Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact

Hosted by Bret Schanzenbach

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Episodes

186

Latest episode

May 2026

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About the show

The Carlsbad Chamber Podcast is a podcast dedicated to connecting San Diego North County leaders in business, education and civic engagement. Join us every week as we talk with people dedicated to all aspects of our quality of life and are dedicated to leaving a lasting impact.

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60 recent

May 28, 202627 min

Beyond the Resume: Reinventing Hiring with Michael Campbell

In this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, Bret Schanzenbach welcomes Michael Campbell, Founder and CEO of Signal Verified.Michael shares his unique journey from the Midwest to Japan and back to California, where he now calls North County home. With a background in global tech leadership and education, Michael brings a fresh perspective to one of today’s biggest challenges: hiring the right talent.Signal Verified is transforming how companies evaluate candidates by focusing on verified skills instead of traditional resumes and interviews. Through real-world scenarios and expert validation, the platform helps hiring managers make more informed, objective decisions.Key topics include:The limitations of resumes and AI-driven hiring tools Why interviews often reward confidence over competence The cost and impact of bad hires How skills-based hiring creates more equitable opportunities The future of hiring and talent validation Michael also shares insights into life in North County and why Carlsbad is the perfect place for his family and growing business.Quotes“Interviews reward confidence, but work reveals judgment.” “Resumes have become marketing documents.” “We’re building the Carfax for skills.” Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

May 21, 202633 min

Hemp, Heritage, and Heart: Klara Nyari’s Creative Journey

In this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, host Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Klara Nyari, CEO of TradeMarker International and a leader behind Hemptique.Klara shares her story of growing up in Hungary, moving to the United States, studying fashion design, and building a career in footwear before joining her husband Peter in growing Hemptique. Together, they have created a company rooted in natural fibers, sustainability, craftsmanship, and creativity.The conversation explores Hemptique’s evolution from hemp twine and cord for jewelry makers into a broad line of eco-friendly products, including macramé supplies, fabrics, accessories, pet products, home goods, industrial materials, and more. Klara also explains how natural fibers connect to her family heritage and why sustainability has always been central to their mission.Listeners will also hear about Hemptique’s community impact, including projects with Rady Children’s Hospital, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Help Heal Veterans, and even a custom handmade rope project for George Washington’s Mount Vernon.This episode is a celebration of creativity, environmental responsibility, entrepreneurship, and local impact in Carlsbad.Learn more at Hemptique.com.Quotes“Everything is made from natural super fibers that biodegrade and are friendly to the environment.”“We grew up around natural fibers, not plastic.”“There is a wave of green coming stronger than before, and we are in the right place.”“Crafting has a positive mental benefit, and when you combine that with sustainability, it creates something beautiful.”“It felt like being part of history.” Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

May 14, 202629 min

Rental Reality Check: Grace Burch of Chamberlain Property Management

In this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, host Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Grace Burch, Accounts Manager at Chamberlain Property Management.Grace brings decades of real estate and property management experience, beginning in the Pacific Northwest in the late 1970s. After building and running successful property management businesses in Washington and Oregon, Grace eventually made her way to North San Diego County, where she found both a new home and a new professional purpose with Chamberlain Property Management.Grace shares insights into today’s rental market, why California compliance is so important for property owners, and how Chamberlain helps protect both owners and tenants through strong communication, high standards, and professional systems.The conversation also covers tenant placement, ADUs, application standards, vendor liability, and the importance of working with a property management company that understands the ever-changing legal landscape.Whether you own rental property, are searching for a rental home, or simply enjoy hearing from engaged local professionals, this episode offers practical wisdom and plenty of heart.Quotes“California laws are very strict, and they can change on a dime.”“I have to believe in what I’m doing.”“We’re not just managing properties—we’re communicating with owners, tenants, vendors, and suppliers every day.”“If your documents aren’t in order, you may not have a valid case.”“Chamberlain has been in business almost 40 years, and that says something.” Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

May 7, 202630 min

Local Kids, Local Impact: Inside the Boys & Girls Club of Carlsbad

On this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, host Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Alex Ghilarducci, Director of Marketing and Events, and Chad Nelson, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Carlsbad.The Boys & Girls Club has been serving Carlsbad youth since 1952, creating safe, supportive, and engaging spaces where kids can learn, grow, and build lasting relationships. Chad shares his personal family connection to the club, including his father’s history as a clubhouse director, while Alex discusses her journey from hospitality and event planning into nonprofit leadership.Together, they explore the club’s mission to inspire young people to be great, the impact of youth development professionals, and the many programs available to local kids, including arts, athletics, STEM, cooking, field trips, summer camps, teen programming, and more.The episode also highlights the club’s fundraising events, including its annual golf tournament, pickleball tournament, gala, poker tournament, and future community events. Alex and Chad explain how local support helps fund programs, provide financial aid, and ensure that no child is turned away because of an inability to pay.Listeners will also hear about the upcoming Village clubhouse remodel, the importance of community partnerships, and ways individuals and businesses can get involved.Learn more, donate, volunteer, or get involved at BGCCarlsbad.org.Quotes“Many kids see the Boys & Girls Club as their second home.”“We’re a local nonprofit supported by locals.”“No child is ever turned away due to the inability to pay.”“If you come to the club, there’s something for you.”“You’re investing in great futures.” Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

April 16, 202629 min

From Hockey Rinks to Wealth Management: JP Witkop’s Journey to Carlsbad

In this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, host Bret Schanzenbach welcomes JP Witkop, Vice President at Raymond James & Associates.JP shares his journey from Rochester, New York to Carlsbad, California, including his background as a collegiate hockey player and how those connections helped launch his career in financial advising. He discusses his transition from research and corporate finance into building his own advisory practice and now leading the Carlsbad office for Raymond James.The conversation highlights what sets Raymond James apart, including its advisor-first culture, flexible business models, and strong emphasis on independence and entrepreneurship. JP also discusses the firm’s growth strategy on the West Coast and its commitment to community engagement in Carlsbad.Additionally, JP shares insights into his evolving focus on helping business owners navigate exit planning, leveraging Raymond James’ investment banking and wealth management capabilities.Whether you’re a business owner, financial professional, or Carlsbad local, this episode offers valuable insight into leadership, growth, and building a meaningful career. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

April 9, 202628 min

Building with Intention: Laurie Barron on Digital Strategy, WordPress, and Creative Business

In this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, Bret Schanzenbach welcomes Laurie Barron, co-founder of Pursu Agency, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, digital strategy, branding, and the evolving world of web development.Laurie shares her unconventional path from accounting and IT to UX, creative agency work, and eventually building Pursu Agency with her longtime business partner, Betsy. Along the way, she reflects on how her background as a collegiate swimmer and coach shaped her work ethic, discipline, and standards.The conversation dives into what makes a strong brand foundation, why growth-driven websites matter, how user experience influences digital success, and where AI fits into modern marketing. Laurie also explains why WordPress remains such a powerful platform when set up properly, and why businesses need more than just a pretty website—they need clarity around audience, messaging, and long-term goals.This episode is a great listen for business owners, entrepreneurs, marketers, and anyone thinking about how to better position their brand online.Topics covered include: Laurie Barron’s career journey from accounting to digital creative work The founding story behind Pursu Agency Why branding and strategy should come before website design How user experience and SEO work together Thoughts on AI tools in marketing and web development Why WordPress still matters The importance of client education and long-term partnerships A personal look at Laurie’s fitness background and her new rescue dog Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

April 2, 202629 min

The Future of Senior Care in North County with Liam Dunfey of Assisting Hands

In this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, Bret Schanzenbach welcomes Liam Dunfey, President of Assisting Hands of Carlsbad, for a thoughtful conversation about aging, caregiving, and the resources available to families across North County.Liam shares his journey from Massachusetts to California and how a career in fundraising and healthcare led him into the aging services field. After 15 years of working with older adults in a variety of leadership roles, he made the leap into business ownership to help more seniors remain safely and comfortably in their homes.Together, Bret and Liam discuss what non-medical home care really means, why companionship is such an important part of caregiving, and how services like help with bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication reminders can preserve dignity and quality of life for older adults.They also talk about common myths surrounding hospice, the emotional realities families face when dementia and Alzheimer’s enter the picture, and how many people are unaware of the local, state, federal, and veteran-related resources that may be available to help.This episode is a valuable listen for anyone caring for aging parents, planning ahead for a loved one, or simply wanting to better understand the growing senior care landscape in Carlsbad and beyond.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows! Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

March 26, 202643 min

The Real Cost of Chasing Gold: Shane Fisher and the Mission of American Paragons

In this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Shane Fisher, founder of the American Paragons Foundation, to talk about Shane’s remarkable athletic journey and the mission he’s now pursuing to support Team USA athletes.Shane shares how a lifelong obsession with the Olympics led him from youth sports to tennis, then into track and field, the decathlon, and ultimately the USA bobsled team. Along the way, he experienced firsthand the financial strain that many elite athletes face while training and competing at the highest level.The conversation explores the often-overlooked reality of Olympic and Paralympic athletes: many earn very little, shoulder major training expenses, and must balance demanding schedules with work and financial uncertainty. Shane explains how those experiences inspired him to launch American Paragons Foundation, an organization focused on helping Team USA athletes build careers, find financial stability, access mentorship, secure flexible employment, gain media exposure, and connect with supportive communities.It’s a powerful conversation about performance, identity, sacrifice, and building better systems for the athletes who represent the United States on the world stage. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

March 19, 202622 min

Freehab Therapy: Closing the Rehab Gap for Neurological Patients

Matthew Eclevia, President of Freehab Therapy, joins Bret Schanzenbach on Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact to share how a local nonprofit is changing access to neurological rehabilitation in North County San Diego.Freehab Therapy is a mobile, pro bono rehab organization designed to fill the care gap many patients experience after discharge—especially those recovering from stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and chronic neurological conditions like Parkinson’s, MS, and ALS.Matthew explains why continuity of care (particularly in the first six months) is so important, how insurance authorizations and transportation create major barriers, and why Freehab’s model brings therapy directly to patients’ homes. He also shares the nonprofit’s community-building programs like a hiking group, plus plans for expanded services and future fundraising events.Learn more or get in touch: freehabtherapy.org Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

March 12, 202634 min

Connected Hearts in Carlsbad: Creating Deep Friendships in Midlife with Cheryl Dillon

On this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, Bret Schanzenbach welcomes Cheryl Dillon, founder and CEO of Funderful Experiences and creator of Connected Hearts—a membership community for women in their 50s and 60s in North County (Carlsbad-based).Cheryl shares her path from New Jersey to Chicago to San Diego, her early work in corporate roles and IT recruiting, and how she and her husband Joe became entrepreneurs—first running a children’s cooking school franchise, then launching Equitable Mediation to help couples divorce without lawyers. Cheryl also became a divorce coach, offering emotional support and co-parenting guidance during the process.Now, she’s building something new: a welcoming, confidential community that blends personal growth + meaningful conversation + fun, designed for women who want deeper friendships and a more connected midlife.You’ll also hear about Cheryl’s weekly newsletter, The Uplift, and how listeners can “test drive” Connected Hearts with a one-time guest pass before joining.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows! Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting