This episode features Oregon Chief Economist Carl Riccadonna, interviewed by Heather Graves Ramsey, owner of Coach to Brilliance, who specializes in Executive Coaching & Leadership Development. We discuss how his office forecasts state economic conditions and revenues for the biennial budget, delivering quarterly public testimony to legislators and publishing materials via OLIS and the Office of Economic Analysis website. Riccadonna highlights Oregon’s strong civic engagement, explains how national and global forces shape Oregon outcomes, and describes forecasting as “art and science” using historical economic relationships while relying on and adjusting national forecasts. He warns small businesses about persistent, elevated inflation driven by multiple factors (including energy, wages, and tariffs) and a potential shift toward higher interest rates versus the pre-pandemic era. He urges focusing on fundamentals rather than recession headlines or calendar-based cycle assumptions. Chamber CEO Liz Hartman announces a meet-and-greet for new city manager Denzel Maxwell, a candidate forum, a Tuscany 2027 trip event, the Business Leadership Program starting in January, and endorsements for three City Council candidates.

OLIS - Oregon Legislative Information System to listen to hearings and presentations

Candidate Forum - Thursday, October 8 - 7:30 am, 8 am start time - go to Lake Oswego Chamber events

Spotlight on Tuscany = Thursday, October 8 - 4:30-6 pm - click here for a reservation Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce

Leadership Development - Business Leadership Development - January-June - Call 503-636-3634 or go to Business Leadership Development

LO Chamber city council candidate endorsement (candidate websites)

Neil Tunmore Neil Tunmore for Lake Oswego City Council

Heather Graves Ramsey Heather Ramsey for Lake Oswego City Council

Brian Guiney Home | Bryan for 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 michelle@modcastproductions.com