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Artwork for The Situation & The Weekend with Michael Brown
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The Situation & The Weekend with Michael Brown

Denver's Talk Station 630 KHOW

Smart. Funny. Connected. Former Under Secretary of Homeland Security & FEMA Director Michael Brown provides provocative insight into culture, current events and politics. Get an insider's view of what the mainstream media won't be telling you. He delivers incisive content with humor, wit and smartness. He gives you an honest inside look that no one else is willing to do.

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  • 75 episodes
  • Avg 27 min
  • English

Episodes 75

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  • Yesterday · 29 min

    9-23-26 - 9am - Rockies Lose 100... Again and Denver Ticket Revenue

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone who's ever wondered why the Denver Police Department is suddenly cracking down on traffic enforcement. The speaker takes a closer look at the city's proposed 2027 budget, which reveals a surprising trend: the city is expecting a significant increase in traffic citation revenue. But is this really about safety, or is there another motive at play? The speaker digs into the numbers and finds that the city's budget is expecting a 51% increase in revenue from traffic fines, with a projected $3.1 million in additional revenue. But what's even more interesting is that the city is expecting this revenue to come from a significant increase in traffic enforcement, with the police department planning to assign additional officers to traffic duty. The speaker questions whether this is really about safety, or if the city is setting quotas for its officers. The discussion also touches on the city's Vision Zero plan, which aims to reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries. However, the speaker argues that the city's approach may be misguided, and that the real issue is the city's reliance on revenue from traffic fines. The speaker also explores the history of ticket quotas in Denver, and how they've been used in the past to meet revenue targets. If you're curious about the intersection of politics and policing in Denver, this episode is a must-listen. The speaker's analysis is eye-opening, and raises important questions about the city's priorities. So tune in to hear the full discussion and decide for yourself what's really going on in Denver. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    • Transcript
  • Yesterday · 34 min

    9-23-26 - 10am - Denver Wants to Ban Foie Gras... Why?

    In a shocking turn of events, a Denver ballot measure aimed at banning foie gras has left many scratching their heads. The city's Democrats have endorsed the measure, which would prohibit the sale of the luxurious food product, but what's behind the push for this ban? And what does it reveal about the broader goals of the animal rights movement? This episode delves into the world of foie gras, where a California farm once thrived before being shut down by a state ban. The story of Guillermo Gonzalez, a farmer who dedicated his life to producing the delicacy, serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of well-intentioned but misguided legislation. As we explore the history of foie gras and the efforts to ban it, we'll examine the motivations behind the push for this ban and what it says about our society's values. The debate surrounding foie gras is complex, with some arguing that the practice is cruel to ducks, while others see it as a matter of personal choice. We'll hear from experts and explore the science behind the issue, including the claims that droughts are getting worse and hurricanes are becoming more frequent. But what do the actual data say? Are we being misled by flawed formulas and assumptions? Join us as we explore the fascinating story of foie gras and the broader implications of the animal rights movement. Listen to this episode to hear the surprising twists and turns, and to gain a deeper understanding of the complex issues at play. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    • Transcript
  • Yesterday · 29 min

    9-23-26 - 11am - Colorado's Medicaid Facing HUGE Budget Hole

    Colorado's Medicaid program is facing a $1.6 billion budget hole, and the state's governor, Jared Polis, is taking drastic measures to address it. But is the problem really a lack of revenue, or is it something more complex? In this episode, the speaker delves into the numbers and reveals a surprising truth about the state's Medicaid program. The speaker argues that the issue isn't a flood of new people signing up for Medicaid, but rather the rising cost of care itself. Despite a 31% decrease in enrollment over five years, the program's cost has increased by 92%. The speaker points to the price of prescription drugs and long-term care as major contributors to the problem. But what's behind the rising costs, and why is the government unable to control them? The speaker takes a closer look at the pharmacy benefit managers, middlemen that sit between patients and pharmacies, and how they're driving up costs. They're not just marking up prices, but also engaging in a shell game called spread pricing, where they bill insurance companies one price and pay pharmacies a smaller amount, pocketing the difference. This practice is costing taxpayers billions. If you're thinking that Medicare for all is the solution, think again. The speaker argues that putting more people on a government-run health care program will only lead to longer wait times and higher costs. Instead, we should be focusing on breaking up the pharmacy benefit managers and making prices transparent. Listen to this episode to hear the speaker's case against Medicare for all and learn how Colorado's Medicaid program can serve as a warning sign for the country. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Tuesday · 31 min

    9-22-26 - 9am - Red Shirts and The Clancy Juror

    This episode is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of justice, free speech, and the role of the media in shaping public opinion. The speaker delves into a recent case that has sparked controversy and raises important questions about the way we approach the law and the rights of individuals. The episode centers around a case involving a juror who refused to convict a defendant, citing reasonable doubt, and the subsequent backlash he faced from the media and the public. The speaker discusses the implications of this case, highlighting the tension between the right to a fair trial and the pressure to conform to public opinion. They also touch on the importance of the jury system and the role of the judge in ensuring that justice is served. The speaker also shares a personal anecdote about a red shirt, which serves as a metaphor for the complexities of perception and the importance of objective truth. This story highlights the need for critical thinking and the dangers of jumping to conclusions based on appearances. As the episode comes to a close, the speaker invites listeners to join the conversation and share their thoughts on the importance of upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law. They also encourage listeners to tune in to the full episode to hear more about this thought-provoking case and its implications for our society. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Tuesday · 34 min

    9-22-26 - 10am - Money for Farmers? and Diesel Prices

    In a recent press release, Colorado Governor Jared Polis touted a new funding program aimed at supporting the state's farmers and ranchers. But is this really new funding, or just a rebranding of a program that was previously canceled? This episode delves into the details of the program and the governor's claims, and what it means for the state's agricultural industry. The governor's press release highlighted a $13.7 million grant program, but what it didn't mention was that this money is actually a restoration of funds that were previously taken away. The program, called Advancing Markets for Producers, was originally launched by the federal government under the Trump administration, but was canceled by the Biden administration. Colorado had to reapply for the funds under new rules, and the state is now administering the program. The governor's office is touting the program as a success, but the reality is more complex. The program is not providing the same level of support as it did before, and the state is still struggling to get the funds to the farmers and ranchers who need them. The episode explores the intricacies of the program and the motivations behind the governor's actions. To understand the full story behind this program and its implications for Colorado's agricultural industry, tune in to this episode to hear the details and analysis. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Tuesday · 30 min

    9-22-26 - 11am - Colorado Jobs Numbers Revision

    Colorado's economy is facing a concerning trend, and the numbers don't lie. This episode delves into the state's job market, where the latest reports show a downward spiral. The speaker takes a closer look at the data, questioning the accuracy of the numbers and the impact of various factors on the state's economy. The conversation starts with a discussion about the recent revision of job numbers, which has left many wondering what's behind the sudden change. The speaker digs into the numbers, highlighting the discrepancies between the original and revised reports. They also explore the state's unemployment rate, which has been steadily increasing, and the reasons behind it. One of the key points discussed is the state's housing affordability, which has become a major issue. The median house price in Denver is now 27% higher than the national median, making it difficult for people to afford living in the state. This, combined with the rising cost of doing business, has led to a decline in the number of businesses and jobs in the state. The speaker also touches on the topic of migration, highlighting that Colorado is the only state in the Mountain West that lost residents to other states on net. They also discuss the impact of the minimum wage, paid family leave, and other policies on the state's economy. If you're curious about the state of Colorado's economy and what's behind the recent trends, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's analysis and insights. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Monday · 30 min

    9-21-26 - 9am - The Bee Bill and The Privilage of Working In Denver Tax

    This episode is a wild ride, folks. The speaker takes a humorous approach to discussing a serious topic: the disconnect between what politicians say and what they actually do. It's a story that starts with a farmer from the eastern plains of Colorado, who's fighting against a bill that would limit his ability to plant his own corn seed. But it's not just about the farmer - it's about the governor's executive order that seems to be a PR stunt, rather than a genuine attempt to help the state's pollinators. The speaker delves into the details of the bill and the order, pointing out the discrepancies between what the governor said and what the actual document says. It's a fascinating look at how politicians can spin their words to make themselves look good, even when their actions don't quite match up. Along the way, the speaker also touches on the importance of accountability in journalism and how the media can sometimes fall short. One of the key takeaways from this episode is the importance of paying attention to the details, rather than just taking things at face value. The speaker encourages listeners to think critically about what they're being told, and to look beyond the surface level to see what's really going on. It's a valuable lesson that applies to more than just politics - it's a reminder to be skeptical and to question what we're being told. If you want to learn more about this story and how it relates to the broader issues of accountability and critical thinking, tune in to this episode. The speaker's unique perspective and humor make it a fun and engaging listen, and the topic is sure to spark some interesting conversations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Monday · 32 min

    9-21-26 - 10am - Toll Booth to Gun Ownership and 2025 FBI Crime Stats

    In a shocking turn of events, a federal court has torn down a toll booth that's been standing in the way of law-abiding citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights. This toll booth, a federal law that requires a middleman to transfer handguns from out-of-state dealers to local ones, has been deemed unconstitutional by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. But don't get too excited just yet - this ruling doesn't apply to your local gun store, and the fight is far from over. This episode delves into the world of gun laws and the latest court ruling that's got everyone talking. The speaker discusses the case of Elite Precision Customs versus the ATF, where a Texas gun shop and its customers took on the federal government over the constitutionality of the law. The outcome was a resounding victory for the plaintiffs, with the court ruling that the law is an unconstitutional toll booth on the right to keep and bear arms. But what does this mean for you and your Second Amendment rights? The speaker also explores the relationship between gun ownership and crime rates, citing some surprising statistics from the FBI's latest crime report. It turns out that the number of guns in the country has increased dramatically over the past five years, but the murder rate has actually decreased. In fact, the murder rate is at a 70-year low, and the majority of murders are committed with handguns, not rifles. The speaker also touches on the issue of racial disparities in crime rates, pointing out that black Americans are disproportionately affected. If you're interested in learning more about this fascinating topic and the implications of the court ruling, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's thoughts on the matter. They'll be discussing the case, the statistics, and what this means for your Second Amendment rights. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    • Transcript
  • Monday · 32 min

    9-21-26 - 11am - Online Sports Betting

    In a world where sports betting has become a multibillion-dollar industry, one thing is clear: the lines between entertainment and reality are getting increasingly blurred. This episode delves into the darker side of sports betting, where the thrill of the game meets the temptation of easy money. The speaker shares a thought-provoking story about a pest control salesman who makes a living betting on sports, but ends up losing a significant portion of his income. This raises questions about the impact of sports betting on individuals and society as a whole. The conversation also touches on the rise of prediction markets, where people can bet on real-world events, and the potential consequences of this new form of betting. The discussion highlights the concerns surrounding the manipulation of sports and the exploitation of individuals with compulsive gambling habits. The speaker also explores the economics of sports betting, revealing that the industry's 90% payout rate is misleading, as the actual figure is much lower. The house keeps a significant portion of the money, and the industry is engineering the outcome to keep people betting. If you're interested in understanding the complexities of sports betting and its impact on society, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's insightful analysis and thought-provoking commentary. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  • Friday · 28 min

    9-18-26 - 9am - FINALLY CLEANED UP and School Spending

    In a scathing critique of Colorado's education system, the speaker takes aim at the state's record-breaking spending on schools, revealing a puzzling paradox: despite a 59% increase in per-student spending over seven years, enrollment has been declining for six years in a row. This raises questions about where the money is going and whether it's actually benefiting students. The speaker delves into the numbers, pointing out that while Colorado's spending is now in the middle of the pack nationally, the state's teacher salaries are still relatively low, and the pension system is eating up a significant portion of the budget. Meanwhile, the state's math scores have improved, but reading scores have flatlined. The speaker argues that the current system is not transparent enough, with districts often hiding behind a wall of spreadsheets to justify their spending. The speaker also critiques the state's bond measures, pointing out that districts often promise to fix buildings but quietly steer the money to the schools that are already thriving. This lack of transparency and accountability is a major issue, as districts are not required to report how much of their spending actually goes into the classroom. If you're concerned about the state of education in Colorado, this episode is a must-listen. The speaker offers a clear and compelling argument for why we need to rethink our approach to education funding and transparency. Join us as we explore the complexities of Colorado's education system and what it means for our kids. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    • Transcript
  • Friday · 31 min

    9-18-26 - 10am - Denver's Decline & Questionable Victor Marx

    In a shocking turn of events, the tallest building in Colorado, Republic Plaza, has been taken over by a court-appointed receiver due to the owner, Brookfield, failing to pay the mortgage. But what does this say about the state of downtown Denver? The speaker takes us on a journey to explore the reasons behind the decline of the city's core, from the 16th Street Mall to the current state of affairs. The conversation delves into the impact of the pandemic on office workers and the subsequent decline of retail businesses in the area. The speaker argues that while COVID-19 was a contributing factor, it's not the sole reason for the empty streets. They point to the privately-run neighborhood of Cherry Creek, which has managed to thrive despite the pandemic, as a contrast to the public spaces of downtown Denver. The speaker suggests that the key difference lies in the fact that people live in Cherry Creek and the street is privately owned and maintained. The discussion also touches on the topic of campaign finance and the recent controversy surrounding Victor Marx, a Republican candidate for governor, who has been accused of accepting campaign contributions over the legal limit. The speaker raises questions about the party's ethics and the nomination of candidates who have been involved in questionable practices. If you're interested in understanding the complexities of urban development, campaign finance, and the state of politics in Colorado, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's insightful analysis and thoughts on how to move forward. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    • Transcript
  • September 17 · 30 min

    9-17-26 - 9am - Local Sawmill Text and AI Fear

    This episode is a wild ride, folks. The speaker takes a deep dive into the world of artificial intelligence, but it's not just about the tech – it's about the people behind it, and the power struggles that come with it. You'll hear a fascinating conversation about the intersection of politics, economics, and innovation, all centered around a very real and pressing issue: the future of AI. This episode is a thought-provoking exploration of the AI landscape, where the speaker challenges common assumptions and digs into the facts. You'll hear about the dangers of AI, but not in the way you might expect. The speaker argues that the real issue isn't the tech itself, but rather the power grab that's happening behind the scenes. You'll also hear about the fantasy of a deal between the US and China, and how it's being used to manipulate public opinion. The speaker talks to a young expert in the field, who shares his concerns about the potential risks of AI, but also offers a glimmer of hope. You'll hear about the importance of understanding the information that's going into AI models, and how that affects the decisions they make. The speaker also delves into the world of politics, where you'll hear about a surprising alliance between a socialist senator and a Silicon Valley doomsayer. If you're interested in staying ahead of the curve on the latest tech trends, and you want to understand the human side of the story, this episode is a must-listen. Join the conversation and hear the speaker's take on the complex world of AI, politics, and power struggles. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Showing 1–20 of 75 episodes