Right Down the Street with Mayor Bryan K. Barnett

There is no denying the beauty and influence that Meadow Brook Hall has had on our local community. Join Mayor Bryan Barnett as he talks with Shannon O'Berski, Director of External Affairs at Meadow Brook Estate, about this magnificent home and its grounds, the Dodge-Wilson family and their impact on our community, and get a little inside info on one of America's Castles that just happens to be Right Down the Street. Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

As we wrap up Women's History Month, join Mayor Bryan Barnett as he sits down with Ann Echols, recently sworn-in Assistant Chief/Fire Marshall for the Rochester Hills Fire Department to talk about her new role, what drew her to the profession, and what it's like to be the City's first female Chief and Fire Marshal. Later Mayor Barnett is joined by Samantha Lawrence, Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm Museum Archivist, to talk about and celebrate some of the incredible women who shaped the rich history of our local area. Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

If you love the Detroit Lions and you love cake... you're sure to love this episode of Right Down the Street!Locals have known for decades what extraordinary baked goods are produced by Heather Tocco and her team at the Home Bakery in Downtown Rochester, Michigan. Their most recent windowfront cake creation, a life-size replica of Amon-Ra St. Brown in his iconic upside down pose, has wowed the nation and drawn droves of spectators, including Mr. St. Brown himself. In this episode, Mayor Barnett and Heather delve into Lions excitement, hometown pride, and cake engineering at its best!Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Mayor Barnett talks with Paul Glantz,  co-founder and chairman of Emagine Entertainment Inc., and the driving force behind the development and operation of metro Detroit's Emagine theatres. Listen as they chat about the importance of customer service, having something for everyone, and where Paul sees the movie theater industry heading in the next 5-10 years.Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

A distinguished Michigan business leader, Tony Michaels has been at the helm of The Parade Company since 2009. Now serving as the iconic non-profit organization's CEO and President, Tony has found his passion in delighting generations of families by putting on massive events like America's Thanksgiving Day Parade presented by Gardner White, Ford Fireworks and Hob Nobble Gobble presented by Ford, and the Strategic Staffing Solutions annual Turkey Trot. Enjoy this look into what it is like to put on  world-class events year after year, and run one of the area's most iconic organizations.Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

For many, September brings forth feelings of new possibilities and new beginnings, none more so for our two distinguished guests Dr. Jim Schwarz, superintendent of Avondale School District, and Mr. Nick Russo, superintendent of Rochester Community Schools. Join Mayor Barnett as he sits down for an insightful talk about the current national teacher shortage, why relationship building is the key to so many things in life, finding purpose and intention, and so much more. Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Life conspires to bring you where you're supposed to be. And life has conspired to bring Melissa Weisse across the pond to Leader Dogs for the Blind. Serving now as the organization's CEO and President, Melissa has found her passion in helping people create pathways to greater independence. She and Mayor Barnett discuss everything from art and puppies to fundraising and philanthropy. Enjoy this look into what it is like to run one of the largest human service organizations in the world.Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Father-son duo, Garth and Klint Pleasant, join Mayor Barnett on this special Father's Day episode. Garth Pleasant had a long and distinguished career as the head coach of Rochester Christian University's men's basketball team, leading the program from 1973 to 2010. Klint Pleasant followed in his father's footsteps, serving alongside Garth as an assistant coach before taking over the reins of the program. With 53 years and 1100 wins between them, they share a love of the game and a heart for their players. The two have had a lasting impact on the university's basketball program and our community, contributing to a legacy of success, mentorship and development in college sports.Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Rochester Community Schools have dominated MHSAA Division 1 Competitive Cheer for the last decade, with the three RCS high schools taking turns at the top. At the state competition last month, Stoney Creek took the title, Adams came in second, and defending state champion, Rochester, was two-tenths of a point behind in third. The head coaches from all three schools join Mayor Barnett to talk about the sport of competitive cheer and what it's like having your toughest competitor right in your backyard.Head Varsity Cheer Coaches:Tricia Williams, Stoney Creek High SchoolBrooke Miller, Rochester Adams High SchoolSamantha Koehler, Rochester High SchoolRochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Mayor Barnett is joined by three former NHL players, Craig Wolanin, Steve Guolla, and Dave Legwand. They all have a Detroit-Rochester Hills area connection and are not just great athletes, they are great members of our community. Wooly, Gooey and Leggy reminisce with entertaining stories about their unique journeys, NHL memories, and their pure love of the game. If you like hockey, your hometown, or dropping your gloves and scrapping, this episode is for you.Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

In this special "Lead with Impact" segment, Mayor Barnett invites New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell to share her story. She was the first woman to be elected as Mayor of New Orleans in the city's 300 year history. Now in her second term of office, she has more than proven her commitment to the place her heart calls home. She firmly believes the best is yet to come for her city and residents. Mayor Cantrell discusses effective local leadership, the best places to eat in NOLA, and an insider's look at the biggest free party on earth, Mardi Gras. Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

It's not every day you get to swap stories, cheer on the Detroit Lions, and predict the future with a superhero. But Mayor Barnett did just that with none other than Equalman. Erik Qualman, also known as Equalman, was raised in Rochester Hills and has gone on to be a Digital Leadership expert, sharing his insight as a bestselling author, teacher, and motivational keynote speaker. Erik has a sharp vision of the direction and global impact of social media and the digital landscape, he has learned how to turn what is happening to you into what is happening for you, and he also knows where to get the best coney dog (spoiler alert: it's Lipuma's!). Prepare to be inspired and challenged by Erik. He's a gifted storyteller, he's a digital Dale Carnegie, yes, he's Equalman!Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Imagine your entire hometown downtown painted in holiday lights, each historic Main Street building lit in a different bold hue. That was the vision Kristi Trevarrow, Executive Director of the Rochester Downtown Development Authority, had for Downtown Rochester, Michigan. With a mission to draw people in to make memories and boost business for the city's independent local shops, the Big Bright Light Show was born. Eighteen years later, the show is bigger and brighter than ever, attracting millions of visitors and garnering national acclaim. This capstone event is just one of the countless ventures and behind-the-scenes magic Kristi coordinates throughout the year. Kristi has found her calling pouring her time, talent and enthusiasm into making Downtown Rochester an economically thriving, memory-making destination. Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Lions Radio Analyst, Former NFL Offensive Tackle, and recent Pride of the Lions inductee, Lomas Brown, shares stories with Mayor Barnett about players, coaches, successes, struggles, teamwork and more. Lomas had an incredibly long career playing in the NFL, including 11 seasons playing for our Detroit Lions. He spent years physically clearing the way for his teammates to run the ball down the field and he still seeks to protect his fellow NFL alumni. And Lomas answers the question hyped Lions fans everywhere are asking - Is this our year? Do the Detroit Lions have what it takes to win the Super Bowl???Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

The Ilitch name is synonymous with Detroit, and the Ilitch family's impact has rippled across Michigan and echoes around the world. What began with a dream and one small Little Caesar's restaurant, grew into a multifaceted business empire, encompassing the Detroit Tigers, the Red Wings, Fox Theatre, Olympia Entertainment and so much more. Denise Ilitch, the eldest of Mike and Marian's seven children, has taken to heart the lessons she learned from her parents and has been an integral player in Detroit's business and philanthropic communities for over 40 years. She is a dedicated business leader, a devoted community servant, a supporter of charitable causes, and a tireless advocate for women and children. Denise exudes the qualities she heralds, such as kindness, humility, and a strong work ethic. In this episode, Denise recalls memorable moments in her life... everything from her first job at Little Caesar's at age 14 to the excitement of drafting Steve Yzerman shortly after taking ownership of the Red Wings. She just might inspire you to confidently contribute to the world around you, leaving it a better place... much like she has. Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

You know him as a steady and trusted pillar of Detroit television news, reporting without fear or favor at WXYZ-TV for 35 years. But do you know his nickname, his newest hobby or the most difficult stories he managed? Proud Rochester Hills resident, Dave LewAllen, discusses with Mayor Barnett the evolution of media over the decades, the key values he holds as a news journalist and reporter, and the impact one person can make. Toss in a little teasing and sarcasm for a memorable interview you won't want to miss.Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Rochester Hills' Stoney Creek Village has lived out the “it takes avillage” concept in remarkable ways for 200 years. The first familiesto settle in our city in 1823 are much like the ones who live heretoday. Traits like an innovative spirit, a strong work ethic andpersevering through obstacles characterize them. Values likeeducation, faith, and living in community define them. Pat McKay andLauren Sinacola give us a glimpse into the richness of the history andpresent day life…right down the street…in Stoney Creek Village.Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Mayor Barnett sits down with two of the most important women in his life - his mom and grandma - in this special Mother's Day episode. Topics include values passed down through generations, “how I met your father,” embarrassing stories about Chris, vacations on a budget, and the importance of family to keep you grounded. Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Exceptional companies create a brand that elicits an emotional connection. Disney is one of them, and long-time Rochester Hills resident, Janelle Tischer, is one of their key strategists. As the Vice President, Category Strategy, at the Walt Disney Company, Janelle excels at building partnerships and anticipating what's next. She also pours her boundless energy into mentoring the next generation and finding meaningful ways to give back to her community.Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

March Madness is upon us and college basketball is on everyone's mind. Mayor Barnett sits down with Oakland University's head basketball coach, Greg Kampe, and three stars from this season's team: Jalen Moore, Trey Townsend and Blake Lampman. The nation's longest tenured coach at a Division 1 school, Coach Kampe wants his team to succeed on the court and off. He sets the pace when it comes to loyalty, passion, giving back to the community…and a strong shoe game. Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Mayor Barnett talks with Oakland University trailblazer, Glenn McIntosh, about Glenn's passion for student success and the value he places on collaboration, intentional living and mentor relationships, including the impact Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mayor Coleman Young and many others have had on him. From winning Mr. Michigan to becoming the first person to hold the dual roles of senior vice president for senior affairs and chief diversity officer at a major university, nothing stops Glenn McIntosh. He is living proof of the success you create when you stand up, stand out and stand above!Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

The New Year inspires fresh hope and new possibilities. Long distance runner, Sandy Stiner, knows how to push past perceived limits. Mayor Barnett met Sandy in 2017 when she boldly let him know, “I run this town.” Sandy had, in fact, been systematically running down every single street in Rochester Hills. Since then she has set and  achieved even more remarkable goals. Sandy is an inspiring example of perseverance, resilience and determination.Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Mayor Barnett's siblings join him for a special holiday episode. Bryan, Chris, Andrea and Matt reminisce about what it was like growing up together and what makes their bond so strong. Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Meet the chief engineer of the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV pickup truck, Nichole Kraatz. A graduate of Adams High School and Oakland University, Nichole is a homegrown hero, making incredible strides in the automotive industry. She is passionate about tapping diversity of thought, inspiring women to pursue STEAM careers, and producing a superior product customers will love. Battery electric vehicles are here and Nicole is ready to bring EV to everyone.Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place to Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard joins Mayor Barnett to weigh in on everything from school safety, media and politics to college football, comfort dogs and Wyatt Earp. Sheriff Bouchard runs one of the nation's largest Sheriff's Offices, overseeing over 1,400 employees and managing an annual budget of over 177 million dollars. He leads from the heart, determined to bring real and lasting help to people in need. Tune in to hear it for yourself and to find out who he recently pulled over…right down the street.Rochester Hills IS Innovative by Nature and the "Preeminent Place too Live, Work and Raise a Family." Learn more about our fantastic city at our award-winning website!Or follow us on Facebook!

Some people talk about diversity, equity and inclusion and other people just make it happen. Jenny Brown and Ziad Kassab are the latter.Jenny is the co-founder and CEO of Dutton Farm. She is on a mission to celebrate, educate and employ people with special needs. Ziad is a serial entrepreneur who never stops finding ways to serve individuals and families living with physical and mental disabilities. Danny's Miracle Angel Network and Lava Mountain Coffee Company are two of his many passion projects.Driven by a calling that is personal, Jenny and Ziad successfully break down barriers and provide opportunities to ensure people with disabilities enjoy a full and rewarding life.

Beautiful homes in friendly neighborhoods. Access to premier shopping, dining and services. These are all part of what makes Rochester Hills the pre-eminent place to live, work and raise your family. Dave Walker (Realtor with Brookview Realty), Corey Roediger (Mortgage Consultant with Hancock Mortgage) and Margaux Keusch (Senior Leasing Director for the Village of Rochester Hills) discuss the housing market, property values, the retail leasing climate, and why residents and businesses continue to invest in Rochester Hills.

Zena and Mena Nasiri share a passion for improving the world around them. Through their nonprofit organization, Girls of the Crescent, the Nasiri sisters collect books with female Muslim main characters and donate them to schools and libraries, supporting representation of our diverse population. Their initial desire to help other young girls in their community has transformed into a mission with a global reach. Zena and Mena have gained international attention for their extraordinary work and yet in many ways they are still ordinary siblings who live …right down the street.

Take a peek behind the courtroom curtain during this exclusive interview with the Honorable Julie Nicholson and the Honorable Nancy Carniak, both judges at the 52nd District Court - Division 3. Together they have 75 years of experience and insight into the criminal justice system. Judges Nicholson and Carniak discuss with Mayor Barnett their paths to the bench, unbelievable stories from COVID Zoom hearings, the infamous Crumbley case, and the power of community.

Can you guess what is the oldest continually running business inRochester Hills? If the iconic red barn with lines out the door allseason long came to mind, you correctly guessed Yates Cider Mill.Proud owner, Mike Titus, shares the history and speculates on thefuture of Rochester Hills' beloved Yates Cider Mill.

“Celebrate Differences” is the theme of Autism Acceptance Month and also the driving force behind Right Down the Street. In this episode, Mayor Barnett is joined by two strong autism community advocates. Ron Sandison is a life-long Rochester Hills resident who was diagnosed with autism as a child and is now a published author and sought-after speaker on the topic. Kristin Rohrbeck is the Director of the Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES). Kristin shares from her research and Ron from his experience as they explore everything from diagnosis indicators to career readiness and the importance of family.This conversation was recorded on March 25, 2022 and released on April 1, 2022 in recognition of Autism Acceptance Month.

Not all athletes lift weights and run laps. Rochester Hills resident, Jon Schneck, has made a name for himself as a college esports athlete, drafted for his proven skill as a League of Legends competitor. Out of the 180 million League of Legends players worldwide, Jon (itsjon) is currently ranked in the top 0.01%. Jon unpacks for us the structure, scope and potential of online competitive gaming. With a growing market currently valued at just over one billion dollars and an audience of 557 million people, esports proves the future has arrived. This conversation was recorded on March 18, 2022.

Businesses of all types are choosing Rochester Hills. Mayor Barnett sits down with three entrepreneurs to hear their unique stories and perspectives. Jeff Jermyn, CEO of BlueBrier, LLC, Lee Padgett, owner of Busted Bra Shop, and Tej Yale, owner of ThinkImpact, Inc all weigh in on what it takes to be your own boss and why they brought their business to Rochester Hills.  

Winning an Olympic gold medal is an unreachable dream for all but the most elite athletes. Mayor Barnett talks with four-time Olympic medalist swimmer and Rochester Hills native, Peter Vanderkaay, about the Olympics and life beyond the Olympic spotlight.This conversation was recorded on February 15, 2022 during the Olympic Winter Games in Beijing.

Problem-solving, making local government easier to navigate and improving the day-to-day lives of residents are three of the many subjects covered in Mayor Barnett's conversation with the newly elected Mayor of the City of Pontiac (MI), Tim Greimel. Mayor Greimel, who enters his position with an impressive track record of public service, speaks about his goals of standing up a youth recreation and enrichment program, investing in workforce development for Pontiac residents and building strong relationships with the business community. The Mayors even spent a moment discussing the current and future prospects of our local sports teams.This conversation was recorded on January 24, 2022.

We're entering a new year amidst ongoing change. What's ahead for businesses in 2022?  New Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce President Maggie Bobitz and Economic Development Manager for the City of Rochester Hills and Chamber Board Member, Pamela Valentik, join Mayor Barnett to discuss what to expect and how they can help. Strategies, partnerships, resources, and reasons why the Rochester Area remains so attractive -- and business-friendly -- are all discussed. This conversation was recorded on January 11, 2022.

The tragic event at nearby Oxford High School in Oxford, MI led to Mayor Barnett's discussion about grief with funeral director and local community leader John Modetz. Modetz offers advice on how to respond to death -- and particularly the death of a young person -- and how best to support their families and loved ones. Modetz indicated that at a time like this, priorities change. "Everything we thought was so important is so unimportant." Jo Allen, President & CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Rochester, joined the conversation, discussing ways in which the greater community can help. She speaks about how that help often comes in the form of financial gifts to reputable sources - gifts that can live on and on. This conversation was recorded on December 3, 2021, three days following the shooting at Oxford High School on November 30, 2021.

Mayor Barnett talks with Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter about the unconventional path that led him to his current role and the common passion the two have for serving as mayor. County Executive Coulter shares an approach to leadership that includes hiring the best and allowing employees to make occasional mistakes, as long as they learn from them. The Mayor asks Dave to describe the dinner he hosted at his home for Mayor Duggan, Wayne County Executive Warren Evans and Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, and the two discuss the importance of relationships and the benefits of finding common ground. We also learn about the County Executive's passion for Michigan State University sports and enjoying an occasional round of golf. This conversation was recorded on September 20, 2021.

Mayor Barnett and Ora Hirsch Pescovitz, MD, President of Oakland University, discuss the school year ahead, the efforts made to keep students, faculty and the administration safe, and Oakland's four strategic priorities: Student success; research and scholarship; community engagement; and diversity and inclusion. Dr. Pescovitz shares the importance of family and faith, the values instilled in her growing up and the civil discourse modeled by her parents. Philanthropy, leadership and her passion for OU are also discussed. This conversation was recorded on August 30, 2021.

NASCAR great and Rochester Hills native Brad Keselowski talks to Mayor Barnett about growing up in the Brooklands neighborhood of the City, his favorite subject in high school (auto shop), and the high value he places on community and philanthropy. Despite Brad's remarkable motorsports career, it's clear that Michigan and Rochester Hills continue to be incredibly important to him and his family. Hear about the current season, his plans for 2022 and, through it all, his desire to live a life of truth and grace. This episode was recorded on August 18, 2021.

Healthcare executive Chris Palazzolo, President & CEO of Ascension Genesys Hospital and Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital, talks with Mayor Barnett about operating a hospital during a pandemic - addressing constant change - and the importance of collaboration, even amongst competitors. The pair also speak about the future of healthcare, discussing inevitable industry consolidation and dispelling myths; the significance of leaders in our lives; and why Chris makes Rochester Hills his home.  Mayor Barnett offers thanks to the team at Ascension Providence Rochester for all they have done over the past 15 months and expresses gratitude to the organization for its recent $500,000 commitment to Innovation Hills Park.     This conversation was recorded on June 17, 2021.

From Meadowbrook Elementary, West Middle School and Rochester High to the Mission Control Center of NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Mayor Barnett sits down with Fiona Turett, a member of NASA's latest class of Flight Directors. Imagine being at the forefront of everything that humans do in space: That's what Fiona does. No pressure at all. Hear her remarkable story and the importance of training, preparation, teamwork - and even Yates Cider Mill donuts.  

New Day Foundation for Families co-Founder and President Gina Kell Spehn and her son, Sam Kell, share their unspeakable, unimaginable and unbelievable story -- and how they continue to turn tragedy into triumph. Their family's narrative is profiled in the NY Times bestselling book "The Color of Rain" and a Hallmark Channel movie by the same name. Hope, inspiration, faith, helping others through health and financial crises, and a community and school district that knows how to "show up" are all part of the conversation. 

Oakland University instructor of Islamic Studies, Aly Lela, talks with Mayor Barnett about the prayer, fasting and meditation that occurs during the month of Ramadan, dispels some of the misconceptions about Islam and the Muslim religion and why he chose Rochester Hills to be home for he and his family. This podcast was recorded on the first day of Ramadan, April 12, 2021.

Detroit broadcasting legend Frank Beckmann joins Mayor Barnett to talk about how he realized his childhood dream, the people that guided his career, breaking the news of Jimmy Hoffa's disappearance, his passion for UofM football, his philosophy on giving back, and the things that make our community so special. 

Mayor Barnett sits down with Chris Brooks, Senior Pastor at Woodside Bible Church, to discuss Pastor Brooks' journey, what and who inspires him, the importance of leadership and hope, and his love for the church, his family, his community -- and his Michigan State Spartans.