CreativeMornings/Denver

Step into the world of CreativeMornings/DEN, a captivating monthly breakfast lecture series nestled in the Mile High City. Our purpose? To unite and ignite the passions of our creative community. Dive into free events (simply register) where the first hour is dedicated to forging connections, followed by a thought-provoking speaker addressing the theme of the month. Experience the pulse of Denver's creativity as we spotlight fresh and exhilarating venues. Join us for a journey of inspiration, connection, and exploration in the dynamic landscape of Denver's creative scene.

[creativemorningsdenver]

Happy Almost Fall, CreativeMornings/Denver Family! 🍂

We love you!

Summer has flown by, and what a season it has been! We’re so grateful for this community that continues to grow—it’s been amazing to see so many new faces joining us each month. If you’ve missed a talk or two, don’t worry—the past couple of months’ videos will be updated soon. Our incredible Corey has been off on some well-deserved adventures, and once he’s back, you’ll be able to catch up on all the inspiring moments we’ve shared together.

Orion Song plays at our July CreativeMornings at RMCAD

We had all all-you-can-eat, pancake extravaganza with all kinds of fun toppings at our June event for Punk with Andrew Novick!

Big News! ✨

We’re thrilled to announce that RDG has come on board as a premier sponsor of our chapter.

About RDG RDG is made up of a diverse group of passionate, sometimes quirky individuals—comic book and anime fans, bikers and hikers, and even folks who spend Saturdays cleaning streams—all working collectively to make the world a better place, one project at a time. For more than 60 years, their mission has remained the same: Create. Meaning. Together.

We’re so excited to have RDG alongside us as we continue building spaces where creativity, connection, and curiosity blossom. 🌸

Stay tuned for the upcoming videos, keep inviting friends, and let’s keep growing this beautiful community together.

[creativemorningsdenver]

🎥✨ Catch Up on the Magic: All Our Videos Are Now Up to Date!

Missed a CreativeMornings/Denver talk? Wanna relive your favorite moments? GOOD NEWS — our video archive is officially caught up and ready for your next inspiration binge! 🎉🙌

From powerful personal stories to creative breakthroughs, our past speakers have dropped truth bombs, sparked joy, and shared lessons that linger long after the coffee’s gone. ☕💡

Whether you need a midday pick-me-up, a creative reset, or just want to see what the buzz is all about, head over to our video library and press play on the goodness.

✨ Tune in. Be inspired. Then come hang with us at the next one. We’ll save you a seat. 💛

#CreativeMorningsDEN #WatchAndBeWowed #InspirationOnDemand #CMDenver

[creativemorningsdenver]

CreativeMornings Denver Recap – A Journey Through 2025 (So Far!)

Can you believe how fast this year is flying by? It feels like just yesterday we were ringing in 2025, and yet here we are, already deep into March! Before we race ahead any further, let’s take a collective deep breath and slow things down for a moment. There’s something truly special about pausing to reflect, relive, and reconnect. So, let’s do just that—here’s a recap of our inspiring start to the year!

JANUARY: A JOURNEY WITH MICHELLE ROARK AT WONDERYARD

Our first CreativeMornings Denver event of 2025 set an inspiring tone for the year as we gathered at the vibrant Wonderyard to explore the global theme of Journey with our incredible guest speaker, Michelle Roark.

A two-time Olympian, chemical engineer, certified perfumer, and founder of Phia Lab and Phia Alchemy Wellness Salon Spa, Michelle took us on a powerful journey through life’s highs and lows. She shared her Olympic experience, the science of energy and resilience, and the importance of living with purpose. And just when we thought we couldn’t be more inspired, Michelle literally lit up the room—holding up a lightbulb and using only energy and frequency to illuminate it. The moment was pure magic, reminding us all: We have the ability to be the light of 1000 stars.

Wonderyard

FEBRUARY: LAYERS OF CONNECTION WITH PAUL LAURIE

February’s CreativeMornings gathering was nothing short of magical, set against the stunning backdrop of The Clubhouse at 941 Santa Fe. The warm and intimate space created the perfect environment for deep connection, with cozy nooks fostering meaningful conversations.

The morning kicked off with our Coffee & Connecting Hour, buzzing with energy as attendees sipped on their morning brews and enjoyed delicious bite-sized breakfast goodies from Bobo’s.

For this event, we switched things up from our traditional talk format. Instead, our dear friend Reuben led a heartfelt sit-down interview with our guest speaker, Paul Laurie. Together, they explored the theme of Layer—not just in storytelling, but in the depth of human connection. The presence of Paul’s family added an incredibly touching element to the conversation, moving many of us to tears. Their stories, love, and support served as a powerful reminder of the beauty found in relationships and the layers that make up our lives.

LOOKING AHEAD…

With two unforgettable events behind us, we can’t wait for what’s next! Each month, we come together to be inspired, to connect, and to create something bigger than ourselves. We are so grateful for this community and the joy, wisdom, and energy you bring to each gathering.

With gratitude and excitement, Your CreativeMornings Denver Team

[creativemorningsdenver]

Looking Back, Leaping Forward: CreativeMornings Celebrates an Inspiring 2024 and Exciting Plans for 2025

As we look back on the last quarter of 2024, we can't help but feel immense gratitude for the incredible speakers and the vibrant energy of our CreativeMornings community.

October kicked off with an inspiring presentation on the theme Vision! It was an incredible morning with Brad Buchanan, CEO of the National Western Center Authority! Brad’s journey—from architecture and city planning to ranching and community building—showcased creativity, leadership, and vision. Sharing his experiences transforming Denver’s National Western Center into a global destination, he reminded us that success is often shaped by the challenges we face along the way.

In November, Caroline and Madison shared an inspiring story of connection and exploration at the Art Gym. Despite their different paths—Madison as an entomologist and Caroline as an artist—their shared sense of adventure brought them together to discover the iconic Prometheus tree. Madison’s scientific insights and Caroline’s artistic lens beautifully blended to create a profound narrative about the intersection of art and science. Their journey, culminating in a glass mold of the ancient tree, reminded us of the importance of preserving the beauty of the world around us.

December wrapped up our year with an amazing presentation on the theme Cycle by Vanessa Callahan. Her inspiring talk on plant cycles explored the interconnected rhythms of nature, from phenology to seasonal changes tracked at Denver Botanic Gardens. Vanessa also shared insights on preserving natural history and wrapped up with a fun Q&A session!

Each of these presentations brought something unique and powerful to our CreativeMornings stage, and we’re thrilled to share that the videos from these talks are either already available or will be posted soon! Be sure to check them out if you missed any of these unforgettable moments.

As we step into 2025, we are filled with excitement for what’s to come. We have an incredible lineup of speakers, new venues to explore, and some fun and fresh ways to connect during our coffee and connecting time. CreativeMornings has always been about building connections and sparking inspiration, and we can’t wait to see how this year unfolds with all of you.

Thank you for being part of this amazing community. Here’s to another year of creativity, connection, and making mornings a little brighter. See you soon!

[creativemorningsdenver]

EJ Carr’s Insightful Journey Through Photography

We’re excited to share that our Reflection video from September featuring the talented EJ Carr is now live! This video is an inside look at the life, art, and philosophy of an artist who has captured iconic images and created compelling stories through his lens for decades.

In this session, EJ takes us on a journey through his extensive career, which includes working with top industry names like Warner Brothers Records, NBC, CBS, and Neiman Marcus, as well as his art exhibits shown worldwide. His reflections on photography as a medium—and an extension of the self—provide unique insights into the world of commercial and fine art. Whether it’s the high-energy demand of fashion photography or the soul-searching nature of portraiture, EJ has a way of balancing technical skill with deep personal expression, an approach that has made his work resonate with so many.

If you missed EJ's talk in person, or if you’re ready to dive back into his words of wisdom, head over to our Reflection page and immerse yourself in this month’s video. It’s a perfect opportunity to learn, be inspired, and see photography from a perspective that transcends the frame.

Check out the video now and let EJ’s journey inspire your own creative path!

[creativemorningsdenver]

Embracing Rituals Together: A Beautiful August Morning in the Park

August’s CreativeMornings / DEN gathering was nothing short of inspiring, as our community came together to share and celebrate the rituals that ground, uplift, and fuel our daily lives. From morning meditations and journaling practices to creative routines that spark joy and inspiration, this was a morning to remember. With the gentle breeze in the park and the sun casting a golden glow, the setting couldn’t have been more perfect for an open, heartwarming exchange of stories and ideas.

As we gathered with coffee cups in hand, each attendee had the chance to share their unique rituals with the group. We heard from early risers who welcome the day with a few quiet moments of gratitude and a deep breath, and night owls who find clarity and inspiration in the stillness of the evening. Others shared how their daily rituals bring them joy and focus.

To experience these rituals firsthand, be sure to watch the video of the event!

One of the most powerful takeaways from the morning was the reminder that rituals—whether big or small, complex or simple—can help us find our footing amidst the whirlwind of everyday life. These routines don’t just help us get things done; they create moments of pause, reflection, and sometimes even transformation.

The warmth and camaraderie shared in the park were truly special, and it was a beautiful example of what makes the CreativeMornings community so meaningful. We left feeling more connected, with fresh inspiration and perhaps even a new ritual or two to try. Thank you to everyone who joined us and opened their hearts!

[creativemorningsdenver]

🎉 CreativeMornings / DEN Partners with Adobe Create Now! 🎉

Hey there, CreativeMornings / DEN community! We are beyond excited to announce that we are partnering with Adobe Create Now for an epic evening of creativity, connection, and fun—and YOU are invited!

Join us for a night filled with inspiration as we gather the local creative community for this fantastic event. Connect with fellow creators, explore new collaboration opportunities, and supercharge your creative process! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into the creative world, there’s something here for everyone.

Dive into hands-on experiences with Adobe’s latest features, including Photoshop, Illustrator, Adobe Firefly, Adobe Express, and more. You’ll walk away with pro tips and tricks to elevate your projects to the next level!And what’s a celebration without some tasty bites and refreshing drinks? Enjoy appetizers on us while you soak up the creative vibes. Plus, you’ll have a chanc to win a Creative Cloud membership—what a sweet deal! 🎊

Details:

What: Adobe Create Now – A Night of Creative Fun When: October 29th 5:30-8pm

Where: The Tivoli Turnhalle

Cost: Totally FREE!

Space is limited, so please RSVP only if you plan to join the fun. Bring your friends, and let’s make this a night to remember as we celebrate creativity together!

Don’t forget to share your excitement using #AdobeCreateNow and let’s show the world how Denver rocks creativity! By attending, you consent to the use of your likeness in photographs and videos for promotional awesomeness.

We can’t wait to see all your smiling faces there, ready to unleash your creative spirit! 🥳🎨✨

[creativemorningsdenver]

TRUST with Michelle Gruening

What a fantastic morning we had last Friday, July 26th at the breathtaking Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design! From the moment we stepped onto the campus of RMCAD, we were in for a treat, diving into the theme of TRUST with the incredible Michelle Gruening—who, by the way, is also one of our fabulous CreativeMornings volunteers!

Before we got started, we had some fun goings on!

Roundtrip Goods Pop-Up: Leah Rich graced us with her slow fashion magic! During our coffee and connecting time, Leah’s Roundtrip Goods had us all swooning over sustainable style.

Cornhole on the Lawn: Who knew cornhole could be so thrilling? We had a blast tossing bean bags as we counted down to the Colorado Cornhole Classic. Feeling competitive? Sign up for a team here and join the fun!

Michelle Gruening’s Trust Talk was nothing short of transformative. She took us on a captivating journey through her and her husband’s adventure, illustrating how their experience, while not necessarily life-changing, was profoundly life-affirming. Michelle's insights on trust were deeply motivating, as she shared her personal mantra that guided her through challenges and triumphs. Her empowering affirmations included: “I am strong. I am capable. I am prepared. I am relentless. I will summit.” By the end of her presentation, we felt a surge of empowerment, ready to embrace and trust the process, ourselves, and each other with renewed vigor and confidence.

Whether we're tackling a literal mountain or our own figurative challenges, we can choose to trust the process. Thank you, Michelle, for sharing your journey and inspiring us with your wisdom!

30-Second Pitch Recap: Click on the slides to go to their info.

Wheeew! Okay! See you at the end of the month!

[creativemorningsdenver]

Exploring Patterns with Detective Mark Crider at CreativeMornings / DEN

June's CreativeMornings / DEN event was a captivating exploration of the theme PATTERNS with Detective Mark Crider, a seasoned homicide detective. Held at Denver's iconic Mercury Cafe, the event offered a unique glimpse into the world of criminal investigation.

Detective Crider shared how patterns play a crucial role in his work, from 911 calls and interrogations to blood stains and bullet trajectories. His presentation took us out of our comfort zones and into the meticulous world of homicide investigations. Adding to the intrigue, he revealed that he had investigated a murder in the Mercury Cafe's parking lot a few years prior, giving his talk a poignant relevance.

Emphasizing the human element of his work, Detective Crider spoke passionately about his dedication to victims, especially those who cannot speak for themselves. His words served as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing and understanding patterns in the pursuit of justice.

Detective Crider's engaging storytelling and profound commitment to justice left us with a greater appreciation for the patterns that shape our lives. We extend our heartfelt thanks to him for sharing his experiences and to the Mercury Cafe for hosting us. Stay tuned for our next event as we continue to explore new themes and welcome inspiring speakers.

[creativemorningsdenver]

Relive the Magic of Friday's #CMVibrant Event with Becky Mickletz at Bierstadt Bierhalle

Last Friday’s #CMVibrant event at Bierstadt Bierhalle was nothing short of magical. Despite the cloudy weather outside, the atmosphere inside was bursting with creative energy and vibrant vibes. Here's a look back at the highlights of this unforgettable morning.

Becky Mickletz Speaks on VIBRANT!

"Your Energy is Your Most Expensive Currency. How Are You Spending It?"

This profound question from Becky Mickletz set the tone for the event. It encouraged us to reflect on how we invest our energy and the importance of mindful spending of this valuable resource.

Becky Mickletz captivated us with her insights on living a vibrant life. Her talk explored the physical and emotional burdens we carry and how we can let them go. One memorable activity involved Play-Doh, where participants mixed dough with a partner, symbolizing the silent struggles others might face, such as mental illness or depression. This playful yet profound exercise reminded us that embracing the good, the bad, and the ugly is key to living vibrantly. Stay tuned—we'll share Becky's video as soon as it's available!

Action-Packed Morning Highlights

The event was filled with dynamic activities and special guests, making it a morning to remember:

Chef Connor aka Staahj prepared delicious breakfast bites that kickstarted our day with culinary delight.

Carine from Saola popped up with sustainable, comfy shoes, showcasing fashion with a conscience.

Casino Perosi serenaded us into the morning, adding a musical touch to the event.

Pine Melon shared samples of delectable local food, demonstrating how fresh, local flavors can be delivered right to our doors.

30-Second Pitches

In the spirit of creativity and connection, participants had the opportunity to deliver 30-second pitches, sharing their passions and projects with the group. This rapid-fire session was a whirlwind of inspiration and networking.

Our First Field Trip of 2024!

Our first field trip of the year was an exhilarating improv adventure led by mindset coach Brian McCarthy at Silver City—a gallery, shop, and event space on historic Larimer. We kicked off with a spontaneous dance party on Larimer Street, setting a fun and uninhibited tone for the day.

A small group of us delved into the world of spontaneous creativity, guided by Brian through various improv exercises. These activities pushed our boundaries, sparked endless laughter, and taught us the importance of trust and connection. We discovered that improv isn't just about quick thinking; it's about letting go and enjoying the moment. The experience left us with a strong sense of camaraderie and a newfound confidence in our ability to think on our feet.

Check Out Photos from the Event!

Mio, aka Photo Maki, and Corey captured the essence of Friday's #CMVibrant event and our field trip. Mio's photos highlight the energy, joy, and connections made throughout the day. Corey's video will be uploaded soon!

A big thank you to Mio and Corey for preserving these special moments!

Check out the photos here!

CreativeMornings field trip photos here!

Join us June 28th for #CMPattern at Denver's staple The Mercury Cafe!

[creativemorningsdenver]

FIELD TRIP FRIDAY

🎉🚐 Ready for some Friday fun? It’s Field Trip Friday at CreativeMornings! 🚐🎉

We’re heading to Silver City for an improv adventure led by the amazing Brian McCarthy, one of our awesome community members. There are a few spots left, so grab yours now!

🗓️ This Friday (May 31st) 2pm-4pm

📍 Silver City 2121 Larimer. Street metered parking. 🎭 Improv with Brian McCarthy

Don’t miss out on a chance to laugh, learn, and let loose. We'll have cool refreshing beverages! See you there!

#FieldTripFriday #CreativeMornings #Improv #SilverCity #BrianMcCarthy #CreativeCommunity

[creativemorningsdenver]

Embracing the Spice of Life: A Recap of Mike Wird's Inspiring Talk at CreativeMornings/DEN

When we think of spice, we often envision bold flavors igniting our taste buds or the fiery kick that transforms a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. But what if spice went beyond the culinary realm? What if it became a metaphor for life itself—a catalyst for growth, connection, and transformation?

At April's CreativeMornings/DEN event that took place at the Art Gym, speaker Mike Wird took the stage to delve into the concept of "SPICY" and how it manifests in our lives beyond the kitchen. His talk was a powerful reminder that embracing the spice of life means stepping out of our comfort zones, engaging with others, and finding confidence in our unique selves.

Leaving Comfort Zones to Mingle with Others

Mike eloquently articulated how stepping out of our comfort zones is essential for personal and collective growth. Just as a chef experiments with different spices to create culinary masterpieces, we must be willing to explore unfamiliar territories and interact with diverse perspectives to enrich our lives. It's about breaking free from the confines of routine and embracing the unknown with open arms.

Getting in Our B-Boy Stance with Confidence

Drawing parallels to the world of hip-hop, Mike encouraged us to adopt a "B-Boy stance" in life—a posture of confidence, resilience, and self-assuredness. Much like a skilled dancer commanding attention on the dance floor, we must approach challenges with a sense of conviction and belief in our abilities. By embodying the spirit of the B-Boy stance, we can navigate life's complexities with grace and authenticity. And, we stepped into the uncomfortability of crossing our arms the opposite of what feels comfortable in our stance and standing in that for a brief moment.

Stepping Out from Isolation and into Community

Perhaps the most poignant aspect of Mike's talk was his emphasis on the power of community. In an age where isolation and disconnection prevail, he reminded us of the importance of forging meaningful connections and building supportive networks. Just as spices come together to create harmonious flavors, we thrive when we come together as a community, supporting and uplifting one another along the journey.

Watch Mike's Video Under Talks

For those who missed Mike's captivating talk or wish to revisit its inspiring message, his video is available under Talks on the CreativeMornings/DEN platform. Prepare to be motivated, challenged, and empowered to embrace the spice of life in all its glory.

[creativemorningsdenver]

Unraveling the Creative Tapestry: Insights from an Unexpected Audience

In the heart of March, CreativeMornings/DEN gathered at the Holiday Theater, not just to witness creativity but to unravel its intricate threads. What can we as creative leaders learn from an audience full of rowdy, irreverent college students? Theatre artist and Communication Coach, Christopher Peck, recalls the extraordinary performance of Anna in the Tropics—produced by Baylor University Theatre Department—when the shocking and unexpected behavior of the audience resulted in an equally unprecedented response from the play’s director. This incredible experience closely examines how audiences respond to art and what can be lost when that response is challenged by the vision and intention of the production. What is the responsibility of an audience? Who decides the meaning of a work of art? Finally, what do we fail to learn when we ignore or reject the perspective of our audience?

[creativemorningsdenver]

Chef Jose Avila speaks on February's theme NATIVE 2/23

Chef Jose Avila's journey from the bustling streets of Mexico City to the flavorful landscapes of Colorado is like a spicy salsa dance for the taste buds and the soul! Hearing about his adventures of crossing borders, conquering the high highs of life and the low lows, and embracing the vibrant life here in Denver was nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. His openness about the ups and downs in his life felt like an epic kitchen tale, complete with unexpected ingredients and surprise twists. THANK YOU, Jose, for serving up a delightful dish of vulnerability and inspiration. You have inspired us to embrace the flavorful chaos of life and to remember that there will be ups, there will be downs, and ups again, but to be persistent in our journeys! 🌮

What an awesome venue Mile High Spirts was! Located in the Ballpark neighborhood, this spot was perfect to host our CreativeMornings /DEN chapter! The sun shone bright as our guests enjoyed Purple Door Coffee and we even had PineMelon pop up sharing delicious goodies!

We had quite a few first-timers in our audience and even a new Denver transplant who was part of the Salt Lake City CreativeMornings.

A few were able to stay back and go on a neighborhood walk-about too which is always a fun way to get to know the community and people in the community.

It truly was an action-packed and inspiring morning!

[creativemorningsdenver]

Mess to Masterpiece with Mike Johnson

Despite the challenging weather with rain and snow, the audience at Denver Dream Center's event on January 26th was nothing short of wonderful. The atmosphere was charged with inspiration as attendees were captivated by Mike's compelling journey of overcoming addiction, homelessness, and a period of incarceration.

What stood out was the powerful message that emerged from Mike's narrative – that life's messes can indeed become a message. Mike's ability to transform personal struggles into a beacon of hope resonated deeply with the audience. Their engagement was evident as they stayed after the talk to learn more about both Mike and the impactful initiatives at the Denver Dream Center. The event not only highlighted personal triumphs but also underscored the universal truth that our challenges can be transformative, offering a message of resilience and hope to all who face adversity.

[creativemorningsdenver]

Beyond Suffering: Dr. Paula Cushing's Profound Dive into Pain at CreativeMornings Denver, December event.

CreativeMornings Denver's December event at the Museum of Nature and Science featured Dr. Paula Cushing, Senior Curator of Invertebrate Zoology. Known for her expertise in arachnids and evolutionary biology, Dr. Cushing's talk transcended the scientific realm, exploring the profound theme of PAIN.

Since 1998, Dr. Cushing has been a pivotal figure at the Museum, with a Ph.D. from the University of Florida. Her extensive research on arachnids spans the deserts of the western United States to India, contributing significantly to our understanding of evolutionary patterns. Taking an unexpected turn, Dr. Cushing shared a poignant video on various perspectives of the afterlife. This added a deeply emotional layer to the event, prompting contemplation on universal themes of mortality. The event transformed into an interactive experience with attendees sharing thoughts and posing insightful questions. Dr. Cushing's engagement added intimacy, making it a memorable and thought-provoking event.

Photos by Mio Sison III. View the complete album here

[creativemorningsdenver]

Changing Of The Guards

Celebrating a new chapter!

On November 1, 2013, 120 people crammed into Convercent on Broadway for Denver's first morning of coffee, breakfast goodies, and listening to a member of the community share their experiences. The global theme was BRAVERY. Check out our first event in photos!

After hearing CreativeMornings founder Tina Roth Eisenberg speak at SXSW, RJ Owens knew we needed a chapter in Denver. Come to find out, the only thing needed was to finish filling out an application. He and Amy Fisk successfully launched our chapter that crisp fall morning in November.

Dave Momper wasn't far behind, jumping in on the check-in team immediately. RJ was our Chapter Host from 2013 - 2017. In 2018, Dave became our second. On Friday, November 17th, he officially handed it off to Brandi McMichael.

CM/Denver would not be here without RJ, Amy and Dave! For years they've given their hearts and love to our community. As they step down from chapter leadership, we are thankful for the foundation they laid for the future. 

When you see them next, make sure to give them big hugs and high fives!

Brandi McMichael, formerly Shigley, is no stranger to the CreativeMornings/Denver community! She's been Dave's co-host for a year and we're so excited to see her take the official Host Baton. Her infectious and wholesome energy is gonna send us forward into a new chapter!