Square State
Michelle Jackson
So why create a podcast about all things Colorado? I realized that there weren't enough of us sharing our Colorado experience. I wanted to dig beneath the surface and share what it's like to live in Colorado. I also wanted to share the amazing people, cool things we're doing, and yes, even share our dirty laundry in an effort to improve life in our state.
Denver's Union Station Refresh: A Review
The other week Denver's Union Station's most recent refresh was revealed. In this podcast episode, I share my impressions and opportunity lost and more. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/denvers-union-stations-newest-facelift-an-honest-review
Is Denver Overrated?
This question often gets asked about different cities that have somehow generated good or bad buzz. "Is Denver Overrated?" Is something that has been asked and I thought I would try my hand at asking and reflecting on this question. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/is-denver-overrated
Is Colorado the Florida of the Rocky Mountain West
For the past couple of years I've pondered the following question "Is Colorado the Florida of the Rocky Mountain West?" In this podcast episode I make my case and I think it's pretty compelling. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/is-colorado-the-florida-of-the-rocky-mountain-west
CU Boulder and Coach Prime are a Match Made in Heaven
By now you've likely seen or heard about CU Boulder's decisive win over TCU. I have some thoughts about what is happening with the football program, academics and needing to respect HBCUs. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/cu-buffs-and-coach-prime
10 Things that I Love About Downtown Denver
I share some of my favorite experiences and spaces in downtown Denver. I also talk about some of the challenges impacted Denver's city center. Show Notes: https://squarestateco.com/10-things-that-i-love-about-downtown-denver
RTD Is Free for Two Months: My Thoughts About Zero Fare for Better Air
In this episode I share my thoughts on the Zero Fare for Better Air initiative of 2023. Here's what I like, what's not working and what could make it better. Are you enjoying this initiative? I know the Swifties did! Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/rtd-is-free-for-two-months
The Denver Nuggets Won the NBA Championship: When Will Denver Get Respect as a Sports Town
Let's Go Nuggets! The Denver Nuggets won their first NBA Championship in 47 Years. In this episode I speak to some fans, bask in haters tears and reflect on why Denver gets no respect as a sports town. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/the-denver-nuggets-won-the-nba-championship
How Car Free Events Can Transform the Denver Tourist Experience
I'm so excited about the ¡Viva Streets Denver! Event and in this episode I share my experience, why I think car free events are a draw for tourists and building community. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/how-car-free-events-can-transform-the-denver-tourist-experience
You Experience Denver and Visit Philly-Hear Me Out
Let's be clear, I love Denver and I love Philly...but as a visitor you're going to experience these cities differently. In this podcast episode I share my thoughts on why that is and I wonder if you agree? Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/you-experience-denver-and-visit-philly
Should Black People Move to Denver
When I travel outside of Colorado, people are always surprised to learn that I'm actually from Colorado. What I've also noticed is that there has been increasing interest from African-Americans in moving here or recreating here. In this podcast episode I reflect on the following question: Should Black People Move to Denver. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/should-black-people-move-to-denver
Is Downtown Denver a Hellscape?
In this podcast episode I break down some of the issues happening in downtown Denver, I share why I'm so irritated with how the conversation is being framed and share some perspective. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/is-downtown-denver-a-hellscape
21 Best Denver Coffee Shops of 2023
I am a HUGE coffee and tea drinker. I spend an unreasonable amount of time drinking coffee and one of my favorite activities is checking out new shops. Here are my top 21 Best Coffee Shops in Denver. Also, I mention some bonus shops and one of them is 2914 Coffee (I said 2014 accidentally) Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/21-best-denver-coffee-shops
87 Things to Do In Denver (By a Long Time Local)
There are so many things to do in Denver that sometimes I feel a little overwhelmed. And, post COVID, Denver has lost some long-time favorite spaces/events and even communities. The following list of 87 Things to Do in Denver includes a number of activities that haven't made it onto the top lists that we normally see. Do we live in the same city? Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/things-to-do-in-denver-by-a-local
A Letter to Denver's Mayoral Candidates
I hope that the candidates give this episode a listen. I have some thoughts about what's happening in Denver and what we need to do better. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/denvers-next-mayor
10 Best Coffee Shops in Denver and a Few Honorable Mentions
One of my favorite things to do is to try out and visit amazing coffee shops. I do this where ever I go. Luckily, Denver is an incredible coffee town. Here's my list of the top 10 coffee shops in Denver. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/best-coffee-shops-in-denver
10 Hotels in Colorado Similar to The Jane Motel from Motel Makeover
I'm a huge fan of Motel Makeover on Netflix and The Jane Motel that is featured in the show. In fact, I love it so much that I thought I would do an episodea about The Jane Motel with a twist. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/the-jane-motel
The Truth About Denver's Weather
One of Denver, Colorado's best kept secrets is its weather. In this episode, I spill the tea and I'm fully expecting no one to believe me. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/what-is-denvers-weather
How to Make Friends in Denver When You're Over 30
Moving to a new town is so exciting. But, one thing that can feel a little overwhelming is how on earth do you make new friends? I share some quick and easy tips on how to make new friends when you're over 30 in Denver. Show Notes: https://squarestateco.com/how-to-make-friends-in-denver
What's Wrong with the 5280 Top of the Town List
I love 5280 Magazine but I think it's time to talk about how impactful the yearly Top of the Town list is and why now is a great time to rework it. I'm a huge fan of 5280 have thought about the issue that I'm going to discuss in the show for awhile. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/5280-top-of-the-town
How Global Warming May Impact Your Colorado Vacation
Global warming is here and it's not going away anytime soon. Not only is the impact being experienced by citizens of the places you would like to visit but also by tourists. In this episode I break down how global warming may impact your upcoming Colorado vacation. It's a must listen. Show Notes: https://squarestateco.com/global-warming-affecting-colorado
Adrian Miller The Soul Food Scholar
If you like bbq as much as I do than Colorado food expert, Adrian Miller, should be on your radar. I had a wonderful conversation with him about being from Colorado, food, and being Black from Colorado. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/adrian-miller
Josh F. from Travel Crested Butte
Crested Butte, Colorado is my favorite mountain town. It's one of the towns that truly reminds me of Colorado before it became popular. Josh F. founder of Travel Crested Butte about why Crested Butte is so amazing. If you're looking for an off the beaten path trip listen to the following show. Show Notes: https://squarestateco.com/crested-butte
Blackpackers Founder Patricia Cameron
Sometimes it frustrates me when people joke about how Black and Brown people don't enjoy the outdoors. Nuanced conversations around accessibility, generational trauma and affording the outdoors is often lost in the mix. Patricia Cameron, founder of Blackpackers, is mission driven to change that narrative. She provides the tools, resources and experiences that connect underrepresented and underserved Coloradans to the outdoors. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/blackpackers
A Conversation About the Digital Green Book
What if I told you that there was a time when motorists of color needed and used a resource to help them travel safely around the US? Would you believe me? In today's episode we're going to talk about the newest iteration of this tool. The Digital Green Book is a resource that is being designed in Denver, CO. Do we still need this type of resource? Listen on and decide for yourself. Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/digital-green-book
Denver You're Getting a Little Sloppy
Everyone has that slightly sloppy friend who's always up for anything, will listen to you when you're drunk, and loves to experiment. Well, there are towns like that too. Amsterdam, Beirut, Nashville, Barcelona and Denver come to mind. In this short episode I share my thoughts on how Denver is getting a little sloppy. To Access the Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/denver-sloppy
Crush Walls Was the Perfect Event During COVID
Colorado has an incredible number of murals in almost every single city and town that you visit. From Denver, to Salida, Boulder and beyond the chance to enjoy Colorado's murals is a wonderful way to spend the day. I share my experience enjoying this year's Crush Walls event. Crush Walls is an annual event held in the RINO/Five Points Neighborhood. To Access the Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/crush-walls
8 Things That Aren't Working During COVID Here in Denver and Colorado
Last week I shared 9 changes in Denver and Colorado that I would like to keep after COVID is GONE. This week I share 8 things that aren't working during COVID here in Denver and Colorado that we need to deal with. To Access the Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/what-is-not-working
9 Changes Made During COVID in Colorado That We Should Keep
COVID sucks, am I right? So, I decided to try and find something good that has happened as a result of dealing with this mess. I found 9 changes are Colorado specific situations that I would like to have continue after COVID is finally gone! To Access the Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/changes-that-colorado-should-keep-after-covid
11 Quick and Easy Tips On How to Support Colorado Local Business
If you're wondering how you can support Colorado local businesses and help them stay in the black-listen to the following episode. It's not as difficult as you think. To Access the Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/how-to-support-colorado-local-business
Black in Denver
I love the following conversation that I had with Narkita Gold, mastermind behind the Black in Denver photo interview series. We spoke in April during the early stages of the Corona Lockdown. To Access the Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/black-in-denver
Giving In Colorado One Facebook Post at a Time
One of the most amazing things that has come out of COVID, is the development of some incredible communities both in-person and online. In this episode, I speak with Jen and Kane two of the four co-creators of one of the best digital spaces in Colorado. To Access the Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/giving-in-colorado
7 Tips for Visiting Denver This Summer During the Rona
If you're thinking about visiting Denver, or the state of Colorado, this summer listen to this episode first. To Access the Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/tips-for-visiting-denver-this-summer
Psst, It Snows in Denver
To access the show notes go to: https://squarestateco.com/it-snows-in-denver
How to Network in Denver
If you're new to Denver or you've grown up here and are trying to meet new people professionally, this podcast episode is for you. To Access the Show Notes https://squarestateco.com/how-to-network-in-denver
72 Hours in Denver for Frugal People
Are you frugal? Have you heard that Denver is expensive? Well, Denver can be expensive, but it's absolutely possible to have a frugal trip. The following episode will share a general itinerary and some ideas of what you can do to have a fun, frugal trip to Denver that isn't a cliche of the same places that everyone else seems to visit. To Access the Show Notes: https://squarestateco.com/72-hours-in-denver-for-frugal-people
Dear Governor Polis
To access the show notes go to: https://squarestateco.com/dear-governor
Dear Mayor Hancock
This month I'm sharing 4 audio letters to the following people: Mayor Hancock-Denver's mayor Governor Jared Polis The State's Representatives The Citizens of Colorado To Access the Show Notes: https://squarestateco.com/dear-mayor-hancock
SQS027: Happy City Denver
The Happy City Denver interactive art installation in Denver was phenomenal! This episode runs through my experience with this event and the art scene in Denver. Show Notes: www.squarestateco.com/sqs027
SQS026: Networking in Denver with Amy Herman
Meeting new people in a new town can feel a little overwhelming. Denver feels like a big, little city to me. And, I thought it would be a good idea to bring in a networking ninja to discuss making connections. Click the following link to go to the show notes https://wp.me/p5AIJk-ls And, if you're looking to save money on groceries, don't forget to sign up for Ibotta, a Colorado-based savings app. I'm an affiliate and love the fact that if you sign up with my affiliate link and redeem your first
SQS025: Another Set of Random Musings
Go to www.squarestateco.com/25 to access the show notes. Start saving with the Ibotta savings app today! I'm a happy affiliate and love sharing the gift of savings with everyone that I can. When you sign up as a new user and redeem your first savings within the first couple of weeks from signing up, you'll earn $10 towards your first payout ($20 minimum is needed for a payout)
SQS024: May 2018 Recap
Read the show notes here!
SQS023: John and David-The Debt Free Guys
In this episode I get to talk to two of my favorite people here in Denver: John and David from The Debt Free Guys. They are changing the conversation about gay money via their website "The Debt Free Guys" and podcast Queer Money. They share actionable tips that are helpful for everyone. They are based out of Denver and are a great resource for those of you looking to better your money. Click HERE to access the show notes.
SQS022: The Denver Welcome Mat (Recap)
This episode is a recap of the inaugural "Denver Welcome Mat" event. If you're new to Denver and looking to connect with locals-this event is for you. Click here for the Show Notes.
SQS021: Berry from Podcasts in Color
Berry, creator of Podcasts in Color, talks all things podcasts with me today. You can find the show notes at: https://squarestateco.com/berry Thanks to this episode's sponsor Modworks! Looking for a Denver Co-Working Space? Modworks may be the space for you!
SQS020: Denver Bloggers Club with Jenny Finke
If you're a blogger looking for a blogging community in Denver, then the Denver Bloggers Club may be the group for you. Founded by Jenny Finke, this group has become one of my favorite communities to hang out with while eating and learning at the same time. Click here to check out the show notes. Live in Denver and want to attend The Welcome Mat event on May 4th, 2018? Sign up via Eventbrite-it's free! Have gluten allergies? Here is a link to the Nima Portable Gluten Sensor that Jenny mention
SQS019: Monthly Recap and Summer is Coming
This episode is sponsored by Modworks Co-working Space. Tell them that Michelle from Square State sent you! Make sure to check it out the next time you need a place to work for the day or as a permanent location for your business. Here is a link to the show notes.
SQS018: 10 Amazing Communities to Join in Denver
Moving to a new city can be hard. And, experiencing rapid change in your hometown can be difficult too. Here are 10 amazing communities in the Denver community to check out today! And, a huge thanks to Modworks Co-working space for sponsoring today's episode. Visiting Denver and need a place to work? Check out Modworks today! Tell them Michelle from Square State sent you! Check out the show notes HERE!
SQS017: 10 Ways to Save Money in Denver this Summer
Do you live in Denver? Are you in the process of figuring out what fun you're going have this summer? This podcast episode shares 10 ways to Save Money in Denver this Summer. Resources: Ibotta Affiliate (get $10 after you redeem your first savings!) Deskpass-Need a coworking spot? Use Deskpass to check out the different spots around town. Affiliate Tag Words: Denver, Colorado, Save Money
SQS016: Jesse Shuler-The Commons on Champa
Denver is home to several innovative business concepts. And,The Commons on Champa, a free co-working space for startups is one of them. Michelle speaks with Jesse Shuler, Community Manager, about the mission of The Commons on Champa and how it serves the local business startup community. Click HERE to connect with the show notes. Keywords: Denver, Startups, Entrepreneurship, Colorado
SQS015: Cherry Creek Mall
In this episode I explore the ongoing issue of paid parking for the Cherry Creek Mall in Denver, CO. I provide some insight and some ideas on how to resolve this issue-without getting ride of paid parking. Key words: Denver, Cherry Creek Mall, Colorado
SQS014: Kari Lundberg
The Denver home buying market is HOT. This episode covers the ins and outs of: What to expect What to prepare for Kari's #1 piece of advice. Kari Lundgerg is a Colorado native and realtor with Porch Light Real Estate Group Here is the link to the show notes. Enjoy the show! Michelle Keywords: Denver, Colorado, home buying, real estate
SQS013: Phylecia Jones: Hanging Out With a Coloradan
In this episode I hang out with my friend Phylecia Jones: Long-time Coloradan Speaker Founder of Budget School We discuss the following: how she ended up moving to Colorado, her debt story, running a business in Colorado, her experience as a Person of Color in CO, and more. Grab your copy of "The Epic Moving Guide to Colorado" today Follow Colorado Luv Hub for more information about the square state. Don't forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes or Stitcher!
SQS012: Colorado Ski Country's Chris Linsmayer Shares Tips...
The mornings are chilly and the evenings are getting cooler. It has begun snowing in the mountains and it's clear that ski season is coming. This episode will walk you through the following: Colorado Ski Country's Role Ways to save on skiing How your 5th grader can ski for free The GEM Pass How to get gear for less Keywords: Colorado, ski, frugal, savings
SQS011: The Great American Beer Festival
The Great American Beer Festival is the biggest beer event in the United States. Every Fall, over 100,000 beer lovers descend on Denver to try out the best brews out there. Show notes: www.coloradoluvhub.info/the-great-american-beer-festival
Leslie Kleiman
If you haven't heard of Groov3 or UWP this episode will have you Googling both. Leslie Kleiman is a UWP alumnae, Groov3 instructor, and nurse. She creates amazing community one dance step at a time. Resources Mentioned: www.coloradoluvhub.info Hired.com (affiliate link) Up With People
SQS009: Denver Start Up Week
Subscribe to Square State via iTunes or Stitcher today! Please leave a review. Go to www.coloradoluvhub.info for more information about Denver/Boulder and the rest of Colorado today. Denver Start-Up Week Is one of the coolest (free) events that I've attended in the city of Denver. This event is specifically geared towards: Creative professionals Entrepreneurs Start-Up founders Cannabis industry professionals Food incubators And more! Not sure where you fit in? Check out the website and GO A
How to Thrift Shop in Denver
Looking for a job so that you can move to Denver? Already live here but want more eyes on your resume? If you're in STEM, Sales, Recruiting, Finance or more-fill out your profile on Hired.com. I'm a proud affiliate and love to help people find jobs! This Episode! Carlyn has been thrifting for a long time She needed a good professional wardrobe but was broke in the beginning of her thrifting journey You can find her shop on ETSY at thriftingcoups.etsy.com 3 Tips for finding great th
SQS007: Roxy Barnes founder of The Denver Boss Babes Collective
If you're a woman entrepreneur in Denver and haven't heard of The Denver Boss Babes Collective-I'm putting it on your radar. It's a new community founded by Roxy Barnes of Slay Lash and Brow. Link to show blog post HERE Square State is an audio production of www.coloradoluvhub.info a blog about all things Colorado. Are you a small business owner and trying to find a good accounting software? Check out XERO today: Online accounting software for your small business. (affiliate) Mo
SQS006: How to Become an AirBnB Host in Denver
Never tried AirBnB before? Use this link to sign up and explore AirBnB. When you go on your first trip you will have a credit applied towards your first trip (the credit amount does change).#AirBnBAffiliate James Carlson of James Carlson Real Estate is the AirBnB expert here in Denver. He discusses the following: How he got into hosting on AirBnB How much money he made What makes a great AirBnB host Denver-specific regulations and how to comply. Link to Stay Legit (with links to
SQS005: Climbing the Manitou Incline
Colorado offers an amazing number of physical activities and feats to enjoy. The Manitou Incline is just one of those. Manitou Incline Post Follow on Instagram: coloradoluvhub Keywords: What to Do in Colorado Springs, Colorado, climbing, hiking, Manitou Springs, Colorado Springs
SQS004: Matt Armstrong Cultura Craft Chocolate
Do you love chocolate? Do you love high-quality chocolate, drinking chocolate, and the state of Colorado? This episode combines all of those loves and Matt, from Cultural Craft Chocolate, and I get meta about the magical bean. Link to the Cultura Craft Chocolate store so that you can get your chocolate fix! Link to my Public Bike review(am obsessed!) Enjoyed the show? Please leave a review! Chocolate, Denver, Colorado, Small Business
SQS003: Julie from @denvernomz
Denver has become a foodie city. We even have foodie bloggers. We're legit!
SQS002: Ben Thomson
This is one of my favorite interviews from 2016. Learn about: business, friendship, and vision in this episode.
Epic Fail
That moment when you have to admit that what you're doing isn't working.
Square State
Umm...where is the snow? Today was hotter than Miami.
Madame CJ Walker
Madame CJ Walker lived in Denver. Pretty cool!
A Rundown of Colorado in the News
Excuse the ums...today I experienced a technical glitch. Onward!
Freelance Union Spark Denver
Are you a freelancer? Join the Spark Freelance Union Today!
CO vs. the Feds
If Denver/Boulder/Aurora decides to fight the Federal Sanctuary city mandate this won't be the first time that CO went against the Feds.
This Week on Square State
I'm changing some things up so that I can be successful with this project! Episodes will be released at 9:00 pm MTN from now on. Sundays I will share a run down of the upcoming week's shows.
How to Buy Colorado Local
I share some simple tips on how to buy locally.
Anchors Away!
What's the deal with all of the television anchor turnover?
Happy Birthday Rocky Mountain National Park
102 Years of Rocky Mountain National Park! Love that place.
Today-Random CO Stuff
I cover some completely random stuff today.
Denver Cannabis Club Law, I'm So Confused
Are you confused by the Denver Cannabis Law that Denver citizens passed this fall? So am I! I check out The Cannabist to get a better feel for what's going to happen next.
Amazon is Coming to Aurora
Amazon is coming to Aurora. On Mondays, I plan on sharing jobs information and other items of interest.
Keeping it Short and Sweet
Today's episode is short and to the point.
Women's March on Denver
I share my experience marching in the Women's March on Denver.
Inauguration Day Thoughts and Democracy in Action
I share my thoughts on Inauguration Day and my experience participating in democracy.
The Next 4 Years
I share my thoughts on Colorado issues that may be affected by a Trump presidency.
Ralph L. Carr-The CO Governor With a Conscience
In a time of deep political discord, I thought it would be a good time to tell people about Governor Ralph L. Carr. He spoke out when no one else would.
Preparing to Political Marches in CO
It looks like we're going into a period of time with people participating in political marches. This post is all about how to prepare and be safe when you participate in your next, or first, political march.
The Marade Part II
Today was the Marade. I share my thoughts. Is it time for the Marade to change? I say 2 bad words which is why this is marked explicit :)
Vance Joseph: Is His Hiring a Big Deal?
Vance Joseph has just been hired to be the Broncos' head coach. And, that's kind of a big deal. I share my thoughts.
The New Year New You Financial Summit
Want to get your finances right in 2017? Then the New Year New You Online Financial Summit just may be the tool for you! Go to: rockstarfinancialsummit.com to sign up.
Bike Life Cities-(Throwback)
Today I revisit a conversation that I had with Becca Heaton during the summer of 2015 about Bike Life Cities and biking in CO.
Maddy Osman
I talk to my friend Maddy from Chicago about her recent move to Denver.
Making the Marade Relevant Again
Do you know what the Marade is? And, is it still relevant? Let's chat.
Hap Cameron Part 2
Hap and I continue our conversation. I feel better about my embracing risk in my life.
Hap Cameron Part 1
I am wandering around the Pumpkin Chunkin event in Aurora last October while taking a break from a fun side-hustle. There are always some really cool vendors at these events and Hap is one of the more interesting people that I've met in Colorado so far. Enjoy. There is one bad word in this episode so I had to mark it explicit.
Melissa from Union Stitch and Design
We talk about growing a creative business. And how her connections helped grow her business.
Kathy Lee Modern Gingham Part 2
We talk about what's next for Modern Gingham. It may surprise you.
Kathy Lee Modern Gingham Part 1
I talk to Kathy Lee about starting an artisanal jam company in Denver. Picking up fruit, and the ins and outs of running a well thought out creative food business.
Lizzie Greco Craft Belly
We get crafty on Square State today and talk journaling, business, and moving to Colorado.
Trinity Hindman-The Sophisticate's Tea
We talk about growing a business, listening to yourself, and going at the pace that is right for you.
What Colorado Can Improve in 2017
Colorado has 99 problems and bad weather isn't one of them.
A Piece of Quiet-Anita Martin
In this episode we talk about the art of radical listening.
New Year 2017
Happy New Year 2017 this is technically the eight episode, but I've decided to start numbering them starting from today.
Looking for Jobs in Colorado?
...
Vote Yes on 4B
The one ballot issue that is a no-brainer to support
Denver Start Up Week 2016
Wow. Just. Wow! What an amazing (free!) resource for entrepreneurs in Denver.
Purple Door Coffee
I live on the opposite side of town, but make it a point to visit Purple Door Coffee from time to time because I love the space, the coffee, and their mission. If you haven't visited yet-it's time that you did!
I Used to Hate You, Now I Love You
I talk about how my feelings about all of the newcomers to the state of Colorado have changed over time.
So All May Eat
I highlight one of the wonderful organizations that we have in the City of Denver.
Square State Episode One
Let me tell you the reasons.