‘A Neglected Metropolis,’ the Allure of the Suburbs, and a BBQ Spot Gets Smoked

24 snips

Mar 7, 2025

Stand-up comedian Joshua Emerson joins the discussion about Denver's image as a 'neglected metropolis.' They dig into the disparities between the mayor's narratives on crime and the concerns from local lawmakers. Emerson also touches on the appeal of suburban living, reflecting on recent culinary ups and downs, including the struggles of local BBQ joint AJ’s Pit. Tensions between urban development and community needs are explored, alongside a lighter take on city dynamics and upcoming local events.

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INSIGHT

Importance of Leaders Taking a Stand

Joshua Emerson noted the importance of leaders taking a stand on issues, even if imperfect.
This empowers others with similar feelings to add their voices and avoid feeling isolated.

INSIGHT

Disputing the "Neglected Metropolis" Narrative

Joshua Emerson believes the "neglected metropolis" narrative is inaccurate and disconnected from downtown's reality.
He sees it as artificial terror and not based on facts.

ANECDOTE

Giordano's Pizza: A Downtown Hotspot

Paul Karolyi enjoyed Giordano's pizza downtown despite ongoing construction.
He found the restaurant busy and suggests Republicans visit for official functions.

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Has Denver become a “neglected metropolis”? The entire GOP caucus at the state legislature signed onto a letter to Mayor Mike Johnston this week saying they feel unsafe going to work. But the mayor told a very different story about our not-so-Mile-High crime rates to Congress in his big hearing on immigration on Wednesday. So what’s really happening on the ground? One of our favorite regular guests, stand-up comic Joshua Emerson, joins Producer Paul Karolyi and Host Bree Davies to talk about the crime narrative and some big new plans to turn it around. Plus, the allure of the suburbs and our wins and fails of the week.

Paul talked about the recent drama at AJ’s Pit BBQ, Rep. Emily Sirota’s “junk fees” bill, and the conflicting crime data. Bree mentioned Tyler Campo’s memorial. Joshua talked about the Avs’ hot streak and the Crosby factor.

We discussed our recent episode with Senadora Julie Gonzales about the mayor’s congressional hearing and the last time he talked about his faith and immigration. He also shared this statement with us about how he felt the hearing went:

“I’m incredibly proud of this city and the way we all came together to respond to a crisis with humanity and compassion. Denver showed the world that we can solve hard problems together, and I’m glad we got to tell that story to the members of Congress who actually have the power to fix our broken immigration system.”

Get your tickets to HEYDAY now! We’re putting on an indoor fair with urban flair, like a classic county fair but with a very cool Denver twist. Join us on March 8 for classic carnival games, vintage arcade games, Denver-themed balloon art, and a full day of grandstand entertainment, featuring some of your favorite guests from the podcast. It’s family friendly, too, if you wanna bring your kids. Get those tickets now at www.heydaydenver.com .

What do you think about downtown? Do you have a favorite spot that gets you down there? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418

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