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

Raise your glass (or your zero-proof cocktail) and join Lauren and Carly as they explore the booming non-alcoholic scene in Colorado Springs! In this fun and flavorful episode, we’re diving into the world of mocktails, highlighting the best spots in town to sip on booze-free beverages.

• Discover Gratitude Zero Proof Bar: Hear from Michele Garrett, the inspiring co-owner of Colorado Springs' first zero-proof bar, as she shares the journey behind creating a space where everyone can feel included—whether you're pregnant, in recovery, or just opting for healthier choices.
• Mocktail Favorites: From smoky margaritas to the unforgettable RBG, Lauren and Carly share their top picks for alcohol-free sips, including fun options from Cork & Cask and Golden Hour.
• The Non-Alcoholic Movement: Learn why the mocktail revolution is more than just a trend and how it’s creating a healthier, more inclusive culture for all.
• A Touch of Nostalgia: Plus, we’ll reminisce about the not-so-great Shirley Temple days and celebrate how far non-alcoholic options have come!

Whether you're taking a break from booze or just curious about the mocktail scene, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughter, and must-visit spots to check out.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• Gratitude Zero Proof Bar
• Golden Hour at The Mining Exchange
• Bristol Brewing Company
• Axe and the Oak Distillery
• Cork and Cask
• 503W

PICKS OF THE WEEK

Lauren's Picks: 

• Heart Sellers, brought to you by Theatreworks debuts at The Ent Center for the Arts on January 30.
• The Great Fruitcake Toss was rescheduled to February 1!
• New Moon Soundbath with Singing Bowls of the Rockies is taking place on January 29.

Carly's Pick:

• Winter Fun at Fox Run on February 1

Bonus Pick: SPOTLIGHT: A Night of Play! at the Fine Arts Center (2/8). Get a BOGO deal (Buy One Get One Free) using code springsthings at checkout!

WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS

Little Fins Swim School
From Infant Survival Swimming to fun programs like Aqua Babies and Mermaid Training, they help kids become confident, water-safe swimmers. Woman-owned and family-operated, they’re dedicated to making Colorado kids safer around water.

Visit littlefinsswimschool.com and type in SPRINGSANDTHINGS for 10% off 1st month of any recurring plan or any 10-pack!

Core Collective
These pilates classes are designed to help you build strength and flexibility, improve your posture and mental health, and reduce stress.

If you use the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS, you can get 3 classes for $30. Head to corecollectiveCOS.com to get this offer!

Share the Love: If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a five-star review and share it with a friend!

This week, we’re diving into the rich world of theater that’s right in our backyard.

From heartwarming community productions to professional stages brimming with talent, there’s something magical about stepping into a theater and escaping into a story.

We’re pulling back the curtain on Heart Sellers, the latest from TheaterWorks, chatting with its director, Jenna Moll Reyes, about the show as well as entertaining conversations about theater etiquette, why audience engagement is the secret sauce to any live performance, and the craziest thing she's experienced on stage. For 10% off any performance of Heart Sellers, be sure to use the code mentioned in the episode.

We also share how you can experience incredible shows around town for discounted prices—some even for free! 

AWESOME THEATERS IN COLORADO SPRINGS

- Ent Center For The Arts  
- Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College
- Lightbulb Theatre Company
- The Funky Little Theater
- Academy of Children's Theatre (ACT)
- Millibo Art Theater

PICKS OF THE WEEK

- Lauren's Picks: The Great Fruitcake Toss (1/25) and Itty Bitty Oracle Yoga and Art Workshop (1/25)
- Carly's Pick: Nature Hike In North Cheyenne Canon Park (1/25 plus other dates)
- Bonus Pick: SPOTLIGHT: A Night of Play! at the Fine Arts Center (2/8). Get a BOGO deal (Buy One Get One Free) using code springsthings at checkout!

WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS

Little Fins Swim School
From Infant Survival Swimming to fun programs like Aqua Babies and Mermaid Training, they help kids become confident, water-safe swimmers. Woman-owned and family-operated, they’re dedicated to making Colorado kids safer around water.

Visit littlefinsswimschool.com and type in SPRINGSANDTHINGS for 10% off 1st month of any recurring plan or any 10-pack!

Core Collective
These pilates classes are designed to help you build strength and flexibility, improve your posture and mental health, and reduce stress.

If you use the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS, you can get 3 classes for $30. Head to corecollectiveCOS.com to get this offer!

Share the Love: If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a five-star review and share it with a friend!

In this episode of Springs and Things, Carly and Lauren dive into the vibrant, healthy food scene of Colorado Springs, starting with a deep (and hilarious) appreciation for crispy Brussels sprouts done right—because let’s face it, making them at home is a gamble! From Carly’s impressive Whole90 streak to Lauren’s Instagram-inspired morning rituals (hello, olive oil shots). Along the way, they give shoutouts to must-visit healthy eateries like Tapateria and The UTE Restaurant, while debunking the myth that healthy dining is just for coastal cities.

The dynamic duo welcomes Delilah Ala, founder of the 37,000-strong COS Foodies Facebook group, to share her favorite local spots, hidden gems, and the heartwarming stories of community support within the local food and beverage industry. From adventurous eats to Whole30-friendly dishes, this episode serves up a flavorful mix of fun banter, expert insights, and delicious recommendations. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for your next healthy meal, this episode has you covered!

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

- Evergreen Restaurant
- Mountain View Cafe
- TILL
- Vine & Wheel
- Adam's Mountain Cafe
- Jax Fish House and Oyster Bar Restaurant
- Ristorante Di Sopra
- The French Kitchen
- Carlos' Bistro
- Monse's Pupuseria
- AMBLI
- Four by Brother Luck
- Black Forest Farmer's Market
- The Sourdough Boulangerie
- Cotton Blossom Caramel
- Smith Farms

PICKS OF THE WEEK

- Lauren: Silent Book Club (1/14)
- Carly: Salsa Night at Ivywild (1/18)
- Bonus Pick: BOGO Deal (Buy One Get One Free) for SPOTLIGHT: A Night of Play! at the Fine Arts Center (2/8)

AWESOME SPONSOR ALERT: LITTLE FINS SWIM SCHOOL

Drowning is a leading cause of death for children—but it’s preventable. Little Fins Swim School teaches life-saving water safety through personalized, one-on-one lessons, starting as young as 6 months. From Infant Survival Swimming to fun programs like Aqua Babies and Mermaid Training, they help kids become confident, water-safe swimmers. Woman-owned and family-operated, they’re dedicated to making Colorado kids safer around water.

Visit littlefinsswimschool.com and type in SPRINGSANDTHINGS for 10% off 1st month of any recurring plan or any 10-pack!

AWESOME SPONSOR ALERT: CORE COLLECTIVE

We are thrilled to continue to have Core Collective as a sponsor in the new year!! Pilates is a great way to improve your physical and mental health. Their classes are designed to help you build strength and flexibility, improve your posture and mental health, and reduce stress. On top of that, they're offering one heck of a deal!

If you use the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS, you can get 3 classes for $30. Head to corecollectiveCOS.com to get this offer!
Share the Love: If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a five-star review and share it with a friend!

What a whirlwind of an episode! Carly and Lauren dove headfirst into the fascinating world of play, proving once again that being an adult doesn’t mean leaving fun behind. 

From New Year’s nostalgia (yes, we’re all still recovering from realizing Y2K was 25 years ago) to picking playful activities in the Springs, this episode served up a delightful buffet of inspiration.

Special guest Acey Holmes, founder of BoredLess and the queen of adult play, schooled us on how play isn’t just fun—it’s a full-on brain workout, complete with dopamine, serotonin, and even a sprinkle of neuroplasticity magic.

This episode is your ultimate guide to turning 2025 into the year of play in Colorado Springs. So channel your inner kid, and get ready to embrace all the fun your city has to offer. Cheers to a playful new year!

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

- BoredLess
- Connect with Acey Holmes on LinkedIn and Instagram
- Mindful Mornings
- Tango Gato
- Whimsical Boxes at FAC's Bemis School of Art
- CityROCK (including the Aerie)
- WhirlyBall
- Frontier Zip Lines at Cave of the Winds
- Cloudscarper Zip Line

PICKS OF THE WEEK

- Lauren's Pick: Vision Board Workshop at 3 Cubed Coworking
- Carly's Pick: Hi Guys Tonight! Late Night Show with Live Studio Audience at The Fifty-Niner. Get tickets here.
- Bonus Pick: BOGO Deal (Buy One Get One Free) for SPOTLIGHT: A Night of Play! at the Fine Arts Center (2/8) using code springsthings

AWESOME SPONSOR ALERT: LITTLE FINS SWIM SCHOOL

Drowning is a leading cause of death for children—but it’s preventable. Little Fins Swim School teaches life-saving water safety through personalized, one-on-one lessons, starting as young as 6 months. From Infant Survival Swimming to fun programs like Aqua Babies and Mermaid Training, they help kids become confident, water-safe swimmers. Woman-owned and family-operated, they’re dedicated to making Colorado kids safer around water.

Visit littlefinsswimschool.com and type in SPRINGSANDTHINGS for 10% off 1st month of any recurring plan or any 10-pack!

AWESOME SPONSOR ALERT: CORE COLLECTIVE

We are thrilled to continue to have Core Collective as a sponsor in the new year!! Pilates is a great way to improve your physical and mental health. Their classes are designed to help you build strength and flexibility, improve your posture and mental health, and reduce stress. On top of that, they're offering one heck of a deal!

If you use the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS, you can get 3 classes for $30. Head to corecollectiveCOS.com to get this offer!

Share the Love: If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a five-star review and share it with a friend!

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

You'll laugh, you'll relate, and you might even find inspiration for your own Colorado Springs bucket list (Balloon Glow, anyone?). Plus, hear about Carly's plan to make construction traffic fun and Lauren's word of the year: Play! 

Whether you're into home organization, going clean (what does that even mean?), or just want fresh ideas for local adventures, this episode has something for everyone.

Kick off 2025 with a fresh perspective, a little sass, and a whole lot of Colorado Springs love!

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

- Geocaching
- Massage with Nicole Kunz
- Full moon yoga and soak at Sunwater Spa
- Stand-up paddleboarding and yoga SUP in Colorado Springs
- Labor Day Lift Off and Baloon Glow
- Stratton Open Space
- The Simple Sort
- The Living Room
- Jives Coffee Lounge

PICKS OF THE WEEK

- Lauren: New Year's Eve Big Bubble Circus at the Milibo Art Theater - Great for all ages!
- Carly: New Year's Eve Under the Lights - Free and great for all ages!

AWESOME SPONSOR ALERT

We are thrilled to have Core Collective as our very first sponsor!! Pilates is a great way to improve your physical and mental health. Their classes are designed to help you build strength and flexibility, improve your posture and mental health, and reduce stress. On top of that, they're offering one heck of a deal!

If you use the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS, you can get 3 classes for $30 now through the end of 2024! Head to corecollectiveCOS.com to get this offer!

Share the Love: If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a five-star review and share it with a friend!

This holiday season has flown by, but we’re here to slow things down with a lighthearted chat about our favorite Colorado Springs spots, fun activities, and hidden gems. Tune in for laughs, stories, and ideas to test out in the new year!

This episode was basically a love letter to tea, treasure hunts, and fondue (OK, and a bunch of other places). Oh, and Carly revealed she’d survive on gifts from her mom if left to her own shopping skills. Meanwhile, Lauren learned that missing happy hour officially makes it “sad hour.”

Don’t miss our New Year’s Eve special next week for more laughs, chaos, and local tales.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

- Toodles Tearoom
- Mausam
- Surface Gallery
- The Sluice
- Ashley's Attic
- Ford Amphitheater
- Ultra Flat Black Gallery and Lounge
- Garden of the Gods Market and Cafe
- The Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant
- Ephemera
- Concrete Couch
- Allusion Speakeasy
- Concrete Coyote
- Geocaching
- Golden Hour Bar
- Louie Louie's
- Cosmo's Magic Theater
- Night Ramen

PICKS OF THE WEEK

- Lauren: Golden Hour Bar Jazz Thursdays with Sarah Groh (12/26)
- Carly: Rocky Mountain Food Tours

AWESOME SPONSOR ALERT

We are thrilled to have Core Collective as our very first sponsor!! Pilates is a great way to improve your physical and mental health. Their classes are designed to help you build strength and flexibility, improve your posture and mental health, and reduce stress. On top of that, they're offering one heck of a deal!

If you use the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS, you can get 3 classes for $30 now through the end of 2024! Head to corecollectiveCOS.com to get this offer!

Share the Love: If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a five-star review and share it with a friend!

We have a very special guest—someone who's traveled the world, built awe-inspiring art installations, and yet, his heart has brought him home.

Patrick Shearn, the visionary artist behind Poetic Kinetics, is joining us to talk about his roots here in the Springs, the creative upbringing that shaped his work, and his latest immersive exhibit, Psycullescence, at the UCCS Ent Center for the Arts.

From sprawling fields in the Black Forest to epic public art installations across the globe, Patrick shares his journey, his vision for Colorado Springs' creative future, and how collaboration and connection fuel his process.

If you’ve ever wondered about the magic of art that transforms a space—and a community—then this episode is for you.

Want to work with Patrick? Reach out at [email protected]!

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

- Poetic Kinetics
- Galleries of Contemporary Art - Ent Center For The Arts At UCCS
- Downtown Colorado Springs
- Pikes Peak
- Acacia Park
- First Friday Art Walks
- America The Beautiful Park

PICKS OF THE WEEK

- Carly: Peak Improv
- Lauren: Yule Be Naughty, Please! and The Snowflakey Princess at The Millibo Art Theater

AWESOME SPONSOR ALERT

We are thrilled to have Core Collective as our very first sponsor!! Pilates is a great way to improve your physical and mental health. Their classes are designed to help you build strength and flexibility, improve your posture and mental health, and reduce stress. On top of that, they're offering one heck of a deal!

If you use the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS, you can get 3 classes for $30 now through the end of 2024! Head to corecollectiveCOS.com to get this offer!

A holiday scavenger hunt. A Whoville hike. Holiday beer pong. Unique party ideas. Alternatives to Christmas cards. 

These topics just skim the surface of this highly entertaining episode!

Hosts Carly Ries and Lauren Ferrara are joined by guest, Bonnie Goff (co-owner of Core Collective), to explore the festive spirit of Colorado Springs during the holiday season. They share personal holiday traditions, unique activities, and local events that bring the community together. The conversation highlights the joy of celebrating with family and friends while discovering the hidden gems of the city.

PICKS OF THE WEEK

Bonnie: Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort: Breakfast With Santa and Holiday Market
Lauren: Bear Creek By Candle Light at Bear Creek Nature Center
Carly: The Holiday Evening at Rockledge Ranch

MISC MENTIONS

• Mill Hill
• Skate in the Park by Downtown Colorado Springs
• Story Coffee
• NORAD Tracks Santa
• Chistmas Storytime at Cave of the Winds
• Santa Express Train
• Why Wait Stories

AWESOME SPONSOR ALERT

We are thrilled to have Core Collective as our very first sponsor!! Pilates is a great way to improve your physical and mental health. Their classes are designed to help you build strength and flexibility, improve your posture and mental health, and reduce stress. On top of that, they're offering one heck of a deal!

If you use the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS, you can get 3 classes for $30 now through the end of 2024! Head to corecollectiveCOS.com to get this offer!

Have you ever wondered about the hidden stories that make Colorado Springs so unique? Whether you're a die-hard history buff or someone who thinks museums aren't quite your scene, this episode is about to change your perspective.

We sat down with Leah Davis Witherow, the Curator of History at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, and uncovered some of the most fascinating, quirky, and surprising moments from Colorado Springs' past. From the untold tales of the people who shaped this city to the secrets tucked away in everyday landmarks, this conversation is an absolute must-listen.

We got into the must-know things about the city's past, including:

• The juiciest thing the museum walls would discuss if they could talk
• The weirdest law in Colorado Springs history
• The biggest historical Colorado Springs myth debunked
• The craziest artifact the museum has
• Where in Colorado Springs to look for dinosaur footprints (probably not where you think)
• A fierce woman from the city's past who deserves more recognition
• The three people from Colorado Springs's past Leah would invite to a dinner party
• The real reason Colorado Springs used to be a "dry" town
• The "it" spot in Colorado Springs 100 years ago
• The intent behind 50% of the Story

Plus so much more. So, be sure to tune in!

MISC MENTIONS IN THIS EPISODE

• Red Rock Canyon Open Space
• The Broadmoor
• Tokki

PICKS OF THE WEEK

• Lauren: Festival of Lights Family Fun Day at The Pioneer's Museum
• Carly: Sense & Sensibility at Ent Center for the Arts at UCCS

AWESOME SPONSOR ALERT

We are thrilled to have Core Collective as our very first sponsor!! Pilates is a great way to improve your physical and mental health. Their classes are designed to help you build strength and flexibility, improve your posture and mental health, and reduce stress. On top of that, they're offering one heck of a deal!

If you use the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS, you can get 3 classes for $30 now through the end of 2024! Head to corecollectiveCOS.com to get this offer!

Coming to you live from Bristol Brewing! We kept the subtle background noise so that you felt like you were right in the brewery having the conversation with us!

When we say there are so many interesting nuggets throughout this entire episode, we aren’t kidding.

IMPORTANT TO KNOW

Bristol Brewing donates 100% of their profits from their Give Back Mix Pack to three local organizations totaling $790,000 to date, and running. What?!?! That’s incredible!! We discuss these local organizations which include:

• Friends of Cheyenne Cañon
• Venetucci Farm
• Smokebrush Foundation For The Arts 

OTHER COOL THINGS WE LEARNED IN THIS EPISODE

• Whether or not Mike and Amanda Bristol can pick out their own beer in a blind taste test
• The secret to their Pumpkin Ale tasting so good
• Hilarious stories related to the popularity of the Venetucci Pumpkin Ale
• How to get the most flavor when sipping a beer (like when wine people swirl their glass and stick their noses in it!)
• The most unusual ingredient they’ve been asked to try in a beer
• The Bristol beer that has won 10 medals at the Great American Beer Festival
• The beer that should be served with ice cream

MYTHS WE ADDRESS - FACT OR FICTION? WE GET THE TRUTH BEHIND THE FOLLOWING:

• The Bristols use Ivywild school lockers to age their beer.
• You can hear children’s laughter in the brewery at night. 
• The brewery was started as a dare.
• The Ivywild School bell rings when a new beer is released.
• Bristol is planning to open an actual “Beer School.”

PICKS OF THE WEEK

Lauren’s Pick: Cookies with Santa by Colorado Springs Moms Collective

Sunday, December 1st at First & Main Town Center Upper Loft

10% discount using code SPRINGSANDTHINGS

Carly’s Pick: Ask the Actors at The Fine Arts Center

December 1 at 5:00 PM

This event will begin immediately following the Dec. 1, 2 p.m. performance of The Little Mermaid. It is free and open to the public; no reservations required. 

AWESOME SPONSOR ALERT

We are thrilled to have Core Collective as our very first sponsor!! Pilates is a great way to improve your physical and mental health. Their classes are designed to help you build strength and flexibility, improve your posture and mental health, and reduce stress. On top of that, they're offering one heck of a deal!

If you use the code SPRINGSANDTHINGS, you can get 3 classes for $30 now through the end of 2024! Head to corecollectiveCOS.com to get this offer!

As always, remember to drink responsibly!