Can a local government podcast be fun? Jennifer Schreuder from the City of Colorado Springs Communications Department says “yes!” Join Jen for our lighthearted, in-depth discussions with Colorado Springs' elected officials and employees as we learn what keeps Olympic City USA ranked in the country's top three best places to live. If you enjoy life with Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods but want to be more in the know about what's going on in your city, this podcast is for you.
Questions?
Have a question or comment? Send them to BehindtheSprings@ColoradoSprings.gov
Episodes
Episode 67: Building bridges
Three new bridges are coming to a popular park near you! Meet one of our senior engineers, who explains what this particular project means for fans and neighbors of North Cheyenne Canon Park. He’ll tell us why building bridges is important for so many reasons that impact all of us.
Episode 66: Talk about Tokyo with a COS medalist
Lucas Kozeniesky is back in Olympic City USA and excited to tell his Olympic story! We hear about his silver medal win, the quiet of Tokyo, and his goals for the future. Not only does he have big plans for himself, but he’s helping the younger generation train for the sport of rifle shooting. Learn about the sport, Lucas’s victory and why he loves to train in Colorado Springs.
Episode 65: Colorado Springs Utilities
It’s so much more than the name on your utility bill! What do you know about Colorado Springs Utilities? You’ll definitely want to hear more about its leader and the many projects impacting our entire community.
Episode 64: Play COS
Colorado Springs police officers have something new in their patrol cars to help them connect with area kids. A program called Play COS is about having fun, starting conversations and creating relationships. Find out why it’s such a win-win for our community!
Episode 63: Time to party!
The city’s big 150th anniversary bash is happening downtown on July 31st and you don’t want to miss it. Why is it going to be so great? Find out from Colorado Springs Mayor John Suthers on this episode of “Behind the Springs”!
Episode 62: Wildfire warning
Meet our city’s Fire Marshal and hear about all the things his team does and all the things WE can do to prepare for the summer heat and threat of wildfire. Brett Lacey has been in Colorado Springs nearly 30 years and shares great information that will help our entire community through this season and beyond!
Episode 61: Pedal Our Past
June is bike month and we’re celebrating with something called “Pedal Our Past”! Learn more from our city’s bike planner and find out how to join the fun.
Listen to episode 61 | Watch episode 61
Episode 60: COVID 19 vaccine and kids
The COVID-19 vaccine has been approved for kids ages 12-15. Get the facts from the Chief Medical Officer at Children’s Hospital Colorado, who is also a parent and realizes that it’s a big decision for families. Please tune in for this great and important conversation!
Listen to episode 60 | Watch episode 60
Episode 59: Warm weather crime
We’re talking about hiking, street racing and car theft. Why? Because the weather is warming up and certain crimes tend to happen more often. Meet two of our city’s crime prevention officers from The Colorado Springs Police Department, who offer great tips and information to help keep you and your valuables safe this summer.
Episode 58: Let's talk trees
Our city’s founder, General William Jackson Palmer, had thousands of trees brought into Colorado Springs back in the 1870s. We’re celebrating his legacy and our city’s 150th anniversary with a Tree Challenge! Meet our City Forester Dennis Will, find out why trees are such a big deal and learn how you can join the fun!
Listen to episode 58 | Watch episode 58
Episode 57: Ready to get the vaccine?
There’s some good news and some bad news when it comes to COVID-19 in our community right now. Hear from Dr. Robin Johnson, the medical director from El Paso County Public Health about the vaccine and an increase in COVID cases. This conversation will answer a lot of questions about HOW to get the vaccine, WHY to get it, and WHEN we might be able to put this pandemic behind us.
Listen to episode 57 | Watch episode 57
Episode 56: What is community development?
It’s National Community Development Week and you’re not alone if you don’t know exactly what that means! Listen in as we talk about affordable housing, homelessness and helping the most vulnerable in our community. By the end, you’ll understand why it’s so important to thank our many partners making a difference in Colorado Springs.Listen to episode 56 | Watch episode 56
Episode 55: Leave No Trace
What does it mean to “leave no trace”? And why does it matter? Hear from one of our city’s awesome park rangers about keeping our favorite parks, trails and open spaces in top shape. She’ll also reveal a famous figure behind this effort, specifically at the Manitou Incline.
Listen to episode 55 | Watch episode 55
Episode 54: Meet the new Colorado Springs Fire Chief
Randy Royal has been working at the Colorado Springs Fire Department for more than three decades and now he’s the new leader. Hear about his background, his plans for the future and his wise words about this year’s wildfire danger!
Listen to episode 54 | Watch episode 54
Episode 53: Brothers make history in COS
In this episode, you’ll hear from Robert and Arthur Sapp, two brothers raised in Colorado Springs. They both joined the Colorado Springs Police Department and became the first black sergeant (Robert) and first black lieutenant (Arthur) on the department. Interesting fact: the first black police office was one of the founding members of the department in 1887. Join us for some local history, great stories and Arthur’s thoughts on police department diversity, recruitment and training today.
Listen to episode 53 | Watch episode 53
Episode 52: Diversity Discussion
We have two guests, both devoted to promoting diversity in Colorado Springs, but in different ways. Meet these city employees and hear about what they’re doing to achieve their goals on our city team and in the community. Just as importantly, find out what YOU can do to promote diversity and learn more about our local history!
Listen to episode 52 | Watch episode 52
Episode 51: Checking in with the mayor
From the latest on local COVID-19 vaccinations to the new summit house on top of Pikes Peak … hear what Mayor Suthers has to say about our community’s recovery and what he’s looking forward to this year!Listen to episode 51 | Watch episode 51
Episode 50: Vaccine distribution
This episode will help you better understand how the COVID-19 vaccine is being distributed in our community and why it has a lot to do with supply versus demand. Hear the latest from Dr. Johnson, including how people can get more information and be connected to local providers. We’re nearing the finish line, but there’s more work to be done … by all of us.Listen to episode 50 | Watch episode 50
Episode 49: Farewell to Chief Collas
It’s a fond farewell episode with Colorado Springs Fire Department Chief Ted Collas, who is retiring after 36 years of service! Hear what he has to say about the department’s future, his own career and that time he started an IV on an elephant at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo! We hope you’ll listen to this great conversation and learn about our incredible fire department in the process.
Listen to episode 49 | Watch episode 49
Episode 48: 2021 CIty election
It’s time to talk about a different election, this one right here in Colorado Springs and coming up on April 6th. Meet our City Clerk and hear what she has to say about the recent focus on elections. Find out how to make your opinion count when it comes to positions and issues that impact your life every day!
Listen to episode 48 | Watch episode 48
Episode 47: COS@150
150 is the magic number for this episode! 2021 is our city’s sesquicentennial year. What does that mean? It’s the 150th anniversary of our city’s founding. We’re talking to the curator at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum about a new exhibit coming soon. 150 objects, illuminating 150 stories, commemorating 150 years. Dive into some local history and join in the celebration!Listen to episode 47 | Watch episode 47
Episode 46: COVID-19 Vaccine
Is the vaccine safe? What’s in it? We know there’s skepticism and worry, so we’re talking with the medical director of El Paso County Public Health about the concerns, facts, timeline and hope that come with this new vaccine. As Dr. Johnson says, “We don’t have a cure, we have prevention.” Learn more in this important episode of Behind the Springs.
Listen to episode 46 | Watch episode 46
Episode 45: EngageCOS
It’s time to get engaged … with the City of Colorado Springs! We’re not just saying we WANT to hear from you, we NEED your input. How can you weigh in on big projects and initiatives? Find out about EngageCOS and how it’s easier than ever to make your voice heard when it comes to the projects that impact your everyday life.Listen to episode 45 | Watch episode 45
Episode 44: Teamwork makes the dream work
The City of Colorado Springs is fortunate to have so many great partners in our community! In this episode, we highlight the relationship between the city and the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS). Whether or not you have ties to UCCS, you benefit from this partnership. Find out how from two leaders who know that teamwork is the key to our community’s success.Listen to episode 44 | Watch episode 44
Episode 43: ‘Tis the season to be SAFE
They’re called crimes of opportunity. The key is to NOT give criminals the opportunity. The Colorado Springs Police Department’s Crime Prevention Officers have great tips about puffing, porch pirates, online shopping and more. We hope this conversation helps you have a happy and safe holiday season!Listen to episode 43 | Watch episode 43
Episode 42: What does LETAC stand for?
LETAC is an acronym worth knowing because it will be around for years to come. The Law Enforcement Transparency and Accountability Commission (LETAC) is holding meetings, setting goals and getting ready to make a difference in Colorado Springs. How do they plan to do that? Hear from the Chair and Vice Chair of the commission in this episode of Behind the Springs!Listen to episode 42 | Watch episode 42
Episode 41: let's talk about GRIT
Have you heard people use the term GRIT? It means courage or resolve, or strength of character. Something we could all use at any time, but especially these days! Is it realistic to think we can attain the resiliency needed right now? Listen to Jen’s conversation with the creator of a new program who says YES. It’s not only possible, but it’s simple, important and FREE.
Listen to episode 41 | Watch episode 41
Episode 40: celebrating local young leaders
We have two special guests on this episode who have recently been recognized with a the Mayor’s Young Leader Award! What is that, you ask? Tune in to find out about this awesome program, who it highlights and why. It’s more important than ever to celebrate those positively contributing to our community!Listen to episode 40 | Watch episode 40
Episode 39: The not so good news about our COVID numbers
We love to share great news on our podcast, but this time, we need to share some bad news about our COVID-19 numbers. El Paso County Public Health’s Medical Director talks about what they mean and what’s at stake if they continue to rise. She also gives us helpful information and tips as we head into the colder months. Stay informed and help us move our community in the right direction!Listen to episode 39 | Watch episode 39
Episode 38: breaking down the budget
You don’t have to have a head for numbers to learn about the city’s budget. It’s pretty simple and it’s so important! Listen to our Chief Financial Officer break things down to let you know how much is being spent on essential services that impact your life every day. Plus, who makes the decisions about the budget? And does the public have a say?Listen to episode 38 | Listen to episode 38
Episode 37: A bridge to our city’s future
It’s longer than a football field, weighs more than a million pounds and provides a major connection in downtown Colorado Springs. It’s a symbol of progress, a piece of art … and it’s no ordinary bridge! Tune in to this conversation about the new pedestrian bridge connecting America the Beautiful Park to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum and why it’s another example of how our city keeps moving forward during these challenging times.
Listen to episode 37 | Watch episode 37
Episode 36: Helping people in crisis the right way
Mental health is a big topic right now in the midst of the pandemic. But here in Colorado Springs, we’ve had a unique and effective approach to helping people in crisis for years. It’s called the Community Response Team or CRT. It’s the right care, in the right setting at the right time. Find out why it’s so important to get it right, and how this team impacts you whether or not you’re in crisis. We hear from CRT leaders at the Colorado Springs Police Department, Colorado Springs Fire Department and Aspen Pointe Mental Health Services during this important conversation.Listen to episode 36 | Watch episode 36
Episode 35: A new experience on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain
The experience at the summit of Pikes Peak America’s Mountain is about to get even better! Hear from two project leaders about the new summit complex and what it will offer, including the latest update on construction at 14,000 feet. Plus, don’t miss your chance to be part of this amazing project. Even a small donation will receive recognition at the new visitors center on top of the world!
Listen to episode 35 | Watch episode 35
Episode 34: COS burn ban
You can see and smell the smoke and it’s been HOT. But those aren’t the only reasons we have a burn ban in Colorado Springs. Tune in for an interview with Fire Marshal Brett Lacey about how COVID-19 is impacting his decisions and what our fire department is hoping YOU will do – and NOT do - to keep our community safe!Listen to episode 34 | Watch episode 34
Episode 33: Summer is ending but the pandemic is not
We’re doing great but it’s not over! Tune in for a pep talk from the Medical Director at El Paso County Health. Dr. Robin Johnson gives details about a new “data dashboard” that will help you stay updated on the latest COVID-19 numbers AND she provides some helpful tips as we wrap up summer and prepare for flu season.Listen to episode 33 | Watch episode 33
Episode 32: Improving our parks one potty at a time
There’s a TikTok video with 6 million views AND we’ve been asked to enter for an award … what’s all the excitement about? The city’s most high-tech bathroom at Bancroft Park! Listen to our conversation with Britt Haley from the Parks Department about this new addition, what it means for park lovers, how it will save money, and how these types of projects are funded. Who knew a potty could be so exciting?!
Listen to episode 32 | Watch episode 32
Episode 31: It's up to you
Should we send kids back to school? When will this be over? What can I really do about it? Dr. Leon Kelly from the El Paso County Health Department doesn’t have all the answers, but he has quite a few that will make you think and perhaps realize the power of individual choices in the fight against COVID-19. Stay educated, stay vigilant and stay positive – we hope this conversation will help!Listen to episode 31 | Watch episode 31
Episode 30: Colorado’s Small Airport
The Colorado Springs Airport has BIG news about why it’s so great to be SMALL. Ted and Jen talk to Aviation Director Greg Phillips about the benefits of flying small and what COS has to offer to those starting to travel again. We hope you’ll listen to the conversation and consider flying out of our local airport!
Episode 29: Army Hiring Days
U.S. Army Hiring Days are underway and that impacts Colorado Springs! Tune in to hear from Mayor Suthers and special guests Major General Matthew McFarlane and Recruiting Company Commander Cpt. Josh Trenkel. They talk about what makes the national recruiting event unique and why these efforts can have a significant positive impact locally. We hope you’ll listen to this special episode to learn more about the partnership between the city and the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson!Episode 28: Law Enforcement Transparency and Accountability Commission
Council Member David Geislinger talks about the formation of a new commission designed to bring policy recommendations to City Council, the Mayor and the Colorado Springs Police Department. Hundreds have applied already and he’ll share some of the goals of the commission and what the community can expect to happen next. Please join Ted and Jen for this important conversation.Episode 27: VisitCOS
What’s your plan for the summer? Visit Colorado Springs is the organization dedicated to promoting our region and they’re hoping you’ll choose to explore some attractions in your own backyard! Hear what Visit COS is doing to help us recover and why it’s so critical to our local economy. Plus, you’ll get some great ideas of places to visit and fun things to do!Episode 26: Police Advisory Committee
Ted and Jen sit down with City Council Member Wayne Williams to hear about a proposed Police Advisory Committee in response to recent protests in Colorado Springs. City Council held a special session this week to discuss the formation of the volunteer group. Wayne will explain the results of that session and next steps. We hope you’ll join us for this conversation.Listen to episode 26 | Watch episode 26
Episode 25: Mayor Suthers and Police Chief Niski
The Colorado Springs Police Chief and Mayor of Colorado Springs share their thoughts about the death of George Floyd, recent protests, the end of a city-wide curfew and what happens next in our community. Spend a few minutes listening to this important conversation.Listen to episode 25 | Watch episode 25
Episode 24: City Budget Impacts
You don’t need to have a head for numbers to know the budget forecast is stormy. How will the city keep serving residents during this pandemic and economic crisis? Hear all about the local plan from the city’s Chief Financial Officer, including how the city is prioritizing public safety and other critical services. It impacts you and our entire community!Listen to episode 24 | Watch episode 24
Episode 23: COS Economic Update
It’s hard to find the positive news, but we have some for you! Hear from Dirk Draper with the Chamber & Economic Development Corporation about the current climate, challenges and resources available to local businesses. Find out how the Chamber & EDC is partnering with the city and others to move toward recovery. Ted and Jen talk with him about how this situation is far from easy, but we shouldn’t lose hope for the future of our resilient city!Listen to episode 23 | Watch episode 23
Episode 22: COVID-19 update from El Paso County's medical director
We have officially entered the “Safer at Home” phase in our local response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Why can’t we just open everything up? When will we know if we can move to the next phase? Is there a light at the end of the tunnel? These are just a few of the questions Jen and Ted ask Dr. Robin Johnson, one of the leading health experts in the Pikes Peak region.
Listen to episode 22 | Watch episode 22
Episode 21: Be smart in our parks
Pop Quiz! What does the “Safer At Home” phase mean for our parks, trails and open spaces? It means that things stay the same. They’re still open if you want to get outside … BUT we need you to spread out! Jen and Ted talk with the city’s parks director about some of the issues they’re dealing with and easy ways for you to find new parks and trails to explore.
Listen to episode 21 | Watch episode 21
Episode 20: Safer at home
Mayor Suthers talks about what the new “Safer At Home” phase means for local residents and he addresses important topics like the latest COVID-19 numbers in El Paso County, the city budget, and potential economic impacts lasting through the summer. He also offers the city’s thanks to everyone taking this pandemic seriously and to essential workers for all they’re doing for our community.
Episode 19: The show must go on
We’re not sticking to our schedule lately since nothing is quite the way it used to be. But we want to start bringing you podcasts as often as possible right now with important information about COVID-19 and the response in Colorado Springs. What questions do you still have? Have you heard positive stories of community support worth sharing? Please email us at BehindTheSprings@ColoradoSprings.gov. We will continue to keep you informed and hopefully, uplifted during this difficult time.Episode 18: SmartCOS
It’s hard to believe how quickly technology is changing these days! It’s important that our city government be ready to keep up with the latest and greatest ways to improve our services. That’s why we have an Office of Innovation and a “vision” called SmartCOS. Hear from two city employees about how their group is working on everything from smart streetlights to sustainability and what it all means for you!Episode 17: Let's talk traffic
Ever wonder how the traffic lights are timed? Or who’s in charge of the hundreds of intersections around the city? It’s no small task and we want to know more about what our City Traffic Engineer does to make sure everyone – whether they’re driving, walking, bicycling or riding the bus – gets around safely and smoothly. Join Ted & Jen as they bust some of the myths about traffic in Colorado Springs!
Episode 16: training in Olympic City USA
She’s a 2019 World Champion women’s freestyle wrestler and she trains right here in Olympic City USA! Hear from Tamyra Mensah-Stock about her exciting journey as she sets her sights on competing in the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 this summer. What’s it like to train in Colorado Springs? What does it take to become an Olympic athlete? Jen and Ted ask these questions and many more. Join them to learn about women’s wrestling and this amazing local athlete who you will hopefully be watching compete on NBC this summer!
Listen to episode 16 | Watch episode 16
Episode 15: what's the plan?
Does the city have a plan to deal with all of this growth? Of course! A lot of that centers around our planning department, so we’re talking with the director to get an idea of what our city planners do and what they don’t do. Are you wishing for a certain store or restaurant in your neighborhood? Or do you wish all the development would just slow down? Hear about the city planning’s role and why it’s so important to have a vision for the future of COS.Episode 14: validating the new parking rules
The city’s parking enterprise has increase parking rates and extended meter hours downtown for the first time in 14 years. It’s not exactly great news … in fact, even our parking director’s mom had something to say about it! But Jen & Ted want you to know the reason for the change, where the money is going and how it impacts you.
Special Edition: lucky number 13
Colorado Springs is lucky number 13! We feel lucky in Olympic City USA to make it on the New York Times’ prestigious “52 Places to Visit in 2020(link is external)” list. Jen and Ted talk about all the reasons that our city is making headlines like this and why so many people want to live in or visit Colorado Springs!
Listen to the special edition | Watch the special edition
Episode 13: what's it like to be mayor?
Jen and Ted have a great conversation with Mayor John Suthers about his job as Mayor, why he chose public service and public office and how he stays focused. He shares the importance of setting goals along with his favorite part of serving as the Mayor of COS.
Episode 12: there's an app for that!
Pothole on your street? Want to find the nearest park? There’s an app for that called GoCOS! It’s free to download onto your phone so that the power is at your fingertips. Hear from Citizen Engagement Specialist Jay Anderson about the features of the city’s new app and why the city needs you to use it!
Episode 11: how you can HelpCOS
Homelessness is a complex issue, but Jen and Ted get some good information from the city’s Homelessness Response and Prevention Coordinator, Andy Phelps. What organizations and agencies does the city work with on this issue and what progress is being made? How can you donate and where does the money go? These are answers everyone needs to know. Plus, you won’t want to miss an emotional story at the end!
Episode 10: this episode is FIRE
The Colorado Springs Fire Department does so much more than fight fires! Typically fire related calls are only one percent of CSFD call responses. Jen and Ted speak with Sunny Smaldino, Safety Educator for CSFD’s Division of the Fire Marshal, about preventative measures for fire and general safe behavior. While we try to educate, we also want you to laugh, so hear some funny stories from students that Sunny has met over the years of educating the youth in Colorado Springs!
Episode 9: this episode could save your life
We’re getting a little more serious than usual to talk about the high number of traffic fatalities in Colorado Springs, and what our police officers identify as the major reasons. Listen to some frightening stories and life-saving tips from the lead of the Major Crash Team, Sgt. Jim Stinson. Jen and Ted will help provide you with a new appreciation for our police officers, the opportunity to reflect on your own driving habits and the chance to be more aware and ARRIVE ALIVE!
