Studio 809 Community Podcast Network

LWVPPR Youth Council member Anna Fedoruk interviews newly elected D11 School Board member Michelle Ruehl. With discussions around school policies such as AI, student safety, student mental health, and cell phones in schools, we learn more about Ms. Ruehl’s goals for her tenure on the board.

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

This podcast is produced by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region (LWVPPR). Th...

LWVPPR Youth Council members Anna Fedoruk and Tyler Peak interview newly elected D11 School Board member LeAnn Baca Bartlett. With discussions around school policies such as AI, student safety, student mental health, and cell phones in schools, we learn more about Ms. Bartlett’s goals for her tenure on the board.

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

This podcast is produced by the League of Women Voters of the Pi...

LWVPPR Youth Council members Anna Fedoruk and Tyler Peak interview re-elected D11 School Board member Charles Johnson. With discussions around school policies such as AI, student safety, student mental health, and cell phones in schools, we learn more about Mr. Johnson's goals for his tenure on the board.

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

This podcast is produced by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region...

The odds have never been better that a Democrat will represent Colorado’s 5th District in U.S. Congress next year. Meet the woman who may just send Jeff Crank packing, Jessica Killin. Jessica is one of a field of 5 vying for the Democratic Party nomination to represent Colorado Springs and environs. Get to know Jessica as we ask her about her history in Colorado Springs, her military experience, her experience at our nation’s capitol, and what she thinks Congress can do during the last two years of the Trump administration. Also vying for the CD5 nomination are Joe...

The Ring the Peak Trail is one of Colorado Springs’ boldest outdoor visions and it just got a major boost. Local non-profit the Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance (PPORA) has secured a $2.5 million grant to help move the 63-mile continuous loop around the base of Pikes Peak closer to completion. We explore how this funding will help shape the future of Colorado Springs, and how it will enhance outdoor access and tourism across the Pikes Peak Region.

Host: Torie Giffin, Owner Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort

Guests:

Conner Borkowski, Program and Special Projects Coordinator PP...

Inside CD-5: Policy, Power, and Women Candidates

Jessica Killin and Zuri Horowitz are running to represent the Pikes Peak Region (CD‑5) in Congress. Why listen to them in this episode? Because this episode is not about campaign spin, talking points, or fluff. Hear their priorities and policy ideas around issues such as the cost of health care, women in the military, and other issues specifically impacting women in the Pikes Peak Region.

Resources:

Colorado Secretary of State – FAQ on Caucuses: https://www.coloradosos.gov/pubs/elections/Candidates/FAQs/caucuses.html

El Paso...

We dive deep into the vital role of childcare and the early childhood education crisis affecting both our local community and the nation at large. We explore how stable, quality care serves as the foundation for a strong workforce and healthy child development. Two prominent local leaders who are at the forefront of this issue share insights on the challenges families face and the collaborative efforts being made to ensure every child has a strong start.

Join us for a conversation with two prominent local leaders who are at the forefront of this issue. They share insights...

Colorado Springs Utilities wants to delay closing its last coal-fired powerplant. CSU is currently obligated under its clean energy plan to close its Ray Nixon plant by the end of 2029 in order to meet a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2030. It claims the extension is necessary because it is too costly to meet the current deadline. Learn about proposed legislation that would allow the plant to continue operating up to an extra ten years, and why many environmental groups oppose it. This episode’s guests:

Jim Lockhart, conservation chair of Pikes Peak Group of Si...

We dive into the vital work of Hope COS, a Colorado Springs-based organization dedicated to supporting individuals at their most vulnerable points. Executive Director Melissa Wallace discusses how their values-driven approach provides a lifeline for those navigating homelessness, battling addiction, or reentering society after incarceration.

Key Discussion Points

Hope COS: https://hopecos.org/

a Place for everyone is produced by Homeward Pikes Peak...

Books have been written and movies made on the history of Fannie Mae Duncan with her, all people welcome, iconic Cotton Club operating in Colorado Springs from 1948-1975. Hear from JJ Frazier who, at 17, sang with the orchestra at the Club. Today, JJ continues her legacy of service in the region. Next to share is Shirley Martinez, who is also making history – bringing Martin Luther King Jr.’s granddaughter to keynote the annual All Peoples Breakfast hosted by the MLK Legacy Preservation Society on 2026 Martin Luther-King Jr. Day.

LINKS:

MLK Legacy Preservation Society: https://www.mlkl...

LWVPPR Youth Council members Anna Fedoruk and Maxx Vega interview newly elected D49 School Board member Holly Withers. With discussions around school policies such as AI, student safety, student mental health, and cell phones in schools, we learn more about Ms. Withers’ goals for her tenure on the board.

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

This podcast is produced by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Re...

LWVPPR Youth Council members Anna Fedoruk and Maxx Vega interview newly elected D49 School Board member Lori Thompson. With discussions around school policies such as AI, student safety, student mental health, and cell phones in schools, we learn more about Ms. Thompson’s goals for her tenure on the board.

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to make democracy work.

This podcast is produced by the League of Women Voters of the Pikes Pe...

We get important perspective on the value and meaning of Black History Month from a remarkable young Black man who lives and breathes civic engagement. Chauncy Johnson has worked in the Colorado State Capitol, pitched in on important initiatives, and run for Colorado Springs City Council in 2025. He is currently seeking the Democratic Party nomination for Colorado State Representative in House District 17.

Pikes Peak Bulletin Managing Editor Heila Ershadi also updates us on the Mill Street Community Benefits All Coalition’s efforts to get a community benefit agreement related to construction of a luxury Catbird Hotel south of...

That sinking feeling at 2 AM—IRS letters piling up, unfiled returns haunting you, payroll taxes crushing your small business dream—it's not just numbers. It's shame, fear, and the dread that your empire is crumbling before it even stands. You're not alone, and you're not broken. This episode of Tax Answers Advisor meets you right there in the dark with real hope, raw stories, and a path out.​

I sit down with Ryan Otto, President of Accent Financial Services and genius behind "Taxsmithing"—his blacksmith-inspired system that forges tax chaos into unbreakable strategy, asset protection, and wealth for over...

The Colorado Senior Games are Coming. Will you sign up? Athletes over 50 are invited to show your skill in a multitude of sports this June in Colorado Springs. The Colorado Senior Games this year are qualifying games that lead competitors on to the National Senior Games. What an accomplishment! Competitors will be coming from Colorado as well as surrounding states for this important qualifying year. Hear from the organizing entity, Colorado Springs Sports Corp, to learn more about volunteering at the events or competing in these awesome games.

Register or volunteer at https://coloradoseniorgames.org/

...

Colorado Springs City Councilor Gold was reprimanded recently, for comments “in violation of the rules and procedures of City Council,” when in fact her comments were an example of the civility and decorum council rules strive to achieve. We share what went down in the January 13, 2026 Colorado Springs City Council meeting – in which faith leaders made comments about Martin Luther King Jr. Day which incited City Councilor Dave Donelson to walk out, refusing to participate in a photograph commemorating the mayor and council’s proclamation. Councilor Kimberly Gold reminded the room that, “Doctor MLK was a fiery person. He had to be...

Hear about the Caucus Process from Ken Davis, Chair of the El Paso County Republican Party about party process over the coming months. He chats with Shelly Roehrs, your host, on Making Democracy Work.

Donate Today! League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region: https://lwvppr.org/

Candidate Forums: http://vote411.org/

El Paso County Republican Party - https://www.gopelpaso.com/

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways...

Hear from Conner Roderick, Chair of the El Paso County Democratic Party’s Permanent Organization about party happenings and process over the coming months. He chats with Shelly Roehrs, your host, on Making Democracy Work.

Donate Today! League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region: https://lwvppr.org/

Candidate Forums: http://vote411.org/

El Paso County Democratic Party: https://epcodemparty.org/

Making Democracy Work asks questions and provides information to help voters and community members be more active and engaged citizens. Join us as we look for better ways to ma...

17-year-old Yolanda Renee King shares her experiences, hopes and dreams with Pikes Peak Women. She sat down with us in a hotel lobby in downtown Colorado Springs on the eve of Martin Luther King Day 2026, where Yolanda was scheduled to be the keynote speaker. She is the only grandchild in the MLK legacy.

Think about this. She is taking charge with her generation to lead the way on equity, climate change, education and ending gun violence. At 15, she wrote a children's book and last year started a nonprofit focused on taking action and getting engaged in community...

What if ten weekends could change the way you see your land, your home, and your future?

Host Ally Richardson interviews three recent graduates of the 2025 Permaculture Design Certification Course where they share the moments that surprised them, the skills that reshaped their thinking, and the unexpected community they found along the way. Before you hire a landscaper, hear what a PDC can unlock. Step into your power and shape the land for good!

Mentioned in this episode:

2026 Permaculture Design Course

Register here: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/2025-permaculture-design-course/

Pikes...

A new recovery program called Step Springs helps men in a state of desperation end their cycle of addiction, take back control of their lives, and transition to a safe and sober living environment. There, they can become productive, contributing members of their families and our community. Step Springs CEO Meghan Shay shares details with our host, Beth Roalstad, CEO of Homeward Pikes Peak.

For More Information:

Step Springs: https://stepsprings.org/

a Place for everyone is produced by Homeward Pikes Peak and hosted by Executive Director Beth Roalstad. We empower individuals and...

Our beloved Trails and Open Space Coalition is sure to be up to something you didn’t already know. Executive Director Glenn Carlson shares his vision, what TOSC has been up to since he took the reins, and exciting news about a new web tool that will help us all enjoy our trails, parks and open spaces that much more.

We also get tips for trail etiquette when mud is the order of the day. Great news that TOSC is looking into bringing Starlight Spectacular back to life – but reimagined. Plus, Heila Ershadi, managing editor of the Pike...

Most business owners don’t lose sleep because they hate numbers. They lose sleep because they are terrified of what those numbers might reveal if the IRS ever comes knocking. Behind the unfiled returns, unopened IRS letters, and messy books is a constant, exhausting fear: “What if I’m in trouble and I don’t even know it yet?”​

In this episode of the Tax Answers Advisor, Enrolled Agent and Certified Tax Representation Consultant Marcelino Dodge sits down with CPA Laura Zarate of Athena CPAs to talk about a different way forward: building clean systems and proactive tax strategi...

Many women care about Colorado Springs but hesitate to step into leadership roles. In this episode, Sarah Jack talks about her path into civic engagement, what motivated her to get involved in public policy, and how she learned to lead without waiting for permission or perfection. Her story speaks to anyone who has ever wondered whether their voice truly matters in local democracy.

We’ve got another great episode coming to you soon! Be sure to follow the podcast so you don’t miss an episode. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Reach out...

ERC helps cut wasted energy consumption through energy-efficient home upgrades, now available to all households in their 27-county service area, regardless of income level. Upgrades are free to income-qualifying households. ERC collectively saves $300,000 in utility bills each year by upgrading about 2,000 homes. Energy Resource Center Director of Programs Mike Mazzola fills us in on what ERC can do for you.

LINKS:

Sustainability & Resiliency Info and Networking Survey: https://forms.gle/aJCcs4Lv9ZAVk6E69

Energy Resource Center: https://erc-co.org

Colorado Energy Savings Navigator: https://puc.colorado.gov/energy-savings

...

Spoken word artist, idealist, and entrepreneurial cheerleader Judy Pearring shares some of her poetry and explains the vibe we love at The Next Us. The Next Us is home to Studio 809 Podcasts’ community podcast studio, as well as a family of extraordinary entrepreneurs. “We’re all the weirdos,” she tells us, and she means it with affection and respect. We also find out Carrie is a “recovering poet,” and Al wants to take one of Judy’s poems to Burning Man.

LINKS:

The Next Us: https://thenextus.spaces.nexudus.com

Clean & Safe Pilot Program - epis...

Social connection is a key to aging well. Volunteering is one opportunity to connect with others who share similar interests while also giving back. In January, the Martin Luther King Day of Service is an excellent time to check out opportunities in your community to meet new people and volunteer. The Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging encourages everyone to find ways to stay connected to counter isolation and depression.

Aging with Altitude is recorded in the Pikes Peak region with a focus on topics of aging interest across the country. We talk about both the everyday...

Do you wake up at 3:00 AM, paralyzed by the fear of an unopened IRS letter? You are not alone.

In this powerful episode of The Tax Answers Advisor, host Marcelino Dodge (Enrolled Agent) sits down with Business Architect Valerie Cobb to discuss the heartbreaking reality of the "I Wish I Knew" syndrome—the moment business owners realize a blind spot has cost them their legacy.

From the hidden dangers of unpaid payroll taxes that can kill a business sale to the new threats of cyber fraud and digital badging, this conversation is about survival. But be...

This active young citizen is leading People Centered Colorado Springs, advocating for safer streets, and in her spare time running for Congress. Zuri Horowitz hopes to be chosen as the Democratic Party’s candidate for U.S. Representative in Colorado Congressional District 5. She wears her values on her sleeve, and has a very clearly delineated platform. She is a local champion for safer streets – designed for pedestrians, bicyclists and transit riders as much as for motor vehicles. She is also an advocate for affordable housing. She has served on the Colorado Springs Citizens Transportation Advisory Board since 2022. Her platform incl...

Clean & Safe is a unique pilot program designed to make the heart of the city of Colorado Springs more welcoming to all and to connect people with needed resources to resolve homelessness. Beth discusses the program with Pat Rigdon, Director of Downtown Safety and Public Space for the Downtown Partnership of Colorado Springs.

Clean & Safe Program: https://downtowncs.com/clean-safe-pilot-program/

Downtown Partnership: https://downtowncs.com/

a Place for everyone is produced by Homeward Pikes Peak and hosted by Executive Director Beth Roalstad. We empower individuals and families to access stable housing, increase mental...

Staying active is a year-round healthy habit, however, holiday time and new year’s resolutions bring reflection on how to stay physically and mentally fit. Exercise routines vary by individual and do not have to be based on age. Tune into this podcast for a better understanding of ageism in the gym and get up to date ideas on how physical fitness and brain training go together in a very unique way.

FitBody Studio: https://www.fitbodystudio.com/

Aging with Altitude is recorded in the Pikes Peak region with a focus on topics of aging in...

Does the thought of opening your mailbox send you into a panic? Do you feel paralyzed by unfiled tax returns or mounting IRS debt? You are not alone. In this unique crossover episode of The Tax Answers Advisor, host Marcelino Dodge sits down with family therapy expert Lydia Schneider to explore the deep emotional impact of financial stress.

We discuss why "Tax Trauma" is real and how the shame of IRS issues can mimic the symptoms of PTSD. Marcelino and Lydia break down how therapy techniques—like building safety, reframing anxiety, and even EMDR—can help you get...

Three new co-hosts for the podcast discuss the past, present and future for Pikes Peak Women. Beth Roalstad, Melissa Marts and Brenda Morrison honor the initial host of Elevating Pikes Peak Women, Mary Lou Makepeace, and the original founders of Pikes Peak Women – including Brenda’s mom, Marcy Morrison. They also discuss what Pikes Peak Women hope to do in 2026, including podcast topics and quarterly in-person events. The bottom line: an invitation to get involved in the community, and the support to do it. 

They also invite all the women listening to provide feedback and ideas. To provi...

Carrie and Kelsee from the Downtown Partnership talk with Renee Behr from Behr and Behr Real Estate Team about holiday traditions in Downtown Colorado Springs - from ice-skating and parades, to shopping and experiences. If you’re still looking for the perfect holiday way to engage with friends and family for the holidays, you’re gonna want to give this special episode a listen. We talk holiday season — gift giving and beyond!

LINKS:

Skate in the Park: https://downtowncs.com/skate

Holiday Coupon Book: https://downtowncs.com/coupon

Behr and Behr Team: ht...

If you’re an attorney, law firm owner, family lawyer, or legal professional trying to balance client work with financial responsibilities, this episode is a must-listen.

Host Marcelino Dodge, EA, CTRC, sits down with Merry Stewart of Quick Win Bookkeeping to reveal the bookkeeping, tax, and compliance mistakes attorneys make every single day — many of which can lead to IRS audits, bar investigations, retained earnings problems, and trust account violations.

In clear, non-technical language, they break down how proper accounting systems can:

The ability to drive and have access to a vehicle is recognized as a critical need and skill as we age. The more we talk openly about this, the more we learn there are many tools, steps, adaptations, and supports available to facilitate independence – to either keep driving or access alternatives. Learn more as we visit with Terry Cassidy of Fitness to Drive. During December, families often come together and see there may be issues evolving. For this reason, Older Driver Awareness week was established in December.

Learn more at Fitness to Drive: https://www.fitnesstodrive.org/

Shrinking your holiday footprint on the planet can seem daunting – but this episode offers tips to make it a joy. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future (PASF) is deviating from the norm this month. Instead of the usual live, third Wednesday Zoom event, the November Sustainability in Progress is this pre-recorded studio conversation.

This conversation is about the holidays, discovering local resources to give meaningful and lifelong gifts to reduce waste. Host Mary Barber of PASF is joined by Ally Richardson of Pikes Peak Permaculture and Dave Gardner of GrowthBusters (both are regular co-producers of the Studio 809 Pod...

Cast member and UCCS theatre professor Birgitta DePree and Ent Center for the Arts Executive Director David Siegel fill us in on the Ent Center, Theatreworks, and an exciting 50th season of professional theatre. The Importance of Being Earnest opens in a few days. It’s “a trivial comedy for serious people.” David and Birgitta give us all the colorful details.

We also chat briefly about:

Our first live, on-location episode (Brit Pub Grand Opening, episode 31)

Bicycle speed limit signs going up on area trails

Colorado Springs Vibes played their last season...

During tight financial times, Colorado offers four unique resources to help older adults who own their homes, stay in their homes. El Paso County Treasurer Chuck Broerman, and El Paso County Clerk and Recorder Steve Schleiker present on the senior homestead tax exemption program, property fraud alerts, and escrow and tax deferral programs.

For more info:

El Paso County Treasurer: https://treasurer.elpasoco.com/

719-520-7900

El Paso County Clerk and Recorder: https://clerkandrecorder.elpasoco.com/

https://escrowtaxes.com

Aging with Altitude is recorded in the Pikes P...

Bundle up and follow the twinkle of Downtown’s lights where shop windows glow, and every block feels like a snow globe come to life. Even big downtown fans like us were amazed at the vast array of events, experiences and shopping options revealed in this conversation – as Kelsee Swenn, Marketing Manager for the Downtown Partnership and shop owner of Good Intentions, joined Carrie in the studio for a special Downtown holiday episode. More than 85 charming boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops offer treasures big and small: cozy sweaters, clever gifts, unique jewelry, artful keepsakes, and perfect stocking stuffers. 

Look...