Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact

Ever wondered how the digital marketing landscape is transforming with the rise of AI? Or how video content is reshaping client engagement? In episode 154 of Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact, I sit down with Gwen Beren, the brilliant mind behind Illuminus Marketing. This episode is a treasure trove of insights as Gwen shares her fascinating journey from corporate burnout to entrepreneurial success. Gwen, a Rancho Penasquitos native, takes us through her educational journey at the Savannah College of Art and Design and her early career in web design and SEO. She reveals how her experiences at United Webworks and Internet Matrix paved the way for the creation of Illuminus Marketing in 2013. We dive deep into the evolving world of SEO, exploring how AI tools like Perplexity are revolutionizing user search behaviors. Gwen’s passion for video marketing shines through as she discusses its power in building trust and engagement. Plus, she shares an impressive case study where her agency achieved a whopping 927% ROI for a client! Join us as Gwen also highlights the importance of curiosity and creative problem-solving in crafting tailored marketing strategies. Gwen Beren Bio Gwen Beren is CEO & Founder of Illuminous Marketing, Inc, a digital marketing firm in Carlsbad, CA focused on helping purpose-driven businesses shine online with data-backed and results-driven marketing strategies.  Gwen founded the company in 2012 with a strong focus on SEO which continues to be a core offering of the agency. She is a knowledgeable and engaging speaker and has spoken at Surge 2020, several Hera Hub locations & many other marketing events around Southern California. Gwen holds a certification in AI for Business Applications from MIT and has been Google Analytics and Adwords certified. Connect with Gwen Website [https://illuminousmarketing.com/] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@illuminousmarketing] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/illuminousmarketing/] LinkedIN [https://www.linkedin.com/company/illuminous-marketing/] Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you [https://www.carlsbadpodcast.com/reviews/new/] Carlsbad Podcast Social Links: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/carlsbadchamber] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/carlsbadchamber] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CarlsbadChamber] X [https://twitter.com/ChamberCarlsbad] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqGgn4PS6Oobsb0rEmZGa2Q] Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting [https://www.difmix.com/podcasting]

Ever wondered how a career in industrial engineering can lead to a thriving podcast empire? Or how breaking into Apple's supply chain can take over two years of relentless dedication? Join me, Bret Schanzenbach, as I chat with Jim Miller, the mastermind behind Bold Leadership Stories Media. From his roots at Cal Poly to navigating the world of technical sales with giants like 3M and Hewlett Packard, Jim’s journey is a rollercoaster of perseverance and innovation. Discover how the pandemic catalyzed Jim’s transformation into a health enthusiast, shedding 50 pounds and launching the Wealthy Healthy Life Show. We dive into his passion for storytelling, the power of networking, and the lessons he's learned from startups to personal wellness. Tune in for an episode brimming with insights for entrepreneurs and anyone eager to make a meaningful impact in their community. Don’t miss it! Find Bold Leadership Stories on YouTube and explore Jim’s journey today! Jim Miller's Bio I have a marketing and sales background in high tech. My customers were Apple, Microsoft, HP and Google. I'm a dad of two beautiful daughters and PapaJim to my grand daughter. I'm currently working on building an audience for my girlfriend, Lisa Loree and am a video podcast host. My focus in life right now is learning and applying strategies for longevity health and generational wealth. Connect with Jim YouTube: @boldleadershipstories [https://www.youtube.com/@boldleadershipstories] LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jimcmiller1 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcmiller1/] Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you [https://www.carlsbadpodcast.com/reviews/new/] Carlsbad Podcast Social Links: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/carlsbadchamber] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/carlsbadchamber] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CarlsbadChamber] X [https://twitter.com/ChamberCarlsbad] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqGgn4PS6Oobsb0rEmZGa2Q] Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting [https://www.difmix.com/podcasting]

Ever wondered how a life-threatening wildfire could inspire a thriving business? In episode 152 of the Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact podcast, I sit down with Rachel Arbuckle, the remarkable owner of 2000 Paces Photo Organizing. From her childhood as a Navy brat, through her service as a neuropsychiatric technician, to her entrepreneurial journey, Rachel shares her fascinating story and the pivotal moment that led to the creation of her company. Join us as we explore how Rachel transformed the anxiety of nearly losing precious photo memories during the 2014 Cocos Fire into a mission to help others preserve their cherished moments. Discover the innovative services 2000 Paces offers, from digitizing and organizing photos to creating personalized photo books that reconnect clients with their memories in meaningful ways. Rachel also sheds light on the emotional power of photos, sharing heartwarming stories of clients finding solace in their organized collections. Plus, learn about the cutting-edge technology her company employs to streamline the organization process, making it easier than ever to create keepsakes for the future. Tune in to uncover how Rachel’s passion for preserving memories can help you focus on what truly matters, even during life’s most challenging times. Rachel's Bio Rachel Arbuckle is the Founder and CEO of 2000 Paces Photo Organizing—a company born from a personal crisis turned into a passion for preserving memories. In 2014, when a series of fierce fires roared through San Diego County—with the largest igniting on the mountain behind her home—Rachel’s instinct to protect her family’s cherished photos was put to the test. Amid the chaos of scattered boxes, picture frames, and albums, she realized that her precious memories were vulnerable. This pivotal moment not only solidified her commitment to safeguarding her family’s legacy but also inspired her to establish a service that would help others secure their own irreplaceable moments. At 2000 Paces Photo Organizing, Rachel and her dedicated, experienced team understand that many of us have at least a few shoeboxes or legal boxes filled with treasured yet disorganized family photos, memorabilia, and home videos stored on outdated media. Their approach is simple yet effective: they listen carefully to each client’s unique photo organizing goals and provide personalized suggestions and solutions that transform overwhelming piles into beautifully organized archives. With print and digital photo organizing services designed to help you easily locate and enjoy your memories, along with digitization services that convert physical items into digital files for long-term preservation and accessibility, Rachel and her team are passionate about reconnecting people with their memories and history. The commitment to protecting and sharing your stories drives every project, ensuring that each memory is treasured for years to come. Connect with Rachel Website [https://www.2000paces.com/] Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/@2000paces] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/2000PacesPhotoOrganizing/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/2000paces/] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelarbuckle/] Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you [https://www.carlsbadpodcast.com/reviews/new/] Carlsbad Podcast Social Links: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/carlsbadchamber] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/carlsbadchamber] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CarlsbadChamber] X [https://twitter.com/ChamberCarlsbad] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqGgn4PS6Oobsb0rEmZGa2Q] Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting [https://www.difmix.com/podcasting]

What role did women's clubs play in shaping modern society? How did the Women's Club of Carlsbad leave an indelible mark on their community over the last century? Dive into episode 151 of the Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact podcast, where I, Bret Schanzenbach, have the pleasure of chatting with Kae Gernandt and Edith Broyles from the Women's Club of Carlsbad. We're celebrating the club's rich history as they gear up for their 100th anniversary in 2025. From advocating for road safety and education to their pivotal role during the Great Depression and World War II, this club has been a powerhouse of change. Today, they continue their legacy through philanthropy, supporting local charities, and offering scholarships. Curious about their journey and how you can get involved? Tune in to discover the past, present, and future of this incredible organization. Don’t miss it! Kae Gernandt Bio I joined WCC (Juniors club) in 1997 to participate in community service and to meet like-minded, compassionate women. Being a busy mom/wife and my work life as a deposition court reporter was fulfilling and challenging, but the rewards of helping others is so gratifying. I've served on the Board as president, VP Fundraising, treasurer, and publicity director in addition to serving on committees too numerous to name. I co-founded our Carlsbad Holiday Market in 2014, which continues to this day, and is our biggest fundraiser of the year. Edith Broyles Bio I have been a member of the Woman's Club of Carlsbad since 2015. I was drawn to it because of the numerous philanthropic opportunities, which focus on our Carlsbad community as well as local neighboring communities. Along the way I have also enjoyed the friendships and camaraderie with other women that believe in the importance of giving back and supporting various charitable organizations. We have a rich history in Carlsbad and are currently celebrating our Centennial Anniversary. Connect with the Women's Club of Carlsbad Website [https://www.womansclubofcarlsbad.org/] https://womansclubofcarlsbad.org/Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/womansclubofcarlsbad] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/womansclubofcarlsbad] Don't forget to vote for them for the Nonprofit of the Year! Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you [https://www.carlsbadpodcast.com/reviews/new/] Carlsbad Podcast Social Links: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/carlsbadchamber] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/carlsbadchamber] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CarlsbadChamber] X [https://twitter.com/ChamberCarlsbad] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqGgn4PS6Oobsb0rEmZGa2Q] Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting [https://www.difmix.com/podcasting]

Ever thought about ditching your routine for an adventure halfway across the globe? In episode 150 of Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact, host Bret Schanzenbach chats with Ian Scott and Kathy Steffen about the transformative power of travel. Ian, President and Chief Architect of Discovery at Quest Voyager, recounts his journey from an electrical engineer in the UK to a travel industry leader. Meanwhile, Kathy, the Director of Fun at the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, shares how group travel programs can turn strangers into a community of explorers. Want to know what makes these trips unique? From cultural immersions to behind-the-scenes tours of family-run businesses, these meticulously organized adventures promise unforgettable experiences. And if Croatia is on your bucket list, you’re in luck! Join the Chamber's upcoming trip to the Dalmatian Coast in October 2025. Tune in to discover how you can embark on this journey and snag an early bird discount. Ready to pack your bags? Let's travel! For more details, contact Kathy at kathy@carlsbad.org or visit carlsbad.org. [https://carlsbad.org/] Ian Scott Bio Ian Scott is a seasoned travel professional with a lifelong passion for exploration. Born in Yorkshire, England, he has traveled across every continent and gained expertise in all aspects of the travel industry, including reservations, operations, product planning, and sales. With a deep understanding of chamber travel needs, Ian brings a global perspective and industry insight to every journey. Connect with Ian Cell: 760-576-0905 E-mail: ian@questvoyager.com Website: https://www.questvoyager.com/ [https://www.questvoyager.com/] Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted you [https://www.carlsbadpodcast.com/reviews/new/] Carlsbad Podcast Social Links: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/carlsbadchamber] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/carlsbadchamber] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CarlsbadChamber] X [https://twitter.com/ChamberCarlsbad] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqGgn4PS6Oobsb0rEmZGa2Q] Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting [https://www.difmix.com/podcasting]