Meet Daphne Gaghagen: Marketing Manager, Writer, and Mom

We had the good fortune of connecting with Daphne Gaghagen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daphne, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
This is a very big one for me; I’m referring to the way that I have taught my children about health and their physical identity. As a plus-size woman who has battled a long-term eating disorder, I wanted to be sure that my kids always had the tools to feel good in their own bodies. We talk about food in terms of nourishment and energy, not in terms of health and “eating your veggies.” We discuss the broad range of shapes and sizes in the world and how everyone deserves respect as human beings. When our bellies grow round after a good meal, we pat our stomachs and thank our bodies for the ability to take in and process such goodness. We chat about where food comes from, eating the rainbow, and listening to our bodies about fullness. Sometimes they eat chocolate before dinner! Sometimes they devour giant plates of fruit. We got rid of the truly harmful diet culture “food rules” and my kids have only been the better for it. 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My professional life has two distinct parts: the first was my work in journalism. As a reporter, producer, anchor, and news director for 10 years, I got a ground-level understanding of how the media operates in America. This is what I want people to know: journalists are just like you. Hardworking members of their beloved communities, dedicated to getting you information that matters. And they’re paid terribly to do it, to boot. Thank a reporter today. I am now a content marketing manager for IBM, and I also do freelance writing and content management on the side. I LOVE what I do. It was a natural transition from journalism and has enabled me to take care of my family and do what I love while even getting the holidays off! I love learning about marketing and how the world works. In both of my careers, I have flourished for one reason; mentors. Find people who believe in you and have something to teach you, and do not let them go.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In a non-pandemic world, San Diego is a delight to show off. We always include Coronado; drinks at the Hotel Del, a stroll on the ferry landing and a trip across the Bay are a must, along with ice cream at Moo Time. We also love harbor cruises, the Embarcadero, and Seaport Village (I will truly cry when it’s gone.) Major attractions like Balboa Park, the Zoo, and Wild Animal Park are always favorites, as well as Belmont Park and the boardwalk. We also love grabbing pastries at Wayfarer and cruising La Jolla/Sunset Cliffs.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The San Diego Moms Blog gets my shoutout! This dedicated group of entrepreneurial, spirited women have become my good friends and confidants. I am endlessly grateful for their support. We live better lives here in San Diego because of their influence.

Website: https://sandiego.momcollective.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandiegomomsco/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphne-gaghagen-6621694/
Twitter: —
Facebook: —
Yelp: —
Youtube: —

Image Credits
Brisa Roberts Photography Crystella Photography Danielle & Deanne Photography