Springs and Things: Your Insider's Guide to Colorado Springs Culture & Community

Last week we teased  Quantum Peak , and this week, we go all in . Carly and Lauren sit down with Julia Brodska, founder of Best Life-ing , and what starts as a casual conversation turns into an unexpectedly powerful journey. We talk trauma, transformation, and yes, Carly cries (again). Julia opens up about her path from rock bottom to leading global healing retreats, including her biggest one yet—...

If you’ve ever done breathwork in a salt cave, floated in a tank of saline, or danced with your eyes closed to “unlock clarity,” then hi , you’re going to feel right at home. If you’ve never done those things, don’t worry, Carly is new to this scene too.  In this episode, she and Lauren dive headfirst into Colorado Springs’ wonderfully woo-woo wellness scene: think quantum retreats, forest bathing...

Snuggles, snouts, and summer spots...we've got an episode all about the pawsitively best dog-friendly spots in Colorado Springs! From pup patios and breweries to splash zones and pup-sicles, we're unleashing our favorite dog events, hikes, hangouts, and hotels in town, plus a few tail-wagging adventures you might not know about. Whether your pup’s a chill coffee companion or a zoomie-prone explore...

In this re-released episode, Carly and Lauren welcome Delilah Ala, founder of the 37,000-strong COS Foodies Facebook group , to share her favorite local spots, hidden gems, and the heartwarming stories of community support within the local food and beverage industry. From adventurous eats to Whole30-friendly dishes, this episode serves up a flavorful mix of fun banter, expert insights, and delicio...

*Heads up—this episode is not for the faint of heart. We’re talking about real-life autopsies, tragic events, and the behind-the-scenes work of a medical examiner. It’s absolutely fascinating, but may make you squirm at times. If you usually listen with your family or young kids, you may want to save this one for later or pop in some headphones.* Think your job is intense? Try spending your days s...

Making friends as an adult is hard... but it doesn’t have to be! In this feel-good episode, Carly sits down with Kelli and Isabel of Girl Get After It , a nationwide women’s wellness community that’s making waves right here in Colorado Springs. From Orange Theory to pottery nights, standup paddleboarding to mountaintop dreams, they’re helping women try new things, make meaningful connections, and...

Tucked in the mountains just 15 minutes from Colorado Springs lies a town where art, nature, and community create pure magic. In this episode, we explore the charm of Green Mountain Falls and the unforgettable experiences of the Green Box Arts Festival . We chat with Executive Director Scott Levy about how this small town became a big destination for creativity and connection. PICKS OF THE WEEK Th...

Imagine a secret club that gets you drink discounts across Colorado Springs, and all you have to do is sign up...for free. In this episode, we sat down with the amazing Director of Marketing at VisitCOS , Melissa Williams, and spill the tea (or the IPA?) on the Crafts & Drafts Passport , swap hilarious tourist stories, and map out the perfect 24-hour Colorado Springs itinerary.  Warning: You’l...

Looking for the ultimate girls’ night out (or in) in Colorado Springs? We’ve got you covered, and so does our honorary third host, Meagan Thomas, aka Springs Native ! From martinis and sushi at Sushi Row to s’mores at Cork & Cask , dive bar tours, glam spa nights, and so much more, this episode is your BFF-level guide to making memories with your favorite gals. Whether you’re craving cocktails...

In this episode, hosts Carly and Lauren dish on the absolute best summer concert series around town. From the laid-back vibes of Meadowgrass to magical evenings at Hillside Gardens to the neighborhood charm of Porchfest, and everything in between. Plus, you’ll hear all about the local bands they’re fangirling over, the family-friendly setups, and the one dish on our favorite new menu that we can't...

You don’t have to know Monet from macaroni art to fall in love with the art scene blooming in Colorado Springs. In this episode, we explore the city's evolving art scene with Ikebana sensei Heidi Almosara, of Yanagi Botanic Arts , whose botanical creations are as meditative as they are beautiful.  Whether you're deep in the local gallery scene or just wondering what "Ikebana" even means, you’ll fi...

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 Pi...

Colorado Springs: where the air is thin, the vibes are high, and the golf balls fly farther! In this tribute to golf in the Springs, we're teeing up trivia, local history, and an unforgettable interview with 2025 U.S. Senior Open Championship Manage r, Keri Hardin. Whether you're a hardcore golfer or just crush it at mini golf, you’ll love the behind-the-scenes scoop on why this isn’t just any tou...

Who says fun has to cost a fortune? We’re flipping the script and diving into free and low-cost gems Colorado Springs has to offer.  From donation-based yoga to hidden waterfalls, from free summer camps to secret museum passes, we’ve got you covered—without spending a dime (or at least very few of them). And hey, we’re kicking off our own no-spend challenge—so join us! Share your favorite free fin...

If your house is screaming chaos but your soul is craving calm, this episode is your spring cleaning spirit guide. We’re chatting with Colorado Springs’ own organizing wizard, Jen Campo, of The Simple Sort , about how clearing the clutter can clear your head. From laundry chairs that became permanent furniture to junk drawers that have their own zip code, we cover it all—without judgment.  Get rea...

Have you ever wondered about the hidden stories that make Colorado Springs so unique? Whether you're a die-hard history buff or someone who thinks museums aren't quite your scene, this episode is about to change your perspective. We sat down with Leah Davis Witherow, the Curator of History at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum , and uncovered some of the most fascinating, quirky, and surprising...

We thought we were starting a podcast about hidden gems and quirky local lore… Turns out, the real treasure of Colorado Springs? The people. In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Nicoletta — executive director of Rocky Mountain Women’s Film , former mayor of Manitou Springs, and one of those people who just makes the city better by being in it. We talk about powerful storytelling, the kind of f...

Brunch lovers, this one’s for you! Carly and Lauren are joined by Colorado Springs foodie and brunch expert Meagan Thomas, aka Springs Native , for a mouthwatering deep dive into the best breakfast spots around town. From buffet strategy at the Broadmoor to hidden gems, hangover cures, and one brunch horror story you won’t believe (seriously… gross!), it’s all served with a side of laughs and loca...

We’re diving into one of the most unique places in Colorado Springs— Concrete Couch ! Join us as we chat with Thomas Pantoja about the vibrant art, hands-on programs, and unexpected treasures (ferrets included!) at Concrete Coyote . Plus, we’ll share our latest food finds, a can't-miss event for chocolate lovers, and the one hidden hiking trail you probably shouldn’t tell anyone about.  Subscribe...

Springtime in Colorado Springs brings more than just unpredictable weather—it’s the perfect time to uncover the city's best-kept secrets! From tiny treasures like the Kissing Camels sculpture to the quirky legend of Penrose’s hungover glass eye, we’re sharing the hidden gems that make our city so special. But the real find? The Silent Book Club —a global movement that’s quietly taking over local c...

Ever had a bagel so good it makes you question your life choices? Or found yourself hypnotized by a bridal fashion show even though you’re not getting married? This week, Carly and Lauren take you on a wild ride through their weekend—where chive cream cheese becomes a guilty pleasure, a local bakery keeps them up at night (because it’s that good), and a spontaneous trip to Skate City turns into an...

Some conversations are easy—small talk, pleasantries, the usual. But what about the hard conversations? The ones that push us, challenge us, and ultimately help us grow? That’s exactly what Brooke Mikulas is all about. As the co-founder of Kinship Landing , Brooke built a thriving boutique hotel rooted in deep community connections—despite launching in the middle of a pandemic. But her passion doe...

Picture this: crisp mountain air, thundering hooves, and the unmistakable thrill of hockey on horseback —all set against the stunning backdrop of Colorado Springs. This week on Springs and Things , we’re diving into one of the most glamorous and action-packed events of the season: The Broadmoor Winter Polo Classic ! We’re joined by Lauren DeMarco from Colorado Springs Sports Corp , who’s giving us...

Pop the cork and pour a glass—this week on Springs and Things , we’re diving into four days of wine, cocktails, master sommeliers, and live music, all in the name of a great cause! Carly and Lauren are spilling the tea (or should we say, the wine?) on the 33rd Annual Wine Festival of Colorado Springs and why it’s so much more than just a sip-and-swirl affair. We sit down with Nathan Halvorson, Exe...

Brrr, it’s cold in here! But don’t worry, we’re about to warm things up! On this episode, Carly and Lauren are diving into all the best ways to beat the winter blues in Colorado Springs. From hot yoga and cozy cafés to wave pools, tiki bars, and even mermaid school (yes, really!), we’re finding summer in the middle of a snowstorm. Plus, we chat with Little Fins Swim School about why now is the bes...