Welcome To Livingston

Episode 173: Looking Ahead to 2026 in Livingston County

In this episode, Don and Angela kick off the new year by sharing what 2026 has in store for Livingston County! From major local festivals to community parades and new projects, including Howell’s outdoor rink, updates to the Howell Opera House, and continued downtown development. On the real estate side, Don and Angela close the show with a practical look at the housing market, interest rate trends, and expectations for buyers and sellers. 2026 is going to be an exciting year!
 
Timestamps
05:19 - Livingston County Festivals and Events
11:54 - Major County Projects: Howell
16:22 - Business Development: Brighton
26:45 - 2026 Real Estate Outlook
33:42 - Realtor Advice
 
Show Links
For more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:  
Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroup
Website: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9Q
Phone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)  
 
Sponsor Links
Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.  
James Paquette Mortgage Sales Manager Lake Michigan Credit Union - LMCU NMLS ID# 533633
Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000
Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611  
Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquette
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCU
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/
 

Episode 172: Skip the Big Box Stores: Shop Local Livingston

In this episode, Don and Angela share why supporting local businesses in Livingston County matters, especially during the holiday season and slower winter months. They highlight unique local shops, creative gift ideas, and the value of restaurant gift cards and experience-based gifts that give back to the community. From shopping downtown to enjoying winter activities at local attractions, this conversation is a reminder that keeping it local makes a lasting impact.
 
00:00 Supporting Local
02:06 Holiday Greetings & Michigan Weather
03:14 Unique Local Shops for Gifts
07:20 School Spirit & Nostalgic Gifts
10:47 Food, Gear, and Thoughtful Gifts
14:39 Active Lifestyles & Literary Gifts
18:31 Retro Entertainment & Family Fun
23:04 Jewelry, Dining, and Year-Round Support
26:19 Michigan-Themed & Artisan Creations
29:30 Humorous Gifts & Local Delicacies
32:01 Winter Activities & Community Engagement
 
Show Links
For more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:
 
Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroup
Website: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9Q
Phone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)
 
Sponsor Links
Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.
 
James Paquette
Mortgage Sales Manager
Lake Michigan Credit Union - LMCU
NMLS ID# 533633
Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000
Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611
 
Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquette
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCU
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU

Episode 171: Homebuyer Priorities: Wants, Needs, And Must-Haves

In this episode, Don and Angela break down the key decisions every homebuyer should consider, from choosing the right property type and utilities to understanding maintenance needs and lifestyle fit. They explain how factors like septic vs. sewer, turnkey vs. fixer-upper, and city living vs. country acreage shape your daily life and long term satisfaction. With guidance on securing pre-approval and why an experienced agent matters, this conversation gives buyers the clarity they need to move forward with confidence.
 
01:34 Buyer Consultations & Needs
03:34 Sewer vs. Septic Systems
07:08 Gas vs. Propane & Water Sources
09:54 Dirt Road vs. Paved Road
21:39 Garage vs. Basement: Key Choices
25:52 Importance of an Experienced Realtor
30:26 Fixer-Upper, Acreage, and Location
33:59 Ranch, Waterfront, and Location
39:28 Proactive Realtor & Final Advice
 
Show Links
For more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:
 
Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroup
Website: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9Q
Phone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)
 
Sponsor Links
Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.
 
James Paquette
Mortgage Sales Manager
Lake Michigan Credit Union - LMCU
NMLS ID# 533633
Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000
Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611
 
Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquette
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCU
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU

Episode 170: Operation Christmas Wishes: Giving To Those In Need

In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Ashley Watterson, from Yoga Strong Foundation, and Daniel Oginsky, from Brighton Lighthouse and All Heart Garage, who highlight Operation Christmas Wishes, a powerful community initiative bringing holiday joy to more than 900 young students in Ypsilanti. Led by Brighton and Pinckney high schoolers, the program teaches the spirit of giving through fundraising, gift shopping, wrapping, and personal delivery. Hear how local partnerships with Brighton Lighthouse, All Heart Garage, and generous donors make it all possible, proving that when a community comes together, the true magic of Christmas shines brightest.
 
02:21 Scaling Operation Christmas Wishes
04:08 All Heart Garage’s Role
09:12 Gift Wrapping and Volunteer Effort
11:05 Student Involvement and Fundraising
16:04 Addressing Discrepancies and Needs
19:00 Inspiring Future Volunteers
21:50 Yoga Strong Foundation’s Broader Impact
25:38 Growth and Overcoming Challenges
31:25 Call to Action and Program Longevity
 
Show Links
For more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:
 
Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroup
Website: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9Q
Phone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)
 
Guest Links
Yoga Strong Foundation
Website: https://www.yogastrongfoundation.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yogastrongfoundation
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yogastrongfoundation/
Email: ashley@yogastrongfoundation.org
 
All Heart Garage
Website: www.heartmonicholdings.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllHeartGarage
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allheartgarage/
Email: doginsky@heartmonicholdings.com
Phone: 810.360.3768
 
Brighton Lighthouse
Website: https://www.brightonlighthouse.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBrightonLightHouse/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightonlighthouse/
 
Sponsor Links
Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.
 
James Paquette
Mortgage Sales Manager
Lake Michigan Credit Union - LMCU
NMLS ID# 533633
Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000
Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611
 
Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquette
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCU
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU

Episode 169: Mama Bear Productions: Wellness Made Simple

In this episode, Don and Angela chat with Mary Beth Potrykus of Mama Bear Productions about how small lifestyle changes can lead to big improvements in health and energy. Mary Beth shares her approach to personalized wellness through Shaklee’s science-backed supplements, toxin-free products, and guided cleanses that support the body inside and out. From gut health to skincare, she explains how understanding what you consume and what you put on your body can transform your overall well-being and create lasting healthy habits.
 
00:00 Introducing Mama Bear Productions
04:26 Shaklee’s Legacy and Products
07:09 Gut Health and Probiotics
11:00 Understanding Cleanses
13:15 Aging, Metabolism, and Healthy Habits
18:00 Impact of Chemicals and Skincare
24:21 Contacting Mama Bear Productions
 
Show Links
For more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:
 
Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroup
Website: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9Q
Phone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)
 
Guest Links
Website: https://us.shaklee.com/en_US/mamabear/storefront
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mama-bear-productions-llc/
 
Sponsor Links
Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.
 
James Paquette
Mortgage Sales Manager
Lake Michigan Credit Union - LMCU
NMLS ID# 533633
Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000
Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611
 
Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquette
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCU
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU

Episode 168: Brighton Pickleball Club: Your Hometown Club

In this week's episode of Welcome to Livingston, Don and Angela talk pickleball with Kristen Brown and Denny Dalman from the Brighton Pickleball Club, a local organization that contributes to the community by offering a vibrant space for pickleball enthusiasts. The club, which recently celebrated its first year of operation, provides an indoor facility with nine courts, making it possible for people to stay active year-round, even during Michigan’s colder months. The club focuses on creating a fun, learning-friendly environment through various offerings like lessons, leagues, tournaments, and community events, which help build connections among members.
 
1:21 - What is Pickleball?
11:08 - The Sports Origin Story
17:13 - Youth Programs and School Partnerships
22:26 - Tournaments and Professional Play
27:14 - Pickleball and the Olympics
_____________________________
 
Show Links
For more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:
 
Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroup
Website: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9Q
Phone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)
 
Guest Links
Website: https://brightonpickleballclub.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrightonPickleballClub/#
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightonpickleballclub
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-brown-210a85143
Email: BPCTeam@brightonpickleballclub.com
 
Sponsor Links
Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.
 
James Paquette
Mortgage Sales Manager
Lake Michigan Credit Union - LMCU
NMLS ID# 533633
Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000
Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611
 
Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquette
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCU
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU

Episode 167: Legacy Center Gymnastics: Building Skills That Last

In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Sarah Fierk from Legacy Center Gymnastics to talk about how the program helps kids of all ages build strength, confidence, and coordination through tumbling and trampoline training. With a strong focus on safety, mental growth, and individualized progress, Legacy Center Gymnastics gives children the tools to succeed both in athletics and in life. Whether it’s a first class for toddlers or advanced training for teens, families will find a supportive environment that celebrates every achievement.
 
00:00 Welcome to Legacy Gymnastics
01:09 Programs and Equipment
03:10 Gymnastics: Foundation for All Sports
05:09 Legacy: The Perfect Starting Point
06:01 Sarah’s Journey and Coaching Challenges
07:27 Tumbling Classes and Skill Development
09:57 Mind Over Matter: Visualization Techniques
11:35 Prioritizing Safety and Life Skills
15:52 Class Structure and Beginner Advice
19:33 Trampoline Skills and Advanced Training
22:00 Parties, Field Trips and Confidence Building
23:59 Trial Classes and Financial Efficiency
26:24 Legacy Center: A Community Hub
28:54 Connect with Legacy Gymnastics
 
Show Links
For more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:
 
Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroup
Website: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9Q
Phone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)
 
Guest Links
Website: https://legacycentermichigan.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LegacyCenterMichigan/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legacy_centermi/
Email: sfierk@legacycentermichigan.com
 
Sponsor Links
Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.
 
James Paquette
Mortgage Sales Manager
Lake Michigan Credit Union - LMCU
NMLS ID# 533633
Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000
Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611
 
Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquette
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCU
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU

Episode 166: Reaching Higher: Helping Students Reach Their Full Potential

In this episode, Don and Angela with Susie Dahlmann and Steve Livingway, who share the inspiring story of Reaching Higher, a program dedicated to helping students unlock their potential and build confidence for life. Through mentorship, leadership training, and a safe space for growth, Reaching Higher empowers youth to overcome anxiety, perfectionism, and self-doubt. Learn how the program’s impact extends to adults and businesses, creating stronger leaders across the community, and how anyone can get involved through mentoring, sponsorship, or community events.
 
00:00 Welcome to Reaching Higher
01:19 Reaching Higher’s Origin Story
03:49 How Reaching Higher Works
06:36 Impact on Students’ Lives
09:28 Navigating Modern Challenges
11:10 Annual Gala & Adult Programs
13:58 The Power of Connection
17:49 Program Reach and Impact
22:28 Overcoming Fixed Mindsets and Authenticity
26:50 Transformative Experiences
32:22 Legacy and Cascade Effect
36:18 Future Involvement and Closing
 
Show Links
For more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:
 
Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroup
Website: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9Q
Phone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)
 
Guest Links
Website: https://reachinghigherinc.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReachingHigherInc/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reachinghigherinc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reachinghigherinc/
X: https://x.com/reachhigher4l
Email info@reachinghigherinc.com
Phone: (810) 220-8812
Gala Tickets: https://givebutter.com/NIV2025
 
Sponsor Links
Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.
 
James Paquette
Mortgage Sales Manager
Lake Michigan Credit Union - LMCU
NMLS ID# 533633
Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000
Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611
 
Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquette
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCU
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU

Episode 165: Work Skills: Creating Opportunity for All

In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Julie Smith, who highlights the incredible impact of Work Skills, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with barriers through vocational training, clinical services, and creative opportunities. From paid production line work with major companies to the Artisan Corner’s thriving art program, Work Skills helps people build independence and purpose. She also share how the community can support the mission, through donations, events, or volunteering. See firsthand the positive culture that’s changing lives every day.
 
00:00 Welcome to Work Skills
02:57 Production Lines and Clinical Services
05:25 Artisan’s Corner and Boutique
09:55 Employment and Residential Services
14:00 Mission and Growth of Work Skills
15:49 Volunteer Opportunities and Culture
19:04 Supporting the Work Skills Foundation
22:25 Community Collaboration and Impact
26:07 Corporate Training and Contact Info
 
Show Links
For more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:
 
Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroup
Website: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9Q
Phone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)
 
Guest Links
Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org
Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg
Email julies@wskillsfoundation.org 
Phone: (517)304-8003
 
Sponsor Links
Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.
 
James Paquette
Mortgage Sales Manager
Lake Michigan Credit Union - LMCU
NMLS ID# 533633
Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000
Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611
 
Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquette
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCU
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU

Episode 164: Turner Design Group: Landscaping That Lasts

In this episode, Don and Angela sit down with Trisha Turner of Turner Design Group to talk about smart landscaping strategies that set your property up for success year round. From tackling invasive species with well timed treatments to prepping beds for winter and planning hardscape projects, Trisha shares expert tips that save time and protect your investment. They also explore creative indoor plant options like living and moss walls, blending beauty with low maintenance during the colder months.
 
01:16 Tackling Invasive Species
05:52 Turner Design Group’s Services
08:46 Winter Projects & Outdoor Rooms
12:27 Deck Renovations & Material Samples
17:50 Fall Yard Prep & Pruning Tips
22:18 Interior Landscaping & Living Walls
27:27 Landscape Trends & Renovations
 
Show Links
For more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:
 
Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroup
Website: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9Q
Phone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)
 
Guest Links
Website: https://turnerdesignmi.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TurnerDesignGroup/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/turnerdesigngroupmi/
Email: sales@turnerdesignmi.com
Phone: (800) 570-0675
 
 
Sponsor Links
Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.
 
James Paquette
Mortgage Sales Manager
Lake Michigan Credit Union - LMCU
NMLS ID# 533633
Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000
Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611
 
Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquette
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCU
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU