We Found the Most Zen Spot in Colorado Springs...And It's Full of Llamas

Ever watched your stress melt away next to a 300-pound fuzzy therapist? This week, Carly and Lauren visit Luxy Llama on the west side of Colorado Springs (a bucket list item two summers in the making) to chat with owner Terry McConnell about the magic of these quirky, calming animals.From llama hikes through a hidden pocket of stunning terrain to wine and cheese events where strangers become friends, Terry shares how Luxy Llama is helping people slow down, unplug, and reconnect. Plus: the truth about llama spitting, a partnership with UCCS therapists using llamas for trauma resilience work, brunch llamas at Garden of the Gods Club, and why gardeners treat llama manure like gold.In this episode:(00:00) A peaceful welcome from a secret spot on the west side(01:30) How Luxy Llama began (and Terry's love of camelids from Patagonia)(03:30) Llamas at corporate events? Yes, really(04:15) Why llamas make humans slow down and feel grounded(06:30) Debunking the llama spit myth(07:45) Meet the herd: Chloe the matriarch, Zorro the class clown, Pedro the teenager, and a baby on the way(10:00) Experiences for ages 5 to 75, plus the UCCS Institute of Human Resilience partnership(12:30) Wine & cheese with llamas + brunch at Garden of the Gods Club and Resort(13:45) Llama bean manure: a gardener's gold(15:30) Terry's most satisfying moments as a business owner(17:00) Pick of the Week: Marigold's, plus a forest bathing walk at Mueller State Park (July 19)Connect with Luxe Llamas: InstagramLoved this episode? Leave us a 5-star review, share it with a friend you'd bring on a llama hike, and subscribe to Springs and Things on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss a week of local gems.We Love Our SponsorsVanguard Aesthetics — Skincare treatments with real, noticeable results.Core Collective — Our favorite spot for pilates! Use code SPRINGSANDTHINGS for 3 classes for $30.