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Welcome To Livingston
By Speakeasy Podcast NetworkSociety & Culture
Welcome To Livingston episodes
- Episode 182: How to Nail Formal Wear with Brighton Tux ShopGetting dressed up shouldn’t be stressful. In episode 182 of Welcome to Livingston, Don and Angela Putkela sit down with Chris Yockey, manager of the Brighton Tux Shop, to get the inside scoop on everything men’s formal wear.Whether you’re a groom planning your big day, a high schooler heading to prom, or a guy who’s never owned a suit. Chris breaks it all down from the key differences between a suit and a tuxedo, when you should start planning, and how you can still get measured for a suit out of town. This episode is full of information and tips to keep you looking sharp!4:37 Purchase Process8:00 Tuxedo Styles11:51 Prom Ambassador Program14:40 Out of State Measurements17:44 Suit vs Tuxedo21:17 Rental Duration and Damages29:48 Partnership with Arc of Livingston31:55 The Brighton Tux Shop Advantage38:47 The Importance of a Perfect FitFor 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 LinksWebsite: https://brightontuxshop.net/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightontuxshop/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brightontuxTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brightontuxshopSponsor LinksThanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.James PaquetteMortgage Sales ManagerLake Michigan Credit Union - LMCUNMLS ID# 533633Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquetteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCULinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU47 min - Episode 181: Appliance Shopping in Livingston County: Appliance SolutionsIn Episode 181 of Welcome to Livingston, Don and Angela Putkela sit down with Allison and Ben Kellogg, owners of Appliance Solutions, a trusted local appliance store serving Livingston County.If you're replacing kitchen or laundry appliances or building a new home, this episode is packed with expert advice. Allison and Ben explain why homeowners should prioritize accurate measurements when replacing appliances, how appliance sizes have changed over the years, and why new construction offers more flexibility than retrofitting existing spaces.4:12 Customer Focused Solutions6:04 Diverse Appliance Brands8:16 Kitchen Trends and Innovations11:02 Family Friendly14:45 Collaborations18:29 Founding Appliance Solutions21:17 Appliance Advice and Timelines25:46 Personalized Service31:02 Community InvolvementFor 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 LinksAppliance Solutions:Website: shopappliancesolutions.comEmail: [email protected]Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/appliance_solutions_brighton/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Appliance-Solutions/61567926030927/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@appliancesolutionsmiYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@Appliance_Solutions_BrightonSponsor LinksThanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.James PaquetteMortgage Sales ManagerLake Michigan Credit Union - LMCUNMLS ID# 533633Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquetteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCULinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU35 min - Episode 180: A One Stop Shop: Spirit of LivingstonIn Episode 180 of Welcome to Livingston, Don and Angela Putkela sit down with Carol and Danny Maczik. The owners of Spirit of Livingston, a local small business specializing in custom apparel for teams, schools, and organizations across Livingston County.Carol and Danny share the origin story of their business, how they built it into a lifestyle-driven company, and why being local still matters in today’s fast-paced online world. They also discuss their hands-on customer service approach and how creating custom gear helps build lifelong memories for kids and families.1:06 Origin Story4:34 The Joy of Varsity Jackets7:27 In-House Production12:28 Market Challenges15:20 The Value of Local19:01 Understanding Die Sublimation23:29 One Stop Shop28:20 Business LegacyFor 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 LinksSpirit of LivingstonEmail: [email protected]Website: spiritoflivingston.comSponsor LinksThanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.James PaquetteMortgage Sales ManagerLake Michigan Credit Union - LMCUNMLS ID# 533633Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquetteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCULinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU37 min - Episode 179: Our County's Silent Superhero: Mrs. TIn Episode 179 of Welcome to Livingston, Don and Angela Putkela sit down with Sharyn Tormanen, the building secretary at Howell Public Schools who many students know and love as Mrs. T. Beyond her role at the school, Sharyn captures the heart of Howell through her photography. Capturing any and every school event from athletics and clubs to everyday student moments.Sharyn’s impact doesn’t stop there. In her “free time”, she also works with the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office Victim Services Unit, serving on call 24/7, 365 days a year to support families and community members during moments of crisis and grief. This episode highlights her dedication and compassion to helping the community in many ways.3:04 Sharyn’s Photography Journey6:04 Favorite Shots15:23 Sheriff’s Victim Service Unit20:39 Community Involvement26:12 Balancing Life and Future PlansFor 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 LinksSharyn TormanenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/howelltormanen/School email: [email protected]Personal email: [email protected]Sponsor LinksThanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.James PaquetteMortgage Sales ManagerLake Michigan Credit Union - LMCUNMLS ID# 533633Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquetteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCULinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU32 min - Episode 178: Joy in Every BoxIn this episode, Don and Angela Putklea welcome Lisa Zienleniewski and Michelle Forcier, the creators behind Blossom and Bloom Box, a Livingston County business dedicated to thoughtful, beautifully curated gift boxes designed to celebrate, comfort, and connect.Lisa and Michelle share how Blossom and Bloom Box got started, what inspired their passion for meaningful gifting, and creating curated gift boxes that are budget-friendly, customizable, and deeply personal. Often featuring local items and an exceptional level of care in every detail. From birthdays and encouragement to everyday moments that deserve a little extra joy, this episode highlights how Blossom and Bloom Box delivers more than just gifts, it delivers connection.9:40 - Delivery11:24 - How lead time works19:08 - Local support26:35 - Unboxing29:30 - Gifts just becauseFor more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroupWebsite: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9QPhone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)Guest LinksWebsite: https://blossomandbloombox.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blossomandbloomgiftboxes/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Blossom-and-Bloom-Box/61581338402459/?ref=PROFILE_EDIT_xav_ig_profile_page_web#Phone: 810-986-9600Email: [email protected]Sponsor LinksThanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.James PaquetteMortgage Sales ManagerLake Michigan Credit Union - LMCUNMLS ID# 533633Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquetteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCULinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU38 min
- Episode 177: Organizing Livingston County One Room at a Time with ReJenerate Your SpaceIn Episode 177 of Welcome to Livingston, Don and Angela Putkela sit down with Jen Ling of ReJenerate Your Space, a professional organizer who helps Livingston County residents tackle clutter, one room at a time.Jen shares why everyone has clutter, why big organizing projects can feel so overwhelming, and why many people get started, only to end up with an even bigger mess. From homes and garages to storage lockers, Jen explains how working with a professional organizer helps keep projects on track, brings a fresh perspective, and ensures spaces are fully organized and functional.They also discuss why hiring an organizer like Jen can save time, reduce stress, and make a major difference when preparing a home for buying or selling. Whether you’re feeling buried by clutter, planning a move, or just want a more organized space, this episode offers practical insight and encouragement for Livingston County homeowners and businesses alike.2:00 - Chaos to structure7:05 - Jen's #1 Goal11:33 - Getting Rid of Unwanted Items18:45 - Collecting Boxes of Stuff26:53 - Feeling Overwhelmed while Organizing32:25 - Listing an Organized vs Unorganized HomeFor 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 LinksWebsite: www.rejenerateyourspace.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReJenerateYourSpace/about?ref=page_internalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rejenerateyourspace/Phone: 810.522.8422Email: [email protected]Sponsor LinksThanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.James PaquetteMortgage Sales ManagerLake Michigan Credit Union - LMCUNMLS ID# 533633Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquetteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCULinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU38 min - Episode 176: Livingston County PoolsIn this week's episode, Don and Angela encourage listeners to get out, get active, and have some fun in the winter weather by visiting a local pool. They cover 8 different pool locations, and what makes each of them unique, as well as the different classes you can sign up for. In addition, they give the audience a call to action: local organizations, reach out! We'd love to have you on the show and help you promote your mission for our county.1:19 - Livingston County Pools Overview4:24 - Hartland Pool Features14:46 - Cost and Community Benefits22:51 - Community Connection and Party Ideas26:16 - Community Involvement in Welcome to LivingstonAbout:Join Don & Angela Putkela as they launch "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, and enjoy. As Realtors, Associate Brokers, and owners of the Putkela Group with KW Living, Don & Angela hope to offer valuable insight into the local market and the buying/selling process.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)
Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.James PaquetteMortgage Sales ManagerLake Michigan Credit Union - LMCUNMLS ID# 533633Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquetteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCULinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU30 min - Episode 175: Lake Michigan Credit Union: Member-First Banking
In this episode, Don and Angela are joined by Traci Harris and Angela Lance, who highlight Lake Michigan Credit Union and its commitment to personalized, member first banking, including the opening of its new full service Brighton branch on Main Street. From first time homebuyer and construction loans to business banking and financial wellness programs, LMCU blends modern services with strong community involvement. As a not-for-profit, member-owned institution, they focus on helping members make informed financial decisions while giving back through better rates, education, and local partnerships.
01:06 Lake Michigan Credit Union’s History & Expansion
04:51 Community Involvement and Financial Wellness
08:11 The Importance of Credit Education
11:11 Diverse Products and Services
13:50 Embracing Livingston’s Community Spirit
18:22 Credit Union vs. Bank: Key Differences
22:23 Early Financial Literacy and ATM Services
26:01 Final Thoughts: Service, Accessibility, and 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.lmcu.org/brighton
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-lance-31003541/
Email: [email protected]
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
30 min - Episode 174: Staying Aware As A Renter And How A Realtor Can Help
In this episode, Don and Angela break down what renters need to know before signing a lease, from why working with a realtor can protect your interests to how fast the rental market really moves. They explain the importance of credit readiness, understanding upfront costs, and reviewing lease terms around pets, utilities, and responsibilities. With practical advice on renter’s insurance and avoiding costly surprises, this conversation helps renters feel informed and confident before applying.
01:03 The Role of a Realtor in Renting
03:52 Why a Realtor is Important
06:46 Fast-Paced Rental Market
09:02 Application Process & Key Questions
14:52 Renter’s Insurance & Utilities
17:02 Lease Terms and Property Rules
20:18 Parking & Party Policies
23:16 Initial Rental Costs & Long-Term Value
27:40 Landlord Responsibilities & Tenant Rights
31:38 Benefits of Rentals & Realtor’s Role
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
40 min - 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/
39 min
About Welcome To Livingston
From the publisher's feed
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.