Episode 116 – An Interview with Travas Deal
In this episode, we discuss how Travas got his start in utilities, what it takes to keep the power on, and some of the programs in place to assist Colorado Springs residents.
Episode 115 – An Interview about the Pikes Peak Down Payment Assistance Program
This interview with Randi Davis of El Paso County and Stacy Houston and Mark O’Brien from Raymond James, was recorded on April 23, 2025. In this episode, we talk all about the Pikes Peak Down Payment Assistance program and its benefits to potential homebuyers. If you are interested in more information about the program, please…
Episode 114 – An Interview about the Pikes Peak Enterprise Zone
In this episode, we talk about the Pikes Peak Enterprise Zone and the upcoming redesignation process.
Episode 113 – An Interview for National County Government Month
It’s the most wonderful time of the year – for local governments that is! This interview with El Paso County Commissioners Carrie Geitner and Cory Applegate was recorded on April 3, 2025. In this episode, we talk about National County Government Month and the positive impact counties can have on their residents. Beyond the Dais…
Episode 112 – An Interview with Cory Applegate
In this episode, we discuss Commissioner Applegate’s entry into politics, his approach to learning, and the importance of resident interactions.
Episode 111 – An Interview with Christine Middleton
In this episode, we discuss the value of learning and how a culture of feedback benefits a workplace.
Episode 110 – An Interview with Steve Schleiker
In this episode, we talk about the November 2024 election, how his office prepares leading up to the big day, and the benefits that were seen from creating new partnerships.
Episode 109 – An Interview with Luke Houser and Ross Williams
In this episode, we discuss the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and how it benefits residents of El Paso County.
Episode 108 – An Interview with Angela Greene
In this episode, Angela outlines the upcoming Citizen College program and how it can benefit residents of the county.
Episode 107 – An Interview with Todd Marts
In this episode, Todd talks about the importance of the Parks system and shares information about the myriad programs available to residents.
Episode 106 – An Interview with Sean Markley
In this episode Sean talks about various training programs available within the department and how he got his start at Public Works.
Episode 105 – An Interview with Marshall Bosworth
In this episode we discuss how the office can assist veterans in need and details about an upcoming claims clinic.
Episode 104 – An Interview with Andrew Notbohm
In this episode we cover the role PPROEM plays during disasters and how residents can best prepare for emergency situations.
Episode 103 – An Interview with Traci Marques
In this episode we talk about the Workforce Center’s role in the region and the tools they use to assist both job seekers and businesses.
Episode 102 – An Interview with Christine Burns and Dawn Montoya
In this episode we talk about what Pretrial Services are and the importance of transparency and trust within the team’s responsibilities.
Episode 101 – An Interview with Susan Wheelan
In this episode we discuss the role of Public Health in the community and talk about a new resource for residents.
Episode 100 – An Interview about Storytelling
We’ve hit Episode 100! In this episode we talk about how different forms of storytelling affect people and the value stories have in a community.
Episode 99 – An Interview with Randi Davis
In this episode we discuss how El Paso County approaches housing in the community and the various programs they administer.
Episode 98 – An Interview with Maddy Norton
In this episode we discuss Maddy’s role as Fair Queen, the importance of western heritage, and the value of the El Paso County Fair.
Episode 97 – An Interview with Angela Seals
In this episode we discuss COPPR’s place in the artistic community and the value creative industries bring to a local economy.
Episode 96 – An Interview with Paula Linhares
In this episode we talk about her experience working with constituents in multiple fields and how residents can make their voices heard.
Episode 95 – An Interview with Samantha Radomski
In this episode we talk about the importance of accessibility in government and the resources available for people to educate themselves.
Episode 94 – An Interview with Brandon Wilson
In this episode we talk about the recent legislative session and how residents can play a big role in local government.
Episode 93 – An Interview with Jennifer Korb and Andschana Aljets
In this episode we talk about the upcoming El Paso County Fair and a unique experience coming to the event for the first time.
Episode 92 – An Interview with Veteran of the Year Joe Lewis
In this episode we discuss Angels of America’s Fallen, the nonprofit organization that Joe founded, as well as what it means to him to be recognized as the Veteran of the Year.
Episode 91 – An Interview with Emma Bernick
In this episode we cover Emma’s work on an upcoming Impaired Driving campaign and how she became invested in injury and violence prevention long before her job with Public Health.
Episode 90 – An Interview with the Savvy Citizen Podcast
In this episode we discuss the importance of telling local stories and the value podcasting has as a medium.
Episode 89 – An Interview with Sara Lobato
In this episode we discuss what the Enterprise Zone is and how it can benefit small businesses and residents alike.
Episode 88 – An Interview with Mindy Schulz
In this episode we talk about the myths surrounding Code Enforcement and some of Mindy’s wildest days on the job.
Episode 87 – An Interview with the Colorado Springs Police Department
In this episode we talk about the Special Victims Section of the department and the responsibility they have within the community.
Episode 86 – An Interview with Safe Passage
In this episode we talk about the organization’s co-located structure and how that benefits those they serve.
Episode 85 – An Interview with Dr. Jason Lester
In this episode we talk about National Child Abuse Prevention Month and how Dr. Lester’s passion for his work brings value to the community.
Episode 84 – An Interview with Commissioner Cami Bremer and Sunny Bryant
In this episode we kick off National County Government Month and discuss the importance of local government.
Episode 83 – An Interview with Ben Bills
In this episode we talk about the value of the El Paso-Teller County 9-1-1 Authority and the importance of Peak Alerts.
Episode 82 – Strategy Team Sessions: Volume 4
This time on Strategy Team Sessions, we cover how our roles impact emergencies, fairs, and media interviews.
Episode 81 – An Interview with the Space Foundation Discovery Center
In this episode we talk about a couple of upcoming Space Foundation events and what visitors can expect from the Discovery Center’s renovation.
Episode 80 – An Interview with DBSA Colorado Springs
In this episode we talk about Karen’s personal story and how that led to the creation of the Colorado Springs chapter of DBSA.
Episode 79 – An Interview with the Youth Documentary Academy
In this episode we talk about the importance of storytelling and the impact youth voices can have in a community.
Episode 78 – An Interview with Brandon Eldridge
In this episode we talk about the SBDC’s purpose and how they serve the local business community.
Episode 77 – An Interview with the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation
In this episode we talk about the breadth of their programs and how they’re helping youth bounce back from the pandemic.
Episode 76 – An Interview with El Paso Pride Soccer Association
In this episode we talk about the positive influence of sport in children’s lives.
Episode 75 – An Interview with Silver Key
In this episode we talk about Silver Key’s origins and their significance within the community.
Episode 74 – An Interview with MSC Family Restoration Center
In this episode we discuss what services the Center provides and how ARPA grant funding helped make a dream a reality.
Episode 73 – An Interview with Cheyenne Village
In this episode we discuss the problems long-term care facilities faced during the COVID pandemic and the steps Cheyenne Village has taken to recover from that difficult time.
Episode 72 – An Interview with Dance Alliance of the Pikes Peak Region
In this episode we discuss how dance can transform lives and the importance of having a dream to strive for.
Episode 71 – An Interview with Palmer Lake Sanitation District
In this episode we discuss the nature of the sanitation district’s growth and how ARPA grant funding helped propel one of their projects forward.
Episode 70 – An Interview with Crossfire Ministries
In this episode we talk about Crossfire Ministries’ mission and how they benefit from community partnerships.
Episode 69 – Strategy Team Sessions: Volume 3
This time around we have a couple of repeat guests (the team is only so big).
Episode 68 – An Interview with the Colorado Springs Conservatory
In this episode we discuss the importance of the arts and how they positively influence our daily lives.
Episode 67 – An Interview with Kingdom Builders
In this episode we discuss how Kingdom Builders came to be and the approach they take to aiding victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault and human trafficking.
Episode 66 – An Interview with Community Partnership for Child Development
In this episode we discuss the importance of serving multigenerational needs and the benefits that come from investing in your people.
Episode 65 – An Interview with El Paso County Executive Director of Public Works Kevin Mastin
In this episode we talk about Kevin’s road to Public Works and important updates to the Snow and Ice Control Program.
Episode 64 – An Interview with Early Connections Learning Centers
In this episode we discuss how Early Connections Learning Center’s legacy helps define their work and the benefit early childcare has on the community as a whole.
Episode 63 – An Interview with El Paso County Commissioner Holly Williams
In this episode we talk about roads, budgets and the value of transparency.
Episode 62 – An Interview with The Place
In this episode we discuss how The Place manages their difficult mission and how ARPA grant funding from El Paso County has bolstered their programs.
Episode 61 – An Interview with El Paso County Commissioner Stan VanderWerf
In this episode we talk about mountain climbing, the importance of small business, and the value of cooperation.
Episode 60 – An Interview with Widefield Water and Sanitation District
In this episode we discuss the water district’s efforts to provide water across a large area and how ARPA grant funding helped propel one of their projects forward.
Episode 59 – An Interview with Project Angel Heart
In this episode we discuss Project Angel Heart’s mission in the community and their increased ability to assist local residents with the help of ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
Episode 58 – An Interview with Dream Centers
In this episode we talk about how Dream Centers is helping the community and how ARPA grant funding from El Paso County has allowed them to expand their scope of helpful influence.
Episode 57 – An Interview with Inside Out Youth Services
In this episode we discuss Inside Out’s various programs and the strides they have made with the help of ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
Episode 56 – An Interview with District Attorney Michael Allen
In this episode we talk about the different forms justice takes and why it’s important to view it on a case-by-case basis.
Episode 55 – An Interview with Jessie Kimber
In this episode I spoke with Jessie about how El Paso County is uniquely positioned to attract defense businesses to town.
Episode 54 – An Interview with El Paso County Executive Director of Planning & Community Development Meggan Herington
In this episode we talk about the facts and fiction surrounding PCD and why water is such an important topic of discussion.
Episode 53 – An Interview with Innovations in Aging
In this episode we discuss what an age-friendly community looks like and why it’s important in a thriving region like El Paso County.
Episode 52 – An Interview with El Paso County Commissioner Longinos Gonzalez
In this episode we talk about how the Commissioner’s past experience has prepared him for his role and why residents should be paying attention to the softening of the economy.
Episode 51 – An Interview with Theresa Metcalf
In this episode I spoke with Theresa about how important collaboration is to the economic growth of the region and the benefits of being part of the Chamber & EDC.
Episode 50 – Strategy Team Sessions: Volume 2
We’ve hit Episode 50! To celebrate, I brought back Strategy Team Sessions for Volume 2.
Episode 49 – An Interview with the Center on Fathering
In this episode I spoke with Supervisor Rick Gonzales and Social Case Worker Gary Grambort about the Center on Fathering’s mission and the services they provide.
Episode 48 – Storytelling Through Podcasts
I had the opportunity to give a presentation on the importance of Storytelling Through Podcasts on July 25, 2023, and it felt like something I should share with this community.
Episode 47 – An Interview with the Department of Public Works’ Training Team
In this episode I spoke with Scotty Hall and Leigh Simpson about their programs and how public outreach has been crucial to their success.
Episode 46 – An Interview with El Paso County Fair & Events Program Supervisor Andschana Aljets
In this episode we talk about the upcoming El Paso County Fair and the incredible number of events planned for the week.
Episode 45 – An Interview with Pulmonologist Dr. Silpa Krefft
In this episode I spoke with Dr. Krefft about her role in medical research for veterans and the importance of the PACT Act.
Episode 44 – An Interview with Serenity Recovery Connection
In this episode we discuss SRC’s impact within the community, how they help transform lives, and how ARPA funding has expanded their reach.
Episode 43 – An Interview with Bear Creek Nature Center Supervisor Mary Jo Lewis
In this episode we talk to Mary Jo about the Center’s new accessibility features and what programs residents can look forward to this Summer.
Episode 42 – An Interview with El Paso County Executive Director of Government Affairs Ryan Parsell
In this episode we talk about Ryan’s reaction to the latest legislative session and the importance of transparency in government.
Episode 41 – An Interview with El Paso County Fair Queen Aneka Normandie
In this episode we discuss Aneka’s role as Fair Queen and the importance of the El Paso County Fair.
Episode 40 – An Interview with Mt Carmel Veterans Service Center
In this episode we discuss Mt Carmel’s connection to the Veteran community, what programs they offer, and how ARPA funding has aided their efforts.
Episode 39 – An Interview with Michelle Hill and Veteran Services Officer Richard Gagne
In this episode we discuss the PACT Act, how it could impact our Veteran population, and the difference it has made in Michelle’s life.
Episode 38 – An Interview with El Paso County Clerk and Recorder Steve Schleiker
In this episode we talk about Steve’s role in recent events and how his time in the Marines helped form his approach to leadership.
Episode 37 – Strategy Team Sessions: Volume 1
In this episode, I wanted to give listeners an idea of what we do in the Communications Department to keep residents informed.
Episode 36 – An Interview with Food to Power
In this episode we talk about Food to Power’s connection to the community and the dynamics of working with multiple organizations to meet goals.
Episode 35 – An Interview with the United States Air Force Academy
In this episode we discuss partnerships between USAFA and El Paso County and each group’s efforts to make this region a great place to live.
Episode 34 – An Interview with El Paso County Director of Children, Youth and Family Services Catania Jones
In this episode we talk about Catania’s passion for social justice, the value in taking time for yourself, and the importance of Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Episode 33 – An Interview with Heartspace Kids, Inc.
In this episode we talk about how Heartspace Kids came to exist and the importance of focusing on youth mental health.
Episode 32 – An Interview with Regional Director of the Pikes Peak Office of Emergency Management Jim Reid
In this episode we discuss Jim’s history in emergency management, the value of a regional approach in a crisis, and why everyone should consider training in the field.
Episode 31 – An Interview with El Paso County Commissioner Carrie Geitner
In this episode we talk about the Commissioner’s role in government and the importance of staying informed about regional issues.
Episode 30 – An Interview with Atlas Preparatory School
In this episode we discuss Atlas Prep’s purpose in the community and the aim of their mental health wellness program.
Episode 29 – An Interview with Forge Evolution
In this episode we talk about the youth programs Forge Evolution manages and how ARPA grant funding aids their efforts.
Episode 28 – An Interview with Crossroads’ Turning Points, Inc.
In this episode we discuss how Crossroads’ Turning Points identifies the needs of their patrons and how ARPA grant funding aids their efforts.
Episode 27 – An Interview with Pikes Peak Suicide Prevention Partnership
In this episode we discuss how Pikes Peak Suicide Prevention Partnership collaborates with the community and how ARPA grant funding aids their efforts.
Episode 26 – An Interview with Sandy Snider
In this episode we discuss Sandy’s experience navigating a mental health challenge and how organizations across the county were able to help her overcome it.
Episode 25 – An Interview with El Paso County Deputy Director of Communications Natalie Sosa
In this episode we discuss the value of continuing education, the importance of communicating in a crisis, and why Natalie has a strong connection to mentoring.
Episode 24 – An Interview with El Paso County Chief Human Resources Officer Xavier Frost
In this episode we discuss Xavier’s views on the HR profession, the benefits a job with El Paso County offers, and how he ended up with a curious nickname.
Episode 23 – An Interview with El Paso County Commissioner Cami Bremer
In this episode we discuss Commissioner Bremer’s position in local government and how she views her role as a leader in the community.
Episode 22 – An Interview with UCCS about the JAWS Program
In this episode we discuss UCCS’s JAWS Program and how American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funding aids their efforts.
Episode 21 – An Interview with UCCS about the GRIT Program
In this episode we discuss UCCS’s GRIT Program and how American Rescue Plan Act grant funding aids their efforts.
Episode 20 – An Interview with CASA of the Pikes Peak Region
In this episode we discuss the valuable work that CASA is a part of, how they support their staff through the difficult tasks they perform, and how American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funding aids their efforts.
Episode 19 – An Interview with El Paso County Chief Finance Officer Nikki Simmons
In this episode we discuss the 2023 El Paso County Budget, how it comes together, and what it means for El Paso County residents.
Episode 18 – An Interview with Careers in Construction Colorado
In this episode we discuss the benefits on alternative pathways for high school students post-graduation, the value of experience in the construction industry, and how ARPA grant funding from El Paso County is making a difference for the organization.
Episode 17 – An Interview with Homeward Pikes Peak
In this episode we discuss a number of programs run by Homeward Pikes Peak, including the soon-to-be-opened Bloom House, which was made possible thanks to grant funding from El Paso County via the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
Episode 16 – An Interview with The Salvation Army
In this episode we discuss how The Salvation Army got their start, the benefits they have seen from ARPA grant funding from El Paso County, and why they become a top-of-mind organization around the holidays.
Episode 15 – An Interview with El Paso County Project Manager Amanda Grant
In this episode we discuss the importance of transparency with government funding, the ins and outs of American Rescue Plan Act grants, and how those grants positively affect El Paso County residents.
Episode 14 – An Interview with El Paso County Search and Rescue
In this episode we discuss the role Search and Rescue plays in El Paso County, what it takes to be part of the team, and the outcome of a recent national competition the team took part in.
Episode 13 – An Interview with the National Alliance on Mental Illness
In this episode we discuss NAMI’s efforts within the El Paso County community, the delicate nature of helping those they serve, and how the organization is putting ARPA grant funding from El Paso County to good use.
Episode 12 – An Interview with El Paso County Deputy Administrator Sunny Bryant
In this episode we discuss Sunny’s outlook on her new role, how this position compares to previous jobs she has held, and the importance of residents being involved in local government.
Episode 11 – An Interview with El Paso County Coroner Dr. Leon Kelly
In this episode we discuss the uniqueness of an elected coroner, what it’s like testifying at trials, and the importance of addressing various challenges within the community.
Episode 10 – An Interview with Pikes Peak United Way
In this episode we discuss United Way’s efforts within the El Paso County community, how they work together with various non-profit agencies, and about the new Family Success Center.
Episode 9 – An Interview with El Paso County Attorney Kenny Hodges
In this episode we discuss the County Attorney’s role, the unique way in which the office operates, and which John Grisham book Mr. Hodges leans on for his most pressing legal advice (the answer may surprise you).
Episode 8 – An Interview with Catholic Charities of Central Colorado
In this episode we discuss Catholic Charities’ purpose within the community, how they work together with various non-profit agencies, and how beneficial it was for the organization to receive ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
Episode 7 – An Interview with El Paso County Interim Director of Public Works Jack Ladley
In this episode we discuss Public Works’ operations, ways El Paso County residents can play a part in the department’s success, and why collaboration with numerous organizations is so critical.
Episode 6 – An Interview with El Paso County Administrator Bret Waters
In this episode we discuss the role the County Administrator plays in local government, the importance of various working relationships, and where Mr. Waters sees El Paso County five and ten years from now.
Episode 5 – An Interview with El Paso County Executive Director of Communications Vernon Stewart
In this episode we discuss the role communications plays in local government, why it’s important to have two-way communication with residents, and what steps the Comms team is taking to create more transparency in their messaging.
Episode 4 – An Interview with Solid Rock Community Development Corporation
In this episode we discuss Solid Rock’s purpose within the community, what their goals are for those they serve, and how beneficial it was for the organization to receive ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
Episode 3 – An Interview with Springs Rescue Mission
In this episode we discuss Springs Rescue Mission’s purpose within the community, what their goals are for those they serve, and how beneficial it was for the organization to receive ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
Episode 2 – An Interview with Pikes Peak Business & Education Alliance
In this episode we discuss the PPBEA’s mission within the community, how their programs benefit students and businesses alike, and how beneficial it was for the organization to receive ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
Episode 1 – An Interview with Care and Share Food Bank
In this episode we discuss Care and Share’s programs, what it means for them to be a pillar within the community, and how beneficial it was for the organization to receive ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.