Episode 81: John Malpiede

Every Christmas, Denver’s Civic Center glows with thousands of lights — a tradition generations have grown up with. But few people know the name of the man behind it.
In this special Christmas Day episode, Stephanie and Sandy tell the remarkable story of John Malpiede, an Italian American electrician whose creativity, perseverance, and love for his city transformed Denver into a national symbol of holiday magic. Born to immigrants from Potenza, Italy, John spent nearly four decades as Denver’s city electrician, quietly shaping the city’s skyline — from Union Station chandeliers to the Civic Center Christmas lights that drew crowds from across the country.
Through the Great Depression, World War II, devastating fires, tight budgets, and even a shocking wiretapping scandal that briefly put his career and reputation on the line, John never stopped finding ways to bring beauty and joy to Denver. His work reflected not just technical skill, but heart — salvaging materials, inventing solutions, and believing that even in hard times, a city deserved light.
This episode explores John’s family roots, his rise as Denver’s “Christmas lights man,” the controversy that nearly derailed his career, and the legacy he ultimately left behind — one that still shines every holiday season.
A story of resilience, community, and quiet craftsmanship, Episode 81 is a reminder that history is often shaped by people working behind the scenes… flipping switches, climbing ladders, and lighting the way.