Colorado Business Podcast

In this inspiring and festive episode of the COS Business Podcast, we explore the magic of keeping the Christmas spirit alive with the one and only Santa Claus—and later, his dedicated "helper," Mark Barsocchini. Santa shares heartfelt insights on how choosing kindness, presence, and creativity can transform the holiday season for everyone. From touching stories about keeping the magic alive for kids to practical tips on thoughtful gift-giving, this episode is a heartfelt celebration of what truly makes Christmas special. Mark joins the show to offer his perspective on embodying the spirit of Santa, bringing both humor and authenticity to the conversation. Tune in for a dose of inspiration, laughter, and holiday cheer that will warm your heart all season long.

In this episode of the COS Business Podcast, we sit down with Brandon Kirk, the visionary behind Planet Duct. Brandon opens up about his personal journey of overcoming anger, saving his marriage, and transforming his company's culture into a thriving, supportive environment. Discover how his strategic planning, certifications, and community outreach have propelled his business to new heights while staying true to his mission of making a difference.

📌 Highlights of the Episode:

Brandon’s emotional story of personal growth and leadership transformation.

How his unique branding and certifications set Planet Duct apart in Colorado.

The importance of mentorship, strategic planning, and adapting to challenges.

His dedication to supporting foster care and LGBTQ+ communities.

This episode is packed with lessons on resilience, leadership, and building a purpose-driven business.

Whether you’re a small business owner, aspiring leader, or just looking for inspiration, this is one you don’t want to miss!

👉 Subscribe for more inspiring stories and business insights!

Sponsors:

Planet Duct: Your go-to cleaning service in Colorado Springs. https://www.PlanetDuct.com

Pinnacle Advanced Primary Care: Hassle-free healthcare. https://www.pinnacleapc.com

Franchise Succeed: Elevate your business through franchising. https://www.franchisesucceed.com

Epoch Eyewear: Timeless Quality, Modern Edge. https://epocheyewear.com/

HomeDay : https://gethomeday.com/

Neon Pig Creative: https://neonpigcreative.com/Exponential Impact: https://www.exponentialimpact.com/

Fast Signs: https://www.fastsigns.com/

Cars Helping Charities: https://carshelpingcharities.org/

Celebrity DJ: https://celebrity-dj.com/

Storybook Destinations - https://www.storybookdestinations.com/

Dream Accounting - https://dreamaccountingsolutions.com/

Awesome Home Services - https://www.awesomeservice.com/

Lowery Lowry Veterans Law - https://lowryveteranslaw.com/

In this episode of the COS Business Podcast, we dive into the wild, inspiring journey of Papi Sorrels—a master entertainer and musician who has redefined the art of storytelling through comedy, music, and life itself. From learning piano in 30 days to overcoming personal struggles and turning them into a lasting legacy, Papi shares profound insights about togetherness, creativity, and resilience. Discover how awkward and ugly moments create the richest stories and why the narrative of life never truly ends.

📌 Topics Covered:

🎹 Don’t miss this deeply inspiring episode about the messy, magical journey of creating art and living a meaningful life.

🔔 Subscribe for more stories that inspire creativity and connection.

In this episode of the COS Business Podcast, we dive into the exciting and high-pressure world of wedding DJing with Aj Matthews, the owner and founder of Celebrity DJ. Aj shares his journey from high school radio DJ to managing a thriving entertainment business in Colorado Springs.

Discover what it takes to create unforgettable weddings, from navigating high-stakes ceremonies to balancing the roles of DJ, emcee, and event host.

Aj discusses the importance of getting every detail right, how he trains his team, and why he believes weddings are about more than just playing music.

You'll also hear about Aj’s inspiring community work with Challenger Baseball and his advice for entrepreneurs on growing a successful business. Whether you're in the wedding industry, planning your big day, or love stories of passion and perseverance, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration!

📌 Topics Covered:

- The emotional weight of weddings and why DJs set the tone.

- How Aj built Celebrity DJ into a top-tier brand in Colorado.- Tips for entrepreneurs starting their own businesses.

- The importance of community involvement and giving back.

🔗 Resources and Links:Celebrity DJ: https://celebrity-dj.com

Sponsors:

Planet Duct: Your go-to cleaning service in Colorado Springs. www.PlanetDuct.com

Pinnacle Advanced Primary Care: Hassle-free healthcare. www.pinnacleapc.com

Franchise Succeed: Elevate your business through franchising. www.franchisesucceed.com

Epoch Eyewear: Timeless Quality, Modern Edge. https://epocheyewear.com/

HomeDay : https://gethomeday.com/

Neon Pig Creative: https://neonpigcreative.com/

Exponential Impact: https://www.exponentialimpact.com/

Fast Signs: https://www.fastsigns.com/

Cars Helping Charities: https://carshelpingcharities.org/Celebrity DJ: https://celebrity-dj.com/

Storybook Destinations - https://www.storybookdestinations.com/

Dream Accounting - https://dreamaccountingsolutions.com/

Awesome Home Services - https://www.awesomeservice.com/

In this episode, we chat with Drew Robertson from Mattersville, a unique nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans with PTSD by pairing them with rescued wolf dogs. Mattersville is all about creating a safe, sustainable community where veterans can find purpose and healing through “pack therapy,” tiny homes, and sustainable living practices. Drew shares the inspiring stories behind Mattersville's mission, the challenges of wolf dog rescue, and how these animals are transforming the lives of veterans.

If you're interested in veteran support, PTSD recovery, animal rescues, or sustainable communities, this episode is packed with insights on the healing power of animals and community. Discover how Mattersville is changing lives and giving both veterans and wolf dogs a second chance.

In this episode of the COS Business Podcast, Ryan Van Ornum shares his journey from the military to becoming a thriving real estate entrepreneur. Discover how he leveraged networking to launch his career and maintain momentum in the competitive real estate market. Ryan reveals the strategic approach to relationship-building that fueled his business growth, likening it to an airplane taking off and reaching cruising altitude. If you're looking for insights on effective networking, maintaining business momentum, and the value of a strong community, this episode is packed with practical wisdom. Watch, learn, and elevate your business game!

#RealEstateSuccess #NetworkingTips #Entrepreneurship #RyanVanOrnum #BusinessGrowth #RealEstateAgent #COSBusinessPodcast

Sponsors:

Planet Duct: Your go-to cleaning service in Colorado Springs. www.PlanetDuct.com  

Pinnacle Advanced Primary Care: Hassle-free healthcare. www.pinnacleapc.com 

Franchise Succeed: Elevate your business through franchising. www.franchisesucceed.com 

Epoch Eyewear: Timeless Quality, Modern Edge. https://epocheyewear.com/

HomeDay : https://gethomeday.com/

Neon Pig Creative: https://neonpigcreative.com/

Exponential Impact: https://www.exponentialimpact.com/

Fast Signs: https://www.fastsigns.com/

Cars Helping Charities: https://carshelpingcharities.org/

Celebrity DJ: https://celebrity-dj.com/

Storybook Destinations - https://www.storybookdestinations.com/

Dream Accounting - https://dreamaccountingsolutions.com/

Awesome Home Services - https://www.awesomeservice.com/

Join us in this episode of the COS Business Podcast as we sit down with Michelle Garrett, co-owner of Gratitude Bar, the first zero-proof bar in Colorado Springs. Discover how Michelle’s journey to sobriety inspired her to create a revolutionary alcohol-free bar, despite the challenges and doubts. Learn about the growing sober movement, innovative mocktails, and how Gratitude Bar is transforming social spaces for drinkers and non-drinkers alike. Whether you're curious about zero-proof bars or looking for inspiration in overcoming personal struggles, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

00:00 - Introduction

00:02:48 - Founders' Inspiration Behind Gratitude

00:03:04 - Starting the Gratitude Journey

00:04:10 - Challenges in Opening Gratitude

00:07:42 - Creating a Community Hub

00:10:08 - Hosting Community Events

00:11:18 - Personal Sobriety Journey

00:14:36 - Maintaining Sobriety and Building Relationships

00:16:04 - Establishing Gratitude in Colorado Springs

00:18:12 - Beverage Innovation and Menu Development

00:21:27 - Future Aspirations for Gratitude

00:25:35 - Overcoming Triggers and Sustaining Sobriety

00:29:44 - Building a Supportive Network

00:37:31 - Logo and Branding Symbolism

00:43:09 - Customer Interactions and Regulars

00:51:23 - Reflection on Personal Growth

01:00:09 - Future Goals and Community Impact

01:07:43 - Closing Remarks

🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring interviews:

https://www.youtube.com/@cosbusinesspodcast

📱 Follow Us:

Instagram: @COSBizPodcast

Twitter: @COSPodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/COSBusinessPodcast

Sponsors:

Planet Duct: Your go-to cleaning service in Colorado Springs. www.PlanetDuct.com  

Pinnacle Advanced Primary Care: Hassle-free healthcare. www.pinnacleapc.com 

Franchise Succeed: Elevate your business through franchising. www.franchisesucceed.com 

Epoch Eyewear: Timeless Quality, Modern Edge. https://epocheyewear.com/

HomeDay : https://gethomeday.com/

Neon Pig Creative: https://neonpigcreative.com/

Exponential Impact: https://www.exponentialimpact.com/

Fast Signs: https://www.fastsigns.com/

Cars Helping Charities: https://carshelpingcharities.org/

Celebrity DJ: https://celebrity-dj.com/

Storybook Destinations - https://www.storybookdestinations.com/

Dream Accounting - https://dreamaccountingsolutions.com/

Awesome Home Services - https://www.awesomeservice.com/

Join us for an inspiring episode of the COS Business Podcast with Rob Decker, founder of Rise as Lions. Rob shares his personal story of overcoming addiction and trauma, surviving a suicide attempt, and finding purpose through faith. Learn how Rob uses community sports, mentorship, and fitness to support others on their recovery journeys. This emotional conversation highlights the power of resilience, healing, and connection.

🔗 Connect with Rob Decker:

https://www.riseaslions.org

https://www.robdeckerspeaks.com/

🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring interviews:

https://www.youtube.com/@cosbusinesspodcast

📱 Follow Us:

#AddictionRecovery #MentalHealth #Inspiration #RiseAsLions #COSBusinessPodcast #RobDecker

In this episode of the COS Business Podcast, we sit down with Danielle Luna of Danielle Luna Photography to discuss her inspiring journey from starting out as "Elevated Passion Photography" to rebranding and growing her own successful photography business. Danielle shares key insights into personal branding, upgrading equipment, mastering photography techniques, and balancing entrepreneurship with a full-time job. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with valuable advice on navigating challenges, building customer relationships, and finding your niche in a competitive industry.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

00:40 Podcast Theme

01:04 Sponsor Highlight

01:32 Guest Introduction

03:10 Business Evolution

04:35 Rebranding Insights

05:30 Equipment Upgrades

09:07 Sponsor Break

11:17 Camera Evolution

16:18 Posing Techniques

20:04 Working with Kids

23:08 Full-time Job Experience

29:06 Sponsor Break

35:24 Wedding Photography

39:11 Reception Fun

41:10 Flash Photography Tips

44:07 Second Shooter Role

48:15 Entrepreneurial Insights

51:03 Handling Setbacks

55:19 Balancing Jobs

59:22 Time Management Tips

1:00:28 System Implementation

1:02:00 Final Thoughts

Sponsors:

Planet Duct: Your go-to cleaning service in Colorado Springs. www.PlanetDuct.com  

Pinnacle Advanced Primary Care: Hassle-free healthcare. www.pinnacleapc.com 

Franchise Succeed: Elevate your business through franchising. www.franchisesucceed.com 

Epoch Eyewear: Timeless Quality, Modern Edge. https://epocheyewear.com/

HomeDay : https://gethomeday.com/

Neon Pig Creative: https://neonpigcreative.com/

Exponential Impact: https://www.exponentialimpact.com/

Fast Signs: https://www.fastsigns.com/

Cars Helping Charities: https://carshelpingcharities.org/

Celebrity DJ: https://celebrity-dj.com/

Storybook Destinations - https://www.storybookdestinations.com/

Dream Accounting - https://dreamaccountingsolutions.com/

Awesome Home Services - https://www.awesomeservice.com/

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Kaitlyn Gardner, the Business Office Manager at 3 Cubed Coworking, one of Colorado Springs' most dynamic co-working spaces! In this episode of the COS Business Podcast, Kaitlyn opens up about her journey, from moving to Colorado Springs to managing a thriving co-working community. She shares the challenges she faced, the inspiration behind 3 Cubed Coworking, and her insights on building a collaborative environment that supports entrepreneurs, freelancers, and growing businesses.

Learn about the ups and downs of managing a co-working space, how Kaitlyn balances her role with family life, and her advice for anyone looking to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry. If you're interested in entrepreneurship, community building, or the co-working movement, this episode is packed with value and inspiration!

🔔 Don't forget to subscribe to the COS Business Podcast for more stories from entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators in Colorado Springs!

Timestamps: 0:00 Intro3:15 Kaitlyn’s Background & Journey to Colorado Springs10:45 Challenges in the Co-working Industry18:30 Building the 3 Cubed Community25:20 Kaitlyn’s Tips for Success in Business35:10 The Power of Co-working Spaces45:00 Work-Life Balance & Family58:00 Episode Wrap-up

Sponsors:

- Planet Duct: Your go-to cleaning service in Colorado Springs. www.PlanetDuct.com  

- Pinnacle Advanced Primary Care: Hassle-free healthcare. www.pinnacleapc.com 

- Franchise Succeed: Elevate your business through franchising. www.franchisesucceed.com 

- Epoch Eyewear: Timeless Quality, Modern Edge.

https://epocheyewear.com/

- HomeDay : https://gethomeday.com/

- Neon Pig Creative: https://neonpigcreative.com/

- Exponential Impact: https://www.exponentialimpact.com/

- Fast Signs: https://www.fastsigns.com/

- Cars Helping Charities: https://carshelpingcharities.org/

- Celebrity DJ: https://celebrity-dj.com/

- Storybook Destinations - https://www.storybookdestinations.com/

- Dream Accounting - https://dreamaccountingsolutions.com/

- Awesome Home Services - https://www.awesomeservice.com/