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Springs and Things

Springs and Things

Written by: Lauren Ferrara and Carly Ries
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About this listen

 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!© 2026 Lauren Ferrara and Carly Ries Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • 67. If These Broadmoor Walls Could Talk…

    67. If These Broadmoor Walls Could Talk…
    Feb 10 2026

    What really goes on behind the iconic walls of The Broadmoor?


    In today’s episode, we’re talking with the Broadmoor historian, Cindy Leonard, about the secrets, stories, and legends hiding inside Colorado Springs’ most iconic hotel. From royalty and polo matches to hidden spaces, lost swimming pools, and traditions that date back over 100 years, this conversation is packed with moments that will make you say, wait…what?

    You’ll hear about:

    • Hidden and forgotten spaces most guests never see
    • Wild and elegant stories from over 100 years of Broadmoor history
    • How The Broadmoor influenced Colorado Springs landmarks and culture
    • Traditions that have quietly survived for decades
    • And yes…the very real story behind the infamous glass eyeball

    Whether you’re a lifelong Colorado Springs local, new to the city, or just fascinated by historic hotels and local lore, this episode will change the way you see The Broadmoor forever.

    PICKS OF THE WEEK

    • Colorado Appreciation at The Broadmoor
    • Broadmoor Winter Polo Classic

    WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS

    Vanguard Aesthetics
    Vanguard 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 Collective
    Core 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!

    🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share this episode with a friend! New episodes drop weekly on Springs & Things.
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    31 mins
  • 66. What to Do in Summit County When the Snow’s Meh (A Colorado Springs Local’s Guide)

    66. What to Do in Summit County When the Snow’s Meh (A Colorado Springs Local’s Guide)
    Feb 3 2026
    Ski season might be technically underway in Colorado, but that doesn’t mean the slopes are the main event this year. In this episode of Springs & Things, Carly and Lauren share their favorite things to do in Summit County when skiing conditions aren’t ideal (or when you just don’t feel like skiing at all).From cozy coffee shops and award-winning restaurants to tubing hills, art studios, snow forts, and immersive festivals, this episode is packed with winter mountain getaway ideas that don’t require skis. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a low-key weekend, or tagging along for ski programs you already paid for, this guide proves you can still have an unforgettable Colorado mountain trip.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Summit County is worth visiting even in a low-snow ski yearThe best non-ski winter activities for families, couples, and solo travelersWhere to eat, drink coffee, and relax in Breckenridge, Frisco, and SilverthorneUnique art, culture, and events that make mountain towns special year-roundHow to enjoy Keystone and Breckenridge without skiing at allFood & Coffee Worth the TripRootstalk – James Beard Award–winning chef, hidden happy hour, and one of Colorado’s most talked-about dining experiencesSilver Crown – Cozy whiskey bar that surprises with excellent coffee and breakfastOuter Range Brewing Company – Favorite brewery vibes with standout brandingBird Craft (inside Outer Range) – Chicken stand that’s become a local favoriteMountain Dweller Coffee – Ideal work-from-anywhere atmosphereWinter Activities (No Skis Required)Frisco Adventure Park – Tubing, beginner ski lessons, sledding hills, and cross-country skiingThe Art Spot – Drop-in art studio with supplies, classes, and working artists on siteSilverthorne Recreation Center – Indoor pool with a rock-climbing wall that drops straight into the waterKeystone Snow Fort – Massive mountaintop snow fort accessible by lift (no skiing needed), plus Snow Fort After Dark eventsArt, Culture & Can’t-Miss ExperiencesIsak Heartstone – Iconic 15-foot wooden troll sculpture worth the short walkBreckenridge International Festival of Arts (Aug 20–23) – Immersive, playful, and unexpected art installations throughout townPick of the WeekVintage Barn Market – Monthly vintage home décor and clothing market focused on sustainability and one-of-a-kind findsThe Argentos Empanadas – Authentic empanadas with multiple Colorado locations and a loyal followingWhy This Episode MattersIf you’ve ever felt pressure to ski just because you’re in a ski town, or wondered whether a mountain trip is “worth it” without perfect snow, this episode is your permission slip to do things differently. Summit County shines just as brightly off the slopes, and this conversation proves that winter in the mountains can be relaxing, creative, and fun at any pace.We Love Our SponsorsVanguard 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!🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share this episode with your mountain-loving (or slope-avoiding) friends. New episodes drop weekly on Springs & Things.
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    18 mins
  • 65. Prevention, Protection, and Hope: How The Exodus Road Is Fighting Trafficking

    65. Prevention, Protection, and Hope: How The Exodus Road Is Fighting Trafficking
    Jan 27 2026

    Normally on Springs & Things, we’re swapping fun Colorado Springs stories…but today’s episode goes somewhere much heavier.

    Lauren sits down with Preston Goff from The Exodus Road, an organization combating human trafficking around the world and helping families understand what it really looks like today—especially in the digital age. They unpack the stuff most people get wrong (no, it’s usually not “stranger danger” at Target), how grooming and manipulation actually happen, and what prevention can look like without fear-mongering or vigilantism. It’s a tough but incredibly important conversation, grounded in real stories, real solutions, and real hope.

    Listener discretion advised: Some of the topics discussed may be difficult to listen to. Please do not listen with children around.

    PICK OF THE WEEK

    • RECEPTION

    WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS

    Vanguard Aesthetics
    Vanguard 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 Collective
    Core 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!
    Show More Show Less
    34 mins
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