Business LO

Michelle O'Dell, Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce
  • 5.0 (6)
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The Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce connects, educates, advocates and champions our business community. We have nearly 500 members, from international corporations to home-based businesses, and we serve them all. Each episode of Business LO gives insider information to the local business community and the neighbors who support them. This podcast is the go-to for the must-dos for your business success here in Lake Oswego.

  1. AI in Action for Restaurants, Professional Services & Nonprofits

    3D AGO

    AI in Action for Restaurants, Professional Services & Nonprofits

    This episode of Business LO features Megan Notarte, technology team leader and co-founder of AI Portland, a 2,800-plus-member community focused on demystifying generative AI and bridging AI technology with practical business applications through monthly events. Hosted by Heather Graves Ramsey from Coach to Brilliance and Michelle O’Dell, the conversation focuses on practical ways small businesses, restaurants/retail, professional services, and nonprofits can use AI. Megan recommends starting with AI as an assistant—drafting emails, repurposing marketing content across platforms, brainstorming, and using AI as an editor—rather than trying to automate an entire business. Key guidance includes maintaining brand voice, avoiding low-quality “AI slop” in customer-facing materials, using a “human in the loop” approach to proofread and verify outputs, and being mindful of privacy by anonymizing documents and removing identifying information. They discuss when paid versions of tools can be worth it for better models and suggest starting with tools already available through Google Workspace (Gemini) or Microsoft (Copilot). For professional services and nonprofits, they highlight meeting transcription/notes, summarizing and analyzing large datasets (including surveys, exit interviews, and feedback themes), and using natural-language queries to retrieve insights—while noting hallucinations still occur, and citations must be checked. Megan emphasizes approaching AI adoption from existing business pain points, change management, and balancing optimism with realism; resources mentioned include Ethan Mollick’s book “Co-Intelligence,” Nicolle Merrill's “Boring AI”, and AI Portland’s podcast “Supercharged by AI.” Visit AI Portland’s website and attend upcoming events and happy hours. Ethan Mollick on Factually! podcast Chamber Events in March Lake Grove Business Group Babica Hen - 15964 Boones Ferry Rd Tuesday, Mar 3, 2026 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Pacific West Bank Grand Re-Opening Pacific West Bank - 5200 Meadows Rd, Suite 100 - Wednesday, Mar 4, 2026 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Coach to Brilliance - AM Networking Hosted at Oswego Heritage House & Museum - 398 10th Street - Friday, Mar 6, 2026 7:45 AM - 9:00 AM Ribbon Cutting - LO Coffee House Lake Oswego Coffee House & Wine Bar - 148 B Avenue, Suite 100 - Friday, Mar 6, 2026 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Young Professionals Lake Oswego Cut Supper Club (formerly The Gemini Club) - 456 N State - Tuesday, Mar 10, 2026 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM New Chamber Member Reception The Foundry - 320 Oswego Pointe Dr - Thursday, Mar 12, 2026 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM FREE Spring Home Organizing Event: From Chaos To Calm March 12, 2026  5:30 PM - 7:30 PM One Day Doors & Closets - AM Networking One Day Doors & Closets - 5795 Jean Road - Friday, Mar 13, 2026 7:45 AM - 9:00 AM LO Tech Connect Location TBD Tuesday, Mar 17, 2026 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM West End Business Group Location TBD Thursday, Mar 19, 2026 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM Meet the New LO Review Editor! Chamber of Commerce - 148 B Avenue - Thursday, Mar 19, 2026 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM Tualatin Acupuncture - AM Networking Tualatin Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine - 6464 SW Borland Rd - Friday, Mar 20, 2026 7:45 AM - 9:00 AM Pickleball Kingdom - AM Networking - 16800 SW 72nd Avenue - Tigard -Friday, Mar 27, 2026 7:45 AM - 9:00 AM     Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website Visit us at 148 "B" Avenue Lake Oswego, OR 97034  We offer a wide range of membership tiers and benefits, so browse through our options on our website and pick the one that’s right for your business or organization.  Questions? Call 503-636-3634   For help with your own Podcast Show contact Michelle O’Dell, Modcast Productions  michelle@modcastproductions.com

    32 min
  2. Local Success Stories: Franchising in Lake Oswego

    FEB 1

    Local Success Stories: Franchising in Lake Oswego

    In this episode of Business LO, hosted by Michelle O'Dell, Heather Graves Ramsey of Coach to Brilliance, and Chamber CEO Liz Hartman, we hear from local business owners and franchisees, Melissa Boatwright of ACE Handyman Services Lake Oswego, Portland and Vancouver, and Rosy Rojas of Woofie’s Southwest Portland, as they discuss their journeys into franchise ownership, their backgrounds, reasons for choosing the Lake Oswego area, and the unique challenges and benefits of operating a franchise. Plus, Liz Hartman provides updates on local initiatives, upcoming events, and new groups supporting the Lake Oswego business community with What You Need to Know in LO! For more information on TechLO, Young Professionals LO, and Women's Lakeside Leaders, go to LakeOswegoChamber.com TechLO - meets monthly, third Tuesday, location changes monthly (4:30-6 pm) Young Professionals LO meets monthly on the second Tuesday. Kick off Tuesday, February 10, at the AC Hotel, 3:30-5 pm Women's Lakeside Leaders meets quarterly. Kick off Wednesday, February 25, noon to 1 pm - Reservations only, no drop-ins.  Ace Handyman Services Lake Oswego Woofie's - Southwest Portland Pet Care Service  Other Franchises in the Area: Baja Fresh Mexican Grill Bee Organized Best Western Body 20 Budget Blinds CarePatrol Certapro Painters Crumbl Cookies Expedia Cruises Forge Education Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers Goosehead Insurance Grocery Outlet Bargain Market Kumon Math & Reading McDonalds Minuteman Press Modern Chiropractic Mr. Handyman New Mom School OrangeTheory Fitness Pet Evolution Pickelball Kingdom Prime IV & Wellness Pristine Pros NW Radiance Natural Medicine Residence Inn Stretchlab Superior Fence The Bar Method The UPS Store TheKey Home Care Visiting Angels Welcome Wagon LO West Hills Montessori School ff Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website Visit us at 148 "B" Avenue Lake Oswego, OR 97034  We offer a wide range of membership tiers and benefits, so browse through our options on our website and pick the one that’s right for your business or organization.  Questions? Call 503-636-3634   For help with your own Podcast Show contact Michelle O’Dell, Modcast Productions  michelle@modcastproductions.com

    20 min
  3. Live Your Brand: Successful LO Marketing Strategies

    JAN 1

    Live Your Brand: Successful LO Marketing Strategies

    In this episode of Business LO, Heather Graves Ramsey, owner of Coach to Brilliance, dives into a conversation with Lisa D’Amore from D’Amore Law Group. Lisa shares insights on marketing and strategy, emphasizing the importance of authentic branding and community involvement. The discussion covers the lifecycle of businesses, the role of SEO and website management, and the unique challenges of marketing a law firm. The episode also highlights upcoming events and networking opportunities within the Lake Oswego business community, including an announcement about the Bob Bigelow Lifetime Achievement Award. D’Amore Law - D'Amore Law Group - WA and Oregon Personal Injury Lawyers How to Networking 2026 - Multi-Chamber Networking – register to attend Friday, Jan 9, 7:30-9:15 – AC Hotels Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce | See Full Calendar Maven Wigs Ribbon Cutting – Wednesday, January 14 – 5 pm Clifton Larson Allen Networking – Friday, January 16 – 7:30-9 am Business Leadership Development – Registration due January 10 - Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce |  January 23, Rooted Accounting at Vogelaar Advising January 30 – Mayor’s Business Breakfast, Reservations required. Call the chamber 503-636-3634 Wednesday, February 25 – Chamber Honors, Ironlight Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website Visit us at 148 "B" Avenue Lake Oswego, OR 97034  We offer a wide range of membership tiers and benefits, so browse through our options on our website and pick the one that’s right for your business or organization.  Questions? Call 503-636-3634   For help with your own Podcast Show contact Michelle O’Dell, Modcast Productions  michelle@modcastproductions.com

    24 min
  4. Behind Lake Oswego's Business Boom: A Conversation with Matt Evans

    12/01/2025

    Behind Lake Oswego's Business Boom: A Conversation with Matt Evans

    In this episode of Business LO, Heather Graves Ramsey, owner of Coach to Brilliance, interviews Matt Evans, the Chief of Economic Development and Business Research at the Lake Oswego Chamber. They discuss the Chamber's role in economic development, business trends, and its relationship with the city. Key topics include the status of office spaces post-COVID, the growth of new businesses, and the importance of buying local. Plus, Chamber CEO Liz Hartman updates listeners on insider information with What You Need to Know in LO- upcoming events and programs.  City of Lake Oswego:  Map of Business Districts | City of Lake Oswego Business in Lake Oswego | City of Lake Oswego  Starting a Business in Lake Oswego | City of Lake Oswego  Home-based Businesses | City of Lake Oswego Zoning & Permits | City of Lake Oswego  Signs and Signage | City of Lake Oswego Business Assistance Business | City of Lake Oswego Economic Development Strategy and Resource Plan | City of Lake Oswego Tree Lighting Sponsors – Nicoletta’s Table, Gracious Care Hospice, Travel and Cruise Desk, On Point Community Credit Union, Lakeside Heating and Cooling Ironlight - Elevated Event Venue | Lake Oswego, OR Beacon Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s Marcia Kies - Real Estate Broker in Lake Oswego, OR | Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty Family Law Attorney in Lake Oswego - Fischer Family Law AY Meisner Anastasia Yu Meisner Lake Oswego Review - Lake Oswego Review | News, Sports & Community in Lake Oswego, Oregon |  Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce | Business Leadership Development Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website Visit us at 148 "B" Avenue Lake Oswego, OR 97034  We offer a wide range of membership tiers and benefits, so browse through our options on our website and pick the one that’s right for your business or organization.  Questions? Call 503-636-3634   For help with your own Podcast Show contact Michelle O’Dell, Modcast Productions  michelle@modcastproductions.com

    29 min
  5. Empowering Lake Oswego: Connecting with a Life Plan Community

    11/01/2025

    Empowering Lake Oswego: Connecting with a Life Plan Community

    In this episode of Business LO, Heather Graves Ramsey of Coach to Brilliance interviews Travis Duncan, CEO of Mary's Woods, a Life Plan Community. They discuss the organization's mission-driven approach, focusing on modernizing operations and enhancing resident experience without losing the community's unique essence. They also explore community engagement initiatives, economic contributions, and plans for future partnerships. Plus, Liz Hartman has the helpful insider info you want with What You Need to Know in LO, which includes details regarding the Tree Lighting Festival and the annual Holiday Party. Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website Visit us at 148 "B" Avenue Lake Oswego, OR 97034  We offer a wide range of membership tiers and benefits, so browse through our options on our website and pick the one that’s right for your business or organization.  Questions? Call 503-636-3634   For help with your own Podcast Show contact Michelle O’Dell, Modcast Productions  michelle@modcastproductions.com

    20 min
  6. LOSD Bond - What's in it for Your Business

    10/17/2025

    LOSD Bond - What's in it for Your Business

    In this episode of Business LO, 2025 LOSD Citizens’ Bond Campaign Chair, Heather Graves Ramsey, and the Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce CEO, Liz Hartman, discuss the critical importance of Measure 3-628 on the November 2025 ballot for the Lake Oswego School District. This $245 million bond aims to address significant facility challenges across 11 schools, including outdated security systems, aging roofs, and increased demand for STEM and CTE programs, all without raising the current tax rate. The episode emphasizes the measure's importance to the safety, education, and economic stability of the community, and calls for immediate voter action to ensure the bond's passage. Thank you for your continued support and endorsement of the November 4th LOSD School Bond  — our goal is simple: Get Out the Vote! This bond is a critical investment in the future of our schools. It ensures our learning environments remain safe, modern, and resilient, all without raising the current tax rate. To make this vision a reality, we need everyone all in. Below you’ll find easy ways to stay engaged and help us spread the word. Please share this with your networks — every voice matters! We’re so grateful for your support — and we can’t wait to see you out there! Ballots drop on October 15th and are due November 4th Here’s How You Can Help 1. Vote and Remind your Neighbors, Family, Friends, Community Groups, and Co-workers to vote too!  Every vote counts!  2. Volunteer Join us for these key events: Canvassing: We need to get people out there! Knock on doors and leave information for key neighbors on 10/19 and 11/2 (both days 1-4pm) Honk & Waves: Show support at our schools! Community Outreach: Help us at Farmers Markets and Wellness Fairs- hand out flyers Please introduce us to a community or group you’re a part of, and we’re happy to speak!   Sign up to volunteer 3. Donate Thank you if you have already donated! We’re in the final stretch — with $20,000 left to raise, every contribution makes a big impact. Whether it’s $100 or $1,000, your donation helps us fund: Mailers Digital marketing Text banking Crucial reminders in the final days Donate here 4. Spread the Word Online Follow, like, and share to keep the momentum going! Facebook: @GreatLOSchools Instagram: @great_lo_schools YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@2025LOSDbond 5. Learn More and Help Share the Facts:  Lake Oswego school district Website to learn the facts bond.losdschools.org Citizen’s Campaign Website: buildinggreatloschools.com Stumped by a question from your network even after checking our FAQ ?  We know the technical details are challenging for the average voter, and we want you to feel comfortable answering. The district is here to provide clarity of information https://bond.losdschools.org/about-bond/campaigns/bond-2025!  Listen to these episodes of the LOSD Podcast: Learning in Lake Oswego  Robotics, Leadership and Launching Futures: https://learning-in-lake-oswego.simplecast.com/episodes/robotics-leadership-and-launching-futures Building Safer, Healthier, and more Resilient Schools https://learning-in-lake-oswego.simplecast.com/episodes/building-safer-healthier-and-more-resilient-schools Shining a Light on Community Transition Program https://learning-in-lake-oswego.simplecast.com/episodes/shining-a-light-on-the-community-transition-program Your Property Taxes Explained: https://learning-in-lake-oswego.simplecast.com/episodes/your-property-taxes-explained-investing-in-lake-oswegos-schools Together, we can ensure strong, safe schools for every LOSD student — now and into the future. Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website Visit us at 148 "B" Avenue Lake Oswego, OR 97034  We offer a wide range of membership tiers and benefits, so browse through our options on our website and pick the one that’s right for your business or organization.  Questions? Call 503-636-3634   For help with your own Podcast Show contact Michelle O’Dell, Modcast Productions  michelle@modcastproductions.com

    16 min
  7. Empowering Leaders: Insights from the Business Leadership Development Program

    10/01/2025

    Empowering Leaders: Insights from the Business Leadership Development Program

    This episode focuses on the Business Leadership Development (BLD) program. Hosted by Michelle O’Dell, the show features insights from Executive Coach Heather Graves Ramsey of Coach to Brilliance, Pam Waldman, and Lara James of the Waldman and James Realty Group. They discuss their experiences with the BLD program, its impact on their leadership skills, and the practical tools they gained. Liz Hartman joins them with What You Need to Know in LO to share upcoming Chamber events and community initiatives, including the Wine Walk and the Wellness Fair.  Click for more information: Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce | Business Leadership Development Heather Graves Ramsey, Coach to Brilliance / Business Leadership Development Keller Williams – Waldman & James  Waldman James Realty Group | Pam Waldman | Keller Williams Realty Portland Premiere | Lara James - Licensed Broker & Owner, Lake Oswego, OR Michelle O'Dell, Modcast Productions- HOME | Modcast Productions Lake Oswego Wine Walk - Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce | Home LO Wellness Fair - Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce | Wellness Fair LO Review - Lake Oswego Review | News, Sports & Community in Lake Oswego, Oregon | Lake Oswego Review LO Lifestyle - Home - Lake Oswego Lifestyle Shari Newman - Nicoletta's Table and Marketplace Kabir Bhatia, Hello Everyday - Hello Everyday Mark Waller, Reborn Bikes - Home - Reborn Bikes Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website Visit us at 148 "B" Avenue Lake Oswego, OR 97034  We offer a wide range of membership tiers and benefits, so browse through our options on our website and pick the one that’s right for your business or organization.  Questions? Call 503-636-3634   For help with your own Podcast Show contact Michelle O’Dell, Modcast Productions  michelle@modcastproductions.com

    26 min
  8. Insurance Made Possible: Understanding Group Health Benefits for Small Businesses

    09/01/2025

    Insurance Made Possible: Understanding Group Health Benefits for Small Businesses

    In this episode of Business LO, hosted by the Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce, we explore the Bend Chamber of Commerce Health Benefits Program offered to chamber members in Oregon. Executive Coach and Leadership Advocate Heather Graves Ramsey from Coach to Brilliance  discusses the program with Dennis Warneke, Senior VP at Risk Strategies Benefit Design Group, along with Chamber CEO Liz Hartman. They detail how small businesses can leverage group health insurance plans through Providence Health Plan and Delta Dental to provide valuable health benefits to employees. Additionally, the discussion covers specific eligibility criteria, plan benefits, and the importance of healthcare in employee retention. The episode also includes updates on local business events and available sponsorship opportunities. The Oregon State Chamber of Commerce has provided group health insurance that is administered through the Bend Chamber, but available to all Chambers (and chamber members) in the state of Oregon. The group plan is through Providence Health Plan. Lake Oswego local chamber member Dennis Warneke with Risk Strategies – Benefit Design Group – can help you navigate whether this program will work for you and your employees. Call Dennis at 503-699-1933 or 503-816-1313 for more information or email dennis@warnekegroup.com. Offices are located at 7140 SW Fir Loop, Suite 130 (Portland/Tigard area). The plan provider is Providence Health Plan. Rates are based on your group’s demographics, the plan design selected, and the percentage of employer contribution. Some of the underwriting guidelines you’ll need to consider:  Groups written shall be members in good standing with the Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Plans are available to groups of two or more with a minimum of 2 enrolled (family-only plans not available) There must be at least 1 common law/payrolled employee enrolling Employer must contribute a minimum of 50% of the employee’s premium Employers may set eligibility between 17.5 and 40 hours per week Risk Strategies Benefit Design Group – Dennis Warneke -  503-816-1313 Bend Chamber of Commerce - Chamber Health Insurance » Bend Chamber of Commerce Oregon State Chamber of Commerce - Home - Oregon State Chamber of Commerce, OR Providence Health Plan - Providence Health Plan | Health For All OHSU Health Plan - Oregon Health Plan Members | OHSU Thank you, Regence Blue Cross, sponsor of the 2025 LO Chamber Wellness Fair. Ribbon Cuttings Pickleball Kingdom – Saturday, September 6,  11 am, open house 11-3 pm, The Farrell Group at RATE – Friday, September 12, 4 pm ribbon cutting / 4-6 pm reception – Julie Farrell Visiting Angels – Tuesday, September 16, 4-6 pm reception, 4 pm ribbon cutting -  3 Centerpointe Drive Saturday, October 4 – Lake Oswego Wine Walk –Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce | Downtown Lake Oswego Wine Walk Wellness Fair, 2-5 pm – TITLE SPONSOR – Blue Cross Blue Shield, Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield - Regence: The most trusted name in health insurance February Community Awards event – sponsor now, call 503-636-3634 – Title Sponsor Columbia Bank - Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce | Community Recognition Awards NEWSLETTER – comes out Tuesdays, 2 pm – Send your info to Jen@lake-oswego.com Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website Visit us at 148 "B" Avenue Lake Oswego, OR 97034  We offer a wide range of membership tiers and benefits, so browse through our options on our website and pick the one that’s right for your business or organization.  Questions? Call 503-636-3634   For help with your own Podcast Show contact Michelle O’Dell, Modcast Productions  michelle@modcastproductions.com

    19 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce connects, educates, advocates and champions our business community. We have nearly 500 members, from international corporations to home-based businesses, and we serve them all. Each episode of Business LO gives insider information to the local business community and the neighbors who support them. This podcast is the go-to for the must-dos for your business success here in Lake Oswego.

Information

  • Creator
    Michelle O'Dell, Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Business LO