Let’s Find Out Podcast

Curious minds, welcome! Let’s Find Out is a podcast from Arapahoe Libraries where authors, experts, and librarians explore big ideas and everyday topics that matter to our community. Whether you’re a lifelong learner or a first-time visitor, this show will connect you to insights, inspiration, and library resources you didn’t know you needed. Hosted by Mitch Jelniker.

Episodes

Aug 20, 2026

30 min

What are PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," and why are they found in the bodies of nearly all Americans? In this episode of Let's Find Out, award-winning environmental journalist Sharon Udasin discusses her new book, Poisoning the Well, exploring how these persistent chemicals have contaminated communities across the country, the health risks they pose, and the growing movement to hold polluters accountable. Listeners will also learn practical steps they can take to reduce their own exposure and help drive meaningful change.
This episode was recorded on March 12, 2026.

Aug 20, 2026

30 min

Jul 16, 2026

30 min

On this episode of Let’s Find Out, the Arapahoe Libraries podcast, James Beard Award-winning author Adrian Miller explores how food tells the deeper story of American culture, identity, and connection. From soul food and barbecue traditions to the hidden influence of Black and Asian heritage chefs in the White House, Adrian shares the powerful history behind the meals we often take for granted. He also reflects on how sharing food can bring people together, spark honest conversations, and help us better understand one another.

Jul 16, 2026

30 min

Jun 18, 2026

30 min

In this episode of Let’s Find Out, the Arapahoe Libraries podcast, bestselling writing duo Christina Lauren share how a friendship born from online fan fiction evolved into one of the most successful collaborations in modern romance publishing. The pair discusses their creative process, balancing humor and emotion, writing as co-authors, and the inspiration behind their upcoming novel, The Romance Revival. From behind-the-scenes stories about adapting books for Netflix to candid reflections on burnout, creativity, and friendship, this conversation offers an entertaining and insightful look into the duo behind the beloved romance brand.

Jun 18, 2026

30 min

May 21, 2026

33 min

Artificial intelligence is everywhere, but its ethical implications are often hidden in plain sight. In this episode of “Let’s Find Out: The Arapahoe Libraries Podcast,” Casey Fiesler, a William R. Payden Endowed Professor in the College of Communication, Media, Design, and Information at CU Boulder, unpacks how human values, power, and accountability shape AI systems, and what everyday users should know about the technology influencing their lives.

May 21, 2026

33 min

Apr 16, 2026

33 min

Artificial intelligence is reshaping how we learn, work, and decide what to trust, and libraries are helping people keep up. In this episode, we explore how librarians are becoming essential guides in digital literacy, AI, privacy, and misinformation, helping everyone from students to job seekers navigate a rapidly changing digital world. In this episode of "Let's Find Out: The Arapahoe Libraries Podcast," we hear from Sheena Kelly, digital media literacy coordinator at Thompson School District, and Anthony White, the director of innovation and Technology at Arapahoe Libraries.  

Apr 16, 2026

33 min

Mar 19, 2026

20 min

Often in life, the risk of doing nothing is greater than the risk of trying something new. Tyler Svitak, executive director of the Colorado Smart Cities Alliance, shares what it takes to build smarter, more connected, and more resilient communities. 
Oli Sanidas, Arapahoe Libraries executive director, talks about the library’s partnership with The Alliance, now in its eighth year, and how libraries continually innovate to serve their communities.

Mar 19, 2026

20 min

Feb 19, 2026

22 min

Pickleball is everywhere, and we’re digging into why. In this episode of Let’s Find Out: The Arapahoe Libraries Podcast, we sit down with Hall of Famer Kyle Yates, one of the most dominant players in the sport’s history. From the explosive rise of pickleball to the controversies that come with its popularity, Kyle breaks down what’s fueling this moment and why the sport’s community-first spirit keeps drawing new players in. Hear why there’s never been a better time to grab a paddle and join the craze.

Feb 19, 2026

22 min

Jan 15, 2026

24 min

Our guest Dion Leonard proves it’s never too late to transform your life. Once a high-powered executive struggling with self-destructive habits, Dion found healing through long-distance running. But a chance encounter with a stray dog in the Gobi Desert changed everything. Their extraordinary bond, forged during a grueling 155-mile race, inspired the international bestseller Finding Gobi.

Jan 15, 2026

24 min

Dec 18, 2025

28 min

Stephen Watts is a Colorado music legend and co-founder of Dotsero, the dynamic band that helped define Denver’s jazz scene. Stephen talks about his musical journey — from humble garage band roots at CU Denver to chart-topping albums and launching the iconic Jazz@Jack’s venue. Join us as he shares the story behind Dotsero’s rise and reflects on the band’s lasting impact.

Dec 18, 2025

28 min

Nov 20, 2025

22 min

What if one book could change how your child sees themselves and the world around them? In this episode of Let’s Find Out, award-winning children’s author and educator JaNay Brown-Wood shares how diverse stories can inspire confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of reading. Join us for a heartwarming conversation about representation, literacy, and the magic of seeing yourself in a story.

Nov 20, 2025

22 min

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