Welcome To Livingston

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: [email protected]

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

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: [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 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

In this episode, Don and Angela highlight Livingston County’s amazing performing arts scene. From dazzling high school musicals and welcoming community theaters to national acts at the Brighton Center for the Performing Arts and free summer concerts under the stars, discover how local talent and venues bring the arts to life for all ages.

02:15 Exploring Performing Arts

03:07 High School Productions

07:50 Community Theater Opportunities

11:58 Hartland Players and Beyond

15:51 Brighton Center for the Performing Arts

19:07 Live Music and Community Events

23:01 The Howell Opera House

25:34 Historic Howell Theater

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 Jaclyn Phillion and Allison Trepanier from Corner Studio Spa. Located in downtown Howell, Corner Studio Spa is where science meets self care, through cutting edge treatments like hormone therapy, microneedling, Botox, and more. Learn how this modern wellness hub helps clients feel balanced, confident, and revitalized, inside and out!

01:13 Welcoming Corner Studio and Spa

01:39 Understanding Med Spa Services

02:42 Popular Treatments at Corner Studio

04:00 The Science Behind Morpheus 8

06:09 Hormone Replacement Therapy Explained

09:25 Vitamin Boosters and IV Therapy

11:15 Transformations Through Treatments

12:56 The Growth of Corner Studio

15:13 Memberships and Customization

18:07 Acne Solutions and Holistic Care

20:20 Favorite Treatments Revealed

22:30 Understanding Hormone Replacement Benefits

25:11 Massage Therapy Insights

28:31 Self-Care and Wellness

30:45 Exploring Additional Services

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: cornerstudiospa.com

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

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

Email: [email protected]

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 are joined by Elyse Moore from McClement’s Farm, a charming country store in downtown Brighton that began with freeze dried goodies and blossomed into a hub for Michigan made treasures. From honey and jams to handcrafted woodwork and skincare, learn how this hidden gem supports local farmers, participates in community events, and offers a one of a kind shopping experience right in downtown Brighton!

02:55 The Freeze-Dried Candy Craze

05:05 A Country Store Experience

06:12 Innovative Treats and Healthy Options

10:12 The Science of Freeze-Drying

17:03 Trial and Error in Flavor Creation

21:01 Collaborations and Community Events

27:36 The Gilmore Girls Event

30:03 Expanding into Downtown Brighton

31:17 Connecting with Customers Online

32:18 The Farmer’s Market Experience

34:19 Love for Livingston County

35:46 The Impact of Local Business and Community

37:49 Encouraging Local Support

38:58 Unique Treats and Gift Ideas

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.mcclementsfarmcountrystore.com/

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

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mcclements.farm

Address: 411 Mill Pond Ln, Brighton, MI 48116 (Located in the hallway behind Great Harvest Bread Co 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

In this week’s episode, Don and Angela are joined by James Pettinato, from Green Lantern Pizza! Hear about the waves Green Lantern Pizza is already making in Brighton. From real and authentic ingredients, to fast and friendly service, is already a huge hit in the community, with lines already going out the door. Don’t believe all the hype? One sure way to find out would be to buy a pie and enjoy it while you watch this episode, because you don’t want to miss out!

02:01 The Legacy of Green Lantern Pizza

04:23 Bringing Green Lantern to Brighton

06:44 Location and Community

08:06 The Opening Experience

11:13 Menu Highlights

13:32 Health-Conscious Options

14:14 Catering and Non-Pizza Offerings

17:01 Community Engagement and Events

20:00 Employee Culture and Hiring

25:37 Unique Menu Items and Customer Favorites

28:02 Future Expansion Plans

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://greenlanternpizza.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/GreenLanternPizza/?hl=en

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@greenlanternpizza?xmt=AQF0qdC55ungxgtvkuwJmQ7wO0WDMBWRbmqes5pv0cnjh8U

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 week’s episode, Don and Angela are joined by Janice Sigler of Blank Slate Creamery, who shares how their made-from-scratch ice cream, rotating seasonal flavors, and their commitment to community and employee well-being have made the shop a local favorite in Ann Arbor and Brighton. Stop by for a scoop sometime, you know you want to!

02:01 The Birth of Blank Slate Creamery

02:55 Crafting Ice Cream from Scratch

03:59 Flavor Innovations

05:12 Popular Flavors and Customer Favorites

06:14 Behind the Scenes: Flavor Creation

07:29 Accessibility and Variety

09:03 Health-Conscious Choices

11:14 Customer Experience and Options

12:36 The Journey to Ice Cream Entrepreneurship

14:20 Navigating Challenges and Community Support

16:25 Collaborations and Community Events

18:49 Unique Flavor Experiments

20:17 Year-Round Ice Cream and Community Engagement

23:49 Employee Engagement and Company Culture

26:05 Recognition and Industry Connections

28:43 Spotlight on Good Morning America

29:55 Livingston Community Love

32:04 Staying Connected with Blank Slate

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.blankslatecreamery.com

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

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

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 week’s episode, Don and Angela unpack essentials for first-time homebuyers—from why your monthly payment matters more than the sticker price to the value of a thorough home inspection. Learn how choosing a local lender can strengthen your offer, why flexibility in your home wishlist is key, and what financial moves to avoid before closing. Whether it’s understanding neighborhood vibes or navigating commute realities, this is the practical guide every new buyer must have!

01:50 Today’s Topic: First-Time Home Buyer Mistakes

02:54 The Importance of Home Inspections

09:01 Understanding Monthly Payments

12:24 Choosing the Right Lender

15:43 Budgeting for Closing and Moving Costs

18:03 Creating a Wish List

20:10 The Three-Legged Stool of Home Buying

23:00 Realistic Home Repair Expectations

26:14 Buying for Yourself, Not Your Parents

28:02 Examining Your Commute

30:00 Understanding Neighborhood Dynamics

32:30 The Importance of Communication with Your Agent

36:10 Choosing the Right Professionals

39:30 Casting a Wider Net in Your Search

41:50 The Reality of Home Photos

44:00 The Need for Speed in Home Buying

46:30 Understanding Property Taxes

49:30 Navigating the Home Buying Journey

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