Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact Bret Schanzenbach

Hey there, Carlsbad community! Are you ready to dive into the heartwarming world of caregiving with a twist of local pride? In Episode 119 of "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact," we have the pleasure of chatting with Navy veteran and compassionate entrepreneur, Matt August, owner of First Light Home Care of Carlsbad and La Jolla.
Ever wondered what it takes to navigate the high seas of life after serving in the Navy? How does one go from ship navigation to steering a home care business towards success? Join us as Matt shares his incredible journey from veteran to healthcare hero, trucking business owner, and finally, to a leader in the home care industry.

We'll explore how Matt's diverse career path, rich with leadership and team-building experiences, led him to provide non-medical in-home services that do more than just meet the basic needs—they aim to give clients their best day, every day. Whether it's running errands, preparing meals, or simply being a friend, Matt and his team are dedicated to enriching lives, especially those in our senior community and veterans in need.
Curious about the different types of care available, or maybe you're a military spouse looking for a rewarding career opportunity? Tune in to discover the heart behind First Light Home Care and how you can get involved. Plus, get ready to smile as Matt shares a slice of his personal life with the "director of smiles," his granddaughter Addy.
Don't miss this episode of "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact," where we celebrate the local heroes making a real difference. For more information, or to join Matt's team, visit firstlighthomecare.com/carlsbad. Connect with Matt on Facebook and LinkedIn. Let's make an impact together!
Matt August's Bio:
As a Navy Veteran with a steadfast commitment to service, I've navigated a diverse career path that has led me from the front lines of healthcare to the dynamic world of corporate operations. Armed with a Master's degree in business, my journey began with direct patient care upon leaving the Navy, where I witnessed firsthand the impact of compassionate support on individuals' lives.
Transitioning into the corporate realm, I've dedicated myself to optimizing operations and fostering growth within various companies. Over the years, I've honed my leadership skills, building and guiding teams across diverse sectors. Yet, amidst the complexities of corporate landscapes, I discovered my true passion lies in empowering people.
My career's pinnacle moment arrived when I embarked on a new venture as an owner of First Light Home Care. Here, I found alignment with an organization whose mission deeply resonated with my values: ensuring that every individual experiences their best day, every day. At First Light, I've embraced a philosophy rooted in simplicity, focusing unwaveringly on two key elements: our cherished clients and the remarkable Care Givers who support them.

Driven by a genuine joy for working with people and witnessing their growth, I continue to champion a culture of empathy, integrity, and excellence in all endeavors. As I navigate the ever-evolving landscape of home care, I remain steadfast in my commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

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Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

Hey, Carlsbad community! Ever wondered what it takes to transition from college football stardom to financial advising, all while making a lasting impact in your hometown? In episode 118 of "Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact," we get the inside scoop from none other than Christian Chapman, former SDSU quarterback and financial advisor at Strong Financial Network.
Christian's story isn't just about touchdowns; it's a tale of resilience and dedication. From his nomadic childhood to his impressive tenure at SDSU, and his decision to hang up his cleats after an MCL injury, Christian's journey is nothing short of inspiring. But how did he pivot from potential NFL dreams to becoming a financial maven in Carlsbad?
We dive into the nitty-gritty of Christian's comprehensive approach to financial planning and how he's navigated the tricky waters of advising during a pandemic. Plus, don't miss his candid thoughts on the evolving world of college football and NIL agreements.
And if you think Christian's passion ends with finance, think again! He's also a dedicated community coach and the driving force behind the Carlsbad High Noon Rotary Club's scholarship efforts.
Ready to be inspired? Tune in to this incredible story of local impact and discover how Christian Chapman is shaping the future, one quarterback and one portfolio at a time.
For financial guidance or to join Christian's mission in supporting Carlsbad's students, reach out through the Strong Financial Network website, call 707-262-1880, check out the Facebook page or email ChristianChapman@jestrong.com.
Christian Chapman's Bio:
As an LPL Advisor, Christian assists clients with their financial planning and portfolio management needs. He resides in Carlsbad, California, and works in a virtual format with clients as well as regularly scheduled appointment times in our Lakeport office and now Vista, CA office. Prior to joining Strong Financial Network in October 2020, Christian spent a year working for a financial firm in Carlsbad.
Christian graduated from San Diego State University in 2019 where he was a 3-year starting quarterback for the San Diego State football team and broke the record for the winningest quarterback in school history. In his spare time, Christian likes returning to his alma mater Carlsbad High School and coaching football. In addition to, being a part of the Carlsbad Hi-Noon Rotary Club.

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Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

Hey there, listeners! Have you ever wondered what it takes to shape the leaders of tomorrow? Or how a military school experience can impact a young man's life beyond just preparing him for armed service? Well, you're in for a treat with Episode 117 of the "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact" podcast!
This time around, we sit down with an exceptional guest, Lieutenant Colonel Roland Miraco, commandant of cadets at the prestigious Army Navy Academy. Roland isn't just a decorated military veteran with tours in Iraq and Bosnia Herzegovina under his belt; he's also a proud alumnus of the academy and has been instrumental in nurturing the next generation of changemakers.
In this episode, we'll dive into the academy's rich history, its mission to mold young men of character, and the diverse futures its cadets pursue—from Ivy League halls to innovative industries. Roland will share how the school's unique all-boys boarding model, small class sizes, and new programs like culinary arts and aviation are setting students up for success.
But that's not all! Roland gets personal, sharing his own journey from cadet to commandant, and how his family is continuing the legacy. Plus, we'll bust some myths about military schools and hear heartwarming success stories of students who've thrived under the academy's guidance.
Curious to learn more? Roland extends an invitation to explore the Army Navy Academy's offerings. Tune in to this insightful conversation and discover a community dedicated to excellence right here in Carlsbad. Don't forget to check out the academy's website or call the Admissions Department at 760-729-2385 for more info. You can connect with Roland on LinkedIn as well. Listen, learn, and be inspired—right here on "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact."
Roland Miraco's Bio:
Lieutenant Colonel Miraco graduated from Army and Navy Academy in 1990. After attending the Academy, he moved on to New Mexico Military Institute. He received his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the US Army.
Roland served in the United States Army for 29 years. He was an Artillery Officer in Germany, Bosnia, and Fort Sill. He taught ROTC at the University of Southern California and was an Academic Chair at the Naval Postgraduate School. As an Information Operations Officer, Roland served with the Department of the Army Staff, and the Undersecretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict at the Pentagon, Division Staff at Fort Bliss, TX, and Branch Manager at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He also completed two tours in Iraq, from 2005-2006 and 2009-2010.
He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from California State University Long Beach. His military education includes the Field Artillery Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, the Combined Arms Service Staff School, the Basic Cyber Planners Course, the Electronic Warfare Planners Course, the Military Deception Planners Course, and the US Army Command and General Staff College. Roland’s awards and decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Meritorious Service Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Achievement Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal with three stars, the Office of the Secretary of Defense Staff Badge and the Army Staff Badge. He also earned the Joint Meritorious Unit Award with Oak Leaf Cluster and the Army Superior Unit Award with Oak Leaf Cluster.

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Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

Ever wondered how a graphic design guru shapes our visual world and impacts our local community? In episode 116 of the Carlsbad: People, Purpose and Impact podcast, I, Bret Schanzenbach, dive into the colorful life of Naila Sfeir, president of Calder Eames Design and a dedicated board member of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce.
From a high school print shop to the corridors of Sony Electronics, Naila's journey is a masterclass in evolving passion into a thriving career. But what happens when corporate life gives way to entrepreneurial dreams? Naila shares her bold leap from a secure job to launching her own design firm with her husband, Barry.
Discover how building relationships in the Carlsbad Chamber led to nationwide projects and why Naila believes trust is the cornerstone of business success. Plus, get a personal look at how her family values creativity and service, with sons Jordan and Brandon pursuing their unique paths in filmmaking and gemology.
Ready to be inspired by Naila's story and learn how design and community go hand in hand? Tune in to this episode and visit calderames.com to connect with the visionary behind some of the most captivating designs in the business world. Don't miss out on this blend of art, impact, and heart!
Calder Eames:Calder Eames is an experienced, creative, graphic design agency working with businesses nationwide — creatively crafting their brand’s story and developing marketing strategies that make them stand out. Calder Eames specializes in graphics, branding, and marketing solutions that provide our clients with a consistent and strong presence both online and offline.
Portfolio: https://caldereames.myportfolio.com/
Connect with Nalia on social mediaFacebookInstagramXLinkedIn

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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

Are you ready to dive into a story of service, transition, and financial wisdom? In episode 115 of "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact," we have the pleasure of sitting down with the remarkable Darcy Wolfe, a certified financial planner at Edward Jones and a dedicated board member of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce.
From her early days in the Northwest to attending the U.S. Naval Academy with dreams of soaring the skies, Darcy's journey took an unexpected turn when her vision impeded her flight path. But did that stop her? Not a chance! Tune in to discover how she navigated the winds of change, transitioning from active duty to the Civil Engineer Corps, then to the reserves, and finally to the world of financial planning.
Ever wondered what it's like to shift gears from military service to civilian life while juggling family and a new career? Darcy shares her candid experience and how a colleague led her to her passion for financial planning. She also reveals why Edward Jones was the perfect fit for her, with its stellar culture and community-first approach.
But Darcy's story isn't just about numbers and investments; it's about heart and home. Get to know the woman who balances her professional life with community service, from Rotary to the Assistance League, and cherishes family time golfing, skiing, or relaxing at Big Bear Lake.
And if Darcy's financial savvy has piqued your interest, a simple Google search for "Darcy Wolfe Edward Jones." Don't miss this episode of "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact," where personal stories inspire, and life lessons abound.Darcy Wolfe's Bio:I graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1992 with a degree in mechanical engineering. Thought I aspired to be a fighter pilot, my eyes weren't up to the task and I was commissioned in the US Navy Civil Engineer Corps. After six years on active duty, I transitioned to a consulting career with Accenture and remained in the U.S. Navy Reserves until I retired in 2017, achieving the rank of Captain.
In 2014, I became a financial advisor at Edward Jones, where I knew that mutual trust and personal relationships were held dear. I'm proud to serve individuals, families and businesses in our community as a Certified Financial Planner.
Having resided in nearly a dozen states and countries, my husband and I have made our home in Vista, CA. Active in our community, I'm a proud member of the Executive Board for the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, Vista Rotary Foundation and Milestone House.
I like to golf (if you can call it that), ski and spend time with my family. We cherish weekends in the mountains and evenings on the front porch with friends.
Connect with Darcy:Website: EdwardJones.comFacebookLinkedIn

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Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

Are you ready to be inspired by a tale of resilience, empowerment, and global impact? In episode 114 of "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact," I, Bret Schanzenbach, have the absolute pleasure of speaking with the remarkable Tara Tharani Jayaratnam, founder of Green Dreams Women.
From the trials of a civil war in Sri Lanka to the classrooms of Harvard, Tara's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. How did an engineer turn into a champion for women's rights and social responsibility? And what led her to create an initiative that not only supports Sri Lankan women but also ensures a green supply chain?
Tune in as we explore Tara's transformative path from auditing supply chains for safety compliance to spearheading the post-war rebuilding efforts in her homeland. Discover how Green Dreams Women has trained around 600 women to create beautiful handcrafted quilled greeting cards, and how Tara has kept her mission alive even while caring for her ailing father during the pandemic.
Looking to make a difference? Find out how you can get involved with Green Dreams Women, whether it's through partnerships, volunteer opportunities, or by snagging some ethical, handcrafted products. Plus, get the scoop on their participation in the Rotary Wine and Food Festival on June 8—your chance to support a great cause!
Don't miss this incredible story of turning adversity into action, right here in North County, California.
While our website is getting a makeover, connect with us directly or via social media:- Instagram: @greendreamswomen- LinkedIn: Tara Jeyaratnam- Facebook- And remember to mark your calendars for the Rotary Wine and Food Festival on June 8!
Join us on this episode of "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact" for an unforgettable conversation with Tara Tharani Jayaratnam. Let's celebrate the power of purpose-driven lives!
Tara Tharani Jayaratnam's Bio:Though trained as an engineer with a strong background in compliance and ethical supply chains in the manufacturing, retail and tech industries Tara has always been passionate about issues concerning women and girls.  She established GreenDreamsWomen, a nonprofit, based in Carlsbad, CA in 2013 which has trained and impacted over 500 women in income generating activities in Sri Lanka. In the last few years, the eco-friendly, handmade cards and art have been a regular feature at North County Maker's Markets.Tara restored her family home and turned it into an empowerment center. Located in Northern Sri Lanka, the center serves as a safe gathering place for women to earn a decent living. The center now employs a dozen women who earn a guaranteed income who have successfully broken out of the cycle of violence and poverty. Tara was appointed commissioner from District 5 to the San Diego County Commission on the Status of Women where she served on the Human Trafficking Committee. She has a Masters in Public Administration from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government where she was a Mason fellow.

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Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting