Is it possible to have a premium "night out" in the PNW without the proof-point?

In this episode of Keys to the PNW, we’re stepping inside the stunning, emerald-velvet world of Urban River Spirits in downtown Hillsboro, Oregon. Founders Michelle and Jackie Garner join us to share their incredible journey from "scrappy" farmers market beginnings to opening one of the region's most talked-about zero-proof lounges.

We dive deep into the art of mindful mixology, the challenges of being a woman-owned business in the craft beverage industry, and why they chose the Tualatin Valley as the home for their "sober-curious" revolution. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a better way to gather, this episode unlocks the secret to high-spirit, no-proof hospitality.

In this episode, we discuss:

The "Easter Spark" that started the business.

Why Forest Grove was the perfect "laboratory" for their first tasting room.

How they craft bold flavors like Blueberry Basil and Jalapeño Watermelon.

Michelle and Jackie’s "PNW Favorites"—from hidden gems to local gear.

Support our guests: Visit Urban River Spirits: https://www.urbanriverspirits.com/

Follow them on Instagram: @UrbanRiverSpirits

Follow Keys to the PNW: Instagram: @KeysToThePNW

Subscribe for more stories from the Upper Left!

#UrbanRiverSpirits #KeysToThePNW #HillsboroOregon #ZeroProof #Mocktails #PNWLife #WomenInBusiness #SoberCurious

Keys to the PNW

The Bearded Queen of Portland: Pluto’s Journey & The 48-Hour Dragathon

What does it take to go from a small town in Michigan to becoming a literal icon in the Portland drag scene? In this episode of Keys to the PNW, host Donna Meeuwsen sits down with the one and only Pluto, the bearded queen who is redefining what drag looks like in the Pacific Northwest.

Pluto opens up about their unique aesthetic, the rise of bearded drag, and the heart behind the hair. We dive deep into their incredible philanthropic work, including the legendary, record-breaking 48-hour dragathon that raised vital funds for The Trevor Project. Whether you’re a drag superfan, a PNW local, or someone who loves a story about community and giving back, this episode is packed with inspiration, glitter, and a little bit of "Keep Portland Weird" magic.

🕒 What’s Inside: Small Town to Stardom: Pluto’s journey from Michigan to PDX. Breaking the Mold: The evolution and artistry of bearded drag. Giving Back: The story behind the 48-hour marathon for The Trevor Project. PDX Life: Rapid-fire questions about the best (and weirdest) of the Pacific Northwest.

✨ Support & Follow: If you enjoyed this episode, please Like, Subscribe, and hit the Notification Bell to stay updated on all things PNW!

Follow Pluto: @Thequeenpluto

Experience The Queen Pluto - One Woman Show: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/experience-the-queen-pluto-tickets-1980572840682?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

CAP - Cascade AIDS Project: https://www.capnw.org

Camp KC: https://www.capnw.org/camp-kc

Learn more about The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Darcelle's XV & Co: https://www.darcellexv.com/

Keys to the PNW Instagram: @KeystothePNWofficial

#PortlandDrag #BeardedQueen #KeysToThePNW #TheTrevorProject #PortlandOregon #DragArt #LGBTQPNW #PlutoTheQueen #CommunityImpact

What does it take to turn a daily ritual into a mission of connection? In this episode of Keys to the PNW, host Donna Meeuwsen sits down with Keri Elliott, the visionary founder and owner of Roasted by Mom. Keri shares her incredible journey from growing up in a household where coffee was "taboo" to becoming a five-time award-winning roaster in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

We dive deep into the "aha moment" behind her iconic branding, the hilarious (and smoky) disaster of her first home-roast in a cast iron skillet, and why she refuses to use automation in her roasting process. In this episode, we discuss:

The Story Behind the Name: How a Mother’s Day limited edition turned into a trademarked brand.

The Artisan Approach: Why Keri relies on sight, smell, and sound instead of software to roast her beans.

Sourcing with Integrity: The importance of supporting farmers, education, and fair wages in the global coffee supply chain.

Community over Competition: The unique "roasting collective" in Hillsboro, Oregon, where local brands thrive together. The Psychology of Color: Why Keri painted her shop walls orange to break the "coffee snobbery" stigma.

Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just love a good entrepreneur success story, Keri’s passion for her craft and her community is sure to leave you inspired. About Roasted by Mom Located in Hillsboro, Oregon, Roasted by Mom is a specialty coffee roastery dedicated to quality, empathy, and the perfect cup.

📍 Visit them at their Hillsboro storefront near Cornelius Pass! https://www.roastedbymom.com/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/roastedbymom/ Instagram: @roastedbymomcoffee Location: 2038 NE Aloclek Dr Ste 219, Hillsboro, OR 97124 Phone: (503) 389-0114

Donate to their Rebel Girl Coffee Crowdfunding Campaign https://www.indiegogo.com/en/projects/rude...

About Keys to the PNW Host Donna Meeuwsen unlocks the hidden gems, stories, and people that make life in the "Upper Left" truly special.

What does it actually mean to "find a home" in the Pacific Northwest?

Finding a place to live is about more than four walls and a roof - it’s about the life you build around them. Whether you’re scouting for your very first home or you’ve lived in the Portland Metro area for decades, there is always a new layer of this region to uncover. In this introductory episode, I’m thrilled to share the vision behind Keys to the PNW, a new podcast dedicated to the pulse of the Portland region.

Join me as I explore the intersection of lifestyle, culture, and the places we call home. In this episode, I’m breaking down the 4 Pillars of the show: Real Estate & Living: Navigating the local market maze and finding the neighborhood personality that fits your soul—from Laurelhurst to Lake Oswego and Vancouver. Food & Drink: A look inside the kitchens of James Beard-winning chefs, Willamette Valley wineries, and the best coffee roasters in the city. Entertainment & Culture: Highlighting the local music venues, hidden art galleries, and festivals that keep our community vibrant. The PNW Lifestyle: Celebrating the outdoor-obsessed, the creative entrepreneurs, and the spirit of independence that defines us. "In the PNW, your home doesn't end at your front door, it extends to the mountains, the coast, and every local shop in between."

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keystothepnwoffi... Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61... Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE and hit the 🔔 to stay updated on all things Portland Metro! #PortlandReal Estate #PNWLifestyle #KeysToThePNW #PortlandOregon #MoveToPortland #PortlandFoodie #pnwliving Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/stan-town/groove-sauce License code: U9AQP6TCTLVKJ2VI