Business LO

Business LO

By Michelle O'Dell, Lake Oswego Chamber of CommerceBusinessNewsEducationMarketingBusiness NewsCourses
Download on the App Store

Business LO episodes

  • 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 311 B Avenue, Suite E

    (next to the Post Office, across from the fire station and the Beacon Building/Lola's)

    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 [email protected]

    25 min
  • 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 311 B Avenue, Suite E

    (next to the Post Office, across from the fire station and the Beacon Building/Lola's)

    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 [email protected]

    29 min
  • 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 311 B Avenue, Suite E

    (next to the Post Office, across from the fire station and the Beacon Building/Lola's)

    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 [email protected]

    20 min
  • 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 311 B Avenue, Suite E

    (next to the Post Office, across from the fire station and the Beacon Building/Lola's)

    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 [email protected]

    16 min
  • 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 311 B Avenue, Suite E

    (next to the Post Office, across from the fire station and the Beacon Building/Lola's)

    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 [email protected]

    27 min
  • 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 [email protected]. 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 [email protected]

    Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website

    Visit us at 311 B Avenue, Suite E

    (next to the Post Office, across from the fire station and the Beacon Building/Lola's)

    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 [email protected]

    19 min
  • The Art of Aging Gracefully - Dr. Vila and Portland Face Doctor

    In this guest-branded bonus episode of Business LO, hosted by Michelle O’Dell and presented by the Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce, the focus is on aging gracefully with Dr. Peter Vila of Portland Face Doctor. Dr. Vila, a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon, discusses the nuances and misconceptions surrounding facial plastic surgery and the importance of individualized care and recovery plans. He delves into the Pacific Northwest aesthetic, emphasizing natural and undetectable results, and offers insights into male plastic surgery, recovery timelines, and the comprehensive approach of his practice. Dr. Vila’s expertise is highlighted alongside his commitment to patient-centered care. Listeners are encouraged to visit his website to see before-and-after images and learn more about his services.

     

    Dr. Peter Vila is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and the CEO of Portland Face Doctor, a boutique facial aesthetics practice based in Portland. Known for his commitment to natural, undetectable results, Dr. Vila specializes in facial rejuvenation and rhinoplasty, helping patients look as good as they feel without looking “overdone.”

    Dr. Vila completed his surgical training at renowned institutions including Washington University in St. Louis and Northwestern University in Chicago. Since bringing his expertise to the Portland area, he has earned a reputation for exceptional outcomes, clinical integrity, and a warm, patient-centered approach.

    Whether in the operating room or performing nonsurgical treatments, Dr. Vila combines technical precision with an artist’s eye—serving working professionals, creatives, and community members who want to feel refreshed and confident at every stage of life. He is proud to lead a world-class team at Portland Face Doctor, where he, alongside a dedicated group of nurses and patient care coordinators, delivers outstanding care and beautiful, lasting results.

    Instagram 

    YouTube

    LinkedIn

    Facebook

    Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website

    Visit us at 311 B Avenue, Suite E

    (next to the Post Office, across from the fire station and the Beacon Building/Lola's)

    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 [email protected]

    21 min
  • Leadership Lake Oswego: Knowledge Informs, Relationships Transform

    Are you ready to take your career and work life to the next level? This episode will help you think it through. 

    Leadership Lake Oswego has been helping leaders create the conditions for success since 1985, and the class of 2025 will be honing their leadership skills and fostering greater connection within the community.

    Krystal Hanna from Lion’s Capital Mortgage is in the captain’s seat with the questions for Chamber members,Tony Buccola from OnPoint Community Credit Union, and Karin Edsell, NW Housing Alternatives, both from the Leadership Lake Oswego Class of 2024-25. And Chamber CEO Liz Hartman will give us the ever-important What You Need to Know in LO! 

    Leadership Lake Oswego - Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce | Leadership Lake Oswego

    Leadership LO Meet and Greet - Thursday, August 21, 5:30-7 pm at Directors Mortgage, click here to reserve:  Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce | Event Details

    OnPoint Credit Union - Kruse Meadows Branch - OnPoint Community Credit Union

    Northwest Housing Alternatives - Northwest Housing Alternatives

    Artisserie Fine Bakery - Artisserie Fine Bakery | French Patisserie in Portland

    Networking requests - send to [email protected] with three potential dates in 2026.  

    Podcast sponsor = $250;  Solo program = $500       HOME | Modcast Productions

    Chamber Sponsorship Opportunities: Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce | Sponsorship Opportunities

     

    Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website

    Visit us at 311 B Avenue, Suite E

    (next to the Post Office, across from the fire station and the Beacon Building/Lola's)

    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 [email protected]

    21 min
  • Functional Medicine in Lake Oswego: Reshaping Primary Care with OnePeak Medical

    In this episode, we’re joined by Krista Espenship, MSN, FNP-C, and Vanessa Burnum, MS, from OnePeak Medical’s Lake Oswego clinic to discuss how functional medicine is reshaping care for individuals and families in Oregon. They explore common concerns like burnout, fatigue, hormone imbalance, and weight gain, and explain why traditional primary care often misses the mark.

    You’ll learn how root-cause healing, a core principle of functional medicine, helps patients achieve long-term wellness and regain energy, clarity, and confidence. Krista and Vanessa also introduce their new peer-based group classes, launching August 1, designed to support sustainable health improvements through education, community, and personalized care.

    Whether you're struggling with chronic fatigue, weight challenges, or midlife health changes, this episode offers practical insights into a smarter, whole-body approach to healthcare.

    Connect with OnePeak Medical: 

    Website: www.OnePeakMedical.com
    Socials: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube

    18 locations across Oregon, including Lake Oswego

     

    Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website

    Visit us at 311 B Avenue, Suite E

    (next to the Post Office, across from the fire station and the Beacon Building/Lola's)

    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 [email protected]

    20 min
  • Tools for Wellness- IV Hydration and Wellness Shots from Maxem Health Urgent Care

    Michelle O’Dell sits down with Brianne Whitney, the first Chamber Member to be a guest on Business LO twice; she was on Episode 2 with Five Simple but Powerful Strategies for Employers to Elevate Employee Wellness. 

    Maxem Health Urgent Care is a one-stop place for you and your whole family to get immediate help with urgent care, basic care, some specialized care, and even school athletic physicals at the great price of $20 in July! Plus, they specialize in Medical Weight Loss services, and Brianne shares the latest symptoms of COVID and what to look for.   

    In this bonus episode, Maxem Health Urgent Care should be called Maxem Wellness Spa because they have WELLNESS TOOLS that go way beyond urgent care.  In the immortal words of Tom and Donna of Parks and Rec: Treat yo self! Especially the ladies! 

    IV Hydration Services:

    GET UP AND GO

    Designed to help kickstart your

    metabolism and feel more energized.

    Enhances athletic performance, burns fat

    more quickly, and improves metabolism

    ALLEVIATE

    Designed to help relieve

    Symptoms of premenstrual

    syndrome (PMS) including

    abdominal discomfort,

    bloating, irritability, lower

    back pain, headaches, and

    migraine pain

    IMMUNITY

    Designed to help your immune

    system, prevent illnesses, and make you feel better faster

    after getting sick. Zinc is used

    to help reduce the duration of

    illnesses, prevent infection and

    speed up the body’s healing

    process.

    MYERS COCKTAIL

    This cocktail premix is designed

    to help alleviate chronic

    symptoms, including ongoing

    pain, asthma, and more

    MORNING AFTER

    Contains essential electrolytes

    necessary for hydration. Helps

    regulate fluid and electrolyte

    balance across cell membranes,

    and aids in removing toxins from

    the body. Perfect hangover cure!

    Plus ADD-ONS 

    B12, Vitamin D, Lipo +, MICC, Toradol, NAD + (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), Glutathione and Zofran  

    Telehealth Services are available too! 

    GET THE CARE YOU NEED, WHEN YOU NEED IT

    17437 SW Boones Ferry Road #100 Lake Oswego, OR 97035 

    Ph: 503-387-3796

    Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce Website

    Visit us at 311 B Avenue, Suite E

    (next to the Post Office, across from the fire station and the Beacon Building/Lola's)

    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 [email protected]

    15 min

About Business LO

From the publisher's feed

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…