Meet Chip Fleming | Founder of Creators Ignite

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chip Fleming and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chip, can you tell us about a book that has had a meaningful impact on you?
My all-time favorite book is “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. The story follows a boy on his journey to realize his own personal legend / purpose in life. The book is simple yet profound, and every time I read it, I am reminded of something essential for my own journey.

The pursuit of one’s personal legend is the single most important quest in anyone’s life, and this book beautifully captures the essence of that journey. It reminds us that while we all start out seeking our destiny, few actually realize it, as many give up and settle for something else along the way. For me, The Alchemist serves as a constant reminder to never give up on my personal legend—it is the reason I am here. “And when you want something, all the universe conspires to help you achieve it.”

What should our readers know about your business?
My company is called Creators Ignite and we teach underserved youth how to take a creative passion and turn that into a business.

Creators Ignite was born from a desire to enrich lives and help strengthen communities from within by teaching the next generation how to find their own path to success and fulfillment through a creative pursuit and way of thinking. We use creativity and entrepreneurship as a lens to view the world differently; to inspire students to find their passion and use that passion as a vehicle to create their own future.

Our programs are offered at no cost to the students thanks to our incredible partners and sponsors who are as dedicated as we are to providing this service to those who need it the most.

I am very proud of the work we are doing and feel very honored and blessed to be a part of this project alongside such amazing people, connected through a shared purpose and mission.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Whenever a friend visits, I always try to make their experience special by tailoring it to what they love. So, the places we go and the things we do are always unique. Having said that, here are some of my personal favorite spots and activities:

Barrio Logan
The arts and cultural district of San Diego and where I feel most inspired.
Things to do/places to see in Barrio Logan:
-Walk the Block: Shop owners and local vendors set up booths all along Logan Avenue. Great music, food, drinks, art, clothing, and shopping.
-Chicano Park: Home to larger-than-life murals that tell the rich history of this neighborhood. A must-see for any art enthusiast.
-Por Vida: A perfect blend of culture, art, coffee, and community, this café has been the catalyst for much of the innovation now flourishing in this vibrant neighborhood. I have immense admiration and respect for the incredible work Milo & Caro have done here and for all the amazing things it has inspired and brought to life.
-El Carrito: Authentic homestyle Mexican food served from a space that looks like a 1940s trolley cart.
-Beat Box: The best record shop in San Diego. The owner, Bernie, is a walking encyclopedia of great music for any genre. Ask him for recommendations based on what music you’re already into and prepare to find new undiscovered gems.
-Sew Loka: Unique, one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories made from reclaimed fabrics. You can find distinctive pieces or join a workshop to create something special with Claudia, the extremely talented owner. What Claudia is building here stretches far beyond clothing – she is creating a movement to inspire, empower, educate and lift up those around her and it is amazing to see.
-Longplay HiFi: Cozy vinyl cafe with curated drinks, snacks, and live DJ sets for audiophiles.
-Bread & Salt: Art gallery, studio, and event space that serves as a cultural hub for the region’s creative community.
-Asylum Gym: One of only two outdoor bouldering gyms in the country. It’s an incredible experience climbing outside just a few minutes from downtown San Diego.

Liberty Station
San Diego’s unofficial town square, packed with great shops, restaurants, events, art, wellness, and outdoor activities for all ages. You can easily spend an entire day (or more) here.
Must-visit spots:
-Liberty Public Market: A 7-day-a-week public market and event venue with some of the best food and drink options around.
-Moniker General: A thoughtfully crafted space featuring a cafe, a discovery-oriented retail shop, a craft cocktail bar, and frequent community events. This is a very special place built through extreme intention, purpose and with a heart for bringing people together.
-Cone Pane: A French bakery offering handmade artisanal breads, decadent pastries, signature sandwiches, and a variety of coffees, teas, and fresh-squeezed juices.
-First Friday at Arts District: On the first Friday of every month, meet working artists, discover outdoor public art installations, and explore all that the ARTS DISTRICT at historic Liberty Station has to offer.

Balboa Park
A 1,200-acre historic urban cultural park in central San Diego. The park hosts various museums, theaters, restaurants, and the San Diego Zoo. No matter how much time you spend here, there are always new things to discover.
Highlights:
-Japanese Friendship Garden: An immersive experience of Japanese gardens and culture, with meticulous stone designs, calming koi ponds, delightful water features, traditional architectural structures, and breathtaking vistas. Educational programs, exhibits, festivals, and horticultural classes enhance and deepen appreciation for Japanese culture.
-Mingei International Museum: Showcases works of folk art, craft, and design, with a rich history and commitment to furthering the understanding of art from all eras and cultures.
-Other Museums to Check Out:
–Institute of Contemporary Art
–Museum of Photographic Arts
–Fleet Science Center
–Museum of Us
-Endless Trails and Open Park Areas to Explore
-Panama 66: Located in the Sculpture Court at The San Diego Museum of Art, it’s a great spot to grab a sandwich and a drink.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
A massive 68-acre park stretching along the pacific ocean in Point Loma with extraordinary views, small hiking trails, secluded beaches, and lesser-known surfing spots. It’s my favorite spot to unwind and recharge, the perfect place for a relaxing day.

South Park
One of my favorite neighborhoods in San Diego, South Park is a charming mix of beautiful residential homes and cool artisan shops, cafes, galleries, restaurants, and bars with a huge selection of craft beers.
Places to Check Out in South Park:
-Vinyl Junkies Record Shack: one of my favorite record shops in SD.
-Buona Forchetta: Known for authentic Italian dishes with a twist, this spot offers award-winning pizzas, hand-made pastas, and Italian seafood specialties. The vibe is cozy, making it perfect for a date night or a casual meal with friends.
-Kindred: This place is a must-visit for its unique atmosphere and amazing vegan dishes. The decor is punk-rock meets art gallery, and their cocktails are some of the best in town.
-Mothership: go for one or two drinks, then wonder how you’d feel if you stayed longer. Also, be sure to check out the bathroom. Really cool concept, well executed.

North Park
-The Lafayette Hotel – Consortium Holdings decided to expand from restaurants and bars into hotels and spared no expense. Creating truly unique, immersive and memorable spaces with meticulous attention to every detail. Their passion and enthusiasm for what they do is evident as soon as you step foot in the lobby. I challenge people to go here, take in the experience and then think “what does my version of this look like”?
-Lou Lou’s Jungle Room at the Lafayette Hotel – a jazz and live music venue. San Diego needs more of this.
-Part Time Lover – another great Consortium Holdings project, this time a listening lounge designed beautifully.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve been blessed with many amazing people in my life, but two stand out above the rest: my dad and my wife.

First, my dad, my role model, taught me invaluable life lessons through his own actions. His greatest gift is his ability to lift up those around him and get a group of individuals to work together as a team, driven beyond belief to make something extraordinary happen. My dad has used his talents to bring people together and create some spectacular things and I strive to do the same.

Second, my wildly creative, loving and beautiful wife, Alyssa Marie. You’re an amazing mother, run a thriving creative agency, capture stunning moments as a photographer and producer, and excel in painting, designing, and gardening. Beyond your countless talents, your dedication to helping others is truly inspiring. Thank you for being such an incredible inspiration and for continuously pushing me to be the best version of myself.

Website: https://Creatorsignite.com

Image Credits
Vito Di Stefano