Heart of Parker

In this special bonus episode of Heart of Parker, we're highlighting the 5th Annual Parker Homeschool Information Day & Free Curriculum Library! What started as a simple effort to help local homeschool families connect has grown into one of the area's largest homeschool community events. Whether you're currently homeschooling, considering homeschooling, or simply looking for educat...

In this episode of Heart of Parker, I sit down with Tracy Quintana of LifeSolutions by TQ to talk about retirement planning, life insurance, living benefits, inheritance, and preparing for the future with more confidence and peace of mind. We discuss the financial lessons many of us were never taught, the realities of long-term care and retirement, and why understanding your options now can make a...

Apparently, these 3 garden loving gals can talk for hours! In this episode I sit down with returning guest Diane of Pollywog Station Lavender Farm and Kathy from the Black Forest Garden Club for a long, cozy conversation about gardening, pollinators, native plants, and the community that grows around all of it. We talk about what thrives in Colorado gardens, creating pollinator-friendly spaces, th...

In this episode, I sit down with Eric Ward, owner of Collector Mania, to talk about the journey of taking over a longtime local shop and transforming it into something much bigger than a business. We dive into family, nostalgia, community, and the powerful role a shared space can play in bringing people together across generations. From trading cards to game nights, Collector Mania has become a pl...

In this episode of Heart of Parker , we sit down with Eric, Experience Manager at The Hive Community Center , to explore one of Parker’s most creative and welcoming spaces. From creating, crafting and co-working to community events and hands-on learning, The Hive is designed to bring people together. Eric shares how The Hive came to be through its parent organization PPCH, what makes the space so...

In this special bonus episode, I sit down with my friend and fellow homeschooling mom, Fern, to talk about her new Spanish learning club for ages 4–6: Little Roots . We discuss why she wanted a low-pressure, relational, screen-free approach to Spanish, the heart behind planting roots instead of chasing fluency, and how early language exposure can build confidence, cultural appreciation, and connec...

Welcome to the very first episode of Heart of Parker: Open Mic - a space for real conversations with the people who make this town feel like home. In this debut episode, I’m joined by listener-turned-guest Velencia Carter for an honest, funny, and deeply relatable conversation about motherhood and the beautifully chaotic seasons that shape us. We talk about the “Bluey” method of parenting, the vir...

Today Shannon is joined by Katie Celaya, founder of The Novice Herbologist. From simmer pots to cocktail kits, Katie brings herbs, flavor, and heart to every jar. You can find all products from The Novice Herbologist and May Contain Nuts at the Southlands and Downtown Parker locations of The Local. Or shop online using the link below! Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenoviceh...

Happy new year, Parker! To kick off 2026 and season 5 of Heart of Parker, Shannon is giving a video episode a try! In this quick episode, Shannon chats about new years resolutions, the NFL, her latest true crime documentary watches, and reflects on the show's success in 2025 and talks about what's to come for Heart of Parker. It means a lot that you pressed play today, thank you! 🔗 Stay C...

In this episode, Shelli Mango breaks down this year’s shift from the traditional holiday parade to the brand-new Holiday Market. She explains why the change happened, what it means for the community, and what visitors can expect. We also talk about the Downtown Business Alliance and its role in supporting local businesses and events. Shelli's genuine passion for downtown Parker and its small-b...

Parker's own Annie Lancaster stopped by the studio for a grounded, heart-forward conversation about her experience on the Netflix hit show 'Love is Blind' and her local business, Stylish Beauty Collective. Hearing her story in person is such a different experience from watching on screen, and I think you’ll feel that in every minute of this conversation. Instagram: @_Annie.ish Stylish...

The first episode of Open Mic is here and what better person to be my first guest than the one and only, Mike Waid?! We talk Parker car washes, politics, Shrek the Musical and so much more! Apply to be on an Open Mic episode by sending an email to HeartofParker@gmail.com

Apply to be on an episode of Open Mic by sending an email to HeartofParker@gmail.com

Meet Graeme Cowie of Daryana’s Backyardand Cowie’s Cows -  where dogs live their best ranch life! 🐾  In this episode, we talk about the love, trust, and care that go into their incredible boarding experience. From wide-open spaces to personalized attention, Graeme and Daryana have created a place where pets truly feel at home and owners can have total peace of mind.   💛 Fair prices, next-level c...

Step back in time as we sit down with Catherine Traffis from the Parker Area Historical Society. From historic landmarks and the stories of longtime residents to unique resources like the TravelStorys walking tour and the town museum, Catherine shares how Parker’s history is being preserved and celebrated every day. We also talk about the upcoming Living History performance on October 11, the Ghos...

In this bonus episode, I sit down with Kaylene Macias, the creator of Boo Hollow - a custom-built Halloween village made from donated playhouses, community volunteers, and lots of imagination. From themed cottages to an inclusive trick-or-treat hour, Boo Hollow is more than Halloween; it’s connection, creativity, and community. ✨ Learn more: myenchantedvillage.com ✨ Follow on Facebook: Boo Hollo...

The Bad Moms of Parker Facebook group is hilarious, sometimes a little embarrassing, but one of the most supportive spaces for moms in our community. In this episode, I chat with Beatriz Sutton, the admin and founder behind BMOP and president of the nonprofit, about how it all started, why “being a bad mom” really means being perfectly imperfect, and how this group has grown into a movement that g...

In this episode of The Heart of Parker, we sit down with Jill, owner of Petit Parker + Co, to explore the love and intention behind her boutique on Mainstreet. From timeless pieces to building lifelong connections with families, Jill shares how Petit Parker has become a place where childhood is celebrated and community thrives. This podcast is presented by the Parker Chamber and Foundation Fosteri...

Join Shannon and her guests, Kara Massa and Lindsay Bagby as we dive into The Women’s Experience - a transformative program designed to empower women through leadership, connection, and community. Learn more here! https://www.parkerchamber.com/we/ This podcast is presented by the Parker Chamber and Foundation Fostering growth and community in Parker. Learn more at ⁠www.parkerchamber.com⁠ and buy y...

Step into the story behind Pollywog Station Lavender Farm, where legacy, lavender, and bees come together in full bloom. Diane Kulback shares how her family's land became a local haven for nature, beauty, and connection. Plan your visit to the farm! https://www.pollywogstationlavenderfarm.com/ 8717 Hilltop Rd, Parker, CO 80134 This podcast is presented by the Parker Chamber and Foundation Fost...

In this bonus episode, we’re joined by Sara Crowe from Parker Arts to explore what’s coming in the 2025/26 season and why becoming a member might be your best decision yet. From early ticket access and exclusive events to community impact and exciting new projects (hello, film festival!), this is your backstage pass to everything Parker Arts has in store. Explore membership options here! https://p...

She’s a founder, a networking visionary, and a get-it-done kind of woman. Leah Ryan joins us to talk about making a difference, her no excuses attitude and what it really takes to show up for your community. This podcast is presented by the Parker Chamber and Foundation - Fostering growth and community in Parker. Learn more at ⁠www.parkerchamber.com⁠ and buy your wine walk tickets at www.parkercha...

Aleksandra from Kaykery returns with something even sweeter than cake- kindness. She’s launching a heartfelt community initiative called Kayke It Forward , where every other month, Kaykery gifts a free custom cake to someone who deserves an act of kindness. Whether they’re going through a hard time, making a difference, or just need a reminder that they’re loved, Kayke It Forward is about honoring...

Ever wonder who’s behind the parks we stroll and the recreational programs we love in Parker? In this episode, we chat with Mary Colton, Director of Parker Parks and Rec, about the heart behind the trails, the challenges of a growing town, and what’s coming next for the community spaces we all love. And most importantly, what was with the shopping cart at O'Brien Park? Links: Volunteer Opportu...

In this episode of Heart of Parker , we sit down with local author Elizabeth DeVecchi, the creative mind behind the award-winning horror suspense novel A Whisper in the Dark and her brand new release, A Twist of the Lens . Elizabeth shares her journey to becoming a published author in her 50s, the local inspiration behind her chilling stories, and how Parker, Colorado became the backdrop for both...