The ROCC Pod: Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce

Jon Gay, Lisa Bibbee, Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce
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We are excited to launch the first ever podcast for the Royal Oak Michigan Chamber of Commerce, "The ROCC Pod!" This will be a unique podcast with an all-star cast of hosts. Join us, as we get to know our Royal Oak Chamber members on a more personal level. Want to be featured as a guest on our show? Email us! theroccpod@gmail.com

  1. Why Storytelling Still Wins in Modern Marketing

    4D AGO

    Why Storytelling Still Wins in Modern Marketing

    In this episode, we sit down with Michael Fossano from Premier Communications Group and talk about what it really means to market in a technology driven world. We start with a fun look at Mike’s life outside the office, including his passion for gardening and making homemade sauces and jams. From there, we shift into the history of Premier Communications Group, which was founded by his father in 1982 as a graphic design firm and has grown into a full service marketing communications agency. We reflect on the company’s 44 year journey and how it has evolved to serve clients across industries including automotive, healthcare, insurance, real estate, and more. Working with a wide range of industries keeps the work fresh and forces us to stay curious. We acknowledge the rapid pace of change in marketing, from the early days of websites to the rise of social media, AI, and tools like ChatGPT. While technology plays a major role, it cannot replace genuine human connection. Strong client relationships, thoughtful listening, and tailored strategies remain at the core of effective marketing. We explore how different platforms serve different purposes. Some clients benefit from Facebook or Instagram, while others in B2B spaces may see stronger results on LinkedIn. We stress the importance of understanding where an audience actually spends time and building a tactical approach around that insight. A major theme of our conversation is storytelling. We talk about how uncovering a company’s history, milestones, awards, and innovations can humanize a brand. Sharing those stories builds trust, credibility, and connection. In a world full of automation and algorithms, we remind ourselves that people want to be seen, heard, and valued. Personalized outreach and thoughtful communication stand out in ways that automated messages do not. We also touch on Premier’s deep roots in Royal Oak and long standing involvement with the Chamber of Commerce. We close with a lighter conversation about Detroit sports and lifelong memories with Mike's late dad, built around baseball. Premiere Communications Group Website: https://premiercg.com/ Mike's Email: mfossano@premierecg.com Phone Number: 248-544-7383 Address: 612 East Fourth Street, Royal Oak. Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/ Connect with our hosts: Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/ Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    15 min
  2. Why The Right Colors Change Everything

    FEB 26

    Why The Right Colors Change Everything

    We open this episode by talking about how seeing ourselves on camera during COVID changed the way many of us think about how we look. We discuss how lighting, color, and cohesion play a bigger role than we realize, and how that realization often becomes the entry point into color analysis. From there, we introduce House of Colour and Dee Pineaut, who joins us to explain what color analysis actually is and where it comes from. We walk through the history of color analysis, starting with early 20th-century art theory and the Bauhaus movement, and then moving into the film industry with the rise of Technicolor. Filmmakers learned that certain colors could make actors look healthier, younger, brighter, or more sinister, and those same principles apply to everyday people. We talk about how color can either harmonize with someone’s natural undertones or fight against them, affecting how vibrant or washed out they appear. We then break down what a typical House of Colour appointment looks like. Natural daylight and an in-person experience are essential, and precision-dyed drapes are used to determine whether someone has warm or cool undertones. From there, we outline the four seasonal palettes—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—and what those seasons mean in practical terms. We discuss how finding the right colors simplifies getting dressed, helps wardrobes become more cohesive, and reduces decision fatigue in the morning. We move beyond color into style analysis, where we talk about body shape, clothing cuts, and personality. We emphasize that this process is not about changing someone’s body, but about honoring it and choosing shapes, fabrics, and details that work best for each individual. We highlight how style evolves over a lifetime and how these tools help people adapt through career changes, retirement, weight changes, and life transitions. We also cover the additional services House of Colour offers, including cosmetics, wardrobe edits, personal shopping, and online shopping resources. Dee shares her own journey into this work, explaining how her personal transformation led her to open a House of Colour studio in Royal Oak. We close by talking about client success stories, community involvement through the Royal Oak Chamber, and how listeners can get started on their own color and style journey. More: Dee's House of Colour Website: https://www.houseofcolour.com/stylists/dee-pineau-royal-oak-michigan (00:00) – Intro (01:25) – What Color Analysis Is and Where It Comes From (02:48) – Film, Technicolor, and the Psychology of Color (03:32) – What House of Colour Does (04:51) – What a Color Analysis Appointment Looks Like (06:34) – Favorite Colors vs. Best Colors (08:06) – Why In-Person Analysis Matters (09:13) – Style Analysis and Body Shapes (11:06) – Additional Services: Makeup, Wardrobes, Shopping (13:10) – Dee’s Personal Journey to House of Colour (14:27) – Client Transformations and Success Stories (15:22) – Royal Oak Chamber and Community Involvement (16:26) – How to Get Started with House of Colour Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/ Connect with our hosts: Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/ Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    18 min
  3. Overcoming Dental Anxiety with Dr. Karassi

    FEB 5

    Overcoming Dental Anxiety with Dr. Karassi

    We sit down with Dr. Tasneem Karassi of Wellness Family Dentistry to talk about her journey into dentistry, her decision to open a startup practice in Royal Oak, and her passion for patient-centered, whole-body dental care. We start by getting to know Dr. Karassi beyond dentistry, including her long-time love of ceramics and how working with her hands outside the office helps her unwind and stay grounded. That creative background naturally connects to dentistry, a profession that blends precision, artistry, and problem-solving. We explore how and why she chose Royal Oak as both her home and the location for her practice. After working in several offices across the region, Dr. Karassi knew she wanted to build something from scratch that reflected her own vision. With encouragement from fellow local business owners and the right opportunity opening up, Wellness Family Dentistry was born. She shares how the energy, community, and vibrancy of Royal Oak made it the perfect place to plant roots and grow a practice. A major focus of our conversation is dental anxiety. We talk about why so many patients feel nervous at the dentist and how trust, communication, and time are the most important tools in overcoming that fear. Dr. Karassi explains how her office prioritizes education, visual tools, and a calm, spa-like environment to remove the mystery from dental care. From aroma therapy to noise-canceling headphones, everything is designed to make patients feel safe, heard, and unrushed. We also dive into dental insurance and affordability, including options for patients without insurance. Dr. Karassi outlines her one-time new patient special and the Wellness Family Plan, a membership model that focuses on preventive care and transparency rather than insurance limitations. One of the most impactful parts of the conversation centers on airway dentistry and sleep apnea. We discuss how sleep apnea is often underdiagnosed, how it affects the entire body, and how dentists can play a key role in identifying and treating it. Dr. Karassi explains mandibular advancement devices as a non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines and shares real-life examples of how proper diagnosis can dramatically improve patients’ quality of life. We wrap up by talking about pediatric dental care, the importance of starting children early, and how lifelong habits are formed. Dr. Karassi shares how her curiosity and conversations during a two-year gap period ultimately led her into dentistry, a profession she now uses to combine health, wellness, aesthetics, and community impact. Wellness Family Dentistry Website– https://wellnessfamilydentistry.co (00:00) Intro (00:20) Welcome to the ROCC Pod (00:49) Ceramics, Creativity, and Dentistry (01:53) Starting a Dental Practice from Scratch (04:24) Understanding and Treating Dental Anxiety (08:46) Dental Insurance, Membership Plans, and Costs (10:30) Airway Dentistry and Sleep Apnea (15:57) Pediatric Dental Care and Starting Kids Early (18:24) Finding Passion in Dentistry (20:33) Joining the Royal Oak Chamber (21:14) Fishbowl Question & Fun Wrap-Up (22:41) How to Contact Wellness Family Dentistry Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/ Connect with our hosts: Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/ Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    24 min
  4. Michigan Wine, Uncorked: Inside Michigan By The Bottle

    JAN 22

    Michigan Wine, Uncorked: Inside Michigan By The Bottle

    In this episode of The ROCC Pod, we sit down with Taylor Simpson, co-owner of Michigan By The Bottle, to explore the evolution of a wine-centric community experience that brings together Michigan’s top vineyards under one roof. Taylor shares how the concept began in 2012 as a blog run by two passionate wine lovers and grew into a network of tasting rooms across Southeast Michigan—including locations in Shelby Township, Royal Oak, and Auburn Hills—with a fourth coming soon to Lake Orion. We discuss what sets Michigan By The Bottle apart: a curated selection from 15 winery partners across the state, giving customers access to wines from every Michigan AVA (American Viticultural Area) without the long drive. Events are central to the experience, from wine and food pairings with winemakers to unexpected offerings like sourdough workshops and Galentine’s gatherings with permanent jewelry. It’s a place where community and curiosity intersect—where wine is the medium, but connection is the goal. Taylor also breaks down her role in the company. Alongside her brother, she acquired Michigan By The Bottle in partnership with Paul and Geoff Hamelin of Verterra Winery. They’ve modernized the business, revamped the wine club to be fully customizable, and launched member-exclusive perks—like curated trips to Leelanau Peninsula wineries. We get into Michigan’s unique wine geography, diving into how the 45th parallel and Lake Michigan’s climate make this state ideal for cool-climate varietals. Taylor explains how lake-effect snow insulates vines during harsh winters, helping Michigan produce high-quality grapes that rival well-known European regions. She even introduces us to less common varietals like Blaufränkisch and Grüner Veltliner, showcasing the diversity in Michigan’s wine scene. The episode wraps on a lighter note with Taylor’s ostrich-riding adventure in South Africa and a fun fishbowl question about naming her dream yacht—spoiler: it’d be something wine-related like Uncorked. We’re proud to spotlight Taylor and Michigan By The Bottle as a vibrant example of entrepreneurial energy and regional pride, all while raising a glass to local flavor. Learn more at https://michiganbythebottle.com/ Email: tasting@michiganbythebottle.com (00:00) - Meet Taylor Simpson (01:03) - Ostrich Riding in South Africa (02:18) - Origins of Michigan By The Bottle (03:56) - Locations & Events (05:30) - Wine Clubs & Member Trips (07:21) - Michigan Winery Selection Process (08:28) - Michigan's Wine Geography Explained (10:01) - Ice Wine and Upcoming Events (10:28) - Unique Wines to Try (12:30) - Royal Oak Chamber Experience (13:20) - Fishbowl Fun: Name Your Yacht (14:28) - How to Connect with Michigan By The Bottle Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/ Connect with our hosts: Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/ Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    16 min
  5. Baker College's Debt Forgiveness, 1 Year MBA, and More

    12/18/2025

    Baker College's Debt Forgiveness, 1 Year MBA, and More

    In this episode, we sit down with Tonya Jennings and Nathan Wright from Baker College (now with a mascot: The Bees!) to explore how the institution is creating new paths for education, especially for returning students, first-gen learners, and working professionals. We kick off with a look at their innovative "Return to the Hive" program, which offers institutional debt forgiveness for former students who left Baker due to unpaid balances. Half the debt is forgiven after one term, and the rest after completing a second semester. This initiative is specifically designed to remove financial barriers and re-engage students who’ve been out of the system for two years or more. We shift into how Baker supports first-generation college students through its "First-Gen Bees" program, which offers guidance and community for both students and staff who are navigating college without the benefit of a parent who’s been through the process. Tonya and Nathan emphasize the college’s “students first” culture, which drives many of their initiatives. The conversation moves to flexible programs like the new Accelerated One-Year MBA. Fully online and built for busy professionals, it allows students to move through coursework every four weeks and earn a degree in a single year. That flexibility extends to their continuing education offerings as well. Baker boasts over 1,400 non-credit courses, covering everything from trade skills like HVAC and CDL training to lifestyle topics like gardening in small spaces. The college also partners with local employers to address skill gaps, such as creating Spanish-for-manufacturing training to help teams communicate more effectively. Looking toward the future, Baker is doubling down on high-demand fields like healthcare and technology. Nursing remains a huge focus with no waitlists across campuses, and AI integration is quickly becoming a staple within programs and classrooms. The staff shares how Baker is embracing AI not as a threat but as a tool to enhance learning and career readiness, ensuring students are equipped to use it ethically and effectively. We also hear about their summer programs for middle and high schoolers, offering structured academic engagement during the break. These camps are expanding and serve as an important on-ramp for future learners. We close with a fun segment on favorite childhood books, giving the audience a peek at the personalities behind the professionals. Baker has campuses in Royal Oak, Owosso, and online. Learn more at www.baker.edu. 00:00 – Return to the Hive Debt Forgiveness 02:11 – What Makes the Program Unique 04:08 – Supporting First-Generation Students 05:17 – Accelerated One-Year MBA 06:08 – Continuing Ed & Trades Training 08:02 – Summer Camps for Youth 09:16 – Workforce Trends & AI Integration 12:26 – AI’s Role in Student Learning 12:52 – Fishbowl Question: Childhood Books 14:55 – How to Connect with Baker College Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/ Connect with our hosts: Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/ Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    16 min
  6. From Ska to Sanctuary: Genesis The Church

    12/04/2025

    From Ska to Sanctuary: Genesis The Church

    In this episode of the ROCC Pod, we sit down with Pastor Beau McCarthy from Genesis The Church, a unique faith community based here in Royal Oak. We open by dispelling expectations—Beau’s journey began not in seminary, but in a ska band called The Insyderz, where he played bass alongside his co-pastor Nate, who played drums. Their shared roots in music and creativity eventually led them to explore spirituality more deeply, culminating in the founding of a church that embraces art, conversation, and faith. Genesis was locally formed in the early 2000s as an offshoot of Kensington Community Church in Troy. The team, mostly in their twenties at the time, wanted to establish a new kind of church in Royal Oak—one that would evolve with the community. Over the past 25 years, they’ve done just that. Inclusivity stands at the heart of Genesis’ identity. We talk with Beau about how their journey toward inclusion started with a 2010 merger with the First Baptist Church of Royal Oak, a congregation founded in 1839. He shares powerful historical examples, including the contributions of Hamlet Harris, a free African-American who helped fund the church’s original land purchase, and stories of Japanese-American and Vietnamese refugee families welcomed by the church during difficult times in American history. Beau openly discusses how Genesis has changed its posture over time, especially around LGBTQ+ inclusion. What began as a more traditional stance has shifted through reflection, repentance, and growth. Today, Genesis is committed to ensuring that every part of their space—from physical accessibility to gender-neutral bathrooms—communicates welcome. Even the way sermons are delivered, from the same level as the congregation, reflects this flat, inclusive posture. We also dive into the church’s aspiration to be a beacon—a place of light, refuge, and good deeds. Beau explains that this vision informs how they walk with each other in both suffering and joy. That idea extends into his personal life too. He and his wife are adoptive parents to two Black sons, and he shares how that experience reshaped their family’s identity and their approach to parenting. Beau wraps up by reflecting on the power of personal stories— both good and bad - and not just as anecdotes, but as guiding narratives that help individuals discover purpose and connection. Whether it’s historical stories or modern journeys, Genesis is a church that honors and grows through storytelling. For those curious about joining or learning more, the church offers a low-pressure environment and multiple ways to connect—online or in person. Website: https://www.genesisthechurch.org/ Pastor Beau's email: beau.genesisthechurch@gmail.com 00:00 - Intro and Ernie Harwell Quote 00:53 - From Ska Band to Ministry 02:35 - Founding of Genesis The Church 04:09 - The Church’s Inclusive Roots 08:44 - Evolving LGBTQ+ Posture 11:31 - Pastor Beau's Transracial Adoption and Identity 15:45 - Reconnecting with the Chamber 16:28 - How to Connect with Genesis 17:47 - Wrap-Up and Resources Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/ Connect with our hosts: Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/ Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    19 min
  7. Feral Gen Xers Need To Know About Social Security and Medicare

    11/06/2025

    Feral Gen Xers Need To Know About Social Security and Medicare

    In this episode of the ROCC Pod, we sit down with Jim Komoroski of the M1 Agency for a deep dive into the often misunderstood world of Medicare and Social Security planning. Jim shares how a personal family health crisis during the pandemic exposed major blind spots in his mother-in-law's retirement planning—despite her seemingly having “her affairs in order.” That experience led him and his wife LIsa, a fellow Gen Xer, to launch the M1 Agency with a mission to help others avoid similar pitfalls. We begin by discussing the concept of being a “feral Gen Xer”—a nod to the self-sufficient, figure-it-out approach that defines many in this generation—and how that mindset helped Jim build a business rooted in research, self-education, and a drive to serve. Jim explains that M1 specializes in Social Security optimization, Medicare education, and annuities, with a local focus and a name inspired by both Woodward Avenue and Medicare itself. The heart of our conversation is focused on how ill-prepared most Americans are when it comes to Social Security and Medicare. Jim breaks down common misconceptions, like the idea that Medicare covers everything or that Social Security won’t exist in the future. He stresses that very few people truly optimize their Social Security benefits—only about 8%—and the rest leave an average of $111,000 on the table over their lifetimes. Through individualized planning, Jim helps clients make better decisions on when to claim benefits and how to coordinate those choices with retirement accounts and lifestyle needs. We also touch on lesser-known facts, like how divorced individuals can still benefit from their ex-spouse’s Social Security if they were married for at least ten years. Jim emphasizes that education should start early—ideally in your mid-40s—so you’re not caught off guard by the real costs of healthcare and retirement. Even healthy Medicare recipients in Michigan spend around $3,700 in their first year on premiums and out-of-pocket costs, so having a strategy is crucial. Jim also shares insight on how misinformation spreads—especially online—and why it’s essential to dig into the details, not just rely on headlines. His daily “M1nute” videos help break down complex topics into digestible updates that apply directly to Michigan residents. We wrap up with a conversation about the value of getting involved in the community through the Royal Oak Chamber and how those human connections energize business owners like us. More: The M1 Agency Website: https://www.them1agency.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/them1agency/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheM1Agency Jim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimkomoroski/ 00:00 – The Social Security Optimization Problem 01:00 – Meet Jim Komoroski of M1 Agency 02:42 – How a Family Crisis Sparked a Business 05:51 – When Should You Start Planning? 07:26 – Medicare Myths and Real Costs 10:50 – What is Social Security Optimization? 13:08 – Social Security and Divorce 15:33 – The “M1nute”: Sorting Out Misinformation 16:45 – Chamber Involvement and Community Impact 19:56 – Fishbowl Question: Advice I Wish I Took 22:32 – Where to Find Jim and Final Thoughts   Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/ Connect with our hosts: Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/ Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    24 min
  8. Why Pilates Belongs In Your Routine - No Matter What Your Age

    10/23/2025

    Why Pilates Belongs In Your Routine - No Matter What Your Age

    In this episode of the ROCC Pod, we sit down with Brandi Freeman and Amy Warner, co-owners of Club Pilates, to discuss how Pilates fits into modern life, especially for busy professionals, parents, and aging bodies. We begin by acknowledging the real-life challenges of prioritizing fitness while juggling responsibilities. Brandi and Amy share that between the two of them, they manage seven kids — yet still find time to prioritize their own health. They emphasize that motivation ebbs and flows, but creating a consistent routine can transform exercise into a natural part of daily life. We explore the roots of Pilates, originally developed by Joseph Pilates to rehabilitate war veterans. With control and alignment at its core, Pilates combines movement, breath, and mental focus for full-body wellness. Club Pilates offers a contemporary take on classical Pilates, with a strong emphasis on Reformer Pilates — a form that uses resistance machines to strengthen the body while improving flexibility, mobility, and posture. Amy and Brandi explain that this method isn’t just for one demographic. They’ve trained everyone from clients in their 90's to professional athletes, showcasing Pilates’ adaptability and universal benefit. Throughout the episode, we hear how Pilates helps people recover from injuries, extend the effects of physical therapy, and prevent pain from creeping in with age. Many of their clients are at the point in life where their previous fitness routines no longer serve them. Pilates becomes a pain-free, effective alternative that still delivers strength and flexibility. Their instructors, each trained with over 500 hours of certification, customize classes to meet each member where they are — whether it's rehab, aging gracefully, or athletic performance. We also dive into how Brandi and Amy turned their shared passion for fitness into a growing business. What began with a conversation in a gym parking lot led to nine Club Pilates studios across Michigan, with Royal Oak being the newest addition and Commerce Township soon to follow. They also speak warmly of their experience joining the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce and how supportive the community has been in helping them launch locally. To wrap, they invite listeners to try a free introductory class — a gentle entry point into Pilates that includes a sample workout and a personalized membership consultation. For those curious but unsure, the message is clear: Pilates is for everybody, and every body. Connect with Club Pilates Royal Oak at119 South Main Street, right downtown  Their phone number is (248) 955-4011. Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/ Connect with our hosts: Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/ Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    17 min
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We are excited to launch the first ever podcast for the Royal Oak Michigan Chamber of Commerce, "The ROCC Pod!" This will be a unique podcast with an all-star cast of hosts. Join us, as we get to know our Royal Oak Chamber members on a more personal level. Want to be featured as a guest on our show? Email us! theroccpod@gmail.com

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