Beyond the Dais - The Stories of El Paso County

This interview with Mary Jo Lewis and Kylee Taylor from Bear Creek Nature Center was recorded on March 5, 2026. In this episode, we talk about Bear Creek Nature Center's upcoming anniversary, its history, and the value its community partners bring. For more information about Bear Creek Nature Center and its programs, please visit https://parks.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-nature-centers/bear-creek-nature-center/ Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with El Paso County's Executive Director of Community Resources, Vernon Stewart, and Veterans Services Division Manager, Charles Graves, was recorded on March 3, 2026. In this episode, we talk about the services the team offers, what the claims process looks like, and preview the upcoming Veterans Expo (coming June 2026). For more information about the Veterans Expo, please visit https://www.elpasoco.com/veterans-expo/ Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with El Paso County Engineer Josh Palmer was recorded on February 10, 2026. In this episode, we discuss Josh's background, the role of a County Engineer, and some of the bigger projects his team is working on, including the County's Paving and Preservation Program. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with Luke Houser, a Community Development Analyst in El Paso County's Economic Development Department, and Jason McCullough from Brothers Redevelopment was recorded on January 13, 2026. In this episode, we talk about the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and the value this grant program brings to the community. If you are interested in receiving more information about the CDBG program, please email [email protected]. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with Steve Schleiker, El Paso County's Clerk & Recorder, was recorded on December 9, 2025. In this episode, we talk about the recent election, what Steve's office is doing to combat property fraud, and the value of transparency. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with Vernon Stewart, El Paso County's Executive Director of Community Resources, was recorded on November 25, 2025. In this episode, we talk about the creation of the (relatively) new Department of Community Resources and the value each division within that department brings to County residents. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with El Paso County's Chief Financial Officer, Nikki Simmons, was recorded on November 3, 2025. In this episode, we review the 2026 Proposed Budget, including how it is developed and how residents can participate in the process. The 2026 El Paso County Proposed Budget can be viewed on the El Paso County website by visiting https://admin.elpasoco.com/financial-services/budget-finance/county-budget/. The process is still ongoing, but more documents will be added to the site as they become available. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with Meredith Nichols, Deputy Director for the Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management, and Ben Bills, Public Information Manager for the El Paso/Teller County 9-1-1 Authority, was recorded on September 9, 2025. In this episode, we celebrate National Preparedness Month and discuss how residents can prepare for emergencies. There are many resources available to residents in El Paso County to help them prepare for emergencies. Some of those discussed in this episode include: PeakAlerts.org - sign up for Peak Alerts 719.785.1971 - phone number to call if you need help signing up for Peak Alerts PPROEM.com - up-to-date information on current emergencies and quick links with preparedness guides for all hazards Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with Chuck Broerman, El Paso County Treasurer and Public Trustee, was recorded on August 6, 2025. In this episode, we discuss the role the Treasurer plays in local government and a new program available to those who pay property taxes. If you are interested in learning more about the new property tax pre-payment plan, you can navigate to the Treasurer's page on the El Paso County website or visit https://escrowtaxes.com/. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with Bill Wysong, El Paso County Commissioner for District 3, was recorded on June 3, 2025. In this episode, we discuss Commissioner Wysong's impetus for seeking elected office and what he's been able to learn in his first six months in the role. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with Colorado Springs Utilities CEO Travas Deal was recorded on April 28, 2025. 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. For more information about Colorado Springs Utilities, please visit https://www.csu.org/. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

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 visit https://pikespeakdpa.com/. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with Sara Lobato, an Economic Development Analyst with El Paso County, was recorded on April 9, 2025. In this episode, we talk about the Pikes Peak Enterprise Zone and the upcoming redesignation process. How does it affect small businesses and non-profits in the region? How can residents benefit from all this great knowledge? Sara talks through all of it, while sharing opportunities for the public to provide their own feedback. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

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 aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with Cory Applegate, El Paso County Commissioner for District 4, was recorded on March 28, 2025. In this episode, we discuss Commissioner Applegate's entry into politics, his approach to learning, and the importance of resident interactions. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with Christine Middleton, the Organizational Development Division Manager in Human Resources at El Paso County, was recorded on February 18, 2025. In this episode, we discuss the value of learning and how a culture of feedback benefits a workplace. If you are an El Paso County employee and want more information on training opportunities, please email the team at [email protected]. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you have a story you want to share or know someone you feel should be highlighted, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in hearing more of these stories, feel free to browse previous episodes or stay tuned for future editions of this podcast.

This interview with Steve Schleiker, El Paso County's Clerk and Recorder, was recorded on February 4, 2025. 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. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast.

This interview with El Paso County employees Luke Houser and Ross Williams was recorded on November 12, 2024. In this episode, we discuss the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and how it benefits residents of El Paso County. If you are interested in learning more about the CDBG program, you can visit the County website at https://admin.elpasoco.com/economic-development/community-initiatives/cdbg/. You can also contact Luke directly by emailing [email protected] or calling 719.520.6249. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast.

This interview with Angela Greene, a local business owner and Citizen Outreach Group board member, was recorded on October 10, 2024. In this episode, Angela outlines the upcoming Citizen College program and how it can benefit residents of the county. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Todd Marts, the Executive Director of El Paso County Parks and Community Services, was recorded on September 16, 2024. In this episode, Todd talks about the importance of the Parks system and shares information about the myriad programs available to residents. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Sean Markley, the Training Program Coordinator with El Paso County Public Works, was recorded on September 16, 2024. In this episode Sean talks about various training programs available within the department and how he got his start at Public Works. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Marshall Bosworth, the Division Director of El Paso County Veterans Services, was recorded on August 22, 2024. In this episode we discuss how the office can assist veterans in need and details about an upcoming claims clinic. If you would like to contact the Veterans Service office, you can email them at [email protected] or call 719.520.7750. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Andrew Notbohm, the Executive Director of the Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management (PPROEM), was recorded on August 12, 2024. In this episode we cover the role PPROEM plays during disasters and how residents can best prepare for emergency situations. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Traci Marques, the CEO of Pikes Peak Workforce Center, was recorded on August 9, 2024. 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. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Christine Burns, Division Director - Justice Services, and Dawn Montoya, Justice Services Manager, was recorded on August 2, 2024. In this episode we talk about what Pretrial Services are and the importance of transparency and trust within the team's responsibilities. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Susan Wheelan, the Executive Director with El Paso County Public Health, was recorded on July 29, 2024. In this episode we discuss the role of Public Health in the community and talk about a new resource for residents. One important point that didn't make it into the conversation is the fact that El Paso County Public Health is the first public health agency in Colorado to receive accreditation by the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). They received the distinction in 2013, while also becoming the first public health agency in Colorado to achieve reaccreditation in 2020. This significant milestone allows for increased credibility, accountability, and visibility throughout El Paso County communities, Colorado, and the nation. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

We have reached Episode 100! I wanted to start by thanking everybody who has supported the podcast in any form or fashion over the last two years. Please continue to share feedback so we can make this podcast as educational and engaging as possible. That said, this week's episode was a particularly fun one for me. This interview with Dr. Jervaise Pileggi, an Adjunct Faculty Member with the University of Denver, and Melody Alvarez, the Director of Programming for the Pikes Peak Library District, was recorded on July 17, 2024. In this episode we talk about how different forms of storytelling affect people and the value stories have in a community. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Randi Davis, a Community Development Analyst for El Paso County, was recorded on July 16, 2024. In this episode we discuss how El Paso County approaches housing in the community and the various programs they administer. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with the 2024 El Paso County Fair Queen, Maddy Norton, was recorded on July 3, 2024. 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. If you are interested in more information about the El Paso County Fair, please visit https://www.elpasocountyfair.com/. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Angela Seals, the Executive Director of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPR), was recorded on July 2, 2024. In this episode we discuss COPPR's place in the artistic community and the value creative industries bring to a local economy. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. For more information about COPPR, please visit https://www.culturaloffice.org/ or email [email protected]. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Paula Linhares, the Constituent Services Specialist with El Paso County, was recorded on June 24, 2024. In this episode we talk about her experience working with constituents in multiple fields and how residents can make their voices heard. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. If you would like to submit a request through Citizen Connect, please visit https://citizenconnect.elpasoco.com/. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Samantha Radomski, the Webmaster with El Paso County, was recorded on June 18, 2024. In this episode we talk about the importance of accessibility in government and the resources available for people to educate themselves. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Brandon Wilson, the Legislative Affairs Specialist with El Paso County, was recorded on June 10, 2024. In this episode we talk about the recent legislative session and how residents can play a big role in local government. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Jennifer Korb, the Executive Director of Autism Society Colorado, and Andschana Aljets, El Paso County Fair & Events Program Supervisor, was recorded on June 4, 2024. In this episode we talk about the upcoming El Paso County Fair and a unique experience coming to the event for the first time. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with El Paso County's 2023 Veteran of the Year, Joe Lewis, was recorded on May 23, 2024. 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. If want to learn more about Angels of America's Fallen, you can visit their website at https://aoafallen.org/. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Emma Bernick, the Injury & Violence Prevention Planner with El Paso County Public Health, was recorded on May 21, 2024. 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. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This week I had the chance to interview a couple of counterparts - the hosts of the Savvy Citizen podcast in Gaston County, North Carolina. In this episode we discuss the importance of telling local stories and the value podcasting has as a medium. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Sara Lobato, the Pikes Peak Enterprise Zone Administrator, was recorded on May 7, 2024. In this episode we discuss what the Enterprise Zone is and how it can benefit small businesses and residents alike. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Mindy Schulz, the Strategic Services Manager for El Paso County's Planning and Community Development Department, was recorded on April 29, 2024. In this episode we talk about the myths surrounding Code Enforcement and some of Mindy's wildest days on the job. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

Today marks our final episode dedicated to National Child Abuse Prevention Month! This week's interview with Colorado Springs Police Department's Lieutenant Shannon Snuggs was recorded on April 23, 2024. In this episode we talk about the Special Victims Section of the department and the responsibility they have within the community. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

Our focus on National Child Abuse Prevention Month continues this week! This interview with Safe Passage's Director of Development, Strategy and Partnerships, Emily Bowker, was recorded on April 11, 2024. In this episode we talk about the organization's co-located structure and how that benefits those they serve. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with El Paso County Deputy Director of Children, Youth and Family Services, Dr. Jason Lester, was recorded on March 28, 2024. 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. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with El Paso County Commissioner, Cami Bremer, and Deputy County Administrator, Sunny Bryant, was recorded on March 29, 2024. In this episode we kick off National County Government Month and discuss the importance of local government. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. To view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with Ben Bills, the Public Information Officer for El Paso-Teller County 9-1-1 Authority, was recorded on March 22, 2024. In this episode we talk about the value of the 9-1-1 Authority and the importance of Peak Alerts. If you want to learn more about Peak Alerts, or sign up for emergency notifications yourself, please visit https://www.elpasoteller911.org/246/Peak-Alerts. If you would prefer, you can also call 719.785.1971 and leave a message with your address and the phone numbers that you want added to the emergency notifications list. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. If you’d prefer to view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

The Strategy Team is back for another edition of Strategy Team Sessions! Filling the hot seats this week are Natalie Sosa, El Paso County's Deputy Director of Communications, and Marketing Communications Manager AmyJo Fields. This episode was recorded on March 18, 2024. These episodes are a joy for me because I get to speak with co-workers in a more casual environment than most other interviews. This time around, we cover how our roles impact emergencies, fairs, and media interviews. So kick back, relax, and enjoy the conversation! And as always, feel free to comment or reach out if you have any questions. If you’d prefer to view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with the Director of the Space Foundation Discovery Center, Dr. Terry Bramschreiber, was recorded on March 11, 2024. In this episode we talk about a couple of upcoming Space Foundation events and what visitors can expect from the Discovery Center's renovation. If you want to learn more about the Discovery Center, or want to volunteer with the organization, you can visit their website at https://discoverspace.org/. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. If you’d prefer to view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with the Founder of the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance of Colorado Springs, Karen Fallahi, was recorded on March 5, 2024. In this episode we talk about Karen's personal story and how that led to the creation of the Colorado Springs chapter of DBSA. If you want to learn more about DBSA, or want to volunteer with the organization, you can visit their website at https://www.dbsacoloradosprings.org/. Beyond the Dais aims to bring you stories about people making a difference in El Paso County, Colorado. If you are interested in more of these stories, including those about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. If you'd prefer to view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with the Executive Director of the Youth Documentary Academy, Tom Shepard, was recorded on February 20, 2024. In this episode we talk about the importance of storytelling and the impact youth voices can have in a community. If you want to learn more about the Youth Documentary Academy, or want to volunteer with the organization, you can visit their website at https://www.youthdocumentary.org/. If you are interested in more stories about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. If you'd prefer to view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.

This interview with the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center Executive Director, Brandon Eldridge, was recorded on February 16, 2024. In this episode we talk about the SBDC's purpose and how they serve the local business community. If you want to learn more about the SBDC, or want to become a consultant, you can visit their website at https://pikespeaksbdc.org/. If you are interested in more stories about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. If you'd prefer to view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.  

This interview with Brianna Goodwin and Shelbi Lowery from the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation was recorded on February 13, 2024. In this episode we talk about the breadth of their programs and how they're helping youth bounce back from the pandemic. If you want to learn more about the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation, or want to volunteer with the organization, you can visit their website at https://www.coloradospringssports.org/. If you are interested in more stories about organizations and projects in the community that are putting ARPA grant funding to good use, please visit https://admin.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-arpa-stories/ and stay tuned to future episodes of this podcast. If you'd prefer to view a YouTube version of the recording, watch the embedded video below.