Studio 809 Community Podcast Network

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Elevating Pikes Peak Women is produced by Pikes Peak Women. Our mission is to provide a platform where women in the Pikes Peak region can become engaged and discuss civic issues about which they care deeply.

We’ve provided platforms to address healthcare reform, pay equity, community innovation, and investment, along with facilitating the meaningful contribution of women at all levels of business, government, and community. Issues may include women’s health and safety, challenges with career and family, or the actions of politicians for or against women’s rights. While such issues may be emotionally charged, we expect and maintain civility among all.

We are committed to the deliberate recruitment and support of women in leadership positions and actively work on issues that make a difference. Pikes Peak Women is an independent organization, coordinated by volunteer effort.

42: March 23 2026 - WasteLessCOS - Loving the Springs

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0600

Learn how the City of Colorado Springs has been studying our garbage and laying out a plan to divert a lot of that trash away from the landfill and into recycling and composting. Kurian, the City’s project manager for its new Waste Diversion Action Plan shares study and survey results, and explains next steps in the project.

We also get a festival preview from Music Director Steve Harris about the upcoming MeadowGrass Music Festival, which happens every Memorial Day weekend in Black Forest.

Name the train: the Front Range Passenger Rail District invited the public to vote for their favorite of four finalists to name the passenger rail line planned to run up and down Colorado’s front range. That survey closes the day this episode drops, March 23. We briefly discuss the project. Look for one more public meeting in Colorado Springs very soon.

Independent reporter Pam Zubeck shares background and highlights of her reporting in the Pikes Peak Bulletin on Colorado Springs Utilities.

Also on the table – ways we can trim our gas bills now that a gallon of gas is fetching close to $4.00.

LINKS:

WastelessCOS: https://coloradosprings.gov/WastelessCOS

Sustainability In-Box: COS-Sustainability.SMB@ColoradoSprings.gov

Circular Action Alliance: https://circularactionalliance.org/circular-action-alliance-colorado

Producer Responsibility program: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/hm/epr-program

Waste and Recycling in Colorado – Episode 96 of Peak Environment: https://studio809podcasts.com/waste-and-recycling/

The Garbologists: https://www.lindsayjoelle.com/the-garbologists.html

Name the Train: https://ridethefrontrange.com/namethetrain

MeadowGrass Music Festival: https://meadowgrass.org/

Pikes Peak Bulletin utilities reports:

Data Centers Come Knocking. Are Local Power and Water Supplies Available?: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/data-centers-come-knocking-are-local-power-and-water-supplies-available/

Springs Utilities Out $5.35 Million in Settlement With Fiber Project Contractor: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/springs-utilities-out-5-35-million-in-settlement-with-fiber-project-contractor/

Utilities CEO Says ‘Gloves Will Come Off’ if Senate Bill Doesn’t Delay Closing Nixon Coal Plant: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/utilities-ceo-says-gloves-will-come-off-if-senate-bill-doesnt-delay-closing-nixon-coal-plant/

CSU’s Non-Compliant Gas Lines To Cost Consumers: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/csus-non-compliant-gas-lines-to-cost-consumers/

Utilities Reporting Elsewhere:

Exhaust Concerns Threaten $650M Utilities Power Project – by Wayne Heilman: https://socodigest.com/2026/03/04/breaking-exhaust-concerns-threaten-650m-utilities-power-project/

Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort 10 Year Anniversary Special – episode 38 of Pedal the Springs: https://studio809podcasts.com/buffalo-lodge-10-year-anniversary/

Colorado Springs State of Downtown Report: https://downtowncs.com/sod

MENTIONED:

PikeRide

Tejon Street Corner Thieves

Vultures

Thrashers

Antivirus

Trepanned

La Foret Conference & Retreat Center

Goat Patch Brewing Company

ALO

Jack Johnson

String Cheese Incident

Kyle Hollingsworth Band

Nershi Hann Trio

Shook Twins

Daniel Rodriguez

Elephant Revival

Sturtz

Banshee Tree

Folk Alliance International

Grant Sabin

Broken Compass

Emily Hicks

Goodnight Moonshine

Rocky Mountain Highway Music Collaborative

Root Center for Yoga and Sacred Studies

Distillery 291

Southern Colorado Business Forum & Digest

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

26: The Power of Consistency: How Fostering Hope Builds Lasting Bonds for Foster Families - a Place for everyone

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 13:30:00 -0400

The "Extended Family" Model: Discover how Fostering Hope uses a volunteer-based support system to act as "aunts and uncles," providing a safety net that prevents youth from reaching a point of crisis.

Healing Through Connection: How developmental psychology and trauma-informed care are integrated into volunteer training.

Brian Newsome oversees the Fostering Hope Foundation, a Colorado Springs-based nonprofit that recruits volunteers to serve as "aunts, uncles, and grandparents" to foster families. His work focuses on providing the emotional and practical support—like date nights, transportation, and a "listening ear"—that the traditional child welfare system often lacks.

Fostering Hope was established in 2006 after four years of research into the foster care system. Their goal was to better understand the plight of children in foster care and the challenges of foster parents who step up to provide them with a home. What began as a little more than a hunch and a heart for helping these families is today an organization impacting hundreds of lives.

Fostering Hope: https://fosteringhopefoundation.org/

How to become a volunteer: https://fosteringhopefoundation.org/volunteer/

Donate now: https://fosteringhopefoundation.org/give/

Get involved and Support HPP: https://homewardpp.org/get-involved/

a Place for everyone is produced by Homeward Pikes Peak and hosted by Executive Director Beth Roalstad. We empower individuals and families to access stable housing, increase mental health, increase recovery and achieve economic stability. Learn more at http://homewardpp.org/. You can reach us at (719) 473-5557. Street Outreach, housing, and clinical services are provided.

38: Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort 10 Year Anniversary Special - Pedal The Springs

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Torie Giffin shares her journey to creating Colorado Springs’ top ranked lodging, bar, biking and live music venue. Guest host, moderator and superfan of the Pedal the Springs podcast, Terry Lyons, flips the roles and interviews the podcast host and owner of Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort.

Recorded in front of a live audience, this episode features interviews with key staff members, community members and members of the Buffalo Lodge Bike Tribe (fresh off the first Monday night ride of the season through the Garden of the Gods) all sharing their experiences about what makes the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort so unique and special.

Host: Terry Lyons, guest host and moderator

Guests:

Torie Giffin, Owner Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort

Sara Branham, General Manager Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort

Scott Ayen, Property Manager Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort

Michael Watry, Local Musician & Instructor with Black Rose Acoustic Society

Michael Rosell, (aka: Jersey Mike) Buffalo Lodge Bike Tribe leader

Dr. Nicole Odell, Local Cycling Leader, Advocacy Committee Chair for Bike Colorado Springs

Dave Bryan & Cecilia, Local cyclist, Lodge regulars & Buffalo Lodge Bike Tribe member

Graham Thompson, owner and mechanic, Westside Bicycle Service at the Lodge

LINKS:

Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort: https://www.bicycleresort.com/

Black Rose Acoustic Society: https://www.blackroseacoustic.org/

Manitou Music Foundation: https://www.manitoumusicfoundation.org/

North Cheyenne Canyon: https://coloradosprings.gov/NCC

Palmer Park: https://www.visitcos.com/things-to-do/outdoors/biking/top-11-bike-routes-in-colorado-springs/

Pike View Quarry Mountain Bike Park Project: https://pikeview.org/bike-park/

Red Rock Canyon Open Space: https://coloradosprings.gov/redrockcanyon

Ring the Peak: https://ringthepeaktrail.org/

Ring the Peak episode of Pedal the Springs: https://studio809podcasts.com/ring-the-peak/

Ute Valley Park: https://coloradosprings.gov/parks/page/ute-valley-park

Westside Bicycle Service: https://sites.google.com/view/westsidebikeservice/home

Episodes are recorded in the Studio 809 Podcasts community podcast studio at The Next Us. https://thenextus.spaces.nexudus.com/?public&

Find other great podcasts produced in and for the Pikes Peak Region - at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode of Pedal the Springs. Follow on your favorite podcast app.

Youth Council in Conversation with New D11 Board Member Michelle Ruehl - Making Democracy Work

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:30:00 -0600

LWVPPR Youth Council member Anna Fedoruk interviews newly elected D11 School Board member Michelle Ruehl. With discussions around school policies such as AI, student safety, student mental health, and cell phones in schools, we learn more about Ms. Ruehl’s goals for her tenure on the board.

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

This podcast is produced by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region (LWVPPR). The mission of the League of Women Voters is: Empowering Voters. Defending Democracy. LWVPPR members actively promote voter and civic education for the public and themselves. Learn more at https://lwvppr.org/

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

Mentioned in this episode:

This episode is supported by Bighorn Leadership Program. Learn more at https://www.bighornleadership.com

Youth Council in Conversation with New D11 Board Member LeAnn Baca Bartlett - Making Democracy Work

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:25:00 -0600

LWVPPR Youth Council members Anna Fedoruk and Tyler Peak interview newly elected D11 School Board member LeAnn Baca Bartlett. With discussions around school policies such as AI, student safety, student mental health, and cell phones in schools, we learn more about Ms. Bartlett’s goals for her tenure on the board.

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

Mentioned in this episode:

This episode is supported by Bighorn Leadership Program. Learn more at https://www.bighornleadership.com

Youth Council in Conversation with D11 Board Member Charles Johnson - Making Democracy Work

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:20:00 -0600

LWVPPR Youth Council members Anna Fedoruk and Tyler Peak interview re-elected D11 School Board member Charles Johnson. With discussions around school policies such as AI, student safety, student mental health, and cell phones in schools, we learn more about Mr. Johnson's goals for his tenure on the board.

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

Mentioned in this episode:

This episode is supported by Bighorn Leadership Program. Learn more at https://www.bighornleadership.com

150: Manitou Springs Garden Club - Peak Environment

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

How does a small garden club grow into a powerful driver of community resilience? Host Ally Richardson and leaders from the Manitou Springs Garden Club explore how plant sales, community grants, and hands‑on education strengthen our local ecosystems. Their work shows how simple, community‑rooted actions can create lasting impact. As Bill Mollison reminds us, “Though the problems of the world are increasingly complex, the solutions remain embarrassingly simple.”

Manitou Garden Club Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ManitouSpringsGardenClub

Join their plant sale on Sunday, May 24th, from 9AM to noon at the pool parking lot of Schryver Park, 202 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs

Come help out at April’s club meeting and see if the garden club is your flavor. Then, join! They meet every second Thursday of every month at the Community Congregational Church (except for special club member Summer months in member’s gardens).

City of Manitou Springs Tree Voucher Program: https://cityofmanitousprings-parksandrec.app.transform.civicplus.com/forms/22690

Colorado Spring’s Grow Shade Together, the City's Neighborhood Tree Planting Program: https://coloradosprings.gov/GrowShadeTogether

Recommended Reading: The Wild Wisdom of Weeds - by Katrina Blair

BIG OL EARTH DAY CELEBRATION! https://www.concretecouch.org/

Community orgs collaborating to Celebrate Mother Earth, connect people of all ages with nature and support the ongoing land restoration at Concrete Coyote Community Park!

Wednesday, April 22·12:00 – 6:00pm, 1100 S Royer St, Colorado Springs, CO

This episode is brought to you by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at pikespeakpermaculture.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado Springs: https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters: https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

41: March 11 2026 - Jessica Killin Wants to Represent You in Congress - Loving the Springs

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0600

The odds have never been better that a Democrat will represent Colorado’s 5th District in U.S. Congress next year. Meet the woman who may just send Jeff Crank packing, Jessica Killin. Jessica is one of a field of 5 vying for the Democratic Party nomination to represent Colorado Springs and environs. Get to know Jessica as we ask her about her history in Colorado Springs, her military experience, her experience at our nation’s capitol, and what she thinks Congress can do during the last two years of the Trump administration. Also vying for the CD5 nomination are Joe Reagan, Zuri Horowitz, and Justin Lord.

We also get an update from Pikes Peak Bulletin’s Heila Ershadi on the archives of the defunct Colorado Springs Independent. Dirk Hobbs of Colorado Media Group has possession of the data, but is finding it very challenging to restore online access to this treasure trove of over twenty years of community history. Heila also updates the saga of the Moreno and Cascade Urban Renewal Plan, recently approved despite efforts of the Mill Street Community Benefits All Coalition to hold out for a community benefit plan with Norwood Development Group.

Other Studio 809 podcasts featuring CD5 congressional candidates:

Two Women, One Primary, Big Ideas – Jessica Killin and Zuri Horowitz on episode 65 of Elevating Pikes Peak Women: https://studio809podcasts.com/two-women-one-primary/

Running for Congress with Joe Reagan - episode 24 of Badly Needed & Long Overdue: https://studio809podcasts.com/24-joe-reagan-for-congress/

People Centered Springs with Zuri Horowitz – episode 36 of Loving the Springs: https://studio809podcasts.com/people-centered-zuri/

LINKS:

Jessica Killin campaign: https://www.killinforcolorado.com/

Indy archives (very limited, 2023 so far): https://socoinsider.com/archives/

‘A Complete Mess’: Indy Archive Restoration Proves Difficult: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/a-complete-mess-indy-archive-restoration-proves-difficult/

Over Objections from Neighborhood Group, City Council Approves Public Money for Hotel Project: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/over-objections-from-neighborhood-group-city-council-approves-public-money-for-hotel-project/

Pikes Peak Bulletin: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/

MENTIONED:

Colorado Congressional District 5

El Paso County Democratic Party

Jeff Crank

UNC

Lahara, Colorado

Carver Elementary

Sabin Junior High

Pikes Peak Elementary

Falcon Middle School

Stetson Hills

Horizon Middle School

Falcon High School

United States Air Force Academy

Fort Carson

Peterson Field

CU Boulder

Army ROTC

University of Tampa

SMU

Operation Joint Endeavor / Operation Joint Guard

NATO

Poland

Ukraine

Xi Jinping

Colorado Springs Airport

Costco

Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak Housing Network

Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC

Dirk Hobbs

Colorado Media Group

SoCo Insider

FBI

Trump Epstein Files

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Pikes Peak Library District

The Poynter Institute

Knight Foundation

Pam Zubeck

Corey Hutchins

Inside the News in Colorado

Colorado College

The Washington Post

The New York Times

Colorado Springs Gazette

Moreno and Cascade Urban Renewal Plan

Norwood Development Group

Mill Street Community Benefits All Coalition

Nancy Henjum

Kimberly Gold

Dave Donelson

Max Kronstadt

Union Printers HomeLoving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

37: Ring the Peak - the Vision Becoming a Reality - Pedal The Springs

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

The Ring the Peak Trail is one of Colorado Springs’ boldest outdoor visions and it just got a major boost. Local non-profit the Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance (PPORA) has secured a $2.5 million grant to help move the 63-mile continuous loop around the base of Pikes Peak closer to completion. We explore how this funding will help shape the future of Colorado Springs, and how it will enhance outdoor access and tourism across the Pikes Peak Region.

Host: Torie Giffin, Owner Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort

Guests:

Conner Borkowski, Program and Special Projects Coordinator PPORA

Nic Ponsor, Bike industry veteran & Advisory Council for PPORA

LINKS:

Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) Grant: https://goco.org/

Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates: https://medwheel.org/

Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance: https://ppora.org/

Pike View Quarry Mountain Bike Park Project: https://pikeview.org/bike-park/

Ring the Peak: https://ringthepeaktrail.org/

Rocky Mountain Field Institute: https://www.rmfi.org/

Trails and Open Space Coalition: https://trailsandopenspaces.org/

MENTIONED:

Pikes Peak America’s Mountain

Colorado Parks and Wildlife

Becky Leinweber

Fruita

Moab

Garden of the Gods

Pikes Peak Center

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

Colorado Springs Airport

Cripple Creek

Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates

Nick Ragain

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC

Colorado Springs Mountain Bike Association (COSMBA)

Mile High Youth Corps

Episodes are recorded in the Studio 809 Podcasts community podcast studio at The Next Us. https://thenextus.spaces.nexudus.com/?public&

Find other great podcasts produced in and for the Pikes Peak Region - at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode of Pedal the Springs. Follow on your favorite podcast app.

65: Two Women, One Primary, Big Ideas - Elevating Pikes Peak Women

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Inside CD-5: Policy, Power, and Women Candidates

Jessica Killin and Zuri Horowitz are running to represent the Pikes Peak Region (CD‑5) in Congress. Why listen to them in this episode? Because this episode is not about campaign spin, talking points, or fluff. Hear their priorities and policy ideas around issues such as the cost of health care, women in the military, and other issues specifically impacting women in the Pikes Peak Region.

Resources:

Colorado Secretary of State – FAQ on Caucuses: https://www.coloradosos.gov/pubs/elections/Candidates/FAQs/caucuses.html

El Paso County Democratic Party: https://epcodemparty.org/

Zuri Horowitz Candidate Website: https://www.zuriforcd5.com/

Jessica Killin Candidate Website: https://www.killinforcolorado.com/

Childcare: The Underpinning of the Economy - Episode of Elevating Pikes Peak Women: https://studio809podcasts.com/childcare-the-underpinning-of-the-economy/

Pikes Peak Women on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen/

Pikes Peak Women on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikes_peak_women/

64: Childcare – The Underpinning of the Economy - Elevating Pikes Peak Women

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 19:10:00 -0400

We dive deep into the vital role of childcare and the early childhood education crisis affecting both our local community and the nation at large. We explore how stable, quality care serves as the foundation for a strong workforce and healthy child development. Two prominent local leaders who are at the forefront of this issue share insights on the challenges families face and the collaborative efforts being made to ensure every child has a strong start.

Join us for a conversation with two prominent local leaders who are at the forefront of this issue. They share insights on the challenges families face and the collaborative efforts being made to ensure every child has a strong start.

Our Guests

Liz Denson
, President & CEO of Early Connections Learning Centers.
Liz
is a dedicated advocate for high-quality, affordable early childhood education and recently shared her expertise by testifying before the U.S. Senate HELP Committee on the childcare crisis.
SherryLynn Boyles
, President & CEO of Joint Initiatives for Youth + Families.
SherryLynn
provides executive leadership for an organization that brings together over 60 community partners to solve complex social issues and support families in the Pikes Peak region.

Featured Initiative

KIDS' Strong Start: A community awareness campaign and project of the Family Friendly Initiative (FFI). Their mission is to ensure every child under six in the Pikes Peak Region has access to affordable, quality childcare.

Resources & Links

Pikes Peak Women: https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen
Early Connections Learning Centers: https://www.earlyconnections.org/
Joint Initiatives for Youth + Families: https://www.jointinitiatives.org/
KIDS' Strong Start: https://kidsstrongstart.org/
Liz Denson on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizdenson
SherryLynn Boyles on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrylynnboyles

Engage with Us

Facebook: Pikes Peak Women
Instagram: @pikes_peak_women
Email: pikespeakwmn@gmail.com

Pikes Peak Women on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen/

Pikes Peak Women on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikes_peak_women/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

149: Burning Coal Past 2030 Deadline - Colorado Springs Asks for Extension - Peak Environment

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 11:55:00 -0400

Colorado Springs Utilities wants to delay closing its last coal-fired powerplant. CSU is currently obligated under its clean energy plan to close its Ray Nixon plant by the end of 2029 in order to meet a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2030. It claims the extension is necessary because it is too costly to meet the current deadline. Learn about proposed legislation that would allow the plant to continue operating up to an extra ten years, and why many environmental groups oppose it. This episode’s guests:

Jim Lockhart, conservation chair of Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Ciara Guerrero, Colorado Springs team coordinator for 350 Colorado

Olivia West, environmental organizer for Sierra Club and Green Corps

LEARN MORE:

Colorado Springs Utilities Enlists State Lawmakers To Keep Ray Nixon Power Plant Running Into 2030 – CPR news story: https://www.cpr.org/2026/01/13/colorado-springs-ray-nixon-power-plant-legislation/

Update on the Nixon Plant Decommission – Sierra Club update: https://www.sierraclub.org/colorado/pikes-peak/february-2026#:~:text=Update%20on%20the%20Nixon%20Plant%20Decommission&text=CSU%20is%20currently%20obligated%20under,emissions%20by%2080%25%20by%202030

SB26-022 - Challenge Meeting 2030 Emissions Reduction Goals: https://leg.colorado.gov/bill_files/110720/download

Clean Energy for Colorado Petition: https://forms.gle/9eiwmh52x463DJuz9

HB26-1030 - Data Center & Utility Modernization: https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb26-1030

350 Colorado Springs: https://350colorado.org/colorado-springs/

Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club: https://www.sierraclub.org/colorado/pikes-peak

Subscribe to Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future Email Updates: https://peakalliance.us11.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=8b6c85fea7b70fac39688c409&id=bbba41d918

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/councilmember-gold-reprimanded-for-mlk-proclamation-remarks/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

25: Emergency Shelter in Colorado Springs - Hope COS Delivers an Alternative - a Place for everyone

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0400

We dive into the vital work of Hope COS, a Colorado Springs-based organization dedicated to supporting individuals at their most vulnerable points. Executive Director Melissa Wallace discusses how their values-driven approach provides a lifeline for those navigating homelessness, battling addiction, or reentering society after incarceration.

Key Discussion Points

Providing compassionate, values-driven support to bridge gaps in the community with justice, love, and humility. The team has lived experience which provides a key differentiator for high impact services.

Hope COS: https://hopecos.org/

a Place for everyone is produced by Homeward Pikes Peak and hosted by Executive Director Beth Roalstad. We empower individuals and families to access stable housing, increase mental health, increase recovery and achieve economic stability. Learn more at http://homewardpp.org/. You can reach us at (719) 473-5557. Street Outreach, housing, and clinical services are provided.

57: Celebrate Black History Month Through a Local Lens - Aging with Altitude

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 09:30:00 -0400

Books have been written and movies made on the history of Fannie Mae Duncan with her, all people welcome, iconic Cotton Club operating in Colorado Springs from 1948-1975. Hear from JJ Frazier who, at 17, sang with the orchestra at the Club. Today, JJ continues her legacy of service in the region. Next to share is Shirley Martinez, who is also making history – bringing Martin Luther King Jr.’s granddaughter to keynote the annual All Peoples Breakfast hosted by the MLK Legacy Preservation Society on 2026 Martin Luther-King Jr. Day.

LINKS:

MLK Legacy Preservation Society: https://www.mlklegacy.org/

Pikes Peak Diversity Council: https://www.ppdiversitycouncilinc.org/

Everybody Welcome – by Fannie Mae Duncan and Kathleen Esmiol: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29629527-everybody-welcome

The Invisible People of the Pikes Peak Region – by John Stokes Holley: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57752054-the-invisible-people-of-the-pikes-peak-region

Learn more at: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging

Or call 719-471-2096

INSERT GUEST WEBSITE HERE

Youth Council in Conversation with New D49 Board Member Holly Withers - Making Democracy Work

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 13:45:00 -0600

LWVPPR Youth Council members Anna Fedoruk and Maxx Vega interview newly elected D49 School Board member Holly Withers. With discussions around school policies such as AI, student safety, student mental health, and cell phones in schools, we learn more about Ms. Withers’ goals for her tenure on the board.

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

Mentioned in this episode:

This episode is supported by Bighorn Leadership Program. Learn more at https://www.bighornleadership.com

Youth Council in Conversation with New D49 Board Member Lori Thompson - Making Democracy Work

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 13:45:00 -0600

LWVPPR Youth Council members Anna Fedoruk and Maxx Vega interview newly elected D49 School Board member Lori Thompson. With discussions around school policies such as AI, student safety, student mental health, and cell phones in schools, we learn more about Ms. Thompson’s goals for her tenure on the board.

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

Mentioned in this episode:

This episode is supported by Bighorn Leadership Program. Learn more at https://www.bighornleadership.com

40: Feb 17 2026 - Black History is 365 Days – Chauncy Johnson - Loving the Springs

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0600

We get important perspective on the value and meaning of Black History Month from a remarkable young Black man who lives and breathes civic engagement. Chauncy Johnson has worked in the Colorado State Capitol, pitched in on important initiatives, and run for Colorado Springs City Council in 2025. He is currently seeking the Democratic Party nomination for Colorado State Representative in House District 17.

Pikes Peak Bulletin Managing Editor Heila Ershadi also updates us on the Mill Street Community Benefits All Coalition’s efforts to get a community benefit agreement related to construction of a luxury Catbird Hotel south of downtown Colorado Springs.

LINKS:

Chauncy Johnson for HD17: https://chauncyjohnsonforhd17.com/

$10.3 Million Subsidy for Luxury Hotel Must Come With Community Benefits Agreement, Neighborhood Coalition Says: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/10-3-million-subsidy-for-luxury-hotel-must-come-with-community-benefits-agreement-neighborhood-coalition-says/

Church’s Pride Banner Removed. Again.: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/churchs-pride-banner-removed-again/

Pikes Peak Bulletin Listening Tour: https://www.facebook.com/events/2456923024770015

MENTIONED:

Leah Withrow

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Conejos Neighborhood

William Jackson Palmer

The Tuskegee Airmen

Donald Trump

Rep. LaMonica McIver

Don Lemon

Elijah McClain

Breonna Taylor

George Floyd

The Olympic Games

Ta-Nehisi Coates

Laila Edwards

Juneteenth

Fiestas Patrias

Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off

OneBodyENT

Citadel Mall

Norris Penrose Event Center

America the Beautiful Park

U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum

Norwood Development Group

Mill Street Community Benefits All Coalition

Manitou Art Center

Freedom to Thrive: The American Experience in Colorado Springs

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

Buried by IRS Letters and Unfiled Returns? Finding Hope, Help, and a Fresh Start - Tax Answers Advisor

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 10:15:00 -0600

That sinking feeling at 2 AM—IRS letters piling up, unfiled returns haunting you, payroll taxes crushing your small business dream—it's not just numbers. It's shame, fear, and the dread that your empire is crumbling before it even stands. You're not alone, and you're not broken. This episode of Tax Answers Advisor meets you right there in the dark with real hope, raw stories, and a path out.

I sit down with Ryan Otto, President of Accent Financial Services and genius behind "Taxsmithing"—his blacksmith-inspired system that forges tax chaos into unbreakable strategy, asset protection, and wealth for overwhelmed entrepreneurs. We get vulnerable about the emotional toll: walking into an office scared and ashamed with $400K IRS notices, sleepless nights from back taxes, and the loneliness of trying to do it all solo. Ryan shares how small business owners fall into payroll traps and compliance nightmares—not from recklessness, but from wearing every hat in the "wild west" of entrepreneurship.

If you're:

Frozen by IRS envelopes you can't open
Buried in unfiled returns or payroll debt
Watching social media "tax hacks" make it worse
Ready to stop running from the IRS and build toward your unfinished empire

This is your wake-up call to relief. Hear transformations—like families we've guided across three generations from startup struggles to million-dollar success, or clients who felt that first deep breath when notices stopped and debt shrank. We unpack why one tax meeting a year fails (ideas vanish by the parking lot!), and how ongoing relationships turn reactive fixes into proactive power.

Key Emotional Takeaways:

Tax pain is human—deserve compassion, not judgment, as you fix $400K messes or prevent them
"Taxsmithing": Precision like a blacksmith to shield your future from ever-changing IRS rules
Shift from fear to strategy: Tackle past debts while building wealth—no waiting
Your business is an "unfinished empire"—constantly evolving, never done, always worth protecting

Don't let tax stress steal another night. Visit TaxReliefCall.com now—my team and I specialize in IRS debt relief, unfiled returns, innocent spouse help, and small business rescue so you sleep soundly and grow boldly.

56: Senior Games - Aging with Altitude

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:50:00 -0400

The Colorado Senior Games are Coming. Will you sign up? Athletes over 50 are invited to show your skill in a multitude of sports this June in Colorado Springs. The Colorado Senior Games this year are qualifying games that lead competitors on to the National Senior Games. What an accomplishment! Competitors will be coming from Colorado as well as surrounding states for this important qualifying year. Hear from the organizing entity, Colorado Springs Sports Corp, to learn more about volunteering at the events or competing in these awesome games.

Learn more at: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging

Or call 719-471-2096

INSERT GUEST WEBSITE HERE

39: Feb 3 2026 - Wow, What a Tuesday! - Loving the Springs

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0600

Colorado Springs City Councilor Gold was reprimanded recently, for comments “in violation of the rules and procedures of City Council,” when in fact her comments were an example of the civility and decorum council rules strive to achieve. We share what went down in the January 13, 2026 Colorado Springs City Council meeting – in which faith leaders made comments about Martin Luther King Jr. Day which incited City Councilor Dave Donelson to walk out, refusing to participate in a photograph commemorating the mayor and council’s proclamation. Councilor Kimberly Gold reminded the room that, “Doctor MLK was a fiery person. He had to be in order to create change. And we need that same fiery spirit today and beyond to create the continued change that we need in our country.”

At its next public meeting, City Council heard from several citizens who praised Gold’s behavior and comments. In this episode we speak with Kimberly Gold to get her take, and we discuss the incident, the reprimand, and subsequent events with Pikes Peak Bulletin Managing Editor Heila Ershadi.

LINKS:

Pikes Peak Bulletin Coverage:

Councilmember Gold Reprimanded for MLK Proclamation Remarks:

Juicy Public Comments on No Black History Month Proclamation, Gold Reprimand, ICE:

https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/juicy-public-comments-on-no-black-history-month-proclamation-gold-reprimand-ice/

Discover Downtown Pass: https://downtowncs.com/pass

2026 Winter Olympic & Paralympic Celebration: https://usopm.org/gamesexperience/

Nike Team USA Collection: https://www.nike.com/w/medal-stand-collection-7q64t

Downtown Colorado Springs on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/downtown_cs/

Downtown Colorado Springs on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DowntownColoradoSprings

MENTIONED:

City Councilor Kimberly Gold

City Council President Lynette Crow-Iverson

City Councilor Dave Donelson

Rev. Josh Rumple

First Congregational Church

Rev. Candace Woods

Seth Palmer Harris

League of American Bicyclists

Bicycle Colorado Springs

PikeRide

2026 Winter Olympics

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

U.S. Olympic pommel horse champion Stephen Nedoroscik

Galentine’s Day

Good Intentions

Novis Mortem Collective

Painting With a Twist

Comfort & Joy Cat Café

Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center

The Local Motive

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

Caucus Process 101 with EPC Republicans - Making Democracy Work

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:11:00 -0600

Hear about the Caucus Process from Ken Davis, Chair of the El Paso County Republican Party about party process over the coming months. He chats with Shelly Roehrs, your host, on Making Democracy Work.

Donate Today! League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region: https://lwvppr.org/

Candidate Forums: http://vote411.org/

El Paso County Republican Party - https://www.gopelpaso.com/

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

Caucus Process 101 with EPC Democrats - Making Democracy Work

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:54:00 -0600

Hear from Conner Roderick, Chair of the El Paso County Democratic Party’s Permanent Organization about party happenings and process over the coming months. He chats with Shelly Roehrs, your host, on Making Democracy Work.

Donate Today! League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region: https://lwvppr.org/

Candidate Forums: http://vote411.org/

El Paso County Democratic Party: https://epcodemparty.org/

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

63: Sitting In With Our Future - Martin Luther King Junior's Only Grandchild, Yolanda Renee King - Elevating Pikes Peak Women

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 12:22:00 -0400

17-year-old Yolanda Renee King shares her experiences, hopes and dreams with Pikes Peak Women. She sat down with us in a hotel lobby in downtown Colorado Springs on the eve of Martin Luther King Day 2026, where Yolanda was scheduled to be the keynote speaker. She is the only grandchild in the MLK legacy.

Think about this. She is taking charge with her generation to lead the way on equity, climate change, education and ending gun violence. At 15, she wrote a children's book and last year started a nonprofit focused on taking action and getting engaged in community change and leadership.

Pikes Peak Woman Melissa Marts shares this interview with another 17-year-old, Eve Walker, daughter of Pikes Peak Woman Deb Walker, to ensure these young voices are sharing their hopes and dreams for a united future. We want to thank the Pikes Peak Diversity Council and newly organized MLK Legacy Preservation Society for help in this momentous opportunity.

MORE:

We Dream a World: Carrying the Light from My Grandparents – Yolanda Renee King’s book

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/124932718-we-dream-a-world

Realize the Dream - Nonprofit founded by Yolanda and her parents

https://www.realizethedream.org/

Meet Martin Luther King Jr.'s Only Grandchild Yolanda Renee King! All About the Young Activist (and Why She Still Feels His ‘Presence’ Despite Never Meeting) – People Magazine story

https://people.com/all-about-martin-luther-king-jr-granddaughter-8763562

Pikes Peak Women on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen/

Pikes Peak Women on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikes_peak_women/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

148: Before You Hire a Landscaper - Peak Environment

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:47:00 -0400

What if ten weekends could change the way you see your land, your home, and your future?

Host Ally Richardson interviews three recent graduates of the 2025 Permaculture Design Certification Course where they share the moments that surprised them, the skills that reshaped their thinking, and the unexpected community they found along the way. Before you hire a landscaper, hear what a PDC can unlock. Step into your power and shape the land for good!

Mentioned in this episode:

2026 Permaculture Design Course

Pikes Peak Permaculture’s PDC follows the Permaculture Institute of North America curriculum and meets the 72 hour certification standard. The course emphasizes ethics, principles, whole systems thinking, and collaborative site design.

The program runs 10 weekends from February to August across Southern Colorado, with a few regional field trips. Lunches are prepared by students on rotation, with snacks provided. Children may attend with prior discussion.

Work trade options and financial aid are available. Few spots left, so sign-up today!

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

24: Getting a Step Up: Introducing Step Colorado Springs - a Place for everyone

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:42:00 -0400

A new recovery program called Step Springs helps men in a state of desperation end their cycle of addiction, take back control of their lives, and transition to a safe and sober living environment. There, they can become productive, contributing members of their families and our community. Step Springs CEO Meghan Shay shares details with our host, Beth Roalstad, CEO of Homeward Pikes Peak.

For More Information:

Step Springs: https://stepsprings.org/

38: Jan 28, 2026 - Happy Trails Make for Happy People - Glenn Carlson leads Trails and Open Space Coalition - Loving the Springs

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 06:45:00 -0600

Our beloved Trails and Open Space Coalition is sure to be up to something you didn’t already know. Executive Director Glenn Carlson shares his vision, what TOSC has been up to since he took the reins, and exciting news about a new web tool that will help us all enjoy our trails, parks and open spaces that much more.

We also get tips for trail etiquette when mud is the order of the day. Great news that TOSC is looking into bringing Starlight Spectacular back to life – but reimagined. Plus, Heila Ershadi, managing editor of the Pikes Peak Bulletin, shares an interesting story about a proposed new luxury hotel and what the Mill Street neighborhood is trying to do to avoid the gentrification shuffle.

LINKS:

Trails and Open Space Coalition (TOSC): https://trailsandopenspaces.org/

Colorado Springs Parks Assessment and Master Plan: https://coloradosprings.gov/ParkSystemMasterPlan

Downtown neighborhood seeks dialogue with Norwood Development – Pikes Peak Bulletin story: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/downtown-neighborhood-seeks-dialogue-with-norwood-development/

MENTIONED:

Susan Davies

Mesa Ridge High School

Widefield

Colorado College

Arrow Electronics

Running for Colorado Springs City Council

The Legacy Loop

Allen Beauchamp

Botanic garden

Denver Botanic Garden

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Garden of the Gods Foundation

Garden of the Gods Dog Park

Pikes Peak

Blodgett Open Space

Pikeview Quarry

Timberline TrailCraft

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

Ignoring the IRS Is Costing You More Every Day—Here’s How to Take Control Now - Tax Answers Advisor

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600

Most business owners don’t lose sleep because they hate numbers. They lose sleep because they are terrified of what those numbers might reveal if the IRS ever comes knocking. Behind the unfiled returns, unopened IRS letters, and messy books is a constant, exhausting fear: “What if I’m in trouble and I don’t even know it yet?”

In this episode of the Tax Answers Advisor, Enrolled Agent and Certified Tax Representation Consultant Marcelino Dodge sits down with CPA Laura Zarate of Athena CPAs to talk about a different way forward: building clean systems and proactive tax strategies so you can stop looking over your shoulder and finally look ahead. Together they show how “boring” consistent accounting, intentional decisions, and year‑round planning can turn chaos into clarity and fear into confidence.

You’ll hear how reactive habits—ignoring IRS notices, mixing business and personal money, relying on shoebox receipts, waiting until April to think about taxes—quietly build penalties, interest, and anxiety, even when no one is sending you letters yet. You’ll also discover what a truly clean system looks like, why documentation matters so much in an audit, and how separating your business and personal finances protects not just your deductions but your entire entity.

Marcelino and Laura walk through real‑life scenarios: missed S corporation elections, owners who never took reasonable payroll, people who bought expensive vehicles “for the write‑off” and ended up with a cash problem instead of a tax solution. They unpack how simple timing and structure decisions—like how you sell a business, when you take income, and how you compensate yourself—can save thousands when you plan ahead instead of cleaning up after the fact.

Most importantly, this conversation speaks to the business owner who feels ashamed, behind, or afraid to reach out because “it’s already such a mess.” You’ll hear why it is absolutely possible to clean up the past and build better systems for the future at the same time, and how showing real change can make the IRS or state far more willing to work with you.

The problem this show solves

This show exists for the business owner who:

Has unfiled tax returns, IRS or state letters, or a tax bill they don’t understand.
Is trying to DIY their books and taxes while running a company, and feels constantly unsure if anything is actually right.
Has grown from “side hustle” money to real revenue but never adjusted their entity, payroll, or planning.
Lies awake wondering, “What if I get audited? What if I can’t fix this?”

Through this podcast, Marcelino helps you:

Move from fear, avoidance, and reaction into proactive planning, clear systems, and predictable tax outcomes.
Replace shame with informed action by explaining what went wrong, what can still be fixed, and what to do next.
Keep more of what you earn legally, while getting compliant and protecting your business and family.

If today’s episode hits a nerve—if you see your own situation in these stories—it’s a signal, not a sentence. You don’t have to fight the IRS or face your books alone.

Take the next step

When you’re ready to stop letting the IRS dictate your future, visit taxreliefcall.com to schedule a confidential conversation with Marcelino. As an Enrolled Agent and Certified Tax Representation Consultant, he can step in, deal with the IRS on your behalf, and help you build the clean systems and proactive strategies that let you finally breathe again.

62: Showing Up Before You Feel Ready - Sarah Jack on Civic Participation - Elevating Pikes Peak Women

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 16:53:00 -0400

Many women care about Colorado Springs but hesitate to step into leadership roles. In this episode, Sarah Jack talks about her path into civic engagement, what motivated her to get involved in public policy, and how she learned to lead without waiting for permission or perfection. Her story speaks to anyone who has ever wondered whether their voice truly matters in local democracy.

Pikes Peak Women on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen/

Pikes Peak Women on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikes_peak_women/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

147: Cut Your Energy Bill with Help from Energy Resource Center - Peak Environment

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 14:13:00 -0400

ERC helps cut wasted energy consumption through energy-efficient home upgrades, now available to all households in their 27-county service area, regardless of income level. Upgrades are free to income-qualifying households. ERC collectively saves $300,000 in utility bills each year by upgrading about 2,000 homes. Energy Resource Center Director of Programs Mike Mazzola fills us in on what ERC can do for you.

LINKS:

Sustainability & Resiliency Info and Networking Survey: https://forms.gle/aJCcs4Lv9ZAVk6E69

Energy Resource Center: https://erc-co.org

Colorado Energy Savings Navigator: https://puc.colorado.gov/energy-savings

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

37: Jan 13 2026 - What is The Next Us and Who Is Judy Pearring? - Loving the Springs

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0600

Spoken word artist, idealist, and entrepreneurial cheerleader Judy Pearring shares some of her poetry and explains the vibe we love at The Next Us. The Next Us is home to Studio 809 Podcasts’ community podcast studio, as well as a family of extraordinary entrepreneurs. “We’re all the weirdos,” she tells us, and she means it with affection and respect. We also find out Carrie is a “recovering poet,” and Al wants to take one of Judy’s poems to Burning Man.

LINKS:

The Next Us: https://thenextus.spaces.nexudus.com

Clean & Safe Pilot Program - episode 23 of a Place for everyone: https://studio809podcasts.com/clean-and-safe/

Studio 809 Podcasts: https://studio809podcasts.com/

Get Involved. Get Engaged. - Episode 61 of Elevating Pikes Peak Women: https://studio809podcasts.com/get-involved-get-engaged/

MENTIONED:

One Million Cups

First Fridays

TEDx

Open Mic Night at Rico’s

Downtown Colorado Springs

Sara Vaas and Dizzie Charlie’s Live Jazz

Acacia Park Bandshell Renovation Project

Eleven Mile Canyon

The “Manitou River”

The Clean & Safe Program

Homeward Pikes Peak

Pat Rigdon

Beth Roalstad

Mary Lou Makepeace

Melissa Marts

Brenda Morrison

Marcy Morrison

Burning Man

Cottonwood Center for the Arts

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

55: Social Connection Through Volunteering - Aging with Altitude

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 16:43:00 -0400

Social connection is a key to aging well. Volunteering is one opportunity to connect with others who share similar interests while also giving back. In January, the Martin Luther King Day of Service is an excellent time to check out opportunities in your community to meet new people and volunteer. The Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging encourages everyone to find ways to stay connected to counter isolation and depression.

Learn more at: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging

Or call 719-471-2096

The "I Wish I Knew" Syndrome: Avoiding Business Blind Spots - Tax Answers Advisor

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600

Do you wake up at 3:00 AM, paralyzed by the fear of an unopened IRS letter? You are not alone.

In this powerful episode of The Tax Answers Advisor, host Marcelino Dodge (Enrolled Agent) sits down with Business Architect Valerie Cobb to discuss the heartbreaking reality of the "I Wish I Knew" syndrome—the moment business owners realize a blind spot has cost them their legacy.

From the hidden dangers of unpaid payroll taxes that can kill a business sale to the new threats of cyber fraud and digital badging, this conversation is about survival. But beyond prevention, we address the cure. If you are already drowning in unfiled returns or facing aggressive IRS collection actions, there is a lifeline.

🛑 Stop Living in Fear. Restore Your Peace of Mind.

The IRS has the power to garnish your wages, seize your bank accounts, and place liens on your property. Ignoring the problem won't make it go away—it only compounds the penalties.

We can help you:

Stop the Bleeding: Halt penalties and interest from spiraling out of control.
Protect Your Assets: Prevent or stop wage garnishments and bank levies.
Get Your Life Back: Negotiate Offer in Compromise (OIC) settlements and manageable payment plans.

📞 Call Now for Immediate Relief: (719) 359-8789

🌐 Book Your Free Consultation: www.taxreliefcall.com

🔑 Key Topics in This Episode:

The Cash Flow Trap: Why unplanned tax liabilities are the #1 killer of profitable businesses.
Selling Your Business? Why a "clean tax history" is the first thing investors check (and why payroll tax debt kills deals).
Cyber Risks: Valerie Cobb explains "Digital Badging" and how to protect your organization from AI fraud. taxreliefcall
The Solution: How Panther Tax Resolution stands between you and the IRS to break the cycle of tax stress. taxreliefcall

💡 Frequently Asked Questions

Can I settle my tax debt for less than I owe?

Yes. Through an Offer in Compromise (OIC), many taxpayers can settle their debt for a fraction of the amount owed if they meet specific IRS criteria. Panther Tax Resolution specializes in negotiating these settlements to help you regain financial stability. taxreliefcall

What happens if I haven't filed tax returns in years?

Failure to file can lead to severe legal action and estimated assessments by the IRS that are often higher than what you actually owe. Our team helps you gather documents, prepare overdue returns, and ensure compliance so you can sleep at night again. taxreliefcall

How do I stop an IRS wage garnishment?

You need expert representation immediately. The IRS allows for representation to negotiate the release of levies and garnishments. Marcelino Dodge is an Enrolled Agent licensed to represent taxpayers nationwide. taxreliefcall

🛡️ About Panther Tax Resolution

Featured in the International Business Times, Panther Tax Resolution helps Americans reclaim their peace of mind. We don't just file forms; we provide customized solutions for complex tax issues, including audit representation, penalty abatement, and back tax resolution. taxreliefcall

Don’t let the IRS control your future.

Take the first step toward financial freedom today.

📞 Call Us: (719) 359-8789

💻 Visit: www.taxreliefcall.com

36: Dec 30 2025 - People-Centered Springs with Zuri Horowitz - Loving the Springs

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0600

This active young citizen is leading People Centered Colorado Springs, advocating for safer streets, and in her spare time running for Congress. Zuri Horowitz hopes to be chosen as the Democratic Party’s candidate for U.S. Representative in Colorado Congressional District 5. She wears her values on her sleeve, and has a very clearly delineated platform. She is a local champion for safer streets – designed for pedestrians, bicyclists and transit riders as much as for motor vehicles. She is also an advocate for affordable housing. She has served on the Colorado Springs Citizens Transportation Advisory Board since 2022. Her platform includes universal healthcare, affordable child care, and getting corporate money out of politics.

LINKS:

People Centered Colorado Springs: https://www.peoplecenteredcos.org/

COS Cars Kill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coscarskill/

Beautiful Colorado Springs on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautifulcoloradosprings/

Zuri Horowitz for U.S. Congress: https://www.zuriforcd5.com/

Updating the Downtown Master Plan - episode 16 of Loving the Springs with Chelsea Gondeck: https://studio809podcasts.com/updating-downtown-plan/

MENTIONED:

4H Club

Waymo

Downtown Colorado Springs

Chelsea Gondeck

Elevate Downtown plan

New CSPD Mobile Speed Safety Cameras

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

23: Clean & Safe Pilot Program - a Place for everyone

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 05:45:00 -0400

Clean & Safe is a unique pilot program designed to make the heart of the city of Colorado Springs more welcoming to all and to connect people with needed resources to resolve homelessness. Beth discusses the program with Pat Rigdon, Director of Downtown Safety and Public Space for the Downtown Partnership of Colorado Springs.

Clean & Safe Program: https://downtowncs.com/clean-safe-pilot-program/

Downtown Partnership: https://downtowncs.com/

54: Healthy Habits Counter Holiday Haze - Aging with Altitude

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 08:30:00 -0400

Staying active is a year-round healthy habit, however, holiday time and new year’s resolutions bring reflection on how to stay physically and mentally fit. Exercise routines vary by individual and do not have to be based on age. Tune into this podcast for a better understanding of ageism in the gym and get up to date ideas on how physical fitness and brain training go together in a very unique way.

FitBody Studio: https://www.fitbodystudio.com/

Learn more at: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging

Or call 719-471-2096

From Panic to Peace: How to Cure Your Financial PTSD - Tax Answers Advisor

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Does the thought of opening your mailbox send you into a panic? Do you feel paralyzed by unfiled tax returns or mounting IRS debt? You are not alone. In this unique crossover episode of The Tax Answers Advisor, host Marcelino Dodge sits down with family therapy expert Lydia Schneider to explore the deep emotional impact of financial stress.

We discuss why "Tax Trauma" is real and how the shame of IRS issues can mimic the symptoms of PTSD. Marcelino and Lydia break down how therapy techniques—like building safety, reframing anxiety, and even EMDR—can help you get "unstuck" and finally take the first steps toward resolution. Whether you are dealing with a defiant child or a defiant tax debt, the path to healing starts with finding a safe guide.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

The Hidden Link: Why tax problems often manifest as physical anxiety, sleeplessness, and emotional isolation.
What is "Tax Trauma"? Understanding why you feel unsafe and how to regain a sense of control over your life (and your finances).
Lessons from Child Therapy: How the concepts of "returning responsibility" and "empowerment" can help adults finally face their tax issues.
Breaking the Cycle of Shame: Why hiding the problem from your spouse or family only makes the anxiety worse—and how to start the conversation.
EMDR Explained: A look at how Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing can help clear mental blocks and "stuck" trauma.

Key Quotes:

"Whether it’s a child struggling with anxiety or a taxpayer feeling exposed and vulnerable... the solution starts with finding a safe path forward." – Marcelino Dodge
"Financial stress is the highest stress for my adults. They don’t feel safe in the world, and they don’t feel safe in themselves." – Lydia Schneider
"I empower them to feel in control of their life... You have everything in you that’s already there." – Lydia Schneider

Resources Mentioned:

Book: The Anxious Generation (Recommended by Lydia)
Therapy Concept: Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) & EMDR
Guest Info: Lydia Schneider, Family Therapy Expert

Connect with Marcelino Dodge:

Are you ready to eliminate the worry of liens, levies, and future IRS surprises? Don't face the government alone.

Website: TaxReliefCall.com
Company: Panther Tax Resolution / Cash Tracks Financial
Email: success@cashtracksfinancial.com

Subscribe & Review:

If you found value in this episode, please leave us a 5-star review! It helps us reach more people who need to hear that there is life after tax debt.

61: Get Involved. Get Engaged. - Elevating Pikes Peak Women

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 08:36:00 -0400

Three new co-hosts for the podcast discuss the past, present and future for Pikes Peak Women. Beth Roalstad, Melissa Marts and Brenda Morrison honor the initial host of Elevating Pikes Peak Women, Mary Lou Makepeace, and the original founders of Pikes Peak Women – including Brenda’s mom, Marcy Morrison. They also discuss what Pikes Peak Women hope to do in 2026, including podcast topics and quarterly in-person events. The bottom line: an invitation to get involved in the community, and the support to do it.

They also invite all the women listening to provide feedback and ideas. To provide that feedback, post a comment on this episode’s web page at https://studio809podcasts.com/get-involved-get-engaged/

Pikes Peak Women on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen/

Pikes Peak Women on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikes_peak_women/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

35: Dec 9 2025 - Make Holiday Traditions Downtown! - Loving the Springs

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:30:00 -0600

Carrie and Kelsee from the Downtown Partnership talk with Renee Behr from Behr and Behr Real Estate Team about holiday traditions in Downtown Colorado Springs - from ice-skating and parades, to shopping and experiences. If you’re still looking for the perfect holiday way to engage with friends and family for the holidays, you’re gonna want to give this special episode a listen. We talk holiday season — gift giving and beyond!

LINKS:

Skate in the Park: https://downtowncs.com/skate

Holiday Coupon Book: https://downtowncs.com/coupon

Behr and Behr Team: https://behrandbehr.com

Good Intentions: https://www.goodintentionscos.com

MENTIONED:

Cronk Art & Curiosities

Toodles Tearoom

PikeRide

Bristol Brewing Company

Adventures Out West - Cozy Coach and the Holly, Jolly, Christmas Trolley

Sparrow Hawk Gourmet Cookware

The Mining Exchange

The Platinum Group, Realtors

Acacia Park

Green Mtn Haven

Pikes Peak Center

Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale

Pikes Peak Lemonade – Cocoa Bar

Solar Roast Coffee

Story Coffee

Bloom Ultra Lounge

RM Soap Market

Terra Verde

Savory Spice

Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar

Yobel

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

Attorney Bookkeeping & IRS Tax Compliance: Trust Accounts, Retainers, Red Flags, and Smart Tax Strategies - Tax Answers Advisor

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600

If you’re an attorney, law firm owner, family lawyer, or legal professional trying to balance client work with financial responsibilities, this episode is a must-listen.

Host Marcelino Dodge, EA, CTRC, sits down with Merry Stewart of Quick Win Bookkeeping to reveal the bookkeeping, tax, and compliance mistakes attorneys make every single day — many of which can lead to IRS audits, bar investigations, retained earnings problems, and trust account violations.

In clear, non-technical language, they break down how proper accounting systems can:

Protect your law license
Prevent IRS surprises
Reduce client disputes over retainers and fees
Build stronger cases with clean financial records
Empower better decision-making and cash flow planning

This conversation offers real insight you won’t hear from typical bookkeeping or tax professionals, because it comes directly from two specialists working with attorneys nationwide.

📞 Connect With Today’s Guest

Merry Stewart — QuickWin Bookkeeping

📌 Nationwide virtual services for attorneys

🌐 Website: quickwinbookkeeping.com

📧 Email: info@quickwinbookkeeping.com

📍 Connect With The Host

Marcelino Dodge, EA, CTRC

Tax Resolution Specialist | IRS Representation | Offer in Compromise

🌐 Schedule a confidential consultation: taxreliefcall.com

🎧 Listen to more episodes of Tax Answers Advisor

👍 Like this episode

💬 Comment: What legal bookkeeping questions do you have?

📌 Subscribe so you never miss an episode

🔔 Turn on notifications for new tax relief content

Attorneys: Don’t wait for the IRS or the bar to write the next chapter of your practice. Get proactive guidance today.

53: Holiday Time May Bring up Issues for Seniors and Driving - Aging with Altitude

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 16:28:00 -0400

The ability to drive and have access to a vehicle is recognized as a critical need and skill as we age. The more we talk openly about this, the more we learn there are many tools, steps, adaptations, and supports available to facilitate independence – to either keep driving or access alternatives. Learn more as we visit with Terry Cassidy of Fitness to Drive. During December, families often come together and see there may be issues evolving. For this reason, Older Driver Awareness week was established in December.

Learn more at Fitness to Drive: https://www.fitnesstodrive.org/

Learn more at: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging

Or call 719-471-2096

146: Joyful Holiday Tips to Help Minimize Waste - Peak Environment

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 16:01:00 -0400

Shrinking your holiday footprint on the planet can seem daunting – but this episode offers tips to make it a joy. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future (PASF) is deviating from the norm this month. Instead of the usual live, third Wednesday Zoom event, the November Sustainability in Progress is this pre-recorded studio conversation.

This conversation is about the holidays, discovering local resources to give meaningful and lifelong gifts to reduce waste. Host Mary Barber of PASF is joined by Ally Richardson of Pikes Peak Permaculture and Dave Gardner of GrowthBusters (both are regular co-producers of the Studio 809 Podcasts Peak Environment podcast).

We’re considering making some changes in SIP, and we’re inviting collaboration. Help Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future and the entire sustainability/resiliency community make plans for 2026. Please take this poll: https://forms.gle/aJCcs4Lv9ZAVk6E69

LINKS MENTIONED:

Pikes Peak Bulletin Winter Holiday Calendar with local-maker markets: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/events/2025-winter-holiday-calendar-events-and-markets-in-the-spirit-of-the-season/

Colorado Springs Mom winter markets calendar: https://cospringsmom.com/parenting-wisdom/winter-markets-in-colorado-springs/

Downtown Shopping Gift Card: https://downtowncs.com/event/shop-local-win-local/

Resource Central Garden in a Box: https://resourcecentral.org/gardens/

Center for Biological Diversity’s Simplify The Holidays Helpful Tips: https://simplifytheholidays.org/

So Kind Gift Registry: https://sokindregistry.org/

Who Gives a Scrap for the crafty: https://whogivesascrapcolorado.com/

Volunteer with the City of Colorado Springs: https://hr.coloradosprings.gov/VolunteerOpportunities

Find opportunities at Flying Pig Farm, community farm practicing permaculture and building resilience: https://flyingpigmanitou.org/

Divert waste with Galvanize Recycling: https://www.galvanizerecycling.com/services/

El Paso County Hazardous Waste Facility: https://communityresources.elpasoco.com/household-hazardous-waste/

Compost with Food To Power: https://foodtopowerco.org/

Other holiday-related podcast episodes we mentioned:

Sustainable Holiday - Peak Environment episode #66

Have Yourself A Low Impact Holiday - Peak Environment episode #112

Plastic Bags Update & Moving Toward Zero Waste: Policy Wins, Advice and Resources - Peak Environment episode #115

Rebelling Against Black Friday Consumerism - GrowthBusters podcast episode #61

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's 2030 Sustainability Plan (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://studio809podcasts.com/brit-pub/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

34: Nov 24 2025 – Theatreworks 50th Season - Loving the Springs

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Cast member and UCCS theatre professor Birgitta DePree and Ent Center for the Arts Executive Director David Siegel fill us in on the Ent Center, Theatreworks, and an exciting 50th season of professional theatre. The Importance of Being Earnest opens in a few days. It’s “a trivial comedy for serious people.” David and Birgitta give us all the colorful details.

We also chat briefly about:

Our first live, on-location episode (Brit Pub Grand Opening, episode 31)

Bicycle speed limit signs going up on area trails

Colorado Springs Vibes played their last season

New offices for Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPR)

A noteworthy new episode of Pedal the Springs podcast

LINKS:

Ent Center for the Arts

https://entarts.org

Brit Pub Grand Opening, episode 31 of Loving the Springs

Westside Bicycle Service – episode 36 of Pedal the Springs podcast

https://studio809podcasts.com/westside-bicycle-service/

MENTIONED:

Oscar Wilde

UCCS

Ent Center for the Arts

The Next Us

Theatreworks

Bee Vradenburg Foundation

Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services

Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPR)

Green Box Arts Festival

Grass It Up

Mango fan Django

Jeremy Facknitz Band

Auric Gallery

Chriz Alvarez Gallery & Art Studio

The Sluice in Old Colorado City

Cottonwood Center for the Arts

Millibo Art Theatre

LART

Lulu’s

Poor Richard’s

Galleries of Contemporary Art

Cabaret

The Importance of Being Earnest

Romeo and Juliet

The Garbologists

Max Shulman

Kathleen Fox Collins

Manitou Springs

Brit Pub

Weidner Field

Downtown Colorado Springs

Experience at Epicenter Apartments

Ivywild School

The Principal’s Office

Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort

Pedal the Springs podcast

Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates

COS Racing

Terry Gross

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

52: How to Keep The Home You Own Solvent - Aging with Altitude

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:07:00 -0400

During tight financial times, Colorado offers four unique resources to help older adults who own their homes, stay in their homes. El Paso County Treasurer Chuck Broerman, and El Paso County Clerk and Recorder Steve Schleiker present on the senior homestead tax exemption program, property fraud alerts, and escrow and tax deferral programs.

For more info:

El Paso County Treasurer: https://treasurer.elpasoco.com/

719-520-7900

El Paso County Clerk and Recorder: https://clerkandrecorder.elpasoco.com/

https://escrowtaxes.com

Learn more at: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging

Or call 719-471-2096

33: Nov 18 2025 - For Holidays As Cool As Winter Nights, Downtown Colorado Springs - Loving the Springs

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Bundle up and follow the twinkle of Downtown’s lights where shop windows glow, and every block feels like a snow globe come to life. Even big downtown fans like us were amazed at the vast array of events, experiences and shopping options revealed in this conversation – as Kelsee Swenn, Marketing Manager for the Downtown Partnership and shop owner of Good Intentions, joined Carrie in the studio for a special Downtown holiday episode. More than 85 charming boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops offer treasures big and small: cozy sweaters, clever gifts, unique jewelry, artful keepsakes, and perfect stocking stuffers.

Looking for memory-making experiences? Come down for the holiday parade, character stroll, festive events and even outdoor ice skating. And, when it’s time to warm up, choose from more than 130 spots to dine, drink, and celebrate, from festive cocktail lounges to cozy coffee shops. Carrie advises us to create our traditions in Downtown Colorado Springs.

LINKS:

Downtown Colorado Springs: http://downtowncs.com/

MENTIONED:

Festival of Lights Parade

Terra Verde

SparrowHawk

Mountain Standard Goods

Eclectico

Little Richard’s Toy Store

Savory Spice Shop

Cacao Chemistry

Abbey Mobolade

Auric Gallery

Vintage Relics

Yobel

Pure Elegance

Oak and Axe

The Trolley Block

Ashley’s Attic

Paint Splatter Room

Good Intentions

Comfort and Joy Cat Café

Teller County Animal Rescue

Novis Mortem Collective

Toodles Tea Room

Provision Bakery

Third Wave Chocolate

Chocolate Café on Friday Nights

Pikes Peak Center

Shop Local, Win Local (SLWL)

Bank of Colorado

Warm lemonade at Pikes Peak Lemonade

Skate in the Park

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

Finding Confidence Again: Healing Inside & Out with Financial and Personal Care - Tax Answers Advisor

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600

In this emotional and inspiring episode of The Tax Answers Advisor, we explore how two seemingly different professions — a Licensed Esthetician and a Tax Resolution Specialist — actually work toward the same mission:

➡️ Restoring confidence

➡️ Reducing stress

➡️ Helping people feel whole again

Together, we dig into how caring for your skin and caring for your finances are both essential forms of self-care. You’ll hear how:

Both fields help clients move from fear, shame, or embarrassment into hope and empowerment
Trusted professionals create safe spaces where clients can share their struggles
Transformation — whether physical or financial — often starts with the courage to ask for help
Confidence grows when people feel supported, understood, and given a path forward

Listeners will discover how emotional well-being, financial clarity, and healthy habits create a foundation for peace of mind “inside and out.”

This uplifting episode is designed for anyone seeking relief — and for professionals wanting to build stronger, more supportive collaborations.

If you’re ready to feel confident again — financially, personally, or both — don’t wait.

You deserve peace of mind, clarity, and a fresh start.

Visit www.taxreliefcall.com or call (719) 359-8789 today to schedule your confidential consultation.

Your transformation begins with one simple step.

Reach out now — your confidence and freedom are waiting.

32: Nov 11 2025 – PikeRide – Closing the Transportation Gap - Loving the Springs

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Sure, PikeRide puts ebikes you can borrow at over 90 rental hubs throughout central Colorado Springs and Manitou, but did you know they also have programs to make it affordable for low-income residents to get to work? This treasured community nonprofit is on a mission to close the transportation gap. Learn all about PikeRide as we visit with Executive Director Tara McCarthy.

More than a bikeshare program, PikeRide is a catalyst for change. They provide low-cost, sustainable transportation that empowers people to show up for job interviews, keep steady employment, maintain housing, and access vital services like healthcare and education. They also help reduce traffic, improve air quality, and foster community connections through access to places like libraries, community centers, and local events. Right now, during the annual Give campaign, it’s an especially great time to make a donation to PikeRide: https://www.pikeride.org/give

And…in this episode, Carrie offers to take anyone on a PikeRide, anytime. Listen to get the tea.

LINKS:

PikeRide: https://www.pikeride.org/

MENTIONED:

Garden of the Gods

Colorado College

Trader Joe’s

UCCS

Manitou Springs

Old Colorado City

The Exchange

University Village

The “ebike smile”

Taylor Swift

Downtown Colorado Springs

KRCC

Will Toor

Colorado Energy Office

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

51: Celebrating Caregiving in America - Aging with Altitude

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 17:11:00 -0400

Caregivers can be a dying breed. It is a startling statistic that 68% of caregivers die before their care recipient. This makes an excellent call to action for this episode on Celebrating Caregiving in America. We release this episode during the holiday months of November and December because caregivers often find themselves even further isolated at this time. Listeners who know caregivers will learn about how to reach out to your caregiver friend, and caregivers, we want you to know how valued you are after listening in.

Learn more at: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging

Or call 719-471-2096

Another special thank you to our sponsor Beacon Senior News, always shining the bright light on current events and topics of interest to seniors. The Beacon can be found at libraries, grocery stores and other community locations in the Pikes Peak Region as well as their on-line presence. Catch all the news at: https://www.beaconseniornews.com/

36: Westside Bicycle Service - Pedal The Springs

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 06:22:00 -0400

Not many places offer the convenience of rolling right out of your bed to the bike shop, but whether you're staying at the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort, are a local to the area or just riding by or out of the lodge with our Bike Tribe, the Westside Bicycle Service is not just convenient, it’s top notch.

Find out more about Graham, the former Barnette Bicycle Institute instructor with more than 20 years in the industry and now owner of Westside Bicycle Service, and his path to shop ownership and finding work-life balance for his family – and to pursue his own cycling passion.

Be sure to hang on until the end to find out the most important thing you need to know about your bike!

Also join Graham for a Monthly Bike Maintenance Lunch & Learns coming up following the weekly Saturday 10am Bike Tribe Rides at 12:30 in the Lodge on the following dates in 2025-2026:

11/15 - Maintenance Basics

12/20 - Derailleurs and Shift Systems

1/17 - Brakes

2/21 - Bearings (Hubs, Headsets, Bottom Brackets)

3/21 - Wheels

4/18 - Suspension

These will be approximately hour-long presentation and demos (little to no hands on).

Host: Torie Giffin, owner of the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort

Guests: Graham Thompson, owner and mechanic Westside Bicycle Service

Links to show topics:

Westside Bicycle Service:

https://sites.google.com/view/westsidebikeservice

https://www.instagram.com/westsidebikeservice

https://www.facebook.com/p/Westside-Bicycle-Service-61558619482773/

Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort: http://bicycleresort.com

Buffalo Lodge Bike Tribe:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/129303757785031/

https://www.meetup.com/buffalo-lodge-bike-tribe/

City of Colorado Springs Bike Maps: https://coloradosprings.gov/bikemap

Episodes are recorded in the Studio 809 Podcasts community podcast studio at The Next Us. https://thenextus.spaces.nexudus.com/?public&

Find other great podcasts produced in and for the Pikes Peak Region - at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode of Pedal the Springs. Follow on your favorite podcast app.

22: Catholic Charities of Central Colorado Steps Up Their Housing Game - a Place for everyone

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 15:15:00 -0400

Catholic Charities of Central Colorado’s Deana Hunt covers the range of programs CC provides in our community and the footprint they have in our region. Deana is Vice President of Family Services for Catholic Charities of Central Colorado.

LINKS:

Catholic Charities of Central Colorado: https://www.ccharitiescc.org/

a Place for everyone is produced by Homeward Pikes Peak. We empower individuals and families to access stable housing, increase mental health, increase recovery and achieve economic stability. Learn more at http://homewardpp.org/. You can reach us at (719) 473-5557. Street Outreach, housing, and clinical services are provided.

School District 11 School Board Candidate Forum - 2025 - Making Democracy Work

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:28:00 -0600

This forum features all candidates for Colorado Springs School District 11 School Board in the Fall 2025 election. The forum was hosted on October 28, 205 by the LWVPPR Youth Council and the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region.

View video of the forum: https://youtube.com/live/gQhf6MOFpbE

Links:

Donate to the League & help our efforts to Empower Voters & Defend Democracy: https://lwvppr.org/content.aspx?page_id=305&club_id=750758&item_id=5696

Non-partisan candidate information: http://vote411.org/

Candidate Forum Calendar: https://www.lwvppr.org/

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

145: Bright Idea: Conserving Energy - Peak Environment

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:59:00 -0400

Energy rates are changing, and so is the demand. Pikes Peak Permaculture’s Ally Richardson, frequent producer and cohost of the Peak Environment podcast, shares practical ways we can reduce energy use and rethink consumption. She’s joined by panelists Becky Elder (a permaculture instructor) and Scott Harvey (a structural and electrical engineer).

They delve into the current state of energy usage in the Pikes Peak region, examine the primary sources of energy and identify the sectors that consume the most. They also explore the factors driving changes in energy rates and demand, providing us with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face. Feel empowered to take action towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) event on October 14, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. You can view a video recording here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX1btxPC1BY

The October meeting was presented by Pikes Peak Permaculture, which is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to teaching principles and practices of permaculture design in the Southern Colorado region. The organization educates about working with nature instead of against it, building stronger connections with our landscape and all inhabitants, regenerating land, water, and food systems, and making sure our region thrives for generations to come.

Mentioned in this episode:

Colorado Energy Savings Navigator: https://puc.colorado.gov/energy-savings

Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP): https://cdhs.colorado.gov/leap

Colorado’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/weatherization-assistance-program

Project Cope. Donation based fund for community members utility bill assistance in time of crisis and emergencies: https://projectcopecs.org/

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking. Subscribe to receive email notice of news and events: https://peakalliance.us11.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=8b6c85fea7b70fac39688c409&id=bbba41d918

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://business.uccs.edu/academics/property-management-bs

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

31: Oct 28 – The Brit Pub Grand Opening - Loving the Springs

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0600

We went live and on-location to get acquainted with downtown’s newest pub, a true community gathering spot next to Weidner Field. Two of the co-owners, Meredith Klube and Nova, sat down with us the day before The Brit Pub’s grand opening on October 24, as we gazed at footballers on the field. The pub is located on the lower two floors of Experience at Epicenter Apartments at 645 S. Sierra Madre St.

Just as in England, The Brit Pub aims to be the center of the community, a great place for darts, futbol on the telly, quiz nights, board game nights, special events and “Proper Sunday roast.”

LINKS:

The Brit Pub: https://greatbritish.net/

The live video of this podcast: https://youtube.com/live/okOHztE_wBU

Special thanks to this episode’s sponsor:

Weidner Norwood Center for Real Estate & Property Management at UCCS College of Business

MENTIONED:

Colorado Springs Switchbacks Football Club

Experience at Epicenter Apartments

Weidner Apartment Homes

Premier League

El Clásico

Formula 1

American Outlaws

Hogshead Brewery

Downtown Partnership

The Warehouse

Phil Griffin

Marco Pierre White

Gordon Ramsay

Cheers (the TV series)

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

Healing Your Stress—Body and Finances: Finding Peace Through Tax Relief and Mind-Body Balance in Colorado Springs - Tax Answers Advisor

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0600

In this inspiring episode of The Tax Answers Advisor, host Marcelino Dodge, EA welcomes Vernon Burgess, holistic massage practitioner and founder of Solor LLC in Colorado Springs. Together, they explore the deep connection between financial stress and physical tension, showing how true relief comes when you heal both.

Discover how addressing your tax debt, IRS notices, and unfiled returns can bring the same calm and balance as a rejuvenating massage session. Marcelino shares stories from real taxpayers who found peace after years of tax worry, while Vernon reveals how sound healing, energy work, and movement therapy can restore the body’s harmony.

If sleepless nights and IRS letters are weighing you down, this conversation will remind you—you’re not alone, and relief is real.

✨ Find your calm. Reclaim your freedom.

👉 Visit www.taxreliefcall.com or call (719) 359-8789 to start your journey toward lasting financial healing today.

#taxrelief #taxdebt #unfiledtaxreturns #enrolledagent

Manitou Springs Election Forum - 2025 - Making Democracy Work

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 07:13:00 -0600

This forum features candidates for mayor, city council and school board, plus pro and con discussion of ballot issues in the Manitou Springs Fall 2025 election. The forum was hosted on October 20, 205 by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region and the Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce at the Cliff House.

Forum sponsors include Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce, Pikes Peak Bulletin, the Cliff House, the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region, and Studio 809 Podcasts.

1:50 School board candidates

5:49 School bond referendum

20:05 Natalie Johnson, mayoral candidate

23:18 Ward 2 City Council candidates

30:15 Ward 3 City Council candidates

50:10 Ballot measure 2A

Links:

Donate to the League & help our efforts to Empower Voters & Defend Democracy: https://lwvppr.org/content.aspx?page_id=305&club_id=750758&item_id=5696

Non-partisan candidate information: http://vote411.org/

Candidate Forum Calendar: https://www.lwvppr.org/

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

LWVPPR Ballot Issues Forum - Fall 2025 - Making Democracy Work

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 17:12:00 -0600

Learn what measures are on the November, 2025 ballot and get pro and con views. This forum was presented by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region.

The forum took place October 18, 2025 at Brookdale Skyline.

The League is non-partisan and does not endorse, support or oppose candidates or political parties. We work to educate voters in every election via candidate and issues forums (not debates), our candidate survey (VOTE411.org), candidate meet and greets and podcast interviews, to name a few, where ALL candidates on the ballot are invited to participate. Learn more, and/or join us, at https://lwvppr.org

We may also listen to the forum on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/live/9HEkdH9qWnw?si=zusQBsGwmfJTocd7

Links:

Donate to the League & help our efforts to Empower Voters & Defend Democracy: https://lwvppr.org/content.aspx?page_id=305&club_id=750758&item_id=5696

Non-partisan candidate information: http://vote411.org/

Candidate Forum Calendar: https://www.lwvppr.org/

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

50: Healthy Check Up Time on Medicare Scams and Plan Options - Aging with Altitude

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 10:03:00 -0400

Seniors can find non-biased Medicare counseling and information on how to avoid Medicare scams. The State Health Insurance Program, or SHIP, is a nationwide program funded by the federal government to support Medicare benefit evaluation for seniors on an individual basis. Medicare.gov has made plan evaluation much more accessible, however, if you are still looking for consultation on a plan or wondering if the text you got is a scam, contact your local SHIP office. During open enrollment, tune into this SHIP episode for more information.

In this episode, Rhonda Wray, managing editor of Beacon Senior News, also visits with host Melissa Marts, highlighting some of the coverage in their October issue – including stories about the Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival, and Colorado’s Haunted Hot Spots.

Learn more at: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging

Or call 719-471-2096

BEACON Senior News is a proud sponsor/partner for this podcast. BEACON Senior News empowers Colorado seniors with inspiring local stories, timely coverage of senior issues, health and travel features, retirement and financial guidance, senior expos and local resources —all presented in a fun, engaging way that helps older adults lead happier, healthier lives. Catch all the news at: https://www.beaconseniornews.com/

Catch all the news at: https://www.beaconseniornews.com/

Cheyenne Mountain School District 12 Candidate Forum - 2025 - Making Democracy Work

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 04:41:00 -0600

Get acquainted with candidates running to represent School District 12 on their school board. This forum was presented by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region in collaboration with the students of the Cheyenne Mountain High School U.S. Government and Politics Class. The forum took place October 15, 2025 at Cheyenne Mountain High School.

You may view a video recording of the forum at: https://www.youtube.com/live/r4sqo35Dvd4

Links:

Donate to the League & help our efforts to Empower Voters & Defend Democracy: https://lwvppr.org/content.aspx?page_id=305&club_id=750758&item_id=5696

Non-partisan candidate information: http://vote411.org/

Candidate Forum Calendar: https://www.lwvppr.org/

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com/

Don’t miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

America’s Dirty Little Secret: Breaking Free from Tax Fear and Finding Financial Peace - Tax Answers Advisor

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0600

If you’ve ever opened an IRS or California Franchise Tax Board letter and felt your stomach drop, you’re not alone.

In this powerful episode of The Tax Answers Advisor, host Marcelino Dodge, EA, is joined by Leighanne LaFrenz Nickel, CPA, to reveal “America’s Dirty Little Secret” — the emotional and financial burden of unresolved tax debt.

Together, they explore:

The key differences between the IRS and California Franchise Tax Board.
Why state tax agencies can be more aggressive than the IRS.
Common mistakes taxpayers make — and how to avoid penalties, garnishments, and audits.
The emotional journey from tax shame and anxiety to calm and confidence.

This episode offers not just practical strategies for resolving tax debt, but also encouragement to rebuild your peace of mind. Whether you’re dealing with back taxes, unfiled returns, or mounting penalties, this conversation will help you see that there’s always a way forward.

Ready to let go of the fear and get your peace of mind back? Visit www.taxreliefcall.com for compassionate, expert help. Your path to financial healing starts here.

60: Stepping Up Women Leadership in Mexico - Elevating Pikes Peak Women

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 13:14:00 -0400

In this bilingual podcast, Mayor Edith Escarcega, from the Colorado Springs Sister City Nuevos Casas Grandes in Chihuahua Mexico, talks about her path, at 40, to be the second woman mayor of her town. She discusses what a Sister City program is, what the priorities for her Mexican community are, how women and families are valued in her region and what brought her to Colorado Springs for her second visit.

This recording was made possible with the support of Viva Marketing and Pikes Peak Women member Moni Hernandez, as she brought not only Mayor Edith to the attention of Pikes Peak Women but also another wildly successful Fiestas Patrias to the region to kick off Hispanic Heritage month 2025 from September 15 to October 15.

Subscribe for more episodes, and reach out to us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen and let us know what you thought of today's episode. We're on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and many other platforms.

We've got another great episode coming to you soon! Make sure to subscribe!

https://www.pikespeakwomen.com/

https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakWomen/

https://www.instagram.com/pikes_peak_women/

Tax Therapy Meets Massage Therapy: The Healing Connection You Didn’t Expect! - Tax Answers Advisor

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 14:45:00 -0600

Feeling overwhelmed by IRS tax debt, unfiled returns, or surprise tax bills? In this unique episode of The Tax Answer Advisor, Marcelino Dodge, EA and CTRC, sits down with Courtney Cullen of Hippy Hands Massage LLC to explore how tax relief and massage therapy work hand-in-hand to reduce financial stress and help you sleep better at night.

Discover why both tax resolution and massage therapy require expert guidance, patience, and ongoing self-care. Marcelino breaks down the step-by-step process for resolving overdue taxes, eliminating IRS anxiety, and protecting your financial future, while Courtney shares how addressing physical stress and chronic pain can support a healthier mindset for facing tax challenges.

Key highlights:

How to “peel back the layers” of both muscle knots and financial knots
The emotional effects of unresolved tax issues—and why shame, anxiety, or even embarrassment are common, but solvable
The importance of working with licensed, experienced professionals (in both tax and massage industries!)
Practical self-care tips to ease stress, anxiety, and chronic pain
Why ongoing support and clear communication are essential to getting—and staying—on track with your body and your taxes

If IRS penalties or painful muscle tension are keeping you up at night, this down-to-earth conversation offers actionable steps and the encouragement you need to reclaim your peace of mind. Whether you're years behind on returns or struggling with a tax problem caused by someone else, you're not alone—and you don't have to face it without support.

Take the next step today:

Book your introductory session at taxreliefcall.com or reach out to Courtney for expert massage therapy and holistic self-care.

Find Courtney Cohen:

Hippy Hands Massage LLC – Available on Gloss Genius, Google, Facebook, Instagram, and Nextdoor.

Listen now to start your journey toward financial relief and true relaxation!

Candidate Interview: Vickie Tonkins – for El Paso County Commissioner – District 5 - Making Democracy Work

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 08:18:00 -0600

Hear from Vickie Tonkins, Republican candidate running for El Paso County Commissioner – District 5.

Links:

Donate to the League & help our efforts to Empower Voters & Defend Democracy -https://lwvppr.org/content.aspx?page_id=305&club_id=750758&item_id=5696

Non-partisan candidate information - http://vote411.org/

Candidate Forum Calendar - https://www.lwvppr.org/

Candidate Page - https://www.vickietonkins.com/

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

Candidate Interview: Lauren Nelson – for El Paso County Commissioner – District 5 - Making Democracy Work

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 08:11:00 -0600

Hear from Lauren Nelson, Republican candidate running for El Paso County Commissioner – District 5.

Links:

Donate to the League & help our efforts to Empower Voters & Defend Democracy -https://lwvppr.org/content.aspx?page_id=305&club_id=750758&item_id=5696

Non-partisan candidate information - http://vote411.org/

Candidate Forum Calendar - https://www.lwvppr.org/

Candidate Page - https://www.electlaurennelson.com/

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

30: Oct 13 - Witches, Warlocks & Ghouls Family Fun Ride - Loving the Springs

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0600

A super fun family bike ride is coming up, benefitting cancer patients and their families. Get the details in this conversation with Todd Haller. The 3rd Annual Colorado Springs Witches, Warlocks, and Ghouls Bike Ride happens October 18, 2025, almost entirely on paved bicycle path, from Stir in the Bon Shopping Center, to Acacia Park in downtown Colorado Springs.

It’s a 3.5 mile affair. Decked out bikes and spooky attire will be on full display (Loving the Springs co-host Al Brody promises to be a standout). The ride benefits the Circle of Hope Fund at UCHealth Memorial Hospital Foundation. The Witches, Warlocks & Ghouls Family Fun Ride was organized by Mackenzie Daly, associate professor of radiation oncology and practicing radiation oncologist, and Tecie Haller, a nurse practitioner in radiation oncology, both at UCHealth.

Witches, Warlocks & Ghouls Family Fun Ride

Registration and Information: https://coswitchesride.com

MENTIONED:

UC Health Memorial Central Foundation

Stir Coffee & Cocktails

Mash Mechanix Brewing Co.

Millibo Art Theatre

Kids on Bikes

U.S. Space Command

Ute Valley Park

Stratton Open Space

Rampart Range Road

Palmer Park

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

21: Colorado Springs's Long-Time Advocate to Address Homelessness: Aimee Cox - a Place for everyone

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 18:04:00 -0400

Beth sits down with long-time friend and professional colleague, Aimee Cox - chief of the Housing and Homelessness Response Department. The core activity of the City of Colorado Springs Housing and Homelessness Response Department is the strategic management and investment of public funds to strengthen neighborhoods, increase the availability of quality affordable housing, and prevent and address homelessness.

Formerly known as the Housing and Community Vitality Department, the renamed Housing and Homelessness Response Department clarifies its focus on creating a thriving community by tackling housing instability and homelessness. While the department does not typically provide direct services to individuals, it acts as a crucial hub for funding and coordinating with non-profit organizations and other agencies that do.

https://coloradosprings.gov/HousingHomelessnessResponse

For more information on the Pikes Peak Continuum of Care: https://www.pikespeakcoc.org/

a Place for everyone is produced by Homeward Pikes Peak. We empower individuals and families to access stable housing, increase mental health, increase recovery and achieve economic stability. Learn more at http://homewardpp.org/. You can reach us at (719) 473-5557. Street Outreach, housing, and clinical services are provided.

49: Renewed Value in Intergenerational Connecting - Aging with Altitude

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 09:20:00 -0400

What happens when bright young people are left to their own devices? With Jump Start the Aging Workforce internships, JAWS, high school students not only finished one internship, they launched another self-directed experiment to connect with seniors in long term care. Students were so interested in learning more about the seniors they met in long term care, they decided to start a story project to continue the blossoming relationships. This project includes multi-media platforms to tell the stories; there is music, poetry, painting, photography, written word and much more. With the support of Long-Term Care Ombudsmen, we are happy to know this project launched during Residents Rights Month, October, which is an opportunity to reaffirm that seniors in long term care are unique people with rich histories.

Learn more at: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging

Or call 719-471-2096

Catch all the news at: https://www.beaconseniornews.com/

Community Conversation: Ranked Choice Voting in Colorado - Making Democracy Work

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 15:30:00 -0600

Learn more about Ranked Choice Voting, how it's done, the benefits and how we can make this happen, in this Community Conversation hosted by NAACP Colorado Springs and the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region. It was recorded in front of a live audience at Stompin’ Grounds on September 20, 2025. At the mic: NAACP’s Angela Stevens and RCV4CO’s Linda Templin.

Donate Today! League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region: https://lwvppr.org/content.aspx?page_id=301&club_id=750758

NAACP - Colorado Springs Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/NAACPColoradoSprings

RCV4CO: https://rcvforcolorado.org/

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

29: Oct 7 – Get On the Bus, a Mtn Metro Update - Loving the Springs

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Get the scoop on changes in bus routes and schedules in this conversation with Mountain Metropolitan Transit Planning & Operations Supervisor Jacob Matsen. Changes include improvements to the free bus service through Manitou Springs so you can skip parking at the Manitou Incline and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. We also discuss bus stops for the UCCS campus and neighborhood, the free downtown shuttle (Zeb) and hybrid and electric buses.

LINKS:

Mountain Metro service changes: https://coloradosprings.gov/service-changes

Mountain Metro Mobility ADA Paratransit Service: 719-385-RIDE (7433) https://coloradosprings.gov/mountain-metro-mobility-hub

Regional Transportation Planning Update - EP 140 of Peak Environment podcast: https://studio809podcasts.com/regional-transportation/

MENTIONED:

Manitou Springs

Manitou Incline

Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Hiawatha Gardens

Manitou Chamber

Barr Trail

Free Downtown Shuttle (Zeb)

UCCS

Robson Arena

Weidner Field

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Downtown Colorado Springs

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

144: Arts and Culture in the Pikes Peak Region - Peak Environment

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 11:45:00 -0400

Unite Your World with the Arts! Some people might think that the concept of sustainability means only environmental sustainability. While sustainability does include nature and the environment, it also encompasses society or community, economy, and individual well-being. Arts and culture represents one aspect of social sustainability that sustains and improves our quality of life, which we explore through the region's leader in arts and culture, the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region.

Angela Seals, Executive Director of COPPR, provides an update on the 10-year cultural plan for the Pikes Peak Region: Arts Vision 2030. Ms. Seals tells us about October Arts Month activities and initiatives around the region coming in October.

The Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (a.k.a. COPPR) is the nonprofit local arts agency that serves the City of Colorado Springs and the greater Pikes Peak region (El Paso and Teller Counties). The Cultural Office works to ensure that the creative sector grows in economic vitality and depth of impact, that creative workers can thrive in our community, and that the arts are leveraged to positively address regional economic development, education, cultural tourism, and quality of life.

Angela Seals is a creative leader, project manager, public programs designer, and speaker with 20 years of experience working at arts nonprofits. She has worked with the Cultural Office in a variety of roles since 2013. Angela has built a reputation for dynamic and collaborative impact across her career in Colorado Springs and at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust / Pittsburgh Dance Council, Carnegie Mellon University, and the Corcoran College of Art + Design in Washington, D.C. She has been honored with awards for her service to the field, including the 2024 Women of Influence Award from Colorado Springs Business Journal and the 2022 Juneteenth Community Award from Pikes Peak Diversity Council.

LINKS:

October - Arts Month, download digital passport: https://artsoctober.com/

Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region: https://www.culturaloffice.org/

Peak Radar: https://peakradar.com/

Arts Vision 2030: https://www.culturaloffice.org/artsvision2030/

Concrete Couch: https://www.concretecouch.org/

Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts: https://www.smokebrush.org/

Smokebrush Farm: https://www.facebook.com/smokebrushfarm

Visit Colorado Springs: https://www.visitcos.com/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on September 17, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Bright Idea: Conserving Energy

October Sustainability in Progress

Hosted by Pikes Peak Permaculture

Join virtually or in person

October 15th, Noon to 1:15

In-person at UCCS Downtown, 102 S. Tejon Street, Colorado Springs

Virtually on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX1btxPC1BY

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakallianceco.org

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://csseniorcenter.com

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

28: Sept 30 - Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival - Loving the Springs

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0600

We never thought “dick pic” would be part of a film festival, but it did “come up” in this conversation about the 38th annual Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival. Don’t worry, you won’t see one at the festival. You will experience a powerful weekend of films that spark conversation, ignite change, and celebrate storytelling through the female lens. Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Executive Director Nicole Nicoletta spills the tea about the festival – including details about some of the interesting films. She also shares about the year-round events hosted by the organization. The festival takes place October 17-19, 2025 on the Colorado College campus. There will also be a Virtual Encore October 23-26.

LINKS:

Rocky Mountain Women’s Film: https://rmwfilm.org/

Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival: https://rmwfilm.org/festival/

Marcy Morrison – Community Leader Making a Difference - Episode 16 of Making Democracy Work: https://studio809podcasts.com/16-marcy-morrison/

MENTIONED:

Donna Guthrie

Rocky Mountain Highway Music Collaborative

Manitou Springs

Marcy Morrison

Matt Carpenter

Robert Redford

Kimball’s Peak Three Theater

Sundance Film Festival

Sundance Institute

Denver Women’s Correctional Facility

Diane Warren: Relentless (film)

Colorado College

Patsy’s Candies

Ruby Greenberg

It’s Dorothy! (film)

Judy Garland

Icons

Girl Climber (film)

The Secret of Me (film)

Baby Doe (film)

The Pic (film)

Lincoln Center

Goat Patch Brewing Co.

Nightingale Bread

Building 3 Coffee Roasters

Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Pop Up Cinema at Ivywild

Manitou Art Center

Westside Community Center

Garden of the Gods Resort & Club

Mining Exchange Hotel

Jere Martin

Telluride Film Festival

Thomas Dambo trolls

Mayor Yemi

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

48: Senior Center - Re-opening of an Old Friend - Aging with Altitude

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 21:46:00 -0400

Senior centers are vital gathering hubs for older adults. It is recommended there be one senior center per population of 25,000, this generates to Colorado Springs needing 19 senior centers. The city historically has had one senior center, and it has been undergoing a rebuild for the past two years, leaving its biggest fans at a loss for connection and engagement. September is Senior Center Month, so in this episode Judith McKay quizzes Tom Lathrop about the re-opening of the Colorado Springs Senior Center. This old friend definitely is providing some new trends and treats.

Colorado Springs Senior Center

1514 N. Hancock

Open M-F 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

719-955-3400

Learn more at: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging

Or call 719-471-2096

all presented in a fun, engaging way that helps older adults lead happier, healthier lives.

Catch all the news at: https://www.beaconseniornews.com/

27: Sept 22 - Making Our Town Walkable - Loving the Springs

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0600

What makes a city or neighborhood “walkable?” Does Colorado Springs have what it takes? What’s being done to improve that? Meet the woman leading the charge, Lelia Gibson-Green, who last week led the 2nd Colorado Springs Walkability Summit. She’s also responsible for persuading Colorado Springs City Council to proclaim today, September 22, Walkability Day. In this episode she shares how she came to be a walkability champion, details of the summit, and what comes next.

LINKS:

Walking Leader Training – September 27, 2025, 9-1:30

Penrose Public Library Downtown

MENTIONED:

Hey Neighbor

America Walks

AARP

Downtown Colorado Springs

Mayor Yemi

1,000 Neighborhood Gatherings

Juaquin Mobley

Whealthy Unlimited

Pikes Peak Bulletin

Walk2Connect

Blackpackers

Peak Vista

Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance

Diversus Health

Deerfield Hills Community Center

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

47: Pay Attention: Falling Is Avoidable - Aging with Altitude

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400

No one wants to fall. We even rename classes to Moving for Better Balance to avoid planting the seed of falling, thinking this will help if we don’t say the word - fall. Today UC Health’s Lori Morgan, will talk us through the physical, physiological and mental causes of falls. We’ll bet there is news here for our listeners. We close with practices to build confidence, stability and the renewed strength to take on your next activity and, of course, learn how to roll out of bed in a new way.

Learn more at: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging/

Or call 719-471-2096

UCHealth Fall Prevention Program: https://www.uchealth.org/today/virtual-fall-prevention-program-now-offered/

26: Sept 16 2025 - Buffalo Grass Music Festival - Loving the Springs

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Three days and two stages will turn the Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort in Colorado Springs into a slice of music and community heaven October 3-5. Lodge owner Torie Giffin takes the mic, along with GM Sara Branham and Director of Marketing Shelby Clarke, to give us all the details about Buffalo Grass. Our discussion includes how Torie and her staff have turned Buffalo Lodge into a vibrant community hub and music performance center.

LINKS:

Buffalo Grass music festival: https://www.bicycleresort.com/buffalograss

Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort: https://www.bicycleresort.com/

MENTIONED:

Rocky Mountain Highway Music Collaborative

Manitou Music Foundation

Black Rose Acoustic Society

Pikes Peak National Bank

Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain

Cerberus Brewing

3 Hundred Days of Shine

Old Dangerfield Bluegrass Band

Manitou Strings Band

Bald'n Gray'n & one Brunette

K squared

Meadowgrass Music Festival

Colorado Springs Shrine Club

Monsters Mini Donuts

Wobbly Waffles

La Gran Tenochtitlan

Good Grub

Wirewood Station

Magoo

Blue Canyon Boys

John Spengler

Ceria Brewing

Gruvi Spirit Free Beverages

Springs Culture Kombucha

UpaDowna Folk’n’Flannel Festival & Fundraiser (September 20-21)

Cheyenne Mountain Conference Resort

The Broadmoor

Hilton Garden Inn

The Antlers hotel

Kinship Landing

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

Payroll Tax Nightmares: Real Relief Options That Actually Work - Tax Answers Advisor

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0600

If you’ve ever felt the weight of payroll tax problems pulling your business under, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face the IRS alone either. In this episode of The Tax Answers Advisor, Marcelino Dodge sits down with David Ramirez, an Enrolled Agent, former IRS agent, and U.S. Tax Court Practitioner based in Hawaii, to uncover the truth about payroll tax debt and the dangerous trap of trust fund penalties. Together, they explain why so many small business owners fall behind, how quickly the IRS can act when payroll taxes aren’t paid, and what it really means when you or even your office manager could be held personally liable.

From urgent warnings to practical solutions, this conversation delivers real strategies to protect your finances, your business, and your peace of mind. You’ll hear about common mistakes that turn small payroll tax issues into massive debts, options like installment agreements and offers in compromise, and a real success story where timely guidance prevented a financial disaster. Whether you’re already facing IRS action or just want to avoid the nightmare of payroll tax penalties, this episode will empower you with the knowledge and steps you need to move forward with confidence.

Don’t wait for the IRS to knock on your door—listen now, take back control, and click here to start your path to relief.

143: Clearing the Air about Nuclear - Exploring the Pros and Cons of Nuclear Energy - Peak Environment

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:34:00 -0400

We begin to unravel one of the most complex and timely topics in the global energy landscape. Whether you’re a student, a policy maker, a professional in the energy sector, or simply an engaged global citizen, this episode promises to broaden your horizons and foster informed dialogue.

As countries strive to decarbonize their energy sectors, the debate over nuclear power becomes increasingly vital. Nuclear energy offers a unique combination of high-capacity generation and low carbon emissions, positioning it as a potential linchpin in the global effort to combat climate change. However, high-profile accidents, long-lived waste, and economic considerations give rise to legitimate concerns. This discussion aims to navigate these complexities with clarity and candor and provide Alliance stakeholders with a strong background from which to further explore the topic.

Christopher Juniper provides a balanced examination of nuclear power, highlighting both its transformative potential and the valid concerns it raises. He addresses the following key areas:

· The Basics and Lifecycle of Nuclear Energy: How does nuclear power work? What is fission, and how is electricity generated from uranium or thorium?

· Advantages of Nuclear Energy: Explore the compelling benefits, from low greenhouse gas emissions to high energy density, reliability, and potential for innovation in reactor design.

· Drawbacks and Risks: Delve into the challenges, including extraction of uranium, radioactive waste, safety concerns, high upfront costs, and public perception.

· Future Outlook: A look at emerging technologies, such as small modular reactors and fusion energy, and their potential to reshape the energy landscape.

· Colorado Connection: Understanding the potential implications for Colorado.

· Interactive Q&A Session: Bring your questions and perspectives for an engaging dialogue.

Christopher Juniper, a Colorado native and Colorado College graduate, has tracked nuclear power for nearly 50 years as a sustainability economist, consultant, activist, and college instructor. He created the Sustainability Performance Lifecycle Management System in 2003 that his team used to evaluate energy sources available to the Pikes Peak region 2009-2011. He has served on the Colorado Springs Utilities’ EIRP technical advisory committee; co-authored certification study guides for the International Society of Sustainability Professionals; authored book chapters on climate risk economics; and served international sustainability-related projects and non-profit boards.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on August 20, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next Sustainability in Progress:

Arts & Culture: Angela Seals of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region

September 17, 2025, Noon to 1 PM

Virtual

LINKS:

Speaker’s Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Nuclear-Lifecycle-2025.pdf

Speaker’s Research Notes: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Nuclear-Power-Rsh-Notes-20Aug25.pdf

Colorado Energy Office: https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/

Visit Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future’s Website: https://peakallianceco.org/

Follow the Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/srppr

Pikes Peak Permaculture: https://pikespeakpermaculture.org

Visit Fountain Creek Watershed District for upcoming cleanups, monthly Liquid Lectures, and other events

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging - https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

From Sleepless Nights to Peace of Mind: Breaking Free from IRS Stress - Tax Answers Advisor

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Are overdue tax bills, unfiled returns, or surprise IRS collections stealing your peace of mind? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck in fear. In this powerful episode of The Tax Answers Advisor, Marcelino Dodge sits down with tax attorney Eric Green to uncover the real strategies that help taxpayers escape the grip of overwhelming IRS debt. Together, they reveal why the IRS is more aggressive than ever, the costly mistakes people make when trying to go it alone, and the clear, practical steps you can take today to start regaining control.

The weight of tax debt doesn’t have to keep you up at night. With the right guidance, you can move from fear and uncertainty to confidence and relief. Listen now to discover proven solutions and take that first step toward freedom. Don’t wait until the IRS strikes—visit www.taxreliefcall.com today to schedule your introductory session and begin your journey to peace of mind.

25: Aug 20 2025 – End Summer with a Bang - Loving the Springs

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Art exhibitions, a film festival, urban terrorists, downtown ambassadors, a walkability summit, and how safe do you feel bicycling our city? These are just a few of the items on our smorgasbord in a free-for-all episode.

MENTIONED:

Ditching Your Turf Grass

Burning Man

Mutant Airplane at Burning Man 2024

The bicycle 3-feet clearance law

New Colorado law now requires vehicles in both directions to stop for a school bus with its stop sign out

Roundabout etiquette

Zipper etiquette in traffic

Seeing more bicycles around town

Air Force Academy

The GoCOS app

Buffalo Lodge

Cottonwood Center for the Arts

First Friday – September 5

Downtown Colorado Springs

Old Colorado City

Manitou Springs

Platte Furniture – awesome basement art gallery

Auric Gallery

Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center

Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC

Colorado Springs Police Department

Downtown Development Authority

City of Colorado Springs Housing and Homelessness Response

Colorado Springs Rescue Mission

Colorado Springs Urban Renewal Authority

Weidner Apartment Homes

Tejon Street Revitalization project

Urban terrorists

Ivywild School

Bristol Brewing Company

Axe and the Oak Distillery

Bike Colorado Springs

Parking or stopping in bike Lanes

Riding your bike or walking to school

Old Town Bike Shop

Criterium Bicycles

The Next Us

LINKS:

Rampart Rager gravel bicycle race – info and registration: https://rampartragergravel.com

2025 COS Walkability Summit: https://forms.gle/ermeHn7g6mAeUUF38

Doug Mansfield’s Devilish Living Exhibition at Cottonwood: https://dougmansfieldart.com/devilish-living

Erin Kittelson’s Stuck exhibition at Cottonwood: https://peakradar.com/event/stuck/

Downtown’s new Clean & Safe Program: https://downtowncs.com/clean

Experience Downtown Master Plan update – survey open through August 22: https://downtowncs.com/xdt2

Downtown Partnership Annual Breakfast – Sept 19: https://downtowncs.com/breakfast

Colorado Springs Fire Dept: More Than Just Putting Out Fires - Episode 20 of a Place for everyone: https://studio809podcasts.com/csfd-more-than-just-putting-out-fires/

Colorado Short Circuit Film Festival: https://csc.eventive.org

Pikes Peak Regional Perspectives survey for Our Spacious Skies: https://emea.focusvision.com/survey/selfserve/1710/250602?list=2

Bicycle Friendly City Survey: https://www.bikecoloradosprings.org/help-make-biking-better-in-colorado-springs-survey-open-now/

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

20: Colorado Springs Fire Dept – More Than Just Putting Out Fires - a Place for everyone

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 10:21:00 -0400

Homeward Pikes Peak and the Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) have worked together for several years providing street outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness. This episode explores when CSFD began doing street outreach and their unique role in our community. More information about the CSFD Community and Public Health Division can be found at https://coloradosprings.gov/fire-department/page/community-and-public-health-cares. Additional questions about their work can be through email with the Director: Steven M. Johnson, Steven.Johnson@coloradosprings.gov

46: Vision Services are Evolving: A Conversation with iSight Connections - Aging with Altitude

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 12:09:00 -0400

When technological advancements meet heartfelt human connection, organizations like iSight Connections create meaningful opportunities for support and growth. Tim Richards and Jeanette Fortin from iSight Connections bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for supporting individuals with vision impairment. Tim is the founder, and Jeanette is the Community Relations Coordinator. They discuss how vision care has changed over the last 50 years, especially with the rise of new technology, and how those changes have shaped the services offered today. From computer and tech training to nutrition and wellness support, iSight Connections provides a wide range of programs tailored to meet evolving needs.

Tim and Jeanette also share their personal journeys into the field and offer insights into where they see vision services heading in the next 50 years. They emphasize the importance of connection and community, highlighting how the relationships and classes they provide are truly invaluable to those they serve.

To learn more and connect, contact Jeanette at 719-332-7529 or email, info@isightconnections.org.

Also see https://isightconnections.org/

Aging with Altitude is recorded in the Pikes Peak region with a focus on topics of aging interest across the country. We talk about both the everyday and novel needs and approaches to age with altitude – whether you’re in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida or Leadville, Colorado. The Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging is the producer. Cynthia Margiotta with PEARLS Program of Colorado and All About Dignity is our moderator.

Learn more at:

Or call 719-471-2096

PEARLS Program of Colorado - https://pearlsprogram.net/

Hiding from the IRS for 8 Years: My Journey to Redemption - Tax Answers Advisor

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 09:45:00 -0600

What happens when fear of the IRS takes over your life? For one man, it meant nearly a decade of hiding, sleepless nights, and constant anxiety about when the next letter or phone call would arrive. But what began as years of secrecy and stress transformed into a powerful journey of hope, financial freedom, and a mission to help others break free from the same struggle.

In this episode, you’ll hear the raw, emotional story of facing the IRS head-on after years of avoidance. You’ll discover how the burden of hidden tax problems can damage relationships, finances, and even health — but also how there is always a path forward. Most importantly, you’ll learn that you don’t have to walk that path alone.

If you’ve been carrying the weight of IRS notices, unpaid taxes, or unresolved financial stress, this episode is for you. Subscribe now and join us as we reveal the real steps to moving past fear and into peace of mind.

Your journey to better nights of sleep and true financial relief starts today. Listen, download, and share this episode — then take action. Call us directly (719) 359-8789 or visit taxreliefcall.com to begin your own journey toward resolution, clarity, and freedom.

The IRS isn’t going away, but neither is the help you need. Don’t wait another year. Subscribe, listen, and take your first step toward peace of mind today.

142: Water Crisis - Peak Environment

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 08:21:00 -0400

Why is water such a hot-button issue in Colorado right now? Host/producer Ally Richardson dives into the heart of local water challenges with Dave Gardner, Mark Robinson, and Mike Callicrate. From policy to permaculture, they explore innovative solutions that could shape the future of our region’s most precious resource.

In the conversation today:

Farmer Mark Robinson from Green Hill Farm in Peyton, Colorado.

Mark hopes to have Grains & Vegetables coming soon! Find him at the Grain Chain: https://www.coloradograinchain.com/nexus/organizations/green-hill-farm

Rancher Mike Callicrate from Saint Francis, Kansas.

Mike has 2 local Colorado Spring stores, Ranch Foods Direct, that are worth a visit!

Find him at: https://www.mikecallicrate.com/

Dave Gardner from Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Dave manages Studio 809 Podcasts, where he produces some episodes of Peak Environment and co-hosts Loving the Springs. He also hosts the GrowthBusters podcast, which recently visited the water issue: https://www.growthbusters.org/growth-addiction-water-southwest/

Mentioned in This Episode:

2023 Colorado Water Plan: https://dnrweblink.state.co.us/CWCB/0/edoc/219188/Colorado_WaterPlan_2023_Digital.pdf

Colorado Springs Utilities - Tiered Water Plans found here: https://www.csu.org/rates/tiered-water-rate

Zack Weiss creates brilliant videos to illustrate how water moves through land and atmosphere. https://waterstories.com

The Watershed Death Spiral: https://www.waterstories.com/story/the-watershed-death-spiral

The Revived Water Cycle: https://www.waterstories.com/story/the-revived-water-cycle

Denver 7 News Article by Brandon Richard, Foreign ownership of Colorado's agricultural land raising concerns found here: https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/foreign-ownership-of-colorados-agricultural-land-raising-concerns

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://coloradosprings.gov/gardens

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

You’re Not Alone: Beating IRS Troubles with Proven Military Tax Solutions - Tax Answers Advisor

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0600

On this episode of Tax Answer Advisor, Marcelino Dodge sits down with seasoned tax professional Felicia Dixon for a conversation designed specifically for military families and active-duty service members. Broadcasting from Colorado Springs—a major military hub—Marcelino and Felicia tackle the real tax challenges faced by those who serve. They discuss how to avoid costly mistakes that lead to late fees, fines, and penalties, the complexities of changing state residency when duty stations shift, and how to handle deployments, overseas assignments, and combat pay without creating future tax surprises. They also uncover little-known tax benefits for military members and share how to prevent IRS issues from escalating into liens, interest, or garnishments that can disrupt your financial security.

With 46 years of experience as an Enrolled Agent, Certified Tax Resolution Consultant, and published author, Felicia brings both professional expertise and a personal connection to military life. Together, they share practical strategies for eliminating the embarrassment of unfiled returns, reducing the stress of IRS harassment, and ensuring you never have to face tax compliance issues alone. You’ll learn how to keep records in order, catch up if you’ve fallen behind, and transition smoothly from active duty to civilian life—confident, protected, and free from the fear of unexpected tax bills. If taxes have left you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or vulnerable, this episode will show you how to take control and move forward with peace of mind.

Visit taxreliefcall.com to schedule your introductory session and start your journey to peace of mind.

19: Building a Housing Justice Movement in Colorado Springs - a Place for everyone

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 15:20:00 -0400

A small but mighty organization is doing critical advocacy and organizing work of low-income residents who are renters in our community. Host Beth Roalstad sits down with Max Kronstadt and Will Smith of the COS Pro Housing Partnership. Through their efforts, tenants are using their voice to organize for better living conditions and for vital community services. The group uses grassroots organizing and social justice ideals to advance the rights of our community members.

COS Pro Housing Partnership: https://cosphp.org/

Divorce & the IRS: How to Avoid Costly Tax Mistakes Before It’s Too Late - Tax Answers Advisor

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 14:30:00 -0600

Divorce is hard enough—don’t let tax issues make it harder. In this special episode of Tax Answer Advisor, Marcelino Dodge sits down with Patrick Wanzer, CPA, CTRC, author, and co-founder of Breakthrough Tax Resolution, for a deep dive into the complex intersection of taxes and divorce.

Whether you’re overwhelmed by unfiled returns, surprised by a tax bill caused by your ex, or tangled in financial chaos the IRS loves to exploit, this conversation delivers practical, compassionate advice to help you reclaim control and peace of mind. Patrick shares real-world stories—including the cautionary tale of Mary and her husband’s costly retirement mistake—and breaks down how filing status, child custody, and state settlement agreements can impact your tax situation after a split.

Learn why collaboration between your family law attorney and a tax resolution specialist is essential, and how proactive planning now can save you from bigger headaches down the road. This episode is filled with actionable insights for taxpayers, legal professionals, and anyone supporting loved ones through divorce.

If divorce feels overwhelming, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it in the dark. Listen in, get empowered, and take your next confident step toward financial freedom.

Want help tackling tax anxiety?

Visit taxreliefcall.com to schedule your introductory session.

141: Vermijo Community Garden - Peak Environment

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 17:07:00 -0400

Stuck on how to grow food in our region of Southern Colorado? Don’t know where to start? Feeling overwhelmed? Or shoot, do you just want to pick good local food up? Peak Environment Cohost Ally Richardson joins Kristie Taylor at Vermijo Community Garden to talk about how the garden is transforming more than just the landscape. It’s sparking a movement, cultivating connections, and nourishing more than just vegetables.

Featured in This Episode:

Vermijo Community Garden

Contact: Kristie Taylor | vermijogarden@gmail.com

Find the garden on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575044404344 and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/vermijocommunitygardencos/

Partnered with Flying Pig Farm https://flyingpigmanitou.org/

Volunteer Day: Last Saturday of every month—drop in and lend a hand!

Find Community Gardens Near You

https://www.communitygardensppr.com/home

A Mom’s Guide to Survive

This nonprofit empowers Colorado Springs moms with resources, support, and a sense of community. Check out the Mothers Guide To Survive events on their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/amomsguidetosurvive.

Sankofa Community Orchard

Located in Richmond, Virginia, this five-acre green oasis is dedicated to food justice and climate resilience, featuring over 100 fruit trees. Learn more at https://thenaturalfestival.com/sankofa/.

Pro Tip: Mulch!

Mulching is essential for building healthy soil and conserving water in our dry climate. Free mulch is available in a pile next to the train tracks near 1401 Recreation Way, courtesy of Colorado Springs Park & Recreation Department.

Upcoming Permaculture Workshop

Soil for Every Garden

Date: Saturday, August 2nd, 2025

Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Location: Vermijo Community Garden

Struggling with high-altitude gardening or pests like grasshoppers? Join this interactive two-hour class to learn about building resilient soil and practical pest control techniques. Each participant will take home a jar of homemade garlic spray. Register at http://wildoasispermaculture.com/.

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a sponsor and content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit http://pikespeakpermaculture.org/ for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture design – certifications, workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging - https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

45: Meet Brothers Redevelopment – Housing Support You Should Know About - Aging with Altitude

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 12:59:00 -0400

Are you looking for ways to make your home safer or get support with housing costs? Brothers Redevelopment has been serving the Colorado Springs community for years, offering a variety of programs to help residents make essential home improvements.

Jason McCullough, Director of Home Modification and Repair Programs at Brothers Redevelopment, shares insights into the organization’s mission, and the services they offer – including home repairs, accessibility modifications, and housing counseling. He also explains how they're helping seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income households live more safely and independently. From free home modification services to community events like the annual Paint-A-Thon, Brothers Redevelopment is committed to making a lasting impact.

Colorado Housing Connection Hotline: 303-685-4225

Colorado Housing Connect Line: 1-844-926-6632

Brothers Redevelopment: https://brothersredevelopment.org/

Aging with Altitude is recorded in the Pikes Peak region with a focus on topics of aging interest across the country. We talk about both the everyday and novel needs and approaches to age with altitude – whether you’re in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida or Leadville, Colorado. The Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging is the producer. Cynthia Margiotta with PEARLS Program of Colorado and All About Dignity is our moderator. Learn more at:

Or call 719-471-2096

PEARLS Program of Colorado - https://pearlsprogram.net/

24: July 16 2025 - Pikes Peak Bulletin Expanding - Loving the Springs

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0600

As the Colorado Springs Independent morphed, and ultimately disappeared from the local news media scene, the longtime Manitou Springs newspaper has been expanding its coverage and distribution throughout the Pikes Peak region. We invited the publisher and the editor to spill the tea on what’s happening with the Pikes Peak Bulletin.

Lyn Harwell, President and Publisher, and Heila Ershadi, Managing Editor, fill us in on developments since Sixty35 Media shut down and cut the Pikes Peak Bulletin loose, including why they are currently running an “emergency fundraiser.”

LINKS:

Pikes Peak Bulletin: https://pikespeakbulletin.org

Emergency fundraiser: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/01bc4b42-8c8d-498e-8e0d-102c48ca4174

A detailed history of the Pikes Peak Bulletin: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/news/a-look-back-through-manitou-springs-history-by-rhonda-van-pelt/

Public Input Opportunities:

Our Spacious Skies – Pikes Peak Regional Perspectives survey by Pikes Peak Community Foundation: https://ppcf.org

2026 Colorado Springs Park System Master Plan – public input phase; survey open through August 3: https://coloradosprings.gov/ParkSystemMasterPlan

Peak Radar 2025 Survey: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/yTJRFDI/PeakRadar2025

MENTIONED:

SoCo Insider

CommunityWorks

CASA

Pikes Peak Community Foundation

Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services

Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region

Downtown Colorado Springs

Experience Downtown Master Plan Update

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

140: Sustainability in Progress: Regional Transportation Planning Update - Peak Environment

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 11:54:00 -0400

What can we expect in the future for both public and automobile transportation in the Pikes Peak Region? We hear from the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG) and Mountain Metro (Colorado Springs’ bus system). John Liosatos, Transportation Director of Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments, discusses the recently adopted 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan for the Pikes Peak Region as well as the role the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG) plays in bringing together local communities. Jacob Matsen, Planning and Operations Supervisor for Mountain Metropolitan Transit, shares the agency’s short and long-term visions for improved public transit service throughout the Pikes Peak Region – including increased services, greater regional connections, innovative modes of transit, and more.

LINKS:

PPACG John Losiatos Presentation Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2050-LRTP-Presentation-for-SustainabilityInProgress.pdf

Mountain Metro Jacob Matsen Presentation Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Peak-Alliance-for-a-Sustainable-Future-2025.06.18.pdf

Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments Transportation Planning: https://ppacg.org/transportation/

PPACG Long Range Transportation Plan: https://ppacg.org/transportation/long-range-transportation-plan/

Mountain Metro Transit: https://coloradosprings.gov/mountainmetro

2050 Regional Transit and Specialized Transportation Plans: https://coloradosprings.gov/2050-regional-transit-and-specialized-transit-plans

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on June 18, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. We're taking some time off this summer, but be notified when the next SIP is planned: https://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future: https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado: https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters: https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

23: July 2 2025 - Creating Community with Citizens Project - Loving the Springs

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Interim Executive Director Steph Vigil updates us on changes at nonprofit Citizens Project and previews the organization’s upcoming community breakfast.

The Creating Community Breakfast is an annual event hosted by Citizens Project, a nonprofit organization in Colorado Springs dedicated to promoting equity, inclusion, and justice through civic engagement . This gathering serves as a platform to bring together community members, leaders, and advocates to celebrate shared values and recognize local contributions to social progress.

The event features inspirational speakers, musical performances, and the presentation of the Amy Divine Award, which honors individuals or organizations that have made significant impacts in advancing equity and inclusion in the Pikes Peak region. For instance, the 2024 award was presented to Yevgeniya Tsyganok, while the 2023 recipients included Ladyfingers Letterpress, Naomi Lopez, and Shaun Walls .

This event not only celebrates the ongoing efforts of community members but also reinforces Citizens Project's mission to inform, inspire, and engage the public in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society

Creating Community Breakfast 2025

July 12, 2025 @ 8:00AM — 9:30AM

The Carter Payne: 320 S. Weber Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Info and Tickets: https://citizensproject.networkforgood.com/events/86641-creating-community-breakfast-2025

MENTIONED:

The Carter Payne

League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region

Making Democracy Work podcast

Amendment 2

Black Lives Matter

De'Von Bailey

Mountain Metro Transit

The Lincoln Center

Angletech

Karman Line annexation

Citizens Project Voters Guides

The Indy (RIP)

Pikes Peak Bulletin

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

35: Club Spotlight - COS Racing - Pedal The Springs

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 07:27:00 -0400

Bicycle racing isn’t just an elite or extreme sport, and this local club is making it fun and accessible. Nao Nozawa and Terry Lott fill us in. Terry Lyons fills in as host for Tori Giffin. The conversation covers everything from a brief history of COS Racing, advice for beginning racers, and a rundown of 2025 sponsors, to COS Racing's goals for future community involvement and talent development.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

COS Racing: https://cosracing.wildapricot.org/home

Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort: https://www.bicycleresort.com

2025 COS Racing Sponsors:

https://positiveoutcomesllc.com/

https://fossilcraftbeer.com/

https://www.pactimo.com/

https://fitnesssystems.biz/

https://www.pikespeakathletics.com/

https://rectorlawfirm.com/beau-worthington/

https://agents.allstate.com/jeremy-dixon-colorado-springs-co.html

https://homesmart.com/real-estate-agent/colorado/coloradosprings/41914-leeann-perea/Welcome

https://www.bicycleresort.com/

https://www.trailsendtaproom.com/

https://www.oakley.com/

https://flowformulas.com/

https://cognitiveprotocol.com/

Episodes are recorded in the Studio 809 Podcasts community podcast studio at The Next Us. https://thenextus.spaces.nexudus.com/?public&

Find other great podcasts produced in and for the Pikes Peak Region - at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode of Pedal the Springs. Follow on your favorite podcast app.

18: Housing Affordability - A Conversation with Pikes Peak Housing Network’s Jill Gaebler - a Place for everyone

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 07:49:00 -0400

Pikes Peak Housing Network’s mission is to foster innovative and collaborative solutions that advance housing affordability, access and production in the Pikes Peak Region. Executive Director Jill Gaebler shares data and details about her work. Jill is a former member of the Colorado Springs City Council where she served two terms. Prior to that, Jill worked for Greccio Housing and served in the Us Air Force. Jill is also a former board member of Homeward Pikes Peak.

Website: https://pphousingnetwork.org/

State of Housing Report: https://pphousingnetwork.org/resources.html

22: June 8 2025 - Bike to Work Day 2025 - Loving the Springs

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Bike to Work Day June 25 is an especially fun way to discover that bicycling to get around the Pikes Peak Region is a joy. Sharing the details are Kerry Childress, City of Colorado Springs’ multimodal transportation planner, and Karole Campbell of Madwoman Marketing Strategies. We also get a report from Carrie Simison on last weekend’s “Pride Fest” and No Kings protest.

LINKS:

2025 City of Colorado Springs Bike to Work Day – map, breakfast stations and other information: https://coloradosprings.gov/biketowork

Interactive Colorado Springs Bicycling Map: https://coloradosprings.gov/bikemap

MENTIONED:

Bristol Brewing Company Beers & Gear Expo

Bike Colorado Springs

Cerberus Brewing

PikeRide

Mayor Yemi Mobolade

Mission Coffee Roasters

Kids on Bikes

Colorado College

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

City of Colorado Springs

Underline Infrastructure

UCCS

Ent Center for the Arts

University Village

Fossil Craft Beer

SRAM and Molly Murrow

Bicycle Colorado

Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort

The Lincoln Center

Goat Patch Brewing Company

GoCOS App

Village Seven

Palmer Park

Pikes Peak Pride Fest

No Kings protest

Art on the Streets

Art on the Streets episode of Loving the Springs

Southern Colorado Juneteenth Festival

Citadel Mall

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

44: Creating Accessible Spaces - Jeneen Phillips of Next Day Access - Aging with Altitude

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 07:39:00 -0400

Discover how accessibility can transform lives. Jeneen Phillips of Next Day Access discusses mobility and accessibility solutions that help older adults and individuals with disabilities to live safely and independently. Jeneen shares an overview of the services they offer, including wheelchair ramps, stair lifts, grab bars, and bathroom safety modification. She also discusses how impactful these solutions have been to clients. Whether adjusting to a sudden injury or creating a more accessible space for daily living, Next Day Access is committed to making a difference in the lives of the people they serve.

Learn more about Next Day Access here: https://www.nextdayaccess.com/colorado-springs-co/

Or call: 719-259-5846

Aging with Altitude is recorded in the Pikes Peak region with a focus on topics of aging interest across the country. We talk about both the everyday and novel needs and approaches to age with altitude – whether you’re in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida or Leadville, Colorado. The Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging is the producer. Cynthia Margiotta with PEARLS Program of Colorado and All About Dignity is our moderator.Learn more at:

Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging: https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging/

Or call 719-471-2096

PEARLS Program of Colorado: https://pearlsprogram.net/

21: June 3 2025 - Poor Richard’s 50th Anniversary June 8 - Loving the Springs

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Richard Skorman joins us for an elaborate trip down memory lane, as he recounts the history of the Poor Richard’s family of businesses on the north end of downtown Colorado Springs. We couldn’t help but include some exploration of Richard’s political career and activism. While he is the face and name of Poor Richard’s Restaurant, Rico’s Café and Wine Bar, Poor Richard’s Books & Gifts, and Little Richard’s Toy Store, Skorman is quick to share credit with his business partner and wife, Patricia Seator.

MENTIONED:

The Granite Harp Bookstore

The Flick

Kimball Bayles

Kimball’s Peak Three Theater

Citizens Project

TOPS (Trails, Open Space and Parks Sales Tax)

Trails and Open Space Coalition

Beany Babies

Focus on the Family

Amendment 2

Richard’s Rubbish Roundup

Robin Izer

The Mitguards

Revele & Paul

Douglas Rouse

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Chinook Book Store

Tattered Cover

Compleat Games and Hobbies

CJ Kard

Bonanza

Lorne Greene

Strawberry Fields

Stratton Open Space

Sacred Grounds Café

Natasha Shnaper

Art on the Streets

LINKS:

Poor Richard’s Downtown: https://poorrichardsdowntown.com/

Front Range Passenger Rail District - CDOT Open House: https://frpropenhouse.com

RMG Photography - Ralph Giordano photography reception and exhibit at Cottonwood Center for the Arts: https://www.facebook.com/share/16UPc454p3/

The Next Us: https://thenextus.spaces.nexudus.com/

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

139: Promoting Housing Affordability, Access and Production in the Pikes Peak Region - Peak Environment

Sat, 31 May 2025 14:24:00 -0400

The state of housing affordability and attainability in Colorado Springs, and what the Pikes Peak Housing Network is doing to improve it. “Colorado Springs and El Paso County aren't building enough homes that typical buyers can afford, while smaller houses and other types of housing options are needed to make housing more attainable for many people, including young adults… and seniors….” That’s the conclusion of a recent report by the Pikes Peak Housing Network.

Jill Gaebler, Executive Director, tells us about how the PPHN is meeting the challenge of supporting “innovative and collaborative solutions to promote housing affordability, access and production” in the Pikes Peak Region. The Network’s mission involves advocating for sustainability principles like infill and redevelopment and access to transportation options, employment and living wages, cultural activities, green space, and more.

Affordable, accessible housing is key to the establishment of a regional culture and resilient, sustainable built environment essential to a healthy economy, quality of life, attractive workforce environment, and personal health now and in the future.

LINKS:

Pikes Peak Housing Network: https://pphousingnetwork.org

2024 State of Housing Report: https://pphousingnetwork.org/2024-PPHN-State-of-Housing-Report-1.pdf

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on May 21, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Regional Transportation Planning Update

John Liosatos, Transportation Director of Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments

Jacob Matsen, Planning and Operations Supervisor for Mountain Metropolitan Transit

June 18, 2025

Noon to 1 p.m.

Virtual. Register here to get link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/pEktJ5xCR7O2PjS3265dSg

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/78710970-fight-lives-in-the-heart-of-a-survivor

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

20: May 28 2025 Wonderful Art on the Streets - Loving the Springs

Wed, 28 May 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Twelve new pieces of public art hit the streets of Downtown Colorado Springs for 2025-2026 – launching June 6. Learn more about the art and how this program turns our city into a yearlong outdoor gallery. Downtown Ventures Executive Director Michelle Winchell regales the gang with details and fun tales – like the great Humpty Dumpty Heist, and the story behind Adaman Alley. Get details on the June 6 launch and June 7 walking tour. See links below.

MENTIONED:

Downtown Colorado Springs

Norwood Development Group

Story Coffee

AdAmAn Club

Adaman Alley

Colorado Craft Social

PikeRide

Colorado Creative Industries

Otocast

Kasia Polkowska

Pikes Peak Center

Mountain Chalet

Colorado College

Nancy Rios

Brendan Picker-Mahoney

Michelle Sunset

University of Wyoming

Boulder Crescent Park

Jules Mendoza

Bike to Work Day June 25

Fine Arts Center

Kimber Fiebiger

LINKS:

Downtown Ventures: https://downtowncs.com/ventures/

Art on the Streets: https://downtowncs.com/arts-and-culture/aots/

Art on the Streets Digital Archive: https://downtowncs.com/aots-archive/

Downtown Walking Tours: https://downtowncs.com/walking-tours/

June 6 Scavenger Hunt: https://downtowncs.com/event/art-on-the-streets-scavenger-hunt/

June 7 Walking Tour/Launch: https://downtowncs.com/event/walking-tour-art-on-the-streets-2025-launch/

Discover Downtown Pass: https://downtowncs.com/pass/

AdAmAn Alley: https://downtowncs.com/adaman-alley/

Bronze Humpty Dumpties: https://downtowncs.com/bronze-humpty-dumpties-by-kimber-fiebiger/

First Friday: https://downtowncs.com/first-friday/

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

17: The Intersection of Behavioral Health and Homelessness - a Place for everyone

Sun, 25 May 2025 13:58:00 -0400

How does behavioral health contribute to homelessness, and how does Homeward Pikes Peak help people facing this obstacle? Homelessness is quite complex – often multiple contributing factors such as the cost of living, the cost of housing in our community, and then the complexities of broken family relationships, compounded by mental health and substance misuse by people. When someone has untreated mental health issues or substance use turns into misuse and addiction it has a negative impact on everything – housing, employment, and overall health. Homeward Pikes Peak has an outpatient treatment clinic and today we speak to its director Katie Edelson Milo.

Resources:

Homeward Pikes Peak http://www.homewardpp.org/

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: https://www.samhsa.gov/

National Healthcare for the Homeless Council: https://nhchc.org/

19: May 23 2025 - Making Light of What Could’ve Been Dark with Joi Towner - Loving the Springs

Fri, 23 May 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Get to know a funny, inspirational champion for people recovering from trauma or other setbacks. Joi Towner suffered a stroke at age 31, beginning a journey that inspired her to help others. After 6 weeks in the hospital, she went on to establish a nonprofit foundation, develop a comedy routine, launch a podcast and write a book. “You’re not handicapped, you’re handi-capable,” she tells us.

She provides counseling, a support group, and inspirational speaking. She also advocates for accessibility. Her book, Fight Lives in the Heart of a Survivor, is a story of strength and determination through the odds of adversity. It’s a stroke survivor's guide to hope, encouragement, and inspiration. She provides details on an upcoming event, King of Kings, on June 7, honoring the amazing men in our lives who are often overlooked.

Also discussed:

Penny Arcade in Manitou Springs purchased by John Weiss

Colorado Springs corners the market on expired vehicle registrations

Where do those registration fees go?

Dave’s 25 parking tickets story

LINKS:

Fight Lives in the Heart of a Survivor – by Joi Towner

Audio Book On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Fight-Lives-Heart-Survivor-Strength-ebook/dp/B0B4VC3HK4/

Strength in You Foundation: https://www.strengthinyou.org/

Strength in You podcast: https://blog.pod.link/1673153175

Strength in You YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thestrengthinyou

King of Kings June 7 at Peak31, 7 to 10 p.m.: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/king-of-kings-tickets-1344807799329

MENTIONED:

Thubthumping, by Chumbawamba: https://youtu.be/2H5uWRjFsGc?si=nPh_pPoJYS-s12Wy

Ivywild School: https://www.ivywildschool.com/

Willie CROW the Comedian: https://www.facebook.com/groups/452103915749254/

UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central

Spokes Fighting Strokes: https://www.spokesfightingstrokes.org/

Penny Arcade in Manitou: https://manitouspringsarcade.com/

Skee-Ball: https://skeeball.com/

Dig Dug: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dig_Dug

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

18: May 20 2025 – A Postmortem for the Indy? - Loving the Springs

Tue, 20 May 2025 04:00:00 -0600

We reflect on the changes the Colorado Springs Independent has gone through in recent years, especially it’s sale in April to Dirk Hobbs’ Colorado Media Group. We also assess the state of local news media in general, and its future.

At the Table:

Carrie Simison, co-host of this podcast, who worked for the Indy for 20 years, most recently as publisher.
Dave Gardner, co-host of this podcast, who worked for the Indy briefly as executive producer of podcasts, and served on the board of the non-profit that acquired the Indy from John Weiss in 2023.
Al Brody, co-host of this podcast, one-time city council candidate, long-time VERY engaged local citizen
Corey Hutchins, who oversees the Colorado College Journalism Institute, advises Colorado Media Project, and writes the weekly Inside the News in Colorado newsletter.
Matt Schniper, who served as editor of the Indy 2016-2019, served as its Food & Drink Editor for 19 years, and now publishes Side Dish with Schniper and co-hosts the Tap & Table podcast.

MENTIONED:

Pikes Peak Media

J.W. Roth

Kevin O’Neil

John Weiss

Colorado Springs Business Journal

Southern Colorado Business Forum & Digest

North Magazine

Cannon Taylor

Springs Magazine

Pikes Peak Bulletin

Pam Zubeck

Substack

Craigslist

Facebook Marketplace

719 Daily Dose

Stompin’ Groundz

Next Door

In-Box Journalism

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

LINKS:

Colorado Springs Independent: https://csindy.com/

Side Dish with Schniper: https://www.sidedishschniper.com/

tap & table podcast: https://pod.link/1725345176

Inside the News in Colorado: https://coloradomedia.substack.com/

Colorado Springs Indy Lays Off Staff and Transfers Ownership Amid Shock Statement – Corey Hutchins’ report: https://coloradomedia.substack.com/p/colorado-springs-indy-lays-off-staff

Colorado Springs Independent Staff Fired; Paper Sold for Second Time in Less Than Two Years – CPR news story: https://www.cpr.org/2025/04/25/colorado-springs-independent-business-journal-sold-to-new-owners/

New Ownership, Direction for The Indy and the Colorado Springs Business Journal – Gazette news story: https://gazette.com/news/local/new-ownership-new-direction-for-the-indy-and-the-colorado-springs-business-journal/article_18bcc019-7898-46c9-af1c-58a5e9f67798.html

Colorado Springs Independent and Business Journal Again Change Hands – Gazette news story: https://gazette.com/business/colorado-springs-independent-and-business-journal-again-change-hands/article_0dd5339d-542f-48e3-a4f1-4af704fd4fc3.html

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

17: May 14, 2025 - Hot Cuisine for the Houseless - Loving the Springs

Wed, 14 May 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Every Monday, folks experiencing houselessness are treated like valuable human beings, served a food truck hot lunch and provided supplies to make living on the street a little easier. Meet the local hero who makes this happen (with help), Tracey Porter, and learn about the nonprofit she founded, Food Trucks Against Homelessness.

Tracey, several volunteers, and a food truck, feed about 85 people in the Westside CARES parking lot, where they cultivate friendships and also distribute underwear, socks, coats, gloves, scarves, blankets, etc. Their mission is to partner with businesses & individuals to provide meals, resources & human connection to our houseless community.

Also:

Get acquainted with our new co-host, Carrie Simison, a local hero in her own right.
More about food trucks in general
Everyone’s favorite tacos – including broccoli tacos and cricket tacos

Mentioned:

The Indy

Cerberus Brewing

Downtown Colorado Springs

Focus on the Beer

Westside Cares

Kristy Milligan

These Girls Got Beef

Smokin’ Joe’s Barbecue

Mateo’s

Dutch Heritage Gardens

Prime 25

MeadowGrass Music Festival

The Taco Trail in downtown Colorado Springs

Acquire Homes Real Estate Pros

LINKS:

Food Trucks Against Homelessness: https://foodtrucksagainsthomelessness.com/

Annual Fundraiser Food Trucks Against Homelessness: https://fb.me/e/7Awk1NnOR

Dutch Heritage Gardens – Spring Open House: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AS7DDcRkS/

Westside CARES: https://www.westsidecares.org/

The Taco Trail in downtown Colorado Springs – download a pass and enter to win a gift card

https://downtowncs.com/taco

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

43: 50 Years of PPAAA – A Life of Resilience and Service - Rebecca Shields - Aging with Altitude

Mon, 12 May 2025 20:11:00 -0400

Life can change in an instant, and when it does, it can often feel like you’re facing it alone. Hear from an incredibly inspiring community leader who has dedicated her life to supporting others who have faced challenges similar to her own.

Rebecca Shields is a true example of resilience and service. She lives by the powerful belief that life isn’t about what you can get from others, but what you can give. In 2008, Rebecca founded New Vision Professional Services, a community-centered organization that provides vital resources to individuals experiencing vision loss or navigating other quality-of-life challenges.

Rebecca takes us through her personal journey, her educational background, and the mission that drives her work. Through New Vision, she offers a variety of classes designed to empower and promote independence, including braille, cooking, daily living skills, financial management, and orientation and mobility training.

New Vision Professional Services: http://www.newvision4you.com/

Contact Rebecca Shields: 719-635-8996

Learn more at:

Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging - https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging/

Or call 719-471-2096

PEARLS Program of Colorado - https://pearlsprogram.net/

138: Examining Air Quality in Colorado’s Pikes Peak Region - Peak Environment

Fri, 02 May 2025 14:27:00 -0400

Ever stopped to wonder what’s in the air you breathe? From invisible pollutants to visible smog, air quality affects us all—whether we realize it or not. Host Ally Richardson from Pikes Peak Permaculture sits down with activist and Peak Environment cohost Konrad Schlarbaum, alongside Pikes Peak Area Council of Government’s Air Quality Outreach Specialist Kenzie Courtney, to discuss air quality in the Pikes Peak region. In this episode, we’re diving into the challenges we face, the risks we can’t ignore, and the steps we can take to create cleaner skies for generations to come.

Mentioned in this episode:

Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments https://ppacg.org/

Find the Air Quality Index here https://www.airnow.gov/

CDPHE Air Quality Division - Colorado Air Quality Summary https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/colorado_summary.aspx

CDPHE’s Air Quality Division daily reports https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/

The latest ways to get around in the Pikes Peak region https://ppacg.org/transportation/

Free Energy Audits for Businesses https://www.csu.org/business-efficiency/request-an-audit

Food To Power https://foodtopowerco.org/

PPAG will provide info through https://Pikespeakair.com

Bike Routes and Safety Information https://coloradosprings.gov/bikemap

Additionally, mark your calendars for Bike To Work Day on Wednesday, June 25th, where free breakfast will be provided at several bike stations throughout the city. Find more details here: https://coloradosprings.gov/biketowork

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture. Visit pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

137: Fountain Creek Water Quality – What the Data Tells Us - Peak Environment

Thu, 01 May 2025 19:46:00 -0400

What do 68 monitoring sites and over $1.3 million annual investment in data collection tell us about Fountain Creek? Colorado Springs Utilities water quality expert Annie Berlemann provides some answers. She is Fountain Creek Watershed Project Manager for the utility.

Fountain Creek is one of Colorado’s most closely monitored and ecologically diverse waterways—spanning urban neighborhoods, rural landscapes, and natural ecosystems from the top of Pikes Peak to Pueblo. The Fountain Creek Watershed tells a complex story of resilience, risk, and recovery. From the Waldo Canyon and Black Forest fires to the “Miracle May” floods – discover what it takes to track and improve water health for both people and wildlife, including the native Flathead chub, a species of special concern.

LINKS:

Presenter’s Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Watershed-101-and-Water-Quality.pdf

Colorado Springs Utilities: https://www.csu.org/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on April 16, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The next event is:

Home Grown – Built to Live, Love, Last - Jill Gaebler of Pikes Peak Housing Network

May 21, 2025, Noon to 1 p.m., Virtual

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

https://www.denvergov.org/files/assets/public/v/1/public-health-and-environment/documents/eq/rules-and-regulations-governing-graywater-treatment-works-2024.pdf

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

16: April 29 – Updating the Downtown Master Plan - Loving the Springs

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Ensuring that downtown Colorado Springs is a safe, welcoming, and prosperous destination is the goal of the Experience Downtown Master Plan, being updated this year. Downtown Partnership COO Chelsea Gondeck shares details with us, and tells us how we can provide input. Community participation is critical.

This lively conversation touches on downtown’s valued features, as well as challenges and opportunities.

On May 8th, 2025, the project team will host two open house events to discuss the draft catalytic opportunities, assets, opportunities, and challenges with the community. The community will also have opportunities to review and provide input on the vision, goals, and action steps.

Some of the topics that come up:

Public safety
Parking
Vacancy rates
Local, independent businesses
Loud motor vehicles
Turning Tejon into a pedestrian mall
Current Tejon Revitalization project
Right turns on red downtown
The Exchange
The 27-story high-rise – OneVela - proposed downtown
Should Colorado Springs be more like Denver?
Mountain Metro news:
Ride the bus free all summer
e-Buses

May 8 Public Events:

7:30 to 9:30 am - Coffee and Chat, southern lawn of the Pioneers Museum - In case of inclement weather, the Coffee and Chat will be hosted in the Pioneer Museum’s Family Fun Space.
5:00 to 7:00 pm - Walk and Talk - to learn about the update, visit some relevant and potentially catalytic sites, and share their own experiences and wishes for Downtown in a candid and casual setting. The group will leave from UCCS Downtown. In case of inclement weather, the second community event will take place inside the UCCS Downtown offices.

Late Summer - open house - to review existing master plan priorities and add additional ones.

Review and Approval Schedule:

Downtown Development Authority (October)
Downtown Review Board (November)
Planning Commission (November)
City Council (November/December)

To learn more about the downtown plan update, or sign up for email updates, visit https://downtowncs.com and click on the Experience Downtown Master Plan banner: https://downtowncs.com/experience-downtown-plan-update/

Social media links:

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Plug into what’s happening in the Pikes Peak region, learn about awesome people, places and happenings, and explore opportunities to make life here even better. Local gadflies Al Brody and Dave Gardner love our two springs – Colorado and Manitou, so they give them the mic in this twice-monthly podcast. Nothing’s off the table – recreation, the arts, government, business, politics – if it touches your life, they'll talk about it. We’ll invite the movers and shakers, conspiracy theorists, NIMBYs, YIMBYs, yaysayers and naysayers to join them.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

136: Spring Cleaning - Every Nook & Cranny - Peak Environment

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 08:31:00 -0400

Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to revitalize your space with sustainability in mind! Join Ally Richardson and Aaron Shaha, local permaculturists who dive into Zone 0, sharing their journey, expert insights, and practical resources for greener living in the Pikes Peak region. This episode covers essential topics like energy efficiency, water conservation, food production, waste reduction, and holistic well-being—helping you create a more mindful and regenerative home.

Mentioned in this episode:

Informative Permaculture Forums can be found at https://Permies.com or reach out with questions to Pikes Peak Permaculture on website at https://pikespeakpermaculture.org

Zachary Weiss’s Water Stories can be found at https://www.waterstories.com

Video Reviving Rivers with Dr. Rajendra Singh https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_N9PIBATSFw

Research on Fraudulent Organic Labeling:

Giannakas, K. and Yiannaka, A. 2023. Annual Review of Resource Economics. Food Fraud: Causes, Consequences, and Deterrence Strategies. Annu. Rev. Resour. Econ. 15:85–104. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-resource-101422-013027

Denver Laundry to Landscape:

Regulation 86- Reg. 86 – Graywater Control from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division. https://cdphe.colorado.gov/water-quality/clean-water/reg-86-graywater-control

Vitamin D Boosts from mushrooms! Visit local business Microvora for all your gourmet mushrooms, microgreens, and more. Questions or Wholesale Inquiries - Contact via email at hello@microvora.com. Storefront Open Daily from 10AM-6PM in Colorado Springs at 3685 S U.S. Hwy 85 87 Suite 2.

Resources for Household Waste:

Galvanize Recycling Services: https://www.galvanizerecycling.com/services/

The El Paso County Household Hazardous Waste Facility (HHWF) is located at 3255 Akers Dr. Colorado Springs, 80922

For more information about what is accepted, please visit: https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/household-hazardous-waste/

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop – your local bike shop since 1976

https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/funky-little-theater-company/677f7c726f865e1d15dccf16

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

15: April 17 2025 - MeadowGrass Music Festival - Loving the Springs

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0600

A popular and pleasant rite of Spring in the Pikes Peak region is the MeadowGrass Music Festival on Memorial Day Weekend. Music director Steve Harris and Rocky Mountain Highway Music Collaborative Executive Director Jessica Barney preview some of the artists we’ll hear this year, as they share all the details for anyone considering music under the sun, moon and stars May 23-25, 2025 in the Black Forest outside Colorado Springs.

We hear music samples from:

The Mother Hips - https://www.motherhips.com/

The Reverend Shawn Amos - https://www.shawnamos.com/

Have Gun, Will Travel - https://hgwtmusic.bandcamp.com/

Alysha Brilla - https://www.alyshabrilla.com/

Here is an update on the times of these events:

Jessica Patterson yoga classes set to live music -Saturday and Sunday 9-10:15am

Sound bath - 10:30-11:30

Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas - Saturday and Sundays 9am -11am

Don’t forget to join us at the pre-fest party:

April 26, 3 to 5

Jeremy Facknitz and David Siegel performing

Goat Patch Brewing Company, back patio - https://www.goatpatchbrewing.com/lincoln-center

LINKS:

Tickets and Info - https://meadowgrass.org

Tax Day Discount: Use Promo Code TAXDAY before May 1 for a $20 discount on each ticket

Rocky Mountain Highway Music Collaborative

Instagram - @meadowgrassfest
Facebook - @RMHMC
Web - https://meadowgrass.org

Mentioned:

Jeremy Facknitz

David Siegel

Patty Jewett Bar and Grill

Lulu’s Downtown

Songbird Orchids

Earl Nelson & the Company

Distillery 291

Apple Valley Cider

Jessica Patterson, Root Center for Yoga & Sacred Studies

Jo Joy Breedlove (sound baths)

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Venetucci Farm

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

14: April 4 2025 – Seniors Doing the Darndest Things - Loving the Springs

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0600

If you’re over 50 and living in the Springs, the chances are good you have wheels on your recliner. We discuss the many opportunities for an active lifestyle with Rhonda Wray, managing editor of Beacon Senior News.

To inquire about joining us as a co-host, send an email to lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

Mentioned in This Episode:

Beacon Senior News: https://www.beaconseniornews.com/

Monarch Mountain: https://skimonarch.com/

Skate City: https://www.skatecitycolorado.com/

Cottonwood Creek Park: https://coloradosprings.gov/parks/page/cottonwood-creek-park

El Pomar Youth Sports Park: https://www.csyouthsports.net/

Pickleball:

City Courts: https://coloradosprings.gov/parks/page/tennis-and-pickleball

Pikes Peak Pickleball Association: https://pppa.wildapricot.org/where-to-play

Roller Derby: https://pikespeakrollerderby.org/

Four Old Broads On the High Seas – Funky Little Theater Co.

Wood Avenue

Pikes Peak Library District: https://ppld.org/

Third Space Coffee: https://www.thirdspacecoffee.com/

Colorado Springs Independent: https://csindy.com/

‘He is … until he isn’t’ The dysfunctional legacy of Dave Donelson - J.W. Roth Editorial:

https://csindy.com/opinion-he-is-until-he-isnt-the-dysfunctional-legacy-of-dave-donelson/

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

135: The Future of Fountain Creek - Panel and Community Discussion - Peak Environment

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:08:00 -0400

A panel discussion with Fountain Creek Watershed District Executive Director Alli Schuch and Jim O’Donnell, author of Fountain Creek: Big Lessons from a Little River, followed by a dynamic community conversation.

Alli provides an overview of watershed basics and shares insights on the current state of Fountain Creek. She highlights future opportunities and challenges facing the watershed.

Jim dives into key themes from his new book. Together, they explore environmental issues, community engagement, and the economic and cultural dimensions of the watershed—while offering a forward-looking perspective.

Mary Barber of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future hosts, while Allen Beauchamp of Trails and Open Space Coalition moderates. Melody Daugherty delivers the land acknowledgment and blessing.

Presenters’ Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Complete-Presenters-Slides-SIP-March-19-2025.pdf

Thanks to These Hosts & Sponsors:

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future: https://peakallianceco.org/

Fountain Creek Watershed District: https://www.fountain-crk.org/

El Paso County Parks and Recreation: https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/parks-and-recreation/

Fountain Creek Nature Center: https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/nature-centers/fountain-creek-nature-center/

Peak Environment podcast: https://studio809podcasts.com/podcasts/peak-environment/

Thanks to These Participating Community Organizations:

Colorado Springs Stormwater: https://coloradosprings.gov/stormwater-enterprise

COS Creek Plan: https://coscreekplan.org/

Trails and Open Space Coalition: https://www.trailsandopenspaces.org/

Pikes Peak Chapter of Trout Unlimited: https://www.ppctu.org/

Jim O'Donnell, MCRP, CPD

Freelance Writer/Photographer

Fountain Creek: Big Lessons from a Little River https://www.aroundtheworldineightyyears.com/books/fountain-creek/

http://aroundtheworldineightyyears.com

http://www.jimodonnellphotography.com/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on March 19, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Fountain Creek Water Quality – What the Data Tells Us

How fire, flood, drought, and human development are shaping the watershed—and how partnerships and science are helping to protect it. In this Earth Week presentation, water quality expert Annie Berlemann shares what we know from 68 monitoring sites.

April 16, 2025

Virtual only, noon to 1 p.m.

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Oan8kU2MR02EG_nmOT4J7Q

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging - https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

42: 50 Years of PPAAA - Engage, Learn, and Connect at the Colorado Springs Senior Center - Aging with Altitude

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 13:26:00 -0400

Looking for a place where you can stay active, learn new skills, and connect with others in the community? The Senior Center is the perfect destination.

Tom Lathrop, the passionate Operations Director at the Senior Center, is dedicated to creating engaging opportunities for seniors. Tom details the exciting new senior center opening in August 2025 (the current temporary location is within the Pikes Peak YMCA in downtown Colorado Springs). The new center will feature larger spaces for classes, community activities, and more. Tom provides information on how and when to sign up for classes, emphasizing that the new space will allow for more classes, more flexible scheduling, and improved accessibility for all seniors.

Tom also shares details about the upcoming Colorado Senior Games, which will be held in Colorado Springs this June. The games will offer seniors a chance to compete and engage in a fun event within the community. To learn more, visit: https://coloradoseniorgames.org/sports/

To access information on events and programs at the Senior Center visit: https://seniorcenter.ppymca.org/events-programs/

Aging with Altitude is recorded in the Pikes Peak region with a focus on topics of aging interest across the country. We talk about both the everyday and novel needs and approaches to age with altitude – whether you’re in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida or Leadville, Colorado. The Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging is the producer. Cynthia Margiotta with PEARLS Program of Colorado and All About Dignity is our moderator. Learn more at:

Or call 719-471-2096

PEARLS Program of Colorado - https://pearlsprogram.net/

34: Making Bicycling Better – Bike Colorado Springs - Pedal The Springs

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 10:35:00 -0400

Get to know a local non-profit whose mission is to make bicycling in the Pikes Peak region better for people of all ages and abilities. Cory Sutela sits in for Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort’s Torie Giffin as host. He’s joined by three key volunteers for Bike Colorado Springs.

The organization works with the city traffic engineering and advocates to improve safety and bike infrastructure. They also provide or promote training programs to help motorists be more bike friendly, and to coach bicyclists on how to improve safety and avoid stressing motorists. They’ve provided motorist training for Mountain Metro, Olympic and Paralympic Committee, library district employees and many others.

Watch the video version of this episode at https://youtu.be/x6BABjUGFMQ

HOST: Cory Sutela, Former Advocacy Chair of Bike Colorado Springs, Current Executive Director of Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates

GUESTS:

Cully Radvillas, Communications Committee Chair

Jerry White, Advocacy Committee Chair

Wes Pritchard, Advocacy Committee Volunteer and board member

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Bike Colorado Springs

Website - https://www.bikecoloradosprings.org/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bike_cos/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BikeColoradoSprings

City Council Candidate Survey - https://www.bikecoloradosprings.org/2025-city-council-candidate-survey-where-do-they-stand-on-biking-and-transportation/

Vision Zero - https://visionzeronetwork.org/about/what-is-%20vision-zero/

Training for ride leaders – coming up in May - https://www.bikecoloradosprings.org/learn-to-lead-rides-safely-with-or-free-may-training/

Ghost Bikes - https://www.bikecoloradosprings.org/a-ghost-bike-memorializes-michael-pompa-honoring-a-life-lost-and-advocating-for-safer-roads/

Bike-Friendly Driver and Auto-Friendly Cyclist training programs - https://www.bikecoloradosprings.org/bicyclefriendlydriver/

Bicycle Colorado’s Shift Driving Course - https://www.bikecoloradosprings.org/shift-driving-course/

Smart Cycling Course - https://www.bikecoloradosprings.org/learnmore/education/lab-smart-cycling/

League of American Bicyclists Bicycle Friendly Community designation - https://bikeleague.org/bfa/community/

Colorado Springs Bike Master Plan - https://www.bikecoloradosprings.org/get-involved/bike-masterplan/

Episodes are recorded in the Studio 809 Podcasts community podcast studio at The Next Us. https://thenextus.spaces.nexudus.com/?public&

Find other great podcasts produced in and for the Pikes Peak Region - at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode of Pedal the Springs. Follow on your favorite podcast app.

41: 50 years of PPAAA - Silver Key’s Legacy, Jason DeaBueno on Senior Care and Community Impact - Aging with Altitude

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:23:00 -0400

Silver Key offers an array of senior services, including meals, a food pantry, activity centers, behavioral health, companionship, and transportation. Jason DeaBueno, a Colorado Springs native who has been with Silver Key since 1982 and now serves as its President and CEO, offers insight into Silver Key’s history and the essential programs it provides for seniors. He and host Cynthia Margiotta discuss the growing challenges in senior care, particularly in the region, and passionately emphasize the importance of volunteer work. Throughout the conversation, Jason reflects on his personal experiences with Silver Key, sharing heartfelt stories that highlight his deep connection to the organization. He also explains how listeners can get involved and support Silver Key’s mission.

For more information about Silver Key and the services they offer, visit their website at https://silverkey.org or call 719-884-2300.

Aging with Altitude is recorded in the Pikes Peak region with a focus on topics of aging interest across the country. We talk about both the everyday and novel needs and approaches to age with altitude – whether you’re in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida or Leadville, Colorado. The Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging is the producer. Cynthia Margiotta with PEARLS Program of Colorado and All About Dignity is our moderator. Learn more at:

Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging - https://ppacg.org/pikes-peak-area-agency-on-aging/

Or call 719-471-2096

PEARLS Program of Colorado - https://pearlsprogram.net/

Colorado Springs City Council D6 Candidate Forum 2025 - Making Democracy Work

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 12:48:00 -0600

Hear from candidates running to represent District 6 on Colorado Springs City Council in this forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region and Citizens Project. It was held on March 18, 2025 at the CSPD Stetson Hills Subdivision Community Room. All Colorado Springs City Council District 6 candidates were invited. Representatives from LWVPPR and Citizens Project moderated.

Candidates Present:

Dr. Parth Melpakam
Roland Rainey, Jr.
Aaron Schick

Host: Shelly Roehrs for LWVPPR

Moderator: Chris Davis for Citizens Project

The League is non-partisan and does not endorse, support or oppose candidates or political parties. We work to educate voters in every election via candidate forums (not debates), our candidate survey (VOTE411.org), candidate meet and greets and podcast interviews where all candidates on the ballot are invited to participate. Any videotape or audio recording of the forum is the sole property of the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region and may not be used in any way unless cleared through LWVPPR. For more information, visit https://lwvppr.org. YOU are welcome to join us in empowering voters and defending democracy!

Sponsors for the forum:

Citizens Project - https://citizensproject.org/
Studio 809 Podcasts – https://studio809podcasts.com

You can view video of this forum at https://www.youtube.com/live/7UxZYiiOMeE?feature=shared

Links:

League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region – https://lwvppr.org

Voter Information - https://www.vote411.org/

City of Colorado Springs election information - https://coloradosprings.gov/election

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

Colorado Springs City Council D5 Candidate Forum 2025 - Making Democracy Work

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 07:25:00 -0600

Hear from candidates running to represent District 5 on Colorado Springs City Council in this forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region and NAACP-Colorado Springs. It was held on March 13, 2025 at Temple Beit Torah. All Colorado Springs City Council District 5 candidates were invited. Representatives from LWVPPR and NAACP-Colorado Springs moderated.

Candidates Present:

Christopher Burns
Nancy Henjum
Cass Melin
Jim Miller

Host: Tammy Harold for LWVPPR

Moderator: Angela Stevens, President, NAACP-Colorado Springs

Sponsors for the forum:

NAACP-Colorado Springs – https://www.facebook.com/NAACPColoradoSprings/
Studio 809 Podcasts – https://studio809podcasts.com

You can view video of this forum at https://www.youtube.com/live/__-o2GlLr1c?si=lteEoe5yXd0L3TeQ

Links:

League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region – https://lwvppr.org

Voter Information - https://www.vote411.org/

City of Colorado Springs election information - https://coloradosprings.gov/election

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

Colorado Springs City Council D1 Candidate Forum 2025 - Making Democracy Work

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 12:18:00 -0600

Hear from candidates running to represent District 1 on Colorado Springs City Council in this forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region and College of Public Service at UCCS. It was held on March 5, 2025 at Helen Keller Elementary School. All Colorado Springs City Council District 1 candidates were invited. Representatives from LWVPPR and UCCS College of Public Service moderated.

Candidates:

Dave Donelson
Lee Lehmkuhl

Host: Tammy Harold for LWVPPR

Moderators:

Dr. Regina Winters, Associate Dean, UCCS College of Public Service

Diana Starkus, student, UCCS College of Public Service

Emily Champion, student, UCCS College of Public Service

Sponsors for the forum:

UCCS – College of Public Service - https://cps.uccs.edu/
Studio 809 Podcasts – https://studio809podcasts.com

You can view video of this forum at https://www.youtube.com/live/v-OKDid2vTw?feature=shared

Links:

League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region – https://lwvppr.org

Voter Information - https://www.vote411.org/

City of Colorado Springs election information - https://coloradosprings.gov/election

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

13: March 17 2025 – Who’s Running for City Council in Colorado Springs? - Loving the Springs

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Candid observations about candidates for city council in the April 1 Colorado Springs election are shared by former city councilors Jill Gaebler and Jan Martin, with hosts Al Brody and Dave Gardner. Local voters will be making critical decisions about 6 of our 9 council positions. The city mailed ballots over a week ago. Marked ballots must be received by the city prior to 7 p.m. on April 1.

We also tap Jill and Jan’s knowledge and experience on a number of other topics.

Jan is currently chair of the Garden of the Gods Foundation, and president of Pikes Peak Waterways. Jill is currently executive director of Pikes Peak Housing Network. Al and Dave both previously ran for city council.

Discussed or Mentioned:

Colorado Springs City Council Candidates – April 1, 2025 Election

Voter Information: coloradosprings.gov/election

Candidate Forums hosted by League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region (and co-sponsored by Studio 809 Podcasts - https://lwvppr.org

The wisdom or folly of our strong-mayor form of government

Southern Delivery System (the city’s water supply)

Banning-Lewis Ranch

Annexations – Amara, Karman Line, Banning-Lewis Ranch

North Nevada Revitalization study by Urban Land Institute - https://www.yahoo.com/news/recommendations-nevada-ave-improvements-made-014453694.html

Navajo Hogan - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navajo_Hogan

Roman Villa - https://romanvillaonline.weebly.com/

University Village - https://www.uvcshopping.com/

COSCreek Plan - https://coscreekplan.org/

Pikes Peak Waterways - https://ppwaterways.org/

COS Creek Plan: Dramatic Changes for Monument and Fountain Creeks – episode of Peak Environment - https://studio809podcasts.com/cos-creek-plan/

Pikes Peak Housing Network - https://pphousingnetwork.org/

2024 State of Housing Report - https://pphousingnetwork.org/2024-PPHN-State-of-Housing-Report-1.pdf

Garden of the Gods Foundation - https://gardenofgods.com/foundation/

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum - https://www.cspm.org/

Palmer Park - https://www.trailsandopenspaces.org/trails/palmer-park/

Spacious Skies (ppcf) - https://www.ourspaciousskies.org/

Peak Cities

Loving the Springs celebrates the best of Colorado Springs and elevates the rest.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and give us feedback and suggestions via comments at https://studio809podcasts.com/loving-the-springs or lovingthespringspodcast at gmail.com

Colorado Springs City Council D4 Candidate Forum 2025 - Making Democracy Work

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 07:04:00 -0600

Hear from candidates running to represent District 4 on Colorado Springs City Council in this forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region and RISE Southeast. It was held on March 4, 2025 at Stompin' Groundz coffee and community café. All Colorado Springs City Council District 4 candidates were invited. Representatives from LWVPPR and RISE Southeast moderated.

Candidates Present:

Kimberly Gold
Chauncy Johnson

Not Present:

Sherrea Elliott-Sterling
Jeannie Orozco-Lira

Host: Shelly Roers, Spokesperson for LWVPPR

Moderator: Chineta Davis, RISE Southeast

Sponsors for the forum:

RISE Southeast - https://risesoutheast.com
Studio 809 Podcasts – https://studio809podcasts.com

You can view video of this forum at https://www.youtube.com/live/pv_rAetjAKw?si=aWH6oTxWyFM5wfVk

Links:

League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region – https://lwvppr.org

Voter Information - https://www.vote411.org/

City of Colorado Springs election information - https://coloradosprings.gov/election

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

33: More Fun than a Car! - PaCMan - Pedal The Springs

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 11:29:00 -0400

A group of citizens volunteer their time to make cycling, walking, and other non-auto conveyance safer, easier and even more fun – in Manitou and across the region. Learn about PaCMan: Ped and Cycle Manitou Springs, from three key volunteers, Luke Prince, Cris Grow and Karl Stang. Cory Sutela subs as host for Torie Giffin. He’s executive director of Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates. The group discusses the myriad ways of getting around town, plus resources available for everyone to learn how to move about more safely.

Host: Cory Sutela

Guests, All Volunteers with PaCMan: Ped and Cycle, Manitou Springs:

Luke Prince
Cristina Grow
Karl Stang

MENTIONED:

Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort - https://www.bicycleresort.com/

PaCMan: Ped and Cycle, Manitou Springs –

On Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/pacmanitou/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pacmanitou

Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates - https://medwheel.org/

Manitou Arts, Culture, and Heritage Board (MACH) - https://www.manitouspringsco.gov/558/_Manitou-Arts-Culture-and-Heritage-Board

Manitou Springs School District - https://www.mssd14.org/

Mountain Metro - https://coloradosprings.gov/mountainmetro

Manitou Springs parking and shuttle info - https://manitousprings.org/parking-shuttles/

PikeRide - https://www.pikeride.org/

The League of American Bicyclists - https://bikeleague.org/

Bicycle Colorado - https://www.bicyclecolorado.org/

Pikes Peak Bulletin - https://pikespeakbulletin.org/

To report potholes and other safety issues:

GoCos - https://coloradosprings.gov/gocos

SeeClickFix Manitou Springs - https://www.manitouspringsco.gov/786/8719/SeeClickFix

Episodes are recorded in the Studio 809 Podcasts community podcast studio at The Next Us. https://thenextus.spaces.nexudus.com/?public&

Find other great podcasts produced in and for the Pikes Peak Region - at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode of Pedal the Springs. Follow on your favorite podcast app.

134: Connecting Colorado with the Outdoors - Great Outdoors Colorado and Generation Wild - Peak Environment

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:16:00 -0400

Get an update on exciting Great Outdoors Colorado investments and work statewide, from Christopher Aaby, the Generation Wild Program Officer with GOCO. Great Outdoors Colorado invests a portion of the Colorado Lottery proceeds through competitive grants open to local governments and land trusts in Colorado. GOCO just released their 2024 annual report available here: https://www.goco.org/annual-report/2024.

Chris was an active board member of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, and hosted many of our Sustainability in Progress events. Join us in welcoming him for this visit.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on February 19, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

March 19, 2025, 12 Noon

The Future of Fountain Creek: Panel and Community Discussion

Attend in Person - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/march-sip-the-future-of-fountain-creek-tickets-1263008013969

Attend Virtually - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/5RNjoPyYRGCLUQ86pcZzJQ

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Presenter's Slides - https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/SIP-Febuary-GOCO.pdf

Great Outdoors Colorado - https://goco.org/

Generation Wild - https://www.generationwild.com/

Local website – https://generationwildppr.org

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GenerationWildColorado/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/generationwildcolorado/

Kids on Bikes - https://kidsonbikes.net/

Mile High Youth Corps - https://www.milehighyouthcorps.org/

Blackpackers - https://blackpackers.org/

YMCA Camp Shady Brook - https://campshadybrook.ppymca.org/

Rocky Mountain Field Institute - https://www.rmfi.org/

Colorado Parks and Wildlife - https://goco.org/programs-projects/colorado-parks-wildlife

Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services - https://coloradosprings.gov/PRCS

Catamount Institute - https://www.catamountinstitute.org/

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/ your local bike shop since 1976

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Colorado Springs City Council D3 Candidate Forum 2025 - Making Democracy Work

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 07:25:00 -0600

Hear from candidates running to represent District 3 on Colorado Springs City Council in this forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region & Hillside Advisory Team.

The event was held at 6:00 PM on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at Hillside Community Center.

Moderator: Chris Rudnick, President of Hillside Advisory Team

Candidates:

Richard Gillit
Maryah Lauer
Greg Thornton
Brandy Williams
Christopher Metzgar did not attend

Links:

League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region – https://lwvppr.org

Hillside Advisory Team - https://www.hillsideadvisoryteam.org/

Voter Information - https://www.vote411.org/

City of Colorado Springs election information - https://coloradosprings.gov/election

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

Making Democracy Work is one of many Studio 809 Podcasts, building community in the Pikes Peak Region. Find your new favorite local podcast at https://studio809podcasts.com

Don't miss an episode, follow Making Democracy Work wherever you get your podcasts.

16: The Place Connecting At-risk and Unhoused Youth to Vital Services and Housing - a Place for everyone

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 09:40:00 -0400

The Place offers housing, a drop-in center, and supportive services for youth up to age 24 years old. CEO Becky Treece shares details about The Place. Their mission is to empower Colorado youth to break the cycle of homelessness and forge supportive relationships and have self-sufficient, successful lives.

The Place website - https://theplacecos.org/

Telephone - (719) 338-9257

133: Wildtending, Ancient Skills, & Listening to Nature - Peak Environment

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 08:23:00 -0400

Components of nature connection and the basic skills that everyone's ancestors practiced. Host/co-producer Ally Richardson and guests Iraiah & Austin – who run Smokebrush’s Earth Skill Club – talk about facilitating opportunities in our local community to foster deeper connections, not only with fellow humans but with all living things in our surrounding ecosystems. Deeply engage your senses, so together we can witness how living closely with our earth is practical, accessible, & tangible. Tune in to explore how these ancient practices can enrich our modern lives.

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Earth Skill Club for three hands-on classes— 2nd Saturday of the month all spring long! ⏰12:30 pm - 2:30

Fiber & Cordage - March 8th. Learn the basics of fiber processing through cordage making, an essential for making tools, shelter, and clothing from the earth. Learn how to make rope with the help of your friends, tie knots to create proper leverage, and create an ultralight backpack tie.

Stone & Bone Tools - April 12th. Dive into the art of crafting tools from materials such bone and stone all stemming from the simplest of measures - a sharp edge. Play with nature as we create our own biodegradable, primitive cutting devices. Tap into curiosity as we listen to the density of rock’s sounds, observing what they can tell us to discover their best uses.

Friction Fire Building - May 10th. Ignite your instincts and get a work out as we tap into the age-old skill of fire building, a cornerstone of surviving and thriving. Practice creating a fire with sticks through the power of hand and bow drill friction kits, using different local woods to birth the coal that will provide nourishment to our bird nest kindling.

Earth Skill Club on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/people/EarthSkills-of-Manitou/100086610595176/

Earth Skill Club on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/earthskills_of_manitou/

Rocky Mountain Highway's Meadowgrass Music Festival

May 23, 10am - May 25 · 11:30pm https://meadowgrass.org/

Be sure to check out Smokebrush's Puppet Show!

Listen to last year’s Studio 809 podcast about Meadowgrass here: https://rockymountainhighway.org/meadowgrass-2024-featured-on-studio-809-podcast/

Pikes Peak Permaculture’s The Seed Garden Class

March 15, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Go to https://pikespeakpermaculture.org or click here to register: https://form.jotform.com/250237033443043

Join us for this class and discussion on the value of seeds. Learn about seed starting and saving techniques and participate in a seed swap. Learn the value of climate adaptation and landrace development in seed stock and how it helps to strengthen community food sheds. Build community and meet great people who face the same perils of gardening our region as you do.

An Amazing List of Resources our guests recommend! Check them out at your local library.

1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus, Book by Charles C. Mann

Tending the Wild: Native American Knowledge and the Management of California's Natural Resources, Book by Kat Anderson

What the Robin Knows: How Birds Reveal the Secrets of the Natural World, Book by Jon Young

Eavesdropping on Animals: What We Can Learn From Wildlife Conversations, Book by George Bumann

Forgotten Fires: Native Americans and the Transient Wilderness, Book by Omer Stewart

Edible Native Plants of the Rocky Mountains, Book by Harold Harrington

Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West, Book by Michael Moore

Mammal Tracks & Sign: A Guide to North American Species, Book by Mark Elbroch

Participating in Nature: Wilderness Survival and Primitive Living Skills, Book by Thomas J. Elpel

Animal Tracking Fundamentals: Animal Track Identification, Flashcards by Silva Tracking

Colorado Wildflowers Search, Free App by Steve Sullivan (has a Columbine as the app image)

A big thank you to sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop – your local bike shop since 1976 http://oldtownbikeshop.com/

And thanks to Becky Elder for her support. You can provide support here. https://www.patreon.com/studio809

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture design – certifications, workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/