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!

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YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In Episode #12 of Community Builders, we sit down with Chico Fire Chief Steve Standridge to explore what it takes to lead a modern fire department and protect a growing city in the age of climate change, aging infrastructure, and evolving community needs.

Chief Standridge shares his personal path from the Army to the fire service, why he believes firefighting is a calling, and what makes Chico’s department uniquely connected to the community it serves. We talk about the impact of new fire behavior research, the critical importance of training and trust on the job, and the reality of fighting wildland and structure fires in Chico.

He also opens up about the pressures facing today’s firefighters, from arson investigations to wildland fire mitigation, and how community support and city resources play a vital role in public safety.

Whether you’re a resident, policymaker, or just someone who appreciates the work of first responders, this conversation will give you a deeper look at what it means to serve with heart, grit, and humility.

Follow us on Instagram: @community.builders.chico

👉 Watch the live video recorded episode here

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In Episode #11 of Community Builders, we sit down with Wendy Fairon, Principal of Chico Country Day School, to talk about what it takes to build a learning environment that puts trust, curiosity, and connection at the center. Wendy shares the school’s roots as one of California’s first charter schools, explains their commitment to project-based learning, and reflects on what makes a school feel like a true community for both kids and adults.

We explore how CCDS partners with families, supports teachers, and inspires students to see themselves as capable, curious contributors. Wendy also opens up about her path from culinary school to education leadership, the importance of supporting teachers as learners, and what it means to stay hopeful and idealistic in the face of real challenges.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or community member, this episode is a reminder of how powerful education can be when it’s driven by people who care.

Follow us on Instagram: @community.builders.chico

👉 Watch the live video recorded episode here

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In Episode #10 of Community Builders, we sit down with Emily Acevedo, Executive Director of Butte Humane Society, one of the longest-running nonprofits in Butte County. Emily shares her story of how she went from working in business development to leading an organization that helps thousands of animals each year through shelter services, vet care, and outreach programs.

Throughout the episode, Emily talks about the realities of running an animal shelter today, including rising costs, limited space, and a national shortage of veterinarians. She explains how her team works to prevent animals from entering the shelter system by supporting pet owners with food, medical care, and education. Emily also opens up about the emotional side of the job, touching on compassion fatigue and how her team stays focused on the wins.

Tune in for an honest and inspiring conversation about community care, animal welfare, and what it means to build a more compassionate Chico.

Follow us on Instagram: @community.builders.chico

👉 Watch the live video recorded episode here

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In Episode #9 of Community Builders, we sit down with Bob Trausch, co-founder of Chico Housing Action Team (CHAT). Bob shares the story of how CHAT began in 2011 with a small group of volunteers responding to dangerously cold weather. What started as an emergency effort quickly grew into a long-term mission to provide stable housing and rebuild lives.

Bob explains how CHAT has expanded over the years, creating safe, supportive environments like Everhart Village—a community designed for individuals with mental illness that offers housing, food, and 24/7 staff support.

This episode explores Bob’s deep commitment to human connection, his experience growing up in poverty, and the values that drive his work. Tune in for a powerful conversation about community responsibility, second chances, and what it really means to be a helper in Chico.

Follow us on Instagram: @community.builders.chico

👉 Watch the live video recorded episode here

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In Episode #8 of Community Builders, we feature Maitreya Badami, Associate Professor of CSU Chico's Department of Political Science and Director of Education at the Butte Defense Equity Project. Maitreya shares how she blends her passion for social justice with her academic and community roles, impacting both her students and the broader community.

During the episode, Maitreya explains her approach to teaching public policy and social equity, motivating students to move from theory to active engagement and advocacy. This educational philosophy prepares them to be future leaders capable of driving significant societal changes.

Maitreya also discusses her work with the Butte Defense Equity Project, where she extends her influence beyond the classroom, educating the public on legal rights and advocating for systemic reforms. Her efforts exemplify true community building, merging education, law, and direct community involvement.

Tune in to discover how Maitreya Badami shapes an informed and proactive generation, ready to address and solve the challenges of tomorrow.

Follow us on Instagram: @community.builders.chico

👉 Watch the live video recorded episode here

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In Episode #7 of Community Builders, we sit down with Cathryn Carkhuff, Executive Director of Home & Heart, a nonprofit that connects home seekers with home providers to create affordable and supportive living spaces. With a background in social work and education, Cathryn shares her journey from studying at Temple University to leading a community-focused housing initiative in Chico.

Throughout the episode, Cathryn explores the balance between grassroots efforts and institutional social work, the challenges of affordable housing, and the role of nonprofits in addressing community needs. She also opens up about her personal motivations, the realities of nonprofit work, and how she manages funding, burnout, and long-term impact.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on nonprofit leadership, community building, and how individuals can help create more inclusive and sustainable housing solutions.

Follow us on Instagram @community.builders.chico

👉 Watch the live video recorded episode here

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In Episode #6 of Community Builders,  we sit down with Kristy Collins, who serves as the Executive Director of Hillel of Chico and as a Program Coordinator for the Stop-The-Hate initiative. Kristy shares her journey from a background in food science to leading one of the largest student organizations at Chico State, which provides an inclusive community for Jewish students from both Chico State and Butte College.

Throughout the episode, Kristy discusses her dual role in fostering community engagement and support. As a leader at Hillel, she focuses on cultural engagement and professional development, while her work with Stop-The-Hate addresses critical issues like bullying and discrimination in the community. She reflects on her personal and professional experiences that motivate her commitment to enhancing student life and broader community involvement through these impactful initiatives.

Tune in for an insightful conversation about the challenges of nonprofit leadership, the importance of cultural and support centers in higher education, and how proactive community service can significantly impact students' lives and societal well-being.

Follow us on Instagram 
@community.builders.chico

👉 Watch the live video recorded episode here

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In Episode # 5 of Community Builders, we speak with Butte County Sheriff Kory Honea. Sheriff Honea shares his journey from a young student interested in sports medicine to becoming deeply involved in law enforcement. He details his experiences with major crises like the 2017 Oroville Dam spillway emergency and the 2018 Camp Fire, highlighting the challenges and responsibilities of managing such disasters.

Sheriff Honea discusses the weighty decisions he has faced, the importance of community safety, and his approach to leadership and public service. Tune in to learn about his commitment to safeguarding his community and the insights he's gained from years of service in law enforcement.

👉 Watch the live video recorded episode here

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In this episode of Community Builders, we sit down with Addison Winslow, Chico City Council member and community organizer, recently voted Best Local Activist and Best Local City Official. Addison shares his journey from growing up in Chico to traveling across North America engaging in grassroots activism, and ultimately returning to his hometown to help shape its future.

He discusses his early work in housing advocacy, tenant protections, and mutual aid efforts during the pandemic, as well as his deep dive into Chico’s urban planning and environmental policies. Addison also reflects on what it means to be a "non-denominational socialist" in local government, how his research into Chico’s development history informs his decisions, and the realities of navigating policy change as an elected official.

Tune in for an insightful conversation about grassroots organizing, local governance, and the vision for a more sustainable, community-driven Chico!!

👉 Watch the live video recorded episode here

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)