Graphic for Episode 27 of the BirdTalk podcast featuring Anita Kudasik. The image shows her black and white picture in front of a blue and white Denver skyline with a blue sky.
Graphic for Episode 27 of the BirdTalk podcast featuring Anita Kudasik. The image shows her black and white picture in front of a blue and white Denver skyline with a blue sky.

The MSU Denver Alumni Association is proud to announce the release of a special live episode of its podcast, BirdTalk, featuring 2019 alumna Anita Kudasik, a trailblazing entrepreneur and the owner of the American Classic Inn in Salida, Colorado. Hosted by Jamie Hurst, Associate Vice President of Strategic Engagement at MSU Denver, this episode spotlights Kudasik’s inspiring journey from growing up in her family’s motel to purchasing and transforming a retro roadside inn—-all while completing her hospitality degree at MSU Denver.

Recorded live in Salida, Colorado, the episode dives into Anita’s personal story of resilience, innovation, and community building. From navigating late-night plumbing emergencies to mastering guest experience, Kudasik reflects on the lessons she learned both in the classroom and in the field, and how her time at MSU Denver helped prepare her for entrepreneurship.

“Anita embodies the spirit of the Roadrunner—hardworking, bold, and community-focused,” said Hurst. “Her story is not just about hospitality, it’s about leadership, vision, and making your own path.”

Anita Kudasik was honored in 2021 with MSU Denver’s 10 Under 10 Alumni Award and was named Entrepreneur of the Year by Chaffee County. Her latest venture includes expanding into personalized hospitality experiences and outdoor adventure rentals.

The episode is now available on all major podcast platforms and here.

For more information on BirdTalk or to listen to the episode, visit: https://www.msudenver.edu/alumni/birdtalk/