Welcome To Livingston

Speakeasy Podcast Network

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.

  1. Episode 190: Local Dog Lover Gems: Everything Livingston County Has to Offer Your Four-Legged Family Member

    2h ago

    Episode 190: Local Dog Lover Gems: Everything Livingston County Has to Offer Your Four-Legged Family Member

    Meet Pepper, the newest Putkela family member!   From dog parks and pet-friendly patios to grooming, boarding, training, and everything in between, Don and Angela walk through everything this county has to offer for you and your pup. They cover hidden gems and new up-and-coming businesses. They also get into the real stuff: introducing a second dog to the household, invisible fences, tick season, training resources through Community Ed, and the remarkable mental health benefits dogs are bringing to local schools through therapy dog programs in both Brighton and Howell.   This one is for every dog owner, dog lover, or anyone thinking about adding a four-legged family member to the mix.   🐾 Want to learn more about pets and real estate in Livingston County? Check out these two previous episodes: 📺 Pets & Real Estate Episode 1 📺 Pets & Real Estate Episode 2 Timestamps 03:38 Livingston County Dog Parks 09:39 Pet Safety, Boarding & Grooming 14:00 Dogs in Livingston: Dining & Community 20:07 Adoption, Training, and Mental Health 29:53 Enjoying Life with Your Dog   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

    33 min
  2. Episode 189: Your Party Happened. But Did Anyone Actually Capture It?

    May 21

    Episode 189: Your Party Happened. But Did Anyone Actually Capture It?

    Every great party deserves great photos, and most people don't realize they're missing them until it's too late. This week, Don and Angela sit down with Lannie Stabile, the founder of Party Fly Photography, a one-of-a-kind event photography business built around one simple idea: jump into the fun, make people forget the camera is there, and capture the moments that actually matter.   Lannie shares how a friend's heartbreak over missing photos from her daughter's birthday party sparked the whole business, why she deliberately stays away from traditional portrait photography, and what makes her approach so different from every other photographer you've ever hired. Timestamps  01:29 Party Fly's Concept and Origin 05:11 Unique Events and Business Value 09:30 Booking and Event Preparation 14:49 Memorable Event Experiences 22:15 Photo Delivery and Archiving 27:33 Supporting Small Businesses Guest Links https://partyflyphotography.com/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558605764346# https://www.instagram.com/partyflyphotography?igsh=MWRtY3E0dHNscGkyNg%3D%3D   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

    34 min
  3. Episode 188: Raising Kids in Livingston County: Activities, Resources & Real Advice from Two Local Parents

    May 14

    Episode 188: Raising Kids in Livingston County: Activities, Resources & Real Advice from Two Local Parents

    Don and Angela are pulling back the curtain on over two decades of raising kids right here in Livingston County. They cover everything from making homemade baby food with produce from local farmers' markets to baby sign language, Montessori, and why getting involved early in your child's school and community pays off in ways you won't fully appreciate until they're teenagers.   Along the way, they shine a light on some of the best local resources Livingston County has to offer young families, from the Imagination Station and Genoa Park to the Brighton and Howell library programs, Spicers Orchard U-picks, Home Depot craft days, local 5Ks, and the countless festivals and community events that make this such a great place to grow up.   They also share some of their favorite family traditions, including one genuinely special idea for parents with multiple kids that is worth sticking around for. Timestamps 02:29 Homemade Baby Food and Local Resources 06:44 Baby Signs, Books, and Libraries 12:12 The Montessori Impact 18:18 Livingston County Parks and Festivals 29:03 Volunteering with Kids: Lead by Example 42:07 Teen Years, Car Prep, and Social Media 49:00 Community Resources _______________________________________ 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

    51 min
  4. Episode 187: How McClements Farm Country Store is Redefining Local Shopping

    May 7

    Episode 187: How McClements Farm Country Store is Redefining Local Shopping

    McClements Farm Country Store recently made the move from its previous location to a prime spot in Downtown Brighton, and owner Elyse Moore is very excited.   Don and Angela sit down with Elyse for her second appearance on the podcast to catch up on everything that has changed, grown, and evolved since they last had her on. From freeze-dried candy and Michigan-made gifts to Uncle Peter's pasties, heirloom seeds from M.I. Gardener, and Scottish shortbread from a Redford bakery, the store has become a destination for anyone who wants to shop local and discover products you simply won't find anywhere else in the county.   Elyse also shares how the new Main Street location has transformed her connection to downtown events like Stars Hollow, the Brighton Farmers Market, Ladies' Night, and what's coming next, including an exciting new website where you can shop and ship Michigan-made products right to your door.   If you haven't stopped in yet, this episode will make you want to drop everything and go. 📍 334 West Main Street, Downtown Brighton Timestamps 01:05 New Location and Product Expansion 06:10 Pasties and Future Online Presence 08:19 M.I. Gardener Seeds and Education 12:28 Community Engagement and Downtown Events 17:58 Defining the Country Store Identity 24:25 Upcoming Events and Website Features Guest Links 🌐 https://www.mcclementsfarmcountrystore.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcclementsfarm 📫 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mcclementsfarm   _______________________________________ 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

    31 min
  5. Episode 186:  We Don't Sell Paint. We Sell Time and Trust with Inspired by Design Painting

    Apr 30

    Episode 186:  We Don't Sell Paint. We Sell Time and Trust with Inspired by Design Painting

    Don and Angela Putkella sit down with Brandon Miller, owner of Inspired by Design Painting, a Brighton-based painting company serving homeowners and businesses of Livingston County.   Brandon shares the remarkable origin story behind his business, carrying on the company name as a tribute to the family connection that drives everything he does. Don and Angela dig into what really sets a professional paint job apart, the latest color trends taking over Livingston County homes, and why painting your cabinets might be the most affordable upgrade you can make before selling your house. Brandon also walks through his company's process from first call to finished project, what to expect when you hire a professional, and why Inspired by Design is different.   Whether you're a homeowner thinking about a refresh, a buyer imagining what your new space could look like, or a seller trying to get top dollar, this episode is packed with practical insight and a whole lot of local pride. Timestamps  02:51 The Value of Professional Painting 05:58 Color Trends and Interior Design 16:16 Buyer Seller Consultations 20:49 Exterior Painting and Challenges 26:17 Impact and Proactive Painting 31:48 Estimating 36:40 Professionalism, Value, and Contact Guest Links Inspired by Design Painting Phone: 810-775-2864 Interior, exterior, and cabinet painting https://www.inspiredbydesignpainting.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InspiredByDesignPainting Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredbydesign_painting/   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

    43 min
  6. Episode 185: Bountiful Harvest: The Bougie Pantry Serving 25,000 People in Livingston County

    Apr 23

    Episode 185: Bountiful Harvest: The Bougie Pantry Serving 25,000 People in Livingston County

    In Episode 185 of Welcome to Livingston, Don and Angela Putkela sit down with Yvonne Cavalli and Tina Thalacker from Bountiful Harvest, located in the heart of Brighton, Michigan. What started 15 years ago with a loaf of bread at a local church has grown into a fully volunteer-run organization serving over 25,000 people in 2025, with programs ranging from a client-choice grocery pantry and daily hot meal delivery to a pet food pantry, free laptops for kids, and a clothing pantry stocked with quality donations. With no payroll and no government grants, every single dollar given to Bountiful Harvest goes directly back to the community. Yvonne and Tina share the heart behind everything they do, the dignity they strive to give every person who walks through their doors, and the remarkable ways Livingston County businesses and neighbors show up for one another. If you've ever wanted to get involved or just learn more about what's happening right here in our community, this is the episode for you. 03:06 Addressing Community Needs and Dignity 10:04 Ways to Help and Donate 16:59 The Pet Pantry and Chewy Partnership 22:18 Meat Bingo Fundraiser 24:48 Food Bank vs. Pantry & Impact 32:53 Operational Hours and Healthy Meals 36:06 Needed Donations _____________________________ Guest links Website: https://bountifulharvest-mi.org/ Donate Link: https://bountifulharvest-mi.org/make-a-difference/#donate Phone: 810-360-0271 Email: info@bountifulharvest-mi.org   Livingston County Association of Realtors - Food Drive - 9:00 am - 12:00 pm May 2nd 2026   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)   For More Episodes: https://welcometolivingston.podbean.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

    45 min
  7. Episode 184: Festivals, Food Trucks, and Fun: Summer in Livingston County

    Apr 9

    Episode 184: Festivals, Food Trucks, and Fun: Summer in Livingston County

    Summer in Livingston County is something special, and in Episode 184 of Welcome to Livingston, Don and Angela Putkela are breaking down all the events, festivals, and hidden gems that make this community such an incredible place to live and explore. From a once-in-a-century opera at the Howell Opera House to the Michigan Challenge Balloon Fest, Taste of Brighton, Melon Fest, and everything in between, Don and Angela cover the can't-miss moments of the season. Whether you're a longtime local, new to the area, or just thinking about making Livingston County home, this episode is your ultimate summer guide. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to Livingston: Community Focus 01:05 Howell Opera House Returns 06:12 Livingston County’s Farmers’ Markets 09:40 Live Music and Downtown Vibes 12:34 Food Trucks and Art Fairs 14:56 Active Lifestyles in Livingston County 20:25 Mount Rushmore of Festivals 26:01 Unique Local Festivals and Events 31:05 Library Sales, Book Clubs, and More 35:10 Embrace Community Events _______________________________________ 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
  8. Episode 183: Home Warranties: Are They Worth It?

    Apr 2

    Episode 183: Home Warranties: Are They Worth It?

    Buying a home is exciting — but what happens when the furnace stops working, or the water heater gives out? In Episode 183 of Welcome to Livingston, Don and Angela Putkela sit down together to break down everything you need to know about home warranties. From what's covered (and what's not), to how much they cost, how to actually use one, and whether it's even the right fit for you, Don and Angela cover it all. They also share real-life stories from their clients, a few PSAs you'll want to hear before your next repair call, and some surprisingly handy tips for keeping your furnace and air conditioner running smoothly. 00:00 What is a Home Warranty? 03:25 Home Warranty Coverage and Costs 07:48 What is and isn’t Covered? 11:16 AC in Winter & Insurance Differences 14:30 Choosing a Home Warranty Company 19:18 Homeowner Mistakes and Usage Changes 26:19 Home Warranty: Peace of Mind _______________________________________ 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

    31 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Speakeasy Podcast Network
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    190
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Speakeasy Podcast Network
  • Show Website
    Welcome To Livingston