Discover La Jolla

In Episode 56, we welcome Ron Jones and Mike Mazaika , the duo behind La Jolla Insiders , a local media platform dedicated to showcasing the stories, history, and hidden gems that make La Jolla truly unique. Ron, a La Jolla resident for more than 40 years, brings a wealth of experience from his background in radio, television, and live events, including hosting La Jolla Concerts by the Sea for nea...

In this episode, we sit down with Jeny Dawson, founder of Zen Soul Balance, La Jolla’s holistic wellness brand focused on the integration of yoga, sound healing, mindfulness, meditation, and breathwork. Jeny shares how her mission deeply influenced by her personal story and her sister Olivia’s experience with cerebral palsy led her to create Zen Soul Balance, a space where people from all walks of...

In this episode, we are honored to feature Mary Coakley Munk, co-founder and President of the Walter Munk Foundation for the Oceans. Mary and her late husband, Dr. Walter Munk, started the Foundation in 2017 to carry forward his remarkable legacy of oceanographic exploration, scientific discovery, and devotion to the marine environment. The Foundation is dedicated to advancing ocean science, promo...

In Episode 53, we shine the spotlight on Neil O’Connell, Executive Director of the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial, San Diego’s storied hillside tribute honoring U.S. veterans from the Revolutionary War through modern conflicts. A retired Marine Sergeant Major with 33 years of service, Neil brings a deeply personal dedication to his leadership at Mt. Soledad. Since joining the Memorial Asso...

In this episode, we’re joined by Alex Yanke , the founder and principal designer of Westbourne Studio, a boutique interior design firm based in San Diego since 2020. Alex brings a refined, California-inspired aesthetic to residential projects, blending organic materials, rich patinas, and minimal contemporary forms to create relaxed yet layered interiors Alex explains how he collaborates with arch...

In this special episode, we sit down with Lauren Lockhart, Executive Director of the La Jolla Historical Society (LJHS), a passionate advocate for preserving and celebrating La Jolla’s rich coastal heritage. Lauren shares her inspiring journey in the cultural sector from her early work in San Diego’s contemporary art institutions to spearheading public art initiatives at the airport and how these...

In this special milestone episode, we’re honored to return to the waveside with Bill Kellogg, President and Director of the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club. Bill shares the Club’s storied history and his family’s enduring legacy—spanning generations—as stewards of its iconic oceanfront grounds. We dive into the Club’s rich tradition, from its early development and distinctive architecture to its...

In this episode, we sit down with Ed Woolery, Vice President of Mortgage Lending at Guaranteed Rate Affinity in La Jolla. With nearly 30 years of experience in the real estate industry, Ed has become a trusted advisor for homebuyers and real estate professionals alike. His commitment to honesty, transparency, and personalized service has earned him a stellar reputation in the community. Ed shares...

In this episode, we sit down with renowned La Jolla artist Concetta Antico, whose rare gift of tetrachromacy allows her to see up to 100 million colors. Known as “The Color Queen,” Concetta’s vivid, impressionistic paintings offer a stunning glimpse into a world most of us can't even imagine. From her gallery, The Salon of Art, Concetta shares how her unique vision transforms everyday scenes into...

In this episode, we sit down with Carl Blackburn, the founder and owner of C. Blackburn Jewelers, a distinguished boutique located in the heart of La Jolla. With over 15 years of experience, Carl has established himself as a master in custom jewelry design, specializing in vintage-inspired pieces that draw from Art Deco and Belle Époque styles. Carl shares his journey from working alongside his fa...

In this episode, we delve into the innovative world of aerial entertainment with Jeff Stein, founder and CEO of Drone Studios. Jeff, an engineer and licensed drone pilot since 2016, has been pioneering drone light shows as a modern alternative to traditional fireworks. His work combines technical precision with artistic creativity, transforming the night sky into a canvas of synchronized lights an...

In this episode, we sit down with Koa Scott, the dedicated pitching coach for La Jolla High School's varsity baseball team. A La Jolla High alumnus, Koa excelled as a right-handed pitcher and first baseman during his high school years, graduating in 2020.Following high school, he continued his baseball journey at St. Katherine's in North County. Koa shares insights into his transition from player...

In this episode, we are honored to feature Christopher Albence, the founding member and managing partner of Albence & Associates, APC, a distinguished boutique law firm based in La Jolla. Since 1994, the firm has specialized in estate planning, trust administration, probate, and estate litigation, offering personalized legal services tailored to each client’s unique needs. With over three deca...

In this episode, we are thrilled to feature Erika Givens, a talented La Jolla-based artist known for her captivating wall sculptures crafted from natural materials. With a background in environmental studies and graphic design, Erika transforms elements like sea glass, driftwood, and botanicals into stunning works of art that reflect the beauty of nature. Erika shares her artistic journey, how La...

Welcome to Discover La Jolla! In this episode, we are excited to showcase some of La Jolla's most amazing businesses and the unique stories behind them. These establishments are more than just places to shop or dine; they are integral parts of the community, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry that makes La Jolla so special. Join us as we explore the dedication and passion of local business...

Welcome to Discover La Jolla! In this episode, we are excited to showcase some of La Jolla's most amazing businesses and the unique stories behind them. These establishments are more than just places to shop or dine; they are integral parts of the community, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry that makes La Jolla so special. Join us as we explore the dedication and passion of local business...

Welcome to Discover La Jolla! In this episode, we are excited to showcase some of La Jolla's most amazing businesses and the unique stories behind them. These establishments are more than just places to shop or dine; they are integral parts of the community, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry that makes La Jolla so special. Join us as we explore the dedication and passion of local business...

Discover La Jolla Episode 39: Nancy & Brian O'Donnell of Manhattan of La Jolla Join us for an exciting episode of Discover La Jolla as we sit down with Nancy and Brian O'Donnell, the heart and soul behind Manhattan of La Jolla, a beloved Italian steakhouse nestled in the Empress Hotel. For decades, this iconic restaurant has transported diners to the charm of New York with its elegant atmosphe...

Discover La Jolla Ep. 38 - Ann Kerr and the La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival In this holiday-themed episode, we are delighted to feature Ann Kerr, a driving force behind the La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival, a treasured tradition now in its 68th year. This iconic event has become a cornerstone of La Jolla’s holiday season, bringing together the community for a day f...

Welcome to Discover La Jolla! In this episode, we are excited to showcase some of La Jolla's most amazing businesses and the unique stories behind them. These establishments are more than just places to shop or dine; they are integral parts of the community, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry that makes La Jolla so special. Join us as we explore the dedication and passion of local business...

Welcome to Discover La Jolla! In this episode, we are excited to showcase some of La Jolla's most amazing businesses and the unique stories behind them. These establishments are more than just places to shop or dine; they are integral parts of the community, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry that makes La Jolla so special. Join us as we explore the dedication and passion of local business...

Welcome to Discover La Jolla! In this episode, we are excited to showcase some of La Jolla's most amazing businesses and the unique stories behind them. These establishments are more than just places to shop or dine; they are integral parts of the community, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry that makes La Jolla so special. Join us as we explore the dedication and passion of local business...

In this episode of Discover La Jolla, we are excited to feature PharmaScouts, Inc., a La Jolla-based executive recruiting firm specializing in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. Founded in 2005, PharmaScouts connects top scientific talent with life science organizations, including both for-profit and nonprofit groups engaged in cutting-edge drug discovery, medical research, and the deve...

In this episode of Discover La Jolla, we welcome Jay’s Heart, a La Jolla-based organization dedicated to assisting individuals and families navigating complex healthcare decisions. Led by medical professionals, Jay’s Heart provides resources, consultations, and personalized guidance to help individuals make informed choices about their healthcare options. From assistance with medical appointment p...

Welcome to Discover La Jolla! In this episode, we are excited to showcase some of La Jolla's most amazing businesses and the unique stories behind them. These establishments are more than just places to shop or dine; they are integral parts of the community, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry that makes La Jolla so special. Join us as we explore the dedication and passion of local business...