City Cast Denver
News & Politics
About
Join Host Bree Davies and the City Cast Denver crew every weekday morning as we celebrate, explore, and challenge an ever-changing Denver. It’s the daily news podcast for all Denverites — whether you’ve been here for six months or six generations. We’ll break down the news you need (and want) to know with journalists and culture makers; activists and artists; neighbors and ne’er-do-wells — and John Elway, if he ever returns our calls. Learn more and subscribe to our newsletter at denver.citycast.fm.. Named Westword's Best Podcast of 2021, 2023
Episodes
- After the Bandstand Fire, the Key to City Park’s Future Lies in the Past
City Cast Denver discusses the future of City Park after a fire destroyed its iconic bandstand. Host Bree Davies talks with Georgia Garnsey and Kristina Maldonado Bad Hand about the park's history, ongoing projects, and plans for rebuildin…
- 'Your City Could Be Better': Philly's Bold Nightlife Experiment — Presented By City Cast Denver
This episode of City Cast Denver explores Philadelphia's extended bar hours experiment, implemented for the World Cup and semiquincentennial events. City Cast CEO David Plotz and City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri discuss the potential impa…
- Big Money in the Governor's Race, Sexual Assault Bill Breaks Through, and Gym Sued for Grunting Noises
This episode of City Cast Denver covers the latest fundraising data in the governor's race, highlighting Attorney General Phil Weiser and Senator Michael Bennet. It also details a new bill addressing sexual assault in ride-hailing services…
- What Does Denver Taste Like? Debating Our Claims to Food Fame
City Cast Denver explores Denver's culinary contributions, prompted by Little Man Ice Cream's national shipping. Host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi discuss iconic dishes like "Colorado-Style Pizza" with guest Dan Pashman.
- How to Lure the DNC to Denver. Plus, Why Workers Were Furloughed from a City-Backed Downtown Project
Denver is being considered to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention, with Mayor Mike planning a showcase itinerary. The episode also discusses delays and funding issues affecting the Denver Immersive Repertory Theater, a project sup…
- BRT Construction vs. Small Businesses, Asia Center Redevelopment Updates, and Little Man Goes National
This episode of City Cast Denver covers the progress and impact of Bus Rapid Transit construction, particularly on Federal Boulevard and Colfax Avenue, discussing concerns for small businesses and redevelopment plans for the Asia Center. I…
- Conservatives in Colorado Have a Secret Influence Machine. And It Might Be Working.
Logan M. Davis, reporter for Colorado Times Recorder, discusses his investigation into conservative groups and billionaires pushing public policy in Colorado. The episode touches on two ballot measures concerning fentanyl possession and lo…
- Who Wants THC Drinks? Plus, Bars Banking on Nostalgia and Our Asian Food Week Recs
A Colorado bill to allow higher THC levels in beverages failed. The episode discusses the differences between hemp and cannabis, explores the appeal of bars focused on nostalgia, and shares recommendations for Denver's Asian Food Week.
- Your Guide to May 2026 in Denver
In this episode, Michelle Polizzi joins hosts Paul Karolyi and Olivia Jewell Love to share recommendations for enjoying May in Denver. They discuss blooming flowers, local eateries, and activities like visiting castle ruins, alongside comm…
- A New LoDo Let-Out Fix? Plus, REI Boycott Beef and Denver's Surprising Smell Ranking
Denver's Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection has a new proposal to address late-night issues in the LoDo nightclub district. The episode also touches on listener opinions regarding a potential REI boycott and Denver's seventh-p…
- Downtown Ice Cream Project Melts, Frank Azar’s Hollywood Connections, and Your Bucket-List Meals
The Museum of Ice Cream project in downtown Denver was denied funding by the Downtown Development Authority. Westword Editor-in-Chief Patty Calhoun joins the show to discuss the mayor’s downtown revitalization efforts, the history of perso…
- What We Learned While Investigating DIA Conspiracies
City Cast Denver revisits its investigation into Denver International Airport conspiracy theories, discussing lore and insights from airport workers with YouTuber Dave Chung.
- 'Your City Could Be Better': Meet Nashville's Rogue Bench Builders — Presented By City Cast Denver
City Cast Denver discusses the grassroots group 'To Nashville, With Love' which built 60 benches at bus stops without city approval. Host Marie Cecile Anderson and CEO David Plotz explore the project's purpose, the city's pushback, and its…
- Uproar Over Strip Mall Redevelopment, Bucket-List Restaurants, and Surveillance Tech in Schools
This episode discusses a news report about the owner of the Asia Center planning to demolish a strip mall and build residences, which sparked a petition for a more inclusive approach. It also touches on a Satanist student challenging schoo…
- Who is Really Winning the Scooter Wars? Plus, a 30-Year Incumbent is On the Hot Seat
Denver City Council is voting on a new contract for exclusive scooter and e-bike provider, with Veo Micromobility as the potential new provider. The episode also discusses the race for Colorado's 1st Congressional District, challenging inc…
- REI Union Threatens Boycott, Buzzy Ice Cream Blows Up, and Who Won the Milk-Chugging Contest?
The episode covers the REI union's contract dispute and potential boycott. It also touches on local Denver events, including a milk-chugging contest and the expansion of an ice cream business. Host Bree Davies is joined by contributor Josh…
- Should Coloradans Be Concerned About Our Economy? Plus, a New Vision for the Pavilions
Economist Greg Sobetski joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi to discuss the Colorado economy and a new plan for the Denver Pavilions that includes demolition.
- When Water Will Return to Huston Lake, Downtown's Literal New Fabric, and a 'Peyton Manning-Inspired' Restaurant
This episode of City Cast Denver features a listener mailbag segment addressing the water supply for Huston Lake, the legality of hunting beavers in Colorado, and details about Peyton Manning's new restaurant. The hosts also highlight loca…
- 'Your City Could Be Better': Why Seattle Gives Every Voter $100 — Presented By City Cast Denver
Seattle has implemented a Democracy Voucher program, giving each voter $100 to donate to local candidates. City Cast CEO David Plotz discusses the program's function and impact with Seattle podcast host Jane C. Hu.
- How the Pearl Fell Apart, An Affordable Housing Beef, and Live Nation Ruling Local Reax
On City Cast Denver, host Bree Davies talks with Justine Sandoval and Adrian Felix about the sudden closure of The Pearl, the bar's crowdfunding efforts, and the co-owners' dispute. They also touch on affordable housing, male contraception…
- Deep Lore Behind Idaho Springs’ New Gondola, Another Downtown Closure, and Wacky Weather Wardrobe Essentials
This episode delves into the backstory of the Idaho Springs gondola and discusses the closure of downtown Denver's Moda Man, exploring potential reasons such as the pandemic and changing urban trends. It also covers the impact of drought o…
- Local TV News vs. Instagram Influencers, Avs/Nuggs Playoff Stories to Watch, and Would You Eat a Beaver?
This episode of City Cast Denver discusses potential changes in the local TV news industry, with a focus on the proposed merger of Fox31's and 9News' parent companies. Comedian Joshua Emerson joins the hosts to delve into Denver's media an…
- Can 80k Save Denver's Last Lesbian Bar? Plus, Denver's Big Pitch for the DNC and 'Third Space' Overload
City Cast Denver discusses Denver's bid to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention, featuring insights from Westword editor Patty Calhoun. The episode also covers the successful GoFundMe campaign for a local lesbian bar, The Pearl, an…
- Gardening Tips for Denver's Drought Restricted Summer
Ann Marie Awad provides Denver gardeners with advice on cultivating vegetables during a drought, managing pests like grasshoppers and squirrels using chemical-free methods, and the benefits of planting trees. Host Bree Davies also shares i…
- 'Your City Could Be Better': Why Portland’s Considering Hiring a Night Mayor — Presented By City Cast Denver
Portland is exploring the creation of a Night Mayor position to support nightlife and small businesses affected by the pandemic. City Cast Denver discusses the potential role and impact of such a position on urban economies.
- Lakewood Backtracks on Housing Density, Inside the RTD Drama, and Shirtless Rockies Fans
This episode covers the special election in Lakewood regarding housing density, the leadership change at RTD, and the push for Front Range Passenger Rail. Guests and hosts also discuss local news highlights, including current trends in Den…
- Xcel Takes on Data Centers, RTD's Big Shakeup, and Former Mayor Hancock: Real Estate Mogul?
Denver news discusses Xcel Energy's proposal for data centers and the departure of RTD CEO Debra Johnson. Former Mayor Michael Hancock is reportedly involved in real estate.
- Why are Denver Lakes Disappearing? Plus, Blucifer on Hulu and Disneyland on Colorado Boulevard
This episode of City Cast Denver investigates the disappearance of Denver lakes, focusing on Huston Lake's drying up. Host Bree Davies and contributors Michelle Jackson and Paul Karolyi discuss the environmental concerns, the prevalence of…
- Polis and Boebert at the Rockies Game, Denver's Next Top Mascot, and More from the Mailbag!
City Cast Denver hosts Bree Davies and Paul Karolyi answer listener questions about political prediction markets, potential mascots, and viewing parties for RuPaul's Drag Race. They also discuss a photo of Governor Polis and Congresswoman…
- Are Denver Restaurants Really in Crisis? It’s Complicated.
Denver restaurants are facing closures, prompting discussion on whether it's a crisis driven by rising costs, rents, and labor prices, or a more complex issue. Business owners and city officials offer differing perspectives on the impact o…
- 'Your City Could Be Better': Denver’s Bet on a Women’s Soccer Stadium
Denver is investing in a new women's soccer stadium, a move that could boost the local economy or leave taxpayers with the bill. The discussion covers Denver's downtown sports investments, urban repurposing, and traffic concerns related to…
- Alamo Drafthouse's QR Code Backlash, Election Denier Reconsidered, and What's So Funny About RTD?
City Cast Denver discusses the Alamo Drafthouse union's QR code ordering protest and other local news, including election deniers, RTD light rail humor, the JBS strike, and Denver City Council decisions.
- Prediction Markets Hit Local Politics, Axon Replaces Flock, and a Great Local Pet Store
David Sirota joins City Cast Denver to discuss the rise of prediction markets in local politics, such as betting on election outcomes and local temperature. The episode also covers the approval of Mayor Johnston's contract for Axon license…
- Your Guide to April 2026 in Denver
This episode of City Cast Denver provides recommendations for April 2026 in the city, including new eateries, coffee shops, libraries, and activities. It also discusses ideas for the ultimate Denver picnic and mentions upcoming events like…
- Local Dems Playing Dirty, César Chávez Ripple Effects, and Westword's New Era
Denver Democrats convened for their state assembly amidst allegations against AG candidate Jena Griswold. Westword editor Patty Calhoun discussed her retirement and past coverage of Griswold's tenure. The episode also touches on the ripple…
- How Will Lakewood Vote on Density? And What Will It Mean for Casa Bonita?
Lakewood will vote on April 7 regarding a zoning ordinance that aims to increase housing density. The episode presents arguments from both the "yes" campaign, concerned about preserving neighborhood character, and the "no" side, which supp…
- 'Your City Could Be Better': How Austin is Succeeding at Affordable Housing — Presented By City Cast Denver
City Cast CEO David Plotz discusses Austin's affordable housing accomplishments and challenges with host Nikki DaVaughn. The episode explores the city's housing trends and addresses listener questions about neighborly interaction.
- Which Dem Could Take Back CD8? Plus, Wait Times at DIA and Pizza Donuts at Coors Field
The episode covers the Democratic primary for Congressional District 8, featuring candidates Shannon Bird and Manny Rutinel. It also discusses new food options at Coors Field, the retirement of Westword editor-in-chief Patty Calhoun, and v…
- A New Approach to Housing Density, Denver's Drought Conditions, and Summit FC Needs a Mascot!
Denver is implementing Stage 1 drought restrictions following a warm and dry winter. The episode also covers a new lot-splitting bill concerning housing density and solicits mascot suggestions for Denver Summit FC.
- Breaking Down Rep. DeGette's Viral Confrontation, Flock Replacement Delayed, and Bookstore Drama
City Cast Denver covers a viral video of Rep. Diana DeGette being confronted by activists over military aid to Israel, a postponed vote on flock replacement cameras, and the fallout from former Tattered Cover CEO Kwame Spearman's departure…
- Is the New Broncos Stadium a Traffic Jam Waiting to Happen? Plus, Why ICE Might Be At DIA Soon
Neighbors are concerned about the traffic and transit impacts of the proposed Broncos stadium at Burnham Yard. The episode also examines a lawsuit that could affect federal funding for Denver International Airport.
- How Denver is Grappling With the César Chávez Revelations
Denver is renaming its César Chávez holiday and associated public spaces following sexual assault allegations against the labor icon. The episode explores the implications for labor movements and the roles of Chicano and Latina women withi…
- 'Your City Could Be Better': Could a Nevada Brothel Help Redefine Labor Standards Nationwide? — Presented By City Cast Denver
This episode discusses the unionization efforts of sex workers at Sheri's Ranch in Nevada, exploring their fight for employee status and union representation. Host David Plotz talks with attorney Dayvid Figler about the potential implicati…
- Trans Kids on the Ballot, a Shaky Scooter Deal, and Magic Mushroom Yoga
This episode discusses Colorado Ballot Initiatives 109 and 110, which impact transgender youth participation in sports and access to gender-affirming care. Guests also explore a Title IX issue in JeffCo schools, Denver's first licensed mic…
- Who Profits Off 'Captive Pricing' at DIA? Plus, 'No Kings' Energy Rising and an Underrated Nugget
This episode discusses
- What Secrets Has ICE Been Keeping in Denver? Plus, the Best Places To Be Broken Up With
This episode of City Cast Denver discusses recent reporting on ICE operations in the city, including changes under the Trump administration and the use of ICE 'hold rooms.' It also covers a lawsuit against GEO Group and includes a humorous…
- Is Denver Suffering From ‘Brain Drain’? Plus, a Major Congressional Upset Could Be Brewing
The Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure is experiencing significant turnover in senior positions, raising questions about its leadership and future. Meanwhile, a potential shake-up is brewing in Denver’s congressional ra…
- Free Market Hot Dogs Prevail, Where Bills Actually Become Laws, and an Iranian Coloradan Reflects on the War
Representative Yara Zokaie discusses a bill concerning pricing in captive markets like stadiums and shares perspectives on affordability and events in Iran. The episode touches on legislative processes and local business hotspots.
- ‘Your City Could Be Better’: DC’s Plan To Hold Federal Agents Accountable — Presented By City Cast Denver
DC passed emergency legislation for police accountability, requiring bodycam footage release and federal officer identification during joint patrols. Host Jacoby Cochran discusses this with Mike Schaffer, co-host of City Cast DC.
- Are Dems Done With Polis? Plus, A Massive Meatpackers' Strike and the Case of the Missing Pothos Plant
This episode covers the political uncertainty surrounding Governor Polis's decision on Tina Peters' clemency, with Democrats urging him not to grant it. It also touches on a potential strike at a JBS meatpacking plant, transit updates, and…