Springs and Things – Details, episodes & analysis

Welcome to the first-ever episode of Springs and Things, the show where two friends take you on a wild ride through the heart of Colorado Springs!

In this debut episode, we get real about what made us want to start a podcast together, a little background on who we are, and, of course, how this friendship blossomed.

Stick around to hear about our “Picks of the Week” — where we each choose our favorite thing happening around town right now. Trust us, you’re going to want to mark these on your calendar!

So, settle in, grab a cup of coffee, and get to know us! We're so excited for this new adventure!

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!

PICKS OF THE WEEK
 
Carly: Pub Trivia, including: 

• Geeks Who Drink - Colorado Springs (locations include Tony's, CO.A.T.I, Mother Muff’s and more)
• Pub Dog
• Bristol Brewery

Lauren's Pick: The City Dog and The Prairie Dog at the Fine Arts Center

Today, we’re tackling something that seems to hit us all as the year winds down. November brings a whirlwind of activity: from election season with all its buzz and urgency to the holidays, just around the corner, adding their own layer of excitement—and, let’s be honest, feelings of overwhelm!

So, how do you beat the burnout and actually enjoy this season without losing your mind?

We’ll share our personal tips, favorite local escapes, and stress-busting spots around Colorado Springs to help you keep your cool and find some balance.

So, grab your coffee, take a deep breath, and let’s dive into all the ways to find your calm in the city we love.

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!

PICKS OF THE WEEK
Lauren: Beaver Moon Celebration at SunWater Spa
Carly: Acacia Park Holiday Celebration

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Forest Bathing

• Bear Creek Nature Center
• Above the Clouds Forest Bathing at Mueller State Park
• Flying Pig Farm
• Garden of the Gods Forest Bathing

Massage

• Nicole Kunz on Colorado Avenue (not online

Outdoors/Nature

• Mt. Cutler
• Frisbee golf at Cheyenne Mountain State Park

MISC

• Mindful Mornings
• Acey Holmes with BoredLess
• Bemis School of Art at the Fine Arts Center
• Kinship Landing 
• The Mining Exchange

Welcome to Springs and Things, the podcast where two close friends spill the tea on all things Colorado Springs!

From quirky neighborhood lore and hidden spots only locals know about to the events you’ve just got to check out. If it’s happening here, we’re talking about it!

So, who are we? We are Lauren Ferrara and Carly Ries, two friends who are obsessed with this city -- we like to think of ourselves as the hype girls for COS, but we're not just here to chat about the touristy stuff.

We’re uncovering the story behind a mural downtown, we’re hitting up the newest show, and debating which coffee shop actually serves the best cappuccino!

And we’re creating space for community, culture, and joy!

Springs and Things is here to give you a true insider’s view, with plenty of laughs. We’re not just guides—we’re in it with you, getting excited about what makes this city tick.

And we want you to join us for every sip, every story, and every laugh along the way. So, if you’re a local who wants to get even closer to your city or a visitor hoping to see beyond the tourist trail, this podcast is for you.

Oh, and trust us, we’re not holding back. Think of it like a friendly chat where we dive into the funny, the fascinating, and even the odd side of the Springs.

We’ll cover hot topics and bring you the latest buzz from around town, but we’re also digging into the history, the hidden legends, and the little-known stories that make Colorado Springs feel like home.

So, subscribe now and join us for Springs and Things! We’re here to bring you along for the ride with our light-hearted take on the city we LOVE.

You never know what’s coming up next—whether it’s a wild local tale, a new favorite spot, or a bit of neighborhood trivia you’ll want to share. Together, we’ll explore the Springs like you’ve never heard it before.

So, get ready to sip, laugh, and discover the stories that make Colorado Springs one of a kind.

Welcome to Springs and Things!

Who says fun has to cost a fortune? We’re flipping the script and diving into free and low-cost gems Colorado Springs has to offer. 

From donation-based yoga to hidden waterfalls, from free summer camps to secret museum passes, we’ve got you covered—without spending a dime (or at least very few of them).

And hey, we’re kicking off our own no-spend challenge—so join us! Share your favorite free finds and let’s make this the season of doing more with less.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

- Film In The Community by Rocky Mountain Women's Film
- Concrete Couch (Citizen Science, Fab Lab, free summer camps, etc)
- Seven's Gate Free Yoga
- Paint Mines Interpretive Park
- Bear Creek Nature Center
- Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center
- DCPA Access
- Final dress rehearsal at Fine Arts Center
- Pikes Peak Culture Pass
- Geocaching
- Helen Hunt Falls
- Pikes Peak Library District activities and events

PICKS OF THE WEEK

- Kidpower Colorado Springs
- Yobel
- The Look Up Gallery

WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR

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 their website to get this offer!

If your house is screaming chaos but your soul is craving calm, this episode is your spring cleaning spirit guide.

We’re chatting with Colorado Springs’ own organizing wizard, Jen Campo, of The Simple Sort, about how clearing the clutter can clear your head. From laundry chairs that became permanent furniture to junk drawers that have their own zip code, we cover it all—without judgment. 

Get ready to ditch the mess, reclaim your time, and maybe even breathe a little easier in your own home. This episode is like a deep exhale for your life…

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• Kinship Landing
• Homa Cafe and Bar
• Frankly Coffee
• The Exchange
• OCC Brewing

PICKS OF THE WEEK

• UpaDowna Headlamp Hikes
• Dog Days At The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR

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 their website to get this offer!

Pop the cork and pour a glass—this week on Springs and Things, we’re diving into four days of wine, cocktails, master sommeliers, and live music, all in the name of a great cause!

Carly and Lauren are spilling the tea (or should we say, the wine?) on the 33rd Annual Wine Festival of Colorado Springs and why it’s so much more than just a sip-and-swirl affair.

We sit down with Nathan Halverson, Executive Director of the Colorado Springs Conservatory (the beneficiary of the Wine Festival), to chat about wine, the arts, and why everyone (yes, even you!) should embrace their creative side.

Tune in, laugh with us, and grab your tickets before they’re gone—no seriously, tickets are going super fast.

PICKS OF THE WEEK

Lauren's Picks:

- Film In The Community by Rocky Mountain Women's Film is featuring 3 short films on 2/13 in acknowledgement of Black History Month.
- Grab your tickets to Infinity now and step into a world where dance, drag, and music collide in the most spectacular way!

Carly's Picks:

- Dan Lee at Ohana Kava Bar on 2/14 beginning at 8:00 PM
- Sara Van Hecke at Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort from 6:00-8:00 PM

WE HAVE AWESOME SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

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

Broadmoor Winter Polo Classic
The Broadmoor Winter Polo Classic is coming to the Norris Penrose event center on 2/22! You can find tickets at winterpoloclassic.org, plus use codes SENIOR, THANKYOU (military and first responders), COLLEGE , and CHILD to receive $5 off tickets.

Core Collective
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!

Brrr, it’s cold in here! But don’t worry, we’re about to warm things up! On this episode, Carly and Lauren are diving into all the best ways to beat the winter blues in Colorado Springs. From hot yoga and cozy cafés to wave pools, tiki bars, and even mermaid school (yes, really!), we’re finding summer in the middle of a snowstorm.

Plus, we chat with Little Fins Swim School about why now is the best time to get your kids prepped for water safety. And let’s be real—these instructors have heard it all from kids (and parents), so expect some hilarious behind-the-scenes stories!

So grab your warmest drink (or flaming tiki cocktail) and join us as we uncover the best places to escape the chill!

Let’s dive in!

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

- The Little Dipper Pool
- Toodles Tearoom
- Surf Shack
- Manitou Springs Pool
- Cottonwood Creek YMCA
- Tri-Lakes YMCA
- Shrunken Head Tiki
- Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii
- White Pie

PICKS OF THE WEEK

- Lauren's pick: Mindful Mornings on Friday, 2/7
- Carly's pick: Spotlight: A Night of Play at the Fine Arts Center - BOGO (buy one get one free) deal using the code springsthings

WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS/PARTNERS

Ent Center for the Arts

Grab your tickets to Infinity now and step into a world where dance, drag, and music collide in the most spectacular way! Visit entarts.org/InfinitySprings to secure your seats.

Broadmoor Winter Polo Classic

The Broadmoor Winter Polo Classic is coming to the Norris Penrose event center on 2/22! You can find tickets at winterpoloclassic.org, plus use codes SENIOR, THANKYOU (military and first responders), COLLEGE , and CHILD to receive $5 off tickets.

Little Fins Swim School

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

Core Collective

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!

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!