Welcome To Livingston
Join Don & Angela Putkela on their weekly podcast ”Welcome to Livingston” a podcast dedicated to highlighting the events, people, businesses, and community involvement that make Livingston County a great place to live, work in, and enjoy. As Realtors, Associate Brokers, and owners of the Putkela Group Real Estate Professionals, Don & Angela hope to offer valuable insight into the local market and the buying/selling process.
Listen on:
Episodes
Thursday Sep 11, 2025
Thursday Sep 11, 2025
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
Thursday Sep 04, 2025
Thursday Sep 04, 2025
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
Thursday Aug 28, 2025
Thursday Aug 28, 2025
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
Thursday Aug 21, 2025
Thursday Aug 21, 2025
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
Thursday Aug 14, 2025
Thursday Aug 14, 2025
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
Thursday Aug 07, 2025
Thursday Aug 07, 2025
In this episode, Don and Angela take a deep dive into real estate investing, from flipping houses and budgeting smartly to avoiding common pitfalls and knowing when to hire help. Whether you're a first time flipper or a seasoned pro, this conversation is packed with practical advice, real world insight, and a reminder that your agent can be your most valuable asset.
02:14 Identifying Investment Opportunities04:05 The Importance of Inspections08:09 Understanding Market Dynamics12:06 Budgeting and Timeline Management15:29 Current Trends in Home Design20:01 Types of Renovations and Their Impact24:05 The Role of a Realtor in Flipping26:59 Current Trends in Home Features30:10 The Importance of Professional Guidance33:20 Navigating Renovation Risks39:10 Finding Hidden Value in Properties41:04 The Demand for Move-In Ready Homes
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
Thursday Jul 31, 2025
Thursday Jul 31, 2025
In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by James Fitzgerald and Patrick Borg, who highlight how Hartland High School combines academic opportunity with a strong sense of community through programs like Freshman Link and dual enrollment. With a focus on student connection and the values of respect and responsibility, Hartland High School creates a well rounded environment where every student can thrive.
00:41 Meet Hartland High School
01:54 The Hartland High Experience
02:24 People Make the Difference
03:28 Welcoming Freshmen
07:01 Building Connections
09:04 Extracurricular Engagement
10:19 Academic Programs and Opportunities
14:03 Community and School Spirit
19:02 Celebrating Athletic Achievements
22:10 Unified Sports and Inclusion
25:22 Performing Arts and Community Support
29:09 Connecting with Parents
30:10 A Family Affair
31:11 Community Spirit and Competition
32:01 A Legacy of Excellence
34:05 The Power of the Three Rs
36:51 Celebrating Student Achievements
39:20 Discovering Hartland High School
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.hartlandhighschool.us/
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
Thursday Jul 24, 2025
Thursday Jul 24, 2025
In this episode, Meggan Raymond, from Clear Way Stress Estate Sales & Cleaning, shares how her team helps families navigate downsizing and estate transitions with care, expertise, and compassion. From uncovering hidden treasures to handling every detail of the sale, Meggan explains why early planning and trust make all the difference in creating a smooth, stress free experience.
00:54 Meet Meggan Raymond
01:35 Understanding Estate Sales
04:28 The Personal Touch
06:01 Out-of-State Clients
09:44 Efficiency in Estate Sales
10:38 When to Reach Out
12:20 The Hidden Treasures
15:04 Interesting Finds
19:40 Building a Network
22:09 The Consultation Process
25:08 Preparing for Sale
27:14 Exploring Hidden Spaces
29:01 The Changing Market of Estate Sales
31:04 The Downsizing Dilemma
33:18 Finding Joy in Your Possessions
36:14 The Emotional Journey of Letting Go
39:10 Getting Started with Estate Sales
40:50 Connecting with Clear Away Stress
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://clearawaystress.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Clear-Away-Stress-Estate-Sales-Cleaning/61556644687045/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clearawaystress/?igsh=MTZsMGRnZ3RncnFzeA%3D%3D
Email: castress@clearawaystress.com
Phone: (734) 818-8080
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
Thursday Jul 17, 2025
Thursday Jul 17, 2025
Brighton High School blends big school opportunities with a small town sense of community through standout programs like orchestra, STEAM, and career tech education. In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Matt Evans, principal of Brighton High School, to explore how strong student support, hands on learning, and community involvement help BHS students thrive both in and out of the classroom.
01:43 Meet Matt Evans
03:39 Creating a Sense of Community
05:40 Extracurricular Offerings
07:44 Music and Arts Programs
09:48 Community Support for Athletics
11:54 Facilities and Training
13:41 Building a Strong Athletic Program
15:24 STEAM Education and Career Preparation
17:58 Real-World Experience in Health Occupations
20:28 Career Exploration and Counseling
24:01 Auto Technology and Vocational Programs
29:49 The Role of Counselors in Student Planning
31:52 National Honor Society: Commitment and Community Service
34:00 Senior Survivor: A Unique Fundraising Competition
40:04 Unified Sports: Fostering Inclusion and Community
43:12 The Power of Performing Arts
51:50 Robotics and STEAM: Building Skills for the Future
56:37 Advisory Programs: Supporting Student Success
58:23 Navigating High School: Opportunities for Growth
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://bhs.brightonk12.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightonhs_bulldogs/?hl=en
X: https://x.com/BrightonK12
Email: evansm@brightonk12.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
Thursday Jul 10, 2025
Thursday Jul 10, 2025
In this milestone 150th episode, Don and Angela reflect on the journey of Welcome to Livingston so far. From real estate tips and pet friendly moving advice to spotlights on local gems like Spicers, Buff City Soap, and the Howell Historic Theater, they share how their passion for highlighting local businesses and building community connections has helped the podcast grow. Hear about how their shared love for the Livingston community continues to drive their mission forward to helping people feel Welcome to Livingston.
01:10 Reflecting on 150 Episodes
02:50 The Heart of the Podcast
04:30 Surprising Discoveries
06:40 The Value of Community
09:30 Favorite Episodes and Guests
12:00 Behind the Scenes of Podcasting
15:00 The Role of Sponsorship
18:00 Looking Ahead: The Future of the Podcast
21:05 Empowering Local Businesses
24:40 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
27:40 Future Aspirations for the Podcast
30:30 Celebrating Community Growth
34:30 The Lifespan of Business Stories
37:40 Connecting with Listeners
40:30 The Real Estate 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)
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