Colorado Soul Stories

Teague Bohlen Part 2: Paths to the Writing Life

As Mama Jill and Teague continue their conversation, they touch on Teague's small town, midwestern upbringing and how that influenced his proclivities to write. He shares his journey towards figuring out what to do with his life as a young adult, where his skills with writing kept floating to the top of each career move; from stints in the corporate world to discovering the joys of teaching and how a particular goat supplied a solution to temporary writers block!

Writer, Teague Bohlen: Part 1

Mama Jill has a meaty conversation with Denver writer, Teague Bohlen. Teague teaches writing at the University of Colorado in Denver, is a regular writer for Denver's arts and culture newspaper, Westword and is a well-known author. His first novel, The Pull of the Earth, won the Colorado Book Award in 2007. His latest book is a companion to the popular podcast of the same name, Escaping Denver, fictionalizing the myths about the underground tunnels at Denver International Airport - an edge-of-your-armchair read!
More info here: https://www.jillcarstenswriter.com/coloradosoulstoriespodcast
 

Sarah Anderson of Heavy Diamond Ring

Mama Jill interviews the front woman of her favorite Colorado band, Heavy Diamond Ring. Join the conversation as they go in-depth, reflecting on how Sarah's upbringing influenced her career in music and how the landscape of Colorado continues to provide inspiration for the band's reflective song-writing. Meeting in Kittridge on the cusp of the release of their new album, Sarah shares how the band came together so organically and the joy of working with such a talented group of happy musicians.
Please subscribe and rate the pod! More info here: https://www.jillcarstenswriter.com/coloradosoulstoriespodcast

JoJo Tells ANOTHER Story: Me and the Sheriff, an Unforgettable Night in Westcliffe, CO

In this thrilling episode of Colorado Soul Stories, join us as Jojo Elmquist recounts a wild night in Westcliff during the late 1980s. Discover how an ordinary evening at a local bar spirals into a surprising encounter with cowboys, guns, and a strict sheriff who enforces his own brand of justice. Experience the vibrant spirit and tight-knit community of a small Colorado town as JoJo navigates through unexpected predicaments with humor and candor.
 

"From Shadows to Light: An Artist's Journey of Hope"

Welcome to Colorado Soul Stories, a podcast dedicated to telling the tales of creative individuals who have shaped the essence of Colorado. Join your host, Mama Jill, as she travels to Westcliffe, Colorado, to meet Andy Mast, an inspiring artist with Amish roots. Discover Andy's journey from the Amish farmlands of Illinois to becoming a renowned artist in Colorado and the world. Through personal trials and unwavering determination, Andy found healing and hope in his art, leading him to create pieces that bring peace and comfort to others. Dive into his captivating story that highlights the power of resilience and creativity.

Ana Maria Vasquez: Animal and Nature Intuitive

In this episode of Colorado Soul Stories, long-time Colorado resident and host Mama Jill takes us on a journey with Ana Maria Vasquez, a multi-sensory intuitive who communicates with animals and nature. Recorded in the serene environment of Nathrop, Colorado, Ana Maria shares her transformative life journey from losing everything in the 2008 recession to discovering her unique connection with nature and her role as an animal communicator.
Join in to hear about her encounter with a wise tree that set her on the path to understanding the interconnectedness of all life. From tales of manifesting love intentionally to her work with global clients, Ana Maria’s story is one filled with surprising revelations, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Colorado's landscapes.
The episode also sheds light on practical ways to connect with nature's energies, whether through grounding, earthing, or the creation of sacred spaces like medicine wheels. Dive into this soulful storytelling that explores personal transformation and the power of nature's unseen communication.
And as always subscribe and rate the podcast. More information on this episode and the podcast can be found here: https://www.jillcarstenswriter.com/coloradosoulstoriespodcast

The eXposed Storytelling Series

Do you have a story to tell that you've never really told anyone because it was traumatic, devastating or humiliating? These stories can eat away at us sometimes if they don't come out. eXposed Storytelling gives folks an accepting place to do this and it is intense! Join Mama Jill for an enlightening conversation with founder Josie Nixon and peer, Cooper Braun. More info about each podcast can be found here: https://www.jillcarstenswriter.com/coloradosoulstories

Cipriano Ortega: LoLo House

Cipriano Ortega is a longtime Northsider in Denver with deep roots. During this episode we discuss his newly released album, LoLo House as well as all of his creative activity.
We have discussions on home and how the changes in Colorado have affected us. You'll be treated to a performance of one of his new songs from his album, playing his custom-built two-string bass toward the end. Enjoy!
More info on each podcast can always be found here: https://www.jillcarstenswriter.com/coloradosoulstories
Please subscribe and if you would like to donate or promote your organization as a sponsor, visit that same link. Thanks! Mama Jill

Introduction to Colorado Soul Stories

Meet your host for Colorado Soul Stories, Mama Jill.

Exposed 2.0: JoJo Reads a Story

After you listen to the Exposed Storytelling, Episode 2, listen how JoJo Elmquist found the Exposed open mic in Northeast Denver, which led her to join that crew at their performance at the Bug Theatre this past May. She tells one of her stories.