The Eugene Morning Hustle Podcast

Episode 20 – Art, Advocacy, and Business: Shaping Eugene’s Creative Future w/ Kelly Johnson

Today, we’re shining a light on Eugene’s thriving but underfunded arts scene with Kelly Johnson, Executive Director of the Arts & Business Alliance of Eugene. In this episode, we dive into the challenges, opportunities, and innovative solutions that define Eugene’s creative community. Kelly shares her insights on how businesses, individuals, and advocacy can drive the arts forward to ensure their place in Eugene’s future. Topics Covered: * Eugene’s Rich Art History: A look at the decades-long legacy of Eugene’s art organizations and the community’s role in maintaining this ecosystem for the next generation. * Funding and Advocacy: Oregon ranks 41st in arts funding. What needs to change, and how can Eugene lead the way in statewide arts advocacy? * COVID’s Impact on the Arts: Creative pivots and how things are looking post COVID. * The Arts Economy: Surprising findings from the Arts and Economics study on how the arts directly impact Eugene’s economy, tourism, and quality of life. * Overcoming Marketing Challenges: How fewer journalists and downtown’s reputation affect visibility, and what can be done to bring more people to Eugene’s arts events. * Business Engagement: The benefits of businesses integrating arts into their culture, including improved creativity, team building, and mental health. Kelly also shares actionable tips on how to get involved, whether through attending events like the First Friday Art Walk, advocating for state-level funding, or supporting local art organizations. Listen in to learn how Eugene’s arts scene is evolving, the critical role it plays in the community, and how you can be part of shaping its future. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others! Links from this Episode:Arts & Business Alliance of Eugene - https://artsbusinessalliance.org/Lane Arts Council - https://lanearts.org/category/first-friday/ First Friday Art Walks - https://www.downtowneugene.com/business/first-friday-artwalk/ [https://www.downtowneugene.com/business/first-friday-artwalk/] Follow ABAE on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ABAEeugene/ Email us at podcast@eugenechamber.com For questions, guest recommendations, topics, or advertising on the podcast?

Episode 19 - Elevating Eugene w/ CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Brittany Quick-Warner

This has been a long time coming. We are excited to have Brittany Quick-Warner, CEO of the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce on the podcast to share about her journey, the Chamber’s role in supporting local businesses, and the ambitious Elevate 2028 initiative. Tune in for insights on how the Chamber is shaping Eugene’s economic future and how you can get involved. Topics Covered: Brittany’s Journey: From her background to becoming CEO of the Chamber and her plans for the future. Chamber 101: What the Chamber does to support businesses and the community. Community Involvement: Programs like Young Professionals (YP) and how to engage. Success Stories: Real examples of local businesses thriving with Chamber support. Elevate 2028: A look at the initiative’s goals and how businesses can get involved. Economic Landscape: Challenges facing Eugene businesses and how the Chamber is addressing them. Business Tips: Advice for local business owners and leadership lessons. Listen now to hear how the Chamber and community members are driving Eugene’s growth and how you can be part of it. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others! Links from this Episode: Learn More About The Chamber of Commerce - https://www.eugenechamber.com/ [https://www.eugenechamber.com/] Got a question, guest, or topic you want us to dive into in the podcast? Email us at podcast@eugenechamber.com. Interested in advertising your business on the podcast? Email us at podcast@eugenechamber.com for an affordable way to get your business seen and heard by your audience.

Episode 18 - Buy, Sell, Invest: Real Estate on Your Terms w/ Tim Duncan Real Estate

In this episode, we explore the constantly shifting real estate market and how buyers, sellers, and investors can make informed decisions today. Our guest, Tim Duncan from Tim Duncan Real Estate, shares his insights on navigating complex market dynamics, offers essential tips on selecting the right real estate agent, and discusses strategic moves for buyers and sellers. We also tackle timely topics, such as rate buy-down strategies, the truth behind the not-so-scary recent NAR lawsuit, and even the surprising affordability of investment properties. Topics Covered: * Real estate is ever-evolving, and timing is key, but so is financial readiness and understanding local inventory. * The right agent can make all the difference—prioritize knowledge, communication, and client trust. * Rate buy-downs are a valuable tool to negotiate, especially in today’s market. * Simultaneously buying and selling is possible with the right strategy and professional support. * The NAR lawsuit is reshaping real estate, but industry professionals are adapting to continue providing value. * Investment properties are more attainable than expected—now might be the time to start exploring options. Tune in to learn how real estate expert Tim Duncan is helping buyers, sellers, and investors navigate today’s market, uncovering strategies for success and revealing the surprising truths behind real estate decisions. Discover how the right decision, knowledge, and support can make all the difference. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others who might benefit from this insightful episode. Links from this Episode: Learn More About Tim Duncan Real Estate - https://www.timduncanre.com/ [https://www.timduncanre.com/] Follow Tim - https://www.instagram.com/timduncanrealestate/ [https://www.instagram.com/timduncanrealestate/] Learn From Tim - https://www.youtube.com/@timduncanrealestate4505 [https://www.youtube.com/@timduncanrealestate4505] Got a question, guest, or topic you want us to dive into in the podcast? Email us at podcast@eugenechamber.com. Interested in advertising your business on the podcast? Email us at podcast@eugenechamber.com for an affordable way to get your business seen and heard by your audience.

Episode 17 - Building Sustainable Communities w/ SELCO Credit Union and SquareOne Villages

In this episode, we explore the impactful partnership between SELCO Credit Union and SquareOne Villages, a non-profit dedicated to creating affordable, sustainable communities for individuals transitioning from homelessness. Discover how this collaboration is changing lives and addressing the pressing housing crisis in Eugene, Oregon. Join Olivia Sorensen, Senior Community Development Specialist at SELCO Credit Union, and Amanda Dellinger, Community Relations Director at SquareOne Villages, as they share their journeys and the inspiration behind their work. They discuss the challenges facing our community, the innovative solutions being implemented, and the importance of collaboration in driving meaningful change. Learn about the beginnings of their partnership, including SELCO's support for the Resident Support Fund, which helps cover critical expenses like rent and ID fees. We explore the tangible contributions SELCO has made to enhance the lives of those in need, such as providing essential amenities for tiny homes, including refrigerators and electricity. We also delve into the Broken Window Theory and how positive actions can inspire community involvement, highlighting SELCO's commitment to fostering a supportive environment. Hear firsthand accounts of how these efforts are transforming the lives of our most vulnerable populations and how SELCO’s Step Up program is impacting our community's education system. Topics Covered: * The overarching issues that led to the collaboration between SELCO and SquareOne Villages. * Amanda's inspiration for advocating for the homelessness community and her role in community engagement. * How SquareOne Villages addresses the housing crisis by providing affordable housing options. * SELCO's contributions to the partnership and the support offered to residents. * SELCO Steps Up: a community initiative by SELCO Credit Union that supports local organizations addressing critical needs through funding, resources, and volunteer efforts, with a focus on social equity and financial literacy. * The Broken Window Theory and its relevance to community improvement. * Real stories of individuals whose lives have been positively impacted by these initiatives. Tune in to learn how SELCO Credit Union and SquareOne Villages are working together to build sustainable communities and provide hope for those in need, showcasing the power of collaboration and community support. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others who might benefit from this inspiring story! Links from this Episode: SquareOne Villages [https://www.squareonevillages.org/] Follow SquareOne Villages [https://www.instagram.com/squareonevillages/⁠] More about their partnership [https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8FMoqop7Fv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==] SELCO Steps Up [https://www.selco.org/steps-up/⁠] Follow SELCO [https://www.instagram.com/selcoccu/⁠] Got a question, guest, or topic you want us to dive into in the podcast? Email us at podcast@eugenechamber.com. Interested in advertising your business on the podcast? Email us at podcast@eugenechamber.com for an affordable way to get your business seen and heard by your audience.

Episode 16 - Transforming Healthcare with Direct Primary Care w/ Dr

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the transformative world of Direct Primary Care (DPC) with Dr. Nick Jones, founder of Clear Health DPC in Eugene, Oregon. Discover how this innovative model of healthcare blends the personalized touch of old-fashioned care with modern medicine to build lasting patient relationships, enhance accessibility, and offer more affordable healthcare options. Nick shares his journey into medicine, what inspired him to start a Direct Primary Care practice, and how it differs from the traditional healthcare system. Learn about the benefits of the DPC model, from longer, more personalized appointments to improved accessibility for those with multiple jobs or those who are self-employed. We also discuss the advantages of a subscription-based healthcare model over traditional fee-for-service setups, and how this approach reduces the reliance on insurance billing, allowing for more proactive and preventive care. Plus, hear real success stories of patients whose lives have been positively impacted by this more personalized approach to healthcare. Topics Covered: * What Direct Primary Care is and how it’s different from traditional practices. * How DPC fosters stronger, long-term patient relationships. * The advantages of a subscription model for patients and doctors. * Making healthcare more accessible and affordable for working professionals and families. * Real patient success stories showing the impact of personalized, direct care. Tune in to learn why Direct Primary Care might be the future of healthcare for those seeking a more personal, flexible, and affordable approach to managing their health. Links from this Episode: Clear Health DPC [https://www.clearhealthdpc.com/] The Coconut [https://www.thecoconut.net/] National DPC Network [https://nationaldpcnetwork.com/] Lane County Medical Society - Find a Doctor [https://lcmedsociety.com/] Got a question, guest, or topic you want us to dive into in the podcast? Email us at podcast@eugenechamber.com. Interested in advertising your business on the podcast? Email us at podcast@eugenechamber.com for an affordable way to get your business seen and heard by your audience.