BBB of Central New England CEO Lisa Swanson on AI, Business Support, and Community Outreach
By-Hank Stolz
Photo-Submitted
WORCESTER, MA-Lisa Swanson, the CEO of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Central New England, discussed her first six months in the role and her strategic initiatives for the new year. She highlighted a restructuring effort to better serve accredited businesses, including assigning dedicated account managers. A significant portion of the conversation focused on the importance of embracing technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), and how the BBB’s vast data and website structure provided a competitive advantage for its members in online searches. Swanson also detailed new community outreach programs, like the “BBB Better Together” event series, and emphasized the collaborative strength of the North American BBB network as a key resource for local businesses.
BBB’s Lisa Swanson Promotes “12 Week Year” Planning and Teases New Trades & Tech Initiative
Lisa Swanson, CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Central New England, called in from a BBB conference in Florida to discuss “The 12 Week Year,” upcoming scam prevention seminars, and new BBB events for local businesses — including a major initiative for trades and tech companies to be announced at an upcoming Worcester Railers game.
New Year, Same Scammers: Financial Scams Surge in January
January creates the perfect environment for scammers. As people expect tax notices, job emails, and financial updates, fraudsters design messages that blend seamlessly into everyday activity — making the first month of the year one of the most dangerous.
BBB Wraps Up “12 Scams of Christmas” -Puppy Scams and Mort
The Better Business Bureau is closing out its 12 Scams of Christmas campaign with warnings about fake delivery alerts, luxury advent calendar fraud, sold-out toy scams, and puppy scams that spike during the holidays.
The 12 Scams of Christmas (Part Two)
In Part Two of The 12 Scams of Christmas, Shannon Manassa of the BBB of Central New England outlines four major scams to watch for during the holiday season — from fake gift card offers and phony seasonal jobs to impostor retail sites and charity fraud. Learn how scammers trick consumers during the busiest shopping months and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
“12 Scams of the Holidays” (Part 1)
BBB’s Shannon Manassa joins Radio Worcester to kick off Part 1 of “12 Scams of the Holidays,” warning shoppers about fake social media ads, gift-exchange scams, and risky holiday apps that could cost families money and personal data.
BBB Warns of ‘Ghost-Tapping’ Scam Targeting Tap-to-Pay Users
BBB of Central New England warns consumers about “ghost-tapping,” a scam exploiting tap-to-pay and mobile wallet technology to make unauthorized charges in crowded public places.
Gaudette Insurance Marks 100 Years of Family Values and BBB Partnership
Gaudette Insurance President Lee Gaudette joined BBB CEO Lisa Swanson to reflect on 100 years of family business tradition, the importance of trust and transparency, and why BBB accreditation remains essential in today’s digital era.
Better Business Bureau Hosts First Multilingual Events for Latino Business Owners in Worcester
Lisa Swanson, President & CEO of the BBB of Central New England, shares details about the bureau’s first-ever multilingual business benefits overviews, held October 1st and 2nd for Latino business owners. The new initiative, launched in partnership with organizations like E for All, highlights collaboration over competition. The events mark the beginning of an ongoing “Better Together” series that will travel to Springfield, the Berkshires, and beyond. Joining Swanson were Leo, the BBB’s new account manager specializing in Latino businesses, Jose Castro, head of E for All Greater Worcester, and Megan McBride, BBB’s Director of Marketing and Communications.
BBB Warns Worcester Residents About Phishing Scams and Fake Emails
Megan MacBride of the BBB Central New England shares tips to spot phishing scams and fraudulent emails. Learn the warning signs and how to report suspicious activity to BBB’s Scam Tracker.
BBB’s Megan MacBride Warns of Five Common Vacation Scams and How to Avoid Them
Megan MacBride of the Better Business Bureau of Central New England joined Talk of the Commonwealth to detail five common vacation scams. From fraudulent vacation rentals and misleading “free” vacation offers to shady third-party booking sites and hotel frauds like fake front-desk calls, Wi-Fi skimming, and bogus food delivery menus, MacBride explained the red flags travelers should watch for. She also shared practical steps to protect yourself, including verifying information, using trusted websites, and steering clear of high-pressure tactics.
Brian McEvoy of Webster Five on the Power of Community Banking
Brian McAvoy, Chief Retail Banking Officer at Webster Five, reflects on the bank’s deep local roots, its focus on supporting small businesses, and why being part of the community isn’t just good business—it’s the mission.
Lisa Swanson Named President & CEO of BBB Central New England, Aims to Expand Nonprofit Accreditation
Lisa Swanson, a familiar face in Central New England’s business community, is the new President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Central New England. With nearly two decades of leadership at the Hanover Theatre, Swanson brings experience and vision to the BBB’s mission. In this conversation, she discusses the bureau’s rigorous accreditation standards, her push to involve more nonprofits, and her plans to revitalize the President’s Club. She invites the community to connect at an upcoming open house and emphasizes the BBB’s role as a trusted resource for consumers, businesses, and charities.
ABOUT
Discover the captivating world behind the scenes of local shows on Radio Worcester. At Radio Worcester, we go beyond just talking about what's happening in Central Massachusetts. We take pride in bringing you a uniquely local perspective on national politics, global affairs, and the rest of Massachusetts.
Our talented hosts and dedicated team work tirelessly to produce thought-provoking discussions, lively debates, and engaging content that truly reflects the pulse of our community. With an intimate knowledge of the region, our hosts bring their unique perspectives to the table, ensuring an authentic listening experience. Join us in celebrating the power of genuine conversations and the magic of community-driven radio.
Turn to Radio Worcester for the information you need to stay up to date on all things Worcester and central Massachusetts!
CONNECT
RADIO WORCESTER STUDIOS
Summit Street (Behind Polar Park)
Worcester, MA 01610.