In this episode, we sit down with therapist Emily Bowman for an open and thoughtful discussion on what it means to care for our mental health. Emily shares her insights from years of working with clients, exploring themes of resilience, self-compassion, and the importance of creating space for honesty in the healing process.

We talk about the challenges people face when seeking therapy, how to break through stigma, and the everyday practices that support growth and well-being. With warmth and clarity, Emily offers listeners both practical guidance and a reminder that therapy isn’t about “fixing” yourself — it’s about learning to understand and care for who you already are.

In this episode of WKRP Montrose, we sit down with Arthur Lujan, owner of Montrose Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Arthur shares his journey into martial arts, the philosophy behind Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and how he’s created a space where people of all ages and skill levels can train, grow, and build confidence.

From the physical discipline on the mat to the life lessons carried off of it, Arthur talks about why Jiu-Jitsu is more than a sport—it’s a lifestyle and a community. Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist, curious beginner, or just someone interested in personal growth, this conversation offers an inside look at the art of Jiu-Jitsu and the passion driving one of Montrose’s unique local businesses.

In this episode of WKRP Montrose, we sit down with the unstoppable Colleen Zweigler—an ER nurse, real estate agent, and president of the board for the iconic Olathe Sweet Corn Festival. Colleen wears a lot of hats, but her passion for community is what ties them all together.

She gives us the inside scoop on how the festival comes to life each year—from logistics to corn-themed chaos—and why she decided to pick up the reins of this beloved tradition. Colleen also addresses the question on everyone's mind: why is the Olathe Sweet Corn Festival now held in Montrose instead of Olathe? Her answer might surprise you.

It’s a conversation about legacy, logistics, and sweet corn—and one more reminder that nothing happens without the people who care enough to show up and make it work.

Links to include in the description for YouTube:

Visit the Olathe Sweet Corn Festival website to learn more about the festival as well as to sign up to be volunteer or a vendor: https://www.olathesweetcornfest.com/

Register for the Hero 5K Run/Walk Honoring Olathe Police Department: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/RYVQVTK8QPARF/checkout/YDJVMMNS5SPALHAKJER47RUA

Check out the musical headliners, the Chris Lozano Band here: https://chrislozanoband.com/home

In this episode of WKRP Montrose, we sit down with Ashley Freeburg, a woman whose story is

deeply woven into the fabric of Montrose. Born in California but raised in Montrose from the age

of four, Ashley shares how her family arrived in town with next to nothing—and how they built

not just a thriving business, but a lasting legacy of community involvement and compassion.

Ashley reflects on her journey through various local jobs, the lessons learned along the way,

and how those experiences helped shape her current role at a company with nationwide reach.

But the heart of Ashley’s story lies in the nonprofit her family founded, Peer Kindness, born out

of unimaginable loss and built to help others through education, empathy, and connection.

Now a wife, mother of two, and soon-to-be returning board member of Peer Kindness, Ashley

talks about the importance of staying grounded, giving back, and leading with love in a town that

helped raise her.

It’s a moving conversation about resilience, community, and the power of kindness.

In this episode, we sit down with Ed LeViness, the man behind Ed’s Fly Shop on Main Street—a

cornerstone of Montrose’s outdoor culture. Ed makes the case that Montrose, Colorado, just

might be the best fly fishing destination in the entire United States, and he’s got the rivers,

seasons, and stories to back it up.

But before Ed was outfitting locals and travelers alike with rods, reels, and river wisdom, he lived

a whole other life. We talk about his journey to Montrose, the leap of faith it took to open a fly

shop, and how building a business around his passion has shaped his view of community,

conservation, and the quiet art of fly fishing.

Whether you’re an experienced angler or someone who’s never stepped into a pair of waders,

this is a conversation about following the current—and finding home on the river.

In this episode of WKRP Montrose, Montrose Mayor Dave Frank returns for his second appearance in our recurring segment Frankly Speaking. With his usual candid style, Mayor Frank shares insights into the current wave of construction across the city—and why being proactive now is essential for Montrose’s future.We also touch on what’s ahead this summer and fall, from community events to city-led initiatives, and the mayor gives us a brief update on the City of Montrose’s involvement and response to the recent South Rim Fire near the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.It’s a down-to-earth check-in with Montrose’s top civic leader—practical, thoughtful, and full of that signature “Frank” perspective.

In this episode of WKRP Montrose, we sit down with The Brothers Swampy—a soulful, swampy musical duo made up of longtime friends Mark “Puker” Spindler and Donny Morales. What started as a musical side project quickly grew into something more: a heartfelt mission to give back.Mark and Donny share the origin story of The Brothers Swampy, how their friendship evolved into a band, and why they chose to direct their creative energy toward supporting The Dolphin House, a Nationally Accredited Child Advocacy Center serving Colorado’s 7th Judicial District.Tune in as we talk music, brotherhood, and the power of using art to support children in crisis. This episode is a tribute to those who turn passion into purpose—and to the organizations like The Dolphin House that help kids find their voice in the face of trauma.

In this episode of WKRP Montrose, we sit down with Heather Simpson, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Montrose, Colorado. With heart, humor, and deep local knowledge, Heather shares what it takes to build a space where kids feel safe, seen, and inspired.From after-school programs and summer camps to mentorship and leadership development, the Boys & Girls Club plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation—and Heather is at the helm, steering with compassion and purpose. We talk about the challenges facing youth in our community, the importance of positive adult relationships, and the Club’s vision for the future.Whether you’re a parent, a potential volunteer, or just someone who cares about Montrose’s youth, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with Audrey Gehlhausen, president of Billy Goat Hop Farm—a thriving 32‑acre operation in Montrose, Colorado. Founded in 2017, Billy Goat has persevered in an industry that’s known for being tough and unpredictable. Audrey gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to grow hops here—from the intensive infrastructure and year‑round labor to the dedication needed to keep the farm thriving.We dive into the Southwest Fresh Fest, the farm’s annual harvest celebration held from early August to early September. It’s a showcase for fresh hop beer—made with hops picked just hours before brewing—a seasonal delight you can only enjoy during harvest time.Join us for Audrey’s story of growth, resilience, and the passionate work that turns humble hop cones into something worth raising a glass to.

In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan and Lisa from the Magic Circle Theater in Montrose, Colorado. They walk us through what it’s like to keep a community theater alive and thriving, from directing and casting to building sets and selling tickets. We talk about the challenges and the rewards of running a nonprofit theater, and how the support of volunteers and audiences keeps the magic going.Jonathan and Lisa also share their plans for the future of Magic Circle, including exciting updates to the theater itself and what audiences can expect from upcoming productions. More than anything, this conversation is a testament to the passion and dedication that goes into every performance.If you’ve ever been moved by a live show—or just want to know what it takes to make one happen—this is a conversation worth listening to.