Episodes

18h ago

City Cast Denver listeners nominated Denver’s new NWSL franchise, Denver Summit FC, as one of the biggest wins of the year at our Denver-est Denver Awards last week, and the city is undeniably abuzz with excitement over the prospect of a professional womens soccer team. But how much public money should the City of Denver put up to support the team? City Council is voting tonight on the proposal to spend $50 million to buy land and build support infrastructure for a new stadium, so we’re revisiting a conversation host Bree Davies had earlier this year with one of the country’s foremost experts on the politics of stadiums, CU Denver’s own Dr. Geoff Propheter . Denverite reported on the details of the community benefits agreement that Denver Summit FC reached with neighbors of the proposed stadium site. For even more news from around the city, 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 public funding to support a new soccer stadium? 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 December 22nd episode: Simply Eloped Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

3d ago

More than 100,000 Coloradans were left without electricity this week as Xcel Energy preemptively shut down power lines to mitigate the risk of wildfire — just like they did last April. But the controversy is way different this time. Comedian and longtime friend of the show JD Lopez returns with producers Olivia Jewell Love and Paul Karolyi to parse the politics of power. Plus, we discuss Denverite’s investigation into allegations of toxic work culture at the Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce, pick Denver’s Word of the Year 2025, and share our wins and fails of the week. Paul mentioned the podcast he and JD host, “ Hold on to Your Butts: A Podcast About Great Franchises that Uhhhhh Lost their Way .” He also talked about the “ gonzo lawyer ,” the decline of the “slop bowl ,” the Broncos’ new anime connection , and this reddit thread he posted about Denver’s word of the year. Olivia talked about zebra mussels . JD sang “ Colorado Christmas ” by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. What do you think should be Denver’s word of the 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 . Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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 December 19th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Foothills Animal Shelter Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

4d ago

Denverites were going at each other this year, with some juicy fights on and off social media. From politics to restaurants to pop culture, host Bree Davies sits down with producer Paul Karolyi and resident Denver gossip Adrian Felix to hash out the biggest beefs of 2025, and decide who came out on top. For even more news from around the city, 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 was this year’s “Biggest Beef”? 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 18th episode: Denver Health Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Denver Botanic Gardens Foothills Animal Shelter Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

5d ago

Neighbors in West Wash Park have now gathered more than 1,000 signatures calling for Mayor Johnston to reverse the city’s plan for traffic calming on Alameda Ave. to the original, three-lane proposal. They argue that there’s no way the new four-lane plan is just as safe, as DOTI head Amy Ford has argued. But could that possibly be true? CU Denver civil engineering professor Wes Marshall has been watching the debate play out, and he’s on today to help cut through the noise — and answer the bigger question: Is Mayor Johnston making Denver streets less safe? Do you think Mayor Johnston is making Denver streets less safe? 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 Wes Marshall is also the author of “ Killed by a Traffic Engineer: Shattering the Delusion that Science Underlies our Transportation System .” Bree quoted a recent Denver Post op-ed by the co-chairs of the DOTI advisory board Aylene McCallum and Allen Cowgill: “The previous administration made great progress in achieving these visions [for a connected Denver], but today, under Mayor Johnston’s leadership, that progress has stalled and, in specific instances, has even been reversed.” For even more news from around the city, 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 If you enjoyed this interview with Janessa White, the Director & General Manager of Simply Eloped, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 17th episode: Denver Health Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Denver Botanic Gardens Foothills Animal Shelter Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

6d ago

It’s been an unseasonably warm December, and that means the risk of wildfires is relatively high. So, producer Olivia Jewell Love and producer Paul Karolyi discuss how Xcel Energy is preparing for a possible pre-emptive power shutdown this week. Plus, we unravel the mystery of the street safety signs that were hacked last Friday to read “Cars Ruin Cities” and respond to listener questions about movie theaters, tipping, and South Park’s latest take on Denver. Paul talked about the controversy around Xcel’s unannounced pre-emptive power shutdowns last year. What do you think about all these hacked street signs? What would you put on one? 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 16th episode: Denver Health Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Denver Botanic Gardens Foothills Animal Shelter Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for up to 20% off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 15

Coloradans are increasingly disillusioned with traditional political institutions, including the Democratic Party, which polled at 68% unfavorable in a recent Magellan Strategies survey. So why did current State Senator Julie Gonzales, once a darling of the Democratic Socialists of America, decide to run for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat? Gonzales joins host Bree Davies to discuss her relationship with her party, where she sees opportunities to work with Trump, and how her approach would differ from her opponent, incumbent Sen. John Hickenlooper. We’ve invited Hickenlooper to come on the pod to discuss his campaign soon. What should we ask him about? 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 Today is the last day to vote for the finalists of the Denver-est Denver Awards! Your vote will determine the winners of Best Artist, Best Small Business, Biggest Win, and more. And don’t forget to buy your ticket to the show on Dec. 18 and see the winners announced live on stage at The Oriental Theater. Vote here and get your tickets now! Help us hit the goal for our year-end membership drive! You’ll get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. Enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 15th episode: Denver Health Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Denver Botanic Gardens Foothills Animal Shelter Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 12

After the announcement of State Sen. Julie Gonzales’ bid to unseat U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper, stories emerged alleging Democratic Party insiders tried to deter her from running . Comedian Joshua Emerson joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to dissect the details of Hick’s primary strategy, as well as Denver’s questionable new homeless service provider contracts , disability activists’ lawsuit against RTD , and more wins and fails of the week. Help us hit the goal for our year-end membership drive! You’ll get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. Enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm Vote for the finalists of the Denver-est Denver Awards! Your vote will determine the winners of Best Artist, Best Small Business, Biggest Win, and more. And don’t forget to buy your ticket to the show on Dec. 18 and see the winners announced live on stage at The Oriental Theater. Vote here and get your tickets now! Paul quoted this Denver Post reporting on RTD’s on-time performance, in which buses “lagged at 83%” as of July of 2025 (On-time performance for light rail recovered to 91% this year). Paul also discussed the Sports Castle and the Denver Summit FC stadium vote . We mentioned Atlantis ADAPT’s lawsuit against RTD and multiple stories on Denver’s homeless shelter contracts from Denverite’s Kyle Harris . Bree talked about Westwood resident Norma Brambila . Joshua discussed a new Native community-focused housing and healthcare building . What do you think about the Hickenlooper vs. Gonzales race? 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 clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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 December 12th episode: Denver Health Colfax Ave BID Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 11

What gift do you get the Denverite who seems to have everything? Or your friend who suddenly became a minimalist and has, like, no material possessions? Fear not, the Mile High is filled with exciting and unique potential gifts — from newly released books from great local authors to quirky classes they can take! Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Olivia Jewell Love and content creator/political candidate Rayna Kingston to share recommendations for some of the best gifts you can find around Denver this holiday season. Help us hit the goal for our year-end membership drive! You’ll get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. Enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm Vote for the finalists of the Denver-est Denver Awards! Your vote will determine the winners of Best Artist, Best Small Business, Biggest Win, and more. And don’t forget to buy your ticket to the show on Dec. 18 and see the winners announced live on stage at The Oriental Theater. Vote here and get your tickets now! Where do you like to shop local for holiday gifts? 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 Rayna mentioned these thrifting accounts for bundled gifts: @thriftgirlieclub and @cherrypickedthreads_ . Olivia mentioned some of the neurodivergent friendly programming happening at the Autism Community Store . For even more news from around the city, 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 11th episode: Denver Health Colfax Ave BID Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 10

Creative takes on the classic martini, pickles on pizza, and … a hotly contested debate over the tipped minimum wage? It was an up and down year for Denverites looking for a good meal at a fair price. ⁠Westword food and drink editor Molly Martin⁠ returns to talk about all the hottest trends, most exciting new restaurants, biggest stories, and best bites of the year with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi. Help us hit the goal for our year-end membership drive! You’ll get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. Enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at ⁠https://membership.citycast.fm⁠ ⁠ Vote for the finalists ⁠ of the Denver-est Denver Awards! Your vote will determine the winners of Best Artist, Best Small Business, Biggest Win, and more. And don’t forget to ⁠buy your ticket⁠ to the show on Dec. 18 and see the winners announced live on stage at The Oriental Theater. ⁠Vote here⁠ and ⁠get your tickets⁠ now! What was your best bite of the 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 Some of the great places we mentioned: ⁠Rougarou⁠ ⁠Boombots⁠ ⁠Semiprecious⁠ ⁠Fellow Traveler⁠ ⁠Molino Chido⁠ ⁠Malinche Audiobar⁠ ⁠Alteño⁠ ⁠Black Cat Restaurant⁠ ⁠Golden Banh Mi⁠ ⁠D’Corazon⁠ ⁠Los Socios Birreria⁠ ⁠Curtis Park Deli⁠ ⁠Odell’s Chef’s Counter⁠ ⁠Sushi by Scratch⁠ ⁠Kizaki⁠ ⁠Hop Alley⁠ ⁠Hong Kong Station⁠ ⁠Istanbul Cafe & Bakery⁠ ⁠Getright’s⁠ ⁠Riot BBQ⁠ ⁠Pig and Tiger⁠ ⁠BearLeek⁠ ⁠Ma’s Kitchen⁠ ⁠Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings⁠ Paul mentioned ⁠the saga of Clever Girl⁠ and the ⁠record low amount⁠ of American adults who say they drink alcohol. For even more news from around the city, 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: ⁠Denver Health⁠ ⁠Colfax Ave BID⁠ ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST ⁠Aura Frames⁠ - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Dec 9

State Sen. Julie Gonzales announced yesterday that she’s challenging John Hickenlooper for his seat in the U.S. Senate, setting the stage for a very Denver Democratic primary next June. So, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about how this race reflects the broader divide within the Democratic Party, from Gonzales and Hickenlooper’s respective policy achievements to their approaches to resisting President Trump. Plus, internal city documents reveal just how much influence a wealthy neighbor had over the change to DOTI’s traffic calming plans for Alameda Avenue, and we respond to listener feedback on our interview with RTD CEO Debra Johnson. Bree mentioned the potential redesign of the cloverleaf interchange at Federal Boulevard and Colfax Avenue. Help us hit the goal for our year-end membership drive! You’ll get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. Enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm Vote for the finalists of the Denver-est Denver Awards! Your vote will determine the winners of Best Artist, Best Small Business, Biggest Win, and more. And don’t forget to buy your ticket to the show on Dec. 18 and see the winners announced live on stage at The Oriental Theater. Vote here and get your tickets now! For even more news from around the city, 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 Gonzales vs. Hickenlooper? Who will you vote for? 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: Denver Health Colfax Ave BID Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for up to 20% off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 8

‘Tis the season for holiday markets, ugly sweater parties, and pop-up bars aplenty — but what about the kids? Where do parents and caregivers take the little ones to have fun without breaking the bank? Last year, host Bree Davies sat down with fellow parents Linnea Covington , managing editor at DiningOut, and David Gilbert, writer and local history buff, to come up with a killer list of fun and affordable ways to keep kiddos entertained — from seasonal light displays to free visits with Santa and more. Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm Bree mentioned a video of the old, elaborate holiday displays at the long-demolished Buckingham Square in Aurora. What’s your favorite thing to do with the fam over the holidays? 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 There are plenty of things to do for adults, too! Check out our events calendar plus even more news from around the city by subscribing 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 Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 8th episode: Denver Health Colfax Ave BID Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 5

State Sen. Faith Winter was killed in a car accident last week, and the internet is buzzing with heartfelt tributes, but also rumors about the circumstances and some really nasty speculation. So how should we make terms with her multifaceted legacy? Congressional candidate Melat Kiros joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about Faith Winter and alcohol at the Capitol. Plus, a new local startup wants to sell you a house for $5, a viral video is sparking heated conversations about refugees in Aurora, and the hottest fashion trend in China is “Colorado”? And as always, we wrap with our wins and fails of the week. Paul mentioned Troy Guard’s new restaurant and his previous comments about Denver’s restaurant scene, as well as a new exhibit at History Colorado and this New Yorker article about America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Bree talked about the federal funding cuts for housing , and a cool new building on Speer. What do you think about the new real estate sweepstakes? 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 . Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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 December 5th episode: Warren Village The People Park Colfax Ave BID Multipass Ballpark Denver Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 4

We’re celebrating all the Rocky Mountain highs and lows of the year by giving our the inaugural Denver-est Denver Awards! Join us on Dec. 18 for special celebrity guests, live music, comedy, and a formal awards presentation to the Best Artist of the Year, the Best Bar/Restaurant, the Biggest Win, and more. We received hundreds of heartfelt nominations and today on the podcast, host Bree Davies and producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love reveal the finalists for our six categories. Now it’s up to you to vote for the winners ! Who will you pick for the Denver-est Denverite of the Year? Vote for the finalists now ! And get your tickets for the party on Dec. 18 at The Oriental 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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think of the finalists? Tell us who you’re voting for and why! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your message on the show: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed the sponsored segment conversation with Maya Osterman-Van Grack, the Executive Director of Programs for Mirror Image, and their Community Engagement Manager, Michael Board, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 4th episode: Women's Bean Project The People Park Colfax Ave BID Multipass Ballpark Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 3

Denver’s public transit agency RTD has had a rough couple of years. Almost a full year of track maintenance and slowdowns led to a nearly 20% decline in light rail ridership, but ridership across the network overall is down, too. With even more light rail maintenance expected in the next few years, RTD’s budget is projected to hit multi-billion deficits in the early 2030s. So what’s the plan to get back on track? And if the answer is more money, who will pay? RTD CEO and General Manager joins producer Paul Karolyi to discuss what she thinks the biggest problems are, her plan for the budget deficit, and what she does when her train is late. Paul referenced Nate Minor’s reporting for CPR about the senior leaders who left RTD in recent years and quoted the emailed statement Johnson shared with the Denver Post for this recent story . Johnson quoted some recent data on ridership numbers and talked about RTD’s new tap-to-pay technology. For even more news from around the city, 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 should be done to improve RTD? We want to hear from you! Would you pay higher sales taxes? Or would you prefer to pay more at parking meters? Or do you think RTD is going well enough as it is? 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: Warren Village The People Park Co lfax Ave BID Multipass Ballpark Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 2

A fleet of 600 drones is putting on a holiday light show every night over downtown Denver, but that’s not the only big new idea Denverites have for downtown. Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the Museum of Ice Cream , giant TV screens , the latest developments for the Denver Pavilions, and more. Plus, a new report finds that Colorado is suffering from record high levels of shoplifting. But is it a crisis? And will lawmakers act? And finally, Edgewater is poised to modify their minimum wage rules , and Mayor Johnston is reportedly interested in doing the same in Denver. Can he convince City Council? What do you think is Denver’s Word of the Year 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 Learn more about the sponsors of this December 2nd episode: The Delores Project The People Park Colfax Ave BID Multipass Ballpark Denver Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for up to 20% off Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 1

The days are getting short and the nights are getting long, but Denver is already feeling the holiday spirit. And we’re back with our monthly guide to the best of Denver. That means we’ve got plenty of recs for how to make the most of your Mile High December, from a cozy greasy spoon cafe in Lakewood to a Christmas-y comedy show sure to make you bust a gut. 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. Also, check out Market in the Park-et’s Sweater Fest this weekend! It’s a great place to get started on your holiday shopping, and we’re sponsoring the “Beautiful Sweater Contest” — Send us your pics! 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. If you enjoyed today's sponsored interview with Andy Cambron, the CEO of Multipass, learn more here. Check out their upcoming events below! Elf Yoga Krampus Konvention Holiday Tea-Family Experience The Fantastic Hosts' Family Extravaganza Learn more about the other sponsors of this December 1st episode: Warren Village The People Park Colfax Bid Multipass Ballpark Denver 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 xoptions for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 26

Join City Cast Denver host Bree Davies alongside fellow hosts from Austin , Chicago , DC , Las Vegas , Madison , Nashville , Philly , Pittsburgh , Portland , Salt Lake , Seattle , and the Twin Cities for a special episode that’ll help you knock out your holiday shopping early and support small businesses around the country. From a handlebar mount (and app!) that’ll turn your phone into a bike cam, to a mustard-of-the-month subscription box, our hosts are here to tell the stories of local businesses in their cities making cool stuff that you can order online right now. Visit our website to find the full list of recommendations with links for holiday shopping! For even more news from around the city, 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 November 26th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off . AEG Presents Ballpark Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 25

Are Denverites going to be talking politics at their Thanksgiving tables or chatting about more palatable topics like the gritty details of Blucifer’s backside? Host Bree Davies is joined by producer Paul Karolyi and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to talk about Colorado Polling Institute’s new poll on Coloradans’ outlook on the economy, elected officials, and rise in political violence. Plus, we hear from listeners about the Winchell’s Donuts in Longmont and wack people at the airport. Paul mentioned our interview with senator and gubernatorial candidate Michael Bennet and Bennet’s housing platform . Bree mentioned our new video out with Dave Chung in the tunnels at DIA. For even more news from around the city, 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 direction Colorado is going? 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 November 25th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off .. AEG Presents Ballpark Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 24

The Denver metro area has two mayors named Mike who have made homelessness a top priority. Johnston, the Denver liberal, has pursued a “housing first” strategy as he attempts to end unsheltered homelessness in our city, but recently he’s been branching out, including a proposal for $11 million to fund a new street ambassador program. Coffman, the Aurora conservative, just opened a new shelter with a support model that features a twist on his “work first” approach. Denverite’s Kyle Harris has reported on both, and he’s on today with host Bree Davies to compare and contrast. Be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards, presented by our friends at Denver Health ! You’re cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories! What do you think about the two Mayor Mikes and their divergent strategies? 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 November 24th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off . AEG presents upcoming concerts at Red Rocks Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 21

The Democrats of Colorado are divided this week over a brewing scandal around a swanky “retreat” to a luxury hotel in Vail and who paid for it — a so-called dark money group called One Main Street. 9News anchor Kyle Clark joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about how the Dems are navigating a touchy ethics investigation. Plus, we talk through the viral video of a local food inspector pouring bleach on food at a taco stand and, of course, all our wins and fails of the week. Be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards, presented by our friends at Denver Health ! You’re cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories! We also discussed the recent fentanyl and meth busts. Paul talked about the Yates Theater project and the Sonnenalp Hotel in Vail. Kyle discussed Lauren Boebert and speed traps in Kersey . Bree mentioned Purnell Steen (who you can hear on this classic episode of the pod), Christmas lights at Civic Center , and the DOTI advisory committee . What do you think about the Dems’ ethics scandal? 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 clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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 20th episode: Simply Eloped Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 20

The Denver International Airport is famous all over the world for conspiracy theories and unsolved mysteries in the tunnels underground — and that’s without even mentioning Blucifer! But Thanksgiving is coming up, and tens of thousands of holiday travelers really just need to get to their gate on time. So how does DIA make it all work? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking to YouTuber Dave Chung about our recent investigation behind the scenes at DIA and what we learned about how the infamous airport actually works. Follow Dave Chung on YouTube and check out the videos he made of our visit to DIA ! Paul mentioned this petition circulating among airport workers calling for a dedicated security line. For even more news from around the city, 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 role conspiracy theories play at DIA? 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: Simply Eloped Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 19

In a video that went viral on Monday, two people wearing City of Denver uniforms can be seen at a roadside taco stand dumping bleach into big jugs of agua frescas, radishes and pickled onions. The video attracted tens of thousands of likes, shares, and outraged comments. But what’s the real story behind the shocking imagery? Host Bree Davies talks to Mario Martinez, who documents and promotes Denver’s Mexican food scene on Instagram (now as @AnunciosDenver ) and then Danica Lee, the longtime director of the Public Health Investigations Division of the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment. Danica asked that we share this recent video that her office made with basic food safety tips. Westword reported on the food safety regulations around al pastor a few 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 What do you think about the viral bleach video? 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: Simply Eloped Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 18

When it was first revealed that Denver was getting a new professional women’s soccer team, many Denverites were thrilled! Including Mayor Mike Johnston, who has become Denver Summit FC’s chief cheerleader. But he’s been in hot water lately with city council, and now they’re throwing the brakes on public subsidies he wants for a new soccer stadium. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi have been following the project, and they’re breaking down all the latest twists and turns. Plus, some listener questions on bike lanes and Colorado’s claims to food fame; and, when is it going to snow already? What do you think about the stadium politics? Should council put up the money? Or should Denver risk losing the NWSL franchise to Lone Tree or Centennial? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards, presented by our friends at Denver Health ! You’re cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories! For even more news from around the city, 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 18th episode: Simply Eloped Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Health Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 17

Earlier this month Denver voters approved the Vibrant Denver bond, saying yes to some ambitious city projects -- like the ⁠Denver American Indian Cultural Embassy⁠ , which will be built in Montbello. City council also recently approved a study to look at ⁠potentially widening Peña Boulevard⁠ and Mayor Johnston and Denver International Airport CEO Phil Washington announced plans to look at ⁠bringing nuclear power⁠ to the airport. These projects are going down in Councilwoman Stacie Gilmore’s District 11, and she’s got a lot to say about it. Gilmore joins host Bree Davies to dig into these city plans, plus share why she thinks ⁠the mayor’s layoffs⁠ are having lasting effects on the trust those workers put into local government. Bree mentioned a recent episode we aired about ⁠AI Data Centers⁠ , and the Denver Post editorial board’s ⁠comments on Gilmore and the city layoffs⁠ . Oh, and be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards, presented by our friends at Denver Health! You’re cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can ⁠ buy tickets now! ⁠ And we need your help picking the winners, too! ⁠ Nominate your faves ⁠ in our six big categories! For even more news from around the city, 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 17th episode: ⁠Simply Eloped⁠ ⁠Denver Botanic Gardens⁠ ⁠Denver Health⁠ Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Nov 14

Colorado has some of the highest car insurance rates in the country . Governor Polis has promised to address the issue by installing more cameras at intersections and increasing sobriety checkpoints — but the biggest contributing factor to high premiums? The weather. Then, the Colorado Business Committee For the Arts released a study exploring the economic impacts of the state’s cultural sector. But what does a $3.1 billion dollar impact say about the state of Denver’s working artists? Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love are joined by artist and educator R. Alan Brooks to dig into the high costs of car ownership, the economics of art, a potential win for Lauren Boebert, DougCo’s last attempt at a trans student athlete ban, and more wins and fails of the week. There are still a few seats left to catch R. Alan Brooks’ film premiere, “Always, Most of the Time,” at the Lighthouse Writers Workshop tonight! Bree talked about her Uncle Ed’s art show tonight at CORE Art Space and Re:Vision firing unionized promotoras . Olivia mentioned the Douglas County School Board’s final attempts at banning trans student athletes and Representative Lauren Boebert’s demands to release the Epstein files . Alan discussed the ongoing Colfax BRT road construction woes. 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 clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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 13th episode: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Botanic Gardens Curious Theatre Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 13

On November 9, Pete’s University Park Cafe served up its last heaping plates of chicken fried steak and souvlaki and eggs, marking the end for yet another beloved diner. With its closure, Denver not only lost an affordable eatery, but a gathering place and community space that served the Mile High for 30 years. So, what is Denver without its diners? Last year host Bree Davies sat down with her friend, poet and educator Suzi Q. Smith, to talk about these losses and discuss the deep feelings Suzi explores in her ⁠Denverse Magazine essay “Toast World: Where Have All the Diners Gone?”⁠ Oh, and be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards, presented by our friends at Denver Health! You’re cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can ⁠ buy tickets now! ⁠ And we need your help picking the winners, too! ⁠ Nominate your faves ⁠ in our six big categories! For even more news from around the city, 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 Dr. Eric Doringer from Blue Sky CBD, ⁠learn more here.⁠ Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER to receive 30% off . Learn more about the sponsors of this November 13 episode: ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST ⁠Denver Botanic Gardens⁠ ⁠Curious Theatre⁠ Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠ citycast.fm/

Nov 12

This off-year election saw big wins for democrats across the country, including in Aurora. Most notably, ⁠GOP rabble rouser Danielle Jurinsky⁠ lost her at-large seat as Aurora city council moved more to the left with the 7-4 conservative majority becoming a 6-4 progressive majority. But Aurora Sentinel editor and publisher Dave Perry says the political picture of Colorado’s third largest city is more nuanced than just this recent swing. He joins host Bree Davies to dig into what he’s seen in his 30 years covering the state’s most diverse municipality, and what it means for Aurora to have a now left-leaning council and a lifelong republican for mayor. Bree and Dave discussed his piece on Jurinsky’s ouster and ⁠Aurora’s “council chaos and felony weirdness”⁠ , along with unseated council member Steve Sundberg’s ⁠sexual harassment allegations⁠ and ⁠the racist commercials⁠ he made for his sports bar. Oh, and be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards! You’re cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors will have received a discount code in the inbox, but everyone can ⁠ buy tickets now! ⁠ And we need your help picking the winners, too! ⁠ Nominate your faves ⁠ in our six big categories! For even more news from around the city, 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 12th episode: ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST ⁠Denver Botanic Gardens⁠ ⁠Curious Theatre⁠ Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠ citycast.fm/⁠

Nov 11

As the government shutdown rolls on, the Federal Aviation Administration has instructed airports across the country to cut hundreds of flights to help with staffing shortages. Denver International Airport, however, is trying something unique to support the air traffic controllers and TSA agents working without pay. Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love look into this novel approach, plus discuss the proposed infrastructure improvements along Alameda that some neighbors in West Wash Park put the brakes on, and respond to a listener’s thoughts on our ownership of green chile. Bree talked about crossing guard Amy Kenreich and her celebrity crossing guard day. She also mentioned our show with Dan Pashman from The Sporkful on Denver’s claims to food fame ; you can hear producer Paul Karolyi’s episode of The Sporkful on Colorado-Style Pizza . Oh, and be sure to grab a ticket to our first-ever The Denver-est Denver Awards! You’re cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors can expect a discount code in the inbox later today, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories! For even more news from around the city, 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: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Botanic Gardens Curious Theatre Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 10

Yes, we Denverites love our green chile, but that fiery green-ish, orange-ish stew is hardly known at all in the rest of the country. Instead, we’re known for things like the Denver omelet and, oddly, the cheeseburger. So it’s time to set the record straight. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi invited the host of the James Beard Award-winning podcast The Sporkful , Dan Pashman, to talk through some of Colorado’s greatest claims to food fame (and some we wish we could forget). Go follow The Sporkful wherever you get your podcasts to hear the episode Paul produced about his six-year quest to uncover the truth of “Colorado-style pizza,” and check out Dan’s Instagram to see him taste-test Beau Jo’s for the first time. What do you think is Colorado’s greatest claim to food fame? Is there anything we left out? 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 November 10th episode: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Botanic Gardens Curious Theatre Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 7

Democrats celebrated victories across the country on Tuesday, but the story of the election here in Denver is a little more complicated. So now that the dust has settled, what do the results tell us about how Denverites are feeling about the big questions facing our city — affordability, density, safety, crime? Content creator and House District 5 candidate Rayna Kingston (aka, @raynakingdenver ) joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the big picture. Plus, Denver’s fastest growing company, Palantir , is moving from downtown to Cherry Creek, but their new HQ has already been vandalized ? And as always, our wins and fails of the week. Presenting… The Denver-est Denver Awards! You’re cordially invited to attend a fancy holiday party slash formal awards show celebrating the very best of Denver on Dec. 18 at The Oriental Theater. City Cast Denver Neighbors can expect a discount code in the inbox later today, but everyone can buy tickets now! And we need your help picking the winners, too! Nominate your faves in our six big categories right now! Paul talked about influencer payola , Clerk and Recorder Paul López , our past episode on why Palantir moved to Denver, and Mondoweiss’ interview with a local anti-Palantir activist. Bree mentioned the failed effort to form a GID in Cherry Creek, the Chili’s on South Monaco , and Aurora city councilmember Danielle Jurinsky . What do you think Palantir moving to 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 at denver.citycast.fm . Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off . Denver Film Multipass Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 6

Twenty years ago, the big question facing the industrial area along the South Platte River north of downtown was what to call it. Now, as many lifelong Denverites are still getting used to “RiNo,” the city’s most famous arts district is at another inflection point. The artists who made the area cool are mostly gone, and the business owners have been disagreeing over the future. So as the RiNo Art District is celebrating its 20th anniversary this weekend, host Bree Davies sits down with the organization’s new executive director, Daisy Fodness-McGowan, to swap stories of warehouse raves in the 90s and talk about the future of art in RiNo. What do you think about RiNo’s new direction? 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 If you enjoyed the interview with Dr. Eric Doringer from Blue Sky CBD, learn more here. Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER to receive 30% off . Learn more about the sponsors of this November 6th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER to receive 30% off . Denver Film Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 5

Mayor Mike Johnston celebrated victory on Tuesday night as Denver voters approved his Vibrant Denver bond proposal by wide margins. But not everyone was smiling as the results rolled in. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi break down the numbers from election night — from the flavored tobacco ban to city council at-large election reform — and talk about what it says about where Denver is headed. Plus, we take a look at some surprising results from across the metro area and the country. What do you think about the results of the 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 For even more news from around the city, 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 5th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off . Denver Film Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 4

It’s election day! Last-minute voters are mulling over the mayor’s Vibrant Denver bond proposal, the flavored tobacco ban, and more — but where are they getting their information on these important issues? Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about politics influencers and the changing norms on social media, including an interesting post about our interview with gubernatorial hopeful Senator Michael Bennet. Plus, we discuss the potential $50 million remodel of Civic Center Park and Patty answers our new favorite question: If Denver was a house… We talked about this post from Sen. Michael Bennet on X.com featuring a clip from our interview with him last week, and Bennet’s recently announced opposition to the Nexstar/TEGNA merger. We also discussed Denverite’s coverage of the influencers being paid to promote the Vibrant Denver bond. Patty plugged her event at the Denver Press Club this Thursday: “ Consider the Alternative: Open Mic . What do you think about construction? Is it a sign of progress or a nuisance we should postpone? 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 4th episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off . Denver Film Multipass Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 3

We’re deep in the swing of the fall season, and it’s chilly! November is lovely month in the Mile High City — a time to enjoy seasonal holiday markets, deliciously warm and savory meals, and special gatherings that give back . From food recs to mountain getaways, we’ve rounded up a killer list of the best ways to enjoy Denver and beyond this November. Be sure to check out JD’s live show, Comedy Killed the Video Star , November 21 at Mutiny Information Cafe and our list of ways to support food access organizations across the city. Paul talked about the podcast he co-hosts with our guest JD Lopez, “ Hold on to Your Butts: A Podcast About the Great Franchises That Uhhhh Lost Their Way .” Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm/ 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 October in Denver, we’ll have even more tips and suggestions in our newsletter Hey Denver later this week. If you enjoyed today's interview with Andy Cambron, the CEO of Multipass, learn more here. and check our their shows below: Seuss Mace on 11/07 Intemat Basement on 11/07 Bone Thugs N Harmony on 5/22 Learn more about the other sponsors of this November 3rd episode: Blue Sky CBD - Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off . Denver Film Multipass 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. 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

Nov 1

Earlier this week, host Bree Davies sat down with BoardHawk podcast co-host Alexis Menocal-Harrigan to talk through ⁠the Denver Public Schools’ Board Races⁠ . We heard from listeners aligned with the ⁠Denver Teachers Classroom Association⁠ that they felt the episode was unfair to their candidates. So, we invited DCTA president Rob Gould on to share his perspective on the same issues: The four school board seats up for grabs, how Superintendent Alex Marrero is doing, and why so many out-of-state donors are interested in the DPS board. Rob discussed the debate around at-large candidate Amy Klein Molk’s comments on AI. For details, Chalkbeat ⁠reported on the controversy⁠ . For even more news from around the city, 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 DPS board races? 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

Oct 31

More than ever, Denverites are divided on the issue of surveillance. As lawyers hammer out the details of the city’s deal with the surveillance startup Flock, criticism of Mayor Johnston’s position and approach is only growing, especially after his comments on Flock’s role in the cases of Jax Gratton and reports of a Bow Mar woman wrongly accused of theft. Political activist Adrian Felix joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to debate the issue and speculate about the future. Plus, some LGBTQ businesses were vandalized just as Denver was passed up in its bid to host the 2030 Gay Games — is the Mile High City becoming less hospitable to the queer community? And of course, our wins and fails of the week. Bree discussed the family detained by ICE in Durango, high voter turnout , and Rainbow Dome‘s Deadlifts at the Dome . Paul talked about the performers strike at Casa Bonita, the Halo 3 mural at the Game Stop on Colorado Boulevard, and where you can find local Flock cameras. A celebration of life for Jax Gratton is happening this Saturday at The Pearl. What do you think about the future of Flock 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 . Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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 31st episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Film Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 30

Education is on the ballot this year. Voters statewide are looking at propositions LL and MM concerning funding for school lunch programs. In Denver, 11 candidates are vying for four open DPS board seats, and some of those races are getting spicy. DPS Parent and BoardHawk podcast co-host Alexis Menocal-Harrigan has been interviewing the contenders for those open board seats and she joins host Bree Davies to dig into the details. She also gives insight into how state budget shortfalls are impacting students, why the teachers unions vs. reformers narrative is old news, and who these board candidates are. After we recorded, Alexis told us she misspoke about DJ Torres’ fellowship with Denver Families. His fellowship came with a $5,000 award, not $1,000. For even more news from around the city, 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 How are you voting on the school board races? 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 30th episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Film Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 29

Ballots are arriving ahead of the November 4 election, and Denverites are weighing Mayor Mike Johnston’s big proposal of the year — the “Vibrant Denver” bond. It would represent almost $1 billion in new debt to fund infrastructure projects across the city, but will voters see a future of possibilities? Or will they swayed by the mayor’s growing chorus of critics? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi sit down with Mayor Johnston to talk about the recent outrage over his extension of Flock surveillance contracts, his handling of the budget, and why he bought the Denver Pavilions mall on 16th Street. Paul referenced our interview with Fire Department Chief Desmond Fulton, “ ⁠Why Firefighters Are Getting Raises When the City Is Doing Layoffs⁠ .” The mayor said that his proposed budgets for the fire and police departments were “mostly flat, but ⁠according to Axios Denver⁠ the mayor’s proposed police budget for 2026 is up 2% to $281 million and ⁠according to our reporting⁠ his proposed fire budget is up about 1%, or $1.2 million, to $158,081,466. The mayor mentioned a police officer ⁠who was shot ⁠ protecting a migrant shelter. Per Paul’s question about the criteria the mayor gave to Flock for any contract extension, the mayor’s office shared ⁠this press release⁠ because the contract itself is still being reviewed by the city’s attorneys. What do you think about the mayor’s defense of his contracts with Flock? 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 October 29th episode: ⁠Arvada Center⁠ ⁠Denver Art Museum⁠ ⁠Denver Film⁠ Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Oct 28

News broke last week that NBA Hall of Famer and “King of Park Hill” Chauncey Billups was allegedly involved in a multi-million dollar mafia-run poker scheme and potentially sharing insider information on NBA games that he was coaching. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into the downfall of this hometown hero and if it could change the way Denverites feel about sports betting. Then, they discuss Wynkoop’s car-free trial period and hear from listeners about the STAR program, gubernatorial frontrunner and Senator Michael Bennet, and shooting police drones out of the sky. Bree mentioned a piece from The Athletic about Chauncey Billups and our past interview with Carleigh Sailon, a clinician who helped launch Denver’s STAR Program. We also talked about our Monday interview with Senator Michael Bennet . If Denver was a house, Union Station would be the living room. But what would be the mudroom? Or the bathroom? Or the backyard? 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 If you enjoyed the interview with Dr. Eric Dorninger from Blue Sky CBD, learn more here. Use promo code CITY CAST DENVER to receive 30% off . Learn more about the sponsors of this October 28th episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Film Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 27

Sen. Michael Bennet got fired up when he questioned HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy about vaccines recently. Turns out, he also gets fired up talking about the cost of living with us. Colorado’s senior senator returns to the podcast today as the leading candidate to replace Jared Polis as governor. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi talk to Bennet about how his approach to housing density would differ from Polis’, whether or not he supports retaliatory congressional redistricting to send more Democrats to DC, and if he would have signed three big bills Polis vetoed — rideshare sexual assault , the Workers Protection Act , and banning rent algorithms . Paul recently spoke with Governor Jared Polis about housing affordability. We also referenced attorney general and gubernatorial candidate Phil Weiser’s latest interview with Kyle Clark on 9News, in which he discussed retaliatory redistricting. For even more news from around the city, 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 October 27th episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Film Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 24

In a shocking and ironic revelation, CBS revealed this week that the Denver Post owes the City of Denver around $2 million in unpaid rent on its lease in the Denver Post building at Colfax and Broadway. So, how will that affect the mayor’s budget negotiations and the $200 million shortfall the city is dealing with? Then, unnamed business owners told the Denver Gazette that bicycle activists had been terrorizing them both in person and online, but who are these anonymous voices? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dig into the City of Denver’s landlord headache, more bicycle drama, Flock surveillance, and wins and fails of the week. Bree talked about her interview with Clerk and Recorder Paul López, DoBetterDNVR’s post about Harm Reduction Action Center, and the Buntport Theater . Paul mentioned the Chauncey Billups’ indictment and photographer Drew Kartos’ reflections on the ‘No Kings’ viral moment . Justine discussed the latest drama with Raíces Brewing and the Broncos epic win . What do want us to ask Mayor Johnston? We’re sitting down with Mayor Mike soon and we want to hear what questions you have for him! 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 clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or Instagram @citycastdenver or TikTok City Cast Denver 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 24 episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Health Denver Film Elizabeth Martinez with Compass Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 23

The rise of generative AI is reshaping our culture in many ways, but it’s also reshaping our city. Here in Denver, a company called CoreSite has already built two data centers to serve the AI industry, and they are currently constructing a giant, third one in Elyria-Swansea — one of the city’s most polluted neighborhoods. So what kind of a neighbor will this new CoreSite data center be? CPR climate reporter Sam Brasch joins host Bree Davies to discuss everything you need to know about the data centers popping up down the block. What do you think about data centers being build 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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this October 23rd episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Health Denver Film Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 22

While many progressives ⁠have⁠ ⁠been⁠ ⁠upset⁠ with Governor Jared Polis lately, a new national political movement is looking to him for leadership. Inspired by “ Abundance ” by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, this new strain of liberal politics is focused on cutting red tape, building housing density and transit, and reducing barriers to new technology. So is Polis the perfect posterchild for the Abundance Agenda? And is that what Coloradans want out of their governor? A new group called ⁠Abundance Network⁠ recently invited producer Paul Karolyi to moderate a fireside chat with the governor about housing, transit, energy, and his plans for his final legislative session in January. What do you think about Governor Jared Polis right now? What has he done well? Where has he gone astray? 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 October 22nd episode: ⁠Arvada Center⁠ ⁠Denver Art Museum⁠ ⁠Denver Health⁠ ⁠Denver Film⁠ Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Oct 21

Denverites have been protesting Trump all year, but no demonstrations have been bigger than the ‘No Kings’ rallies in June and this past weekend. So what does that say about the local fight against Trump? Host Bree Davies and Producer Paul Karolyi are talking about some Giants fans who went viral for the wrong reasons, and everything else they saw and heard at ‘No Kings’ — plus, we take some great listener questions and talk about our experience doing four hours on KNUS conservative talk radio, debating issues and fielding calls from people who called us “snowflakes” and worse. Check out the whole four hours on The Jeff & Bill Show’s YouTube page . Bree talked about Costco’s inflatable slides . Paul cited Colorado Community Media’s Englewood election coverage and discussed the last few years of debate over density in Englewood. Ben Todd from Full Afterburner Calzones linked to this Jon Stewart video . For even more news from around the city, 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 October 21st episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Health Denver Film Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 20

There are only two weeks left until election day! It may not be the most important one of our lifetimes, but Denverites have some really important decisions ahead that will shape the future of our city. At a packed City Cast Denver Neighbors-only live recording last Thursday, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi were joined by Westword editor Patty Calhoun and our capitol insider Deep Singh Badheshwest a to discuss the biggest issues on our ballots, from the economics of the flavored tobacco ban to the Vibrant Denver bond. Plus, plenty of predictions, gossip, and insider info. For more background on the Department of Excise and License’s proposed name change, here’s the website they prepared to explain. Paul mentioned our episode with two vape shop owners advocating against the flavored tobacco ban . What do you think about these issues? Do you have a passionate case to make for any of them, one way or another? 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 For even more news from around the city, 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 October 20th episode: Arvada Center Denver Art Museum Denver Health Denver Film Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 17

Should law enforcement employ drones to respond to 911 calls? DPD has already signed a free-trial contract with Flock , but how these drones will actually be used isn’t clear. Then, even as restaurants say they are struggling to stay open amid rising costs, labor issues, and concerns about crime, one calzone shop owner on South Broadway has chosen to drastically lower his prices . Producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love are joined by Denverite reporter Kyle Harris to talk about automating law enforcement and a very iconoclastic calzone maker, plus their wins and fails of the week. Tomorrow, call in to our guest-hosting stint on The Jeff & Bill Show . Bree & Paul are on KNUS from 6am to 10am in the morning of Friday the 17th. Call (303) 696-1971 and give us your name and neighborhood! Paul talked about the mayor’s latest affordable housing proposal downtown , Beyonce , and Chef Jose Avila’s new spot, Malinche Audio Bar . Olivia mentioned Fox31 meteorologist Kylie Bearse’s stalking case , Evergreen shooting survivor Matthew Silverstone , and some of Gov. Polis’ recent social media posts . Kyle discussed the Pentagon’s new press rules . For even more news from around the city, 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 employing police drones? 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: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Film Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 16

A big fight over housing density has been brewing in Littleton for years, and with voters set to decide the fate of Mayor Kyle Schlachter’s “missing middle” housing reforms early next month, the debate is getting nasty! A rival mayoral candidate, Patrick Driscoll, was recently caught on a Ring camera swiping Schlachter’s campaign materials. So, what’s got Littleton so heated? We’re revisiting a conversation host Bree Davies had with Mayor Schlachter earlier this year about where this push for density in Denver’s south suburbs came from and why some of his constituents are so upset. Housing density is certainly a major issue in Littleton’s mayoral election, but it’s specifically at issue in Ballot Question 3A. If that passes, the city charter would lock in historic zoning rules. That question was placed on the ballot by a citizen-led group called Rooted in Littleton, which Mayor Schlachter discusses in this episode at length. This episode originally aired on June 25, 2025. What do you think about the housing fight in Littleton? 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 October 16th episode: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Film Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 15

What in the heck happened to the Secret Garden Cafe & Bar? We broke the story of the very popular spot’s sudden closure last week — and staff are wondering if it was connected to their recent unionizing efforts. Then, DIA and the Colorado Springs Airport have chosen not to air a new video of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem blaming the government shutdown on Democrats, but each for different reasons. Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love dig into these stories, plus share some listener comments on coffee and a Love is Blind contestant’s allegedly bad driving. Bree mentioned the Hatch Act and artist Cal Duran and the Denverite profile of his mentor, Rita Flores de Wallace , Denver’s “First Lady” of Mexican folk art. We also talked about previous City Cast Denver episodes on coffee shops , Love is Blind , and Casa Bonita’s roaming characters . For even more news from around the city, 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: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Film Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 14

Wellington Webb served as Denver’s mayor from 1991 to 2003. In those 12 years, he oversaw the expansion of the Denver Art Museum, the construction of DIA and Empower Field at Mile High, and many more city-defining projects. After a long political career, he started his own PR and economic development consulting firm — and was one of the biggest voices in the successful opposition to proposed housing development on the Park Hill Golf Course. Today, the former city leader joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about that legacy and share what he thinks of the current administration’s work and the nearly $1 billion bond package voters will be deciding on in November. After we recorded this interview, BusinessDen reported that Mayor Johnston has finally closed the deal for the city to take ownership of the Park Hill Golf Course land. https://www.instagram.com/p/DOwDYj8gNXV/?hl=en For even more news from around the city, 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 October 14th episode: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Denver Film Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 10

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts announced this week that it was ⁠shutting down Off Center⁠ , its immersive theater programming. Meanwhile at Casa Bonita, the restaurant unveiled its “Casa Boonita” theming for the Halloween season, which ⁠sparked a labor complaint⁠ over the associated reduction in roaming characters. So, is Denver over immersive art? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by returning fave, comedian Joshua Emerson, to dig into the local art scene and the unclear future for immersive performers. Plus, our wins and fails of the week. Bree discussed the ⁠Denver cop who was fired⁠ , as well as Gustavo Arellano’s ⁠latest thoughts on Den-Mex⁠ in Westword — you can also hear ⁠his conversation about regional cuisine⁠ on our show from a few years ago. Paul mentioned ⁠fears of ICE showing up⁠ at Ball Arena, Avalanche player Brent Burns’ ⁠hilarious looks⁠ , and Bree’s bestie Karma Leigh’s amazing ⁠Av’s jersey design⁠ . Joshua talked about ⁠union issues at Casa Bonita⁠ , the Denver American Indian Commission’s ⁠internal turmoil⁠ , and ⁠the Av’s return⁠ . Do you think immersive art is dead or very much alive? 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 clips from the show on YouTube: ⁠youtube.com/@citycastdenver⁠ or 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 10th episode: ⁠Denver Film⁠ ⁠Wise⁠ ⁠Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate⁠ - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez ⁠ HERE ⁠ , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Oct 9

City Council is meeting today to debate amendments to the mayor’s proposed budget for 2026, and it could get spicy! Because Mayor Mike Johnston been facing a lot of criticism for the way he’s handled the city’s $250 million shortfall lately. He laid off workers. He asked every department to look for cuts. Clerk and Recorder Paul López even said the mayor’s proposed cuts represent ” a threat to democracy .” And as López and other critics have pointed out, the mayor did not ask police or firefighters to delay raises. Producer Paul Karolyi gets the rare chance to hear directly from the chief of the Denver Fire Department, Desmond Fulton, about why his department’s proposed budget for 2026 is actually increasing and what that has to do with the past few years of political upheaval inside his department. Paul referenced CBS reporter Brian Maass’s ongoing investigation into Chief Fulton’s comp time scandal, which Brian came on the pod to talk about in March after the firefighters’ 64% no-confidence vote. Maass also reported on the contract negotiations in May that resulted in the firefighters getting 10% raises over the next two years. Paul also mentioned the recent reporting from the Denver Post on how the city’s elevator permitting process is letting some broken elevators slip through the cracks. For even more news from around the city, 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 October 9th episode: Denver Film Wise Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 8

The Netflix dating show “Love Is Blind” has descended on Denver, but just how much of Denver really shines through in the contestants? We binge-watched the first six episodes to suss out these Colorado blind daters and decide: is Sparkle Megan really that sparkling? Is Jordan more than just the chicken-in-a-blender guy? Do any of these people scream Denver when it comes to their personalities and interests? Host Bree Davies is joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval and political spectator Adrian Felix to dish on all things Love is Blind: Denver Edition. Catch up with us now before the next batch of episodes drops today! Who are you rooting for? Will any of the Love is Blind couples last? Are these people tried and true Denverites? 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 October 8th episode: Denver Film Wise Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 7

The conservative legal activists at Alliance Defending Freedom are taking another Colorado case to the Supreme Court this week. Will conversion therapy for minors — which has been illegal in this state since 2019 — be reconsidered as a free speech issue? Then, “gonzo journalist” and longtime Woody Creek resident Hunter S. Thompson’s widow is asking the Colorado Bureau of Investigation to reopen the case of his death in 2005 , which was ruled a suicide, but why she’s requesting the probe remains murky. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dive into these stories plus new information on Pete’s University Park Cafe, the Avs’ questionable allegiance , and a listener question about a Denverite on “Survivor.” Paul mentioned Hunter S. Thompson’s famous Rolling Stone article “ The Battle of Aspen .” After we recorded this episode, Cale Makar answered a reporter’s question about the view of him wearing an LA Rams uniform. For even more news from around the city, 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 Hunter S. Thompson’s legacy in Colorado? 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 7th episode: Denver Film Wise Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 6

Is your neighborhood ready for “gentle density”? The city’s community planning and development office is starting work on a project to bring missing middle housing — duplexes, fourplexes, etc. — to more Denver neighborhoods, and that means some neighbors are gearing up for a fight! City Councilman Kevin Flynn represents southwest Denver and was re-elected after he warned against so-called gentle density. So today he joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about Denver’s housing challenges and a variety of other hot-button issues facing the city, including the mayor’s controversial budget proposal for 2026 and a couple ballot measures Denverites will be deciding next month. What do you think about “gentle density” in your neighborhood? 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 October 6th episode: Denver Film Wise Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 3

One of Mayor Mike Johnston’s biggest priorities this year is showing Denverites how much better 16th St. looks post-construction. And as of Tuesday, he’s got a big new prize to show off: The Denver Pavilions . He’s arranged to buy the 27-year-old “mall on the mall” for $37 million — Coyote Ugly and all. Former Republican congressional candidate Valdamar Archuleta joins producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to talk about the mayor’s downtown shopping spree. Plus, we debate the latest calls to boycott an allegedly MAGA-owned business in Wheat Ridge and, of course, our wins and fails of the week. Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm/ Paul mentioned a Reddit thread where protesters were discussing their actions against the Rocky Mountain Reckoning event at The Werks last Sunday. He also talked about Bake Fest this Saturday morning, RTD’s Access-on-Demand rate change , and the Starbucks inside REI . Olivia talked about banned books and leaf-peepers in Georgetown . Valdamar discussed the Rockies’ rebuild and recent changes at the airport, as well as this pilot’s frustrations . What do you think about the mayor buying the Pavilions? We need 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 . Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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 3rd episode: Wise Window Nation Multipass Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 2

Something very weird is happening in Denver’s rental market. For the first time in what feels like forever, the average rent is going down. But at the same time, evictions are skyrocketing! They are set to break records again in 2025 after setting a tragic high-water mark in 2024. And amid the escalating eviction crisis, Mayor Mike Johnston informed eviction defense groups last week that he was cutting their funding . So producer Paul Karolyi is sitting down with the head of one of those groups, Community Economic Defense Project co-founder Zach Neumann , to talk about why evictions are up when average rents are down, and what the mayor’s decision means for the people most at-risk. Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm/ Paul mentioned his interview a few months ago with Drew Hamrick, the senior vice president of Government Affairs for the Apartment Association of Metro Denver. What do you think about rising evictions and the mayor’s choice to shift funding? 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 October 2nd episode: Wise Window Nation Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 1

The leaves are turning, the temps are dropping, and that 12-foot plastic skeleton is back up in the neighbor’s yard. It’s officially October. So how’re you going to make the most of spooky season in Denver this year? From walking tacos on West Colfax to a chilling history museum exhibit, we’re back with our monthly guide to living the good life in the Mile High City. Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm/ 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 October in Denver, we’ll have even more tips and suggestions in our newsletter Hey Denver later this week. If you enjoyed today's sponsored interview with Riah and Andy Cambron, the CEO of Multipass, learn more here. City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Wise , Window Nation , and Multipass . 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

Sep 30

In the context of his proposed budget for 2026, Mayor Mike Johnston has announced plans to shut down two shelters, saving the city $11 million. But that’s still far from enough to cover the $250 million shortfall between 2025 and 2026. The mayor critics are growing in number and intensity, blaming him for mismanagement, so Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about who’s to blame for the budget woes and what they have to do with his new policy strategy on homelessness. Plus, a ⁠longshot candidate for governor⁠ enters the race, and a listener has questions about rats at Larimer Square. Patty talked about ⁠the mayor’s plans⁠ for Central Park. Paul mentioned ⁠Denverite’s reporting⁠ on the city’s budget woes. Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at ⁠https://membership.citycast.fm⁠ What do you think about the mayor’s new direction on 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 For even more news from around the city, 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 September 30th episode: ⁠Wise⁠ ⁠Window Nation⁠ ⁠Multipass⁠ ⁠Cozy Earth⁠ - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Sep 29

Denver as a city is more than 160 years old. So, with quite a few decades under the city’s belt, how are things looking these days? From a former mayor’s COVID-era tweets to a popular theater with a questionable moniker, we put some of Denver’s most famous and iconic people, places, and things to the test: Did that age well? Host Bree Davies debates the Mile High City’s best and worst looks with politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval and Molly Smith, host of the Did That Age Well? podcast ! Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm/ Bree mentioned both her and producer Paul Karolyi‘s appearances on Molly’s podcast to talk about Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Jurassic Park . What do you think about Denver has aged well? Or really, really hasn’t? 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 September 29th episode: Wise Window Nation Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 26

For years, the social media account DoBetterDNVR has been a thorn in Mayor Mike Johnston’s side, attracting 150,000 followers with harsh personal attacks, policy critiques, and crowd-sourced photos and videos of people experiencing homelessness in crisis. Then on Monday night, the anonymous admin mysteriously deactivated the accounts on Instagram and X. Our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about why DoBetterDNVR stepped away now. Plus, a new report on how local politicians are navigating “toxic” social media , a preview the Denver season of Love is Blind that’s set to premiere next Wednesday, and all our wins and fails of the week. UPDATE: Hours after we recorded this episode, DoBetterDNVR returned! The newly reactivated account posted a surprising message acknowledging mistakes, committing to more accurate posts, and apologizing to Mayor Johnston and his wife Courtney. We are working to verify this new post and learn more. Bree talked about Pete’s University Park Cafe closing and Glenwood Springs . Paul discussed weed lounges , Palantir’s new merch , Rich Spirit Bagels , and our recent episode on how weird Gov. Polis is online . Justine talked about recycling plastic bottles and the new play from Jeff Campbell, Jedidiah Blackstone . Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm/ What do you think about DoBetterDNVR's change of heart? 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 . Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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: Wise Clyfford Still Museum Window Nation - Get an extra 10% off the original offer until end of September Downtown Denver Partnership Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 25

Fall is officially here, and the vibes are getting cozy. But beyond a quick service pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks, where do you go to settle in and really enjoy a warm and welcoming cup of coffee? Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love are joined by entrepreneur, content creator, and coffee shop aficionado ⁠Michelle Jackson⁠ to talk about the best local spots that bring the ambiance, offer creative drink choices, and capture what it means to be the best at the coffee game in the Mile High City. Bree mentioned the lawsuit local baristas ⁠recently filed⁠ against Starbucks corporate’s new dress code. Michelle mentioned ⁠Weathervane’s “grandma-core” cabins⁠ that you can rent in Clear Creek County. She also mentioned the podcast she hosts for Colorado CarShare, “ ⁠How You Got There.⁠ ” Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at ⁠https://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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: ⁠membership.citycast.fm⁠ What’s your favorite coffee shop in the Denver metro? 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 25th episode: ⁠Wise⁠ ⁠Clyfford Still Museum⁠ ⁠Window Nation⁠ - Get an extra 10% off the original offer until end of September ⁠Downtown Denver Partnership⁠ Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Sep 24

With some of the best pho, dim sum, and tacos in the city, Federal Boulevard long ago earned its reputation as a top dining destination. But lately, Havana Street in Aurora has been getting attention for its own variety of global cuisine. So, is Havana the new Federal? We posed this question to Westword food writer Antony Bruno, who’s been eating his way up Aurora’s boulevard of strip malls, box stores, and used car lots, finding delicious surprises along the way. From a tucked away taqueria to a local Korean BBQ chain, Bruno shares what he’s learned about Aurora and some of his favorites with host Bree Davies. Antony talked about Taqueria Corona , Snowl , Dae Gee Korean BBQ , Tofu Story , Yemen Grill , Coco Loco , and Katsu Ramen . Bree mentioned the Havana Night Market’s final event of the year this Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. at Leezakaya. Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm/ What’s your favorite place to eat on Havana St.? 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 If you enjoyed this interview with Window Nation's Sales Manager, Ryan Quinnell, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 24th episode: Wise Clyfford Still Museum Window Nation - Get an extra 10% off the original offer until end of September Downtown Denver Partnership Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 23

A major commercial real estate company is ⁠buying up buildings⁠ in downtown Denver and wants to convert the empty offices into housing, but the mysterious landowner is ⁠standing in the way⁠ . And what does the owner of Lakeside Amusement Park have to do with the mayor’s big plan to revitalize the city’s urban core? Then, RTD has committed almost $1 million to pilot a shuttle service to Red Rocks, but it ⁠won’t be serving concert goers.⁠ Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about these big stories on development and transit, plus a listener question about Clerk and Recorder Paul López’s ⁠delinquent property tax payments⁠ . Bree spoke with Paul López on Monday’s show about his beef with ⁠the mayor’s proposed budget cuts⁠ . Paul mentioned CBRE’s ⁠recent analysis of downtown real estate⁠ and Evan Makovsky’s ⁠recent deal to lease space⁠ on 16th St. to Green Spaces with help from the Downtown Development Authority. For even more news from around the city, 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 September 23rd episode: ⁠Wise⁠ ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST ⁠Clyfford Still Museum⁠ ⁠Window Nation⁠ ⁠Downtown Denver Partnership⁠ ⁠Cozy Earth⁠ - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Sep 22

Clerk and Recorder Paul López has been very vocal lately in his distaste for Mayor Johnston’s proposed city budget cuts. The top elections official feels the integrity of Denver’s ballot system is at stake and has even called the mayor’s decisions on city funding “a threat to democracy.” So, López himself sits down with host Bree Davies to hash out his beef with Johnston’s 2026 budget proposal and explain why he thinks the mayor’s fiscal moves are so dangerous for Denver’s elections. We also share a direct response to López’s claims from the mayor. Bree quoted Denverite’s reporting on former mayor John Hickenlooper’s layoffs in 2009. For even more news from around the city, 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 September 22nd episode: WISE Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Clyfford Still Museum Window Nation Downtown Denver Partnership Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 19

Mayor Mike Johnston revealed his proposed budget for 2026 this week — the vibes are off and the numbers are down. But what can we read between the lines of his proposals to see where the city is going next? Our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the mayor’s new priorities on homelessness and other secrets hidden in the budget. Plus, some City Park neighbors are big mad about the Denver Zoo’s proposal to reopen a long-shuttered West Gate , so we’re talking about one of our favorite topics — parking — and all our other wins and fails of the week. Plus, Justine has a big announcement. Paul talked about a landmark preservation debate in Wash Park, rising homelessness in Houston , exceptions to Waste No More , and Denver’s gun violence dashboard . Bree talked about the Federal Theater reopening . Justine discussed the recent debates over the Mestizo-Curtis Park Pool and Park Hill Park . We also discussed the La Loma green chile situation . What do you think about the Zoo reopening the old West Gate? We want to hear from you! Especially if you live in City Park West. 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 clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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: Arvada Center Denver Botanic Garden Denver Health Window Nation Florence Crittenton Services Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 18

Fighting on the internet is nothing new. But as our social media becomes more algorithmically siloed, the outrage machines are reshaping our policy outcomes in very real ways. Chris Vanderveen is an investigative reporter for 9News and has seen firsthand how online discourse is getting more divisive and subjective — especially when it comes to news coverage of crime. He joins host Bree Davies to talk about some recent stories he’s covered, why he engages with anonymous commenters on X.com, and how all the outrage is impacting laws and policy-making in Colorado. What do you think about online outrage in Denver right now? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Here’s one of Chris’ X threads about the Denver bus stabbings , and his post about getting offline. For even more news from around the city, 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 September 18th episode: Arvada Center Denver Botanic Garden Denver Health Window Nation Florence Crittenton Services Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 17

Is it possible to capture the feeling of life in Denver in a song? Many, many people have tried, and the results are … mixed. But there’s a new banger out this year that we think shows off the magic of the city! So we invited the rappers behind the track — “ Next Stop Denver ” by Nelo (Feat. Wayne Watts) — to join host Bree Davies and Denver Post entertainment reporter John Wenzel to break down their creative process and talk about all the songs they think embody our city best. What did we miss? We want to hear your picks for the songs that embody 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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm If you enjoyed this interview with Window Nation's Sales Manager, Ryan Quinnell, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this September 17th episode: Arvada Center Denver Botanic Garden Denver Health Window Nation Florence Crittenton Services Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 16

The 2025 Michelin Guide has officially dropped and everyone from a seasoned sushi chef to a restaurant that just opened this summer picked up accolades. So, how did our Michelin predictions from last week pan out? Then, as Evergreen reels from the shooting last week, local businesses and a rival school are stepping up to support the community. Host Bree Davies and producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love discuss the latest news, plus respond to listener comments about our recent coverage of the school shooting and the killing of Charlie Kirk. The Colorado Healing Fund is collecting donations to support shooting victims and needs of the Evergreen community; there is also a GoFundMe for Evergreen shooting survivor Matthew Silverstone. Paul mentioned Don’t Name Them , which like “ No Notoriety ” campaign was founded by families of victims of the Aurora theater shooting. For even more news from around the city, 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: Arvada Center Denver Botanic Garden Denver Health Window Nation Florence Crittenton Services Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 15

Denver’s dating scene is changing, and it will soon be on display for the whole world to see when Netflix’s “Love is Blind” premieres on October 1. The trailer dropped last week, featuring a brand new cast of Denverites hoping to find love. They’ve been filming in the city for the past year and reality dating show lovers are excited. So we’re revisiting a conversation host Bree Davies had with snow-former Denver Post reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton and Westword reporter Hannah Metzger, who had each been looking into the local story of dating apps, bars, creeps, and the persistent stereotype of ‘Menver.’ This episode originally aired on July 25, 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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Are you excited to watch this season of Love is Blind? What do you think of the Denverites they picked? 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 15th episode: Arvada Center Denver Botanic Garden Denver Health Window Nation Florence Crittenton Services Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 12

As Colorado was rocked by yet another school shooting Wednesday afternoon, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was also shot and killed on a college campus in Utah. Coloradans are shocked, saddened, and enraged as the conversation yet again turns to guns, violence, and our polarized media. Then, the Broncos have officially announced that their future stadium will be built in Denver proper. Are we gonna call this one Mile High Stadium, too? Comedian Adam Cayton-Holland joins producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to dig into these stories, plus our wins and fails of the week. Paul talked about Ben Roy’s Facebook post about social media, Westword’s coverage of the scandal at the Mexican Consulate in Denver, and his friend Jem’s album release concert at The Bug this Saturday. Bree discussed the passing of photojournalist Corky Scholl and his Save the Signs project and SarahFest happening this weekend at Manos Sagrados. Adam mentioned yet another Rockies record-breaking loss , the rare wood stork sighting in Broomfield, and next weekend’s High Plains Comedy Festival (which is still looking for volunteers! ) ICYMI: We are launching the City Cast Denver Creator Community It's a network of local creators elevating the stories that matter most in their communities. Sound up your alley? Apply here or send to a friend who could be a good fit. Should we call the new Broncos stadium Mile High? 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 . Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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 12th episode: Huel - Use code DENVER for 15% off Children's Hospital Colorado Rocky Mountain PBS- The Drop Wise Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Window Nation Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 11

Colorado’s Michelin Era enters year three on Monday, with another fancy party for the local restaurant industry and some prestigious awards at stake. So who will the French tire company recognize this year? And will the big awards help buoy restaurant industry struggling with rising costs and increasingly discerning diners? Westword food editor Molly Martin is back with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to dish on the cream of Denver’s restaurant crop, with rumors, gossip, predictions, and speculation about the upcoming Michelin Guide to Colorado, 2025 edition. Paul mentioned this great New York Times article about Michelin’s arrival in Colorado from 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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about the Michelin Guide? Do you think they are recognizing the right spots? Who do you think deserves a star this year? 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 11th episode: Huel - Use code DENVER for 15% off Children's Hospital Colorado Rocky Mountain PBS- The Drop Wise Window Nation Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 10

La Loma has been serving its beloved green chile in Denver for more than 5 decades. But behind the scenes, a bitter divorce has put ownership of restaurant’s name and its closely guarded green chile recipe in jeopardy. Denver Post food reporter Miguel Otárola sits down with host Bree Davies to lay out the future of the restaurant’s name , a judge’s ruling on the claims of intellectual property of a recipe , and explain what connection, if any, owners Renee and William Brinkerhoff have to “Grandma” Savina Mendoza and her green chile magic that put La Loma on the map. For even more news from around the city, 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 La Loma’s green chile? Is it worth all this hullabaloo? 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 September 10th episode: Huel - Use code DENVER for 15% off Children's Hospital Colorado Rocky Mountain PBS- The Drop Wise Window Nation Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 9

The number of Denverites who don’t like Mayor Mike Johnston has grown by a lot, according to a new poll from the Colorado Polling Institute . But at the same time, Denverites are more optimistic about the city’s future and think it’s safer than it was when he was inaugurated. So what’s going on? Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to dissect the new CPI poll and how some big recent stories might be affecting the numbers. Plus, we’re checking in on some of our predictions for 2025 and a listener calls in to demand an update on the long-awaited animatronic dinos in RiNo. What do you think about the future of the city? Are you optimistic or pessimistic? 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 September 9th episode: Huel - Use code DENVER for 15% off Children's Hospital Colorado Rocky Mountain PBS- The Drop Wise Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Window Nation Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 8

When a new national women’s soccer stadium was announced earlier this year, a lot of Denverites were excited. But when the mayor proposed around $70 million to support the project, the debate became contentious. And no, post-layoffs, the prospects are looking murky. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are sitting down with City Councilwoman Flor Alvidrez, who was a big booster of the project in her District 7, to talk through the latest and all the other big issues facing her district, including Broadway businesses’ recent struggles and why she thinks the mayor’s hyper focus on downtown might mean he’s neglecting other parts of the city. For even more news from around the city, 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 September 8th episode: Huel - Use code DENVER for 15% off Children's Hospital Colorado Rocky Mountain PBS- The Drop Wise Window Nation Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 5

After Waymo’s surprise announcement earlier this week, Denver is abuzz with talk of driverless cars. The ride-share service isn’t live yet, but the Waymos are on our streets, and Denverites’ feelings are big. Local writer and events producer Jake Browne joins producer Olivia Jewell Love and host Bree Davies to talk autonomous cars — plus, a Ballpark resident recently installed something called a “blue chirper” on her building, and this new era of hostile architecture is dividing the neighborhood. And as always, all our wins and fails of the week. We discussed previous episodes with Jake involving Michelin star hype and the best things we ate in 2024 , as well as Olivia’s deep dive into Gov. Jared Polis’ weird online persona. Jake talked about the Rockies and Adam Cayton-Holland’s call for a boycott and r/Denver’s mods . Olivia mentioned Gov. Polis’ latest Taylor Swift post . Visit Colorado’s recent ad , and the Denver Gazette’s recent reporting on Ballpark. Bree discussed Hannah Metzger’s tour of Denver with her six-year-old niece and Riverdale Animal Shelter . ICYMI: We are launching the City Cast Denver Creator Community . It's a network of local creators elevating the stories that matter most in their communities. Sound up your alley? Apply here or send to a friend who could be a good fit. What do you think about Waymo coming to 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 . Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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 5th episode: Colfax Ave BID Multipass Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 4

Both Governor Jared Polis and Mayor Mike Johnston are very excited that Waymo is bringing self-driving cars to the Mile High . But what will these autonomous vehicles mean for our already congested streets? And where will they park??? Probably not along Colfax, as BRT construction is eating up spaces and business owners are stressed about it. Host Bree Davies is joined by Jill Locantore, executive director of Denver Streets Partnership , to talk about Waymo’s relationship to pedestrian safety and share her big idea that could change Denver’s parking scarcity mindset. Bree and Jill talked about the Denver Streets Partnership’s East Colfax parking management study and what a parking benefits district could look like. What do you think about Jill’s big idea? 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 September 4th episode: Colfax Ave BID Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 3

Months into an investigation, the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights has decided that East High School’s all-gender restrooms do, in fact, violate Title IX . The feds gave DPS ten days from last Friday to comply with a resolution to convert the bathrooms back to single gender — and while Superintendent Alex Marrero responded by doubling down on the district’s support of trans students, he has yet to comment specifically on whether DPS will follow through. Host Bree Davies and producer Olivia Jewell Love dig into the bathroom battle, plus discuss new data from RTD that shows customer complaints about open drug use along the transit system are down dramatically. Will it be enough to bring ridership back to pre-pandemic levels? ICYMI: We are launching the City Cast Denver Creator Community 🎉It's a network of local creators elevating the stories that matter most in their communities. Sound up your alley? Apply here or send to a friend who could be a good fit. For even more news from around the city, 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 this interview with Dr. Jessica Apted, the Medical Director of Sploot, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 3rd episode: Colfax BID Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 2

Pumpkin spice lattes are back at Starbucks, and green chile roasters are heating up in our strip mall parking lots. September is a time for spice! So for this month’s guide to Denver, we’ve got tons of great recommendations to heat things up and keep it cool — from a killer local music festival at Manos Sagrados in Aurora to the spicy curries at Himchuli . 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 August in Denver, we’ll have even more tips and suggestions in our newsletter Hey Denver later this week. If you enjoyed today's interview with Andy Cambron, the CEO of Multipass, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 2 episode: Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Rino 5K + Larimer Mile Colfax BID We’re also powered by our neighbors, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about becoming a City Cast Denver Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm ! 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

Aug 29

Mayor Johnston logged on for his third Ask Me Anything on Reddit earlier this week, fielding questions from anonymous Denverites on everything from the recent city layoffs to his favorite cheeseburger. But did constituents think the conversation was worth it? Then, gubernatorial candidate Michael Bennet is wading into the controversy over a new Buc-ee’s planned north of Colorado Springs, but why he’s so interested in a mega gas station is a mystery — and producer Paul Karolyi has a theory. He’s joined by host Bree Davies and returning fave, comedian Joshua Emerson, to dig into these stories plus the biggest wins and fails of the week. Bree mentioned the community coming out to support Petals and Pages after vandalism , the mayor’s new “outreach with enforcement” approach to public drug use, and the closing of Arapahoe House in 2018 . Joshua talked about… Paul discussed Sardar Biglari and Cracker Barrel’s Colorado connection , the Denver Rock Drill redevelopment getting off the ground, and our most recent interview with Mayor Johnston. He also mentioned Colorado Politics’ reporting on John Malone and Ian Griffis . After we recorded this episode, Phil Weiser’s campaign shared this statement on the Buc-ees: Protecting our public lands and open spaces means we must be committed to the fight against President Trump and Interior Secretary Burgum selling them off to the highest bidder. Leaders committed to fighting this administration are what will stop their illegal actions—not political statements about where a Buc-ee's should be located. My focus as attorney general and as the next Governor is on doing everything I can to push back against Trump's and Burgum's illegal actions to sell off our open spaces and undermine our protections of our land, air, and water---not on where a Buc-ee's should or should not be built. Our state is one of local control. Under our state constitution, we follow the principle that purely local matters are best left to local towns, cities, and their voters to decide. If local voters do not agree with a local decision, our system allows them to voice their disapproval and hold their elected officials accountable at the ballot box. 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 clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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 August 29th episode: KUVO Jazz Colfax BID Multipass Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Wise Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 28

Another Colorado funeral home is in hot water. After a surprise inspection, the Davis Mortuary in Pueblo was found to be in possession of several improperly stored, decomposing bodies . Sadly, in the last few years, the state has seen many cases of compromised cadavers, from a funeral home illegally selling body parts to the startling case of business owners abandoning corpses in 70 degree rooms for years. State lawmakers passed new regulations in 2024 , but how did Colorado become the Wild West of funeral homes in the first place? Last March, host Bree Davies sat down with mortuary science expert Faith Haug to get a better understanding of how the state got here. This episode first aired on March 6, 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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about all the bodies, bodies, bodies? 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: KUVO Jazz Wise Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 27

Local vape shop owners say that the flavored tobacco ban Mayor Johnston signed into law last year represents an existential threat to their businesses and a major blow to the City of Denver’s sales tax revenues. But will that be enough to convince Denver voters to repeal the ban this November? Producer Paul Karolyi sits down with two local vape shop owners — Kristen Hensel of Rusty’s Vape and Smoke Shop and Philip Guerin of Myxed Up Creations — to talk about how kids get access to vapes, the Zyn plant being built in Aurora, and what the flavored tobacco ban means for their businesses. Paul talked about the Geek Bar website , this CU Anschutz report on Denver’s flavored tobacco ban, the surge in nitrous oxide , aka “whippets,” in Denver, and Gov. Jared Polis’ position on a statewide flavored tobacco ban, which he said he opposed in 2022. He also cited reporting on the repeal campaign’s 17,000 signatures and $328,000 raised . We’ve reached out to the Food & Drug Administration for comment on Phil’s claim of regular attempted busts at his shop and haven’t heard back. For even more news from around the city, 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 repealing the 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 Learn more about the sponsors of this August 27th episode: KUVO Jazz Wise Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 26

What’s more offensive to Denverites: The fact that a new business opening in Cherry Creek North calls itself a “bodega” or the fact that it’s owned by an apparent Trump supporter? When Town Pump Provisions opened on Third Avenue earlier this month, social media sleuths dug up some info that led to calls of a boycott. So producers Olivia Jewell Love and Paul Karolyi are talking about the politics of local boycotts. Plus, a Republican state representative resigned after he was outed for starting a cyberbullying campaign against a Democrat colleague. And finally, we hear from a city worker who was laid off and more comments from listeners. Olivia mentioned this post on X about Rep. Katie Stewart. Paul mentioned the Monfort family’s various political contributions over the years. What do you think about boycotting a local Trump supporter-owned business? 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 August 26th episode: KUVO Jazz Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Wise Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 25

Since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, Denverites have been talking a lot about Israel and its retaliation on Gaza. College students are now under federal investigation for a Gaza solidarity protest. Local courts are deciding if the Boulder attacker was guilty of a hate crime. A wave of antisemitism has put our Jewish neighbors at risk. And Colorado voters will soon weigh the merits of Democratic candidates who speak openly about ending U.S. support for Israel. So producer Paul Karolyi is speaking with Brandon Rattiner, the senior director of the Jewish Community Relations Council , about the investigation, the changing local politics around Israel, and what it has all meant for Colorado’s Jewish community. Brandon mentioned a photo of a child in Gaza that appeared on the front page of the New York Times. We recommend reading the whole article on people starving in Gaza , including the editor’s note Brandon was referencing about that specific child’s pre-existing condition. For even more news from around the city, 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 how the changing local politics around Israel’s attack on Gaza? 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 August 25th episode: KUVO Jazz Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 22

City councilmembers are angry at him . The clerk and recorder is accusing him of “ cowardice .” Former supporters are abandoning him . But what will the average Denver voter think about how Mayor Mike Johnston handled laying off 169 workers this week? Denver Post city hall reporter Elliott Wenzler and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval join producer Paul Karolyi to talk about “The Hunger Games,” as some city employees described the layoffs. Plus, we respond to Defector’s take on ‘ Why Denver Sucks ’ and all our wins and fails of the week. Paul talked about Flock cameras , Playa Bowls , and his conversation with at-large City Councilmember Sarah Parady earlier this week. Justine talked about an emu and DPS’ heat day . Elliott discussed the big local TV merger and the Denver Zoo lion cam that she read about in Hey Denver. Some City Council members are hosting a webinar for city workers this Sunday at 4pm. You can RSVP here . Do you think the Defector roasts of Denver were too harsh? Or on point? 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 . Watch clips from the show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver or 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 August 22nd episode: Arvada Center Denver Health Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 21

Ever since the election in November, Democrats across the country have been scrambling to figure out what went wrong, so they can rally and try to take back control of Congress in 2026. One candidate who has emerged, at least in terms of his impressive early fundraising numbers, is Commerce City’s own Manny Rutinel, a fresh face even in the Colorado Capitol, where he has served only two sessions as a state representative. So, as Rutinel and the rest of the legislature return to Denver today for a special legislative session , he joins producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the state’s budget priorities, possible tweaks to his controversial AI law, immigration, food trucks, veganism, and his campaign to win back Congressional District 8 from Republican Gabe Evans. Rutinel has reportedly raised $1.6 million for his campaign so far, as of the second quarter of this year. For more on Evans’ and the other Democrats’ fundraising, Axios Denver has the details . What do you think about Manny Rutinel’s chances in CD8? Would you like to hear from the other candidates hoping to unseat Republican Gabe Evans? 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 If you enjoyed the sponsored interview with Dr. Jessica Apted, Medical Director of Sploot, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this August 21st episode: Arvada Center Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 20

Ever since Mayor Mike Johnston announced a $250 million budget shortfall and the possibility of layoffs, city workers have been nervously preparing for “The Purge” or “The Hunger Games.” We now know that 171 workers are losing their jobs this week and 800 more positions will be eliminated, but we don’t know how that’s going to affect city services. City Council member at-large Sarah Parady joins producer Paul Karolyi to discuss the biggest city layoffs in 15 years . Plus, a bunch of other hot-button issues facing council, from Salvation Army’s cancelled contracts for homeless services to the mayor’s big push for more AI. Paul mentioned the New York Times reporting on Uber’s sexual assault data. Sarah talked about the Colorado Drivers Coop and the comic Questionable Content . What do you think about the way the mayor is handling these layoffs?? 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 20th episode: Arvada Center Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 19

President Trump is calling on Democrat-run cities to watch closely as he attempts to take control of Washington, D.C. So we’re talking about one of the policies he’s pushing and some new data on how harsher penalties for fentanyl possession have been impacting overdose deaths in Colorado. Producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love discuss the shifting politics around public safety and addiction. Plus, some hilarious and insightful listener comments about Gov. Jared Polis’ online antics and animal sounds on 16th St., and the best ways to survive a zombie apocalypse in Denver. Paul mentioned Denverite’s reporting on the city layoffs happening this week and Dr. Joshua Barocas’s study on the fentanyl felonization bill. Here’s the sound art on 16th St. that a listener told us about. For even more news from around the city, 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 harm reduction and the 2022 fentanyl law? 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 August 19th episode: Arvada Center Denver Health Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 18

Have you tried a pickle pizza? What about one topped with peaches and prosciutto? And is the hot honey trend past its sell-by date? There’s a lot of hype around a new spot on Santa Fe , but is the best pizza in Denver actually in Longmont ? Cookbook author and hot take slinger Allyson Reedy returns to the podcast to talk about all the latest pizza news, from buzzy openings to trendy topping combos we’ve been loving all across the Front Range. We want to hear your hot pizza takes! Text us or leave a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 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 City swag. For even more news from around the city, 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 If you enjoyed this interview with Denver Trivia League's Julio Trujilo, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this August 18th episode: Arvada Center Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 15

After Rep. Jason Crow was turned away from the ICE detention center in Aurora a few weeks ago, he and Colorado’s three other Democratic members of the House were ⁠finally granted access⁠ this week for a tour. So what did they see? And what does it have to do with the new detention center ICE ⁠wants to open⁠ north of the city? With Trump taking unprecedented control of the police in DC, State Sen. Julie Gonzales and our politics contributor Deep Singh Badhesha join producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the Democrats’ resistance strategy here in Denver. Plus, a ⁠controversial proposal⁠ to build a nuclear reactor at DIA was delayed, and all our wins and fails of the week. Paul talked about “ ⁠Whip-Its⁠ ” and ⁠DIRT⁠ . Julie mentioned the ⁠wildfires raging⁠ on the Western Slope. Deep talked about ⁠City Council’s votes on voting⁠ and ⁠the Savannah Bananas at Coors Field⁠ . 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 City swag. What do you think about a nuclear reactor at DIA? Is that a good idea? Or a total nightmare? 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 . Watch the Friday show on YouTube: ⁠youtube.com/@citycastdenver⁠ 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 ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST ⁠Rocky Mountain PBS⁠ ⁠Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate⁠ - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez ⁠ HERE ⁠ , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Aug 14

The average Denverite probably isn’t walking around thinking about the special legislative session next week or debating specific line items of the Vibrant Denver bond with their friends. So what’s really on their minds? Producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love walked up and down 16th St. for a few hours earlier this week to talk to Denverites about what’s most important to them — everything from the mayor’s work on homelessness and bringing life back downtown, to the sorely missed Mellow Mushroom and what local billionaire Stan Kroenke eats for lunch. Thanks to everyone who talked to us! 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 City swag. For even more news from around the city, 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 this interview with Dr. Jessica Apted, the Medical Director of Sploot, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this August 14th episode: Arvada Center Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Rocky Mountain PBS Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 13

Colorado Governor Jared Polis is term-limited and rumor is he’s got his eye on a run for president, but are his signature dorky online antics ready for the national stage? Producer Olivia Jewell Love has been obsessed with the way Polis presents himself online. So as we prepare for the special legislative session (and another great opportunity for a signature Polis stunt) next week, she researched everything from his earliest posts and blogs to his latest prime-time antics. Today, Olivia is on with fellow chronically online politics watcher Adrian Felix and producer Paul Karolyi to parse Polis’ most cringeworthy moments and talk about our very online governor. Why is he like this? And is it working for him? 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 City swag. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Olivia mentioned Polis’ tweet about the pedestrian bridge , his Feliz Navidad video , and his Governor’s portrait tweet. Adrian mentioned the special session glass-breaking stunt, and Paul mentioned his Reddit rock findings . 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 Governor Polis’ style of communicating? 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 August 13th episode: Arvada Center Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Rocky Mountain PBS Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 12

Mayor Mike Johnston is set to announce which and how many city employees will be laid off in less than a week, and rumors are swirling! Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to speculate about the impacts. Plus, the city’s economic development office just revealed how much the minimum wage will be going up in January, and the city is rolling out a new plan to “support and advance” local restaurants. Will it be enough? Or will we see another push to lower the tipped minimum wage? Plus, Patty responds to listener comments about parking downtown. 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 City swag. Paul discussed Benzina’s instagram account , CBS Colorado’s coverage of Denver’s new city attorney, the Denver Post’s reporting on Jevon Taylor’s big plan for a new Green Spaces on 16th St., this CPR interview with Mayor Johnston and this Denver Gazette report on the bill for the lawyer he hired to help out with the “sanctuary cities” congressional hearing. What do you think about the minimum wage going up? 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 If you enjoyed this interview with Kelsey Simpkins from Regional Air Quality Council, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 12th episode: Arvada Center Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Rocky Mountain PBS Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 11

Sloan’s Lake is fighting for its life. Even the human-made lake's signature event, the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival, is looking for a new home because the body of water is too shallow and toxic, especially this time of year when the blue-green algae is blooming. So, what would it take to save this historic Mile High gem? Turns out, a lot. Host Bree Davies sits down with Kurt Weaver, executive director of the Sloan ’ s Lake Park Foundation , to learn more about the massive environmental challenges, the moonshot plan to address them, and why it might cost upwards of $130 million to make the lake clean and safe again.The Colorado Dragon Boat Festival is still set for Sept. 6 and 7 in Sloan’s Lake Park this year. Kurt mentioned this upcoming park clean-up and education walk event on August 16, as well as this video of a board member walking out into the middle of the lake. 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 City swag. What do you think about Sloan’s Lake? Do you visit the park often? Who do you think should pay for it to be dredged? 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 11th episode: Arvada Center Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Rocky Mountain PBS Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 8

City Council voted to eliminate parking minimums this week — could this open the door for cheaper housing or just cause more traffic? Then, The Hornet announced it was closing after nearly 30 years on South Broadway. Was it rising rents, restaurant operation costs, or something else? At the same time, neighborhood businesses and residents will soon consider a special tax to pay for things like graffiti removal and private security in the hopes of helping South Broadway thrive. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval to dig into these stories plus wins and fails of the week. Paul mentioned Donald Shoup’s work and his book, “The High Cost of Free Parking,” the new east security checkpoint at DIA , and the Colorado GOP’s gross group chat about a colleague’s attire. Bree discussed the time Big Lots left South Broadway , Tommy’s Thai’s GoFundMe , and Kyle Harris’s reporting on Broadway for Denverite, which he discussed on our podcast . Justine talked about the gluten-free farmers market and the state’s decision to ban the use of SNAP benefits to buy pop . What do you think about parking in Denver? Do we have too much or too little? 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 . Watch the Friday show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver 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 August 8th episode: Regional Air Quality Council Multipass Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 7

We finally know which pricey infrastructure projects Denver voters will be deciding on this November, because earlier this week City Council approved the $950 million Vibrant Denver bond package. Did every neighborhood and community group get what they wanted? We talked about the bond a lot over the last few weeks and listeners, especially transit advocates, had thoughts as well — so host Bree Davies and producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love are reaching into the mail bag. They discuss your takes on bike lanes, back-to-office mandates, Mexican restaurants and issues that could dominate the 2026 elections. Bree mentioned this WHYY article about Philly’s return-to-office mandate last year. What do you think? We always 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: Regional Air Quality Council Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 6

Maybe it’s because the best zombie movie in years is still in theaters. Maybe it’s the fact that we just got through a very real global pandemic. Maybe it’s because Westword just found a study ranking MLB stadiums as refuges from zombie attacks. But fears of the walking dead are looming over Denver right now. So if there really was an outbreak of the Rage virus or some other zombification plague here in the Mile High, what’s your plan? Westword’s Catie Cheshire reported on that MLB stadium study, and she returns to the show with producers Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to swap some disaster prep research and plot out our survival, from the first 24 hours to the best long-term spot to rebuild society. Olivia talked about Ark Tactical in Lakewood. Paul discussed nuclear missile silos . Who brought the best survival plan — Catie, Olivia or Paul? We want to know who you’d team up with? Or are you going it alone somewhere 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 For even more news from around the city, 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 6th episode: Regional Air Quality Council Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 5

The Center on Colfax recently announced they would no longer be accepting donations from Chevron, as long as the oil and gas giant was providing fuel to Israel . Meanwhile, Colorado’s senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper voted against a measure that would have stopped some arms shipments to Israel. So are Denverites’ opinions shifting when it comes to the war on Gaza? Then, internet provocateurs Do Better Denver have been exposed — but do the identities behind the account matter in the bigger picture? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi discuss these stories and more news of the week. Paul talked congressional candidate Melat Kiros, who is challenging Diana DeGette to represent Denver, and her history of speaking out on Gaza. For even more news from around the city, 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: Regional Air Quality Council Multipass Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 4

With office vacancy rates still high and and business owners clamoring for help, one of Mayor Mike Johnston’s biggest priorities is “revitalizing” downtown. Last November voters gave his efforts a big boost by expanding the Downtown Development Authority , giving him approximately $570 million to invest in projects that might give the area a spark. Rumors about the application process had been circulating until last week, when the mayor revealed 10 projects that will get the first $100 million. Westword editor Patty Calhoun has been following the DDA process, and she joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to dissect the list and talk about the notable omissions. Patty mentioned the raves planned at Civic Center Park and the plans for Civic Center’s “ Next 100 ” redevelopment project. Paul talked about Westword’s coverage of the Denver Immersive Repertory Theater and our interview with Mayor Mike Johnston last week. What do you think about the mayor’s work to revitalize downtown? Are these the projects you were hoping to see funded? 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 August 4th episode: Regional Air Quality Council Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 1

Will the actual person — or people — behind @DoBetterDNVR finally be revealed? The account known for posting photos of unhoused people has grown and made a lot of noise online this week over concerns its contributors’ identities could be exposed by the Denver Post. Then, cyclists claimed victory when two traffic calming projects were added back into the Vibrant Denver bond proposal. But are cars still winning the fight for funding and space overall? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by politics contributor Deep Singh Badhesha to dig into these stories, plus our wins and fails of the week. Bree mentioned the latest twist in the El Rancho/QuikTrip saga in Evergreen and the plans for an American Indian Cultural Center . Paul talked about Avalanche jersey rumors , QR code scammers , and his recent appearance on the Off the Clock podcast with Jon Eks. Deep talked about the state legislature’s imminent special session and his hope for a state full of big blue animals. What do you think about Do Better Denver’s identity being revealed? Is it doxxing or legitimate journalism? 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 August 1st episode: Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 31

The summer heat won’t slow us down — from the best bird watching at Barr Lake to our fave iced chai and cookie combo at Tablón Coffee Roasters , we’ve rounded up the best way to enjoy August 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. For even more tips on how to make the most of August in Denver, we’ll have even more tips and suggestions in our newsletter Hey Denver later this week. If you enjoyed today's interview with Andy Cambron, the CEO of Multipass, learn more here. We’re also powered by our neighbors, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about becoming a City Cast Denver Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm ! 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.

Jul 30

Be honest, you know you have one — a habit or guilty pleasure that as a proud Coloradan you know you shouldn’t indulge. When we first put out the call to hear listeners’ “toxic Colorado traits” earlier this year, we were overwhelmed with confessions so hilarious (and honest) that we had to share our own. It’s time to go deep on Mile High “obnoxious lore.” So we are revisiting that conversation with host Bree Davies and two of our favorite regular guests, stand-up comedian Kate MacLachlan and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval. What’s you toxic Colorado trait? You’ve heard ours and some great ones from other listeners, so it’s your turn to confess! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 This episode first aired on February 24, 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 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

Jul 29

President Trump turned his attention to Denver once again last week, with a new executive order meant to end “crime and disorder on America’s streets.” So what will the new order mean for Denverites? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are sorting through the details. Then, Bree spent the weekend talking to music lovers and industry types at the Underground Music Showcase. Will it be the last? Plus, Casa Bonita’s owners Matt Stone and Trey Parker got caught up in a big national political media scandal last week, so what will it mean for your sopaipillas? And finally, your questions and comments about some recent episodes. Paul mentioned our interview yesterday with Mayor Mike Johnston , in which he addressed possible city support for UMS. We discussed the UMS owners’ announcement a few weeks ago that this would be the last year “in its current form.” Check out Westword and Denverite for more coverage of Trump’s new executive order. What do you think should happen with UMS? 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 July 29th episode: Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 28

At the halfway point of his four-year term, Mayor Mike Johnston is facing some big challenges. He’s made a lot of progress on his work to end unsheltered homelessness in Denver and overseen reductions in violent crime, but as he himself said in his State of the City speech last week, the work is far from finished. Johnston returns for his regular sit-down with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk about the criticism he’s facing from some of his strongest allies, as well as his plans to convert office space downtown, how much he’s willing to support the Broncos’ new stadium project , and what he’d say if Michael Bennet becomes governor and offers him a vacant senate seat. What do you think about what Mayor Mike said? 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

Jul 25

Fights over the mayor’s Vibrant Denver bond proposal are heating up, with some transportation advocates and one city council member concerned that the Broncos’ stadium plans could be impacting who gets the biggest piece of the $935 million dollar pie. Then, Congressman Gave Evans has been a champion of President Trump’s immigration crackdown. But a new investigation from Colorado Newsline revealed a surprising truth behind the legislator’s claims that his family immigrated to the U.S. “the right way.” Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are joined by my musician, artist, and activist Kalyn Heffernan to dig into these stories plus our wins and fails of the week. Paul mentioned the new Denver National Women’s Soccer League name and logo and Kyle Clark’s crusade against Polis’ bridge succeeding. Bree talked about Rupp’s Drums closing , a realtor’s claims that Barnum is “rapidly gentrifying,” and UMS partnering with Keep the Party Safe for harm reduction training . Kalyn talked about her Untitled: Artist Takeover show tonight (Friday, July 25) at the Denver Art Museum and the potential end of the UMS . What do you think about the Broncos and the Bond? 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 . Watch the Friday show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver 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 July 26th episode: Denver Art Museum RAQC Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 24

In the most contentious citywide vote in recent memory, Denverites decided back in 2023 that private developers would not be allowed to build housing and retail on the old Park Hill Golf Course. So what is going to happen on that 155 acres of open space instead? Host Bree Davies is speaking with the executive director of Denver Parks and Recreation Jolon Clark about the city’s still-unfinished negotiations to buy the land, his office’s work to design a giant new park , and why the mayor’s Vibrant Denver bond proposal sets aside $70 million for this project when Parks and Rec has so many other sources of funding. What do you think about the plans for Park Hill Park? 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 July 24th episode: Denver Art Museum RAQC 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

Jul 23

Mayor Mike Johnston struck an optimistic note in his second State of the City speech on Monday evening, celebrating a historic drop in unsheltered homelessness and a 45% drop in homicides. But as he hits the halfway point in his four-year term, concerns are mounting about public safety, tax revenue shortfalls, and looming city layoffs. So is Johnston cruising to re-election? Or a one-term flame-out? Producer Paul Karolyi invited one of Johnston’s biggest critics, former mayoral candidate Lisa Calderón, to watch the speech and dissect Johnston’s wins, fails, and plans for the next two years. Lisa shared some concerns about equity in DIA contracting, which you can read more about 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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm How do you think Mayor Johnston is doing? Would you for for him to get a second term? 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 July 23rd episode: Denver Art Museum RAQC 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

Jul 22

Mike Johnston marks the halfway point in his four-year term as mayor this week, and some of his campaign’s biggest supporters are now big mad. The bike community, in particular, has been buzzing about the mayor’s decision to remove some bike lane infrastructure, so host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are looking at how his recent comments around the issue compare to his promises on the campaign trail. Plus, a bike safety campaign takes over Wash Park, an anonymous city staffer shares a comment on a recent episode, and Bree has feelings to share about her recent trip to Lakeside Amusement Park. Do you have a question for Mayor Johnston? He’s scheduled to be on the show soon, and we want to know what you think we should ask him about! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Paul quoted then-candidate Mike Johnston’s responses to the Denver Bicycle Lobby’s mayoral questionnaire. We also discussed the mayor’s recent interview with Denver7 and Lakeside’s “new” roller coaster . For even more news from around the city, 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 July 22nd episode: Denver Art Museum Learn about “ Simple Steps, Better Air ” from the Regional Air Quality Council Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 21

From taco trucks serving up quesabirria in suburban parking lots to fine dining spots winning awards for elevated tacos and pozole, there is a wide range of Mexican food in Denver. And thanks to a slew of very talented and boundary-pushing chefs, some of Denver’s beloved and distinct Mexican food traditions are being taken in exciting new directions. So what’s hot? What’s new? And where is “ Den-Mex ” going next? Host Bree Davies is speaking with a man who’s been at the center of it all. Mario Martinez has worked in kitchens with some of these hotshot chefs and now he explores the metro area to find the next great taco truck for his instagram account @TheColoradoFoodies . Check out all of Mario’s recommendations: Rosa Mexican Kitchen (Various) Luchador Taco & More (Whittier) Los Gallitos (Federal) Xiquita (Uptown) La Loteria (South Broadway) La Loma (Various) Chili Shack (Various) El Lucerito Jr. (Green Valley Ranch) Los Tres Potrillos (Food Truck) Garibaldi (South South Broadway) El Paraiso (Lakeside) Pollos El Guamuchil (Commerce City) Chivis Tacos (East Colfax) And here are the chefs that Bree mentioned: Manny Barella ( Riot BBQ ) Dana Rodriguez ( Casa Bonita , Carne , Super Mega Bien , Work + Class ) Jose Avila ( La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal , El Borrego Negro ) Johnny Curiel ( Mezcaleria Alma , Alteño , Alma Fonda Fina ) Michael Diaz de Leon (formerly BRUTØ, soon to be at Molino Chido in Stanley Marketplace) For even more news from around the city, 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 local spot for Mexican food? Have they been changing recently? New menu items? New presentation? 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 July 21st episode: Denver Art Museum RAQC 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

Jul 18

The debate over Gov. Jared Polis’ proposal to build an elevated walkway outside the Capitol has taken a turn, and for the first time he wants to hear what you think . So host Bree Davies is talking about the governor’s new survey with producer Olivia Jewell Love and our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval about what this new survey is all about. Plus, why are Denverites in particular clamoring to move to Mexico lately? And why are they particularly susceptible to scammers? Plus, our wins and fails of the week. Bree talked about the passing of Colorado poet laureate Andrea Gibson , the California Pizza Kitchen in the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, and the Sonic in Edgewater . Justine talked about accessibility at Rocky Mountain National Park , Margaret Atencio , and wildlife crossings, which are increasingly popular across Colorado. Olivia talked about this post on r/Denver about the patios at DIA and EV technician training in Aurora Goodwill. What do you think we should call the new Rhino in RiNo? 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 . Watch the Friday show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver 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 July 18th episode: Check out the Colfax Indie Week with the Colfax Ave BID Wild Iris Floral Studio Denver Health Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 17

At one point last year, Colorado was number one in the U.S. for market share of new electric vehicles, even beating California. But as the state winds down its EV rebates and the Trump administration’s budget bill cuts into federal EV incentives, will Denverites still be enticed to buy eco-friendly vehicles? CPR climate reporters Sam Brasch and Ishan Thakore join host Bree Davies to dig into this issue, plus they discuss Colorado’s foray into geothermal energy, and take a closer look at how a push for electric lawn equipment could be impacted by Denver’s budget shortfall. Sam mentioned a previous appearance on our show where we talked about the rise of EVs in Colorado . For even more news from around the city, 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 July 17th episode: Colfax Ave Wild Iris Floral Studio Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 16

In a story broken by BusinessDen in early June, it was revealed that some mysterious land deals were happening between property owners in and around Burnham Yard and a big, important entity in the city: the Denver Broncos. Further investigative reporting revealed that Denver Water — whose campus is just north of the defunct trainyard land — was also involved, even sending “intent to acquire” letters to surrounding landowners with hints of the use of eminent domain. BusinessDen reporter Justin Wingerter and editor Thomas Gounley join host Bree Davies to share what their investigation uncovered, discuss who else might be involved, and weigh in on whether this means the Broncos and their yet-to-be-built new stadium will stay in Denver. Historic Denver’s president John Deffenbaugh talked about the historic preservation work he’d like to see at Burnham Yard on our show a few months 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 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 Wild Iris Floral Studio Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 15

Mayor Mike Johnston is asking voters to approve a massive new bond this November, and we finally have a pretty good idea of which projects will be included . So why is one councilmember “incredibly angry”? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi talk through which projects made the cut, which neighborhoods are getting ignored, and why City Council is divided . Plus, have you been to the Little Man Ice Cream in Highland lately? There’s a really nasty smell around that famous milk jug, and we figured out what it is. Plus, a listener comment on our coverage of the Venezuelan gang “takeover” story. Paul talked about the 303 Artway and Pete’s University Park Cafe . Here are some more helpful takeaways about the proposed bond package from Denverite. Have you been to the Little Man in Highland lately? We want to know what you think of that smell! 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 July 15th episode: Colfax Ave Wild Iris Floral Studio Denver Health Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 14

Colfax Avenue sure has a lot of haters — people who just don’t get it. But we get it! We love Colfax and wanted to test that knowledge with another round of our famous 1-star review game, Colfax edition. Recorded live at the Colfax Indie Bash last week, Colfax aficionado and host Bree Davies competes against former Colfax-area resident and comedian Joshua Emerson. Quizmaster slash producer Paul Karolyi has some surprises in store! Who knows Colfax’s haters best? For even more news from around the city, 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 these Colfax businesses? Let us know your hot take! 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 14th episode: Colfax Ave Wild Iris Floral Studio Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 11

It has been almost one year since the first rumors of a Venezuelan gang started circulating in Aurora. A new report from the New York Times Magazine looks back at how those rumors blew up into an election-defining political issue and now unprecedented ICE raids across the Denver metro. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi invited outgoing Denver Post immigration reporter Megan Ulu-lani Boyanton to look back at the whole arc of the story and all the other biggest news of the week — from the local grocery union’s deals with King Soopers and Safeway to new safety concerns at city-run shelters. Paul talked about dangerous elevators , Alteño , friend of the show slash CPR reporter Sam Brasch’s coverage of geothermal energy , and Hold On to Your Butts: A Jurassic Park Rewatch Podcast . Bree discussed the local implications of the “Big Beautiful Bill” and the restoration of the “ Confluent People ” mural. Megan talked about the MCA’s rooftop parties and a tragic accident at a city-run former hotel shelter. What do you think about the Venezuelan gang story? 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 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 July 11th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Regional Air Quality Council Denver Film Multipass Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 10

Colorado has been a leader in transgender health care and civil rights, but since Trump won back the presidency, this community has been under attack across the country. The question for Denverites and their politicians alike has become: What’s the best way to respond? Representative Brianna Titone of Arvada is Colorado’s first openly trans legislator, and she is on today with host Bree Davies to talk about the federal government’s latest legal attacks on local institutions and share the inside story of the compromise behind Colorado’s new trans rights law, the Kelly Loving Act. Bree and Rep. Titone discussed the Trump administration’s investigations into East High School’s gender-neutral bathroom and JeffCo’s policy on overnight sleeping arrangements for students. They also talked about the legal challenges to the Kelly Loving Act Come see us live at the Colfax Indie Bash tonight! We’ll be on stage on the patio at Champagne Tiger, and tickets are FREE. All you need to do is RSVP and come out for some good food, great people, and a live podcast. RSVP here. What do you think about the state of trans rights in Colorado? 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 July 10th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Regional Air Quality Council Denver Film Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 9

Battles over bike lanes, the uncertain future of Welton Street’s light rail line, and questions about the historic Rossonian hotel ever reopening again — these debates playing out in Denver’s District 9 are a microcosm of issues happening citywide. Councilman Darrell Watson has been representing this district, which covers neighborhoods from Globeville to South Park Hill, for nearly two years. He joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to talk through all the big topics, plus share his thoughts on impending city layoffs, his staunch stance on the flavored tobacco ban, and his mayoral ambitions. Come see us live at the Colfax Indie Bash on July 10! We’ll be on stage on the patio at Champagne Tiger, and tickets are FREE. All you need to do is RSVP and come out for some good food, great people, and a live podcast. 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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about Councilman Watson? We want to hear from you, especially if you live in District 9! 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 9th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Regional Air Quality Council Denver Film Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 8

There’s been talk about layoffs at the city for weeks, but information on just how many jobs are on the chopping block and when these layoffs are suppose to happen has been vague. One city worker tells us there a lot of concerns internally about how Mayor Mike Johnston has been approaching the city’s budget shortfall. Then, TRVE Brewing is the latest brewery to close up shop . Is South Broadway a victim of its own success? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi dig into these stories, plus more chatter about the potential end of the Underground Music Showcase. Bree mentioned John Moore’s piece on his co-founding of the UMS in The Denver Gazette and our episode last week on the topic. Come see us live at the Colfax Indie Bash on July 10! We’ll be on stage with Mayor Mike Johnston on the patio at Champagne Tiger, and tickets are FREE. All you need to do is RSVP and come out for some good food, great people, and a live podcast with the mayor. 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 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 this interview with Kelsey Simpkins from Regional Air Quality Council, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this July 8th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Regional Air Quality Council Denver Film Multipass City & County Denver Tech Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 7

Denver’s beloved Colfax Avenue has seen better days… but it’s also seen worse days. The notorious street has been through plenty of ups and downs since it became one of the city’s main thoroughfares back when it was Route 40 — a little bit of bus rapid transit construction isn’t gonna change that! But it is changing a lot. So ahead of our live podcast recording with our sponsors at the Colfax Ave BID this Thursday at Champagne Tiger, we invited their executive director and longtime friend of the show Frank Locantore to take us for a walk and show us everything new on Colfax. Come see us live at the Colfax Indie Bash on July 10! We’ll be on stage with Mayor Mike Johnston on the patio at Champagne Tiger, and tickets are FREE. All you need to do is RSVP and come out for some good food, great people, and a live podcast with the mayor. 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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What do you think about Colfax these days? Have you been lately? How was 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 episode: Colfax Ave BID RAQC Denver Film presents Cinema Q Multipass Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 3

Bree Davies and all 12 other City Cast podcast hosts (from Austin, Boise, Chicago, DC, Houston, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Philly, Pittsburgh, Portland, and Salt Lake City) compete head-to-head in a high-stakes showdown to answer the question that’s been burning up our company-wide Slack for weeks: which city is the best for a summer weekend trip? From naked bike rides to ‘the country’s best farmers market,’ pickle festivals to Elvis impersonators driving pink convertibles, our hosts are bringing the best of the best of what their city has to offer. Did your city win? Take our interactive quiz to see which city best fits YOUR vibe ! Learn more about the sponsors of this July 3rd episode: City & County Denver Tech Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment.

Jul 2

Huge news for local music lovers broke on Tuesday: The Underground Music Showcase is ending “in its current form” after this year. The festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary later this month with three days of live music and the usual debauchery on South Broadway, and it’s unclear what exactly led to this decision. Host Bree Davies has been hearing from musicians, business owners, promoters, and UMS insiders since the news broke, and she’s on with producer Paul Karolyi for a bonus episode to dissect the news and the rumors of what’s really going on. What do you think about UMS ending? 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 Come see us live at the Colfax Indie Bash on July 10! We’ll be on stage with Mayor Mike Johnston on the patio at Champagne Tiger, and tickets are FREE. All you need to do is RSVP and come out for some good food, great people, and a live podcast with the mayor. 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 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

Jul 2

New Yorkers shocked the country last week when they picked a Democratic Socialist TikTok star as the Democratic Party’s nominee for mayor. So could a Zohran Mamdani-type phenomenon happen here? Our politics contributor Deep Singh Badhesha joins producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to talk about how our local politics are different. Plus, a food influencer shared a traumatizing and seemingly racist experience at Morning Story in DTC and our wins and fails of the week. Come see us live at the Colfax Indie Bash on July 10! We’ll be on stage with Mayor Mike Johnston on the patio at Champagne Tiger, and tickets are FREE. All you need to do is RSVP and come out for some good food, great people, and a live podcast with the mayor. RSVP here. UPDATE: After we recorded this episode, the owners of Morning Story released another statement with more details about the incident with @UnfocusedFoodie. Bree talked about ⁠UMS’s⁠ ⁠ big announcement⁠ , ⁠Bar Bar’s wall⁠ , and ⁠Bruce Brown’s return to the Nuggets⁠ . Paul mentioned ⁠this Colorado Sun story⁠ about budding local entrepreneurs, ⁠9News’ recent interview⁠ with DOTI director Amy Ford, the ⁠NYT's interview with Trump's border czar Tom Homan⁠ , and the ⁠sword of Damocles⁠ . Deep discussed the Boulder attack victim ⁠who passed⁠ this week and ⁠his personal restaurant guide⁠ to Denver. What do you think about a Zohran Mamdani-style candidate emerging in Denver? Could it happen here? Who might that be? 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 . Watch the Friday show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver 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 July 2nd episode: City & County Denver Tech Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 1

July is here, and it’s a hot one! From cooling down in the lazy river at Pirate’s Cove to sitting on perfect patio with misters , we’ve put together a fun list of the best ways to enjoy this sweltering summer month in the Mile High. 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. Come see us live at the Colfax Indie Bash on July 10! We’ll be on stage with Mayor Mike Johnston on the patio at Champagne Tiger, and tickets are FREE. All you need to do is RSVP and come out for some good food, great people, and a live podcast with the mayor. 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. Our monthly guides are brought to you by Multipass ! If you enjoyed the sponsored interview with Andy Cambron, the CEO of Multipass, learn more here and check out all the events he recommended in this episode: Colorado Burlesque Fest LingeRave Colorado Bassheads Nova Studios City Cast Denver is also made possible by our awesome sponsors, like City & County Denver Tech and Cozy Earth , and we’re 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

Jun 30

When 9News’ Kyle Clark was on the podcast last week talking about Governor Jared Polis’ new proposal to build an elevated pedestrian walkway outside the Capitol, he said that the most telling weakness of the proposal was the fact that no one was making a good argument for it. So we found two people who are really excited about the project to make the case. Host Bree Davies sits down with local AAA spokesperson and Capitol insider Skyler McKinley and Bree’s friend, artist Moe Gram , who is contracted for community engagement work on the bridge project. Skyler mentioned a proposal for a different kind of pedestrian bridge in Civic Center Park from back in 2006. For even more news from around the city, 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 June 30th episode: City & County Denver Tech Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 27

The latest battle in Colorado’s age-old power struggle between the state government and local municipalities played out in Douglas County this week, with surprising results! A vast majority of residents opposed the conservative county commissioners’ bid for “home rule” authority, but what does that vote mean for the rest of the Denver metro area? Former DougCo politics reporter McKenna Harford joins host Bree Davies and one of our favorite regular guests, Keith Garcia, artistic director for the Sie FilmCenter, to talk about the shocker in DougCo, as well as the drama around PrideFest this weekend, and share their wins and fails of the week. Are you celebrating Pride this weekend? Where? How? We want to hear about the highlights, lowlights, and all your Pride weekend stories! Save the City Cast Denver hotline in your phone now — 720-500-5418. Call or text this weekend, and you might hear your message on the show! Bree talked about the Federal Theatre . Keith mentioned Rosenburgers and the Pride parade being rerouted . McKenna talked about teens in Northfield and the Denver Animal Shelter . We also mentioned our guide to Pride this year . 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 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 June 26th episode: RAQC City & County Denver Tech Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 26

Governor Polis wants to build a bridge — a long winding walkway that will stretch from the steps of the State Capitol, over four lanes of traffic on Lincoln Street, and all the way to Lincoln Veterans Memorial Park. And he wants it built before Colorado’s 150th birthday next summer. But how much will it cost? Who will pay for it? Will it match the classic architecture and City Beautiful Movement-era park design? And does anyone else besides the governor want this walkway in the first place? 9News’ Kyle Clark tried to answer these questions and he joins host Bree Davies to share what he found — and how he feels about the governor’s plans for a legacy project.For even more news from around the city, 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? Is Governor Polis’ big bridge idea a good one? Shoot us a text or leave us a voicemail, and you might hear it on the show! 720-500-5418‬ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: RAQC Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 25

A local activist group, Rooted in Littleton , recently conducted a survey of more than 1,000 Littleton voters about housing density — and found that 49% of those polled think the city is in a housing shortage. But that same survey found that more than half of respondents oppose increasing housing density. Kyle Schlachter, the mayor of Littleton, took the survey himself, and has a lot of thoughts about preserving the charm of Littleton while making sure people have access to housing. He joins host Bree Davies to talk about the city’s current approach to “gentle density”, what could happen if Rooted in Littleton’s current petition to change land use makes it to the ballot in November, and what the effect of “protecting single family residential zoning” could have on the future of this suburb.For even more news from around the city, 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 June 25th episode: RAQC Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 24

The Federal Theatre joins Denver’s list of vintage movie palaces turned music venue after the folks behind The Oriental Theater recently announced they were taking over the space. Could this be a new catalyst for more business along this Northside strip? Then, after President Trump complained that his portrait at the state capitol was “truly the worst”, it was removed — but legislators and History Colorado are trying to decide if the paintings should be replaced by something different altogether. Host Bree Davies is joined by Westword editor in chief Patty Calhoun to dig into these stories, plus producer Olivia Jewell Love pops by to share listener comments on everything from flock cameras to witchcraft. Bree talked about the Federal Theatre’s fundraiser to get the old venue running again and our episode with conservative talk radio host Jeff Hunt . After our show with Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas , listener Fiona had questions about other police departments having access to Denver’s flock camera data . Patty mentioned Governor Polis’ “Colorado 150 Bridge” . For even more news from around the city, 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 June 24th episode: RAQC Xcel Energy Cozy Earth - use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 23

A local law firm recently sued Google to have a nasty one-star review removed from their profile, according to BusinessDen. It sounds like a pretty terrible situation, but it reminded us just how powerful the humble user review can be! So today we’re going inside the minds of the people leaving negative reviews for local faves with another round of our famous one-star review game. Quizmaster slash producer Paul Karolyi puts returning champion slash host Bree Davies to the test against a new challenger — comedian Kate McLachlan of Dyketopia — to see once and for all: Who knows Denver’s haters best? If you are craving more of our one-star review game, check out the first time we played and the haunted edition we did for Halloween. Kate talked about the short story “ A&P ” by John Updike. Have you ever left a local business a one-star review? What happened? Did the owner clap back? We want 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 For even more news from around the city, 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 June 23rd episode: RAQC City & County Denver Tech Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 20

City Cast hosts are on the pulse of what’s happening in our communities. So Bree Davies and all 12 other hosts sat down with City Cast CEO David Plotz to talk about creative local problem solving that might work in your hometown too and to commiserate about stressors affecting most of our cities, from unaffordable housing to bike lanes. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 20th episode: Xcel Energy Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment.

Jun 18

You know that busted old building down the street? Why does it feel like nothing’s being done about it? Turns out, there are 285 of these derelict or abandoned properties across Denver, and that number is on the rise! Westword’s Catie Cheshire has been reporting on the city’s abandoned buildings issue, and she’s on today with host Bree Davies to talk about some particularly wild stories and break down City Council’s new plan to fix the problem . We are off tomorrow for Juneteenth! So no new episode until Friday, when we’ll be back with something fun and different. Do you have an abandoned building in your neighborhood? We want 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 For even more news from around the city, 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 June 18th episode: Xcel Energy 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

Jun 17

Hundreds of “No Kings” rallies took place across the state over the weekend, with an estimated 20,000 people converging on Civic Center Park for marches and a “People’s Fair” put on by a coalition of progressive organizations. Producer Paul Karolyi was there to witness it all, and he’s on today with host Bree Davies to talk about where all the anti-Trump, anti-ICE energy will go from here. Plus, our local billionaires are negotiating some potentially monumental land deals, and we heard from a listener from Littleton about their local housing density debate. We talked about Westword and Denverite’s reporting on the Rive Mile land deal and BusinessDen’s reporting on the Broncos potential interest in Denver Water’s land . Bree mentioned our episodes with Councilmember Jamie Torres about Stan Kroenke’s plans for development in the Ball Arena parking lots and Professor Geoff Propheter about the proposed public subsidies to support the construction of a professional women’s soccer stadium . Paul talked about Dr. Erica Chenoweth’s ‘ 3.5% rule .’ What do you think about the recent wave of anti-Trump, anti-ICE protests? Do you have a protest story to tell? 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 other sponsors of this June 16th episode: Xcel Energy Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off all men's apparel and more. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 16

Anti-Trump protests have been escalating in Denver, especially as the president ratchets up his immigration crackdown. While no Waymos have been torched here in the Mile High, there is a still an open question about violence. Eighteen protesters were arrested last Tuesday after a confrontation with police, and one conservative talk show host was kicked. 710KNUS’s Jeff Hunt has been attending protests in Denver all year, and he caught his alleged assault on video. So host Bree Davies spoke with Jeff about the kick, his self-described “gotcha”-style videos,” the question of violence, and why, through it all, he says he still loves Denver. Check out Jeff Hunt’s protest videos for yourself! Here’s the one from the conservative “March for Life ” This one is from the Bernie/AOC rally in March This is the one he referenced featuring protesters warning others not to talk to him And here’s the one where he gets kicked For even more news from around the city, 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 Jeff Hunt's "gotcha" videos? Or the violence at the protests? 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 this interview with Grace Ramirez the Senior Manager of Xcel Energy, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this June 16th episode: Xcel Energy 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

Jun 13

Protestors took to the streets downtown on Tuesday in solidarity with demonstrations in LA over ICE raids, and more protests are planned across the metro over the weekend. But will protesters — and police — keep it peaceful? Then, Mayor Mike Johnston celebrated the “largest multi-year reduction in unsheltered homelessness in American history,” but the data leaves a lot of questions unanswered. Westword editor-in-chief Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to discuss whether the mayor should be touting such a milestone, what we saw at the protests, and wins and fails of the week. Bree talked about Jax Gratton and Casa Bonita’s Founders Club . Paul mentioned BusinessDen’s report on the Broncos’ secret land deals, hilarious local comedian Liv Carter , the AID Center closing , Jovanina’s fight with the city , the new foie gras ballot effort . Patty talked about Juneteenth , Aurora City Council’s new meeting policy , and Stan Kroenke’s latest move on the River Mile development. We also talked about our episodes earlier this week with DPD chief Ron Thomas and AG candidate David Seligman . What do you think about the protests this week and Trump’s escalating crackdown on immigration? 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’re giving Neighbors the chance to win a couple pairs of tickets to Mortified Live: Pride Edition ! All you have to do to enter is be a part of our membership program and send “your favorite place to celebrate Pride in Denver and why” to denver@citycast.fm by Monday morning. That’s when we’ll pick our two favorite entries. You can also leave a voicemail — if you include the email address you used to become a member — at 720-500-5418. Join now and enter at Membership.citycast.fm ! 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 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 other sponsors of this June 13th episode: RAQC Central City Opera Denver Health Multipass Edgewater Music Festival Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 12

A senior state employee filed a lawsuit last week alleging that Governor Jared Polis has violated state law by cooperating with a subpoena for information from ICE. Anti-ICE protesters have been marching in Denver’s streets all week and Polis was already in hot water with Democrats after he set his personal record for vetoing bills, so why would he do this now? David Seligman is a candidate for state attorney general and the executive director of Towards Justice , a non-profit law firm that just joined the lawsuit against Polis, and he’s on with host Bree Davies to break down the case and try to imagine what the governor is thinking. After we recorded this conversation, we heard back from Governor Polis’s spokesperson. She send us the following statement: “The Governor is committed to preventing the illegal exploitation and trafficking of children. This lawsuit is unfortunately delaying an investigation focused on looking into child exploitation and trafficking. The decision to respond to this federal subpoena to support the investigation into crimes against vulnerable minors was carefully considered in accordance with Colorado law, which allows for sharing information to support timely criminal investigations. Keeping kids safe is a top priority, child exploitation is a deeply concerning issue, and has no place in our state. Complying with this federal subpoena meets the requirements laid out in state law and providing this information is in service of investigating and preventing criminal activity, which Governor Polis is deeply committed to.” What do you think about this lawsuit? Or about the anti-ICE protests playing out in Denver right now? 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 If you enjoyed this interview with Kelsey Simpkins from Regional Air Quality Council, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this June 12th episode: RAQC Central City Opera Denver Health Multipass Edgewater Music Festival Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 11

Denverites are paying higher rates for water this year, in part, to fund construction on the expansion of Gross Reservoir in Boulder County. But longtime Denverites will be forgiven for asking: Didn’t dam-building in the West go the way of the dodo decades ago? Producer Paul Karolyi sits down with Denver Water’s new CEO/Manager Alan Salazar to talk about the legal battle his agency has been waging with environmentalists over the expansion of Gross Reservoir in Boulder County and how he’s thinking about Denver’s future growth. For more on the details of the legal fight over Gross Reservoir, we recommend the Colorado Sun’s ongoing coverage . And if you haven’t seen it, you should really check out “ I water that way ” by the Splashstreet Boys. What do you think about Denver Water’s expansion of Gross Reservoir? 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 other sponsors of this June 11th episode: RAQC Central City Opera Denver Health Multipass Edgewater Music Festival Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 10

Has Governor Jared Polis gone too far in his push for housing density? After he signed an executive order conditioning state funds on local municipalities implementing his new zoning laws, six of Denver's suburbs filed a lawsuit to stop him. So today, we're taking a look at what's at stake in the battle for local control over housing policy. Producers Olivia Jewell Love and Paul Karolyi dig into a couple of YIMBY vs. NIMBY dust-ups in Littleton and Lakewood, and they're on to break down the details and talk about what it means for all of us. What do you think about Save Belmar Park and Rooted in Littleton ? We want to hear from you! Especially if you live in Littleton or Lakewood. 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 If you enjoyed this interview with Grace Ramirez the Senior Manager of Xcel Energy, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this June 10th episode: RAQC Central City Opera Denver Health Multipass Edgewater Music Festival Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off all men's apparel and more. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 9

Depending on who you ask, Denver is either a great place to live or a crime-ridden hellhole. So how does the Denver Police Department approach such a problem of perception versus reality? Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas has an answer. He sits down with host Bree Davies to discuss the ongoing battle of narratives around safety in the city, as well as the recent controversy around DPD’s use of Flock surveillance cameras and whether ICE can access that surveillance data. Plus, the chief addresses DoBetterDNVR’s constant complaining and answers listener questions on everything from “bad apple” cops to graffiti problems in RiNo. For even more news from around the city, 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 job DPD Chief Thomas has been doing? 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 other sponsors of this June 9th episode: RAQC Central City Opera Denver Health Multipass Edgewater Music Festival Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 6

MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell is in Denver this week for a defamation trial over his claim that a local election worker rigged the 2020 presidential election. His antics inside and outside the courtroom are getting lots of attention, and he’s calling it the “trial of the century.” But what’s really at stake? Then, will the Rockies continue their historic losing streak? Regardless of how much they suck, Coors Field is still drawing big crowds . Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by capitol insider Deep Singh Badhesha to dig through all the news, plus our wins and fails of the week. What do you think about the Rockies? Boycott or buy a ticket to watch the historic ineptitude for yourself? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Deep talked about a previous episode involving Aaron Gordon’s chicken parties . Bree mentioned 9News’ coverage of the Mike Lindell trial, Adam Cayton-Holland’s piece on the Rockies , and the newish skatepark in Barnum Park . Paul talked about former mayor Wellington Webb’s ideas for the old Park Hill Golf Course and alluded to some concerns raised about the Denver NWSL’s new general manager. 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 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 Botanic Gardens Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 5

Can you really beat a simple bomb pop on a hot summer day? These days in Denver, you definitely can! The Mile High is chock full of chocolate, bursting with boba, and overflowing with all kinds of over-the-top ice cream confections. So now that summer temps are here, producer Olivia Jewell Love and our food contributor Helen Xu join host Bree Davies to swap recommendations of their favorite indulgent, nostalgic and just plain delicious cool treats from across the metro area. By coincidence, Denverite published a profile of one of Olivia’s picks yesterday — Ichigo Matcha. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . What’s your favorite cool treat for summer? We want to hear about your fave! 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 Learn more about the other sponsors of this June 5th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 4

Business in Denver is not booming the way it used too. Sales and property taxes are way down, and Mayor Johnston recently announced that city staff can expect layoffs and furloughs as a result. So what’s the plan to open the city back up for business? Adeeb Khan is the executive director of Denver Economic Development and Opportunity, which means it’s his job to help Mayor Johnston figure it out. He joins host Bree Davies to discuss what it means for Denver to be more “vibrant” and “scrappy,” and how he’s implementing the mayor’s plan to get the city back on track. For even more news from around the city, 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 June 4th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 3

On Sunday in Boulder, a man wielding what authorities are calling a “makeshift flamethrower” injured eight people who had gathered on the Pearl St. Mall to call for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies discuss what is known about the situation — as of the afternoon of June 2, when this show was recorded — and talk about the state of the conversation around Israel and Gaza here 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 June 3rd episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off all men's apparel and more. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 2

Palestinian solidarity protesters interrupted two congressional town halls in the metro area last week, calling attention to Rep. Jason Crow and Senator Michael Bennet’s support for Israel, but also the role of one of Denver’s largest and most mysterious companies: Palantir Technologies. So we’re revisiting a conversation producer Paul Karolyi had a few years ago with Bloomberg Businessweek reporter Max Chafkin about his reporting on the defense contractor’s co-founder Peter Thiel, how Palantir makes money, and why it moved to Denver in 2020. This episode first aired on October 18, 2021. Chafkin’s biography of Peter Thiel is called “ The Contrarian: Peter Thiel and Silicon Valley's Pursuit of Power .” Host Bree Davies mentioned two stories about former Palantir workers — one about a group of employees who sent an open letter to NPR and another from More Perfect Union about a former worker who became disillusioned about the company. What do you think about Palantir? We want to know what you think about our new neighbor! 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 other sponsors of this June 2nd episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Xcel Energy Denver Fringe Festival Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 30

After almost a year of slowdowns, RTD announced this week that every light rail line is finally back up to full speed. But will riders return to the trains? State Representative Alex Valdez joins producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies to talk about the pandemonium in our streets, from RTD’s plateaued ridership to Gov. Jared Polis’s veto of the big Uber sexual assault bill . Plus, we discuss a fantastic Denverite article about Denver Health’s ambulance crews and share our wins and fails of the week. Do you have a question for Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas? We’re sitting down with the chief soon, and we want to know what you think we should ask him. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and we might put your question to Chief Thomas: 720-500-5418 Paul talked about Blazing Bird , downtown bike lanes , and the sexual assault statistics that Uber and Lyft have reported. Alex discussed City Council’s vote on the NWSL stadium proposal and new condos for sale downtown. Bree mentioned the recent spate of measles cases in Colorado. 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 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 May 30th episode: Central City Opera - use the code CITYCAST to get 20% off select dates Xcel Energy Denver Fringe Festival Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 29

June is on its way and that means fun in the sun for the Mile High City! From a brand new bubble tea shop serving up whimsical refreshments to a hot springs with cool pools and new water slides, we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do, see, drink, eat, and explore in Denver and beyond. 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 June in Denver, we’ll have even more tips and suggestions in our newsletter Hey Denver later this week. Our monthly guides are brought to you by Multipass! If you enjoyed today’s sponsored interview with Andy Cambron, the CEO of Multipass, learn more here and get details of all the events Andy mentioned below: Shroomski Melt Pride at the Pearl Queer Circus 2025 Goat Yoga Learn more about the other sponsors of this May 29th episode, like Xcel Energy and the Denver Fringe Festival , as well as Central City Opera (just use the code CITYCAST to get 20% off select dates!) And we’re also powered by our neighbors, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about becoming a City Cast Denver Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm ! 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 28

Dropping the word “mall” from 16th Street wasn’t Mayor Mike Johnston’s only big announcement last week. He also revealed that flagging sales and property tax revenues alongside increasing costs have led to a $250 million budget deficit, and the city government is preparing for layoffs, furloughs, and other cuts. So Westword editor Patty Calhoun joins producer Paul Karolyi to connect the dots between the big push to revitalize downtown and the threat of layoffs in city offices. Plus, we discuss Gov. Jared Polis’s personal pet plan for downtown: an elevated pedestrian bridge connecting Civic Center Park to the Capitol. Patty mentions Alan Prendergast’s remembrance of how 16th Street became a mall in the first place. Paul talks about the draft 20-year plan for downtown , which won’t go into effect before Denverites share their feedback and City Council votes later this year, and the last 20-year plan for downtown, which was adopted in 2007. He also talks about Denverite’s reporting on the auditor’s work on employee morale inside the city government. 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 Learn more about the sponsors of this May 28th episode: Central City Opera - use the code CITYCAST to get 20% off select dates Xcel Energy Denver Fringe Festival Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 27

Back in 2015, Denver voted to extend tourism taxes to pay for the expansion of the National Western Center in order to keep the Stock Show from leaving town. But earlier this month, City Council twice delayed a vote that would release $800 million of that money. They were listening to pushback from community members who say they want the National Western Center Authority to commit $16 million to help mitigate displacement and gentrification. The Authority says they’ve already offered plenty of community benefits. So ahead of council’s final deliberation on the issue on Monday, host Bree Davies is sitting down with both sides — first, Steve Nalley is chief real estate officer of the National Western Center and second, Alfonso Espino from the GES Community Investment Fund . We discuss the 2015 vote in this episode quite a bit. Check out the ballot language for yourself to see what voters approved back then. What do you think about the community leaders’ $16 million ask? Should they get the money? And who should pay? 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

May 23

After months of speculation, the open secret is now official: Denver’s 43-year experiment in calling our downtown pedestrian retail artery a “mall” is officially over. It’s just 16th Street now, according to Mayor Mike Johnston and the Downtown Denver Partnership. But will Denverites call it that? And will it help bring downtown back to life? Stand-up comedian and regular contributor Joshua Emerson joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to get into Denver’s feelings about the name change. Plus, we’ve got some ideas for how to spend you long Memorial Day weekend and, of course, our wins and fails of the week. What do you think about 16th St. dropping the word “mall”? 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 Don’t forget! We’re off on Monday for Memorial Day. Don’t expect a new episode in your feed until Tuesday morning. After we recorded this episode, the Department of Excise and License finalized the city’s new rules governing open-consumption areas, including on 16th St. Paul talked about the “satirical” deadnaming website , a Rockies lawsuit , and this fantastic piece about how the 16th St. Mall came to be in the first place from Alan Prendergast in Westword. Bree mentioned about the end of El Noa Noa , her love for Chef Zorba’s and Alameda’s “ road diet .” Joshua discussed tornados and Aurora’s new public art . 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 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 May 23rd episode: Denver Health City & County Denver Tech Central City Opera - use the code CITYCAST to get 20% off select dates Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 22

Does Denver have too many parking spaces? Or too few? It’s a controversial topic guaranteed to start an argument, but in recent years the idea of reducing parking has become increasingly popular among transit activists and policy circles. Then earlier this week, a Denver City Council committee passed a bill that would eliminate something called “parking minimums.” So what the heck does that mean? And would it go far enough? Host Bree Davies posed those questions and more to CU Denver professor Ken Schroeppel last March when this whole parking debate was first starting to heat up. This episode first aired on March 18, 2024, before the state bill Bree and Ken discuss passed into 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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Would you support Denver eliminating parking minimums? 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 May 20th episode: Denver Health “ Meet Sunny! ” - City & County Denver Tech Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 21

Last month marked the 113th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic in the frigid waters of the Atlantic Ocean. While the tragedy struck more than 2,000 miles from Denver, the story of the “unsinkable” ship has always struck a special chord here in Mile High, where historic preservationists saved the home of famed survivor Margaret “Molly” Brown. Right now, there are two very different Titanic exhibitions happening — one, a technologically enhanced immersive experience immersive and the other, an intimate look at Brown herself . Politics and green chile correspondent (and Molly Brown fan) Justine Sandoval joined host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi on a tour of both Titanic shows and to discuss which one they think is the best bang for your buck. Have you been to either of the Titanic exhibitions? 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 May 21st episode: Denver Health “ Meet Sunny! ” - City & County Denver Tech Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 20

Thousands of local grocery workers could be back on the picket lines by the end of the month, and a new investigation from Consumer Reports into alleged “price tag errors” at King Soopers is changing the narrative around another possible strike. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the shifting politics of your grocery bill and other big stories of the week — from Mayor Johnston changing his mind on raises for his top deputies to some really shady deals going down inside the McDonald’s at Colfax and Pennsylvania. And of course, we hear from you! This time, a listener has a new theory for why YIMBYs tend to be nerdy white guys. We talked about our coverage of the King Soopers strike back in February, featuring interviews with UFCW Local 7’s Kim Cordova and King Soopers president Joe Kelley. Paul talked about the New York Times’ coverage of digital price tags . What’s your favorite grocery store and why? We want to hear about Denver’s best grocery stories, from the specialty markets to the places with the best deals. 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 May 20th episode: Denver Health “ Meet Sunny! ” - City & County Denver Tech Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 19

Ryan Ross is a Denverite with a big idea. As a private investigator with an office right on the 16th St. Mall, he’s watched downtown go through it all over the past few years — from the pandemic to seemingly endless construction to whatever 16th St. is becoming now. But instead of just grumbling about it all, Ryan has put together an ambitious plan of his own , chock full of big ideas to address concerns about public safety, slow business, and inconvenient transit options. Host Bree Davies sits down with Ryan to hear about how a gondola is just the beginning. For even more news from around the city, 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 May 19th episode: Denver Health City & County Denver Tech Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 16

It has been a very eventful couple of weeks for City Council, so we are skipping past the monotonous procedural blah blah blah to the decisions that matter — money, politics, power, and womens professional soccer. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by environmental advocate Ean Thomas Tafoya to talk about Council’s moves to approve the plan for a new NWSL stadium in Baker, delay a vote on expanding the National Western Center, and all the recent drama around proposed exceptions to the voter-approved expansion of composting and recycling in Denver. Plus, our wins and fails of the week! What do you think about the new exceptions to Waste No More? Is the mayor right to be loosening the requirements? 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 talked about license plate cameras . Bree discussed the city’s climate rebates and our episode with Councilmember Jamie Torres about the Ball Arena development’s CBA . Ean talked about the proposed raises for Denver’s cabinet members and the DIA execs’ work trip to Spain, which we discussed on the podcast a few days ago. Paul discussed AG candidate David Seligman and Morris the Alligator passing away. 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 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: CU Denver's Jake Jab Center for Entrepreneurship Levitt Pavilion Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 15

Is the tide turning against oil and gas in Colorado? Last week, Denver City Council turned down a $25 million contract with Suncor, the Commerce City oil refinery that has been the subject of scrutiny by neighborhood groups and climate activists for decades over pollution issues. But one industry leader dismissed the move as “political grandstanding.” So host Bree Davies is talking to Denver Post environmental reporter Noelle Phillips , who has been covering the Suncor debate for years to talk about why the pushback is coming now and what it’s really going to mean for 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 should be done about Suncor? Shut it down and risk higher gas prices? Or let the market do its work? 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 May 15th episode: CU Denver's Jake Jab Center for Entrepreneurship Levitt Pavilion Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 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

May 14

In 2023 and 2024, the Denver metro area saw an influx of nearly 43,000 newcomers from Central and South America. But the encampments full of families that were a common sight 18 months ago have mostly disappeared, and the window washers are all but gone from Denver’s intersections. So, now that the newcomers are no longer making headlines, where did they all go? ⁠Westword staff reporter Bennito Kelty⁠ sits down with Host Bree Davies to discuss ⁠his latest reporting⁠ on the status of the newcomers, and what the City of Denver does — or doesn’t know — about where all of these folks ended up. For even more news from around the city, 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 May 14th episode: ⁠CU Denver's Jake Jab Center for Entrepreneurship⁠ ⁠Levitt Pavilion⁠ ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST ⁠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

May 13

DIA executives flew first-class to Spain earlier this year and, according to a new investigation from CBS Colorado, the work trip cost about $165,000. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are looking a little closer at the airport’s spending and the big raises Mayor Mike Johnston wants to give his top lieutenants , including DIA CEO Phil Washington. Plus, will Governor Jared Polis veto the big rent algorithm bill that the state legislature passed? We’re tackling all the biggest stories of the week and answering listener questions about speeding enforcement, the Rockies’ historically bad record, and movie soundtracks. Paul mentioned our interview with Drew Hamrick of the Apartment Association of Metro Denver . Are you a member of City Cast Denver? We’re giving away two tickets to bRUNch Running's "Brunch at Night" event , a pre-Colfax Marathon Shakeout Run and party at Snooze Union Station this Thursday May 15. If you’re a City Cast Denver member, send us your “Snooze hack” — the thing you do to get the most out of a trip to Denver’s most popular brunch destination. Text or leave us a voicemail at 720-500-5418 or email us via denver@citycast.fm, let us know you’re a member, and tell us your “Snooze hack” and you might win! What do you think about the DIA execs’ trip to Madrid? 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 May 13th episode: CU Denver's Jake Jab Center for Entrepreneurship Levitt Pavilion Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 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

May 12

It’s no secret — Denverites love a good drink! From neighborhood watering holes to craft cocktail lounges, there’s a place for every kind of imbiber. So, how do you choose? We’re revisiting a conversation from last year with host Bree Davies and two City Cast Denver regulars, Westword food and drink editor Molly Martin and our own politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval, to parse through the dozens of options and come up with the ultimate list of the Mile High’s best taverns, taprooms, lounges, and pubs! This conversation was based on Molly’s “Best Bars We Can’t Live Without” for Westword. If you would like to help support Molly as she goes through cancer treatments, check out this GoFundMe . Do you have a favorite bar that didn’t make the list? 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: CU Denver's Jake Jab Center for Entrepreneurship Levitt Pavilion Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 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

May 9

After five months of debate and debauchery, Colorado’s state lawmakers wrapped up the 2025 legislative session in Denver on Wednesday. So what passed? What failed? And what is Governor Polis going to veto next? Our capitol insider Deep Singh Badhesha was there for all the madness, and he’s on today’s Friday news roundup with host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to give us the scoop. Then, the advocacy group YIMBY Denver has a new survey out showing broad support for more housing, but the numbers show a more complicated picture. And of course, our wins and fails of the week. You can check out the cross-tabs for the YIMBY Denver survey for yourself. Bree mentioned FLOCK cameras , a DoorDasher in detention , and the immigration support group Casa de Paz . Paul talked about Clever Girl at Zeppelin Station and a prized green chile recipe . Deep discussed the Nuggets big loss against Oklahoma and the judge who extended a restraining order against the Trump administration in a local immigration case. Paul also talked about Hold On to Your Butts , his new Jurassic Park rewatch podcast with friend of the show JD Lopez, which you can subscribe to on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , YouTube , and anywhere else you listen to podcasts. What do you think about Denver’s push for housing density? Would you like fourplexes in your neighborhood? 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 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 May 9th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Regional Air Quality Council Colfax Ave BID Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Elizabeth Martinez with PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 8

It feels like every week Denverites are grappling with some shocking new way that President Trump is using the power of the federal government to reshape life here in the Mile High. This week, it’s art. Trump’s National Endowment for the Arts cut almost a half-million dollars in previously awarded grants last Friday to 22 local arts organizations, including the Denver Art Museum and Su Teatro, because their programs didn’t conform with the president’s new “ priorities .” So host Bree Davies is talking to Youth on Record executive director and veteran arts fundraiser Jami Duffy about the impact on the local arts community, how much leverage Trump really has, and how the local arts world is pushing back in all different ways. In response to Trump’s NEA grant cuts, the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation announced this week a new 2025 Arts & Culture Rapid Response Grant program to help make up the shortfall for the local organizations that lost money. 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 Learn more about the sponsors of this May 8th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Regional Air Quality Council Colfax Ave BID Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 7

President Trump rolled back his most expansive tariffs a couple weeks ago, but who knows. He might change his mind! And that’s got many Denverites worried about the possibility of a recession. So is that gonna happen? And what would a recession mean for us here the Mile High? Greg Sobetski is the chief economist for Colorado’s state legislature, which means it’s his job to answer this exact question for our top elected officials. Host Bree Davies sits down with Greg to get the inside scoop on the ripple effects across the local economy and how to decipher all the talk of “uncertainty.” Do you have any life hacks or tips for living a frugal Mile High life? We want to assemble a Denver recession survival guide, and we need your help! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear your suggestions 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 May 7th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Regional Air Quality Council Colfax Ave BID Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 6

There is less than one week until City Council votes on a $70 million plan to support the proposed NWSL stadium at the site of the old Gates Rubber Factory, and the debate is finally heating up! After we shared CU Denver professor Geoff Propheter’s critical take on the podcast last week, we heard from the owners, the mayor’s office, city council members, and both supporters and detractors of the project. So producer Paul Karolyi dug into the details, and he’s on with host Bree Davies to share more info you need to know before the vote. Plus, we discuss a couple of recent highs and lows from the local music world and hear some of your ideas to revamp the 16th St. Mall. We also have one further clarification on the specific source of the proposed $70 million expenditure. A spokesperson for the Dept. of Finance told us that, “Because the interest earnings on the 2017 Elevate Denver Bond can offset $60 million of the total $70 million cost of the Santa Fe Yards project, only approximately $10 million would come out of the city’s capital improvement fund. This $10 million would be split over 2026 and 2027, so about $4-6 million each year.” What do you think about the proposal to spend $70 million on the NWSL stadium development project? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 Also, we have been thinking a lot lately about the possibility of a recession, and we want your help! Do you have any Denver hacks or tricks for squeezing the most out of every dollar? Help us make a Denver recession survival guide with a voicemail or a text: 720-500-5418 Bree mentioned DéCollage, whose new album you can stream/buy now and who you can see live at UMS this summer! She also talked about the passing of singer-songwriter Jill Sobule — Emily Ferguson at Westword wrote a nice tribute to the former Denverite. Paul shared NWSL co-owner Rob Cohen’s quote from this Denverite article about the stadium proposal, discussed Councilmember Sarah Parady’s line of questioning in this council meeting last week, and alluded to the fact that Denver voters already approved a $975 million bond to, among other things, install air conditioning at the 29 DPS schools without 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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this May 6th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Regional Air Quality Council Colfax BID Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 5

After she lost her seat in Congress last November, Yadira Caraveo stepped back from politics and opened up about her struggles with mental health. But a few weeks ago, she announced a campaign to retake the District 8 seat from Republican Gabe Evans. Picking back up on a previous investigation regarding complaints about Carveo’s office culture, Colorado Sun reporter Jesse Paul talked to four of her former aides and published a blockbuster exposé revealing allegations of traumatic mistreatment. So host Bree Davies is sitting down with Kyle Clark, who interviewed Caraveo about mental health and her run for re-election two days before the big story broke, to break down this complicated political moment and what it could mean for the Democrats’ push to retake control of Congress in 2026. For even more news from around the city, 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 Yadira Caraveo’s chances for re-election? 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 May 5th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Regional Air Quality Council Colfax Ave BID Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 2

President Trump ratcheted up the pressure on Denver this week to change its approach to immigration, yanking back $24 million the city already spent sheltering newcomers and signing a new executive order going after “sanctuary jurisdictions.” So producer Paul Karolyi and host Bree Davies are talking about the latest twist in Trump’s Operation Aurora with one of our favorite regular guests, comedian and Casa Bonita performer Joshua Emerson. Plus, we dig into the recent turmoil around First Fridays on Santa Fe, Denver’s “ budget freeze ,” and share all our wins and fails of the week. Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! It’s the last day of our spring membership campaign, so it’s your last chance to get your own City Cast Denver Neighbors mug. Members also enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm . Paul talked about scammers , Altitude Plus , security calls and a tragic shooting at the Union Station bus terminal. Bree talked about Jax Gratton and Huston Lake Park . Joshua mentioned Kent Monkman at the Denver Art Museum, and DOTI , as well as his show Friday night at the Buntport and the screening of his documentary “Bad Indian” at the Sie FilmCenter on Sunday. What do you think about First Friday on Santa Fe? How do you feel about the changes this year? 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 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 May 2nd episode: Choir League Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Regional Air Quality Council Energy Outreach JCC Denver Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. PorchLight Real Estate - Do you have a question about Denver real estate? Submit your questions for Elizabeth Martinez HERE , and she might answer in next week’s segment. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 1

Should Denver taxpayers pony up $70 million to help build a new soccer stadium? The mayor is behind the proposal, citing a new report touting a $2.2 billion economic impact , but it still has to get through City Council. So is that deal too good to be true? And what does it matter to Denverites? Host Bree Davies sits down with CU Denver Professor Geoff Propheter , one of the country’s leading experts on sports stadiums and public policy, to dig into the details and find out: Does a public subsidy for the cost of a new stadium make sense for Denver right now? Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm Do you think Denver should pitch in $70 million for the new stadium? 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 If you enjoyed our interview with Jennifer Gremmert, the CEO of Energy Outreach Colorado, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this April 29th episode: Choir League Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Regional Air Quality Council JCC Denver Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Apr 30

May is almost here! There’s so much to do, see, eat, and more around Denver as we look forward to warmer temps. So, how do you choose? From music bingo at a tucked-away brewery to the best ways to connect with your neighbors, we’ve rounded up our best picks and tips for enjoying the Mile High. 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 May in Denver, we’ll have even more tips and suggestions in our newsletter Hey Denver later this week. City Cast Denver is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Choir League , Regional Air Quality Council , Energy Outreach , JCC Denver , and Aura Frames (Get $35 off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST). And we’re also powered by our neighbors, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about becoming a City Cast Denver Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm ! 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

Apr 29

It looked like this year’s big trans rights bill was going to sail through the state legislature, despite the usual conservative Christian opposition, but now the local LGBTQ community itself is divided . So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the changing local politics around LGBTQ rights and why the Kelly Loving Act might not pass. Plus, a beloved Mexican restaurant is paying out a massive settlement to former employees and we hear from listeners about “ suspicious” bike riding , Tacos Rapidos , and a little hidden gem you might not have heard of — Wynkoop Brewing . Bree mentioned the origin of “Tacos Raps,” from the song “Danver” by Fed Rez . Paul quoted from a recent op-ed titled, “ Hell is Empty, and All the Devils Are in Denver ” and highlighted the wage theft enforcement of Denver Labor . Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm What do you think about the debate over the Kelly Loving Act? Should Colorado push forward on trans rights even if it means risking a major lawsuit? 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 29th episode: Choir League Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Regional Air Quality Council Energy Outreach JCC Denver Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Apr 28

It’s finally farmers market season! And there’s no shortage to choose from in the Mile High, but the local politics and regulations around homemade foods could put some vendors in a tight place. Plus, changing ideas of what “belongs” at a farmers market could mean different, and maybe even AI generated, goods for sale. Host Bree Davies sits down with our regular food contributor Helen Xu to learn more about the intriguing business of farmer’s markets, the recent attempt to reform the Cottage Foods Act and how that debate will affect your favorite tamale seller. Finally, Helen gives some of her picks for Mile High Asian Food Week , which is happening right now! Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm . This is the " Expanding Cottage Foods Act " that Helen talked about dying this session in committee. For even more news from around the city, 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 Have you ever bought prepared food off of Facebook marketplace? We want to know how it went! 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: Choir League Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Regional Air Quality Council Energy Outreach JCC Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Apr 25

9News obtained footage of US marshals b oarding a crowded RTD bus on Colfax to capture an escapee from Aurora’s ICE detention facility. So on this week’s Friday news round-up, our politics and green chile correspondent Justine Sandoval joins us to talk about the latest local developments in the federal immigration crackdown — from the ACLU’s legal challenge to deportations to the precarity of transportation funding. Then a listener asks: Do you have to be “quirky” to become governor of Colorado? Plus, Juneteenth’s funding cuts , a major abortion clinic closes , and more wins and fails of the week. Bree mentioned the Westword story “Satan Sheets,” an immersive Titanic exhibit, the Fat & Fresh market happening this weekend, the Throughline episode on the Alien Enemies Act , Dr. Warren Hern’s retirement , and the documentary “ After Tiller .” Paul referenced this NYT article about John Hickenlooper’s 2020 presidential campaign , the Juneteenth Music Festival’s funding trouble , and Rep. Emily Sirota’s work to pass CO’s new “junk fees” law . Justine talked about the National Womens Soccer League stadium’s funding getting one step closer to a full City Council vote. Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm 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 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 - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Denver Art Museum Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Apr 24

The 16th St. Mall is in the middle of an identity crisis. The City of Denver has now spent more than $175 million to renovate the downtown commercial corridor, but many businesses have closed since construction started in 2022 and perceptions of crime linger. And now apparently we’re supposed to stop calling it a “mall” ? With the not-a-mall set to reopen fully this summer, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are sitting down with our green chile and politics contributor Justine Sandoval to brainstorm ideas to make 16th St. appealing — and lucrative — for locals and tourists alike. Bree mentioned this thread on reddit and our hot dog tour of Denver with Biker Jim. What local business would you want to see open a location on 16th St. Mall? 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 24th episode: PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Denver Art Museum Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST 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

Apr 23

It’s that time of year when Denverites all seem to be asking the same question: When are we going to see the spring’s final frost? But for gardeners, it’s not just small talk. They need to know! So while we refresh our weather forecasts, host Bree Davies is sitting down with City Cast Denver’s resident gardening expert, Ann Marie Awad, to talk about when it’ll be safe to put your plants in the ground and answer all your other burning questions about Denver’s dense soil, favorite perennials, the ever-present menace of squirrels, and more! Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm For more gardening fun with Ann Marie Awad, check out her past appearances answering listener gardening questions in 2024 and 2023 . She will also be hosting an event with ColoRadio this Friday at the Denver Press Club with a couple of vendors from the Denver VOICE. For even more news from around the city, 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 garden store? 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 this interview with Jennifer Gremmert, the CEO of Energy Outreach Colorado, l earn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 23rd episode: PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Denver Art Museum Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST 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

Apr 22

Mayor Mike Johnston just finished touring Denver’s neighborhoods pitching his next big proposal to voters: An $800 million bond. Nearly 6,000 people have responded to the city’s survey asking for specific ideas and priorities, but not everyone is excited about the city taking on all that new debt. So will voters go for a third huge bond in 8 years? Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are digging into the Vibrant Denver bond roadshow — plus, listener questions and comments on what’s dividing local liberals and RTD scofflaws. It’s time for our spring membership campaign! Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor . You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm Paul quoted Nate Minor’s 2020 article about RTD fare-evaders , shared from this Denver Post article about the Vibrant Denver bond, discussed the results of the survey the mayor’s office did on how Denverites would want to see that $800 million spent, and mentioned Greeley’s new arena-centric entertainment district project. There’s also a breakdown of the 2017 bond that voters passed and where that money has been spent so far. What do you think about how RTD charges for fares? 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 22nd episode: PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Denver Art Museum Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Apr 21

Downtown Denver has seen better days. A new Gensler survey shows only 55% of Denverites reported having a “great experience ” downtown in 2024, down from more than 70% in surveys conducted in 2021 and 2023. But construction on the 16th St. Mall is supposed to be finished soon! And the mayor has a big, complicated plan to give the recovery an even bigger boost. So host Bree Davies is sitting down with Brad Segal, the founder and president of PUMA , a real estate economics and planning firm that consulted on the plan, to explain how the Denver Downtown Development Authority is supposed to bring life back downtown — and why its success matters to all Denverites. It’s time for our spring membership campaign! Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm You may remember Brad from his previous appearance on City Cast Denver discussing downtown’s many empty office buildings and the prospect for converting them into housing. Brad discussed how “tech-heavy” downtown business is and that particular industry’s recent dynamics. For more on that, check out this episode with our favorite local tech analyst Jeff Casimir. For even more news from around the city, 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 state of downtown Denver? Are you optimistic about the mayor’s plan? 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 April 21st episode: PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Denver Art Museum Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST 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

Apr 19

We’ve got something special for you this weekend. It’s a special bonus episode from our friends at Denverse Magazine . They recently launched a podcast called Denverse: Locals Aloud , featuring loose, long form, weekly conversations with Denver locals from all walks of life. The guest on this one is local illustrator Karl Christian Krumpholz, who offers his personal guide to Denver’s storied bar scene. New episodes of Denverse: Locals Aloud are released weekly on Spotify, Apple Music, and Substack, where paid subscribers get access to exclusive episodes and the full Denverse Magazine archives. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Apr 18

After a couple of hard pandemic years and a few more of slow recovery, the big story this week was Mayor Mike Johnston’s work to open Denver for business. On this week’s Friday round-up, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are joined by former councilmember Robin Kniech to talk about the substance and politics behind his new Denver Permitting Office , as well as the “ plummeting ” corporate sponsorship of Denver Pride, how this year’s Pride Parade might feel different, and all our wins and fails of the week. How do you feel about corporate support for Pride this year? We want to hear from you! 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 talked about the documentary Secret Mall Apartment , playing at the Sie FilmCenter this weekend. She also mentioned the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and the 5-4 podcast on Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act. Paul talked about Avalanche captain Gabe Landeskog , the mods of r/Denver , and recommends this Denver Post investigation into the permitting backlog from back in 2022. Robin talked about the ACLU’s recent win and the leader of Colorado’s Libertarian Party . 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 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 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

Apr 17

The conversation around transportation in Denver can often feel like two steps forward, one step back. RTD built out a massive network of light rail lines thirty years ago, but now thousands of Denverites have abandoned the trains . Our elected officials talk a lot about ending traffic fatalities , but hesitate on making transformative changes to our streets. For almost ten years, Nate Minor has reported on Denver’s unique transportation quandaries and challenges, driving the conversation on everything from RTD to bike lanes. But now he’s leaving town for a job in Minnesota. So he’s back on with host Bree Davies one last time to look back and share a few predictions. Nate mentioned Mayor Johnston’s comments on transportation on our show back in February. For even more news from around the city, 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: 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

Apr 16

A Coloradan named Michael Clark walked free this week after spending 12 years in prison for a murder he says he did not commit. But Clark’s story is just one of hundreds of cases potentially affected by the alleged mishandling of DNA at the hands of a star forensic scientist with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation who is now under investigation herself . Host Bree Davies sits down with Senior Investigative Reporter Jenny Deam of the Denver Gazette to get a grasp on Clark’s case, understand the ramifications of the mounting DNA scandal, and dig into what it could mean for hundreds of victims and the accused in Colorado cases going back nearly 30 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? 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 16th 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

Apr 15

After months of rumors and speculation, Sen. Michael Bennet announced on Friday that he is officially running for governor — but he also wants to stay in the Senate while he campaigns so he could appoint his own successor if he wins. So host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are talking about the campaign announcement that’s got local Dems abuzz — plus, we share a follow-up on the turmoil at Illegal Pete’s and respond to even more of your takes on Denver’s dog poop problem. Paul mentioned the Denver Post editorial about Michael Bennet’s succession plan and Axios Denver’s report on local opinions on Democrats. For more on Bennet, we talked to historian Phil Goodstein about Bennet’s biography ahead of his most recent re-election to the Senate. Bennet himself was previously on the podcast talking about his effort to ban TikTok . Bree mentioned her piece on the dog poop problem for Westword way back in 2016. For even more news from around the city, 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 14th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off The Delores Project Denver Health Energy Outreach PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDENVER for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Apr 14

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

Apr 11

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 Calvin 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 . Watch the Friday show on YouTube: youtube.com/@citycastdenver 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 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

Apr 10

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

Apr 9

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

Apr 8

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

Apr 7

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

Apr 4

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 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: 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

Apr 3

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

Apr 2

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

Apr 1

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

Mar 31

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

Mar 28

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 citycast.fm/advertise

Mar 27

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

Mar 26

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

Mar 25

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

Mar 24

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

Mar 21

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 “ Oligarch Slank ” by Rubedo. What do you think about the plans for the NWSL stadium? 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 March 21st 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

Mar 20

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

Mar 19

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: 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

Mar 18

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 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

Mar 17

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

Mar 14

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 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 14th episode: Arvada Center Visit Port Aransas 5280 Magazine Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Mar 13

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 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

Mar 12

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

Mar 11

“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 advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Mar 10

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

Mar 7

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 the Crosby factor . We discussed our recent episode with Senadora Julie Gonzales about the mayor’s congressional hearing and the last time he talked about his faith and immigration . He also shared this statement with us about how he felt the hearing went: “I’m incredibly proud of this city and the way we all came together to respond to a crisis with humanity and compassion. Denver showed the world that we can solve hard problems together, and I’m glad we got to tell that story to the members of Congress who actually have the power to fix our broken immigration system.” 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 downtown? Do you have a favorite spot that gets you down there? 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 7th episode: Arvada Center Clear Creek Makerspace JCC Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Mar 6

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 SATURDAY, 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 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 the other sponsors of this March 6th 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

Mar 5

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

Mar 4

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 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 3rd 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

Mar 3

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: Arvada Center Clear Creek Makerspace JCC Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Feb 28

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 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: @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 February 28th episode: CAP Management Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Feb 27

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 ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Feb 26

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

Feb 25

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 more news from around the city, 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 25th episode: CAP Management Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Feb 24

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

Feb 21

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 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 February 21st 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

Feb 20

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

Feb 19

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

Feb 18

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

Feb 14

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: @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 February 14th episode: Denver Health University of Colorado Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Feb 13

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

Feb 12

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 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? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Feb 11

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/advertise

Feb 10

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

Feb 7

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 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 February 7th episode: Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Feb 6

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

Feb 5

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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this February 5th episode: Arvada Center Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Feb 4

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

Feb 3

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

Jan 31

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 . 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 January 31st episode: Denver Art Museum Clear Peak Fertility Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 30

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

Jan 29

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: 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 January 29th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Art Musseum Clear Peak Fertility Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 28

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 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 28th episode: Denver Art Museum presents Untitled: Artist Takeover Clear Peak Fertility Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 27

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: @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 24th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Denver Art Museum presents Untitled: Artist Takeover Clear Peak Fertility Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 24

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 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 wolf reintroduction after four years of drama? The AwooOOOooo Hotline is open! 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 January 24th episode: 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

Jan 23

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: 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

Jan 22

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 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 January 22nd episode: 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

Jan 21

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% 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

Jan 17

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 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 January 17th episode: Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 16

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

Jan 15

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

Jan 14

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

Jan 13

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? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 10

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 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/Denver Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 9

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

Jan 8

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

Jan 7

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 Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 6

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

Jan 3

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

Jan 2

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

Dec 30, 2024

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

Dec 26, 2024

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

Dec 23, 2024

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

Dec 20, 2024

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 been arrested in connection with the armed home invasion and kidnapping at The Edge at Lowry apartments. "They are suspected of being members or associates of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua," the spokesperson said. "They will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings or hearings before an immigration judge." For even more news from around the city, 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 December 20th 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

Dec 19, 2024

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 podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 18, 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

Dec 17, 2024

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: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this December 17th 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

Dec 16, 2024

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

Dec 13, 2024

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 pulling out of the merger with Kroger in Oregon. For even more news from around the city, 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 December 13th 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

Dec 12, 2024

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

Dec 11, 2024

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

Dec 10, 2024

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

Dec 9, 2024

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

Dec 6, 2024

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: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this December 6th episode: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Unit E Records Colfax Ave BID Office of Climate Action Coloradogives.org 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

Dec 5, 2024

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 Colfax Ave BID Office of Climate Action Coloradogives.org Denver Urban Garden Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 4, 2024

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: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Unit E Records Colfax Bid Office of Climate Action Coloradogives.org Project Angel Heart Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 3, 2024

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 Office of Climate Action PineMelon - Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $35 off your first delivery Energy Outreach - Donate at Coloradogives.org Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Dec 2, 2024

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 Cast? Find more info here citycast.fm/advertise . Got questions or comments about this episode? You can reach us at denver@citycast.fm

Nov 27, 2024

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

Nov 26, 2024

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 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 25, 2024

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

Nov 22, 2024

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 Denver Health Unit E Records - Use promo code CITYCAST for a free vinyl record with your subscription Warren Village Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 21, 2024

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

Nov 20, 2024

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

Nov 19, 2024

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? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 18, 2024

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 podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 15, 2024

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 Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Nov 14, 2024

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

Nov 13, 2024

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

Nov 12, 2024

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

Nov 11, 2024

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

Nov 8, 2024

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

Nov 7, 2024

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

Nov 6, 2024

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

Nov 5, 2024

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: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this November 5th 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

Nov 4, 2024

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

Nov 4, 2024

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

Nov 3, 2024

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.

Nov 1, 2024

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 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 1st episode: Denver Heath Denver Public Library - RSVP to the grand reopening here Denver Film - Get your tickets here! BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST New Era Colorado 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

Oct 31, 2024

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 betterhelp.com/CITYCAST New Era Colorado 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

Oct 30, 2024

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 betterhelp.com/CITYCAST New Era Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 29, 2024

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: @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 29th episode: Denver Heath Denver Public Library - RSVP to the grand reopening here Denver Film - Get your tickets to Denver Film Fest here! BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST New Era Colorado 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

Oct 28, 2024

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 betterhelp.com/CITYCAST New Era Colorado Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 25, 2024

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: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this October 25th episode: Denver Public Library - RSPVP to the grand reopening here Denver Art Museum 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

Oct 24, 2024

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 to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 23, 2024

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

Oct 22, 2024

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: Denver Public Library - RSVP to the grand Reopening here Denver Art Museum 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

Oct 21, 2024

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 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 18, 2024

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? His favorite new donut shop? We would love to put your questions to him directly. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and he might answer you directly: 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 18th 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

Oct 17, 2024

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

Oct 16, 2024

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 citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 15, 2024

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

Oct 12, 2024

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

Oct 11, 2024

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: @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 11th 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 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 citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 10, 2024

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

Oct 10, 2024

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 - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 9, 2024

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 citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 8, 2024

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 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 citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 7, 2024

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 for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Oct 4, 2024

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 of this October 4th episode: Denver Health Town Hall Collaborative 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

Oct 3, 2024

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

Oct 2, 2024

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

Oct 1, 2024

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 City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Sep 30, 2024

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

Sep 27, 2024

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 Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this September 27th 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

Sep 26, 2024

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

Sep 25, 2024

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

Sep 24, 2024

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

Sep 23, 2024

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

Sep 20, 2024

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 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

Sep 19, 2024

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

Sep 18, 2024

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

Sep 17, 2024

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: membership.citycast.fm/denver If you enjoyed today's interview with B:CIVIC'S Director, Jess Welser, learn more here. Learn more about the other sponsors of this September 17th episode: Denver Botanic Gardens Life Surge What the Buff Podcast Cosmic Howl at Meow Wolf Denver 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

Sep 16, 2024

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? 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: 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

Sep 13, 2024

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 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 13th 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

Sep 12, 2024

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

Sep 11, 2024

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

Sep 10, 2024

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

Sep 9, 2024

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

Sep 6, 2024

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 Plant Expo - Use code City for 10% off 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

Sep 5, 2024

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

Sep 4, 2024

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! 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

Sep 3, 2024

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

Aug 30, 2024

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: @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 August 30th episode: Denver Health PineMelon - Use promo code LABORDAY for $100 off your first delivery “ Colfax Crawl ” with the Colfax Ave BID All American Reptile and Plant Expo Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 29, 2024

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 2024 Palisade Peach Festival . Bree looked to the City of Rocky Ford for historical facts, and gleaned a lot of great info from the Rocky Ford Growers Association as well as a story in The Gazette by Teresa Farney. For even more news from around the city, 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 August 29th episode: Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Aug 28, 2024

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

Aug 27, 2024

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

Aug 26, 2024

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

Aug 23, 2024

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 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

Aug 22, 2024

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

Aug 21, 2024

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

Aug 20, 2024

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

Aug 19, 2024

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

Aug 16, 2024

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? 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: 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

Aug 15, 2024

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

Aug 14, 2024

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 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

Aug 13, 2024

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

Aug 12, 2024

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

Aug 9, 2024

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 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: 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

Aug 8, 2024

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

Aug 7, 2024

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

Aug 6, 2024

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

Aug 5, 2024

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

Aug 2, 2024

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: @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 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

Aug 1, 2024

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

Jul 31, 2024

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

Jul 30, 2024

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

Jul 29, 2024

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

Jul 26, 2024

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 news from around the city, 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 Denver Health Babbel : Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST PineMelon : Use promo code CITYCASTDENVER for $75 off your first delivery 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 citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 25, 2024

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 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 citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 24, 2024

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 : 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 citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 23, 2024

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 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 citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 22, 2024

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 citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 19, 2024

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 the GoFundMe for her neighbor who was killed by a drunk driver . What do you think about the new Zyn factory coming to 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: membership.citycast.fm/Denver Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: 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! PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 18, 2024

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

Jul 17, 2024

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

Jul 16, 2024

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

Jul 15, 2024

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

Jul 13, 2024

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

Jul 12, 2024

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 Davis Restoration . What grade would you give Mayor Johnston on his first year in office? 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 July 12th episode: Blanco Cocina + Cantina PineMelon 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

Jul 11, 2024

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

Jul 10, 2024

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 options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Hey Victoria, thanks for listening and leaving us a message. I agree Patty is the best! This is Paul btw. I thought you might be curious, I just checked Union Station's code of conduct and it confirms my personal experience: "Restrooms and seating within the common areas of the Great Hall are reserved for patrons of Denver Union Station, Amtrak, and the Crawford Hotel only." You can find the rest of their rules here: https://www.denverunionstation.com/content/uploads/2023/02/DUS-Code-of-Conduct.pdf

Jul 9, 2024

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 (July 20-21) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 8, 2024

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 citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 5, 2024

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

Jul 3, 2024

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 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: Babbel Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jul 2, 2024

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

Jul 1, 2024

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

Jun 28, 2024

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 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

Jun 27, 2024

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

Jun 26, 2024

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

Jun 25, 2024

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

Jun 24, 2024

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

Jun 22, 2024

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

Jun 21, 2024

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: @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 June 21st 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

Jun 20, 2024

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

Jun 18, 2024

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

Jun 17, 2024

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

Jun 15, 2024

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 denver.citycast.fm . Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 14, 2024

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: @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 Monarch Casino PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 13, 2024

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

Jun 12, 2024

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

Jun 11, 2024

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: 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

Jun 10, 2024

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 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 PineMelon Monarch Casino Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 8, 2024

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

Jun 7, 2024

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: @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: 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

Jun 6, 2024

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

Jun 5, 2024

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

Jun 4, 2024

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

Jun 3, 2024

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

Jun 2, 2024

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 podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jun 1, 2024

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

May 31, 2024

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 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 Health PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 30, 2024

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

May 29, 2024

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 Denver Health Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 28, 2024

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

May 24, 2024

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.

May 23, 2024

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

May 22, 2024

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

May 21, 2024

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 PineMelon Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 20, 2024

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

May 17, 2024

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

May 16, 2024

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

May 15, 2024

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

May 14, 2024

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

May 13, 2024

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

May 10, 2024

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 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

May 9, 2024

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

May 8, 2024

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

May 8, 2024

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

May 7, 2024

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

May 6, 2024

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

May 3, 2024

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: 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

May 2, 2024

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

May 1, 2024

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

Apr 30, 2024

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

Apr 29, 2024

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

Apr 26, 2024

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

Apr 25, 2024

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

Apr 24, 2024

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

Apr 23, 2024

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

Apr 22, 2024

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

Apr 19, 2024

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 the city, 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

Apr 18, 2024

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

Apr 17, 2024

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

Apr 16, 2024

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

Apr 15, 2024

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

Apr 12, 2024

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 Meow Wolf ! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Apr 11, 2024

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

Apr 10, 2024

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

Apr 9, 2024

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

Apr 8, 2024

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

Apr 5, 2024

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: 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 Urban Bush Women at the 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

Apr 4, 2024

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 Urban Bush Women at the 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

Apr 3, 2024

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

Apr 2, 2024

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

Apr 1, 2024

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

Mar 29, 2024

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 becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/Denver 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

Mar 28, 2024

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

Mar 27, 2024

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 (Sun Valley) Bastien’s (City Park) PS Lounge (Congress Park) Bluebird Theater (City Park) Middleman (City Park) Satire Lounge (Cheesman Park) Charlie Brown’s (Cap Hill) Pho 96 (Ruby Hill) Lakeside Amusement Park (Lakeside) Where do you like to take visitors? 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! For even more news from around the city, 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

Mar 26, 2024

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

Mar 25, 2024

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

Mar 22, 2024

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: 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

Mar 21, 2024

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

Mar 20, 2024

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

Mar 19, 2024

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

Mar 18, 2024

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

Mar 15, 2024

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

Mar 14, 2024

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

Mar 13, 2024

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/advertise

Mar 12, 2024

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

Mar 11, 2024

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

Mar 8, 2024

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

Mar 7, 2024

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

Mar 6, 2024

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

Mar 5, 2024

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

Mar 4, 2024

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

Mar 1, 2024

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 New Saigon closing and the Denver Post’s recent best podcasts list . For even more news from around the city, 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 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

Feb 29, 2024

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

Feb 28, 2024

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

Feb 27, 2024

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

Feb 26, 2024

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

Feb 23, 2024

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 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: 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

Feb 22, 2024

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

Feb 21, 2024

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

Feb 20, 2024

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

Feb 16, 2024

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 around the city, 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! Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Feb 15, 2024

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: 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

Feb 14, 2024

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

Feb 13, 2024

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

Feb 12, 2024

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

Feb 9, 2024

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 Center (Starting February 16) Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Feb 8, 2024

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 at citycast.fm/advertise

Feb 7, 2024

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

Feb 6, 2024

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 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

Feb 5, 2024

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

Feb 2, 2024

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

Feb 1, 2024

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 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: 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

Jan 31, 2024

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

Jan 30, 2024

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

Jan 29, 2024

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

Jan 26, 2024

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 more news from around the city, 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 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

Jan 25, 2024

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

Jan 24, 2024

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 newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 23, 2024

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

Jan 22, 2024

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 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 newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 19, 2024

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 Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 18, 2024

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

Jan 17, 2024

¡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

Jan 16, 2024

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

Jan 12, 2024

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: 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

Jan 11, 2024

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

Jan 10, 2024

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

Jan 9, 2024

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

Jan 8, 2024

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

Jan 5, 2024

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 Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise

Jan 4, 2024

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

Jan 3, 2024

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

Jan 2, 2024

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

Dec 29, 2023

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

Dec 28, 2023

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

Dec 27, 2023

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

Dec 26, 2023

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

Dec 22, 2023

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

Dec 21, 2023

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

Dec 20, 2023

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

Dec 19, 2023

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

Dec 18, 2023

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

Dec 15, 2023

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

Dec 14, 2023

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 Christmas Carol ” Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise