The Gateway to the Rockies Podcast

Updated with original episodes every month, the Visit Aurora "Gateway To The Rockies Podcast" serves to amplify the voices of the influential people shaping the future of Aurora, Colorado, with a focus on business owners, community leaders, and those preserving history and moving culture forward. To be featured in an upcoming episode, please email below:

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Deepali, Roshni Healing Arts Sanctuary

Deepali, the Founder and Artistic Director of Roshni Performing Arts Sanctuary joins to talk about her journey, the creation of Roshni, and Route 15 an immersive theatrical experience inspired by the real stories of people along East Colfax. We also preview Roshni's 6th Annual New American Arts Festival and explore how art can build connection, celebrate culture, and strengthen community in Aurora.

Kristen Baker & Meg Hott, Stanley Marketplace

Stanley Marketplace is celebrating 10 years as one of Aurora’s most unique destinations! We sit down with Kristen Baker & Meg Hott to talk about the local restaurants, shops, experiences, and events that have made Stanley a beloved community gathering place. Plus, we look ahead to the 10-year celebration and explore how the newly completed Westerly Creek project will create exciting new possibilities for outdoor events and experiences at Stanley.

Jonathan Woodward, Aurora Economic Development Council

How does a city grow while staying true to what makes it unique? We welcome back Jonathan Woodward, Vice President of the Aurora Economic Development Council, for an inside look at the projects, partnerships, and investments shaping Aurora's future. From business growth and workforce development to innovation and placemaking, discover how economic development impacts the places we live, work, dine, and explore.

Ousmane Ndoye, Colorado Diasporic Film Festival

The Colorado Diasporic Film Festival is back, bringing powerful stories and cultures to Aurora. Filmmaker and Askkanwii Filmmaking Hub founder Ousmane Ndoye shares how this year's festival, & the new Diasporic FilmHub Village, will transform the Aurora Cultural Arts District into a celebration of film, music, food, art, and community.

Peter Seung-Woo Lee, Becky Hogan, & Suegie Park, Korean War Veterans Memorial

Aurora's newest landmark is more than a memorial; it's a promise to remember. Peter Seung-Woo Lee, Becky Hogan, and Suegie Park discuss the new Korean War Veterans Memorial at General's Park. Hear the inspiring story behind the years-long effort to bring this tribute to life, why the Korean War should never be forgotten, and what visitors will discover when they experience this powerful new addition to Aurora.

Dr. PJ Parmar, Mango House

Dr. PJ Parmar shares the remarkable story behind Mango House, Aurora's one-of-a-kind community hub where healthcare, entrepreneurship, and global cuisine come together under one roof. Hear how a family medicine practice grew into a thriving home for refugee-owned businesses, international restaurants, and community organizations, and why authentic connection is at the heart of everything.

Lorena Cantarovici, Maria Empanada

The founder of Maria Empanada, Lorena Cantarovici, shares her inspiring journey from Argentina to Colorado, how she built one of the region’s most celebrated food brands, and the powerful role food plays in culture, community, and connection. We also explore Aurora’s growing identity as one of Colorado’s most diverse culinary destinations.

Katrina Karczewski & Charlie Larsen, Mershop Market Days

Mershops Market Days at Town Center at Aurora, the last two Saturdays of each month, blends fantastic local vendors with live music. Katrina Karczewski from Grateful Garden LLC and Wolf Creek Fresh owner Charlie Larsen discuss local entrepreneurship, fresh food, wellness, and the power of community at this innovative new market.

Sarah Ibrahim, Camel International Market

What does a grocery store mean to a community? For Sarah Ibrahim, of Camel International Market on Havana Street, it's about much more than food. In this episode, Sarah shares her personal journey, the inclusive evolution of the market, and how international flavors, halal products, and cultural traditions help people feel connected and at home in Aurora.

Jay Kim, Havana Street Night Market

Jay Kim from Bonfire Events talks about the wildly popular Havana Street Night Markets in Aurora, which take place on the last Saturday of every month through September. New for 2026, the HAVANA BITES program, a delicious way for visitors to sample walkable bites from participating restaurants. From food and music to community and entrepreneurship, this conversation explores why the Havana Street Night Market has become one of Aurora’s most exciting cultural experiences.

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