Best Pet Foster Program Podcasts (2025)

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May 22, 2025: A 'final exam' for education -- in the classroom with Colorado's teacher of the year 49:03

15m ago49:03

49:03

Today we go inside the classroom, with Colorado's Teacher of the Year, Janet Damon of Delta High School, an alternative public school in Denver. How growing up in Colorado helped shape her as an educator, plus, her students share the qualities they've learned from her that will help them seize the summer. Also, documentary filmmaker and Colorado Co…

1
May 21, 2025: 'Countdown' examines how the U.S. is updating its ‘geriatric’ nuclear arsenal 49:10

12m ago49:10

49:10

This country’s nuclear arsenal is “geriatric.” And many of the people who maintain it are heading towards retirement. Plus, the agency that oversees the nuclear arsenal has not been immune to the possibility of federal staffing cuts. Colorado science writer Sarah Scoles examines the future of nuclear defense in her book, “Countdown: The Blinding Fu…

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May 20, 2025: Empowering and supporting an aging Colorado: the solutions the state’s considering 49:11

21h ago49:11

49:11

When it comes to planning for Colorado's fastest growing population, people 65 and older, the state's Senior Specialist on Aging, Kristine Burrows, says it needs to be a group effort that includes government, the business community, nonprofits, philanthropy, and anyone with a vision for big, bold ideas. The state just released a new report called "…

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Building a TNR Movement Part 1: The Roots of a TNR Revolution featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director at Neighborhood Cats 49:00

3h ago49:00

49:00

"Success attracts donors and grantors, and just provides that foundation for expanding into the wider community." This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie’s Fund. In Part 1 of this recorded webinar, "From the Backyard to the Front Page: Building a TNR Movement," Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director for Neighborhood Cats, presents a compellin…

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May 19, 2025: Polis on vetoes, housing laws; Evolving vision for downtown Denver 49:11

15m ago49:11

49:11

Governor Jared Polis is flexing his executive power. He vetoed a priority bill for Democrats and threatens to withhold funds from cities that don't follow new housing laws. Also, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston talks about an evolving vision for downtown Denver and big project investments. Then, Denver Post reporter Sam Tabachnik on his investigation in…

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May 16, 2025: Denver mayor on immigration, federal lawsuit, and housing; CSU alum now at MSNBC 49:18

3d ago49:18

49:18

It’s been a trying year for Denver’s mayor. Mike Johnston has battled with the Trump administration over the city’s welcoming immigration policies. On the flipside, a top attraction, the 16th Street Mall, is finally reopening. Then, a steel startup in Boulder plans to make climate-friendly iron. And MSNBC's Eugene Daniels returns to his alma matter…

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May 15, 2025: Colorado raft supply companies navigate the uncertain waters of tariffs; Preserving oral histories 28:28

4d ago28:28

28:28

Navigating the on-again-off-again tariffs can be like navigating the rapids on a river in Colorado. We hear from two raft supply companies about the impact. Then, words to live by from the student speaker at Western Colorado University's commencement. Plus, how older Coloradans are connecting with kids in the classroom for mutual benefit. And a cre…

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May 14, 2025: Attorney General Weiser on 20 lawsuits and counting; Jewish music for all 30:14

5d ago30:14

30:14

President Trump has signed executive orders at a dizzying pace: 152 as of this morning. Any number of them affect Colorado. That has kept Democratic Attorney General Phil Weiser very busy -- he's filed filed 20 lawsuits so far challenging some of those orders. Then, cuts to food aid are on the table as Congress considers a new spending bill. Plus, …

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May 13, 2025: How receiving (and writing) letters brings happiness to seniors; 'The Invisible Patient' 29:21

6d ago29:21

29:21

When Angela Lee moved to Life Care Center of Evergreen, she was lonely. Until one day changed it all...Love For Our Elders is a non-profit organization that aims to relieve loneliness among people living in care facilities through letter writing. Then, a new documentary by a retiree in Grand Junction examines "The Invisible Patient" -- stories of f…

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In Hot Pursuit: Community Cat Care in Miami, featuring Dr. Mat Toscano, Executive Director and Chief of Surgery at Street Cat Clinic, and Tia Williams, Director of Cat Solutions 305 35:54

10d ago35:54

35:54

"Stop treating cats like dogs—when we see them for who they really are, the right solutions start to emerge." This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie’s Fund. In this dynamic episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron is joined by two passionate advocates making waves in Miami’s cat welfare scene: Tia Williams, Director of Cat Sol…

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May 12, 2025: Taking stock of the session with bills that passed, new lawmakers and... poetry 29:11

7d ago29:11

29:11

Now that this year's state legislative session has ended, what did lawmakers accomplish? And what did they miss? We'll take stock with "Purplish." Plus two freshman lawmakers reflect on their experience. And a little poetry to sum up the session.By Colorado Public Radio

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May 9, 2025: How deportations are playing out in Colorado; A milestone on Colfax Ave. 49:23

10d ago49:23

49:23

Colorado's a flashpoint when it comes to immigration, especially Aurora and Denver, which the new administration has singled out. CPR justice reporter Allison Sherry and Denverite's Kyle Harris join a roundtable with our colleagues at "The Middle" hosted by Jeremy Dobson. Then, a milestone for construction on Colfax Avenue. Plus, a new passenger tr…

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May 8, 2025: Bike shop rides into the sunset amid tariffs; Federal cuts upend classrooms 48:16

11d ago48:16

48:16

A bike maker in Colorado Springs has been building Colorado-inspired bicycles for more than a decade, but the reality of tariffs means going out of business. And, from mass layoffs at the Department of Education to a crusade against DEI in schools, the Trump Administration has sent shockwaves through Colorado classrooms. Also, Welcome to the Indiev…

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May 7, 2025: State lawmakers head to the finish line; Colorado Flower Collective helps farmers bloom 49:12

12d ago49:12

49:12

How much did Colorado lawmakers cross off their "to do" list, and what's left to do as they head into the final day of the legislative session? Then, what potential federal funding cuts could mean to public media in Colorado. Plus, how the Colorado Flower Collective is helping local flower farmers. Later, words to remember to stay safe from lightni…

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May 6, 2025: Colorado nonprofits work to overcome cuts; What 'climate realism' means for green energy 49:06

13d ago49:06

49:06

Federal funding cuts are creating a domino effect for Colorado nonprofits as they work to figure out what's next. Then, Secretary of Energy Chris Wright says he's not a climate change denier; he's a climate change realist. What does that mean for alternative sources of energy? Plus, author Tommy Orange's commencement message for the graduating clas…

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Build Better, Fund Smarter Featuring Tim Crum, Fundraising and Operations Consultant 29:34

13d ago29:34

29:34

"Our industry is full of people with big hearts — but running a shelter takes more than heart. It takes structure, strategy, and systems." This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie’s Fund. Whether you’re running a grassroots cat rescue or leading a multi-million-dollar shelter, the question remains the same: how do we keep the doors open and serv…

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May 5, 2025: How to turn an office high-rise into homes; United expands in Denver 49:21

14d ago49:21

49:21

It's a rough time for commercial real estate. Could vacant high-rises be turned into apartments? In downtown Denver, a developer has bought two buildings with that in mind. We'll find out what a conversion takes. Then, United's new flight to Rome is the latest example of the airline's investment in Denver. Plus, Purplish explores a rare veto showdo…

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May 2, 2025: How The Women's Bank of Denver fostered inclusion, opportunity, and empowerment 49:12

17d ago49:12

49:12

Not that long ago, women seeking a loan or line of credit faced invasive questions from bankers. "Are you planning on having children?" "What type of birth control are you using?" "Where's your husband?" Against that backdrop, in the 1970s, The Women's Bank of Denver was founded--changing financial lives for generations. Sr. Host Ryan Warner speaks…

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May 1, 2025: Voters, Congressional delegation on Trump's first 100 days; The secret life of Mary Rippon 49:02

18d ago49:02

49:02

As President Trump marks 100 days in office, we get a read from Colorado's Congressional delegation and the state's voters. Then, she was the first female professor at the University of Colorado Boulder, but she had a secret that remained hidden for nearly a century. Plus, Colorado Wonders about a disappearing river. And, are you ready to evacuate …

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Getting Pets Adopted from Foster Homes 24:50

18d ago24:50

24:50

Foster homes are great for pets, but they’re also a marketing goldmine. Learn about creating a process to market pets in foster homes and get them adopted- right from the couch. PLEASE NOTE: Office Hours have been changed due to the Memorial Day holiday. They will now be Mondays, May 5, 12, 19, and Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 12pm PT/3pm ET. GUESTS:…

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How to Find New Fosters in Your Community 32:17

22d ago32:17

32:17

Tired of asking the same people over and over to foster? This episode is all about fresh recruitment ideas and proven ways to bring in new faces from all parts of your community. PLEASE NOTE: Office Hours have been changed due to the Memorial Day holiday. They will now be Mondays, May 5, 12, 19, and Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 3pm ET/12pm PT GUESTS:…

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April 30, 2025: The start of severe weather season; A friendship after Saigon's fall 49:14

19d ago49:14

49:14

We check-in with Denver7 chief meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo as severe weather season begins, and find out what weather phenomenon fascinates her the most. Then, one family's concern as Congress grapples with the future of Medicaid. Plus, a friendship forged in the aftermath of war 50 years after the Fall of Saigon. Also, in our series Aging Matters, …

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April 29, 2025: Elevating Africa and the opportunities it creates in Colorado; Authenticity in African fashion 48:12

21d ago48:12

48:12

For the past 20 years... the Denver-based, grassroots non-profit Africa Agenda has been working to build and elevate relationships between Colorado and the continent of Africa. George Bamu is its founder and executive director and his organization often works closely with state Rep. Naquetta Ricks. Then, an entrepreneur based in Broomfield has a vi…

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Fixing Cats, Feeding Communities: How One Woman Sparked a Movement, Featuring Wednesday Hugus, Founder of Wednesday’s Community Cats and Kittens 28:55

24d ago28:55

28:55

“If you can’t fix ’em, don’t feed ’em. You may think you’re being kind, but make sure you do the responsible thing and spay and neuter.” This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie’s Fund. What started as a COVID-era effort to help feed pets in need has transformed into a full-fledged nonprofit tackling the staggering population of community cats i…

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April 28, 2025: Perspective on Trump's first 100 days from State Sen. Kirkmeyer, U.S. Rep. Neguse 49:10

21d ago49:10

49:10

Whether it's tariffs, immigration, or the self-proclaimed Department of Government Efficiency, President Donald Trump's first 100 days in office have been a whirlwind. Two lawmakers from different parties and different Capitols share their perspectives: Congressman Joe Neguse, a Democrat, and State Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, a Republican. They join…

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Make Foster Onboarding Work for You 18:33

24d ago18:33

18:33

Let’s talk about low-barrier foster onboarding! What works, what doesn’t, and how to make it simple enough that people actually sign up and stay involved. PLEASE NOTE: Office Hours have been changed due to the Memorial Day holiday. They will now be Mondays, May 5, 12, 19, and Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 12pm PT/3pm ET. HOSTS: Kristen Hassen, Princip…

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All About the Foster 50 Challenge 17:12

24d ago17:12

17:12

Welcome to the Foster 50 Challenge! Thank you for joining us on this important journey to grow your foster network programming. In our first episode, you’ll hear real talk about what actually works to build a foster program that scales and sustains. We’ll also discuss the important checkpoints of the Foster 50 program to prepare you for grant submi…

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April 25, 2025: Holocaust survivor and folk musician Osi Sladek 48:22

24d ago48:22

48:22

In his memoir, Oscar "Osi" Sladek shares the unforgettable story of how he and his parents survived the Holocaust, while many other members of their extended family perished. "Escape to the Tatras" culminates in the story of Sladek's folk music career. In an interview with Ryan Warner, Sladek also reflects on faith and continued antisemitism. Slade…

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April 24, 2025: A long overdue honor for the 6888 Postal Battalion; From flood to fruit 48:45

25d ago48:45

48:45

In World War II, an all women of color battalion solved an enormous backlog of mail between the homefront and the battlefront. Now, they're finally getting recognition with a Congressional Gold Medal. Then, land ravaged by a flash flood in 2013 becomes a budding fruit orchard in Lyons to give back to the community. Plus, training to fight wildfires…

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April 23, 2025: Exploring the potential of geothermal energy; Tennis on music, marriage, and balance 49:16

26d ago49:16

49:16

As Colorado looks toward the potential of tapping geothermal energy, we explore where it's being used already and considerations moving forward. Then, an 11th grader is honored for her answer to this question: "What's your message to the president?" Plus, the federal budget cuts hit AmeriCorps. And the husband-wife music duo, Tennis reflect on thei…

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April 22, 2025: The debate over geothermal energy boils over; Colorado reflections on Pope Francis 49:07

27d ago49:07

49:07

With all the debate about where to get energy, from oil and coal to wind and solar, there's one source we don't hear a lot about. Hot water. Colorado wants to become a leader in developing geothermal energy, but the debate on how to do that is heating up itself. Colorado In Depth explores what we know, and don't know about this energy resource. The…

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Innovating TNR Support with the Trapper Aid Initiative Featuring Alexa Kyler, Software Developer & Cat Advocate. 29:21

1M ago29:21

29:21

"We all want to help, but without the right tools and resources, TNR can feel impossible. That’s why we need technology to bridge the gaps." This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie’s Fund. Trapping and caring for community cats comes with numerous logistical challenges—finding vet appointments, securing transportation, and funding medical care.…

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April 21, 2025: Remembering the Pope; State lawmakers on immigrant protections; Psilocybin and postpartum 49:22

28d ago49:22

49:22

Regis University President Salvador Aceves says he was struck by the Pope's humanity when they met last year. Aceves reflects on the Pope's impact and legacy as the world mourns. Then, Purplish looks into the state's protections for immigrants as state lawmakers debate what to do next. Also, "The Trip" explores how psilocybin might treat postpartum…

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April 18, 2025: Car buying considerations; Western Slope judge tells ICE to back off 49:10

1M ago49:10

49:10

The Colorado Auto Show opens today amid tariffs. We ask the head of the Colorado Automobile Dealers Association about car buying in today's economy. Then, a judge on the Western Slope orders ICE to stay out of county courthouses. Also, a man who dresses as a chicken has a serious message about self-care in Colorado's ski towns. Plus, as the Nuggets…

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April 17, 2025: A Colorado Matters encore: Embrace a 'Wonder Year' of worldschooling 47:44

1M ago47:44

47:44

Imagine living abroad, or even in another part of the U.S. for a few months or longer, with your family in tow and using the world as your classroom. It might not be as far-fetched as you think. Three Boulder moms wrote a book on how to do it: "Wonder Year: A Guide to Long-Term Family Travel and Worldschooling." Chandra Thomas Whitfield spoke with …

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April 16, 2025: Stand-up comic heals with 'Tromedy'; France knights Colorado astrophysicist 48:25

1M ago48:25

48:25

Comedian Nancy Norton shares highlights from The Tromedy Podcast. Norton, a former nurse in Boulder, is trained in therapeutic humor. Then, for a second year, Colorado sends a Windsor High School student to the Poetry Out Loud national finals. And, an astrophysicist at NCAR receives one of France's highest honors.…

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April 15, 2025: A measles checkup; State lawmakers working to preserve trans rights 49:02

1M ago49:02

49:02

For the first time in nearly three decades, Colorado has three confirmed cases of the measles. But it's not considered an outbreak yet. Then, as the federal government rolls back rights for transgender Americans, Colorado is moving to expand protections. We'll look at the debate with Purplish. Plus, rural Colorado braces for Medicaid cuts and the i…

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Tackling Global Animal Welfare Challenges Featuring John Peaveler of Humane Innovations, LLC 33:20

1M ago33:20

33:20

"If you’re struggling to catch the last cat in your colony, you just haven’t figured out the right approach yet. Every cat is catchable with the right technique." This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie’s Fund. From building Kuwait’s first progressive animal shelter to developing global disaster response programs, John Peaveler has seen it all.…

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April 14, 2025: New Fort Lewis president on supporting Indigenous, first-gen students; '12 Tablecloths' 48:28

1M ago48:28

48:28

She was the first in her family to go to college. Now she's a college president, helping other first-gen students navigate higher ed. We speak with the new president of Fort Lewis College, Dr. Heather Shotton, about job readiness in rural Colorado. Then, the San Luis Valley braces for cuts to Medicaid. And artist and historian Chloé Duplessis' new …

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April 10, 2025: International torture trial in Denver; Colorado entrepreneur eyes A.I. and audio 49:01

1M ago49:01

49:01

A trial is underway in Denver for a man accused of torture in The Gambia. We'll talk through the accusations and why it's happening in Colorado. Then, a Colorado entrepreneur is working to bring audio in movies and online content to the next level, using ethically-sourced Artificial Intelligence. Plus, why the pine beetle is spreading again. And a …

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April 9, 2025: ICE's 'collateral arrests' include a former slave; Choir director finds harmony off stage 49:11

1M ago49:11

49:11

In rounding up the "worst first," immigration agents also conduct what they consider "collateral arrests." Then, the French ambassador to the US visits Colorado where he discusses aerospace and business opportunities amid tariffs. Also, the region's new EPA administrator on energy, climate change, and clean air & water. And later, creating harmony …

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April 8, 2025: Helping student athletes win on the playing field of mental health 48:51

1M ago48:51

48:51

Student athletes face a lot of pressure to win. And on the ever-changing playing field of college sports, that can create even more anxiety. Today, we share a panel discussion about stress, students, sports, and solutions, hosted by the CU Anschutz Medical Campus. Then, NCAA President Charlie Baker speaks with CSU President Amy Parsons about the ch…

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Changing Lives for Cats Around the World Featuring Karen Menczer, Founder of Animal Kind International 33:02

1M ago33:02

33:02

"You have to feel good about what you can do, even if you can’t help them all. Every small effort makes a difference.” This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie’s Fund. In this episode, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes Karen Menczer, founder of Animal Kind International, an organization that supports animal welfare groups in under-resourced communitie…

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April 7, 2025: Stock market whiplash and your investments; Ingredients for a viral recipe! 49:09

1M ago49:09

49:09

As tariffs send shockwaves through world markets, what sorts of decisions should everyday investors make? Then, Purplish on how, in Colorado, both Republicans and Democrats are regrouping, with politics in upheaval. Plus, what's the alchemy that makes a recipe go viral? We'll cook up some theories with food writer Allyson Reedy in her Broomfield ki…

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April 4, 2025: Teens share their love for reading; 'Pinch Hitting' tells the story of an unexpected hero 49:16

2M ago49:16

49:16

Today, we'll bust some myths about young people and reading. As much as kids are on their phones, many crave paper. Plus, book bans, the hottest genres among young adults, and the role of school libraries in 2025. Then, proxy voting on Capitol Hill. Plus, dedicated volunteers are keeping Colorado Springs clean. Later, survivors of sexual assault ar…

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April 3, 2025: An Aging Matters special - is a pet right for you? Plus, refocusing life after retirement 48:49

2M ago48:49

48:49

A pet dog or cat are often considered part of the family. But for older adults, they can become much more than that. In an Aging Matters on Colorado Matters special, paring up with a pet, and how to make the decision that's right for you. Then, a group of Latino seniors finds a solution to unexpected loneliness. And when people talk about retiring,…

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April 2, 2025: Measles case confirmed in Colorado; Critical seed lab in Fort Collins could be at risk 49:02

2M ago49:02

49:02

The first case of measles has been confirmed in Colorado following a recent outbreak in other states; today, what to know to stay safe. Then, two Colorado researchers trying to prevent HIV grapple with frozen funding. And, a seed vault in Fort Collins critical to state and national food supply could be at risk from federal cuts. Plus, as baseball s…

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April 1, 2025: A mother's search for answers; Is film project in Boulder a sign of things to come? 49:20

2M ago49:20

49:20

Her adult son was shot seven times in the back by a Douglas County sheriff's deputy. Today, a mother's search for answers. Then, as Boulder prepares to host the Sundance Film Festival in 2027, could a film production there be a sign of things to come? Plus, Colorado Wonders why the school year is shorter than in other states. Also, Colorado will be…

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Turning the Tide for TNR: Sioux Falls’ Game-Changing Ordinance, Featuring Mat Tougas, Founder and President of Sioux Empire TNR 25:49

2M ago25:49

25:49

"We want to be the example that proves you should never give up. No matter where you are, if you keep pushing, you can make change happen." This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie’s Fund. In this episode, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes Mat Tougas of the Sioux Empire TNR Coalition back for an exciting update on the fight for trap-neuter-return (TNR…

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March 31, 2025: Deals get made at Sundance; Arctic adventurer goes 'Into the Thaw' 48:51

2M ago48:51

48:51

What to expect from the Sundance Film Festival, courtesy of the town that lost it. From Park City, insight into the minuses and pluses from an art film owner. Then, an Oscar-winning filmmaker in Boulder who helped lure the event. Later, former Rep. Yadira Caraveo, MD, gets candid about mental health. Plus, a frozen world that's no longer frozen. Ar…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Pet Foster Program Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen