Coloring Outside the Lines: Creativity in Business with Charlie Nguyen

The Entrepreneurship & Innovation Studio

Charlie Nguyen is a fascinating storyteller with a passion for building community through outreach and artistry. The chief advocate at the nonprofit organization Chalk Wild, Charlie and his team distribute clear-fronted canvas backpacks for children to create artwork on. Charlie advocates for the use of art as a motivator for children to help heal from trauma. His dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity in the Central Valley stems from confronting and healing from his own trauma as a young adult. Charlie’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through his nonprofit work, demonstrating that true impact comes from empowering others.

On this episode of Entrepreneurship & Innovation Studio, Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero and Charlie discuss how entrepreneurship is not only a journey — it's about diving into the profound impacts of personal experiences and the enduring influence of human connection. The two illuminate the intricate, colorful tapestry of life's challenges, resilience and the unwavering pursuit of creativity and innovation in shaping not only one's own narrative but also the lives of the community around them.
Co-produced by the Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation program and the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing at Stanislaus State. The E&I Studio is edited and recorded in the KCSS studios on the campus of Stanislaus State.
The views expressed by guests on this podcast are not necessarily those of the University.

Chapters

1. Early life in the Central Valley (00:03:17)

2. Finding a Sense of Community (00:06:39)

3. The Future of Community in the Central Valley (00:09:42)

4. Chalk Wild’s Outreach (00:20:36)

5. Seeing the Bigger Picture (00:24:15)

6. Early Days of Charlie’s Career (00:35:43)

7. Asian American Leadership (00:41:07)

8. Striving for Betterment and Innovation (00:49:30)

9. Complete the Sentence (00:53:40)

10. The 11 (00:58:39)