Welcome To Livingston

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

Episode 163: Building A New Home Without Regrets

In this episode Don and Angela break down the different types of new construction, from spec homes to fully custom builds, and highlights key decisions that impact comfort, functionality, and resale value. Hear as they share expert tips on budgeting for hidden costs, asking the right builder questions, and working with experienced realtors and lenders to make the process smooth and rewarding. Whether you're customizing every detail or buying move in ready, this conversation will help you build with confidence.
 
02:48 Types & Advantages of New Construction
06:59 Building on Vacant Land & Financing
11:18 Smart Choices in New Construction
15:29 Structural & Quality Considerations
20:56 Questions for Builders & Land Planning
27:19 Timelines, Restrictions & Orientation
34:05 Design Decisions & Future Proofing
39:10 Post-Build Costs & Long-Term Planning
 
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 162: Fearless Health: Functional Medicine Meets Mindset Shift

In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Lacey Reedy from Fearless Health, who shares about how combining functional medicine with subconscious belief work can transform both physical and mental health. Through targeted nutrition and high-quality supplements, root causes like gut issues and mineral imbalances can be solved. At the same time, belief coding sessions help uncover and rewrite deep-seated patterns that often hold people back, creating lasting change from the inside out.
 
01:03 Functional Medicine and Subconscious Work
03:31 Addressing Self-Sabotage and Deeper Beliefs
06:27 Home Testing and Supplement Quality
09:14 Lacey’s Personal Journey and Mindset Power
11:09 Understanding and Rewiring Belief Coding
15:33 Recommended Resources and Healthy Living
19:59 Recognizing the Need for Help and Results
25:08 Initial Consultations and Future Offerings
30:08 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
 
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: www.myfearlesshealth.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LRFearlessHealth/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fearless.health
Email: lreedy@myfearlesshealth.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 161: The Ivy Table: Solving Food Insecurity One Plate At A Time

In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Barb Peltz and Jessica Smokovitz from The Ivy Table, a Brighton based nonprofit “pay what you can” café tackling food insecurity both locally and abroad. With their “pay it forward” model, volunteer opportunities, and community programs like free meal fridges, The Ivy Table creates a space where everyone can enjoy nutritious meals with dignity.
 
01:23 Pay What You Can Cafe
04:13 Community Seating and Food Choices
06:13 Menu Highlights and Unique Offerings
08:40 Volunteer Opportunities and Community Building
11:15 Addressing Local Food Insecurity
12:56 Free Meal Fridges and Food Surplus
16:26 Thailand Connection and Global Impact
21:01 Event Space and Community Resource
24:04 Ways to Give Back and Community Impact
28:09 Future Vision and Invitation to Visit
 
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://www.theivytable.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theivytable
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theivytable/
Email: barb@theivytable.org
Email: jessica@theivytable.org
 
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 160: Annual Sparty Gala: Scholarships & Spartan Spirit

In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Olga Long, who spotlights the Livingston County Spartans’ annual Sparty Gala, happening September 26th at Oak Point Country Club. With dinner, keynote speakers Greg and Amanda Jones, a silent auction, and a wine pull, the event raises funds for scholarships that help local high school seniors attend Michigan State University. Run entirely by volunteers, the gala is a chance to enjoy an evening of fun and Spartan spirit while directly supporting the future of local students.
 
06:04 Sparty Gala: Event Highlights
13:58 Gala Auction & Unique Activities
20:12 Community Impact & Future Spartans
26:27 Join the Spartan Community
 
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://www.livingstoncountyspartans.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livingstoncountyspartans/
 
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 159: Seghi Renovations: Smart Remodeling with Lasting Value

In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Jim Seghi, from Seghi Renovations, who shares how his team brings both small and large home projects to life with honesty, transparency, and lasting quality. From 3D design planning to aging in place modifications, Seghi Renovations offers a one stop, personalized approach that helps homeowners balance their unique vision with smart investments for the future.
 
04:12 Jim’s Journey into Renovations
08:16 From Concept to Renovation Reality
14:36 Aging in Place and Future Planning
19:48 Budgeting and Customer Satisfaction
28:04 Master Plans and Client Relationships
33:07 Overcoming Renovation Challenges
41:17 Reality vs. HGTV & 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://seghi.net
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SeghiRenovations/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seghi.renovations/
Email: jseghi@gmail.com
Phone: (248) 437-2454
 
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 158: Smart Strategies For Buying And Selling A Home At The Same Time

In this episode, Don and Angela share practical advice for navigating the challenge of buying and selling a home at the same time. From understanding financing options and preparing your current home for sale to setting realistic expectations and planning with your realtor, they outline how to reduce stress, stay in control, and focus on finding the right home for your future needs.
 
03:17 Understanding Your Financing Options
06:50 Pre-Season Preparation for Selling
12:10 The Importance of Lender Consultation & Showings
18:55 Surprises in the Home Selling Process
22:56 First Steps to a Successful Move
27:23 Buy-Sell Timeline & Occupancy
32:22 Navigating Contingent Offers
36:50 The Value of a Good Realtor
40:00 Deciding When to Move: Renovate vs. Relocate
45:00 Experiencing Homes & Realtor Connections
 
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 157: The Mushroom Conservatory: The Magic Of Mushrooms In Michigan

In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Erin Hamilton and Nick King, from The Mushroom Conservatory. From easy to use growing kits and guided foraging hikes to eco innovations like fungi based water filters, they are redefining what mushrooms can do. With a new shop opening in Pinckney and partnerships with local restaurants, they’re bringing education, community, and sustainability together through all things mushroom.
 
02:33 Fungi for Environmental Restoration
04:54 Mushroom Foraging in Michigan
06:20 Beyond Button Mushrooms: Flavor & Texture
08:37 Easy Mushroom Growing with Kits
11:05 Partnership with Horse Feathers
13:43 Cooking with & Benefits of Mushrooms
17:04 Detroit Institute of Gastronomy
19:15 Mushroom Workshops & New Location
20:19 Foraging Safety and Learning
24:00 Mushroom Kits & Fungal Communication
27:58 The Uncharted World of Fungi
31:00 Foraging Safaris & Wild Feasts
33:59 Mushroom Brew & Health Benefits
37:57 Connect with The Mushroom Conservatory
 
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://themushroomconservatory.com/
Research: https://research.themushroomconservatory.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/themushroomconservatory
Facebook: https://facebook.com/themushroomconservatory
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@themushroomconservatory
Email: erin@themushroomconservatory.com
Phone: (810) 333-7156
 
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 156: Ocimeae Lavender Farm: Michigan’s Lavender Destination

In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Marilyn Smith and Jordynn Jackson to talk about Ocimeae Lavender Farm. Hear them share about how Ocimeae Lavender Farm is a family run farm in Livingston County cultivating 11,000 lavender plants and crafting products from essential oils to creamed honey and everything in between. From hands on classes and lavender picking to unique events like Pilates under the trees and romantic date nights, discover how the farm blends education, community, and the calming beauty of lavender.
 
02:24 The Journey to Farming
04:10 Choosing Lavender
06:09 Learning Together
07:57 Healing Properties of Lavender
09:44 Classes and Workshops
10:43 The Fascinating Science of Lavender
11:41 Community Events and Rentals
13:12 Wellness and Fitness Classes
14:29 Lavender Products and Their Uses
17:14 Natural Alternatives
19:20 Creative Uses for Lavender
21:30 Date Nights at the Farm
23:30 Experiencing Livingston County
25:49 Seasonal Changes and Future Plans
28:02 The Creative Spirit of Michigan
 
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://ocimeaelavenderfarm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ocimeae/
Email: Office@OcimeaeLavenderFarm.com
Phone: (517) 985-8018
 
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 155: Allen Edwin Homes: Custom New Homes In Livingston County

In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Alexis Waple, from Allen Edwin, to share about new construction in Livingston County. From low down payment options and energy efficient designs to customizable floor plans and move in ready spec homes, learn how Allen Edwin combines quality, affordability, and a transparent building process to help buyers find their perfect fit.
 
01:15 New Developments in Livingston
02:21 Affordability Myths
03:43 The Home Buying Experience
05:48 About Allen Edwin Homes
06:59 Warranties and Customer Care
08:24 Energy Efficiency
09:59 Customization Options
12:17 HOA Considerations
15:33 The Home Buying Process
17:34 Timeline for Building
19:10 Quality Assurance
24:03 Exciting New Developments
29:01 The Ease of New Construction
 
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://www.allenedwin.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllenEdwinHomesMI
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allenedwinhomesmi/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AllenEdwinHomes
 
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