Welcome To Livingston

Episode 125: Features Buyers Love in a Home

Want to make your home irresistible to buyers? Join Don and Angela as they reveal must-have home features that spark excitement and boost value. From the luxury of heated bathroom floors and soft-close drawers to the practicality of tankless water heaters and security system, they cover it all. Plus, get inspired by outdoor upgrades like permanent fire pits and composite decking. Tune in for smart tips on modernizing your home and keeping it in top shape!
 
03:14 Top Home Features You Didn’t Know You Needed
04:34 Smart Thermostats and Heating Solutions
08:59 Bathroom Amenities That Impress
10:39 Kitchen Must-Haves
13:26 Water Filtration and Convenience
16:02 Tankless Water Heaters Explained
19:29 The Importance of Home Maintenance
23:28 Enhancing Outdoor Spaces
26:44 Modern Security Features
27:46 Creating Inviting Outdoor Spaces
30:10 Septic Systems and Maintenance Tips
34:13 Final Thoughts on Home Maintenance
 
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 124: College Life: Exploring New Horizons

Join Don, Angela, and their son Harrison for an engaging conversation about his leap from small-town Michigan to Boston’s Emerson College. From food culture shocks and adapting to city life to the importance of campus tours, study abroad dreams, and embracing personal growth, Harrison also reflects on the deep appreciation he’s gained for his hometown community. This episode is packed with relatable stories and practical advice for students and families preparing for the college experience.
 
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 123: DNA, Fitness, and Mind-Body Transformation

Kick off the New Year with Don and Angela as they welcome Kim Lenga, owner of Emerge Fitness, to inspire your health journey. From decoding DNA for personalized fitness to busting nutrition myths, Kim shares her secrets to a total mind-body transformation. Discover how small, informed choices can lead to big changes in energy, sleep, and overall well-being. Whether you're tackling stress, hormones, or processed food traps, this episode will motivate you to show up for yourself and take control of your health.
 
02:00 Kim’s Fitness Journey
05:00 The Birth of Emerge Fitness
08:00 The Power of DNA Testing
10:30 Understanding Your Body’s Needs
13:00 Launching the Total Body Reset
20:30 Addressing Stress and Hormones
22:30 The Importance of Education in Nutrition
25:00 Health Score Assessment
27:31 The Hidden Dangers of Processed Foods
29:10 The Importance of Accountability in Health
39:20 Breaking Free from Medications
 
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://emergefitness.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimlengachanginglives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emergefitnesslive/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimchanginglives/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrAM3ZlrGIzDOYIDkRlvW1A
Ph: 810-644-1240
Email: kim@emergefitness.net
 
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 122: Quiet Luxury at Pineview Village

Don and Angela chat with Michelle Herrst about Pineview Village, a new condominium development in Howell, Michigan, breathing new life into a community started in 2005. Discover how this project blends modern interiors with timeless design, featuring custom craftsmanship, spacious layouts, and premium upgrades—all at a price point starting in the low $300,000s. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or seeking a stylish, pet-friendly home with low HOA dues, Pineview Village offers a rare opportunity for comfort, quality, and instant equity.
 
02:02 Quality and Design
04:51 Condo Features and Amenities
06:38 Modern Living Spaces
09:00 High-Quality Standards
12:47 Financing Options
15:21 Location and Community Benefits
18:21 Builder Insights
21:01 Community and HOA Insights
24:21 Open House and Viewing Opportunities
27:01 Final Thoughts and Future Developments
 
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://howellcondos.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howellcondos/
Ph: (248) 228-7730
Email: MichelleHerrst@gmail.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 121: Turning Challenges into Change

Join Don and Angela as they share an inspiring and deeply personal journey of resilience, transformation, and healthier living. From Angela’s sudden health scare while on a trip they reflect on the power of small changes, family support, and overcoming challenges together. Hear how she turned adversity into opportunity, embraced healthier habits, and redefined what it means to truly thrive. This episode is packed with insights, encouragement, and practical tips to help you take control of your health and well-being—one step at a time.
 
01:50 A Personal Journey Begins
04:39 Hospitalization and Challenges
10:13 The Turning Point
15:11 Support and Transformation
20:05 Facing Surgery
30:00 Health Insights from Travel
33:14 Lessons Learned from Health Challenges
35:06 Small Changes, Big Impact
37:29 Embracing New Beginnings
41:10 Turning Adversity into Opportunity
44:01 A Positive Legacy
 
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 120: Escape Room Brighton

Join Don and Angela as they chat with Kaitlin Gotcher from Escape Room Brighton about this interactive entertainment hotspot of escape rooms. From thrilling themes like shipwrecks and alien invasions to mobile games and unique event setups, Kaitlin reveals how they’ve turned puzzles into unforgettable adventures for all ages. Whether you’re planning a night out, a team-building event, or even a wedding, this episode will spark your imagination and have you ready to make your great escape!
 
02:51 What is an Escape Room?
04:44 Clientele and Experience Levels
06:20 Room Themes and Difficulty
08:17 Hints and Clues
10:28 Mobile Escape Rooms
12:12 Online Escape Experience
14:06 Unique Events and Themes
16:03 Behind the Scenes of Creating Rooms
19:00 Game Mechanics and Player Interaction
22:10 Booking and Availability
 
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.escaperoombrightonmi.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapeRoomBrighton/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EscapeRoomNovi
TikTok: @escaperoomnovi
Email: kaitlin@escaperoomnovi.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 119: Kitchens, Remodel or Refresh?

Is your kitchen due for a makeover? Don and Angela weigh the pros and cons of remodeling versus refreshing, highlight timeless upgrades, share the latest design trends, and caution against chasing fleeting fads. Learn how to strike the perfect balance between style, function, and resale value in this engaging discussion!
 
01:31 The Importance of Kitchens
03:50 Assessing Your Kitchen Needs
05:32 Configuration and Costs
07:19 Trends in Kitchen Remodeling
10:12 Budgeting for Your Kitchen Remodel
12:05 Choosing Appliances Wisely
14:11 The Rise of Sculleries
17:10 The Shift in Kitchen Design Trends
19:47 Flooring Choices for Your Kitchen
22:42 Design Elements That Matter
29:08 Navigating Trends and Resale Value
31:02 Looking Ahead: Future Trends
34:31 Final Thoughts on Kitchen 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)
 
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 118: Gear Up! Where Adventure Meets Quality

Join Don and Angela as they chat with Todd Buckley, Chief Operating Outfitter of Town to Trail Outfitters, Brighton’s newest destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From top-notch gear to expert advice, discover how Todd and his wife turned their passion for adventure into a store offering premium brands, personalized service, and exciting plans for outdoor clinics. Get inspired to gear up for your next journey!
 
00:00 Welcome to the Podcast
00:50 Meet Our Sponsor
01:13 Introducing Todd Buckley
02:01 Filling a Niche in Men’s Clothing
03:31 Sustainable and Versatile Apparel
06:22 Popular Merchandise and Seasonal Trends
09:32 The Passion Project
12:11 Unique Offerings and Gift Ideas
15:01 Hiking Clinics and Community Engagement
17:30 Embracing the Local Outdoor Lifestyle
20:34 Customer-Centric Approach
24:30 Innovative Shopping Experience
28:09 Community and Shared Experiences
 
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://towntotrailoutfitters.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TownToTrailOutfitters/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towntotrailoutfitters/
Email: hello@towntotrailoutfitters.com
Ph: (810)295-2919
 
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 117: Big Goals, Big Results: Transform Your Goals into Reality

Join Don and Angela as they take you on a journey to make your next year unforgettable. In this episode, they break down practical, powerful goal-setting techniques that go beyond the basics. From harnessing SWOT analysis and the 80/20 rule to crafting a vision board and setting SMART goals, they share insider strategies to turn your aspirations into achievements.
 
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 116: Handmade Happiness: Buff City Soap

Don and Angela chat with Eris Taylor, Director of Operations, and Virginia Kamenitzer, Marketing Manager, from Buff City Soap in Brighton. Discover the magic behind plant-based soaps handmade daily in-store! They share how Buff City Soap was born from a frustration with harsh, chemical-laden commercial soaps and a mission to create pure, nourishing, and fresh products with scents that’ll have you hooked. Tune in for the story behind their popular DIY options, community events, party hosting, and even how they avoid going “nose blind” around all those amazing scents! Perfect inspiration for gift-giving and self-care alike.
 
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
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BuffCitySoapBrighton
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buffcitysoap.brighton/
 
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