What's Up ABQ

In this episode we interview Des and Josh who are the co-owners of Ignite 505 and 2505 Craftwerks. Des and Josh both have their own creative endeavors: Josh owns Gallo Negro Tattoo and Des owns Lavish Hair Lounge. Both businesses are housed in 2505 Craftwerks. Each year, 2505 Craftwerks holds an event called Ignite 505 where tattoo artists, hair stylists, nail artists, glass blowers, and other artists in the community can get together and share their work. Not only are Josh and Des married, but they have married their love for local artists and events into something truly special to help give to the community.

2505 Craftwerks is located at 2505 Quincy St NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110.

On November 13th, 2021, Marcos Baca was killed in a hit and run while driving home from an awards ceremony he had just attended. The case is still unsolved. For those who loved Marcos, this isn’t the end. They are still searching for answers and Justice. On this episode we talk to his fiancée about what it means to lose somebody you love, and what our community needs to do differently to stop these kinds of tragedies from happening again.

Sweet shoes - local creator. Need we say more?

In this episode, Lindsey (Ryan couldn't make it because he's super lame sometimes), talks with Tristan of Different Breed Customs about what it's like creating custom shoes with his signature NM-inspired art style, how things started, and (of course) green chile.

Ok ok, so we all know how much New Mexican food is delicious. Seriously - it's kinda like one of our staple show questions at this point.

But what about Mexican food in the 505??

Enter Lindo Mexico!

Auri's family has a classic rags-to-riches story, starting with their original family roots down in Chihuahua, Mexico. Using their culinary history, they carried their passion for amazing northern Mexican food up the 505. And now we get to devour their amazing cuisine. In this one, we talk passion, talent, and the musts of what makes a restaurant truly excellent in Burque.

Looking for your next great going out to eat dinner here in town? Head on over to their main location on Central at 7209 (near the corner of Louisianna and Central by Talin).

You've probably seen them around. You've probably even got your thrift on there too!

But did you know there's a ton more that our local Goodwill Industries does on an everyday basis to help our community?

Get a personal perspective of yet another awesome non-profit here in Burque as we chat with Ramon Torres, Program Manager on all the stuff they have going on as well as their perspective on the sorts of challenges New Mexicans are facing right now and whats being done about it.

The Sandias, the Rio Grande, Santa Fe National Forest, the Gila, the Taos box...

Seriously, we have a ton when it comes to getting up and outside. Now, we can go with a pro like Corey Spoores of MST Adventures, based right here in the 505. In this episode, we talk snowshoeing, hiking, kayaking - even forest bathing. If you've been wanting to get out more (like out Out), you're gonna love this one.

Put on your hiking boots, sunglasses, and grab a bottle or two of water and enjoy!

It's a special cross-over episode!

If you're not already listening, you kinda really should be - to Artist with Brian!

Coming to you from Santa Fe, Brian hosts an amazing variety of local artists and creatives. Together, they get deadpan and honest about what real life is like for New Mexican artists (most recently with yours truly).

Check it out!

Back during the Ryan and Chris era of the show, we got the chance to talk it up with Burque's own Sarah Kennedy - comedian (and now fellow podcaster) extraordinaire! We're talking comedy, culture, and talent on a big scale and also on our own local scene.

All hail the mighty hot dog, for it is tasty.

- Especially when it comes from Clowndog Hot Dog Parlor off Central in Albuquerque!

Step into a whimsical, circus-themed local restaurant where you can get just about anything on your hot dog. Seriously!
Join us as we talk with owner Rich Bartel, owner of one of ABQ's latest creative joints, about the restaurant business, what it's like going from an idea to reality, and serious shoptalk on hot dogs.

Fashion, Art, Creatives: Iconica Magazine!

In this episode, we talk with Abq's latest greatest magazine founders hot after their first issue release!

Hear from founders Cam and Natassja about their take on our own local creative community here in Albuquerque, starting up a magazine, and what to watch out for in their next issue.

Give us your organs.

Come on!! You're not even using all of them... probably. Maybe.

But no, seriously, come join us for a roundtable interview with the folks over at the New Mexico Kidney Foundation, along with even more special guests as we get the low-down on what kidney donation really looks like here in our state. What's it like from the foundation's perspective? What's it like from a real person waiting to receive a kidney? And, of course, how you can help literally save a life.

One lump or two?

We're getting alllll fancy for this one!
This episode is all about tea, tea ceremonies, and Albuquerque's super awesome Tea Room!

What's the right way to brew tea? What goes with it? So many questions, we might just need to have a second cup!
We sit down with owner Amanda Ng of The Ivy Tea Room and get the real answers and more.

Everywhere is closed or has weird hours.

Staying at home has turned from a nice idea to a must.

We all know what this past while has been like...
But what if this wasn't just a pandemic thing?

For some right here in ABQ, this is more or less a way of life.
On today's episode, we talk with Jessie Calero over at Mandy's Farm, a local organization helping those with special needs on how a farm in the South Valley grew to help folks all over the city with everything from community integration to jobs and more!

Aaaaaaand we're back!

Sorry about the hiatus...

Ok, question time:
Where do you put a stadium in ABQ?

Answer: that's a raging matter of debate right now.

Ok, so we all know the 505 is where it's at when it comes to amazingly creative people...

and one such multi-talented person is none other than Jackie Moranty: scientist, folklorist, and local podcaster extraordinaire!
In this one, Ryan and Chris talk with Jackie on everything from the roots behind pandemic sceptics, the hard science on herd immunity, and all things lucky.

Ok, here us out on this one.

Salads.

Toss't Salads.

They're fresh, in your face, and brand-new right here in town.
They're delicious, make no excuses, and even have delivery.

This week, we talk with owner Alexis all about pop culture, what it takes to make restaurants work in ABQ, and LAAAA. 

Alright ABQ. This week Ryan & Chris talk fashion.

That's right - bow ties, bandanas, and collars. 

Meow. Woof woof.

Geeze, it's for cats and dogs! We chat with Vivian, founder and owner of Three Fluffy Tails on pet fashion, internet startups, and how to help keep your pet feeling cozy and purrfect.

Buckle up for another fun one covering another wonderful person right here in the Duke City.

Ever wondered what it's really like to be a Mayor here in New Mexico?

On this episode, for the first time ever we talk shop with Tijeras Mayor Jake Bruton!

What are the real challenges and needs a small town just outside of Albuquerque is facing? How is Jake and his crack team tackling their town's needs while also doing their best to anticipate what the future holds? How does one even become a Mayor in our state anyway?

Buckle up, dear listener, this one's fun!

I don't know about you, but I definitely want to feel better.
Not only that, I want to be able to have the underlying issues addressed so I'm not just treating the symptoms too.

Thankfully, there's ZB Botanicals! With a combined approach of CBD and Ayerveda they've been helping a ton of people. How does this all-natural, eastern-based medicine work? What's it been like in the trenches dealing with outdated and often ignorant state and federal regulations?
- ZB Botanicals is just another example of thoughtful, savvy people helping everyday Burquenos feel better.

More often than not, when we create art we go someplace in our minds.
Whether it's a mythicized childhood location or an immersive mood, creative work can definitely be a gateway to entirely new experiences.
- and Taos poet John Biscello knows more than most exactly what this is like!

Sure we've all been around town - seen the sights, explored the local dives...
But just how accessible are they?
I mean, how many ramps and elevators do we really see around 'Burque?

For one local mom, issues like accessibility, specialized healthcare are vital as she cares for her special-needs daughter.
So much so that she recently published a brand-new children's book inspired by the imaginative world through her family's eyes!

It's another (Another!) treasure in Burque's downtown...

Our ability, even with Covid, to bar hop. Sure it's a bit cold, but with outdoor heaters and the right spirits, you'll be warm and cozy!
So, when it comes right down to it, one of the best places downtown is Hollow Spirits Distillery!
Whether it's the amazing food from Chef, the divine drinks, or the classic ABQ patio atmosphere, they're for sure What's Up, ABQ!

So listen in - hear from this Mother-Son, local star talent. They're just another amazing example of the awesome things we have going on right here in Albuquerque :)

Ah, the downtown Albuquerque music scene.

Remember that from the before times??

Well, they're still going, albeit in a new way!

Meet Barney Lopez, the guy in charge of booking and creating the amazing music experiences we all know and love downtown!
In this one, we talk on what makes for an awesome line-up, how bands are tackling and thriving right now, and how Burque's beloved venues are keeping up with our love for local music.

Welcome to 2021 and Season 3 of What's Up ABQ.  We've got a new co-host and plenty more Burque to feature!

In this episode, we re-visit with past guest Erin O'Donnell of Dovetail Community Workshop on what her amazing creative community has been up do - how the pandemic has increased their ability to inspire crafters - and what she's been making!

Hi all, this is Ryan.

As I write this, I have to reflect on the year and a half we've been podcasting. The interviews with all the amazing people in and around Albuquerque are literally a treasure. I'm so happy I've been able to share the experience with you. I'm also floored to have been able to share them with my co-host and sister (yes, if you haven't figured out the nature of our relationship yet, there it is!).

Lindsey is an amazing talent (even if she does give me a hard time every now and then). The way she sees and interacts with the community around her is unique, relaxed, and unparalleled. As I think I mention in this episode *Spoilers*, I don't think I can experience Albuquerque the way I can when I jump in her car and she takes me somewhere random and wonderful right here in our town.

So, here it is: Lindsey and her family are moving to Portland at the end of this month. While I'm understandably both happy and sad about this, fear not!

There is another...

And his name is Chris Burnett.

One of the many places ABQ is flush with is excellent local craft breweries - and Gravity Bound Brewery is no exception.

Their location is this amazing fusion of sustainability with their earthship vibes meets classic delicious brews. Despite 'The Event', they're fostering legit community in the Wells Park district with NM United watch parties, Football nights, and good-ol-fashioned innovation.

In this one we talk origins, names, and where couches come from!

Swing on by, because Gravity Bound is What's Up, ABQ!

Are you ready for some football?

Whether or not you've seen that ludicrous display last night, there's a brand-new game in town which is all about the love of the game, while empowering women from New Mexico to Missouri!

Their name?

Duke City Diamondbacks!

Learn more about them - the unique perspecitves of their coach, as well as from their players!
They're totally what's up, ABQ!

What makes for a perfect local picture?

- In this podcast, we answer it!

(Hint, it's local photographer Bobby Gutierrez's camera)

When it comes to capturing real candid moments around ABQ, this guy is a natural. So who better to ask about what makes for great photography here in NM!

Also, you might recognize Bobby's handiwork from some of The Barelas Podcasters Guild's latest social media posts too!

Seriously though:

BEST BENNIES IN TOWN.

Also, amazing food prepped and served by amazing people!

This week we're talking with Israel Rivera of Burque's infamous The Shop! And oh man does he have a ton of incredible insights on the food industry and what makes for amazing atmosphere (remember back in the olden times when we could just wander into any old restaurant, sit down, and relax??). While they're still doing curbside, Israel and his crew also have art contests going on too! Also, learn what it's really looking like for local eateries right now and how they're adapting and improving their menus for the future...

Grab a plate and bring your hunger - this one's for you!

Yet another awesome group in the Duke City there for pets of all situations is the one and only Watermelon Ranch!

In this episode, we talk with Sara Heffern about how animals come to them needing care and love from all sorts of situations and how we can help ensure our fluffy friends go to stable situations in loving homes. Not only do they help adopt out pets, but they also help hapless owners who may have bitten off more than they can chew with new pets. No judgement here, just help at the right time!

Nom nom.

If you already know, then you already know. There's a delicious food truck roaming our streets. Serving hungry locals in parks and streetside all across town. There are lines. They sell out on a regular basis. Hurry! Quick! Get your tasty BBQ while you can! It's Mighty Mike's Meats - and man oh man are they amazing.

What's Mike's story? - How did this culinary marvel begin? Origin story? Yes, please.

Albuquerque's most whimsical spot arguably has to be at the corner of Wyoming and Paseo.

Wait, up in the Heights? Yep, that's right! Who knew?

Cats. Cats know.

That's because this week we're talking with the folks at Catopia Cafe - the 505's very own cat cafe. It's an amazing place where people can come and spend time with some of the cutest, purry, adoptable cats you'll find city-wide. What are things new (and old) cat owners ought to know? What sorts of things should we be mindful of as cat owners in Burque?

And of course, the age-old question, What is the secret to cats?

Find out in our latest episode!

Ready to be moved?

Whether it's helping local charities with their regular partnerships or, you know, actually helping you move, Albuquerque's Two Men and a Truck have been there for us for years.

There's no way to undervalue good movers - especially when they're professionals who pull out all the stops for you (Trust us, your back will thank you!). In this episode, we get the low-down on the 505's moving choice, how they're helping out around town, AND we announce a brand-new competition for you!

Put down your boxes and packing tape - Two Men and a Truck already got this!