Community Builders - A Chico Podcast

In this episode of Community Builders, we sit down with marriage and family therapist Morgan Szymczak for an honest conversation about mental health, burnout, and the importance of connection.

Morgan shares what led her to become a therapist, what makes marriage and family therapy unique, and why the relationship between a therapist and client matters so much. She also opens up about the isolation that can come with helping professions and how burnout can build slowly over time.

We talk about the local therapist network Morgan helped create, giving therapists a space to connect, support one another, and feel less alone in their work. As Morgan explains, when helpers have people to lean on, they are better able to care for the communities they serve.

The conversation also explores youth mental health, social media, and the growing need for honest conversations about stress, connection, and support.

This episode is a thoughtful reminder that the people caring for others need care too, and that stronger relationships can help build a healthier community.

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In this episode of Community Builders, we sit down with Gillian Hayne, Chico’s new City Manager, for a conversation about local government, thoughtful growth, and what it takes to help a community move forward.

Gillian shares the path that brought her from land-use planning to city leadership, the experiences that shaped her approach to problem-solving, and why returning to Chico feels so personal. With deep family ties to the area, she speaks about the small-town character, connection, and opportunity that make Chico special.

We discuss some of the community’s biggest priorities, including housing, economic development, infrastructure, public safety, and compassionate solutions for our unhoused neighbors. Gillian also shares her hope for a more accessible, transparent city government where residents feel informed, heard, and empowered to get involved.

Throughout the conversation, Gillian reflects on collaboration, finding common ground, and the belief that lasting change happens when a community works together.

This episode is an honest and hopeful look at the future of Chico and the leadership helping guide it.

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In this episode of Community Builders, we sit down with Mike Wiltermood, CEO of Enloe Health, for a conversation about healthcare, leadership, and what it means to care for a community.

Mike shares Enloe’s history in Chico, its mission as an independent nonprofit health system, and the responsibility that comes with serving patients across Northern California. He also reflects on the thousands of employees, physicians, volunteers, and community members who help make that work possible.

We discuss the changing landscape of healthcare, the challenges facing rural communities, and the importance of keeping care accessible, sustainable, and close to home. Mike also shares exciting updates about Enloe’s new Comprehensive Cancer Center and the work being done to bring advanced treatment, early screening, and support services to the region.

Throughout the conversation, Mike speaks about the relationships that have shaped his life and career, from the lessons he learned growing up in a small town to the people who continue to inspire his leadership today.

This episode is a thoughtful look at community-centered healthcare, the power of collaboration, and the people working every day to make Northern California healthier and stronger.

Interested in learning more about Enloe Health? Visit enloe.org

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

n this episode of Community Builders, we sit down with Mike Wolcott, editor of the Enterprise-Record, for a conversation about local journalism, community connection, and the role storytelling plays in helping people better understand the place they call home.

Mike reflects on his longtime career in journalism, his connection to the North State, and what it means to be part of a newspaper with deep roots in the Chico community.

We talk about the changing landscape of local news, the importance of curiosity, and the responsibility that comes with telling stories that matter. Mike shares insight into the work behind community reporting, from covering local issues to highlighting the people, places, and conversations that shape life in Chico.

Throughout the conversation, Mike speaks to the value of fairness, listening, and staying engaged, especially in a time when it can feel easier to retreat into familiar perspectives. His approach reminds us that strong communities are built through honest conversations, open minds, and a willingness to keep showing up for one another.

This episode is a thoughtful look at the importance of local journalism, the power of asking good questions, and the role a community newspaper can play in helping people feel more informed, connected, and invested in where they live.

Interested in learning more about the Enterprise-Record? Visit chicoer.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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

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!

Instagram

YouTube (Full Video Episodes)

In Episode #9 – Season 2 of Community Builders, we sit down with Janice Walker of Chico Project SAVE for a moving conversation about service, purpose, and what it means to truly show up for your community.

Janice shares how Chico Project Save has grown from a small effort to gather unused medical supplies into a life-changing organization serving people both locally and around the world. From hospital beds and wheelchairs to oxygen equipment and other essential items, their work has brought comfort, dignity, and hope to countless families.

One of the most powerful moments in this conversation is Janice’s reminder that when you see good work happening, you can join it. Her story is a beautiful example of how one small step toward helping others can grow into something far bigger than you ever imagined.

To learn more or support Chico Project SAVE, visit chicoprojectsave.org.

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 Season 2 - Episode #8 of Community Builders, we sit down with Keith Jouganatos for a powerful conversation about storytelling, local news, and the responsibility of keeping a community informed.

Keith shares what it really means to be a reporter, from early morning prep to going live on air, and breaks down the full process of turning a story idea into a finished broadcast. He talks about the importance of accuracy over speed, why local news matters more than ever, and how social media is changing the way people consume information.

We dive into the role of journalism in shaping a community, touching on major local issues like homelessness, public safety, and civic awareness. Keith explains his philosophy of “setting the table, not telling people what to eat,” emphasizing the importance of neutrality and giving every voice a fair shot.

On a personal level, Keith opens up about his journey from Sacramento to Louisiana, to New York, and finally to Chico, including setbacks, second chances, and what it took to rebuild his career. He shares how discipline, resilience, and a deep love for storytelling helped him find his footing and thrive.

This episode is a reminder that behind every headline is a human story and that strong communities are built on truth, trust, and communication.

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 Season 2 - Episode #7 of Community Builders, we sit down with Chief Billy Aldridge of the Chico Police Department for an in-depth conversation about leadership, public safety, and what it really takes to serve a growing and evolving community.

Chief Aldridge breaks down the structure of a modern police department, from patrol officers to captains, and explains how over 200 staff members work together to respond to more than 200,000 calls each year. He shares what his role looks like day to day, the importance of delegation, and how building trust within his team is essential to keeping Chico safe.

We also dive into some of the biggest challenges facing the city today, including rising domestic violence cases, homelessness, and the complexities of balancing compassion with public safety. Chief Aldridge offers a thoughtful perspective on working alongside organizations like Catalyst Domestic Violence Services and Jesus Center to provide support rather than punishment whenever possible.

On a personal level, he shares his journey from the military to law enforcement, how becoming a father reshaped his approach to policing, and why emotional intelligence and diversity are critical traits for the next generation of officers.

This episode is a powerful look into the people and systems working every day to keep our community safe.

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 Season 2, Episode #6 of Community Builders, we sit down with Katrina Woodcox, Executive Director of The ARC of Butte County, for a heartfelt conversation about advocacy, inclusion, and what it really takes to support people with developmental disabilities and their families.

Katrina shares the powerful story behind the ARC’s founding, how a small parent-led movement grew into one of the region’s largest service providers, and what it looks like today to serve over 1,700 individuals across Butte County and beyond. She explains programs like respite care, independent living skills, supported employment, and why human connection is just as important as funding.

On a personal level, Katrina opens up about raising a daughter with autism, the challenges and breakthroughs along the way, and how her journey as a parent shaped her leadership and purpose. Her message is simple but powerful: be kind, be curious, and step outside your comfort zone to build a more inclusive community.

This episode is a reminder that community is strongest when everyone belongs.

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 Season 2 of Community Builders, we sit down with Mike Ramsey, Butte County’s longtime District Attorney and one of the most influential figures in the region’s criminal justice system.

Mike shares what it really means to “do justice,” breaking down the often misunderstood role of the District Attorney as the filter between law enforcement and the courts. He walks us through how charging decisions are made, why discretion matters, and how the goal is not simply punishment, but fairness, accountability, and protection for the community. 

We also trace Mike’s unconventional path to public service, from growing up in Oroville, to studying math and physics at Berkeley, to working as a newspaper reporter, and ultimately finding his calling in the legal system. Along the way, he reflects on formative moments that shaped his philosophy, including a single case that cemented his belief that justice must always be human.

The conversation widens to the bigger picture, exploring how Chico and Butte County have changed over the decades, why trust and discretion are essential in a functioning system, and what makes this community such a special place to live and serve.

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)