In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with Matt Kays, owner of Mountain Event Services, to talk about the energy behind unforgettable events — and the genuine relationships that make them possible.

From weddings and corporate galas to festivals that stretch across city blocks, Matt reveals how collaboration, communication, and connection fuel every show. He also shares how networking with other DJs and vendors — even competitors — has helped him grow a thriving Northern Colorado production company known for five-star experiences.

💡 Episode Highlights

• How collaboration keeps events smooth and stress-free.
• Networking with competitors can be a growth strategy.
• Creating event “flow” like a theatrical production.
• Five-star service secrets from Mountain Event Services.

🌐 Connect with Matt Kays & Mountain Event Services

Phone: 970-372-4882
Email: events@mountaineventservices.com
Website: https://mountaineventservices.com

🎟 Network with Us

Next Level Networking Events: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

In this powerful episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with Marshall Spring, founder and CEO of the Combat Recovery Foundation, a Northern Colorado nonprofit dedicated to evidence-based suicide prevention for veterans and survivors.

Marshall shares how the unexpected loss of his business partner led him to launch Combat Recovery Foundation—a mission to help veterans rebuild purpose, community, and belonging through connection and service. From wildfire mitigation to brand collaborations with Pine-Rite Soap, Wander Coffee, and Sweet Heart Winery, Marshall has built a model where business and social impact go hand in hand.

💡 In This Episode:
✨ The story behind Combat Recovery Foundation’s mission and how it began with tragedy and hope.
✨ Why isolation, not depression, is often the root cause of veteran suicide.
✨ How community projects like erosion control, forest restoration, and fishing clubs help veterans reconnect.
✨ The power of brand collaborations — from coffee and cider to skincare — that support veterans and local businesses.
✨ Lessons in resilience and how to pivot when plans fall apart (like the Rising Phoenix 5K event).
✨ Why authenticity and radical hospitality are the foundation of Marshall’s leadership.

💡 Why You Should Listen:
This episode is a masterclass in turning loss into legacy. Whether you’re a business owner, nonprofit leader, or veteran, Marshall’s insights into connection, resilience, and collaboration will remind you what it means to serve — and how to build community from the ground up.

📣 Marshall mentions and collaborates with:

Pine-Rite Soap: https://pineritesoap.com
Wander Coffee: https://wandercoffee.com
Sweet Heart Winery: https://sweetheartwinery.com

🌐 Connect with Combat Recovery Foundation:
💻 Website: combatrecoveryfoundation.org
📞 Contact: info@combatrecoveryfoundation.org
📍 Northern Colorado

🎟 Want to come network with us?
Check out upcoming events here:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with Jessie Rule, the event and community manager at Desk Chair Workspace in downtown Loveland, to talk about building thriving coworking communities, creating seamless events, and managing work-life balance as an entrepreneur and mom of three.

From coordinating weddings and rooftop parties to hosting business trainings and networking events, Jessie shares how she helps transform visions into reality, fosters authentic connections among members, and keeps events running smoothly—even when the unexpected happens behind the scenes.

💡 In This Episode:
✨ How Jessie went from weddings to coworking and event management.
✨ Tips for managing vendors, clients, and logistics for seamless events.
✨ Why coworking communities thrive on connection, collaboration, and cocktails.
✨ The secret to balancing business ownership and family life with grace.
✨ How Desk Chair became the “hub of Loveland” for entrepreneurs and professionals.

💡 Why You Should Listen:
Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking for office space, a professional wanting to expand your network, or someone planning your next event, Jessie’s insights on community-building, hospitality, and business networking will inspire you to see coworking spaces in a whole new way.

📣 Jessie recommends:
Fresh Plate Catering (Loveland)
Door 222 (restaurant)
Sando’s (on-site restaurant)
DJ Brian Howe

🌐 Connect with Jessie & Desk Chair Workspace:
💻 Website: deskchairworkspace.com

📞 Phone: 970-290-3757
📍 Downtown Loveland, CO

🎟 Want to come network with us?
Check out upcoming events here:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909