Leadership Development in Chico: How Odyssey Teams Inspires Change Through Nature, Purpose, and Philanthropy

Leadership Development in Chico: A Season of Change and Purpose

Nestled in the heart of Northern California, Chico is a town that knows how to hold space for reflection, growth, and transformation. It’s home to Bidwell Park—over 3,000 acres of century-old trees, winding trails, and a creek that flows through the center of town like a lifeline.

It’s also home to Odyssey Teams, a pioneering company in leadership development in Chico and a global force in experiential team building. For over three decades, Odyssey Teams has helped organizations reconnect to purpose, build stronger teams, and embrace change—not just in the workplace, but in life.

Where It All Began: Life Cycles and the Spirit of Bidwell

More than 18 years ago, Odyssey Teams launched the original Build-a-Bike program—now known as Life Cycles—right here in Chico. The idea was simple but revolutionary: bring teams together to build bicycles for children who had never owned one.

The impact was immediate. Teams bonded. Children smiled. And a new model for leadership development was born—one rooted in service, story, and shared experience.

Bidwell Park, with its towering oaks and quiet trails, became a metaphor for that work. It’s a place where the Odyssey crew often goes for solitude, exercise, and reflection. It’s where they remember loved ones, recharge their spirits, and reconnect to the deeper “why” behind their work.

Lessons from the Leaves

Right now, Bidwell Park is alive with change. Leaves are falling from the majestic oaks and sycamores—not with drama, but with grace. Each leaf falls in its own time, creating a soft path for others to walk on.

Their absence lets in precious sunlight during winter, nourishing the life that remains. And in spring, that same soil—fortified by fallen leaves—gives rise to new growth.

This seasonal rhythm mirrors the philosophy behind leadership development in Chico at Odyssey Teams. Change is always in the mix. And just like the trees, leaders are invited to let go of what no longer serves them—old patterns, outdated beliefs, limiting habits—so they can make space for something new.

Leadership Through Letting Go

At Odyssey Teams, leadership isn’t about control—it’s about courage. It’s about asking:

• What am I holding onto that’s no longer useful?
• What can I release to make room for growth?
• How can I lead with more clarity, compassion, and purpose?

These questions are woven into every program Odyssey Teams delivers. Whether it’s a keynote by Todd Demorest, a Life Cycles event, or a custom-designed leadership retreat, the goal is the same:
To help people become better leaders by becoming more human.

Custom Programs Rooted in Purpose

Odyssey Teams’ programs are world-renowned for their emotional resonance and real-world impact. They’re custom-designed to match the goals and themes of each group, and they always include a charitable component.

That might mean:

• Building prosthetic hands for amputees in developing countries
• Assembling skateboards for underserved youth
• Creating collaborative art pieces that reflect individual contributions
• Or simply sharing stories that spark empathy and connection

These experiences aren’t just memorable—they’re transformational. They help teams see each other differently. They help leaders show up more authentically. And they help organizations build cultures that thrive.

Why Chico Matters

There’s something special about doing this work in Chico. The town itself is a teacher. Bidwell Park reminds us that growth takes time, that change is natural, and that beauty often comes from quiet moments.

That’s why leadership development in Chico feels different. It’s not just about strategy—it’s about soul. It’s about walking through the woods and realizing that every fallen leaf is a lesson.

And it’s about bringing that wisdom back to the workplace, where leaders can create space for new ideas, new relationships, and new possibilities.

A Message from Todd Demorest

“Change is always in the mix, as it is in Odyssey’s life-changing philanthropic team building events. Like the change of the seasons, we encourage leaders to explore what patterns, thoughts, and actions they can let drop. So, they too can have space to do new amazing things for themselves and those around them.”
—Todd Demorest, Chief Facilitation Officer

Todd’s words are more than poetic—they’re practical. They invite leaders to pause, reflect, and reimagine. And they remind us that leadership isn’t just about doing—it’s about being.

Final Thoughts: Leading with Heart

If you’re looking to elevate your team, deepen your culture, or simply reconnect to purpose, Odyssey Teams offers more than training—it offers transformation.

Through nature, narrative, and hands-on service, they help leaders become more grounded, more generous, and more effective.

That’s the essence of leadership development in Chico—and it’s available to anyone ready to grow.

About Odyssey Teams

Odyssey Teams has been designing radically different approaches to leadership development, team building, and organizational culture since 1991. Their programs are global, award-winning, and rooted in purpose.

• Over 50,000 prosthetic hands delivered to amputees in 75+ countries
• Over 20,000 bicycles built and donated to underprivileged children
• 80% of clients are repeat or referred—a testament to lasting impact

To learn more about Odyssey Teams or inquire about Todd Demorest’s keynote speaking availability, contact Odyssey Teams at (800) 342-1650.