Advertise on podcast: Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact

In this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, host Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Bennett Mann, valuation specialist and business broker with The Chase Group, to talk about what it really takes to build – and successfully sell – a small business. Bennett, a San Diego native and SDSU economics grad with additional business analysis training from UCSD, shares his career path through valuation roles at Bank of America, CoreLogic, and consulting for Fortune 500 companies. He explains how those experiences led him to focus on privately held small businesses and helping owners plan their “third chapter.” You’ll hear: Why only 15–30% of small businesses that go on the market actually sellHow to avoid being one of the 70–85% that simply close their doorsWhat a valuation specialist does and how Bennett helps owners understand their current market valueThe danger of being an owner-dependent “lifestyle business” vs. building a transferable companyWhy clean, credible financial records are non-negotiable if you want buyers to take you seriouslyHow to turn your “secret sauce” into documented intellectual property and processesDifferent types of buyers: family, employees, strategic buyers, and private equityWhy you should start planning your exit 3–5 years before you want to sellBennett’s love of Carlsbad’s outdoor life, from Batiquitos Lagoon to Lake CalaveraWhether you’re years away from selling or just starting to think about your next chapter, this episode will help you look at your business through a buyer’s eyes and start making decisions that increase both its value and your freedom. Connect with Bennett Mann LinkedIn: Bennett MannEmail: [email protected] in to Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact to learn how to build a business that can thrive – and sell – without you. Quotes “Most businesses that don’t sell have one thing in common: the owner is the business.”“Clean books are what sell businesses. Buyers have to be able to trust your numbers.”“Documenting your ‘secret sauce’ turns what’s in your head into real, transferable value.”“Two businesses can have the same bottom line, but the one that runs without the owner is worth far more.”“The ideal time to plan your exit is three to five years before you want to sell – or when you start the business.” Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

Podcast: Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact Host: Bret Schanzenbach, President & CEO, Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce Guest: Dr. Gene Ma, President & CEO, Tri-City Medical Center In this episode, Bret welcomes Dr. Gene Ma, a long-time emergency physician and now President & CEO of Tri-City Medical Center, for a candid and hopeful conversation about the future of healthcare in North County San Diego. Dr. Ma traces his journey from a globally mobile childhood (Hawaii, Burma, Japan, Hong Kong) to growing up in Arcadia, then on to UC Irvine, UCSF, Stanford, and UCSD, where he trained in emergency medicine. He shares what it’s really like behind the scenes in the ER, the importance of humility in medicine, and what 27 years on the front lines taught him about people, teams, and community. Listeners will hear how Dr. Ma: Discovered his passion for community-based medicine at Tri-CityServed as Chief of Staff and later Chief Medical OfficerLed and helped grow a democratic emergency medicine group and an occupational health businessWas honored 10 times as one of San Diego’s Top Doctors in Emergency MedicineThe conversation dives into the financial and regulatory pressures facing hospitals today, including: How DRG-based payments and long COVID hospital stays pushed hospitals to the brinkThe impact of underfunded Medicare and growing staffing costsThe staggering costs of new construction and seismic compliance, with per-bed costs in the millionsCalifornia’s 2030 (and 2033) seismic standards, and what they actually requireFrom there, Dr. Ma shares the transformational plan for Tri-City: Tri-City is entering a long-term lease and operating agreement with Sharp HealthCareThe hospital will become Sharp Tri-City, pending voter approval in JuneThe agreement brings the scale, resources, and experience of San Diego’s largest not-for-profit health system to North CountyThe board’s decision, he explains, reflects a commitment to put community before titles and secure a sustainable future for the districtDr. Ma paints an inspiring vision that includes: Reopening Labor & Delivery at Tri-City in partnership with Sharp Mary BirchReturning and expanding NICU and high-risk maternal-fetal medicine services to North CountyDeveloping a comprehensive cancer center on the Tri-City campus so patients can receive radiation and chemotherapy locallyA revitalized, state-of-the-art flagship medical center that drives both better health outcomes and economic growth along the Highway 78 corridorBret and Dr. Ma also discuss the upcoming public vote, clarify that no new taxes are being requested, and encourage district residents to vote YES to allow Sharp to manage and invest in the hospital. The episode closes on a personal and heartwarming note, as Dr. Ma talks about his five daughters, their life paths across California and New York, and what it’s like to transition from sideline sports dad to a new season of life. If you care about the future of local healthcare, economic vitality, and quality of life in Carlsbad and North County San Diego, this episode of “Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact” is a must-listen.Key Topics: Dr. Gene Ma’s global upbringing and medical training27 years in emergency medicine and leadership at Tri-CityFinancial and regulatory realities of running a hospitalCOVID’s impact on hospital operations and financesCalifornia seismic standards and hospital infrastructureThe long-term partnership between Tri-City and Sharp HealthCareReopening Labor & Delivery and bringing high-risk maternity care back to North CountyPlans for a comprehensive cancer center on the Tri-City campusThe importance of the upcoming community voteDr. Ma’s family and life in North CountyCall to Action: Be sure to follow “Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact” and share this episode with friends, colleagues, and neighbors who want to understand what’s at stake for healthcare in our community. Quotes (for Reels / Audiograms) “The moment you think you know everything in medicine is the moment you become dangerous. You have to be humble—or medicine will humble you.”“People think hospitals made money during COVID. The truth is, it was devastating. Patients stayed for weeks or months while we were paid for just a few days of care.”“If the 2030 seismic standards were enforced today, more than half the hospitals in California would have to close. That’s how expensive this is.”“There’s no realistic path for Tri-City to reopen labor and delivery on its own—but with Sharp, not only can we reopen, we can expand and bring high-risk maternity care back to North County.”“One day, people won’t be able to imagine a North County without Sharp Tri-City—they’ll just assume world-class care has always been here.” Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

In this episode, host Bret Schanzenbach, President & CEO of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, sits down with Scott Morris, local Encinitas native, serial entrepreneur, and co-founder/general partner of The Bermuda Club. Scott traces his journey from La Costa Canyon High School to UCLA and the University of Chicago Law School, then into big-firm life at Latham & Watkins during the 2008 financial crisis. When litigation work dried up, he leaned into his entrepreneurial side, leaving the firm to build Rochambeau, a fun, flexible, kid-proof eyewear brand that has expanded into kids’ prescription eyewear, including a Blippi-branded line. He also recounts co-founding Detroit City Distillery with friends from law school. From there, Scott explains how his love of business building and community evolved into The Bermuda Club, a private-membership space in Carlsbad designed around his mantra “Work well, play well, be well.” The club combines: Coworking: Coffee-shop-style open workspaces, private offices, and phone boothsWellness: Gym, custom sauna, cold plunges, and on-site trainers and wellness partnersSocial & Play: Four Full Swing golf simulators, putting greens, events, and member-driven clubsScott and Bret highlight the organic community that has formed within the club—businesses like Low Notes canned wine operating from the space, the Triangle Traders investment club, a member-barber offering on-site cuts, and educational talks from local experts like MedHero. They also discuss: The club’s membership cap of 200 and its near-full statusUnique corporate and private events, including simulator golf scrambles and holiday partiesStrong partnerships with Carlsbad’s golf ecosystem (Full Swing, Callaway, TravisMathew, up-and-coming putter brands)Plans to expand Bermuda Club locations into Sorrento Valley/Del Mar, Rancho Bernardo, and Costa Mesa, powered in part by member investorsIf you’re curious about where high-energy coworking, wellness, golf, and community intersect in North County San Diego, this conversation is a must-listen. Quotes “Our slogan is ‘Work well, play well, be well’—that’s The Bermuda Club in a nutshell.”“We thought the golf simulators would be the star, but they turned out to be the bonus. The real magic is the people.”“We’ve already had multiple businesses start from people who met at the club—that’s the power of community.”“Some members come for the golf, some for the gym, but most stay because they’ve found their people.”“If you’d told me a year ago we’d already be raising money for three more clubs, I’d have thought you were nuts.” Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

In this episode of “Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact,” host Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Paola Richard, CEO and founder of Gelato Love in Carlsbad Village. Paola shares her global upbringing in Rome with roots across Europe, her early career as a seven-time Italian national synchronized swimming champion training in California, and her transition into marine biology and science journalism, where she wrote and produced content on conservation for outlets like National Geographic Italy and national television. Seeking a new life adventure, Paola moved back to California, fell in love with Carlsbad, and—thanks to a suggestion from her brother and cousin—made a bold pivot from journalism to entrepreneurship, launching a gelato shop originally called Gaia. With strong support from the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, she opened her first store in the Carlsbad Village Faire and eventually rebranded to Gelato Love for clearer, more emotional branding. Paola explains how she uses her science background to reinvent gelato: experimenting with allulose, a rare sugar that mimics sugar’s taste and texture but doesn’t spike blood sugar, allowing Gelato Love to create no-sugar-added, low-glycemic, clean-label gelato with no artificial stabilizers. They now produce about 5,000 pounds of artisan gelato a day, make custom recipes for clients like Camp Pendleton, and offer 36 flavors in-store out of more than 300 recipes she has developed. She describes navigating COVID-19 by building an online ordering and local delivery system that literally kept the business alive and brought “little celebrations” to families stuck at home—like the special delivery Bret ordered for his staff. Paola also shares details about her Italian market-style shop, which now includes imported foods, panettone, bags, and accessories from Italy alongside gelato cakes and classic desserts like tiramisu. Finally, Paola celebrates a huge milestone: being selected by historic Italian company Fabbri to create three specialty flavors (dark chocolate oat milk, lemon cream ginger, and strawberry cheesecake) now available nationwide on Amazon, shipped frozen with dry ice. For Paola, every pint is a “gift of love” from Carlsbad to the rest of the country, and she dreams of further distribution while keeping quality, craft, and “guilt-free celebration” at the center of Gelato Love. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

In this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, host Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Sean Walker and Andy Slip, co-founders of Pickleball Republic. Sean shares his Carlsbad roots and decades in recreational entertainment (from paintball events to operating Camp Pendleton’s park), while Andy describes discovering pickleball on vacation and joining the thriving community at Sean’s Pickleball Club in The Shoppes at Carlsbad. Together they announce Pickleball Republic, a hybrid indoor/outdoor pickleball complex with 18+ courts at 2045 Corte Del Norte near K1 Speed. Permits are complete and construction has begun; they’re targeting early 2026 with an aspirational February 1 opening. Their model is community-first: no paid membership required (free basic access), optional paid tiers, leveled classes (1–4), leagues, tournaments, drop-in play, equipment on site, and a premium layout with individually fenced courts and ample social space. Current club info: six courts at The Shoppes at Carlsbad, open 8–8 daily, (760) 893-0019, PickleballRepublic.com. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

On Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, Bret Schanzenbach talks with Audrey Maria Adams, founder of YANSOTM Co (pronounced “yen-SOD-um”), a consultancy grounded in the thesis line “You are Not So Other Than Me.” Audrey shares how studies in political theory, philosophy, and psychology shaped her obsession with human flourishing—and how coaching, education leadership, grief, kindness projects, and unexpected sales roles led her to redesign customer experiences with unreasonable hospitality. What we cover: From Hartford to D.C. to Carlsbad: education, coaching, and DC Reads leadershipThe van trip that sparked a move west—and the stolen moped that sealed itBreathwork in schools and what presence looks like in practiceTurning insurance into a delight engine: hospitality stories that stuckThe meaning behind YANSOTM and offerings for people and teamsClarity Call (Maslow-inspired) and Culture Audit (brand, service, rituals)Why presence + design = better business, better communityGuest: Audrey Maria Adams — Founder, YANSOTM Co Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

In this episode, Bret Schanzenbach talks with Alan Shimamoto, founder of Accelerate Growth Coaching. Alan shares his extraordinary story—from being adopted from a Japanese orphanage to building multimillion-dollar sales organizations and a career helping business owners thrive through leadership and personal growth. He and his wife Louisa relocated from the Pacific Northwest to Carlsbad to be near their daughter and immediately immersed themselves in the community through the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce. Alan also introduces Live2Lead, a John Maxwell leadership event coming to the Chamber on January 30, 2026, featuring global thought leaders like Jesse Cole of the Savannah Bananas. Listeners learn how Alan helps entrepreneurs “condense time,” accelerate results, and build stronger leadership through mindset, communication, and growth. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

 On this episode of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, host Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Erin Hardin, director of community relations at the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation. Erin shares her journey from Las Vegas to Encinitas, her passion for nonprofit work, and why Agua Hedionda is her dream role—combining education, animals, kids, and environmental stewardship. They highlight the Foundation’s three marquee fundraisers—Laguna Kahuna Cleanup Challenge (May), the Haunted Corn Maze (October), and the late-August Discovery Gala—plus weekly members-only Wednesdays, the annual Mingle with Members (January), Avian Adventure Day (Father’s Day), and robust field trip programs serving 9,000+ students. Erin invites listeners to become members, volunteer, or sponsor at aguahedionda.org or via [email protected] Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

In this episode of Carlsbad People, Purpose, and Impact, Bret Schanzenbach interviews Michael Stinnett, founder and director of Shield Legal Services. Michael shares his journey from serving as a Navy aviation ordnance technician, to studying political science and law, to working with the Department of Justice and National Security Agency, and ultimately finding his calling in veterans’ legal advocacy. After helping veterans in Washington, D.C. navigate housing, disability benefits, and access to critical resources, Michael realized there was a major gap in San Diego—home to thousands of transitioning service members. Shield Legal Services was born out of that need, with the mission of making legal support more accessible to veterans at risk of homelessness. Michael discusses the hurdles veterans face when navigating VA benefits, the importance of early preparation before leaving the military, and his vision to expand Shield Legal Services with the right funding and community partnerships. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

In this episode, Bret sits down with Kevin Clemons, CEO of Au Technology Solutions and Chamber board member, to explore his journey from Vista native to Navy veteran to tech entrepreneur. Kevin opens up about building his first computers, leveraging the GI Bill to launch his career, and how he turned setbacks into opportunities. Listeners will learn how Microsoft’s ecosystem—including Teams and Copilot—helps businesses save money, improve communication, and stay secure. Kevin also shares why his company stays local, hands-on, and security-focused, offering peace of mind for clients. This conversation is packed with leadership lessons, entrepreneurial grit, and practical insights for business owners navigating the digital landscape. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

What happens when a youth pastor discovers the power of a boosted Instagram post? For Tim Holt, it launched a journey from ministry to marketing that led him to create Revvia, a Carlsbad-based firm redefining what “marketing done right” looks like. In this episode, Tim shares how his company helps businesses cut through the noise with revenue-first marketing and a fractional CMO model that delivers measurable results without long-term contracts. From growing Google Reviews to building websites that generate six-figure sales, Tim explains why the right mix of authentic storytelling, branding, and digital strategy can transform any business. Whether you’re a startup, a nonprofit, or an established company, this conversation will give you practical takeaways on marketing, branding, and growth in a world that never stops changing. 👉 Tune in to hear how Tim and his team are helping Carlsbad businesses thrive, one story (and one review) at a time. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

In this episode, Bret interviews Chamber team member and Spera Accounting founder Janine Burke. They explore her journey from Northern California roots to launching her own bookkeeping business at age 28. Janine shares how technology — from QuickBooks Online to modern tools like Melio and Ramp — has revolutionized accounting, making it more efficient and transparent. She also discusses how AI is reshaping the industry, freeing small business owners to focus on strategy. Finally, Janine previews her upcoming Chamber workshops designed to help small businesses prepare for year-end and maximize their financial tools. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

In this episode of Carlsbad People, Purpose, and Impact, host Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Ash L., founder of Green Madness and owner of MOOYAH Burgers, Fries, and Shakes in Carlsbad. Ash shares his remarkable journey from growing up in Egypt and England, to traveling to nearly 90 countries, to launching a successful corporate career before pivoting into the restaurant industry. Starting as a baker at Einstein Bros. Bagels, Ash quickly rose to General Manager, later joined Luna Grill, and eventually launched his own MOOYAH franchise right here in Carlsbad. Ash reflects on lessons learned in hospitality—treating every guest like royalty, managing every role as if you own it, and investing deeply in people and community. He also talks about the challenges and rewards of business ownership, his vision for growth in North County, and why fresh-baked buns and hand-cut fries matter just as much as strong leadership. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

In this episode of Carlsbad People, Purpose, and Impact, host Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Carlsbad Police Chief Christie Calderwood. From her unexpected career shift from aspiring English teacher to law enforcement leader, Christie shares her inspiring journey through the ranks—from officer to chief. They discuss community partnerships, proactive event security, crisis negotiation, mental health response teams, homelessness, retail theft, Prop 36, and the challenges of recruiting the next generation of officers. Throughout, Chief Calderwood emphasizes her philosophy of de-escalation, building trust, and preparing for the future. Whether you live, work, or play in Carlsbad, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep our community safe and connected. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

In this episode of Carlsbad People, Purpose, and Impact, Bret Schanzenbach sits down with Dr. Yvonne Scarlett, founder of Red Lotus Wellness Center. Dr. Scarlett shares her extraordinary path—from corporate travel and engineering to real estate and finally holistic medicine—driven by her own battle with chronic migraines and autoimmune issues. She reveals how acupuncture and Chinese medicine transformed her health, inspired her career shift, and now form the foundation of her thriving practice in Carlsbad. Listeners will hear insights into fertility support, autoimmune care, and the powerful role of acupuncture and herbs in restoring balance. Dr. Scarlett also shares her love of gardening and her passion for helping families grow. This is a story of resilience, reinvention, and the healing power of purpose. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you Carlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTube Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting