Brighton Chamber Podcast

158: Lake Trust: The Credit Union Difference

Rebecca O’Connell, Government Affairs Manager at Lake Trust Credit Union joins Rob this week to highlight the distinctive role of credit unions, particularly emphasizing Lake Trust’s commitment to community involvement and relationship-building with its members. Rebecca outlines how credit unions, being member-owned and not driven by Wall Street, effectively serve local communities by reinvesting deposits into local economies through loans for homes and businesses. Despite serving about 40% of Americans, credit unions manage less than 9% of total banking assets, often supporting those without other banking options. To further support local entrepreneurs, Lake Trust has partnered with Mixer Media, a bold new initiative offering commercial videography services, free creative consultations, and social media strategy sessions to help members grow their digital presence and tell their stories. From financial empowerment to creative support, this episode shows how Lake Trust is going way beyond banking.
 
01:17 Understanding Lake Trust Credit Union
02:33 The Credit Union Difference
05:11 Local Impact and Community Development
06:40 Strategic Growth and Community Needs
08:37 Innovative Acquisitions for Community Support
10:39 Empowering Local Businesses
12:27 Advocacy and the Future of Credit Unions
 
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
 
Guest Links
Website: https://laketrust.org/
Mixer Media Website: https://laketrust.org/our-story/who-is-lake-trust/mixer-media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LakeTrustCreditUnion
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laketrust/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lake-trust-credit-union/

157: Strolling in Oak Pointe

In this episode, Cameron chats with Christel Meyer, for a look into Stroll Oak Pointe Social Magazine! From “Precious Pets” to mouthwatering recipes and heartwarming family spotlights, Christel shares how this luxe magazine weaves together the stories of Oak Point, one neighbor at a time. Tune in for a peek behind the scenes, and find out how a community of 1,000 homes turns into 12,000 monthly smiles.
 
00:30 The Birth of Stroll Oak Point
03:44 Content That Connects: Articles in the Newsletter
06:54 Understanding Oak Point
08:15 Advertising Opportunities in Stroll Oak Point
09:49 Submissions and Community Involvement
11:04 The Publication Process Unveiled
14:19 Favorite Features and Community Impact
16:51 Looking Ahead: Events and Community Engagement
 
 
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
 
Guest Links
Website: https://www.strollmag.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550107135215
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strolloakpointe/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christel-meyer
Email: christel.meyer@strollmag.com

156: Shoot for Life

Grab your bow and join Cameron Harris as he chats with Tom Spisz, founder of Shoot for Life—a nationally recognized nonprofit combining archery with a mission. From 3D target shootouts to heartfelt programs like Bows for Vets, find out how this Michigan-based crew is hitting the bullseye when it comes to raising funds and spirits for veterans, kids, and families battling PTSD and life-altering illnesses.
 
00:00 Introduction to Shoot for Life
00:28 The Birth of a Nonprofit
02:25 Focus on PTSD and Childhood Illnesses
03:20 Event Structure and Purpose
04:39 A Day at Shoot for Life Events
07:16 Bows for Vets Program
10:39 The Importance of Supporting Veterans
15:12 Beginner-Friendly Events
17:02 Event Locations and Future Plans
19:18 Upcoming Events and Community Involvement
 
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
 
Guest Links
Website: https://www.shootforlife.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shootforlifecharity
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoot.for.life/
Email: tom.spisz@shootforlife.org

155: Appliance Solutions

Cameron welcomes owners Allison and Ben Kellogg for a behind the scene look at their new store - Appliance Solutions in Brighton! With Ben’s decade-plus of industry know-how and Allison’s passion for helping people, they’ve built a business with a mission: to give every customer a personalized shopping experience that fits their lifestyle, home, and budget. From smart tech and colorful appliance trends to why Speed Queen might be your new favorite brand, this episode is packed with insider tips, shopping pitfalls to avoid, and how the Kelloggs are making waves in both the appliance world and the local community.
 
00:00 Welcome to Appliance Solutions
01:06 Understanding Ideal Clients
02:07 Innovative Appliance Features
03:03 The Debate on Extended Warranties
04:08 Spotlight on Speed Queen Laundry
05:24 The Evolution of Appliance Technology
07:35 Common Mistakes When Buying Appliances
09:42 Community Involvement and Giving Back
10:41 The Importance of Early Involvement
 
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
 
Guest Links
Website: https://www.shopappliancesolutions.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567926030927
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/appliance_solutions_brighton/
Ph:  810-295-2915
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@appliancesolutionsmi?lang=en
Email: sales@shopappliancesolutions.com

154: Vista at Brighton Luxury Apartments

Anna Maniaci, Property Manager for Vista at Brighton and Denise Todd, Marketing Director for DTN join Cameron to discuss the new multi-family development in Brighton. Vista at Brighton explores the elevated living in one of Michigan's most charming towns. Whether you're a current resident, a future neighbor, or simply curious about upscale apartment living, this show is your inside look at life at The Vista!
 
We’re excited to share what makes our community so special - like its unbeatable walkability to downtown Brighton. Whether you’re heading out for coffee, dinner, or a bit of shopping, living here means having the charm of downtown just steps from your door. Be sure to listen in!
 
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
 
Guest Links
Website: https://www.vistaatbrighton.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vistaatbrighton
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vistaatbrighton
X: https://x.com/vistaatbrighton

153: Brighton Lighthouse & All Heart Garage

Cameron chats with Daniel and Anna Oginsky, the visionaries behind Brighton Light House and All Heart Garage—two inspiring spaces designed to fuel both work and well-being. They share how these spaces empower wellness practitioners, entrepreneurs, and creatives and much more. Hear about the upcoming Women’s Wellness Advance, unique membership perks, and how they’re helping to give growing businesses the space to thrive. Whether you're looking for a place to work, connect, or recharge, this episode has something for you!
 
00:31 Exploring Brighton Lighthouse and All Heart Garage
02:03 Health and Well-Being Programming
04:37 Residency and Membership Explained
05:26 Women’s Wellness Advance
07:12 Membership Tiers and Community
12:40 Building Connections Beyond Social Media
15:01 Member Events and Community Engagement
24:11 Heartmonic: The Vision Behind Their Spaces
29:01 Success Stories from the Community
30:16 Utilizing Space for Professional Events
 
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
 
Guest Links
All Heart Garage
Website: www.heartmonicholdings.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllHeartGarage
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allheartgarage/
Email: doginsky@heartmonicholdings.com
Phone: 810.360.3768
 
Brighton Lighthouse
Website: https://www.brightonlighthouse.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBrightonLightHouse/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightonlighthouse/

152: South Lyon Happenings 2025

South Lyon Mayor Stephen Kennedy stops by to share what’s buzzing in this charming Michigan town! From exciting local events and business updates to upcoming developments and even a little election talk, we’re covering it all. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through, there’s plenty to look forward to—think food truck rallies, live music, and maybe even a classic car or two. Tune in for the inside scoop on what’s next for South Lyon!
 
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
 
Guest Link
South Lyon Mayor Stephen Kennedy
Website: https://www.southlyonmi.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downtownsouthlyon/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/slccouncilmemberkennedy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cityofsouthlyon3444

151: Need a Creative Spark? Lakehouse Studios!

Cameron chats with JJ Zielinski, owner of Lakehouse Studios, about the intersection of design, strategy, and business growth. JJ shares how understanding clients’ goals is key to creating impactful branding, websites, and digital campaigns. They explore the latest marketing trends, including AI’s game-changing role in social media, advertising, and audience targeting. Plus, hear all about the upcoming Marketing Mashup events in Brighton—where industry pros break down what’s next in the world of marketing and business!
 
00:38 Discovering Lakehouse Studios
01:16 A Journey into Design
02:05 Navigating Business Challenges
03:11 Memorable Projects: Behind the Super Bowl
04:07 Community Engagement: Marketing Mashup
05:01 Learning Opportunities at Marketing Mashup
06:32 The Impact of AI on Business
09:33 AI in Advertising: A New Frontier
 
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
 
Guest Links
Name: JJ Zielinski
Title: Owner and Head Designer
Company: Lakehouse Studios
Website: https://www.lhs-dmg.com/
Facebook: https://www.lhs-dmg.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakehousestudios/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lakehouse-studios/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcG5yPQJIBMS9RnfOQlIWDw
TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/lakehousestudios/
Email: jjzielinski@lhs-dmg.com