Henry’s Pub (Louisville) Peyton is on the search for the best shepherd’s pie in the Denver metro — call or text the City Cast Denver All Shepherd’s Pie All The Time Hotline at 720-500-5418 with your recs! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PineMelon- The Farmer’s Market Delivered Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 01, 2024
Johnston's New Newcomer Plan, Broadway Bike Lane Debuts, and RIP New Saigon
It’s Friday, and we’re looking back at the biggest stories of the week. First up, Mayor Mike Johnston has a new plan to address the growing cost of supporting the South and Central American newcomers still arriving in Denver. He announced that four shelters will be closing just days after Aurora City Council declared Aurora a “ non-sanctuary city .” So is this a turning point? And where is Governor Jared Polis in all of this? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are sorting it out with one of our favorite regulars — stand-up comedian Joshua Emerson. Plus, the Broadway bike lane is “ complete ,” so we’re also talking about the latest bike lane drama and sharing our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. What do you think is the best bagel in town? We’re gearing up for our next big food battle, and we don’t want to leave out the under-appreciated gem you love! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Joshua talked about the Esquire Theater closing and the Vintage Theater community buying their building . Paul talked about the “carbon neutral” oil company and a staircase bill . Bree mentioned <a href="https://www.denverpost.com/2024/02/23/new-saigon-vietnamese-restaurant-closing-denver-federal/?utm_email=05C094A1F595442CC2BEC47BBC&active=no&lctg=05C094A1F595442CC2BEC47BBC&utm_source=listrak&utm_medium=email&utm_term=https%3a%2f%2fwww.denverpost.com%2f2024%2f02%2f23%2fnew-saigon-vietnamese-restaurant-closing-denver-federal%2f&utm_campaign=denver-evening
Thu, February 29, 2024
12 Big Ideas To Fix Downtown
The bad news just keeps rolling in for downtown Denver — more restaurants have closed , office buildings are hitting their highest vacancy rates since the ’90s , and yet another clean and safe initiative aims to combat the “toilet bowl” reputation. But what else could be done? Politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to brainstorm a list of innovative, interesting, out-there, and completely free ideas that could be the magic solution to downtown’s ongoing woes. Bree mentioned the Cinderella City Project , pencil smokestack art , and Lawrence Halprin’s original Skyline Park design. She also talked about our episode on the likelihood of changing downtown’s empty office buildings into housing . Do you have a good idea to help fix downtown? We want to hear it! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Enter the Adulti-Verse at Meow Wolf Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 28, 2024
Bad Landlords, Controversial Billboards, and Your Stinky Denver Stories
Bright yellow billboards have popped up around Denver proclaiming that something called the Epoch Times is the “#1 Trusted News.” But a recent investigation of the media company reveals its connections to a Chinese group that may or may not be a cult. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into the bizarre billboard backstory, plus the latest landlord-tenant drama in a new segment we’re calling Landlord Watch. Then, listeners respond to our Purina plant episode with their own stinky stories of weird and gross smells around the Denver metro area. We also discussed our episode from last year about local fast food drive-thrus implementing AI. The Epoch Times is also connected with Shen Yun , the anti-Communist Chinese dance show that advertises around Denver from time to time. Have you got a bad landlord story to share? Landlord Watch needs your help! Hit us with stories, tips, or questions about how to deal with your landlord. We want to help! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Enter the Adulti-Verse at Meow Wolf Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 27, 2024
Mayor Johnston’s Big New Plans for 2024. Plus, ‘Noncommitted Delegates’
Two weeks after announcing budget cuts for Parks & Rec and the DMV, Mayor Mike Johnston on Monday laid out some ambitious — and probably pricey — new goals for the city in 2024. So how will his renewed focus on the unhoused crisis, public safety, and affordable housing affect Denver’s support for the newcomers still arriving by the busload? Producer Paul Karolyi and Westword editor Patty Calhoun are dissecting Johnston’s new goals. Plus, Denverites are looking at their most confusing presidential primary ballots ever. What would a vote for “noncommitted delegate” mean? Patty mentioned this op-ed from former U.S. Congressman David Skaggs arguing in favor of voting for “noncommitted delegate.” Paul talked about this explainer from 9News explaining what such a vote would mean. What do you think about Mayor Johnston’s new goals? We want to know how you feel about his leadership! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Enter the Adulti-Verse at Meow Wolf Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, February 26, 2024
What Really Happens Inside Denver’s Strip Clubs?
There are only five strip clubs left in Denver today, and one of them was just forced to shut down for two weeks after undercover cops found dancers engaging in prostitution. While PT’s Showclub is open for business again as of last month, the business of exotic dancing is tougher than ever. Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton reports on the local strip club scene for The Denver Post, and she sat down with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi last fall to reveal what really goes on inside PT’s, Shotgun Willie’s, and the rest of Denver’s storied clubs. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Enter the Adulti-Verse at Meow Wolf Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 23, 2024
Lawmakers Fight Doomscrolling, Red Rocks Upgrades, and an Epic Pizza Fail
It’s Friday and we’re rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First, if social media is making kids depressed, will pop-up warnings on their phones stop the doomscroll? Some state lawmakers think so. Then, as the summer concert calendar fills up , more live music venues are coming online, too — from RiNo to La Alma-Lincoln Park, music fans will soon have more choices. But what does it mean for the musicians themselves? Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies chat with Becky Otárola, guitarist and bandleader of local act Bellhoss, about these stories, plus dig into the new upgrades at Red Rocks, some bad news for downtown restaurants, and more wins and fails of the week. Bellhoss’ new EP “A Rose, A Thorn” is out now! Summer 2024 concert lineups have been announced recently at Levitt Pavilion , Denver Botanic Gardens , and Red Rocks . Paul mentioned his beef with Beau Jo’s, Ian’s Pizza closing , and Dough Counter . Becky talked about the debate over an Israel-Gaza ceasefire proclamation and the Highlands mommies facebook group. Bree mentioned Lookin’ Good Restaurant and her 2010 review of the questionable Drake concert . What do you think about the proposals to regulate social media? Too little too late or too much too fast? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the
Thu, February 22, 2024
The Purina Plant Stinks! But Is It a Health Concern?
Ask any Denverite about the stinkiest spot in the city, and for more than 90 years the answer has been clear: The Purina pet food plant in Elyria-Swansea. But in the last six months or so, odor complaints have spiked. So what can be done? Science reporter Trish Zornio looked into the science of bad smells for the GES Gazette, and she’s on today with host Bree Davies to talk about the health implications of the Purina plant’s smell, the challenge of effective odor monitoring, and how the smell fits into north Denver’s gentrification story. If you want to submit an odor complaint about the Purina plant (or any other stinky spot in the city), you can fill out this form or send an email to 311@denvergov.org. What do you think are Denver’s signature smells? Apart from the Purina plant, we are putting together a definitive list of Denver smells — good, bad or just plain Denver — and we want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your smell on the show: 720-500-5418 The Denver Post reported on the pilot project Gregg Thomas mentioned a couple years ago. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Join a Volo Sports league today! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 21, 2024
Sidewalk Fee Drama, Casa Bonita Art Show, and Which Pete’s Went Electric?
Back in 2022, voters decided that Denver definitely deserves sidewalks. But not everyone was happy with the new taxes to pay for them. Now, city leaders have a new proposal for how to pay for them, so we’re getting into the details. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into the sidewalk debate, talk about Bree’s trip to see Next Gallery’s Casa Bonita-themed art show , and share some hot goss from a listener about how one local restaurant chain is changing its cooking methods and, according to some recent customers, changing its signature taste. We talked to Jill Locantore way back in 2021 about why our sidewalk network was so broken — and in 2022, we spoke with Molly McKinley (also of Denver Streets Partnership) about how the then-proposed “ Denver Deserves Sidewalks” ballot initiative hoped to address the problem. Got feedback on the proposed changes to #DenverNeedsSidewalks ? Fill out this survey before Feb. 27. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Join a Volo Sports league today! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 20, 2024
AG Phil Weiser on His Effort To Block the King Soopers/Safeway Merger
For the past year, Colorado’s Attorney General Phil Weiser has been investigating the proposed merger of two of Denver’s biggest grocery chains — King Soopers and Safeway. While their parent companies insist the $24.6 billion merger would save Denverites money, Weiser has concluded the opposite and filed a lawsuit to block it. “After 19 town halls across the state,” he wrote , “I am convinced that Coloradans think this merger between the two supermarket chains would lead to stores closing, higher prices, fewer jobs, worse customer service, and less resilient supply chains.” Host Bree Davies sits down with Weiser reveal more details from his investigation, and explain why he felt it was necessary to intervene now. Plus, Weiser shares a message for your out-of-state grocery faves and his go-to snacks at Trader Joe’s. Which out-of-state grocery chain would you love to see open in Denver? We want to hear your hot grocery takes! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver and become a member today: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Join a Volo Sports league today! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 16, 2024
No Money for Trees, Summer Camp Scramble, and New Hostile Architecture
It’s Friday, and we’re looking back at the biggest stories of the week. First, why is the City of Denver paying residents to change their transportation habits? Also, why did the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure cancel plans to plant trees on West Colfax? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about green steps forward and back with artist and educator Moe Gram . Plus, parents are increasingly struggling to find a spot in a good summer camp — so what are kids supposed to do when they’re not in school? And of course, we share our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. FYI: We are taking Monday off for President’s Day, but we’ll be back in your podcast feed Tuesday morning with more news from around the city. Moe is moderating a panel on the legacy of iconic Denver artist Bob Ragland next Tuesday at the Kirkland Museum. RSVP here . We also talked about her mural on the Catbird Hotel. Bree mentioned this Westword story on The Stanley Hotel and Steffan Tubbs’ new gig . Paul talked about the RTD app and Colorado College’s leadership transition . Moe talked about hostile architecture and Alchemy Ritual Goods’ new space . We are looking for Denver’s biggest bagel fanatic! Is it you? Or someone you know? We want your help finding a guest judge to help us pick Denver’s best bagel. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from aro
Thu, February 15, 2024
How Electric Ovens Are Converting Fire-Loving Local Chefs
Pizza makers, aka pizzaiolos, are notoriously particular about their ovens. Is it coal-fired? Or wood? How hot does it get? How fast? “It’s the pursuit of perfection.” That’s what one local pizzaiolo told reporter Helen Xu about the brick oven he had custom made for White Pie in Uptown. But another local pizza shop is going in a different direction entirely — electric! Producer Paul Karolyi joined Helen Xu for a visit to the newly all-electric Sexy Pizza on Pearl Street to taste some electric pizza and figure out why a small but growing number of local restaurants are dumping natural gas for electric ovens and stovetops. Paul mentioned this report on Denver’s new electrification rules. For anyone who heard Helen’s most recent appearance on the show and might be wondering if Sexy Pizza sources their cheese from Leprino Foods — like 85% of all pizza makers around the world — we asked, and they do! Sexy Pizza buys from Leprino’s upscale brand Bacio , which offers mozzarella made with “a kiss” of buffalo milk. What do you think about electric pizza? Would an electric operation entice you? Or repulse you? We want to hear what you think about the electric future of local dining. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: <a href="https://denverrestaurantweek.com/?gad_sourc
Wed, February 14, 2024
You’re Not a Real Denverite Until…
What does it take to be a true Denverite? There’s gotta be a turning point sometime after you first see Blucifer but before you get in your first fight about green chile. What was that moment for you? Host Bree Davies sits down with a couple of keen observers of Mile High culture — Lee Robinson and Kate McLachlan of Dyketopia — to help finish this sentence: You’re not a Denverite until… Kate is hosting a night of “hootin’ and hollerin’” at Comedy Works downtown with a bunch of funny folks on Feb. 21. Catch Kate and Lee at “Dyketopia: Spring Awakening” live at the Oriental Theater on March 8! UPDATE: After we recorded, we learned that Snooze takes reservations now, but only on weekdays. You can also join their waitlist online, though you’d miss out on some sweet, sweet brunch anticipation time! When did you first feel like a Denverite? We want to hear stories about your first times with local faves or traditions! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear yours on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Restaurant Week is coming up March 1-10! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 13, 2024
Denver Zoo Expansion, Budget Cuts Blowback, and No ‘Sanctuary’ in Lakewood
Denverites are reeling from Mayor Johnston’s Friday announcement of budget cuts to free up money to provide more support for migrants, and now the uproar is spreading into the suburbs! Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the blowback to Johnston’s cuts and the “sanctuary city” debate in Lakewood, plus the Denver Zoo’s new 570-acre facility in Weld County. Finally, we’re considering your thoughts on whether we should be saying “migrant,” “new immigrant,” or something else entirely? Bree mentioned a Westword story featuring comments from a Venezuelan migrant himself about the budget cuts. Hear our conversation with Denverite editor Obed Manuel about one newsroom’s decision to change their language around the crisis of new people arriving in Denver from Venezuela. Paul discussed local author Helen Thorpe’s excellent book “ The Newcomers .” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support us by becoming a member: https://membership.citycast.fm/denver What do you think about “migrants” vs. “new immigrants”? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Restaurant Week is coming up March 1-10! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, February 12, 2024
Should We Be Saying ‘New Immigrants’ Instead of ‘Migrants’?
After a deal on immigration reform died in Congress last week, Mayor Mike Johnston made a decision he didn’t want to make. To cover the estimated $180 million projected cost of supporting the still-growing migrant population this year, he announced a round of budget cuts on Friday for the DMV and Parks and Recreation, and warned of more cuts possible. As Denverites prepare for a summer without flowers in city-owned flower beds or in-person vehicle registration renewals, Denverite editor Obed Manuel joins host Bree Davies to make the case for why now is the time to change the way we talk about the crisis. Obed mentioned this recent Denverite story about Yupi the Clown. What do you think we should be saying — “migrants” or “new immigrants”? We haven’t decided yet, and we need your help! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Restaurant Week is coming up March 1-10! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 09, 2024
‘Outside Festival’ Revealed, Suncor’s Big Fine, and DIA’s Foot-Eating Walkway
It’s Friday, and we’re digging into all the local stories that mattered this week. First, Suncor Energy is getting hit with a “historic” $10.5 million dollar fine for “spewing excessive amounts of toxic chemicals into the air over three years.” Are lawmakers finally ready to crack down hard on the 100-year-old chronic polluter? Plus, tickets went on sale yesterday for a new “SXSW-style” event called Outside Festival set to premiere in Civic Center Park this June, and those new black-and-white license plates are everywhere! Longtime environmental champion and former mayoral candidate Ean Thomas Tafoya joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the news, and wrap up with our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. Ean talked about the GreenLatinos’ North Denver report . Paul looked up the Commerce City steakhouse with the colorful signage, and Bree was right. It is Deno’s . He also mentioned the Delta pilot’s lawsuit and Ed McCaffrey’s excellent mustard . What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Restaurant Week is coming up (March 1-10) “ Small Island Big Song ” at the Newman Ce
Thu, February 08, 2024
Cheap, Fun Date Ideas for Valentine’s Day
It’s almost Valentine’s Day! Have you planned something extra thoughtful for your sweetie?Did you remember to make a reservation? Fear not, we’ve got you covered. We’ve rounded up a great list of unique, low-cost, and memorable options in and around the city for the best V-Day yet. From a simple gesture like a heart-shaped box of fried chicken to an affordable day trip to a city-close hot springs, host Bree Davies, producer Olivia Jewell Love, and returning guest, writer Linnea Covington from Mile High on the Cheap , bring you their top tier recs for keeping this holiday romantic and budget friendly. Some of the things we mentioned: -The local wine and chocolate lists from 5280 magazine - Takeout deal from Chook Chicken -Denver city scavenger hunt - Maven Hotel and Atomic Cowboy - Indian Hot Springs -Heart shaped box of chicken at The Post - Vero heart shaped pizza -Thrifting and brunch date in Lakewood Read Linnea’s full write up on cheap dates for Mile High on the Cheap here . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Restaurant Week is coming up (March 1-10) “ Small Island Big Song ” at the Newman Center (Starting February 16) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads a
Wed, February 07, 2024
Why This Popular Museum Exhibit Closed Forever
Spurred by new guidelines issued last month by the Biden Administration, curators at the vaunted American Museum of Natural History in New York are shutting down two major exhibits of Native American objects and culture. The closures send “a powerful message” to museums across the country to speed up their repatriation work, according to The New York Times . But here in Denver, our museum community is already on the cutting edge! Last summer, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi toured the Denver Museum of Nature and Science’s North American Indian Cultures Hall on the last day of its 45-year run, asking a couple of experts what message it was sending to thousands of schoolchildren each year and why it needed to close. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Restaurant Week is coming up (March 1-10) “ Small Island Big Song ” at the Newman Center (Starting February 16) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 06, 2024
Johnston’s First Veto, Yellow Vest Vigilantes, and Your Votes for Worst Intersections
Late last week, Mayor Mike Johnston responded to City Council’s ban on sweeps of homeless encampments during freezing temperatures with his first official veto. Though the Denver mayoral position allows for vetoes of City Council decisions, it is not a power often used by those in office — so why did the Johnston administration take this particular stand? Plus, this isn’t the only friction to arise within local government lately. After the mayor partnered with the Downtown Denver Partnership a few weeks ago to roll out a new “ambassadors” program aimed at making the city center more appealing to visitors, some council members are questioning if the program is lacking oversight . Host Bree Davies is joined by Westword editor-in-chief Patty Calhoun to break down these stories, plus dig into some listener responses to our ongoing callout for the worst intersections in the Mile High . Patty mentioned the Next Gallery Casa Bonita-inspired art show , opening February 16; she also talked House1000 dashboard updated by the City, which as of February 5 said that 1,245 people had been moved indoors and 1,191 were still indoors. Bree mentioned the deadly shooting in Green Valley Ranch over the weekend, as well as Axios Denver’s coverage of the veto and the Mayor’s letter to City Council ; she also talked about the need for volunteer translators for migrant work authorization clinics happening this week. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418
Mon, February 05, 2024
The Romantic Myth (and Bloody Reality) of Denver’s Old Streetcar
Did you know Denver used to have a streetcar? That simple, nostalgia-fueled question has lured many transit nerds and urban planning enthusiasts down a rabbit hole paved with asphalt and good intentions (mostly asphalt though). None have gone further into the archives than Jake Berman. He’s the author of the new book “ The Lost Subways of North America ,” and he’s on today with host Bree Davies to talk through the shockingly bloody history of the old Denver Tramway company and why Denverites are still so nostalgic for the sepia-toned days of our transit past. Plus, an update on Governor Jared Polis’s effort to turn back the clocks. Jake ultimately cut all his Denver research out of his book, but you can read the whole chapter in this reddit post he made a few months ago. Bree mentioned the recent water main break on East Colfax What do you think about Denver’s streetcar nostalgia? Is it a useful research topic or a flight of fancy? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Restaurant Week is coming up (March 1-10) “ Small Island Big Song ” at the Newman Center (Starting February 16) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 02, 2024
Is Denver Still 'Menver'? Plus, Bad Cell Reception and Tenants’ Rights
Do you have that one spot in the city where your phone calls always get dropped? Or that place in your house where cell service is nonexistent? According to a new story from Denver Post reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, the trees on your block might be to blame. Megan joins host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love to dig into the cell service dilemma, along with her forthcoming story, just in time for Valentine’s Day — does Denver still live up to its nickname “Menver,” a place overflowing with single men? Plus, the welcome closure of that exploitative animal entertainment joint in Southwest Plaza Mall, an expansion of tenants’ rights, and more Stanley cup drama make our list of Rocky Mountain highs and lows of the week. We talked about some of Westword's past "Menver" coverage, which you can read here. Megan mentioned the Girls Gotta Eat podcast episode about dating in Denver . If you have thoughts on Denver’s “Menver” nickname or want to share your Mile High dating experience, you can reach Megan via email: mboyanton@denverpost.com . What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: See “ Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 ” at the Arvada Center (Feb. 16 - Mar. 31) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 01, 2024
Your Guide to February in Denver
It’s the month of love! It’s also “false spring,” aka temps in the 20s and 60s. So, what is a Denverite to do? From skiing in a tuxedo to enjoying a solo movie date during Oscars season, we’ve got a list of fun ways to the make the most of February in and around the Mile High City. Host Bree Davies, producer Olivia Jewell Love, and newsletter editor Adrian González share their fave activities, food recs, and hot tips for enjoying this wonky weather season. Here are links to our picks: 33rd Annual Mountaintop Matrimony at Loveland Ski Area (Dillon) Vintage Shopping / Antiquing / Estate Sales ( The Shop Outpost , The Oddemporium , Ten Penny , Goldmine Vintage , Brass Armadillo , estatesales.org ) Ash Wednesday Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel / Dinner at Uncle (Northside) Pozole ( La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal ; Kahlo's , Mi Gusto Es , Las Hijas de La Chilanga ) Deviation Distilling at the Dairy Block Lala’s Bakery at La Victoria Healing Kitchen (Aurora) Jewelry Making Course at Fleur (Speer) Oscar Season Solo Movie Date (Citywide) Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull, Ricky Martin: The Trilogy Tour at Ball Arena (Auraria) Bree mentioned this Saturday’s grand opening party at La Victoria Healing Kitchen , the new source for the Denver classic Spring Fling cake. Adrian’s source for finding out about estate sales: https://estatesales.org/estate-sales/co/denver For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver<
Wed, January 31, 2024
Are These Denver’s Worst Intersections?
What makes a particular intersection worse than another? Or more dangerous? Or just plain rage-inducing? From the urban streets we treat like speedways to ‘spaghetti monster’ highway interchanges to that one building drivers can’t stop crashing into, our listeners shared tons of suggestions for the worst roadways in the city. So we invited Denver7’s “Traffic Guy” Jayson Luber to help answer some of your voicemails and texts about Denver’s worst intersections, and break down why we love to hate them. Bree mentioned new data showing Colorado pedestrian and cyclist deaths reached an all-time high in 2023. For more from Jayson, check out his podcast Driving You Crazy on Apple , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. What do you think is the worst intersection in Denver? Or is there one you actually really like? We want to hear from you. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: See “ Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 ” at the Arvada Center (Feb. 16 - Mar. 31) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 30, 2024
Transit Battles, Deepfake Election Anxiety, and Pronouncing ‘Buena Vista’
It’s Tuesday, and we’re talking about all the stories that matter in Denver this week. First, Secretary of State Jena Griswold is concerned about deepfakes and other AI-generated material impacting Colorado elections and she’s asking the legislature to take the issue seriously. But how? Then, just as bicycle activists declare victory over NIMBYs on 7th Avenue , a new transit fight is brewing over the soon-to-be-constructed Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line on Colfax Ave. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi break down these stories, plus they dare to take on the Denver Post’s divisive question facing all Coloradans: How do you pronounce “Buena Vista” ? The request for proposals for bus stop art along the upcoming Colfax Avenue BRT line is open through February 11. The group opposing BRT, Keep Calm , has a meeting this Thursday at Capitol Heights Presbyterian Church. Paul talked about this episode of the New York Times’ Hard Fork podcast digging onto AI election concerns. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: See “ Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 ” at the Arvada Center (Feb. 16 - Mar. 31) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, January 29, 2024
The Northside’s Secret Mozzarella Dynasty Drama, Explained
One of Denver’s richest men just won another major ruling in a years-long legal battle with his own nieces over the mozzarella empire he built on 38th Avenue. James “Jim” Leprino will maintain sole control of 85% of the global market for pizza cheese through his company Leprino Foods. But how did this reclusive billionaire first corner the market? And why did his own family take him to court? Producer Paul Karolyi spoke with reporter Helen Xu (also known as Helen X) back in December 2022 when all this juicy succession drama was first revealed in the courtroom. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: See “ Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 ” at the Arvada Center (Feb. 16 - Mar. 31) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 26, 2024
City Council Ethics Probe, GOP Turmoil, and a Pastor’s Crypto Scam
It’s Friday, and we’re talking about all the stories that mattered this week. District 7 city councilmember Flor Alvidrez is in hot water after an ethics investigation revealed she allegedly misused city funds. Then, Republican state representative Mike Lynch stepped down as House minority leader after a video surfaced of his 2022 DUI arrest. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Joshua Emerson , comedian and co-chair of the Denver American Indian Commission, to wade through the controversies. Finally, this week’s Mile Highs and Lows dig into a local preacher’s crypto scam, a former mayoral candidate’s big conservative reveal, a local coffee shop’s good news, and more. Learn more about City Cast’s guest diversity initiative and the data about City Cast Denver’s guest diversity in 2023, as well as a piece from Neiman Lab on the state of local news podcasts with our CEO David Plotz. Bree talked about the Youtuber wanted by state patrol for going 150 miles per hour on I25; she also mentioned the new Molecule Effect opening on south South Broadway. Joshua discussed the crypto pastor . Paul talked about Conor McCormick-Cavanagh’s report on the Common Sense Institute, this Denverite story about Yupi the Clown, and the Denver Gazette’s coverage of the real top story of the week: Us! If you happen to be in the Bay Area in February, catch Joshua’s Bad Indian: A Native American Comedy Showcase at SF Sketchfest. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even m
Thu, January 25, 2024
A Mile High Guide to Booze-Free Fun
Dry January is coming to a close, but what if you want to keep the booze-free party going? Beyond Denver’s countless breweries and hyped cocktail bars, where do adults go to let loose and have fun? Host Bree Davies is joined by returning guest Ashley (AKA Colfax Things on Instagram) to lay out a versatile list of fun things to do with a group of friends or on a date in the Mile High City, no alcohol needed. We want to hear from you, too! We’re compiling a list of all our favorite sober activities for our newsletter Hey Denver next week, and we need your help. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and we’ll include all our faves: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Denver Art Museum - “Untitled: Artist Takeover ,” Jan. 26 6-10 p.m. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 24, 2024
Mayor Johnston on the Migrant Crisis, ¡Viva! Streets, and His Iconic Corduroy Jacket
With busloads of migrants still arriving in Denver nearly every day, Mayor Mike Johnston just returned from a second trip to Washington, DC, lobbying the federal government for emergency action. So in our semi-regular sit-down with the mayor, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi ask him why this situation is so dire right now, what happens if Congress won't give him what he wants , and whether or not he’d be willing to risk prison time testing out an innovative new legal theory . Plus, we get the deets on his increasingly iconic corduroy jacket , question his commitment to multi-modal transportation post-¡Viva! Streets’ cancellation , and give him a listener question on the snowplowing problems we all know are coming soon. Mayor Johnston mentioned the House Homeland Security Committee’s planned impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas over the temporary work authorization program that allowed some migrants who arrived in Denver last year to work. UPDATE: After the mayor left the studio, one of his aides told us she’d checked with the Downtown Denver Partnership and they told her ¡Viva! Streets cost closer to $1 million in 2023, which is still quite a bit higher than the $650,000 their executive director, Kourtny Garrett, told us a couple weeks ago. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Denver Art Museum - “Untitled: Artist Takeover ,” Jan. 26 6-10 p.m. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsl
Tue, January 23, 2024
Banning LOLs on I70, A Park Hill Preservation Fight, and Your Meat-Free Recs
State transportation officials for years have been using humor to spice up their safety messaging (e.g., “camp in the mountains, not in the left lane"), but now the Federal Highway Administration says CDOT is too funny. Or maybe not funny enough? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the crackdown on humorous safety slogans. Plus, we’re hashing out the new historic preservation fight brewing in Park Hill and responding to your comments and recommendations about our episode on Denver’s best meat-free eats . Paul talked about the failed preservation push we covered around the Richard Crowther house in Cherry Creek, mentioned the data on traffic fatalities statewide, and quoted from this Washington Post story on the funny safety signage. Bree talked about the time someone hacked a safety sign in Denver. What do you think about the funny safety signs? Should they stay or go? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Health Denver Art Museum - “Untitled: Artist Takeover ,” Jan. 26 6-10 p.m. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, January 22, 2024
What if Mayor Johnston Hired the Migrants Himself?
It seems like Mayor Mike Johnston has tried everything to make Denver a welcoming place for the nearly 40,000 South American migrants who have arrived here since December 2022. He’s opened up shelter space and organized a city-wide fundraiser . He called on city departments to cut their budgets to fund additional support. He even flew to Washington, DC, to personally appeal to President Biden for more federal money and fast-tracked work authorizations — twice! But with Congress embroiled in partisan turmoil, is there anything more he could do? César Cuauhtémoc García Hernández is a veteran immigration lawyer and Denver-based law professor with The Ohio State University, and he’s on today with a big, bold, unprecedented idea for the mayor. César mentioned this recent debate within the University of California system and responded to this critique of the proposal from George Fishman of The Center for Immigration Studies. He will be appearing in conversation with State Senator Julie Gonzales at the Tattered Cover on Colfax on February 1 to promote his forthcoming book on immigration law, “ Welcome the Wretched: In Defense of the ’Criminal Alien.’ ” What do you think about César’s big idea? Should Denver lead in support of the migrants? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 We’ve got a bunch of resources for more ways to help the migrants in our newsletter Hey Denver , which you can subscribe to now at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your n
Fri, January 19, 2024
Renters Fight the Power, Most Anticipated Eats, and Hotties in RiNo
A Lakewood woman is suing her apartment’s management company for “junk fees” after it allegedly added hidden charges to her rent. Meanwhile, new data says rents in the metro area are actually trending down — does this all signal a change in the balance of power between Denver renters and landlords? Plus, multiple lists of Denver’s most anticipated restaurant openings came out this week, so we’re talking about where we’re most excited to eat in 2024. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by comedian Miriam Moreno to break down all the news that mattered this week, along with their local epic wins and fails of the week. Grab tickets to Miriam’s late-night talk show, Good Night Denver, happening January 25. Miriam talked about the community groups supporting migrants. Bree mentioned The Cutting Room Floor interview with Yasiin Bey and her anticipation for the reopening of Welton St. Cafe, which we covered when they had to close last year. Paul talked about Toro, a Cap Hill spot that got some TikTok love this week . What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Tecovas Loo
Thu, January 18, 2024
Denver's Best Meat-Free Eats
Everyone knows the reasons why you might want to eat less meat — it’s good for the Earth, it’s good for your health, et cetera et cetera. But not everyone knows the best spots in town to eat well, veggie-style. So today, producer Paul Karolyi ( reducetarian ) is joined by two members of the veggie community — friend of the show Brooke Garcia (vegetarian) and the new owner of Glendale’s Native Foods , Michael Olivas (vegan) — to talk about how Denver stacks up when it comes to meat-free eats and share their recs for vegetarian/vegan restaurants, as well as favorite non-vegetarian places that offer a great meat-free meal. Some links to places we mentioned: Vegan Van at Assembly Market City O’ City (Cap Hill) The Madras Cafe (Aurora) Sputnik (Baker) Pit Fiend (Five Points) Jelly (Cap Hill) La Diabla Pozole Y Mezcal (Five Points) Michael is officially the owner of the Native Foods in Glendale, but he could still use your support to revamp the menu and get the word out about the new-and-improved Native Foods. Check out the GoFundMe if you want to help out! Michael mentioned the new documentary on Netflix “ You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment .” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Tecovas. Don’t Go Gently, y’all! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="http
Wed, January 17, 2024
Goodbye ¡Viva! Streets, Parking Lot Robots, and Your Yellow Vest Comments
¡Viva! Streets brought more than 40,000 Denverites out to enjoy car-free streets in 2023 . But the pedestrian-centered effort to revitalize downtown won’t be returning this year, and advocates are questioning who is ultimately to blame. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking through the suspects, as well as this story about the new robots patrolling LoDo parking garages. Finally, listeners share their thoughts on the labor, environmental, and fashion concerns of the company Mayor Mike Johnston chose to supply the yellow-vest uniform for downtown’s new ambassador program . The Denver Streets Partnership is circulating a petition to save ¡Viva! Streets in 2024. Paul discussed Cotopaxi’s sustainability policy and this third-party review of the company’s sustainability practices. Listener Baily Rose alluded to this classic episode of ours, featuring a local oil and gas executive calling out The North Face for hypocrisy. What do you think about ¡Viva! Streets’ cancellation? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Tecovas Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 16, 2024
What Denverites Can Expect From the State Legislature This Year
The Colorado state legislature returned to work last week, with Democrats still in control of both the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the governor’s office. Housing remains top of mind for state leaders, with unsettled debates over zoning, rent control, and transit-related development expected to continue from last year. But after Governor Jared Polis’s massive land-use reform failure, what, if anything, could change about Colorado’s approach to housing? And what should Denverites in particular be watching? Colorado Sun politics reporter Brian Eason joins host Bree Davies to dig into the big themes for legislators this year and examine the burning question: With lingering tensions over Gaza, will they be able to agree on anything at all? Bree mentioned friend of the show Nate Minor’s excellent podcast “ Ghost Train ” for CPR. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Tecovas Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 12, 2024
Yellow Vests Downtown, Mayor Johnston and the Arts, and the Truth About Rocky Flats
Sponsored by Tecovas , Western Week reaches a thrilling finale! The Downtown Denver Partnership and Mayor Mike Johnston rolled out a new safety program this week in the form of 650 yellow-vested private security and nonprofit outreach workers. Could these new “ambassadors” be the signal of a safer downtown? And as homelessness and migrant arrivals take up city resources, will the mayor make good on his promise to prioritize the arts ? Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dissect all the stories that mattered to Denverites this week, plus a round of Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows. Justine talked about a four-part series in the Denver Post on alcoholism in Colorado . Bree mentioned at story from the Colorado Sun on artists moving to the San Luis Valley and an obituary for her great uncle, John Litz . Paul discussed the IRS and TABOR , this week’s Rocky Flats news , and his five-part podcast series “ Unclear Danger: The Colorado Story of Rocky Flats ,” which he neglected to mention was supported by a Denver Arts & Venues grant — what a coincidence! What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: <a href="https:/
Thu, January 11, 2024
We Tried Rocky Mountain Oysters (So You Don’t Have To)
Sponsored by Tecovas , Western Week continues! And we are digging into one of Denver’s most unusual claims to culinary fame — the Rocky Mountain oyster, aka bull’s balls. But is this quirky appetizer really a unique local delicacy? Or something a lot more complicated? Producer Paul Karolyi and newsletter editors Peyton Garcia and Adrian González visited one of the most famous purveyors of Rocky Mountain oysters, the iconic Buckhorn Exchange (est. 1893), to share a plate of bovine cojones with a side of surprising Mile High history and lore. Have you ever had Rocky Mountain oysters? What did you think of ‘em? Got a favorite place to get them? Or a story about the Buckhorn Exchange? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Here are links to our picks for your weekend: The 42nd Annual Colorado Indian Market & Southwest Art Fest Far East Center Lunar New Year events The film “ The Front Runner ,” which tells the story of Colorado Senator Gary Hart’s 1988 presidential campaign Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 10, 2024
Live at the National Western Stock Show: Tips, Tricks, and Hijinks
Sponsored by Tecovas , Western Week continues! And we are going into the belly of the beast, the Stock Show itself. Join host Bree Davies and returning guest Joshua Emerson — stand-up comic and co-chair of the Denver American Indian Commission — as they talk to ranchers and vendors, old-timers and outlaws, and all sorts of colorful characters in town to carry on this beloved Denver tradition. Tag along as they ask the uncomfortable questions, open the closed doors, and figure out once and for all, what does one do inside a Beef Palace? Missed an episode of Western Week? Catch up on all the goodness: The Day The Stock Show Almost Left Denver An Expert’s Guide to the 2024 Stock Show Can You Guess Which Wild West Tales Are True or Fake? For even more Western Week, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 09, 2024
Can Johnston House Another 1,000? Plus, Who Did Boebert Punch?
Welcome back to Western Week, our weeklong celebration and investigation into Denver’s Western roots, brought to you by Tecovas ! Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi stopped by the Tecovas store in Cherry Creek North to smell the fine leather goods and talk through all the stories that matter to Denverites this week. First, mayor Mike Johnston declared victory in his effort to get 1,000 unhoused people off the streets in 2023. But can he do it again in 2024? Plus, we’re talking about who Congresswoman Lauren Boebert punched in the face over the weekend and the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to hear appeals over former president Donald Trump’s ban from Colorado’s Republican presidential primary. Wanna hear us dive deep into the Stock Show’s “cattle sperm auction,” as listener Celia S. suggested? Get access to that members-only bonus episode, plus ad-free listening and more by becoming a member of City Cast Denver today! Join now for as little as $8/month at membership.citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, January 08, 2024
Can You Guess Which Wild West Tales Are Real or Fake?
Welcome back to Western Week! Sponsored by Tecovas , our celebration of Denver’s Western roots continues today with a game about the stories we Denverites tell about ourselves. It’s Two Truths and a Tall Tale about Denver’s Wild West history! Politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to swap mostly true stories about con men, sex workers, unruly cattle, uranium mining, the gold rush, and more. Can you figure out which of these stories are shockingly real and which are tall tales? Love Colorado history? Check out our past episodes on the sex workers of the Wild West , the Black homesteaders who settled the Dry , and the work Denver Parks and Rec is doing to bring bison back to the indigenous communities rooted in this region. What do you think? Do you have a favorite tall tale of Denver’s Wild West? We want to hear it. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver and become a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Tecovas , your source for cowboy boots and Western-style fashion, with a shop in Cherry Creek North Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 05, 2024
Can Boebert Win DougCo? Plus, Wolves vs. Beef and a Parade!
Sponsored by Tecovas , Western Week continues! As the longhorns paraded down 17th Street yesterday to kick off the National Western Stock Show, we gathered downtown to talk through the biggest stories of the week, each of which offers a look at the state of Colorado’s urban-rural divide. Longtime Western Slope representative Lauren Boebert is switching districts — will she appeal to conservatives in Denver’s suburbs? Then, thanks mostly to urban voters, wolf reintroduction is in full swing — so what does it all have to do with the Mile High price of a burger these days? Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Aspen Times Western Slope politics reporter Elliott Wenzler to dig into the news and share the first Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of 2024. Elliott talked about donkeys as the first line of defense against wolves, shouted out the Ouray Ice Festival , and mentioned Jesse Paul’s coverage of Boebert’s district switch . Bree referenced a story from The Oregonian about the impacts of wolf reintroduction and unrelated, Aaron Gordon’s dog bites . Paul talked about Russell Wilson’s good sportsmanship and the federal government’s lack of support for Denver and the migrant crisis. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast De
Thu, January 04, 2024
An Expert’s Guide to the 2024 Stock Show
Presented by Tecovas , Western Week continues! The National Western Stock Show kicks off this weekend, serving up 16 days of fun things to do, see, and eat! Whether you’re an experienced rodeo-goer or a first-timer, a plan is a necessity — but where do you start? From a high-dollar art show to mutton bustin’ to cattle pageantry, there are dozens of unique agricultural, historical, cultural, and culinary offerings to choose from. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with Westword editor Patty Calhoun — a super Stock Show aficionado and cowboy boot enthusiast — to get the lowdown on how to do the big horse and cattle show right. For even more help planning your Stock Show visit, we’ve got a quick and dirty FAQ for you at denver.citycast.fm. Patty mentioned the Coors Western Art Exhibit , the Cowboy Bar , and the Livestock Exchange building, along with other historic buildings worth touring on the National Western property. Paul quoted from the 2023 Leachman Cattle of Colorado Commercial Breeder’s Guide . ICYMI: We also discussed the 4-H kids who raise livestock for the Stock Show, but neglected to mention the episode we made last January tagging along with one Arvada girl who was showing off a goat. Check it out if you missed it! Our Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia has some helpful tips for navigating parking, ticket pricing, and more at the Stock Show. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choice
Wed, January 03, 2024
The Day the Stock Show Almost Left Denver
Welcome to Western Week, sponsored by Tecovas ! The National Western Stock Show is set to open this weekend in Denver, as it has almost every January since 1906. More than a rodeo and livestock showcase, this annual event is an integral part of Denver’s identity and economy, bringing in billions of dollars over the decades. But the story of a city and its rodeo is not all bolo ties and button-snap shirts! To kick off our weeklong celebration and investigation into Denver's Western roots, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi tracked down a chapter that’s best not forgotten — the time the Stock Show almost left Denver… forever. We hear from former speaker of the Colorado House of Representatives Terrance Carroll, Rockmount Ranch Wear president Steve Weil, National Western Stock Show CEO Paul Andrews, and start to answer our big Western Week question: Is Denver still a cowtown? What do you think? Is Denver still a cowtown or something else entirely? We want to hear from you. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Stick around to the end of the episode for your Tecovas Tip of the Day! Because the Stock Show is its own world, and we’ve teamed up with Tecovas to get you all the insider know-how. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 02, 2024
Your Guide to January in Denver
It’s 2024! Maybe you’ve joined a gym or made some new year’s resolutions. But what are you doing for fun? From live concerts by candlelight and a long-awaited restaurant re-opening to a new immersive art (and cocktails) experience, we’ve got lots of great ideas to help you relax and enjoy the new year in Denver. Join Host Bree Davies, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia, and producer Paul Karolyi to plot out your perfect January in the city. Here are links to our picks: Candlelight Concerts (Highland) Prismajic Presents “Shiki Dreams ” (Lakewood) Charley Harper’s “ Rocky Mountains” Beginner’s Astrology Class (La Alma Lincoln Park) Babe’s Tea Room (LoHi) Domo (La Alma Lincoln Park) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 29, 2023
The OG 1-Star Review Game
Could you guess a Denver institution based only on how its haters described it in a 1-star review? Play along with producer Olivia Jewell Love, returning guest JD Lopez, and producer slash quizmaster Paul Karolyi in this first edition of our 1-star review game show. For more from JD, you can hear him share his ice cream obsession on our ice cream battle episode from July, or interview local creatives on his podcast Left Hand Right Brain . This episode originally aired on September 13, 2023. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 28, 2023
How Colorado Became the EV Capital of America
CPR climate reporter and EV owner Sam Brasch says there is “no better state in the country to buy an electric car than Colorado,” thanks to all the state incentives and rebates available here . Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sat down with Sam over the summer to break down all the discounts, his personal experience owning a Chevy Bolt, and the complicated politics of EVs. Learn more about our state’s EV incentive programs . This episode originally aired on July 31, 2023. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 27, 2023
Did Mayor Johnston Keep His Campaign Promises?
Mike Johnston made a lot of big promises when he was on the campaign trail earlier this year — like ending homelessness in his first term. So how’s he doing so far? Back in May, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi talked with the now-mayor about his plan for downtown, his idea to build “micro-communities” for people experiencing homelessness, and much more. This was right before the runoff, and we’re bringing that conversation back now to see how it sounds on the other side of the election. Johnston mentioned Stephen Brackett’s proposal to create an Office of the Night Mayor. Bree talked to Stephen back in April about what a night mayor is and more of his big ideas for the future of Denver’s nightlife. We caught up with the mayor again in October to talk about his first 100 days in office. You can also check out our very first interview with him earlier in the election cycle. This episode originally aired on May 18, 2023. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 26, 2023
How the Denver Art Museum Acquired Stolen Relics
It’s been exactly one year since the Denver Post published a blockbuster three-part investigation uncovering an international criminal conspiracy involving the Denver Art Museum. While the DAM removed one of the co-conspirators’ names from its Arts of Asia gallery earlier this year and has returned some of the stolen relics , the story behind Denver’s Emma Bunker, or “The Scholar” as she was known, and how those looted antiquities ended up at the DAM still warrants an explanation. Producer Paul Karolyi spoke to reporter Sam Tabachnik about his globetrotting investigation and how his revelations have rocked the Denver art world. This episode originally aired on December 5, 2022. Bree mentioned Tabachnik’s recent reporting on the DAM’s recent decision to remove Emma C. Bunker’s name from a gallery and their quiet repatriation work since his initial investigation. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Meow Wolf Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 22, 2023
Trump Ruling Fallout, Our Predictions for 2024, and Who Owns Blucifer?
The Colorado Supreme Court made international headlines this week when it ruled that former president Donald Trump will not be allowed on our state’s 2024 primary ballots. With an appeal to SCOTUS imminent, we’re talking about why this happened here in Denver, the fragile state of our democracy, and all the ripple effects across Colorado. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by our politics and green chile correspondent, Justine Sandoval, to break down the local GOP and Democrat responses to the Trump ruling and round up the rest of the week’s news, including a pressing question posed by a new report from our friends at Westword: Does “Blucifer” belong to the estate of the artist or the taxpayers? Finally, our predictions for Denver in 2024. Bree mentioned another piece by Luis Jiménez Jr., “End of the Trail (with Electric Sunset),” which was part of the DAM’s Desert Rider show earlier this year, and the original by James Earl Fraser. What do you think about Blucifer’s ubiquitous likeness? Has the demon horse transcended his creator’s vision? Or should the Jiménez estate control his likeness? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at the Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 21, 2023
Is the 'Shake Shack of Mexican Food' Rising in the ’Burbs?
Twenty-one years after Northsider Jose Ramirez ventured into Centennial to open the first Los Dos Potrillos in 2002, his sons Luis and Daniel have expanded the business across the ‘burbs, with a dream of becoming the “ Shake Shack of Mexican food. ” Host Bree Davies sat down with the Ramirez brothers earlier this year before they opened their new fast-casual spot in Northglenn to talk about the state of Den-Mex in 2023. This episode originally aired on January 25, 2023. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at the Denver Art Museum Savio House Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 20, 2023
Does Rep. Lauren Boebert Have a Chance in 2024?
After Rep. Lauren Boebert’s “Beetlejuice” moment back in September, Liberals across the country gleefully jeered and cheered as she tried to spin the media narrative back in her favor. But now that the dust has settled, Boebert is back on the offensive. So what are her electoral chances in the Congressional District 3 Republican primary in June? And if she wins, could she beat the likely Democratic candidate, Adam Frisch, in November? Join host Bree Davies, producer Paul Karolyi and returning guests Ian Silverii and Jason Bane — co-hosts of the liberal Colorado politics podcast Get More Smarter — to look back on Boebert’s big year, including some very fresh dirt from the UK tabloids, and predict her electoral future. Bree quoted two editorials from the Denver Gazette; one about Boebert and one about Trump . She also mentioned yesterday’s news about the Colorado Supreme Court barring former President Donald Trump from the CO primary next year over his role on January 6. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at the Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 19, 2023
Mayor Johnston’s ‘Deception’, DA Looks at ’Shrooms, and a New Colorado Christmas Song
Mayor Mike Johnston has less than two weeks left to bring almost 500 people off the street into housing if he wants to hit his self-imposed target. At least, that’s what his housing dashboard says now. Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about “deception” and “gaslighting” allegations from Kyle Clark of 9News and the growing criticism facing the mayor. Plus, why is Denver DA taking a look at the burgeoning gray market for psilocybin now? Did you love Jarrod Walker’s “ Christmas in Colorado ” and want to hear more locally made holiday tunes? Here’s the list that Patty mentioned. Patty also talked about Westword’s reporting on psilocybin entrepreneur Darren Lyman. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think about Mayor Johnston and House1000? We want to hear your concerns, questions, celebrations, or whatever else you have to share! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at the Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 18, 2023
Can Denver Stop Evictions Forever?
Denver is on track to see more people evicted from their homes this year than any time since 2008. But with the Mile High minimum wage steadily rising and a fairly stable economy , what’s going on? Host Bree Davies sits down with Melissa Mejia, policy director for the Colorado Economic Defense Project , to talk about the eviction crisis, how more than $60 million in new funding from the city and state is going to help, and why stopping evictions is about more than just keeping people off the streets. Bree mentioned the Denver Post’s coverage of evictions in the city this year. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at the Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 15, 2023
Why Aren’t Coloradans More Optimistic? Plus, Wins and Fails of the Year
A new poll shows that Coloradans are “slightly” optimistic about the direction of the state. But a closer look at those numbers reveals a heckuva lot more. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by returning faves — politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval and Joshua Emerson, comedian, Casa Bonita employee, and co-chair of the Denver American Indian Commission — to break down the data. Plus, we’re crowning Denver’s most epic wins and fails of 2023. Bree mentioned a piece she was quoted in about thriving DIY spaces . Paul wants you to know that the most prominent challenger to Lauren Boebert in the CD3 Republican primary is Jeff Hurd. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Bag of Colfax ” from the Colfax BID Museum of Illusions DCPA presents “ A Christmas Carol ” Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 14, 2023
The Fate of Car-Free Streets, Lemonade Scandal Hits Local Paneras, and French Fries!
The beverage of the moment here in Denver — like the rest of the country — comes from an unlikely purveyor: Panera Bread. But as our producer Olivia Jewell Love has been watching, local Paneras are making their new “charged” lemonade harder to access, as the company faces lawsuits alleging that the highly caffeinated sweet treat is more deadly than it seems. Olivia joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk through her reporting on the local lemonade situation, and then they break down the latest fight in RiNo over car-free streets. Finally, we’ve got some recommendations for your Denver weekend. Paul cited Axios Denver and BusinessDen’s coverage of the car-free streets. Bree mentioned the survey the City of Denver and RiNo Art District are running to ask for opinions on the closed block in RiNo. Here are links to our picks for your weekend: Blankslate Holiday Show @ Broadway Roxy The french fries at Gaia Masala , Bull & Bush , and Las Tortas Rainbow Dome Winter Solstice Market For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think are the biggest Denver wins and fails of 2023? We want to hear what you think are the wins and fails that defined the year in Denver. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Bag of Colfax ” from the Colfax BID Museum of Illusions DCPA presents “<a href="https://www.denvercenter.org/tickets-events/a-christmas-carol/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCA
Wed, December 13, 2023
Should Denver Open Emergency Warming Shelters Sooner?
Cold weather is a fact of life up here in Mile High. But current city policy says that Denver’s emergency warming centers should only open after temperatures dip down to 20 degrees — well below the point when the human body can experience hypothermia. Recently, Dr. Joshua Barocas , a medical doctor and associate professor at the CU School for Medicine, made a presentation to City Council arguing for a simple change to Denver’s approach to keeping people warm. Dr. Barocas joins host Bree Davies to explain why opening our warming centers before Denver gets too cold can save lives — and also save the city money. The proposal to change temperature thresholds for Denver’s warming centers goes before the City Council’s Safety Committee December 20 as part of a cold weather shelter plan; if it passes, all of council may vote on the issue in January. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think are the biggest Denver wins and fails of 2023? We want to hear what you think are the wins and fails that defined the year in Denver. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Bag of Colfax ” from the Colfax BID Museum of Illusions DCPA presents “ A Christmas Carol ” Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 12, 2023
Neighbors Rally To Support Migrants, Hotel Shelter Mix-Up, and Blucifer’s Nemesis
Since Central and South American migrants started arriving in Denver almost exactly one year ago, more than 30,000 people have arrived looking for support, housing, and all kinds of other help. While city officials are scrambling, everyday Denverites are stepping up — but still, the struggle to help migrants is clashing with Mayor Mike Johnston’s last-minute push to house 1,000 people already living in Denver by the end of the year. Host Bree Davies is joined by green chile and politics correspondent Justine Sandoval for a ground-level look at the neighborhood aid work happening across the city. Plus, a listener question pits Blucifer against the Big Blue Bear. And could the solution for our empty office buildings be daycare? Bree mentioned the City of Denver’s Newcomers Fund to help migrants, where you can find the city-run toy drive, and Justine mentioned this Denver Post article about Tamales by La Casita. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think are the biggest Denver wins and fails of 2023? We want to hear what you think are the wins and fails that defined the year in Denver. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Bag of Colfax ” from the Colfax BID Museum of Illusions DCPA presents “ A Christmas Carol ” Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 11, 2023
Did Colorado Fix Its Auto Theft Problem?
The numbers are in and it’s official, Denver is not the car theft capital of the country. Car thefts are even down at DIA! So how did that happen? Host Bree Davies sits down with Director Robert Force and Cale Gould of the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority to talk about how new legislation and a mission from the governor’s office gave them the tools to turn around not just Denver’s auto theft problem, but to bring down year-over-year auto theft rates across Colorado in 2023 by 23%. To see an auto theft heat map of Denver and learn more about decreasing your risk of car theft, check out the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority . The City of Denver also offers several crime dashboards and information on its car theft tracking system, DenverTrack . Bree mentioned the “ Denver Boot .” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Grab a “ Bag of Colfax ” Today! Purchase tickets to Museum of Illusions Denver “ A Christmas Carol ” at DCPA Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 08, 2023
What’s Denver’s Word of the Year? Plus, the Nutcracker’s Cheap Seats and Dyketopia!
Colorado Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is a popular Denver holiday tradition, but ticket prices have barely increased in the last 25 years. So who’s really paying for it? And as the end of the year approaches, the Oxford English Dictionary has chosen “rizz” as the word of 2023 . We want to know: If Denver had a word of the year, what would it be? Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Lee Robinson and Kate McLachlan, co-hosts of the Dyketopia podcast and monthly comedy show, to discuss ticket pricing, Denver words, and of course, their Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. Lee and Kate’s A Very Merry Dyketopia live show this weekend is sold out, but sign up for their mailing list to get a heads-up on future events. Paul mentioned the rise in anti-Semitism and Islamophobia across Denver, Adam Sandler , and Gov. Polis’s Dyketopia shout-out . Bree talked about a new DIY space . Lee discussed Front Range Passenger Rail and straight pride flags in schools . Kate talked about the Broncos and Call Your Mother . What do you think should be Denver’s Word of the Year? Should it be “unhoused” or “micro-community” or something else entirely? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by
Thu, December 07, 2023
The Best Holiday Pop-Up Bars
The hottest trend in Denver dining right now is the holiday pop-up. These timely takeovers have been popping up everywhere over the past few years, but this year it’s a bona fide eruption of campy, Christmas-y fun, with new stand-outs, contrarians, and even a Tiki-themed trend within a trend . Food writer Linnea Covington is Denver’s go-to holiday pop-up enthusiast, reporting on the trend for Westword and the Denver Post, and she’s on today with host Bree Davies and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia to talk about what’s hot and what’s not. Plus, they share their picks for your weekend. Linnea mentioned her reporting on the Call to Arms Brewery’s pop-up “Big Holiday Energy.” Here are some links to our weekend picks: 4th Annual Five Points Holiday Stroll (Five Points) Denver Zoo Lights (City Park) Saturdays with Santa! at the Little Man Ice Cream Factory (West Colfax) Yule Night Market (Wheat Ridge) What’s your favorite holiday pop-up bar? We need to know! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ A Christmas Carol ” at DCPA My Denver Therapy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices.
Wed, December 06, 2023
Your Guide to December in Denver
The holidays are in full swing, but December is just getting started! From holiday markets in picturesque mountain towns to daytime New Year’s Eve parties for kiddos, there’s a lot happening in and around Denver before 2023 comes to an end. Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love share their picks for fun ways to spend your days and nights in December. Here are some links to our picks: Georgetown Christmas Market (Georgetown) Evergreen Ice Fest on NYE (Evergreen) Saturday Night Lights (Cherry Creek) Aura Readings (Platt Park) Noon Year’s Eve (Jefferson Park) Bree mentioned RTD’s final report on the ‘Zero Fare for Better Air’ program. For more, our pal Nate Minor at CPR has a helpful breakdown . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ A Christmas Carol ” at DCPA My Denver Therapy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 05, 2023
Red Rocks Hailstorm Texts Revealed. Plus, Did ‘Zero Fare for Better Air’ Work?
Over the summer a show at Red Rocks was hit by a hailstorm that injured several people and left hundreds scrambling for cover. A lawsuit filed by 9News and reporter Steve Staeger reveals text messages between Red Rocks and city employees and law enforcement were not so sympathetic to the situation. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into the texting drama plus other stories that matter this week, like the latest in findings around RTD’s Zero Fare For Better Air campaign and a new building the City hopes to buy . Paul mentioned RTD’s final report on the Zero Fare for Better Air months this year and last. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ A Christmas Carol ” at DCPA My Denver Therapy Savio House Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 04, 2023
Will Rep. Tim Hernández Lose His Seat Over Gaza Protests?
Tim Hernández came on our show for the first time two years ago as a 24-year-old teacher who was not just burned out but burned up. He spoke out and suffered the consequences, losing his job with DPS but also becoming kinda Denver famous. Then this year, two things happened. First, Hernández was picked by Democratic leaders to fill a vacant seat in the state legislature. Second, on October 7, Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel. The next day, Hernández went to a protest, talked to someone on camera about Gaza, and went crazy viral. Host Bree Davies sat down with Hernández to talk about what happened next. Check out some of Hernández’s early appearances on our show: “ One Denver Teacher Says They're Not Just Burned Out, They're Being Set On Fire ” (Jan. 11, 2022) “ He's a Beloved Northside Teacher. Why Did DPS Let Him Go? ” (May 11, 2022) Here is the full text of the statement Speaker Julie McCluskie (D-Dillon) sent us: As I said publicly, I had several conversations with Representative Hernandez in which I urged him to condemn the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel. Following these conversations, I released a statement expressing my disappointment in the representative’s initial reluctance to condemn the attack and for his promotion of offensive social media posts that appeared to support it. I appreciated his apology, and I know he is working hard to learn from his actions. Finally, I want to be clear that I never discussed electoral implications with Rep. Hernandez, and I don’t know from where he heard that. I’m not going to comment further on the specific details of private conversations that I have with members. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Become a member of City Cast Denver today: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ A Christmas Carol ” at DCPA My Denver Therapy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check
Fri, December 01, 2023
Gaza Protests Escalate, the Mayor’s Plan for Downtown, and El Tepehuan Closing
Ever since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, tensions over the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict have been on the rise in Denver, with reports of hate crimes, protests and counter-protests, and several high-profile politicians clashing. It all came to a head this week, with the Jewish National Fund-USA conference in town. So Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking it through with Denver Post reporter Joe Rubino , who was at City Council when Palestinian solidarity protesters disrupted the proceedings Monday evening. Then, we break down Mayor Mike Johnston’s big plan for “revitalizing” downtown and share our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. We discussed this New York Times article on the “instagrammable design” for office space. Paul talked about President Biden’s visit and Dr. Martin Lockley . Bree mentioned the Hi-Dive’s 20th anniversary. Joe talked about Mayor Johnston’s latest housing hire , the Denver Post’s reporting on the local Palestinian community, and El Tepehuan’s expected closure . Breaking downtown news! After we recorded, Joe reported that Mayor Johnston has struck a deal to buy the former Denver Post building at Civic Center for $89 million. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denve
Thu, November 30, 2023
Will the Holidays Save Local Liquor Stores? Plus, 7 Pounds of Ramen
Last year, Colorado voters decided that grocery stores could sell wine along with beer , which had many independent liquor store owners nervous. With the holiday season in full swing, how are those mom and pop shops doing now with more competition? Host Bree Davies, producer Paul Karolyi, and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia discuss the liquor store conundrum, and talk about competitive eater and social media star Raina Huang’s recent trip to Colorado — she downed 14 pounds of food in one day. Oh and of course, our recs for your weekend! Here are some links to our picks for your weekend: Christmas Beer and Cookies Tour (RiNo) Baby Rave (Five Points) Drive or bike past the Populus and One River North Peyton mentioned Greeley-raised competitive eater Mary Bowers . Paul wants you to know he found a database purporting to include every food challenge currently on offer in the Denver metro area. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Savio House Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your
Wed, November 29, 2023
What Will Happen to Downtown’s Empty Office Buildings?
With construction on the 16th St. Mall now set to last through 2025 and many office workers happier working at home, the Denver Post reported this week that Mayor Mike Johnston has reversed a major Hancock-era plan for downtown. Instead of allowing city employees to work from home while the Wellington E. Webb Municipal Office Building is being renovated, he has leased space in Republic Plaza, one of downtown’s emptiest office buildings. Could that help revitalize downtown? Or are all those empty offices destined for a different fate entirely? Like housing? Or… demolition? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sought answers last summer from Brad Segal — urban planner, real estate economist, CU Denver professor (and Bree’s former boss ). For more, Denverite recently reported on the city of Denver’s study of the potential residential conversion of office buildings downtown, which found 16 that are reportedly “good fits.” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Savio House Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 28, 2023
‘Political Theater’ in the Mayor’s Office? Plus, Biden’s Visit and Chile Rellenos
Mayor Mike Johnston’s effort to house 1,000 people by the end of the year is not looking great, with more than 700 placements still needed in just over a month. Now Councilwoman Stacie Gilmore has resigned as head of the Safety, Housing, Education & Homelessness Committee, stating issues with the Johnston administration’s handling of the project. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about all the latest tension over Johnston’s #House1000 program, as well as the hotel the mayor now says he wants to buy in southeast Denver and President Biden’s visit to Colorado this week. Plus, we respond to your feedback on the classic Colorado chile relleno and what belongs in the Museum of Denver. Looking for a killer playlist of Bree’s personal christmas faves? Look no further. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Savio House Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 27, 2023
The Best Green Chile in Denver (and What Exactly Is Green Chile?)
It seems like everyone has an opinion on where to find the best green chile in town . So why do so many of these lists feature spicy green sauces that are specifically NOT Denver-style green chile? And what makes a green chile stand out? Host Bree Davies is chatting with our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval about what green chile is and isn’t, how it became Colorado’s signature cuisine, and, of course, her top 5 places to eat it in Denver. W ho do you think serves Denver’s best green chile? We want to hear your spicy chile takes! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Savio House Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 22, 2023
Tension Over Migrants, Our Denver Gratitudes, and United’s New DIA Rom-Com
Happy Thanksgiving! We’re celebrating the short week with a round-up of all the local stories that matter. First, it’s been almost a year since waves of mostly Venezuelan migrants started arriving in Denver, and with the weather taking a turn for the cold, Denver Post reporter Megan Ulu-lani Boyanton spoke to migrants, neighbors, and city officials about a tense shelter closure in Athmar Park and what we can all expect come winter. Then, we’re chatting about the hilarious new holiday “rom-com” produced by United Airlines and shot entirely at DIA. And finally, we’re sharing listener voicemails and some of our own things about Denver we’re grateful for. Watch United’s holiday rom-com “ Love in Plane Sight ” for yourself! And get the whole backstory from the Denver Post. Paul also mentioned Aurora’s response to the migrants. Looking for even more Denver-based holiday dating fun? The latest season of the Lifetime reality dating show ‘Married at First Sight' was filmed right here in Mile High, and we. have. thoughts. Become a member of City Cast Denver today and download an exclusive ep full of our takes on the season so far for your holiday travels! What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support our work by becoming a member today: membership.citycast.fm/denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 21, 2023
Our Guide to Holiday Shopping in Denver
Black Friday and the holiday shopping season are right around the corner, but while the big chain stores are rolling out the deals, we know Denver’s got a lot more to offer. So where do you start? There are hundreds of unique shops and shopping destinations that are also gearing up for a Mile High holiday season. So today, host Bree Davies, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia, and producer Paul Karolyi get together to share their fave places around the metro area to get the perfect gift for anyone (including for yourself!). Here are the shops we shouted out: Denver Christkindlmarket Goddess Isis Books & Gifts REI Flagship 303 Boards Sacred Thistle Casa Bonita (West Colfax or online ) The Shop at the Gardens The Art District on Santa Fe Brass Armadillo What do you think are the best places to shop in Denver? Let us know! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Paul mentioned this campaign to end witch hunts and exonerate women accused of witchcraft in history. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Blossoms of Light ” at Denver Botanic Gardens “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 20, 2023
What if There Was a Museum of Denver?
Many cities have a museum solely dedicated to telling their own story, and many of those museums are a source of civic pride and profit. So why not Denver? Westword editor Patty Calhoun has been reporting on the very real new effort to answer that question. So today, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with Patty to debate what would absolutely have to be in that museum, where it could be, and most important of all, what are we serving in that food court? What do you think should be in a Museum of Denver? We want to hear your ideas! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Paul mentioned the video the Denver Chamber of Commerce produced back in the 70s to support Denver’s bid to host the 1976 Olympics. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support our work by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Blossoms of Light ” at Denver Botanic Gardens “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 17, 2023
Gas Price Wars, DIA Train Fails, and the Population Growth Question
Gas prices are trending down nationwide, but they are perhaps nowhere lower than the exit off I-25 into Greenwood Village. 9News reporter Steve Staeger lives nearby and has been doggedly following the price wars between the various gas stations. So today he joins producer Paul Karolyi and one of our favorite regular guests, stand-up comic Joshua Emerson, to report from the front lines. Then, Colorado’s population growth rate has hit an all-time low, according to a recent report from the Denver Post, so we’re debating the age-old Colorado question: Is growth good? Finally, we share our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. Paul mentioned our recent conversation with Mayor Mike Johnston , as well as our conversation around the “Denver Native” label. He also discussed CBS4’s coverage of the annual Daddy Bruce Feed a Family event , which you can sign up to volunteer at or donate to here . Steve shared memories of Denver7’s Anne Trujilo and the Broncos’ kicking troubles. Joshua discussed the DIA people mover and Nikola Jokic’s comedy talents. What about Denver are you grateful for this year? We want to share the love this Thanksgiving, and we need your help! So let us know about the city program or neighborly gesture that made you feel grateful to live here. Just text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Blossoms of Light ” at Denver Botanic Gardens “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newslett
Thu, November 16, 2023
The Delivery App Debate, a ‘Reducetarian’ Thanksgiving, and Holiday Markets
Hungry for lunch but don’t want to go out? One local restaurant owner hopes you don’t reach for that meal-delivery app just yet. Olive & Finch’s Mary Nguyen recently told BusinessDen that these apps are profiting off of the “blood, sweat and tears” of small businesses like hers. So today, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia joins producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to sort out the delivery app conundrum. Plus, we respond to listener comments on Half-Baked Harvest and discuss a big new idea for anyone hoping to eat less meat, but not make Thanksgiving dinner so dang awkward. And finally, our recommendations for your weekend. What do you think? Are you a “reducetarian”? Or have thoughts on delivery apps? We’d love to hear them! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Here are links to all our picks: Watch the tree lighting at the Christkindlmarket’s opening night (Downtown) Go skating at the Downtown Lakewood Holiday Bazaar (Lakewood) See the new 10th Mountain Division exhibit at History Colorado (Golden Triangle) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Blossoms of Light ” at Denver Botanic Gardens “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 15, 2023
Denver’s Best Movie Theaters (Now That The Esquire Is Closing)
After a water main break, the rise of streaming, and a global pandemic put the Esquire Theatre on the brink, it looks like the 96-year-old arthouse won’t make it to 100. BusinessDen reported this week that after failing to find a buyer, the owners now intend to redevelop the property at 590 Downing St. into a mix of restaurant, retail, and office space. So producer Paul Karolyi is chatting with fellow film lover Adrian González, formerly of Denver Film and now a newsletter editor with City Cast, to talk about the Esquire closing and share their picks for the best movie theaters in town — from the best popcorn and drinks to the best arthouse and cineplex. What’s your favorite movie theater in town? And which one’s the worst? Are you loving the new AMC at 9+CO? Or maybe you’ve seen behind the screen at The Mayan? We want to know what you think about Denver’s movie theaters. Leave us a voicemail or send us a text, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Blossoms of Light ” at Denver Botanic Gardens “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 14, 2023
Better Buses Inbound! Plus, How Will Denargo Market Reshape RiNo?
It’s Tuesday, and we’re talking about all the local stories that matter this week. First, local officials are officially hyped about BRT, aka “bus rapid transit” aka the hottest thing in public transportation! Local, state, and federal officials gathered recently to talk about all the exciting new bus rapid transit projects coming to the Denver metro, but something was missing. Producer Paul Karolyi is looking into the story behind the press conference with our green chile and politics correspondent Justine Sandoval. Plus, they piece together the truth behind all those weird Denargo Market questions that fewer than a hundred Denverites voted on last week. And finally, we address a listener comment on our episode about the crackdown on unauthorized weed parties and ask, are “white weed bros” really the problem? For more on the old Denargo Market, Paul wrote this short history , including a cameo from Jack Kerouac, for our newsletter Hey Denver recently. We also learned more about how metropolitan districts work and how prevalent they are in Denver in this article from the Denver Post. What do you think about BRT? Or the future of RiNo? We would love to hear from you. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Blossoms of Light ” at Denver Botanic Gardens “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at Denver Art Museum Looking to advert
Mon, November 13, 2023
Why Colorado Is Failing Its Climate Goals
The State of Colorado has a lot of big, lofty goals to help stave off climate change. But according to a new analysis, we are collectively pretty far off track — nearly 12 million tons of carbon dioxide per year, to be precise. The State Energy Office is in charge of hitting the numbers, and last week they proposed a batch of fresh ideas . So today, producer Paul Karolyi talks to Colorado Sun climate reporter Michael Booth about why we’re failing, how some of these big ideas on transportation, housing, and natural gas could work — and most of all, how they will affect all of us. What do you think Colorado should do to hit our climate goals? We want to hear the boring ideas that’ll make incremental progress, but also the moonshots! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Blossoms of Light ” at Denver Botanic Gardens “ All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection ” at Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 10, 2023
Why Prop HH Failed, Jumbotron Proposals, and Who’s Gonna Beat Boebert?
It wasn’t the biggest election of our lifetimes. It wasn’t even the biggest election in Denver this year! But this past Tuesday’s results will reshape our lives, and our politics, in some big ways. Producer Paul Karolyi is breaking down the results and looking to the future with returning guest Joshua Emerson, a stand-up comic and the co-chair of the Denver American Indian Commission, and one of our favorite political insiders — longtime Democratic Party strategist and one of the co-hosts of the Get More Smarter podcast, Ian Silverii. And finally, our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the Week. Paul talked about Mike Coffman and the micro-community in Virginia Village (But he missed the recent cancellation of the one planned for Holly Hills). Joshua mentioned Comedy Works and Spirit Airlines . Ian talked about Lauren Boebert , the Boulder mayor’s race , the school board drama in Woodland Park, and his interview with the reporter behind that Woodland Park story. What do you think of the election results? We want to know what surprised you, what enraged you, and what you want to hear us talk about next! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Ednium Podcast “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella” at the <s
Thu, November 09, 2023
Tom’s Starlight Closing, Food Influencer Drama, and On-Screen Eating
A few years ago Tom Messina made a deal to sell off his iconic East Colfax building — then known as Tom’s Diner — and ride off into the sunset. But historic preservation got in the way of his retirement plans. The business reopened a little over a year ago as Tom’s Starlight, but it looks as if Tom is thinking about retirement again. Who will take on the stewardship of this Denver institution and take on the lease ? Host Bree Davies, producer Paul Karolyi, and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia dig into the Colfax drama, along with the prickly story of a Colorado food influencer whose rabid — and sometimes aggressive — fans even got the New York Times’ attention . Plus, our recommendations for fun stuff to do this weekend. Our picks for your weekend: Cat Fest at the National Western Center South Pearl Street Farmers Market Get in the standby line for “I.S.S” at the Denver Film Fest’s closing night. Or just hit the after party at Meow Wolf. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Ednium Podcast “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella” at the Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 08, 2023
Election Results Are In! Plus, Inside Denver’s Budget Battles
Voter turnout was unsurprisingly low for yesterday’s off-year election, but we still have plenty of results to dissect from all the hottest statewide and Denver races! Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi break down the initial returns from Tuesday evening, including the fate of Prop HH and the new era for Denver Public Schools. Then, we check in with one of Denver’s new city council members, Shontel Lewis , who tells us that the new-look council’s “honeymoon period is ending.” We talk about their latest battles over Denver’s 2024 budget, her leadership on housing and homelessness, and how she convinced Mayor Mike Johnston to cancel a planned sweep in her District 8. What do you think about the election results? We are going to be dissecting the results later this week, and we want to hear what you think! Leave us a voicemail or send us a text with your thoughts or questions, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 . Paul mentioned the time Colorado’s senior senator Michael Bennet recited his favorite tofu recipe to Bree on our show earlier this year. Councilwoman Lewis would like you to know about an upcoming event her office is hosting, because she needs volunteers! The 2023 Hiawatha Davis Jr. Luncheon is coming up on December 8. It’s a free event to celebrate elders in District 8 and connect them with resources. Sign up here to volunteer! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Ednium Podcast has interviews with all the candidates running for the DPS Board The Arvada Center’s production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella <p
Tue, November 07, 2023
The Englewood Scammer Saga Continues! Plus, More Last-Minute Election News
It might not feel like it, but today is election day. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are sharing a juicy update on the scammer running unopposed for school board in Englewood and talking about what they’ll be watching for as the results come in tonight. Then, the trials over the 2019 killing of Elijah McClain took an unexpected turn last week, with one officer making the unusual move of taking the stand in his own defense. And finally, we respond to your questions and comments about food deserts, vegetarian and vegan restaurants, and trick-or-treat candy policies. After we recorded the show yesterday, the Adams County jury delivered its verdict in the case against Aurora police officer Nathan Woodyard -- not guilty. Don’t forget to vote! We broke down Prop HH with CPR politics reporter Andy Kenney CPR , The Denver Post and The Colorado Sun have each got a guide for all the statewide issues Denverite has more on the local questions and races And check out our newsletter archived for more stories and context behind all these races: denver.citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Ednium Podcast has interviews with all the candidat
Mon, November 06, 2023
How Will CO’s Ski Biz Navigate Growth, Housing, Labor This Season?
Between the ongoing I-70 traffic conundrum, housing affordability issues in basically every ski town, pricey passes to overcrowded lift lines, resort workers unionizing left and right, and, of course, the imminent threat of changing climate, the ski world seems to touch every aspect of life in Colorado. So as resorts open across the state, producer Paul Karolyi sits down with the ultimate ski industry insider, Luis Benitez, to talk through the civic, environmental, and labor issues at stake on the slopes this winter, and share insight into the plans and operations of some of the biggest resort operators in the world. Luis mentioned data comparing winter holiday traffic and summer traffic on I -70, per CDOT’s numbers . Paul quoted articles about the latest challenges in the ski industry from Denver Business Journal and 5280 Magazine . You can read more about Luis Benitez’s campaign to establish a federal office for the outdoor recreation industry in 5280 Magazine . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Ednium Podcast has interviews with all the candidates running for the DPS Board The Arvada Center’s production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 03, 2023
Unmasking the 'Rat' in the Weed Biz, Bye Bye Ken Buck, and Is Denver Unfriendly?
Epic weed drama erupted this week, with the outing of a “rat in the community” who allegedly made dozens of complaints about public consumption to city officials, which led to the massive crackdown on not-quite-legal weed parties over the summer. With weed sales still trending down, we’re asking: Is this the last gasp of the Green Rush? Or a mess we voters made for ourselves? Our green chile and politics correspondent Justine Sandoval joins producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to sort through the drama and the state of legal weed. Then, our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. This episode features very explicit language. It also features a clip from this episode of the Stoned Appetit podcast. Paul mentioned former Denverite Eric Michiels , The Tank , and The Tank’s Grammy contender “ Slow Beethoven .” Justine talked about Ken Buck and the TikTok restaurant drama in Atlanta. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Ednium Podcast has interviews with all the candidates running for the DPS Board Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 02, 2023
Japanese Food Old and New, the Rise of Bodegas, and Cozy Vibes
It’s Thursday, and we are so ready for the weekend. So as usual, newsletter editor and our resident foodie Peyton Garcia joins to talk through Denver’s hottest food news: first, a Japanese restaurant that claims to be the oldest in the state is closing in Cherry Creek, while a hot new Japanese place called Kumoya is promising to change the game in Highland. And speaking of everything old being new again, we dig into the recent explosion of interest in neighborhood markets, aka bodegas, and ask: can they thrive in car-centric Denver? Finally, we share our picks for your weekend. Bree mentioned past guest Gil Asakawa’s excellent book “ Tabemasho! Let’s Eat! A Tasty History of Japanese in America ” and DeVotchka’s upcoming shows at The Stanley Hotel. Paul mentioned Rhein Haus (downtown) and Ay Papi (Cherry Creek). Peyton recommended this event for Native American Heritage Month. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Ednium Podcast has interviews with all the candidates running for the DPS Board Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 01, 2023
Your Guide to November in Denver
Welcome to November, the month of 5 p.m. sunsets, extended family visits, early holiday shopping, and colder temps. Newsletter editor Peyton Garcia and producer Olivia Jewell Love rounded up their top picks to help you figure out how to entertain that random cousin visiting for a long weekend and drum up some unique ways to make this the best Friendsgiving yet! Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi weigh in to help decide on our official City Cast Denver “Maybe” for November — as in maybe you’ll see us there! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Ednium Podcast has interviews with all the candidates running for the DPS Board Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 31, 2023
Dark Money, the Scammer Running Unopposed, and Is Denver in the Midwest?
Election day is just a week away and while it’s an off-year, there are plenty of important races and issues at stake across the metro area. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the unique character running unopposed in Englewood , a potentially pivotal measure on homelessness in Boulder, and all the dark money swaying the races for the Denver Public Schools Board. Then, Paul and Bree respond to your comments on Hawaiian food, Fort Collins, and whether or not Denver is part of the Midwest. For more on the DPS board races, our friends at Chalkbeat have a breakdown of who’s running and what’s at stake. Do you think Denver is in the Midwest? We want to hear from you! Shoot us a text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show soon: 720-500-5418 Help us celebrate our 700th episode and become a member of City Cast Denver today! It’s the best way to make sure we’re around for another 700 at least. Plus, members get access to an ad-free podcast feed, which is pretty cool! Learn more and sign up at membership.citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Ednium Podcast has interviews with all the candidates running for the DPS Board Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, October 30, 2023
How To Save Denver’s Nightlife
With Halloween coming up tomorrow, we’re thinking about everything that goes bump in the night. But the importance of Denver’s nighttime economy far exceeds the one-night-only, trick-treat trading that’ll be going down tomorrow evening. For years our nightlife has been both a big business and the scene of high-profile violence — particularly around let-out time late at night in LoDo. Youth on Record co-founder Stephen Brackett saw the nightlife conundrum first-hand coming up in Denver’s music scene — then he picked up some innovative ideas while touring the world with his band Flobots. Now he’s bringing it all together with ONE Denver (formerly 87 Foundation ), a new non-profit working to create a safer (and more profitable) nightlife scene for everyone. Host Bree Davies sat down with Brackett a few months ago inside ONE Denver’s HQ, aka the old El Chapultepec to learn more. For the latest on Brackett’s quest to create a formal Office of Nighttime Economy, Westword recently reported on the name change and Brackett’s experience on Mayor Johnston’s transition committee for arts & venues. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Ednium Podcast has interviews with all the candidates running for the DPS Board Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, October 28, 2023
BONUS: What Bree Learned at MSU
Our friends at Metropolitan State University of Denver (aka MSU or just plain “Metro”) recently hosted our very own Bree Davies on their podcast spotlighting notable alumni. Bree discusses her time as a roadrunner and the impact MSU had on her career in the media. We thought it was a great conversation, so we’re delighted to share it with you. You can subscribe to MSU Denver Alumni Bird Talk wherever you get your podcasts. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 27, 2023
The Big Police Reform Report, Club Q Reborn, and the Nuggs Are Back, Baby!
Four years after the killing of Elijah McClain, Aurora police are finally on trial. But what about the systemic injustices embedded within our law enforcement system? Reporter Andrew Fraieli spent months investigating a law that was supposed to help track police conduct across the the state, but he found loopholes, glaring omissions, and missing records of dangerous on-duty behavior. Andrew joins host Bree Davies to talk about this explosive piece of collaborative reporting along with state representative Tim Hernández, a fierce critic of the system. Plus, the Rocky Mountain highs of being a Nuggets fan and the lows of local governments weighing into global politics. Andrew mentioned Colorado joining a lawsuit against Meta and the Aurora City Council’s statement on Gaza. Tim talked about a court ruling in Buena Vista over universal pre-k funding and the Nuggets season-opening win . Bree mentioned Club Q’s reopening as “The Q” inside the Satellite Hotel in Colorado Springs. What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 26, 2023
Inside Baker’s New Chinese Spot, Boulder Bites, and the ‘Hawaiian Plate Lunch’
We’re talking noodles, dumplings, and cocktails unapologetically seasoned with MSG as host Bree Davies chats with newsletter editor Peyton Garcia and producer Olivia Jewell Love about their preview of the new MAKfam restaurant in Baker (Opening Nov. 1). Then, it’s all about that Spam musubi — Denver has seen a welcome proliferation of Hawaiian restaurants serving up their own version of Pacific Island cuisine lately. So, what’s bringing so many Hawaiians to Colorado in the first place? Plus, the best place to see a dancing ghost, Boulder’s big bite night, and more events for your weekend. Check out this piece from the New York Times for more background on the “Hawaiian Plate Lunch.” Here are links to all the events Peyton mentioned: First Bite Boulder (Boulder) Monster and Horror Art Expo (Lakewood) Dancing in the Dark: A Haunted House Experience (Aurora) TurkeyU BBQ Class (Fort Collins) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 25, 2023
Mayor Johnston on Angry Neighbors, Canceled Micro-Communities, and Meeting Travis Scott
Can you believe it’s already been 100 days since our new mayor Mike Johnston was inaugurated? He hasn’t even had time to put art up on the walls of his office! But he has been hard at work trying to deliver on his pledge to get 1,000 unhoused people off the streets by the end of the year. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with Johnston to talk about some of the controversies he’s stirred up so far, his decision to cancel a planned micro-community in the Golden Triangle, and what he’s been up to apart from homelessness and housing. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support our work and become a member today: membership.citycast.fm What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 24, 2023
Polis’ Transit Fail, Shenanigans in the ’Burbs, and Bagels
It’s Tuesday, and we’re talking about all the stories that matter this week. First up, Governor Jared Polis made a tone-deaf statement about transit, so host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi talking transit and digging into a pile of fresh data from RTD’s Zero Fare for Better Air months this past summer. Then, Denverites aren’t the only ones gearing up for an election this month, so we’re surveying the wildest election-related shenanigans playing out across the suburbs, from the NIMBY recall in Englewood to a Fort Collins city council candidate with white nationalist ties. Finally, we respond to a question about Bree’s latest beef with McDonald’s. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, October 23, 2023
How the City Will Spend $1.74 Billion of Your Money
The City of Denver’s official budget for 2024 determines how the powers that be will spend a whopping $1.74 billion over the next year. But it’s also a test of how a new mayor and a majority new city council stand by their campaign promises, what city issues take priority this year, and how well these governing bodies work together (or don’t.) Axios Denver’s Alayna Alvarez joins host Bree Davies to breakdown what the budget is for, what we might see big money for next year, and why it matters to the everyday Denverite. Check out Alayna’s coverage of the budget for Axios Denver, plus see a full breakdown of the budget process and how you, a noble citizen, can get involved. Got a question for Mayor Mike Johnston? We’re talking to the mayor soon for the first time since his inauguration, and we want your help! What should we ask him about? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your question on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 20, 2023
Tattered Cover’s Bankruptcy, Meow Wolf’s New Bar, and Denver’s Worst Bridges
Tattered Cover filed for bankruptcy this week after a rough few years for the beloved Denver institution. Three of the bookseller’s seven locations will close and 27 employees will lose their jobs as the company fights for survival. So, what does it all mean for the devoted customers, local authors, and remaining workers? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by author Erika T. Wurth to discuss Tattered Cover’s murky future. Plus, Colorado Parks and Wildlife fends off a zebra mussel invasion and a toast to Meow Wolf’s new watering hole. Paul mentioned the train that derailed and collapsed a bridge over I25 last Sunday. The authorities have since identified a cause of the accident. The bridge report he discussed is here . Bree talked about Batchcamp, a chrome extension to download and save your entire Bandcamp library in case the company goes sideways. She also mentioned Tattered Cover’s previous owners and their statement on BLM . Erika talked about the latest twist in the campaign to ban books in Douglas County. Erika’s novel, White Horse , is now out in paperback. You can also hear more of her excellent writerly opinions on TikTok . What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks ” at the Denver
Thu, October 19, 2023
The Juicy DIA Burger Scandal and a Weekend of Tricks & Treats
The weekend is so close you can almost taste it. So we’re digging into the biggest food story of the week: A blockbuster trial involving DIA, two homegrown burger empires, allegations of bribery, and a car chase on I70. Newsletter editor and resident foodie Peyton Garcia joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to break down the DIA concessions scandal that went to court this week. Plus, Peyton shares her top picks for the super spooky weekend to come. Would you prefer Cherry Cricket over Smashburger at DIA? We want to hear where you like to eat at the airport, and what you think might be missing from the menu. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Bree mentioned our episode about the Cherry Cricket. The podcast about spiritualism she mentioned was in fact American Hysteria host Chelsey Weber-Smith discussing the topic in a members-only episode of You’re Wrong About. Here are links to all the events Peyton highlighted: Carving & Cocktails (Union Station) South Broadway Halloween Parade (Baker) Spirits & Spirits (Four Mile Historic Park) Trick-or-Treat Trail (Denver Zoo) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks ” at the Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 18, 2023
Did Colorado Get Its Indian Boarding School Report All Wrong?
Earlier this month, History Colorado released a major report documenting the history of Indigenous “boarding schools” across our state, including one in Denver, between 1880 and 1920. The media covered the report as a landmark step forward from a tragic chapter in our state’s history, and some have called on Governor Jared Polis to make a formal apology on behalf of the state. But while our elected officials are celebrating the report as a positive step toward healing and reconciliation, many Indigenous people are not. So today, host Bree Davies speaks with the co-chairs of the Denver American Indian Commission — stand-up comedian Joshua Emerson and past guest Raven Payment — about what this report means to Denver’s Indigenous community. Bree mentioned History Colorado’s recent history of rebuilding trust with Indigenous communities. We recommend Westword’s reporting around the new Sand Creek Massacre exhibit to learn more. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: “ Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks ” at the Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 17, 2023
What’s Next in the Elijah McClain Trials? Plus, Stan Kroenke vs. Commerce City
It’s Tuesday, and we’re talking about all the local stories that matter this week. Four years after Elijah McClain was stopped by Aurora police, an Adams County jury last week delivered a verdict in the first of three trials over the 23-year-old’s death. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi lay out the facts and talk about the questions still left unanswered. Plus, why is Commerce City so mad at Nuggets owner Stan Kroenke? Hint: It’s not because the Nuggs and Avs are still not on TV. Also, we respond to listener comments and questions about Denver’s hardcore scene, that 1-star review for the Brown Palace, and one of Denver’s best carrot cakes. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks ” at the Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, October 16, 2023
BONUS: TABOR TALK
This morning on the podcast, we did our best to understand the most confusing and most impactful question on Colorado ballots this year — Prop HH. Andrew Kenney, politics reporter for CPR, explained why some conservatives are calling it a back-door TABOR killer. So after the convo, producer Paul Karolyi turned the mics back on to ask Andy about all the other times Democrats have gone after TABOR and what happened. If you have more TABOR or Prop HH questions, send them our way at denver@citycast.fm and we’ll do our best to answer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, October 16, 2023
Everything You Need to Know About Prop HH
The Wall Street Journal called it a “ back-door tax hike .” Colorado conservatives are calling it a TABOR killer. Even Democrats are divided on it. But Governor Jared Polis insists it’s the best thing to do about rising property tax rates. Prop HH is the biggest, most confusing, and potentially most impactful question on Colorado ballots this fall. So producer Paul Karolyi sat down with our favorite Polis whisperer, CPR politics reporter Andrew Kenney, to explain Prop HH and what our libertarian-leaning governor is thinking. Read Andy’s coverage of TABOR and Prop HH for CPR — like how the proposition could impact school funding , what education advocates see as the good in the measure, and why TABOR refunds have been bigger than years’ past. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Art Museum’s Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 13, 2023
The Real Triangle Bar Story, Lauren Boebert's Divorce, and the Big Bigfoot Sighting
The Triangle Bar closed “indefinitely” last Sunday, owner Scott Coors blamed homeless encampments, and the press ran with an easy narrative. Earlier this week, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi barely scratched the surface of the escalating controversy around the gay bar’s demise, but there’s clearly way more to the story. So today on the show, Bree and Paul get into the real stuff with our resident gay bar expert Keith Garcia to go beyond the easy scapegoat and discuss your comments and voicemails about bar management, the importance of queer spaces, and how the Coors boycotts Harvey Milk co-led in the 1970s played into the closure of Triangle Bar in 2023. Plus, our trip to Casa Bonita and this week’s Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows. Paul talked about the Broncos’ owners , Cowboy Crocs , and Lauren Boebert’s divorce . Bree mentioned FAIM’s last show , happening at D3 Arts this Saturday. Keith talked about the new Bigfoot video and the upcoming 46th Annual Denver Film Festival . You can also watch Keith tell a salacious story from his teenage dreams at this Saturday’s Coming Out Edition of Mortified Colorado ! What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Vis
Thu, October 12, 2023
Is Casa Bonita Still a Thing? Plus, a 'Food Truck Park' and Where to Get Your Dessert On
It’s Thursday, and we’re here to get you ready for a great Denver weekend! Newsletter editor and resident foodie Peyton Garcia joins to talk through the latest food news and exciting new places to eat — so long as your heart’s not set on Casa Bonita. It’s been months, and we’re tired of disappointing out-of-towners who want to eat at the still-not-really-open Pink Palace. No, we don’t have a hook-up! A new interview with CB’s chef Dana Rodriguez has got us thinking about how much track is left in front of this hype train. Plus, Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are asking: Who’s building Denver’s first “ food truck park ”? Where’s the best place to indulge your sweet tooth for this Saturday’s National Dessert Day? And what cool things are happening around town this weekend? Here are links to all the events Peyton mentioned: Ghosts in the Gardens (Denver Botanic Gardens) Solar Eclipse (Various) World Migratory Bird Day (Arvada) Colorado Food Showcase (National Western Center) For even more news and cool events around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 11, 2023
Why Triangle Bar Closed, Kaiser Strike Not So Permanente, and Albuquerque
Three thousand Kaiser Permanente employees went on strike across Colorado last week and, although their bosses didn’t cave, all those nurses, doctors, and other healthcare workers are back at work. So, how do labor negotiations work in an industry where patients’ lives are part of the equation? Plus, the Triangle Bar’s recent decision to close “indefinitely” last Sunday received a lot of press attention after a co-owner put the blame on homelessness. Big parts of this story felt like they were missing, so producer Paul Karolyi did some digging — and found interesting connections to the Coors brewing family. He and host Bree Davies dig into these stories and all the other news that matters this week, along with thoughts (and corrections!) from you, our dear listeners. Paul mentioned this story about Scott Coors from The Advocate . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 10, 2023
The 1-Star Review Game: Haunted Spots Edition
We had so much fun last month with our game show based on 1-star reviews of Denver icons, we decided to bring it back! But this time producer slash quizmaster Paul Karolyi cooked up a bubbling cauldron of extra spooky 1-star reviews for some of Denver’s scariest places. It’s a haunted edition of Thank You So Much For Your Feedback. This time, returning champion JD Lopez defends his title against host Bree Davies to decide once and for all: Who knows Denver’s haters best? What do you think of the 1-star review game show? If you love it as much as we do, consider becoming a member of City Cast Denver today! It’s the best way to make sure this show keeps going strong for years to come. Plus, you get an ad-free podcast feed for as little as $8 per month. Learn more and sign up at membership.citycast.fm . Don’t miss JD’s victory over producer Olivia Jewell Love in the first edition of our 1-star review game show, and catch more of JD on his podcast Left Hand Right Brain . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 06, 2023
Is Denver a True Sanctuary City? Plus, DIA Construction Forever and 'Red Pant Man'
It’s Friday and we’re digging into all the local stories that mattered this week. First, this week’s influx of Central and South American migrants has put Denver’s shelter system to the test. So, how is the city handling hundreds of arrivals each day, on top of our existing crisis of unhoused people? Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by artist Diego Florez-Arroyo to talk through the current migrant situation, along with Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week — which include a bright spot in the ongoing predatory towing industry saga , the epic bummer that is “Red Pant Man,” and a brief foray into the life of an artist under capitalism. Catch the debut of Cuauhtémoczin, Diego’s first play, at the Holiday Theater this weekend. Looking for ways to support migrants arriving in Denver? Check out the City’s list of donation needs and employment opportunities. Paul mentioned DIA’s new growth plans , Denver’s latest response to the increase in migrant arrivals, the “radical” idea to fix towing, and people driving up mountains . Bree talked about Red Pant Man . What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborh
Thu, October 05, 2023
Is Denver Done With Food Halls? Plus, a Soup Vending Machine and Choctoberfest
Are food halls officially over? Axios Denver reports that food halls across the Denver metro are closing or being sold. Is this the end of an era? Or a post-pandemic blip? It’s Thursday, so newsletter editor and resident foodie Peyton Garcia joins host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love to talk food halls and all the latest dining news. Then, Peyton shares some cool events happening this weekend, and the crew picks our official City Cast Denver “Maybe,” as in maybe you’ll see us there. Here are links to all the events Peyton mentioned: NEA Big Read Kick-Off Party (Congress Park) Art + Architecture Loop (Lowry) Choctoberfest (Aurora) La Llorona Festival (West Colfax) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 04, 2023
RTD’s Funding Woes, Front Range Rail, and Bike Lane Drama
It’s been more than a month since RTD’s Zero Fare For Better Air promotion beckoned riders to just get on the bus. So, did they? And what about the Johnston administration throwing around the idea of banning all vehicles from making right turns at red lights? Oh, and Governor Polis is getting giddy about a Front Range-serving rail system — but do voters have the appetite for another train project? Host Bree Davies brought these hot topics and more to returning fave, CPR’s growth and transit reporter Nathaniel Minor , for a deeper look behind the big transportation headlines of the last few weeks. Check out Nate’s reporting on the dangers of the trend toward bigger, heavier cars (and the possible legislation being proposed to address it), his ride-along with Polis on the possible Front Range train of the future , and the ongoing woes of RTD’s funding for FasTracks . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 03, 2023
Megafights Over Micro-Communities, a Social Media Lawsuit, and Ecoterrorism
Mayor Mike Johnston says he plans to house 1,000 people before the end of 2023, and so far he’s got 119, according to his new dashboard . But some people are already getting mad about it. Producer Paul Karolyi talked to a handful of people behind the scenes and things are, well, complicated. Then, host Bree Davies connects dots in the latest legal entanglements involving school board vice president Auon'tai Anderson, two DPS parents, and Colorado’s new social media law . Plus, a listener responds to our conversation about Colorado’s biggest polluters. Paul discussed Westword’s reporting on the pushback to proposed micro-communities in Holly Hills and the Golden Triangle . Bree mentioned the LGBTQ community’s boycott of Florida orange juice in the late ’70s and Anita Bryant’s pie-in-the-face TV moment , as well as Theo Wilson’s comments on this podcast in defense of DPS board vice president Anderson. Become a member of City Cast Denver today! If you like the podcast and want to keep it going strong for years to come, the best way to support us would be to become a member today. Join for as little as $8 per month and get an ad-free podcast feed as a special thank you from us. Learn more at membership.citycast.fm . What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.insta
Mon, October 02, 2023
Your Guide to October in Denver
‘Tis the spooky season! October is upon us and there are so many cool things to do, see, and imbibe across the metro area this month. From the pumpkin patch to the coffin racetrack — yes, you heard that right — host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love have combed the calendar to handpick eight of the best Halloween-y things to do. Produce Paul Karolyi and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia join the fun, and by the end of this haunted ride, you’ll have the official City Cast Denver best bet for October! Here are links to all the events Olivia and Bree recommended: Olivia’s Picks: Pumpkin Festival at Chatfield Farms , October 6-8 (Littleton) Cider Days , October 7-8 (Lakewood) Sober Paint and Sip , October 7 (City Park) Emma Crawford Coffin Races & Festival , October 28 (Manitou Springs) Bree’s Picks: Denver Oddities and Curiosities Expo , October 7 (Central Business District) Lemur and Friends Graveyard Market , October 22 (Congress Park) Dyketopia Halloween Spectacular , October 20-21 (Highland) Muertos en Westwood , November 3-5 (Westwood) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: 4 Noses Brewing Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 29, 2023
A Big Break for Polluters? Plus, Pedestrian Deaths and Jon Caldara’s Poop
It’s no secret — Colorado’s air quality is suffering, and last Friday regulators approved yet another new plan to address the state’s biggest polluters. But environmentalists and critics have already spotted several loopholes that could allow companies like Suncor Energy, Molson Coors, and Cargill Meat Solutions to “pay to pollute,” as our guest today explains. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Denver Post environmental reporter Noelle Phillips, who’s been following Colorado’s ongoing political pollution battle for years. Plus, we wrap up with our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week. Become a member of City Cast Denver today! We work hard to make this podcast every day, providing you with useful interviews and our hard-earned recs for the best of Denver. The best way to support our work is to become a member today for as little as $8/month. Plus, you’ll get an ad-free feed to enjoy as our way of saying thanks. Learn more and sign up today at membership.citycast.fm . Paul mentioned his 2021 interview with Rep. Joe Neguse about the new Climate Corps , as well as cottonwoods and bald eagles at Barr Lake . Bree mentioned Jon Caldara’s poop obsession and Cervantes’ new artist-friendly merch policy . Noelle talked about her work with the Denver Newspaper Guild and <a href="https://www.denverpost.com/2023/09/25/fatal-pedestrian-crashes-denver-littleton-aurora-record-colorado/?utm_email=05C094A1F595442CC2BEC47BBC&active=no&lctg=05C094A1F595442CC2BEC47BBC&utm_source=listrak&utm_medium
Thu, September 28, 2023
Our Favorite Road Trip-Worthy Restaurants
As we wrap up a week of fall getaways, we wanted to leave you with an enticing list of delicious destinations — restaurants we’d go the extra mile (or hundreds of miles) for! Whether you are looking for perfect pizza a mere 45 minutes away or charcuterie so good it’s worth planning a weekend around, producer Paul Karolyi and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia have got you covered. Plus, stick around for a round-up of the coolest events going down this weekend, and Paul and Peyton’s pick for our official City Cast Denver “Maybe” — as in maybe you’ll see us there! Here are links to the spots we discussed: Antonio’s Real NY Pizza (Estes Park) Cafe Vino (Fort Collins) The Friar’s Fork & Sanctuary (Alamosa) Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm (Boulder, UT) Check out denver.citycast.fm for host Bree Davies’ two bonus road-trip-worthy restaurants Paul mentioned this New Yorker story about Hell’s Backbone Grill from 2018. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: 4 Noses Brewing Ambient Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 27, 2023
The 6 Most Haunted Places in Colorado
What’s the most haunted place in all of Colorado? A lot of folks would tell you it’s the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, but is that place really haunted by anything other than Stanley Kubrick’s decision to film “The Shining” somewhere else? So to continue our weeklong celebration of Colorado’s best fall getaways, we called up Thad Mighell, curator of contemporary art at Understudy and paranormal superfan, to run down his list of the most haunted destinations in Colorado. Become a member of City Cast Denver today! Become a member is the best way for you to support all the hard work we put into this show every day. So if you loved Mayoral Madness or appreciate our search for the best of everything Denver has to offer, sign up to become a founding member today. It’s just $8 per month. Join now at membership.citycast.fm . Here are links to all Thad’s haunt spots: St. Elmo Ghost Town (Chaffee County) Hotel Jerome (Aspen) Hotel Colorado (Glenwood Springs) 3rd Bridge (Bennett) UFO Watchtower (San Luis Valley) Cripple Creek (Teller County) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: 4 Noses Brewing Ambient Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 26, 2023
Is Pickleball Too Noisy for Denver? Plus, Mayor Johnston’s Housing Thermometer
Pickleball fever has swept the country, and after three years of explosive growth it looks like it’s not going anywhere (much to the neighbors’ chagrin). So how are Denverites learning to live with the distinctive dinks and thocks? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking through the latest pickleball battles in Denver, Glendale, and Centennial, plus the latest on Mayor Mike Johnston’s quest to end homelessness in his first term. Then, we respond to a listener’s critique of our episode on the push to rename six Denver parks. Become a founding member of City Cast Denver today! There are four full-time journalists working hard every day to bring you a useful and engaging daily podcast about Denver. If you want to support our work, the best way to make sure we’ll be around for years to come is join now for as little as $8 per month. Sign up and learn more at membership.citycast.fm . Bree mentioned Mayor Johnston’s new House1000 dashboard , as well as the Denver Post and Denver7’s coverage of this week’s sweep at 8th and Logan. Paul talked about pickleball reporting from Denverite , Westword , and Fox31 . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418. Learn more
Mon, September 25, 2023
Weekend Getaways for a Perfect Colorado Fall
All this week, we’re celebrating the gorgeous season that is fall in Colorado. Today, we’re focusing on perfect weekend getaways — the best places to go, things to see and do in just one overnight stay. From mountain towns to chile country, we’ve rounded up all the most charming locales we love for soaking in this cool and colorful season. Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love are joined by returning fave, Denver Instagram celebrity Amanda Bittner , to map out the best destinations with camping recs, must-try culinary delights, and underrated leaves to peep. What’s your favorite fall getaway? We want to share all the best road trip destinations, haunted locales, and leaves to peep. So text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Wanna support City Cast Denver? The best way to keep this podcast going strong for years to come is to become a founding member today. You’ll get an ad-free podcast feed and the satisfaction of knowing you’re supporting local journalism — all for as little as $8 per month. Learn more and sign up at membership.citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city and links to all our weekend fall getaway recs, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: 4 Noses Brewing — Their new taproom is opening in Park Hill on Oct. 20 Ambient Colorado , a new podcast by nature lovers for nature lovers Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 22, 2023
Denver’s Got Startup Fever, More Hotels Not Housing, and a Green Chile Debate
More than ten thousand people with big dreams arrived in the Mile High City for this year’s Denver Startup Week , and AI was the talk of the town. So will Denver become a hub for this massive tide-changing trend in technology that has congress confused and tech folks energized? Adeel Khan founded his first startup earlier this year, and he was in the thick of networking-palooza all week long. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with Adeel to talk about the debates dividing Denver’s business community, Mayor Mike Johnston’s approach to the economy, and all things AI. Plus, our Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows of the week touch on a new hotel project that just got new support from City Council , the definition of Colorado green chile , and more. Become a founding member of City Cast Denver today! It’s the best way to support local journalism and all the hard work that goes into making a daily podcast. Join now for as little as $8 per month and get access to an ad-free podcast feed. Learn more and sign up at membership.citycast.fm . Paul discussed this Jam Band Hero , our 2021 episode on the allegations against Jay Bianchi, and forgot to mention this update to the situation with his Grateful Dead-themed bar So Many Roads. Bree talked about her uncle Ed Kutz and his bff Reed Weimer’s role in saving the Sid King’s Crazy Horse sign from going to the dump 40 years ago. She also mentioned a past City Cast Denver episode about the story of Colorado Mexican Food with Patty Calhoun and Gustavo Arellano. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “<a href="https://newmancenterpresents.com/events/arooj-aftab-vijay-iyer-shahz
Thu, September 21, 2023
High Plains Comedy Turns 10, ‘Vandal Futurism,’ and Music for Beer-Drinking
This weekend marks the tenth anniversary of what our guest calls “Comedy Christmas” — aka, the High Plains Comedy Festival . Returning fave Joshua Emerson, who also co-chairs the Denver American Indian Commission, is telling jokes on stage at High Plains for the second year running. He joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to share his High Plains hacks, recommend a few shows (with tickets still available), and dish on how Denver comedy stacks up to other cities. Plus, Paul takes the reins to share his top event picks, and we make our official City Cast Denver ‘Maybe’ for your weekend. Become a founding member of City Cast Denver today! Between the useful dives into pressing issues and our constant search for the best of Denver, making this podcast every day takes a lot of work. So if you care about local journalism and want to support our work, become a founding member for as little as $8 per month today. Learn more and sign up at membership.citycast.fm . Here are some links to the events Paul mentioned: National Public Lands Day Coach Prime and the CU Buffs vs. Oregon Ducks (Saturday, 1:30 p.m.) “ Making Our Mark: An Exploration of Vandal Futurism ” (RedLine Contemporary Art Center) Battle of the (Brewery) Bands (The Crypt) Paul also mentioned 5280 Magazine’s list of the best college football bars in Denver . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Walls is a new mural fest coming to RiNo later this month “ Arooj Aftab, Vijay Iyer & Shahzad Ismaily: Love in Exile ” at the Newman Center (Sept. 30) <a h
Wed, September 20, 2023
Should Denver Rename These 6 Parks?
At the height of the racial justice protests of 2020, Denverites — like the rest of the country — reckoned with our past. Statues depicting bigots and racists were torn down, and quietly the City of Denver assembled a commission to examine, research, and reassess the names of our parks — green spaces like Jefferson Park, La Alma-Lincoln Park, but also some lesser known park names with potentially troubled pasts. Today host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi talk through the six park names the commission put up for debate and discuss why they think we should — or shouldn’t — be giving some of these park names the boot. What do you think about renaming these six parks? We would love to hear from you, too. Got a strong defense of Lincoln? Or maybe there’s a park name you’d really like to see go? Leave us a voicemail or a text at 720-500-5418, and you might hear it on the show soon! Paul mentioned past guest Chase Woodruff’s newsletter exploring the literature of the West — “ Lit Out West .” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Arooj Aftab, Vijay Iyer & Shahzad Ismaily: Love in Exile ” at the Newman Center (Sept. 30) BadBoyBoards Lighthouse Writers Workshop Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 19, 2023
Is the 'Homeless Bar' Real? Plus, Public Overdose Deaths Are on the Rise
It’s Tuesday, so host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are breaking down all the local stories that matter. First, a report of a so-called “homeless bar” with “prostitution tents” at 23rd and Champa Street had the national tabloids looking Denver’s way. But what was really going on there anyway? Then, overdose deaths are making headlines again in Colorado, this time because more and more of these incidents are happening in public, forcing passersby into the role of makeshift first-responders. Plus, listeners share their comments on a recent guest on our show and debate how CO’s vaping congresswoman’s anti-trans rhetoric can have real-life consequences. Bree mentioned CBS Colorado’s coverage of Aurora mayor Mike Coffman’s foray into cosplaying the experience of being homelessness . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Arooj Aftab, Vijay Iyer & Shahzad Ismaily: Love in Exile ” at the Newman Center (Sept. 30) BadBoyBoards Lighthouse Writers Workshop Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, September 18, 2023
Has Denver’s Dumpling Moment Finally Arrived?
With the opening of Yuan Wonton’s new shared brick-and-mortar restaurant in Park Hill, the food trend of the fall is officially the humble dumpling. But what can we consider to be a dumpling? Is it just a pocket of dough filled with … something? Or is it much more nuanced? 5280 Magazine’s assistant food editor Ethan Pan is a bonafide dumpling lover, digging into the hype and searching for Denver’s best in his new column for 5280 Magazine — “ In the Fold .” So we sent newsletter editor and resident foodie Peyton Garcia out with Ethan to the trendiest new dumpling spot, then they sat down with producer Paul Karolyi to talk all things dumplings. Here are some links to all the dumpling places we discussed: Yuan Wonton (Park Hill) Ace Eat Serve (Uptown) ChoLon (Central Park) Oak at Fourteenth (Boulder) Seoul ManDoo (Aurora) Bryan’s Dumpling House (Greenwood Village) Yummy Dumpling (Federal Heights) The Easy Vegan (City Park Farmers Market + various other locations) Paul also mentioned the latest news about plant-based protein company Meati and its Thornton “mega factory.” Consider becoming a founding member of City Cast Denver today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we’re around for years to come. Get all the deets and sign up at membership.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Arooj Aftab, Vijay Iyer & Shahzad Ismaily: Love in Exile ” at the Newman Center (Sept. 30) <a h
Fri, September 15, 2023
Boebert’s Big Night Out, Paying Legislators, and a Trash-Eating Bear
U.S. Representative Lauren Boebert had a big night out at the theater in Denver this past weekend, complete with vaping, loud singing, and being escorted out . But is this just a case of Big Divorced Energy from the MAGA darling? Or a sign of something bigger? The story (and the surveillance tapes) exploded this week, just as Boebert was attempting to roll out a new image, so we’re breaking it all down. Newly elected state representative Tim Hernández joins our state politics and green chile correspondent, Justine Sandoval, to discuss the congresswoman’s night out in Denver with producer Paul Karolyi. Plus, all the other local stories that mattered this week and this week’s Rocky Mountain Highs and Lows. Do you want to be a founding member of City Cast Denver? We’ve been publishing a daily podcast for more than two years, bringing you useful interviews with mayoral candidates and deep dives into important subjects like development in Cherry Creek and pizza. Consider joining to support our work, plus get an ad-free version of the podcast for as little as $8 per month. Learn more and sign up today at membership.citycast.fm . Paul mentioned a Politico article on Boebert , Meati’s growth , Thornton’s water woes , the Marijuana Mansion’s sale price , the new design rendering for Cherry Creek West , and our episode with Colorado Springs representative Stephanie Vigil. Justine talked about a bear and state parks passes . Tim discussed the officer who shot Jor’Dell Richardson and <a href="https://www.coloradopolitics.com/legislature/splitting-myself-in-half-colorados-citizen-legislature-clashes-with-financia
Thu, September 14, 2023
What Did CO’s New Michelin Stars Really Cost? Plus, Mountaintop Arby’s
After months of anticipation and rumors, the Michelin Guide bestowed five local restaurants a Michelin star at an exclusive ceremony in RiNo on Tuesday evening. There were big winners and big snubs. But was this moment the validation for Colorado’s dining scene that we thought? Newsletter editor Peyton Garcia joins producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to talk about who won, who lost, and talk through a revealing new report from the New York Times about how Michelin really works. Plus, our picks for the coolest events going down this weekend. Would you hike four miles for Arby’s? We want to know if you’ve ever participated in a stunt like that and what you’d hike four miles to try first. Leave us a voicemail or a text at 720-500-5418, and you might hear it on the show soon! Here are links to the events Peyton mentioned: Hispanic Heritage Celebration (Aurora) Michelada Fest at Mile High Flea Market (Henderson) Sand Creek Mural Festival (Central Park) Hunger Free 303 (Wash Park) For even more news and cool events around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Thirst Denver BadBoyBoards . The first five listeners who show up to their new retail location’s opening today (Sept. 14) and mention City Cast Denver will get a free cutting board! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 13, 2023
Do These Denver Icons Deserve 1-Star Reviews?
The humble user review — taken alone, is just one person’s opinion. But put a bunch together, and that aggregated star rating can make or break a local business. So today, we’re going inside the minds of the people leaving one-star reviews for some of our favorite Denver places. Producer slash quizmaster Paul Karolyi puts producer Olivia Jewell Love and returning fave JD Lopez to the test. Can they guess famous Denver landmarks based only on one-star reviews? Who knows Denver’s haters best? For more from JD, you can hear him share his ice cream obsession on our ice cream battle episode from July or interview local creatives on his podcast Left Hand Right Brain . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Thirst Denver BadBoyBoards Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 12, 2023
What Do Denverites Really Think? A New Poll Shows All
It’s easy to walk down the streets of Denver and see the major issues facing our city — housing, homelessness, public safety, etc. It’s much less clear how Denverites really feel about those issues. A brand new nonprofit polling group, Colorado Polling Institute , has stepped forward to fill the gap, promising regular surveys of how Denverites feel about their mayor, city council, encampment sweeps, DIA, RTD, and more. Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to break down the CPI’s first batch of cold, hard polling facts . Patty mentioned Westword’s coverage and a piece about the first CPI poll in the Denver Gazette For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: BadBoyBoards Thirst Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, September 11, 2023
Is There Such Thing as a ‘Denver Accent’?
It’s easy to forget, but Denver is still a young city, constantly searching for an identity. So it’s confounding why there’s so little research on a characteristic as important as the way we speak. Do Denverites even have an accent? Or maybe there’s more than one? Fortunately, we found some researchers at CU Boulder who are working to cross the t’s and dot the i’s on the particulars of Mile High speech patterns. Host Bree Davies sat down with Jeremy Calder, an assistant professor in the linguistics department, and graduate student Andrew Ting last spring to discuss their “ Voices of Colorado ” project to hear what they’ve learned about how Denverites speak. What do you think about the Denver accent? Text or leave us a voicemail at (720) 500-5418. Just remember to include your name and neighborhood, and we might play it on the show! Paul mentioned the recent sale of the Milk Market food hall, the new effort to block the expansion of Gross Reservoir, and his interview last year with KUNC water reporter Luke Runyon: “ Is Denver Hoarding Water? ” For more of our water coverage, check out these episodes: Is Colorado On Its Way to A True Water Crisis? (May 8, 2023) Can Science Fix Our Water Woes? (Jan. 26, 2023) Could Denver Run Out of Water? (June 13, 2022) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Thirst Denver BadBoyBoards <a href="https://www.denvercenter.org/
Fri, September 08, 2023
South Broadway on the Brink, Hypocrite Activist Outed, and UFOs
Mayor Mike Johnston is tackling Denver’s homelessness crisis head on, but the city might not be able to wait for long. When Denverite reporter Kyle Harris spent 21 hours at a calzone shop on Broadway, he met a business owner who’s been pushed past his limit and heard rumors of a possible violent revolt spreading through encampments. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with Kyle to talk about what else he saw that night and what that charged situation on Broadway says about the interconnected nature of our unhoused crisis. Plus, another round of wins and fails of the week — aka, our Rocky Mountain highs and lows. Paul talked about UFOs in Southern Colorado , the Colorado Doula Project , Deion Sander’s post-game interview last Saturday, and Bomani Jones’ insights in this terrific documentary . Bree discussed sexual assault in the music scene and a local abortion clinic’s major milestone . Kyle talked about Barry’s on Broadway and the new “bike bus” near Sloan’s Lake. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Center for the Performing Arts Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 07, 2023
The Buzzy New Vietnamese Spot, CBD Coffee Is Back, and Our Bakery Recs
When a brand new Denver restaurant landed on Bon Appétit’s most anticipated openings list , we were sooooo curious — what’s the big whoop about Sap Sua ? Fast-forward to now and the contemporary take Vietnamese cuisine has got people talking. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into all the latest food and dining news with newsletter editor and resident foodie Peyton Garcia, who also gives us an update on what common consumption is — and is not — and ponders whether a new CBD coffee shop popping up in Platt Park is past its prime or right on the mark. Plus, our recommendations for your weekend. Paul mentioned some Harvard University research on CBD. We wanna hear from you, dear listeners: What’s the best bakery in the Denver metro? Call our hot pastry hotline and leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show! 720-500-5418 . Phone shy? Email us: denver@citycast.fm. And finally, your official City Cast Denver Maybe For Your Weekend. Denver Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show - our official “City Cast Denver Maybe” pick! Cuisine and Culture — Tracing Andean Culture Wheat Ridge’s International Heritage Festival/Oktoberfest 9/11 Heroes Run For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Center for the Performing Arts Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out
Wed, September 06, 2023
A Defunct Westside Power Plant: Eyesore or Opportunity?
For more than 100 years, the brick power plant at Zuni Street and West 14th Avenue generated electricity for Denver using steam. But now that the plant has been retired, it presents a conundrum: Should the crusty old building and its two smokestacks be demolished? Or somehow redeveloped into an asset for the Sun Valley neighborhood? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi visit the defunct Zuni Generating Station with Denver’s first-ever chief urban designer Eugenia di Girolamo to talk about how the building known to some as “ The Devil’s Castle ” could become Denver’s next iconic landmark. The Denver Post has more on the old Xcel Generating Station , and the Colorado Encyclopedia has more on the Denver Tramway Powerhouse (Aka, the REI building). Bree talked about the latest development in DPS’s “seclusion room” controversy and flu season . What non-residential building would you most want to live in? Residential conversions are all the rage, but is everyone thinking way too small! Of all the non-residential buildings in Denver, which would you most want to move into? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your pick on the show: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Center for the Performing Arts Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 05, 2023
Our Best Bets for September
Denver’s a cool place, full of cool things to do each and every month — and September is no exception. But how do you choose what to fill your calendar with when the Mile High has so much to offer? Host Bree Davies and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia each picked four awesome September events to share, and producer Olivia Jewell Love has the harrowing task of picking the official City Cast Denver “Maybe” for your month — as in “maybe” you’ll see us there! Here are links to all the events Bree and Peyton recommended: Peyton’s Picks Art Drop Day , TODAY! (Citywide) CHOW in the Park , September 11 (City Park) Bugs and Brews , September 21 (Westminster) Denver Oktoberfest , September 22-24 (Ballpark) Bree Picks Westwood Chile Fest , September 9 (Westwood) Pee Wee’s Big Adventure Screening , September 10 (Congress Park) High Plains Comedy Fest, September 21-23 (South Broadway) Far East Center Mid-Autumn Festival , September 30 (Westwood) Peyton mentioned Mimi Luong — whose family started the Far East Center — and we interviewed her about Denver’s Lunar New Year celebration; she also talked about our interview with John Hinman , founder of CHOW (Culinary Hospitality Outreach Wellness). For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this show: -Denver Center for the Performing Arts Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://m
Fri, September 01, 2023
When a Senator Gets Towed, Baby Orangutans, and Jack Harlow Hearts Denver
When State Senator Julie Gonzales wrote the Towing Bill of Rights last year, she had no idea that she’d have to get towed herself to find out just how badly tow companies have been skirting her law. The legislator took to social media last week to share a parking saga gone wrong that ended up exposing some shady towing practices. The senator joins host Bree Davies and returning fave, comedian and co-chair of the Denver American Indian Commission Joshua Emerson, to talk about what happened, and how she’s already working on strengthening the law next legislative session. Plus the crew digs into their wins and fails of the week — Joshua gushes over a new baby orangutan at the Denver Zoo, Bree is weirdly obsessed with Jack Harlow’s new video, “Denver,” and so much more. Sen. Gonzales mentioned Stop Fraud Colorado , where consumers can report towing issues and fraudulent situations with tow companies. Check out Joshua Emerson at the High Plains Comedy Fest this September. Bree talked about Overdose Awareness Day, and checking out Harm Reduction Action Center for more ways to help. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Restaurant Association “ Beautiful: A Carole King Musical ” at the Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 31, 2023
The Michelin Guide Value Menu, Drinks on the Go, and Pumpkin Spicy Takes
The Michelin Guide is giving some mystery, top tier restaurants highly coveted stars at their invite-only event on Sept. 12, but why wait? Turns out the world’s most prestigious dining guide went ahead and crowned some Denver Metro restaurants with a coveted spot on its Bib Gourmand list, which is kind of like an upscale version of the “value menu” for fine dining. Newsletter editor Peyton Garcia explains why this all matters to host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love. Then, the crew digs into Arvada’s latest move toward public consumption and wonders why Denver is dragging its feet about beers on the street . Finally, the official City Cast Denver “Maybe” for your weekend — as in maybe you’ll see us there! — is chosen. Olivia mentioned Rylee Dunn’s reporting for the Arvada Press if you’re looking for that hyper-local Old Towne news. ‘Tis the season for pumpkin….everything. So we wanna know: what’s your take on pumpkin beer, and what’s the best one? Call our Pumpkin Spice or Nah hotline at (720) 500-5418 or send us an email at denver@citycast.fm . And finally, your official City Cast Denver Maybe For Your Weekend. Wings over the Rockies City Park Lake Clean Up Coors Field Brew Fest Amor la Mexicana For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Restaurant Association “<a href="https://arvadacenter.org/events/beautiful-the-carole-king-musical?gclid=CjwKCAjwoqGnBhAcEiwAwK-OkQrLoOlpzAAHJqxaYReH
Wed, August 30, 2023
Why Are New Buildings in Denver So Ugly?
They don’t make stuff like they used to…turns out that’s true for Denver’s buildings as well. Art Writer and Architecture critic Michael Paglia has written about the Mile High’s growth spurts over many decades for Westword, and he’s seen some multi-story highs and lows, architecturally speaking. Michael joins host Bree Davies to discuss the city’s built environment of the 21st century — the good, the bad, and the really, really ugly — while pointing out some of the bright spots in our architectural story. Read some of Michael’s in-depth pieces for Westword on Denver’s Architecture, both good and bad: “ Ten of the Best New Buildings in Downtown Denver ” (2019) “The Ten Worst 21st Century Buildings in Downtown Denver” (2015) “With the AIA Convention in Denver, A Look at Ten Architectural Gems” (2013) Bree and Michael talk about the One River North building with the canyon in the middle, as well as these buildings (and here’s a lil’ map of them, if you wanna do a tour): Prism - 999 17th Street Coloradan - 1750 Wewatta Street Via - 828 Broadway 2785 Speer - 2785 Speer Boulevard For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Restaurant Association “ Beautiful: A Carole King Musical ” at the Arvada Center Text o
Tue, August 29, 2023
An Activist Turns Legislator, Micro-Communities are Coming, and More for Our Visitors Guide
Host Bree Davies and state politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval are breaking down all the local stories that matter this week — starting with a Democratic committee appointing Tim Hernández to the vacated 4th house district seat and Justine digs into what the appointment of a Chicano community activist says the current Colorado democratic party. Then, Bree talks about the list of 11 possible locations for short term housing that the Johnston Administration released a few days ago. Plus, we share your takes on the best way to get to the airport and what we left out on our visitor’s guide. Justine mentioned DPS’s current day segregation issues , which Chalkbeat covered this summer; Bree talked about the neighbors’ lawsuit against the Park Hill United Methodist Church in 2021 for hosting a Safe Outdoor Space. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Restaurant Association “ Beautiful: A Carole King Musical ” at the Arvada Center Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 28, 2023
The Park-Lovers Guide to Denver’s Green Spaces
Denver’s park system is something to behold — we have more than 250 dedicated green spaces in the city proper and over 14,000 acres of Denver-owned parkland in the mountains, all open to the public for free. There are so many beautiful spots to soak up our Mile High magic outdoors, so where do you start? From the most underrated public landscapes to the most prime people-watching spots, host Bree Davies, producer Paul Karolyi, and fave guest Joshua Emerson break down the must-visit green spaces around Denver. Paul mentioned some recent re-thinking around dog parks, and Bree talked about the new park renaming process that’s just started. Check out this interactive map from the City and County of Denver to find your new favorite park! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Restaurant Association “ Beautiful: A Carole King Musical ” at the Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 25, 2023
Is Coach Prime Too Cool for Boulder? Plus, A/C at DPS and John Fielder's Favorite Fleece
When the University of Colorado hired NFL Hall of Fame superstar Deion “Prime Time” Sanders to be their next head football coach, Boulder went bananas. But it’s time to see what the new-look Buffs can do on the field, and the off-field stakes are just as high. Producer Paul Karolyi is talking through the implications for Boulder and the whole CU system with 5280 Magazine’s Editor Lindsey King and Editorial Director Geoff Van Dyke. And as always, we wrap up the Friday show with a round of wins and fails of the week. We talked about Ed Sheeran , John Fielder , Office-to-Residential Building Conversions , Proposed LGBTQ Book Bans , RVs for Hawaii , and (the lack of) air conditioning at Denver Public Schools . Also, here’s the 5280 Magazine interview with John Fielder from 2009 that Lindsey and Geoff talked about and Robert Sanchez’s terrific article on the Deion Sanders moment at CU Boulder. Paul is pretty sure this is the same fleece John Fielder donated to History Colorado. He’s got some pretty good leads on identifying Fielder’s boots, too. Do you know who offers the best photography class in town? Paul wants to follow in John Fielder’s footsteps, and he needs your help. Have you taken a class you love? Or know someone who did? Leave us a voicemail or text at 720-500-5418 or email us at denver@citycast.fm , and you might hear your rec on the show (or see it in Hey Denver) soon! For even more news from
Thu, August 24, 2023
New Tacos in Cap Hill, Why Guy Fieri Loves Denver, and Dogs in Restaurants
Guy Fieri’s people have returned to two Colorado restaurants made famous by “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” — which has us pondering what kind of an impact the show can make on a local business. Then, what was known for a quarter-century as the Park Tavern in Cap Hill is getting another chance at bar life, complete with tacos! And finally, we ask a contentious question: should dogs be allowed in restaurants? Host Bree Davies, producer Paul Karolyi, and newsletter editor (and resident foodie!) Peyton Garcia break down the latest food news, plus pick the official City Cast Denver “Maybe” event for your weekend — as in maybe you’ll see the CCD crew there! Here are links to all the events Peyton mentioned: Shakespeare in the Wild Shine Music Festival Colorcon Mural Festival Back to School Pig Roast Fundraiser For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . How do you feel about dogs in restaurants? We want to hear from you! Call our Dogs In Restaurants hotline and leave us a voicemail with your name, neighborhood, and hot dogs-in-restaurants-or-nah take and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 23, 2023
Is the Expansion of Peña Boulevard 'Inevitable'?
Well, it’s happening again. Complaints about traffic have driven the powers that be to make the same old proposal: What if we just added an extra lane to that troublesome highway? This time it’s the main road out to Denver International Airport — Peña Boulevard. The transit experts say it won’t help. But what about our new Mayor Mike Johnston? And what about all the new neighbors set to move into the area soon — AKA, more than 35,000 families, Pepsi’s new bottling plant, and maybe even Elitch Gardens ? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi speak with Denver Post reporter Jon Murray about why he thinks this highway widening seems “inevitable,” even though the A Line is right there. If you have input on the planning process for Peña Boulevard, you can make your voice heard at the community event in Green Valley Ranch tonight from 5-8 p.m. There’s another one scheduled for next Wednesday at the same time. Paul mentioned the DIA train’s new voice and Suncor’s latest legal settlement . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Girl Scouts of Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 22, 2023
New Clues to the Westside's Future, the Startup Bug, and the Hottest 'Za in Town
It’s Tuesday, and we’re talking about all the local stories that matter this week. First, the Latino Cultural Arts Center recently announced plans for “Las Bodegas,” a sprawling arts and cultural campus in the La Alma Lincoln Park neighborhood. But that’s just the latest big project transforming the Westside, a section of the city marred by a history of displacement and divided by highway infrastructure. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about where Las Bodegas will fit alongside Nuggets owner Stan Kroenke’s big plans for Ball Arena, CDOT’s hopes for that defunct railyard , and the rapidly changing Sun Valley. Plus, we’ve got updates on the Mercury Cafe, Denver’s ongoing labor conversation, and an oven-hot pizza recommendation from you, our dear listeners. The city is looking for partners on the Burnham Yard redevelopment project, which started when the Colorado Department of Transportation bought the land in 2021. Paul also mentioned the railyard in Santa Fe and the data on new business filings in Colorado this year. Have you started a new business? We are interested in what’s driving the flurry of new business filings, especially since the labor market is so tight. So if you’re finally pursuing your dream or if you’re launching new side hustle, we wanna hear about it! Leave us a voicemail or a text, and you might hear it on the show soon: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Girl Scouts of Colorado Looking to
Mon, August 21, 2023
The Ultimate Visitor's Guide to Denver
A few years ago, the New York Times spent a weekend in Denver as part of its “36 Hours” series, offering a guide for how a visitor to the Mile High City could get the most out of our lovely city. This Denver travel guide felt somewhat theoretical, at best, and painfully unaware, at worst. Sooooo, we decided to fix it and make our own! Today on the show, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to lay out our own “36 Hours in Denver,” giving visitors an on-the-ground guide to the restaurants, attractions, and city-close outdoor excursions that make this place great. Paul mentioned our episode on DIA conspiracy theories . Bree talked about the Forney Museum’s old home in REI, and the story behind the historic brick building , which you can read about in our newsletter, Hey Denver ! What did we miss? We want to hear your can’t-miss spots that never fail to impress visitors. Leave us a voicemail or a text at 720-500-5418, and you might hear it on the show soon! Here’s a list of all the places we recommended: Colorado Tick Club (Curtis Park) Blucifer (DIA) RTD’s A-Line (It’s Free all August!) Union Station (Union Station) The Confluence (Highland) “Confluent People” by Emanuel Martinez (Auraria) Starbucks at the REI (Auraria) Little Man Ice Cream (LoHi) Bruto (Union Station) Bodega (Sunnyside) Red Rocks (Morrison) Dinosaur Ridge Trail (Morrison) J’s Noodles (Westwood) Miss Saigon (formerly Pho 79; Westwood) New Saigon (Athmar Park) <a href="https://meowwolf.com/visit/denver?utm_term=meow%20wold%2
Fri, August 18, 2023
The New Labor Wars, A Forgotten Theme Park, and Indigenous Biology
Unions are all the rage this summer. It’s looking like the busiest summer of labor action since 2000, with 323,000 workers already having gone on strike, according to the Denver Post . But it’s not just grocery store clerks and Hollywood writers, the solidarity is spreading to nontraditional labor hotspots, like homeless shelters and The Mercury Cafe. With The Merc’s employees set to vote on their union next week, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by returning fave Joshua Emerson to talk about the iconic Five Points restaurant and venue and it’s role at the center of the latest labor fight. Joshua is hosting his comedy showcase “Colorado Native” at the Holiday Theater on Aug. 24. You can get tickets here. Paul talked about the amusement park Aurora could have had back in the late ’70s, Roger Zelazny’s classic sci-fi novel “ Lord of Light ,” and the Colorado Sun report on HOAs. Joshua mentioned secretive judges . Bree talked about Jason Perry, the DJ who was killed outside Dandy Dan’s recently. ICYMI We’re working on an update to our recent episode, “ Are Denver’s Strip Clubs Dying? ” Check it out if you missed it! For another dispatch from Hot Union Summer, our pal Chris Walker reported a surprising story this week about the local impacts of the Hollywood writers and actors strike. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow our weather guy for all your we
Thu, August 17, 2023
How to Keep Cool and Survive a Denver Summer
We’re hitting that late-summer stride in Colorado as temps rise into the upper 90s, and being without air conditioning feels unbearable. The public pools close this weekend , so where do you go in this city for a chilly respite? Host Bree Davies is joined by newsletter editor Peyton Garcia and producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to share their favorite places to cool off — from cheap and/or free options to some pricey picks if you’re really desperate to beat that heat! Some links to learn more about all the things we talked about: National Science Foundation Ice Core Facility (Lakewood) Colorado Ice Works (Englewood) Hessaire MC18M Swamp Cooler IKEA Scavenger Hunt Free days at various museums Tubing in Golden , The Golden Mill (Golden) Great Wolf Lodge (Colorado Springs) Go dip your feet in a mountain creek (Maybe Estes Park ?) Ride the Pegasus Shuttle For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 16, 2023
The Most Instagrammable Spots to Tell a New Denver Story
Denver looks different through everyone’s eyes. So, how do you capture the Mile High City in a way that showcases what makes it special or unique to you ? Today on the show, producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love ( @wasteofmylife ) go behind the scenes and swap recs with local Instagram celebrity Amanda Bittner ( @theamandabittner ). From the overlooked alleyways to the restaurants poised to launch the next food trend, they discuss cool spots and unexpected backdrops that bring the city into focus. Paul talked about Alameda Bridge and John Fielder’s passing . Here are some links to the spots we talked about: The Irish Rover Dairy Block The Mile-High Steps “Wish You Were Here” at the Ramble Hotel Plant Garage Sushi-Rama The Botanical Bakery of Denver Red Rocks Paul’s Secret Bonus Spot For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Simple Steps, Better Air ” - Regional Air Quality Council Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 15, 2023
Gov. Polis Said What? Plus, Your Takes on the DPS Scandal
Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are breaking down all the local stories that matter this week — starting with what some Dems have called “careless words” from Governor Jared Polis. First, he raised eyebrows after saying some confusing things about abortion on CNN; later, in an interview with 9News, he made remarks about childcare and the bumpy rollout of the statewide Universal Pre-K program . Then, Paul talks about why some WNBA bigwigs are sniffing around the Mile High and finally, listeners respond to our recent chat with former DPS teacher and HD4 candidate Tim Hernández about discipline and safety in public schools . Paul mentioned Heinie’s Market in Wheat Ridge as a Palisade Peach hot spot. He also talked about big finance dude Robert Cohen, who was on the show a while back to make a case for Denver hosting the Olympics . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Simple Steps, Better Air ” - Regional Air Quality Council Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 14, 2023
Could Empty Office Buildings Offer a Real Housing Solution?
Downtown Denver has a lot of big, beautiful office buildings that are… empty. Simultaneously, the city is facing an ongoing shortage of housing options, particularly affordable ones. Which all leads to one big question: Could some of those vacant office buildings be converted into apartments or condos or some kind of office-shaped domicile? The answer is yes, kind of. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with Brad Segal — urban planner, real estate economist, CU Denver professor (and Bree’s former boss ) — to talk about the potential for a vacant-office-to-housing pipeline and the future of downtown. Paul forgot to mention this building on the 16th St. Mall that is being eyed for residential conversion. Brad spoke at length about the revitalization of downtown in the late 80s. To learn more about that, check out our interview with former mayor Federico Peña . The City of Denver is in the midst of studying our office building situation, which Esteban Hernandez at Axios dug into . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Simple Steps for Better Air ” - Regional Air Quality Council Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 11, 2023
The ‘Seclusion Room’ Scandal at DPS, Pricey Port-a-Potties, and Roller Coasters
What a week it was in Denver! First, DPS is in the midst of a crisis, this time involving a fired principal, a questionable student “seclusion room” with a lock on the door, and a whistleblower unloading some serious allegations — all centered on the McAuliffe International School, a middle school in Park Hill. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by returning guest, public school teacher and HD4 candidate Tim Hernández to break down this complicated situation. Then, wins and fails of the week, from some important roller coaster news and new renter protection laws a Boulder case involving the devastating and permanently disabling outcome of solitary confinement. Just a note: This episode contains graphic mentions of self-harm. What do you think about the “seclusion room” at McAuliffe? This is a developing situation, and we’re far from finished talking about it. So we want to hear from you! Tell us what you think in a text or a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show soon: 720-500-5418 Find out more about Tim’s run for House District 4 here ; and his opponents Rochelle Galindo and Cecilia Espenoza. Paul played a clip of this 9News report on former McAuliffe principal Kurt Dennis’s firing, shared an excerpt from this letter from parent of a student who spent time in the room in question, and talked about the new Department of Public Safety dashboards . We also discussed the 9News interview some say Dennis was fired for giving. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow our weather guy for all your weekend wea
Thu, August 10, 2023
Patio-Yeah! Denver’s Best Outdoor Hangs
That Mile High sun is a-blazing, and that can only mean one thing. It’s patio season here in Denver. So where are the best spots to soak in some rays and toss back a margarita? And what if all you’re really looking for is a great view or good vibes? Host Bree Davies and Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia shared their favorite patios in this conversation we recorded last summer — from prime rooftop party spots to those calm, garden-like hideaways. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Wine Board Wana Brands Girl Scouts of Colorado - DreamLab Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 09, 2023
Inside the GOP’s New Power Play. Plus, Should You Hike That 14er?
The Colorado Republican Party sued the state last week in an effort to stop unaffiliated voters — who make up 45% of CO’s registered voters — from participating in GOP primaries. One of the men behind that lawsuit? Attorney John Eastman, who also happens to be wrapped up in former President Trump’s Jan. 6th indictment. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by Westword editor Patty Calhoun to talk about all of Eastman’s latest shenanigans and how his lawsuit could reshape our politics. Then, Westword staff writer Bennito L. Kelty joins to discuss his decision to hike a closed-off section of the DeCaLiBron Loop and what the blowback says about who owns Colorado’s 14ers. We also discussed this response to Bennito’s hike from the executive director of the Colorado Fourteeners Initiative and the chair of the Fix CRUS Coalition . What’s the best place to get Palisade peaches? We want to share the love. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your rec on the show soon: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What’s the best place to get Palisade peaches? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Wine Board Girl Scouts of Colorado - DreamLab Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 08, 2023
The Sweep No One Wanted, Another Bike Lane Fight, and Peaches!
Prior to the first sweep of a homeless encampment on his watch, Mayor Mike Johnston made a visit to meet the Denverites living on the street at 22nd and Stout. So, how did it go? And now that the sweep has happened, what’s next? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into the details, plus take a look at Johnston’s homelessness plans for the remainder of 2023. Then, another fight over bike lanes ensues — this time, in Cap Hill — and Palisade peach season is in full effect! We mentioned Denverite’s reporting on this sweep , along with his conversations with folks impacted by it . Bree talked a 2017 Westword profile of the Torres family, who lost their home twice to eminent domain . Paul talked about Harrison Ford’s legit aviation experience outside of the movies, recognized how cool Carpio-Sanguinette Park really is , and mentioned the 9/11 truther peaches . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Wine Board Girl Scouts of Colorado - DreamLab Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 07, 2023
Are Denver’s Strip Clubs Dying?
Is there still a place for strip clubs in Denver’s vast world of entertainment, arts, and “immersive” experiences? Can our local economy still support this kind of entertainment, between changing technology and an increasing cost of living? Denver Post reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton dug into the business of strip clubs , and she sits down with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk financials, labor, and regulations of the industry — plus, they dig into the spicy, NBA-related controversy involving Shotgun Willie’s and the mysterious Texan strip club magnate betting big on the Denver market. Bree talked about Mayor Mike Johnston’s first encampment sweep last Friday. Oh and hey, check it out! Salt Lake City is still obsessed with us. Their newspaper of record recently printed an editorial calling on their mayor to follow our mayor Mike Johnston’s lead in declaring a state of emergency on homelessness. Check out City Cast Salt Lake for a breakdown of how it’s playing out there . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Explore Colorado wine with the Colorado Wine Board Girl Scouts of America — DreamLab Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 04, 2023
Colorado Wedding Disasters, Trash Pickups for Encampments, and Fancy-ish Toast
It’s wedding season in Colorado, and that means… your $2-million Aspen wedding could be ruined by a crappy sound system and an inconvenient gondola schedule? Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to talk epic weddings in the Centennial State. Then they take a look at local wins and fails of the week — like that brunch place Paul can’t stop gushing about and why Colorado politics Twitter basically disappearing sucks for everyone. As always, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia joins the crew to share her best bets for your weekend. Got a crazy Colorado wedding story of your own? We want to hear it. Maybe you’ll help someone else avoid their own CO wedding fail. Text or leave us a voicemail on the Wedding Fail Hotline: 720-500-5418 Bree and Justine praised trash service being offered to some encampments , and Bree talked about the death of Darrius Davis as he was being evicted. Paul talked about Denver marriage registrations and the new Broncos coach’s recent interview with USA Today. This episode mentions a death by suicide. If you or anyone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, you can always call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. There's help available 24 hours a day. For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Free concerts at Levitt Pavilion Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newslette
Thu, August 03, 2023
Our Best Bets for August
We love talking about cool events and things to do around Denver. But there are so many to choose from! Which ones are truly worth your time? Which ones are going to leave you with lasting memories? And which ones are gonna give you so much FOMO? Host Bree Davies and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia each picked four awesome August events to share, and producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love join to help narrow the field down to our best bet of all — the one August event where you’re most likely to see us. Here are links to all the events Bree and Peyton recommended: Bree Picks Listening Lawn , August 5 ( Carpio Sanguinette Park , Globeville) Hip Hop 'til Infinity , August 11 (Five Points) Globeville Neighborhood Bike Ride , August 20 (Globeville) 5th Annual La Raza Park Day , August 27 (Sunnyside) Peyton’s Picks Meow Wolf Monster Battle , August 10 (Cheesman Park) ElevAsian Night Market Fundraiser , August 19 (Auraria) Summer Scream at Lakeside Amusement Park , August 24 (Lakeside) Chicken Fight! , August 24 (Elitch’s) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on the formerly known Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Free concerts at Levitt Pavilion Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 02, 2023
A Tour De Hot Dog With Denver’s Wiener King
It’s summertime and we’re thinking about what else — hot dogs. Does the Mile High actually have a hot dog scene ? Is a hot dog a sandwich? Can you put ketchup on a Chicago-style dog if you’re not in Chicago? To answer these questions and more, the City Cast Denver team met up with our hometown dog dude, Biker Jim, to survey the wiener scene. Host Bree Davies, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia, and producer Olivia Jewell Love took a tour de hot dog from Lakewood to Northfield with Biker Jim himself to learn more about Denver’s place in hot dog culture, how he became so dang successful at slinging franks, and his famous meeting with Anthony Bourdain. Places we visited: Chicago Style Beef and Dogs (Lakewood) Mustard’s Last Stand (DU) The Dog Haus (Central Park) Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs (Ballpark) Did you catch Biker Jim’s recent appearance on Good Morning America? It was really something. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Got a favorite Denver hot dog? Or a response to something you heard on the show? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on a future episode: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Levitt Pavilion Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 01, 2023
Drivers Hitting Stuff, Downtown's Bounceback, and DIA Art Needs a Nickname
Are drivers more aggressive in Denver than they used to be? Has it become the norm to speed on neighborhood streets? And most important: Why do people keep crashing their cars into stuff? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into the bad driving problem, plus a new study that shows traffic downtown is back to pre-pandemic levels. Is there life downtown again? Then, we share listener voicemails about your favorite neighborhood rec centers and a Lowry resident wonders why we aren’t showing more appreciation for local liquor stores. Paul mentioned Xcel’s new back-to-the-office policy . Bree mentioned friend of the show, reporter John Moore’s post about someone crashing into a Lakeside Amusement park building . Paul and Bree also discussed “Welcome to My Office” a new addition to DIA’s massive — and kinda weird — art collection. What should we actually call DIA’s new bronze business man? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your suggestion on the show: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Levitt Pavilion “ Pioneer Music of the Mountain West ” at American Museum of Western Art , presented by Swallow Hill Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 31, 2023
Why Colorado is the Best Place to Buy an Electric Vehicle
When it comes to climate change, Governor Jared Polis and the Democrats in control of the statehouse are betting big on electric vehicles, or EVs. Earlier this month, they increased the state incentive for residents purchasing an EV from $2,000 to $5,000, but that’s just the tip of this melting iceberg. CPR climate reporter Sam Brasch says there is “no better state in the country to buy an electric car than Colorado.” Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with Sam to break down all the money available to EV-curious Coloradans, his personal experience owning a Chevy Bolt, and the complicated politics of EVs. Learn more about our state’s EV incentive programs . Bree mentioned Naloxone at AEG venues and KeepThePartySafe.org . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Levitt Pavilion Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 28, 2023
Johnston and the Sweeps, Worms in the Sweet Corn, and RTD's Fare Decrease
We’re less than a month into Mike Johnston’s first term as mayor, and things are already off to a bumpy start — some media outlets reported this week that the mayor would not enforce homeless encampment sweeps. Turns out that wasn’t quite the case . Plus, Suncor continues to fail, RTD is actually winning, and Denver Parks and Rec gets a well-deserved pat on the back. Host Bree Davies is joined by producer and chief conspiracy theorist Paul Karolyi and regular fave Joshua Emerson, comedian and co-chair of the Denver American Indian Commission. And as always, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia shares her best bets for your weekend — think brewery birthdays, vegan mania, Aurora chef celebrations, and more! For more on the rollout of Mayor Johnston’s homelessness plan, check out this helpful piece from our pal Kyle Harris at Denverite. Paul mentioned the Aloft Hotel’s new vacancies , Cultivando’s air monitoring program in Commerce City and a new local investment opportunity . Bree talked about that big green building on Kalamath , her love for the Northside’s Ashland Rec Center , the Denverite piece on The Gathering Place-operated motel shelter shutting down , and her husband’s UMS party this weekend . Josh talked about RTD’s historic rate decrease and <a href="https://coloradosun.com/2023/07/27/olathe-sweet-corn-crop-earworm/#:~
Thu, July 27, 2023
PSA: A Warning for Evergreen Hikers
Content warning: This episode contains mentions of sexual violence. Earlier this week on our episode about self care , we recommended a solo hike via the Brothers Lookout Loop in the Alderfer Three Sisters Park in Evergreen. Not long after, we learned about a sexual predator at-large who has been targeting women hiking alone in the Evergreen and Conifer areas, including the park we mentioned. Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Olivia Jewell Love to discuss what we know so far and how to best protect yourself if you are hiking alone. If you have any information on the situation, contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department: 303-271-0211. Resources for survivors can be found at the Blue Bench . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 27, 2023
Brain Freeze! Denver’s Best Ice Cream
Who makes the best ice cream in town? Is it the parlor with the best vibes? Or does it all come down to who accidentally spilled a bunch of salt on their Oreo cookies? We got tons of suggestions from readers and listeners, and we narrowed down the field to four ice-cold contenders — Em’s , Liks , Sweet Action , and Little Man . Who will we crown Mile High’s best ice cream? Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi, newsletter editor and resident foodie Peyton Garcia, and ice cream aficionado JD Lopez to eat way too much ice cream and pick the best in town. Did we get it wrong? Or maybe we missed your favorite local ice cream? Don’t let your neighborhood parlor be forgotten! Call or text the Cool Treats Hotline at (720)500-5418 and leave us a message with your name, neighborhood, and pick for the best ice cream in town. You might hear it on the show soon! When he’s not seeking out his next triple scoop, JD hosts the podcast Left Hand Right Brain , an exploration of creativity featuring local comedians, artists, and other creative types. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Wana Brands “ Untitled ” at the Denver Art Museum this weekend Simple Steps, Better Air - Regional Air Quality Council Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 26, 2023
Why Is Salt Lake City So Obsessed With Us?
Our friends at City Cast Salt Lake picked this fight, and we’re finally hashing it out. Can Salt Lake City really stack up to the Mile High when it’s only situated at a paltry 4,265 feet above sea level? Who has better transit, anyway? And what is with SLC’s cookie obsession? Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi plus a couple of special guests — City Cast Salt Lake’s host Ali Vallarta and producer Emily Means — to dig into the myths and facts, and determine once and for all whether we’re really rival cities — or just regional siblings who like to argue. Bree mentioned Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Utah Governor Spencer Cox's recent plea for Americans to "disagree better." For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Wana Brands “ Untitled ” at the Denver Art Museum this weekend Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 25, 2023
An ‘Ugly’ Bike Lane, the Casa Bonita Union Fight, and Barbie Mania
Neighbors in Congress Park and Country Club say that new infrastructure meant to keep cyclists safe is making their neighborhoods “ugly.” But is this change in our built environment really about aesthetics or more about who “owns” the road? Then, the Casa Bonita saga continues as management responds to concerns of employees who have been organizing with ROC United , and the rest of us try to figure out if we’ll ever get a table at CB again. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi tackle these stories, plus a look at Barbie mania in the Mile High and a comment from a listener about what we talk about when we talk about downtown. Paul quoted a 9News story about the bike lane drama ; Bree mentioned Kevin Beaty at Denverite’s story on the Casa Bonita drama that continues to unfold. We played a very sweet ode to a very sweet cat at the end of today’s show, which you can find on musician Marty Jones’ bandcamp . Thanks to the Denver Post for this article about Smokey the cat’s retirement. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Wana Brands “ Untitled ” at the Denver Art Museum this weekend Looking to advert
Mon, July 24, 2023
Take Yourself on a Denver-Style Self-Care Date
Today is International Self-Care Day, and what more prompting do any of us need than to spend some time with just us? From bike trails and other outdoor adventures to concert series and day trip destinations, producer Olivia Jewell Love and Demi Harvey, host of “Serve It!” on Indie 102.3, share their favorite places for self-care in the Mile High. UPDATE 7/27/23: Jeffco Sheriff’s Office released a warning to hikers two days after airing this episode to be on the lookout for a sexual predator wanted in the Conifer and Evergreen area. The suspect has been targeting solo female hikers in the area, with incidences at this park—so please hold off on solo hiking for now and remain vigilant! Bree mentioned what’s bothering the workers at Casa Bonita and the halfway point of Zero Fare for Better Air . Olivia and Demi talked about these cool spots: Denver Botanic Gardens (Cheesman Park) Hike/bike/swim at the reservoir (Cherry Creek State Park) Brother’s Lookout trail , Willow Creek Restaurant (Evergreen) Women in Sustainability's clothing swap on August 27 (Boulder Bandshell and Central Park) Concerts at Levitt Pavilion (Ruby Hill) Old Crows Antiques (Littleton) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Wana Brands “<a href="ht
Fri, July 21, 2023
Introducing the Colfax Hall of Fame
It was a raucous night on Colfax last night -- as usual -- and the renovated garage behind Bruz Off Fax was no exception. A distinguished panel of Colfax aficionados inaugurated the first class of five Colfax icons to our new Colfax Hall of Fame in front of a crowd at the Colfax Indie Bash. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi were joined by Westword founder and editor Patricia Calhoun, Sie FilmCenter artistic director Keith Garcia, and owner and bartender of the Oak Creek Tavern, Skyler McKinley. Together this motley crew weighs in on the people, places, and things that embody the spirit, grit, and magical weirdness of our massive main street! For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Independents Day ” on Colfax Ave. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 20, 2023
The Lost History of Downtown’s Secret Tunnels
Next time you find yourself in LoDo or wandering around near Union Station, look down. Just below the streets of downtown, there’s a maze of old, out-of-commission tunnels that used to connect our hotels, restaurants, and stores of yore. Glimpses of these alternative pathways still exist at street level, if you know where to look. Back in January, host Bree Davies spoke with Tracy Beach, author of “ The Tunnels Under Our Feet: Colorado’s Forgotten Hollow Sidewalks ,” about this turn of the last century phenomenon. Beach explains what the tunnels were used for, who used them, and how to spot the remnants of these lost transit spaces today. This interview first aired on January 5, 2023. Bree and Tracy discussed the racist anti-Chinese riot of 1880 (which Bree talked with Dr. William Wei about on this show in 2021 ). Bree also mentioned Children’s Hospital’s new policy on gender-affirming surgery and “ Casa Beer .” What do you think about Salt Lake City? Are they worthy of being our rival? Hit us with your hottest take on SLC, and you might hear it on the show soon. Text it to us or leave us a voicemail at the SLC Hotline: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Independents Day ” on Colfax Ave. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 19, 2023
Will Mike Johnston Make History?
Robert Speer. Michael Hancock. Benjamin Stapleton. Federico Peña. Wellington Webb. Each mayor of Denver leaves their mark on the city — for good, for bad, and often for both. So what can we expect from Mike Johnston? He is the latest to lead the massive, unwieldy bureaucracy that is our city government. How will his administration bend the arc of Denver history? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi speak with Nicki Gonzales, a professor of history at Regis University and former state historian, to help us set expectations for the Johnston Era. Paul mentioned Denver’s role in the brilliant utopian sci-fi novel “ New York 2140 ” by Kim Stanley Robinson, one of the modern masters of science fiction. Bree talked about Mayor Johnston's emergency declaration on homelessness. What do you think about Salt Lake City? Is it our rival city? Or would some other city be a more suitable rival? Text or leave us a voicemail with your SLC take, your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: “ Independents Day ” on Colfax Ave. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 18, 2023
Mayor Mike Vibe Check, Our Rival City, and Your Colfax Stories
Mayor Mike Johnston was inaugurated yesterday, with an inspiring speech and… a killer music festival ? It’s Tuesday, so host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about all the local stories that mattered this week, from outgoing Mayor Michael Hancock’s la st kiss goodbye to the vibes of Johnston’s first day in office. Plus, we respond to your comments on yesterday’s Colfax meme and some not-so-nice comments that our colleagues at City Cast Salt Lake made about Denver. Wanna see our Colfax meme? Check out @colfaxthings on Instagram to see our “Colfax Starter Pack” and peep some more hilarious comments. Also, come out on Thursday, July 20, for a live recording where we’re going to induct the first class of Colfax icons — people, places, and things — to a Colfax Hall of Fame. RSVP here . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Independents Day on Colfax Ave. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 17, 2023
What Goes in a Colfax Starter Pack?
Do you remember your first time on Colfax Avenue? It was probably equal parts exhilarating, interesting, confusing, and entertaining, as Denver’s most famous strip tends to be. But we wanted to get to the heart of what makes a true “Colfaxian experience” — like, why does this particular street attract and inspire so much weird wonderfulness? Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love decided to go right to the source, calling up Ashley, the human behind Colfax Things , an awesome Instagram account devoted to the wild, wacky, and wonderful nature of the Mile High’s most misunderstood place. Together, the crew builds a “First Time on Colfax Starter Pack” meme, in an attempt to distill the street’s glory into prime — and hopefully, viral? — internet content. Check out the meme we made with Colfax Things on her Instagram or the official City Cast Denver IG ! Bree mentioned Nathaniel Minor’s reporting for Denverite on the failure of Vision Zero , and the 42 traffic deaths this year already. Special thanks to our sponsor, Colfax Ave, the Colfax Ave Business Improvement District. Join us for a LIVE recording of City Cast Denver this Thursday, July 20th, from 6-9 p.m. at Bruz Off Fax as part of the Colfax Ave Indie Bash! Bree will be joined by a special guest panel on stage live to help nominate and select the first-ever “Colfax Hall of Fame”. RSVP for free and we will see you there! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colfax Ave Business Improvement District Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 14, 2023
Who Is a ‘Denver Native’? Plus, Dry Water Fountains and Swifties Takeover
With our first new mayor in 12 years set to be inaugurated on Monday, we’re running out of time to resolve the most pressing issues of the Hancock Era. One of the most persistent sources of tension? Those iconic green-and-white “Denver Native” bumper stickers. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi talk it out with returning favorite Joshua Emerson , stand-up comic and co-chair of the Denver American Indian Commission. Then, a round of wins and fails from the week and Peyton is out, so Bree is sharing her top picks for your weekend. Paul mentioned “ zombie buildings ,” the Great American Beer Fest , and the true story of the transplant behind the “Native” stickers. Bree mentioned water fountains without water , the El Chapultepec Legacy Project , and the celebrated Clara Brown . Josh talked up Jamal Murray and rising rents . We all praised John Wenzel’s work with The Denver Post. Here’s his profile of Josh from earlier this year. Meet us on Colfax! RSVP here for our live recording on the ‘Fax next Thursday, July 20, and bear witness to the induction of the first class of the Colfax Hall of Fame. And if you think you know who should be on that list, send us a text or leave us a voicemail with your nomination, name, and neighborhood, and we might play it at the show: 720-500-5418 Here are links to the events Bree recommended: Wakanda Forever INSIDE the Historic Elitch Theater Friday Night Bazaar in the River North Art District <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/taylor-swift-the-eras-tour
Thu, July 13, 2023
Take a Hike! Our Favorite Colorado Trails
Is there anything worse than a bad hike? Maybe you ran out of water. Maybe you didn’t pack the micro-spikes. Maybe you’ve been walking for 6 hours straight and you’re just plain sick of it! But this is Colorado, and we’ve got tons of great hiking trails for all occasions and skill levels. Newsletter editor Peyton Garcia joins producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to dish on the latest hiking news and share some favorite hiking trails — whether you’re answering the call to adventure, hoping for more of a stroll, or if all you really care about is that nice, cold beverage waiting for you at the end. UPDATE 7/27/23: Jeffco Sheriff’s Office released a warning to hikers two days after airing this episode to be on the lookout for a sexual predator wanted in the Conifer and Evergreen area. The suspect has been targeting solo female hikers in the area, with incidences at this park—so please hold off on solo hiking for now and remain vigilant! It’s time to talk Colfax. RSVP here for our live recording on the ‘Fax next Thursday, July 20, and bear witness to the induction of the first class of the Colfax Hall of Fame. And if you think you know who should be on that list, send us a text or leave us a voicemail with your nomination, name and neighborhood, and we might play it at the show: 720-500-5418 Paul mentioned the fundraiser to support police sergeant Justin Dodge and his family, declining crowds on 14ers , and CPR reporter Nate Minor’s coverage of that dang empty lot at Colfax and Broadway. Here are links to all the hikes we mentioned: South Loop Trail at Elk Meadow Park (Near Evergreen) Enchanted Mesa behind Chautauqua Park (Boulder) Fountain Valley Loop Trail at Roxborough State Park (Near Morrison) Brother’s Lookout and Three Sisters Loop (Near Evergreen) Trail to the A (Outside Fort Collins) <a href="https
Wed, July 12, 2023
Big Ideas for How Mike Johnston Can Bring Denver's Mojo Back
Mike Johnston will be sworn in as Denver’s 46th mayor on Monday, and he’s already making moves. He hired a transition team and packed his calendar with community listening sessions. But will he roll out his “micro-communities” plan for homelessness that he campaigned so hard on? What about handling the perceptions and realities of public safety that Denver has been struggling with? And our most pressing issue: Can Mike make downtown cool again? Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi and returning fave, Westword editor Patty Calhoun, to talk through this week’s cover story on how Denver’s new belt buckle-wearing mayor could really help Denver get its mojo back. Patty mentioned Kyle Harris’s reporting for Denverite on the status of the permit for the Park Hill Golf Course, the Museum of Illusions coming to 16th St. Mall, and 9News’ recent reporting on 911 wait times. Patty also talked about Stephen Brackett’s idea to start a city office of a “night mayor.” He was on our show sharing more of his ideas to turn around Denver’s nightlife back in April. Where do you think Taylor Swift will be spotted around town this weekend? She’s playing two sold out shows at Empower Field, but she’ll probably see some sights, right? Call in to the Denver Era Hotline, text or leave us a voicemail with your name, neighborhood and best guess for where to spot T Swift, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Regional Air Quality Council Colorado Wine Board Denver Art Museum presents “Desert Rider” Looking to advertise on City Cast Denv
Tue, July 11, 2023
Lowriders on Car-Free Streets, Mile High Rent Burden, and Empower Field (Taylor's Version)
¡Viva! Streets! took over Broadway once again, literally intersecting with the Lowrider Show and Shine event outside the Denver Art Museum. And that had us wondering: Could this new clash of pedestrian life and car art culture start a new conversation about transit in Denver? Then, the Denver Post reported on how the Mile High stacks up when you compare rent hikes with average income increases — meaning, your housing nightmares were real all along. Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi to talk about all the local stories that mattered this week, plus a question for local Swifties ahead of the Eras Tour stop at Empower Field this weekend and some commentary from you, our dear listeners! We shared some questions and comments on our recent episodes about police returning to DPS and local beverage trends this summer . Our Question of the Week: Where would Taylor Swift take John Mayer out to dinner before her shows at Empower Field? Text or leave us a voicemail with your answer, name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Regional Air Quality Council Colorado Wine Board Denver Art Museum presents “Desert Rider” Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 10, 2023
Why Aren’t Denver Teens Working Anymore?
To the chagrin of many summer lovers, Denver’s public pools are once again operating with limited hours, due to — you guessed it — staffing problems. And that’s after they raised wages last summer! So why, as the Colorado Sun recently reported , are Denver teens increasingly skipping out on summer jobs? Host Bree Davies sits down with our official teen correspondent Shana Saint-Phard, who just graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and is not working this summer, to ask the big question: Why aren’t teens working anymore? Before she graduated, Shana was a reporter with The TJ Journal . Check out her work here . Bree mentioned the end of toll-free travel on I-70’s new express lane and the reduced toll program for neighbors affected by the highway expansion. Who do you think should be in a Colfax Hall of Fame? We’re collecting nominations ahead of our live Colfax event on July 20 , and we want to hear from you! We're looking for true Colfax icons -- be they people, places, or things that embody everything Colfax. Leave us your name, neighborhood, and nomination in a text or voicemail, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Regional Air Quality Council Colorado Wine Board The Denver Art Museum’s new exhibit “Desert Rider” Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 07, 2023
What's Denver's Favorite Drink? Plus, RIP Pizzeria Locale and the Lakewood Panty Raider
It’s Friday and we’re talking about all the news that mattered this short, holiday week. From our expansive craft brew scene and the burgeoning world of kombucha to Boulder’s historic — and celestial — tea empire, Colorado is a big player in the beverage world. Could kava be next? A new piece in Westword about the rise of ceremonial drink has us curious. Producer Olivia Jewell Love joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk all things drinks, plus wins and fails of the week, and then newsletter editor Peyton Garcia hops on the mic to help us pick our City Cast Denver “maybe” event of the weekend, as in maybe you’ll see us there! We want to know what kind of cold ones are in your cooler this summer! Leave us a text or voicemail with your fave bev’, and your name and neighborhood on the Tell Us What Your Sippin’ On Hotline: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed Helen Xu’s piece on kava as much as we did, check out her interview from last December with Paul when they discussed the Leprino family cheese dynasty drama . Bree mentioned a great episode from Gastropod about the origins of coffee’s popularity and Meow Wolf’s upcoming Monster Battle . Olivia wrote about Colorado’s mocktail scene . Paul mentioned Celestial Seasonings’ backstory and promised he’d share listener Cory P.’s vegetarian green chile recipe: CORY P'S VEGETARIAN GREEN CHILE 12 roasted Anaheim or Pueblo chiles, peeled & chopped. 1 Tbsp olive oil 1/2 onion, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 Roma tomatoes, diced 6 cups vegetable stock (I use Better than Bouillon, mixed in hot water) 1 tsp cumin 2-8 Tbsp Cornstarch to thicken Directions: Saute onion & garlic in olive oil until soft in a 5+ quart pot. Add stock, green chiles and bring to a boil. Add tomatoes. Simmer for 1 hour. Add cornstarch mixed with water (2 tbsp or more as needed) to thicken. Serve on everything! A note on chile heat: medium chiles are usually plenty of heat for this dish. If you’d like it a little milder, a mix of mild and medium (or even just mild chiles) is fine. Peyton was stoked about the book, <a href="https://chrysalisherbs.com/herbalists-happy-hour/#:~:text=%E2
Thu, July 06, 2023
Downtown’s Lunch Scene is Back and Better Than Ever
Downtown Denver is definitely not the hellhole that some suburban Republicans think it is, but since the pandemic it’s certainly seen better days. The work-from-home boom means fewer and fewer people traversing the city’s core and, in turn, fewer customers for downtown shops, bars, and restaurants. But even with many eateries shuttering in the last few years — The Market, The Paramount Cafe, The Hard Rock Cafe, and even McDonald’s! — has come opportunity. Host Bree Davies is joined by Westword food editor Molly Martin and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia for lunch at one of the most exciting new spots — Little Finch on 16th Street Mall — and a conversation about the potential for a downtown dining rebirth. Check out Molly’s write-up on Little Finch for Westword; she also mentioned Sofia’s and Dragonfly Noodle . Bree talked about the recent Supreme Court ruling on a local website designer’s refusal to serve the LGBTQ community. Don’t miss our episode on the case from last December! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 05, 2023
Mortified Live: Confessions of a '90s Denver Teen
Did you keep a diary as a kid? Did you have that safe place where all of your teenage thoughts and daydreams lived on paper, never to be seen or read by anyone but you? Host Bree Davies certainly did — but instead of leaving her early 90s teenage musings behind lock and key, she joined a handful of fellow brave souls and read directly from her journals at Mortified Colorado a few weeks ago. Today, we’re bringing you the live recording of that fateful night on the Oriental Theater where rockstar fantasies, shopping mall dreams, and teenage drama come to life in front of hundreds of strangers. Do you have a teen diary stashed somewhere in your attic? Maybe some salacious creative writing or drawings you turned in as homework in high school? What about notes you passed to friends between periods? Mortified Colorado would love to have you be a performer at their next show — find them on Facebook or fill out this form and you could be featured! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 03, 2023
An Insider’s Guide to Surviving Denver
Every city has its unwritten rules, and when Politico published its rules for surviving Washington DC, we figured why not share our tips for surviving Denver? Being new to this place can be daunting, so we wanted to answer some of those burning questions, like — does the altitude really matter? How much is too much when it comes to edibles? Why is everyone carrying around a giant water bottle? Earlier this year, Bree Davies chatted with producer Paul Karolyi and fave guest, former Westword staff writer Conor McCormick-Cavanagh, and compiled some helpful and fun tips on making your way around the Mile High City. We talked about The Gathering Place losing its lease on a motel being used for temporary housing — learn more about how to support the nonprofit on their website . Bree mentioned City Cast Denver’s next live event, the Colfax Indie Bash , happening on July 20 with our friends at the Colfax Ave BID . We’re compiling submissions for a yet-to-be-realized “Colfax Hall of Fame” and we want to know the people, places, and things you nominate. Send us your ideas via denver@citycast.fm or leave us a voicemail on the Colfax Hall of Fame Hotline at 720-500-5418! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 30, 2023
Tipping vs. Service Fees, Why BCycle Died, and Drake Night
It’s Friday and we’re talking about the big local stories this week. Casa Bonita continues to dominate the news cycle but this time it isn’t all roses and sopaipillas — the company changed its tipping policy last minute and many servers and bartenders are not ok with it. All this comes as a new study ranks Denverites among the highest tippers in the country. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by podcast host and multimedia producer Graffiti to talk wins and fails: Will RTD’s zero fare summer mean better working conditions for drivers? What happened to BCycle, the Mile High’s OG bike share? And why oh why do the Rockies have to suck so bad? Plus, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia shares her list of fun stuff to do and the City Cast Denver crew picks our official “Maybe” event rec for the weekend, as in maybe you’ll see us there. Here are links to the events Peyton recommended: FanExpo Denver 2023 (Downtown) Cherry Creek Arts Festival (Cherry Creek) Goat Head Weed Removal with Goathead Greg (Windsor) Mo’Betta Green Marketplace (Five Points) Plus, Graffiti is co-hosting Drake Night this Saturday at Ophelia’s if you want to go ‘Into the Aubrey-Verse.” Paul mentioned Albert Edwin “Pinky” Roadhs and his cousin Riley’s barber school graduation. If you’re looking for a good haircut, check out queer.clips on Instagram. Bree talked about RTD’s woes and the possible renaming of the Ross-Barnum Library. Graffiti talked about the Rockies and Detour’s amazing Nuggets mural . For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver </
Thu, June 29, 2023
The New Rules of Compost
Starting in July, the City of Denver is officially launching its free composting program, which will serve more than 180,000 households across the Mile High. This means that now, along with your recycle and trash bins, you’ll also have a composting bin to help cut down even more on what goes into the landfill. But the rules of compost are tricky and ever-changing. So what exactly goes into that big green bucket on wheels anyway? Are apple cores ok? What about tea bags? Or coffee grounds? Host Bree Davies is joined by City Cast Denver’s official gardening and dirt expert Ann Marie Awad to get the down and dirty details on what you can — and can’t — put in the compost. Looking for more info on on the basics of composting? Check out the CSU Extension’s Composting 101 Guide . The City of Denver has an FAQ page with helpful tips; you can also download the Denver Trash and Recycling App for collection reminders, holiday trash schedules, and to play the trash, recycle, or compost game! Bree mentioned DIA’s security wait time checker , new reservation system , and the Denver Post’s recent report on local liquor stores’ recent sales slump . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 28, 2023
Inside the Secret Meeting that Led to the Return of Cops in Schools
In the wake of the March 23 shooting at East High School, thousands of students walked out of class in protest, and the school board started what became an emotionally charged, highly controversial, three-month debate on the possible return of police to Denver Public Schools. They ultimately voted, 4-3, that police should be a “persistent presence” in our schools, but not everyone is happy with that outcome. So today on the show, host Bree Davies speaks with the board's vice president, Aoun’tai Anderson, about how the debate played out and why he thinks his fellow board members reversed their position since police were removed from schools in 2020. Bree mentioned Bike to Work Day and DPD’s new anti-theft bike registration system , as well as the official designation of La Raza Park as a historic cultural district. For a deep dive into the last three months of debate on the role of police in schools, Melanie Asmar has been covering all the twists and turns for Chalkbeat. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 27, 2023
Free Public Transit, French Fry Art, and More Tourist Traps
It’s Tuesday, and we’re talking about all the local stories that matter this week. First up, RTD’s “ Zero Fare for Better Air ” promotion is back! Local public transit will be free in July and August this year, but is this really going to lead to better air quality? Host Bree Davies and Producer Paul Karolyi are talking transit and responding to some listener comments and questions about tourist traps, public art, and Stephen King’s Colorado connections. In case you missed it, here’s a link to the episode we made last week about local tourist traps. Paul mentioned RTD’s report on last year’s free-fare month, David Zipper’s piece on free transit, and this deep dive from DPL into the controversy over Buffalo Bill’s real burial site. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, June 26, 2023
How to Plan Your Next Epic Tubing Adventure
After a wet winter and super rainy spring, our rivers and creeks are running high. Does that mean we’re about to witness the best tubing season ever? Lead Producer Paul Karolyi is joined by Rocky Mountain PBS reporter and tubing buff Alison Berg to break down what those high water levels mean for your summer floating plans, as well as her expert tips on the best tubing spots, safety tips, and the unspoken rules of the river. Paul mentioned the city auditor’s report on Denver Police Department and Interim Police Chief Ron Thomas’s comments on the likelihood of another “Summer of Violence.” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Levitt Pavilion Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 23, 2023
Queer Book Bans, Disaster at Red Rocks, and an Ice Cream Beer Experience
It’s Friday and we’re talking about all the the stories that mattered this week. The big Pride weekend is finally here, but what is the state of our LGBTQ community in Denver right now? Some residents in Douglas County are (again) clamoring for libraries to ban queer books ; meanwhile, the state legislature has seen major strides in LGBTQ representation . Host Bree Davies is joined by returning fave Ann Marie Awad and City Cast first-timer Demi Harvey , who hosts Indie 102.3’s “Serve It!” The trio also discuss the Red Rocks hail disaster , Detour’s epic new Nuggets mural, and of course, Casa Bonita. Then, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia joins to share the best bets for your weekend plans. In addition to the many PrideFest weekend activities , here are all the weekend events Peyton recommended: Health and Fitness Expo (Barr Lake) Plant Swap and Giveaway (Sun Valley) Beer and Ice Cream Pairing (Various) Larimer Square Summer Market Series (Downtown) For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Levitt Pavilion Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at<a href="https://c
Thu, June 22, 2023
Don’t Get Tourist Trapped! We Can Help.
There are lots of glitzy attractions around Denver — but which ones are really worth it? Which destinations are just tourist traps , and which ones are the real gems, you know — the tourist treats ? In this final installment of our Summer Entertainment Guide, host Bree Davies is joined by newsletter editor Peyton Garcia and producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to break down their can’t-miss and definitely-pass attractions from downtown D-town to ski towns of the Rockies. We want to hear from you, too! What are the Denver-area tourist attractions that you really unabashedly love? And which made you feel empty inside? Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood on the Tourist Trap Hotline, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Here are links to all the places we mentioned: Royal Gorge Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave The Denver Zoo Downtown Aquarium Water World Manitou Cliff Dwellings Tiny Town Winter Park Peyton mentioned a 2022 Westword investigation into the Downtown Aquarium — we chatted with reporter Catie Cheshire about her findings. Bree also mentioned our tour of Water World last summer. Paul brought up Raven Payment’s Twitter thread on the Manitou Cliff Dwellings Every weekday, you can get even more recommendations for fun stuff to do in our Hey Denver newsletter! Subscribe here or by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: <a href="https://www.reddit.com/
Wed, June 21, 2023
Inside the Democrats’ Plan to Unseat Lauren Boebert
Colorado’s most infamous Republican, Rep. Lauren Boebert, won re-election last November by a mere 546 votes, shocking the unsuspecting Denver public and the national press. Something was clearly changing in Boebert’s mostly rural, southern and western Colorado district, and now the Democrats have a plan to take advantage of the moment. Producer Paul Karolyi sits down with the new chair of the Colorado Democratic Party, Shad Murib, to talk about “ The 546 Project ,” his massive new effort to unseat Boebert in 2024, and why her vulnerability and her fame combine to make her the perfect next target for the Democrats’ push to turn Colorado blue once and for all. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Levitt Pavilion Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 20, 2023
Who Pays the Price for 'We Buy Ugly Houses'?
You ever see one of those signs that say “We Buy Ugly Houses” stapled to a telephone poll? Or plastered in giant block letters up on a billboard? Did you ever wonder what happens when someone calls that phone number? ProPublica investigative reporter Anjeanette Damon cracked the story wide open , and she’s on today with host Bree Davies to explain how the mysterious HomeVestors’ business model works, how they scoop up the deeds to so many perfectly good looking houses, and who is paying the price. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Levitt Pavilion Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 16, 2023
Nuggets on Parade, Welcome to ‘Lavender Hill,’ and Monster Truck Palooza
The Nuggets are finally world famous! Denver’s hometown ballers won their first NBA Championship in franchise history, and the city has been celebrating all week. Everything culminated with a big parade downtown on Thursday, and the City Cast Denver team was there to take it all in. But of course, the Nuggets aren’t all the news — it’s Friday, so we’re talking about a new queer cultural district , a rash of shootings on the city’s streets , and question whether Trinidad has lost its shine . Diné comedian Joshua Emerson is back with producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to break down all the local stories that mattered this week. Plus, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia shares her best bets for this (hopefully sunny) summer weekend. Bree mentioned the walking tour of Cap Hill’s queer history that we did last June with local comics artist and historian B. Erin Cole. We didn’t see this until after we recorded, but past guest and local author Jenny Shank wrote a beautiful commentary on the Nuggets’ win for her newsletter this week. Check it out and subscribe! A programming note: We are taking Monday off in honor of Juneteenth. So there won’t be another new episode in your podcast feed until Tuesday. Our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver is also off on Monday. Here are links to all the events Peyton suggested: Veggie Viernes (Westwood) Monster Truck Charity Palooza (Aurora) Cherry Blossom Festival (Sakura Square) Juneteenth Festival (Five Points) For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenv
Thu, June 15, 2023
Everything You Need to Know About the Reckoning at DMNS
The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is full of dioramas depicting wolves in the arctic, rare birds from across the U.S., and… people. Since 1978, millions of Denverites have walked through the North American Indian Cultures Hall and seen indigenous people — who come from hundreds of diverse tribes, cultures, and communities — depicted behind panes of glass. As the museum prepared to close the exhibition for good this week, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi met up with Diné comedian and Denver American Indian Commission co-chair Josh Emerson to tour the hall with DMNS curator of anthropology Chris Patrello to learn more about why this big change is happening now and how they are reimagining this space for the future. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 14, 2023
Our Best Bets for Your Summer
Every Friday on City Cast Denver, our newsletter editor Peyton Garcia joins the crew to offer some event recommendations, and we collectively pick the Official City Cast Denver Maybe For Your Weekend — aka the one weekend event where you’re most likely to see us. So for this second installment of our summer entertainment guide, City Cast editor Adrian González returns to help Peyton, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi pick City Cast Denver’s Ultimate Summer Maybe. Because there’s a zillion cool things happening around Denver this summer, and we narrowed it down to one rock solid recommendation. Here are all the events Peyton recommended: Arts Colorado Native: A Native American Comedy Showcase , August 24 (Highland) REVEALED: John Fielder’s Favorite Place , July 22 (Golden Triangle) Desert Rider: Dreaming in Motion , July 9 (Golden Triangle) Food Strawberry Days Festival , June 16-18 (Glenwood Springs) Olathe Sweet Corn Festival , August 4-5 (Olathe) Blues and BBQ Festival for Better Housing , July 15 (Edgewater) Mountain Adventure Fibark , June 15-18 (Salida; Paul wants you to know that the pizza place he likes in Salida is Moonlight Pizza & Brewpub ) Crested Butte Wildflower Festival , July 7-16 (Crested Butte) Mushroom ID Foray , July 8 (TBD) Misc. Pollinator Palooza Festival , June 25 (Westminster) Georgetown Loop Old West Days , August 19-20, 26-27 (Georgetown) Scandinavian Midsummer Festival , June 23-25 (Estes Park) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/Ci
Tue, June 13, 2023
Jor’Dell Richardson Bodycam Footage, Politicians Can Block You, and Your New Brunch Spot
UPDATE 6/13/23: After this episode was published, we learned that the location of the Jor'Dell Richardson community memorial and procession planned for Friday 6/16 has been moved to Aurora Municipal Center. The event is still set to begin at 5 p.m. It’s Tuesday and we’re breaking down all the local stories that matter. First, the Aurora Police Department released bodycam footage of the killing of 14-year-old Jor’Dell Richardson, but questions still remain as to what happened. Also, Denver School Board director Auon’tai Anderson announced that he won’t be running for re-election; instead, he’ll be running for House District 8 , where Democratic representative Leslie Herod is term-limited. Speaking of politicians, a new Colorado law says your elected officials can block you from their personal accounts on social media if they want to — but legal or not, the ACLU still thinks it's a free speech issue. Plus, producer Paul Karolyi tells host Bree Davies about a new brunch spot in LoHi that he’s excited about, which comes from Denver celeb chef (who beat Bobby Flay!) Carrie Baird. We mentioned the GoFundMe for Jor’Dell Richardson’s family , as well as a community gathering and memorial for Jor’Dell on the steps of the capitol. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, June 12, 2023
Has AI Already Taken This Denver Job?
AI is everywhere right now — at least that’s how it seems. The technology has a lot of people worried , but we wanted to know: What does it actually mean for us as Denverites? Will our jobs be taken over by AI? How will it impact our daily lives? One local company has been on the cutting edge of this technology for years before the recent hype, and they recently deployed their AI at four local fast-food restaurants. So today on the show, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi take a trip to the Carl’s Jr. drive-thru in Lakeside to test out “Holly.” Then, Bree chats with Rob Carpenter, the CEO of Colorado’s Valyant AI , to learn more about how Holly works, how worried you should be about her taking your job, and what this technology is going to mean for Denver’s future. Bree mentioned the Marshall Fire investigation findings . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: badboyboards Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 09, 2023
What Will Define the Johnston Era? Plus, the NYT takes on Casa Bonita and Cows Attack!
It’s Friday and we’re talking about all the local stories that grabbed our attention this week — aka, the election. Mike Johnston is officially Denver’s mayor-elect, and he made a lot of promises along the campaign trail, so which ones will he keep? Plus Casa Bonita gets a write-up in a little paper called the New York Times , Governor Jared Polis vetoes a housing bill, and the last drive-in theater in the Denver metro is closing. Producer Paul Karolyi is joined by host Bree Davies and founder of investigative news outlet The Lever and Academy Award nominee David Sirota for a rundown of everything Denver’s talking about. As always, stick around until the end for a round-up of the coolest events happening this weekend in the Mile High, curated by Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia. If you haven’t read the Times ’ take on Casa Bonita, here’s a link . Paul talked about Colorado’s changing drive-in movie theaters, including this one in the San Luis Valley, and predatory towing . Bree mentioned about a story from Nate Minor in Denverite about RTD’s bad bus stop management. Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! P.S. CONGRATS ON GETTING MARRIED, ANDY!!!!!! Here are links to the weekend events Peyton recommended: Lighthouse Writers Workshop Grand Opening Summer Farm Fest The Taylor Swift Party Denver Chalk Festival (Watch out for the weather forecast though!) Five Points Jazz Festival For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 or by visiting our website . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instag
Thu, June 08, 2023
Amid Colfax's Queer Rebirth, an Iconic Bar Rises Again
When nightclub owner Steven Alix bought the old Irish Snug, he didn’t know anything about Sid King or his famous Colfax strip club, Crazy Horse. But he soon learned that the bar at the corner of Colfax and Marion had been a staple of the strip’s infamous — and often debaucherous — nightlife scene from the 1940s to the 1980s. A few decades have passed, but now the man behind Colfax’s hottest LGBTQ bars is bringing Crazy Horse Kitchen + Bar back to life, complete with King’s original Googie-style neon sign. Host Bree Davies is joined by Steven and Keith Garcia, a fellow Colfax aficionado and artistic director at the Sie FilmCenter, to dig into the myths and magic of Colfax, Sid King’s lasting imprint on the street, and why Crazy Horse (and its companion basement nightclub) are important to the current landscape of Denver’s queer-welcoming establishments. Plus, Keith and Steven share their recs for celebrating Pride Colfax-style. Did Playboy actually call Colfax the “longest, wickedest street in America”? Bree mentioned this Denverite article investigating the infamous claim. Keith mentioned Sie FilmCenter’s slate of Pride events all month long, including a block party with Black Pride Colorado, and teased the return of the CinemaQ Film Festival in August. Steven highlighted the week of events planned at X Bar , Tight End , and Crazy Horse . Bree commented on the protests outside the new Drip Café on Santa Fe and recommends listening to our episode on Denver’s best coffee shops. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Re
Wed, June 07, 2023
Denver Elects Mike Johnston as Mayor
The people of Denver have elected Mike Johnston to become their first new mayor in 12 years. While the results won't be official until June 20, former CEO of the Denver Chamber of Commerce Kelly Brough conceded after the belt buckle-wearing former state senator won a majority of the votes counted by 10 p.m. on Tuesday. “Tonight we start a chapter about a city that is going to be big enough to care for all of us, to support all of us, to house all of us,” Johnston declared in his victory speech. “That is our dream of Denver.” Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi discuss the results of the mayor’s race and what to expect from mayor-elect Johnston, as well the City Council runoffs in districts 8, 9, and 10. Follow Denver Elections for future updates on the races that were still too close for us to call. What are your hopes and dreams for mayor-elect Johnston? The Mayoral Madness Hotline is still open... for now. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your comments on the show: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Regional Air Quality Council badboyboards Energize Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 06, 2023
An Insider's Guide to the Best Summer Entertainment
Summer is finally here! But no need to stress if your calendar’s not already full of summer fun. Over the next three weeks on the podcast and in our newsletter Hey Denver , we’re presenting our Summer Entertainment Guide to help you make this a season to remember. First up, John Moore has been covering local arts and culture for decades, and he’s got a voracious appetite for all kinds of entertainment, from tiny backyard plays to blockbuster arena-filling concerts. He’s on today with host Bree Davies to share his personal recommendations and a heads-up about that local staple you might want to skip. Read John Moore’s work in the Denver Gazette , including this recent piece he mentioned about Denver’s many outdoor film series. Here are links to all of John’s other recommendations: Colorado Shakespeare Festival (Boulder) Oddities Alley (Victor) City Park Jazz (City Park) Five Points Jazz Festival (Five Points) Blues & Barbecue Festival for Better Housing (Edgewater) The Lyric Theater (Fort Collins) Film on the Rocks (Morrison) Phamaly Theater Company’s “ A Midsummer Night’s Dream ” (Downtown) Denver Fringe Festival (Five Points) Thingamajig Theatre Company (Pagosa Springs) Creede Reperatory Theater (Creede) Lake Dillon Theater Company (Silverthorne) Little Theater of the Rockies (Greeley) Goatflix & Chill (Various) Do you have a summer entertainment rec? Text it to us or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 <p
Mon, June 05, 2023
The Best Local Concert Venues, According to the Pros
Yes, Red Rocks is a world-famous concert venue, drawing music-lovers from all walks of life to the Denver suburbs. But there’s plenty more great venues in town to catch any kind of concert you want. So which one has the best sound? The best vibes? The best seating? Host Bree Davies sits down with two local musicians — Kalyn Heffernan and Gregg Ziemba of Wheelchair Sports Camp — who know all these venues inside and out to get their hard-earned tips for enjoying any kind of show and how to do Red Rocks right. We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners, so we can make City Cast Denver an even better, more useful podcast for you. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it’s only 5 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Regional Air Quality Council badboyboards Energize Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, June 03, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Brough and Johnston on Homelessness with ‘Elevated Denver’
What will the next mayor do when it comes to housing and homelessness? There are so many important issues at stake in this election, but those two might be the biggest. That's why we're so grateful that our friends at Elevated Denver were ready to go deep. Their organization aims to humanize the issue of homelessness and bring new ideas to the table through relationships with our unhoused neighbors. So please enjoy this episode of their podcast featuring in-depth interviews with the two remaining mayoral candidates — Kelly Brough and Mike Johnston -- on housing and homelessness. Here’s how they described this episode: “The Elevated Denver team is bringing you an extra special, time-sensitive, bonus episode. In Denver, we are in a runoff Mayoral election, with ballots due on June 6th. We spoke with each candidate — Kelly Brough and Mike Johnston — specifically focusing on housing and homelessness in Denver. The questions were deeply informed by our unhoused neighbors and this conversation answers questions about each candidate’s values and philosophies about this crisis in our community. Read the full transcript here .” New episodes of the Elevated Denver podcast drop biweekly. You can learn more and subscribe to Elevated Denver at elevateddenver.co . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 02, 2023
Mayoral Attack Ads, a Mysterious Missing Hat, and Is Denver Disney-Ready?
It’s Friday and we’re chatting about all the local stories that caught our eyes this week. With Election Day looming, the mayoral mudslinging has begun, and both the Kelly Brough and Mike Johnston camps are getting messy with their ads. Will these late-in-the-game attacks matter to Denver voters? And why go negative now? Producer Paul Karolyi is joined by host Bree Davies and City Cast Denver politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to parse the unfolding election drama. Plus, the crew picks their Mile High wins and fails of the week, then Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia shares her recommendations for your weekend. Paul mentioned a Western Slope graduate and the new culture of the Broncos’ locker room . Bree talked about D3 Arts . Justine shared the mystery of the missing hat and good news from RTD . We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners, so we can make City Cast Denver an even better, more useful podcast for you. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it’s only 5 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card. For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: badboyboards Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 01, 2023
What’s at Stake in the City Council Runoffs?
The mayor’s race is grabbing all the headlines lately, but what about Denver City Council? With contested runoffs in Districts 8, 9, and 10 and many new faces already elected, this key branch of our local government is poised for some big changes. Incumbents Candi CdeBaca (District 9) and Chris Hinds (District 10) are both fighting to retain their seats, while District 8 is a battle between two new contenders, Shontel Lewis and Brad Revare. But these votes are about more than who gets onto City Council, they could lead to a major ideological swing and a new approach to how lawmaking gets done in Denver. Host Bree Davies and Producer Paul Karolyi break down the races and talk about what’s at stake ahead of Election Day on June 6. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: badboyboards Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 31, 2023
A Secret Szechuan Gem and Our Other Asian Food Faves
While Denver’s dining scene has attracted top chefs from all over the world, it’s our mom-and-pop shops and holes in the wall that tell a deeper culinary story. Like Noodles Express , a nondescript eatery in a strip mall on Colorado Boulevard that happens to serve up some of the best Szechuan cuisine in town. We stopped by the recently a lo-fi feast of sweet, salty, and tongue-numbing spice with our fave gastro guide, Westword food editor Molly Martin. Today on the show, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia and host Bree Davies celebrate the last day of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with Molly as they dine on mapo tofu and dish about their fave Asian restaurants across the Mile High. Molly mentioned the Crazy Hungry Asians of Colorado group on Facebook , the Westword profile of Adam You , You’s Denver Chinese Source blog and the return of Mile High Asian Restaurant Week . Here’s Molly’s original review of Noodle Express, as well as her story on the restaurant bouncing back from the brink of closure. All the great places we mentioned: Noodles Express (Colorado Blvd.) New China (Alameda & Pearl) Chada Thai (Uptown) 303 Ramen (Arvada) Szechuan Tasty House (College View) Meat and Eat Bistro (Hampden) Meta Asian Kitchen (Highland) Pho King Rapidos (Highland, for now) Yuan Wonton (Food Truck) CoArk Food Hall (Centennial) Tommy’s Thai (Congress Park) Pho Hong (Alameda & Federal) Tí Cafe (South Broadway) Please take our listener survey! We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners, so we can make City Cast Denver an even better, more useful podcast for you. We’d be grateful if
Tue, May 30, 2023
How Colorado Fell in Love With the ‘Daytona Dong Sarong’
Shinesty CEO Chris White got his start selling thrift store finds to his fellow CU Boulder students hoping to stand out at parties. Thanks to a surprise shout-out from Al Roker, Shinesty is now the fastest growing apparel company in Denver, with millions in venture-capital investment, new retail deals with Zoomies and Buckle, and their own MTV docu-series to boot. But they’ve captured Coloradans’ attention not with a better puffer jacket or cowboy hat, but with novelty underwear and raunchy, irreverent, and over-the-top designs for the kind of theme parties millennials love. Host Bree Davies sits down with White in Shinesty’s Highland office to ask how he made millions with products like the “ Daytona Dong Sarong ,” where to find the best thrift shops and estate sales across the Front Range, and what Shinesty’s success says about Coloradans’ taste in fashion. Paul mentioned the e-bike rebates re-opening today at 11 a.m. , Mayor Hancock’s bike lanes , and layoffs at Twitter and Guild . The “Year of Efficiency” Hotline is Open! Have you or someone you know been affected by layoffs in the tech industry? We’d love to hear what’s happening inside these local tech companies. Send us a text or leave us a voicemail at (720)500-5418 . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: badboyboards</a
Sat, May 27, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Spicy Wings and Spicy Questions for Brough and Johnston
The mayor’s race is getting spicy! No, we’re not talking about the latest attack ad ; we’re talking about hot wings. Earlier this week, host Bree Davies moderated a Hot Ones-style forum featuring candidates Kelly Brough and Mike Johnston eating progressively spicier wings while answering progressively spicier questions. Since there’s less than two weeks until Denver elects Brough or Johnston as its first new mayor in 12 years, we’re proud to share a recording of that event here with you today. And just a note, this episode has some explicit moments, but only because those wings were really hot. Huge thanks to our partners New Era Colorado , ONE Colorado , Cobalt , and COLOR for making this a mayoral forum to remember! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 26, 2023
BREAKING: We Saw Inside the New Casa Bonita!
Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia got a sneak preview of the new Casa Bonita this morning, and she’s calling in from that strip mall parking lot in Lakewood to dish on everything the “South Park” guys cared to reveal — a new ticketing system, the chlorine smell, the sopaipillas, and how they plan to open to the public, and more! Subscribe to Hey Denver to see all of Peyton’s photos and more from inside the Pink Palace. All you’ve got to do is text “Denver” to 66866. Sign up for the Casa Bonita email newsletter list for further updates: https://www.casabonitadenver.com/ Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 26, 2023
The 'Silent' Man Behind the Nuggets, Broomfield's Arena Fail, and Inflatable Amusements
It’s Friday, and we’re talking about all the local stories that mattered this week. After sweeping the Los Angeles Lakers, our Denver Nuggets are waiting to tip off in their first-ever NBA Finals. But are they really “our” Nuggets? Or are they billionaire owner Stan Kroenke’s Nuggets? And what exactly is he planning to build in the 55 acres of empty parking lots around Ball Arena? “Silent Stan” never talks to the press, so producer Paul Karolyi is sitting down with DNVR Nuggets co-host Adam Mares and Denverite senior reporter Kyle Harris to talk about what the Nuggets’ playoff run means for the whole city — even non-basketball fans. They also dig into the planned demolition of the 1stBank Center, a new inflatable amusement park in Lafayette, and the state GOP’s fundraising troubles . Then, Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia shares her recommendations for your long weekend. We’re off on Monday for Memorial Day, so don’t expect a new episode in your feed until Tuesday morning! Here are some links to the weekend events Peyton recommended: Ice Cream, BBQ, Live Blues (Englewood) Boozy Book Fair (Platt Park) Kickoff to Summer - Street Festival (Historic South Gaylord Street) 57th Annual Memorial Day Parade (Commerce City) For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 If you’re as excited about the Nuggets’ run as we are, definitely do yourself a favor and subscribe to the DNVR Nuggets Podcast for daily commentary and analysis. Kyle mentioned this tweet from transit advocate Emily Kleinfelter. Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's <a href=
Thu, May 25, 2023
Can Lakewood Cash In on the Casa Bonita Hype?
A nostalgia bomb is about to go off on West Colfax, because the long-awaited return of Casa Bonita is expected any day now. That means Denver’s favorite birthday party venue is back, but so are the tax revenues for the City of Lakewood (and likely crowds in a janky strip mall parking lot). While we wait for the Pink Palace to announce a re-opening date, we called up the mayor of Lakewood, Adam Paul , to talk about how much this actually matters for the local economy and culture. Mayor Paul mentioned Lauren Coleman’s purchase of the White Swan Motel on West Colfax. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Ullr’s Garden BadBoyBoards Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 24, 2023
Mayor Hancock Defends His Legacy
After a historic 12 years in what he calls the “best political job in Colorado,” Michael Hancock is ready to say goodbye to the mayor’s office. His administration was defined by growing pains, with explosive population growth outpacing Denver’s housing supply. But through it all he has maintained a single vision: Make Denver into a “world-class city.” So now that he is leaving office and Denver’s population growth is waning, we ask: Did he do it? And what does it mean to be a world-class city anyway? Overlooking Civic Center Park from his office, mayor Michael Hancock joins host Bree Davies to discuss growth, his legacy, and the race to succeed him. Bree mentioned 9News’ coverage of the Christian Glass settlement and the big announcement from United Airlines. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Ullr’s Garden BadBoyBoards Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 23, 2023
A Fresh Start in the Springs, AI Art at the DAM, and Casa Bonita Backlash
It’s Tuesday, and we’re breaking down all the local stories that matter this week. First, Colorado Springs has a brand-new mayor and a brand-new narrative — could this be an opportunity for Democrats? Also, the Denver Art Museum has, for the first time , exhibited art made with AI — does it matter? And finally, the Casa Bonita hype has reached a fever pitch, with Les Claypool concert rumors and and opening date possibilities swirling. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi respond to a listener’s criticism of our “breathless” CB coverage, and Bree plays the quizmaster with the Ultimate Old Denver Gatekeeper Trivia. Bree mentioned the digital art of a Colorado-born artist, Milton Melvin Croissant III, who was also a founder of Rhinoceropolis. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Ullr’s Garden BadBoyBoards Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, May 22, 2023
What You Need to Know About Migrants Arriving in Denver
More than 10,000 migrants from Central and South America have arrived in Denver since December, seeking opportunity, shelter, or just a friendly pitstop on the way to a new home. Denver’s support services were already straining to manage the unexpected influx of people in need, but now that a key pandemic-era border restriction has been lifted, no one knows how many more migrants we can expect this summer. So today on the show, host Bree Davies sits down with Denver Post reporter Saja Hindi who tracked this recent wave of migration from Venezuela all the way to Denver, where our local officials are scrambling to plan for an uncertain future. There are lots of ways to support migrants arriving in Denver: Donate or volunteer through the City and County of Denver Donate through the Rose Community Foundation. Bree mentioned The Denver Post story on the DMNS’s closure of the North American Indian Cultures Hall and the museum’s “healing statement.” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Ullr’s Garden BadBoyBoards Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, May 20, 2023
‘Been There Done That’ with Jo Ann Allen
We love having Denver Post columnist Jo Ann Allen on our Friday shows, but did you know she makes a podcast of her own? This weekend, we’re delighted to share an episode of “Been There Done That” that we think you’ll love. It features Jo Ann’s interview with Rick Waters, the executive director of the Denver Indian Center . Subscribe to Been There Done That wherever you get your podcasts! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 19, 2023
How Empty Is Downtown? Plus, the Most Mayoral Madness Yet
It’s Friday and we’re talking about all the local stories that caught our eyes this week. First, we talk a lot about downtown. Is it safe? What’s going on down there? Is the Cheesecake Factory still open? But the real question is: What’s going on with all that empty office space ? Are we looking at a commercial real estate crisis brewing or a big juicy opportunity? Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi and returning favorite Jo Ann Allen to hash out the vacancy situation, dish on the mayor’s race, and break down all the other stories that matter. Finally, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia joins in to share her picks for the best events this weekend! Here are the events we discussed: Northglenn Food Truck Carnival Colfax Marathon The Sun Valley Viaduct Night Market Taste of Yoga For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Bree mentioned a CBS4 piece on people traveling from all over the country to come to a little restaurant in Colorado called Casa Bonita that isn’t even open yet. Even more Mayoral Madness! And don’t miss the mayoral forum Bree is hosting on May 22 with Brough and Johnston. It’s Hot Ones-style, so they’ll be answering progressively tougher questions while eating progressively spicier wings. The event is sold out, but you can RSVP for the watch party or watch the live stream on Facebook . Should be fun! Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver </p
Thu, May 18, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Mike Johnston Makes His Final Pitch For Your Vote
Twenty-seven Denverites ran for mayor. Seventeen made the ballot. Now it’s down to two: Kelly Brough and Mike Johnston. Ballots are in the mail this week ahead of election day on June 6, and Denverites will decide. Will our first new mayor in 12 years be the snowplow-driving former CEO of Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce or the belt buckle-loving former state senator? Today, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with Johnston to hear what he’d say to one of his many wealthy donors if they asked for a favor; how he’d bring downtown back to life; where he’s gonna put the “micro-communities” he promised for people experiencing homelessness; whether or not he’s worried about Denver’s stagnant population growth; and if he’d support a bid for a Denver Olympics. Mike mentioned Stephen Brackett’s proposal to create an Office of the Night Mayor. Bree talked to Stephen a few weeks ago about what a night mayor is and more of his big ideas for the future of Denver’s nightlife. Don’t miss yesterday’s episode with Johnston’s opponent, Kelly Brough! Correction, May 18, 2023: Due to an editing error, an earlier version of this interview excluded a moment where Johnston emphasized how important to him the diversity of his voters was. That portion of the interview has since been reinstated. This is a re-uploaded, correct version. Even more Mayoral Madness! And don’t miss the mayoral forum Bree is hosting on May 22 with Brough and Johnston. It’s Hot Ones-style, so they’ll be answering progressively tougher questions while eating progressively spicier wings. The event is sold out, but you can RSVP for the watch party or watch the livestream on Facebook . Should be fun! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The North Face </li
Wed, May 17, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Kelly Brough Makes One Last Case For Your Vote
It’s time to vote for a new mayor… again! Ballots for the June 6 runoff are in the mail this week, and Denverites are deciding who will succeed Michael Hancock as Mile High’s first new mayor in 12 years. After months of campaigning, we wanted to check back in with the two finalists — because we still had questions. Today on the show, producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies sit down with Kelly Brough to hear the real snowplow story; why she’s gone back and forth on bike lanes; how she plans to handle potential conflicts of interest around her longtime partner, lobbyist David Kenney; how her personal experience guides her on safe injection sites; and her trick for baking at altitude. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s conversation with Brough’s opponent, Mike Johnston! If you haven’t seen it, do yourself a favor and take in Brough’s snowplow ad . Bree also mentioned safe injection facilities reducing overdose deaths — that information came from the American Academy of Family Physicians . Even more Mayoral Madness! And don’t miss the mayoral forum Bree is hosting on May 22 with Brough and Johnston. It’s Hot Ones-style, so they’ll be answering progressively tougher questions while eating progressively spicier wings. The event is sold out, but you can RSVP for the watch party or watch the livestream on Facebook . Should be fun! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The North Face BadBoyBoards Ullr’s Garden Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more abo
Tue, May 16, 2023
Car-Free Streets, Brough's New TV Ad, and So. Much. Rain.
Three miles of Broadway and Welton were shut down for the inaugural ¡Viva! Streets Denver last weekend, as pedestrians and cyclists took over the asphalt for a rainy day of car-free wandering through the city — so, how did it go? Speaking of getting around sans cars, RTD is looking at another fare-free summer with the prospect of expanding the program to go through July and August. Oh and yes, ballots are in the mail so you’ll soon be able to get this mayoral runoff over with — but not before the Johnston and Brough campaigns unleash a plethora of commercials. It’s Tuesday and producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are breaking down all the local stories that matter, including our weekly Casa Bonita countdown! We talked about pics from the first Viva Streets event last weekend, a LinkedIn post from Eric Anderson (which we first got wind of from Cory Hutchins’ newsletter ), a new ad from the Kelly Brough campaign, and the GIFs Casa Bonita released of the restaurant’s remodeling progress. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The North Face BadBoyBoards Ullr’s Garden Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, May 15, 2023
Are Colorado Lawmakers Letting Ticketmaster Off the Hook?
Planning on buying tickets to your favorite show? Good luck! If you happen to be a Swiftie, a member of the Bey Hive, or a big fan of The Cure, you’ve probably seen artists and fans going head-to-head this year with ticketing giants like Ticketmaster. Colorado lawmakers passed a bill recently that could ease some of your ticket-buying woes, but does it go far enough? And is it too soft on ticket marketplaces like Ticketmaster? Producer Ann Marie Awad talks with Colorado Politics Business Reporter Hannah Metzger about the ins and outs of the bill, its surprise supporters, and whether or not Gov. Polis will sign it into law. Link to the bill: https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/SB23-060 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on Reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 12, 2023
Chaos at the Capitol, Miller Moths, and an Exclusive Mayoral Endorsement
It’s Friday, and we’re digging into all the local stories that mattered this week. First, state lawmakers are officially done lawmaking for the year. And this session, we learned that politics is like jazz. Sometimes it’s about the laws you don’t pass. But it come down to the wire on a “ chaotic ” Monday night, featuring some harsh name-calling, last-minute dealings, and a full-on GOP walkout. CPR politics reporter Andy Kenney was at the Capitol, and he’s back on today with producer Paul Karolyi and Westword editor Patty Calhoun to sort through the wreckage and share some underreported stories of the week (Migrants! Moths! Money!). Plus, Adrian González is back to give us his weekend recs. For a thorough breakdown of all the bills heading to Governor Jared Polis’s desk, check out the coverage from our friends at the Denver Post , CPR , and the Colorado Sun . Paul mentioned the shape of our state and his first miller moth sighting of the year (The CSU Extension has plenty more info about miller moths and how safely remove them from your home). Patty talked about the recent wave of migrants arriving
Thu, May 11, 2023
Fact or Fiction: Subaru is Colorado’s Favorite Car
Ask any Denverite what they’d guess is the most popular car in Colorado, and nine times out of ten they’ll tell you, “Subarus!” And it makes some sense. Designed for adventure, Subarus fit perfectly with Colorado’s image as the rugged mountain state. Throw your gear in the back and you’re ready to go! But are Subarus really the most popular cars in Colorado? Host Bree Davies takes on the Subaru stereotype with recent Subaru convert Ann Marie Awad and reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, who dug into the data for the Denver Post. Megan mentioned the myth that Denver gets 360 days of sunshine per year. If you’re in the mood for more local myth-busting, our weather guy Andy Stein busted that one for us back in 2021. We also discussed the surprising origin of those NATIVE bumper stickers. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The North Face Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 10, 2023
Denver on the Cheap: A Great Day for Only $52.80
We all know Denver isn’t the super affordable city it once was. But we’re all still here, trying to get by and enjoy that Mile High life. So we challenged ourselves to find the best ways to enjoy a day in Denver on the cheap — and by cheap we mean, how can a Denverite pack a whole day of fun around the city for $52.80 or less? Host Bree Davies, producer Paul Karolyi, and state politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval each schemed, plotted, and planned a great Denver day without breaking the bank. Today, join them as they talk through the best eats, events, and entertainment Denver has to offer, with a slim budget of $52.80! Got a favorite local discount, happy hour deal, or bargain? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Enter the Spoiler Zone below at your own risk! Paul suggests you take advantage of Denver Public Library’s free museum pass program , the great prices at El Taco de Mexico , this hot tip for cheap drinks at Coors Field. Justine includes a RiNo weed deal , the best way to enjoy the Museum of Contemporary Art, a free trip to her favorite park , and plenty of bus rides (which will be free again in August!). Bree’s got her eye on bánh mì bargains on Federal , movies on Colfax , concerts at Ruby Hill , and tacos on Alameda . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: <a href="https://www.reddit.co
Tue, May 09, 2023
Denver’s Most Mom-Worthy Brunches
Mother’s Day is just around the corner — have you made plans with your mother yet?! This holiday often centers on going out for a nice brunch but in this town, getting reservations can feel nearly impossible. You still have a few days to plan that big bash for mom this Sunday, and the City Cast Denver crew is here to help. We’ve rounded up some of our most favorite brunch spots across the city, from old favorites to innovative ideas for redefining your typical weekend meal spot. This conversation originally aired on November 16, 2022. Make a day out of it and take your mom to one of our favorite local garden shops ! Bree mentioned the Denver Public Schools board’s consultant costs . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The North Face Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, May 08, 2023
Is Colorado On Its Way to A True Water Crisis?
Colorado was lucky to have a particularly wet winter in 2023, meaning water runoff from the mountains is really strong right now. But does that mean we can stop worrying about the Colorado River and that pesky 20-year megadrought ? KUNC reporter Luke Runyon has a new podcast out, “ Thirst Gap ,” exploring the precarious state of our water supply. So producer Paul Karolyi sat down with Luke to talk about the new podcast, the latest politics of water at the Capitol, and the prospect of another hot, dry summer. Paul mentioned some New York Times coverage that addressed recent developments with the Colorado River, and you can subscribe to “ Thirst Gap: Learning to Live With Less on the Colorado River ” wherever you listen to podcasts. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The North Face The Jewish Community Center of Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 05, 2023
The Real Impacts of Sports Betting, a Big Tofu Deal, and Who's Afraid of DIA?
It’s Friday, and we’re talking about all the local stories that mattered this week. Way back in November 2019, Colorado voters narrowly approved the legalization of sports betting , taking the illicit hobby out of the shadows and on to our phones! And on billboards! And everywhere else! Sports betting is now a multi-billion-dollar industry with Coloradans chasing the adrenaline rush from the Broncos and the Nuggets to late-night prop bets on the pro cornhole championship. To mark the three-year anniversary of our state’s first legal sports bet, Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are chatting with 5280 Magazine editor Lindsey B. King, who reported this month’s cover story on how sports betting is going mainstream. Then they each share an underreported story from the week and invite Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia on to share her best bets for your weekend. We talked tofu , new speed limits , healthcare transparency , and the New York Times’ take on Blucifer and DIA. For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Backyard Pitmasters of Colorado The North Face Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 04, 2023
A Crash Course in Colorado Camping
It’s not just you— trying to get a camping spot in Colorado feels impossible these days because it kind of is! New data reported by the Denver Post shows it was five times harder in 2022 to secure a campsite in this state than it was pre-pandemic. So, how do you get your outdoors on when the competition is so fierce? Newsletter editor Peyton Garcia — the City Cast Denver camping authority — takes our producer and camping novice Paul Karolyi through her best outdoor enjoyment hacks and secrets to making the most of Colorado’s greatest asset. Peyton made this handy dandy camping checklist so you can be fully prepared to set up shop in your favorite mountainside spot. This conversation originally aired on June 29, 2022. Bree mentioned how busy Colorado’s campgrounds are , why the gig driver transparency bill went down this week, and Lunar New Year! Here are a couple links to our past coverage of Lunar New Year in Denver and CAPU’s work to commemorate Denver’s old Chinatown : The Epic Family Saga Behind Denver’s Biggest Lunar New Year Celebration Reclaiming Denver’s Lost Chinatown For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Backyard Pitmasters of Colorado The North Face Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 03, 2023
How Big Music Money is Reshaping RiNo
There didn’t used to be a place in Denver called RiNo. So it wasn’t a problem when a bunch of artists found some space and made dusty, industrial Brighton Boulevard… cool. But now art is big business in RiNo, and several rising entertainment companies — Vinyl Me, Please ; Victrola ; AEG Presents: Rocky Mountains — are building Denver’s next “music district” right there on Brighton. So where does that leave the artists? And how is the local music business reshaping Denver? Host Bree Davies sits down with The Denver Post’s arts reporter and critic John Wenzel to get the scoop. Don’t miss Wenzel’s deep dive into the companies forming a new music district in RiNo. Bree mentioned the last-gasp effort to pass Governor Jared Polis’s big land-use bill at the state legislature this week. The Subaru Hotline is Open! Maybe it’s a stereotype, maybe it’s true: Coloradans love their Subarus. But what about you? Do you drive one? Do they bug you? We want to hear what Subarus mean to you. Text or leave us a voicemail at (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Backyard Pitmasters of Colorado The North Face Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 02, 2023
Skyrocketing Property Taxes, Suncor Emissions, and Which Lawmakers Want to Block You
With 2023 state legislative session almost over, the race is on to get these bills outta the house — but what will our lawmakers focus on with their final week? The fact that our property taxes are going through the roof ? Or that the Suncor oil refinery continues to emit toxic chemicals ? Or are they just focused on fighting their own trolls on social media ? It’s Tuesday, so host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are breaking down all the local stories that matter this week. Plus, of course, the latest on Casa Bonita. Paul mentioned how Colorado stacks up to other states when it comes to property taxes on residential real estate and the reasons Colorado voters repealed the Gallagher Amendment back in 2020. Bree mentioned a Zillow listing in West Colfax that touted the home’s proximity to Casa Bonita . Give us a ring on the Always-Open, Always Hot, Casa Bonita Hotline! Text or leave us a voicemail: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Backyard Pitmasters of Colorado The North Face Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, May 01, 2023
Meet the Nuggets' Secret Weapon (Who Never Touches the Ball)
The Nuggets are having a history-making season , and — knock on wood! — Denver could be on its way to our first NBA Championship in franchise history. But sports teams are so much more than the athletes. Coaches, scouts, analysts, trainers, and many many more work together to get those wins — like today’s guest, Kyle Speller . He’s a PA announcer now in his 18th season with the Nuggets, and his voice, energy, and excitement are crucial to getting 20,000 fans on their feet and cheering at Ball Arena every game. Host Bree Davies talks with Kyle about how he came up with his now-infamous “To the window/to the wall!” call-and-response, the call Nikola Jokić asked him to stop, and other secrets for driving Nuggets fans wild. (And if you’re curious, Bree also asked Kyle about his homage to Guy’s “Teddy’s Jam.” ) Bree mentioned the settlement in the Coffee at the Point dispute and Colorado’s new gun laws . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The North Face Backyard Pitmasters of Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 28, 2023
Gov. Polis vs. the NIMBYs, Preserving History, and Sister City Trivia
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up the stories that caught our eye this week. Housing has been top of mind for Coloradans and finally, Governor Jared Polis was poised to do something about it — in the form of a massive housing and land-use bill. But SB213 was gutted this week , thanks to Republicans and Democrats standing up for “the Colorado Way,” as they put it . So what went wrong? Producer Paul Karolyi is joined by host Bree Davies and returning favorite Jo Ann Allen to chat all things housing, along with a rousing round of Two Truths and a Lie inspired by Denver hosting the inaugural Cities Summit of the Americas this week. Then newsletter editor Peyton Garcia has some sweet recs for your weekend! For the full backstory behind Governor Polis’s big push for housing density, catch up with all our coverage of housing at the Capitol this year: What You Need to Know About the ‘More Housing Now’ Bill (4/13/23) Does Denver Need Rent Control? (2/15/23) Can Governor Polis Fix Our Housing Problem? (1/30/23) Paul mentioned Nick Campion’s concession video in the D7 City Council race, and Bree mentioned an editorial in the Aspen Daily News about the supposed “Californication” of Colorado . Check out Jo Ann Allen’s podcast, Been There Done That ! Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! Here are the events we discussed happening this weekend: REI Pancake 5k and Nutrition Fair (Sat) Denver Astronomical Society open house at Chamberlin Observatory (Sat) Día del Niño (all weekend) Healthy Kids Day (Sat) We are so sad to be saying goodbye this week to our producer Erin O’Toole. Erin helped us <a href="https://pod.link/citycastdenver/episode/02c352b8
Thu, April 27, 2023
The Beginner’s Guide to Stargazing Around Denver
Are the stars more beautiful from Denver? We are one mile closer, after all. But seriously, after the surprise Aurora Borealis sighting in Colorado last weekend, we are determined not to miss another epic cosmic show. So we posed that Mile High query and all our other starter stargazing questions to Ron Hranac of the Denver Astronomical Society . Producer and certified star-liker Paul Karolyi sat down with Ron to get to the bottom of the altitude question, some insider tips to find the darkest skies (including one inside city limits), and his best bets for the next cosmic event you don’t want to miss. If you cant make the DAS’s open house this Saturday, check out their whole list of upcoming events. You can also join to gain access to the DAS’s own dark sky site east of the city. Or, you can “ Just Look Up ”! Paul mentioned the fate of Rep. Javier Mabrey’s rent control bill and our topsy turvy housing market. Now we want to hear from you! There are lots of dramatic headlines, but only you know what it’s really like trying to find a good place to live in Denver. What are the real problems you’re dealing with? Send us a text or leave us a voicemail at (720) 500-5418 , and you might hear your crazy housing story on the show soon. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: The North Face Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 26, 2023
Insider Tips From A Denver Gardening Pro
Gardening in Colorado comes with a unique set of challenges. Between our clay-heavy soil and our seriously dry climate, getting anything other than weeds to poke up out of the ground takes some special know-how. Host Bree Davies sits down with gardening enthusiast Ann Marie Awad to answer Denver’s most pressing gardening questions directly from you, our listeners! Ann Marie covers everything from from how to raise tomatoes in plots surrounded by concrete to where to get free and cheap supplies to keep your urban gardens healthy year-round. A few places & things Ann Marie mentioned: Wompost: Women-Owned Composting City of Denver mulch giveaway happening May 6 Nick’s Garden Center CSU Extension guide to ground cover For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: The North Face Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 25, 2023
Dems Divided on Guns, Understanding 'Abortion Reversal,' and a Post-420 Reality Check
It’s Tuesday, and we’re looking at all the important stories shaping Denver this week. With only a few weeks left in the legislative session, the Democrats in power at the state Capitol are still divided on new gun laws. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the politics of guns , a new lawsuit over “abortion reversal” drugs , and why Bandimere Speedway is closing this year — its 65th season. Plus, we have an exclusive story about a new social impact program for the local cannabis industry, which prompts a bigger discussion about how entrepreneurs are pushing up against our weed laws. We discussed the City of Denver’s new Cannabis Cares program. For more details about the planned May 4 launch, check out their website. Bree mentioned a few sources for better understanding the “abortion reversal” conversation — Bente Birkland covered the latest ruling for CPR; NPR explains the origins of the abortion pill Mifepristone’s approval in the U.S. more than 20 years ago and also covered the dangers of the study conducted on the controversial “abortion reversal” treatment. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: The North Face Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at<a href="https
Mon, April 24, 2023
Is It Time to Say Goodbye to Quiznos?
Way back in 1981, a humble New York transplant named Jimmy Lambatos opened an innovative toasted sub shop at the corner of 13th Avenue and Grant. Denverites quickly fell in love with Quiznos, fueling the rise of a sandwich empire to more than 5,000 locations around the world by the mid 2000s. But now, as Westword’s food editor Molly Martin reported last week, Quiznos is on the ropes, and that first location has been shuttered due to non-payment of taxes. So today, Molly returns to the show with producer Paul Karolyi and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia to talk through the rise and fall of Quiznos and the surprisingly Denver story of founder Jimmy Lambatos. We discussed Molly’s interview with Quiznos founder Jimmy Lambatos and Peyton’s deep dive into the fall of Quiznos . Paul mentioned the recent auditor’s report on Denver’s response to the homelessness crisis. All the other great local sandwich places we mentioned: Subculture (Cap Hill) Snarf’s (Various) Cheba Hut (Various) Carmine Lonardo’s Meat Market (Lakewood) Spinelli’s (Park Hill) Little Arthur’s Hoagies (Food Truck) Olive & Finch (Uptown and Cherry Creek) Marczyk Fine Foods (Cap Hill, Hale) Curtis Park Deli (Curtis Park, Cherry Creek, Boulder) Leven Deli Co. (Golden Triangle) For even more local sandwich goodness, we settled the great Snarfs vs. Cheba Hut debate on the show last fall. Do you have nostalgia for Quiznos’ early years? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your story on the show: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other lis
Fri, April 21, 2023
Real Solutions for the Cherry Creek Conundrum
It’s time for the thrilling conclusion to Cherry Creek Week! All week long, we’ve been talking about one of Denver’s most divisive neighborhoods: Cherry Creek. How will the community deal with the vexing problems brought by an imminent wave of development? Can it find a solution to the ongoing fight — and current impasse — over transportation infrastructure? As the historians taught us, change is inevitable. So how can we make the most of all this interest in Cherry Creek? At the annual Transportation Solutions conference Wednesday morning, host Bree Davies talked through some real solutions with a panel of experts, including SEIU Local 105 political director True Apodaca , the City of Denver’s city-wide manager for transit-oriented development Chris Nevitt , and the man Westword dubbed “the good developer” David Zucker of Zocalo Community Development. We’ll be back with our usual Friday news round-up next week! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Got thoughts or feelings about Cherry Creek Week? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Transportation Solutions Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 20, 2023
Can Cherry Creek Become a True '15-Minute City'?
It’s Cherry Creek Week, Day Four! The story of Cherry Creek is the story of big dreams, yet with each exciting new project, the clash of old vs. new continues. Today, we’re examining what one developer has planned for that abandoned sea of parking lots just to the west of the mall. Amy Cara talks with host Bree Davies about her vision for Cherry Creek West — what could be multiple towers of offices, housing, retail, and some needed green space. Then we (virtually) travel all the way to the outskirts of Washington D.C. to check out Tysons — a suburban mall formerly surrounded by parking lots, much like our beloved Cherry Creek. Tysons is well on its way to becoming a true 15-minute city, where thousands of people can live, walk, ride, roll, and take the train anywhere they need to go in no more than 15 minutes. Bree talks to an insider with the Tysons project, Justin Schor, to get some insight on how density can be done right. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Transportation Solutions Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 19, 2023
The Workers Behind Cherry Creek's Ritzy Reputation
It’s Cherry Creek Week — Day Three! When Denverites talk about Cherry Creek, the conversation often goes to the neighborhood’s multi-million dollar homes and high-end shops like Hermés, Louis Vuitton, and Neiman Marcus. But what about the people who make the community, well, work? As one of the largest private employers in the city, Cherry Creek Shopping Center and neighboring Cherry Creek North couldn’t function without the salespeople, janitors, hotel clerks, hairstylists, restaurant hosts, and valets who come to work every day. Today, host Bree Davies — a former mall employee of 17 years — talks with her friend and former coworker David Casados about why workers just like them are a crucial part of the Cherry Creek story. Got a question or comment about what’s going on in Cherry Creek? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 You may have recognized David Casados’ voice from a previous City Cast Denver episode — he joined us for a meal at Fuel & Iron , a downtown Denver bar that was Pueblo-themed. Bree mentioned Dominion Voting Systems’ high-profile settlement with Fox News. For more on the local angle to the Dominion story and misinformation surrounding the 2020 election, check out our interview with Westword editor Patty Calhoun from last November. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Transportation Solutions Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 18, 2023
The Hidden History of Cherry Creek
Cherry Creek Week continues! Sometimes it feels like the only constant in Denver is change. And that feeling is especially present in Cherry Creek, a community that today is known as a high-end shopping destination — but it wasn’t always this way. The neighborhood is named for the waterway running alongside it, a natural resource that has been attracting people for hundreds of years. Back in the mid-1800s, settlers came from all over the country to make a home in Colorado, including many Black families and homesteaders who put down roots in what at the time was known as the town of Harman. Today, host Bree Davies hears from Terri Gentry of History Colorado and retired judge Gary Jackson about the Black families of early Cherry Creek, as well as the area’s evolution under Temple Buell’s vision from farmland to city dump to the wealthy neighborhood of this century. Don’t miss the $15 million real estate listing Bree cited for the home that was once Harman Town Hall! Bree also mentioned the original Quiznos, on 13th Ave., and the Nuggets opening playoff win . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Transportation Solutions Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 17, 2023
Fighting for the Heart of Cherry Creek
Welcome to Cherry Creek Week! Density. Growth. Infrastructure. Housing. Overcrowding. These words represent our biggest challenge as a city: How can Denver grow without changing all the things that make it great? All this week on the show — and in our newsletter Hey Denver — we’re exploring that question in one neighborhood that’s near and dear to our hearts (and the city’s tax base): Cherry Creek. For decades, Cherry Creek has grappled with what it means to not only become a shopping destination, but a rival of downtown, an epicenter for international business, and a very desirable place to live. And today, we’re kicking things off by looking at the imminent wave of development that could reshape Cherry Creek forever. Join us in person to continue the conversation about transportation and density in Cherry Creek! Our sponsor, Transportation Solutions, is hosting us for a discussion with a panel of expert guests this Wednesday morning at the University of Denver. Get your tickets here ! Have thoughts on the future of Cherry Creek? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Transportation Solutions Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 14, 2023
Nuggets Playoff Predictions, Northside Faves, and Bigfoot Believers Gather
The Nuggets are having one of their best seasons in decades as they take the number one seed in the Western Conference Finals. But after years of negotiations between Comcast and Altitude Sports, many Nuggs fans still can’t watch the team legally . Host Bree Davies is joined by Altitude sportscaster Vic Lombardi and our state politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to talk #nugglife, plus their shared love of Denver’s Northside, since both Vic and Justine grew up there. And of course, we’ve got our favorite picks for your weekend plans — newsletter editor Adrian González is joined by our returning editor Peyton Garcia, who’s back on the show after maternity leave. Welcome back, Peyton! Northside spots mentioned in this episode: Chubby’s Tamales by La Casita Lechugas Italian Rocky Mountain Lake Park Berkeley Lake Park Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! Here are some links to the cool events and things to do that we talked about on the show: Bigfoot Days (Estes Park) Denver Auto Show (Downtown) Swap n’ Sip (RiNo) Women + Film Festival (Congress Park) XicanIndie Film Festival (Santa Fe Art District) Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at <a href=
Thu, April 13, 2023
What You Need to Know About the ‘More Housing Now’ Bill
Is the Polis administration’s “More Housing Now” proposal the solution to our state’s affordable housing woes? Some think it’s a step in the right direction , while others are skeptical. This sweeping plan — Senate Bill 213 — could end single-family-only zoning across Colorado and move some aspects of decision-making power from the local to the state level. One of the sponsors of the bill, House District 2 Representative Steven Woodrow, joins host Bree Davies to talk about what’s in the proposal, and what it means for our neighborhoods, the climate, and the future of affordable housing options in Colorado. You can find out more about the bill from the governor’s office , including the results of a housing policy study . CPR also has a comprehensive breakdown of the proposal . Yesterday, Mayor Hancock and City Council President Torres issued a statement regarding the City and County of Denver’s opposition to SB 213. You can read that statement here . Tonight’s the night! Come see Bree read from her teenage journals at Mortified Live at 8pm! Grab your tickets here . To help you get into the right headspace, check out Bree’s Very ’90s Mortified Teenage Mixtape on Spotify! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at <a href="https://citycast.fm/advertise/
Wed, April 12, 2023
Sam Tallent on How Denver’s DIY Comedy Scene Shaped Him
Sam Tallent is kind of a big deal — the Denver metro-raised comedian has been touring the stand-up circuit for years, honing his act and making a name for himself outside Colorado. He’s also recorded his own comedy special , made appearances on WTF with Marc Maron and Bert Kreisher’s Bertcast , and even found time to write Running the Light , a book fellow comedians have praised as the best depiction of the life of a stand-up on the road. Tomorrow night, Sam headlines a sold-out show at Comedy Works, his old stomping grounds. But first, he chats with host Bree Davies about the Denver DIY scene he cut his comedic teeth in, and why this is such a unique city for great comedy to thrive. Find Sam TaIlent on Instagram and Twitter , and check out Chubby Behemoth , his podcast with fellow comedian Nathan Lund. Venues we discussed: Denver Comedy Underground , Comedy Works , and The Squire Lounge . R.I.P.: Old Curtis Street , Rhinoceropolis , Mouth House , Rockaway , and Deer Pile . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/C
Tue, April 11, 2023
Students Encounter Police at the Capitol, DPS Expulsion Rates Under Scrutiny, and Big Pizza News
It’s Tuesday and we’re talking about the big stories around Denver this week, especially what’s happening with Denver Public Schools. On Wednesday, a high school student was forcibly removed from the House gallery in the Capitol, which comes on the heels of the protests and concerns about gun violence in schools in light of the recent shootings. Meanwhile, more drama for the DPS school board: Former Tattered Cover CEO and mayoral candidate Kwame Spearman announced a possible November bid for the at-large seat on the board — a seat that’s currently held by Auon’tai Anderson, who is himself potentially facing another censure . Farther afield, mountain pie slinger Beau Jo’s in Idaho Springs turns 50 and will be transitioning to an employee ownership model . Host Bree Davies and producer Erin O’Toole are here to break all of this down, plus talk about the latest Casa Bonita news , including this trip down memory lane . Check out the Denver Post article we mentioned, which dives into the expulsion rates at DPS and how that fits into the school safety conversation. Listen to our interview with Melanie Asmar last year, where she walked us through the school board drama. And in case you missed it, here’s our 2021 interview with new Casa Bonita chef Dana Rodriguez . If you’re interested in running the Colfax Marathon in May, you can register here (prices go up Thursday). Want to volunteer and get one of those limited-edition Casa Bonita shirts? You can find ou
Mon, April 10, 2023
Blucifer, the New World Order, and Other DIA Conspiracy Theories
From the Illuminati and the New World Order to the runways and some weird art, there are too many conspiracy theories about DIA to count. We’re diving into some of the most popular ones today, though, and what the true story is behind them. Host Bree Davies talks with Denver Public Library’s Chris Root about Blucifer, the Leo Tanguma murals, and much more, as well as why DIA has been such a hotspot for conspiracy theories over the years. Read Chris Root’s extensive research on DIA conspiracy theories in his blog post for DPL. And you can dive even further into the weirdness with this 2007 Westword article . In the newscast, Bree mentioned videos showing the protests inside the Capitol last week, where students were pressing legislators to address gun violence. Thanks to the Denver Post for their reporting. She also talked about Denverite’s coverage of the recent Chubby’s inter-family lawsuit ; this Westword piece from many years back will give even more backstory on that drama. Plus, Bree mentioned the Pasquini’s drama too! So much drama! Come watch Bree read excerpts from her angsty teenage diary at Mortified Live on Thursday, April 13. Tickets are available here. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.
Fri, April 07, 2023
Dark Money From Dems in CD3, More Election Updates, Plus Our Weekend Recs
It’s Friday! Although election night is behind us, we’re still waiting for all the ballots to be counted. We know for sure that Mike Johnston and Kelly Brough will face off in the June mayoral runoff and that Lisa Calderón officially conceded . But the outcomes in several city council seats are still too close to call. Host Bree Davies is joined by our state politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval , and Jason Bane , co-host of the Colorado politics podcast Get More Smarter , to discuss the state of the progressive vote in the Mile High, and how negative narratives about crime and homelessness impacted the election. Then it’s all about that dark money already flowing into next year’s state election from a group that’s aiming to unseat Lauren Boebert. Plus, newsletter editor Adrian González joins the crew to share the best bets for the weekend. Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! Here are some links to the cool events and things to do that we talked about on the show: First Friday on the Art District on Santa Fe (La Alma Lincoln Park) Rockies games all weekend long (Ballpark) Phamaly Theatre’s “Spring Awakening” (Northglenn) Carnitas Don Juan Fundraiser (Thornton) Nuggets vs Sacramento Kings (Downtown) For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: JCC Denver </li
Thu, April 06, 2023
Can We Reimagine Denver’s Nightlife?
Denver’s LoDo neighborhood has long been a magnet for nighttime revelry, with its concentration of restaurants, breweries, shops, and nightclubs. But the area has also become known as a hotspot for trouble and occasional crime — especially late at night when the bars let out, spilling thousands of patrons into the streets with nowhere to go. Is it possible to foster a safer nightlife scene while keeping downtown’s party vibe? Host Bree Davies sits down with Stephen Brackett , co-founder of Flobots and Youth on Record , to talk about his new foundation , what’s next for the old El Chapultepec spot, and how Denver can re-envision its nighttime scene. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Join us for Mortified Live — https://getmortified.com/live/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 05, 2023
How Denver Voted for Mayor, Council, and the Golf Course
For the first time in 12 years, Denver will have a new mayor. And now we’ve officially narrowed the field from 16 contenders down to two: Mike Johnston and Kelly Brough are set to campaign head-to-head in a runoff leading up to June 6. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi stayed up late to bring you up-to-date reactions and analysis of all the election results — from the mayor’s race to the new faces coming to City Council, those two zoning questions, and, of course, the future of the Park Hill Golf Course. Note: As of our taping time — around midnight — there were roughly 65,000 ballots still to be counted. Denver election officials say they’ll have updated results at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday. We’ll let you know more as soon as we do. Thinking about getting into gardening this summer? Whether you’re looking for a new project or some advice on a tricky situation, our gardening expert is ready to help. Text the Gardening Hotline or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your question on the show: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 04, 2023
Pickleball Problems, A Robo-McDonald's Mystery, and No Elections Talk at All
It’s Election Day! We’ll be back to dig into the results on tomorrow’s episode. But for now, we’re digging into a whole mess of overlooked stories: First, a mysterious rumor that Denver is home to one of the first fully automated fast food joints. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi take on the “Case of the Robot-Run McDonald’s” with the help of a listener. Plus, Denver has built parks on top of graveyards, but did you know we’re also home to an amusement park built on top of an old power plant ? And, the days of ample, free parking near Colfax may be ending, and why a thousand passionate pickleballers got the boot from Congress Park. Here’s some of the late-breaking election news we’re NOT talking about: “ Denver mayoral candidate Lisa Calderón, Councilwoman Candi CdeBaca named in campaign finance violation complaints ” [The Denver Post] “ Big out-of-state money is flowing to support Mike Johnston again ” [Denverite] Voter turnout is looking low! [Denver Elections] Still need to drop off your ballot or you’d like to vote in person? The Clerk and Recorder’s office has all the info you need to know! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear i
Mon, April 03, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Paul and Bree on 'Get More Smarter'
After interviewing almost all of the original 17 candidates for Denver mayor, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi have a pretty good sense of the race ahead of Election Day on April 4. So we were delighted when our pals at the Get More Smarter podcast -- Ian Silverii and Jason Bane -- invited us on to dish on the interviews, the ads, and everything else. Please enjoy this bonus look inside Mayoral Madness , and we'll see you for the run-off! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 03, 2023
Why Denver is Raising Bison... And Returning Them
Last month, the City of Denver transferred 35 bison from our historic herd at Genesee Park outside Golden to the Northern Cheyenne, Eastern Shoshone, Yuchi, and Tall Bull Memorial Council. It was the third annual transfer of bison to indigenous tribes who once lived on the land that became Denver, but it’s far more than a symbolic gesture. Host Bree Davies sits down with Parks and Recreation’s deputy director Scott Gilmore and the executive director of the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative , Jason Baldes, to talk about how this unique program started, why it matters, and how these buffalo are creating real opportunities for the recipient tribes. Have you voted yet? The deadline to mail in your ballot has passed, so here’s where you can find your closest ballot box . Are you excited about spring? We want to help take your Denver garden to the next level, and we’ve got a gardening expert ready to dispense the wisdom of the earth. So if you’re new to Denver and wondering what to do with our soil, or maybe you’re a renter looking for indoor-gardening inspo, we can help. Email your gardening questions to us at denver@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail on the Denver Garden Hotline: (720) 500-5418 . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: New Era Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 31, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Who You Should Vote For If...
It’s the Friday before election day and these races are heating up. Or are they? Low voter turnout for mail-in and drop-off ballots indicate low interest, or maybe voters are just overwhelmed with 16 candidates for mayor? But not to worry. Producer Paul Karolyi, host Bree Davies, and Westword editor Patty Calhoun are going to tell you who they think you should vote for. Plus, rumors are swirling about the Park Hill Golf Course becoming a Topgolf — or an In-N-Out? Patty’s got the scoop, plus newsletter editor Adrian González joins to share a boatload of great events happening around Denver this weekend. Paul and Bree are going to be on the excellent Get More Smarter podcast this weekend talking about the mayoral election. Subscribe and listen here: https://getmoresmarter.com/ Follow our weather guy for all your weekend weather needs: Rain or Shine, it's Andy Stein ! Here are links to our weekend recs. Looking for more? Sign up for our Hey Denver newsletter ! Dabin at Red Rocks (Morrison) Cervecería Colorado’s Mi Vida IPA Release & Photography Exhibition Party (LoHi) Patty’s Pick: Alan Prendergast Book Release, in Conversation with Patty Calhoun (Congress Park) Grand Reopening of Russell Square Park (Cole) Charcuterie Making Class (Park Hill) For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: New Era Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 30, 2023
How to Make Money (And Not Ruin Your 'Hood) On AirBnB
Short-term rentals — like AirBnB or VRBO — may be controversial, but after a pandemic downturn, they’re back and more popular than ever! They generated record revenues in 2022, and the number of active licenses is once again on the rise. So what’s it like renting out space on AirBnB in Denver? And how is the recent surge shaping our city? Host Bree Davies sits down with two veteran AirBnB hosts Pam Vanderpool and Pam Clifton to swap crazy stories and talk through the impact on our housing market. As we were putting this episode together, our friend Megan Ulu-lani Boyanton at the Denver Post reported a story about 20 local luxury apartment buildings recently allowing their tenants to rent out their units as AirBnBs. Here’s the link for more: “ Denver luxury apartment complexes make rare move of allowing tenants to rent units as Airbnbs .” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: New Era Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 29, 2023
Hot Take! Denver’s Best Hot Sauce
Can you stand the heat? It takes a lot of gastrointestinal fortitude to taste test dozens of local hot sauces, but that’s what we did — all to narrow it down to five top contenders: Sauce Leopard , Merf’s , Oso Rojo , Danny Cash , and The Heat . Each one deserves a shot at being named the best hot sauce in Denver, but only one will win! Our state politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval joins newsletter editor Adrian González and producer Paul Karolyi to rate our contenders on heat level, flavor, and versatility before they pick the best of the best. For even more food news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: New Era Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 28, 2023
The GOP's Gun Filibuster Fail, a Beloved Restaurant Returns, and More Golf Course Gossip
It’s Tuesday, and we’re digging into all the local stories that matter this week. First up, the beloved Japanese restaurant Domo is reopening ! But will TikTok ruin it again? Then, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi check in on the state legislature, where debates are heating up around Governor Jared Polis’s big housing proposal and guns in the wake of the East High School shootings . And finally, can anyone trust the developers promising big things for the Park Hill Golf Course? Their plan for parkland, housing, and commercial development is on our April 4 ballots, and we got tons of feedback from listeners who’ve worked with Westside Investment Partners. For more details on the Park Hill Golf Course Community Benefits Agreement, one of the signatories made this website to share the text of the document and explain some of its key provisions. If you have more questions before you vote on 2O, let us know! We’ll try to help figure them out. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: New Era Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 27, 2023
Student Activists From East High School Speak Out
During this school year alone, East High School has been the site of swattings, violent threats, and multiple shootings — some ending in death . The students have led walkouts and protests at the Capitol, forcing lawmakers to confront the issue of gun violence face-to-face. Clara and Gracie Taub are East High sophomores and members of their school’s chapter of Students Demand Action. After a recent demonstration at the Capitol , they sat down with host Bree Davies to talk about what it’s like to be at East High right now, as well as their efforts to end gun violence in schools and across the country. The tweet discussed in this episode came from Colorado State Senator Larry Liston. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: New Era Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 24, 2023
The Fallout from East High, Mushroom Growing 101, and a Cumbia Dance Party
This year alone there have been two shootings at East High School, prompting mass student walkouts, renewed calls for gun control, and, in a surprising turn of events, the return of police to Denver schools. So we are channeling our outrage with one of our favorite returning guests, Ann Marie Awad, and digging into gun laws, school safety, mental health, and more. Plus, underreported stories from the week and then Hey Denver editor Adrian González joins us to recommend some cool events for your weekend. Read more about the stalled appointment of DIA CEO Phil Washington to run the FAA; and the show Bree mentioned featuring teen photography at PlatteForum . Here are some links to the weekend events we discussed: Una Historia de la Cumbia! with Ciudad Reina (Five Points) Beginner Mushroom Cultivation Class (Wheat Ridge) Elephant Revival Reunion Show (RiNo) Brunch Run Club (Downtown) For even more weekend event recs and local stories that matter, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Acappellooza! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 23, 2023
Before You Vote on Zoning, Listen to This
Between the mayor’s race and the Park Hill Golf Course, our ballots for the April 4 election are jam-packed! But don’t overlook the two innocuous-looking zoning questions 2M and 2N. They may seem insignificant, but they could have big implications for the literal shape of our city. Councilwoman Amanda Sandoval (District 1) helped get 2M and 2N on the ballot, and she sits down with host Bree Davies to explain where they came from, what they’d change, and why they matter. To catch up on the full backstory behind Councilwoman Sandoval’s effort to reform the Zoning Board of Adjustment, you can hear our episodes tracking the story here: Why Can’t This Northside Couple Build an ADU for Their Disabled Mom How an Obscure Zoning Board Got Reformed (And Why It Matters) For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 22, 2023
Psychedelic Therapy is Not Funny. But Christie Buchele Is.
Christie Buchele is one of Denver’s hardest working comedians, but her new one-woman show, “ Lost & Found ,” isn’t about the jokes. Christie is currently undergoing psychedelic-assisted therapy, a revolutionary approach to healing trauma. It features intense talk therapy sessions while under the supervised use of MDMA (aka ecstasy). After Colorado voters decriminalized psychedelics last year, Christie stepped into this new world of treatment and it inspired her to write and create a performance about what she’s learned about herself, her disability, and her experience in the world. Host Bree Davies talks to Christie about how her experience with psychedelics has changed her approach to art and her advice to people curious about psychedelics. You can see Christie perform Lost & Found tonight at 7:30 p.m. at Buntport Theater. Tickets are $15 . Don’t worry if you can’t make it! She’ll be performing it again at the Denver Fringe Festival in June. Follow Christie Buchele on Instagram for more info on her upcoming shows and workshops. Learn more about psychedelics-assisted therapy through the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). Christie also mentioned this study on the impacts of MDMA therapy for individuals with PTSD. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 21, 2023
Golf Course Docs Leaked, a LoDo Mainstay Lost, and the Latest Mayoral Madness
It’s Tuesday and we’re talking about the big stories around Denver this week. The Park Hill Golf Course saga gets even messier, as a new lawsuit throws the developers’ trustworthiness into question. Then, just as it celebrated 20 years as a LoDo staple, Blake Street Tavern announced plans to close — but the reason why isn’t totally clear. And of course, Mayoral Madness continues, with one candidate dropping out and another pulling in big bucks from a Silicon Valley billionaire. Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi to dig into details, plus we hear a hilarious entry from a listener’s elementary school diary! Paul mentioned a leaked deposition from a recent lawsuit involving Westside Investment Partners, owners of the Park Hill Golf Course. For more details on the lawsuit, Denverite covered the whole situation . Bree mentioned campaign finance reports for the 2023 Denver election, which you can access through the Clerk and Recorder’s website . Want to hear more embarrassing childhood stories? City Cast Denver is co-hosting Mortified on April 13th, and you can watch host Bree Davies and a line-up of fellow former angsty teens read directly from their diaries. You can buy tickets or win a pair by sharing with us the cringiest, angstiest teenage memory you’ve got. Bonus points for a Denver twist! To enter, call the Teenage Angst Hotline and leave a message at (720) 500-5418. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 20, 2023
The Sex Workers of the Wild West
Images of our Wild West past often evoke the work of men: miners, railroad titans, fur trappers, cowboys, and land speculators who wandered the dusty streets of early Denver. But on those same streets we now call LoDo, women were at work, too — businesswomen known as madams ran parlor houses and brothels that catered to a growing city. While life for these women may have seemed glamorous, the sex workers they employed often inhabited a much darker existence. Host Bree Davies sits down with History Colorado’s Assistant Curator of Serials, Ann Sneesby-Koch , to dig into the nuanced, complicated, and fascinating world of early sex work in late 1800s Denver. Bree mentioned the Denver Art Museum’s decision to take Emma Bunker’s name off a gallery; be sure to check out our episode with Denver Post investigative reporter Sam Tabachnik, who broke the story last year. Read more on the transfer of bison to the Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone tribes. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, March 19, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Robert Treta on Electric Vehicles, Chipotle, and Denver 'Fugly'
Robert Treta is the owner of Treta Design and Build Inc., a contracting company, and he wants to be mayor. He talks to host Bree Davies about why he loves electric vehicles, Chipotle vs. Illegal Pete’s, how to make Denver less “fugly,” and his plan to build a neighborhood out by the airport to house our unhoused neighbors. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before Election Day on April 4. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod Lisa Calderón Ean Thomas Tafoya Trinidad Rodriguez Thomas Wolf Chris Hansen Mike Johnston Kelly Brough James Walsh Kwame Spearman (Dropped out on March 16) Terrance Roberts Debbie Ortega Keep up with Mayoral Madness on our site ! And if you’ve got a question you’d like us to ask the candidates, or one candidate in particular, email it to us at denver@citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, March 18, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Debbie Ortega on Bus Rapid Transit, Suncor, and Casa Bonita
Debbie Ortega is currently an at-large representative on City Council. She has served on council and worked in local government for more than 40 years, and she wants to be Denver’s next mayor. She sits down with host Bree Davies to talk about her support for the failed 2021 bond to build a new arena at the National Western Center, her vision for our transportation network, and Casa Bonita. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before Election Day on April 4. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod Lisa Calderón Ean Thomas Tafoya Trinidad Rodriguez Thomas Wolf Chris Hansen Mike Johnston Kelly Brough James Walsh Kwame Spearman (He dropped out on March 16) Terrance Roberts For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 17, 2023
Roasting the Mayoral TV Ads, Bug Tacos, and a Lonely Frozen Dead Guy
It’s Friday and we’re talking about the local stories that mattered this week — which of course involves the mayor’s race. Ballots are out, so producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies invited Axios Denver reporter Alayna Alvarez to tease apart the narratives jammed into all the candidates’s TV commercials. The crew reviews campaign fundraising totals, messaging, music, and what voters might glean from these 30-second intros to just some of the 17 names they’ll be facing on their ballots. Then, newsletter editor Adrian González rounds up his picks for the weekend, which involve alpacas, brunch and ballots, crawfish boils, and bug-eating! We organized the candidates in reverse order based on overall fundraising (and who has published a campaign ad, of course). See all the fundraising totals for yourself here: https://denver.maplight.com/public After we recorded this episode, we heard back from the city’s planning department on our question about street addresses. Here’s what a spokesperson said: “In 2018, the City and County of Denver began adding directional designations to north and east addresses in the city and encouraged residents and property owners to do the same. The goal was to increase the accuracy of addressing in our city! While people on Denver’s west and south sides were already accustomed to including a W or S in their address to more clearly indicate their location, directional designations for addresses on the east and north sides of town were something new. A property or home on a street that runs north/south and is located north of Ellsworth Avenue would include an N in their address. Example: 3880 N Newport Street instead of 3880 Newport Street A property or home on a street that runs east/west and is located east of Broadway would include an E in their address. Example: 2401 E Colfax Ave instead of 2401 Colfax Avenue With these additions, we aimed to create improvements for everyone: Improve the ability of police and fire staff to respond to calls Reduce confusion, eliminate ambiguity Create efficiency and consistency among us all” Subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Lookin
Thu, March 16, 2023
What's Happening Inside Casa Bonita 2.0?
Ever since that day last December, when the South Park guys announced that Casa Bonita would be re-opening this May, we’ve been salivating for details. Nearly 12,000 fans have RSVP’d merely to wait in line for opening day. And this week, our friends at 9News flew a helicopter overhead to reveal that the iconic fountain has been restored and refilled. As we wait for more details (including that yet-to-be-named opening date), we’re sharing a conversation from last August with 9News investigative reporter and fellow CB aficionado Jeremy Jojola . For more details and those photos Bree mentioned, don’t miss Jojola’s report on his investigation into the Casa Bonita redevelopment. Bree also mentioned the “St. Pittie’s Day” pitbull adoption event at the Denver Animal Shelter — check out the canine cuties available for adoption! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 15, 2023
Congresswoman, Mom, Badass: Remembering Pat Schroeder
Twelve-term congresswoman Pat Schroeder passed away this week at the age of 82, leaving behind an important legacy that changed the way all Americans — particularly women — live, work, raise families, and hold power in this country. Schroeder helped pass the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and the National Institutes of Health Revitalization Act — she even spearheaded the effort to convert Rocky Mountain Arsenal from a toxic military-industrial site to the wildlife refuge it is today. But she meant a lot more than that to the Denverites she represented for 24 years. Host Bree Davies talks with Westword Editor-in-Chief Patty Calhoun about the congresswoman’s indelible impact on Denver. For even more on Pat Schroeder, check out the episode where we debated which local icons would go on Denver’s Mt. Rushmore. You better believe we picked her. Bree mentioned the new “ Coors-icles ” and Shannon Sharpe’s take on the Ja Morant/Shotgun Willie’s situation. Get even more news from around the city, delivered to your inbox every morning by subscribing to our newsletter Hey Denver . All you have to do is text “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 14, 2023
More Denver Survival Rules, New Compost No-No's, and an Election The GOP Won't Deny
It’s Tuesday, and we’re taking a look at the stories that matter to Denverites this week. Obviously that means Casa Bonita. The May reopening is approaching, and more than 11,000 people have RSVP’d to wait in line when the official opening date is announced. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi speculate about Casa Bonita 2.0, then they dig into stories about state GOP’s recent election of Dave “Let’s Go Brandon” Williams to lead the party, new rules for composters , and a controversial school closure in Sun Valley . Plus, after our episode laying out important rules for surviving Denver two weeks ago, we got tons of your submissions for more rules. Paul and Bree talk through our faves. Bree mentioned statements about the Fairview Elementary closure from Councilwoman Jamie Torres and DPS Board Vice President Aoun’tai Anderson . Hang out with us in person and hear Bree read her high school journals at the next edition of Mortified Live, happening April 13th ! And if you want a chance to win a pair of free tickets to the event, leave us a voicemail with your own angsty, cringey, embarrassing teenage memory — bonus points if it’s got a Denver twist! The number to call is 720-500-5418 . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 13, 2023
Kathy Sabine is a Sunshine Expert. Then She Got Skin Cancer.
Denver is the Mile High City. Literally, that means we are one mile closer to the sun and that much more vulnerable to skin cancer. But we don’t talk about it! Maybe that’s why 9News meteorologist Kathy Sabine never thought it would happen to her. But early last year she got the all-too-common diagnosis, and she knew her life was going to change. So how does a beloved TV personality deal with a problem like skin cancer? Host Bree Davies sits down with Kathy to talk about her treatment, the reaction from viewers, and why she’s speaking out against the skin cancer stigma. Bree mentioned Westword’s report on the Casa Bonita reopening event on Facebook. Wanna get yourself checked for skin cancer? The American Cancer Society and American Academy of Dermatology offer free screenings. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, March 12, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Terrance Roberts on Gun Violence, the Park Hill Golf Course, and Jake Jabs
Terrance Roberts is a former gang member-turned-Park Hill community and civil rights activist. He sits down with host Bree Davies to explain his goal of making Denver a 24-hour city, why he thinks we need public banking, how he’d try to stop youth gun violence, and why he’s a “no” on the proposal to redevelop the Park Hill Golf Course. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before Election Day on April 4. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod Lisa Calderón Ean Thomas Tafoya Trinidad Rodriguez Thomas Wolf Chris Hansen Mike Johnston Kelly Brough James Walsh Kwame Spearman Keep up with Mayoral Madness on our site ! And if you’ve got a question you’d like us to ask the candidates, or one candidate in particular, email it to us at denver@citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, March 11, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Kwame Spearman on Psychedelics, Tattered Cover, and the Downtown Dilemma
Kwame Spearman is on leave from his job as CEO of Tattered Cover, which is also co-owns, and he wants to be mayor. He sits down with host Bree Davies to talk about his plan to make Downtown a better place to do business, he personal experience with psychedelics, and how he’d bring his experience running Denver’s most iconic bookstore to the mayor’s office. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before Election Day on April 4. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod Lisa Calderón Ean Thomas Tafoya Trinidad Rodriguez Thomas Wolf Chris Hansen Mike Johnston Kelly Brough James Walsh Keep up with Mayoral Madness on our site ! And if you’ve got a question you’d like us to ask the candidates, or one candidate in particular, email it to us at denver@citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 10, 2023
What is "Public Safety," Dog Poop Problems, and a Weirdly Political Drag Show
It’s Friday and we’re rounding up the stories that caught our eyes — and noses — this week. Producer Paul Karolyi is joined by host Bree Davies and returning favorite, public radio vet and podcast host Jo Ann Allen. First, the issue of public safety in Denver in 2023 has gotten a lot of attention from mayoral candidates on the campaign trail in the last few weeks. A recent piece in Colorado Newsline from Chase Woodruff has us wondering: what does “safety” even mean? Then, in a recent op-ed for the Denver Post, Jo Ann asks a very stinky question: Why can’t Denverites seem to scoop up their own dog’s poop? Finally, newsletter editor Adrian González rounds up the best stuff going on in Denver this weekend! Paul mentioned this episode from earlier in the week about the state of the film industry in Colorado. Check out the latest season of Jo Ann’s podcast “Been There Done That.” Wanna follow our weather expert? Rain or Shine, he’s Andy Stein on TikTok and all socials . Hang out with us in person and hear Bree read her high school journals at the next edition of Mortified Live, happening April 13th ! And if you want a chance to win a pair of free tickets to the event, leave us a voicemail with your own angsty, cringey, embarrassing teenage memory — bonus points if it’s got a Denver twist! The number to call is 720-500-5418 . Subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Hey Girl Friday Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 09, 2023
Meet the Dinosaur That Changed Colorado History
Of all the dinosaurs, we Coloradans have a special connection to the Stegosaurus. So much so that in February, state lawmakers introduced a bill to create a new license plate honoring the 1876 discovery of our favorite ancient armored herbivore. But that’s not the only reason why our state — and the Front Range in particular — has had such a huge impact on the discovery and study of dinosaurs globally. Host Bree Davies sits down with Dinosaur Ridge ’s Erin LaCount, one of Colorado’s foremost dinosaur educators to unearth the story of "the bone rush" and explain how Morrison became one of the most important sites for dino-lovers everywhere. For even more local dino stories and facts, check out Dinosaur Ridge’s new podcast ! We want to know: What does “safety” mean to you? It’s become one of the biggest debates in the mayoral race, so we want to talk about what safety means to real Denverites. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your answer on the show soon: (720) 500-5418 Subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Hey Girl Friday Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 08, 2023
Can Republicans Ever Win in Colorado Again?
The Republican Party of Colorado is in tough shape. They’ve been on a major losing streak since Cory Gardner was elected to the Senate in 2014, and it’s unclear if they can turn things around. But that’s the job six senior Republicans are vying for this weekend as the state GOP convenes to elect a new leader. So host Bree Davies called up one of the last successful Republican strategists in Colorado, Dick Wadhams. He managed statewide campaigns for senate and governor, chaired the state GOP from 2007 to 2011, voted for Trump twice, and he has a lot to say about what the GOP could — and should — be doing to win over Colorado voters. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 City Cast Denver is hiring! We’re looking for a Senior Account Executive and an Audio Producer to join the Denver team. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Hey Girl Friday Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 07, 2023
Denver at the Oscars, CO's Lagging Film Incentives, and the Local Theater Landscape
The 95th Academy Awards will be presented this Sunday in Los Angeles, and at least a couple Coloradans are up for an Oscar. But why not more? And why are so many theaters closing across the metro area? To help celebrate the biggest week in Hollywood, producer Paul Karolyi and newsletter editor Adrian González are surveying the local film landscape, from big changes that could be coming to our state film incentive program to the recent string of theater closings to the secret Canadians who saved The Mayan. Are you going to be watching the Oscar’s on Sunday? Join the official City Cast Denver Oscar’s Pick ‘Em Pool and see how your predictions stack up against Paul and Adrian’s. Sign up and make your picks here. This episode was recorded on location at the Jewish Community Center during their Tzedakah 4 Kids fundraiser supporting the JCC’s ESL and summer programming. If you’d like to support those programs, you can make a donation here: https://www.jccdenver.org/tzedakah-4-kids/ We discussed the new Denver Arts & Venues/CineFe study on the local film and TV industry and the recent Regal and Elvis Cinemas closings. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Hey Girl Friday Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 06, 2023
What if Denver Was Nuclear-Powered Again?
Between the high price of natural gas and the push for green energy, conservatives in Colorado have in the last few years become increasingly interested in nuclear power. They have called to replace the old coal plant in Craig with a new small-scale reactor, and GOP state lawmakers recently introduced a bill that would have reclassified nuclear as “clean energy.” Across the country, people are reconsidering the highly stigmatized and highly powerful technology. So today, we are revisiting the story of Colorado’s first and still only nuclear power plant, Fort St. Vrain . Our producer Paul Karolyi first reported this story for Colorado Public Radio in 2019. This episode features an extended version that ran on the podcast Range & Slope . It also features an original, explicit song by Jesse Wooten of the local band Creekbed . Bree mentioned the GoFundMe for Luis Garcia. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, March 05, 2023
Mayoral Madness: James Walsh on Worker Power, Harm Reduction and UBI
James Walsh is a professor of political science and labor history at CU Denver, and he wants to be mayor. He talks to host Bree Davies about how he’d make Denver the most worker-friendly city in the country, universal basic income, and what he learned riding his bike to all 77 neighborhoods. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before Election Day on April 4. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod Lisa Calderón Ean Thomas Tafoya Trinidad Rodriguez Thomas Wolf Chris Hansen Mike Johnston Kelly Brough Keep up with Mayoral Madness on our site ! And if you’ve got a question you’d like us to ask the candidates, or one candidate in particular, email it to us at denver@citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, March 04, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Kelly Brough on e-Scooters, STAR, and the Downtown Dilemma
Kelly Brough served as president and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and chief of staff for then-mayor John Hickenlooper, and she wants to be mayor. She sits down with producer Paul Karolyi to talk about fixing Denver’s downtown problem, expanding the STAR first responder program, and keeping reckless scooter drivers off the sidewalks. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before Election Day on April 4. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod Lisa Calderón Ean Thomas Tafoya Trinidad Rodriguez Thomas Wolf Chris Hansen Mike Johnston Keep up with Mayoral Madness on our site ! And if you’ve got a question you’d like us to ask the candidates, or one candidate in particular, email it to us at denver@citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 03, 2023
Is Denver That Great for Gen Z? Plus, 303 Day and an Elusive 'Dream House'
It’s Friday, and we’re rounding up all the local stories that mattered this week. At the top of that list: Denver is the third best place in the country to live if you’re Gen Z, according to a recent survey . But what the heck does that mean? We invited Shana Saint-Phard, a young reporter from the TJ Journal , Thomas Jefferson High School’s student paper, to give us an inside look at Gen Z life in Denver, swap some overlooked stories of the week, and help us pick the Official City Cast Denver Maybe For Your Weekend. Check out Westword’s piece on how to celebrate today — 303 Day. Read Shana Saint-Phard’s work in the TJ Journal , from Thomas Jefferson High School. Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 02, 2023
11 Essential Rules for Surviving Denver
When Politico published its rules for surviving Washington DC, it got us thinking: What are the essential rules for surviving Denver? From how to dress for all occasions (hint: cowboy boots and Tevas carry the same fashion clout) to the question of ‘to smother or not to smother,’ host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi and returning fave, Westword reporter Conor McCormick-Cavanagh , to lay down our unofficial rules for how to make it through Mile High. Do you have tips for how to survive Denver? Tell us about them! We want to create the definitive list, and we need your help. Text or call the Surviving Denver Hotline at 720-500-5418, or email us: denver@citycast.fm. Bree mentioned the livestream from the Standley Lake eagles. And if you haven’t already, here’s where you can find and read Conor’s complete archive of articles at Westword.com . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 01, 2023
Why Your Xcel Bill is So Dang High
Xcel Energy posted $1.7 billion in profits in 2022, yet many Coloradans have seen their energy bills double and in some cases triple this winter. From difficulties accessing payment-assistance programs to frustrations with the arduous process of converting to solar energy, Coloradans are fed up with their power utility. So is this what living with a monopoly feels like? Today host Bree Davies sits down with Xcel Energy Colorado president Robert Kenney to hear how he’s balancing the needs to keep his customers warm, his shareholders happy, and our planet safe from climate catastrophe. If you or someone you know is struggling with high energy bills this winter, Robert recommended sharing this link to resources and programs Xcel offers. Robert also recently wrote an op-ed for The Denver Post laying out ways Xcel is helping customers burdened by big bills. Bree also mentioned this recent story from Sam Brasch at CPR about Xcel Energy’s support for a nonprofit that’s been defending natural gas and pushing against the green energy transition, Coloradans for Energy Access . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 28, 2023
New Gun Laws at the Capitol, Toxic Train Concerns, and How Pollinators Could Shape Future Development
After months of research and planning, Colorado Democrats introduced a big package of gun reform laws last week that tackle everything from an increased age limit for gun purchases to the expansion of red flag laws — and this is just the beginning . Meanwhile in the Mile High, the recent toxic train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, has Denverites wondering if something similar and equally dangerous could happen here and what politicians are doing about it. Plus, what two years into Colorado’s wage transparency laws reveal about our job market and how butterflies, bees, and other bugs could positively impact new development . Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Erin O’Toole to break down these topics and discuss Denver’s newest sloth resident and why a Star Wars-inspired name could perfect for the cute baby mammal. Bree mentioned a previous conversation with legislators about gun control: Why Rep. Sullivan Thinks His Colleagues Won’t Talk About Guns. And she referenced a Denver Gazette article on red flag laws and the Club Q shooting, Colorado Sun reporter Tamara Chuang’s excellent, ongoing reporting on jobs and the economy in Colorado, and she discussed with Erin Axios Denver's recent coverage of the Butterfly Pavilion's call for more pollinator-friendly development. Want to name Denver’s newest baby sloth? The Denver Zoo wants your vote ! For even more news from around the c
Mon, February 27, 2023
Why Sen. Michael Bennet Wants to Take Your TikTok Away
The City and County of Denver recently joined cities across the country in banning TikTok from all government devices — meaning city employees cannot download the app on any publicly owned phones. As concerns mount about the Chinese-owned app’s access to Americans’ data, Colorado Senator Michael Bennet has called on Apple and Google to remove TikTok from their stores entirely — meaning no more boutique fashion shows , no more local food adventures , no more pedestrian advocacy , no more access to an inclusive workout coach , and that's just some of the great local accounts we follow. Senator Bennet joins host Bree Davies to explain why he’s so concerned about TikTok and what he’d tell the Denverites who love it. For more, you can follow Senator Bennet on Twitter @senatorbennet , or read a variety of statements he’s made and legislation he’s proposed on the issues posed by TikTok and social media generally: 1. Sen. Bennet’s letter requesting Apple and Google remove TikTok from their app stores 2. Sen. Bennet’s statement after his meeting with the TikTok CEO 3. Sen. Bennet’s Digital Platform Commission Act And if you’re upset about the prospect of missing out on all the TikTok recipe videos, don’t worry! Sen. Bennet gave us his favorite tofu recipe. You can find that and more local stories that matter in our newsletter Hey Denver . Subscribe now by texting “Denver” to 66866. We’re hiring! City Cast Denver is looking for an audio producer to join our team. If you live in Denver, love local news and culture, and you know your way around a DAW, check out the full listing and apply by March 10. Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neigh
Sun, February 26, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Mike Johnston on Rent Control, the Police, and Peña Boulevard
Mike Johnston served in the state senate for eight years, ran for governor and the U.S. Senate, and most recently was president and CEO of Gary Community Ventures — and he wants to be mayor. He sits down with host Bree Davies to talk about his plan to end homelessness in Denver during his first term, his stance on rent control, and the proposal to widen Peña Boulevard. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before Election Day on April 4. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod Lisa Calderón Ean Thomas Tafoya Trinidad Rodriguez Thomas Wolf Chris Hansen Keep up with Mayoral Madness on our site ! And if you’ve got a question you’d like us to ask the candidates, or one candidate in particular, email it to us at denver@citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, February 25, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Chris Hansen On His TV Ad, Homelessness, and TikTok
Chris Hansen is a trained engineer and state senator who has represented Denver for the past six years, and he wants to be Denver’s next mayor. He sits down with producer Paul Karolyi to talk about his controversial TV ad, how he’d lead the Denver Police Department, and his plan to tackle housing costs and homelessness. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before Election Day on April 4. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod Lisa Calderón Ean Thomas Tafoya Trinidad Rodriguez Thomas Wolf Keep up with Mayoral Madness on our site ! And if you’ve got a question you’d like us to ask the candidates, or one candidate in particular, email it to us at denver@citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 24, 2023
Housing Hot Takes, the Nuggets Mascot Mystery, and a Bittersweet Goodbye
It’s Friday and we’re digging into all the local stories that mattered this week. First, more Mayoral Madness because the debates in recent weeks have gotten pretty spicy on the topics of housing, homelessness, and how candidates feel about the camping ban. Then, we take on a Denver sports mystery: who is really behind the mountain lion mask? Because the Nuggets’ mascot has been missing a lot of half-court shots recently… Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Westword staff writer, regular Cast Denver guest, and sports fanatic Conor McCormick-Cavanagh to break it all down. Plus, newsletter editor Adrian González shares his list of fun things to do this weekend and we pick the official City Cast Denver Maybe — as in, maybe you’ll see us there! Here’s some of Conor’s reporting on the Rocky mascot mystery, and stay tuned this weekend for more Mayoral Madness ! We talked about our forthcoming interviews with Mike Johnston and Chris Hansen. Those are running Saturday and Sunday, but you can hear all our mayoral interviews here: https://denver.citycast.fm/home/mayoral-madness/ We mentioned Chris Hansen’s TV ad and the 9News debate . Here are the events we considered: Murder Mystery Dinner at The Fort Mile High Skate Fest Cupid’s Undie Run Denver Nuggets vs L.A. Clippers For more great weekend recs, subscribe to Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast
Thu, February 23, 2023
The Beer Likers Guide to the Best Local Breweries
Craft breweries can be as intimidating as they are plentiful. But there’s lots to enjoy in the local brewery scene even if you’re not a major beer lover. And newsletter editor Adrian González and producer Paul Karolyi are not beer lovers. They are beer likers, and they are here to help. Host Bree Davies sits down with Paul and Adrian to talk through their favorite breweries for non-alcoholic options, vibes, food and, yeah, also the beer. All the breweries we mentioned: Dry Dock Brewing (Aurora) Raices Brewing (Sun Valley) Ratio Beerworks (Five Points) TRVE Brewing (Baker) Station 26 Brewing (Park Hill) Alpine Dog (Uptown) Black Sky Brewing (Santa Fe Drive) Bull & Bush (Glendale) Dos Luces (South Broadway) Goed Zuur (Five Points) Strange Craft Brewing (Lincoln Park) Brewability (Englewood) Great Divide Brewing Co. (Downtown) Copper Kettle Brewing Company (Indian Creek) Which great breweries did we miss? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your recommendation on the show: (720) 500-5418 For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 22, 2023
How the FBI Undermined the 2020 Racial Justice Protests
The new podcast “ Alphabet Boys ” is making waves across the country with revelations about how the FBI used an undercover informant to infiltrate the racial justice movement in Denver in the summer of 2020. Told using secret recordings, the story revolves around Michael “Mickey” Windecker, a self-proclaimed counter-terrorism expert who drove a silver hearse full of guns and tried to convince activists to take on increasingly violent plots. Producer Paul Karolyi talks to Alphabet Boys host Trevor Aaronson and one of the activists Windecker targeted, Zebbodios “Zebb” Hall about how Windecker operated and how he undermined the protest movement. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver What would you say is an essential rule for surviving Denver? We’re making our own Denver survival guide, and we need your help. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your rule on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 21, 2023
What if Suncor Shut Down Forever?
A series of mysterious incidents in late December forced the Suncor refinery in Commerce City to shut down for weeks. The refinery is reviled by environmental activists and neighbors for its history of polluting our air and water, but it’s also responsible for about 40% of Colorado’s supply of gasoline. So, what if the shutdown was permanent? What if Mother Earth snapped her fingers and it disappeared? Denver Post reporter Noelle Phillips has been covering Suncor for years, and she’s on today with producer Paul Karolyi to explain the current situation and imagine what a Denver without Suncor would look like. Catch up on all Noelle’s reporting on Suncor here: https://www.denverpost.com/author/noelle-phillips/ At the 9News mayoral debate last week, Ean Thomas Tafoya took aim at Chris Hansen over a recent TV ad. Check out our interview with Tafoya , and the rest of our Mayoral Madness coverage — and make sure to stay tuned for our interview with Chris Hansen this weekend. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, February 19, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Thomas Wolf on Gentrification, Casa Bonita and His Favorite Local Artist
Thomas Wolf is an investment banker who has worked for JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Credit Suisse, and Crewe Capital, and he wants to be mayor. Thomas sits down with producer Paul Karolyi to talk about how he’d support the arts community, combat gentrification, build bike lanes, and, of course, Casa Bonita. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before Election Day on April 4. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod Lisa Calderón Ean Thomas Tafoya Keep up with Mayoral Madness on our site ! And if you’ve got a question you’d like us to ask the candidates, or one candidate in particular, email it to us at denver@citycast.fm . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, February 18, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Trinidad Rodriguez on the Police, Rent Control, and Late-Night Diners
Trinidad Rodriguez is an investment banker who’s served on the board of the Denver Housing Authority and as policy advisor for the Governor’s Policy Office and Office of Energy Conservation, as well as Colorado’s Department of Natural Resources, and he wants to be mayor. Trinidad sits down with producer Paul Karolyi to talk about his plan to improve public safety, his stance on rent control, and how he’d support Denver’s remaining late-night diners. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before Election Day on April 4. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod Lisa Calderón Ean Thomas Tafoya Thomas Wolf Keep up with Mayoral Madness on our site ! For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 17, 2023
Denver Bans TikTok, the War on Prairie Dogs, and Carbs Are Back!
It's Friday and we're rounding up all the stories that mattered to Denverites this week. First, TikTok: is it a source of endless entertainment and information or a Chinese surveillance operation? And which should we be worried about more? The City of Denver banned the social media app from government-owned devices this week and Colorado’s senior senator Michael Bennet (Democrat) is joining Republican calls to ban it from the app stores, so we’re digging into the local implications of the TikTok situation. Producers Paul Karolyi and Erin O’Toole are digging in with Hey Denver newsletter editor Adrian González. Do you have a favorite local TikTokker? We want to hear about them! Email us your fave at denver@citycast.fm, or text or leave us a voicemail at (720) 500-5418 . We also talked about Denver’s bachelorette party ranking , the El Paso County Sheriff’s response to the allegations of racism we talked about on the show yesterday, the war against prairie dogs in Aurora, touching dead birds , the Mountain Plover Festival , and what should be our official state smell . Mayoral Madness continues this weekend! We’ve got interviews with two more candidates -- investment banker Thomas Wolf and state policy advisor Trinidad Rodriguez — coming Saturday and Sunday. Catch those and all the other candidate interviews we’ve done so far at https://denver.citycast.fm/home/mayoral-madness/ We’re taking Monday off for President’s Day. See you Tuesday! Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at <a href="https://ci
Thu, February 16, 2023
Is There a Racist Conspiracy Brewing on the Plains?
When Courtney and Nicole Mallery were thinking about buying a ranch on the Eastern Plains, other Black people in Denver told them to “be careful out there.” But it was the Mallerys’ dream to live off the land, so they bought some land east of Colorado Springs anyway. A simple dispute over their property line quickly escalated with slaughtered livestock, allegations of a racist conspiracy involving the local sheriff, felony charges for the Mallerys, and nearly $200,000 in donations to a GoFundMe supporting their cause. Producer Paul Karolyi sits down with the president of the Rocky Mountain NAACP, Portia Prescott , to talk through the case, the changing shape of racism in rural Colorado, and the legislation she thinks would have ended this whole thing before it started. The El Paso County Sheriff’s Department has disputed the allegations of racism at length. For more, 9News covered their press conference earlier this week. Paul mentioned the rally planned for this Friday at the Capitol in solidarity with the Mallerys and in support of the CAREN Act. It’s set to begin at 9 a.m. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Do you have a Denver moment of joy you’d like to share? We want to share the good vibes. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 15, 2023
Does Denver Need Rent Control?
Colorado has banned rent control since 1981. But with the cost of housing on the rise across the state, including here in Denver, some lawmakers are trying to change that. While Governor Jared Polis has already come out against their proposal, Javier Mabrey thinks he can change the governor’s mind. State Rep. Mabrey is an evictions defense attorney representing southwest Denver, and he’s on today with host Bree Davies to explain why now’s the time to legalize rent control, how it would work in Denver, and how it could fit in Polis’ long-term vision for housing. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver We're on the hunt for Denver's best hot sauce! Leave us a voicemail with your name, neighborhood, and your favorite local hot sauce, and we'll try to track it down for a taste test on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 14, 2023
How ‘Dangerous’ is Dining Downtown? Plus, New Flavors of the Old West
It’s Valentine’s Day, so we’re surveying the dining scene with Westword’s food editor Molly Martin and editor-in-chief Patty Calhoun. First, Molly’s recent piece about giving leftovers away to an unhoused person sparked a heated conversation online about how “dangerous” it is to dine out downtown right now. So we’re digging into that thorny topic, then Molly and Patty report back from visiting two iconic Denver-area Western restaurants: The Fort , which is turning 60 this year, and El Rancho , which was recently reopened with new owners and Chef Frank Bonanno. Help celebrate The Fort’s 60th anniversary with a big party this Friday, Feb. 17. Get all the details here. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, February 13, 2023
The 50-Year Fight to Desegregate Denver Schools
In the wake of Brown v. Board of Education, Denver Public Schools created a de facto segregation that was so bad, a group of Park Hill parents sued and their case went all the way to the Supreme Court. That landmark decision in 1973 led to decades of busing, white flight, and now “school choice,” prompting many parents and activists to ask, has DPS become de facto segregated again? To mark the 50th anniversary of Keyes v. School District No. 1, Chalkbeat reporter Melanie Asmar worked with Historic Denver on a new project uncovering the half-century fight to desegregate Denver schools, the challenges that remain today, and the story of one school that’s been at the center of it all: Park Hill’s Stedman Elementary. Parents, don’t forget! Round one of Denver Public Schools’ choice process ends on Tuesday, February 14. Rachel B. Noel and educator Debbi Blair talk about the Noel Resolution in this clip from the Higher Education Diversity Summit. For more on busing, check out this 2019 piece featuring locals recalling their own busing experiences. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, February 12, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Ean Thomas Tafoya on Xcel, Public Safety, and the Park Hill Golf Course
Ean Thomas Tafoya is an environmental justice advocate and community organizer with 20 years of experience working with and within local government, he led the campaign to pass the Waste No More ballot initiative in 2019, and he’s running for mayor. He sits down with producer Paul Karolyi to talk about Xcel Energy, Public Safety, and the Park Hill Golf Course. Ean wants you to know that he remembered the name of the coffee shop he mentioned. It’s the Curious Coffee near Colorado Blvd. and I-25. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before the April 4 election. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod Lisa Calderón For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, February 11, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Lisa Calderón on Transit, the Police Budget, and the Downtown Dilemma
Lisa Calderón is the executive director of Emerge Colorado, previously served as chief of staff for City Councilwoman Candi CdeBaca, and she’s running for mayor. She sits down with Host Bree Davies to talk about her plan for “transformational transportation,” how she’d adjust the police budget, and her plan for downtown. We are inviting all 17 candidates for interviews before the April 4 election. So far, we've talked to: Renate Behrens Leslie Herod For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 10, 2023
Swingers in Centennial, Nasty Politics, and Our Valentine’s Day Recs
It’s Friday and we’re digging deep into all the local stories that mattered this week. First, the mayor’s race isn’t the only big decision facing Denver voters this April. We’ll be picking new City Council members too, and those races are starting to take shape — and in one case, getting pretty nasty. With host Bree Davies out of town, producers Erin O’Toole and Paul Karolyi are talking politics and swapping Valentine’s Day recs with CPR senior host and hopeless romantic Nathan Heffel . We talked about the anonymous mailers attacking D9 councilwoman Candi CdeBaca, the big names in the at-large race, and the swingers club in Centennial . Our picks for your Valentine’s Day: Donate blood Valentine’s Day Heart-Shaped Pizza Class at Joy Hill B&GC Speakeasy The Cooper Lounge at Union Station And, the weekend events Adrian brought for our consideration: “Titanic” 25th Anniversary Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo at History Colorado Monster Jam Superb Owl All-You-Can-Eat Buffet City Cast Denver is hiring! We’re looking for a Senior Account Executive to join our revenue team. Do you know someone who might be a good fit? Are you someone who might be a good fit? Check out the full listing here and let us know if you have any questions! Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver <p
Thu, February 09, 2023
How Former Mayor Federico Peña Would Fix Downtown (Again)
Nearly three years of a global pandemic have done a number on downtown Denver — high vacancy rates, shuttering businesses, low foot traffic, and crime and safety concerns abound. It’s clear every mayoral candidate is going to need a plan to bring life back to our economic center, but the question is how? When Federico Peña was elected mayor in 1983, he faced a very similar set of challenges downtown. But he turned it around with his campaign to “ Imagine a Great City ,” leading to a period of sustained growth and prosperity. So as we gear up for the mayoral election on April 4, producer Paul Karolyi spoke with Peña about how he did it and what he’s hoping to hear from candidates today. City Cast Denver is looking for a Senior Account Executive to join our revenue team. Do you know someone who might be a good fit? Are you that person? Check out the full listing here . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Help us find Denver’s best hot sauce! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and we’ll track down that hot sauce: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 08, 2023
$5.49 per hour?! Gig Drivers Speak Out
When you pay $80 for an Uber to the airport, how much of that fare goes to the driver? A recent survey of local gig drivers showed that they’re only making an average of $5.49 per hour. That data has brought the debate over gig work back to the state legislature, where some lawmakers are pushing a new “Gig Worker Transparency” bill to require these tech platforms to disclose information about payments to both the drivers and their customers. Today host Bree Davies talks with Uber and Lyft drivers Munir Abuzawida, Michael Machar, and Zaw Tun to get a full picture of what it’s like to work in the gig economy in Denver in 2023. For more from Michael Machar on their recent advocacy work, here’s an op-ed he recently published with the Colorado Sun. Michael, Munir, and Zaw have been organizing with other drivers through a new organization called Colorado Independent Drivers United . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 07, 2023
Queer Catholic Teacher Fired, Local Business Gossip, and Which Mayoral Candidate is Lying?
It’s Tuesday and we’re breaking down the big stories of the week so far: The mayor’s race is heating up, and we’re finally getting to know the lesser known candidates — like Andy Rougeot, who made some big claims on AM radio recently, which 9News promptly investigated . Then, there’s the story of Maggie Barton, a teacher who was fired from All Souls Catholic school in Englewood — the Archdiocese claims it wasn’t because she’s gay . Later, we talk local business, with VF Corp’s recent slump and Duffeyroll’s surprising growth . Finally, we debut “Paul’s Movie Corner” so producer Paul Karolyi has an excuse to talk about a weird Netflix movie starring Kevin James as the Broncos incoming head coach, Sean Peyton. (Oh, and we have a Casa Bonita update, but shhhh it’s top secret!) Thanks to 9News, CPR, and Denver Business Journal for their reporting and to Bree’s unnamed friend who may or may not have snuck her a photo of the inside of a still-in-progress Casa Bonita renovation. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Should we invite some expert guests to watch the Sean Payton biopic with us? Let us know with a text or a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Mortified Live: Doomed Valentine’s How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone
Mon, February 06, 2023
The Lost History of Colorado’s Black Pioneers
It’s Black History Month, and we’re thinking about the people and experiences that have been foundational to this place. Much of who and what has been depicted as Colorado history paints a picture that is not very diverse, let alone accurate. But Colorado’s history is Black history — today on the show, host Bree Davies talks with Dexter Nelson II , History Colorado’s associate curator of African American History and Cultural Heritage, about The Dry, a Black homestead that dried up long ago. The tale of The Dry is one of Black excellence and perseverance in the face of harsh environmental and social conditions. You can learn more about the Black Heritage Trail and download the new History Colorado app . Additional music in this episode is by Jason Shaw and adapted here under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license . In the newscast, Bree mentioned the cute baby sloth born last week at the Denver Zoo, which you can see here . Want to work for City Cast Denver? Check out our latest job posting for a Senior Account Executive . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How To Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at<a href="https://citycast.f
Sun, February 05, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Renate Behrens on Housing, Transit, and What We Can Learn From Germany
Renate Behrens worked as a caretaker in Germany before moving to Colorado to get married, and she wants to be Denver’s next mayor. She speaks with producer Paul Karolyi about transportation, homelessness, and Casa Bonita. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, February 04, 2023
Mayoral Madness: Leslie Herod on Affordability, Transit, and Casa Bonita
Leslie Herod is a state representative serving parts of Denver, and she wants to be Denver’s next mayor. Host Bree Davies speaks with her about the rising cost of energy, public transportation, the Park Hill Golf Course, and Casa Bonita. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 03, 2023
Has Vision Zero Failed? Plus, Police Reform and Chicano Funk
It’s Friday and we’re talking about the stories we couldn’t stop thinking about this week. Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi and returning favorite, public radio veteran and host of the Been There Done That podcast , Jo Ann Allen . Inspired by multimodal-transit advocate Molly McKinley’s op-ed for Westword, the crew talks through the failures of Vision Zero and questions Denver’s ability to get transit and pedestrian infrastructure right. Then, Jo Ann connects the brutality of Tyre Nichols’ murder at the hands of police with a recent incident in Colorado Springs . Finally, newsletter editor Adrian González joins with some ideas on how to spend your weekend. Paul discussed the success of Vision Zero in Oslo, Norway, and mentioned Denver’s big new transportation vision document laying out how the city plans to shift away from car dependency and toward more biking, walking and public transit. Jo Ann mentioned an opinion piece from Charles M. Blow in the New York Times about the murder of Tyre Nichols. Here are the events Adrian brought us to consider: Museo’s First Friday Celebration of Afro-Latinx Identity Los Mocochetes in Concert Soleful: MCA’s Closing Night Celebration of The Dirty South USA Curling Championships Subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a
Thu, February 02, 2023
Street Taco Street Fight: Denver's Best Al Pastor
We’ve tackled breakfast burritos. We’ve eaten our way through Denver’s donut scene. We’ve chowed down on fried chicken and compared Denver-style, Mission-style burritos. Finally, we’re taking on the toughest tussle of them all: tacos. But not just any tacos, we’re talking al pastor street tacos. Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi, newsletter editor Adrian González, and producer Erin O’Toole to taste test four of the top street tacos from across the metro area. An old school favorite, a downtown newcomer, an urban-suburban superstar, and an esteemed west, West side staple go head-to-head as the City Cast Denver crew decides: Who makes Denver’s best street taco? Our street taco competitors: La Diabla Pozole & Mezcal El Taco de Mexico Tacos Selene La Calle Taqueria Y Carnitas For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 01, 2023
Eminent Domain Took Two Family Homes. Can Art Take Them Back?
If you’ve been in Denver for a while, you’ve seen the work of internationally renowned artist Anthony Garcia . Born n’ raised in Globeville, he paints with bold, bright colors and serape-inspired patterns to create murals that enrobe whole buildings across the metro area and take over gallery walls from Miami to Amsterdam. Recently, the artist collaborated with the GES Coalition , an environmental and housing justice organization created by and serving the Globeville Elyria-Swansea neighborhoods, to paint two homes taken from GES families through eminent domain. Host Bree Davies met up with Anthony and GES Coalition organizer Alfonso Espino on the block where these two houses still stand to talk about how art, activism, and community connection made this painting project a reality. And make sure to follow our instagram to see these beautiful new pieces for yourself! For the whole backstory to the Torres family’s displacement through eminent domain, we recommend this feature story from Westword. The GES Coalition is working on a variety of different projects to advance their campaign and strengthen their land trust, including this new affordable housing/library project that could be coming soon. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Got a moment of Denver joy you want to share? Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 31, 2023
Xcel Posts Huge Profits, Who's RTD For, and Casa Bonita is Looking for 'Entertainers (Wet)'
Do you have what it takes to be “entertainer (wet)” — aka, a cliff diver at Casa Bonita? The South Park guys are hiring ahead of their planned May re-opening. Meanwhile, many Denverites’ energy bills have more than doubled in the past few months while Xcel posted massive profits for 2022 — so, what gives? And on the transit front, RTD is debating a policy change that would prohibit passengers without a set destination from riding the light rail. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi break down these local stories and more as they dig what Denverites are talking about this week. Plus, Paul and Bree answer a listener question about population growth and revisit the hilarious vanity license plate convo from last week. Paul mentioned Xcel’s record profits , Jon Caldara and the Independence Institute’s crusade against Xcel, and Xcel’s tips for reducing your energy bill . Don’t miss our guide for how to help our neighbors struggling to pay energy bills, which we published in our newsletter Hey Denver yesterday. You can subscribe to Hey Denver for even more news from around the city by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Mortified Live: DOOMED VALENTINE’S Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about
Mon, January 30, 2023
Can Governor Polis Fix Our Housing Problem?
For the first time in his now five years as governor, Jared Polis is focusing on housing. Whether its an urban, rural, or suburban community, every part of Colorado is just too expensive. So how does our uber-popular, tech-loving, libertarian-leaning governor plan to tackle the housing issue? And what would a hypothetical future Polis-opolis look like? CPR state politics and housing reporter Andy Kenney is on today with our chief Polis watcher and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about how the Governor thinks about housing and how he could re-shape our cities. Hear more from Andy and the CPR politics team as they cover the housing debate at the Capitol on the Purplish podcast . Andy mentioned State Sen. Julie Gonzales and the rare moment of bipartisanship over housing at last year’s legislative session. Don’t miss our interview with Gonzales about how that all went down. Paul mentioned the recent closure of the Tea with Tae shop at 16th and California. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 27, 2023
Backyard Chickens, Vanity Plates, and Our Plan for the Mayor's Race
It’s Friday and we’re rounding up the stories that caught our eye this week. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by Denver Post reporter Elizabeth Hernandez to chat all things fowl and lewd (as in crude license plates!) Demand for chicks and home hen house supplies has skyrocketed as consumers reel from the egg shortage, and Elizabeth has the inside scoop. We’re also talking about personalized license plates and what the DMV has decided which ones are too hot for your Honda — sorry FASTMFR and SHAGWEL, you’re not getting those plates! Stay til the end for our recommendations on the best things to do this weekend in Denver with newsletter editor Adrian González! Plus, Paul and Bree talk about the mayor’s race and how, exactly, City Cast Denver hopes to best inform voters on this crowded field of 17 candidates. We want to hear from you, too! Do you have a question you’d like every candidate to answer? Or one question for a specific candidate? Leave us your name, neighborhood, and question in a text or voicemail at 720-500-5418. Paul mentioned Colorado’s slowing population growth and the full list of rejected personalized license plates. Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866] Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 26, 2023
Can Science Fix Our Water Woes?
They say that necessity is the mother of invention. And boy, do we in the West really need to figure out how to use less water. The federal government has imposed a February 1 deadline for the seven Colorado River Basin states to come up with a new conservation plan, so what would be realistic for us in the Denver metro area to contribute? Colorado Sun environment reporter Michael Booth is on today to talk about two new innovative water projects — a “MacGuyver-esque” wastewater recycling system in Aurora, and the new “cloud seeding” effort outside Longmont. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 25, 2023
A New Den-Mex Empire Rises in the Suburbs
On our hunt for Denver’s best street tacos, we stumbled on a story we had to share: After decades working in other peoples’ restaurants on the Northside, Jose Ramirez ventured into the suburbs to open Los Dos Potrillos in 2002. Serving his version of Colorado’s famed green chile alongside dishes reflecting his hometown of Jerez, Zacatecas in Mexico, Jose gained a loyal following. Now Jose’s sons, Luis and Daniel, have taken over Los Dos with big dreams to become the “ Shake Shack of Mexican food. ” The brothers now oversee four locations across the metro area, have launched a brewery, are planning a fast-casual spin-off, and have their sights set on 20 more new locations across Colorado in the next few years — including a massive, 8,000-square-foot Los Dos flagship in Castle Rock. So ahead of their next opening in Northglenn next month, host Bree Davies sits down with the Ramirez brothers to talk about their take on Den-Mex. What do you think? Does Los Dos Potrillos make the best street tacos in Denver? Or is there somewhere else we absolutely have to try? Leave us a voicemail with your name, neighborhood, and your favorite local street taco purveyor, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 . Bree mentioned the launch of universal preschool in Colorado. Click here to learn more and check your child’s eligibility. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 24, 2023
Who Poisoned the Taco Bell? Plus, Gun Reform and Meth at the Library
It’s Tuesday and we’ve got everything you need to know about the local stories Denverites are talking about: Meth residue found inside libraries in Englewood, Boulder, and Littleton is causing concern, the gun debate heats up at the Capitol after another mass shooting, and we regret to inform you that the Aurora police department is at it again. Plus, all the taco news you can use — first, Westword’s deep dive into the Taco Bell-rat poisoning scandal exposes some flimsy evidence; and second, we hear from a listener about his favorite immersive street taco experience in Westwood. Two recent Aurora Sentinel op-eds encapsulate the frustration with Aurora’s police department: Dave Perry’s “Aurora Police Department problems are so bad, someone should call the cops — somewhere else” and “Stop protecting Aurora police from themselves — the city must protect the public first” from the Sentinel Editorial Board . We’re going to have a full update on Monday evening’s Park Hill Golf Course vote at City Council later this week, but don’t miss our breakdown of the whole saga on Monday’s episode . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, January 23, 2023
The Park Hill Golf Course Fight is Back On!
For almost 100 years, the Park Hill neighborhood has featured an 18-hole golf course. But then a major developer, Westside Investment Partners, bought the land and put forth ambitious plans to redevelop the site into a walkable new community and park. The purchase sparked a neighborhood fight that’s escalated into a city-wide debate over housing, growth, and change. And if City Council approves Westside’s rezoning request tonight, Denver voters will decide on the defunct golf course’s future on April 4. It’s a complicated and controversial situation, so host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are sharing some clips from past interviews and catching you up on the saga of the Park Hill Golf Course. Check out our past coverage of the Park Hill Golf Course fight: WTF is Happening with the Park Hill Golf Course? (Part One) Park Hill Gold Course (Part Two): The Developers Speak! If you want to learn more about Westside Investment Partners’ vision for the Park Hill Golf Course, here’s a link to their website . Friend of the show Conor McCormick-Cavanagh reported more details about the 303 ArtWay Heritage Trail for Westword. Bree mentioned the Beast Fingers Climbing Gym in Globeville needing support, which you can do on their website . Read the full saga of the gym in this Westword piece from Catie Cheshire. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver We want to hear about your moments of joy in Denver! Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your story on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 20, 2023
Should Denver Dump Gas Stoves? Plus, Our Nerdy Governor and Tacos!
It’s Friday and that means we’re looking back at the local stories that mattered this week. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by returning fave Sam Brasch of Colorado Public Radio. We discuss the hot topic of gas stoves and how Colorado got tangled up in what at first seemed to be a very Florida mess. Plus, our resident nerd Paul runs a game of “Did Governor Polis Actually Say That?” as Sam and Bree try to guess which geeky pop culture references came out of the governor’s mouth. As always, newsletter editor Adrian González joins the crew to share some fun things to do this weekend around the Mile High. Don’t forget to send us your street taco recs! Text or leave us a voicemail with your favorite spot, your name and neighborhood at 720-500-5418 . Paul mentioned the alleged rat poisoning at a local Taco Bell. Learn more about the Denver climate rebates for electrification on the city’s website . Read guest Sam Brasch’s reporting on the Healthy Homes Program over at Denverite . Looking for more ideas for your weekend plans? Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866, or click here . We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 19, 2023
Can a Total Rebrand Save This Iconic Colorado Beer?
Once upon a time, New Belgium Brewing ruled the craft brew scene in Colorado, and Fat Tire was its flagship beer. When the Fort Collins–based brewmasters debuted their signature amber ale in 1991, it inspired imitators, dominated shelves, and satisfied beer lovers for decades… until it didn’t. This week, New Belgium announced they were giving Fat Tire a whole new look and taste. Today on the show, host Bree Davies talks with Denver Post editor and unofficial Colorado Beer Man Jonathan Shikes about what it means for an old favorite to be reformulated, repackaged, and re-introduced to a new generation of craft beer drinkers Denver Post’s cannabis and beer reporter Tiney Ricciardi wrote about the big changes at New Belgium earlier this week. And Jonathan mentioned Axios reporter John Frank’s assessment of the new Fat Tire. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 18, 2023
A Bold Plan to Tackle Homelessness, Snowplow Politics, and More Mayoral Madness
Mayoral hopefuls are rolling out their strategies to tackle public safety and homelessness, and others have set social media abuzz with plans for more snow plowing — in other words, the race is on! But there’s still a crucial hurdle to clear before the dozens of aspiring leaders make the ballot: 300 verified, unique signatures from registered Denver voters. With that deadline coming up this Thursday, some candidates may not end up running after all. Today on the show, host Bree Davies chats with Westword editor in-chief Patty Calhoun about who’s saying what, whose ambitious plans she’s watching, and the historic precedent for snowplows swaying mayoral elections. Bree mentioned Kelly Brough’s comments on sweeps ( 9News ) and the comments from one of her supporters ( Denverite ). For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 17, 2023
Why the Stock Show Matters to This Girl and Her Goat
The National Western Stock Show has been an annual attraction in Denver since 1906, bringing cowboys, cowgirls, farmers, ranchers, and agri-business titans here to buy, sell, show, and celebrate all things agriculture. But the big question is, how relevant is this famous show to an evolving modern city like Denver today? We wanted to understand what it meant to one Arvada family, so today on the show, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi tagged along with the Leathermans on a trip to the National Western Complex to meet their goat farmer daughter and watch her (and her goat) in the junior market goat show. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Mortified Live: DOOMED VALENTINE'S Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 13, 2023
Snow Plowing Problems, A Jaywalking Debate, and Brutalism's Last Champion
It’s Friday! And we’re looking back at the news of the week with one of our favorite returning guests — podcaster extraordinaire and weed expert Ann Marie Awad . She joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to dig deep into two debates over the state of our streets. Does Denver suck at plowing snow? And should we decriminalize jaywalking? Plus, Bree has a few words of remembrance for the great architecture critic Mary Voelz Chandler who passed this week, and as usual, we’ll help you pick some cool stuff to do this weekend. We mentioned Michael Paglia’s remembrance of Mary Voelz Chandler for Westword (and her own excellent blog, Chandler in Denver , and her 2021 appearance on our show ), Jim Charlier’s epic twitter thread on plowing policy, and this Denverite article on the plowing problem: Is Denver Bad at Snow Plowing? For more cool event recs and news from around the city, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Westwood Academy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise We reached out to the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure for comments on the plowing situation. Here are their responses, edited for length: CCD: Do you know if DOTI has any plans to re-assess its snow removal strategy? If so, how does the changing climate factor into those plans? The storm we received on December 29 was a particularly challenging storm event in that it was a wet, heavy, spring-like snow that hit during the coldest time of year. The snow also fell at very fast rate (1 to 3 inches an hour). Conditions on the main streets improved with subsequent passes by the plows. It was unusual for us to have a spring-like storm in December. So, we will be looking at… was this a one-time thing? Or a new trend amid global warming? These are the things that we’ll look at --- any new trends over the course of several seasons and see if we need to adjust. Here is more on that: <u
Thu, January 12, 2023
How Worried Should Denverites Be About the Economy?
Grocery prices are through the roof, but gas is under $3 a gallon. The housing market in Denver finally seems to be cooling, but mortgage interest rates are high. Governor Polis campaigned for re-election on how well Colorado is doing, but some experts say a recession is looming. So, what gives? What’s going on with Denver’s — and Colorado’s — economy and how should we feel about it in 2023? Today on the show, host Bree Davies talks with Rich Wobbekind , senior economist at CU Boulder’s Leeds School of Business, about inflation, the job market, and if we should be worried about that recession or not. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Westwood Academy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 11, 2023
Inside the Effort to Fix Our Trash Problem
“Given the city’s strained resources, the expansion of recycling and compost service next year will be a significant burden that might not come with the hoped-for environmental benefits.” Denver’s auditor Tim O’Brien wrote those words back in November about the 2023 rollout of some big changes to our waste removal system. Denverites will soon have both compost and recycling pickup weekly for free — but residents will also be charged by volume for trash service. Plus, voters approved the Waste No More ballot initiative, making it mandatory for all private businesses (including apartment buildings) to offer compost and recycling. We wanted to see for ourselves how the rollout is going, so host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi took a trip to The Dump, AKA the Denver South Transfer Station on S. Cherry Creek Drive, to talk with Denver’s trash experts. Vanessa mentioned the waste directory that can help you figure out where to put your waste. You can find that at Denvergov.org/recycle . Bree mentioned the city’s waste information app, which you can find by searching “Denver trash and recycling” in the app store of your choice. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Westwood Academy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 10, 2023
Polis Backtracks on Migrant Busing, More E-Bike Rebates, and Su Teatro’s Big Win
It’s Tuesday and we’re bringing you a midweek roundup of news across the metro area: As migrants and asylum seekers continue to show up in Denver, things get more complicated — we have the latest on Governor Polis’s recent people-moving plan. Plus, another dude jumps in the race for mayor, e-bike rebates are back, and why Su Teatro is burning their mortgage (it’s for a really good reason, we promise!) To round out the show, we help a listener with her burning question: how do adults make friends in Denver? Paul mentioned this tweet from mayoral candidate and Western wear enthusiast Kelly Brough. Here are some links to learn more about the stories we mentioned: Tattered Cover CEO Kwame Spearman Is Running for Denver Mayor [Westword] Letter to Colorado governor highlights growing frustration with migrant crisis [Denver7] Denver e-bike rebates are back, but smaller [Axios] Su Teatro’s 50th anniversary production: Torch a mortgage. This won’t be fiction. [Denverite] Mayoral candidate Chris Hansen’s spicy snow plow tweet Denver’s planning to shut down emergency migrant shelters at rec centers [Denverite] For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Westwood Academy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, January 09, 2023
Can the Broncos Recover From This Dumpster Fire Season?
The Denver Broncos opened their 2022-23 season with Mile High expectations. A new ownership group led by deep-pocketed Walmart heirs made a big splash signing superstar quarterback Russell Wilson to a $245 million contract, and the new head coach Nathaniel Hackett boasted a championship pedigree (his father Paul Hackett coached Joe Montana to a Super Bowl victory in 1984.) Still, the losses piled up, and our Donkeys ended the season yesterday, far from playoff contention. We invited our sports guy Jake Shapiro of Denver Sports back to explain where the Broncos could go from here, what should be done about Russell Wilson, and what it all means for the long-rumored plans for a new stadium which, depending on if —or where— it gets built could reshape Denver as we know it. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Westwood Academy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 06, 2023
Dems’ Big Plans for 2023, Weekend Recs, and Stock Show Trivia!
It’s Friday and we’re back in studio rounding up the news of the week! The legislative session kicks off Monday, and after the GOP‘s face-plant in November, the Dems hold a super majority. So, what are they gonna do with all that power? Our official state politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval joins producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to dish her legislative speculation. Plus, we’re talking all about the Stock Show, which stampeded back into town on Thursday. Think you know about one of the biggest agricultural events in the region? Paul puts Justine and Bree’s Stock Show knowledge to the test. Plus, stay tuned until the end of the show for some sweet weekend recommendations and a bittersweet goodbye (and hello) for the City Cast Denver team. Definitely check out Dos Luces Brewery’s site for a better explanation of their special chicha and pulque brews . The events we considered for the Official City Cast Denver Maybe For Your Weekend: inspiraHike for the new year! Sensory friendly morning at the DAM Movies at the CO Symphony - Harry Potter Beer dinner at Dos Luces Subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 05, 2023
The Mystery of Downtown’s Lost Tunnels
Next time you find yourself in LoDo or wandering around near Union Station, look down. Just below the streets of downtown, there’s a maze of old, out-of-commission tunnels that used to connect our hotels, restaurants, and stores of yore. Glimpses of these alternative pathways still exist at street level, if you know where to look. Today on the show, host Bree Davies talks with Tracy Beach, author of “ The Tunnels Under Our Feet: Colorado’s Forgotten Hollow Sidewalks ,” about this turn-of-the-last-century phenomenon. Beach explains what the tunnels were used for, who used them, and how to spot the remnants of these lost transit spaces today. Bree mentioned our tour last year of the Pueblo-themed Fuel & Iron Bar (which has since rebranded as Honor Farm), the racist anti-Chinese riot of 1880 (which she discussed with Dr. William Wei in 2021), and her interview with Coffee at the Point owner Ryan Cobbins from last year. Check out the Hey Denver newsletter for even more news, Denver history, and fun stuff to do! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 04, 2023
Broncos Go Bust, Busloads of Migrants, and Suncor Shuts Down
We’re catching you up on all the top stories of the week so far: The Broncos went from bad to worse. Tattered Cover’s OG owner passed away. Denver continues to greet busloads of migrants and asylum seekers, even as the city and aid groups are overwhelmed. The Suncor Oil Refinery was shut down temporarily, which could impact air quality (in a good way) and gas prices (in a bad way). Oh, and a 16th Street Mall institution may have closed its doors forever. We know you, our listeners, like our Friday news roundups, so host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are trying out this new mid-week wrangling of top stories and info! Let us know what you think: reach us via email denver@citycast.fm or leave us a message on the City Cast Denver hotline: (720) 500-5418 . Bree mentioned Axios’s coverage of the migrant situation; if you’d like to help, the city has shared information on needs and donation options on its website . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 03, 2023
A Tarot Reading For Our City’s New Year
We can’t predict Denver’s future, but — what if we could get some guidance from the universe on how our 2023 will be? To start off the new year, host Bree Davies called up her favorite tarot reader, astrologer, and astral guide Lady Speech for a reading. In a take on the traditional three-card tarot spread, Lady Speech pondered our big questions: Will Denver’s mysterious “downtown dilemma” be solved? Can the local arts scene keep thriving and bring some stability to our artists? What in the heck is going to happen with our 2023 mayoral election? For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver . And Instagram: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 30, 2022
The Downtown Dilemma
Programming Note: We’re taking some time off around the new year. We’ll be back with new episodes starting on January 3. All this week, Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi counted down Denver’s top five stories of 2022. Today, we’re revealing #1, what should be done about downtown? 5. Hockeytown, USA 4. Tipping Fatigue 3. The Rise of Worker Power 2. Legal Reefer Madness 1. The Downtown Dilemma This episode originally aired on April 1, 2022, and features Bree, Paul, former producer Xandra McMahon, and Denverite reporter Kyle Harris. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 29, 2022
10 Years of Legal Reefer Madness
Weed. It’s been legal for 10 years, and it feels more fraught than ever. All this week on City Cast Denver, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are counting down 2022’s top five stories in Denver. Today, #2, how had legal weed changed Denver? And how has it remained the same? 5. Hockeytown, USA 4. Tipping Fatigue 3. The Rise of Worker Power 2. Legal Reefer Madness 1. ??? Continue listening to the 1800 S Broadway Saga! Part Two Talkback We also mentioned this episode where we visited Tetra Lounge, Denver’s first-ever, smoke-friendly public weed consumption site. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 If there’s still Twitter… @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 28, 2022
The Rise of Worker Power
2022, what a year, am I right? Lots of ups, lots of downs. And we made it. All this week on City Cast Denver, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are counting down 2022’s top five stories in Denver. Today, #3, grocery workers, baristas, gig workers, cannabis growers, public employees, etc. etc. etc. 5. Hockeytown, USA 4. Tipping Fatigue 3. The Rise of Worker Power 2. ??? 1. ??? This episode originally aired on January 14, 2022. Other workers’ rights stories we’ve done: Why Are King Soopers Workers Going on Strike? ‘I Walk In Everyday Expecting To Be Fired’: Inside The Starbucks Union Effort She Says Amazon Fired Her For Speaking Out. Now She’s Fighting Back For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us while there’s still Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 27, 2022
The Year We Forgot How to Tip
As the days tick down to the new year, we’re looking back at 2022. All this week on City Cast Denver, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are counting down the 2022’s top five stories in Denver. Today, #4, the bill is here. How much are you gonna tip? 5. Hockeytown, USA 4. Tipping Fatigue 3. ??? 2. ??? 1. ??? This episode originally aired on September 9, 2022. Newsletter editor Peyton mentioned this funny video that lays out an argument against tipping and the Bonanno Concepts’ explanation of their service fee. Check out the other episodes we’ve done on tipping: Should Tipping Have a Place in Our New Normal? These Service Industry Vets Have Choice Words For Your ‘Tipping Fatigue’ Your Questions on Coffee, Tipping, and the Megadrought For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 26, 2022
The Moment Denver Became Hockeytown, USA
Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are counting down the top five stories in Denver in 2022. Today’s episode kicks off with some honorable mentions and #5, a turning point moment for local hockey. 5. Hockeytown, USA 4. ??? 3. ??? 2. ??? 1. ??? A longer version of this episode originally aired on July 1, 2022. Dive into our coverage of the runner-up stories of the year: We Get Lost in David Byrne's ‘Theater of the Mind’ Denver Deserves Sidewalks. Will Voters Agree? Can Denver Rethink What We Throw Away? How Denver Voted Does Denver Have a Parking Problem? For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 22, 2022
EMERGENCY POD: Casa Bonita Announces Reopening Date!
Just as we were setting our away messages and logging off for the holiday season, Denver got the biggest news of the year: the South Park guys announced an official reopening date for Casa Bonita! Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi jumped on the mic to share their first reactions to the video announcement from South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker, and their head chef, decorated culinary master Dana "Loca" Rodriguez. We swear, this is real!! Check out the video for yourself: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rogxbMwifw And keep your eyes on the feed next week. We’ve got a really fun end-of-year project that we’ve been working on to share. For more on the Casa Bonita saga, our most recent episode on the topic was published on August 16, 2022, and featured 9News reporter Jeremy Jojola's investigative look into the CB re-opening project. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 22, 2022
Denver's Most Epic Wins and Fails of 2022
Denver is about to put another interesting year on the books. Depending on how you look at it, we celebrated some major victories… and took some embarrassing Ls. Today on the show, host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi and a couple of regulars from Westword, editor in chief Patty Calhoun and staff writer Conor McCormick-Cavanagh , to discuss their picks for the most epic wins and fails for the city in 2022. Programming note: We’re off tomorrow, but we’ll be back next week with something really cool to ring in the new year. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 21, 2022
The Battle for Denver’s Best Latke
Tonight marks the fourth night of Hanukkah, and it’s time to settle the age-old question: who makes the best latke in Denver? Two brave home chefs stepped up to challenge three local Jewish restaurant institutions — Zaidy’s , Rosenberg’s , and Safta — at the Jewish Community Center’s first annual best latke competition earlier this week. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi were on hand to eat too many latkes and vote alongside the community to see who would take home the coveted golden latke and reign supreme as the latke champion of Denver. The JCC is hosting candle-lightings and other free events to celebrate Hanukkah. Learn more at jccdenver.org . Bree mentioned an opportunity to make $25/hour to help migrants arriving in Denver in need of support during the upcoming cold. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Additional music in the episode was performed at the event by Carly Coons, assistant director of Jewish Explorers , a program of JEWISHcolorado. Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 20, 2022
The Best Hot Springs For Your Winter Getaway
As we longingly wait for snow to blanket the Mile High in time for the holidays, there’s always the mountains — the place where we can reaIly get that Colorado winter experience, AKA hot springs! And boy, does our fair region have a lot of different kinds of places to choose from. So are you looking for a hideaway in the woods or a swimming pool at a resort? Do you prefer wearing a swimming suit or your birthday suit? What hot springs behavior makes you cringe? Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia to dish on their fav hot springs destinations across Colorado and beyond. A list of all the hot springs we discussed in today’s episode: Conundrum Mt. Princeton Indian Hot Springs (Idaho Springs) Glenwood Springs Strawberry Park Iron Mountain Hot Sulphur Springs Valley View (Orient Land Trust) Montezuma (Las Vegas, NM) Ojo Caliente (NM) Durango Cottonwood For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Tell us about your favorite hot springs on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 19, 2022
Does Denver Have a Parking Problem?
Or does parking have a Denver problem? It’s an age-old question that’s become particularly controversial lately, with increasing concerns over the vitality of downtown. So what could be done to fix our parking problem? And is parking even the right thing to focus on? Host Bree Davies gets to the bottom of it with Denver’s number one urban planning power couple: Frank and Jill Locantore. Frank was last on the show representing the Colfax Ave. Business Improvement District , an epicenter for our parking woes; and Jill is the executive director of Denver Streets Partnership and the architect of the #DenverDeservesSidewalks campaign, which voters approved by a wide margin back in the November election. Jill mentioned a great tweet thread from past City Cast Denver guest and CPR transportation reporter Nate Minor. For more on parking, Frank recommends this video from Vox: “ The High Cost of Free Parking .” In the newscast, we mentioned that the city is looking for volunteers to help with the influx of more than 900 migrants and asylum seekers who have come to Denver in the last few months. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, December 17, 2022
“Water, Under Pressure” from Laws of Notion
This weekend, we’re excited to share the first episode from the new season of Laws of Notion , the podcast produced by The Institute of Science and Policy at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. This new season is all about a big story we’ve been talking about all year: water. There’s not enough of it! Or maybe we just don’t know what to do with the water we’ve got? There are a lot of challenges facing Colorado when it comes to water, and this episode is a great place to start understanding them on a deeper level. You can learn more about The Institute of Science and Policy at institute.dmns.org . And to access more podcast episodes, along with additional content, go to LawsOfNotion.org . Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 16, 2022
AG Takes On Grocery Giants, Cage-Free Eggs, and DQ Hot Takes
The cost of groceries is too damn high! And it could be going even higher, based on the reporting from our guest for this week’s news round-up. Denver Post reporter Megan Ulu-lani Boyanton joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser’s look into the local impacts of the proposed $25 billion Albertson’s/Kroger merger, the old law driving up the price of eggs, Dairy Queen, and more. Plus, Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia joins us to pick our Official Maybe For Your Weekend, because as usual, she’s got lots of great ideas for cool stuff happening across the city in today’s Hey Denver newsletter. Here are Megan’s stories on Kroger/Albertson’s and AG Weiser , and the new regulations on eggs. Here are the stories we thought went overlooked this week: Megan - “ From heart disease to IUDs: How doctors dismiss women’s pain ” Bree -” Certain Denver Parks Warn Adults Without Children to Stay Away ” Paul - “ Scientists Achieve Nuclear Fusion Breakthrough With Blast of 192 Lasers ” Subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 15, 2022
A Secretive Mozzarella Dynasty Unravels in Court
An astounding 85% of all pizza cheese is supplied by the Denver-based company Leprino Foods , which is controlled by one man, the reclusive billionaire James “Jim” Leprino. But that’s pretty much all we knew about Leprino until recently, when his nieces took him to court and forced the family’s billion-dollar succession drama into the public record. Producer Paul Karolyi sits down with reporter Helen Xu (also known as Helen X), who was in the courtroom for Westword , to share previously unknown details about how Leprino cornered the mozzarella market, his humble origins in his father’s Northside Italian market, and the inner workings of one of Denver’s most fascinating and secretive companies. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 14, 2022
How Colorado Plans to Bring Back Gray Wolves
In a highly controversial vote two years ago, Coloradans narrowly approved a proposal to reintroduce wolves to the state. But a breakdown of the vote revealed the more complicated challenge ahead: urban voters, who may not have direct interactions with the wolves, overwhelmingly said yes, while rural voters — like ranchers, who have concerns about livestock safety — tended to skew against the measure. So how is this actually going to work? Colorado Parks and Wildlife released a draft of their plan to reintroduce wolves last week, and today CPR reporter Sam Brasch joins host Bree Davies to talk about the vote, the plan, and why scientists think it’s a good idea to bring these deadly predators back to Colorado. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 13, 2022
What Denverites Get Wrong about Colorado Springs
While Colorado Springs is still dealing with the aftermath of the Club Q shooting, there’s something else that’s clung to the city in a negative way: its reputation as a conservative, fundamentalist Christian stronghold that espouses strong anti-LGBTQ beliefs. That stereotype has never defined it for the people who actually live there, though — and now that the world is looking at Colorado’s second largest city, many in the community want to challenge what those outside the Springs think they know about this special place. Today on the show, Representative-elect Stephanie Vigil — who will be representing the district where Club Q is located — joins host Bree Davies to talk about the vibrant, creative, and diverse community that they say defines the city they know. We talked about the Ted Haggard and the New Life Church , which was rocked by scandal in the early 2000s. Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866] Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver We’re looking for your hot springs recommendations! Leave us a voicemail with your name, neighborhood, and favorite mineral pool and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 12, 2022
Why Didn’t Colorado’s Red Flag Law Stop The Club Q Shooting?
The alleged shooter who opened fire inside Club Q last month, killing five people, had prior run-ins with law enforcement, including reportedly threatening members of his own family with a homemade bomb. It would seem to be a textbook scenario for use of Colorado’s red flag law to prevent the purchase of weapons used in the attack. But that didn’t happen — and that’s left many wondering if ordering those weapons to be confiscated would have saved lives. Today on the show, Colorado Sun reporter Jesse Aaron Paul talks with host Bree Davies about the complexities of red flag laws, and what’s next in the ongoing legislative fight to stem gun violence. Follow Jesse Paul’s reporting on the Club Q shooting in The Colorado Sun . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 09, 2022
Colorado Healing Fund Backlash, Our Parking Paradox, and a S'mores-gasbord
It’s another Friday news roundup! This week, podcaster and cannabis expert Ann Marie Awad joins producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to dig through local stories big and small. First, the crew discusses the recent controversy around the Colorado Healing Fund and talk about “solidarity not charity” models of giving, like mutual aid networks. Then, Paul, Ann Marie, and Bree dig into a highly controversial listener question about parking in central Denver. Finally, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia pulls up to the table to bring us her top four picks for the Official City Cast Denver Maybe For Your Weekend! Bree mentioned the recent RTD customer satisfaction survey results. Ann Marie and Bree mentioned several mutual aid networks, support programs, and food access organizations in the metro area: Denver Community Fridges Rocky Mountain Mutual Aid Network Denver Food Rescue Snow Angels - snow removal And here’s the piece Bree wrote about how mutual aid works Folks looking for an alternative to the Colorado Healing Fund can support Club Q survivors through this GoFundMe , set up by Good Judy Garage . Here are the events Peyton proposed for our Official Maybe For Your Weekend: Festival de Tamale y Atole - Westwood (who is definitely NOT paying Peyton ;) ) Ugly sweater contest at Park Meadows Mall Xmas movie night - Grounds for Dismissal Coffee + s’mores board - Aurora 37th Annual Children’s Hospital Toy Drive - Aurora Sports Park Find even more cool events every week - subscribe to our newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. For updates from on the construction at the Central Library, check here: https://www.denverlibrary.org/central-library-bond-updates . Follow us on Twitter @citycastd
Thu, December 08, 2022
Is SCOTUS About to Alter CO's Anti-Discrimination Laws?
Ten years after Lakewood baker Jack Phillips refused to bake a cake for a gay wedding, a similar case went before the Supreme Court this week — yet again involving a Denver-area professional refusing to serve same-sex couples. But the make-up of the court is very different, and the outcome is anyone’s guess. CPR’s justice reporter Allison Sherry was in Washington this week to hear oral arguments, and she’s on today with host Bree Davies to break down the case — what’s at stake for our civil rights laws and why Coloradans keep bringing this type of case. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 07, 2022
The Restaurants We Couldn’t Live Without This Year
Denver lost so many restaurants to the pandemic — RIP Racines, To The Wind, Tables, Piatti, etc. — but there are great new spots popping up all the time and plenty of old favorites going strong! So we’re looking back at a killer year in Denver dining with Westword’s food editor Molly Martin, who just published her annual list of 100 restaurants we can’t live without. Is the food hall trend floundering? Do celebrity chefs have any cache left in Mile High? And what’s behind the rise of the bakery/restaurant? Molly’s got her finger on the pulse and her eyes on the menu. Restaurants Molly specifically mentioned: El Taco de Mexico (Santa Fe.) Sam’s No. 3 (Glendale, Aurora, Downtown) Bakery Four (Tennyson St.) Bánh & Butter Bakery Cafe (East Colfax) Bourbon Grill (Uptown) Oak at Fourteenth (Boulder) Corrida (Boulder) Three Saints Revival (Downtown) The Wolf’s Tailor (Sunnyside) Blazing Chicken Shack (Park Hill) Hits the Spot (Lakewood) Poppie’s (University Hills) Mama Lolita’s (Broomfield) Stone Cellar Bistro (Arvada) Denver Central Market (RiNo) Apple Blossom (Downtown) Bodega (Valverde) Bree and Molly also discussed the ups and downs of food halls, including the recent change-up at Zeppelin Station, and the latest celebrity chef to open a new spot in Denver, Ludo Lefebvre . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 </
Tue, December 06, 2022
Your Guide to Holiday Fun
Sure, Denverites love the Parade of Lights and the tree lighting at Union Station. But what else is there to do here during the holiday season? Today on the show, host Bree Davies is joined by newsletter editor Peyton Garcia for a rundown of some of the best Christmas-y things to do, see, and eat in the Mile High. From pop-up bars and holiday markets to tamale tastings and visits with Santa, we’ve got a variety of seasonal recommendations to fill your December calendar and make the yuletide great! Stuff we mentioned: Christkindl Market at Civic Center Park (Plus, Peyton mentioned this list of first-timers tips) Denver Zoo Lights Camp Christmas (Listen to Bree’s tour with director Lonnie Hanzon from last year) Holiday Tea at Hotel Boulderado Miracle , the Christmas cocktail pop-up Festival Del Tamal Y Atole For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 05, 2022
How Looters and Liars Propped Up the Denver Art Museum
The Denver Post published a blockbuster three-part investigation last week, unveiling the spokes of an international criminal conspiracy with Denver as a key hub — the Denver Art Museum, in fact. Their fifth floor Bunker Gallery is so-named for Emma C. Bunker, “The Scholar,” as she was known in court papers connected to the scheme. From her Denver home, she validated and elevated the false claims of Douglas Latchford, an art dealer and collector who trafficked in priceless relics looted from southeast Asia. Producer Paul Karolyi talks to reporter Sam Tabachnik , who investigated the story for more than a year, including on the ground in Cambodia and Thailand. Paul mentioned the new venue for Frozen Dead Guy Days and Denver’s laudatory efforts to replace lead water pipes. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 02, 2022
Club Q Fallout, Indigenous School Protest, and World Cup Watch Spots
What does it mean to have a safe space? We tackle that question from two different directions in this week’s Friday news round-up. First, Club Q’s owner has pledged to re-open after the mass shooting left 5 dead and 22 injured less than two weeks ago. Will it still be a respite for the LGBTQ community of Colorado Springs? And second, dozens of parents and students from Athmar Park’s American Indian Academy of Denver — a charter school rooted in indigenous values — flooded the Denver Public Schools board meeting on Monday to protest the possible closure of their school. But should it stay open right where it is? Public radio veteran and fan favorite guest Jo Ann Allen returns to break it all down with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi . Plus, Hey Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia joins us to pick our official Maybe for your weekend. Jo Ann mentioned this episode of her excellent podcast Been There Done That with Mia Yamamoto. For more on the American Indian Academy of Denver, guest host Avery Lill and former CCD producer Xandra McMahon visited the school and talked to its founder almost exactly one year ago. Are you feeling the holiday spirit? Help us get in the mood! Leave us a voicemail with your name, neighborhood, and favorite Denver holiday tradition, and you might hear it on the show soon. Our number is 720-500-5418 . Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866, and check out today’s newsletter for Peyton’s list of spots to watch the USMNT take on the Netherlands at the World Cup on Saturday. Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 01, 2022
How Libertarians Shaped Colorado (And Still Do)
The Libertarian Party celebrates its 51st birthday next week — that’s 51 years pushing a fiscally conservative, socially liberal agenda. And the party’s origins trace back to a living room in the Denver suburbs — Westminster! — when a group of people fed up with the Nixon administration imagined a different way. Their message has shaped Colorado in many ways in the decades since, but why was Colorado the perfect place for this political ideology to be born? And is Governor Jared Polis really a secret Libertarian? Today on the show, author and former party leader Ari Armstrong joins host Bree Davies to talk about Libertarianism’s impact on local and national politics, why Colorado became the birthplace of this movement, and more. Read Ari’s work on his website . Here’s the interview with party founder David Nolan: https://lpedia.org/wiki/Document:Memoir_2001_David_Nolan_Reflects_on_the_Libertarian_Party_on_its_30th_Anniversary Looking for more Denver news you can use? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Denver, by texting “Denver” to 66866 You can also find us on Twitter: @CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 30, 2022
Is This a Mayor’s Race or a Clown Car?
With no fewer than 20 declared candidates, the race to be Denver’s next mayor seems to be getting more crowded by the day. And more of those candidates might have a fighting chance this year, thanks to the new Fair Elections Fund , which matches certain campaign contributions with public money. But there’s only so much money available, and some of the requirements could make this election in particular a bit unwieldy. Producer Paul Karolyi talks with Westword editor Patty Calhoun about what she’s seen in 45 years of covering mayoral elections and if this fund is, indeed, a game-changer, as some have called it. Find out more about the Fair Elections Fund and its ramifications in this article from Westword. Paul mentioned James Leprino, the reclusive pizza cheese billionaire who hasn’t been photographed in public since 1978. His family is in court this week fighting over his billions , and if you want to learn more, the only interview we could find was with Forbes in 2017: “ This Secretive Billionaire Makes the Cheese For Pizza Hut, Domino’s and Papa John’s ” For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 29, 2022
Why Chicano Theater Still Matters in Denver’s Changing Westside
It’s a milestone year for Su Teatro , the 50-year-old Westside institution and third-oldest Chicano theater in the country. They’re also close to paying off the mortgage on their building, cementing their place in a part of town that has seen so much change — and displacement — over the years. Host Bree Davies sits down with Su Teatro’s Executive Artistic Director Tony Garcia to hear the story of how Su Teatro came to be and why their mission is still important. Starting this weekend, Su Teatro is bringing their acclaimed play “The Westside Oratorio” back to the stage. Learn more and buy tickets at http://suteatro.org/the-westside-oratorio/ Paul mentioned the indictments in connection with the killing of Christian Glass. He also talked about the World Cup, which would be great to watch at these local spots recommended by our pals at Westword. Subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 and learn more at https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Youth on Record’s Underground at the Showcase podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 28, 2022
Is Denver a Fashion Disaster?
Whether you’re celebrating Cyber Monday today or thinking about a wardrobe refresh for the new year, it’s time to talk fashion. Do Denverites have style? Do Crocs, cargo pants, a puffer jacket, and a cowboy hat count as fashion? LA-based designer Lil Fresh Sam grew up in Denver and now styles superstars like Doja Cat and Method Man. She sits down with host Bree Davies to talk about about finding her style in a fashion-challenged Denver, how she’s styling mayoral candidate Leslie Herod, and whether or not Denverites have style. Looking for great local charities and nonprofits to support on Giving Tuesday tomorrow? We rounded up a list of our favorites in today’s edition of our newsletter Hey Denver , which you can subscribe to by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 23, 2022
DIA Hacks + Your Craziest Edibles Stories
It’s been a difficult week in Colorado, as the nation reels from yet another mass shooting — this time apparently targeting the LGBTQ community at Club Q in Colorado Springs. So we’re taking a break from the news to have some fun. Host Bree Davies , producer Paul Karolyi , and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia swap tips for surviving DIA this holiday season. Then, producer Erin O’Toole shares your craziest edibles stories and we pick a winner to receive a private dinner with world-class cannabis chef Jarod Farina, AKA Chef Roilty . Programming Note: We’re taking the rest of the week off for Thanksgiving, so City Cast Denver won’t be back in your podcast feed until Monday morning. For even more DIA hacks, Peyton rounded up a bunch of reader-submitted ideas in our newsletter Hey Denver . And don’t miss today’s newsletter to see that pic of Emily N. You can subscribe to Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Bree also mentioned Westword editor Patty Calhoun’s 2017 articles about the “Interior Garden” art piece at DIA. Learn more about DIA’s food delivery service , therapy animal program , and other things to do at DIA . A few airport restaurant recs from the team: Root Down La Casita Shake Shack Voodoo Doughnut Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise <
Tue, November 22, 2022
Is a Housing Solution Hiding in Colfax’s Many Old Motels?
Everyone knows Denver’s got a housing shortage — but so many proposed fixes seem too expensive, too controversial, or just too out of reach. So what if we took some of the city’s existing structures and turned them into, well, places for people to live? That’s what Monica Martinez and The Fax Partnership decided to do when they bought two dilapidated old motels on East Colfax. These vestiges of a time when Route 40 was a tourism paradise have since become makeshift affordable housing — but Monica hopes her organization can bring stability, upgrades, and eventually, more housing to these properties. Monica joins host Bree Davies to explain why, as executive director of an East Colfax-centered non-profit, she chose to take on the housing crisis, one motel at a time. Bree also mentioned this Denverite report on Denver Rescue Mission. For the latest affordable housing developments and other news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 As of this writing, we are (were?) still on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Youth on Record’s Underground at the Showcase podcast Mental Health with Marielle Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 21, 2022
Another Mass Shooting Rocks Colorado's LGBTQ Community
Shortly before midnight on Saturday, November 19, a 22-year-old armed with a semi-automatic weapon entered one of Colorado Springs’ few LGBTQ+ nightclubs, Club Q, and opened fire on the crowded dance floor, killing 5 people and injuring at least 25. The attack comes after Colorado Republicans, including gubernatorial candidate Heidi Ganahl, deployed increasingly anti-queer rhetoric in the lead-up to the midterm elections earlier this month. Journalist Heidi Beedle reports on far-right extremism for the Colorado Times Recorder and was on the ground covering the aftermath of the shooting on Sunday. She sits down with host Bree Davies to talk through what happened over the weekend and the connections she sees with the increase in anti-queer rhetoric around the election. Our friends at CPR have put together a list of resources and ways to help out the victims of the shooting: https://www.cpr.org/2022/11/20/colorado-springs-club-q-shooting-resources-how-to-help/ Find more of Heidi’s reporting here: https://coloradotimesrecorder.com/author/heidi-beedle/ We'll be covering the aftermath of the Club Q shooting in our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver , which you can subscribe to by texting Denver to 66866. Share your thoughts! Just leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Mental Health with Marielle Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 18, 2022
Does Denver Hate Hip-Hop? Plus, El Chapultepec's Future and Daddy Bruce's Thanksgiving Legacy
When city officials threatened to shut down yet another hip-hop club late last week — this time Roo-Bar Lounge at 3480 Park Avenue West — co-owner Jugurta Tighrine made a provocative allegation: “They don’t want hip-hop.” And in a city that has never made waves on the national hip-hop stage, we take on a big question: Does Denver have a hip-hop problem? Longtime promoter and champion of the local music scene Ru Johnson joins host Bree “Coco” Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to offer an insider’s take. Then we tackle a doozy of a listener-submitted question and hear from Councilwoman Candi CdeBaca on this weekend’s annual Feed-a-Family event in honor of “Daddy” Bruce Randolph and Rev. Ron Wooding. Wanna volunteer or donate to support the Daddy Bruce Feed-a-Family Thanksgiving drive this weekend? Here’s the link to volunteer for a shift , and here’s the link to donate . For the latest on the Boebert-Frisch race in CD3, here’s a report from last night from the Colorado Sun . Subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Mental Health with Marielle Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 17, 2022
Possible School Closures Cast DPS Into Turmoil
With enrollment declining across Denver Public Schools and funding as scarce as ever, Superintendent Alex Marrero has thrust the highly dysfunctional DPS board into a controversial and traumatic debate over school closures. Parents, students, and activists are up in arms over his proposed “consolidations,” and for many board members, the issue is personal — past school closures motivated them to run for the board in the first place. So will the board approve his list of closures or somehow find another way out of this mess? Host Bree Davies talks to producer Paul Karolyi about how the district got into this situation; then she sits down with DPS board member Michelle Quattlebaum to talk about about why she’s approaching this vote differently than any other she’s cast before. For more on the proposed closures, check out our friend at Chalkbeat Melanie Asmar’s recent reporting . For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Mental Health with Marielle Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 16, 2022
The Only Brunches Worth Waiting For
How long would you wait in line for a killer mimosa and huevos rancheros? What about a great bloody mary and a stack of pancakes? One of Denver’s most divisive brunch chains, Snooze, is opening a new location at 101 N Broadway this week, so we’re talking all things brunch. Host Bree Davies , producer Paul Karolyi , and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia are breaking down the best simple brunches, brunches for big groups, vegetarian brunches, and the big kahuna: What’s the best brunch in Denver? Brunch spots mentioned in this episode: Snooze Rupert’s at the Edge Pete’s Kitchen Bob’s Diner Village Coffee Shop Lookin' Good Restaurant and Lounge Zaidy’s Deli & Bakery Mercury Cafe The Broadmoor The Empress Star Kitchen City, O’ City Watercourse Foods The Wooden Spoon Syrup Breakfast on Broadway The Cookery at Myrtle Hill Denver Biscuit Company Lucile’s Creole Cafe Dozens For even more brunch, check out this piece from the Denver Post about the recent surge in brunch options around Denver. And for all the Snooze-heads out there, here’s a great article from Denver Eater on how they cracked the brunch code . Subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: <a hr
Tue, November 15, 2022
How to Make Better Edibles
The holidays are right around the corner. Wouldn’t it be fun if you could add a little something extra to your turkey and mashed potatoes… you know, like weed? Colorado’s decade of recreational weed has ushered in a growing movement of ambitious cannabis chefs — experts who have found new, interesting, and tasty ways to marry fine dining and fine bud. Today on the show, decorated culinary champ Jarod Farina of Chef Roilty cooks up a game-changer for the City Cast Denver crew. Farina explains how to easily make edibles at home, how to dose your meals properly, and answers our burning question: did he get Bobby Flay high on TV or what? Plus! We’re giving away a night of in-home fine dining with Chef Farina! All you have to do is leave us a voicemail with your worst edibles experience, and you will be entered to win a private dinner for four with a decorated cannabis chef — a $500 value. Call 720-500-5418 and tell us your worst weed-eating story. Deadline to enter is midnight on November 20, 2022. But if you don’t want to risk it, you can book Chef Farina through his website and peruse his various how-to guides there too. Check out Hey Denver, our weekday local-centric newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Mental Health with Marielle Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 14, 2022
Mayoral Candidate Terrance Roberts Is More Than ‘A Former Gang Member’
“The Holly” debuted at the Denver Film Festival earlier this month and caught a lot of local attention. Based on a book by investigative journalist Julian Rubinstein, “The Holly” centers on Terrance Roberts, a former gang member who left that life behind and returned to his Park Hill neighborhood to work as a community activist. But things went sideways and Roberts found himself targeted in an alleged conspiracy involving Denver police and local government officials. The book and the documentary have generated a lot of interest over the last year, only to be made more fascinating when Roberts announced his candidacy for mayor . Regular contributor Theo Wilson also grew up in Park Hill, and met Roberts through various community circles. He joins host Bree Davies to talk about what makes Terrance Roberts such a compelling mayoral candidate. Bree mentioned this earlier City Cast Denver episode with Terrance Roberts himself and author Julian Rubinstein. Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 Hi, we’re on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Mental Health with Marielle Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 11, 2022
Boebert on the Brink, Legal 'Shrooms, and Native Comedy
Election day might be over, but Colorado’s still reckoning with some big decisions voters made this midterm, annnnd we have questions: What’s going to happen with Congressional District 3, where MAGA darling Lauren Boebert is in a shockingly close race with Democrat Adam Frisch? And what about the decriminalization of psychedelics? This is the beginning of what could be a massive industry, but will it even be commercialized in the first place? And does our back-to-back NBA MVP Nikola Jokić have a role in our electoral outcome? Producer Paul Karolyi , host Bree Davies and Westword editor-in-chief Patty Calhou n tackle all these questions and more, plus some special hot takes from some of City Cast Denver’s favorite contributors. Paul mentioned the city’s new Business Facade Improvement Program , the Colorado Sun’s oral history of the fight for legal weed ten years ago, and Westword’s interview with indigenous comic Josh Emerson about the Native Comedy Showcase at the Hi Dive this Sunday. Get more deets on the City Cast Denver official “maybe” event of the week (as in maybe we’ll be there!) in editor Peyton Garcia’s newsletter, Hey Denver ! You can also subscribe by texting DENVER to 66866. We are definitely still on Twitter, ‘til that ship sinks: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 11, 2022
EMERGENCY POD: Is Lauren Boebert Losing?
Like so many other Coloradans, we are watching with bated breath as the race for Colorado’s Congressional District 3 goes down to the wire. We never saw it coming, but it seems like MAGA celebrity congresswoman Lauren Boebert could actually lose. Ballots are still trickling in from across the southern and western Colorado, so host Bree Davies called up Pueblo Chieftain politics reporter Anna Lynn Winfrey , who has been camped out at the Pueblo Clerk and Recorder’s office reporting on what could turn out to be the upset of the year. Check out Anna Lynn Winfrey’s coverage of the CD3 race for the Pueblo Chieftain. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 10, 2022
Your Questions on Coffee, Tipping, and the Megadrought
Are the baristas at Thump really rude, or is there more going on with Denver’s coffee scene than we realized? Our episode on the best (and worst) coffee shops in the city really struck a nerve with our listeners, and today on the show we’re sharing some of those responses, as well as other questions and comments you all had on Denver’s recent bout of “tipping fatigue” and Denver’s role in the West’s water crisis. Catch up on our recent episodes on coffee, tipping and water: Roasted! Denver’s Best (And Worst) Coffee Shops Should Tipping Have a Place in Our New Normal? ‘Tipping Fatigue’ Hits Denver These Service Industry Vets Have Choice Words For Your ‘Tipping Fatigue’ Could Denver Run Out of Water? Is Denver Hoarding Water? Water Woes in the ‘Burbs, Touchdown Trouble at Mile High In his voicemail, Nate mentions these five coffee shops as Denver’s best: Sweet Bloom , MiddleState , Corvus , Little Owl , and Huckleberry . Here’s the New York Times article on Illegal Pete’s that we talked about. Bree mentioned this explainer about why “hipster coffee” tastes sour. Also, here’s the Denver Post article we mentioned about the closing of Amethyst Coffee this fall. And don’t miss our conversation last year with Elle Taylor, the shop’s co-owner. Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with
Wed, November 09, 2022
How Denver Voted
The midterm elections were tight across the country, but the Democrats held their ground in Colorado, with Governor Jared Polis and Senator Michael Bennet cruising to reelection yesterday. But what about the other important state offices, ballot measures, and all those local ballot initiatives — sidewalks, eviction defense, recycling, library funding, etc.? The City Cast Denver crew was up late to bring you the results and context for what’s to come. For a full breakdown of all the latest results, we’ve got you covered in our newsletter Hey Denver : https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Got something to say about the election results? We’ll be talking more about the fallout from this one, so leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 . Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 08, 2022
The Many Sex Rooms of Denver
When “ How to Build a Sex Room ” premiered on Netflix in July, it took the home renovation reality show formula to an entirely new, R-rated place. Oh, and it was filmed almost entirely in Denver with local couples! With its screening at the Denver Film Festival this month sparking new conversations about the show and the many diverse sexual proclivities of Denverites, we decided to bring some of these conversations to the podcast. Today, producer Erin O’Toole talks with the show’s executive producers Scott Feeley and Corinna Robbins about why they filmed here, what the reception has been so far, and what exactly a sex room is. Go vote! Subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 07, 2022
Cold Weather Camping: It’s Not That Bad!
As the weather changes and we turn toward our favorite snowy outdoor activities, camping is often left out of the picture. But beyond skiing, snowboarding, and maybe snowshoe trekking, have you ever considered pitching a tent in the high country during the winter months? Patricia Cameron — writer and executive director of Blackpackers — thinks you should. Coming off a trip to Alaska where she camped on a glacier, the outdoor expert returns to the show to talk with host Bree Davies about why camping in the snow can be fun (and actually isn’t that much different than sleeping in the great outdoors any other time of year!). Patricia mentioned this winter camping guide she wrote a few years ago for the Denver Post. Bree promised some last-minute help finding your nearest polling place and ballot drop-off . Looking for more resources on the ballot issues? Check out the Hey Denver newsletter, which you can subscribe to by texting DENVER to 66866. We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 04, 2022
Campaign Blunders, Transphobic Mailers, and More Midterm Mania
It’s the Friday before Election Day, and all through the state, every political creature is stirring — donkey, elephant, and mouse. So you know we’re talking all things Colorado politics — and not Christmas (it’s too early, Bree, if you read this). Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi and City Cast Denver state politics correspondent Justine Sandoval to discuss which ballot issues we’re keeping an eye on and which candidates are saying the weirdest things. Plus, Justine talks about the transphobic mailers many (assumed) Spanish-speaking households in Colorado received, and what issues might not be “on” the ballot this election, but are playing a part in how we’re voting. Still looking for guidance on how to vote on the psychedelics measure we talk about? Check out our four-part series “Ballot Trip” on the push to decriminalize across the state. Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 03, 2022
A Skeptic's Guide to Immersive Everything
Between David Byrne’s “Theater of the Mind” and Immersive Dalí , the hottest trend in Denver art is the immersive experience. But all these shows are so different! And too many of them feel like cash grabs. At least, that’s how they look to host Bree Davies, a bonafide immersive skeptic. So we called up Dr. David Thomas , AKA the “Professor of Fun,” who also happens to be co-founder of Immersive Denver , to make the case for this new art form. If you haven’t heard our first episode with Professor of Fun David Thomas breaking down why Casa Bonita is fun, don’t miss it! Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 02, 2022
Your Guide to Denver’s Ballot Measures
As usual, there’s a lot on the Denver ballot this year. We’re voting on everything from library funding to expanding recycling and composting across the city — but what, exactly would any of these measures do? Ballot language is notoriously cumbersome and vague, so today on the show, producer Paul Karolyi sits down with host Bree Davies to break down a few key decisions voters will make on this year’s Denver municipal ballot. They’ll cover Initiated Ordinances 305, 306, and 307, along with Referred Questions 2I, 2J, 2K, and 2L. For more on the ballot, check out Monday’s edition of our newsletter Hey Denver , where editor Peyton Garcia rounds up a bunch of great resources on local and statewide issues PLUS shares links to our past episodes where we chat with folks and organizations behind some of Denver’s initiatives. (Or just subscribe to Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866!) Find us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 01, 2022
How Colorado Became a Haven For Jam Bands
It’s no secret: Colorado loves the Grateful Dead… and all the jam bands that formed in the shadow of the influential group (see: String Cheese Incident, Leftover Salmon, and Yonder Mountain String Band, just to name a few!) But a band is nothing without the fans. So why has this place become such a haven for Deadheads? In advance of founding Grateful Dead member Bob Weir’s back-to-back shows at Mission Ballroom this weekend, host Bree Davies talks with CPR host and reporter Vic Vela — a self-professed Deadhead — about the band’s lasting impact on our state. Check out Vic’s podcast, Back From Broken , where he talks with others working through substance use disorders and mental health issues. Bree mentioned the recent troubles at Sancho’s Broken Arrow, the Grateful Dead-themed bar on Colfax. For more, don’t miss our episode last summer about the sexual assault allegations facing Sancho’s former owner Jay Bianchi: “ Denver’s Jam Band Scene Has an Ugly Open Secret ” Read and subscribe to Hey Denver, our weekday newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Were you at that Dead show at City Park in the 60s? Tweet us @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, October 31, 2022
A New Indigenous Mystery Finds Horror in Old Denver
A search for clues at Lakeside Amusement Park. A clandestine meeting at Union Station. A round of putt-putt through an old motel. These are scenes from Erika T. Wurth’s new indigenous literary horror novel “White Horse,” which sends readers on a fast-paced mystery across Old Denver and beyond. The Apache/Chickasaw/Cherokee author joins host Bree Davies to talk about how she built this literary horror-mystery hybrid from her own experience growing up as an urban Indian around Idaho Springs, and why she chose to take on the gilded legend of The Stanley Hotel — and add her own mythical, indigenous twist to it. "White Horse” goes on sale tomorrow, and Erika will be speaking and reading from book in Denver twice this week: 5:30 p.m., Nov. 1, Meow Wolf Denver (1338 1st St.) 6:00 p.m., Nov. 3, Tattered Cover on Colfax (2526 E. Colfax Ave.) Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 What do you think is the creepiest place in Denver? Tweet at us @citycastdenver Got any last-minute questions about your ballot before election day next week? Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and we might answer your question on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 28, 2022
Ghost Stories, Haunted Houses, and Your Halloweekend
Ladies and gentlemen, it's the Halloweekend! So we invited the biggest Halloween freak we could find — host Bree Davies’ friend Thad Mighell, who is also co-curator of Understudy — to swap some of Colorado’s spookiest stories and talk about our favorite local haunted houses. Along with newsletter writer Peyton Garcia and producer Erin O’Toole, the crew talks murders most foul, hauntings, and tales of ghosts you might encounter right here in the city. Plus, Thad gives us some expert recs on the best haunted house attractions in the Mile High so you can plan your spooky, scary weekend! Peyton mentioned Philip Jett’s book about the Adolph Coors murder, The Death of an Heir, which came out in 2017. Subscribe to Hey Denver , our kickass weekday morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) HeyDenver.org - a queer-focused sexual health nonprofit Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 27, 2022
All Treats, No Tricks As Denver Gears Up for 2022 Midterms
With the November 8 midterms just around the corner, some voters are feeling anxious about election security. And others are more worried about all the ghosts, ghouls, vampires, and all the other monsters that are emboldened this time of year. So today on the show, Denver’s Clerk and Recorder Paul López sits down with host Bree Davies to make the case for why voting in Denver is among the easiest and most secure in the country — and why you’re way more likely to come face-to-face with an actual ghost than election fraud. If you have questions about the election, take Clerk López’s advice and make your first stop denvervotes.org . Subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. But that’s only if you want more news, cool events, and awesome things to do around Denver delivered to your inbox every weekday morning. Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 26, 2022
Could Denver Get Swept Up in Another Election Conspiracy?
“If we do not stand up when they go to steal the election, our country is over. It’s over.” That’s what local conservative provocateur Joe Oltmann said on his podcast earlier this week in response to a segment about Denver-based Dominion Voting Systems on 60 Minutes. So yes, Tina Peters lost her primary to become the GOP’s nominee for secretary of state, but the Big Liars are still here, and they’re still lying about the outcome of the 2020 election. Westword editor Patty Calhoun has been obsessed with Colorado's connections to the Big Lie, and she’s on with host Bree Davies to break down all the lies they’re already telling about the 2022 midterms. Bree mentioned Oltmann’s suggestion that conservatives throw “ballot box parties” and our episode with Coffee at the Point owner Ryan Cobbins about the predatory development scandal he has been dealing with on Welton St. Patty mentioned the page on Dominion’s website where they’ve been debunking conspiracy theories. For more election news, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866. Are you a Twitter person? Follow us @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 25, 2022
The Wizard’s Chest Overflows with Halloween Inspiration
It’s that time of the year again, when Spirit Halloween pop-ups fill all the empty box stores around Denver, hawking mass-produced costumes and cheap plastic decorations. But Denver also has a handful of quirky, unique costume shops, too! Host Bree Davies loves The Wizard’s Chest on South Broadway, so today we’re taking a swing through the racks with one of their costume experts to get some inspiration, her take on the hottest trends, and professional advice before the festivities this weekend. Some links to the other great, local costume shops that Sophie mentioned: Reinke Bros. Disguises Fun Services Bree talked about the Denver Post’s report that Welton St. Cafe is working on a big new remodeled space at 2883 Welton St. Check out our episode on the soul food staple for more. For even more Halloween fun this week, subscribe to our newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Have you ever had a Denver-themed costume? Tell us about it on Twitter or, even better, share pics and tag us @citycastdenver ! Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Denver Film Festival (11/2 - 11/13) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, October 24, 2022
Service Industry Vets Have Choice Words For Your 'Tipping Fatigue'
With Denver’s minimum wage set to go up on January 1, we have got our eyes locked on the local dining community. At least one business has preemptively closed . Others are ratcheting up menu prices. And, as we discussed recently , many Denverites are already experiencing tipping fatigue, plunking down less and less of their hard-earned cash on top of new, unclear “service charges.” What is the well-intentioned diner to do? We reached out to the co-hosts of the hilarious 3 Stars Podcast — Brad Kaplan, Samatha Bolte-Woods, and William Phillip Tyler Hutcheson. They are service industry veterans and have lots to say about tipping fatigue, the minimum wage, and those mysterious service charges. Serious, 3 Stars is super fun and funny. Each week, Brad, Samantha, and Bill read yelp reviews for local restaurants and review the reviewers right back. Learn more and subscribe here: http://3starspodcast.com/ For even more news and inside info on dining in Denver, subscribe to our newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Do you have tipping fatigue? Let’s talk on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, October 22, 2022
“The Dearest Field” from Lost Highways
This weekend, we’re proud to present an episode from our friends at History Colorado and their podcast “ Lost Highways: Tales and Investigations from the Shadows of the Rocky Mountains. ” A few weeks ago, we brought you the little-known historical tale of Black homesteaders and The Dry, which has been preserved thanks to some innovative work being done at History Colorado. This episode of “ Lost Highways ” explores another, much better preserved story of Black homesteaders in Colorado and their community near Greeley, called Dearfield. A fourth season of Lost Highways is in production now, with a planned release beginning in January 2023, with eight episodes exploring where the myths and realities of the West converge. They’ll look at the complicated history of western films as propaganda, the vexing management of wild horses, the legacy of the west's first black millionaire among others. Subscribe to Lost Highways wherever you get your podcasts and learn more at HistoryColorado.org . Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 21, 2022
Water Woes in the 'Burbs, Touchdown Trouble at Mile High
Two things seem to be in short supply around Denver these days: water and touchdowns. After signing superstar quarterback Russell Wilson to a five-year $245-million contract over the summer, our beloved Denver Broncos have managed to score only seven touchdowns in six games. Maybe they’re thirsty or something? Castle Rock and Arvada sure are. Like the rest of Colorado, those two Denver suburbs are looking at a dwindling water supply and increasing population — but they’re responding very differently, with a turf ban in Castle Rock and big new connection fees in Arvada. But could there be another way? Denver Post columnist Jo Ann Allen joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to work through our collective growth anxieties and commiserate over the Donkeys. In addition to being one of our favorite guests, Jo Ann is a public radio veteran and the host of the Been There Done That podcast , which tells the real life stories of and by the Baby Boom Generation. Don’t miss her recent episode with Marc Maron! We discussed past guest Michael Booth’s recent piece for the Colorado Sun about new water policies in Arvada and Castle Rock. Subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver a big batch of curated event recs for your weekend. All you’ve got to do is text “Denver” to 66866 What do you think is wrong with the Broncos? Let’s hash it out on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 20, 2022
What’s Up With All the Booze On Our Ballots?
The future of the neighborhood liquor store is at stake in next month’s election, at least if you listen to the owners of neighborhood liquor stores. There are three big state ballot measures each with major implications for alcohol drinkers and sellers alike. But what would these initiatives actually change? Why is DoorDash spending so much money supporting them? And why are those mom-and-pop shops so worried? Colorado Sun politics reporter Jesse Paul is on today with host Bree Davies to break down all the booze on your ballot. For more 2022 election coverage from Jesse Paul and the rest of the Colorado Sun’s politics team, check out their full voter guide , plus more on Proposition 124 , Proposition 125 , and Proposition 126 . Did you hear that Denver’s elections office made a translation error on our ballots? Get the whole story in Hey Denver , our weekday morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Gotta burning election question for Clerk Paul Lopéz? Text it to us or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and we might ask the clerk: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 19, 2022
Can Larimer Square Lure People Downtown Again?
Larimer Square has for decades been a draw for tourists, a nightlife destination, and a place to get a fancy steak dinner. And while the shops, offices, and restaurants populating the storefronts have turned over many times, the turn-of-the-century brickwork, stone masonry, and ornate woodwork have stood the test of time. But the Mile High’s first-ever certified historic district is on the verge of yet another big shift, as longtime tenant Bistro Vendôme joins the list of high-profile departures from the block. Westword Editor-in-Chief Patty Calhoun joins Host Bree Davies to answer the big question: What’s going on with Larimer Square? Patty mentioned Bree smoking at the now-defunct Paramount Cafe — an experience Bree wrote about for Westword more than a decade ago. For a full timeline of the historic preservation efforts around Larimer Square, here’s a write-up from Historic Denver. The man in charge of Denver’s elections, Clerk and Recorder Paul López, is scheduled to be on the show soon. Do you have any questions about the election next month? We’d love to pose your question to the clerk. Send it to us as a text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and we’ll ask him! (720) 500-5418 Subscribe to Hey Denver , our fresh and snappy morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 18, 2022
Is Denver a Pepsi Town?
When Pepsi broke ground last month on a massive, new bottling plant out by DIA, PepsiCo Beverages president of North America’s West Division Johannes Evenblij told CPR : "We're thrilled to call Denver, a city that shares so many of our values, home to PepsiCo's most sustainable U.S. plant location.” So yes, the new plant will be Pepsi’s biggest in North America. And yes, many Denverites love a nice, cold Pepsi. But does Denver share Pepsi’s values? And could Denver be more than just a Pepsi town, but THE Pepsi town? Host Bree Davies sits down with producer Paul Karolyi and Diet Pepsi-lover slash artistic director for the Sie FilmCenter Keith Garcia to hash it out. What do you think? Is Denver a Pepsi town or more of a Coca-Cola place? Tweet at us @citycastdenver or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Bree mentioned the UFCW Local 7’s response to the Kroger/Albertson’s merger. Subscribe to Hey Denver , our awesome morning newsletter, by texting “Denver” to 66866 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, October 17, 2022
Who is Michael Bennet Really?
Local historian Phil Goodstein is an… interesting Denverite. On one hand, he has done more than anyone to document our changing city over the course of dozens of books and his monthly newsletter, The Naysayer. On the other, he’s widely known as Denver’s “crankiest historian” for his radical views and sardonic sense of humor. Producer Paul Karolyi has been interviewing Phil on various topics over the years, and his new book on the history of Denver Public Schools covers Bennet’s time as superintendent. So who better than our anti-establishment historian to tell the story of our senior senator as he’s running for re-election next month? Phil is offering walking tours of Denver’s haunted history throughout the rest of October. Just bring $25 to the east lawn of the Capitol building for a two-hour walking tour on any of the following days: 7-9 p.m.: Oct. 21, 22, 28, and 29 6-8 p.m.: Oct. 31 He’ll also be giving a lecture and signing copies of his new book, “Schools for a New Century,” at 1 p.m. on Sunday, November 6, at Broadway Book Mall (316 S. Broadway) We have a daily newsletter! Sign up for Hey Denver online https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ or by texting DENVER to 66866. Connect with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 14, 2022
Still No Avs on TV, “Camp Hell,” and a Historic Eco-Architect
Denver was abuzz this week with two big celebs in town to mark major milestones: First, Blink-182 lead singer Mark Hoppus was at Ball Arena Wednesday night for the Colorado Avalanche’s home opener, where he led the crowd in the now-traditional singing of his band’s 1999 hit “ All The Small Things .” But the Avs’ owners — the Kroenkes — have let another year pass without a new Comcast deal, leaving the Stanley Cup champs largely off Denverites’ televisions. And second, President Joe Biden made the trek up into the mountains to designate a new national monument at Camp Hale, the historic home of the legendary 10th Mountain Division . So today, host Bree Davies and producers Paul Karolyi and Erin O’Toole are digging into the latest round of the Altitude/Comcast fight and the politics of Camp Hale — plus, a new historic preservation fight brewing in Cherry Creek North. Bree mentioned Michael Paglia’s write-up on the Richard Crowther home for Westword. There’s a bazillion cool things happening in Denver this weekend. To get our curated picks, subscribe to our newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter! We’re at @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 13, 2022
Roasted! Our Picks for Denver's Best (And Worst) Coffee Shops
Summer, spring, winter, fall… every season is coffee season! It’s no secret, Denver has an excellent selection of coffee shops to cater to our every java whim — but which ones are the best? Who serves up the best vibe? Which shop’s food menu is top notch? Which coffee shop in Denver has, uh, the best coffee? Producer Paul Karolyi joins host Bree Davies to chat about some of their fave spots and offer recommendations on the best coffee shops in Denver to get that good good wifi, a great table on the patio, and a perfectly roasted cup of joe. Here are the coffee shops we mentioned: Boyer’s Coffee (I-25 and 270, with distribution all over the city) Dazbog (Various locations) Stella’s (South Pearl) Bardo (South Broadway) Crema (RiNo) Vinh Xuong Bakery (Alameda and Zuni) St. Mark’s Coffeehouse (17th Ave.) Kaladi Coffee Roasters (Various locations) Cultura Chocolate (Morrison Road) Thump (Cap Hill) But we want to hear from you too! What's your favorite coffee shop? Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 We also want to shout out Coffee at the Point, a solid coffee shop in Five Points that is running a GoFundMe to help them re-open. Don’t miss our episode with owner Ryan Cobbins about the predatory development situation on Welton St. that, in part, led him to temporarily close his shop. Did you know we have a newsletter, too? Sign up for Hey Denver by texting DENVER to 66866 We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 12, 2022
Can a New Sand Creek Massacre Exhibit Do Right by the Tribes?
The 1864 Sand Creek Massacre was one of the most horrific moments in Colorado history — hundreds of Cheyenne and Arapaho women, children, and elders were murdered by U.S. soldiers as they camped under a white flag of peace. More than 150 years later, the painful remnants of this brutal mass murder are still fresh for many survivors’ descendants, but they haven’t always been treated respectfully by those in charge of commemorating our state’s history. Host Bree Davies sits down with Westword editor Patricia Calhoun to talk about the story she broke about the last time History Colorado tried to open an exhibit dedicated to the Sand Creek Massacre, in 2012, and the decade of soul-searching that led to the new one opening next month. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland recently dedicated more than 3,000 additional acres of land to become part of the Sand Creek Massacre Historic Site. Almost a decade after the first ill-conceived History Colorado exhibit closed, the museum will open a brand exhibit with support of the tribes next month. We talked extensively about Patty’s 2013 Westword investigation, “ A Century and a Half Later, the Wounds of Sand Creek are Still Fresh” , which looked into History Colorado’s mishandling of its first Sand Creek Massacre exhibit. In the newscast, Bree mentioned Camp Hale — Learn more about the new historic site from our pal, reporter Catie Cheshire at Westword, in this story: ”Five Things Joe Biden Should Know About Camp Hale and Leadville”. Check out our newly redesigned newsletter! Read and subscribe to Hey Denver here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We are on twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://
Tue, October 11, 2022
We Get Lost in David Byrne's "Theater of the Mind"
World-renowned art-rock icon David Byrne is not from Denver. So we were as surprised as anyone when he announced that his mysterious new project, an immersive theater experience rooted in neuroscience, would premiere in the Mile High. “ Theater of the Mind ” has been showing for a few weeks now, and our producers Paul Karolyi (a theater neophyte) and Lizzie Goldsmith (a huge theater lover) have both taken part. So today, host Bree Davies sits down with Paul and Lizzie to talk about their experiences, how the show fits into Byrne’s career arc, and what this high-profile premiere says about the state of immersive theater in Denver right now. For another take on Theater of the Mind, Bree mentioned our pal John Wenzel’s review in the Denver Post. For more of Lizzie’s enthusiastic take on the local theater scene, check out her recent coverage for Westword! We’ve got way more news, helpful info, and cool events in our daily newsletter, which just got a cool new name — Hey Denver ! It’s the perfect time to subscribe and check out our brand new look: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have you seen Theater of the Mind? Let us know what you thought on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 07, 2022
Furrygate 2022: The Governor's Race Goes off the Rails
Incumbent governor Jared Polis is polling way up on his Republican challenger Heidi Ganahl, so she’s looking to gain traction ahead of next month’s election. But was stoking panic about furries in Colorado schools the way to go? Today, host Bree Davies , producer Paul Karolyi, and Westword editor Patty Calhoun dig into the governor’s race and the shocking firing of renowned historian Patty Limerick from CU Boulder’s Center of the American West, which she co-founded 36 years ago. Plus, stick around for the Official City Cast Denver Maybe for your weekend. We mentioned past City Cast Denver guest Jason Blevins’ reporting on the Limerick firing. There are sooooo many cool events happening in Denver this weekend. Find the one for you in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think about #FurryPanic ? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 06, 2022
Does the Great American Beer Fest Still Matter to Beer Lovers?
The streets of Denver are already awash in crisp American lagers, hazy New England IPAs, ultra-tart fruited sours, and the darkest porters, because thousands of brewers and beer lovers are descending on Mile High for the Great American Beer Festival this weekend! After a two-year absence, the country’s biggest celebration of all things beer returns to downtown Denver, but this year it brings an uncomfortable question: Do craft brewers still want a massive fest like this? Host Bree Davies sits down with the Colorado Beer Man himself, Jonathan Shikes , to get some answers. Jonathan is also Entertainment Editor at the Denver Post, where this week he and his colleagues published a few great stories on the return of GABF: GABF turns 40: How Colorado’s biggest beer festival shaped the American craft industry Big beer competitions like GABF could see a major shakeup this year What will fill Falling Rock Tap House’s void during the Great American Beer Festival? For even more from Jonathan on beer, check out his book: “ Denver Beer: A History of Mile High Brewing .” We’ve got plenty of non-beer news you can use in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What’s your current favorite local brewery? Give em a shout out on Twitter and remember to tag us! @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 05, 2022
Inside Chubby’s, the Northside's Green Chile Empire
Fall is here and the chiles are roasting — but at The Original Chubby’s Burger Drive Inn , it’s always green chile season. For more than half a century, the Cordova family has been serving up some of the city’s spiciest and most beloved green chile, smothering everything from burritos and rellenos to burgers and fries. But it turns out, the secret to Chubby’s magic isn’t just heat and spice — it’s a whole culture spawned from the family’s matriarch Stella Cordova. Today on the show, City Cast Denver politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval joins host Bree Davies to give a neighborhood insider’s take on the sprawling Chubby’s family empire and her tips on how to have the best Chubby’s experience. We gleaned a lot of great info on the Cordova family from “ Smothered: The Saga of the Chubby's Empire, ” Adam Cayton-Holland’s 2007 Westword piece (which includes a conversation with the late, great Stella Cordova herself!) Bree mentioned our episode about the global meat giant JBS’s new plant-based subsidiary Planterra. Get even more news, events and useful Denver in our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 04, 2022
Why Roasted Chiles Are Better This Season
Fall is in the air… and by that, we mean the air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of roasting chiles, ready to be bought by the bushel from farmers markets and roadside stands all over the state. But how did this become such a time-honored tradition in Colorado? Today on the show, we’re revisiting our conversation with Ron Morales, whose family has been roasting green chiles in a parking lot at 52nd and Sheridan for almost 30 years. Ron shared his story last October with producer Paul Karolyi and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Morales Family Chile Store . Plus, our producer Lizzie Goldsmith caught up with Ron this week to see how the 2022 chile season is going, and hint: It. is. hot! Get a glimpse of the Morales Family Chile Store in this CBS report from last week. If this episode gets you in the mood to buy some fresh roasted chiles of your own, there’s a helpful list of where to do that at denvergreenchili.com . (But really, all you need to do is stop at the next stand you see on the side of the road!) Bree mentioned a survey from the Denver Public Library, which is taking responses until Oct. 6. Find it here: denverlibrary.org/survey Our newsletter is chock-full of useful news - subscribe here! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tweet us your green chile recipe: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, October 03, 2022
The Far Right Are Among Us Still
A Proud Boy spotted at a Northside supermarket. Local elected officials and law enforcement found on a leaked Oath Keepers email list . Members of the Far Right are still here and more visible than ever. So what is to be done about the white supremacists among us? Our pal Theo Wilson went undercover in the Alt Right a few years ago. ( Maybe you were among the millions to see his TED talk? ) But his thinking has evolved since then. So with another contested election a month away, Theo is on the show today with host Bree Davies to talk it out. Bree mentioned the infamous Denver cop Buster Snyder, who she discussed with historian and comics artist B. Erin Cole on our walking tour of Queer Cap Hill . In the newscast, we mentioned the closing of Japanese restaurant Domo. Former City Cast Denver guest Gil Asakawa wrote a lovely piece on it for Westword. Campaign season is definitely ramping up, and we’ve got lots more politics news in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 30, 2022
The Final Pizza Showdown
The epic conclusion of Pizza Week is here! With our host Bree Davies out with COVID, it’s up to producer and Denver Pizza Podcast co-host Paul Karolyi, newsletter writer and resident foodie Peyton Garcia, and a special guest pizza expert to pick the best pizza in Denver. Will it be the Old Denver champion that’s been slinging New York-style pies for 28 years from the south suburbs? Or the heavily favored Blue Pan Pizza, the best in class of New Denver’s pizza renaissance? There is such thing as life after Pizza Week! Fill your weekend with cool events and happenings with today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think of Megan’s hub-and-spokes pizza theory of Denver pizza? Let us know on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Tattoo Convention (9/29 - 10/2) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 29, 2022
Honey on the Crust: The Plot Thickens
Welcome to Pizza Week: Day 3! What is the deal with all these local pizza parlors offering honey for your crust? That simple question launched producer Paul Karolyi on a five-year quest to the original Beau Jo’s in Idaho Springs and deep into the darkest corners of Denver’s pizza ovens. Today, host Bree Davies teases apart Paul’s complicated relationship with Beau Jo’s and “Colorado-style pizza.” Plus! Paul’s been doing some more reporting since we initially published this episode in April, and he’s got a major update to the story. More police blunders and more pizza in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Do you like to eat your crust with honey? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 28, 2022
Pizza Myths, Mysteries, and Madness
Pizza Week continues! Our producer Paul Karolyi is a certified pizza obsessive, searching low and Mile High for the most tantalizing combinations of cheese, crust, and sauce. But that search has yielded more questions than answers, especially around authenticity and Beau Jo’s , the infamous Front Range pizza chain that trademarked the phrase “Colorado-style pizza.” Today, Paul poses his most vexing pizza questions to local pizza expert Carol Helstosky. She’s a professor of history at the University of Denver, author of “ Pizza: A Global History ,” and fellow traveler on the never-ending quest for perfect pizza. All the pizza places we mentioned today: Marco’s Coal-Fired (LoDo) Domino’s (Various) Pizza Hut (Various) Beau Jo’s (Idaho Springs, etc.) Anthony’s (Various) And today’s listener recs: Pizzeria Leopold (Lakewood) Pizzeria Lui (Lakewood) Cosmo’s Pizza (Various) Carol also has a hot tip for the home pizza chefs out there: “Before you put the pizzas in, when your oven’s as hot as it will go, throw in 3-4 ice cubes. It really makes a difference in the crust.” We’ve got sooooo much more pizza goodness in today’s CCD newsletter, plus some real news and useful info: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us all your deepest, darkest pizza secrets on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Colorado Tattoo Convention (9/30 - 10/2) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 27, 2022
The State of Pizza in Denver is…
Welcome to City Cast Denver’s Pizza Week! We’re kicking off our week-long celebration of (and descent into madness through) Denver’s best crust, sauce, toppings, and cheese with a wide-ranging chat on the precarious position of Denver pizza today. Even before the pandemic, the Mile High City’s pies were wildly underrated, and we think it’s time to stand up and be proud of all the awesome pizza that we have! Westword’s food editor Molly Martin joins host Bree Davies , producer Paul Karolyi , and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia to chew on some local pizza history and lay down a roadmap for Denver’s shining pizza future. Paul mentioned the Denver Pizza Podcast that he co-hosts with his wife Megan Arellano. All the pizza places we mentioned in this episode: Cart Driver (RiNo) Redeemer (RiNo) The Greenwich (RiNo) Joy Hill (South Broadway) Blue Pan Pizza (West Highland, Congress Park) Big Bill’s New York Pizza (Centennial) ShowBiz Pizza (RIP) Little Caesar’s at (Kmart [RIP]; Various other locations are still open. The mascot had his chest hair removed , too.) Domino’s (Various) Anthony’s (Various) Pizza Hut (Various) Carl’s Italian (West Highland) Lechuga’s (Highland, Lakewood) Organ Grinder (RIP) Beau Jo’s (Idaho Springs, etc.) Pizza Pals Playzone (Inside Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station; Designed by Ev
Mon, September 26, 2022
Why Peter Sagal Can't Forget Isabella Thallas’s Murder
On June 10, 2020, Isabella Thallas was out for a walk in the Ballpark neighborhood with her boyfriend Darian Simon and his dog, Rocco. Out of nowhere, Bella — as friends and family called her — was killed and Darian was seriously injured. The couple was shot in broad daylight by a man they had never met. Peter Sagal is the longtime host of NPR’s “Wait! Wait! Don’t Tell Me” and a Chicago resident, but he was so compelled by the lack of coverage of this particular Denver shooting that he decided to write about it himself. Host Bree Davies sits down with Sagal to discuss his recent report for The Atlantic , “Killed For Walking a Dog: The mundanity and insanity of gun death in America.” Bree mentioned the response we got to our recent e-bikes episode from Denver’s Climate Action Office, which operates the city’s wildly popular e-bike rebate program. Here are a couple of key comments from the spokesperson’s response: "I wanted to take a moment and share that our [ Office of Social Equity and Innovation ] team has actually pointed to our agency as an example of how to fold equity into this work, not as an afterthought. We’re pretty proud of that, and of the fact that most of the funding for e-bikes has gone towards the income-qualified program." "Ben Chavez brings up a good point about access, and I think we collectively – in the city and beyond – are thinking about the many ways people need to get around. The Office of Climate Action weighs in on some of the how. E-bikes are a cleaner option and can often replace car trips; we don’t intend for everyone to adopt e-bikes. They are one part of the broader mobility puzzle. We will probably need cars for a good number of decades ahead us (hopefully mostly EVs soon enough), and the driving experience for people who need cars, such as larger families or multigenerational households, should improve as other options emerge." Catch more news from across Colorado in the City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418</stro
Fri, September 23, 2022
What's Better For Unhoused Folks: "Housing First" or Cash?
Has Houston been so good at tackling its homelessness problem that Denver can take a page from its playbook? Last week, a group of local politicians and staff made a trip to Texas to see exactly how the country’s fourth-largest city has housed 25,000 people in the last decade . But while they were out of town, the Mile High was shoved into the spotlight when Fox News got wind of the soon-to-be-launched Denver Basic Income Project , a pilot program that would put cash directly in the hands of Denverites in need. Today on the show, host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi and Westword staff writer Conor McCormick-Cavanagh to dig into these stories and discuss what it all could mean for the future of Denver’s housing situation. Paul mentioned the recent kerfuffle over Douglas County’s approach to homelessness and friend of the show Chris Walker’s recent interview with Councilman Chris Hinds about his trip to learn more about the “Houston model .” Looking for something fun to do this weekend? City Cast Denver newsletter editor Peyton Garcia has you covered. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Tattoo Convention (9/30-10/2) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 22, 2022
Black Pioneers and a New Story of the Old West
Much of who and what has been depicted as Colorado history paints a picture that is not very diverse, let alone accurate. Recently, History Colorado has been on an inward and outward journey of course correction — questioning everything we think we know about how we as a state came to be. Today on the show host Bree Davies talks with Dexter Nelson II , History Colorado’s new associate curator of African American History and Cultural Heritage, about The Dry — a Black homestead that dried up long ago and a story of Black excellence and perseverance in the face of harsh environmental and social conditions. You can learn more about the Black History Trail and download the new History Colorado app . Additional music in this episode is by Jason Shaw and adapted here under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license . 🍕 Calling all pizza freaks! 🍕 We want your hottest takes! 🍕 We're working on something big and very cool. So leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show next week: (720) 500-5418 Get even more news and ideas for your weekend in our daily morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think about The Dry? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 21, 2022
So Much More Than PSLs: Why We Love Fall in Colorado
Fall officially begins this Thursday, September 22. But what makes fall in Colorado so special? How do we celebrate the changing of the seasons? Today on the show, host Bree Davies chats with producer Erin O’Toole and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia about all things fall — from the best drinks to sip to the best corn mazes to explore, and all the ways to really soak in those autumnal feels, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few of the farms, corn mazes, and festivals we’re looking forward to: Pumpkin Harvest Festival , October 8-9 Pumpkin Nights , October 17-November 3 Fritzler Farm Park , through October 30 7th Generation Farm We also mentioned last year’s pumpkin-themed conversation , this interview with scare actor Danielle Look (plus other spooky Halloween tales), and this episode about the Morales family, who have been roasting green chiles for almost 30 years. Peyton has also rounded up some of your comments on our past episodes. Tap into the hot goss by reading and subscribing to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Colorado Tattoo Convention (Sept. 30 - Oct. 2) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 20, 2022
Why the ‘Latino Vote’ is a Big Deal This Year
It’s election season and there’s some big ticket races going down in Colorado. But the one to watch? Congressional District 8. This newly drawn district stretching from Commerce City to Greeley is getting a lot of attention as Democrat Yadira Caraveo and Republican Barbara Kirkmeyer battle for the brand-new seat. But this race is also about representation: The district is home to many voters who identify as Latino and Hispanic, and the race is on to win their votes. But what matters to these voters? Host Bree Davies is joined by City Cast Denver state politics contributor Justine Sandoval to break down the nuances of this voting bloc — and why such an ethnically, culturally, and economically diverse population shouldn’t be treated as a monolith. (Just a note of transparency: Justine is a political strategist who works for various Democratic campaigns, offices, and efforts. The views expressed on City Cast Denver are her own.) A new poll of Colorado Latino voters finds the economy and inflation, gun violence, and climate change are among the issues they find most pressing ahead of the November election. You can read more here . Bree mentioned this article from CPR: Latino voters could be decisive in Colorado’s biggest races, and the campaigns know it Learn all about tarantula migration in La Junta from our weekday newsletter! Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, September 19, 2022
Why Did Police Shoot a Man Who Called Them For Help?
On June 11, 22-year-old Christian Glass called 911. His car had gotten stuck just outside of Silver Plume and he needed help. He told the operator that he was scared. Police responded — and just a few hours later, he was dead. The story came to light again this month when police body camera footage was released, raising new questions about how a man who called 911 himself asking for help ended up dying at the hands of police. Today on the show, host Bree Davies walks through the situation with Colorado Public Radio’s criminal justice reporter Allison Sherry , and talks about the larger implications of what happens when law enforcement approach someone in a mental health crisis. Read Sherry’s latest reporting on Christian Glass’s killing here . We’ve got even more news Denverites are talking about in today’s newsletter. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colorado Tattoo Convention (Sept. 30 - Oct. 2) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, September 17, 2022
A Moment on the Sidewalk with Jonathon Stalls
Earlier this week, Bree sat down for an emotional conversation about walking with Jonathon Stalls, the man behind the wildly popular @pedestriandignity TikTok account and author of a new book, “ Walk: Slow Down, Wake Up, And Connect At 1-3 Miles Per Hour .” His book is full of meditations and visualizations drawing on his experiences walking across Denver, and in this bonus episode we’re proud to share a recording of Jonathon reading one of those visualizations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 16, 2022
Will Hot E-Bike Summer Fizzle Into Cold Car Winter?
The summer of the e-bike is over. Thousands of Denverites are now happily zipping around on these climate-friendly fun machines, thanks to the city’s wildly successful rebate program . But will the energy stick around when Hot E-Bike Summer turns into a wet, cold, snowy winter? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi tested out a couple of e-bikes earlier this week, and today they’re going inside the mind of a Big E-Bike Guy, Westword reporter and friend of the show Conor McCormick-Cavanagh . Also in this episode, you’ll hear a few clips from our ride with past guest Avi Stopper of Bike Streets and MacKenzie Hardt of Hardt Family Cyclery , who generously lent us the bikes and would happily set you up with a test ride for yourself. Paul mentioned Conor’s recent story about the drastic increase in car thefts in Denver, and Conor spoke about his experience buying and riding an e-bike, which he documented here for Westword. Don’t miss Conor’s latest story on self-proclaimed made man and mayoral candidate Valentes Corleons, including those killer photos we talked about. And of course, if you haven’t heard our episode with Conor about Valentes, don’t miss it . What’s at the other end of this weekend’s bike ride? We’ve got a big list of cool stuff to do this weekend in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think about e-bikes? Let us know at @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 15, 2022
How Walking Saved This Man’s Life
We talk about transit a lot — but how often do we talk about, well, walking? The pedestrian experience is often overlooked in the modern city, but Jonathon Stalls is working every day to change that. In his new book , “Walk: Slow Down, Wake Up, And Connect At 1-3 Miles Per Hour,” he offers meditations and visualizations about getting around in the world, and shares his own challenging life experiences that caused walking to become his “medicine.” Stalls joins host Bree Davies to dig into the whys of walking — and how he has used social media to bring others into the world of pedestrian advocacy. Check out Jonathon’s wonderful TikTok, Pedestrian Dignity . It’s Thursday, which means Peyton’s Plate is serving up a new hot & tasty dish! Read all about it in the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 14, 2022
Does DIA Deserve More Love Than it Gets?
From the conspiracy theories to the seemingly endless construction, there’s never been a shortage of issues at Denver International Airport. And just this week, we learned that regulators have, for 12 years, looked the other way when it comes to an elevated risk of mid-air collisions at two of DIA’s runways! Host Bree Davies gets into the good, the bad, and the weird at DIA with Westword editor Patty Calhoun , from the political climate that led to DIA’s construction in the 90s to its controversial public art and those runways that are just a little too close together. Bree and Patty talked about the sounds you hear riding the train to and from the terminal. You can learn more about that here . Here’s the Colorado Sun article Bree mentioned about the FAA’s recent notice concerning potential mid-air collision risks at DIA. Fly above the fray and get the Denver news you need in our daily morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What’s your take on DIA? Let us know on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 13, 2022
Wanna Eat Japanese in Denver Like a Pro? Talk to Gil.
Japanese food has always been a deeply personal obsession for local author Gil Asakawa. He grew up in Japan and made his way to Denver in time to witness first-hand what he calls a “cultural evolution — nay, revolution” in the availability of Japanese food in America. Now with ramen shops and sushi bars drawing crowds all across Denver, Asakawa’s got a new book out combining memoir with history, called “ Tabemasho! Let’s Eat! A Tasty History of Japanese Food in America .” So we invited Asakawa back to the show to go deep on his love of Japanese food in Denver, from Benihana and Sakura Square to his family’s unique relationship with the defunct Denver Tofu company . Plus, don’t miss Asakawa’s personal recommendations for the best Japanese food in town. Looking for even more inspiration for your next night out? Chow down on our daily morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What’s your favorite Japanese restaurant in Denver? Tweet at us @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, September 12, 2022
Long Live The Shagman! A Denver TV Icon Bids Farewell
It’s the end of an era for Denver — Rocky’s Autos has closed its doors for good after 40 years. So, the north Federal staple is out of the car game — but the thing we’ll miss the most? The dealership’s crazy TV commercials featuring the adventures of Audra, Officer Odell, and of course, The Shagman. After we heard the news about Rocky’s going dark, we called up Ron Vigil — the Shakespearean actor behind the infamous Shagman — to get his final thoughts on playing a uniquely Denver-famous character for more than two decades. Keep up with The Shagman’s shenanigans on Instagram or check out his production company . Bree mentioned a previous City Cast Denver episode with reporter Yesenia Robles about the Adams 14 school district drama . More news you can use. Subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tweet us your favorite Rocky’s Autos commercial! @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 09, 2022
'Tipping Fatigue' Hits Denver
Denver’s minimum wage is going up to $17.29 starting in January, and with restaurants already on the brink, Denverites can . not . stop . talking about tipping. Many local restaurants are adopting service fees to balance things out, but according to a new survey, Denverites are feeling “ tipping fatigue .” What can be done? Host Bree Davies, newsletter editor Peyton Garcia, and producer Paul Karolyi are digging into this multi-faceted problem and looking at some new ideas local restaurants have tried to fix it. Plus! We debut a new segment. There’s tons of cool stuff happening around the city this weekend, but only one event will get the official City Cast Denver stamp of approval. Stick around to the end of the show to find out where you’re most likely to find us this weekend! We previously discussed tipping on the show last summer, when producer Paul Karolyi interviewed Elle Taylor, co-founder of Amythest Coffee, about their decision to eliminate tipping and pay all their employees a living wage. Paul made a joke about the Palisade peach grower who also happens to be a 9/11 truther. Read all about him in this great story from friend of the show Andrew Kenney, politics reporter with CPR. Peyton mentioned this funny video that lays out an argument against tipping and the Bonanno Concepts’ explanation of their service fee. Peyton’s got even more awesome recommendations for your weekend in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Are you a big tipper? A begrudging tipper? A cow tipper? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Colfax Crawl , presented by the Colfax Ave. Business Improvement District Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at<
Thu, September 08, 2022
Can Denver Rethink What We Throw Away?
Denver has a trash problem. And so far, efforts to improve recycling and composting rates have fallen far short of the city’s goals. In June, city council adopted a plan to make recycling and composting easier for homeowners. And this November, voters will have their say on a ballot initiative that would require businesses and apartment buildings to provide compost and recycling pickup. Ean Thomas Tafoya —co-founder of Headwaters Protectors, co-chair of the Colorado Environmental Justice Action Taskforce, and state director of GreenLatinos— stopped by to chat with host Bree Davies about the Waste No More initiative and his run for mayor . Oh and Bree mentioned some Rocky’s Autos commercials you might enjoy. RIP Rocky’s! Peyton’s got allll the food news to get you through to the weekend! Read and subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hi. We’re on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Colfax Crawl , presented by the Colfax Ave. Business Improvement District Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 07, 2022
Denver’s Got a Police Problem. Will the Chief’s Retirement Fix it?
Denver’s Chief of Police Paul Pazen is retiring . After 28 years on the force, Chief Pazen was appointed to the position in 2018 by Mayor Hancock. Since then, he’s faced increasing scrutiny for the police’s behavior under his leadership — including a $14 million settlement for police brutality against protestors during the George Floyd uprisings and, most recently, police shooting and injuring six innocent bystanders on a crowded street in LoDo. Today on the show, Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins host Bree Davies to discuss Pazen’s departure, what the new chief is walking into, and what the next state and city elections have to do with the police’s role in Denver. For more on Chief Pazen, check out Bree’s interview with the man himself from earlier this year. Patty mentioned her last appearance on the show, when she told the story of Elvis the cop lover’s admiration for Denver’s own Fool’s Gold sandwich. Hey! We have a newsletter. It’s great. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We’re on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The Colfax Crawl , presented by the Colfax Ave. Business Improvement District Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 06, 2022
What We Learned From RTD’s Month of Free Fares
For the entire month of August, public transportation was completely, utterly FREE. The no-cost ride effort was in part meant to lure drivers out of their cars and mitigate our annual, late-summer problems with air quality. We wanted to know how this $14-million “Free Fare for Better Air” experiment actually worked for people, so producer Lizzie Goldsmith spent the month riding buses and light rail, and talking to dozens of RTD riders about their experience. Today, she chats with host Bree Davies to share some stories and try to answer the big question: Was the free fare worth it? Get all the news you need here in the City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tweet us pics of your RTD transit stop @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colfax Avenue BID presents The Colfax Crawl Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 02, 2022
Day Trips! Our Recs For Your Long Weekend
Labor Day weekend is upon us! We put our heads together and came up with our favorite places around Colorado to fill that one extra day. We’re talking tourist traps, killer hikes, dynamite vistas, and an Estes Park salt water taffy hack that you’ll never forget. Host Bree Davies , producer Paul Karolyi , and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia are gossiping about the very best day trips that are a less than two-hour car ride outside Denver. Bree mentioned this recent Colorado Sun story about Leadville’s recent transformation. Patty Calhoun wrote in to suggest the one-of-a-kind World’s Wonder View Tower , which she co-owns. Looking to catch up on some news before clocking out for the long weekend? Check out our morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What great day trips did we miss? Let’s talk. We’re on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 01, 2022
Colorado is Making SO Much Money in the New Space Race
There’s a new space race on, and getting back to the moon or Mars is only part of the fun. There’s money to be made out there! At least, that’s what a lot of smart people in Colorado are banking on. They’re still sorting out little stuff like how and why. So today, producer Paul Karolyi sits down with Denver Business Journal senior reporter Greg Avery to talk about what’s fueling the country’s second-biggest commercial space industry and introduce us to the Colorado-born Orion spacecraft, which is currently sitting on the launchpad in Florida awaiting takeoff after an aborted launch Monday morning. Here’s Greg’s latest on the Orion launch, now planned for this coming Saturday. Catch up with all the Denver news you need to know in our morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Blast off with us to Planet Twitter: @citycastdenver The 150th Colorado State Fair is open through Monday, and we want to know if it’s worth the trip! Leave us a voicemail with your thoughts, name, and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 . Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 31, 2022
The Future of Lunch is on E. Evans Ave.
When the very first Chipotle opened on E. Evans Ave. in 1993, hungry DU students fueled the restaurant to world domination, ushering in a new fast yet casual style of dining along the way. Nearly thirty years later, the dining experience is once again at a turning point, with eaters still unsure what exactly they want out of a post-pandemic night out. Westword’s food & drink editor Molly Martin recently stopped by two new fast-casual chains that just opened right across from the original Chipotle on Evans — BirdCall and Next Level Burger . Both are hoping to attract DU students with new types of service and climate-conscious menu options. So producer Paul Karolyi and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia tried both and invited Molly on the show to compare notes. Check out Molly’s first impressions at Next Level Burger and BirdCall . There’s so much more interesting stuff happening in Denver. Subscribe to our morning newsletter and don’t miss a beat! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have you tried Next Level Burger or BirdCall? We want to hear what you think! Tweet at us @citycastdenver or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Legal Help in Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 30, 2022
The End of Predatory Towing (Hopefully)
There’s no faster route to a bad day than having your car towed. And especially in the last few years, complaints of predatory towing have been on the rise across the Denver metro area. State lawmakers have been debating the problem, and earlier this month they enacted a new “towing bill of rights” that promises to shift the balance of power away from the towers. Community organizer, journalist, and City Cast Denver contributor Theo Wilson is back to explain why he’s optimistic about this new law and what can happen when a “poverty tax” like predatory towing gets out of hand. What exactly is in the new towing law? Check out this full breakdown from our friends at CPR: https://www.cpr.org/2022/06/08/tow-companies-give-notice-new-law/ Paul mentioned a CBS Colorado story about the new towing law, the Coors family’s big plans for Golden and Denver Water’s latest conservation pledge . Fill your week with curated event recs, new restaurants and food trends, and more with our daily newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 29, 2022
Is Denver Hoarding Water?
Ever since Denver Water was founded in 1918, the agency has demonstrated enviable foresight, building out a massive infrastructure across 4,000 square miles to ensure Denver’s population (and economy) can continue to grow. But now that reservoirs and rivers are drying up across the West, is it time for Denver to share the wealth? Today, Colorado’s top water reporter, Luke Runyon of KUNC, joins producer Paul Karolyi to explain where Denver fits into the recent conflict over the Colorado River and offer an outsider’s perspective on Denver Water’s ambitious growth. For more from Luke Runyon, you can find all his water reporting for KUNC here . Paul mentioned his June interview with Denver Water’s chief planner Greg Fisher, Denver Water’s Gross Reservoir Expansion Project , and the Denver Post’s report on mosquito problems in southeast Denver. Thirsty for more Denver happenings to start your week? Take a big sip from our daily morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Legal Help in Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 26, 2022
The OG LoDo Scapegoat: Nightclub Kingpin Valentes Corleons
On July 17, Denver police shot into a crowd of hungry club-goers waiting for a bite to eat around let-out time in LoDo, injuring seven people. And in response, the city decided to ban… food trucks. So with our host Bree Davies out for a few days, we wanted to share this episode from last December, when the city took a very different approach to keeping the peace in LoDo. It’s a profile of nightclub kingpin Valentes Corleons, who believes he was railroaded by the city — just like the food truck operators now. It also features Westword reporter and friend of the show Conor McCormick-Cavanagh . Oh, and we added some extra good stuff to this version. Call it a director’s cut. For more on the LoDo let-out situation, check out our recent episode with Westword editor Patty Calhoun where she breaks down some alternatives the city isn't trying. Still looking for fun stuff to do this weekend? We’ve got you covered with a curated events round-up in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter! @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 25, 2022
Could This Bold New Plan Get Denverites Out of Their Cars?
Could it be true? Could Colorado really be working toward our climate goals… and actually stop widening our highways? According to a new plan in front of the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG), yes. After a state mandate set new standards for greenhouse gas emissions related to our transit habits, DRCOG could vote to shift hundreds of millions of dollars toward better public transit infrastructure, bike lanes, sidewalks, and more. Colorado Public Radio’s transportation reporter Nathaniel Minor is back on the show today to talk about why this could mark a “seismic shift” for our transit system and, for the first time in Host Bree Davies’ life, stop the expansion of I-25 and C-470 in the city. DRCOG is currently looking for public comment on this big new plan. Submit yours here ahead of their board’s vote scheduled for Sept. 21. Bree mentioned that the City of Denver is looking for your input on the “shared streets” idea. You can do that here. And you can read more about the downtown highway that almost happened here . More news you can use in the City Cast Denver newsletter: Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We’re on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 24, 2022
How a Burger Dive Thrives in Ritzy Cherry Creek
The secret is out: Denver is an awesome place to live. But in the past 15 years, that’s led to a massive influx of new residents who collectively pose an essential Denver question: How do we get bigger without sacrificing what made this city great? Fortunately, there’s an iconic local institution that answers that question every day in the form of great burgers, good vibes, and a consistently high quality experience — despite a similarly massive expansion over the past few years. So today, host Bree Davies visits the original “Black Sheep of Cherry Creek,” AKA the Cherry Cricket , to uncover the secret to managing growing pains. Get all the news you need and a bunch of fun things to do and places to eat in our daily newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We want to hear what you think about the Cherry Cricket! Got a favorite burger topping combo? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home podcast Legal Help in Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 23, 2022
New Broncos, New Mission: World Domination
When the Denver Broncos open their regular season on September 12 against the Seattle Seahawks, they’ll look completely different than last year. They’ve got a new celebrity quarterback, a new goofball head coach, and a brand new ownership group — led by one of the richest people in the world, Rob Walton, heir to the Walmart fortune. Our sports guy Jake Shapiro from Denver Fan 104.3 is back to introduce host Bree Davies to the new Broncos and explain why local football fans are so optimistic. Bree mentioned this editorial from Colorado Newsline about the new Broncos’ ownership group. Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home podcast Trade Coffee Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 22, 2022
School’s Back in Session and the DPS Board Can’t Stop Fighting
Students head back to Denver Public Schools today — but what in the heck is going on with the district’s school board? DPS’s governing body has been all over the news lately, and for all the wrong reasons. Infighting, accusations of misogyny and racism, and power struggles have plagued this teachers’ union-backed slate of elected officials, and there are fears their personal disagreements are impacting students and teachers. Today on the show, host Bree Davies talks with Chalkbeat Colorado’s senior reporter Melanie Asmar about what the heck is going on with Denver’s divided school board. Check out Melanie’s reporting for Chalkbeat Colorado on the ongoing Denver school board drama. Melanie mentioned DPS board president Xóchitl "Sochi" Gaytán’s recent interviews with Westword and Denver7 , which we excerpted in this episode. We want to hear your favorite way to enjoy a Palisade peach! Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Find more news you can use. Read and subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Legal Help in Colorado How to Buy a Home podcast Trade Coffee Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 19, 2022
If Denver Had a Mt. Rushmore…Who Would Be Our Famous Faces?
Which four people embody the spirit of Denver? Which four represent the very highest of our ideals? Which four represent us to the world? Community organizer and all-around Denver OG Ben Chavez joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi for the Friday news round-up, then we grab our granite chisels and duke it out over who should be repped on Denver’s Mt. Rushmore. Ben is co-organizing La Raza Park Day , going down this Sunday, August 21, from 1pm to 5pm. It’s free and families are welcome! Paul mentioned e-bike mania , Hickenlooper and the climate bill , and Aurora’s latest backasswards proposal to “help” our unhoused neighbors. What are you doing this weekend? Newsletter editor Peyton Garcia has a big ol’ list of cool stuff for you to do. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Who did we forget to put on our version of a Denver Mt. Rushmore? Let us know on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 18, 2022
Sun Valley Wants to Be Celebrated, Not “Discovered”
Stuck between highways and hidden under a viaduct, the Sun Valley community has quietly gone about its business — until a few years ago, when it started getting a lot more attention and big money interest in its land. Meow Wolf has moved in, a new Latino cultural museum is on the way, and lots of big housing developments are in going up. But what do the people of Sun Valley want? On the show today, Glenn Harper, Manuel Aragon, and Lindsay Miller of Sun Valley Kitchen explain what makes Sun Valley so wonderful — and why they are inviting people to not “discover” this neighborhood, but come celebrate it at this weekend’s Sun Valley Rising Night Market . Bree mentioned a 5280 Magazine interview with local activist and educator, Tim Hernandez. Pull up a chair for newsletter editor Peyton Garcia’s Denver food news round-up. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Find us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 17, 2022
Can LoDo’s Let-Out Problem be Fixed?
Around 1:30 a.m. on July 17, just as the bars and nightclubs were letting out in LoDo, Denver police confronted an allegedly armed man and shot into a crowded street in LoDo, injuring 6 innocent bystanders. The city’s response? Ban food trucks from the neighborhood. Host Bree Davies sits down with Westword founder and editor Patty Calhoun to get some historical perspective on the persistent late-night issues in LoDo and hear her thoughts about what’s actually causing the problems — and how to fix them. Plus, to commemorate this week’s 45th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s death, Patty shares the real Denver story behind Elvis’s famous peanut butter and bacon sandwich. Bree mentioned that law enforcement officials released body cam footage from the July 17 shooting. You can watch that here , via the Denver Post. We’ve got even more about the LoDo situation and the fallout from the July 17 shooting in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Legal Help in Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 16, 2022
Hungry for Casa Bonita Updates? We’ve Got a Spicy One
Ever since South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker bought Casa Bonita last year, Denverites have been worrying, speculating, and looking forward to the day when the pink palace on West Colfax will re-open. Stone and Parker say they want to “change nothing, improve everything,” but what exactly does that mean? 9News investigative journalist Jeremy Jojola recently set his sights on the South Park guys’ Casa Bonita renovation project, and he’s on the show today to share all the juicy, insider details he uncovered. Here’s a link to Jojola’s report on the documents outlining the Casa Bonita renovation, and here’s a recent interview Matt and Trey gave to the Denver Post on their investment in this project. We’ll be following every twist and turn in the Casa Bonita saga as it develops. Subscribe to our daily newsletter and you’ll never miss a beat: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ How do you feel about the changes happening at Casa Bonita? Tweet at us @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 15, 2022
Denver Deserves Sidewalks. Will Voters Agree?
It’s no secret: most Denver neighborhoods have sidewalks that are pretty terrible. In fact, around 40 percent of sidewalks around the city are either nonexistent, in bad shape, or are not accessible for people using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. Part of the reason our sidewalks suck? The city doesn’t have a dedicated funding stream to pay for construction or maintenance. But this November, voters will decide if a new ballot initiative, Denver Deserves Sidewalks, can change our mobility fate — by asking property owners to chip in a little each month. On today’s show, host Bree Davies talks with Molly McKinley of Denver Streets Partnership to learn more about why they hope voters will say YES to sidewalks this November. Got a janky sidewalk in your neighborhood? Tweet a pic to us @citycastdenver ! Or share your worst sidewalk experience by leaving us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Sign up for our morning newsletter here . Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Legal Help in Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 12, 2022
Snarf’s Vs. Cheba Hut: The Ultimate Sandwich Smackdown
The City Cast Denver crew is back at the table with a new local food challenge and this time, we’re taking on sandwiches. While the Mile High is overflowing with great grinders, subs, hoagies, and tortas, today’s showdown is all about two out-of-town chains that Denverites have embraced as our own: Cheba Hut vs. Snarf’s Sandwiches. Which tasty sub will reign supreme? Host Bree Davies is joined by newsletter editor Peyton Garcia , plus producers Paul Karolyi and Erin O’Toole for a great debate over who puts the best meat and cheese (or guacamole and cream cheese???) between two perfectly toasted pieces of bread. Looking for more City Cast Denver food battles? We’ve also taken on the best burger , enjoyed the local delicacy of breakfast burritos , taste-tested fried chicken , indulged in Denver’s most decadent donuts , and compared Illegal Pete’s and Chipotle ! Peyton mentioned a story she wrote on Quizno’s earlier this year: https://denver.citycast.fm/2022/03/07/the-rise-and-fall-of-a-denver-sandwich-empire/ Paul quoted from this Celebstoner.com interview with Cheba Hut founder Scott Jennings: https://www.celebstoner.com/news/celebstoner-news/2021/03/04/cheba-hut-founder-scott-jennings-interview/ And finally: some Casa Bonita news!!!! Read and subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us about your dream sandwich on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise </
Thu, August 11, 2022
The Real Story Behind the $750 Check in Your Mailbox
More than 3 million Coloradans are receiving $750 checks in the mail this week, but who’s to thank? Is it Governor Jared Polis and the Democrats, who re-branded and re-worked our tax policy to create this ‘Colorado Cashback’? Or is it the conservatives who convinced Colorado voters to approve the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (aka TABOR) in 1992 and have defended it ever since? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dive into the politics of TABOR to figure out the real story behind these $750 checks. For an even deeper dive, Bree recommends The Taxman , CPR’s podcast series about the origins and lasting impact of TABOR. Want to get more plugged in to all the cool stuff happening in Denver? Subscribe to our daily newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What are you doing with your $750? Tell us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 10, 2022
Where 911 Calls Get Lost Between Denver and Aurora
On July 15, Ma Kaing was shot and killed outside her home in the East Colfax neighborhood. The mother, restaurateur, and beloved community member was the latest victim of gun violence in Denver. But soon after Kaing’s death, her community came forward with serious concerns over the effectiveness of 911 calls made from the Denver neighborhood that sits on the border of Aurora. Today, host Bree Davies sits down with Denver Post reporter Noelle Phillips to talk 911 call centers, emergency response, gun violence, and East Colfax’s unsteady relationship with their councilwoman. Read more of Noelle Phillips’s reporting on the East Colfax community tragedy in the Denver Post. A GoFundMe has been set up to support Ma Kaing’s family. For more on the removal of the racist Chinatown plaque Bree mentioned, here’s the report from Rocky Mountain PBS. Listen to our episode with Dr. Wei from last August to learn more about Denver’s lost Chinatown. Casa Bonita is back in the news this week, and you know we’re all over it. Get the latest in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 09, 2022
Oh My God! They’ve Been Killing Kenny for 25 Years
South Park, AKA the show that introduced the world to Casa Bonita, is celebrating 25 years on TV this week. That’s hundreds of episodes packed with thousands of jokes made at the expense of politicians, pop stars, and us, the faithful residents of Colorado. Host Bree Davies sits down with her friend and South Park superfan Kalyn Heffernan to talk all things Kenny, Stan, Kyle, and Cartman. A musician, artist, former mayoral candidate, and disability rights activist, Heffernan has a deep love for South Park’s irreverent humor and the version of Colorado portrayed on the show, and Bree wanted to get to the bottom of that love. If you want to join the 25-year anniversary celebrations, there’s a two-night live music extravaganza happening at Red Rocks with creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker, along with their band-friends Ween and Primus. Of course, South Park is also cashing in on the immersive experience trend with a shipping container wrapped in Cartman’s image, peddling photo-ops and memorabilia for fans to see and pose with. That’ll be outside the concert and at McGregor Square this weekend. More on that here . Bree offered an update on BALLOT TRIP, our four-part investigation into the future of psychedelics in Colorado. To hear the whole series, here’s where you can find part one , part two , part three , and part four . Catch up on all the Denver news with the CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Got a favorite South Park joke about Colorado? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 08, 2022
Ballot Trip: Who Gets to Decide the Future of Psychedelics?
***This is the final episode in our four-part series on the future of psychedelics in Colorado. To get the rest of the story, here’s where you can find part one , part two , and part three . ***UPDATE (9/21/22): This episode has been updated to correct our characterization of SPORE's position. SPORE is not neutral. In fact, after this episode was originally published on 8/8/22, Matthew Duffy published an op-ed in the Denver Post urging voters to reject the Natural Health Medicine Act in November. Who will decide the future of psychedelics in Colorado? Is it the big-money, out-of-state campaign with nationwide ambitions? Or the grassroots-driven Decriminalize Nature measure that wants to take things a little slower? In this final episode of our four-part series Ballot Trip, award-winning investigative reporter Chris Walker highlights the grassroots approach and why their organizers are wary of moving too fast. Get all the Denver news you need, plus cool events happening this week and more in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter! @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 05, 2022
Abortion. Abortion. Abortion!
It’s only been six weeks since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and ripple effects are still being felt across the country — including here in Colorado, where surprising new fronts have opened in the battle to keep reproductive healthcare safe, legal, and accessible. Today, host Bree Davies sits down with two Colorado experts on abortion issues: Denver Post reporter Elizabeth Hernandez shares insight from her reporting on healthcare providers and Coloradans looking for reproductive healthcare, and Justine Sandoval , a political insider who’s been working on abortion rights legislation for close to a decade. Find all of Elizabeth’s fantastic reporting on the local ripple effects of the Roe decision via The Denver Post . Justine mentioned supporting abortion access advocates already doing the work, like: Cobalt , COLOR Latina , and National Abortion Funds . Looking for fun stuff to do this weekend? Check out the City Cast Denver newsletter for editor Peyton Garcia’s handpicked list: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Find us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 04, 2022
Dang, Bud. Are You a Denver Foo, or What?
Denver is home to many neighborhoods, cultures, and people. But lately, our host Bree Davies has been stuck on a certain kind of Denverite: the Denver Foo. Thanks to the @DenverFoos303 Instagram account, you can stay up-to-date on where local Edgars get their Polo shirts, what’s really going down in LoDo after let-out, and who serves the best tacos on a paper plate in the city. Bree sat down with Benny, one of the guys behind the IG account, to talk about what makes a true Denver Foo, what this particular subculture says about Denver, and why this account is an appreciation — not an appropriation — of a certain style of Mile High human. More news you can use in our daily City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Give a shout out to the Denver Foo in your life on Twitter, bud: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 03, 2022
Real Talk on Buying a House with Theo Wilson
The journalist and community organizer Theo Wilson is fresh off a high-profile new gig, hosting his own show for the History Channel. On “ I Was There ,” Theo explores the history you know from an angle you don’t know. So we invited Theo to give the “I Was There” treatment to an issue many Denverites are dealing with in different ways: our housing crisis. It turns out Theo is in the market to buy a home himself, and he’s got tons of insight from history, his research into other housing models around the world, and his own personal experience to help point us in the right direction. Theo mentioned that he is taking advantage of a new housing equity program called the Dearfield Fund. Check out our episode from March 9 with another beneficiary of the program and one of the folks who designed it to learn more. Craving more Denver news? Subscribe to our daily newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter! @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 02, 2022
Is Colorado’s Cannabis Boom Finally a Bust?
For the first time in the history of legal weed, sales are falling. It’s an unthinkable turnaround for an industry that was once seen with limitless potential, and it’s going to mean a loss of tax revenue for all the public services funded by cannabis sales. So why are weed sales dropping? Ricardo Baca is the founder and ceo of Grasslands , a cannabis-focused PR agency. He’s been digging into the numbers, and he sees more than what’s on the surface. Host Bree Davies sits down with the veteran cannabis journalist-turned-weed biz insider to parse out what, exactly, is going on with cannabis in Colorado. Oh, and- We’re doing another food battle! This time, it’s a showdown between Denver’s favorite sandwich chains: Snarf’s vs. Cheba Hut . So which colorful sub-maker will reign supreme? Or is there another local sandwich maker that deserves a spot in this battle? Leave us a voicemail with your take, name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Bree mentioned Mutiny Information Cafe’s GoFundMe, which you can support here . Get all the Denver news you need, plus event listings and more fun tidbits and bobs in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 01, 2022
Ballot Trip: How Big Money Wants to Change Psychedelics
***This is the third episode of a four-part series on the future of psychedelics in Colorado. To hear the whole story, you can find part one here and part two here . Recently, news broke that at least one of the dueling campaigns to get a psychedelics measure on the November ballot has been successful. This means Colorado voters will decide on Initiative 58, also known as the Natural Medicine Health Act, which is the one that aims to to legalize psychedelics, but also regulate their distribution at licensed “healing centers.” It’s a controversial proposal with big money behind it. This time on BALLOT TRIP, investigative journalist Chris Walker explores the origins of this scheme, including its surprising financial backer, and looks at how a similar initiative is already playing out in Oregon. We’ve got all the news you need to start your week right here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter! @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Trade Coffee How to Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 29, 2022
Will Free Bus Rides Clear Up Denver's Smog?
It’s been all over the news: RTD is going FARE-FREE for the entire month of August! Our elected officials pushed for the transit agency to adopt a month of no-cost rides in an effort to combat Denver’s chronic smog problem. But the move also comes as the metro area grapples with a decades-old traffic congestion issue that many think could be solved if car drivers would just fundamentally change everything they know about their own transit habits. Today on the show, producer (and bike-loving) Paul Karolyi sits down with host (and unabashed single-occupant car driver) Bree Davies and special guest, retired public radio heavyweight (and public transit lifer) Jo Ann Allen to get deep on RTD. Don’t miss Jo Ann’s new column for the Denver Post! The first one is out now, and it’s all about Black generational wealth. We are also delighted to recommend Jo Ann’s podcast, Been There Done That ! Paul mentioned a couple of articles about RTD’s month of free fares: this one from the Washington Post profiling a Denver bus driver, and this one from friend of the show Nate Minor for CPR about the time RTD offered free fares in the 70s. Looking for something fun to do this weekend? We’ve got you covered in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter! @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Control Group Productions presents THE END How to Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 28, 2022
Can Fake Meat Take Over This Cow Town?
After our episode yesterday with Planterra CEO Darcey Macken, City Cast Denver’s resident vegetarian, producer Paul Karolyi, and “flexitarian” host Bree Davies were itching to talk more about protein. Today on the show, Paul and Bree discuss their experiences with non-meat, plant-based, and animal-alternative options in Denver and tackle the big question: does the Mile High’s reputation as a literal cow town still hold true? Or are we a city that can celebrate an array of culinary, veg-friendly options that go beyond the “meat and potatoes” stereotype of our past? If this episode has you hungry, check out today’s City Cast Denver newsletter, where editor Peyton Garcia digs into her fave dish at Tamayo. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us your fave vegetarian/non-meat restaurant or menu item on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film presents Summer of Soul How to Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 27, 2022
Why a Global Meat Company is Going Plant-Based in Denver
Plant-based protein is all the rage, with Beyond- and Impossible-branded products popping up in grocery stores and on fast food menus across the country. But there’s a plucky new local startup, Planterra , angling for its share of this new market, and they’ve got a not-so-plucky parent company lurking behind the scenes, armed with data and know-how from running a global “protein” business. That company? JBS, the largest meat producer in the world. Producer Paul Karolyi sits down with Planterra CEO Darcey Macken to hear all about JBS’s first step into the plant-based arena, starting with a production plant here in Denver. For more on Planterra’s business plans, here’s the Denver Business Journal story where we first learned about the company. All Coloradans can expect TABOR refunds in the mail soon. Wanna know why? We’ve got a full breakdown in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The How to Buy a Home Podcast Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks: Summer of Soul Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 26, 2022
Should Dogs Be Able to Party Leash-Free in Denver?
Denver is a dog city, that’s for sure. But what happens when dogs run free at one of many informal “dog parties” popping up in parks across the city? Host Bree Davies sits down with producer Erin O’Toole and newsletter editor Peyton Garcia to talk about park-roaming dogs and their scofflaw owners, the controversy around these so-called dog parties, and some reader comments about the great off-leash dog debate. What do you think about all the off-leash dogs running amok in our parks? Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Check out our morning newsletter to find out more of what’s going on in the city. Read and subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Catch our tweets @citycastdenver ! Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The How to Buy a Home Podcast Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks: Summer of Soul Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 25, 2022
Ballot Trip: Can We Legalize Psychedelics Without Colonizing them, Too?
Cannabis has been legal in Colorado for close to a decade. In 2019, Denver decriminalized psilocybin. Soon, voters will be asked to consider changes in the regulation of psychedelics statewide. But before Colorado has the chance to capitalize on this latest potential drug policy shift, some experts are sounding the alarm. Will historic inequities that followed other legalizations play out with psychedelics, too? In the second episode of Ballot Trip, a new four-part series from City Cast Denver, award-winning investigative reporter Chris Walker digs into the potential impacts of plant medicine legalization. He talks with plant medicine healers, ancestral knowledge keepers, and advocates who fear that if the legalization and decriminalization of psychedelics isn’t laid out carefully, communities could be harmed. As Chris mentioned in the episode, here are Kuthoomi Castro’s resources for listeners interested in decolonization work in the psychedelics space: Dr. Rocio Rosales Meza , a Seer, Medicine Woman, Counselor, and Educator, and Puma Fredy Quispe Singona , an Andean Medicine Man. This reporting is supported by the Ferriss-UC Berkeley Psychedelic Reporting Fellowship . More news you can use in newsletter form. Read and Subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have psychedelics helped you? Tell us about your experience on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 22, 2022
Has Denver Lost its Mojo?
There are many narratives about Denver — we’re a boom n’ bust town, we’re a weed town, we’re, well (in the eyes of one rural Colorado politician), a “toilet bowl.” Earlier this week, Mayor Hancock shared his own, albeit bland, narrative of the Denver he’s been in charge of for the last 11-plus years. Over at Westword, editor-in-chief Patty Calhoun and the crew pondered that same narrative and asked: has Denver lost its mojo? On the show today, host Bree Davies sits down with Patty and Westword staffer Conor McCormick-Cavanagh to discuss what makes Denver worth celebrating, and what we can do to put that pep back in our Mile High step. Check out Westword’s latest cover story contemplating the mojo question from Patty, Conor, and a slew of other great writers. Listen to our episode from earlier this week where Paul and Bree discuss Mayor Hancock’s final State of the City address. (Conor did a great summary of the speech for Westword, too!) Looking for cool stuff to do this weekend? Editor Peyton Garcia’s got you covered. Read and subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We are on twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colfax Ave. BID presents Independents Day Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks: Summer of Soul Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 21, 2022
Here’s to Five Years of Fabulous Concerts at Levitt Pavilion
Outdoor concerts are a staple of the Colorado experience, and this month, Levitt Pavilion Denver is celebrating five years of bringing live shows to the Ruby Hill neighborhood. On the show today, host Bree Davies talks with Levitt’s Interim Executive Director, Andy Thomas, and Marketing and Development Director Jessi Whitten about why Levitt is about more than live music — it’s about creating community, paying local musicians fairly, and creating the next generation of Denver music lovers, movers, and shakers. Levitt Pavilion Denver still has dozens of free and ticketed shows coming up this season — check out their concert calendar for a list of great local and national acts to see this summer and fall! Miguel Aviña, front-person for the band iZCALLI , was mentioned several times — hear his interview with City Cast Denver from a few months ago! All the news you need, right here in the City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Share your Levitt Pavilion Denver memories with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colfax Ave. BID presents Independents Day Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks: Summer of Soul Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 20, 2022
How to Have An Awesome Sober Night in Denver
It’s host Bree Davies’ Sweet 16 sober anniversary and she’s ready to celebrate! Because not-drinking can sound like a drag, Bree wanted to shed some light on what can make a bar inviting to those who don’t imbibe. She invited friend of the show, Artistic Director at the Sie Film Center AND fellow non-drinker, Keith Garcia, to chat about how to go out on a Friday night and find fun in Denver, whether you choose to drink or not. Keith mentioned the monthly-ish queer-centered dance party Junk Drawer and the new event space slash hair salon Scorpio Palace on Brighton Boulevard. Bree talked about Clearheads, happening this Sunday at Fort Greene; check out our May interview with the party’s founder, Jen Korte! More news you can use: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Where are your fave spots to get fun, booze-free drinks? Tell us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colfax Ave. BID presents Independents Day Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 19, 2022
What Will Define Mayor Hancock’s Legacy?
On Monday, Mayor Michael B. Hancock offered many thoughts and some interesting prospects for Denver’s future in his last State of the City address. Winding down his third and final term as Denver’s mayor, Hancock focused mostly on what he’s done for us lately — like championing programs and policies to address housing and homelessness and announcing the new Denver Institute of Racial Equity, Innovation and Reconciliation, a think tank that’s supposed to improve public safety. Today on the show, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi break down Hancock’s speech, respond to some of his claims, and ask: What will be Mayor Hancock’s true legacy? To read or watch Hancock’s whole State of the City address, click here . Paul mentioned a Westword story about the Denver Basic Income Project. You can read that here . There’s plenty more Denver news you might want to know. Fortunately, we’ve rounded it all up for you in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film presents Summer of Soul Colfax Ave. Business Improvement District presents Independents Day Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 18, 2022
Ballot Trip: The Fight for Psychedelics is On!
Psilocybin, AKA magic mushrooms — maybe you’ve heard of ‘em? Or, you know, tried them for yourself? Because here in Denver, voters decriminalized psilocybin back in 2019, but the statewide fight to regulate naturally derived psychedelics like mushrooms — and mescaline, ibogaine, ayahuasca, and DMT — is only just beginning. In the first episode of a new four-part series for City Cast Denver, award-winning investigative reporter Chris Walker brings us Ballot Trip, a deep dive into debate over how psychedelics will fit into life in Colorado. From practitioners of traditional, ancestral healing work to the multi-million dollar PAC behind policy reform in Washington, Chris explores the many perspectives that exist within the world of legalization and decriminalization of psychedelics. Get more news you can use from the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Have you ever had your car towed in Denver? Was it by a company called Wyatt’s Towing? You are far from alone. Attorney General Phil Weiser is cracking down on predatory towing, and we want to hear from you. Tell us your Wyatt’s Towing stories! Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Colfax Ave. Independents Day (July 22-24) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 15, 2022
Our Summer Reads: ‘The Holly’ Shows the Other Side of a Gang Violence Story
What happens when an anti-gang activist shoots someone at his own peace rally? For Terrance Roberts of Northeast Park Hill, that question came to define his life following that very incident on September 20, 2013. Award-winning journalist Julian Rubinstein spent seven years reporting Roberts’ story. The resulting book, “ The Holly: Five Bullets, One Gun, and the Struggle to Save an American Neighborhood ,” came out in May 2021. It won a Colorado Book Award for best general nonfiction, and has been made into a documentary film that premiered at this year’s Mountainfilm Festival in Telluride. And recently, Roberts announced a run for Denver mayor . Roberts and Rubinstein joined host Bree Davies last May to talk about the book, the nature of gang violence in Denver, and police reform. NOTE: This interview originally aired in May 2021, and is back as part of our special summer book series. Learn more about the documentary film "The Holly," which Julian Rubinstein directed, at TheHollyFilm.com Connect with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver And sign up for our morning newsletter ! Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks: Summer of Soul Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 14, 2022
Our Summer Reads: Not Everything Is As It Seems in Pandemic Thriller ‘The Guide’
In “ The Guide ,” Colorado author Peter Heller weaves a suspenseful tale centered on Jack, a young wilderness and fishing guide at an elite resort near Crested Butte. Things aren’t quite as idyllic as they seem, though, and Jack finds himself questioning what he sees and hears at every turn. Heller joined City Cast Denver’s Peyton Garcia for a conversation about his inspiration for the book, and what it was like writing a fictional story set during a pandemic — while actually experiencing the pandemic in real time. NOTE: This interview originally aired in August 2021, and is back as part of our special summer book series. Tune in all week for more! Learn more about Peter and his work at PeterHellerAuthor.com We’d love to know what your favorite summer book is! Tweet us @citycastdenver Or leave us a voicemail with your name, neighborhood, and the title of your favorite book and why you love it. (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 13, 2022
Our Summer Reads: Finding Connection and Community in ‘Mixed Company’
Jenny Shank grew up in southeast Denver, but when it was time for school, she was bused all over the city — from an elementary school with a Chicano-rooted curriculum on the West Side to a predominantly Black middle school near Five Points. And it was those experiences that informed her new collection of short stories, “ Mixed Company .” It explores all the awkward, comical, and challenging ways that very different kinds of Coloradans can find connection. The book has been awarded the George Garrett Fiction Prize and a Colorado Book Award since it was released last November — which is when host Bree Davies sat down with Shank to talk about their shared history with Denver Public Schools and busing, and how they understand their similar education experiences differently today. NOTE: This interview originally aired in November 2021, and is back as part of our special summer book series. Tune in all week for more reading recommendations! To learn more about her work including “Mixed Company,” check out her website, JennyShank.com And for more on Denver’s history of busing, check out our episode from September 8 with playwright Alicia Smith Young! What books are keeping you company this summer? Tweet us your recs! @citycastdenver Sign up for our morning newsletter ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 12, 2022
Our Summer Reads: CU Boulder Football Scandal Explored in Innovative Memoir
Almost 20 years ago, Erika Krouse took a job as a private investigator. Her first big case? A massive sexual assault scandal that revealed a toxic culture of abuse within CU Boulder’s prized football program. Krouse’s new book, “ Tell Me Everything: The Story of A Private Investigation ,” is part true crime thriller and part memoir, as she weaves together her recollections of the case with the story of her own experience with sexual assault. City Cast Denver’s Peyton Garcia spoke with Krouse about what it was like going up against an institution as powerful as the University of Colorado, the legacy of the case today, and how she saw her own story in the stories of the survivors. NOTE: This interview originally aired in March 2022, and is back as part of our special summer book series. Tune in all week for more reading recommendations! Warning: While there are no graphic descriptions, this episode contains discussions about sexual assault. Learn more about Erika Krouse and her work at erikakrousewriter.com . And for more about the scandal at the heart of Krouse’s book, ESPN has a full timeline right here . Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Control Group Productions presents THE END Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 11, 2022
Our Summer Reads: ‘Black Smoke’ Cooks up Denver’s Barbecue History
Colorado isn’t usually the first state people think of when it comes to barbecue. But it turns out, we have our own barbecue story to tell — and our Black community is at the center of it all. James Beard award-winning author Adrian E. Miller has that story and more in his most recent book, “Black Smoke: African Americans and the United States of Barbecue.” He joined host Bree Davies on the show last May to talk about everything Colorado barbecue, from the 1898 barbecue riot at the Stock Show to the legacy of “Daddy” Bruce Randolph and his son, Bruce Jr. NOTE: This interview originally aired in May of 2021, and is back as part of our special summer book series. Tune in all week for more! Learn more about Adrian and his work at adrianemiller.com What’s your favorite barbecue spot in Denver? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Control Group Productions presents THE END Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 08, 2022
Meow Wolf is Unionizing. Is the Age of the Starving Artist Over?
***UPDATE (7/8/22): Since we published this episode this morning, we received a clarification from a Meow Wolf representative. She wrote in response to our guest John Wenzel's description of his reporting process: " The Denver Post article came out Wednesday morning, but the Meow Wolf Workers Collective Convergence Station Organizing Committee didn't formally reach out to CEO Jose Tolosa about the union until after 5 p.m. that day, after the article was published. Meow Wolf's brief statement and lack of answers to John's questions did not come from an unwillingness to be transparent, but rather a lack of information as the situation was still evolving." Since Meow Wolf opened the doors to Convergence Station in Denver last year, the Santa Fe-based arts collective-turned-corporation has been the talk of the town. They brought jobs , global clout , and millions of dollars to the often overlooked Sun Valley neighborhood. But the company has also struggled with lawsuits related to gender discrimination in Denver and fair pay issues in its home state. Now, the Meow Wolf Workers Collective says employees here have taken steps to unionize. Today on the show, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by Denver Post arts reporter and critic John Wenzel , whose recent piece digs into the unionization efforts at the Denver Meow Wolf outpost. Bree also mentioned this story past guest Jason Blevins wrote for the Colorado Sun this week about the Rainbow Family gathering, which went down last week in Routt National Forest Still don’t have plans for the weekend? We’ve got a rundown of curated picks in today’s newsletter https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have you been to Convergence Station yet? Let us know what you think on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Control Group Productions
Thu, July 07, 2022
Are Scooters Good for Denver? Or a Menace? (Maybe Both)
All it takes is one rush-hour morning to see that Denverites love their cars. Some city officials think having more environmentally friendly options — like e-scooters — are key to breaking that dependence. But are scooters really the best option for Denver’s busy, crowded streets and sidewalks? Not everyone is a fan of the compact devices that zip around with abandon, and can be parked seemingly anywhere. Host Bree Davies checked in with District 10 councilman Chris Hinds , a scooter skeptic, to hear about his dive into this hot-button issue. If you’re a scooter lover hoping to be a good citizen of our shared streets and sidewalks, our friends at Denverite put together a very helpful guide for how to ride a scooter and not be a jerk. Hungry? Editor Peyton Garcia chows down on the latest Denver food news in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Scooters: Menace, public good, or both? Let us know what you think and follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Control Group Productions presents THE END Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 06, 2022
We're Going Behind the Scenes at Water World
It’s been said that Colorado has everything… except a beach. But ever since 1979, Water World has filled that ocean-sized hole in our hearts, serving up family fun in the form of wild rides, crazy slides, and zillions of funnel cakes along the way. Host Bree Davies has loved visiting Water World since she was a kid, so one recent morning we asked for a behind-the-scenes tour to see what you don’t see from the bird’s eye view of Alpine Springs gondola — everything from a backstage look at the animatronics powering Voyage to the Center of the Earth to the engineering marvel literally making waves at Thunder Bay. Share your favorite Water World memory with us on Twitter! We’re @citycastdenver Worried about monkeypox in Colorado? Newsletter Editor Peyton Garcia has a breakdown of all things monkeypox in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Control Group Productions presents THE END Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 05, 2022
From Cinderella City to Buckingham Square: How the Mall Shaped Denver
Like many American cities, Denver and its adjoining suburbs have had moments defined by malls. From Cinderella City to Villa Italia, Buckingham Square to Westminster, malls have come and gone, but created indelible memories for many Denverites. These intergenerational spaces played host to first jobs, first dates, and for many teens, first parent-free experiences in the public realm. Today on the show, host Bree Davies talks with author and architecture critic Alexandra Lange about her new book, Meet Me by the Fountain: An Inside History of the Mall. Together, they trace the architectural and social history of Denver through the lens of a built environment meant for shopping — but remembered for so much more. Bree and Alexandra talked about beautiful images of dying malls — like these photos from Seph Lawless . (Pssst… today’s blooper comes courtesy of these amazing in-store tapes from KMart that someone kindly posted to the Interwebz. Also, Bree recommends the album Vacant Places by Hantasi if you really want to immerse yourself in the mall’s aural aesthetic.) Want more Denver metro mall history? Read and subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Shout out your fave Denver metro mall of yore on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 01, 2022
The Avs Won. The Primaries Are Over. Let’s Celebrate!
What an up and down week it was in Denver. Elections officials were counting primary votes (some had to be counted twice!) and the final results for one key race arrived less than an hour before host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi started recording with Westword editor Patty Calhoun on Thursday morning at the Westword office. At the same time just down the street, the Stanley Cup was slowly approaching, with hundreds of thousands of hockey fans swarming downtown to watch as our victorious (and increasingly drunk) Colorado Avalanche paraded from Union Station to Civic Center Park. In short, it ruled! A programming note: We’re taking a long Fourth of July weekend, so there’ll be no new episode in your feed or newsletter in your inbox until Tuesday morning. Paul mentioned a 9News report on Democrat-linked spending in the Republican primaries. Here’s a link to see that for yourself. Still don’t have plans for the Fourth of July weekend? Newsletter editor Peyton Garcia has you covered: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Did you attend the Stanley Cup parade on Thursday? We want to see your pics! Tag us @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Control Group Productions presents THE END Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 30, 2022
The Denver Zoo. Yay or Nay?
***Due to a technical error, some subscribers downloaded a mostly silent, 1.75 hour long version of this episode. This is a re-uploaded, correct version. After a recent visit to the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, our former producer Xandra McMahon proclaimed, “Ugh, why do we have zoos?” That episode didn’t go over so well with the folks from the Denver Zoo, and they invited us to come see for ourselves why zoos are still cool. So newsletter editor Peyton Garcia (zoo lover) , producer Paul Karolyi (zoo skeptic), and host Bree Davies (zoo ambivalent) stopped by recently for some fresh perspective. We finally have results from Tuesday’s Democrat and Republican primaries. Peyton’s got a round-up of all the key races in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Would you rather visit the Denver Zoo or the Wild Animal Sanctuary? Tweet at us @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Control Group Productions presents THE END Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 29, 2022
Campfire Confidential: The Secret to an Epic Camping Trip
The long Fourth of July weekend is upon us, and producer Paul Karolyi hasn’t planned anything — let alone an epic camping trip. Newsletter editor Peyton Garcia , on the other hand, is a camping pro. So Paul and Peyton hopped on the mics to talk through the whole process: when to start planning, getting out of REI without going broke, what gear is worth the trunk space, stepping up your campfire cookery, and the great bluetooth speaker debate! Oh, and if you’re interested in an outdoor adventure minus the fossil fuels, past guest Nate Minor recently wrote a helpful guide for car-free hiking and camping for Colorado Public Radio. And if you, like Paul, neglected to book a campsite, 5280 Magazine has a great guide for booking a last-minute campsite right here . Paul mentioned our episode from earlier this year with Councilman Jolon Clark explaining why he was so excited to get Denverites to pay for trash pickup service. That plan passed City Council Monday night, so it’s a perfect time to revisit that episode . Wanna see Peyton’s camping checklist? She’s got that and more camping tips in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Do you know of a local reproductive healthcare provider in need of support? Or maybe some kind of related service provider that Denverites should know about? We want to help get the word out, so tweet at us @citycastdenver , or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 28, 2022
How Much Champagne Fits in the Stanley Cup? Asking For a Friend...
Nathan MacKinnon, Gabriel Landeskog, Valeri Nichushkin, Cale Makar, Devon Toews: These difficult-to-spell names will be etched onto the Stanley Cup this summer, alongside those of their teammates, coaches, staff, and so many other champs to come before them. The Avalanche won it all on Sunday night, sending thousands of hockey-loving Denverites into the streets to celebrate — mostly responsibly — and City Cast Denver’s sports guy Jake Shapiro was there. Now also a sports analyst for DenverFan.com, Jake is back on the show today with producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the Cup riot that wasn’t and break down the Avs’ big win. Plus, this episode includes a re-run of one of our favorite Avs’ stories from last year. Click this link after you listen to see their Reverse Retro for yourself. We have a new producer! Get to know Erin O’Toole in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Were you downtown Sunday night? Get any good pics of the drunken debauchery? Tag us on Twitter @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, June 27, 2022
Inside the Predatory Development Scandal on Welton St.
Five Points is rooted in Denver’s Black history and culture, with monuments to the swinging jazz age and soul food eateries still dotting the historic Welton St. corridor. But the iconic Rossonian Hotel remains vacant and many Black-owned businesses have closed or been forced to move in the last few years. So what is it going to take to revitalize Welton St.? Host Bree Davies recently sat down with Five Points Business Improvement District president Ryan Cobbins to connect the dots between gentrification, the pandemic, and a once-promising business deal that now has him fending off lawsuits. Cobbins is also the owner of Coffee at the Point . Bree mentioned the displacement of the Welton St. Cafe from its longtime home, but there’s good news! They recently announced on Instagram that they’ve found a new permanent location on Welton and in the meantime they’re serving takeout out of 2258 California St. For more details on Matthew Burkett’s work in Five Points with the FlyFisher Group, here’s a link to Westword reporter Conor McCormick-Cavanagh’s article breaking down the various deals and what went wrong. We are still thinking about the Supreme Court’s Friday decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, so newsletter editor Peyton Garcia rounded up some local abortion resources and information in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ . And if you haven’t heard it, check out our episode about the local implications that we published back when the draft opinion leaked. What’s your favorite local business in Five Points? Tweet at us @citycastdenver , or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 24, 2022
A Denver Dem’s Guide to the Messy GOP Primaries
It’s Friday, and we’re still deep in this Colorado primary conversation. But today, we’re talking about the craziness on the GOP side — and what role independent voters could have in next week’s primary election. Today on the show, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by Ian Silverii , a longtime Democratic Party insider, to dissect the Republican candidates and chat about what, exactly, you should be doing with your Republican or Democratic primary ballot. (Hint: he wants you to fill it out!) For more of Ian's political analysis, check out the awesome podcast he co-hosts, The Get More Smarter Podcast . Ian mentioned past CCD guest Ryan Warner’s longform interviews with GOP gubernatorial candidates Greg Lopez and Heidi Ganahl . Still not sure how to vote in this primary? Check out this helpful guide from Colorado Public Radio. Looking for fun stuff to fill your weekend? https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Are you an unaffiliated voter planning to return the GOP primary ballot? Let us know how you’re thinking about the candidates on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: CU Boulder’s Masters of Journalism Entrepreneurship program Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 23, 2022
The Fight for HD6: Democrat Katie March Makes Her Case
The Democratic primary for House District 6 in central Denver is a hot one, with unprecedented amounts of money flowing in and plenty of media coverage . But the question at the heart of this race: How progressive is Denver? This democratic showdown could reveal the answer, and there are two candidates who hold the key: Elisabeth Epps and Katie March . Today, host Bree Davies talks with March about how she approaches her ongoing work on gun control, and how she laid the groundwork for her campaign after spending years as a Dem State House staffer. Be sure to check out our episode from yesterday with March’s opponent, Elisabeth Epps. In today’s newsletter, editor Peyton Garcia digs into the legacy of LGBTQ+ rights pioneer and former Boulder County Clerk, the late Clela Rorex. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have you dropped your primary ballot in the ballot box yet? Brag about it to us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 22, 2022
The HD6 Primary Heats Up. Elisabeth Epps Says She’s the Dem For the Job.
Is the race for the House District 6 seat the most interesting primary in Colorado? It’s certainly among the most expensive and the most divisive , with all eyes on the Democratic candidates for the office: Elisabeth Epps and Katie March . In this last week before the polls close, we’ve invited both candidates to come on the show. Today, Bree talks with Epps about why she’s running for office, what HD6 needs the most right now, and why she isn’t “too progressive” to get elected. Stay tuned tomorrow, when her opponent, Katie March , is scheduled to join us. Hear our episode from last summer with Elisabeth Epps, where she talked with producer Paul Karolyi about ending cash bail . You still have a week to say your goodbyes to Bonnie Brae Tavern! Bree took a trip to the 88-year-old establishment last weekend — see pics in our newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What Colorado primary race are you watching? Tell us on Twitter @citycastdenver , or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 21, 2022
Uncovering Cap Hill’s Queer History
Denver has always been home to revolutionary movements — Chicano civil rights, disability justice, and the fight for LGBTQ+ equality have all played out here across decades. For each of those movements, geography plays an important role, like Capitol Hill, where queer people found refuge, support, and community. Ahead of PrideFest this weekend, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi join comics artist and historian B. Erin Cole on a walking tour of Cap Hill, as seen through a queer historical lens. B. Erin has researched and illustrated a map with markers from the State Capitol to Cheesman Park — but it’s the flipped homes, demolished buildings, and long-gone bars in-between that tell the deeper story of the neighborhood's vibrant LGBTQ+ history. B. Erin Cole’s illustrated map of queer Capitol Hill can be found as part of History Colorado’s Rainbows and Revolutions exhibit, on view now. Find more of B. Erin’s work here . In today’s City Cast Denver newsletter, producer Lizzie Goldsmith has a roundup of summer theater events. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have your own memory or shoutout for a queer space in Denver? Tell us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Queer America Clothing Rocky Mountain MicroFinance Institute Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 17, 2022
A Walking Tour of Denver’s Juneteenth History
As of this year, Juneteenth is officially a state holiday in Colorado — but Denver’s Black community has been recognizing and celebrating June 19th for decades. A staple celebration in Five Points since the 1960s, an official Juneteenth music festival launched in the community in 2012 and is going strong today. (For more on the history of the Mile High’s Juneteenth history, check out our newsletter from earlier this week.) Today on the show, we share a story we aired last year with producer Xandra McMahon walking down Welton St. with Norman Harris, an organizer of the annual Juneteenth music festival. Norman digs into the past, present, and future of this celebration of Black life, culture, and community in Denver. Looking for even more great things to do this weekend? Check out Newsletter Editor Peyton Garcia’s top picks: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Does your family have a Juneteenth tradition? Tell us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Don’t Tell Comedy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 16, 2022
Could Commerce City Lose its Whole School District?
After years of low test scores, concerns of gang activity, and accusations of discrimination against Spanish-speaking students, a new state-mandated “reorganization” order could seal the fate of the Adams 14 school district — schools may close and thousands of students could be forced to attend classes outside their community. Today on the show, host Bree Davies talks to Chalkbeat reporter Yesenia Robles about where the school district sits now, how it got to such a dire state, and where the people of Commerce City stand when it comes their much-maligned schools. Read Yesenia Robles’ in-depth reporting on the Adams 14 situation in English and Spanish for Chalkbeat . Bree mentioned the latest on the impending Rainbow Gathering. Hear our interview from earlier this year with a veteran RG attendee addressing the controversy. Celebrate Juneteenth this weekend with a great list of events from City Cast Denver Newsletter Editor Peyton Garcia. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Are you an Adams 14 alum or have kids in the district? Tell us how you feel about the situation on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Rocky Mountain MicroFinance Institute Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 15, 2022
Get Those Mile High Summer Vibes on Denver’s Best Patios
It’s prime outdoor-dining season in Denver. But what, exactly, makes a good patio? Today on the show, host Bree Davies is joined by newsletter editor and foodie extraordinaire Peyton Garcia to discuss the role of ambiance and a killer view when it comes to judging the perfect patio scenario. From our favorite rooftop party spots to those calm, garden-like hideaways, Peyton and Bree share a robust list of restaurants and bars doing outdoor dining in Denver right. Bree also mentioned James Beard Award winner Adrian Miller, who stopped by our show last summer to talk about his book, “Black Smoke: African-Americans and the United States of BBQ.” In today’s City Cast Denver newsletter, Peyton digs into the history of the Denver Zoo (and stay tuned for a companion podcast episode about the zoo, coming soon!) Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Share your fave Denver patio spots with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Got something to say about Denver? Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Don’t Tell Comedy Rocky Mountain MicroFinance Institute Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 14, 2022
Why Rep. Tom Sullivan Thinks His Colleagues Won't Talk About Guns
Ten years ago, Tom Sullivan lost his son Alex in the Aurora theater shooting. It was a tragedy that sparked a political career, with Sullivan stepping up to run for office and lead a decade’s worth of gun reform campaigns. But those campaigns have had limited success, and mass shootings continue to plague our community. So now that the City of Denver is trying to get more guns off the street and Sullivan is campaigning for a seat in the state senate, host Bree Davies sat down with him to discuss the challenge of local gun policy, explain his theory on the political gridlock, and respond to critics who say that Denver’s ban on concealed carry in public buildings and parks will lead to more racial profiling. Bree interviewed one of those critics, Anubis Heru, co-owner of the 1770 Armory and Gun Club, a few weeks ago on the show. You can listen to that episode here . Bree’s also got updates on a couple more past stories, about FashioNation and Denver’s teen drag scene, in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: The How to Buy a Home Podcast Wonderful Waste Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, June 13, 2022
Could Denver Run Out of Water?
Do we really need the moisture? Or is that just something Denverites like to say? Recently, local news has been awash in headlines about the state of Colorado’s water supply, and it’s got us wondering: Is Denver at risk of running out? Are we good or bad at the natural resource game? Are we water suckers or water misers? Today on the show, Producer Paul Karolyi talks with Denver Water’s chief planner Greg Fisher about the Mile High City’s own H2O situation and what — if anything — Denverites could to do better when it comes to our water usage. Paul mentioned several scary water stories, including Governor Polis signing a bill last week offering cash to folks who rip out their water-sucking lawns; Aurora looking at banning future lawns and golf courses ; and then there was a potential (but ultimately shelved) plan to pipe water from the San Luis Valley to Douglas County. Learn more about Denver Water’s Garden in a Box program and sign up for their fall sale here: https://www.denverwater.org/residential/efficiency-tip/garden-box-sign-fall-sale Thirsty for more water knowledge? Newsletter editor Peyton Garcia has got you covered in today’s edition: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have you replaced your lawn? Share some pics with us on Twitter! @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 10, 2022
The Walmart-ification of Denver
Ask any Denverite, and they’ll tell you: Everything here is getting more expensive, especially housing. So we’re digging into two stories that could have a huge impact on our real estate market: Walmart heir Rob Walton’s purchase of the Denver Broncos, including a huge parcel of land around Mile High Stadium, and City Council’s approval of a long-awaited, much-talked-about affordable housing policy. Can either bring Walmart-style “great prices” back to Denver? Westword reporter Conor McCormick-Cavanagh is back on the show with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to help get to the bottom of it. Paul mentioned this article from the Denver Post about how Denver took inspiration from Atlanta’s affordable housing policy. Lookin’ to have a kickass weekend? Newsletter editor Peyton Garcia has got you covered: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think about the Walmart-ification of Denver? Let us know on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 09, 2022
Is 'Diversity' Just a Buzzword in Denver’s Theater Scene?
For 13 years, the Black Actors Guild created and performed some of the most provocative and entertaining plays in Denver. They started out as students at Denver School of the Arts and went on to bring in as much as $700,000 per year through their plays and arts education courses. But after a rough couple of years, they’re closing the curtain. So host Bree Davies sat down with her friend and Black Actors Guild co-founder Ryan Foo to talk about the state of theater in Denver and answer some big questions: Is “diversity” still just a buzzword, or are our arts institutions actually doing the work? What can theater companies do to uplift and make space for younger creators — and audiences — of color? If Denver can attract big, sell-out Broadway shows but not support local artists in the same way, has the city become a victim of its own success? We mentioned Ryan Foo’s latest immersive theater-party, IllFooMinati VI, happening tomorrow and Saturday night at the Savoy Denver. Tickets and more information here . More news you can use in our daily City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Find us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks Wonderful Waste Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 08, 2022
Affordable Fun in the Sun: Our Outdoor Swimming Recs
It’s outdoor swimming pool season! But Denver Parks and Rec has a shortened operating schedule and Colorado is facing a lifeguard shortage (along with the rest of the country). Still, there’s plenty of reasons — and places — to swim in and around Denver. Today on the show, host Bree Davies chats with producer Paul Karolyi about what’s up with our pool sitch and how the key to your best poolside summer yet may mean looking outside Denver city limits. Paul mentioned this NPR piece with a surprising explanation for the lifeguard shortage and this Denver Post article from City Cast Denver’s favorite meteorologist Andy Stein about how long Denver could keep its outdoor public pools open. Bree talked about a whole gang of good pool options in surrounding municipalities that won’t break the bank: Brighton Oasis (Brighton) The Splash at Fossil Trace (Golden) Pirates Cove (Englewood) The Bay (Broomfield) H2O’Brien Pool (Parker) Island Kingdom at Elitches Check out the City Cast Denver newsletter, where today, Peyton digs into the new City Council-approved affordable housing mandate. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Share your best pool recs with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Optimum Joy Wonderful Waste Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 07, 2022
Superintendent Marrero Talks School Safety, Rumored Closures, and the State of DPS
Denver Public Schools let out for the summer last week, which means DPS superintendent Dr. Alex Marrero now has one full school year under his belt — and it was a rough one. Declining enrollment sparked fears of school closures. A beloved Northside teacher was let go, prompting student walkouts and protests. Mass shootings tested DPS’s security plans and resurfaced the debate over cops in schools. And oh yeah, COVID-19. Host Bree Davies sits down with Dr. Marrero to go through the ups and downs, and his plan for the future. For more on the issues Bree discussed with Dr. Marrero, here’s a few links: Recommended school closure criteria presented to Denver school board [Chalkbeat, 6/2/2022] Denver school board votes to phase police out of schools [Chalkbeat, 6/11/2020] He’s a Beloved Northside Teacher. Why Did DPS Let Him Go? [City Cast Denver, 5/11/2022] One Denver Teacher Says They’re Not Just Burned Out, They’re Being Set on Fire [City Cast Denver, 1/11/2022] With the school year wrapping up last week, there’s been a ton of news related to DPS and other schools across the state. Newsletter Editor Peyton Garcia has got all the important stuff rounded up for you in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think about the possibility of school closures? Tweet at us @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Rocky Mountain MicroFinance Institute Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, June 06, 2022
Yes In My Backyard: Ideas for Tackling Denver’s Housing Crisis
It’s no secret that Denver’s housing market is nuts. But when we sit down to talk about the causes and solutions for our ongoing issues with housing, things tend to get heated, complicated, and divisive. So, we’re looking to Denverites for their “big ideas” to help steer this and other conversations about our city’s future. What can the Mile High do to make this place better for everyone? Today on the show, Host Bree Davies talks with fellow housing wonk Adam Estroff , member of YIMBY Denver and aspiring politician, about what he thinks we can do right now to put Denver on a better course toward more affordable — and attractive — housing. Check out Adam’s campaign for city council , representing “Lucky” District 7. This is the Denver Post article about the city's landmarks that Adam mentioned in the episode. Colorado primary ballots start arriving in mailboxes this week. Editor Peyton Garcia has all the voting resources you need in today’s City Cast Denver Newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We’re on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks Rocky Mountain MicroFinance Institute Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 03, 2022
How to Have a Kickass Colorado Summer
Summer’s (almost) officially here, and we’re here for it! Today on the show, Producer Paul Karolyi is joined by Newsletter Editor Peyton Garcia and Host Bree Davies to chat about what makes summer the best season in Denver. From short mountain jaunts to cool new art installations, the City Cast Denver crew has lots of ideas for your next weekend outing. Bree’s Picks: Go for evening bike rides! (Grab some lights at Yawp Cyclery or another local bike shop) Pack a picnic for a summer concert at Levitt Pavilion or the Denver Botanic Gardens Peyton’s Picks: Eat your way through a food festival! Especially Top Taco and Burger Battle Find your own dang hiking/camping/backpacking spot with help from Colorado Parks and Wildlife Paul’s Picks: James Turrell’s newest Skyspace opens on June 18 at the Green Box Arts Festival . Go stargazing and spend a single night camping at the Pawnee Buttes Peyton’s got even more fun stuff for your weekend in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Where’s your favorite place to swim in the metro area? Send us an email at denver@citycast.fm , or call us at (720) 500-5418 and let us know! Catch us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 02, 2022
If You Can’t Beat the I-70 Traffic, Learn to Love It
If I-70 had a mayor, it would be Alejandro Brown. He started the I-70 Things Instagram account a few years ago when he was stuck in ski traffic. It was a fun way to share silly moments and crazy stuff people (and animals) were doing on the side of the highway. But then, something changed — Alejandro realized that the account could also serve as a public service, too. Today on the show, Host Bree Davies talks with Alejandro about why I-70 Things seems to resonate with so many Coloradans (200,000 and counting!), how he’s managed to encapsulate our complex relationship with the well-traveled highway, and why he chose to use his powers for good. Wanna know the latest local restaurant hot goss? Peyton Garcia’s got all you need to know in today’s City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We’re on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Wonderful Waste Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 01, 2022
Meet Ophelia Peaches, Local Teen Queen and Future Drag Superstar
Drag has come a long way in the past century — and more recently, thanks to shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race, the culture and art form have fully entered the mainstream. Now, a whole new generation of performers who grew up watching Ru and her kin have created scenes of their very own. Like here in Denver, 17-year-old Jameson Lee and his mom, Robin Fulton, created Dragutante , an annual event spotlighting kid drag performers. Host Bree Davies talks with Jameson and Robin about the new Discovery+ docu-series spotlighting their story and why it is crucial now more than ever to support young people in their quest to express themselves on stage and in life. Watch Generation Drag starting TODAY on Discovery+ (which has a seven-day free trial option!) With Parks & Rec delaying outdoor public pool season to June 13, we want to know: Where are the best places to swim in the Denver metro area? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood at (720) 500-5418, and we might share it on an upcoming episode! Suncor has been polluting neighborhoods around its Commerce City refinery for 90 years, so it might be a bit of a shock to learn about their “climate champion” reputation in Canada. Producer Paul Karolyi has the story in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Wonderful Waste Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 31, 2022
A Sneak Peek At Our Climate Apocalypse
Way back in 2018, the theater wizards behind Control Group Productions started dreaming about what it might feel like to live in a not-so-distant future Denver wrecked by climate change. Then the pandemic came along and, as they say, “helped with that.” This weekend, they are premiering The End , an immersive bus tour of our local culture and ecology — just, you know, a heck of a lot drier, meaner, and set in that imagined future. City Cast producer and resident theater buff Lizzie Goldsmith got a sneak peek behind the scenes of The End, talking with cast members Caroline Sharkey and Krista Zozulia. Today on the show, she brings us along for an early preview of the apocalypse. Producer Paul Karolyi mentioned Denver’s public pools and the application to become a lifeguard. Please share it far and wide so our public pools can stay open longer! Looking for a good way to help stave off climate catastrophe? Peyton Garcia takes a look at lawn replacement and native plant alternatives in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks CU Boulder’s Master of Arts in Journalism Entrepreneurship Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 27, 2022
Can We Change Denver’s Transit Culture For the Better?
It’s no secret — Denver’s a car-centric place. But it doesn’t have to be! Today on the show, we’re bringing you a conversation with transit advocates and experts about what we could do differently when it comes to embracing multiple modes of getting around, while keeping equity and the climate in mind. Host Bree Davies is joined by Marcus Robinson, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Ride for Racial Justice; Grace Rink, Chief Climate Officer for the City of Denver; and Skyler McKinley, Regional Director for Public Affairs at AAA. The conversation recorded in front of a live audience as part of the Transportation Solutions Foundation’s annual Road Ahead conference, which took place yesterday at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Fill your long weekend with all sorts of cool stuff to do using our handy dandy events round-up in today’s City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Just a note: We’re out for Memorial Day, so you won’t see a new podcast or newsletter until next Tuesday! On Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 26, 2022
A New Story of Resilience Blooms at Camp Amache
During World War II, the U.S. government incarcerated more than 10,000 Americans of Japanese descent at a concentration camp smack in the middle of desolate, hardscrabble southeast Colorado. It’s an ugly chapter in American history that has, in the last few years, been subject to renewed interest and attention from archaeologists, historians and, most recently, horticulturalists. Colorado Public Radio’s Ryan Warner has been following a surprisingly heartwarming story to come out of this dark time. Today, he sits down with Host Bree Davies to talk through the legacy of Camp Amache, the story of the Amache rose, and what it has meant to at least one survivor. For more on the story, check out Warner’s original story and his update from earlier this week. Also, stay tuned to the end of this episode for a note from Bree on our recent episode about Denver’s new concealed carry ban. We are heartbroken by the mass killing at an elementary school in Texas earlier this week. In our newsletter today, Peyton Garcia has got a bunch of links to help if you want to help out or get involved: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ . Join us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 25, 2022
Colfax is Changing. And Maybe That’s Good?
If there’s anything constant about Denver, it’s change. Recently, Host Bree Davies was driving down Colfax and noticed that a lot of things about her favorite street in the city were in flux. Block after block, recognizable buildings were now holes in the ground; other familiar parts of the built environment had been fenced off; and many beloved businesses were closed. Bree took her woes online and Frank Locantore , Executive Director of the Colfax Ave Business Improvement District, reached out with an offer — a tour of the strip by foot, to offer a different perspective on the block-by-block transformation in progress. Today on the show, Frank, Bree, and producer Paul Karolyi wander together and talk about what the street has been up to and why we should be embracing the Colfax of the future. For more on the long-awaited Colfax bus rapid transit system — or BRT — discussed in this episode, check out all the details on the City of Denver’s website. Bree mentioned the sexual assault allegations against jam band promoter and notorious dingdong Jay Bianchi. Here’s our episode about those allegations from last summer. Remember a couple years back when Denver nearly tore itself apart over the effort to cull our flocks of geese and use the fowl to help feed families in need? Peyton’s got an update on how that’s been going: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We are on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks Optimum Joy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 24, 2022
303, 720, and Now, 983. What Does Your Area Code Say About You?
Starting on June 17, Denverites registering a phone number might get a new area code: 983. Yes, it can spell W-T-F, but that’s not what’s got people talking. Old Denver heads are proud of their 303 and, to a lesser extent, 720 area codes! So host Bree Davies (720), producer Paul Karolyi (614), and newsletter writer Peyton Garcia (720) are wading into the messy native/transplant conversation and uncovering some neighborhood history along the way. In the newscast, we mentioned the latest developments in the creation of the Office of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives. Check out our episode with Raven Payment from last month for more of that backstory. The Avs’ playoff run is getting ugly, but the worst of it is playing out off-ice. Paul has the latest on the racist threats made against Avs center Nazem Kadri in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We're also on Twitter @citycastdenver ! Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, May 23, 2022
Do ‘Gun-Free’ Zones Really Keep Denverites Safer?
Denver City Council voted last week to ban the concealed carry of guns in city buildings and parks, with the goal of making these areas “gun-free” zones, according to City Attorney Kristin Bronson. But Anubis Heru , co-founder of 1770 Armory and Gun Club in Five Points, doesn’t think that’s the answer to the problem of rising gun violence. Today on the show, he talks with Bree about racial profiling, the importance of gun training and education, and why he thinks concealed carry in parks especially actually keeps people safer. Did this weekend’s snowstorm wreak havoc on any trees in your yard? If so, you’ll want to check out today’s newsletter, where Peyton has the details on getting those branches included in your trash pickup this week: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What’s your take on the concealed carry ban? Let us know on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsor of today’s episode: Optimum Joy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 20, 2022
Why Doesn’t Stan Kroenke Want Us to See the Avs, the Nuggs, OR the Mountains?
The Stan Kroenke-owned Colorado Avalanche are tearing up the NHL playoffs, but the billionaire tycoon still won’t make a deal with Comcast to allow most Denverites to watch. Now, Kroenke wants to tear up the parking lots around Ball Arena in favor of a brand-new 55-acre downtown neighborhood — which could mean some downtown Denverites would lose their views of the mountains. So today on the show, host Bree Davies , producer Paul Karolyi , and Westword editor Patty Calhoun are pulling back the curtain and talking about all the things Mr. Kroenke doesn’t want you to see. We talked more about the new Pueblo-themed bar at the beginning of this episode, including John Rodriguez’s op-ed for Westword. Here’s a link to that piece: https://www.westword.com/restaurants/pueblo-appropriation-brand-fuel-iron-colorado-14042148 Wanna pack your weekend with fun stuff? Peyton’s got you covered in the City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us your hope and dreams for what the sea of parking lots around Ball Arena could be on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Denver Film presents Film on the Rocks Optimum Joy Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 19, 2022
Is Denver Ready for a Pueblo-Themed Bar? We asked a Puebloan
When we heard about a new bar opening in downtown Denver themed after the city of Pueblo, we were skeptical, to say the least. Who would want to theme a bar after a Colorado town? Would this place make a mockery of our southern Colorado cousin? And really, how could you even capture the essence of such a misunderstood and overlooked place like Pueblo, anyway? Host Bree Davies wanted answers, and she knew just who to call: her best friend, David Casados, a born and raised Puebloan. Today on the show, Bree, David, and producer Paul Karolyi head down to Fuel & Iron in the heart of LoDo to sip on a fancy cocktail named after the Pueblo neighborhood of Aberdeen, dig into a version of Pueblo’s famous “slopper,” and try to figure out if this place is legitimately Pueblo. At the top of the show, we mentioned John Rodriguez’s editorial in Westword about the bar: https://www.westword.com/restaurants/pueblo-appropriation-brand-fuel-iron-colorado-14042148 Fuel & Iron’s owners response to that editorial: https://www.westword.com/restaurants/pueblo-denver-fuel-future-investment-opinion-14087932 Check out our newsletter, where today, the City Cast Denver crew shares their hottest takes on Denver’s new area code. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Are you a Puebloan living in Denver? Tell us what you miss about your home city on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 18, 2022
This Queer Gym is Not Only Transforming Bodies, But Lives.
When Styler Rising opened Metamorphosis Fitness in 2015, they focused on creating a place that embraced exercise, strength, and transformation. But what Styler didn’t realize was that they were also providing something else — a safe, queer-affirming gym environment. So, the fitness business went through a transformation of its own, and things really took off after a TikTok about the gym went viral. Today on the show, Bree talks with Styler about all the work they have done to create a cool, welcoming place for all bodies who want to get fit. Want to own 800 pounds of prime Denver history? Bree’s got an exclusive lead on a very interesting opportunity in our newsletter today: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you love most about your gym? We’ll share all the local love on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 17, 2022
Real Talk About the Fentanyl Bill Waiting for Polis' Signature
In the waning hours of their 2022 legislative session, the Colorado General Assembly finally reached a compromise on a bill meant to stop the spike in fentanyl-related deaths across Colorado. After months of debate, they agreed to toughen punishments for possession of smaller amounts of the synthetic opioid. Just like the lawmakers, we made this bill our top priority for the legislative session, so Bree and Paul are looking back at how it all went down, unpacking what made it into the bill, and what’s next. To get a full picture of how this debate played out, here’s a rundown of our recent coverage: “ More Like Poisoning than an Overdose ” with Attorney General Phil Weiser (February 22, 2022) “ Why the New Fentanyl Bill Has Harm Reductionists Concerned ” with Harm Reduction Action Center executive director Lisa Raville (March 29, 2022) “ Inside the Fentanyl Fight at the Capitol ” with State Representative Leslie Herod (May 2, 2022) Here’s a few of our sources for this conversation: For a breakdown of all the little things that were included in the final version of the fentanyl bill, check out this piece from Colorado Public Radio. This Denver Post article has a good explanation of the closing minutes of the legislative session, when a flurry of compromises led up to the final vote. Bree mentioned a new repatriation effort underway at the Denver Art Museum. For more on that fascinating story, Peyton’s going deep in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ How do you feel about the fentanyl bill our lawmakers delivered? Share your thoughts on Twitter and tag us @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home Podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, May 16, 2022
She’s a Globe-Trotting Climate Justice Warrior. And She’s Only 11.
Move over Greta Thunberg, Colorado’s got its own wunderkind climate champion. Her name is Madhvi Chittoor . She’s 11-years-old, and she lives with her parents in Arvada. But every chance she gets, Chittoor zips across the world speaking out against plastic pollution, leading climate rallies, and meeting with world leaders, like Vice President Kamala Harris. Today, Bree sits down with Chittoor to talk about her life in activism, her budding music career, and her latest legislative achievement, a bill that would ban the sale of PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” across Colorado. Check out this profile of Chittoor from Conrad Swanson at the Denver Post for even more on her inspiring activism: https://www.denverpost.com/2022/04/26/colorado-pfas-madhvi-chittoor-environmental-activist/ For more, here’s the full Denver7 report on the PFAS bill that we excerpted in this episode and, per Chittoor’s recommendation, CNN’s documentary, “ Midway, A Plastic Island .” Chittoor’s album, “I am… Princess Genius,” is available through her website , and we found it on Spotify here . After the Colorado state legislative session wrapped up last week, Governor Jared Polis has got to get out his signing pen. Peyton’s got a breakdown of all the important stuff that hit his desk in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ How was your Denver weekend? Hit us with a pic on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, May 14, 2022
BONUS: Living Unhoused Under the Camping Ban (via Elevated Denver)
It has been ten years since Denver enacted an urban camping ban, providing the legal basis for what many housing activists are now calling “Denver’s Decade of Doom.” So to mark the occasion, we are bringing you this bonus episode of the new Elevated Denver podcast. Their hope for the podcast is to build compassion for the experience of being unhoused, to see this as a system issue and not an individual issue, and to spark hope for solving homelessness. You can learn more about their broader advocacy project, subscribe to the Elevated Denver podcast, and listen to the whole 10-episode series here: https://elevateddenver.co/podcast/ Here’s how they describe this episode: “Myra takes on her journey from being housed to being unhoused, and then searching out the resources she needed to get back into stable housing. *Trigger warning: Myra's story may be triggering to some of you. Please take care.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 13, 2022
The Unvarnished Truth Behind 10 Years of Sweeping Homelessness Under the Rug
Ten years ago this week, Denver leaders signed an urban camping ban into law. Since then, folks across the city have experienced displacement, skyrocketing housing costs, and fewer and fewer sheltering options for those living on the margins. Today on the show, Bree sits down with Denver Homeless Out Loud cofounder Benjamin Dunning and Westword reporter Conor McCormick-Cavanaugh for a wide-ranging conversation on how Denver got here and what the future looks like for a city that desperately needs more affordable housing options. For a thorough breakdown of Denver’s recent history dealing with our housing crisis, do yourself a favor and spend some time with McCormick-Cavanagh’s terrific feature story from last December: https://www.westword.com/news/denver-homelessness-decades-hancock-hickenlooper-pena-12975252 Interested in the work advocates and the unhoused community are doing? Denver Homeless Out Loud offers resources and information, like this “Seven Myths of Homelessness” list. Also, events commemorating the “Decade of Doom” culminate this weekend. More info here . Wanna have a kickass weekend? Peyton’s got a rundown of cool events and other stuff to do in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ If you were running for mayor in 2023, what would be your stance on the urban camping ban? Repeal it or extend it? Tell us why on Twitter @citycastdenver or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood and we might play it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 12, 2022
A Shooting. A Neighborhood Divided. What's Next for La Alma-Lincoln Park?
On April 27, Gary Arellano was shot and killed in La Alma-Lincoln Park. The city’s response? Fence off the park to the community, something that Arellano’s family says is in direct opposition to what he would have wanted. And this wasn’t the first time the park has been closed to the public because of violence. So what’s to be done in this rapidly gentrifying neighborhood? Denver Post reporter Elizabeth Hernandez has been reporting on the situation at La Alma-Lincoln Park, and she’s on the show to explain what happened, why, and explore this moment’s connections with the historic displacement of Auraria, just on the other side of Colfax. Gary Arellano’s family is hosting a benefit this Saturday, May 14, at The Denver Inner City Parish from 1-6 p.m. You can find details for that, a link to their GoFundMe, and their petition to “Save La Alma Park in Honor of Gary Arellano” here . The Park Hill golf course drama continues and Peyton’s breaking it all down in the City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Do you have a connection to La Alma-Lincoln Park? Tweet us: @citycastdenver . Or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 11, 2022
He's a Beloved Northside Teacher. Why Did DPS Let Him Go?
Earlier this year, North High School teacher Tim Hernández came on the show to talk about his experience teaching in a pandemic. But he also spoke passionately about the cultural significance of the work he does as a Chicano teacher on the Northside, and the importance of teaching Chicano and Latino history to his mostly Latino classes. So last week when Tim posted online that he was being let go from his beloved Northside school, we knew there was more to the story. Today on the show, Bree talks with Tim about his impending departure from North High School, and why — in a city with a supposed teacher shortage — a devoted, community-centered educator like him would be let go. On the show today, Bree also mentioned “Denver’s Decade of Doom,” a term some housing and unhoused community activists are using to mark the 10-year anniversary of Denver’s urban camping ban this week. See their event page for more details about the planned week of “grievance and action.” Read and subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Say hi on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 10, 2022
What’s the Can’t-Miss Spot to See a Lion, Tiger or Bear in Colorado?
It’s our producer Xandra’s last hurrah in Denver before she heads off to Philadelphia. So we had to ask: What‘s on your bucket list before you leave Colorado? Her number one choice was a trip to the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keensburg, home to 38 tigers that once belonged to the man they call the Tiger King. So we sent her off to visit this past weekend. Bree sits down with Xandra to get the inside scoop on what the sanctuary is like, what kinds of animals you can find there, and why this space made just for lions, tigers, and (very big) bears feels so different from visiting a traditional zoo. Plus: you, our dear listeners and readers, had some fantastic recommendations for Xandra’s bucket list and Peyton rounds them up in the City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chit-chat it up with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, May 09, 2022
Should Denverites Be Paying For Trash Pickup?
Denver is sooooo bad at recycling and composting. In fact, our diversion rate — the amount of waste we divert from landfills to recycling and composting — is a paltry 26%. So how did Denver get so far behind when it comes to trash? And what are we doing to catch up? Councilman Jolon Clark has been pushing for one surprising, seemingly counter-intuitive measure since he was elected to City Council in 2015, and it looks like he might finally have the support to make it happen this year. So Bree sat down with Councilman Clark to hear why he wants Denverites to start paying for our trash. Councilman Clark mentioned an initiative that’s going to be on Denver’s ballot this fall to require all businesses, including apartment buildings, offer recycling and composting bins. Here’s a link to learn more about the Waste No More initiative. The City of Denver’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency recently adopted Clark’s new pay-for-trash proposal and incorporated it into their broader plan to increase our diversion rate to 50% by 2027. After complaints from the neighbors, Number 38 is no longer allowed to host super loud concerts in RiNo. Peyton’s got the whole story and all the news you need to know to start your week right here in our daily newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver ] Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 06, 2022
Denver’s Best Donut: Who Takes the Cake?
We’ve brought you a burger crawl, a breakfast burrito battle, and a fried chicken chowdown. Now, we’re tackling something sickly sweet and asking the big, round, frosted question: Who makes the best donuts in Denver? Peyton, Paul, Xandra, and Bree took on the task of taste-testing four of the top contenders in the Mile High City (and may have suffered a collective sugar overload in the process, so you don’t have to). Settle in as we debate who bakes, fries, (and in one case, blowtorches) the best dang donuts in Denver. It’s Friday! Peyton’s rounded up all the cool stuff happening in and around the Mile High in the City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tweet at us: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 05, 2022
Can Denver Throw a Booze-Free Party That's Actually Fun?
Jen Korte likes to throw big parties. She also doesn’t really drink that much. But as a musician, Korte has seen first-hand how much art and music are often intertwined with drinking culture — so, she set out to change that. The result is Clearheads: A Booze-Free Hang, Korte’s monthly party happening this Sunday, May 8, from 12pm to 4pm at Fort Greene bar in Globeville. The all-ages party de-centers alcohol, while refocusing on community, entertainment, and fun. Bree talks with her old friend Jen Korte about what makes Clearheads feel so fresh and what’s driving the increasing interest in sober bars and booze-free gatherings all across Denver. For more information or tickets to Clearheads: A Booze-Free Hang, check out Eventbrite . It’s Cinco de Mayo! Peyton has a hearty list of ways and places to celebrate today and throughout the weekend in the City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Gotta a go-to bar or restaurant that serves your fave mocktail? Tell us on Twitter: @citycastdenver This episode is sponsored by the How to Buy a Home Podcast . Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 04, 2022
Abortion is Still Legal in Colorado. But the Fight is on to Preserve it.
The U.S. Supreme Court is planning to overturn Roe v. Wade, the 50-year-old decision guaranteeing federal protection of Americans’ right to an abortion. That’s according to a leaked, draft opinion by Justice Samuel Alito published by Politico earlier this week. What would that decision mean for Colorado, where our state just put a new law on the books defending abortion rights? Bree and Xandra are talking out the local implications of a decision that could affect every person in this country. Our brilliant, thoughtful listeners sent us a couple of suggestions for how to contribute to the effort to protect abortion rights: Abortion Care Network and Colorado Doula Project . Tell us what you think about the status of abortion rights in Colorado! Leave us a message or text us with your name and neighborhood and we might share your message on the show: 720-500-5418 For a deeper dive into the local policy implications of this threat to abortion access, Peyton has got you covered in today’s City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Were you at any of the pro-choice rallies yesterday? We’d love to see some pics! Tweet them at us @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 03, 2022
Renovated for Reading AND Play: Inside DPL’s New Children’s Library
Denver Public Library’s Central Branch is one of the city’s most beautiful, iconic structures, with a design by world-renowned architect Michael Graves. Graves’ addition to the original 1955 Burnham Hoyt designed structure came in 1995 — while still gorgeous, in the past few years, the library has really started showing its age. But thanks to Denver voters — who approved a bond package in 2017 — the library received the funds for a massive renovation. Last week the newly renovated children’s area opened to the public for the first time. Today, join Bree on a trip through DPL’s present and future with the central branch’s administrator Rachel Fewell. Want more Denver news fresh in your inbox everyday? Subscribe to our newsletter! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ If you visit the new children’s library, share photos with us on Twitter! @citycastdenver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: How to Buy a Home podcast Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, May 02, 2022
Inside the Fentanyl Fight at the Capitol
Everyone agrees that the synthetic opioid fentanyl has become a serious threat to the health and well-being of Coloradans — but the question of what to do about fentanyl has sparked one of the hottest debates of this year’s legislative session. Lawmakers are reaching across the aisle in both directions. Harm reduction advocates are rallying on the steps of the Capitol. Law enforcement officers are calling for stiffer penalties. Rep. Leslie Herod has been at the center of it all, and today on the show, she takes Bree inside the “political hell” around the fentanyl issue at the Capitol. For more on the new e-bike and other green rebates offered by Denver’s new Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency Office, check out their website and see what you’d be eligible to save. A shooting at La Alma Lincoln Park upset plans to celebrate Denver’s Chicano murals this week. Peyton’s got the story in today’s City Cast Denver newsletter, alongside all the other news you need to know today: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ With less than two weeks left in the Colorado legislature’s session, what do you hope they get done? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 29, 2022
This Week in Colorado Politics: DUIs, Tax Money, and, Ugh, Let’s Go Brandon
It’s Friday and we’re talking politics. Specifically, we’re talking politicians — this week, some Colorado legislators were up to no good. Paul is joined by Bree and Westword editor and founder Patty Calhoun to talk about Gov. Polis’s promise to “gift” taxpayers money (that’s already ours), Rep. Matt Gray’s DUI arrest, and Rep. Dave Williams’s court battle to get his bogus nickname on the ballot. Plus, Xandra is leaving us for Philly — but before she goes, Paul and Bree help narrow down her very Colorado bucket list. Got suggestions for the best Colorado things Xandra should do before she jets off to the East Coast this summer? Call the “Xandra’s Big 303 Bucket List” hotline and leave her a message: 720-500-5418. Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Check out Peyton Garcia’s picks in the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ If you heard yesterday’s episode about Beau Jo’s, we know you’ve probably got piping hot takes on “Colorado Style Pizza,” sooooo tweet them at us! @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 28, 2022
The Inconvenient Truth About 'Colorado-Style' Pizza
Two years ago, producer Paul Karolyi and his wife, Megan, reviewed local iconic pizza joint Beau Jo’s for their show, the Denver Pizza Podcast . (Spoiler alert: they weren’t impressed.) But the experience turned into an obsession for Paul who had to get to the bottom of why Beau Jo’s was considered the only “Colorado-style pizza” around. Now that Beau Jo’s is opening a new location in Lone Tree, Bree thought it would be a good time to ask Paul about his strong feelings about the institution, and discuss his in-depth pizza investigation into the phenomenon of putting honey on the crust and how Beau Jo’s trademarked the term “Colorado-style pizza.” Paul and Megan’s full pizza investigation: Range & Slope: The Honey Trap For more Denver food news, Peyton’s got you covered with today’s roundup! Check it out here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think of Beau Jo’s? Let us on know on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 27, 2022
Does the ‘Denver Accent’ Exist? CU Researchers are on the Case
As Denver continues to grow and change, there’s a constant conversation happening about our identity. Who are we as a city? What makes Denver, well, Denver? One characteristic often in question is the way we speak. Do we have an accent? Is there a way — or more than one way — Denverites talk? Turns out, there isn’t a lot of information out there on our particular speech patterns, but researchers at CU Boulder are on the case. Today on the show, Host Bree Davies talks with Jeremy Calder, an assistant professor in the linguistics department, and graduate student Andrew Ting about their “Voices of Colorado” project and what they’ve learned about how Denverites speak. Think you have a Denver accent? Jeremy and Andy need your help! Check out their Voices of Colorado project on Facebook. Have you ever eaten a hot dog from a stand outside Home Depot? Well, strap in, because those hot dog vendors have been in a years-long battle with the company, and all processed meat fans are gonna wanna read Peyton’s breakdown of the situation in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think about the Denver accent? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver , or text or leave us a voicemail at (720) 500-5418. Just remember to include your name and neighborhood, and we might play it on the show! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 26, 2022
Denver Athletes Dominate a New Global Sport: Professional Tag
You know the movie “ Dodgeball ”? The one where Vince Vaughn saves his neighborhood gym by bringing together a team of misfits to win a quirky adult version of a kids' game? Over the past few years, the plot of “Dodgeball” has been playing out here in Denver, but centers on a parkour gym called APEX and a scrappy group of Coloradans who are now two-time national champions at World Chase Tag, a relatively new sport that exploded in popularity during the pandemic, with tournaments airing on NBC and ESPN. The APEX squad is now in training for the tag world championships in May. So earlier this week, Bree visited their backyard practice arena to meet some of the players and watch them in action. The rules of chase tag are simple — "1 chaser, 1 evader, 20 seconds, don't get caught!" — but seeing the sport in action is something else entirely. Check out APEX’s latest national championship match from last June here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n29ni9Khe14 We asked for your recycling and composting tips, and you answered! Peyton rounded up your responses in today’s newsletter. Read and subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have you ever caught World Chase Tag on TV? Tell us what you think on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 25, 2022
The Avalanche Are The Best Team In Hockey. So Is It 'Stanley Cup or Bust'?
With one week left in the NHL’s regular season, the Colorado Avalanche are sitting pretty at the top of the standings. Though widely considered favorites to win the Stanley Cup, the team is known to underperform in the post-season. So, is this the year? Can the Avs can get it done? Or could another early exit lead to big changes within the franchise? Producer Paul Karolyi sits down with City Cast Denver sports guy Jake Shapiro to preview the Avs’ playoff run. Jake and Paul briefly discuss the Avs’ connection with the old Quebec Nordiques and their beautiful powder blue uniforms. For more, check out this episode from last year. Take a look at today’s City Cast Denver newsletter, where Peyton Garcia breaks down this year’s wildfire forecast: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Shoot us your Avalanche hot takes on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 22, 2022
Beef Fat Jet Fuel, E-Bike Rebates, & Other Climate Wins and Fails for Earth Day
It’s the City Cast Denver green and mean Earth Day special! Producers Paul Karolyi, Xandra McMahon, and Lizzie Goldsmith are joined by newsletter editor Peyton Garcia to talk climate wins and fails. From Denver’s lag in recycling (and plans to rectify that) to beef fat being used to power airplanes , there’s been a lot of environmental news around Colorado lately. We also talk about the most endangered river in America (spoiler: It’s the Colorado River) , rebates for e-bikes , DPS Students for Climate Action , and more. For more on the Colorado River, check out the book The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko. Have thoughts or tips on how to recycle or compost efficiently in the city? Give us a call and 720-500-5418 and let us know! Looking for things to do this weekend? Peyton has you covered in the newsletter. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us how you recycle and compost in the city on Twitter: @citycastdenver Today’s episode is brought to you by Choir League. Check out their concert, “Choral Bangerz,” at the Stanley Marketplace this Sunday at 5:30 p.m. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 21, 2022
Willow Pill Talks 'RuPaul's Drag Race,' Coming Out as Trans, and Denver’s Weird Scene
She dazzled the judges all season with her Victorian baby doll style, and now Denver’s own Willow Pill has made it to the finale of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” If she wins, Willow would become the second Drag Superstar hailing from the Mile High City. Her mentor, friend, and fellow oddball Yvie Oddly won in 2019. But Willow has been dreaming of Drag Race success for longer than that, since she was a baby queen at Colorado State University. Bree sat down with Willow ahead of Friday night’s finale to talk about her experience on the show, how it’s helped her discover new things about her gender identity, and why Denver’s drag scene keeps producing these weirdo, eccentric queens. Peyton has rounded up ways you can celebrate Earth Day in the newsletter. Find that edition and subscribe to get future ones here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Share your reactions to the “Drag Race” finale with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Today’s episode is brought to you in part by the How to Buy a Home podcast. Learn more at https://www.howtobuyahome.com/podcast/ . Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 20, 2022
Happy 420! Now Let’s Smoke Some Pot in Public
Could you imagine a better way to spend 420 than a sweet hang at Denver’s first-ever, smoke-friendly public weed consumption site, Tetra Lounge ? Join host Bree Davies and City Cast Denver weed contributor Ann Marie Awad as they talk through Denver’s up-and-down relationship with public weed consumption and chat with Tetra’s owner, Dewayne Benjamin. There’s a ton of 420 stuff going on today, as usual, so Peyton rounded up your best bets in today’s edition of the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Get our tweets @citycastdenver Today’s episode is brought to you by Choir League . Check out their concert, “Choral Bangerz,” at the Stanley Marketplace this Sunday at 5:30 p.m. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 19, 2022
Coloradans Are Freaking Out About the Rainbow Gathering. But is it Really that Scary?
When the news dropped a few weeks ago that 30,000 hippies are likely to descend on Colorado this summer for the 50th annual Rainbow Gathering of the Tribes, the backlash was swift and vocal. A Reddit post on how to take action against the Rainbow Gathering even garnered more than 600 comments in less than 24 hours. Wildfire risk and the environmental impact of this weeks-long shindig were some of the major concerns cited. But one thing the City Cast crew didn’t see in any of the coverage? Information from an actual attendee of the Rainbow Gathering. So we called one up. Tenali Hrenak has been going to Rainbow Gatherings all over the world for more than 20 years, and he chatted with City Cast Denver Host Bree Davies about what this event is really all about, what myths need to be dispelled, and if Coloradans have a reason to be concerned. Hrenak has been collecting field recordings from Rainbow Gatherings for his own podcast. Learn more here: https://soundsfromtherainbow.org/ Catch up on the latest Denver happenings via our daily newsletter! Check out past issues, or sign up here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Want some more back-and-forth in real time? Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 18, 2022
Denver’s Air Quality is in the News Again and It’s Not Good (Actually, it’s Terrible)
Denver’s brown cloud is in the news… again. And it doesn’t seem to be getting better. In fact, in a new move by the EPA, the Front Range’s air quality has gotten so bad, it’s been downgraded from a "serious" to "severe" violator of national ozone standards. But what does it actually mean for Denverites when it comes to quality of life? Are we looking ahead to another summer locked indoors because our air quality is so terrible? Today on the show, host Bree Davies talks with CPR climate reporter Sam Brasch about what, exactly, this new EPA categorization means, how it will impact our lives, and what — if anything — we can do about it. Read Sam Brasch’s reporting for Colorado Public Radio: The EPA moves to declare the Front Range a ‘severe’ air quality violator. Here’s why that matters. City Cast Denver’s Peyton Garcia has rounded up some of the most outrageous hot takes about Denver in today’s newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chat with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 15, 2022
Who Could Be Denver’s Next Mayor?
In less than a year, Denverites will start casting their votes for the next mayor of our city. It may seem early in the race, but the field is likely shaping up to be an already crowded one. From a former gang member-turned-community activist to several state legislators throwing their hats in the ring, there’s plenty of interesting potential mayors to talk about. And it’s not just the mayoral race that will be juicy — lots of city council seats are up for grabs, and those people can make a big difference in the trajectory of Denver, too. Producer Xandra McMahon is joined by host Bree Davies and Westword founder and editor Patty Calhoun to preview the 2023 city election and provide some hot insider campaign goss. Looking for things to do in Denver this weekend? The City Cast Denver newsletter has you covered. Find today’s issue and subscribe to future ones here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ How are you feeling about the city election this far out? Tweet us @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 14, 2022
Thanks to TikTok, a Punk and Goth Boutique Serving Denver for 35 Years is Now World Famous
Since 1987, FashioNation has been outfitting Denver’s goths, punks, ravers, and fest-goers with wild streetwear and the latest in counterculture style. The little indie boutique sells everything from leather pants and platform boots for teens and adults to tutus and bowling shirts for rockabilly babies and toddlers. When Pam and Paul Italiano set out to share their love of clothes and music, they didn’t imagine they would one day be celebrating 35 years in Denver. The secret to their success? FashioNation is a true family business. Pam and Paul have dedicated their lives to the store, and now their daughters Mia and Sydney are helping out too. But Mia and Sydney are more than just sales people — they’ve transformed FashioNation into a global attraction, all through the viral magic of TikTok. Today on the show, host Bree Davies and producer Xandra McMahon take a trip down to south, South Broadway to visit the Italianos and hear the story of how FashioNation has stayed weird and wonderful for three decades. And of course, Mia and Sydney give us the scoop on what their millions of followers on TikTok think about Denver’s coolest goth and punk clothing store. For pictures of FashioNation and more on the history of the store, check out (and subscribe!) to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What are your fondest memories of FashioNation? Tell us via Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 13, 2022
The Idaho Stop Is About More Than Cyclist Safety. It’s About Racial Justice.
For Denver cyclist Marcus Robinson, biking equals freedom. It’s a chance to experience new things and reach places he’s never been able to reach before. It was this idea that was at the heart of his Ride for Racial Justice organization that started in 2020 amid the protests over the murder of George Floyd. He thought if he could get people talking to each other about race from the seat of a bicycle, folks might be more open to listen. Robinson has continued to push for racial equity from his bike, most recently by testifying in favor of the “safety stop” bill recently passed by the state legislature. The safety stop, or “Idaho stop”, would let cyclists roll through stop signs legally. It might seem like a small change, but producer Paul Karolyi chats with Robinson about how this is a big win in the fight for racial justice and safety. We first heard about Robinson and Ride for Racial Justice from past City Cast Denver guest Nathaniel Minor. Check out his piece for Colorado Public Radio on the Idaho Stop here . Newsletter writer Peyton Garcia has a breakdown of Denver’s consideration of a concealed carry ban for its parks. Find today’s edition and subscribe to get future ones in your inbox here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Let’s be friends on Twitter! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 12, 2022
1800 S. Broadway: Talk Back
We got a crap-ton of super interesting voicemails about our story on 1800 S. Broadway, the once and future weed lounge. So producers Paul Karolyi and Xandra McMahon are taking your calls and talking it out. And if you don't know what this is about, check out part one and part two of our story on real estate developer Josh Horwitz's effort to carry on his father's legacy by opening a weed lounge in a contentious spot on South Broadway. Do you have something to say about 1800 S. Broadway or smoking weed in public? Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood and we may play it on the show: (720) 500-5418 Xandra mentioned a story she reported a few years back about weed tourism. You can listen to that whole story here: https://www.cpr.org/show-segment/as-marijuana-mainstreams-bus-tours-view-themselves-as-industry-ambassadors/ Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 12, 2022
Aurora Hired a New Police Chief to Reform the Department. Now She’s Fired.
Ever since the killing of Elijah McClain in 2019, the Aurora Police Department has been mired in turmoil. Now, the chief of police they hired to help reform the department has been fired. Former Chief Vanessa Wilson spoke publicly about her firing for the first time yesterday, and Colorado Sentinel managing editor Kara Mason is on the show today to explain how we got here and why it matters. Want some of Bree’s insider tips on the best stuff in Denver? Check out today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chit-chat with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 11, 2022
1800 S. Broadway: Part Two
If you haven’t heard part one of our look at 1800 S. Broadway and the dawn of public weed consumption in Denver, scroll back in your podcast feed to last Friday or click here. When the city of Denver opened applications for marijuana hospitality businesses last year, the new program attracted a diverse mix of go-getters, from the owner of a private marijuana club who wanted to go public to a Cap Hill mansion whose owners thought weed would help attract more tourists. Among them was an enterprising young real estate tycoon, Josh Horwitz. He applied to open a weed lounge at 1800 S. Broadway, the exact spot where Habibi Hookah Cafe undermined the trust of the neighborhood with excessive late-night partying and violence. The neighbors are organizing to stop Horwitz and City Councilman Jolon Clark is opposed to his permit, but no one has heard his side of the story. Until now. This isn’t the first time Denver has tried to set up a regulatory framework for marijuana hospitality businesses. They tried before a few years ago, but the rules were so restrictive that only one business ever opened. You can learn more about that and Denver’s long on-again, off-again relationship with weed in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think should be done about 1800 S. Broadway? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 08, 2022
1800 S. Broadway: Part One
Ever since Coloradans started taking the prospect of legal weed seriously, stoners have wanted a place to partake in public. The city of Denver opened permits for public consumption businesses a few years ago, but the regulations were so restrictive that only one business was ever able to open. But after last year’s sweeping revamp of our weed laws, a wave of new ganjapreneurs have come forward with proposals for how they’d want a public weed lounge to look and feel — and, more importantly, where one could actually open. It’s a new era of legal weed, and it’s begging the age-old question: if not here, where? Producer Paul Karolyi stumbled upon a red-hot neighborhood battle over one proposed weed lounge a few weeks ago. Today on the show, he breaks it down with producer Xandra McMahon and host Bree Davies . Stay tuned to the show next week for part two of our look at the fight over 1800 S. Broadway. In the meantime, we want to hear from you! Are you excited to smoke weed in public? Would you want a weed lounge in your neighborhood? And how do you feel about the debate over this one in particular? Text or leave us a voicemail at (720) 500-5418, and we might share your thoughts on the show! No weekend plans? No problem. Peyton’s got a rundown of all the cool stuff happening in Denver this weekend in our newsletter today: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Share your hot takes on 1800 S. Broadway with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 07, 2022
Early Birds and Night Owls Face Off Over Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time. Love it or hate it, it’s part of our lives… but if a new law passes in Colorado, it might change our concept of time forever. The bill already passed Colorado’s House of Representatives, and now the Senate is considering adopting DST year round, meaning we would never have to change our clocks again. But how would this impact our days? What does it mean for our sunrises and sunsets? And why do our ski resorts care so much about it? Today on the show, host Bree Davies took these questions to our resident weather expert, meteorologist Andy Stein , who researched everything we wanted to know about the fight over Daylight Saving Time. A whole lot of news broke over the last few days, and City Cast Denver newsletter writer Peyton Garcia has a round-up— read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Give us your Daylight Saving Time hot takes via Twitter: @citycastdenver We’re hiring a producer to help make City Cast Denver! If you love Denver and know your way around an .mp3, let’s talk. Email questions to paul.karolyi@citycast.fm and check out the job listing here: https://citycast.fm/audio-producer-city-cast-denver/ Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, April 06, 2022
Janae Burris is 8.5-Months Pregnant. But Her Comedy Special is ‘Long Overdue’
Janae Burris used to fudge the numbers when people asked how long she’s been doing stand-up comedy. “I kind of stopped doing that, though,” she told the Denver Post earlier this week. “I’ve gotten to the point in my [career] that I can tell people the truth and still get jobs.” But now that the stand-up scene is finally creeping back after two years of terrible comedy over the internet, Burris is on the precipice of great change: She’s eight and a half months pregnant. To document this unique moment, she’s recording her first big comedy special in front of a live audience at the Aurora Fox Arts Center next week, and she’s on the show today to talk with host Bree Davies about being funny while pregnant. Learn more about Burris’ special, “Long Overdue,” and get your tickets to the taping here: https://www.aurorafoxartscenter.org/janae-burris-is-long-overdue Maybe you heard that election denier and My Pillow Guy, Mike Lindell, was on the steps of the Capitol yesterday for an election conspiracy rally? Peyton Garcia has more on that event, and all the other news you need to get through your day in the CCD newsletter. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Let’s be friends on Twitter! @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 05, 2022
Is Colorado's Outdoors Overcrowded? Or Do We Just Need to Learn How to Camp Better?
It might be a false spring, but can you blame us for letting a little nice weather get us excited for camping season?! Some of us, at least. Host Bree Davies has never been super outdoorsy, and all the gatekeeping around the best spots and the reports of overcrowding at our state and national parks don’t make it seem that appealing. So we invited Blackpackers founder and outdoors educator Patricia Cameron to help make it all feel a little more approachable. Check out this piece Cameron published in 2019 about her journey to the outdoors: https://www.elevationoutdoors.com/go-outside/feet-to-the-ground/ One of Denver’ biggest companies is going to court. Learn all about dialysis giant DaVita and the eccentric former CEO at the center of the case in today’s CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What are your favorite hikes or campsites? Let’s swap notes on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 04, 2022
How Can Colorado Tackle the Crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People?
“There is no accurate picture” of how many indigenous people have been murdered or gone missing in Colorado, according to our guest today, Raven Payment. Amid a growing, international movement to address the crisis of MMIR — Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives — she helped form a task force to take on the issue locally. Step one? Push for legislation to create a state office that can figure out exactly how big this problem even is. Today on the show, Host Bree Davies talks with Payment, who identifies as Kanien'kehá:ka and Anishinaabe, about her work on the task force and how the creation of this office could help Indigenous people all across Colorado. Our guest Raven Payment mentions a couple of times how the Urban Indian Health Institute’s 2017 report on MMRI was a catalyst for organizing around this issue. If you’re interested, here’s a link to that report: https://www.uihi.org/resources/missing-and-murdered-indigenous-women-girls/ 30,000 hippies are descending on an as-yet-undisclosed location in Colorado this summer. It’s an annual event called the Rainbow Gathering, and it’s got lots of folks really worried. Catch up on the whole backstory in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter! We’re at @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 01, 2022
Rush Hour at Union Station
Union Station is a mess. At least that’s what news outlets keep saying about the transit hub and fancy downtown hangout. In the last six months, complaints of violence, open drug use, and people sleeping in the public space have become the narrative of Union Station, painting it as a scene of constant chaos. At the beginning of 2022, Mayor Hancock responded by swarming the place with police — as a result, he said that DPD had made 700 arrests since January . The City Cast Denver crew hadn’t made a trek down to the shiny train station since before the pandemic, and knew it was time to see for themselves what was going on there. Host Bree Davies and producers Paul Karolyi and Xandra McMahon met up with Denverite reporter Kyle Harris — who has covered issues at Union Station extensively — for a walk around the downtown spot. They wanted to see for themselves what, exactly, was so concerning. Read more of Kyle Harris’s original reporting on Union Station for Denverite : We spent 18 hours at Union Station. Here’s everything we saw and heard. A swanky Union Station high rise holds clues about how the rich and poor will coexist (or not) downtown Denver police have arrested more than 700 people at Union Station this year — only a third for drug crimes Just a note: Street sweeping starts today! Find out when to avoid that parking ticket in your neighborhood and more in today’s City Cast Denver newsletter. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Say hello on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 31, 2022
The Underground Music Showcase is Fun. But Can It Be a Tool for Social Good?
News broke last week that local music non-profit Youth on Record was buying a stake in the Underground Music Showcase, one of Denver’s biggest annual music festivals. But this is far from any run-of-the-mill music biz deal: YOR’s Executive Director, Jami Duffy, sees the UMS as a platform to propel a “musicians’ middle class” in Denver and beyond. Today on the show, Duffy chats with host Bree Davies about her long-term plans to turn a staple Denver music fest into a pipeline for careers in the arts, while also cultivating a better experience for music fans. Read and sign up for the City Cast Denver newsletter, where today, Peyton Garcia tells the story of how the modern day coffee break has its origins in a labor dispute that happened in CO: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us your favorite UMS stories on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 30, 2022
‘I Walk In Everyday Expecting To Be Fired’: Inside The Starbucks Union Effort
The push to unionize Starbucks workers started in Buffalo, New York, with one small group of baristas stepping forward to call for better working conditions at their cafe. Then slowly, one by one, workers at more than 120 Starbucks locations across the country petitioned for union elections at their shops, including here in Denver, where three separate Starbucks are now in the middle of organizing campaigns. Host Bree Davies sits down with two baristas — Jack Janzen and Hannah Mehlman — to hear why they’re trying to unionize their Starbucks at Leetsdale and Holly, and how the coffee giant is pushing back. WE’RE HIRING! We are looking for an audio producer who loves Denver as much as we do! We’re looking for someone who wants to help us continue to tell beautiful, complicated, compelling stories about the people and things that make this city what it is. Think you or someone you know fits the bill? Take a peek at the official job posting here . In today’s newsletter, Peyton has all the juicy gossip about the Outdoor Retailer show leaving Colorado and heading back to Utah. Find that newsletter and subscribe to future ones here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ By the way, tell us what you think of the newsletter! Fill out this short survey and get entered to win two tickets to RadioLab’s Jad Abumrad live at the Paramount Theatre. https://denver.citycast.fm/survey/ Let’s connect on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 29, 2022
Why The New Fentanyl Bill Has Harm Reductionists Concerned
With fentanyl-related deaths spiking across Colorado, our elected officials have been debating new measures to better protect people from the highly potent, synthetic opioid. Should they go after drug users who are at risk of unwittingly taking a lethal dose? Should they focus on dealers and manufacturers who lace their goods with fentanyl? And what are the roles of “overdose prevention sites” and harm reduction, a strategy borne from the failures of the war on drugs? Now that they’ve formally submitted their bill at the state legislature, it’s time to dig in. Host Bree Davies sits down with Harm Reduction Action Center’s executive director Lisa Raville to break down the policy and politics around the new Fentanyl Accountability and Prevention Act . For additional perspectives on this new bill, Peyton has got a deep dive in our newsletter today. Read and subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And if you’d like a more thorough breakdown of the fentanyl situation, Harm Reduction Action Center and Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition co-published a brief, titled “ Fentanyl in Colorado: Overview and recommendations for addressing the overdose crisis. ” Don’t let another day go by without RTing a great Denver tweet and tagging @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 28, 2022
After 156 Years, Denver Fire Finally Has its First Female Deputy Fire Chief
Too often there’s inherent bias at play when we think about who makes a good firefighter — strong, athletic… manly. “I think that we forget sometimes that the people we are serving like to see a familiar face when they're having their worst day,” says Kathleen Vredenburgh, who wants people to know that firefighting requires a lot more than just physical strength. She was named deputy chief of Denver Fire last month, making her the highest ranking woman in the fire department’s 156-year history. Today on the show, Host Bree Davies talks with Vredenburgh about her experience as a firefighter and her work getting other women to join the department. In today’s newsletter, City Cast Denver’s Peyton Garcia breaks down the $14 million settlement protesters won in an excessive force case against DPD. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Catch us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 25, 2022
The Union Station Snafu, Benny’s is Back, and a Pickleball Power Struggle in Central Park
It’s Friday and we’re chatting about stories big and small in Denver this week, starting with Union Station — which can’t seem to get a decent headline in its favor these days. Producer Paul Karolyi is joined by host Bree Davies and Patty Calhoun, founder and editor of Westword, to discuss perceptions of crime downtown and the re-opening of a beloved Denver Mexican restaurant. Plus, the pickleball player who’s landed himself in a real pickle with the police. Read the latest from Westword on crime statistics at Union Station here: https://www.westword.com/denver/Print?oid=13699478 For more on the pickleball power struggle, Denverite’s Desiree Mathurin has been all over this story: Here’s the original piece and here’s the follow-up. Get the whole backstory on the Outdoor Retailer trade show’s move back to Salt Lake City from past City Cast Denver guest and Colorado Sun reporter Jason Blevins: https://coloradosun.com/2022/03/23/outdoor-retailer-leaving-denver-salt-lake-city/ The Denver Post story about the situation downtown and at Union Station that we talked about is here . Paul shouted out his father-in-law and his favorite Longmont brewery, Wibby Brewing. For directions to their taproom and more, click here: https://www.wibbybrewing.com/ Peyton’s got a roundup of fun things to do this weekend in our daily newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chit-chat with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Oh, and we’re hiring!! https://citycast.fm/audio-producer-city-cast-denver/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 24, 2022
Artist Stevon Lucero’s Chicano Futurism Lives on Inside Meow Wolf
The painter Stevon Lucero was his own person through and through. He created his own style, which he called “metarealism,” and through painting he explored the outer bounds of consciousness, connecting dots no one else saw. When top Denver art galleries didn’t seem interested in him or other Chicano artists, they started up their own thing — Chicano Humanities and Arts Council, or CHAC — paving the way for a surge of interest in Chicano art today. Lucero passed away last year, but not before finishing a room at the hottest gallery in town, Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station, where “meta” is the name of the game. Host Bree Davies visited Convergence Station with Lucero’s wife and fellow artist Arlette Lucero to discuss her husband’s legacy and the special exhibition of his works opening there tomorrow. Peyton’s got all the hot Denver food gossip in our newsletter today. Read and subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Do you have a favorite Stevon Lucero painting? Share a pic with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 23, 2022
Lincoln Hills Has Offered Nature and Respite to Black Families for 100 Years
About an hour west of Denver is a place called Lincoln Hills, an outdoor recreation destination created especially for — and built by — Black people. For 100 years, it has offered a safe, welcoming space for Black folks from across the country to come enjoy all the natural beauty Colorado has to offer. Today on the show, host Bree Davies sits down with past City Cast Denver guest host donnie l. betts , whose Lincoln Hills documentary which screens at History Colorado next month, and retired judge Gary Jackson, whose great grandfather was one of the original builders of Lincoln Hills and whose family has owned a cabin there ever since. History Colorado is celebrating Lincoln Hills’s 100th anniversary all year long. On April 15th, they’re hosting donnie l. betts for a screening of his documentary and a Q&A . Then, on June 3rd, they’re hosting Gary Jackson for a talk on his experience and research into the Lincoln Hills story . There a restaurant in Denver that’s taking a stand against drug cartels by… taking avocados off their menu. Peyton’s got a deep dive into why in our newsletter today: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have you ever been to Lincoln Hills? Tag us in your pics! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 22, 2022
The Magic That Keeps Denver's Longest Running Dance Party Alive
Lipgloss is one of the longest running indie club nights in the country — and it takes place every Friday evening, right here in Denver. Started by DJ Michael Trundle and a group of friends in 2001, Lipgloss is a music connoisseur’s dream: when you hit the dance floor, you’re apt to hear everything from The Killers to The Supremes to Fontaines D.C. Trundle has been the sole DJ behind the turntables for the last half-decade or so of Lipgloss, but he’s been at the heart of the dance night from the beginning. Today, he joins host Bree Davies to talk about how the little indie dance night that could has survived —and thrived — for more than two decades in Denver, and what’s next as it moves to its latest location, HQ , on South Broadway. Looking to take in some live theater next month? Our producer Lizzie Goldsmith has got recommendations, plus a behind-the-scenes interview about Curious Theater Company’s latest production, “Refuge.” Find that and subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Wanna advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 21, 2022
Should Anorexia Patients Have a Right to Die Under Colorado Law?
Nearly 800 Coloradans have received aid-in-dying medication since voters approved a controversial law giving doctors that prescription option under certain circumstances in 2016. While the debate over the right to die has grown no less controversial in the past six years, one leading eating disorder doctor based in Denver wants to expand access to people with severe eating disorders, prompting alarm within the psychiatric field across the country. Today on the show, host Bree Davies talks with Colorado Sun reporter Jennifer Brown about this new turn in the death-with-dignity debate and what it could mean for people who suffer from life-threatening eating disorders all across the country. Read Jennifer Brown’s report for the Colorado Sun here: https://coloradosun.com/2022/03/14/denver-doctor-gaudiani-aid-in-dying-aneroexia-patients/ There is a ton going on at Denver schools right now, so Peyton rounded up all the important stories for you in our newsletter today: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 18, 2022
How Two Years of Pandemic Have Changed Denver
It’s Friday! And we’re looking back at two years in Denver since lockdown. What’s changed about the city for the better? What structural, social, and political shifts do we want to keep with us from these pandemic times? How did we survive the two-hour prohibition of weed and alcohol sales that sent many Denverites running Black Friday-style to their nearest dispensary and liquor store? The whole team is here — Host Bree Davies, Producers Paul Karolyi and Xandra McMahon, and Newsletter Writer Peyton Garcia — and we’re trying to focus on the silver linings, like city council going online and the joys of car-free streets. Want to snag a couple free tix to see Radiolab’s Jad Abumrad at the Paramount on April 17? We’re giving a set away, and all you have to do is write a nice review of City Cast Denver wherever you listen to podcasts and send a screenshot of that review to denver@citycast.fm by April 1. Because, come on, it’s Jad freakin’ Abumrad. One of the greats. Wanna know what to do this weekend in Denver? Read and subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Find us lurking on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 17, 2022
How CU Boulder Football's Sexual Assault Scandal Set a Precedent for #MeToo
Almost 20 years ago, Erika Krouse took a job as a private investigator. Her first big case? A massive sexual assault scandal that was exposing a toxic culture of abuse within CU Boulder’s prized football program. Krouse’s new book, “ Tell Me Everything: The Story of A Private Investigation ,” is part true crime thriller and part memoir, as she weaves together her recollections of the case with the story of her own experience with sexual assault. City Cast Denver newsletter writer Peyton Garcia sits down with Krouse to talk about what it was like going up against an institution as powerful as the University of Colorado, how she saw her own story in the stories of the victims, and the legacy of the case today. Warning: While there are no graphic descriptions, this episode contains discussions about sexual assault. If this is your first time hearing about the scandal at the heart of Krouse’s book, ESPN has a full timeline right here . Catch all the latest Denver food news and gossip in our newsletter today, including Peyton’s take on the James Beard Award finalists: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 16, 2022
Wanna Open a Restaurant in Denver Right Now? Start with Four Wheels and a Dream
There was a time when food trucks were the hottest thing out there, and it seemed like every chef and restaurateur wanted to sell sushi burritos on a street corner for $15 a pop. But now that the novelty has worn off, where do food trucks fit in Denver’s dining scene? And what does it take to start one now? We’ve been looking at all aspects of Denver dining alongside Denver Restaurant Week this week, and today host Bree Davies speaks with Maria Rangel, a former EMT who left healthcare to start cooking and selling gorditas out of a truck in the middle of a global pandemic. Find out where Rangel is going to be serving up gorditas and vegan green chile next at maizdenver.com . Interested in learning more about the business course Rangel took at Mi Casa Resource Center? Check out micasaresourcecenter.org . Did you know Bree has a tattoo dedicated to the old Colfax laundromat Smiley’s? Well she does. And now that the old Smiley’s building is being demolished, Bree shared some of her Smiley’s stories in our newsletter. Read and subscribe at denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What’s your favorite local food truck? Tell us on Twitter @citycastdenver ] Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 15, 2022
A Toast to Our First Anniversary and Mizuna’s Future with Chef Frank Bonanno
Denver Restaurant Week is the perfect occasion for a nice night out without breaking the bank. And that means Frank Bonanno’s restaurants have been packed. Along with his wife Jacqueline, he runs a growing empire of restaurants across the city, including the flagship fine dining spot Mizuna and the downtown food hall Denver Milk Market. Host Bree Davies interviewed Bonanno almost exactly one year ago when Mizuna was celebrating its 20-year anniversary under the shadow of a possible sale and demolition. So we invited him back ahead of our one-year anniversary for an update on Mizuna’s real estate situation, an explanation of some of the changes he’s made during the pandemic, and his thoughts on the future of Denver’s dining scene. Do you want a chance to see Radiolab founder Jad Abumrad at the Paramount Theater on April 17? We’re giving away two free tickets, and all you have to do to enter is write a really nice review of City Cast Denver wherever you listen to podcasts, and rate us 5 stars. Then, take a screenshot of your review and send it to us at denver@citycast.fm by April 1. There is an HOA in Green Valley Ranch that has foreclosed on more than 50 homes, according to recent reports from Denverite and Denver7. Peyton’s got a full breakdown of the story in our newsletter today: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What’s your favorite Denver restaurant? Tweet at us @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 14, 2022
When the Pandemic Pushed Restaurant Workers to the Brink, CHOW was There
It’s Denver Restaurant Week and we’re exploring all aspects of the dining scene. Today, John Hinman is a pastry chef and the owner of Hinman Pie . But he’s also the founder of Culinary Hospitality Outreach and Wellness, or CHOW , a nonprofit offering support groups and mental health courses to restaurant workers that’s grown by leaps and bounds in the last two years. Host Bree Davies sits down with Hinman to talk about how his own mental health struggles led to CHOW, the specific challenges of working in Denver restaurants today, and what kinds of positive changes he’s seeing in the local food world. If you’re interested in attending one of CHOW’s support group meetings, check out the Denver chapter’s in-person gatherings on Monday nights at 6 p.m. at 1633 Fillmore Street. Follow @CHOW_org on Instagram for up-to-date information on meetings and other resources. In today’s City Cast Denver newsletter, local musician Arnie Swenson remembers his friend, collaborator, and jazz great Ron Miles, who passed away last week: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Check us out on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 11, 2022
This Ain’t No Cowtown: Culinary Masters Shine During Denver Restaurant Week
Denver Restaurant Week kicks off today! We’re talking Mile High culinary history, the cowtown stereotype we can’t seem to shake (Rocky Mountain Oysters, anyone?), and more. Host Bree Davies is joined by newsletter writer and resident CCD foodie Peyton Garcia, along with regular Friday chat contributor, Westword’s Patty Calhoun, plus Denver restaurateur-turned-behind-the-scenes-culinary-expert John Imbergamo for a look at what Denver’s food world means to us — and the rest of the country. In today’s City Cast Denver newsletter, Peyton rounds up the best escape rooms in the metro area. Read and subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What’s your favorite restaurant in Denver? Tell us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 10, 2022
Did Denver Police Use Excessive Force Against George Floyd Protesters?
The City of Denver has already paid out more than $3 million in settlements to people injured by the police while protesting the murder of George Floyd in the summer of 2020. But now, a group of 12 protesters has taken their case to court, marking the first federal trial in the country to challenge police violence against those racial justice protests. The ACLU’s Colorado office is representing most of the plaintiffs, and senior staff attorney Sara Neel joins host Bree Davies to take us inside their case and talk about the implications for future criminal justice reform. Bree mentioned the Office of the Independent Monitor’s December 2020 report on the Denver Police Department’s response to the racial justice protests that summer. You can read the whole 94-page report documenting multiple examples of excessive force here: https://www.denvergov.org/content/dam/denvergov/Portals/374/documents/2020GFPReport_OIM.pdf Plus, this episode includes another installment of Voice on the Street, our partnership with Denver’s street paper, The Denver VOICE . You can support the Voice by buying a copy from your local vendor, donate online or via Venmo . And if you want to get a little extra support to Albert Bland, our guest on this episode, make sure to include his name in a note with your Venmo transfer. Denver Restaurant Week starts on Friday, and Peyton has got all the local food news you need to know before booking your reservations in our newsletter. Read and subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 09, 2022
Are $40,000 Loans The Key To Closing Denver's Racial Home Ownership Gap?
Until recently, Justin Murchison wasn’t really thinking about buying a home. He was more focused on paying down his credit card debt and taking care of his plants. Then he stumbled upon on opportunity that most young people in Denver only dream about: a path to buying their first home. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies chats with Justin about his journey to homeownership. Plus, we’ll hear from Santhosh Ramdoss, vice president of impact investing at Gary Community Ventures . He helped create The Dearfield Fund that made Justin’s home purchase possible and he says it could be the key to shrinking Denver’s racial home ownership gap. Wanna know where Gary Community Ventures got that name for their fund — Dearfield? We talked about the historic Black homesteading community with Westword editor Patty Calhoun a few weeks ago, and you can learn even more courtesy of the Colorado Encyclopedia . Do you want a chance to see Radiolab founder Jad Abumrad at the Paramount Theater on April 17? We’re giving away two free tickets, and all you have to do to enter is write a really nice review of City Cast Denver wherever you listen to podcasts, and rate us 5 stars. Then, take a screenshot of your review and send it to us at denver@citycast.fm by April 1. Near the end of this episode, Bree mentions a federal civil rights trial over the Denver Police Department’s use of force during the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020. We’ve got a full breakdown of the trial in our newsletter today. Read that and subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 08, 2022
Can Louisville Afford to Build Back Greener After the Marshall Fire? Can It Afford Not To?
More than 1,000 homes were destroyed when the Marshall Fire ripped through Louisville, Superior and unincorporated Boulder County in late December, sending thousands of Coloradans headlong into an urgent search for an affordable place to live. Now that the dust has settled, all those families are thinking about rebuilding what was lost, and it’s going to be expensive — especially with the brand new climate-friendly building codes Louisville instituted last October. Denver Post reporter Noelle Phillips has been covering the story, and she joins host Bree Davies to talk about the fire’s impact on our housing market, the cost of a “green” rebuild, and how Louisville residents are feeling about those new building codes now that it’s wildfire survivors who’ll be footing the bill. Subscribe to the CCD newsletter for more Denver news fresh in your inbox every weekday morning: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 07, 2022
Tackling the Housing Crisis One Heated Ice Fishing Tent at a Time
In the summer of 2020, the mayor’s office joined forces with Colorado Village Collaborative to launch the Safe Outdoor Space program as an emergency measure to help address Denver’s crisis of homelessness. Safe Outdoor Spaces, or SOS sites, have since provided warmth, shelter, food, restrooms, trash service, and more to more than 240 unhoused Denverites. Still, many people were against the sanctioned campsites and fought hard to keep them out of their neighborhoods. Today on the show, Host Bree Davies talks with Cuica Montoya, SOS Program Director for the Colorado Village Collaborative , and Ian Stitt, an SOS Site Manager liaison for the St. Francis Center . They discuss how these spaces create community for our unhoused neighbors, how the SOS program convinced the haters, and how they attracted another $3.9 million in city funding this year. Learn more and support the Colorado Village Collaborative’s Safe Outdoor Space program here . Check out previous City Cast Denver episodes from 2021 about the Safe Outdoor Space program from the perspective of an SOS resident , and learn about the battle one local church that fought to bring the program to its neighborhood . Did you know Quiznos is from Denver? The first location ever opened on 13th Avenue in 1981, and it looks…. like every other Quiznos. But the chain has gone through A LOT since then, and Peyton’s got the whole story for you in our newsletter today. Read and subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hey, we’re on Twitter! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 04, 2022
So What Really Did Happen to That Denver-Boulder ‘Ghost Train?’
It’s the transportation quagmire of a generation: the RTD train to Boulder that never arrived. CPR transportation reporter Nathaniel Minor would even go so far as calling it a “Ghost Train.” For this week’s Friday chat, he joins City Cast Denver producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to discuss his podcast series Ghost Train and what he learned about Denver’s relationship to transit. Oh, and what really happened with that Denver to Boulder train. Listen to all four parts of Ghost Train right here: https://www.cpr.org/podcast/ghost-train/ Nathaniel also wrote up a piece about some of his reporting for Denverite: https://denverite.com/2022/02/22/why-dont-rtds-trains-go-into-denvers-neighborhoods/ And here’s the Streetsblog piece by David Sachs that Paul mentions: https://denver.streetsblog.org/2022/01/31/commentary-in-streetsblog-denvers-absence-local-news-has-a-responsibility-to-get-out-from-behind-the-windshield/ Looking for things to do this weekend? The CCD newsletter does a weekly events roundup every Friday. Find that and subscribe to the newsletter here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Give us all of your transit hot takes on Twitter. Follow us @citycastdenver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 03, 2022
How An Obscure Zoning Board Got Reformed (And Why It Matters)
Last May, we brought you the story of Shawn and Ben Johnson, a Sunnyside couple who wanted to build an ADU, or accessory dwelling unit, in their backyard so Shawn’s disabled mom could live close. The Johnsons were stymied by an obscure body called the Board of Adjustment for Zoning Appeals (BOA), which is in charge of approving any exceptions to the zoning code and which the Johnsons came to see as discriminatory. Now, after a year throwing themselves against the bureaucracy, the Johnsons have helped to make a change: Denver City Council recently voted to reform the BOA. So we called up Kathryn White , the Denver North Star reporter who alerted us to the Johnsons’ situation in the first place, to unpack the reform and its possible citywide impacts. Plus, we checked in with the Johnsons to hear if this means they can finally build their ADU. For the full backstory, here’s a link to our first episode with the Johnsons (May 19, 2021): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-cant-this-denver-couple-build-adu-for-their-disabled/id1557798162?i=1000522342311 Here’s a link to Kathryn White’s first story laying out their case (May 14, 2021): https://www.denvernorthstar.com/north-denver-couple-denied-zoning-variance-to-house-disabled-mom-subjectivity-and-bias-on-denvers-board-of-adjustment-for-zoning-enters-public-spotlight/ And here’s her latest, a report on the recent reform of the BOA (February 15, 2022), which has since passed: https://www.denvernorthstar.com/city-council-moves-to-bring-zoning-departments-board-of-adjustment-into-modern-era/ Looking for somewhere good to eat this weekend? Peyton’s got a roundup of all the latest food news and other delicious tidbits in our newsletter today: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think about the BOA reform? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 02, 2022
Ski Traffic Sucks. But is Widening I-70 Really Going to Help?
You know that spot on I-70 on the way into the mountains? That spot where it goes from three lanes to two, and there’s always traffic? Well, it’s called Floyd Hill, and last week the Colorado Department of Transportation kicked off a new $700 million effort to fix it. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was even in town to celebrate the occasion! But is their plan really going to address the root of the problem? Host Bree Davies talks to Colorado Sun environment reporter Michael Booth about why our elected leaders are so eager to cheer on the project and how CDOT is planning to mitigate the climate impact. For more on the Floyd Hill project, check out Michael Booth’s full report for the Colorado Sun, including the impact this project will have on the people who live in the area. Imaging getting on I-70 and sitting in an hour of traffic just to pick up groceries! They’re finally demolishing the old Ramada Inn on East Colfax, so Bree is sharing stories and reminiscing in the newsletter today. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think about adding an extra lane to I-70 at Floyd Hill? Let us know @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 01, 2022
Is the Acclaimed Cherry Creek School District Hiding a Toxic Workplace?
Search for the “best” schools in the Denver metro area, and you’re going to find your way to the Cherry Creek School District. They’ve got 67 schools in and around Greenwood Village, Glendale, and Cherry Hills Village that consistently rank among the best in the state, academically. But one former administrator and several current and former employees say that A+ reputation is obscuring a toxic culture of discrimination, racism, and sexual misconduct. Today on the show, host Bree Davies talks with Denver Gazette reporter David Migoya about his investigation into the school district’s alleged issues, including a look into a Title IX investigation launched last summer by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights. Read David Migoya’s full investigative reporting on the school district for the Denver Gazette here . Newsletter writer Peyton Garcia has a round-up of all five film festivals happening across Colorado this week. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, February 28, 2022
Colorado is Fitness-Obsessed. Is there Space For Bigger Bodies to Be Fit, Too?
Lots of people move to Colorado to enjoy our mountains and sunshine, and that means that Denverites tend to be outdoorsy and relatively fit. But for Andrea Parés — a self-proclaimed fat-positive yoga teacher — growing up here meant she never felt welcome in aerobics classes, Zumba sessions, or a simple yoga flow with friends. That all changed a few years ago when Parés found a yoga workshop for people with bigger bodies like hers. Today, Parés joins Host Bree Davies to talk about why it’s important for bigger bodies to have dedicated spaces for fitness, what it means to identify as “fat” in Colorado, and how she unlocked the pent-up demand for her new, monthly Yoga for Bigger Bodies class. Follow Parés’ yoga pursuits and get updates on her latest yoga classes via @AndreaParesYoga on Instagram. You can also check out her class and other offerings at Courageous Yoga . Today, City Cast Denver newsletter writer Peyton Garcia shares a “moment of joy” for your Monday. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have a favorite teacher or place you do yoga? Tell us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bonus · Sat, February 26, 2022
BONUS: So You’re Getting a Buc-ees… (via City Cast Houston)
Earlier this month, Texan transplants in Colorado were hit with some life-changing news: We’re getting a Buc-ees . So what's the deal with this legendary convenience store? Why does it hold such a special place in Texans’ hearts? And should the rest of us be excited, too? When newsletter writer Peyton Garcia heard the news about a Buc-ees opening near Johnstown, she had questions about this cult-favorite convenience store with the allegedly award-winning bathrooms, so she checked in with our colleagues at City Cast Houston, where host Lisa Gray and producers Ferrill Gibbs and Dina Kesbeh were happy to oblige. Please enjoy this bonus episode of City Cast Houston (Original airdate: 2/11/22) and tell your Texan friends to subscribe! They’ve got a podcast and Lisa writes their daily newsletter , too. For more on what and where to expect the new Colorado-based Buc-ees, here’s a write-up from 303 Magazine: https://303magazine.com/2022/02/buc-ees-announces-first-colorado-location-to-open-by-2024/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 25, 2022
The “Sh*tstorm” Heading For Lauren Boebert, and Yet Another LGBTQ Discrimination Case
No, it’s not deja vu. The Supreme Court is going to hear yet another LGBTQ+ discrimination case out of Colorado. But aren’t we supposed to be on the vanguard of LGBTQ rights? Producer Xandra McMahon and host Bree Davies are joined by Westword editor Patty Calhoun to chat through this new case involving a wedding website maker’s Christian views, the legacy of the Masterpiece Cakeshop case , and the evolution of the LGBTQ community in Denver. Plus, nine Democrats are running to replace Lauren Boebert in Congress, and we’re talking about the “shitstorm” brewing on the Western Slope. The Democrats running for Boebert’s district, CD-3, will be in conversation with each other for the first time on Saturday. You can watch the virtual forum starting at 4 p.m. Local musician Sedrick Avenue is featured in today’s show. Check out his latest release, 39, on Bandcamp . In the CCD newsletter today, producer Lizzie Goldsmith has got her monthly rundown of all the best live theater happening in Denver. Get it here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter? @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 25, 2022
EXTRA: Scenes From a Ukraine Solidarity Rally
Russia’s attack on Ukraine has been dominating the news over the last 48 hours, impacting Ukrainians at home and all over the world. Denver is no exception. The city’s Ukrainian community and allies gathered on the steps of the state capitol this afternoon and City Cast Denver producers Paul Karolyi and Xandra McMahon were there to document the scene. UPDATE: Since this episode was originally published, we decided to remove a short excerpt from the very end. It featured clips from a brief exchange Paul had with a protester holding a sign featuring Russian president Putin with a mustache that looked like Hitler’s mustache. We removed the excerpt for a couple of reasons. One, the protester did not agree to our offer to explain the sign. Two, we neglected to add sufficient context to the exchange. So it was confusing and, we feel, not representative of the event we were intending to document. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 24, 2022
A Brewing Conflict: How Craft Brewers' Battle With Ball Corp. is Hurting Beer Lovers
A frothy mix of supply chain issues has set two longtime collaborators on a collision course: Westminster’s aluminum can giant, Ball Corporation, and the local brewers who like to sell their beer in cans. Ball’s always been good to small craft breweries, but the past two years have put the company in an impossible predicament. So what does this mean for your favorite neighborhood brewery? Will you still be able to buy their beer in a store? Will a 6-pack cost you an arm and a leg if you do? City Cast Denver producer Paul Karolyi sits down with Denver Business Journal beer reporter Ed Sealover to talk through the whole story. For more of Sealover’s reporting on the Ball Corp./craft brewing situation, click here . After the interview, we asked Sealover for a local beer rec, and he did not disappoint. You can read all about it in today’s newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think about those plastic wraps and stickers on craft beer cans? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 23, 2022
How Denver's Tech Industry Put Roadblocks in Front of a "Modern Green Book”
When Parker McMullen Bushman and her business partner, Crystal Egli, founded Inclusive Journeys , they were on a mission to bring the idea of the Green Book into the 21st century. While they found enthusiastic support for their idea of an internet-based inclusive spaces travel guide, the financial backing other tech companies seemed to attract wasn’t as easy to come by. Today on the show, Host Bree Davies talks with McMullen Bushman about the struggles and triumphs Inclusive Journeys has experienced as a tech company founded and operated by Black women in Colorado. Learn more about Inclusive Journeys and how to support the project on their GoFundMe page . Sign up for our newsletter, where today producer Paul Karolyi unpacks Police Chief Paul Pazen’s response to our previous reporting on the recent spike in vehicle thefts across Colorado https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 22, 2022
“More Like Poisoning Than An Overdose”: AG Phil Weiser on the Fentanyl Crisis
The overdose deaths of five people in Commerce City over the weekend were a harsh reminder that fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is wreaking havoc in our communities, and has been for some time. Fentanyl’s growing presence in Denver’s drug supply the last few years directly correlates to alarming spikes in overdoses. According to the Denver Post , “An average of two Coloradans died of fentanyl overdoses every day in the first nine months of 2021, state data shows.” Back in December, Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser said enough is enough and announced steps to tackle the crisis alongside state lawmakers. Today, he joins City Cast Denver host Bree Davies to talk through those plans and consider the question: Is this just an extension of the war on drugs? Or could it be a turning point for harm reduction and destigmatization? In the interview, the attorney general mentioned a New York Times story about the opioid crisis. Here’s a link to that: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/13/briefing/opioids-drug-overdose-death-toll.html If you or someone you know needs access to fentanyl testing strips, just fill out this form and Denver will ship them to you for free: https://us.openforms.com/Form/0b3ab074-c139-481b-9912-331b3c9b147b Did you know you can earn free City Cast Denver swag? All you have to do is refer a friend to subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. Learn more and refer now, right here: https://denver.citycast.fm/referrals/?email=%2A%7CHTML%3AEMAIL%7C%2A&autoDetect=1 Stay in touch on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, February 19, 2022
BONUS: Why Salt Lake Said Yes to the Olympics... and Denver Said No (via City Cast Salt Lake)
Denver has a unique relationship with the Olympics, that's for sure. But our friends on the other side of the Rockies have been grappling with the Games lately, too. Utahns are currently discussing a bid for the 2030 Olympics, so City Cast Salt Lake host Ali Vallarta invited CCD host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to hash it out. We had a ton of fun recording this and there are a bunch of interesting parallels between Denver and Salt Lake when it comes to the Olympics, so we wanted to share the episode with you! Please enjoy this bonus episode of City Cast Salt Lake (Original airdate: 2/17/22) and tell your friends in Utah to subscribe! They’ve got a daily newsletter , too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 18, 2022
Battle of the Bird: City Cast Denver’s Fried Chicken Chowdown
It’s time for another City Cast Denver food fight! This time, the crew chows down on fried chicken, and tries to determine who does it best. Today on the show, producer Xandra McMahon is joined by host Bree Davies, newsletter writer Peyton Garcia, and special guest Keith Garcia, artistic director of the Sie FilmCenter, for an epic poultry battle. After narrowing it down to four top fried chicken spots in the city, the team mulls over flavor profiles, grease level, crispy-ness, seasoning ratio, and more — all in full ASMR-detail. Tune in to find out if your favorite bone-in, crispy fried chicken joints made the cut! If this episode left you hungry to learn more about the Welton St. Cafe, here’s the episode we recorded with Chereka Dickerson there a few weeks ago: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3rdkWgdzdsL3FwtwM289Dc Looking for cool stuff to do this weekend? Check out Peyton’s Friday event round-up in our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Serve up your own fried chicken hot takes directly to us via Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 17, 2022
What Police Chief Pazen is Doing About Denver's "Dramatic Increase" in Crime
“As we are all keenly aware, our community is experiencing a disturbing rise in crime,” said Mayor Michael Hancock on February 3, as he stood alongside Police Chief Paul Pazen to unveil their new plan for public safety. Today on the show, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sits down with Pazen to break down the plan. They discuss the role Pazen sees for harm reduction at Union Station, the logic behind DPD’s “hot spot” approach to stemming gun violence, and the human impact of the surprising recent spike in vehicle theft. We did not walk into this interview with Pazen expecting to talk about vehicle thefts, but it’s clearly top of his mind. So in our newsletter today, Producer Paul Karolyi dug into the recent spike, including the one piece of legislation Pazen said is to blame: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ If you’re a Twitter person, follow us! We love to tweet @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 16, 2022
Is This a Moment for Optimism in Colorado’s Housing Crisis?
The pandemic has created a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity to tackle Colorado’s housing crisis. At least, that’s according to our guest today, State Senator Julie Gonzales . She’s been leading a task force of state lawmakers to figure out how best to spend $550 million in federal pandemic relief to help get our housing market back under control. But this is a big, multi-faceted problem with tons of moving pieces and strong feelings. And isn’t housing normally a local issue? City Cast Denver host Bree Davie s sat down with Gonzales to hear what her task force is recommending, why now is the time for a statewide approach to what has traditionally been a local issue, and how this unique moment has led to some surprising bipartisanship. Find the Affordable Housing Transformational Task Force’s whole report of recommendations here: https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/affordable_housing_report_final.pdf Subscribe to the CCD newsletter for more Denver news fresh every weekday in your inbox: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Show us some love on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 15, 2022
From Comedy Works to America’s Got Talent: How Denver Made Josh Blue
Before comedian Josh Blue was headlining world tours and making Simon Cowell bust a gut on America’s Got Talent, he was living in Cap Hill spending every night at Denver’s legendary club — Comedy Works. It was there that he got to rub elbows with some of his heroes, and work on routines that would launch him into comedy stardom. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies chatted with Josh about his recent America’s Got Talent run, how his cerebral palsy has shaped his comedy, and why he thinks Denver is one of the best cities for this industry. More Denver happenings are just a few clicks away. Subscribe to the CCD newsletter here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, February 14, 2022
Denver, Be Mine 💘
Whether you’re spending the day in love with love or grumpy with the greeting card companies, this Valentine’s Day special episode is for you. Because we asked you for your best Denver love stories — tales about that special someone, place, or pet — and we were bowled over by all the good Denver-y vibes you shared. So join Host Bree Davies as she listens and reacts to a few of your Denver love stories. And don’t miss today’s CCD newsletter! We’ve got EVEN MORE of your Denver love stories there to share: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Which Denver love story was your favorite? We’ll tell you ours if you tell us yours on Twitter. We’re @citycastdenver . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 11, 2022
The 16th St. Mall Needs Revitalizing (Again). Could the Olympics Be the Answer?
Even with Omicron slowly waning, Denverites are still not going downtown at a rate anywhere close to pre-pandemic levels. The lack of hustle and bustle has led the City of Denver and the Downtown Denver Partnership to propose yet another plan to “reactivate” the 16th St. Mall: rent-free pop-up shops to fill all the empty storefronts. Host Bree Davies and Producer Paul Karolyi speculate on the future of downtown with Westword editor Patty Calhoun. Then, Colorado’s own skiing sensation Mikaela Shiffrin shocked the world this week at the Beijing Olympics, prompting another round of the age-old debate: Should Denver make a bid to host the Winter Games? For more on Denver’s unique relationship with the Olympics, check out our two-parter from last summer: The Case For A Denver Olympics (with Downtown Denver Partnership board chair Robert Cohen) The Case Against A Denver Olympics (with former Colorado governor Dick Lamm) Paul mentioned that even elephants are getting into yoga in Denver now. Here’s a gallery of photos courtesy of The Denver Gazette : https://denvergazette.com/multimedia/elephant-yoga-at-the-denver-zoo/collection_52340c18-888e-11ec-9d91-874d09fbd4e4.html It’s your last chance to submit a Denver love story before Valentine’s Day on Monday! Email yours to denver@citycast.fm or leave us a voicemail: (720) 500-5418 . If you don’t have plans yet, we’ve got a round-up of Valentine’s Day events in our newsletter today. You can read that and subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think about Denver hosting the Olympics? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 10, 2022
Why Librarians, Nurses, and Adjunct Professors Want The Right to Collective Bargaining
The King Soopers strike last month showed Coloradans what organized labor can accomplish to improve working conditions… but what about public workers, who don’t currently have the right to collective bargaining under state law? That’s where the Communication Workers of America (CWA) 7799 comes in. They’re a coalition of workers at Denver Public Library, the University of Colorado, Denver Health and UC Health who are working with state lawmakers to beef up Colorado’s labor laws and, they say, strengthen our public institutions in the process. Adjunct professor Alex Wolf-Root and library worker Liana Kiddy-Gan join host Bree Davies to talk about why collective bargaining is so important for public workers like themselves. To find out more about CWA 7799 and ways to get involved in the fight for collective bargaining rights, visit their website: www.cwa7799.org Wolf-Root mentioned that collective bargaining tends to help close race and gender gaps in the workplace. A true academic, he passed along a few links to relevant research after the interview: “ How today’s unions help working people ” and “ The Union Advantage for Women .” Colorado House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar explains her support for their campaign in this editorial for The Gazette : https://gazette.com/denver-gazette/we-owe-public-employees-collective-bargaining And here’s your reminder to send us your Denver love stories by this weekend, for inclusion in our special Valentine’s Day episode! Leave us a voicemail at 720-500-5418, or email us at denver@citycast.fm Get your Denver food news fix in today’s newsletter! You can read it and sign up at https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And join the conversation on Twitter! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 09, 2022
Did Denver Sweep Unhoused Folks All The Way To The Airport?
There are so many people experiencing homelessness in Denver. And in some ways, Colorado’s problem is bigger than any other state’s — according to a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development study, Colorado’s “chronically sheltered” population has grown more than 250% in the last 14 years. Recently, two 9News reporters discovered that this uptick in folks looking for shelter has led them to places they’ve not typically gone before — like the airport. Jeremy Jojola and Zack Newman are back on the show to discuss their latest investigation into why arrests have tripled at the airport in the last few years, and how it’s all connected to Denver’s greater housing crisis. Definitely check out Jeremy and Zack’s original report: https://www.9news.com/article/news/investigations/homeless-crisis-denver-airport/73-096826a3-658f-4036-a3d3-83bba7fda134 And keep sending us your Denver love stories! Call us at 720-500-5418, or send us an email at denver@citycast.fm , and tell us about that special person, place, or pet. For more Denver news fresh in your inbox every weekday morning, subscribe to the CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 08, 2022
Finding Inspiration in the Wild West Tale of “Rattlesnake Kate”
One day in 1925, Kate Slaughterback and her adopted son Ernie were riding horses near Hudson, Colorado, when they were beset by rattlesnakes. Being no ordinary frontierswoman, Kate shot and clubbed 140 of them to death, earning her the nickname Rattlesnake Kate. Nearly 100 years later, another extraordinary Colorado woman stumbled across a dress made entirely out of rattlesnake skins and found herself beset by inspiration. A former member of The Lumineers, Neyla Pekarek wrote and recorded her first solo album based on Kate’s story a few years ago, and now, with help from the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, she’s adapted it into a full-blown musical. Host Bree Davies sits down with Pekarek to talk about what she saw in the little-known story of Rattlesnake Kate and why she deserves her place in the history of the Old West. “Rattlesnake Kate” is in previews this week ahead of the big opening this Friday. You can learn more about it and find tickets here: https://www.denvercenter.org/tickets-events/rattlesnake-kate/ Plus, after hearing about the upheaval in the Douglas County School District yesterday, we checked in with parents Nara Altmann and Ishmeet Kalra. They helped create DougCo Schools’ equity policy in 2020, which the new conservative board majority has been dismantling alongside their efforts to oust former superintendent Corey Wise and cancel mask mandates. Catch our episode with Altmann and Kalra from last August about the equity policy here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ksJbnJksbUQdvIyVBjcK1 At the end of last week, Mayor Michael Hancock announced a series of new public safety programs and policies. Peyton’s got a full rundown in today’s newsletter, which you can read and subscribe to right here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Are you excited to see Rattlesnake Kate: The Musical? Let us know on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, February 07, 2022
DougCo’s Conservative School Board Majority Went Rogue — Now the Superintendent is Fired
In a private (and allegedly illegal) meeting last week, two conservative members of the Douglas County School Board issued Superintendent Cory Wise an ultimatum: resign or be fired. It was the latest in months of drama between students, teachers, parents, administration, and the newly elected, now-majority conservative board. Colorado Newsline reporter Chase Woodruff was on the ground in Castle Rock when thousands of protesters were gathering outside district offices last week, and he joins host Bree Davies to explain what’s been happening in DougCo’s contentious school district and why it all went off the rails at Friday night’s impromptu board meeting. You can read Woodruff’s latest piece on the situation in DougCo, which was published before Wise’s firing, here: https://coloradonewsline.com/2022/02/04/protest-douglas-county-school-board-oust-superintendent/ Check out our daily newsletter for an even deeper dive on the DougCo drama: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chat with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 04, 2022
Was Elway Hungover? Should the Broncos Pursue Aaron Rodgers?
The Denver Broncos — what a week. From news of the team officially being put up for sale to a lawsuit alleging John Elway was a hungover slob in a past head coach interview, we’re here to talk about this mess of a football team. Producer Paul Karolyi is joined by City Cast Denver contributor Jake Shapiro and Westword editor Patty Calhoun to talk about what this means for the future of the Broncos, and if Denver could ever accept Aaron Rodgers as the city’s next football darling. In the second half of this Friday Chat, producer Xandra McMahon , host Bree Davies , and newsletter writer Peyton Garcia share their Denver love stories… and we want to hear YOUR Denver love stories, too! Whether it’s about a special person, a pet, or a place — what’s happened in Denver that makes you feel those warm fuzzies? You can leave us a voicemail at 720-500-5418, send us a text, or email us at denver@citycast.fm . And stay tuned for something sweet in time for Valentine’s Day! Head on over to our newsletter for your Friday event roundup! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And while you're at it, follow us on Twitter! @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 03, 2022
The Epic Family Saga Behind Denver’s Biggest Lunar New Year Celebration
Billions of people all over the world celebrated the Lunar New Year on Tuesday, including here in Denver, where Mimi Luong’s family has made it their mission to share the holiday with everyone. Her grandparents, her dad, and her uncles all fled Vietnam during the fall of Saigon in 1975. When they arrived in Denver, they had nothing. But Mimi’s family worked hard to build a piece of home here and that dream eventually led to the Far East Center — a shopping plaza in Southwest Denver that celebrates Asian culture and heritage. This weekend, the Far East Center will host Lunar New Year festivities after taking a year off because of the pandemic. For more details on the events visit: https://littlesaigondenver.com/ Newsletter writer Peyton Garcia has a robust roundup of other Lunar New Year events happening in Denver. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We would absolutely love it if you shared photos from any Lunar New Year fun happening in your area this weekend. Tweet us @citycastdenver And be sure to share your Denver love stories with us! Whether it’s about a person, a pet, or a place — what’s happened in Denver that makes you feel those warm fuzzy butterflies? Leave us a voicemail at 720-500-5418, and stay tuned for a something sweet, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 02, 2022
Denver's Mask Mandate is Lifting. So Is This Thing Over Yet?
Earlier this week, Mayor Hancock announced that he was letting Denver’s indoor mask mandate expire on Thursday. This means the days of mask requirements and proofs of vaccination will soon be a thing of the past. Though he cited waning numbers of Omicron cases and hospitalizations, the mayor also stated that we’re still dealing with an ongoing “public health emergency.” Today on the show, host Bree Davies talks with Dr. Jonathan Samet — a pulmonary physician, epidemiologist, and dean of the Colorado School of Public Health — about where we are with the Omicron variant and if this latest lifting of the mask mandate means we’re in the clear. Producer Paul Karolyi caught mushroom fever and went down a rabbit hole of local wildfire science, ecology, and mycology. You can learn all about it in today’s City Cast Denver newsletter, which you can read and sign up for here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We love Twitter! Find us there: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 01, 2022
A Final Treasure Hunt at One of Denver's Oldest Surplus Stores
There is a special place in Denver with all the best old junk: shelves of antique tools, a ratty old flightsuit, bright yellow bombs hanging from the ceiling (decommissioned, we hope), and all sorts of hidden nooks and crannies filled with dusty treasures of yesteryear. Surplus Tools & Commodities now bills itself as a “unique shopping experience,” but long before all the artists and scavengers discovered its secrets, Roger Cox’s grandfather opened the shop in 1947 selling government surplus. Host Bree Davies lives a few blocks away, so when she saw Roger’s note that the shop is closing later this year, she invited her friend, artist Lauri Lynnx Murphy — who has been making art out of Surplus’s goods for decades — for one last spin through the aisles. Wanna see photos of the treasure we found on our visit to Surplus Tools & Commodities? Subscribe to the CCD newsletter! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Share the weirdest thing you’ve purchased at Surplus Tools with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, January 31, 2022
Can Denver's Tourist Trap of an Aquarium Treat Animals — and Employees — With Dignity?
If you’ve visited Denver’s Downtown Aquarium recently, you probably noticed something fishy. According to numerous current and former employees, the current owners have allowed the place to deteriorate, with issues ranging from paint chips in the stingray pool to piles of expired food for sale to not-so-subtle anti-mask messaging. So Host Bree Davies sat down with Westword reporter Catie Cheshire to talk about her recent investigation, including her undercover trip to the aquarium’s restaurant. They discuss the aquarium’s unique regulatory situation, the current owners (they run a chain of seafood restaurants!), and what, if anything, can be done to clean up this mess. To read Cheshire’s whole cover story for Westword, find it on newsstands or online here: https://www.westword.com/news/aquarium-downtown-denver-landrys-stingray-fish-starbucks-employee-complaints-13300068 The Irish Snug is gone!!!!!!!! Bree lamented the loss of a Colfax favorite in our newsletter today. Read that and subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We’re keeping it real on Twitter every day. Join us: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 28, 2022
Groceries... at Liquor Stores? Plus, Dearfield Could be Our Next National Park
Too many neighborhoods in Denver lack access to fresh food. It’s an ongoing problem as the city continues to grow and become more expensive, and the mom and pop markets get put out of business by the grocery conglomerates. But this week, one Republican lawmaker decided he had a plan to solve Colorado’s food desert problem: just put groceries into existing liquor stores . Hmmm…easier said than done. For this week’s Friday chat, City Cast Denver producer Paul Karolyi chats with host Bree Davies, and Westword editor Patty Calhoun about why food in liquor stores is actually a bad idea. Plus, the three discuss the exciting proposal to turn the historic Black farming settlement of Colorado’s Wild West days — Dearfield — into a National Park. Like the music you heard on today’s show? It comes from the local group, Bluebook, who have a new album out soon. You can check out two of the tracks from the upcoming record on their website: https://www.thisisbluebook.com/listen Folks can also listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/thisisbluebook or Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/thisisbluebook Get all the news and recommendations in your inbox every weekday morning. Subscribe to the CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Connect with us on Twitter: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 27, 2022
Smashing Disability Stereotypes with Phamaly Theatre Company
Denver’s Phamaly Theatre Company doesn’t just accommodate theatre artists with disabilities, they welcome them and celebrate them — they are them. Actor, director, and advocate Regan Linton is one of the filmmakers behind the 2021 documentary imperfect that takes audiences into this “sacred space,” as she calls it, as the actors and crew members put on a production of Chicago . The documentary won the audience award for best documentary at last year’s Denver Film Festival, and today, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies talks with Linton about disability representation and affirmation, the importance of vulnerability, and why this film is for everyone. You’ll hear clips from imperfect in this episode, but you can stream it online (for $10, which includes access to all the other films in the Slamdance Film Festival) starting today at slamdance.com . And find out more about Phamaly and their upcoming production, The Spitfire Grill , on their website . Sign up for our daily newsletter, which, today, includes a local theatre round-up! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have a favorite Phamaly Theatre Company production? Let us know on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 26, 2022
Can Skiers and Snowboarders Take on a Corporate Ski Resort Giant?
Vail Resorts isn’t just the biggest ski resort operator in Colorado, it’s the biggest operator in all of North America. But now, more than 40,000 skiers and snowboarders across the country are fed up with how Vail Resorts does business. A petition circulating in the ski and snowboard world aims to hold the company accountable for things like “mismanagement of the ski area, the failure to treat employees well, or pay them a livable wage, and the failure to deliver the product we all paid for and bought with hard-earned money during a pandemic.” So we called up Jason Blevins in Eagle, CO. When he’s not hitting the slopes at Beaver Creek, he’s reporting on all things outdoors for The Colorado Sun. He’s also a former ski bum, and walked City Cast Denver host Bree Davies through this skier vs. multi-million dollar corporate ski resort conflict. Sign up for our daily newsletter to get an even bigger head start on the news of the day: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And we love tweets! Follow us: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 25, 2022
Denver's Tumultuous Tattoo History, In Alicia Cardenas's Own Words
The mass shooting across Denver and Lakewood last month led to the deaths of five people, many of whom were leaders in the local tattooing community, including Alicia Cardenas. But as Westword's Culture Editor Emily Ferguson discovered when she was reporting on an art opening at a local parlor, the Denver tattoo community has a dark history of violence that long predates the events of December 27, 2021. Host Bree Davies sat down with Ferguson to talk about how Cardenas and a new wave of artists revolutionized the city’s tattoo scene and discuss Ferguson’s own experience of reporting on this community before and after the tragedy. Content warning: Ferguson recorded an interview with Cardenas 12 days before the shooting. This episode includes clips from that interview. For more on the Denver tattoo story, we highly recommend Ferguson’s story, including some pretty epic photos of 1970’s tattoo artists: https://www.westword.com/arts/denver-tattoo-murders-history-alicia-cardenas-peter-poulos-13222137 Remember last week’s episode when City Cast CEO David Plotz came on to ask his embarrassing Denver questions? Our producer Paul Karolyi dove deep into the question of baking at altitude in our newsletter today, and your next focaccia will thank you for reading. Subscribe and read that issue here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Join us on Twitter for more Denver chit-chat: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, January 24, 2022
The Picket Lines Are Down. But The King Soopers Labor Dispute Isn't Over.
Ten days after more than 8,000 grocery store workers across Denver walked out on strike, Kroger-owned King Soopers and the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 7 announced a tentative agreement on Friday morning. Union president Kim Cordova said that the new three-year contract would address "the company's unfair labor practices and ensures that our members will receive the respect, pay, and protection they warrant.” But really, that’s for the workers to decide, and a vote is scheduled for today. So producer Paul Karolyi called up someone who’s been through this before. Miguel Jimenez worked for King Soopers from 1984 through 2006, including during several contract negotiations and strikes, and he shares his perspective on today's pivotal vote. At one point in this conversation with Jimenez, Paul mentioned Ernie Duran Jr. He was Kim Cordova’s predecessor as president of the UFCW Local 7, and his tenure ended with quite a flameout of controversy. For the whole story, we recommend this deep dive into the tense 2009 union presidential election by past City Cast Denver guest Melanie Asmar: https://www.westword.com/news/can-a-mild-mannered-bakery-clerk-solve-the-grocery-workers-labor-strife-5106281 Just how bad is crime in Colorado? Here’s the Denver Post article Paul referenced with a deep dive into the data: https://www.denverpost.com/2022/01/23/colorado-crime-rate-homicides-shootings-assaults/ Is the King Soopers strike of ’22 ready for the history books? Or will workers reject the contract and return to the picket lines? No matter what, we’ll have the story in our weekday morning newsletter. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ . Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 21, 2022
When Is It Ok For Legacy Businesses To Change?
For this week’s Friday news roundup, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by Westword editor and founder, Patty Calhoun , to discuss a couple legacy businesses in the city that are undergoing some big changes. First, in a lengthy investigative piece, Denverite found that some employees of Denver’s largest independent bookstore, Tattered Cover, are less than satisfied with the new owners who took over in 2020 and started aggressively expanding the business. Then, Denver Business Journal revealed this week that Tom’s Diner on Colfax might be coming back from the grave as…a 1970s-era Las Vegas-style cocktail lounge? By the way, we want to find the best fried chicken in Denver, and we want your help! Email your pick to denver@citycast.fm or leave us a voicemail explaining why at 720-500-5418. Subscribe to the CCD newsletter for great food recommendations around the city: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ You can also talk to us about fried chicken on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 20, 2022
Everything You Wanted to Know About Denver But Were Too Afraid to Ask
People have been moving to Denver since, well, Denver became Denver. And it’s no secret, this tension between longtime residents and new folks is kinda the crux of our struggle as a city. So we thought, what better way to help get new Denverites acclimated than to bring in our boss David Plotz . He’s a lifelong Washingtonian, but as CEO of City Cast it’s part of his job to get to know all the cities that are part of our network: Chicago, Houston, Salt Lake City, Pittsburgh, and of course, Denver. So today on the show, David asks City Cast Denver host Bree Davies and producer Xandra McMahon some of his most embarrassing Denver questions, like: “What the heck is Red Rocks and do you actually get to sit on the rocks?” and “Does the altitude really affect your life that much?” City Cast is growing and we’re hiring in a lot of cities! Check out the list here: https://citycast.fm/jobs/ Get all the Denver news and recs you need in your inbox every weekday morning. Subscribe to the CCD newsletter here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ How would you answer David’s questions about Denver? Let us know on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 19, 2022
Why is RTD “Dramatically” Overhauling Bus Routes Now?
Denverites are slowly returning to public buses, trains, and light rail, but ridership is still far below pre-pandemic levels. At the same time, bus drivers have been leaving the fleet in droves, and the Regional Transportation District (RTD) is still paying off huge loans from major projects of yesteryear. So why is now the right time for RTD to propose the biggest overhaul of bus routes since the 1970s? Colorado Public Radio’s transportation reporter Nathaniel Minor is back on the show to connect the dots. All of them. No matter how dispersed they are across the metro area. For more on this new RTD proposal, check out Minor’s article laying out the details: https://www.cpr.org/2022/01/12/rtd-bus-network-overhaul/ At the end of the episode, Minor suggested that listeners who want a say in this route overhaul should get in touch with their RTD director. You can find yours and their contact info here: https://www.rtd-denver.com/board-of-directors We’ve got even more Denver news in our newsletter. Subscribe now and get your first edition tomorrow morning at 6 a.m. https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Talk transit to us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 18, 2022
Five Points Has Changed. Is There Still Room For Welton St. Cafe?
Welton St. Cafe has seen Five Points change — a lot. But unlike many other Black-owned businesses in the neighborhood, the restaurant has been able to stay alive — and thrive — amid the displacement and gentrification of its own community. Still, real estate pressures have crept up on the decades-old, family-run business and the restaurant is ready for a new home. Host Bree Davies and producer Xandra McMahon sat down with Chereka Dickerson, whose family has been running the restaurant for most of her life, to find out more about their campaign to raise money for the next chapter of Welton St. Cafe and how they manage to keep the spirit of old Five Points alive. If you’d like to support Welton St. Cafe’s effort to open a new restaurant space, here’s a link to the GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/c6p4h-last-man-standing Get more news in your inbox every weekday morning by signing up for our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have nice things to say about Welton St. Cafe? Tell us via Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 14, 2022
Scenes from the King Soopers Picket Line
This past Wednesday morning, after negotiations with their parent company fell apart, thousands of King Soopers workers across metro Denver went on strike. We heard stories about tension along the picket lines, so host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi went out to see for themselves. We heard from workers, shoppers, a protester, and one assistant manager, who really, really did not seem happy to be dealing with us or any of this. If you haven’t heard Bree’s interview with UFCW Local 7 president Kim Cordova from earlier this week, she explains why they called for a strike in the first place. You can listen to that here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6h7WKDjze5BpNYvqNFzEG0 Here’s a link to the survey Bree references in the episode: https://inthesetimes.com/article/kroger-grocery-survey-disturbing-new-report-shows-dire-conditions-for-workers We’ll be following the King Soopers strike as it develops, and you can keep up with every twist and turn in our weekday morning newsletter. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter too! We’re @citycastdenver , @cocodavies , @paulkarolyi , @xandramcmahon and @peytongarcia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 13, 2022
The Marshall Fire Was Undoubtedly A ‘Climate Fire.’ Here’s Why That Matters.
The Marshall Fire burned hundreds of homes and businesses in Colorado to the ground, leaving many of us to wonder: Are wildfires in urban areas becoming a common occurrence? To get a better understanding of what happened with this latest megafire, host Bree Davies talks with Dr. Natasha Stavros , a fire ecologist and the Director of the Earth Lab Analytics Hub at CU Boulder. Dr. Stavros discusses the role of climate change and the conditions that led to the Marshall Fire. She also explores how — if we were to embrace hundreds of years of indigenous knowledge on how to use fire as a tool — we could potentially change the outcomes of these disasters. Sign up for the City Cast Denver newsletter and stay up-to-date with news from around the city: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chit-chat with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 12, 2022
State Sen. Brittany Pettersen Has Led On Mental Health and Gun Control. Now She's Running For Congress.
State Sen. Brittany Pettersen has served the community of Lakewood for 10 years, leading legislative efforts to fix our broken mental health safety net and impose new gun safety measures. And as of yesterday, she’s running for Congress. Pettersen hopes to replace fellow Democrat Ed Perlmutter, who has represented Colorado’s District 7 for the past 15 years. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies chats with Pettersen about her new campaign, what she has her sights on this legislative session, and how the “Red Flag Law” she co-sponsored back in 2019 could have done more in the Denver/Lakewood mass shooting on Dec. 27. It would mean so much to us if you’d subscribe to our newsletter and then tell a friend to sign up too! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ You can also connect with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 11, 2022
One Denver Teacher Says They're Not Just Burned Out, They're Being Set On Fire
With a snowstorm bearing down on Denver last Wednesday evening, Denver Public Schools sent an email to families cancelling the next day’s classes “due to severe weather" but also citing “continued severe staffing shortages.” We’ve been hearing about teacher shortages throughout the district for months, but something about this new mix of winter weather and the Omicron variant felt different. So we asked a teacher. Host Bree Davies sits down with North High School teacher Tim Hernández to hear why teachers are feeling so burned out, what are the stakes of the remote vs. in-person learning debate, and how the DPS staffing shortage is affecting his students. For more on the poetry and photography project Bree mentioned at the end of this episode, check out this piece from the Denver Post. You can also find a digital copy of the project here . Subscribe to the City Cast Denver weekday morning newsletter for even more news and cool events from around the city: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hang out with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, January 10, 2022
Why Are King Soopers Workers Going On Strike?
Early on in the pandemic, employees of grocery stores were deemed “essential” and “frontline workers.” But for many of them, going to work never stopped feeling like going to war. And now, the parent company behind Colorado’s largest grocery chain, King Soopers, is playing hardball on their new contract. So starting Wednesday, approximately 8,400 King Soopers employees are planning to go on strike. Host Bree Davies sits down with Kim Cordova, the president of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7 , which represents King Soopers workers in Colorado and southern Wyoming, to hear how we got to this point, why the UFCW Local 7 filed a lawsuit over “scabs,” and how this strike would fit into the recent surge of labor organizing across the country. For more on the parent company’s side of this labor dispute, we recommend this Westword article with a detailed breakdown of their latest contract offer and the union's counterproposal: https://www.westword.com/news/king-soopers-rips-union-over-strike-plan-13179992 The UFCW Local 7 is planning for the strike to last three weeks, and we’ll be following all the twists and turns in our newsletter. So subscribe now to stay informed: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chat with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 07, 2022
The Stock Show Must Go On, And Who is 'Don't Look Up' Really For?
It’s Friday, which means the City Cast Denver crew is back for a roundtable discussion on all things Denver. Producers Paul Karolyi and Xandra McMahon, newsletter writer Peyton Garcia, and host Bree Davies discuss the upcoming Stock Show, its lax stance on vaccination requirements, and what the whole agricultural enterprise historically means for Denver. Plus, SPOILER ALERT: the team discusses “Don’t Look Up,” the most-watched movie on Netflix ever that just so happens to be created by some Colorado-connected folks. In the show, Paul mentions the Colorado Encyclopedia entry for “The First National Western Stock Show” : https://coloradoencyclopedia.org/article/first-national-western-stock-show The song featured at the end of today’s episode was “Seeds We Sow” by David Lawrence and the Spoonful: https://davidlawspoonful.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, January 06, 2022
Why Candi CdeBaca Was The Only Councilperson to Vote No on ShotSpotter
Two years ago, thousands of Denverites took to the streets to protest the murder of George Floyd. Many politicians joined the protesters, lending weight to their calls to defund the police and reform our criminal justice system. But at the Denver City Council meeting this past Monday night, when a five-year, $4.7-million contract with a controversial gunshot detection technology went up for a vote, only one councilperson stood against it. Councilperson Candi CdeBaca joins host Bree Davies to explain why she opposes Denver police’s use of ShotSpotter and why we’ve seen so little movement on criminal justice reform since the protests. For more on ShotSpotter, check out our episode from last September when Bree interviewed Axios Denver reporter Alayna Alvarez about the technology and the controversy surrounding it: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5xiPsLlR1vg2lhNhTFUXBn Every Friday, Peyton puts together a carefully curated list of things to do, read, watch, see, and eat in Denver over the weekend. Subscribe to our newsletter right now and get this week’s in your inbox tomorrow: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What do you think about the ShotSpotter contract extension? Let us know on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 05, 2022
The Broncos' Crazy Ownership Drama, Explained
What do Jay-Z, John Elway, Jeff Bezos, and Peyton Manning have in common? They’re all rumored to be interested in buying the Denver Broncos. And that might be exactly what the team needs after five straight losing seasons — to say nothing of all the behind-the-scenes drama around former owner Pat Bowlen’s last will and testament, which pitted brother against sister in a years-long legal battle over ownership of the team. Broncos president Joe Ellis said that an “ownership transfer” would be happening after this season. Now that the Broncos have officially been eliminated from playoff contention with a loss last weekend, host Bree Davies sits down with Ryan Koenigsberg and Zac Stevens of the DNVR Broncos Podcast to talk about Mr. Bowlen’s legacy in Denver, what a new owner could mean for the team and the city, and what we should make of those wild rumors. Jay-Z? Really??? When important Denver news breaks, you can trust that we’ll break it down for you in our newsletter. Subscribe now to make sure it hits your inbox every weekday morning: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ When someone posts a dank Denver meme, you can trust that we’ll retweet it. Follow us @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 04, 2022
Why Is Colorado’s Mental Health Care Safety Net So Broken?
It seems ironic that in a state that touts healthy lifestyles like hiking and biking and being outdoors, we have some of the worst mental health stats in the country. For a long time, Colorado has landed at the bottom of lists ranking state suicide rates and access to mental health care. Why? Susan Greene , a reporter for Colorado News Collaborative , recently published a six-month investigation into why Colorado’s mental health care “safety net” — the publicly funded community health care centers that are supposed to serve the uninsured — is failing so many Coloradans. She chats with City Cast Denver host Bree Davies about how our system got so broken and what it means for the people who need care most. To read Greene’s whole story, here’s the version that was published in The Denver Post : https://www.denverpost.com/2021/12/05/colorado-mental-health-centers-investigation/ This story is part of a broader project from the Colorado News Collaborative, called On Edge. You can learn more about the project and read all their stories exploring Colorado’s mental health system here: https://colabnews.co/projects/on-edge-colorado-mental-health/ Want news and great Denver recs right in your inbox every weekday morning? Subscribe to the CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Connect with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, January 03, 2022
Dual Tragedies in Colorado Close Out the Year
Denver entered the new year under a dark cloud of tragedy. First, a man shot and killed 5 people last Monday in downtown Denver and Lakewood. Though the perpetrator’s motive is still unclear, he reportedly knew most of the victims through the tattoo and body modification community. Three days later, grass fires fueled by high winds forced tens of thousands of Coloradans to evacuate their homes in Superior, Louisville, and unincorporated Boulder County. According to the Boulder County Office of Emergency Management, 991 homes were destroyed, making the Marshall Fire the most destructive in Colorado history. Host Bree Davies, Producer Paul Karolyi, and Newsletter Writer Peyton Garcia come together to discuss what happened and share a few stories. Do you have a connection to the shooting or the fires? We would love to offer up City Cast Denver as a platform for stories about victims, personal experiences of the fires, or anything else you’d like other Denverites to hear about these two tragedies. Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood at 720-500-5418. We’ll be collecting stories and sharing ways you can help the victims of the shooting and the fire in our daily newsletter. All you have to do is subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chat with us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 31, 2021
Superlatives Week: Best Steward of Old Denver
The City Cast Denver team is taking some time off until the new year but we didn’t want to leave you hanging. To look back on some of our favorite episodes of 2021, we’re handing out some well-deserved superlatives. Today’s superlative is best steward of Old Denver…Who could it be?! City Cast Denver will return January 3, 2022 with fresh episodes. Peyton has some special newsletters in store to get you through the holidays. Don’t miss out: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Our Twitter is taking a holiday too but we promise to post some really good tweets in the new year: @citycastdenver Don’t peek! But here’s a link to this guest’s original episode, including a description and all the links you need to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 30, 2021
Superlatives Week: Most Alluring Voice
The City Cast Denver team is taking some time off until the new year but we didn’t want to leave you hanging. To look back on some of our favorite episodes of 2021, we’re handing out some well-deserved superlatives. Today’s superlative is the guest with the most alluring voice…Who could it be?! City Cast Denver will return January 3, 2022 with fresh episodes. Peyton has some special newsletters in store to get you through the holidays. Don’t miss out: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Our Twitter is taking a holiday too but we promise to post some really good tweets in the new year: @citycastdenver Don’t peek! But here’s a link to this guest’s original episode, including a description and all the links you need to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 29, 2021
Superlatives Week: Biggest Bagel Fan
The City Cast Denver team is taking some time off until the new year but we didn’t want to leave you hanging. To look back on some of our favorite episodes of 2021, we’re handing out some well-deserved superlatives. Today’s superlative is the biggest bagel fan…Who could it be?! City Cast Denver will return January 3, 2022 with fresh episodes. Peyton has some special newsletters in store to get you through the holidays. Don’t miss out: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Our Twitter is taking a holiday too but we promise to post some really good tweets in the new year: @citycastdenver Don’t peek! But here’s a link to this guest’s original episode, including a description and all the links you need to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 28, 2021
Superlatives Week: Most Likely To Get Stuck In The Gum Tree
The City Cast Denver team is taking some time off until the new year but we didn’t want to leave you hanging. To look back on some of our favorite episodes of 2021, we’re handing out some well-deserved superlatives. Today’s superlative is the guest most likely to get stuck in the gum tree…Who could it be?! City Cast Denver will return January 3, 2022 with fresh episodes. Peyton has some special newsletters in store to get you through the holidays. Don’t miss out: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Our Twitter is taking a holiday too but we promise to post some really good tweets in the new year: @citycastdenver Don’t peek! But here’s a link to this guest’s original episode, including a description and all the links you need to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 27, 2021
Superlatives Week: Most Likely To Make Your Mouth Water & Tummy Grumble
The City Cast Denver team is taking some time off until the new year but we didn’t want to leave you hanging. To look back on some of our favorite episodes of 2021, we’re handing out some well-deserved superlatives. Today’s superlative is the guest who is most likely to make your mouth water and tummy grumble…Who could it be?! City Cast Denver will return January 3, 2022 with fresh episodes. Peyton has some special newsletters in store to get you through the holidays. Don’t miss out: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Our Twitter is taking a holiday too but we promise to post some really good tweets in the new year: @citycastdenver Don’t peek! But here’s a link to this guest’s original episode, including a description and all the links you need to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 23, 2021
Superlatives Week: Most Likely To Get Your Toe Tappin’
The City Cast Denver team is taking some time off until the new year but we didn’t want to leave you hanging. To look back on some of our favorite episodes of 2021, we’re handing out some well-deserved superlatives. Up first: the guests who are most likely to get your toe tappin’…Who could it be?! City Cast Denver will return January 3, 2022 with fresh episodes. Peyton has some special newsletters in store to get you through the holidays. Don’t miss out: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Our Twitter is taking a holiday too but we promise to post some really good tweets in the new year: @citycastdenver Don’t peek! But here’s a link to this guest’s orginal episode, including a description and all the links you need to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 22, 2021
The Casa Bonita Saga, Part 3: Change Nothing, Improve Everything
All week, we’ve been revisiting the biggest Denver story of the year — Casa Bonita’s bankruptcy and eventual sale to South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker. And now it’s time for the thrilling conclusion. Host Bree Davies and Producer Paul Karolyi revisit the not-too-distant past — late November — when Matt and Trey began unveiling their plans for CB 2.0, starting with a very exciting hire: Chef Dana Rodriguez. Oh, and here’s that 5280 Magazine story about Raquelita’s that Paul mentioned. Here’s how we described this episode when it initially aired on November 22: For the last 20 months, the fate of Casa Bonita has been uncertain. Would Denver’s original “immersive experience” survive a pandemic, not to mention a bankruptcy? Things were looking up when Matt Stone and Trey Parker (you know, the guys who created South Park) announced they were purchasing CB. But optimism quickly turned to skepticism and hardcore fans wondered: Was our landmark of kitsch and fun in danger of being changed forever? Turns out, things are changing. But it sounds like… for the better? Last week, news broke that Parker and Stone have hired renowned chef Dana Rodriguez, the culinary visionary behind hit restaurants like Super Mega Bien and Work & Class , to improve the food. Host Bree Davies called up the chef to find out what, exactly, she has planned for CB 2.0. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 21, 2021
The Casa Bonita Saga, Part 2: Welcome to South Parkland?
The biggest Denver story of the year was undoubtedly Casa Bonita, and the watchword for this second chapter of the story is “uncertainty.” Because back in August, South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker announced they'd be buying the place. We all knew that Matt and Trey found the Mexican restaurant in a strip mall comical, but did they get it ? Like, if they were going to be the stewards of this place, did they really understand what made it special? Join Host Bree Davies and Producer Paul Karolyi as we revisit that moment of uncertainty after the South Park guys bought the pink palace, when we took a tour with Westword editor Patty Calhoun and Bree interviewed David Thomas, “professor of fun” — both of whom really helped us understand what makes Casa Bonita so dang fun. Here’s how we described this interview back when it aired on October 6: It’s official: Trey Parker and Matt Stone have purchased Casa Bonita. So, now what? Will the Lakewood landmark stay the same, or become a fully South Park-themed eatertainment destination? While the iconic restaurant’s future hangs in the balance, we wanted to know: What really makes Casa Bonita fun ? Host Bree Davies and Producer Paul Karolyi took an official tour of the still-closed-for-dining immersive eatery with David Thomas , the “Professor of Fun.” David explains why Casa Bonita is more than just a theme restaurant — it’s an architecturally designed masterpiece that invites play, stirs imagination, and ensures that all who visit will be transported to another place and time for an experience that can be hard to put into words. The City Cast Denver Crew joined Westword editor Patty Calhoun for the Casa Bonita tour, too — you can read her take on CB and the concept of fun here . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 20, 2021
The Casa Bonita Saga, Part 1: Andrew Novick in a Monkey Suit
City Cast Denver will return with new episodes on January 3. In the meantime, we’re looking back at some of our favorite moments of the year. First up, probably the story of the year in Denver, it’s the Casa Bonita saga. Join Host Bree Davies and Producer Paul Karolyi to look back at all the ups and downs, starting today with our first interview on the topic from back in April just after Casa Bonita’s owners filed for bankruptcy. It was a dark time for the pink palace, to be sure. Here’s how we described this episode when it initially aired on April 15: Get Eric Cartman on the phone, Casa Bonita needs help. More than a year into the pandemic, the iconic Mexican restaurant slash immersive entertainment experience filed for bankruptcy earlier this week. There have been reports of community efforts to raise money to save the place, but until now it’s been unclear exactly how that might work. Andrew Novick, who’s visited Casa Bonita 300 times, and entrepreneur Danny Newman, who helped save My Brother’s Bar, have been working behind the scenes , and they’re on the show today to explain their strategy and how you can help. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, December 18, 2021
#ListenLocal: From the Margins to the Center
It's time for another #listenlocal podcast recommendation from our friend Berry of Podcasts in Color , the largest database of podcasts produced by people of color in the world. Berry's pick this month is From the Margins to the Center, a new podcast from House of Pod. Hosted by Becca Mendoza Nunziato and Jeanette Harris-Courts, this show "unapologetically amplifies voices of marginalized folks." Please enjoy the episode included here, featuring Natasha Pepperl on foster care, and subscribe anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more at houseofpod.org and follow Berry on Twitter @podcastsincolor . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 17, 2021
Denver Wins and Fails of 2021
It’s been a year, Denver. Maybe not a particularly great one, but it wasn’t all bad. And that’s why, for the final new episode of 2021, the City Cast Denver crew is calling out the wins and fails of the last year in this complicated city we all love. City Cast Denver will be in your feeds all next week and the week after with some fun re-runs, so stick with us! And Peyton is cooking up some special newsletters to get your through the holiday break. Don’t miss out, subscribe now: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us what your Denver win and fail of the year is on Twitter: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 16, 2021
Nurses are Overworked and Underpaid. How Can We Support Them?
Burnout is hitting nurses hard as we barrel toward the pandemic’s second anniversary. Nearly one in five nurses in Colorado plans to quit their job in the near future, according to an American Nurses Foundation survey . Hospitals across the state are already strained by the number of COVID patients they’re seeing, and staff shortages could make the situation worse. Nurse Tara Rynders talks with guest host Avery Lill about the pressures nurses face and how they could be better supported. Rynders shares that her organization, The Clinic , is helping nurses at hospitals across Denver through art and play-based workshops. If you want to watch the full performance of “COVID Stories” by The Clinic click here: https://www.theclinicperformance.com/covid-stories Want to know more about your city? We’ve got a newsletter for you: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We’d love to hear from you on Twitter! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 15, 2021
Why Exactly Does DIA Need Another $1.1 Billion?
So apparently Denver International Airport just needs a billion more dollars to finish the construction project that’s already over-budget, overdue and over the top with its new, sparkly white floors that look like snow. The Great Hall renovation project has been a headache for more than four years now, but it’s supposed to make the travel experience… better? Somehow? Denver Post reporter Jon Murray has been covering the project since the beginning, and he’s back on the show with guest host Avery Lill to explain why the project has taken so long, where all that money is supposed to come from, and who all of this hoopla is really for. For more details on next steps for the Great Hall project, here's Murray's latest for the Denver Post: https://www.denverpost.com/2021/12/10/denver-airport-terminal-project-completion/ Wanna know what’s on Peyton’s Plate this week? Subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter, and get personal restaurant recs and food news in your inbox every Thursday. https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ ] Don’t you wanna be Twitter friends? Hit us up @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 14, 2021
Reclaiming Education at the American Indian Academy of Denver
For a long time, schools have been used to erase Indigenous identities. Take the boarding schools of the 19th and 20th centuries where children were forced to shed their culture and assimilate into a Euro-Christian one. And the erasure can still be seen today in curricula and the staggeringly low graduation rates for Indigenous students. But a new charter school in southwest Denver hopes to reclaim what’s been lost and invest in the future of Denver’s 200 different Indigenous tribes. On a recent visit to the American Indian Academy of Denver, City Cast Denver guest host Avery Lill met the school’s founder, Dr. Terri Bissonette. Want to feel even more connected to your city? Sign up for the CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Hey are you on Twitter? We are too! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 13, 2021
BONUS: Remembering Demaryius Thomas
Former Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas died last Thursday at the age of 33. He last played for the Broncos in 2018, but he left an enduring legacy here in Denver, where teammates, sports reporters, and fans alike spent the weekend swapping stories of Thomas’s kindness and quiet pursuit of “everyday greatness,” as ESPN reported. Our friends at the DNVR sports network recorded a raw conversation sharing some of their and their listeners’ experiences with Thomas, and we loved it, so please enjoy this bonus episode today. Here’s how they described it: It is a hard day for Broncos Country, the NFL, and anyone who had the pleasure of meeting or just watching Demaryius Thomas. The impact DT left on the world is being felt by the thousands of messages pouring in of what he meant to them.. We spent this episode remembering our favorite memories of Demaryius Thomas, looking back at all the good times and we also asked and share some of the moments our listeners and community had with DT. It’s a hard episode but one that we needed to have to truly remember the man DT was on and off the field. RIP Bay-Bay, you’ll always be remembered. You can subscribe to The DNVR Sports Podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google , Pocket Casts , Spotify , or anywhere else you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 13, 2021
How Denver Became A Beacon of Christmas Joy
Christmas lights have been a tradition for so long, it’s hard to imagine December without them. We heard a rumor that Denver was the birthplace of these magical twinkling bulbs — so we called up Colorado history expert Dr. William Wei to find out more. Guest host Avery Lill chats with Dr. Wei about his latest book, Becoming Colorado , which traces the state’s history using the backstories of one hundred objects, including a box of Christmas lights. We also went on a mission to find the folks behind the brilliant light displays at Denver’s City and County Building and connected with Nate, Madeline, and Heidi Webb . The Webbs have run their event lighting company Blazen Illuminations in Colorado for more than two decades and they share the secrets to what makes those holiday light shows so fun to watch. Find out about more fun holiday stuff going on in Denver by subscribing to our weekday newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have a favorite local Christmas lights display you think we should know about? Tell us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, December 11, 2021
EXTRA: Coal at Sunset: A Colorado Town in Transition
Where does Denver’s power come from? It’s a deceptively complex question, loaded with all kinds of personal, political, and global implications. But one thing is certain, less and less of the electricity that powers our city is coming from coal. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, coal-fired power plants provided 36% of Colorado’s electricity in 2020, down from 68% in 2010. So this weekend on the show, we’re bringing you a little perspective from outside the city. Our friends at the Institute for Science & Policy at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science are producing an eight-part podcast exploring the transition away from coal in one of the most coal-reliant cities in the state — Craig, Colorado. This episode includes the first part in that series. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and click here to learn more: https://coalatsunset.org Here’s their description for this first episode: There's a popular saying in Craig: "Coal keeps the lights on." But in 2020, the electrical utility Tri-State announced that it would close its coal-fired power plant and coal mines in Craig by 2030. The news was like an earthquake. Hundreds of jobs would be lost. The town now faces the prospect of massive economic disruption as its primary industry disappears. In our first episode, we travel to Craig to hear from coal workers who are bracing for change and one local business owner who's already looking for ways to reinvent the town's identity. Plus, we'll talk with the CEO at the center of the decision that changed everything. What will Craig do now? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 10, 2021
Union Station Woes, And That Terrible Denver Gazette Editorial
One RTD driver recently described Union Station as a “hellhole,” and concerns with safety, drug use, littering, and public urination are mounting. The city’s response? More policing. Today on the show, Producer Xandra McMahon chats with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi about other possible solutions to social issues that don’t involve more versions of law enforcement. Plus, the crew tackles a horrific editorial the Denver Gazette ran this week that targeted our unhoused neighbors. Oh, and we’re joined by a special guest whose voice you’ll be hearing more often on the show! A note: On the show today, we read part of a response from Benjamin Dunning from Denver Homeless Out Loud, regarding the Denver Gazette’s editorial. Here’s the full version of the statement he sent to us: “Peoples ignorance when it comes to homelessness is amazing as evidenced by the editorial 'Denver’s drifters glamp on taxpayers’ tab.' from the Denver Gazette. The article has no declared author. We take this as evidence of them being unable to accept responsibility or accountability. The shaming sentiment they put on our homeless communities with their coined word is disrespectful. Their stupidity and lack of insight is evidenced by statements like “It’s bad for the unfortunate soul who chooses that life as well as for the neighbor who has to put up with it.” No one, and I mean no one chooses to be homeless. To sit behind a locked door and call the police on folks stuck in homelessland, over and over and over only makes things worse. 70% of calls to the STAR program are for unwanted persons and not for emergencies. Apparently there is a person who alone has called emergency services 500 times. It is sicking the disrespect we show our homeless communities. And this anonymous author is no different. The SOS camps do a great job offering help with dignity and respect. So when folks are offered some help with dignity, are we to shame them as grifters? Makes you wonder what kind of grift this author is manufacturing. Here is a bit of what enduring homelessland actually looks like. Glamping my A**- Being chased from street to street by city officials week after week, month after month. No rest, never sleeping with both eyes closed. Asking for housing and being told there is none. Asking where you could go and being told an “overcrowded emergency shelter during a pandemic”. Not a safe place at all. How about housing? Efforts to address homelessness should emphasize housing. Housing ends homelessness. Shelters do not work, they never have. Is the anonymous author willing to accept housing vouchers at their properties? Trust me the anonymous author owns property. (remember the grift they were on we mentioned earlier) Many folks on the streets have housing vouchers that private landlords refuse to accept. Making a problem even worse. People who have hous
Thu, December 09, 2021
iZCALLi Invites You To Celebrate La Posada With A Rock Show
A traditional holiday celebration in Spain and Latin America, La Posada has never really taken root here in Denver. But maybe that should change? Miguel Aviña certainly thinks so. He and his band, iZCALLi, put on an annual concert commemorating the event, and this weekend it’s going to be bigger and better than ever, with a jam-packed line-up taking the stage at Meow Wolf’s Perplexiplex Saturday night. Host Bree Davies sits down with Aviña to talk about the meaning of La Posada, his favorite Christmas music to perform, and what to expect at iZCALLi’s big bang of an end-of-year show . Looking for a little more local holiday music for your weekend? One of the acts joining iZCALLi on stage for La Posada, Kayla Marque, live-streamed a set of holiday tunes on PBS12 last year. Catch “How COVID Stole Christmas” here: https://www.facebook.com/PBS12.CO/videos/1357156864622162/ The songs we featured in this episode include: “ Corriendo Con Todo ” off of iZCALLi’s 2018 album “IV” “ Villain ” off Kayla Marque’s 2020 record “Left Brain” We’ve got plenty more recommendations for your Denver weekend in our newsletter. All you’ve got to do is subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We promise to send you some really good tweets today: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 08, 2021
BONUS: Left Hand Left Out
Did you know that today is actually a holiday here in Colorado? Happy Margaret Coel Day ! So we thought, what better way to celebrate than to share this audio documentary our producer Paul Karolyi made last year featuring Coel and her work? She’s best known for her Wind River mystery novels, but before she got into fiction, she published a historical biography of Arapaho Chief Left Hand, who famously uttered these famous words about Boulder Valley: “People seeing the beauty of this valley will want to stay, and their staying will be the undoing of the beauty.” Or did he? This is a story about exactly that uncertainty, as well as the nature of storytelling itself and land acknowledgements. This audio doc originally appeared on the podcast Range & Slope, where you can hear a couple of Paul’s other audio docs, like this one about Beau Jo’s so-called Colorado-style pizza or this one about Fort St. Vrain , Colorado’s first and still only nuclear power plant. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 08, 2021
Valentes Corleons: Nightclub Kingpin? Mobster? Both?
The LoDo nightclub Beta was once one of the top EDM clubs in the country, if not the world. But after a few high-profile violent incidents over the summer, a couple of undercover police raids, and one off-the-wall Von Miller party, Beta is on the verge of losing its liquor license, which would effectively shut it down for good. So what happened? Host Bree Davies sits down with Westword reporter Conor McCormick-Cavanagh to break down the story and the self-proclaimed “made man” at the center of it all — Beta’s owner, Valentes Corleons. Plus, Producer Paul Karolyi called up Corleons to get his side of the story. For more on the Beta situation, here’s McKormick-Cavanagh’s latest for Westword. Every Thursday in our newsletter, Peyton is reviewing a Denver restaurant and sharing the inside scoop on Denver restaurants. Subscribe now to make sure Peyton’s Plate hits your inbox tomorrow morning: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have you ever been to Beta? Let’s talk: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, December 07, 2021
Tay Anderson Opens Up About His Controversial Year
Tay Anderson made national headlines in 2019 when he was elected as the youngest Denver Public Schools board member in Colorado history. In 2021, he made headlines again — this time for accusations of sexual assault and sexual misconduct. But then a third-party investigation concluded that the most serious of the allegations were unsubstantiated, and just last week his peers elected him Vice President of the DPS board. Host Bree Davies sits down with Anderson to talk about the ups and downs of the last year and what he sees for his future and the future of Denver Public Schools. Stay up-to-date with Denver happenings by subscribing to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, December 06, 2021
Stranahan’s Snowflake: A Whiskey Worth Waiting For
Of all Denver’s great holiday traditions, there’s only one carefully crafted to drive whiskey lovers wild. Local distiller Stranahan’s started selling small batches of “Snowflake” whiskeys way back in 2007. But in the last few years, the Snowflake has taken on a lore of its own as aficionados camp out for days next to the distillery, just for the chance to get a bottle of that year’s unique, limited-edition recipe. This year, Stranahan’s decided to do things a little differently, turning the low-key campout into a full-fledged blowout at Red Rocks , complete with food trucks and live music. City Cast Denver correspondent JD Lopez — host of the Left Hand Right Brain podcast — headed over to the amphitheater’s parking lot at the crack of dawn to talk to Colorado’s whiskey tailgaters and find out what makes the Snowflake blend good enough to wait in line for. Plus, our VOICE on the Street segment is back — this time, we hear from Denver VOICE street paper vendor Brian Augustine, who talks candidly about why he loves being out in the community. Learn more about the Denver VOICE and read an online version of the paper at denvervoice.org. Donate directly to the Denver VOICE via Venmo: @DenverVOICE . We’ve got plenty more news from around the city in our weekday morning newsletter. Sign up here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chat with us on Twitter: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 03, 2021
Will This Family-Owned Pizza Joint Survive Another Pandemic Winter?
It’s official: the Omicron variant has hit Colorado. As we brace for continued disruptions in our daily lives, there’s still a lot at stake — schools are short-staffed, hospitals are overloaded, and our local economy is still dealing with supply chain issues and employee shortages. So, what does this all mean for family-owned businesses in Denver? Oblio’s, a long-running pizza joint in Park Hill, has been very forthright about the pandemic’s ongoing impacts on their business. In fact, they recently launched a GoFundMe in an effort to keep the family restuarant afloat — and in the post, owner Morgan McKay candidly shared what it has been like trying to save her family’s pizza legacy. City Cast Denver Producer Paul Karolyi chatted with Morgan about Oblio’s future and the concerns she has going into what looks like another winter of suriving a pandemic. Find great stuff to do this weekend by subscribing to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Share your fond memories of Oblio’s via Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 02, 2021
Did Denver’s Last Lesbian Bar Weaponize Its Status?
There is only one lesbian bar left in Denver. It’s one of only around 20 left in the United States. But according to a new lawsuit from three former employees, Blush & Blu owner Jody Bouffard has used that status for years to “create a culture of obligation where workers were required to accept mistreatment and brazen underpayment as a ‘service’ to the bar and broader queer community.” City Cast Denver producer Xandra McMahon sits down with one of those former employees, Jordan Feltner, to talk about what happens when power dynamics are at play within a vulnerable, marginalized community. You can read the entire lawsuit here: https://towardsjustice.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/2021.11.12-Filed-Blush-Complaint.pdf Here is the full statement we received from Blush & Blu: "Jody Bouffard and Blush & Blu deny these untrue and shocking allegations from three former off-and-on part-time staff. Bouffard has never intentionally belittled anyone in the manner described or otherwise, nor withheld rightfully earned pay. This filing is an unfortunate retaliation against Bouffard and Blush & Blu for unrelated staffing decisions, and does not accurately represent the work environment at Blush & Blu. As a lifeline and community space for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC people alike, and one of the last lesbian bars in the country, Blush & Blu feels strongly about their responsibility to create and maintain a safe and accepting space. When the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies’ Civil Rights Division investigated Savage’s claims of discrimination, Blush & Blu fully cooperated. Similarly, Blush & Blu provided a complete response to the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment regarding Jordan Feltner's wage complaint. Bouffard and Blush & Blu exercised care and due diligence in their response to both claims, despite the limited information included in Savage's and Feltner'sComplaints. Bouffard and Blush & Blu responded to each of the complaints lodged by Ms. Savage in her CCRD charge in full, with corroborating business documents, shift records, bank statements and payment records, social posts, photos, and specific eyewitness accounts. Similar evidence rebutting Feltner's claim was provided to CDLE in the form of shift records, payment stubs, and bar receipts. Reviewing the evidence presented on behalf of Bouffard and Blush & Blu, and legal discussion of the charge, no standing of discrimination was recognized by CCRD. The CDLE complaint was pulled before it could be dismissed. Now, they have apparently opted to try their case by public opinion." Don’t miss another CCD newsletter! Subscribe now and get Peyton’s guide for your weekend tomorrow morning: <a href="https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter
Wed, December 01, 2021
Finding a Recovery Community through Coffee
When Pastor Ryan Canaday confessed his alcoholism to his congregation back in 2013, he was shocked by the outpouring of love and stories from others who were on their own journeys of recovery. It was that experience that eventually led him and his wife Tami Canaday — a former climber on the corporate coffee ladder — to build their own community around coffee and recovery. Host Bree Davies sits down with the Canadays to talk about how the “gift of desperation” led them to start a non-profit, a coffee roasting company, Wagon Coffee , and now their very own coffee shop — all to help normalize and support people in recovery from alcoholism. The Canadays have been hosting support groups virtually every Saturday at 7 p.m. throughout the pandemic, and they are excited to return to in-person meetings this Saturday, December 4, at 2122 S. Lafayette St. Find all the details here . For more on the Canadays, here’s the 303 Magazine piece where we first heard about them. Don’t miss another newsletter fresh in your inbox every weekday! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Yeah yeah, don’t worry, we’re on Twitter too: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 30, 2021
Step Inside Camp Christmas, Lonnie Hanzon’s Glittery Wonderland
We may have yet to see snow on the ground, but artist Lonnie Hanzon has successfully captured the feeling of Christmas in his annual immersive installation, Camp Christmas. Lonnie’s work is kitschy, but not cynical; it’s over-the-top, but not obnoxious. This year, he’s transformed the entire 15-building campus at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park into a lavish and sparkling winter wonderland, complete with neon trees, glitter horses, rainbow chandeliers, and psychedelic sheep. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies caught up with Lonnie Hanzon to learn all about the creation of Camp Christmas and how he captured the feeling of the season in this beautiful, interactive landscape. Camp Christmas is in partnership with the DCPA and the city of Lakewood. It runs until Jan. 2, 2022 and you can buy tickets by clicking here. Get more local Christmas info via the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us your favorite Denver Christmas traditions on twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 29, 2021
Tattered Cover’s Books of The Year
What’s the best part of any good local bookstore? The staff recs! Duh. We love those colorful little handwritten notes on the shelf pointing us to that next page-turner. So as holiday shopping gets under way, we invited two of Tattered Cover’s book buyers to come on the show and share some of their favorites of the year. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sits down with Jeremy Patlen and Kathy Baum to talk through Tattered Cover’s 2021 Books of The Year and give us a little behind-the-shelf insight into how these recommendations happen. Find links to all the books mentioned and the full list right here: https://www.tatteredcover.com/2021-books-year And for even more on The Holly: Five Bullets, One Gun, and The Struggle to Save an American Neighborhood , check out our interview with author Julian Rubinstein and Terrance Roberts, the former gang member-turned-anti-gang activist at the heart of Rubinstein’s book: https://open.spotify.com/episode/55BtBvCfcJZ52TJB34sKbv?si=67eb748add9b4bc9 Wanna help Capitol Hill Books rebuild after a truck drove through their front window? Here’s a link to their GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/t2b6z-help-capitol-hill-books-rebuild For more local shopping inspiration, be our inbox buddy! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What was your favorite book of the year? Shout it out and tag us @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 24, 2021
Den-Mex (Uncensored)
We’re taking the rest of the week off to be with friends and family, so please enjoy this re-run of one of our favorite episodes of the year. We took out the bleeps and added back some of the good stuff that didn’t make it onto the plate last time. Enjoy! Here’s our original description for this episode: So what exactly is Denver-style Mexican food? How do we differentiate our particular brand of Mexican food? (Hint: We’re talking green chile. On everything.) Food writer Gustavo Arellano and Westword editor and Den-Mex super fan Patty Calhoun break down where it came from, what we need to do to protect it, and what makes Den-Mex so special. Warning: Side effects of this episode may include a growling stomach and watering mouth. Subscribe to our morning newsletter for more Denver news, and follow us on Twitter @citycastdenver . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 23, 2021
A Popular News Anchor Became Disabled. Then 9News Fired Her.
After suffering a stroke in 2019, Kristen Aguirre was let go from her dream job at 9News. Her colleagues supported her recovery. The station even broadcast her story of recovery on World Stroke Day. But behind the scenes, she says management made it clear: they didn’t want her on TV anymore. Host Bree Davies sits down with Aguirre to talk about what happened, why she’s now suing 9News for racial and disability-related discrimination, and why it is so important for her to bring her experience with disability and discrimination to light. Read the details of Kristen Aguirre’s case via original reporting from The Denver Post: https://www.denverpost.com/2021/11/11/kristen-aguirre-sues-9news-discrimination/ Peyton’s been cooking up some good stuff over at the City Cast Denver newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Say hello on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 22, 2021
Casa Bonita’s Food Needs Help. Chef Dana Rodriguez to the Rescue!
For the last 20 months, the fate of Casa Bonita has been uncertain. Would Denver’s original “immersive experience” survive a pandemic, not to mention a bankruptcy? Things were looking up when Matt Stone and Trey Parker (you know, the guys who created South Park) announced they were purchasing CB. But optimism quickly turned to skepticism and hardcore fans wondered: Was our landmark of kitsch and fun in danger of being changed forever? Turns out, things are changing. But it sounds like… for the better? Last week, news broke that Parker and Stone have hired renowned chef Dana Rodriguez, the culinary visionary behind hit restaurants like Super Mega Bien and Work & Class , to improve the food. Host Bree Davies called up the chef to find out what, exactly, she has planned for CB 2.0. Subscribe to the Casa Bonita Podcast…er, City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us your hopes and dreams for CB on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 19, 2021
Could The Words "Gourmet" and “Casa Bonita" Really Go Together?
These days, it seems like the Casa Bonita news faucet never turns off. This week, the new owners Matt Stone and Trey Parker (ever heard of ‘em??) announced that renowned Denver chef Dana Rodriguez would be taking over the CB kitchen. The internet all but imploded and so did the City Cast Denver team. So producer Xandra McMahon, host Bree Davies, and newsletter writer Peyton Garcia are on the show today to talk through those reactions and nervous feelings. Plus, Peyton has a curated restaurant recommendation to get you through your weekend. For more about chef (and possible future mayor) Frank Bonanno, he was one of our very first guests when we launched this show back in March. You can hear that episode right here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5w7mP3I6DQ8P7fZk5OMSCF?si=00ddd5163eec485d Get Peyton’s Plate in your inbox on Fridays! And a healthy digest of news and cool events throughout the week: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 18, 2021
BookBar Buys The Bookies
The Bookies has been an institution in Denver for decades. Tucked away inside a nondescript Glendale strip mall, the bookstore has served generations of curious young readers and helped teachers curate their classrooms affordably for more than 50 years. But in July, the bookstore lost its owner and steward, Sue Lubeck — and the fate of the quirky bookseller was unknown. Enter Nicole Sullivan, owner of BookBar across town. Host Bree Davies sat down with The Bookies’ new owner to talk about her plans for the beloved Denver staple. Plus, we chatted with one of The Bookies’ many longtime employees about how Sue Lubeck’s kindness was so infectious. Get more news delivered to your inbox every weekday by signing up for the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Share your Bookies memories with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 17, 2021
Is It Really That Hard to Build Affordable Housing in Denver?
It’s no secret that Denver’s a pretty expensive place to live these days. But there’s hope — in recent years, voters have approved measures to help ease the burden of high housing costs. Still, there’s a lot of mystery around how, exactly, affordable housing gets built in Denver. Today on the show, Host Bree Davies speaks with developer Kimball Crangle of Gorman & Company, who has built affordable housing all over Colorado, to explain how it works, why it's important, and how you can help. Also: Denver recently proposed a new affordable housing policy. The Department of Community Planning and Development has a whole mess of documentation for Denverites to dig through, plus dates and times for open houses and focus groups to talk about the proposal, if you’re into that sort of thing: https://www.denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Community-Planning-and-Development/Denver-Zoning-Code/Text-Amendments/Affordable-Housing-Project The first announced changes to Casa Bonita are here! Read the latest in our daily City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chat with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 16, 2021
Denver on Shrooms: It's Been a Trip!
Way back in the spring of 2019, Denver became the first American city in the country to decriminalize psilocybin, or magic mushrooms, with 50.56% of voters in favor. That left many Denverites worried about where decriminalization could lead — like Jeff Hunt, who said this to CBS4 : “What I’m afraid we’re going to see happen now is people go, ‘Denver is a place where I’m not going to get prosecuted, so we’re going to increase the use of these drugs.’” Well, Jeff, the first batch of numbers are in! Today on the show, host Bree Davies sits down with Kevin Matthews, the former West Point cadet who led the decriminalization campaign. He’s been working with the city to monitor the situation and last week he presented a report and some interesting recommendations for next steps to City Council. To see Matthews’ whole presentation to City Council last week, click here: http://denver.granicus.com/player/clip/14561?view_id=180&redirect=true For more on the push toward legalization across the country, Matthews was quoted in this recent New York Times piece about veterans leading the charge: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/11/health/veterans-psychedelics-ptsd-depression.html?referringSource=articleShare Subscribe to our newsletter for more news and cool events! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow our twitter account for nonsense and memes! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 15, 2021
Thunderbird Man's Legacy Now Includes a Library
Like many American cities, Denver is home to many buildings, streets, and monuments commemorating problematic figures from our sometimes violent and racist past. Slowly but surely, we’re changing that. Like this past weekend, the Byers Branch Library in La Alma Lincoln Park was officially renamed in honor of John Emhoolah Jr., “Thunderbird Man,” a Kiowa and Arapaho elder who spent his life advocating for Native American education and religious liberty. City Cast Denver producer Paul Karolyi was at the ceremonial renaming ceremony on Saturday, and he has the story. For more on why Denver Public Library wanted to rename the Byers Branch, here’s a brief summary of his support for the Sand Creek Massacre: https://history.denverlibrary.org/news/william-n-byers-contributing-massacre What’s the latest on Denver’s pandemic protocols? Supply chain issues? And housing crisis? Get all that and more in our weekday morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We don’t always tweet. But when we do, we use the handle @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 12, 2021
Traffic Deaths, Vision Zero’s Zero Score, & Denver’s World Cup Possibility
Denver had to face a hard truth this week: so far in 2021, 73 people have been killed on the city’s roadways. That’s the highest number of traffic deaths Denver has seen since the Vision Zero plan was implemented in 2016. The plan hoped to end all traffic deaths by 2030, but clearly the numbers are going in the wrong direction. Why? Host Bree Davies and producers Paul Karolyi and Xandra McMahon discuss the age-old Denver question: Who really owns these streets? Plus, the crew debates whether Denver’s bid for the 2026 World Cup is a good idea or not. Paul mentioned a website that leaks all of FIFA’s dirty secrets. Here’s a New Yorker story about it: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2019/06/03/how-football-leaks-is-exposing-corruption-in-european-soccer For more on Colorado’s obsession with big SUV’s, check out Nate Minor’s story for CPR News: https://www.cpr.org/2021/10/01/colorado-suvs-sales-carbon-emissions-pedestrian-safety/ Our newsletter writer Peyton Garcia cooks up an extra special newsletter every Friday. Don’t miss another one: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Let’s be friends on Twitter! @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 11, 2021
An Ode to The Denver Diner Before It Gets Chase-Bank'd
Last week, it was announced that the boarded-up Denver Diner would not re-open, but instead become a Chase Bank. The beloved late-night dining spot that had served the city for decades (even long before it became The Denver Diner in the ’90s) was going away for good — leaving Denver with even less options for a 24-hour gathering place with affordable meals. Today on the show, host Bree Davies reminisces with fellow Denver Diner enthusiast Kalyn Heffernan about their mutual love for a dining spot that acted as an intersection for humanity and proved to be one of the most physically and economically accessible meeting places in the city. Plus, we hear from newsletter writer Peyton Garcia about hers -and some of your- favorite diners in Denver. Wondering what diners still exist in the Mile High City? Westword has an excellent survey of the current diner scene: https://www.westword.com/restaurants/late-night-food-diners-denver-12725841 Get more dirt on Denver in your inbox every weekday by signing up for the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Share your Denver Diner memories with us on twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 10, 2021
Author Jenny Shank Seeks Human Connection in 'Mixed Company’
Jenny Shank grew up in southeast Denver, but when it was time for school, she was bused all over the city — from an elementary school with a Chicano-rooted curriculum on the West Side to a predominantly Black middle school near Five Points. And it was those experiences that informed her new George Garrett Fiction Prize-winning collection of short stories, “ Mixed Company .” It explores all the awkward, comical, and challenging ways that very different kinds of Coloradans can still find ways to connect. Host Bree Davies sits down with Shank to talk about their shared history with Denver Public Schools and busing, and how they understand their similar education experiences differently today. “Mixed Company” comes out later this month. For more details on how to get yourself a copy or attend an upcoming reading, check out Shank’s website or RSVP to this reading she's doing in January with a couple of other local authors. For more on Denver’s history of busing, check out our episode from September 8 with playwright Alicia Smith Young! We’re trying some new stuff in our newsletter this week! Check it out and tell us what you think: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ If you follow, we’ll send you some really good tweets today from @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 09, 2021
Why You Can’t Watch the Nuggets, Avs or Rapids on TV
If you’ve tried to watch the Nuggets or the Avalanche on TV at all in the last three years, you may have noticed that well, you can’t. That’s because Denver is going into its third season of a blackout, thanks to a dispute between Altitude, the regional sports network that broadcasts our teams, and Comcast, the metro area’s most popular cable provider. While the corporate giants battle it out in court, fans are left to try to watch games in person, switch cable providers, or find less-than-legal streams online. Today, Host Bree Davies chats with Denver Post reporter and City Cast Denver sports expert Jake Shapiro about why, exactly, local sports fans are shut out from watching their teams on TV. Get news you can use every weekday morning by signing up for the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Give us your Altitude TV/Comcast hot takes via Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 08, 2021
15 Years of Food Justice on Colfax
Walk into SAME Café on East Colfax, and it looks like your average fast-casual lunch spot. But there’s A LOT of good stuff going on under the surface. SAME, which stands for So All May Eat, is a donation-based “participatory” restaurant. Anyone can go in and get a freshly cooked meal made with local produce. All you have to do is give something back to the community in exchange — be it a donation of produce, money, or your time. Host Bree Davies sits down with SAME Café’s new executive director Brad Reubendale to talk about SAME’s 15-year anniversary, his winding journey to this job, and the restaurant’s new “trauma-informed design.” For more on SAME Cafe’s 15-year anniversary, check out this article from 5280 Magazine: https://www.5280.com/2021/11/celebrating-one-of-the-countrys-oldest-pay-what-you-can-restaurants/ The holidays are just around the corner! Do you have a favorite tradition around this time of year where you like to give back or connect with our community? Let us know your favorite ways and places to give — and receive — via email at denver@citycast.fm or leave us a voicemail at ( 720) 500-5418 For more Denver news and cool events, subscribe to our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have you ever had lunch at SAME Café? Tell us how it was @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 05, 2021
Chipotle vs. Illegal Pete’s: A Denver-Style-Mission-Style Burrito Battle
Way back in the early ’90s, the Denver-style-Mission-style burrito rolled into town thanks to Chipotle. They introduced a massive meal you could eat with two hands — a steamed tortilla chock-full of rice, beans, meat, and all sorts of toppings. Illegal Pete’s appeared just a few years later in Boulder with a similar style burrito, but a restaurant environment all its own. Today on the show, the City Cast Denver crew gets together to talk about these burrito behemoths and tries to decide who makes the best Denver-style-Mission-style meal in the Mile High City. Want more of Peyton’s culinary recs? Check out the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us where you stand on the Chipotle/Illegal Pete’s debate on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 04, 2021
BONUS: What Sara Terry Learned at Mobile Home University
In this morning’s episode, Bree talked to documentarian Sara Terry about her new film A Decent Home, which is premiering this Saturday at Denver Film Fest. It was a fascinating, wide-ranging conversation, so we wanted to share a little bonus excerpt. It’s about the scene in the documentary where Sara visits Mobile Home University, a Colorado-based program that teaches people how to buy and make the most money possible out of mobile home parks. Here’s a great piece from the Denver Post’s Sam Tabachnik about Mobile Home University if you want to learn more: https://www.denverpost.com/2021/09/05/mobile-home-university-rv-horizons-impact-communities-frank-rolfe-dave-reynolds/ Stream Sara Terry’s new documentary, A Decent Home, online: https://watch.eventive.org/denverfilmfestival/play/6154d7761d62fd003e42366d Or catch a screening in-person, as part of the 44th Annual Denver Film Festival: Sat, Nov 6th, 4:00 PM @ Maglione Theater (Sie) Sun, Nov 7th, 2:30 PM @ AMC House 3 Thu, Nov 11th, 4:15 PM @ Maglione Theater (Sie) Want more news in your inbox every weekday morning? Sign up for the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us your experience with housing in Colorado via twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 04, 2021
Searching for 'A Decent Home' at an Aurora Mobile Home Park
After filmmaker Sara Terry almost lost her home in 2008, she thought a lot about housing stability and inequality. In Terry’s new documentary, A Decent Home , she tackles an often unseen side of the housing crisis — the precarious nature of mobile home parks — with the vigor of a career journalist and the humanity of a natural storyteller. Today on the show, Host Bree Davies talks with Terry about her film and the people she chose to profile, particularly the residents of Aurora’s Denver Meadows mobile home park as they fought to stay housed. Terry also discusses the documentary’s exploration of predatory park owners across the country, who make their money by squeezing every last penny out of people on the margins of society. Terry is hosting a convening this Saturday ahead of the premiere at 4 p.m. It will feature former residents of Denver Meadows alongside activists and elected officials. The event is set to run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and space is very limited, so if you’re interested act fast. Email gretchen@adecenthomefilm.com if you’d like to attend. Stream A Decent Home online: https://watch.eventive.org/denverfilmfestival/play/6154d7761d62fd003e42366d Or catch a screening in-person, as part of the 44th Annual Denver Film Festival: Sat, Nov 6th, 4:00 PM @ Maglione Theater (Sie) Sun, Nov 7th, 2:30 PM @ AMC House 3 Thu, Nov 11th, 4:15 PM @ Maglione Theater (Sie) Find the full Denver Film Fest schedule of screenings, both in person and virtual, here: https://www.denverfilm.org/denverfilmfestival/dff44/ Want more news in your inbox every weekday morning? Sign up for the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us your experience with housing in Colorado via twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 03, 2021
How Denver Voted (And How We Feel About It)
Yes, voter turnout was low. And yes, there weren’t any major offices up for grabs. But there were a lot of important issues at stake in Denver’s election, and we stayed up all night — okay, some of the night — to see what happened. Bree , Peyton , Paul , and Xandra break down what voters approved, what they rejected, and what that’s going to mean for all of Denver. As the fallout from the election unfolds, we’ll have plenty of coverage in our newsletter. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ You heard our first reactions to the results. But we want to hear from you, too! Tweet us your hottest election takes @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 02, 2021
A Denver Royal Gives Up Her Crown
In the spring of 1958, Marilyn Van Derbur was on University of Colorado’s ski team, worried about moguls and final exams. By fall, she was crowned Miss America. Decades later, she used her Miss America platform to support and advocate for survivors of sexual abuse — something Van Derbur herself endured throughout childhood at the hands of her father. But now, after more than 60 years of philanthropy and advocacy, she’s decided to sell her Miss America crown. Host Bree Davies sits down with Van Derbur to talk about what the crown has meant to her and why she decided to sell it now. Van Derbur’s crown, as well as a collection of other Miss America memorabilia, will be going on auction through Heritage Auctions starting November 4, 2021. The bidding will reportedly start at $20,000. Want the results of today’s election delivered straight to your inbox tomorrow morning at 6 a.m.? Subscribe to our newsletter today: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We promise to send you some really good tweets today @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, November 01, 2021
Colorado Snagged $34 Million For Transit and RTD Gets... None?
It’s no secret that RTD has been struggling for years. Even before the pandemic, the regional public transportation provider was experiencing a drop in ridership, despite the state seeing a population boom. Then there was the bus driver and light rail operator shortage, the organization’s ever-consuming debt, constant bus schedule changes, and whole routes being cut. Recently though, $34.2 million in federal transit aid made its way to Colorado… but RTD didn’t get any of it. Instead, the millions of dollars landed in Boulder. Host Bree Davies talks with RTD Board Director Shontel Lewis about what happened with this money and why the transit organization continues to struggle. Read Shontel’s Op-Ed for the Denver Post about CDOT withholding federal transit funding: https://www.denverpost.com/2021/10/25/rtd-cdot-federal-funding/ Looking for more local news? Subscribe to the City Cast Denver weekday newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us about your commute on twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 29, 2021
Halloween Spooktacular! With Denver’s Clerk & Recorder Paul López
It’s Halloween weekend and the City Cast Denver crew created a special episode to celebrate the spooky season. Today on the show, Denver’s Clerk and Recorder Paul López joins Host Bree Davies to share a ghostly tale involving one of the Mile High City’s oldest (and possibly haunted?) hotels in downtown. Will you be able to guess which one it is? Then, professional fright expert and haunted house actor Danielle Look shares her tips and tricks for scaring the pants off people. She’s also got some recommendations for the scariest spots in town. Looking for good trick-or-treat destination recommendations and other spooky things to do this holiday? Check out today’s newsletter, which is packed with Denver Halloween weekend fun: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tag us in your Denver Halloween fun this weekend on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 28, 2021
You Gotta Fight For Your Right to Build a Skate Park
It’s election season here in Denver, but elections are far from the only way to make changes you want to see in your community. Take, for example, the group of kids who recently pitched Councilwoman Kendra Black on building a skate park in her southeast Denver district. Is that really how it works? Host Bree Davies sits down with Black to talk through why their pitch clicked with her and how she plans to make it a reality. If you want to show your support for Councilwoman Black’s skate park project, there are two good ways to do that right now. First, as she mentions in this episode, you can get in touch with her office and potentially join a steering committee to work on it directly. You can find contact info for her office her: https://www.denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Denver-City-Council/Council-Members/Kendra-Black-Council-District-4 Second, you can let the Parks and Recreation Department know how strongly you feel about skate parks or any other outdoor adventure and alternative sports infrastructure. They’re running a survey right now, and as you heard from Councilwoman Black, they take the results from this kind of thing really seriously. Find that survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DPROutdoors Bree briefly mentioned how her husband Gregg helped Joyce Foster get Denver’s first skate park built downtown. For the whole crazy story, we recommend this longread from Westword that was published when the park opened in 2001: https://www.westword.com/news/a-tough-grind-5067465?storyPage=2 Halloween is this weekend. Do you have plans yet? Peyton is rounding up all sorts of spooky events and activities in our newsletter this week, so subscribe now: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Our tweets are here: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 27, 2021
Denver City Council vs. Bubble Gum Vape Juice
There’s been a battle brewing over kids and vaping for the past few years — and now Denver is mired in the haze. It all started when Councilmember Amanda Sawyer thought her daughter was buying bubblegum-flavored vape juice on the internet. But now her proposal to ban the sale of all flavored smoking products has evolved into a passionate, multi-sided debate, and the only thing that’s clear is that not everyone can get what they want. Host Bree Davies talks to Denver Post reporter Noelle Phillips about why this proposal was so provocative for so many different kinds of Denverites. For more, Noelle’s piece on the push to ban sales of flavored smoking products is here: https://www.denverpost.com/2021/10/25/denver-flavored-tobacco-vape-ban/ Keep up with all the breaking Denver vaping news in our newsletter. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tweet us @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 26, 2021
Why Denver Should NOT Pay For A New National Western Arena
The National Western Stock Show has been a big deal in Denver for decades, drawing farmers, ranchers, equestrians and rodeo enthusiasts to the city. This two-week long event at the beginning of every year is also big business — and Mayor Hancock thinks its worth investing in, to the tune of $190 million. This election, Denver will vote on a bond package that includes measure 2E, which asks voters to approve the construction of a 10,000-seat arena along with renovations to an existing Stock Show Complex building. Host Bree Davies talks to #NoOn2E campaign manager Sarah Lake and Alfonso Espino, a representative of community activist group, GES Coalition . Lake and Espino make their case for why voters should think twice before signing off on a multi-million dollar project in the middle of a community that has seen neglect by the city for decades. Don’t miss yesterday’s show with Bree and at-large councilwoman Deborah “Debbie” Ortega — who represented the National Western Center’s surrounding neighborhoods on council from 1987 to 2003 — about why Denverites should vote #YesOn2E . Get more news in your inbox every weekday by signing up for the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us your thoughts on the bond measure on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, October 25, 2021
Why Denver Should Pay For a New National Western Arena
Every January for more than 100 years, Denver has hosted the National Western Stock Show. The event draws farmers and ranchers from across the West to show off their livestock, compete in the rodeo, and remind Denver that despite its big city ambitions, it’s still surrounded by those amber waves of grain. But how much are Denver taxpayers willing to invest into this relationship? Mayor Michael Hancock has asked voters to approve $190 million for renovations and upgrades at the National Western Center, including a brand new, 10,000 seat arena. So it’s time for voters to decide: should the National Western Center get a $190-million facelift or should we be spending that money elsewhere? To understand the case for a new arena, Host Bree Davies speaks with at-large councilwoman Deborah “Debbie” Ortega — who represented the National Western Center’s surrounding neighborhoods on council from 1987 to 2003 — about why #YesOn2E is best for the community. Make sure to come back tomorrow when we’ll explore the other side of this issue! Election day is a little over a week away, so it’s the perfect time to make sure you’re getting all the important news you need to be an informed voter. Subscribe to our newsletter here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us what you think about #YesOn2E and Councilwoman Ortega’s argument on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, October 24, 2021
BONUS: The DAM’s “Marie Antoinette Moment”?
The Denver Art Museum opened up its new $175-million front door this morning, and Bree has some thoughts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, October 23, 2021
#ListenLocal: How Art is Born
Berry is back! That's right, our favorite local podcast critic is back with another #listenlocal recommendation for your weekend. Berry’s pick this month is How Art is Born , the first-ever podcast from Denver's Museum of Contemporary Art. Also of note, it's hosted by R. Alan Brooks, who local podcast fans will recognize from his show about comics and culture, Motherf**ker in a Cape. How Art is Born features interviews with all kinds of Colorado creatives, from comedians like Janae Burris to photographers like Armando Geneyro, who is featured in the episode Berry recommends you start with. For more podcast news and gossip, we recommend following Berry on Twitter @podcastsincolor. While you’re there, say hi to us @citycastdenver! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 22, 2021
Election-Palooza 2021
It’s an off-year election, but that doesn’t mean it’s not an important one. Denver voters will be deciding things like which big projects to spend money on and how we deal with aspects of our housing crisis. While ballot language is often hard to understand, the 2021 election’s seemed super daunting — so the City Cast Denver crew got together to try to talk through some of what we learned in researching the measures. We didn’t talk about the school board races today, but we still want to help you out as you make your choices in those races. So consider this an endorsement of past City Cast Denver guest Melanie Asmar’s thorough interviews for Chalkbeat, which you can find here, along with a very helpful contextual introduction: https://co.chalkbeat.org/2021/10/13/22723116/denver-public-schools-board-of-education-candidates-2021-election-voter-guide For more on the election, sign up for our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And follow @citycastdenver for some of the best tweets you’ll ever see Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 21, 2021
What’s So Scary About A Bunch of Adults Living Together?
There’s a measure on Denver ballots this year that was many, many years in the making. After countless community debates, angry posts to Nextdoor, and level-headed conversations between neighbors, City Council passed an amendment to our zoning code in February allowing up to five unrelated adults to live together in a single home (previously, it was capped at 2). But even after the vote, the debate waged on. Critics collected more than 13,000 signatures to put a repeal motion on the ballot, so now it’s up to Denver voters to decide the fate of group living. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies used to live communally, so today on the show she sits down with her old roommate Piper Rose to talk about why group living was so important to them. Also, and we’re asking for a friend: what’s the statute of limitations on zoning code violations? We requested an interview with a representative of the group that collected the signatures to put a repeal measure on the ballot, Safe and Sound Denver, and they declined. So if you’re looking for a different perspective on this issue, including the other changes it would make to our zoning code (e.g. expanding possible locations for halfway houses), we recommend perusing their website: https://www.safeandsounddenver.com/ For more on all the measures in front of Denver voters this election, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Get those good tweets @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 20, 2021
What is Dark Money? And How is it Impacting Our Election?
Denver is in the middle of another election. Did you notice? It’s an off year, but there are still plenty of important issues to decide. We’ll be digging in to all of them as election day approaches, but first the question of Defend Colorado, a so-called “dark money” group that’s poured $540,000 into several different measures so far. So what exactly is dark money? And how is Defend Colorado using it to shape some of the most important issues facing our city? Host Bree Davies sits down with Conor McCormick-Cavanagh , who’s been reporting on Defend Colorado’s dark money spending for Westword, to sort it all out. For more from Conor, here’s his latest piece on the dark money at play in Denver’s election: https://www.westword.com/news/dark-money-defend-colorado-denver-election-expenditure-12404774 We shared a doozy of a story about some shady dealings at the Parks and Rec Dept. in our newsletter this morning. Did you catch it? Don’t miss another one and subscribe right here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Does knowing about dark money spending affect the way you’re going to vote? Tell us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 19, 2021
The Revolutionary Music of Los Mocochetes
The music you hear every day on City Cast Denver wasn’t made for a podcast — it’s the work of Denver Chicano band Los Mocochetes. The songs we weave into each episode are rooted in the history and culture of Denver, and help us convey a range of emotions throughout our more than 100 episodes. They are also the foundation of a new record, Mucho Gusto , which Los Mocochetes will be releasing this Saturday, October 23rd at Raíces Brewing Company. In advance of their big show, Diego Florez and Joshua Abeyta sit down with Host Bree Davies to discuss the new album and talk about what it means to identify as a Chicano band in Colorado. Grab tickets to Los Mocochetes album release party at Raíces Brewing Company: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/los-mocochetes-ep-release-mucho-gusto-tickets-181456670787?aff=ebdsoporgprofile Get more news delivered straight to your inbox every weekday: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tell us your favorite Los Mocochetes track on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, October 18, 2021
Why A Big Brother Tech Giant Moved to Denver
Palantir Technologies is a massive, publicly traded defense contractor founded on the promise of bringing Silicon Valley-style data analysis to the U.S. armed forces. And now, after years spent complaining about the “monoculture” of the Bay Area, Palantir’s leaders have moved the company’s headquarters to Denver. So what do they see in us? Why are people protesting them in the street? And what can we expect from our new neighbor? City Cast Denver producer Paul Karolyi speaks with Max Chafkin , reporter for Bloomberg Businessweek and author of a brand new book on Palantir’s co-founder Peter Thiel: The Contrarian: Peter Thiel and Silicon Valley's Pursuit of Power . For more on Palantir’s early operations in Denver, past City Cast Denver guest Ed Sealover has a good article for you right here: https://www.bizjournals.com/denver/news/2020/11/16/palantir-technologies-denver-headquarters-move.html After speaking with Max, we reached out to the City of Denver and the State of Colorado to learn more about what kinds of negotiations or incentives helped lure Palantir to Denver, and neither said they actively recruited or offered any sort of special benefit. “But we’re not surprised that our workforce talent pool and quality of life is a major selling point for any major tech company, and has made us a destination for these businesses to locate and relocate,” a spokesperson for the city added. Hate Chipotle’s new queso? Got an off-menu order that changes the game? We’re talking all things Denver-style, Mission-style burritos this week, and we want to hear from you! Give us your name, your neighborhood, and your hottest take, and you may hear your voicemail on the show. The number to call is (720) 500-5418. Sign up for our newsletter! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 15, 2021
Colorado’s ‘Rich Mosaic of Dining’, Plus Denver Trivia That Stumps Even Bree
Welcome back to Fridays at City Cast Denver where the crew chats about the news of the week and shares their perspectives. Today, host Bree Davies , producers Paul Karolyi and Xandra McMahon , and newsletter writer Peyton Garcia hash out the New York Times’ picks for “the most vibrant and delicious” restaurants in the country. Spoiler alert: restaurants in Denver and Boulder made the cut. Plus, Xandra hit a silver mine when she found a Denver trivia game from the ’80s at a yard sale for a buck. She’ll be testing the team’s true knowledge of the Mile High City and you can play along! (This has nothing to do with the New York Times’ list but…) do you have strong feelings about Chipotle or Illegal Pete’s? Leave us a voicemail: 720-500-5418. Have more Peyton in your life! Subscribe to the CCD newsletter she writes every weekday: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Let’s keep in touch. We’re on Twitter: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 14, 2021
Identity, Resistance and Resilience at the Museo
It has been 500 years since the fall of Tenochtitlan, but the Spanish colonization of Mesoamerica still reverberates across the world today — including here in Denver, where Museo de las Americas is opening a new exhibition that explores that legacy. Smoking Mirrors: Visual Histories of Identity, Resistance and Resilience was curated by Chicano/a Murals of Colorado Project and features the work of more than 20 muralists and other artists from Colorado and New Mexico, including Emanuel Martínez, Nani Chacón, Gregg Deal, Ratha Sok, and more. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies talks with the show’s curator, Lucha Martínez de Luna, about the importance of telling these stories of resistance, decolonization, and multi-dimensional identity through the work of artists who aren’t always given their rightful space in a museum context. Learn more about Smoking Mirrors: Visual Histories of Identity, Resistance and Resilience opening this Friday night via Museo de las Americas. For more with Lucha Martínez de Luna, do yourself a favor and revisit our episode about her work preserving the remaining Chicano murals around Denver: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-urgent-push-to-preserve-chicano-murals/id1557798162?i=1000518191869 Want more news in your inbox every weekday? Subscribe to our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chat with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 13, 2021
28 Years of Roasting Chiles with the Morales Family
Ron Morales has been roasting green chiles in a parking lot at the corner of 52nd and Sheridan every fall for the past 28 years. He learned the trade from his father and hopes to pass it on to his kids one day — if any of them decide to take on the family business. But what exactly does it take to make this signature Colorado ritual possible year after year? Ron shared his story with City Cast Denver producer Paul Karolyi and newsletter writer Peyton Garcia on a recent behind-the-scenes tour of the Morales Family Chile Store . If this episode gets you in the mood to buy some fresh roasted chiles of your own, there’s a helpful list of chile roasters available at denvergreenchili.com . But really all you need to do is stop at the next stand you see on the side of the road. Want your mornings to feel as good as fresh roasting green chiles smell? Subscribe to our newsletter right here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Got a go-to green chile supplier? Let’s talk: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 12, 2021
Is Denver Repeating the Past By Sweeping this Indigenous Camp?
Since 2012 when the City of Denver enacted the Urban Camping Ban, the forced removal of people from tents and other temporary shelters — commonly known as “sweeps” — have become the norm. Even as houseless neighbors and advocates protest these displacements, the Hancock administration continues to conduct them. But one recent sweep of an encampment outside the Four Winds American Indian Council in Baker challenged the status quo in a different way. Today on the show, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies talks with Four Winds American Indian Council chair Mateo Parsons about why this sweep is different and where things stand with this part of the indigenous community and the city. To hear from one of the residents of the encampment outside Four Winds, here’s a link to a video of a man talking about a confrontation he had with DPD at the camp: https://www.facebook.com/fourwindsamericanindiancouncil/videos/?ref=page_internal Here’s the full response we got from the mayor’s office: General about the cleanup: We remain focused on connecting those living in any unsanctioned encampment with services, shelter and housing that will help them exit homelessness as quickly as possible. Unsanctioned encampments pose a health and safety risk to those living in them and those living around them. The Mayor has been clear that they cannot persist when better alternatives remain available. About the meeting with Four Winds folks: Mayor Hancock and city staff meet with representatives from the Four Winds American Indian Council and the encampment that was located outside their building. The meeting was productive and alternative options were discussed for those who were in the encampment, including housing, shelter and access to safe outdoor spaces. As well, several of the individuals in the encampment were connected with housing already through outreach efforts prior to the encampment cleanup. Additional context: For further context on those who were connected to real solutions as opposed to the accusations of those who want them to stay in these conditions: there were five people from that encampment who were placed in Safe Outdoor Spaces and 10 who were provided two-week motel vouchers to help them connect with longer term services and resources. The week before the actual cleanup, the Homeless Outreach Team contacted a woman living in the encampment outside Four Winds who had three small children (including a toddler) living in the tent with her. Nobody at Four Winds or within the camp had offered her assistance or bothered to provide resources for the children. DPD was able to get her and her children out of the en
Sat, October 09, 2021
EXTRA: Get 'More Smarter' on Redistricting
Redistricting is important. We swear. Every ten years, our elected officials fight over how and who will elect them next time -- or not. Which groups will be overrepresented? Or underrepresented? Who knows! Fortunately, we're doing a feed-swap this week with the Get More Smarter podcast , which is hosted by a couple of guys who have been around Colorado politics for a long time: Ian Silverii , formerly of ProgressNow Colorado, and Jason Bain , of ColoradoPols.com. They talk about Lauren Boebert and the state GOP primary to take on Michael Bennet, then go deep on redistricting with Evan Wyloge, a veteran redistricting reporter with coloradopolitics.com. Also, and this is for podcast fans, how cool is it that they have a theme by Breakmaster Cylinder? Here's their description of this episode: This week, our favorite Colorado insurrectionist joins the US Senate Republican Primary and we're taking bets on how badly this ruins GOP chances to beat Michael Bennet in 2022. Our 7th favorite congressperson from Colorado makes us ask, once again, “What the hell is wrong with our 7th favorite congressperson from Colorado?” The Colorado Republican Party doesn’t know the first rule of fight club, so the break the hell out of it. We have another edition of MAP MADNESS, where we discuss the brand-new redistricting and reapportionment process in Colorado AND we interview Evan Wyloge, reporter for the various Gazettes and ColoradoPolitics.com who has had the distinct pleasure of covering this public-political-cartography process not once, but twice! Follow Evan on Twitter: @EvanWyloge Some of Evan's redistricting articles mentioned in the interview - Coordinated persuasion efforts emerge in Colorado redistricting commissions’ public comments (9/20/21) - Challenge to congressional map plan over minority protections announced already (9/30/21) - Newly revealed interactions added to redistricting lobbying complaint (9/27/21) - Colorado nonprofit targeted with redistricting lobbying co
Fri, October 08, 2021
A Newspaper’s Worst Nightmare, Mountain Town Faves, and…Chowdermeister?
It’s Friday, which means the City Cast Denver team chats about some of the craziest news items from the week. Today on the show, Producer Xandra McMahon sits down with Newsletter Writer Peyton Garcia and Host Bree Davies to discuss the Boulder Daily Camera’s removal of its front page 9/11 anniversary story and the journalism drama that followed. Plus, the crew takes Conde Nast to task for proclaiming Aspen the “Best Small Town in America” (ever heard of Estes Park?) Oh, and Chowdermeister — the festival claiming to bring clam chowder and Jägermeister together. But the whole thing got canceled, because apparently, Jäger can’t take a joke. Whatever, we thought it was funny. Want more news in your inbox every weekday? Subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Be our friend on Twitter! @citycastdenver Tell us about your favorite small town in Colorado — leave us a voicemail: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 07, 2021
Are Colorado’s Sex Offender Laws Really Keeping The Community Safe?
It’s tough to talk about, but we’ve got a problem. There are 20,000 people on Colorado’s sex offender registry, including many whose offenses date back to when they were under 18 and many others whose offenses were as minor as peeing in public. But what exactly is the problem with the registry and the way we deal with sex offenders? And is there anything we can do to fix it? Host Bree Davies talks with psychologist and professor Dr. Apryl Alexander about an issue most of society doesn’t want to talk about — sex offenders and their rights. Along with being an associate professor of psychology at the University of Denver, Dr. Alexander is on the board for the Colorado Juvenile Defender Center and has spent much of her career working with both survivors of sexual assault and youth sex offenders in treatment programs. Want more news delivered to your inbox daily? Sign up for the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have an idea for the show or just want to say hi? Tweet at us: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 06, 2021
BONUS: Is Casa Bonita More Fun than Meow Wolf? Or Lakeside?
In this morning’s episode, Bree went deep on what makes Casa Bonita special with David Thomas, “professor of fun." But their conversation didn’t end there! So here we are with an afternoon bonus episode with Bree and David putting Casa Bonita up against two other fun Denver spots: Meow Wolf’s new Convergence Station and Lakeside Amusement Park. If you haven’t heard this morning’s episode, go listen to that one first! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, October 06, 2021
Why Casa Bonita is Textbook Fun (and Why Matt and Trey Couldn't Ruin It If They Tried)
It’s official: Trey Parker and Matt Stone have purchased Casa Bonita. So, now what? Will the Lakewood landmark stay the same, or become a fully South Park-themed eatertainment destination? While the iconic restaurant’s future hangs in the balance, we wanted to know: What really makes Casa Bonita fun ? Host Bree Davies and Producer Paul Karolyi took an official tour of the still-closed-for-dining immersive eatery with David Thomas , the “Professor of Fun.” David explains why Casa Bonita is more than just a theme restaurant — it’s an architecturally designed masterpiece that invites play, stirs imagination, and ensures that all who visit will be transported to another place and time for an experience that can be hard to put into words. The City Cast Denver Crew joined Westword Editor-In-Chief Patty Calhoun for the Casa Bonita tour, too — you can read her take on CB and the concept of fun in this week’s Westword . Get Denver news delivered straight to your inbox every weekday by signing up for the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Got a favorite Casa Bonita memory? Share it with us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Or, give us a ring and leave us a message: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 05, 2021
Is Tay Anderson Owed An Apology?
Back in March, Black Lives Matter 5280 posted an account of alleged sexual assault by Denver Public Schools board member Tay Anderson. Then, a woman claiming to speak on behalf of more than 60 students testified at the Colorado state legislature, bringing dozens of sexual assault allegations that were eventually connected to Anderson. In September, after a five-month investigation, all sexual assault accusations against Anderson were found to be unsubstantiated (the investigators did find evidence of other, less serious allegations). But during the intervening months, many journalists published the allegations without any effort to verify them or figure out what was really happening. One of the few voices to question the allegations’ credibility was Colorado Sun columnist Theo Wilson. So today, Host Bree Davies sits down with Wilson to talk about what, exactly, the rest of us seemed to miss about this situation with Director Anderson. For more from Theo Wilson, check out his organization Shop Talk Live , which is dedicated to the education and empowerment of and improvement of human rights for Black people, and his column in the Colorado Sun. Like news? Check out and subscribe to our weekday newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Find us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, October 04, 2021
Are Denver's New Hotel Shelters Any Better Than The Old Kind?
Denver has been in a housing and homelessness crisis for many years, and the pandemic only increased the need for more shelter options. In response, one of the City of Denver’s temporary solutions was to rent underutilized hotels and motels and convert them into a new kind of shelter. But as City Cast Denver Producer Xandra McMahon discovered, this temporary housing solution is leaving a lot to be desired. Today on the show, Xandra talks with Host Bree Davies about what she saw at one of these new shelters, what she’s learned from activists and the unhoused community, and how the City and its partners are working to improve this program — and maybe even make it permanent. For more, here’s Marshall Zelinger ’s full report for 9News on the widespread vacancies at these temporary hotel/motel shelters: https://www.9news.com/article/news/local/next/denver-hotel-rooms-homeless-empty/73-3dd22a0a-b274-4d1b-9088-d5aa7e58b918 Got something about Denver to share? Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood: (720) 500-5418. Want more news in your inbox every weekday? Subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Find us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 01, 2021
Where is The "Real Creativity" in Denver? Plus, Pumpkin Flavor Season Begins
It’s the City Cast Denver Friday chat with Producer Paul Karolyi, Newsletter Writer Peyton Garcia , and Host Bree Davies . This week, the discussion centers on outgoing Westword Culture Editor Kyle Harris’s cover story, which asks: “ With Culture Becoming a Commodity, Is There Room for Real Creativity in Denver?” Plus, with temps dropping and October approaching, the team shares their favorite fall activities, and Peyton talks extensively about her love for all things pumpkin. (Warning: This episode contains multiple mentions of Pumpkin Spice Lattes.) Ray Mark Rinaldi’s review of Meow Wolf for the Denver Post/New York Times: https://www.denverpost.com/2021/09/29/review-meow-wolf-denver/ Kealey Boyd’s commentary on Meow Wolf for Hyperallergic: https://hyperallergic.com/678101/meow-wolf-expands-its-immersive-schtick/ Want more news every weekday? Sign up for the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 30, 2021
Titwrench: 13 Years of Musical Revolution
Thirteen years ago, a group of friends and strangers got together and decided to start a music festival in Denver. But it was so much more than your average fest — it was, and still is, a community that calls itself Titwrench. An art-centered collective was formed under the Titwrench umbrella where anyone who wanted to join could learn how to run sound at a concert, teach others how to build their own instruments, and maybe even perform their own music on stage for the first time. Host Bree Davies sits down with her longtime friend and Titwrench cofounder, Sarah Slater, to talk about the evolution of this fest and community. The festival component of Titwrench is set to begin this Sunday at 4 p.m., with performances from Nacha Mendez , The Milk Blossoms , Machete Mouth , My Name Is Harriett , and Sol VidaWorldwide . For more on Titwrench, here’s a preview of this weekend’s festival from Westword: https://www.westword.com/music/titwrench-music-festival-comes-to-city-park-12405030 Subscribe to our newsletter right now and never miss another cool Denver event: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Are you going to Titwrench this weekend? Post some pics and tag us @citycastdenver ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 29, 2021
A Serious Breakfast Burrito Throwdown
You’ve called, you’ve written us, and now we bring you the hotly anticipated Breakfast Burrito Throwdown where the City Cast Denver crew will attempt to crown Denver’s best breakfast burrito. It’s not a contest for the faint of heart. But host Bree Davies , producer Paul Karolyi , producer Xandra McMahon , and newsletter writer Peyton Garcia were up for the challenge. For more burrito news (and regular news too, I guess) subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter! https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Want another way to connect with the CCD crew? Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 28, 2021
Why Our Sidewalks are Broken, Crumbling, and Missing
Denver’s sidewalks are in a sorry state, and that’s if you’re lucky enough to live in a neighborhood that has them. What’s worse is the fact that property owners are responsible for maintaining our sidewalks, which means not much maintenance gets done at all. So how are we supposed to get out of this mess? Last week, City Cast Denver producer Xandra McMahon tagged along on a walking tour of Cap Hill with District 10 councilperson Chris Hinds and Denver Streets Partnership executive director Jill Locantore to talk about how we got here, the disproportionate impact on our neighbors with disabilities, and what’s stopping us from addressing the problem. There’s a lot more important stuff happening out there, and you can read about it all in our nifty morning newsletter. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ They say that every time you retweet @citycastdenver a sidewalk gets repaired. Should we try it out? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, September 27, 2021
Legal Weed Delivery Exists in Denver... Sort Of
The first legal weed deliveries happened in Denver last month. But like many aspects of the weed business, the actual implementation of legal delivery hasn’t been easy. Currently, only six dispensaries are permitted for delivery and so far just one, Strawberry Fields, has launched, in partnership with a delivery service called doobba . City Cast Denver host Bree Davies talks with journalist and podcast host Ann Marie Awad about what makes the delivery process so cumbersome for local companies, what it means for those impacted by the war on drugs, and how accessible — or inaccessible — cannabis delivery really is for the average Denverite. If you want to see how the City of Denver is soliciting applications for cannabis deliver licenses, here’s their site explaining the process: https://www.denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Business-Licensing/Business-Licenses/Marijuana-Licenses/Delivery-Permit Want more local news every weekday? Sign up for the City Cast Denver newsletter here . Say hello on Twitter! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 24, 2021
Digging Into the Tay Anderson Investigation, Saying Goodbye to Kmart
Happy first Friday of fall! For our news roundup, this week: Producer Paul Karolyi and Host Bree Davies discuss the ongoing Tay Anderson school board saga. Plus, Bree reminisces about an older version of Denver, one where her neighborhood Kmart was thriving and Paul comes to the defense of abandoned parking lot activities. For more on the Tay Anderson story: Check out our episode with Chalkbeat Colorado reporter Melanie Asmar, plus Melanie’s original reporting on the issue. The Kmart situation has dragged on for years — read/watch more about the former retailer and plans for the new site over on The Denver Channel . Have a hankering for more news delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our weekday newsletter here . Find City Cast Denver on Twitter: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 23, 2021
Did We Really Need to Close Civic Center Park?
On September 15, the City of Denver set up metal barricades around Civic Center Park, blocking people from taking in all the new public art, eating lunch on the steps of the amphitheater, and strolling among the flower beds. But of course, that’s not what this was about. City officials describe the temporary shutdown as an essential measure to stem violence, crime, drug use and unsanitary conditions. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sits down with past guest Ean Thomas Tafoya , who organizes what he calls “compassionate trash service” in the park, for a practical conversation about Denver’s housing crisis and other ways to make Civic Center Park more welcoming for everyone. 👉 What you can do : The Civic Center Conservancy and City of Denver are hosting a virtual, public workshop to help reimagine Civic Center Park tonight, September 23, at 5:30 pm: https://www.facebook.com/events/1528587610814267/?ref=newsfeed Mayor Michael Hancock announced a “STAR-like” program for Denver’s jails last week. What the heck does that mean? We’ve got a full breakdown in our newsletter today, which you can read and subscribe to here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Smash that follow button: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 22, 2021
Breakfast at the New Zaidy's with David Sirota
Zaidy’s is back! Once a Cherry Creek staple, the Jewish deli’s owners decided it was time to close up shop after 35 years at the height of the pandemic in 2020. But thanks to a few enterprising Denverites, the restaurant returned last month — this time in the heart of southeast Denver’s Jewish community, where the new owners hope copious parking, a new event space, and a bakery will help Zaidy’s flourish for decades to come. One Denverite who was particularly happy about the new Zaidy’s? Journalist , political figure , and southeast Denver resident David Sirota . City Cast Denver host Bree Davies met up with Sirota for breakfast at the new Zaidy’s to talk about his relationship with the restaurant, his thoughts on Denver’s secret bagel wars, and how Zaidy’s fits into its new neighborhood, Virginia Vale. For more on the new Zaidy’s, including some sweet pics courtesy of past City Cast Denver guest Kevin Beaty, here’s Denverite’s report on their reopening last month: https://denverite.com/2021/08/17/zaidys-reopens-in-virginia-vale-starting-a-new-chapter-for-the-beloved-jewish-deli/ Want more news delivered to your inbox each weekday morning? Subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Have strong opinions on Denver’s bagel scene? Tweet us: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 21, 2021
A Better Way To Feed Denver’s Hungry
After being unhoused and struggling with food insecurity himself, Jim Scharper knew he wanted to help others. What started out as Jim making and handing out sandwiches to unhoused folks turned into Feeding Denver’s Hungry, a full-scale food access operation that connects Denverites with free groceries. Friends and strangers alike showed up to help Jim and now, eight years into this work, Feeding Denver’s Hungry connects thousands of community members with groceries of their choice. That idea of giving people a choice is crucial for Jim; he works to ensure that the people who utilize his services are able to maintain a sense of dignity — especially in a time of struggle. Host Bree Davies and producer Xandra McMahon met up with Jim and his crew at the Feeding Denver’s Hungry free grocery store in Montbello to learn more about this food access organization. Plus, we’ve got another installment of our series “VOICE on the Street,” this time with Denver VOICE vendor LarMarques Smith. LarMarques takes us on a journey from his drag performer days in Indianapolis to his current life here in Denver. Learn more about the Denver VOICE’s work and read a current issue of the paper: denvervoice.org . Donate directly to The Denver VOICE via Venmo: @DenverVOICE Get more news in your inbox every weekday morning by subscribing to the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, September 20, 2021
Breaking Down the Tay Anderson Investigation
Back in March, Black Lives Matter 5280 issued a statement on behalf of a woman who said that Denver Public Schools Board Member Tay Anderson had sexually assaulted her. From there, other claims of misconduct and assault surfaced, including statements by another woman who claimed to be speaking on behalf of more than 60 DPS students who Anderson supposedly assaulted. Anderson, who is also an influential activist leader and champion of local progressive politics, has maintained his innocence since the beginning. In response, DPS hired an outside investigative team to look into the claims, and last week the investigators published their findings. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sits down with Chalkbeat Colorado reporter Melanie Asmar to parse the report and lay out a timeline of this complex, ongoing saga involving one of Colorado’s youngest political figures and activists. Tay Anderson is planning to address the community about his future with Denver Public Schools tonight — Monday, September 20 — at 6 pm at 2863 Welton St. For details, click here: https://www.facebook.com/events/2995835457304477/?ref=newsfeed Read Melanie’s coverage of the investigation for Chalkbeat Colorado: https://co.chalkbeat.org/2021/9/15/22674564/tay-anderson-colorado-investigation-results-released Read the full 96-page investigative report: https://go.boarddocs.com/co/dpsk12/Board.nsf/files/C6VTCC76B280/$file/FINAL%20PUBLIC%20ILG%20REPORT%2020210915.pdf Get more local news from the City Cast Denver daily newsletter by subscribing: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow the City Cast Denver team on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 17, 2021
Concert Vaccination Protocols, Palm Scanning and Shotgun Willie’s
As more businesses and events require a COVID vaccine, and Gov. Jared Polis chomps at the bit for booster shots, the City Cast Denver crew asks the really tough questions: What’s it even like to go to a concert right now? When do you need to show proof of vaccination? Should you be wearing a mask? How much is it the ticket-takers' or security’s responsibility to uphold these big mandates? Plus, Paul , Bree , and Xandra talk about Red Rocks’ dystopian, Bezos-approved ticket entry system . And a new segment is introduced that focuses on Glendale’s shenanigans, the tiny town in the middle of Denver that Paul warmly refers to as “the fully-loaded nacho lodged in Denver’s throat.” For example: How come Shotgun Willie’s is no longer bankrupt? Here’s the whole letter to Fiddler’s Green that’s referenced in the episode: https://www.reddit.com/r/CoronavirusColorado/comments/po82j3/an_open_letter_to_fiddlers_green/ Let’s be inbox buddies too! Subscribe to the newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We’re also on Twitter: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 16, 2021
From Denver Catholic School to the E! Network: Justine Marino Talks High Plains
The High Plains Comedy Festival returns to South Broadway this weekend and the line-up is stacked with funny people, including Denver’s own Justine Marino who went from a “girl who loves the Cherry Creek Mall” to LA-minted stand-up comedian with her own show on E! to boot. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sits down with her longtime friend and former Catholic school rival to discuss the festival, Justine’s own podcasting venture, and why Denver’s mall scene is so much better than LA’s. Hey it seems like you enjoy podcasts. Check out Justine’s! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/glitter-and-garbage/id1506683181 Want more Denver news in your inbox every weekday morning? Subscribe to the CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We would love to be friends on Twitter! Follow us @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 15, 2021
A Dead Accountant, 33 Zombie Businesses, and $2.3 Million in Fraud
Jeremy Jojola and Zack Newman were doing what they normally do as journalists at 9News: Poking around. What they came across though was a $2.3 million PPP loan fraud that could be traced back to a single office suite in Denver. We still don’t know who exactly was behind this fraud, but the bigger question is, how did they pull it off? Turns out, it’s not that hard to take over dormant business licenses in the state of Colorado. So what can the state do to close these loopholes and prevent further fraud? City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sits down with Jeremy and Zack to get the story behind the investigation and talk through the regulatory challenges around this kind of fraud prevention. Have a tip for Zack, Jeremy and the 9Wants to Know team? Email them: blowthewhistle@9news.com Stay up to date on what’s happening in Denver without ever leaving your inbox: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Connect with us on Twitter! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 14, 2021
What Happens When a County Breaks Up With Its Health Department?
It was one of the worst natural disasters in the history of the Denver metro area — the 1965 South Platte River floods — that initially led Douglas County to join the Tri-County Health Department in 1966. As DougCo grew and grew since then, Tri-County provided residents with crucial public health services ranging from syringe disposal to restaurant health inspections. But after 55 years and one global pandemic, their relationship has come to an end. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies speaks with Elliott Wenzler , who covers DougCo for Colorado Community Media, about why conservative-leaning Douglas County is breaking up with the Tri-County Health Department and what it’s going to mean for the health and safety of DougCo residents. For more on the break-up with Tri-County Health and other goings-on in Douglas County, you can find all of Elliott’s stories at coloradocommunitymedia.com . Want more Denver news and cool things to do in your inbox every weekday morning? You should subscribe to our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We’ve been saving some of our best tweets for today. Don’t miss them! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, September 13, 2021
How One Brewery Is Promoting Vaccines to Denver's Undervaxxed Latino Community
For breweries in Colorado, September is typically a month of fests. There’s Oktoberfest, of course. And then there’s the Great American Beer Fest to prepare for in early October. But with the Delta variant on the rise and increasing fears of breakthrough cases, the party is canceled — mostly. A community hub for Latino beer fans on Denver’s Westside, Raices Brewing Co. is bringing back Suave Fest this Saturday, and this year it comes with a gentle, thoughtful nudge in the direction of a COVID-19 vaccine. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sits down with Raices co-founder Tamil Maldonado to talk about her personal experience with COVID-19, the Latino community’s lagging vaccination rate, and how Raices is working to get more shots in her customers’ arms. We’ve got plenty more Denver news and cool events you should know about in our newsletter. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Got a favorite local beer event that we should know about? We’re thirsty and listening: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, September 11, 2021
#ListenLocal: Escaping Denver
Our friend and resident podcast connoisseur Berry of Podcasts in Color is back with another recommendation to spice up your podcast feed with a little more local flavor. Berry’s pick this month is Escaping Denver , a fiction podcast that may or may not explore the conspiracy theories surrounding Denver International Airport. For more podcast news and gossip, we recommend following Berry on Twitter @podcastsincolor . While you’re there, say hi to us @citycastdenver ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 10, 2021
Civic Center Park Woes, Stackable Homes, and Slumlords
Earlier this week, the city of Denver shut down Civic Center Park, closing off the public space for at least two months. Though Denver Department of Public Health and Environment cited health and safety issues as the primary reason for the closure, the City Cast Denver crew actually saw this story as part of a larger conversation about housing issues. We discuss our thoughts on the park closure, as well as a new shipping container housing concept coming to Colorado and a look at the slimy practices of a national mobile home park giant wreaking havoc on local renters. Plus, stick around for staff picks— Peyton , Paul, Xandra , and Bree share things to do, places to see, and good stuff to eat in the Mile High City! Get a steady stream of news delivered right to your inbox every weekday by subscribing to our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Chat with us via Twitter: @citycastdenver OR leave us a message on our brand new City Cast Denver hotline: (720) 500-5418 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 09, 2021
With Evictions Looming, These Activists Have a Plan
When the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Biden administration’s eviction moratorium two weeks ago, approximately 12,000 Denverites woke up to the increasingly imminent threat of losing their home. But a new organization called NEWR Denver wants to give tenants a fighting chance. NEWR, or No Eviction Without Representation, is gathering signatures for a ballot initiative that, if passed, would give renters free legal counsel. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies chats with NEWR Denver ’s Wren Echo about the city’s current housing crisis and how much of a difference having a lawyer makes at eviction hearings. Want more Denver news in your inbox every weekday morning? Subscribe to our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We also sometimes tweet things @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 08, 2021
Uncovering Denver's Complicated Legacy of Forced Busing
In the late ‘60s, Denver Public Schools began busing children across the city in an effort to desegregate our schools. Then came the pushback in the form of lawsuits, harassment of school board members, and in 1970, a bombing at the DPS bus depot off Federal Boulevard. But many Denverites’ memories of the busing era offer a more complicated story. Host Bree Davies sits down with Alicia “Lisa” Smith Young , director and producer of the new play “Busing,” which marks the first production from the new theater group IDEA Stages and tackles the legacy of Denver’s busing era with intergenerational stories of race and community. Interested in checking out the show? You can find tickets here: https://controlgroup.wellattended.com/events/sojourners-project-busing?httpsRedirect=tru Want to know more about what’s going on in Denver? Check out and subscribe to our daily newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We’re always listening - get in touch with the City Cast Denver crew on Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 07, 2021
What is ShotSpotter? Why Is It So Expensive? Why Does DPD Use it?
Police departments across the country have fallen in love with an obscure technology company called ShotSpotter, which purports to use microphones, algorithms, and artificial intelligence to detect and help combat gun violence, including right here in Denver. It’s “one of the most important cogs in our wheel of addressing gun violence,” said one Ohio police chief, according to the Associated Press . But after a few high-profile incidents involving ShotSpotter in Chicago earlier this year, a new level of scrutiny has inspired investigations and some cities have canceled their contracts altogether. Axios Denver’s Alayna Alvarez has been reporting on the Denver Police Department’s contract with ShotSpotter, and she’s back on the show today with host Bree Davies to sort out the situation and lay out the questions that still need answers. For more on ShotSpotter, here’s a great piece from the Associated Press about how the technology works and how it’s been implemented across the country. More Denver news and cool things to do could be on their way to your inbox as soon as tomorrow morning! All you’ve got to do is subscribe to our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What questions do you have about ShotSpotter? Let us know @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 03, 2021
The Elijah McClain Case, Beta Nightclub Drama and Domo’s TikTok Disaster
This week, Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser announced that the Aurora police officers and paramedics involved in Elijah McClain’s 2019 death will face 32 criminal charges, including manslaughter and assault. Producer Xandra McMahon , host Bree Davies , and newsletter writer Peyton Garcia recap the grand jury indictment and the years of investigation that led up to this moment. Plus, some weird business stories that happened this week in Denver. And, staff recommendations for your weekend. City Cast Denver will be enjoying the Labor Day holiday and will return on Tuesday, Sept. 7. Want more news in your inbox every weekday morning? Subscribe to the CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 02, 2021
The Broncos’ Quarterback Dilemma
What’s going on with the Broncos? That’s one of the many questions producer Xandra McMahon asked our Sports Guy Jake Shapiro . From quarterback problems to who of the Bowlen family estate runs the team now, our pressing Broncos questions get answered just in time for the start of a new season. Speaking of seasons, how will COVID affect the Broncos in 2021? Yeah, we asked that too. [Insert shameless plug to subscribe to our newsletter here.] No, really you’re gonna love it: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Also, we have a Twitter: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 01, 2021
Fact or Fiction: Colorado’s 300 Days of Sunshine
You’ve heard it before and probably uttered the words yourself: “Colorado has 300 days of sunshine.” It’s no secret that our weather here is great most of the time, but is it really that good? Meteorologist Andy Stein wanted to find out, so he did some research, revealing his findings in a recent story for The Denver Post . Host Bree Davies talks with the weather expert to find out if the thing we like to brag about the most in Colorado really is all its cracked up to be. Still haven't subscribed to our morning newsletter? We got you: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We're also on Twitter! Follow us @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 31, 2021
Rethinking Drug Use Treatment on Overdose Awareness Day
The Harm Reduction Action Center isn’t rehab, it’s a community. Not only does the center help people living with substance use issues find resources, but people who visit can also get clean needles, coffee, and even someone to talk to. So when it was reported that Colorado overdose deaths were at an all-time high, executive director Lisa Raville knew that the community she helped build needed to lean on each other more than ever. City Cast Denver Host Bree Davies speaks with her longtime friend Lisa about the family the center’s built, how fentanyl has affected Denver as of late, and how to get rid of stereotypes around drug addiction. HRAC is hosting a memorial and rally today for Overdose Awareness Day. Details here: https://www.facebook.com/events/350293813357389?active_tab=about Always stay in the loop with what’s happening in Denver. Subscribe to the City Cast Denver newsletter here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And hey, if you’re on Twitter, we are too! Follow us @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 30, 2021
Author Peter Heller on His New COVID-Thriller, 'The Guide'
Denver author Peter Heller joins City Cast Denver Newsletter Writer Peyton Garcia for a conversation about his latest thriller, “The Guide.” The novel, set outside Crested Butte, weaves a suspenseful tale centered on young protagonist Jack and his job as a wilderness and fishing guide at an elite resort. But things aren’t quite as they seem, and Jack finds himself questioning what he sees and hears at every turn. Peyton digs into the author’s inspiration for the book and what it was like writing a fictional story set during a pandemic — while actually experiencing the pandemic in real time. Want more Peyton? Well then subscribe to her newsletter! Fresh every weekday: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ For more ways to connect with the CCD team, follow us on Twitter: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, August 28, 2021
City Cast Denver Live at UMS!
Host Bree Davies and the City Cast Denver team did a live podcast taping at this year's Underground Music Showcase. And now you can hear it! This candid conversation explores the idea of "diversity in music" and what that really means for performers of color. How does "diversity, equity and inclusion" truly extend to show booking, venue operations, and other positions of power within a music scene? Does representation go beyond the stage? As white folks scramble to "diversify," does it feel like anything meaningful is happening or changing for the actual artists? We're honored to be joined for this panel discussion by several guests from around the Denver music scene: Alicia "Bruce" Trujillo - Alicia "Bruce" Trujillo is a Chicana feminist from occupied Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapahoe land, in what's now called Colorado - raised on the Western Slope, and currently in Denver. Bruce has been working in the community and public media since 2012, with a mission to spotlight, book, and amplify the voices of those who are currently under-heard and underrepresented, with a focus on independent and locally made music and art. Bruce is Concert Director at Denver's Swallow Hill Music Association; a the weekend host on Colorado Public Radio's new music service, Indie 102.3, and is the creator of Especial , a weekly, hour long dive into new and independent Latin-made music from around the 'Americas' and en Colorado. She's also Executive Director and host of Colorful Colorado Collaborations , bringing together BIPOC businesses and musicians, and founder and host of Whiskey, Women and Song, which pairs local female-identifying musicians with locally crafted whiskies for performances, interviews, and whiskey tastings. She sometimes writes for Denver Westword, with a focus on local art. Wes Watkins - We Watkins is a multi-instrumentalist, band leader, show organizer, and long-running member of the Denver music community known for his work in The Other Black, Wheelchair Sports Camp , Cosmic Slim , and more. Miguel Aviña - Miguel Aviña is a Mexican singer, songwriter, and producer. He is best known as the lead singer and guitarist of the band iZCALLi . He has enjoyed consistent success and is widely credited as one of the key artists of the Rock En Tu Idioma (RETI) movement in Colorado. Miguel founded RETI Rock En Tu Idioma LLC in 2011, an artist management, promoter and marketing company responsible for community events such as Rock De Mayo, RETIFest and La Posada which seek to bring awareness and accessibility to the hispanic music and arts culture in C
Fri, August 27, 2021
The One Where We Ate All the Burgers
City Cast Denver is hosting a LIVE show tonight at the Underground Music Showcase! Catch us at 6pm at Mutiny Information Cafe with a panel of awesome musicians and leaders in the local music scene: Wes Watkins, Miguel Aviña, and past guest Alicia “Bruce” Trujillo! It’s free and all ages are welcome. See you tonight! RSVP → https://www.facebook.com/events/527335278501154 But until then, please enjoy this re-run of one of our favorite episodes: In-N-Out has been getting all the buzz — and insanely long lines — since it opened its first Denver area location last year. Five Guys is an East Coast favorite. Shake Shack strutted into town from NYC with a hip new look and a lot of big talk. But really, who do these transplant burger chains think they are, coming into our city thinking they can make burgers?! City Cast Denver’s crack team of eaters are here to settle it once it for all. And can any of them stand up against our homegrown fast food burger darling Good Times? Follow along with Bree, Paul, Xandra, and Peyton, then let us know what you think on Twitter @citycastdenver . Hit us with your favorite out-of-state burger chain and the hashtag #CityCastBurgerCrawl . Don’t miss the City Cast Denver newsletter for breaking burger updates and more news from around the city: denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ The excerpt of the oral history with Bill Clements Jr. in this episode comes courtesy of the oral history collection at History Colorado. You can listen to the whole conversation, including a wild story about Bill’s dad and Colonel Sanders, right here . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 26, 2021
Queer Cinema, UMS, and Lowriders
Since 2006, Keith Garcia has been curating films for Cinema Q , Denver’s annual celebration of queer cinema. Garcia is the Artistic Director for the Sie FilmCenter and created the festival as a celebration of LGBTQ filmmakers, directors, actors, and the storylines they bring to life. Garcia joins City Cast Denver Host Bree Davies to talk about what makes a film queer and what movies shaped his own experience as a young, gay kid obsessed with the big screen. For more on Keith and Cinema Q, check out this profile of the festival from the Denver Post. Plus: City Cast Denver Producer Xandra McMahon joins Bree to offer recommendations for artists to see and things to do at this weekend’s Underground Music Showcase! Bree will also share information about Sunday’s 3rd Annual La Raza Park Day and Cruise , a celebration of Denver’s unique Chicano culture. Here are links to all the cool UMS acts we talked about: Kayla Marque / The Grand Alliance Neoma YaSi City Cast Denver LIVE at UMS (duh.) Subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter for even more Denver news and events: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Which acts are you looking forward to seeing at UMS this weekend? Tell us on Twitter @citycastdenver . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 25, 2021
Yet Another Plan To Fix Our Housing Crisis
Way back in 2005, then Mayor John Hickenlooper put forth an ambitious, 10-year plan to address Denver’s crisis of houselessness. Ten years and one recession later, our housing issues were worse than ever. That failure, in part, led our current mayor, Michael Hancock, to create a brand new Department of Housing Stability (HOST) in 2019. And guess what? HOST just published their first long-term plan to address the housing crisis. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sits down with Britta Fisher, the head of HOST, to talk about what’s in this plan and why this time is going to be different. HOST is soliciting public comment on their new plan until September 3. After that, the plan will head to City Council in November. Here’s the link to read the full report and fill in HOST’s community survey. Get to it soon, though! You only have another week! For more on our housing crisis and other Denver news you need to know, subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ What’s your favorite Denver hashtag? Tell us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 24, 2021
Who Owns the Jerry Martinez Family Memorial Park?
For 31 years, Florida “Flo” Archuletta has taken care of a plot of land on the Southwest corner of 14th and Lipan. After the 1993 killing of her son, Archuletta turned the once-abandoned Westside lot into a tribute to him, dubbing it the “Jerry Martinez Family Memorial Park.” But there’s a problem: Archuletta never formally owned the land, and now that real estate in the neighborhood is a hot commodity, the legal owners have come calling. So who really owns this community park? City Cast Denver host Bree Davies met up with Flo in the park over the weekend to hear the whole story. Plus, we hear from the legal owners about their plans. This Friday, Friday. Gotta get down on Friday. Everybody’s lookin’ forward to the live taping of City Cast Denver. Podcastin’ podcastin’, yeah. RSVP here: City Cast Denver LIVE at UMS! Looking for even more Denver news, cool things to do, and ways to get involved in your community? Look no further than the City Cast Denver newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Let us know what you think should be done with the Jerry Martinez Family Memorial Park on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 23, 2021
Can the Mercury Cafe Stay Weird? Danny Newman Thinks So
For more than three decades, the Mercury Cafe has been a destination for artists, activists, and outsiders. It’s more than just a restaurant and venue space; it’s a hub for out-there ideas, unexpected collaboration, and lasting community. And the heart of the Merc has always been its owner and operator, Marilyn Megenity. That is, until June 22, when Danny Newman and his business partners purchased the iconic, vine-covered building in Five Points. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sits down with Newman to find out how they plan to carry on her vision and what the future might hold for this counterculture institution. Come see us LIVE! This Friday at the Underground Music Showcase, Bree will be on stage with a panel of musicians and leaders in the music community exploring the idea of "diversity in music" and what that really means for performers of color. We’ve got an incredible panel, lots of cool CCD merch, and it’s FREE. FOR. EVERYONE. RSVP and details here: https://www.facebook.com/events/527335278501154 Subscribe to our newsletter ! Follow, retweet, and like @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 20, 2021
Let’s Play Guess that COVID Restriction! Plus Mexican Food, Outdoor Malls and More
With the delta variant spreading like wildfire, it feels like we’re headed for another long, lonely winter. So we’re looking past the doom and gloom for a game of Guess That COVID Restriction! City Cast Denver’s Bree Davies , Paul Karolyi , and Peyton Garcia are hanging out and chatting all things COVID and Colorado, along with another round of New Denver/Old Denver. Looking for more Denver news and event recs? Subscribe to our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We tweet @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 19, 2021
Watching the Fall of Kabul From Denver
After 20 years and $83 billion, the U.S. war in Afghanistan is finally ending. On Sunday, Taliban forces swept Kabul, taking back control of Afghan capital from the U.S.-backed government and putting the thousands of Afghan civilians who worked with the U.S. and allied forces in an extremely vulnerable position. Today on the show, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies speaks with Aurangzaib Sharifi, an Afghan journalist who worked as an interpreter before eventually finding his way to Denver in 2015. Aurangzaib’s Facebook group for the Denver Afghan community can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/DenverAfghans . Some members of the Denver Afghan community are holding a demonstration tonight — August 19 at 6 p.m. — outside the Capitol Building downtown to call for an end to the humanitarian crisis. For more details, click here: https://www.facebook.com/events/575630286805756 Every single edition of the City Cast Denver newsletter comes with more ways for you to get involved and help shape our city’s future. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Our tweets are often frivolous, ephemeral, and ill-suited to help you do much of anything but lol: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 18, 2021
What if Denverites — Not Developers — Could Build Affordable Housing?
It’s no secret — Denver has been in an affordable housing crisis for a long time. But what if there was a solution all along that would allow Denverites themselves to build some of that needed housing stock? Councilwoman Amanda Sandoval (District 1) has been leading the charge, pushing for the adoption of Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs, as part of Denver’s zoning code. So what exactly is an ADU? And how would ADUs help address our housing crisis? Today on the show, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies talks with Sandoval about everything ADUs and why Denver needs to adopt them as an equitable housing solution right now. For more on Sandoval’s work on ADUs, including a guide for how to build one for yourself, here’s a website she and her team set up to break it all down. Unlike New York, they say that Denver is a city that sometimes sleeps. When you wake up, wouldn’t it be nice to get a quick digest of news and cool event recs? Subscribe to our newsletter and get exactly that in your inbox every weekday! Got a question for us? Or just want to chat about ADUs or something else you heard on the show? Find us on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 17, 2021
A Denver DIY Icon Lives On at Meow Wolf
When Meow Wolf opens its newest and biggest immersive art museum, Convergence Station , in Denver next month, it will feature the work of more than 100 local artists, each one putting their own Denver-y spin on Meow Wolf’s particular brand of interdimensional weirdness. One of those artists, Colin Ward, was a leading figure in Denver’s DIY community before he died by suicide in 2018, shortly after submitting a proposal for an installation with fellow artist and friend Peniel “Pepe” Apantenco. Today on the show, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies tours the as-yet-unfinished Convergence Station, including Colin and Pepe’s room, with Pepe and Kim Shively, who was also Colin’s girlfriend. They discuss Colin’s art, his legacy, and their complicated feelings surrounding his posthumous acceptance into the mainstream. Come hang with us at UMS! Friday, August 27, 6:30 pm at Mutiny Information Cafe. We’ll be giving away some brand new CCD swag too, so you don’t want to miss it. RSVP here: https://www.facebook.com/events/527335278501154 For more on Colin and his legacy, here’s a piece Bree wrote for Westword after his death: https://www.westword.com/music/denver-artist-colin-ward-dies-at-27-9969201 And here’s a link to a Mayoreo video, as discussed in this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9YA1735l0g Our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Our Twitter: https://twitter.com/CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 16, 2021
Who Gets to Fight Wildfires?
Since 2002, a unique team of highly trained, motivated people have been fighting wildfires across Colorado. But of the 2,500 people who have participated in the State Wildland Inmate Fire Team , or SWIFT, fewer than 10 have gone on to get firefighting jobs after their release from prison. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies speaks with Garry Briese, executive chair of Colorado State Fire Chiefs, about why it’s been so difficult to get SWIFT graduates jobs fighting wildfires after they get out. Looking for things to do in Denver this week? We’ve got tons of great recs in our newsletter. All you've got to do is subscribe: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Freshen up your Twitter feed with @citycastdenver ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 13, 2021
Talking Meow Wolf and ‘Alice’ w/ Wheelchair Sports Camp’s Kalyn Heffernan
Welcome to Friday, that time of the week where we look back on what’s been happening in Denver. This week, host Bree Davies and producer Xandra McMahon are joined by rapper, activist, and most recently, Meow Wolf artist Kalyn Heffernan. They chat about the immersive art installation’s long road to Denver and what Meow Wolf means to the hundred plus local artists it employs. Plus, Kalyn gives a backstage sneak peak of PHAMALY Theatre Company’s original rendition of “Alice in Wonderland,” scored by Kayln’s band, Wheelchair Sports Camp . Get tickets and more details here: https://phamaly.org/show/alice/ Want more piping hot news in your inbox every weekday morning? Subscribe to the CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And how ‘bout some tweets? @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 12, 2021
A Clear-Eyed Look Through The Smog
From Colorado’s worsening air quality to the recent UN report declaring a “code red for humanity,” climate change is at the forefront of our lives. This serious global issue may have once felt like a distant threat, but Coloradans are increasingly finding their everyday experiences impacted by the constant threat of wildfires, an increase in ozone days, and unbearable summer temperatures. But the issue of climate change can feel both overwhelming and intangible, as we ponder just what, exactly, we as individuals can do to make meaningful changes in our lives and environment. Today on the show, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies talks with Chase Woodruff , environmental reporter for Colorado Newsline, about what’s happening on the climate change front in Colorado, whose fault it is, and what, if anything, we as citizens can do to leave a better planet for the next generation. Got a hankerin’ for more Denver news? We’ve got a newsletter just for you, pardner: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And some dadgum tweets to boot! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 11, 2021
Wildfire Grief Takes Center Stage
When playwright Jessica Kahkoska set out to write something about the real-life impacts of wildfires on residents in Colorado, she looked to survivors of Grand County’s East Troublesome Fire, which burned more than 190,000 acres last year. In conjunction with History Colorado’s Museum of Memory and the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Kahkoska produced “Wild Fire,” a composite of her interviewees’ often traumatic memories of living through the fire. As wildfire smoke once again blankets our state, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies spoke with Kahkoska about the urgency of processing this trauma, her personal connection with Colorado wildfires, and the unique power of theater to address this kind of climate catastrophe. “Wild Fire” opens Monday, August 16th at Levitt Pavilion. For tickets and more information, visit Levitt Pavilion. We’ve got more cool events to attend, shows to see, and news to catch up on in the City Cast Denver newsletter. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Get some tweets while you’re at it: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 10, 2021
Can DougCo Schools’ Equity Problem Be Fixed?
When the Douglas County School District announced a new equity policy earlier this year, many parents in the predominantly white, affluent district cried foul, accusing the district of inserting “critical race theory” into the curriculum and fueling the major conservative media narrative of the summer. So with classes in DougCo schools starting up again this week, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies speaks with two of the parents who helped craft the equity policy, Nara Altmann and Ishmeet Kalra, about the need for such a thing in the first place and what they hope lingers after the national spotlight moves on. Looking for even more City Cast Denver in your mornings? Subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tweets @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 09, 2021
Reclaiming Denver’s Lost Chinatown
Eight is an auspicious number in Chinese and other Asian cultures. That’s why some leaders of the local AAPI communities chose yesterday, 8/8, to unveil their new plans to commemorate Denver’s old Chinatown. It was at one point one of the largest Chinatowns in the American West, but now all that’s left is a racist old plaque a few blocks from where the neighborhood once was. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sits down with one of the organizers, Dr. William Wei, to hear how the old plaque brought the group together, why it’s so important to enact change now, and what they hope for the future. Dr. William Wei is professor of history at CU Boulder, a former state historian, and the author of Asians in Colorado , which you should read if you want to learn more about the history of Colorado’s Chinese community. As unveiled at the event at Zoe Ma Ma across from Union Station yesterday, here is Dr. Wei’s proposed text for a new plaque commemorating Denver’s old Chinatown: Denver’s Historic Chinatown: 1869-1940 Of the over 20 Chinese communities that once existed in the American West, Denver’s Chinatown was one of the largest and most prosperous. Chinatown’s origins can be traced to an anonymous Chinese immigrant who arrived in Denver in June 1869. He was probably one of the Chinese railroad workers who were mostly responsible for building the western half of the famous Transcontinental Railroad that unified the country economically and culturally. Chinatown was located on Wazee Street between 15th and 17th Streets, extending up to 22nd Street. It was a flourishing frontier community that provided a wide range of ethnic goods and services in a welcoming environment to Chinese immigrants working in Colorado and the Intermountain West. The Chinese immigrants performed mainly physical labor such as working in mines and building infrastructure. Eventually, they were relegated to marginal livelihoods such as laundrymen and cooks. Even though there were comparatively few Chinese residents, the local white population perceived them as an economic and cultural threat. Chinese encountered racial hostility and were denied civil rights, economic opportunity, and social equality. This hostility gave rise to “The Chinese Question,” a national controversy over whether Chinese laborers should be allowed to immigrate to the United States. Local antagonism led to Denver’s anti-Chinese race riot. On October 31, 1880, an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 Denverites descended upon Chinatown to destroy it and drive out the Chinese. During the mob’s rampage, they lynched and beat to death a laundryman named Look Young. Though the murderers were brought to trial, they were acquitted of the crime. Despite continued tensions, most of the C
Bonus · Sat, August 07, 2021
Bloops
A note from producer Lizzie Goldsmith: The end of May was a time of transition for City Cast Denver. Our regular host, Bree Davies , was heading off on maternity leave, producer Paul Karolyi was getting ready to take over as temporary host, and the whole team was preparing to welcome me, Lizzie Goldsmith , as a producer for the summer. I rarely stepped behind the mic, but I worked behind the scenes on this wonderful whirlwind of a podcast, getting to know its wonderful creators. It was an honor to help tell so many important stories, but it was also a lot of fun. There were so many outtakes from our three crew members who took turns as host — Bree, Paul, and producer Xandra McMahon — that didn’t make it into the show, so I put together this blooper reel for the team to commemorate the first summer of City Cast Denver. I hope you listeners enjoy it too! For more City Cast goodness in print form, subscribe to our daily newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We’re also on Twitter @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 06, 2021
50 New Historic Places, Staff Recs, and Canoosh!
TGICCDF (Thank God It’s City Cast Denver Friday) which means it’s time to look back on the news of the week. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi chat about Historic Denver’s 50 actions for 50 places list that was released on Tuesday. They’ve also got a story update regarding the Park Hill Safe Outdoor Space (hear our episode from May 3 on the program here ) and some weekend recommendations for things to do. Finally, the City Cast Denver crew learns a new locally-made board game: Canoosh . Here are links to Bree and Paul’s recommendations: Bree: Denver photographer Armando Geneyro’s exhibition “ Brick & Soul ” is at History Colorado through next July Paul: Former Denver Post reporter Dick Kreck’s “ Smaldone: The Untold Story of An American Crime Family ” should be available now from your favorite local bookstore. Want to know even more Denver things?! Subscribe to the CCD newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Want some tweets? Here ya go: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 05, 2021
Learning to Live With Poor Air Quality
Every day since July 5, Colorado health officials have issued an “action day” alert, warning residents about poor air quality across the Front Range. So what are we supposed to do about that? Not go outside during the summer anymore? Not breathe? Move? City Cast Denver host Bree Davies had questions, so we invited Dr. Anthony Gerber on the show for answers. He is professor of medicine and director of pulmonary research at National Jewish Health, as well as the chair of the Colorado Air Quality Control Commission. Dr. Gerber breaks down what exactly is so bad about our air, what we as individuals can do about it, and what we should be worried about. If you’re digging the pod, check out the newsletter! Subscribe right now and get all the Denver news delivered right to your inbox every weekday morning: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Or if tweets are more your speed, we do those too: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 04, 2021
Is Denver Still Funny?
Adam Cayton-Holland, Andrew Orvedahl, and Ben Roy: Together, they are The Grawlix, a comedy supergroup that has risen to the top of Denver’s comedy scene over the past 20 years, consistently selling out shows and even skipping off to Los Angeles for a few years to make a big Hollywood TV show (“ Those Who Can’t ” is now streaming on HBOMax). So now that they’ve restarted their monthly comedy nights at The Bug Theater, we invited Adam, Andrew, and Ben to look back talk about how Denver shaped them and whether they think it’s still a good place to be funny. Get ready for some plugs! Together, Adam, Andrew, and Ben make a very funny podcast called The Grawlix Saves the World and perform on the last Saturday of every month at The Bug (tickets are available now ). Individually, Andrew launched an independent game publishing company last year called Occupied Hex Games . Adam has a new album, Hot Takes, coming out soon and is performing his one-man show, Happy Place , at The Bug on September 4. Ben has a new album out called Take the Sandwich, makes a podcast called 97.9 The Rat Race , performs with his band SPELLS , oh and he also finds time to teach jiu-jitsu at Easton Training Center in Arvada. Ben says to come take a class! Think about this: You wake up tomorrow, you sit down to breakfast and a morning scroll, and whoa! It’s City Cast Denver in your inbox! Awesome! And all you’ve got to do to make it happen is click this link: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ We promise to write some really good tweets for you today: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 03, 2021
Will the Denver Music Scene Be OK?
Big name concerts and massive summer festivals are back in full swing, but how have local musicians fared throughout the pandemic? City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sits down with local music expert Bruce Trujillo to dig into the state of things for the music community here in Denver. As a radio host at Indie 102.3 , an independent show booker, and now, as Concert Director for Swallow Hill Music , Trujillo knows the ins and outs of Denver’s diverse music scene. She shares her takes on pay equity for musicians, the importance of DIY music venues, and how online artistic collaboration has helped many artists stay connected to their communities throughout the last year and a half. Bruce’s local music recs from the episode: Ritmo Cascabel Katiria The Manañas Want more Denver news in your inbox every weekday morning? Subscribe to our newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And don’t forget about those piping hot tweets: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 02, 2021
Spotlight on La Alma Lincoln Park's Chicano Community
Of Denver’s 56 historic districts and 352 individual landmarks, less than 3% commemorate non-white contributions to the city’s history. Tonight, Denver City Council could change that. They are set to vote on the creation of a historic cultural district in La Alma Lincoln Park, which would make it the first historic district in the country to honor the Chicano movement. Sitting outside the La Alma Rec Center, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies spoke with Ean Thomas Tafoya and Cathy and Desiree Prieto, community members who have strong roots in the neighborhood. They talk about the importance of La Alma Lincoln Park as not only a place where Chicano civil rights took hold, but where community pride is housed in the structures and city blocks they’ve called home. For more on the push to designate La Alma Lincoln Park a historic cultural district, here’s a write-up from Historic Denver. City Cast Denver was proud to have published one of the final interviews with former Colorado governor Dick Lamm last Monday. His wife Dottie Lamm announced this past Friday that the former governor died of complications related to a pulmonary embolism on Thursday evening. He was 85 years old. We have included a short remembrance in this episode. For more on his life and career in politics, we recommend these articles from the Denver Post and Colorado Public Radio: Former Gov. Richard ‘Dick’ Lamm, A Complex And Controversial Figure In Colorado Politics, Dies At 85 Former three-term Colorado Gov. Dick Lamm dies at 85 Subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter for more news from around Denver: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And get the tweets @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 30, 2021
Breaking Down the Bond (Plus, the People’s Coaster)
For this week’s news round-up, City Cast Denver host Bree Davies , producers Paul Karolyi and Xandra McMahon , and newsletter writer Peyton Garcia unpack the proposed $450 million infrastructure bond package, which Mayor Hancock detailed this week in his State of the City address. What would all that money fund? Who’s for it and who’s against it? And what’s a bond again? Smash that play button for answers to all those questions and more. Plus, we debut a new segment: New Denver/Old Denver. Subscribe to the newsletter here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And follow us on Twitter! @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 29, 2021
The New DPS Superintendent Wants Snow Days!
Dr. Alex Marrero has only lived in Denver for three weeks. But as the new superintendent of Denver Public Schools, it’s his job to lead 90,000+ students when classes start next month. With open questions looming on masks in the classroom, equity, and cops in schools, he’s got quite the mountain to climb. City Cast Denver host Bree Davies sat down with Marrero yesterday to get to know him a little better and hear about his plans for DPS. For more from Dr. Marrero, here’s his open letter introducing himself to the DPS community: https://www.dpsk12.org/our-dps-weekly-july-16-2021/ What goes together better than peanut butter and chocolate? A podcast and a newsletter. Subscribe to ours right here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And throw some tweets on top for a little extra flavor: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 28, 2021
There’s More to Love About Rocky Mountain National Park Than Bear Lake
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most loved places in all of Colorado. After a dip in visitation last year, it’s on a record-setting pace once again. But many people who visit see only the same old, same old: Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake, etc. Enter: Exploring Estes Park , a new podcast aiming to help the 4+ million people coming through RMNP get off the beaten path and understand the land’s history through stories and inspiration from across the region. Award-winning travel writer Aaron Millar hosts the podcast, and he sits down with City Cast Denver producer Xandra McMahon to talk through some of the fascinating stories they found and offer some tips for your next trip to RMNP and Estes Park. Learn more about Aaron’s travel writing here: https://www.thebluedotperspective.com/ And if you do want to follow in Isabella Bird’s footsteps any time soon, you’re going to need to follow this link and make a reservation before visiting RMNP: https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/timed-entry-permit-system.htm Don’t forget to subscribe to our morning newsletter for even more news from around the city: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And would someone please think of the tweets?! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 27, 2021
What It’s Really Like to Live in Your Vehicle
There are more than 1,000 people sleeping in their vehicles in Denver right now, according to the Colorado Safe Parking Initiative . And with the federal evictions moratorium set to expire at the end of the month, that number could skyrocket. So today on the show, we bring you the story of Lando Allen, a man who was experiencing homelessness before he fell into the “insidious trap” of living in a vehicle, as CSPI co-founder Chelsey Baker-Hauck describes it. City Cast Denver producer Paul Karolyi spoke with Lando and Chelsey about this oft-overlooked dimension of our housing crisis. The City of Denver has compiled a list of resources for people facing possible evictions, which you can find here . Their advice for anyone who has received a 10-day advance notice from their landlord is to contact the Office of Financial Empowerment and Protection by calling 720-944-2498 or emailing FEC@denvergov.org . They’ll connect callers with navigators who can help get them connected with relevant services. We initially recorded this episode as an installment of VOICE on the Street, our partnership with Denver’s street paper, the Denver VOICE, which provides opportunities to Denverites experiencing homelessness and other forms of economic inequity. If you’d like to support VOICE vendors like Lando Allen, head over to denvervoice.org/donate . They even have Venmo , so if you want to get a little help directly to Lando, follow this link and add his name to the note attached to your transfer. Don’t forget to subscribe to our morning newsletter for even more news from around the city: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ For following purposes, the official City Cast Denver Twitter account is @citycastdenver . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 26, 2021
The Case Against a Denver Olympics
So far, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics have been nothing short of surreal. With protesters in the streets and no fans in the stands, the Opening Ceremony on Friday begged the question: Why is this even happening? And almost 50 years ago, that was that exact question that led Dick Lamm, a young Colorado state lawmaker who would go on to become governor, to lead a campaign to block the 1976 Winter Games from coming to Denver, setting the tone for half a century of Colorado politics. City Cast Denver producer Paul Karolyi sits down with Lamm to talk through that formative story, his surprising feelings about the Games, and what it would take for him to support a Denver Olympics bid in the future. For more on Denver’s unique relationship with the Olympics, check out our episode from July 23, titled “ The Case for a Denver Olympics .” There’s a whole lot more to this City Cast Denver thing than just a podcast. We also have a newsletter, with the Denver news you need, as well as great event recommendations and other ways to help you connect with your city. Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And don’t forget about the tweets? @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bonus · Sat, July 24, 2021
The Tale of the Bullet
Since he guest hosted the show this past week, you know that donnie l. betts is an activist, storyteller, filmmaker, and producer of audio dramas. So we couldn't help but share a little more of his work, especially since it connects with so many of the themes we discussed on the show this week. "The Tale of the Bullet" explores America's obsession with guns from the perspective of the bullet. He initially released it as an episode of his podcast, Destination Freedom: Black Radio Days , which is a revival of the first African-American radio drama by Richard Durham , and, like its predecessor, tells the stories of people of color and highlights important issues. The full version of "The Tale of the Bullet" ends with a conversation with activists and families who have been impacted by gun violence, which you can find on Apple Podcasts , or wherever you get your podcasts. Find out more about Destination Freedom: Black Radio Days on donnie's website , and check out the original Destination Freedom show here . Don't miss our daily newsletter, delivered fresh to your inbox every weekday! Subscribe here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And don't forget about the tweets! @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 23, 2021
The Case for a Denver Olympics
The Opening Ceremony of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics is tonight! Yes, they’re still calling it that, even though it’s definitely 2021. No, there won’t be fans in the stands. No, the Japanese public doesn’t want this to be happening. Yes, we’re feeling as conflicted about it as you are. But Denver’s relationship with the Games has always been conflicted. We were the first city to be awarded the Games that turned around and said, “no thanks.” And every 20 years or so since, some group of local boosters has tried to get them back. So today and Monday on the show, as the Tokyo Games get underway, City Cast Denver producer Paul Karolyi is exploring Denver’s unique connection with the Olympics. First up, IMA Financial Group CEO and Chairman Robert Cohen . He led the most recent effort to bring the Games to Denver, and he’s on the show to share his case for a Denver Olympics. One hundred dollars. We’re giving it away, and it could be yours. All you’ve got to do is fill out our listener survey ! It’ll only take a few minutes, and you’ll be helping us out a ton: https://denver.citycast.fm/survey/ Did you hear that Lakeside Amusement Park opened for the summer last night? If not, you should really subscribe to our morning newsletter. It’s the best way to keep up with all the most important stuff happening in Denver. Get it here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Tweets ! Get your tweets here ! Fresh hot tweets ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 22, 2021
The Good, the Bad, and the Delta Variant
It’s been two months since Denver lifted its mask mandate, and more than half of Coloradans are fully immunized against COVID-19. But many still aren’t, and the new, more contagious Delta variant is now the dominant strain. So are we going to see another mask mandate like they have in Los Angeles? And what’s going to happen when schools open in the fall? We had questions about the state of the pandemic, so City Cast Denver guest host donnie l. betts sat down with epidemiologist Dr. Jonathan Samet to talk about the Delta variant, the latest vaccination numbers, and what we can learn from the 1918 flu pandemic. It’s donnie’s last regular show with us for the time being, but be sure to follow him on Twitter @donniebetts ! You can find out more about his films and other work at www.nocredits.com , including the radio drama Destination Freedom: Black Radio Days (which is also available on Apple Podcasts , or wherever you get your podcasts). Subscribe to our daily newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And catch the tweets here: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 21, 2021
An Evening of Five Points Jazz at Dazzle
“Just when the government was about to let crowds of people congregate again so that we could play our horns once more, the lid was clamped down tighter than ever.” That’s how jazz legend Louis Armstrong remembered his experience of the 1918 pandemic in New Orleans in his 1954 memoir Satchmo . “Everybody was down with it, except me.” Because he managed to survive, jazz flourished across the country in the mid-20th century, including here in Denver, where Five Points earned a reputation for world-class jazz. Armstrong himself even played at the iconic Rossonian Hotel on Welton Street. So now that the government is again allowing some crowds to congregate, are we on the brink of a jazz renaissance? City Cast Denver guest host donnie l. betts visits one of Denver’s premier jazz clubs, Dazzle, to listen to some music and talk through this moment in Denver jazz with legendary pianist Purnell Steen , Dazzle co-owner Matt Ruff , and trombonist Stafford Hunter . If you’re interested in sampling some live jazz for yourself, Stafford Hunter’s Young Lions are playing a set at Dazzle tonight — July 21 at 7 p.m. — but if you can’t make it down there, Dazzle is offering a livestream to enjoy the performance from home. Find all the details right here . Looking to pocket an extra $100? All you’ve got to do is fill out our listener survey , and you’ll have a chance to win it all! It’ll only take a few minutes, and you’ll be helping us out a ton: https://denver.citycast.fm/survey/ Get our daily newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And follow us on Twitter: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 20, 2021
To Be Black and Own a Gun in Denver
These are boom times for gun sellers in Colorado, with more gun purchases reported in 2020 than in 2000, 2001 and 2002 combined, according to the Denver Post. Look a little closer at those numbers, and the story gets a little more complicated, especially for Black people in Denver. City Cast Denver guest host donnie l. betts sits down with Alton Clark, the founder of 5280 Steel , a local gun club that saw its membership double in the past year. Then, he takes a tour of 1770 Armory and Gun Club , a new virtual firing range that opened in Five Points last September, with one of its founders, Shawn McWilliams. They discuss their personal relationships with guns, the taboo of gun ownership in the Black community, and what they think is driving the recent boom in gun sales. To hear donnie’s production of The Knock-Kneed Man: The Story of Crispus Attucks Freedom Fighter , click here . Want to win $100? All you have to do is tell us what you think about City Cast Denver. Take our listener survey , and you’ll be entered to win! https://denver.citycast.fm/survey/ Get the newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Get the tweets: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 19, 2021
Is Denver’s Gang Violence on the Rise?
Earlier this year, journalist Julian Rubinstein published The Holly , a thorough and revealing look at the history of gang violence in Denver, focusing in particular on the story of one former gang member turned anti-gang activist Terrance Roberts. It’s a fascinating book that answered many questions about a little-understood issue in our city, and it landed as violent crime is once again on the rise. So is the current spike in homicides and shootings related to gang violence? And how big is Denver’s gang problem anyways? City Cast Denver guest host donnie l. betts sat down with the new head of Denver’s anti-gang efforts, Nicole Monroe, to talk through how gangs operate in Denver today and what her office is doing about it. For more on gang violence in Denver, here’s a link to our episode earlier this year with Julian Rubinstein and Terrance Roberts. Want to get your hands on some ferociously cool City Cast Denver swag? Sign up for our new perks program. Get your personal referral link here , and start sharing with friends you think would appreciate a little more Denver in their days. If just one person uses your link to sign up, we’ll send you our personal recommendations for summer fun in Denver. Learn more and get started: https://denver.citycast.fm/referrals/ And if you’re not already getting the City Cast Denver newsletter, you can subscribe right here: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Don’t miss the tweets: @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bonus · Sat, July 17, 2021
#ListenLocal: The Taxman
It's time for another #listenlocal podcast recommendation from our friend Berry of Podcasts in Color , the largest database of podcasts produced by people of color in the world. Berry's pick this month is The Taxman, Colorado Public Radio's three-parter on Douglas Bruce, the man behind the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights and his legacy in Colorado today. Initially published in 2017, this is still a must-listen for any Coloradan who has ever wondered why our state has such a complicated relationship with taxes. The Taxman was produced by CPR News, specifically Rachel Estabrook, Ben Markus, and past City Cast Denver guest Nate Minor . Listen to the whole series here and follow Berry on Twitter @podcastsincolor . Catch up with the rest of CPR's podcast slate here . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 16, 2021
Wildfire Smoke, Ski Rock, and That Hotel Bust
TGIF! We’re back with another news round-up for you today, and this week City Cast Denver producers Paul Karolyi and Xandra McMahon are joined by award-winning storyteller, inventor, and activist donnie betts . We’re excited to have him on the show today, and to announce that he’ll be guest hosting City Cast Denver all next week! But first, listen in to this conversation about the week’s top stories, “meh” stories, and each person’s highlight of the week. If you want to hear more from donnie before he starts guest-hosting the show on Monday, do yourself a favor and listen to a few episodes of his podcast Destination Freedom: Black Radio Days . Speaking of highlights, did you know we put together a list of our favorite things to do in Denver in the summer? Refer just one person to the City Cast Denver newsletter, and you’ll get these recommendations in your inbox. Want to refer more people? We got some swag for you! Find out more and get your referral link here: https://denver.citycast.fm/referrals/ If you have a few minutes, fill out our listener survey and let us know what you think of the podcast! It’ll really help us out, plus you’ll be entered in a drawing to win $100! Subscribe to the newsletter and stay on top of all the happenings: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And don’t forget to follow us on Twitter! @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 15, 2021
At 142 Years Old, History Colorado is Still Finding New Stories to Tell
History Colorado has been documenting the state’s stories since 1879, just three years after Colorado became a state. And the way we teach history has changed a lot in the last 142 years. In the organization’s recent past, controversy around a 2013 Sand Creek Massacre exhibit propelled History Colorado towards a more community-centered mission. And just this past week, the organization announced a new executive director, Dawn DiPrince. City Cast Denver producer Xandra McMahon sits down with Dawn to talk about History Colorado’s past, present, and future. Like the show? Have an idea of how we could make it better? Take our listener survey and get a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card: https://denver.citycast.fm/survey/ Want even more City Cast Denver in your life? Subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And don’t forget about the tweets! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 14, 2021
The Forgotten Music Venue That Hosted The Greats
What do Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and the Grateful Dead have in common? If you guessed music, good for you, that’s correct. But more specifically, they all played shows at a long-forgotten hippie rock club in southwest Denver that was only open for 10 months in 1967 and 1968. DU professor Scott Montgomery and filmmaker Dan Obarski made a documentary, The Tale of the Dog , which argues that without that short-lived little club, Denver would never have been able to attract such high-profile acts and become the live music destination we know it as today. City Cast Denver producer Xandra McMahon sits down with Scott and Dan to talk through the six years of research that went into their documentary, the Family Dog’s lasting legacy, and the real story behind Canned Heat’s famous run-in with Denver police. The Tale of the Dog is available for streaming now. Find out more at thetaleofthedog.com . Do you love the show? Are there things we’re doing you want more of? Less of? We want to hear from you! Take our listener survey and be entered for a chance to win $100. It’ll only take a few minutes. Here’s the link: https://denver.citycast.fm/survey/ Want even more City Cast Denver in your life? Subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And don’t forget about the tweets! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 13, 2021
Did the MLB All-Star Game Prompt Homeless Sweeps?
Housing activists and our unhoused neighbors say that the City of Denver has been increasing sweeps of homeless encampments ahead of today’s MLB All-Star Game at Coors Field, and many have accused Mayor Michael Hancock of attempting to whitewash our housing crisis for the TV cameras. But there’s more to this story than meets the eye. Denverite reporter Kevin Beaty filed records requests to get a better picture of the underlying data, and he sits down with City Cast Denver producer Xandra McMahon to unpack it. For an even deeper dive into the data Kevin dug up, here’s his report for Denverite. Get the newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Get the tweets: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 12, 2021
Land Reparations at the National Western Center?
The Globeville and Elyria-Swansea (GES) neighborhoods never seem to get a fair shake. Hemmed in by industrial polluters, highways, and massive commercial real estate developments, the area has long been among the poorest and most marginalized in the city. So when the City of Denver suspended work on one piece of the redevelopment of the new National Western Center during the pandemic, they saw an opportunity to claim some community control. City Cast Denver producer Xandra McMahon sits down with the director of the GES Coalition Organizing for Health and Housing Justice , Nola Miguel, and GES Coalition organizer and lifelong resident Alfonso Espino to talk about reparations and their new campaign to establish a “community-driven” planning process for that land. Read the GES Coalition’s whole plan for The Triangle right here . Have you been hoping for a way to support your favorite local daily news podcast? We want to make the best show we can, and we could use your help. Take just a few minutes to fill out this listener survey, and you’ll be entered to win $100: https://denver.citycast.fm/survey/ Want even more City Cast Denver in your life? Subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And don’t forget about the tweets! @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 09, 2021
Mud Slides, Ketamine, and Beer for Life
Happy Friday! We’re shaking things up a bit and have 15 minutes of news catch-up for you. City Cast Denver producers Paul Karolyi and Xandra McMahon chat about the top stories from the week, that huge upcoming sporting event, and the news that made them feel “meh.” Want a shot at a $100? All you’ve got to do is fill out our new listener survey here: https://denver.citycast.fm/survey/ It’ll take 5 minutes, and no matter what we’ll be grateful! And you can get some sweet City Cast Denver swag FOR FREE if you refer some of your friends to subscribe to our weekday morning newsletter. If just one of them signs up, you get our personal recommendations for summer in the city. How cool is that! Grab your referral link and get started here: https://denver.citycast.fm/referrals/ Subscribe to the newsletter and be caught up on the news all the time: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, July 08, 2021
A Case of Alleged Police Brutality and the Fight for Justice
Earlier this week, City Cast Denver listeners brought to our attention the story of Lakewood resident Ameer Allen and the alleged police brutality he experienced in February. He says he was the victim in an altercation with a tow truck driver, but when the police arrived, they too assaulted him. He was arrested and now faces four misdemeanor charges. Since then, a Lakewood city council member who heard his story has taken up his case, which goes to trial in August. City Cast Denver producer Paul Karolyi talked with Ameer and Moe Clark , the journalist who broke the story, about the incident itself and its aftermath. Want a shot at a $100? All you’ve got to do is fill out our new listener survey here: https://denver.citycast.fm/survey/ It’ll take 5 minutes, and no matter what we’ll be grateful! Hey, do you think some of your friends or family members would enjoy the podcast and our awesome newsletter? Refer them with this link: https://denver.citycast.fm/referrals/ and get hooked up with swag! Subscribe to the newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ And find the tweets here: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 07, 2021
Lions, Moose, and Bears, Oh My! Your Summer Wildlife Guide
We are smack in the middle of Great Outdoors Season, and it might be a good time to remind you that no, you should not touch that cute baby animal. City Cast Denver Producer Paul Karolyi sits down with Jason Clay of Colorado Parks and Wildlife to talk this year’s wildlife trends. Plus, a new VOICE on the Street! This time, Denver VOICE vendor Raelene Johnson shares a poem she wrote about gun violence. The Denver VOICE provides opportunities to Denverites experiencing homelessness and other forms of economic inequity. If you’d like to support VOICE vendors like Raelene, head over to denvervoice.org/donate . They even have Venmo , so if you want to get a little help directly to Raelene, follow this link and add her name to the note attached to your transfer. Subscribe to the newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Feast your eyes on the tweets: @CityCastDenver Hey, do you think some of your friends or family members would enjoy the podcast and our stellar newsletter? Refer them with this link: https://denver.citycast.fm/referrals/ and get hooked up with swag! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 06, 2021
Lisa Calderón Wants to Break the Glass Ceiling for Women in Politics
Lisa Calderón is one of those people in Denver politics that everybody knows. Whether she’s running to be Denver’s first female mayor or making change by working as Chief of Staff for her friend, Councilperson Candi CdeBaca , she’s built power around her name. And now she’s taking that power and reputation to Emerge Colorado — an organization that trains Democratic women on how to run for office. City Cast Denver producer Paul Karolyi sits down with Lisa to chat about her plans as the organization’s new executive director and why, in 2021, women still aren’t equitably represented in politics. Get the newsletter: https://denver.citycast.fm/newsletter/ Get the tweets: @CityCastDenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 02, 2021
War of the Moths
Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of moths? We know. It’s that time of year, when the miller moths complete their annual migration from the plains to the mountains, wreaking havoc on Coloradans along the way. This year, we caught it all on mic … except, not really. Enjoy this dramatic audio presentation from the City Cast Denver crew, which is a loose adaptation of Orson Welles’s War of the Worlds . For moth removal tips, check out this article . To learn more about the miller moths in particular, this CSU fact sheet should answer all your questions. Looking for some fun stuff to spice up your summer? Sign up for our new perks program and get personal summer recs from the City Cast Denver crew if JUST ONE of your friends subscribes with your referral link. Get your link here , and start sharing now! Learn more and get started: https://denver.citycast.fm/referrals/ The tweets! Won’t someone please think of the tweets!? @citycastdenver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
loading...