Ogden Up Close

Ron Pippin
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Places & Travel

A podcast about the people of Ogden, Utah. The well known and the quietly influential. The artists, builders, and neighbors whose work and stories shape this community every day. Each week, we go beyond events and headlines to focus on the people behind what makes Ogden feel like home.

Episodes

  1. Apr 2

    Supporting Children in Need in Ogden | Kellee Belnap & Summer Larsen on The Kind Fund

    In this inspiring episode of Ogden Up Close, Kellee Belnap and Summer Larsen share the real stories behind the Kind Fund—a movement that’s quietly transforming lives by providing clothing to kids in need, all while protecting their dignity. From children sharing shoes to a program that has now helped over 8,500 students, this conversation is a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can create life-changing impact. Real stories that will hit you in the heart A behind-the-scenes look at how the Kind Fund works How everyday people are stepping up to make a difference This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a story about compassion, community, and hope. Because sometimes, changing a life starts with something as simple as a new outfit.

    38 min

  2. Apr 2

    Supporting Children in Need in Ogden | Kellee Belnap & Summer Larsen on The Kind Fund

    In this inspiring episode of Ogden Up Close, Kellee Belnap and Summer Larsen share the real stories behind the Kind Fund—a movement that’s quietly transforming lives by providing clothing to kids in need, all while protecting their dignity. From children sharing shoes to a program that has now helped over 8,500 students, this conversation is a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can create life-changing impact. Real stories that will hit you in the heart A behind-the-scenes look at how the Kind Fund works How everyday people are stepping up to make a difference This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a story about compassion, community, and hope. Because sometimes, changing a life starts with something as simple as a new outfit.

    38 min

  3. Mar 17

    The Story That Built Ogden | Isaac Goeckeritz on Union Station & Railroad History

    What turned Ogden into one of the most important stops in the country? In this episode of Ogden Up Close, we sit down with documentary filmmaker Isaac Goeckeritz to uncover the powerful history behind Union Station, the railroad, and the stories that shaped the city. From underground tunnels and historic architecture to real-life stories from former railroad workers, this conversation brings Ogden’s past to life in a way you’ve never heard before. You’ll hear: - How Ogden became a major railroad hub - Why everyone traveling across the country had to stop here - The untold stories from Union Station volunteers - Wild moments involving Elvis Presley and Eleanor Roosevelt - Hidden details inside Union Station you can still see today What started as simple interviews turned into a full documentary capturing the spirit, people, and legacy of Ogden’s railroad history.

    10 min

  4. Mar 5

    Heart of the Junction | Jimmy Pitts & God’s Garage | Ogden Up Close

    Step inside Ogden Up Close as we sit down with Jimmy Pitts, the heart behind God’s Garage, a nonprofit changing lives one set of car keys at a time. From a simple idea sparked online to becoming the only official franchise of God’s Garage in Utah, Jimmy shares how this Ogden-based mission is providing reliable vehicles to single moms who need them most. In this episode, Jimmy talks about: - How God’s Garage in Ogden partners with Washington Heights Church to serve the community - What it really takes to repair and restore donated vehicles - The powerful (and emotional) surprise car giveaways - Why the mission focuses specifically on single moms without transportation - How volunteers give their time—sometimes on their only day off—to make it all happen You’ll hear about the vetting process, the behind-the-scenes work in the garage, and the unforgettable moments when a mom realizes the “shop tour” she’s attending is actually the day she receives a car. This conversation is about more than vehicles — it’s about dignity, opportunity, and neighbors stepping up for neighbors. Whether you’re an Ogden local or simply believe in the power of community-driven impact, this episode is full of heart, faith, and real stories of change. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with the people making a difference in Ogden!

    12 min

  5. Feb 26

    The Man Behind the Mic — Craig Bielik on Ogden’s Past, Present, and Future

    Step inside Ogden Up Close as we sit down with longtime Ogden personality, comedian, and community leader Craig Bielik. From growing up in Ogden to helping revitalize historic 25th Street. Craig shares stories from decades of involvement in local events, city committees, and entertainment. In this episode, Craig talks about: His journey from marketing and art to hosting hundreds of community events. The early days of comedy on 25th Street and the transformation of downtown Ogden. The rise, fall, and rebirth of Ogden’s mall and city culture, behind-the-scenes stories from Christmas Village, Pioneer Days, and the Ogden Amphitheater. How humor, community pride, and a recognizable voice helped shape his career. You’ll hear funny memories, local history, and inspiring insights about how passionate people can make a real difference in their city. Whether you’re an Ogden local, a past Ogdenite, or just love stories about the Ogden community, this conversation is full of heart, humor, and hometown pride. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with the people who make Ogden unique!

    33 min

  6. Feb 16

    The Sound of Ogden — A Conversation with Resonomics and S.A. Lopez | Ogden Up Close

    Episode Summary In this episode of Ogden Up Close, we sit down with [Artist Name], the musician behind the song featured in the podcast. We talk about how the music was created, the overt and subtle references to Ogden, and what they hoped to capture about the spirit of the city through sound. From creative process to community inspiration, this conversation explores how local stories and experiences can shape art in meaningful ways. In This Episode The story behind the Ogden-inspired songHidden and direct references to the cityHow the music was created and producedWhat the artist wanted listeners to feel About Ogden Up Close Ogden Up Close is a weekly podcast about the people who make Ogden what it is—artists, builders, business owners, and community members whose stories shape the city

    25 min

  7. Season 1, Episode 1 Trailer

    Start Here: Welcome to Ogden Up Close

    Episode Summary Ogden Up Close is a weekly podcast about the people who make Ogden what it is. Each episode features conversations with artists, builders, business owners, and community members—some well known, many quietly making a difference behind the scenes. This short episode introduces the podcast, what to expect, and what’s coming next. New episodes drop weekly.

    2 min

Trailer

About

A podcast about the people of Ogden, Utah. The well known and the quietly influential. The artists, builders, and neighbors whose work and stories shape this community every day. Each week, we go beyond events and headlines to focus on the people behind what makes Ogden feel like home.

Information

  • Creator
    Ron Pippin
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Ogden Up Close - Ron Pippin
  • Show Website
    Ogden Up Close