Friday Sep 19, 2025
175: Core Sport Michigan Elite
Community Capital
Community Capital features local business that are a part of the Greater Area Brighton Chamber of Commerce. Hosted by Rob Johnson (Speakeasy Podcast Network), the mission of this podcast is to highlight, educate, and further networking relationships between all of the businesses that make up the Chamber.
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Episodes
Episodes
Friday Sep 12, 2025
Friday Sep 12, 2025
In this special on-location episode, guest host Rob Johnson takes us to the heart of downtown Brighton at the Smokin’ Rock-N-Blues Festival on September 5 and 6. Rob first sits down with Dorothy Harrison, Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer at Bank of Ann Arbor, to talk about the bank’s longtime commitment to the community. Dorothy shares her journey from First National Bank to Bank of Ann Arbor, her recent appointment to the Brighton Chamber board, and how the bank continues to support entrepreneurs with personalized, relationship-driven lending.
Then, the spotlight turns to two of Brighton’s youngest entrepreneurs: Ava, founder of Beaded by Ava, and Owen, creator of a handmade poster business. Both participated in the festival’s Kidpreneur showcase, sharing their passion for creativity, business, and making people smile. From Ava’s bead-decorated garden sticks to Owen’s best-selling “Sneaky Sasquatch” posters, these young creators proved that it’s never too early to follow your dreams. With big hearts, sharp ideas, and even sharper customer service, Ava and Owen remind us all that Brighton’s future is in good hands.
Chapters
00:00 Bank of Ann Arbor’s Community Role
02:45 Relational Banking for Entrepreneurs
07:47 Young Entrepreneur Ava: Beaded by Ava
13:31 Owen’s Poster Shop Venture
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
Guest Links
Ava's Etsy Shop:
https://beadedbyavaroseart.etsy.com/
Name: Dorothy Harrison Title: VP of Commercial LendingCompany: Bank of Ann ArborWebsite: https://www.bankofannarbor.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bankofannarbor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bankofannarbor/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bank-of-ann-arbor/
Friday Aug 29, 2025
Friday Aug 29, 2025
Cameron welcomes Vikram Gottam (Founder & CEO) and Mary Mekha (Director of Operations) from Art of Dermatology for a lively masterclass in skin health, medical, surgical, and cosmetic. They share how a patient-first philosophy drives everything they do, from treating acne, rosacea, eczema, and cysts for all ages to custom-tailoring treatment plans that match each person’s goals and budget. They discuss expect, smart, everyday wins (hello, daily sunscreen) and why regular skin checks, especially for melanoma, are non-negotiable, and how consultations, state-of-the-art procedures, and at-home routines work together across their multiple locations. Think of it as your game plan for beautiful, healthy skin built around you.
00:00 Art of Dermatology: An Introduction
03:26 Medical vs. Cosmetic Services
06:10 Patient-Centered Cosmetic Approach
09:42 When to Visit a Dermatologist
11:38 Preventative Skincare Tips
14:51 Locations and Contact Info
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
Guest Links
Vikram Gottam, Founder and Chief Executive Officer and Mary Mekha, Director of Operations
Company: Art of Dermatology
Website: https://theartofderm.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheArtofDerm/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofderm/?hl=en
Email: info@theartofderm.com
Ph: (248) 581-0333
Friday Aug 22, 2025
Friday Aug 22, 2025
Cameron Harris welcomes Jennifer Bond and Karen Story from the Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce, alongside Dorothy Harrison from the Bank of Ann Arbor, to preview the newly rebranded 2025 Brighton Smokin' Rock N Blues Festival. Held the weekend after Labor Day (Sept 5–6), this free music festival features regional bands, local food trucks, social district drinks, and kid-friendly activities—including a Rockin’ Kids Mini Mart, crafts, therapy dogs, and a silent disco.The Bank of Ann Arbor plays a key role as presenting sponsor, even helping curate musical acts. Free shuttles, extended restaurant patios, and Main Street closures all contribute to a walkable, festive downtown experience. Full details, including band schedules and vendor maps, can be found at https://business.brightoncoc.org/events/details/2025-brighton-smokin-rock-n-blues-festival-46085
Show LinksLearn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
Guest LinksName: Dorothy Harrison Title: VP of Commercial LendingCompany: Bank of Ann ArborWebsite: https://www.bankofannarbor.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bankofannarbor/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bankofannarbor/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bank-of-ann-arbor/
Friday Aug 15, 2025
Friday Aug 15, 2025
Cooper, Riesterer & Gross, PLC is thrilled to be featured on the Chamber Podcast to chat with our newest named partner, Jennifer Gross. She has been a member of the firm for years, a Partner for a couple years, she is now getting her name on the wall and it is very well deserved. She is excited to announce our firm's name change, reflecting our growth and evolution while maintaining the same commitment to excellence that our clients have trusted for 25 years.
As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we reflect on our journey serving the Brighton community and residents from all over the county as well as surrounding counties. Tune in to hear stories from our past, insights into our future, and how we plan to continue providing top-notch legal services for many more years to come.
Don't miss this episode filled with celebration, reflection, and a look ahead.
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
Guest Links
Website: https://www.crlaw.biz/
Website: https://www.crlaw.biz/jennifer-l-gross
Email: info@crlaw.biz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CooperRiestererPLC/
Friday Aug 08, 2025
Friday Aug 08, 2025
Karen Bauer the Executive Director of The Guild of Artists & Artisans is this week's guest. This week Cameron learns about the Brighton Street Art Fair a juried fine art event occurring from August 22nd to 24th, featuring 100 selected artists and showcasing diverse art styles like 2D work, photography, printmaking, glass, metal sculpture, and jewelry. The fair includes light music during the day and live bands in the evenings. A shuttle service will be available. The jury evaluates entries in 2D, 3D, and jewelry categories, inviting top scorers. The fair promotes local restaurants as food vendors. Originating from the Ann Arbor Art Fair, the Guild of Artisans and Artisans hosts eight annual fairs and operates a gallery shop in Ann Arbor. Their mission supports artists financially while boosting the local economy. More details are available at theguild.org.
00:31 What is the Brighton Street Art Fair?
01:49 Entertainment and Activities
02:41 Parking and Transportation Solutions
02:54 Artist Selection Process
04:17 Food Options at the Fair
05:44 The Guild of Artists and Artisans
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
Guest Links
Name: Karen Bauer
Title: Executive Director
Company: The Guild of Artists & Artisans
Website: https://www.theguild.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/guildfairs
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guildfairs/
Email: info@theguild.org
The Guild of Artists & Artisans
118 N Fourth Ave
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(734)662-3382 Ext 303 (O)
(734)646-8431 (C)
(734)662-0339 (fax)
Theguild.org
2025 Art Fair Dates
Perrysburg Hearts the Arts – August 16 & 17
NEW!! Brighton Street Art Fair - August 22 - 24
Common Ground’s Birmingham Street Art Fair – September 13 & 14
A2 Artoberfest - October 11 & 12
Royal Oak Market: Art Fair Edition – November 13 & 14
Visit us in the Gutman Gallery! Weds - Saturday 11am - 5pm
www.gutmangallery.com
Friday Aug 01, 2025
Friday Aug 01, 2025
Cameron sits down with Rod Willey from Brighton Furniture and Design to celebrate the grand opening of their stunning new store! From eagle sculptures made of moose horns to mid-century leather vibes, Rod dishes on high-end brands, personalized 3D home design services, and jaw-dropping furniture. Check out their anything but ordinary store.
00:30 The Grand Opening Details
01:00 In-Home Design Services
02:00 The Design Process Explained
03:00 Unique Furniture Brands
04:00 Trending Designs and Styles
05:00 The Popularity of Leather
06:00 Grand Opening Sale and Unique Offerings
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
Guest Links
Website: https://www.brightonfurniture.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576941981703
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightonfurnituredesign/
Email: austin@brightonfurniture.com
Friday Jul 25, 2025
Friday Jul 25, 2025
Rob sits down with Jimmy Banish from The Bear Factory to talk all things plush, but this isn’t your average toy talk. The Bear Factory is leading the charge with their line made from recycled fabrics, proving that quality and sustainability can go hand in paw. From eco-conscious designs to their “Plush for the Planet” initiative, this episode is stuffed with purpose. Be sure to check out their podcast too, it’s a feel-good listen you don’t want to miss!
01:02 The Origins of The Bear Factory
03:04 A Personal Journey into The Bear Factory
05:29 Revitalizing a Legacy
06:31 Quality Over Quantity
12:12 Sustainability Initiatives
18:01 Educating the Next Generation
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
Guest Links
Website: https://thebearfactory.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBearFactoryllc/?wtsid=rdr_0sGHHU1RDYkTDhGWz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebearfactory_llc/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBearFactory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebearfactoryllc
General Inquiries: hello@thebearfactory.com
Shipping Inquires: shipping@thebearfactory.com
Friday Jul 18, 2025
Friday Jul 18, 2025
In this episode, Cameron chats with Michelle Cousineau of Engrave It All USA—a laser-engraving powerhouse run on passion, not ads. From pumpkin pies to yoga mats, Michelle personalizes everything with heart, including tumblers, signs, and even spicy gifts for bachelorette parties. She’s raising thousands for veteran support programs, leaving her mark with QR codes, handwritten notes, and unmatched customer care. Tune in for creative engraving tales, future storefront dreams, and a peek into the sentimental (and cheeky) side of custom gifts.
00:36 Engrave It All USA Update
01:11 Supporting Veterans
02:47 Upcoming Events
03:37 The Journey into Engraving
05:40 Popular Engraving Items
08:03 Personal Touches in Business
10:37 Creative Engravings
12:44 Future Plans and Partnerships
14:17 A Call to Local Customers
15:05 The Spicy Side of Engraving
16:41 How to Connect with Michelle
Show Links
Learn more about the Brighton Chamber by visiting our website.
Website: https://www.brightoncoc.org/
Guest Links
Michelle
Website: EngraveItAllUSA.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EngraveItAllUSA
Email: michelle@engraveitallusa.com
Ph: 734.652.0783