City Cast Denver

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

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

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

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

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

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: [email protected]. 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 [email protected] 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

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 [email protected] 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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