Welcome To 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

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

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: [email protected]

All Heart Garage

Website: www.heartmonicholdings.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllHeartGarage

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allheartgarage/

Email: [email protected]

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

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

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: [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

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 [email protected]

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

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 [email protected] 

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

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: [email protected]

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

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