Springs and Things

Lauren Ferrara and Carly Ries
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  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Springs and Things, the podcast where two close friends spill the tea on all things Colorado Springs! From culture and community to hidden gems and neighborhood lore, we’ve got it covered. Join us as we sip our coffee (or maybe something stronger) and dive into the stories and secrets that make this city so unique. Whether you're a local or just passing through, our fun, light-hearted, and always entertaining take on the quirks, hot topics, and insider tips will keep you coming back for more. Discover what’s really happening in the Springs—beyond the mountains and parks!

  1. 4D AGO

    Foster Care in Colorado Springs: The Stories, The Struggles, and The People Showing Up

    You probably think you know what foster care is about. A child leaves a bad situation, lands in a safe one, and that's that. But what about everything else they lose in the process: their bedroom, their dog, their neighborhood, their friends? The reality is so much more complicated than most of us realize. In this episode, Ben Schoch from Kids Crossing pulls back the curtain on what actually happens when a child enters foster care in Colorado Springs, from the Tuesday night phone call a grandparent never expected to the team of professionals that shows up at your door.  Whether you've ever thought about fostering, know someone who has, or just want to understand what's happening in our community, this conversation will stay with you.  And remember, the label "foster child" misses the point entirely. These are just kids. In this episode, we cover:  How Kids Crossing supports families across Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and Denver beyond traditional foster care. What actually happens the day a child is placed in a foster home. The moment that changed Ben's entire perspective on what "safety" really means. Why you don't need a big house, a partner, or a perfect life to become a foster parent. New kinship care legislation and what it means for grandparents and relatives stepping up. Meaningful ways to support kids in foster care, even if fostering isn't for you, including Camp Faubion and the holiday gift drive. Plus our pick of the week: Panino's.WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS Vanguard Aesthetics — Colorado Springs medical aesthetics focused on natural-looking results. Book a consultation!Modern Interior Company — Full-service interior design for residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces in Colorado Springs. Core Collective — Reformer Pilates for all levels and body types. Use code SPRINGSANDTHINGS for 3 classes for $30. Why Wait Stories — Colorado Springs video storytelling for legacy films, brand films, and life well lived films.

    30 min

  2. APR 7

    The Colorado Springs Music Scene, MeadowGrass & Local Artists Worth Knowing

    Colorado Springs has a music scene worth bragging about, and Steve Harris has spent years making sure people know it. As the longtime guy who books bands for the Meadowgrass Music Festival and one of the Springs' most plugged-in music advocates, Steve joins Carly to talk about the local venues and artists you should know, why the city might finally be having its breakthrough moment, and what it actually takes to run a beloved festival on a shoestring budget and the power of volunteers. In This Episode Steve and Carly dig into what makes the Colorado Springs music scene tick, the metal-punk heartbeat downtown, the rise of free summer outdoor concerts, the loss of local music media, and why Ford Amphitheater means you might never need to fight Red Rocks traffic again. Steve also shares the story behind Meadowgrass, from a scrappy 100-person debut in 2009 to the community institution it is today, including a year they built a pallet bridge over a flooded stage and a snow-blowing crew that saved the festival days before opening. Topics Covered How the Colorado Springs music scene has changed in the last 10–20 years and what the city lost when KRCC went all-news and The Independent shut downThe metal and punk scene: why it thrives here, and the venues driving itThe rise of free outdoor summer concerts and the unintended tension they create for working musicians trying to get paidLocal artists worth knowing right nowWhy Ford Amphitheater is a legitimate Red Rocks alternative...and the parking pro tip that changes everythingWhether Colorado Springs is on the verge of a real music breakthroughThe origin story of Meadowgrass and how a conference retreat center, Bristol Brewing, and a room full of community partners launched something in 2009 that's still going strongWhy Meadowgrass is not a bluegrass festival (and what it actually is)The volunteer army behind the scenes and the chaos that made the festival resilientHow Steve curates the lineup: the one-third local/regional/national formula and why he's especially fired up about this yearThe most unforgettable Meadowgrass performance ever: the Todd Snider storyWhat makes Meadowgrass different from bigger Colorado festivalsWhat's new in 2026Rapid fire: best Colorado Springs venue, most underrated local band, pre-show food, recovery breakfast, and the song that captures the SpringsThe only-in-Colorado-Springs music momentArtists & Venues Mentioned Tejon Street Corner Thieves · Jeremy Facknitz · Grant Sabin · A Carpenter's Daughter · Billy Strings · Todd Snider · Kyle Hollingsworth Band · Black Sheep · Vultures · Thrashers Bar · Lulu's Downtown · Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort · Stargazers · Phantom Canyon Brewing · Ford Amphitheater · La Foret Conference & Retreat Center Connect with Meadowgrass 🎪 Tickets & Lineup: RockyMountainHighway.org 📱 Instagram & Facebook🗓️ Memorial Day Weekend · La Forêt, Colorado Springs We Love Our Sponsors Vanguard Aesthetics — Colorado Springs medical aesthetics focused on natural-looking results. Book a consultation! Modern Interior Company — Full-service interior design for residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces in Colorado Springs.  Core Collective — Reformer Pilates for all levels and body types. Use code SPRINGSANDTHINGS for 3 classes for $30.  Why Wait Stories — Colorado Springs video storytelling for legacy films, brand films, and life well lived films.  Episode FAQs Is Meadowgrass a bluegrass festival? Despite the name, no. Steve describes it as an Americana melting pot: expect blues, folk, funk, New Orleans jazz, country, and yes, some bluegrass. The philosophy is that you should love every day of the lineup, not just pick the one that matches your taste. When is Meadowgrass and how do I get tickets? Meadowgrass takes place Memorial Day Weekend at La Forêt Conference and Retreat Center in Colorado Springs. Music on Friday starts around 5:30 p.m., and a beer festival featuring 8–10 local breweries is included with your Friday or weekend pass. Tickets and full lineup details are at RockyMountainHighway.org. What is the Colorado Springs music scene actually like; is it worth exploring? Steve says the scene is more developed than most people realize, especially if you didn't grow up here. The metal and punk scene is thriving thanks in part to the city's large military population, with venues like Black Sheep, Vultures, and Thrasher's leading the charge. But there's also a rich Americana, folk, blues, and jazz undercurrent, and free outdoor summer concerts nearly every day of the week make it easy to discover something new without spending a dime. Enjoyed this episode? Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review, share it with a friend you want to bring to Meadowgrass, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss an episode of Springs & Things.

    40 min

  3. MAR 31

    The Man Who Knows Everything Happening in Colorado Springs Spills It All

    If you have ever stood in your kitchen on a Saturday morning wondering what to do in Colorado Springs this weekend, this episode is your new best friend. Carly sits down with Jonathan Toman of Peak Radar and the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region, to break down the annual events guide that tracks over 3,000 events across El Paso, Teller, and Fremont Counties every single year. From heritage festivals to bizarre-but-beloved quirky traditions, Jonathan reveals the anchor events that define life in the Pikes Peak region, plus a few once-in-a-decade celebrations happening in 2026 that you absolutely cannot miss. In This Episode: Jonathan and Carly cover the events that best capture the personality of Colorado Springs (including one that feeds the whole family for $5), the festivals that make longtime locals say "how did I not know about this," and the quirky traditions that are uniquely, wonderfully ours. They also dig into the hidden gems worth pairing with bigger events on the same weekend, the newest annual events that have earned their place on the calendar, and why Labor Day weekend in Colorado Springs is so much more than balloons. Events and Resources Mentioned: Colorado Springs Western Street BreakfastPikes Peak Ascent and MarathonGreen Box Arts FestivalCripple Creek Ice FestivalEmma Crawford Coffin RacesDonkey Derby DaysCommon Wheel Arts FestivalVictor Celebrates the ArtsPikes Peak Air ShowUnited We Rock Festival Fiestas PatriasRocky Mountain Flower FestGold Rush DaysMeadowgrass Music FestivalRocky Mountain Women's Film FestivalVintage Baseball GameBronc Day Picks of the Week: Money Museum in Colorado Springs Connect with Peak Radar: WebsiteInstagramFacebookX We Love Our Sponsors: Vanguard AestheticsColorado Springs medical aesthetics focused on natural-looking, personalized results. Book a consultation today! Modern Interior Co.Colorado Springs full-service interior design studio handling residential, commercial, and hospitality projects from concept to completion.  Core CollectiveBoutique Pilates studio in Colorado Springs offering reformer classes, semi-private sessions, and private training. Use code SPRINGSANDTHINGS for 3 classes for $30 total! Why Wait StoriesColorado Springs video storytelling specializing in legacy films, life well lived films, and brand films. Springs and Things is your weekly guide to living, exploring, and thriving in Colorado Springs. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and leave us a five-star review if this episode helped you fill up that calendar.

    42 min

  4. MAR 24

    [Re-Release] Colorado Springs Interior Design Tips That Instantly Improve Your Home

    Due to its popularity, we've decided to re-release this episode! Please note, however, some of the events are dated, but that design inspo is still oh so relevant :) If you’ve ever saved a home photo on Instagram and thought, “Love this…but why doesn’t it work in my house?”...this episode explains exactly why. On this week’s Springs and Things, we sit down with Elisha Niebuhr, CEO of Modern Interior Company, to unpack what actually works in Colorado Springs homes, and what we should probably stop copying from New York, Austin, and Pinterest altogether. Elisha shares her unexpected path from professional ballerina to luxury interior designer, then gets very real about the most common design mistakes she sees across the Springs. She explains how our light, landscape, and lifestyle completely change how trends show up here, and why homes should feel lived-in, layered, and personal instead of themed. We also cover the easiest upgrades with the biggest payoff (paint, lighting, and furniture that actually finishes a space), underrated neighborhoods with serious design potential, and what a true Colorado-inspired color palette looks like heading into 2026. Fair warning: you may finish this episode looking around your house thinking, “Okay…we need to talk about this wall.” PICKS OF THE WEEK Prime25Boonzaaijer's Dutch BakeryModern Interior Co Design Day and Furniture SaleWE LOVE OUR SPONSORS Vanguard AestheticsVanguard Aesthetics helps clients discover their most radiant selves by blending expert care with individualized beauty. Since 2013, they’ve offered medical-grade skincare and tailored aesthetic treatments that enhance natural features while prioritizing comfort and safety. Their team takes the time to understand each client’s lifestyle, skin goals, and vision so every visit leaves them feeling refreshed, confident, and authentically themselves. Modern Interior CoModern Interior Co. is a full-service interior design firm based in Colorado Springs that specializes in creating beautiful, elevated homes without the stress. Known for delivering seamless, high-touch design experiences from concept to completion, they help busy professionals and high-end homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle. Core CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30!

    29 min

  5. MAR 17

    How One Program Is Making the Arts More Accessible for Families in Colorado Springs

    What if your kids’ next favorite experience wasn’t a screen, but a symphony? In this episode of Springs & Things, we sit down with Joye Levy, Director of the Center for Future Audiences at the Colorado Springs Philharmonic, to talk about a program that’s changing how families experience the arts in our city. The Free for Kids program is opening the doors to live orchestral performances for the next generation, making it easier (and more fun) than ever to introduce kids to music, creativity, and community. But this conversation goes far beyond logistics… We get into: What actually happens in a child’s brain during their first orchestra experienceWhy kids often leave more engaged (and imaginative) than parents expectThe surprising ways music sparks storytelling, creativity, and emotional expressionHow families can attend dozens of performances (many for free)The real etiquette parents should know (hint: it’s more relaxed than you think)Why the arts are so important in a city like Colorado SpringsHow programs like this are shaping the future of our local communityWhether you’re a parent, grandparent, or just someone who loves seeing Colorado Springs thrive, this episode will give you a whole new perspective on what the arts can do. Featured Program: Free for Kids – Colorado Springs Philharmonic Joye’s Picks of the Week Philharmonic Signature Series at the Ent Center (featuring world-class young pianists)Women’s Playwriting Festival at The Millibo Art TheatreWhy This Episode Matters Colorado Springs is known for mountains and outdoor adventure, but there’s a growing movement to make the arts just as accessible, collaborative, and impactful. This episode is your inside look at how that’s happening, and how you can be part of it. Enjoying the show? If you loved this episode: Leave a 5-star reviewShare it with a friend (especially one with kids!)Follow Springs & Things on Apple & Spotify

    27 min

  6. MAR 10

    71. The Mother of the First Colorado IVF Baby Shares Her Remarkable Journey

    Long before IVF clinics were common and long before infertility was openly discussed, one Colorado Springs woman helped open the door for millions of families. In this powerful episode of Springs and Things, Carly sits down with Ellen Weir Casey, the mother of Colorado’s first IVF baby. In the early 1980s, when IVF was still experimental and often referred to as a “test tube baby,” Ellen spent years researching emerging fertility technologies, traveling across North America for groundbreaking procedures, and refusing to give up on her dream of becoming a mother. What began as a deeply personal journey soon became part of Colorado Springs history. Ellen shares the incredible story behind those early days of IVF, from researching medical journals in the basement of the public library to navigating a world where infertility was rarely talked about. Her courage helped bring awareness to a technology that has since helped millions of families around the world. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of women who push open doors for future generations. In This Episode, You’ll Hear: What IVF looked like in the early 1980s when it was still considered experimentalHow Ellen researched groundbreaking fertility treatments before the internet existedThe emotional and physical challenges she faced during her journey to motherhoodWhy infertility was rarely discussed publicly at the timeHow the birth of her daughter became Colorado Springs historyWhy Ellen felt a responsibility to tell the world about IVFThe inspiration behind her memoir UnstoppableAbout Ellen Weir Casey Ellen Weir Casey is the author of Unstoppable: Forging the Path to Motherhood in the Early Days of IVF. Her daughter, Elizabeth, was one of the earliest IVF babies in the United States and the first in Colorado. Ellen’s journey helped bring awareness to fertility treatments at a time when infertility was rarely discussed publicly. Follow Ellen on Instagram. Book Mentioned Unstoppable: Forging the Path to Motherhood in the Early Days of IVFPicks of the Week La Concha Bakery: A local Colorado Springs favorite known for its incredible breads and pastries.Front Range Mahjong: A fun way to learn and play this classic game while connecting with others in the community.We Love Our Sponsors Vanguard Aesthetics – Personalized skincare treatments that meet you wherever you are on your skincare journey.Modern Interior Company – Transform your home with expert design and thoughtful interiors.Core Collective – Strong, welcoming Pilates classes in Colorado Springs.Why Wait Stories – Legacy films and storytelling experiences that preserve your family’s most meaningful stories.Enjoying Springs and Things? Leave a 5-star review, follow the show on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share this episode with a friend who loves Colorado Springs stories.

    30 min

  7. MAR 3

    70. Inside Colorado Springs’ New Wellness Passport

    Colorado Springs has always been a place people come to rest, recover, and recharge, from the early days of travelers seeking healing in the Pikes Peak region’s crisp mountain air and mineral springs to today’s thriving wellness scene. Now, VisitCOS has launched its first-ever digital Wellness Passport, and it might be one of the most relaxing ways to explore the city. In this episode of Springs and Things, Carly and Lauren share their experience previewing this new free digital pass that unlocks deals and experiences at local wellness businesses, from salt caves and sound baths to paddleboard yoga, massages, and holistic healing ceremonies. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What the Colorado Springs Wellness Passport is and how it worksHow to download the free digital passport and start redeeming dealsThe types of wellness experiences available in Colorado SpringsWhy the Pikes Peak region has long been a destination for healing and recoveryFavorite Colorado Springs reset activities recommended by local wellness expertsFeatured Colorado Springs Wellness Experiences These local businesses are part of the Wellness Passport and were featured in this episode: Camino Wellness SanctuaryEDENOLOGY Holistic WellnessColorado Salt Cave Wellness CenterDragonfly Paddle YogaStrata Spa at Garden of the Gods ResortSinging Bowls of the RockiesTRU Hair SalonExos/CommonSpirit at the William J. Hybl Sports Medicine and Performance CenterELKE Modern MassageFace FoundrieAscend Spa & Wellness at Hotel PolarisAccess the wellness pass here! We Love Our Sponsors Vanguard AestheticsVanguard Aesthetics helps clients discover their most radiant selves by blending expert care with individualized beauty. Since 2013, they’ve offered medical-grade skincare and tailored aesthetic treatments that enhance natural features while prioritizing comfort and safety. Their team takes the time to understand each client’s lifestyle, skin goals, and vision so every visit leaves them feeling refreshed, confident, and authentically themselves. Modern Interior Co.Modern Interior Co. is a full-service interior design firm based in Colorado Springs that specializes in creating beautiful, elevated homes without the stress. Known for delivering seamless, high-touch design experiences from concept to completion, they help busy professionals and high-end homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle. Core CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30! Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come. Enjoy the show? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this episode with a friend you’d love to go on a wellness adventure with.

    20 min

  8. FEB 24

    69. Behind The Scenes Of A Colorado Springs Newsroom with Matt Meister...

    In this highly entertaining episode, Lauren and Matt Meister (yes, THE Matt Meister), share what it’s really like behind the scenes in local TV news (including a newsroom story that is absolute nightmare fuel) and what finally pushed him to leave traditional broadcasting and launch Peaks2Plains Weather, his new digital-first weather platform built to serve Colorado Springs wherever and whenever you need it. You’ll also hear: The surprising truth about whether Anchorman or The Morning Show is more accurateWhat Matt misses (and doesn’t miss) about the newsroomHow the media world is changing fast, and what local stations should do nextA very embarrassing story that involves Matt (unbeknownst to him) and Carly that is 10 years in the makingPlus so much more. If you love Colorado Springs, love a good behind-the-scenes story, and need a laugh with your coffee…this one’s for you. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS Vanguard AestheticsVanguard Aesthetics helps clients discover their most radiant selves by blending expert care with individualized beauty. Since 2013, they’ve offered medical-grade skincare and tailored aesthetic treatments that enhance natural features while prioritizing comfort and safety. Their team takes the time to understand each client’s lifestyle, skin goals, and vision so every visit leaves them feeling refreshed, confident, and authentically themselves. Modern Interior Co.Modern Interior Co. is a full-service interior design firm based in Colorado Springs that specializes in creating beautiful, elevated homes without the stress. Known for delivering seamless, high-touch design experiences from concept to completion, they help busy professionals and high-end homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle. Core CollectiveCore Collective Pilates is a boutique studio dedicated to helping clients build strength, flexibility, and confidence through expert-led, personalized Pilates sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on mindful movement, Core Collective transforms workouts into empowering experiences. Enter code SPRINGSANDTHINGS to get 3 classes for $30! Why Wait StoriesWhy Wait Stories captures the moments that matter, transforming personal legacies, business journeys, and nonprofit missions into beautifully crafted films. With a gift for storytelling and a heart for connection, Lauren preserves memories and messages before they fade, ensuring they inspire for generations to come.

    49 min
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About

Welcome to Springs and Things, the podcast where two close friends spill the tea on all things Colorado Springs! From culture and community to hidden gems and neighborhood lore, we’ve got it covered. Join us as we sip our coffee (or maybe something stronger) and dive into the stories and secrets that make this city so unique. Whether you're a local or just passing through, our fun, light-hearted, and always entertaining take on the quirks, hot topics, and insider tips will keep you coming back for more. Discover what’s really happening in the Springs—beyond the mountains and parks!

Information

  • Creator
    Lauren Ferrara and Carly Ries
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    77
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Lauren Ferrara and Carly Ries

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