In this episode of the ROCC Pod, we interview Jordan Burns, owner of Honest Insurance Brokers, who takes us through his journey in the insurance industry, starting with how he launched and sold his first business during the pandemic. Jordan shares how he moved from life insurance and financial advising into property and casualty insurance, eventually deciding to strike out on his own, driven by a desire to offer more personalized services to a wider range of clients.

Jordan explains the difference between insurance agents and brokers, emphasizing how brokers can work with multiple carriers, giving clients better options for home, auto, and other types of coverage. This flexibility sets him apart, allowing him to tailor policies based on individual needs and avoid the "auto-renewal trap" many consumers fall into. He describes his approach to educating clients by presenting them with a few different coverage options and walking them through each one. This transparency is a core part of his business philosophy, which is reflected in the company name, Honest Insurance Brokers.

We also dive into important topics like when to make a claim and the implications it can have on future premiums. Jordan emphasizes the importance of consulting with an agent before filing a claim, as many people regret filing small claims when the payout doesn’t justify the potential increase in premiums. He also talks about the CLUE report, a tool used in real estate to check prior insurance claims on a home—a crucial step for homebuyers to avoid surprises.

Toward the end of the episode, Jordan touches on Michigan's complicated car insurance laws and the significance of Qualified Healthcare Coverage (QHC), which can allow drivers to opt out of some auto insurance coverage and save money. He shares insights into how to navigate the crowded insurance market, pointing out that while big companies advertise to build brand awareness, lesser-known carriers might offer better rates because they don't spend as much on advertising.

In addition to his business insights, Jordan is deeply involved in his community. He’s been instrumental in the Young Professionals Group within the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce, fostering networking opportunities for young professionals in the area.

Honest Insurance Brokers - honestinsurancebrokers.com

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 Keller Williams - http://soldbylisab.com/

In this episode of the ROCC Pod, we sit down with Siri Pipat, the owner of Kacha Thai Market, to discuss her passion for authentic Thai food, her restaurant’s unique concept, and her experiences as part of the Royal Oak community.

Siri shares her personal journey of moving to the U.S. over 20 years ago and her struggle to find Thai food that matched the flavors she grew up with. That challenge inspired her to create Kacha Thai Market, a restaurant focused on bringing authentic Thai street food to Michigan while incorporating local ingredients. She emphasizes the importance of using fresh, local produce and meats while still importing essential Thai ingredients, like tamarind and palm sugar, to maintain authenticity.

One of Kacha Thai Market’s standout dishes is their Pad Thai wrapped in a delicate omelet, a unique offering inspired by a Michelin-starred restaurant in Thailand. Siri takes pride in offering a dish that’s both visually stunning and true to Thai culinary traditions, something rare to find in the U.S.

Beyond serving food, Siri is passionate about fostering connections between different cultures and communities. She’s actively involved in local chamber events and has collaborated with other ethnic restaurants for special cultural nights. Siri also uses her platform to educate others about Thai history and food, including how certain dishes came to represent Thai national identity.

Siri also touches on the importance of social media marketing in the competitive restaurant industry. She’s still learning the ropes of social media but leverages influencers to promote her restaurant. She envisions Kacha Thai Market as more than just a place to eat—it’s a small taste of Thailand, brought to life through authentic flavors, cultural decor, and community engagement.

As the conversation winds down, Siri mentions her future plans, including promoting Thai culture further and continuing to innovate her offerings. She also assures listeners that her restaurant caters to a wide range of dietary needs, including vegan and halal options, ensuring that everyone can experience the rich flavors of Thailand.

Kacha Thai Market: kachathaimarket.com

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 Keller Williams - http://soldbylisab.com/

In this episode of the ROCC Pod, we dive into the musical world of the Royal Oak Concert Band and the Woodward Avenue Jazz Orchestra. Jon Gay and Lisa Bibbee host Kevin Czarnik, the director of the Royal Oak Concert Band, and Jim Cann, the director of the Woodward Avenue Jazz Orchestra. They do have very different backgrounds. Kevin is a music teacher who works with students of all ages. Jim, an engineer-turned-musician, talks about his passion for music, his role in the jazz orchestra, and how he transitioned from a career in manufacturing automation to leading a big band.

The discussion highlights the rich history and community presence of both musical groups. The Royal Oak Concert Band, established in the 1960s, continues to bring together volunteer musicians to perform a diverse repertoire, from classic marches to contemporary pieces. The Woodward Avenue Jazz Orchestra, a subset of the concert band, specializes in big band jazz, playing everything from Glenn Miller to more modern arrangements. Both groups emphasize the importance of community music and how it provides a creative outlet for people of all ages and backgrounds.

We preview upcoming performances, including a concert themed "Color Your World," featuring music with color-inspired themes and a special collaboration with the Madrigal Chorale for their holiday concert. Jim and Kevin reflect on memorable past performances, such as their popular holiday show featuring Santa Claus and a choir.

Royal Oak Concert Band and Woodward Avenue Jazz Orchestra Website: https://www.royaloakconcertband.org/

Ticket info, including October 27th's Show, Color Your World: https://www.royaloakconcertband.org/tickets

New member application form: https://www.royaloakconcertband.org/join-us

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 Keller Williams - http://soldbylisab.com/

In this episode of The ROCC Pod, we sit down with Bryce and Shayna Sherman, a resilient couple whose life took a dramatic turn when Bryce experienced a traumatic brain injury. Bryce recounts the harrowing accident that occurred during a family trip to Colorado, when he fell from a moving vehicle and suffered a skull fracture, resulting in a life-threatening brain bleed. Shayna explains how Bryce was rushed into emergency surgery, spending 16 days in a coma and on life support for 11 of them. Defying the odds, Bryce survived, even though doctors feared he might never walk again.

Despite facing these physical challenges, Bryce's determination to recover stemmed from his love for his family, especially the thought of playing with his young son. Shayna, in turn, stood as a pillar of strength for the family, making tough decisions and keeping their family together during such a traumatic time. This experience cemented their belief in faith, resilience, and the power of community, which later inspired them to make a significant life change by relocating to Michigan from California. As it turns out, it was the people in Michigan that made them want to come here.

The Shermans also discuss their professional journey into financial advising. Both started in traditional jobs—Shayna as a paralegal and Bryce as an electrician—but found their calling after seeking financial guidance themselves. Realizing the importance of financial literacy, they decided to help others by founding Sherman Financial Group. Bryce highlights the struggle he faced studying for his financial licenses after his brain injury, a challenge that required double the effort due to cognitive impairments. Yet, he passed the exams, demonstrating his perseverance.

The couple's financial philosophy is rooted in protecting income for families and securing generational wealth, which Bryce passionately describes as his legacy. Shayna also stresses the importance of educating others, particularly women, about financial independence and empowerment, aiming to be a role model in this space.

Their story is one of overcoming immense personal adversity, building faith-based resilience, and creating a business that aims to support and uplift families in their financial journeys.

Connect with the Sherman Financial Group: https://livemore.net/ShermanFinancialGroup

Or Call Shayna's cell: (619) 249-0167

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 Keller Williams - http://soldbylisab.com/

In this episode of the ROCC Pod, we sit down with Anne Bradley from Common Ground, an organization dedicated to mental health crisis support and suicide prevention. Common Ground's mission is to help individuals in crisis transition from despair to hope through trauma-informed programs, advocacy, and community support. They offer a variety of services, including a crisis intervention facility in Pontiac known as Oasis, a sober support unit, and a crisis residential unit for those needing extended care. Additionally, they manage a 24/7 suicide prevention hotline and operate a mobile crisis response team, providing in-person assistance throughout Oakland and Genesee counties.

Anne emphasizes the importance of the 988 crisis hotline, a nationwide service that connects callers to local mental health professionals, ensuring they receive not only emotional support but also access to nearby resources. Common Ground handles 988 calls across most of Michigan, offering this vital service round-the-clock.

Beyond crisis intervention, Anne shares her personal journey from counseling to fundraising and highlights her passion for supporting mental health initiatives, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, which has significantly raised awareness about mental health issues.

The episode also covers Common Ground's upcoming events, including the Birmingham Street Art Fair, where they will host a silent auction to raise funds for their programs, and the Celebration of Hope gala on October 18, which is a major fundraiser for the organization. Anne encourages listeners to get involved, whether through attending events, making donations, or volunteering.

As we discuss the breadth of Common Ground’s services, Anne introduces the virtual behavioral health urgent care, offering quick access to mental health professionals, and the victims' assistance program, which supports individuals affected by violent crimes. These programs are essential in providing immediate and ongoing care to those in need.

Common Ground Website:https://commongroundhelps.org/

Celebration of Hope Website: bit.ly/CoH2024

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 Keller Williams - http://soldbylisab.com/

Today we are joined by Terry Poduska, president of the Royal Oak Women's Club, which recently received the prestigious Women's Club of the Year award from GFWC Michigan. The club, part of the General Federated Women's Club, has been a vital community service organization since 1902. Terry shares the club’s rich history, highlighting its evolution from a study club to a community-focused group that played a significant role in local developments like park installations, school fire escapes, and postal service enhancements.

A notable part of the club's legacy includes its extensive involvement during World War II. Terry, who is also the club’s historian, recounts how the women supported the war effort by making bandages, preparing sandwiches, and selling war bonds, even funding a bomber named "The City of Royal Oak." This period exemplifies the club's long-standing commitment to service.

We then discuss the upcoming National Day of Service on September 28, organized by GFWC Michigan, where the Royal Oak Women's Club will host a food drive for Blessings in a Backpack, addressing food insecurities for local children. Terry emphasizes the importance of this initiative and provides details on how listeners can participate.

The club also supports various organizations, including the Care House in Pontiac and Guiding Harbor, which aids displaced girls. Additionally, Bay Cliff, a camp in the UP, offers children with disabilities a traditional summer camp experience.

For those interested in joining the Royal Oak Women’s Club, Terry mentions upcoming meetings on September 10 and October 1, inviting new members to get involved. The club continues to provide networking opportunities and resources for women in the community, enhancing its long-standing tradition of service.

Next Meetings: September 10th and October 6th at 6:00PM, 404 South Pleasant Street, Royal Oak.

More:

Royal Oak Women's Club: https://www.rowc.org/

Royal Oak Women's Club Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Royal-Oak-Womens-Club/492584550757021

Blessings in a Backpack Michigan: https://www.blessingsinabackpackmi.oag/

Bay Cliff Health Camp: https://baycliff.org/

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 Keller Williams - http://soldbylisab.com/

In this episode of the ROCC Pod, produced for the Royal Oak Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Jon and Lisa interview Cynthia Gleich, Marketing Manager, and Paul Batista, owner, of BODY20 Wellness. They discuss the revolutionary fitness approach of BODY20, which leverages EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) technology to provide efficient, full-body workouts.

Cynthia Gleich shares her journey into fitness, highlighting her lifelong commitment to health, including becoming a vegetarian at age ten (that's quite a story). Paul Batista, an entrepreneur with a background in owning Jimmy John's franchises and an avid participant in F3 workout groups, discovered BODY20 through a franchise podcast. He was drawn to the idea of achieving comprehensive workouts in just 20 minutes, twice a week.

The conversation delves into the science behind BODY20’s EMS technology. Cynthia explains that traditional gym workouts only recruit up to 32% of muscle fibers, while BODY20’s EMS workouts engage 90% of muscle fibers, making a 20-minute session equivalent to three to four hours in a conventional gym. The EMS suit delivers impulses at two rates: strength impulses with 80 contractions per second, and continuous cardio impulses, ensuring deep muscle engagement.

Lisa asks about the inclusivity of BODY20’s technology. Cynthia confirms that it benefits all body types and fitness levels, from professional athletes with injuries to elderly clients seeking improved fitness. The InBody scale, another medical device used by BODY20, tracks clients' progress, showing changes in body composition within three weeks.

The discussion covers various benefits beyond muscle building, including reducing cellulite, alleviating back pain, and balancing muscle imbalances. Paul adds that EMS workouts help retrain the body to fire neurons correctly, aiding in injury rehabilitation and improving physical performance.

Cynthia describes the cardio workouts as an advanced form of HIIT, continuously boosting metabolism by 30% for three days post-workout. Paul explains the three membership tiers, emphasizing the cost-effectiveness and time efficiency of BODY20’s program compared to traditional personal training.

More:

Body20 Wellness Royal Oak Website: https://body20.com/royal-oak/

Phone: (248) 237-4559

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 Keller Williams - http://soldbylisab.com/

In this episode of the ROCC Pod, we welcome Ricky Martin and Adrian Adkins from Tuff Shed.

Adrian discusses his journey in theater, having participated in over 40 productions since high school. Ricky reveals his love for the movies Jaws and Empire Records, which he has watched countless times. Their camaraderie is evident as they share how they met while working at Best Buy and transitioned to Tuff Shed.

Ricky explains that after 20 years at Best Buy, a store closure prompted him to seek new opportunities, leading him to Tuff Shed. Recognizing Adrian’s customer service skills, he invited him to join the team. Adrian appreciated the chance to work with Ricky again, emphasizing the importance of supportive leadership.

Ricky then details the variety of uses people find for their Tuff Sheds. They talk about the impact of COVID-19 on their business, as more people sought home-based solutions like gyms and offices.

Adrian and Ricky elaborate on the customer experience at Tuff Shed, noting that while the average installation process is quick, larger projects may take longer due to permits and customizations. They emphasize their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, offering a wide range of sizes and custom options.

Tuff Shed covers a significant area including Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio, supported by partnerships with Home Depot. They discuss the potential for a concrete program to simplify the foundation process for customers.

More:

Tuff Shed: tuffshed.com

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Sf83JhKGqwS32mLbA

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 Keller Williams - http://soldbylisab.com/