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/

Follow ABAE on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ABAEeugene/

Email us at podcast@eugenechamber.com

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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/

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.

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/

Follow Tim - https://www.instagram.com/timduncanrealestate/

Learn From Tim - 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.