Community Builders – A Chico Podcast
Community Builders - A Chico Podcast
Podcast Description
Community Builders, is a podcast dedicated to celebrating and spotlighting the individuals who make a positive impact in Chico, California and the surrounding North State region. Each episode dives deep into the journeys, insights, and efforts of local leaders, activists, and changemakers who are shaping this community through dedication and innovation. With thoughtful conversations and inspiring stories, Community Builders offers listeners a closer look at the people behind impactful projects.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on community leadership, social initiatives, and local governance, with episodes showcasing the efforts of individuals like Amber Abney-Bass in supporting the unhoused, Tami Ritter in shaping public policy, and Tom van Overbeek in urban development, emphasizing their innovative strategies and personal motivations.
Community Builders, is a podcast dedicated to celebrating and spotlighting the individuals who make a positive impact in Chico, California and the surrounding North State region.
Each episode dives deep into the journeys, insights, and efforts of local leaders, activists, and changemakers who are shaping this community through dedication and innovation.
With thoughtful conversations and inspiring stories, Community Builders offers listeners a closer look at the people behind impactful projects.
In this episode of Community Builders, we sit down with Bonnie Pipkin, creator of Bonfire Storytelling, for a conversation about connection, vulnerability, and the power of sharing real stories in community.
Bonnie shares how Bonfire Storytelling began as a simple idea inspired by live storytelling events like The Moth and has since grown into one of Chico’s most meaningful and engaging community gatherings. Built around a multi-generational format, each event brings together storytellers from different decades of life to share personal experiences centered around a common theme.
We talk about the magic that happens when strangers gather to listen deeply to one another, how storytelling creates empathy across generations, and why authentic human connection feels more important than ever.
Bonnie also reflects on the evolution of Bonfire Storytelling from a monthly event into a thriving every-other-month experience that consistently fills rooms with laughter, reflection, and emotional honesty. From teens to storytellers in their 90s, every voice brings a unique perspective that helps audiences feel seen, understood, and connected.
Bonfire Storytelling reminds us that everyone has a story worth telling and that sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do for each other is simply listen.
This episode is a heartfelt look at the role storytelling plays in building stronger communities and creating spaces where people can truly belong.
Interested in experiencing Bonfire Storytelling for yourself or stepping onto the stage to share your own story? Learn more about upcoming events and storyteller opportunities at bonfirestorytelling.com
Follow us on Instagram: @community.builders.chico
EPISODE CREDITS:
Hosted by Dorian Cohen
Produced by Metric Studios
Edited by Michael Bone and Seth Ryan Trachtman
Audio mixed by Michael Bone
Artwork designed by Dorian Cohen
Segment jingles licensed through Music Bed
Be sure to follow Community Builders on YouTube and Instagram!
Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.