• S3 EP 13: What It Is Actually Like to Raise Kids in Salida Colorado | A Local Teacher and Parent Shares All

    Are you thinking about moving to Salida Colorado with kids and wondering whether this small mountain town can actually offer enough for your family? In this episode we sit down with Andre Wilkins, a longtime Salida resident, high school music teacher, theater director, and dad, for an honest conversation about what it is actually like to raise children here. This is not a highlight reel. It is the kind of conversation you would have with a local friend who has been here long enough to tell you the real story. We talk through the performing arts and music programs at Salida High School, what community supported summer camps and youth programs actually look like, the unique way Salida raises kids together as a community rather than just as individual families, and what Andre would want every relocating family to know before they arrive.


    Connect with Monica:

    41m - Jul 30, 2026
  • S3 EP 12: How Two Educators Built Salida Colorado's Most Beloved New Community Space | Salida Book Club

    What happens when two full-time middle school teachers look around their mountain town and decide the community needs something that does not exist yet? In this conversation we sit down with Samantha Bahn and Deb Bass O'Brien, the women behind Book Club Salida, a woman owned independent bookstore that opened its brick-and-mortar location in March of 2026 after two summers of farmers market pop ups. This is not just a bookstore story. It is a community story about two educators who saw a gap and decided to fill it while still teaching full time. We talk through their Salida origin stories, how a blizzard road trip to host a school book fair planted the seed, and what they are building beyond just selling books including author events, intimate book clubs, summer camps, and reading retreats. The space also sits in a building with a fascinating history connected to Salida madam Laura Evans and the old downtown speakeasy, and that spirit of female owned community minded business feels very much alive in what they have created.


    Connect with Monica:

    35m - Jul 17, 2026
  • S3 EP11: How One Local Organization Is Preserving the Arkansas River Valley for Future Generations

    The Arkansas River Valley draws people for its mountain views open spaces and clean water but most residents never think about the work being done to protect all of it from the development pressure transforming other Colorado mountain towns. This video features Suzanne Copping program director at the Central Colorado Conservancy which has spent 25 years protecting lands and waters in Chaffee County through conservation easements that allow landowners to permanently restrict subdivision while continuing to work their properties for generations. The conversation covers why protecting ranch land matters beyond just the views including how open lands filter water into the Arkansas River how wildlife depends on privately owned open spaces and how the balance between growth and conservation determines whether the reasons people move here are still here in twenty years. If you live in or are considering moving to Salida Colorado this is one of the most important conversations about the future of this community right now.


    Connect with Monica:

    28m - Jul 2, 2026
  • S3 Ep10: 5th Generation Salidan Ryan Taverna, Local Ties, Owning a Business and Roots that Run Deep

    Living in Salida returns with Monica McCarthy for Episode 10 of Season 3!


    When Salida was founded in 1880 as a railroad depot and supply hub, it was a rugged wild west outpost. Over the last 146 years it has evolved into a vibrant creative arts district and outdoor recreation destination that it has become today. Ryan Taverna, a 5th generation Salidan joins Monica to talk about his family settling into the area in 1885, growing up in its current community and running the Mountain Sports Haus, a business serving the area for 50 years.


    Connect with Monica:


    Connect with the Mountain Sports Haus: https://mountainsportshaus.net/

    29m - Jun 15, 2026
  • S3 Ep9: Why Families Are Choosing Salida, Colorado — The Community That Changes Lives With Kenny Wilcox

    Living in Salida returns with Monica McCarthy for Episode 9 of Season 3!


    What makes people move to Salida… and never want to leave? In this episode of Living in Salida, longtime coach and mentor Kenny Wilcox shares how a small mountain town built one of Colorado’s strongest communities through youth sports, mentorship, family values, and genuine connection. From state championship cross-country teams to life-changing mentoring programs, this conversation reveals why Salida is more than just a beautiful place to live — it’s a place where people truly belong. Kenny opens up about moving from Iowa to Colorado, building a championship culture at Salida High School, raising four boys in the community, and helping shape the next generation through coaching and mentorship. If you’re thinking about moving to Salida, raising a family in the mountains, or simply looking for a community with heart, this episode will show you why so many people fall in love with Salida and choose to stay forever.


    Connect with Monica:

    33m - Jun 3, 2026
  • S3 EP 8: How One Entrepreneur Turned a Move to Salida Colorado into a Thriving Outdoor Brand

    Living in Salida returns with Monica McCarthy for Episode 8 of Season 3!


    This week Monica talks with Emma Rosse. Emma moved to Salida Colorado just over a year ago following her husband's dream of leaving the front range and within months had built a loyal following for her outdoor clothing brand All Over Apparel while becoming a genuine part of the local business community. This conversation covers her journey from Golden to Salida, how she pre-sold nearly a hundred pairs at Fibark before her first shipment even arrived, and why the trail to town lifestyle that defines Salida turned out to be the perfect fit for the brand she had spent years building. The conversation also covers what makes All Over Apparel different, her commitment to sustainable materials and packaging, and new products coming in 2026 including men's and women's daily driver pants and winterized overalls. If you are thinking about moving to Salida Colorado, starting a business in a small mountain town, or looking for outdoor clothing built for real life from trail to town this is a conversation worth a listen.

    30m - May 19, 2026
  • S3 EP 7: Anthony Miller, 7000 Feet Running Company Talks Owning a Small Business and the Running Collective in Salida

    Living in Salida returns with Monica McCarthy for Episode 7 of Season 3!


    This week Monica talks with Anthony Miller, co owner of 7000 Running Company. They discuss the appeal of running in a small community while continuing to support events in town and hosting running groups all while raising teenagers in Salida and Chaffee County.

    Connect with Monica:


    To Connect with 7000 Feet Running Company: https://shop.7kft.co/

    17m - May 7, 2026
  • S3 EP 6: Juliet Schaub, Empowering Women Through Movement

    Living in Salida returns with Monica McCarthy for Episode 6, Season 3!


    This week Monica talks with Juliet Schaub Founder of Divine Huntress. Juliet is a performer and entertainer who's been a major proponent for self acceptance and unapologetic power through movement. She inspires women to live their best self while dealing with life's circumstances


    Connect with Monica:


    To Donate to Divine Huntress: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-me-loki-bring-healing-art-and-freedom-to-ibiza

    30m - Apr 23, 2026
  • S3 EP5: How an Ultra Runner Became Salida Colorado's Most Talked About Restaurant Owner

    Living in Salida returns with Monica McCarthy for Episode 5, Season 3!


    This week Monica talks with Robbie Balanger, the owner of the Shavano Restaurant in Salida. He talks about his background of working in the industry, starting a new restaurant in Chaffee County and getting a chance to enjoy all outdoor activities that the area offers. Robbie and Monica also visit about his latest venture of opening a new Italian restaurant in Salida.


    Connect with Monica:


    For information about Shavano Salida: https://www.friendsofshavano.com/


    22m - Apr 8, 2026
  • S3 EP4: Monica McCarthy talks with Andrew Stossmeister at Heart of the Rockies Radio About Living and Working in Chaffee County

    Living in Salida returns with Monica McCarthy for Episode 4, Season 3!


    This week Monica talks with Andrew Stossmeister of Heart of the Rockies Radio. Andrew has been involved in covering high school sports on the radio for 11 years in Salida and Buena Vista. In this episode Monica and Andrew talk about the benefits of living and working in Salida and Buena Vista, the school systems in both towns, sports opportunities for kids and childcare programs in Chaffee County and the true magic of the area.


    Connect with Monica:

    30m - Mar 26, 2026
  • S3 EP3: Monica McCarthy talks with Katy Blanton of Coffee by Topo, Entrepeneur in Salida and Business Owner in Chaffee County

    Living in Salida returns with Monica McCarthy for Episode 3, Season 3!


    This week Monica talks with Katy Blanton, owner of Coffee by Topo and entrepreneur in Salida. They discuss the values of living in Chaffee County, owning a safe space in Salida and providing a great community spot for everyone to visit. They also talk about what it takes to live in Salida with an always changing landscape.


    Connect with Monica:


    Contact Coffee by Topo: https://www.coffeebytopo.com

    25m - Mar 11, 2026
  • S3 EP2: Monica McCarthy talks with Betsy Dittenber Executive Director for CCCF, to enrich the lives of all people in Chaffee County

    Living in Salida returns with Monica McCarthy for Episode 2, Season 3!


    This week Monica talks with Betsy Dittenber. Betsy is the Executive Director for the Chaffee County Community Foundation, a public, non profit organization established to promote and facilitate philanthropy in Chaffee County. CCCF's mission is to act as a catalyst to inspire positive change through the power of philanthropy to enrich the lives of all people in Chaffee County.

    25m - Feb 26, 2026
  • S3 EP: 1 Season 3 Opener with Monica McCarthy; Steve Lee living in Salida, CO- working remotely

    Living in Salida returns with Monica McCarthy for Season 3!


    This week Monica talks with Steve Lee about working remotely in Salida, CO. Owner of CoWork Salida. Founded in 2016, Cowork Salida started as a small 3-person office at the old Sherman Hotel building on G street and has grown over the years to several larger locations accommodating up to 24 members with desk or private office spaces. They're currently located on E. 1st street and are planning to open a second location in spring of 2026.


    If you're interested in connecting with Monica, whether it's to help you buy or sell a home in Salida or about being on the podcast this season, her info is below.


    Connect with Monica:


    25m - Feb 12, 2026
  • S2 EP: 15 Monarch Mountain Expansion 2025 | What It Means for Life in Salida

    In this episode of Living in Salida, Monica McCarthy chats with GM Chris Haggerty of Monarch Mountain and explores brand-new No Name terrain, the Tamichi Triple lift, and why this addition stands out from other Colorado ski areas. Discover how Monarch Mountain’s 2025 expansion adds 377 new acres across the Continental Divide and what that means for powder days, local businesses, and life in Salida. You’ll see how the extra acreage is planned to reduce crowding, create more variety for skiers and riders, and still protect Monarch’s classic small-resort feel. We also look at how the changes ripple into the community with new jobs, stronger tourism, and local grant programs that support Chaffee County. Chris shares how Monarch is working to keep skiing affordable while planning mindful growth that respects the culture of Salida. Whether you are planning your next ski trip or considering life in this mountain town, this episode offers both insider details and big-picture perspective.


    This is the final Episode of Season 2. Season 3 Returns in 2026!


    If you're interested in connecting with Monica, whether it's to help you buy or sell a home in Salida or about being on the podcast this season, her info is below.

    Connect with Monica:


    Watch weekly videos about Living in the Salida, CO area, including market updates, on my YouTube Channel @LivinginSalidaCO (https://www.youtube.com/@LivingInSalidaCO)


    Connect with Monarch Mountain: https://skimonarch.com/

    37m - Oct 20, 2025
  • S2 EP 14: Elemental 5; Building Stonger Kids in Salida

    In this episode of Living in Salida, Monica McCarthy chats with the founders of Elemental 5, a unique acrobatics and fitness studio that blends ninja training, parkour, aerial silks, and tumbling to create a fun, empowering environment for youth. You’ll hear their inspiring story of how they turned their passion for movement and mentorship into a thriving community hub that helps local kids grow inside and out. Whether you’re a parent looking for exciting activities for your children or someone curious about life in Salida, Colorado, this video offers a behind-the-scenes look at what makes this mountain town so special. Discover how Elemental 5 is strengthening families, supporting youth, and adding even more adventure to the Salida lifestyle.


    If you're interested in connecting with Monica, whether it's to help you buy or sell a home in Salida or about being on the podcast this season, her info is below.

    Connect with Monica:


    Watch weekly videos about Living in the Salida, CO area, including market updates, on my YouTube Channel @LivinginSalidaCO (https://www.youtube.com/@LivingInSalidaCO)


    Connect with Elemental 5:  https://www.elementalfive.com/


    34m - Oct 6, 2025
  • S2 Ep 13 Eric Lee Full Circle Restorative Justice, Local Non Profit, Health & Safety of Community

    In this episode of Living in Salida, Monica McCarthy chats with Eric Lee of Full Circle Restorative Justice.Eric is the Executive Director of Full Circle Restorative Justice a local non-profit that has been serving Salida, Buena Vista & Canon City since 2009. Their mission is to increase the health & safety of the community through restorative prevention and intervention. Eric has extensive experience in leadership and has had a career dedicated to criminal justice reform.


    If you're interested in connecting with Monica, whether it's to help you buy or sell a home in Salida or about being on the podcast this season, her info is below.

    Connect with Monica:


    Watch weekly videos about Living in the Salida, CO area, including market updates, on my YouTube Channel @LivinginSalidaCO (https://www.youtube.com/@LivingInSalidaCO)


    Connect with Full Circle Restorative Justice - https://fullcirclerj.org/

    36m - Sep 22, 2025
  • S2 Ep 12: Creative Arts Scene with Jennifer Dempsey, Director of Colorado TINTS

    In this episode of Living in Salida, Monica McCarthy chats with Jennifer Dempsey, a professional performer and the founder and former director of the Salida Circus Outreach Foundation. Before starting the Salida Circus in 2007, Jennifer spent nearly 20 years performing in circuses including 12 years with the Belfast Community Circus in Northern Ireland. She is currently the Director of Colorado TINTS; "theater in non-traditional spaces" which uses the platform of theater to bring original under reported or unknown stories to the public.


    If you're interested in connecting with Monica, whether it's to help you buy or sell a home in Salida or about being on the podcast this season, her info is below.

    Connect with Monica:


    Watch weekly videos about Living in the Salida, CO area, including market updates, on my YouTube Channel @LivinginSalidaCO (https://www.youtube.com/@LivingInSalidaCO)

    For more info about the Salida Circus and CO TINTS please visit: https://coloradotints.com/

    30m - Sep 8, 2025
  • S2 EP 11: Why a Giraffe Rides Through Salida Colorado | Ken Brandon’s Wild and Creative Journey

    In this episode of Living in Salida, Monica McCarthy chats with Ken Brandon, the creative force behind this unforgettable local icon, and hear the fascinating story of how it all began. From his early days moving to Salida in the late 1970s to becoming a driving force in the community through art, business, and his playful alter ego, Ken’s journey is as inspiring as it is entertaining. Whether you’re curious about Salida Colorado’s quirky charm, love hearing stories of creativity in small towns, or just want to know the origin of the famous Salida giraffe, this episode has you covered. You’ll learn about Ken’s decades of community involvement, his creation of Box of Bubbles, and how a simple parade costume turned into a joyful tradition that brings smiles to locals and visitors alike. Stick around for heartfelt stories, unexpected twists, and a celebration of the unique spirit that makes Salida so special.


    If you're interested in connecting with Monica, whether it's to help you buy or sell a home in Salida or about being on the podcast this season, her info is below.

    Connect with Monica:


    Watch weekly videos about Living in the Salida, CO area, including market updates, on my YouTube Channel @LivinginSalidaCO (https://www.youtube.com/@LivingInSalidaCO)


    For more information about Ken Brandon visit: https://theboxofbubbles.com/

    34m - Aug 25, 2025
  • S2 Ep 10: Building Your Dream Home in Salida with Andrew Bascue at Porchlight Builders

    In this episode of Living in Salida, Monica McCarthy chats with Andrew Bascue, Chief Welcome Home Office with Porchlight Builders. Porchlight Builders is based in Salida, CO and crafts high-end custom homes for Chaffee County. With over 12 years of home building experience, Andrew started Porchlight last year and aims to serve his clients as a guide throughout the entire home building process. If you have interest in living in Salida or you're eyeing this area as a potential place to build your dream home; this episode is for you.


    If you're interested in connecting with Monica, whether it's to help you buy or sell a home in Salida or about being on the podcast this season, her info is below.

    Connect with Monica:


    Watch weekly videos about Living in the Salida, CO area, including market updates, on my YouTube Channel @LivinginSalidaCO (https://www.youtube.com/@LivingInSalidaCO)


    For more information about Andrew Bascue and Porchlight Builders visit: https://www.porchlightbuilders.com/

    35m - Aug 11, 2025
  • S2 EP 9: Jon Terbush Executive Director of Salida Mountain Trails

    In this episode of Living in Salida, Monica McCarthy chats with Jon Terbush, the Executive Director of Salida Mountain Trails. Today we're chatting about one of the reasons Salida draws people to live and visit here; the trail systems. There are two major trail systems, the Arkansas Hills trails and the Methodist Mountain Trails, which together offer 70 miles of single track that are enjoyed year round by mountain bikers, hikers, & runners.


    If you're interested in connecting with Monica, whether it's to help you buy or sell a home in Salida or about being on the podcast this season, her info is below.

    Connect with Monica:


    Watch weekly videos about Living in the Salida, CO area, including market updates, on my YouTube Channel @LivinginSalidaCO (https://www.youtube.com/@LivingInSalidaCO)

    For more information about the trails visit: Salidamountaintrails.org

    27m - Jul 28, 2025
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Living in Salida, Colorado
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