Peak Into COS

Jake Weien first visited Colorado Springs in 1995. After convincing friends and family to move, he and his wife Abby soon followed suit. 1350 Distilling, named for the 13 stripes and 50 stars of the American flag, honors each branch of the military throughout their distilled spirits. Community minded, they've dedicated themselves to giving back to Colorado Springs and our military members and families. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode links: @1350Distilling 1350distilling.com VisitCOS.com/passport

Growing up with three brothers, Noelle Lambert was born with a competitive fire within her. A college athlete and now a Paralympian, Noelle carried that spirit even following the loss of her leg. Now a Paris Paralympic hopeful, she has broken down barriers at every turn. Not only is she member of Team USA, she also competed on season 43 of Survivor as the show's first above knee amputee. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode links: @NoelleLambert @TheBornToRunFoundation theborntorunfoundation.org

Bella's Bagels started in Jason and Michelle Stele's kitchen. Inspired to bring authentic New York bagels to the Pikes Peak Region, they made the journey from the kitchen to farmers market stands to brick and mortar. With the goal of fueling memory making, Bella's Bagels are truly baked for boosting happiness. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode links: @BellasBagelsCOS https://www.getbellasbagels.com/ visitcos.com/passport

Inspired by a dog at a restaurant in Italy, Tara Downs had an idea to build a restaurant back home in the West side of Colorado Springs where dogs could dine with their owners. Seven years later, Pub Dog Colorado is serving up bowls of delicious food and craft beverages for furry friends and their humans . Listen in and learn how Tara turned her vision into a booming business that's now on the brink of expansion. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode links: @PubDogColorado https://pubdogcolorado.com/ visitcos.com/passport

Terry Bramschreiber spent nearly 3 decades as a public educator before landing at the Space Foundation Discovery Center. As a lifelong space nerd, science enthusiast and kid at heart, Terry now spends his days making sure our younger generation knows: there's a place for everyone in space. Tune in to hear about the exciting things happening at the Space Foundation Discovery Center and beyond. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode links: @sfdiscoverycenter https://discoverspace.org/ visitcos.com/passport

Mariah Kercher had a dream to own land where people could gather, and in 2023, she and her partner Jack Hoesly turned that dream into a reality when they acquired Pikes Peak Ranch. Located north of Woodland Park, the ranch is a place visitors can truly connect with family, community and the beauty of Colorado and leave with their cups filled to the top. Tune in and learn how this ambitious couple took over a historic property and made it their own. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode Links:@pikespeakranch https://pikespeakranch.com/ Sponsor: @COSAirport

The owners of Bread & Butter Market believe every community deserves a market like theirs. With a focus on community, convenience and reliability, Aubrey Day and her business partner Stacy Poore opened a grocery market in the heart of Downtown Colorado Springs. Listen in as Aubrey discusses the power of supporting local through food. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode Links: @breadbuttercos https://breadandbuttermarket.com/ Sponsor: @COSAirport

Listen in as members of the Visit COS team talk about the Arts and Culture community in Colorado Springs. Whether you're looking for somewhere to catch your next concert or a fun date night idea, we've got you covered! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Sweet Shenanigans Bake Shop!

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, affectionately known as America's Mountain Zoo, offers one-of-a-kind experiences for visitors and locals alike. Walk amongst the penguins, feed the giraffes and marvel at the talented mountain goats all in one spot. Listen in as Bob Chastain, CEO of the Zoo, reminisces on his 30 years with the organization and their recipe for success. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Find episode transcriptions here. Episode Links: @CheyenneMountainZoo https://www.cmzoo.org/

Nestled in Cañon City, just an hour south of Colorado Springs, is the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park - one of our region's most iconic attractions that houses the highest suspension bridge in North America. Listen in as Peggy Gair and Vickie Roberts, who have worked at the park for decades, reveal history about the park that runs as deep as the canyon itself. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Find episode transcriptions here. Episode Links: @RoyalGorgeBridge https://royalgorgebridge.com/

When life gives you lemons - make wine! In 2023, Matthew and Melanie Hexter took their lemon wine business to the next level by opening a ski bar. With alpine on demand and aprés all day, they're making snow sports accessible to everyone right in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Find episode transcriptions here. Episode Links: @LemonLodgeSkiBar https://www.lemonlodge.com/

Listen in as members of the Visit COS team talk about our destination's efforts to improve accessibility. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode Social Handles: @visitcos

As the owner of the only food tour business in Colorado Springs, Samantha Wood knows the food and beverage scene like the back of her hand. What started as a family business in 2010 has flourished into an opportunity to tell the story of Colorado Springs through food and beverage. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode Links: @RockyMountainFoodTours https://www.rockymountainfoodtours.com/

Don Sanborn's family has been a major part of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb for more than 60 years. Don's father was both a mechanic and competitor, as was his uncle Nick. Sanborn now is president of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Historical Association as well as a member of the Pikes Peak AdAMan Club. He is joined by the new Executive Director of the Hill Climb, Melissa Eickoff, who has a rich history in the racing world as well. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode Links: @pikespeakhillclimb adaman.org

Adam Vernon started Colorado Ski Furniture out of his garage in small town Manitou Springs. 16 years later, his team of over 25 staff members is crafting high-quality, custom furniture for customers ranging from locals to famous celebrities. Tune into this episode of Peak Into COS and learn how Adam and his General Manager Julian take memories and make them useful instead of collecting dust. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode Links: @ColoradoSkiFurniture

Christine Malmborg traded the stress of working at a tech start-up in California for a life centered around self-care here in Colorado. After experiencing traumatic life events, she was called to practice yoga and eventually started her own business teaching stand-up paddle board yoga. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode Links: @Dragonfly.paddleyoga @COSAirport

During a year of traveling, Bobby Mikulas and his wife Brooke and best friend Nate learned the tricks and secrets to great travel. Enter: Kinship Landing. Inspired by the power of a warm welcome, Kinship Landing is a boutique hotel with a goal of being a place to land after a day of adventures. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode Links: @COSAirport @KinshipLanding

Josh Franklin and John Wolfe never dreamt of opening a gay bar - let alone a gay bar in Downtown Colorado Springs. But after the COVID-19 pandemic put their Broadway careers on hold, the couple returned to Josh's home town and shortly after, ICONs was born. Listen in as they discuss the process of opening a bar in the middle of a pandemic and the importance of safe and warm spaces. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Episode Links: Fly COS ICONs

One of the first City for Champions projects to open, the Hybl Center at UCCS is a one-of-a-kind sports medicine facility. Whether someone's recovering from an injury or looking to improve their golf swing, the staff at the Hybl Center can help. Listen as Chris Valentine talks about the unique offerings and opportunities it offers locals and visitors alike. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor, the Colorado Springs Airport. Episode Social Handles: @hyblcenter @COSAirport

No one goes outside to have a bad day. For Gillian Rossi, Park Ranger Supervisor and Leave No Trace Master Educator, that's something to live by. Leave No Trace ensures we keep our trails and open spaces beautiful for years to come. Learn more about the seven principles of Leave No Trace and outdoor tips on this episode of Peak Into COS. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor, the Colorado Springs Airport. Episode Social Handles: @LeaveNoTraceOrg @COSpringsParks @COSAirport

Listen in as members of the Visit COS team talk about their favorite places to take their significant other, visiting family or friends! Whether you're looking for somewhere to grab drinks or an adventerous outing, we've got you covered. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Goat Patch Brewing Company! Episode Social Handles: @visitcos @goatpatchbrewing

Tune in as Christina Haywood, Director of Operations for the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center, dives into the rich history and science behind one of Colorado Springs' most famous attractions. From the humble beginnings of Garden of the Gods to the work that goes into maintaining the free city park, there's more than meets the eye! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Pikes Peak Region Attractions. Episode Social Handles: @visitpikespeak @gardenofthegodsvisitorcenter Episode transcriptions.

After many years working as a physical therapist, Liz Blakeley and her husband Alan decided to chase their dreams and open a wine bar. Inspired by their travels to places like Europe and Africa, their wine list is carefully curated to make good wine accessible to anyone. Learn about Liz's journey opening Uva Wine Bar and being on the forefront of new business growth in North Colorado Springs. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected] Thank you to this episode's sponsor, the Colorado Springs Airport. Episode Social Handles: @uvawinebarcos @COSAirport

Sallie and Welling Clark took a chance when purchasing a condemned property in Old Colorado City. With a whole lot of work and even more learning, they turned it into a flourishing BnB – Holden House 1902 B&B Inn. Listen as they speak to the importance of personal connection and hospitality in travel. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected] Thank you to this episode's sponsor, the Colorado Springs Airport. Episode Social Handles: @HoldenHouse1902Inn @COSAirport

Join members of the Visit Colorado Springs team as they discuss their favorite outdoor winter activities around the Pikes Peak Region. From snowshoeing to off-roading, there's plenty to do in the winter months. If you're lucky, you might even run into a mysterious Scottish man in a suit on your adventures.

Against his mother's wishes, Jim Wear got his first motorcycle at age 10. Enamored by bikes from such an early age, it comes as no surprise that he had the idea to open the Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum back in 1992. Jim had always owned antique motorcycles but soon realized he found more joy in sharing them with others than having them sit around at home. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected] Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Pikes Peak Region Attractions. Episode Social Handles: @RockyMountainMotorcycleMuseum @VisitPikesPeak

Join members of the VCOS Communications and Marketing team as they reflect on their favorite things they did around the Pikes Peak Region in 2022. These mini-episodes will feature members of the VCOS staff as they share their favorite ways to "live like a local" around Colorado Springs and beyond.

Nick Ragain and his family relocated to the Springs to launch the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC and the new Weidner Field. But what resulted was something for the community to rally around. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected] Thank you to this episode's sponsors the Pikes Peak Workforce Center and Downtown Partnership of Colorado Springs. Episode Social Handles: @switchbacksfc @PPWFC @Downtown_CS

Jenny Sherman and Rebecca Taraborelli initially met via their sons, who have been best friends since preschool. But over the years, their friendship has continued to grow as they both navigate the challenges of owning and operating restaurants in Colorado Springs. Listen in to hear about the behind-the-scenes of owning Odyssey Gastropub and Rasta Pasta. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected] Thank you to this episode's sponsors the Pikes Peak Workforce Center and the Colorado Springs Airport. Episode Social Handles: @odysseygastropub @rastapastacs @cosairport @PPWFC

Although he was raised on a healthy dose of arts and culture, Andy Vick credits his wife for his career path in the field. As director of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region, Andy and his team work tirelessly to expand and promote artistic opportunities around Colorado Springs and beyond. Listen in for his favorite hidden gems and new opportunities to explore. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected] Thank you to this episode's sponsors the Pikes Peak Workforce Center and the Colorado Springs Airport. Episode Social Handles: @artsculturefun @peakradar @cosairport @PPWFC

Megan Leatham never imagined she'd be bringing horse polo and world jump rope competitions to Colorado Springs. Athletics helped define who she is today, and now Megan runs the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation. Hear how she's bringing the best of sports to our community and smiles to faces through annual events. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsors the Pikes Peak Workforce Center and the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region. Episode Social Handles: @TheSportsCorp @PPWFC @PeakRadar

From discovering a family heirloom in his grandmother's basement to helping to preserve the rich history of Colorado Springs, Matt Mayberry takes his passion for the past with him everywhere. In this episode he emphasizes the importance of learning from our history and carrying it with us. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsors the Pikes Peak Workforce Center, the Colorado Springs Airport and the Colorado Springs Hispanic Chamber. Episode Social Handles: @CSPioneersMuseum @PPWFC @COSAirport @COSConcilio

Mike Girard distilled his first batch of moonshine in a pressure cooker IED (Improvised Explosive Device) while deployed in Afghanistan. From there, he was hooked. Distilling moonshine soon became an obsession of his. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsors the Colorado Springs Airport, the Pikes Peak Workforce Center and the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region. Episode Social Handles: @3HundredDaysOfShine @cosairport @PPWFC @PeakRadar

Linda Weise traveled from New York City to Colorado Springs, bringing with her a passion for performing arts and early childhood education. More than 30 years later, Linda has founded the Colorado Springs Conservatory, a nationally viewed PBS show & now works to revitalize the historic City Auditorium in the Springs. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsors the Colorado Springs Airport, the Pikes Peak Workforce Center and Pikes Peak Region Attractions. Episode Social Handles: @SimpleGiftSeries @CSConservatory @COSAirport @PPWFC @VisitPikesPeak

A native to the Pikes Peak Region, Greg Wellens was born into adventure. His father started Adventures Out West with a single hot air balloon. The business now operates tours ranging from Jeeps and Segways to cycling and zip lines so visitors can experience the area from any vantage point. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsors the Colorado Springs Airport, Pikes Peak Workforce Center and the May Museum. Episode Social Handles: @AdventuresOutWest, @AOWFun @cosairport @PPWFC @may.museum

From waiting tables at a cafe to owning a multi-million dollar catering business, Michelle Talarico and her partner Kathy have spent their lives in the hospitality industry. They started Picnic Basket Catering with a promise to give back 10% of every $1 they made. That mindset has served them well as they continue to grow their business and their support for the community. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor the Colorado Springs Airport. Episode Social Handles: @picnic_basket_catering_co_ @cosairport

Join us as hairdresser-turned-brewer Jessica Fierro shares her journey opening her own brewery, Atrevida, with her daughter Kassy by her side. With a slogan "diversity on tap," Atrevida is dedicated to breaking glass ceilings in the brewing industry. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor Flying W Ranch. Episode Social Handles: @atrevidabeerco

Aaron Winter has been working at the Flying W Ranch since 1997. He has worked his way up through the business, and was the only full-time employee through the Waldo Canyon Fire in 2012. Listen in as he discusses the rebuilding process and where the Ranch hopes to go in the future!

Join us as two-time Paralympian and veteran John Register shares his story of learning to embrace his "new normal" after becoming an amputee while training for the 1996 Olympic Games. Now an inspirational speak on how to "hurdle adversity," Register makes a positive impact on the local community and is a great support for Olympic City USA. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center. Episode Social Handles: @johnfregister

With a passion for wellness and people, Judy Mackey and Brenda Smith became the owners of the Garden of the Gods Resort and STRATA Wellness. Listen as we uncover the story behind their business model and their goals for the future. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Downtown Colorado Springs.

A long time lover of trains, Ted Johnston is now the General Manager of The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Listen as we gather the story of what it really took to give one of America's oldest attractions a makeover. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor the Colorado Springs Airport. Episode Social Handles: @pikespeakcograilway

Join us as Echo Canyon River Expeditions owner Andy Neinas tells his story of turning a college job into a successful family business. With passions for preservation and hospitality, Neinas and his family now own one of the largest rafting outfitters in the state. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor the Colorado Springs Airport. Episode Social Handles: @Raft_Echo

Join us as local hotel owner Torie Giffin recounts her inspiring story turning a literal dream she had about a bicycle-themed hotel into a reality. In this episode, we hear from Torie on how she purchased an old lodge with no savings drawing support from the local community to fulfill her dreams. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor the Colorado Springs Airport. Episode social handles: @BuffaloLodgeBicycleResort @MomInMotion @VisitCOS

Join us as celebrity Chef Brother Luck shares his journey from television to opening unique restaurant concepts in Colorado Springs. In our first episode, we chat with Brother Luck about how he developed a passion for the hospitality industry, the first food he learned how to make in a professional kitchen that inspired his current business and how his TV appearances influenced his work. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss our next episode! Send any questions or inquiries to [email protected]. Thank you to this episode's sponsor Holden House 1902 Bed & Breakfast Inn. Episode social handles: @ChefBrotherLuck @TheStudioCOS @LuckyDumplingCO @FourByLuck

Get a glimpse into the new Peak Into COS Podcast, hosted by Doug Price. With stories from around the Pikes Peak Region, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at some of our favorite places in Colorado Springs.