In this episode, Don and Angela with Susie Dahlmann and Steve Livingway, who share the inspiring story of Reaching Higher, a program dedicated to helping students unlock their potential and build confidence for life. Through mentorship, leadership training, and a safe space for growth, Reaching Higher empowers youth to overcome anxiety, perfectionism, and self-doubt. Learn how the program’s impact extends to adults and businesses, creating stronger leaders across the community, and how anyone can get involved through mentoring, sponsorship, or community events.

00:00 Welcome to Reaching Higher

01:19 Reaching Higher’s Origin Story

03:49 How Reaching Higher Works

06:36 Impact on Students’ Lives

09:28 Navigating Modern Challenges

11:10 Annual Gala & Adult Programs

13:58 The Power of Connection

17:49 Program Reach and Impact

22:28 Overcoming Fixed Mindsets and Authenticity

26:50 Transformative Experiences

32:22 Legacy and Cascade Effect

36:18 Future Involvement and Closing

Show Links

For more information on the Putkela Group and how to get connected, visit the links below:

Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/PutkelaGroup

Website: https://www.welcometolivingston.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putkelagroup/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9hM7gWPlaCw4nG89Wgd9Q

Phone: 1-888-PUTKELA (788-5352)

Guest Links

Website: https://reachinghigherinc.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReachingHigherInc/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reachinghigherinc/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reachinghigherinc/

X: https://x.com/reachhigher4l

Email info@reachinghigherinc.com

Phone: (810) 220-8812

Gala Tickets: https://givebutter.com/NIV2025

Sponsor Links

Thanks to our amazing sponsor! Visit their social media pages for more information.

James Paquette

Mortgage Sales Manager

Lake Michigan Credit Union - LMCU

NMLS ID# 533633

Direct Phone: (810) 263-6000

Cell Phone: (734) 604-2611

Website: https://www.lmcu.org/jamespaquette

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamespaquetteLMCU

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesapaquette/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMCU