Are you ready to dive deep into the world of finance and find out how one woman is changing the game for female empowerment in the industry? Welcome to episode 110 of Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact! I am your host, Bret Schanzenbach, and today we're sitting down with the phenomenal Catherine Magaña, managing partner of WWM Financial. Catheri…

Hey, ocean lovers and film aficionados! Are you ready to dive deep into the world of environmental storytelling? In episode 109 of "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact," I, Bret Schanzenbach, chat with the visionary Greg Reitman, CEO and founder of the Blue Water Institute. Have you ever wondered what it takes to start a film festival? Or how a h…

Are you ready to be inspired by a story of growth, community impact, and a touch of hops and history? Tune in to Episode 108 of Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact, where your host Bret Schanzenbach chats with the remarkable Chris Cochran, the new director of operations for the Carlsbad Chamber Community Foundation! In this episode, we dive into …

Hey there, Carlsbad community! Are you ready to dive into the world of entrepreneurship and the power of local impact? In episode 107 of "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact," I, Bret Schanzenbach, have a riveting chat with the dynamic Aaron Gobidas, the brains behind GoBeRewarded. Ever wondered what it's like to leap from the discipline of the M…

Hey, Carlsbad community! Are you ready to dive into the stories of local changemakers and innovators? This is your host, Bret Schanzenbach, and you're tuning into episode 106 of Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact. Ever wondered what happens when the worlds of law, entrepreneurship, and women's empowerment collide? Well, today's episode features …

Hey there, Carlsbad community and beyond! Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of fintech and discover the heart behind local business success stories? Well, buckle up, because episode 105 of Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact is here to take you on that journey! I'm your host, Bret Schanzenbach, and in this episode, I sit down with …

Hey there, Carlsbad community! Are you ready to dive deep into the world of real estate and discover the secrets of protecting your property investment? In episode 104 of Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact, I, your host Bret Schanzenbach, am thrilled to sit down with the dynamic duo from Ticor Title, Alonzo Castro and Michele Denys! Ever wondere…

Are you ready to be inspired by a story of passion, purpose, and making a real difference in the lives of seniors and children? Welcome to episode 103 of the Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact podcast! I'm your host, Bret Schanzenbach, and today we're diving into a heartwarming journey with Luis Peralta, the CEO of Caring Transitions of Carlsbad,…

Are you ready to dive into the heart of Carlsbad's real estate scene and discover the secret sauce to blending business with community service? In episode 102 of Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact, I, Bret Schanzenbach, have a heart-to-heart with the remarkable JR Phillips, President of Phillips + Co Real Estate and Chair of the Board of Directo…

Are you ready to ignite your taste buds with a culinary adventure that fuses the fiery flavors of Latin cuisine with the bold tastes of Korean fare? In episode 101 of Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact, I, your host Bret Schanzenbach, dive into the sizzling world of Mas Fuego, Carlsbad's latest dining hotspot! Join me as I chat with the dynamic …

A licensed Broker since 1980, Carlton is the backbone of the team. Carlton leads negotiation, strategic planning, and the team's promotion community service projects. These special projects have created community goodwill in the areas the team services and are a part of The Lund Team’s phenomenal success. He is a nationally recognized expert on Val…

Stephanie founded SSA Insurance Services in June 2013 with a passion and goal of elevating the benefits experience for employers and their team members. She brings over 20 years of experience in the industry to her clients, including starting and growing the benefits division of a financial planning firm for 10 years prior to starting her own firm.…

Sharla has been in the salon industry for almost 30 years, a Certified Emotional Intelligence Life Coach and Soul Healer. Her purpose is to help others with their self-love, love for others, inner strength, and giving gratitude to everything they are and experience in life. She teaches mindfulness practices, meditation techniques, and the importanc…

Kevin is a seasoned professional with over 11 years of experience in the residential real estate industry. Throughout his career, he has assisted numerous individuals in buying and selling properties, earning a reputation for his expertise and exceptional service. With a background in architecture, residential development, and executive leadership,…

There's a certain magic in finding silver linings amidst trying times, isn't there? That's exactly what our guest, Olivia Rutman, found during her journey navigating from a banking career while being an expectant mom, to founding an innovative platform for parents - KidsCareFinder. Reflecting on her own struggles to secure reliable childcare for he…

Join us as we chat with Ashley Hawkins, Director of Childcare at Bitchin’ Sauce. Discover Ashley's fascinating journey, from her internship at MSNBC to managing childcare at Bitchin’ Sauce, along with her deep-rooted passion for early childhood education. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the rise of Bitchin’ Sauce, from a farmer’s market cult favori…

Mission San Luis Rey will be celebrating its 225th anniversary this year. Gwyn Grimes shares the Mission’s best stories - from its history to the gift shop! Join us for an in-depth conversation about Mission San Luis Rey, the largest of California’s missions. From its rich history to its vibrant daily activities, the Mission is an active and truly …

In this intriguing podcast episode, Wade Blair delves into the fascinating concept of "The Why Method," a compelling approach to understanding why people often set goals but struggle to follow through effectively. Drawing from his vast experience and expertise, Wade sheds light on this common challenge faced by many, especially entrepreneurs and bu…

Today, on the Carlsbad People, Purpose, and Impact Podcast, Bret Schanzenbach talked with Jill McManigal, the co-founder and executive director of Kids for Peace. Jill shared how Kids for Peace began, how the Great Kindness Challenge has exploded into a global movement, and how schools and companies can become kindness-certified. Visit the Carlsbad…

Carolyn Grant, executive director of the Museum of Making Music, joined Bret Schanzenbach on the Carlsbad People, Purpose, and Impact Podcast. Together, they talk about the power music has to inspire and unite communities, and how the museum is creating innovative experiences so that people’s lives can be enhanced by making music. Contact The Museu…

In this conversation with LEGOLAND California President, Kurt Stocks, we discuss what led him from his home in Australia to Malaysia and then to California, and how an experience at LEGOLAND with his son encouraged him to leave his role as a businessman in the health and fitness industry and become a leader at one of the most popular theme parks in…

For Carlsbad’s centennial year, hear what the Chamber is doing to promote our businesses and create a wonderful environment for us all to live in and enjoy. Promoting business growth and community impact, advocating for affordable housing, addressing homelessness, and fostering a business-friendly climate – all part of a day’s work for the Carlsbad…

Explore the inspiring work and impactful programs of The Community Resource Center, as they empower individuals and families against homelessness and more. In this episode, discover how the Community Resource Center, under the leadership of CEO John Van Cleef, is making a real difference in the lives of individuals and families across North County.…

From humble beginnings to CBAD’s “Best Large Business of the Year” 2023 – it’s the inspiring journey of John Stevenson Plumbing, Heating and Air. In this episode, Brett interviews John Stevenson, the founder of John Stevenson Plumbing, Heating, and Air - CBAD’s “Best Large Business of the Year” 2023. They discuss John's journey, how he started his …

Witness a teacher's profound impact as she becomes a pillar of support & inspiration to her students, leading her to take on a new role as assistant principal. In this episode, we meet Aimee Nava - CBAD’s High School Teacher of the Year 2023! Aimee is a dedicated and beloved Spanish teacher at Carlsbad High School, who creates a safe and supportive…

Kelly Griffin’s mission is to build a kindness-focused classroom, and she does it by creating a culture of compassion. Find out more in this inspired interview. Meet Kelly Griffin of Mission Estancia Elementary School - recently honored as Teacher of the Year - a truly special, passionate, and dedicated teacher who is driven by her unwavering commi…

It’s the home of award-winning tacos and community giving - hear all about Senor Grubbys' commitment to quality and philanthropy with owner Justin Jachura. Meet Justin Jachura, proud president and co-founder of a batch of burgeoning and delicious restaurants everyone in Carlsbad knows: Senor Grubby's, Grubby's Poke & Fish Market and Los Tacos. The …

Discover how Ginger Rabe, a successful Design CEO started her company, the challenges she faced, and her insights on business growth and community engagement. Meet Ginger Rabe, the owner and lead designer of Ginger Rabe Designs, a full-service interior design firm based right here in Carlsbad, California. Ginger has been in the industry for over 20…

Crystal Lynn Privett empowers people to live their greatest lives by building new neurological pathways in their brains and changing their mental narratives. She is a renowned subconscious reprogramming expert, energy psychologist, and keynote speaker. Her passion and purpose are in teaching others how to build new neurological pathways in their br…

Andria Taylor, CEO and Chief Talent Officer of TalentXponential, gets into the real nitty-gritty of company culture: how to cultivate it, how to nurture your people and how to see real, tangible, positive outcomes as a result. Company culture is not just about free snacks and a ping-pong table, but rather about creating an environment where employe…

For Aaron Byzak, it’s a team effort keeping Tri-City Medical Center at the forefront of technology, innovation & the changing healthcare needs of our community. In this podcast, the Chief External Affairs Officer of Tri-City Medical Center, Aaron Byzak, discusses the current state and future plans for the medical center. Byzak explains that Tri-Cit…

The Carlsbad Strawberry Company has never sold a day-old strawberry. Hear all about this local institution in a mouth-watering and informative episode with owner Jimmy Ukegawa. The Carlsbad Strawberry Company is a local institution in Carlsbad, and for good reason. From the mouth-watering strawberries in the winter and spring, to the endless maze o…

EcoDirect’s mission is to deliver clean, affordable, solar energy to every home. CEO Renee Donaldson explains the ins and outs of how to make the transition. The solar energy industry is in a state of constant evolution and improvement, and it takes an expert to be able to understand and navigate the changes as they happen. EcoDirect’s CEO Renee Do…

Madrid, the Costa del sol, the Rock of Gibraltar and much more are waiting for you in November as the Chamber heads to sunny Spain! All aboard for adventure! This year, the Chamber is proud - and excited - to offer a 9-day trip to Spain, November 8-16, 2023. In this episode, the Chamber’s Director of Fun, Kathy Steffen, gives listeners a sneak-peek…

New Haven Youth & Family Services CEO Doreen Quinn shares the challenges and triumphs of helping young adolescent boys restore their dignity and self-worth. The staff at New Haven Youth & Family Services play many roles in the rehabilitation of troubled boys - therapist, behavioral coach, parent partner and crisis counselor – but more than any othe…

Chocolate makes everybody happy, and with 21 different unique and custom flavors, Chuao Chocolatier has lots of ways to share the joy. A delectable episode! Meet Michael Antonorsi, the Chief “Joy Activator” at Chuao Chocolatier, whose inspiring success story is happening right here in Carlsbad. From a modest start as a little shop on the 101 sellin…

They are the charity that funds other charities. Get to know The Carlsbad Charitable Foundation, and hear how they do it all with Chair Justin Peek. Carlsbad is a beautiful place. In fact, it’s paradise. But even in paradise, we still have all the same issues of human financial need you see across the country. The Carlsbad Charitable Foundation has…

Freedom Window Cleaning enjoys a spotless reputation, and with good reason. Lupe and Kolan Hairston’s team clean with pride and add new life to your windows. Meet Mr. and Mrs. Clean. Kolan and Lupe Hairston have built a company dedicated to brightening people’s days, Freedom Window Cleaning. Hear their inspiring story in this candid interview, as t…

Get to know CBAD’s Non-Profit of the Year, 2022 - The San Diego Food Bank. Join CEO Casey Castillo to learn about all the good they do for our families in need. We all experience storms in life, and The San Diego Food Bank is there to help and support families in need. Last year, they distributed 40 million pounds of food in San Diego County. This …

For Kim Wakefield, teaching Spanish has always been much more than simply teaching a language. It’s teaching another culture in a very open and passionate way. An appreciation of other cultures is something Kim Wakefield grew up with, and it’s something that has informed her teaching for over 25 years. Being open to other cultures - and the way peo…

I Love a Clean San Diego leads and inspires our community to actively conserve and enhance the environment through example, outreach and local involvement. Learn the fascinating history behind I Love a Clean San Diego – from its humble beginnings 69 years ago, and how their work has grown from a “War Against Litter” to a county-wide environmental c…

Photography by Melanie Robertson with hair and makeup by Rosanna Nykanen together capture the essence of their HS Senior subjects in breathtaking ways. We’ve all heard the saying “a picture is worth a thousand words”, but a memorable portrait of your high school senior that really captures their true personality - or a heartfelt and genuine Mother-…

Hear the inspirational story of Rory Graham, his life, legacy, and the Foundation founded by his mother, helping to inspire the young men of Army & Navy Academy Good role models are hard to come by. For the young men of the Army & Navy Academy, the legacy of Rory Graham has proven to be just that. One of their own, Rory graduated in 3 years with ho…

Associate Publisher Chris Kydd gives the inside scoop on The Coast News, from its colorful history and commitment to our community, to its brave new future. Archiving local history. Connecting people with their local government, their neighbors, and their community. Being a credible platform they can go to for real information. These are the core b…

Mission San Luis Rey will be celebrating its 225th anniversary this year. Gwyn Grimes shares the Mission’s best stories - from its history to the gift shop! Join us for an in-depth conversation about Mission San Luis Rey, the largest of California’s missions. From its rich history to its vibrant daily activities, the Mission is an active and truly …

Meet Carlsbad’s Middle School Teacher of the Year 2022 Winner, Edric Uy, who makes math engaging, energetic and relatable to the real world for his students. For students who may not consider themselves “math people”, there is no better teacher than Edric Uy, who has transformed his classroom into an environment where his students feel motivated an…

ECOLIFE Conservation’s mission is to take a humanitarian approach to conservation, so environments, ecosystems and civilization can coexist and thrive together. In conservation, the old way of thinking used to say, “to protect nature, get the people out”. Well, that’s no longer a reality, because there are no fully natural environments left. So, wh…

The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome Wade Blair as the guest presenter at the very first First Friday Breakfast of the New Year! He’s going to share “The Y Method” and in this fascinating interview, he gives us a preview of what to expect. You can register here https://web.carlsbad.org/events/FirstFriday%20Breakfast-2989/details Why…

Barrio Glassworks, Carlsbad’s very own public glassblowing studio, captures all the art and craft of Italy’s masters and brings it to our doorstep. The Murano glass masters of Venice, Italy have been creating art in glass for generations. Now, that one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted artisan glass can be found right here in Carlsbad, CA at Barrio Glasswork…

Meet Ronald Ramirez, the new Dean of The Business School at Cal State San Marcos. His mission: to help students prepare to be outstanding future professionals. Stepping into a new position is always challenging, and Ronald Ramirez meets it head-on as the new Dean of Cal State San Marcos’ School of Business Administration. In this interview, you’ll …