Our Favorite Instagrams + Podcasts For Winter 2025-26
@paoniabooks
Tucked in the North Fork Valley, Paonia Books is an independent bookstore and nonprofit literary hub celebrating creativity, community and the joy of reading. Discover everything from regional history to poetry, small-press gems and quirky finds. Stop by for author readings, community writing classes and a garden perfect for lingering with a book.
@coloradoctw
Celebrating the innovators driving Colorado’s economic growth. Colorado Companies to Watch honors and connects second-stage businesses that are driving growth, creating jobs and shaping the state’s future. Follow for inspiring success stories, business insights and a behind-the-scenes look at the thriving community of Colorado’s boldest companies.
@stemciders
Born in Colorado, Stem Ciders is all about crafting honest, flavorful cider for curious palates. Founded by friends Eric Foster and Phil Kao, Stem combines creativity and quality ingredients to make ciders meant to be shared. From their classic lineup to the new non-alcoholic Stem Zero series, each sip reflects their commitment to real fruit.
Gear Abby
Hosted by outdoor journalist and unapologetic gear nerd Shawnté Salabert, Gear Abby is the newest (and funniest) addition to The Rock Fight Podcast Network. This refreshingly honest show ditches gear snobbery in favor of unfiltered advice, real talk and laugh-out-loud moments about everything from backpacking setups to pooping in the woods. Salabert brings humor and humility to every episode.
Body By Beer
It’s not just about the brew — it’s about the world it shapes. Hosted by Denver duo Chelsea Rhoads and Liz Hess, Body By Beer dives into how beer connects to nearly everything: culture, community, history, economics and identity. From the vibe of the taproom to the philosophy behind the pint, Rhoads and Hess explore the stories, people and ideas that make craft beer so much more than a drink — it’s a way of life.
The New Happy
Start your day in a happier way. In just five minutes or less, host Stephanie Harrison, an expert in the science of happiness, shares simple, science-backed tools to help you live with more joy, purpose and compassion. With a global community of almost a million followers, this daily podcast turns positive psychology into practical, heart-centered action for a better you and a better world.
Originally published in the winter 2025-26 issue of Spoke+Blossom.