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

Raise your glass (or your zero-proof cocktail) and join Lauren and Carly as they explore the booming non-alcoholic scene in Colorado Springs! In this fun and flavorful episode, we’re diving into the world of mocktails, highlighting the best spots in town to sip on booze-free beverages. Discover Gratitude Zero Proof Bar: Hear from Michele Garrett, the inspiring co-owner of Colorado Springs' first z...

This week, we’re diving into the rich world of theater that’s right in our backyard. From heartwarming community productions to professional stages brimming with talent, there’s something magical about stepping into a theater and escaping into a story. We’re pulling back the curtain on Heart Sellers,  the latest from TheaterWorks , chatting with its director, Jenna Moll Reyes, about the show as we...

In this episode of Springs and Things , Carly and Lauren dive into the vibrant, healthy food scene of Colorado Springs, starting with a deep (and hilarious) appreciation for crispy Brussels sprouts done right—because let’s face it, making them at home is a gamble! From Carly’s impressive Whole90 streak to Lauren’s Instagram-inspired morning rituals (hello, olive oil shots). Along the way, they giv...

What a whirlwind of an episode! Carly and Lauren dove headfirst into the fascinating world of play , proving once again that being an adult doesn’t mean leaving fun behind.  From New Year’s nostalgia (yes, we’re all still recovering from realizing Y2K was 25 years ago) to picking playful activities in the Springs, this episode served up a delightful buffet of inspiration. Special guest Acey Holmes...

In this episode of Springs and Things , Carly and Lauren are ditching the meticulously planned resolutions and embracing a wing-it approach to kicking off 2025 with a spring-centric twist! Join them for a hilariously honest conversation about everything from geocaching and paddleboarding to detoxifying their homes and supporting local farmers markets. Carly might even tackle DIY landscaping—will s...

This holiday season has flown by, but we’re here to slow things down with a lighthearted chat about our favorite Colorado Springs spots, fun activities, and hidden gems. Tune in for laughs, stories, and ideas to test out in the new year! This episode was basically a love letter to tea, treasure hunts, and fondue (OK, and a bunch of other places). Oh, and Carly revealed she’d survive on gifts from...

We have a very special guest—someone who's traveled the world, built awe-inspiring art installations, and yet, his heart has brought him home. Patrick Shearn, the visionary artist behind Poetic Kinetics , is joining us to talk about his roots here in the Springs, the creative upbringing that shaped his work, and his latest immersive exhibit, Psycullescence , at the UCCS Ent Center for the Arts. Fr...

A holiday scavenger hunt. A Whoville hike. Holiday beer pong. Unique party ideas. Alternatives to Christmas cards.  These topics just skim the surface of this highly entertaining episode! Hosts Carly Ries and Lauren Ferrara are joined by guest, Bonnie Goff (co-owner of Core Collective), to explore the festive spirit of Colorado Springs during the holiday season. They share personal holiday traditi...

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...

Coming to you live from Bristol Brewing ! We kept the subtle background noise so that you felt like you were right in the brewery having the conversation with us! When we say there are so many interesting nuggets throughout this entire episode, we aren’t kidding. IMPORTANT TO KNOW Bristol Brewing donates 100% of their profits from their Give Back Mix Pack to three local organizations totaling $790...

Join Carly Ries, Lauren Ferrara and special guest Carissa Niemeyer, co-owner of the beloved Story Coffee , as they spill the beans (pun intended) on the rich and aromatic world of coffee culture in Colorado Springs!  From awkward coffee shop moments to heartfelt stories of connection, this episode celebrates simplicity, community, and the joy of a really good cup of coffee. Whether you’re a die-ha...

Welcome to the first-ever episode of Springs and Things , the show where two friends take you on a wild ride through the heart of Colorado Springs! In this debut episode, we get real about what made us want to start a podcast together, a little background on who we are, and, of course, how this friendship blossomed. Stick around to hear about our “Picks of the Week” — where we each choose our favo...

Today, we’re tackling something that seems to hit us all as the year winds down. November brings a whirlwind of activity: from election season with all its buzz and urgency to the holidays, just around the corner, adding their own layer of excitement—and, let’s be honest, feelings of overwhelm! So, how do you beat the burnout and actually enjoy this season without losing your mind? We’ll share our...

Welcome to Springs and Things, the podcast where two close friends spill the tea on all things Colorado Springs! From quirky neighborhood lore and hidden spots only locals know about to the events you’ve just got to check out. If it’s happening here, we’re talking about it! So, who are we? We are Lauren Ferrara and Carly Ries, two friends who are obsessed with this city -- we like to think of ours...