Colorado Matters

Metro Denver saw a record January snowstorm, although it wasn't the snowmageddon some were braced for. So what's the interplay between weather and climate? It's something we navigate each month with Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Mike Nelson. Then, Systemic explores equity in school, as a mother and educator fights for her child's safety.

Continuing our exploration of emerging treatments for mental health challenges, we look at promising help for people with obsessive compulsive disorder -- and how that same treatment might work for addictions. Then, Black babies --and those who birth them -- are dying in record numbers in Colorado. A Denver organization is working to raise awareness of the issue.

Governor Jared Polis says housing is the key to just about everything: the cost of living, transportation, health. And he plans an overhaul of land-use policy. Colorado Matters senior host Ryan Warner also asks about gun laws, migrants, hospital profits, and state spending. Then, what recent migrant arrivals might indicate about the state of immigration policy.

A new president, Amy Parsons, will soon lead Colorado State University. We'll ask about her priorities and the challenges of recruiting a diverse student body. Then, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s influence in places around the world, including Northern Ireland. And, the people who shine shoes at DIA. Also, hip hop music from the American South.

A new center at the University of Colorado Boulder puts the focus on African and African American Studies and creates a space to build community. On this Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, we re-share Chandra's visit just before the center opened in the fall. Plus, twin brothers at East High School use their voices to inspire others on the national speech and debate stage.

Issues that split the country, can also split families. Today, Colorado Matters features, "The Wedge," a new podcast distributed by CPR about bridging divides. Ryan Warner asks the co-creators, journalist Erica Anderson and Eve Daniel Pearlman with Spaceship Media, about when to engage in these discussions, and when not to.

Discussion of equity and racial justice in public education has become fraught – given the divisive state of politics these days. It’s at the heart of the new season of Systemic, CPR's podcast that uses audio diaries and interviews to document the lives of change makers. Also, how Colorado's Jewish community is helping migrants. And, a Coloradan nears a World Cup skiing record.

"The Mask" is a short story inspired by the life experiences of its author, Clayton Adams, of Aurora, whose own life ended much too soon. His parents, Spike Adams and Jamie Shimeall, talk with Ryan Warner about why they wanted it published. Later, as the state legislature looks to address drug addiction and the larger impact it has, we learn how to use Narcan when someone overdoses.

The new year offers a chance to reinvent our relationship with social media. We look at the changes at Twitter and emerging alternatives with Brian Keegan, a CU Boulder social scientist. Then, officers are training to figure out how someone’s driving is impaired. And, what’s up with state license plates? Also, a new platform for showcasing diverse artists.

A legislative preview as the first gavel falls. Then, Republicans are outnumbered at the Capitol. We speak with GOP leaders about policy and strategy. Plus, a new exhibit at the Clyfford Still Museum. And, a concert to honor recipients of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Awards.