Best The Purple Elephant Show Podcasts (2024)

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July 5, 2024: Hannie Schaft killed Nazis. It put her on Hitler’s most-wanted list 48:41

1h ago48:41

48:41

Hannie Schaft, a member of the Dutch resistance, bombed Nazi assets and assassinated high-level collaborators. She is the inspiration for "To Die Beautiful," a painstakingly-researched work of historical fiction. Boulder author Buzzy Jackson spoke with Ryan Warner at The Tattered Cover Book Store in Denver for the novel's release in June, 2023. The…

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July 4, 2024: American history through trees; The artistry of Tuskegee pilot Clarence Shivers 48:32

39m ago48:32

48:32

On this Fourth of July, from George Washington to Johnny Appleseed, horticulturist Scott Skogerboe of Fort Collins is rooted in American history through the living legacy of trees. Then, celebrating the artistry of Tuskegee airman Clarence Shivers. The exhibit in Colorado Springs closes July 6. And Colorado's connection to "America the Beautiful."…

1
July 3, 2024: Aurora police under scrutiny again after shooting; ‘Painting the plains’ one mural at a time 51:39

12h ago51:39

51:39

Police in Aurora are under scrutiny again for the killing of an unarmed Black man. Kilyn Lewis was fatally shot by an officer in May. Then, meet "Some Girls and a Mural," who are brightening Colorado's eastern plains. Later, Colorado's big investment in quantum technology. And a new roof for Trinidad's historic Temple Aaron.…

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July 2, 2024: A hot and smoggy summer; Denver’s own Prince celebrates The Artist’s 40-year milestone 49:34

1d ago49:34

49:34

Denver just experienced its second-hottest June on record, and that's led to poor air quality. It's likely a sign of things to come this summer. Then, Phillip Lamar is the founder and front man of Colorado's premiere Prince tribute band; he reflects on The Artist's legacy on the 40th anniversary of the iconic Purple Rain. And Aging Matters revisits…

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Denver’s own Prince reflects on channeling The Artist’s legacy on the 40th anniversary of Purple Rain 24:21

1d ago24:21

24:21

Late musician Prince's iconic album and movie Purple Rain marks its 40th anniversary this year, and there are plenty of festivities, tribute concerts, and even a Broadway musical in the works to celebrate the pop culture milestone. Phillip Lamar is the founder and front man for Colorado's premiere Prince tribute band, Paizley Park.…

1
Film shines light on one school’s struggle to accommodate flood of new immigrants 15:45

1d ago15:45

15:45

McMeen Elementary knows first-hand what it's like to absorb some of the thousands of Venezuelan and other new immigrants who arrived in Denver this schol year. A new film, “McMeen in the Middle, Denver’s Migrant Crisis,” profiles the real-life challenges for these new students and their families and the burden felt by teachers.…

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July 1, 2024: You’ll never look at the moon the same way again 45:44

3d ago45:44

45:44

An hour of lunar exploration with Colorado Springs author Rebecca Boyle. In "Our Moon," she explains how the moon has guided evolution on earth. Boyle visits moon rocks in a special storage facility. Plus, a conversation about resource extraction and lunar preservation. This episode of "Turn The Page with Colorado Matters" was recorded on a stage a…

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June 28, 2024: Indian Citizenship Act prompts reflection, not celebration; Elephants name each other 50:22

5d ago50:22

50:22

Strange as it seems, Native Americans became U.S. citizens only 100 years ago. Southern Ute leaders here say the milestone is reason to reflect, rather than celebrate. Then, Colorado researchers find that elephants seem to have names for one another, much like humans. Also, meet the boys who found a rare junior T-Rex fossil. Plus, an award-winning …

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The kids who unearthed ‘Teen Rex’ 4:50

6d ago4:50

4:50

Three young explorers who found bones from a young T-Rex were recently at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science where the fossils are part of an exhibit called "Discovering Teen Rex." 12-year-old Jessin Fisher, his nine-year-old brother Liam and their 11-year-old cousin, Kaiden Madsen made the extremely rare discovery on a hike with their dad two…

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June 27, 2024: A school welcomes new immigrants beyond the classroom; Is a law to help renters working? 51:06

7d ago51:06

51:06

Children who made the harrowing journey from South America to the U.S. are filling up Denver's classrooms. Beyond teaching, schools have become a one-stop shop for everything from dental care to warm clothes and other necessities. A new film documents packed classrooms, overwhelmed teachers, and a community trying to fill the gaps. Then, Colorado h…

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June 26, 2024: How the primary shapes the general election; Judy Collins’ Rocky Mountain reflections 51:11

7d ago51:11

51:11

Some twists and turns, and perhaps some mixed messages, as Colorado tabulates the primary results and looks to the general election. We'll get perspective from Sara Hagedorn, a political science professor at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. Then, Denver's next district attorney. Also, election integrity with Matt Crane, the head of Colo…

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Raising awareness in the effort to find missing trans and LGBTQ people 10:46

8d ago10:46

10:46

When someone is reported missing, police say the first few days are most critical. That’s when investigators typically circulate photos and gather important information while people’s memories are still fresh.

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June 25, 2024: Older workers answer the call for preschool, aging care jobs; From football to dentistry 50:59

9d ago50:59

50:59

The fastest growing population in Colorado is 65 and older. But instead of retirement, it can also be an opportunity to help others while staying engaged. Then, the complexities of finding missing LGBTQ+ people. Also, a summer music festival rises to a creative challenge. And he traded in the football drills for the dental ones. Plus, illustrations…

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June 24, 2024: How the U.S. is updating its ‘geriatric’ nuclear arsenal 48:44

10d ago48:44

48:44

This country’s nuclear arsenal is “geriatric.” And many of the people who maintain it are heading towards retirement. Worrisome– if you believe, as the U.S. does, that nuclear deterrence keeps us safe. Colorado science writer Sarah Scoles examines the future of nuclear defense in her new book, “Countdown.” She spoke with Ryan Warner at the Center f…

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Heat dome comes west, says Denver7’s Mike Nelson 11:48

13d ago11:48

11:48

In their regular climate & weather chat, Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Mike Nelson tells Ryan Warner about the heat that will descend over the weekend. Plus, a visit from a Ford Model T in Steamboat Springs opens a discussion of automobile emissions.

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June 21, 2024: The heat is on this summer; Congressional races in districts 5 and 8 52:21

13d ago52:21

52:21

The heat dome that's gripped the Northeast is headed our way, with temperatures hovering close to 100 degrees. We'll get the summer outlook from Denver7 chief meteorologist Mike Nelson. Then, Purplish takes a closer look at the primary races in congressional districts 5 and 8. And later, educators share their stories in a new podcast and on-stage e…

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June 20, 2024: A Half Century of Pride Stories 49:26

14d ago49:26

49:26

When Denver celebrated its first Pride 50 years ago, about 50 people took part. Now that number is 500,000. On a special Colorado Matters, we share "A Half Century of Pride Stories," reflecting on the past while looking forward to the future.

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June 19, 2024: Celebrating Black culture and history while building community through trivia 48:17

15d ago48:17

48:17

To commemorate the Juneteenth holiday, we’re re-sharing an event that highlights Black culture and history while building community along the way. “Black People Know Things” is a trivia night held monthly at local breweries. We sat in on a special Colorado Black history edition in February at Spangalang Brewery in Five Points.…

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June 18, 2024: Colorado’s ‘Red Flag’ gun safety law used inconsistently; JoFoKe bares her soul on stage through music 49:50

16d ago49:50

49:50

When it comes to Colorado's so-called "Red Flag" gun violence prevention law, where you live often dictates when it's used, if it's used at all. Then, her family's musical legacy goes back four generations, but JoFoKe isn't relying on that as she makes her own mark, baring her soul on stage. For Black Music Month, we re-share our February interview…

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‘Drifting’ marks a musical, philosophical shift for UK-based artist Bay Bryan 5:19

16d ago5:19

5:19

Bay Bryan grew up in Golden, Colorado but has called Manchester, England home since 2017.

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New memoir recounts a thriving business, a vengeful ex-employee, and a new life in Ouray 13:10

17d ago13:10

13:10

When Di Rushing left her Mississippi Delta home three decades ago and headed for a new life in Ouray, Colorado, she and her family were fleeing a dark chapter in their lives. That episode became the catalyst for a memoir called “The Delta in the Rear View Mirror.”

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June 17, 2024: ‘Purplish’ on the battle for CD3; Fleeing a dark chapter for a new home in Colorado 49:57

17d ago49:57

49:57

“Purplish” reviews at a crowded GOP primary in Colorado’s third congressional district. Then, “The Delta in the Rearview Mirror” chronicles how things went south at Di Rushing’s Mississippi winery, leading her to Colorado. And, a Colorado Wonders question about those big sculptures in Golden. Plus, singer-songwriter Bay Bryan.…

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June 14, 2024: State GOP at odds with itself; Colorado trailblazer makes Broadway debut 51:59

20d ago51:59

51:59

It’s not something any political party wants heading into an election but the Colorado Republican Party is embroiled in a very public leadership struggle, with a growing effort to oust state GOP chair Dave Williams. Then, the two people vying to lead the Denver District Attorney's office. Plus, Jenna Bainbridge's trailblazing journey to Broadway. A…

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The race to be Denver’s next District Attorney 13:08

20d ago13:08

13:08

For the first time since 2016, voters in Denver are choosing a new district attorney. With no Republican running, the race will effectively be decided in this month’s Democratic primary. The winner will be responsible for prosecuting all felony crimes in the city and county.

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Filipino American Community of Colorado celebrates culture and history with annual festival 9:39

20d ago9:39

9:39

"Resilience" is the theme of this weekend's Padayon Philippine Festival in Edgewater. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Filipino American Community of Colorado, one of the oldest Asian-American non-profits in the state.

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June 13, 2024: A COVID-19 checkup; What it means to be an active and engaged father 50:26

25d ago50:26

50:26

There's been a slight uptick of the COVID-19 virus in wastewater around the state. We've tapped an expert to ask why. What's the latest protocol for testing? And what about vaccines? Then, a plan to clean up fossil fuel combustion. Also, Father’s Day is this weekend, but what does it mean to be an active and engaged father -- and why does it matter…

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June 12, 2024: Helping veterans find hope for their ‘next chapter’; Creating community through clothing 50:28

25d ago50:28

50:28

Of the suicides reported in El Paso County in 2021, roughly a third were military veterans. It prompted a pilot program called Next Chapter, a name carefully chosen to offer hope. The program has already expanded into Pueblo and Teller counties. Then, how a Colorado Springs-based clothier is creating community. And high school biology teacher Colin…

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A golfer’s education: Colorado Springs teacher tries to solve U.S. Open challenge 16:24

25d ago16:24

16:24

Colin Prater is a science teacher at Cheyenne Mountain High School in Colorado Springs, but he’s apparently really good at math as well, because recently he solved one of the most difficult equations in athletics…advancing from a field of 10,000 golfers around the world to one of just 156 spots in this week’s U.S. Open.Prater is one of Colorado's m…

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June 11, 2024: Marking a milestone of ideas for a better world; Harnessing the wind in Colorado 51:55

26d ago51:55

51:55

This month, the Aspen Ideas Festival marks 20 years of thought-provoking conversation, from students to celebrities to global leaders, exchanging ideas for a better world and human experience. Then, how high-dosage tutoring is helping students rebound from the pandemic learning gap. And answering a Colorado Wonders question about harnessing the win…

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Aspen Ideas celebrates 20th milestone of thought-provoking conversation and inspiration 32:08

26d ago32:08

32:08

The Aspen Ideas Festival brings together change-makers -- from singers and scientists to students and Nobel Prize winners -- to share ideas about what's shaping our world: the opportunities, the challenges, and finding common ground.

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June 10, 2024: The primary race for the 4th congressional district; Real life inspires ‘Playing with Wildfire’ 50:02

27d ago50:02

50:02

The stakes are especially high in three of Colorado's congressional districts, where traditionally Republican strongholds will be decided this election year. Today, Purplish looks at CD4. Then, why there's a slowdown on a key RTD light rail corridor. And, how wildfire and the pandemic inspired Laura Pritchett's new novel, "Playing with Wildfire."…

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June 7, 2024: Helping your garden grow in extreme heat and amidst pests aplenty; Biking the rails near Erie 50:12

1M ago50:12

50:12

Gardens are where many of us see the effects of weather and climate up-close. Today, tips on adaptation from Fatuma Emmad of FrontLine Farming in Denver. Then, the state patrol's newest crime-fighting tool, "The Grappler." Plus, you can now BIKE the rails near Erie, Colo.

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June 6, 2024: How technology could change farming amid worker shortages; 80 Something fights ageism and stereotypes 51:56

1M ago51:56

51:56

Colorado farmers can't find enough workers. Is technology like Artificial Intelligence the answer, and what are the trade-offs? Plus, incentives add up to buy or lease an EV. Then, "80 Something" is a vibrant new exhibit featuring artists over the age of 80. Also, learning to navigate Denver without GPS. And helping teens embrace wellness.…

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June 5, 2024: Predicting which babies are prone to food allergies; The debate over solitary confinement 49:58

1M ago49:58

49:58

Colorado researchers say they can predict which babies are prone to food allergies, using a simple skin test. We'll hear about this new test and novel treatments to prevent allergies as babies grow up. Then, people with Long COVID share essays about their experiences as they continue to fight for treatment and awareness. Later, the book "No Human C…

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June 4, 2024: Major medical trial in Colorado on potential benefits of psilocybin after decades of barriers 51:31

1M ago51:31

51:31

When people with cancer are facing the prospect of death, anxiety can consume their precious days. A medical trial in Colorado aims to change that with a drug that was once forbidden. CPR's Andrew Kenney explores how researchers are reopening the door to psilocybin, and what it's meant for one young mom, in Colorado In Depth.…

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June 3, 2024: The issues voters tell us are most important this election; Why does Oklahoma have a panhandle? 50:27

1M ago50:27

50:27

As primary ballots are mailed this week, Purplish has the first results from our Voter Voices survey, in which Colorado voters prioritize the issues most important to them. Take part in the survey here. Then, Colorado Wonders why Oklahoma has a panhandle. Plus, Colorado history through matchbooks. Plus, an inspiring commencement at Front Range Comm…

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May 31, 2024: Political polarization ‘calcifies’ in 2024; Summer outlook is warmer and drier 49:48

1M ago49:48

49:48

Political polarization in the U.S. has only been reinforced with the conviction of Donald Trump. We talk with Stephen Hawkins, research director for More In Common, a global non-profit that fights what Hawkins now calls ossification or calcification. Then, Denver7 chief meteorologist Mike Nelson on severe weather and the summer outlook. Plus, a Col…

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Get ready for a warmer and drier summer 12:21

1M ago12:21

12:21

Hot and dry are the operative words when it comes to the weather outlook. We get perspective on the summer ahead -- and the recent severe weather -- with Denver7 Chief Meteorologist Mike Nelson. He joins us regularly to talk about the interplay between weather and climate in Colorado.

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In six years, the US has gone from political polarization to ‘ossification’ 18:09

1M ago18:09

18:09

The term "political polarization" no longer captures the state of partisanship in the US, according to Stephen Hawkins. The research director for More In Common is now using the words "ossification" and "calcification." And yet on some issues, there is plenty of evidence that common ground still exists. As Election 2024 draws closer, Hawkins reflec…

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May 30, 2024: Selling plasma for income; Local stars return to Colorado with U.S. Women’s Soccer 50:50

1M ago50:50

50:50

When money's tight, some people sell their plasma. People can get up to $200 per donation. We'll explore the ethical implications with a CU-Boulder professor who studied who donates and why. Then, 50 years ago this week, six young Chicano activists were killed in a series of bombings in Boulder. Later, marking the 70th anniversary of the Supreme Co…

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May 29, 2024: Lightning Safety 101; Meet a ‘spellebrity’ 51:15

1M ago51:15

51:15

Lightning killed a rancher in northern Colorado, and 34 head of cattle. With summer storm season fast-approaching, we discuss lightning safety, outside and at home. Then, Colorado will regulate funeral homes after a series of disturbing cases. Later, a very special rose reveals its true colors. Plus, he won the National Spelling Bee for Colorado as…

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It’s lightning season in Colorado. Here’s how to stay safe 12:29

1M ago12:29

12:29

Lightning awareness isn't just about the great outdoors — it's also important in cities and even indoor.

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May 28, 2024: ‘After Action,’ a veteran fights a different battle; Reexamining the path of an 18th century explorer 50:13

1M ago50:13

50:13

She fought terrorists around the world as an analyst for the Army. But after being exposed to hazardous chemicals during her service, Elba Barr is now engaged in a different battle: to get health care and benefits from the U.S. government for herself and other veterans. Then, retracing the final journey of 18th century Captain James Cook while reex…

1
‘After Action,’ Colorado Springs veteran still fighting battles 17:20

1M ago17:20

17:20

During her time in the military, Elba Barr grew accustomed to fighting — still, some battles have nonetheless been rather unexpected.

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May 27, 2024: On Memorial Day, stories of heroism, bravery, and reflection 50:54

1M ago50:54

50:54

On Memorial Day, stories of Coloradans who served in extraordinary conditions. Then, a piece of the U.S.S. Arizona, in Aurora, preserves the memories of Coloradans killed at Pearl Harbor. And, how fallen U.S. service members came to be buried in American cemeteries abroad.

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May 24, 2024: Where did Latinos sit on the bus during segregation? History professor, actress weigh in on DCPA play 50:45

1M ago50:45

50:45

A new play that immerses the audience in elaborate, layered soundscapes at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts asks the question, "Where Did We Sit on the Bus?" for Latino Americans during a time of segregation. Actress Satya Chavez joins us along with Ramon Del Castillo, a retired professor of Chicana Studies at Metropolitan State University…

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May 23, 2024: Pioneering ballerinas mark their place in history; Cleo Parker Robinson celebrates a dream come true 49:44

2M ago49:44

49:44

Today we talk with Karlya Shelton-Benjamin, one of “The Swans of Harlem,” a Denver native featured in a new book about these pioneering ballerinas and their effort to make sure their history is not overlooked or forgotten. Then, Denver's iconic Cleo Parker Robinson sees her dream come true.

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May 22, 2024: Needle exchanges under scrutiny; What will it take to bring back wolverines? 31:55

2M ago31:55

31:55

Free syringe exchange programs are now outlawed in Pueblo. The city council passed the ban last week. We'll talk about what's changed and why the debate is ongoing. Then, a new state law allows wolverines to be reintroduced to Colorado, but it won't be an easy task. And Judy Collins is back in Colorado for a sold-out concert. We revisit our convers…

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May 21, 2024: The impact ADUs could have on housing; Colorado’s ‘Swan of Harlem’ 29:36

2M ago29:36

29:36

Colorado's putting a lot of stock into the idea of ADUs, Accessory Dwelling Units, to help ease the housing crunch. We'll talk about the potential impact and how similar programs are working in other states. Then, Denver native Karlya Shelton-Benjamin is among a pioneering group of ballerinas known as the Swans of Harlem. Plus, how one Pueblo educa…

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Denver’s ‘Swan of Harlem’ on breaking barriers and reclaiming history 6:12

2M ago6:12

6:12

They're known as the Swans of Harlem and they've performed for the Queen of England, Mick Jagger, Stevie Wonder, at the White House, and beyond. Karlya Shelton-Benjamin, a Denver native, was among them, and she's featured in a new book about this pioneering group of ballerinas.

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