Springs and Things

What if the best gifts this year aren’t things, but experiences you’ll actually remember? In this episode of Springs & Things, Carly and Lauren swap their favorite local finds, meaningful experiences, and sneaky-good gift ideas that go way beyond candles and socks. From adorable local jewelry and art you’ll obsess over, to food tours, scavenger hunts, spa-level skincare, and a Penrose Room dinner deal that feels unreal, this episode is basically your shortcut to gifting like a genius.Whether you’re shopping for someone else or quietly building your own wish list, these are the Colorado Springs favorites worth knowing about and stealing for yourself.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEThree Wild Geese Studio by Josie PresleyAlysia Loerch PhotographyPasture RevivalThe Look Up GalleryYobelHeidi AlmosaraSurface GalleryCaroline Clark Prints of Long Lost StudioBroadmoor Colorado Appreciation DaysClara SkincareRocky Mountain Food ToursLet's Roam Scavenger HuntMelanzanaPICKS OF THE WEEKMassage by Nicole (719)237-3321Caroling and CocktailsWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSVanguard AestheticsVanguard Aesthetics helps clients discover their most radiant selves by blending expert care with individualized beauty. Since 2013, they’ve offered medical-grade skincare and tailored aesthetic treatments that enhance natural features while prioritizing comfort and safety. Their team takes the time to understand each client’s lifestyle, skin goals, and vision so every visit leaves them feeling refreshed, confident, and authentically themselves.Modern Interior CoModern Interior Co. is a full-service interior design firm based in Colorado Springs that specializes in creating beautiful, elevated homes without the stress. Known for delivering seamless, high-touch design experiences from concept to completion, they help busy professionals and high-end homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle.Core CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30! Vote for them in Best of the Springs!

Colorado Springs is glowing this time of year, and this week on Springs & Things we’re diving straight into the moments that make the season feel downright magical. From unexpected tears at local theater, to first-time traditions like the Christkindlmarket, to skating downtown and cozy nights at the Broadmoor, we’re rounding up the holiday experiences that remind you why you love living here.If you’re looking for charming, heartwarming, only-in-the-Springs ideas to make December feel special, this episode is your festive roadmapMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEMary Poppins at The Fine Arts CenterIconsTraditions episode with Bonnie GoffThe Grinch at Buell TheaterThe Importance of Being Earnest at Ent Center for the Performing ArtsChristkindlmarketHotel Polaris - Be sure to listen to our episode about this great placeSkate in the ParkPlay at The BroadmoorThe Penrose Room at The BroadmooThe Golden Bee at The BroadmoorShugasTimberline Landscaping Christmas lights guideKinship LandingLocal MotivePICKS OF THE WEEKRoth's Sea and Steak (follow @actuallyitsmeagan and see her Reel on the restaurant)The Nutcracker Tea at Toodle's TearoomSanta Brunch at Homa Cafe and BarWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSVanguard AestheticsVanguard Aesthetics helps clients discover their most radiant selves by blending expert care with individualized beauty. Since 2013, they’ve offered medical-grade skincare and tailored aesthetic treatments that enhance natural features while prioritizing comfort and safety. Their team takes the time to understand each client’s lifestyle, skin goals, and vision so every visit leaves them feeling refreshed, confident, and authentically themselves.Modern Interior CoModern Interior Co. is a full-service interior design firm based in Colorado Springs that specializes in creating beautiful, elevated homes without the stress. Known for delivering seamless, high-touch design experiences from concept to completion, they help busy professionals and high-end homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle.Core CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30! Vote for them in Best of the Springs!

It’s Giving Tuesday, and we’re sharing the Colorado Springs nonprofits that make our community stronger, safer, and a whole lot more connected.From organizations keeping families safe, to programs teaching kids confidence and personal safety, to the foster community getting wrapped in love, to the hospital caring for thousands of local children, to the cycling advocates who help us enjoy the outdoors we always rave about,  we’re sharing the groups that truly matter to us and why we think you should know about them.If you’ve been wanting to give back, get your kids involved, or just discover some incredible local organizations doing powerful work, this episode will fill your heart.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODETESSAKidpowerFostering HopeChildren's Hospital of ColoradoGoodwill of ColoradoBike COSPICKS OF THE WEEKSkills Sessions at Fountain Valley SchoolCookies with SantaCarols, Cocktails, and Cocoa at The Mining ExchangeWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSModern Interior CoModern Interior Co. is a full-service interior design firm based in Colorado Springs that specializes in creating beautiful, elevated homes without the stress. Known for delivering seamless, high-touch design experiences from concept to completion, they help busy professionals and high-end homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle.Core CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30! Vote for them in Best of the Springs!

We invited Megan Thomas back on the show for the third time to settle the real Colorado Springs debates: beans or no beans, potatoes as hero or filler, handheld vs smothered, and whether french fries belong anywhere near your breakfast. Megan walks us through her wildly popular Breakfast Burrito Series, shouting out spots like Azada, Luna Market, Roll Up, Tacos El Amigo and more, while sharing why she’s so passionate about getting locals out of their neighborhood bubbles and into Southeast side gems. We also get into what it’s like to go “viral,” dealing with spicy TikTok comments, and why you should never, ever “yuck someone’s yum.” MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEActually It's Meagan on InstagramActually It's Meagan on TikTokActually It's Meagan on YouTubeTacos El AmigoMonica's Taco ShopAzada Mexican GrillLuna MarketRoll UpDos DosAlfonsosGarden of the Gods Market and CafeKing's Chef DinerEl ChapinLa CasitaTacos Del GordoZapataPICKS OF THE WEEKMary Poppins at the Fine Arts CenterBuffalo Lodge Holiday Roll and StrollWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSModern Interior CoModern Interior Co. is a full-service interior design firm based in Colorado Springs that specializes in creating beautiful, elevated homes without the stress. Known for delivering seamless, high-touch design experiences from concept to completion, they help busy professionals and high-end homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle.Core CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!

What happens when a luxury hotel just outside of the Air Force Academy is packed with Easter eggs, hidden nods, and “if you know, you know” details that locals walk right past every day? You get Hotel Polaris, one of the coolest spots in Colorado Springs. This week, Kevin Barosso, Director of Sales & Marketing, reveals the biggest misconception about the property, why locals absolutely should be hanging out there, and how the entire hotel is loaded with clever architectural secrets honoring the Academy. From class-color mosaics to terrazzo-inspired tile to cocktails rooted in Air Force lore, we dive into the thoughtful touches that make Hotel Polaris unlike anything in town...plus the simulators, rooftop bar, spa, brunch, Yappy Hour, and all the reasons locals are quickly becoming regulars. If you love hidden gems, great stories, and discovering your next favorite place in the Springs… this one’s for you.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEPamelasThe AviatorDooliesFlight SimulatorsExperiences at Hotel PolarisPICKS OF THE WEEKA Doll's House at Millibo Art TheaterBristol Beer ChoirWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSModern Interior CoModern Interior Co. is a full-service interior design firm based in Colorado Springs that specializes in creating beautiful, elevated homes without the stress. Known for delivering seamless, high-touch design experiences from concept to completion, they help busy professionals and high-end homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle.Core CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!

What started with 60 pedal bikes has become one of the most heart-warming success stories in Colorado Springs. PikeRide isn’t just about e-bikes. It’s about connection.In this episode, Carly sits down with Tara McCarthy from PikeRide to talk about how the city’s bike-share program has exploded across Colorado Springs and Manitou, growing from a visitor amenity into a life-changing community service. From helping a man rebuild his life and reconnect with his daughters to giving a 72-year-old daily independence, PikeRide is quietly transforming lives one ride at a time.You’ll laugh at the story of a late-night “ride to Pueblo” gone wrong, tear up at the impact stories, and leave feeling proud of what community can do when it gets rolling.Tune in for local love, big heart, and a reminder that sometimes, a simple bike can take you exactly where you need to go.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEVanguard AestheticsStellina Pizza CafeMash MechanixFine Arts CenterPICKS OF THE WEEKSunday FunDay Farmer's MarketJC Beauty BarWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSModern Interior CoModern Interior Co. is a full-service interior design firm based in Colorado Springs that specializes in creating beautiful, elevated homes without the stress. Known for delivering seamless, high-touch design experiences from concept to completion, they help busy professionals and high-end homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle.Core CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!

After more than two decades on your TV screen, Andy Koen is now behind one of Colorado Springs’ biggest community projects: Veterans Week. We’re talking parade secrets, Purple Heart history, and what it really takes to honor the 95,000 service members who call the Pikes Peak region home.PLUS, Lauren and Andy couldn't help but share some past newsroom stories...so get ready for some entertainment!MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEPurple Heart Exhibit on Friday, Nov. 7 at the Fine Arts CenterIn Their Honor Veterans Day Parade returns for 2025 on Saturday, Nov. 8Veterans Day Wreath Laying Ceremony and Observance on Tuesday, Nov. 11, at Memorial ParkPICKS OF THE WEEKHybrid AI Creatures at Bemis School of ArtRising Tide Colorado SpringsWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSCore CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come.

In this special anniversary episode, Carly and Lauren take you back to where it all began, wandering the streets of downtown Colorado Springs, visiting murals, statues, and memories that made Springs & Things what it is today. From doomscrolling sculptures to baby-and-wolf murals, the duo explores the city’s vibrant Art on the Streets installations while reflecting on their favorite moments from year one.Tune in for laughter, nostalgia, and a peek at what’s next as they toast to year two of friendship, community, and all things Colorado Springs.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODERocky Mountain Women's FilmAuric GalleryToodles TearoomRutledge'sMacKenzie's Chop HouseCheyenne Mountain ResortColorado Springs Pioneer's MuseumFionaNight RamenThe British Pantry and Tea RoomThe Penrose RoomThe Golden BeePICKS OF THE WEEKThe Brit PubTotemWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSEnt Center for the Arts at UCCSOctober is Arts Month in the Pikes Peak region, and there’s no better place to celebrate than the Ent Center for the Arts at UCCS! This season, the lineup is bursting with creativity, from the Artist Series bringing world-class performances like jazz innovator Mr. Sun reimagining Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker, to the swing of Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Great American Crooners, and the breathtaking American Ballet Theatre Studio Company. Theatreworks keeps the excitement rolling with The Importance of Being Earnest this November and December, and the Galleries of Contemporary Art showcase Nina Elder’s newest exhibition, plus the dazzling House of GOCA: Stardust runway event this February. Dive into the theatre, the galleries, and the stage all season long at the Ent Center for the Arts. Explore the full lineup and grab your tickets at entarts.org.Core CollectiveCore Collective is where Pilates meets community, and where sore muscles somehow feel like a badge of honor. It isn’t your typical workout spot. Core Collective has the nicest instructors, killer playlists, and a vibe that makes you actually want to show up. Whether you’re brand-new to Pilates or already rocking the reformer like a pro, Core Collective in downtown Colorado Springs is the place to find your strength, your balance, and maybe even your people. AND if you enter the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS at checkout, you can get 3 classes for just $30 ($10/class)!

In this fun and entertaining episode, we chat with Jeremiah Houck, the Assistant Director of the Bemis School of Art at Colorado College, to talk about what makes the Springs’ art scene so special, why everyone is artistic (yes, even you), and why giving away your creations might just be the most rewarding part of the process.Plus, you’ll hear stories of no-hands pottery competitions, how to get your hands dirty even if you don't consider yourself artsy, and so much more.If you’ve ever said “I’m not artistic,” this episode will change your mind, and maybe even inspire you to try something new.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEArts Month in Colorado SpringsThe Penrose Room at The BroadmoorClayfestPICKS OF THE WEEKGather Mountain BloomsFool House: The Ultimate 90s PartyWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSEnt Center for the Arts at UCCSOctober is Arts Month in the Pikes Peak region, and there’s no better place to celebrate than the Ent Center for the Arts at UCCS! This season, the lineup is bursting with creativity, from the Artist Series bringing world-class performances like jazz innovator Mr. Sun reimagining Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker, to the swing of Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Great American Crooners, and the breathtaking American Ballet Theatre Studio Company. Theatreworks keeps the excitement rolling with The Importance of Being Earnest this November and December, and the Galleries of Contemporary Art showcase Nina Elder’s newest exhibition—plus the dazzling House of GOCA: Stardust runway event this February. Dive into the theatre, the galleries, and the stage all season long at the Ent Center for the Arts. Explore the full lineup and grab your tickets at entarts.org.Core CollectiveCore Collective is where Pilates meets community, and where sore muscles somehow feel like a badge of honor. It isn’t your typical workout spot. Core Collective has the nicest instructors, killer playlists, and a vibe that makes you actually want to show up. Whether you’re brand-new to Pilates or already rocking the reformer like a pro, Core Collective in downtown Colorado Springs is the place to find your strength, your balance, and maybe even your people. AND if you enter the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS at checkout, you can get 3 classes for just $30 ($10/class)!

A new era of music is beginning in Colorado Springs, and everyone’s talking about it. Carly sat down with Chloé Dufresne, the Colorado Springs Philharmonic’s new music director, just before her debut performance in the Springs, to talk about her inspiring journey from France to the foot of Pikes Peak. Hear how she’s bringing fresh energy, bold ideas, and female representation to the podium, what it feels like to command an orchestra in front of a live audience, and why the mountains are already shaping her creative vision.PICKS OF THE WEEKRocky Mountain Women's Film FestivalWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSEnt Center for the Arts at UCCSOctober is Arts Month in the Pikes Peak region, and there’s no better place to celebrate than the Ent Center for the Arts at UCCS! This season, the lineup is bursting with creativity, from the Artist Series bringing world-class performances like jazz innovator Mr. Sun reimagining Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker, to the swing of Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Great American Crooners, and the breathtaking American Ballet Theatre Studio Company. Theatreworks keeps the excitement rolling with The Importance of Being Earnest this November and December, and the Galleries of Contemporary Art showcase Nina Elder’s newest exhibition—plus the dazzling House of GOCA: Stardust runway event this February. Dive into the theatre, the galleries, and the stage all season long at the Ent Center for the Arts. Explore the full lineup and grab your tickets at entarts.org.Core CollectiveCore Collective is where Pilates meets community, and where sore muscles somehow feel like a badge of honor. It isn’t your typical workout spot. Core Collective has the nicest instructors, killer playlists, and a vibe that makes you actually want to show up. Whether you’re brand-new to Pilates or already rocking the reformer like a pro, Core Collective in downtown Colorado Springs is the place to find your strength, your balance, and maybe even your people. AND if you enter the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS at checkout, you can get 3 classes for just $30 ($10/class)!

It’s officially Arts Month in Colorado Springs, and there’s no better time to dive headfirst into our city’s creative scene! In this episode of Springs and Things, Carly and Lauren sit down with Jonathan Toman from the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPR) to talk about 12 years of celebrating local arts, this year’s “Open Your World with the Arts” theme, and the brand-new Arts Month Passport that turns exploring the arts into a citywide adventure.From opera at the Air Force Academy to immersive dance in cemeteries (yes, really), they cover how art shows up in unexpected places, why you don’t have to be “artsy” to enjoy it, and how creativity connects us all. Grab a drink, open your world, and join us for a fun, inspiring conversation that’ll make you want to fill your October with color, music, and meaning.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEVisitCOS Crafts & Drafts PassportPikes Peak CenterPeak RadarChamber Orchestra of the SpringsColorado Springs Fine Arts CenterColorado Springs PhilharmonicColorado Springs Pioneer's MuseumPICKS OF THE WEEKNana's Dim Sum and DumplingsAxe and the Oak DistilleryFountain Valley School Open HouseWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSEnt Center for the ArtsIt’s Arts Month in Colorado Springs, and the Ent Center for the Arts is spotlighting Cabaret at Theatreworks! Step inside the Kit Kat Klub for music, freedom, and a story that dances on the edge of history. Performances end October 12! Love it? Turn your Cabaret ticket into a full-season subscription by October 31 and catch The Importance of Being Earnest, Romeo and Juliet, and more from Theatreworks’ 50th Birthday Season. Core CollectiveCore Collective is where Pilates meets community, and where sore muscles somehow feel like a badge of honor. It isn’t your typical workout spot. Core Collective has the nicest instructors, killer playlists, and a vibe that makes you actually want to show up. Whether you’re brand-new to Pilates or already rocking the reformer like a pro, Core Collective in downtown Colorado Springs is the place to find your strength, your balance, and maybe even your people. AND if you enter the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS at checkout, you can get 3 classes for just $30 ($10/class)!

The Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival is back October 17–19 at Colorado College, and trust us, this is not your average weekend at the movies. Think three days of powerful storytelling, laughter, goosebumps, and conversations that stick with you long after the credits roll. From river rafting adventures to thought-provoking documentaries, every film has one thing in common: a woman behind the lens.In this episode, we sit down with Executive Director Nicole Nicoletta for a sneak peek at the longest-running women’s film festival in North America. She shares insider tips for planning your perfect festival day, the must-see films everyone will be buzzing about, and why this event has become a cultural cornerstone in Colorado Springs. Whether you’re a film buff or a casual moviegoer, there’s something here for everyone.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEFeatured FilmsIconsShugasFestival In The CommunityPICKS OF THE WEEKFolk 'N' Flannel Festival and Fundraiser by UpaDownaArts Month in Colorado SpringsWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSCore CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come.

TheatreWorks has kicked off its 50th season with an unforgettable, immersive production of Cabaret. Director and local theater legend, Scott Levy, joined Carly to share why this staging feels different from any you’ve seen before, how the Dusty Loo Bon Vivant Theater transforms into 1929 Berlin, and why the show’s timeless question, “What would you do?”, still hits hard today. From ensemble magic to iconic roles reimagined, this is one conversation that proves live theater has never been more urgent, or more electric, in Colorado Springs.Get your tickets here.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEGreen Box ArtsPatrick Shearn of Poetic KineticsPICK OF THE WEEKBuffalo Grass Music FestivalWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSCore CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come.

This week, we’re stepping out of our usual light-and-fluffy lane to talk about grief and one organization that is addressing it right here in the Pikes Peak region. Carly sat down with Sarah Lee, Program Director at Voices of Grief, to talk about why grief isn’t a timeline or a checklist, how Colorado Springs neighbors and circles can become healing spaces, what to say (and not say) to someone hurting, and simple first steps if you feel alone. We also share details on a hope-filled, sing-together event with “vocal activist” Melanie DeMore coming to town. If you’re grieving, love someone who is, or want to learn more about the topic, this is for you.Quick note: We’re podcast hosts, not mental health professionals. This episode shares experiences and local resources; it isn’t medical advice. If you’re really struggling or this conversation raises concerns about your safety or wellbeing, call or text 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) to connect with a trained counselor, or reach out to a trusted healthcare provider or therapist.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEDr. Alan WolfeltWhat's Your Grief?Healing with David KesslerMelanie DeMore ConcertPICKS OF THE WEEKHERplaceLatin SocialWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSCore CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come.

Carly and Lauren are lacing up for COS Fit & Well Week (September 19-26), where Colorado Springs’ most inspiring local studios open their doors with can’t-miss classes and experiences at a discounted rate. From cross-fit to hot yoga to spin sessions that feel like therapy, and more, this episode is part wellness inspo and part laugh-out-loud storytelling. If you’ve ever thought about mixing up your routine, or just want to hear what happens when two friends push each other into new fitness adventures, you’ll love this one.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEPikes Peak AscentCrossfit Hellkite4 Points FitnessOne Body Fitness StudioCycology StudioKineofitFit Body and PoleCore CollectiveHot AsanaFlylife FitnessColorado Salt Cave and Wellness CenterSamantha Rose WellnessNatura Bodywork CollectiveJulie Myers Yoga and AyurvedaPICKS OF THE WEEKSober Soiree for Homeward Pikes PeakSix-Feet Under Horror FestWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSCore CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come.

Step inside the UCCS Galleries of Contemporary Art with us as we sit down with curator Joy Armstrong to explore Justice of the Piece. This powerful exhibit brings together international female and non-binary muralists who use massive floor-to-ceiling works to spark conversations around equity, resistance, and activism.From New York’s graffiti godmother to Detroit’s voice for pay equity, these artists prove that walls can talk and what they’re saying might just change the way you see the world. Plus, we’ve got details on how you can catch the exhibit before it closes and even dance among the murals at a special “Ladies Night” party.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEPatrick ShearnBemis School of ArtColorado Springs Pioneer's MuseumLady PinkSydney G. JamesGrow Love"Ladies" Night Dance PartyPICKS OF THE WEEKCrafts and Cornhole for Kids CrossingConcrete Couch Volunteer OpportunitiesWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSCore CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come.

Imagine a marketplace built by women, for women — one that celebrates local businesses, the military, and community connection, all while honoring an incredible legacy. In this episode, we sit down with Brittany McNeal, the visionary behind HERplace, and Angelique McDonald of Gaggle Society Photo Booth Co., to talk about how this one-of-a-kind Colorado Springs event is creating a table where every woman belongs. From heartfelt stories of inspiration to behind-the-scenes vendor picks, you’ll hear how this market is redefining what it means to shop local and support women-owned businesses.Tune in and get an insider’s look at an event that’s already taking over feeds, airwaves, and hearts across the city.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEMeanwhile BlockTurquoise Sky EventsHemp Ice FactoryYobelPICKS OF THE WEEKPalisade PeachesIlluminate: Lighting The Way For The Arts at the Fine Arts CenterWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSCore CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come.

Carly has lived in Colorado Springs most of her life and has never been to Labor Day Lift Off—until now. To get her prepped, we brought back insider Lauren DeMarco from Colorado Springs Sports Corp, who shares the stories you won’t hear in the news.We’re talking balloons dipping into Prospect Lake at sunrise, pilots crisscrossing the sky while chase vans scramble to find where they’ll land, the jaw-dropping drone show that lights up the night, and so much more. Lauren also spills on the pastry-fueled early mornings, the surprising year-round planning, and the sheer joy of 200,000 people turning into kids again as the balloons lift off.If you thought Labor Day Lift Off was just a photo op, think again. This insider’s guide shows you the traditions and magic that make it one of Colorado Springs’ most unforgettable weekends.PICKS OF THE WEEKFall Classes at Bemis School of ArtBristol's Movies Under The StarsWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSCore CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come.

This summer in Colorado Springs, two organizations—Braver Angels and Reclaiming Civility—are joining forces to turn down the heat on our most heated conversations. In this episode, Lori Leander and Eric Brody share how they’re creating spaces where people can engage on tough topics, like gun control and the First Amendment, without the shouting matches, walkouts, or social media meltdowns. From practical tools like the LAPP framework to heartwarming stories of unlikely camaraderie, you’ll hear how their Civil Summer Series is helping neighbors, colleagues, and even family members move past polarization toward genuine understanding. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s still possible to disagree without disconnecting, this conversation might just restore your faith in civil discourse.PICKS OF THE WEEKRoots and Wings MathHotel PolarisWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSCore CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come.

A re-release of one of our most popular episodes!Colorado Springs is changing, and in all the best ways. In this episode, we chat with community powerhouse, Lauren Ripko of Studio Q Events, about the people, places, and passion projects making the Springs cooler than ever. From alley dance parties to city-shaping events, she’s helping build a more connected, creative Colorado Springs—and we’re here for it.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE- Taste of Pikes Peak- Meanwhile Block- Kinship Landing- Fiddles, Vittles, & Vino- Old Colorado City Christkindlmarket- White Pie- Youth Documentary Academy- Rocky Mountain Women's Film Festival- Loyal Coffee- Story Coffee- Book: Your Brain On Art- Shuga's- Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center- United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum- Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum- Masala MinglePICKS OF THE WEEK- Crooked Cue- Weenies and 'TinisWE LOVE OUR SPONSORSCore Collective Core Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come.