Good Neighbor Podcast: Rochester

EP#151: Integrative Insight with Marissa Bruin

What happens when conventional medicine meets functional approaches? Magic—at least that's how it feels when you finally discover the root causes behind your persistent health challenges. Marissa Brun, family nurse practitioner and owner of Integrative Insight, joins us to share how she's bridging these two worlds to transform healthcare in Rochester. Having battled an autoimmune condition since age 19, Marissa brings rare insight to her practice. "I know how it feels to be on the receiving end and feeling hopeless or afraid, confused, and just not getting any answers," she reveals. This personal journey, combined with her background working in a Level One trauma center, showed her how many chronic conditions simply don't respond to traditional approaches alone. Contrary to common misconceptions, integrative medicine is deeply scientific. Marissa's practice employs advanced functional lab testing—examining everything from microbiome composition to genetic factors and cellular processes—to develop truly personalized treatment plans. Whether you're struggling with autoimmune issues, hormone imbalances, fatigue, or weight management, her approach digs deeper to find the why behind your symptoms. The most exciting news? Integrative Insight is now credentialed with Blue Cross Blue Shield and finalizing arrangements with other major insurance providers, including Medicare and Medicaid. This breakthrough makes this powerful healthcare approach accessible to many more people who need it. As Marissa puts it, "That will fulfill that dream of mine to broaden the horizon and make integrative care more accessible." Want to learn if this approach might help with your health challenges? Visit integrativeinsightnp.com or find Integrative Insight NP on Instagram and Facebook to discover how uncovering root causes could help you feel more like yourself again.

EP#148: Empowered Moms with Dr. Emily Jacobs

Dr. Emily Jacobs doesn't mince words when she talks about burnout: "It's a choice." As the founder of Empowered Moms, she's on a mission to help mothers who feel there must be more to life than endless self-sacrifice. Her journey began by witnessing her own mother's gradual deterioration – watching a once passionate woman slowly disappear into the all-consuming role of motherhood. "Some people sacrifice gracefully," Emily explains, "but others feel defeated when they have ambitions alongside motherhood." This observation became the foundation for creating a community where mothers can nurture their full identities without guilt. The conversation takes a revelatory turn when Emily redefines self-care. Forget spa days and commercial indulgences that feel impossible to schedule. True self-care starts with a simple question: "How do I best take care of myself today?" This approach removes the guilt and makes self-nurturing accessible to everyone. Whether it's sleep, nutrition, reading, or setting boundaries, self-care becomes whatever genuinely helps you thrive. Boundaries emerge as the cornerstone of Emily's philosophy. "They're the single most important form of self-efficacy, self-respect, and self-love," she asserts. For women socialized to please others, setting limits can feel terrifying – but the alternative is resentment and eventual collapse. Through her own story of healing a difficult mother-daughter relationship, Emily demonstrates how setting boundaries isn't abandonment but rather the foundation for authentic connection. The Empowered Moms community welcomes women of all ages and life stages – from stay-at-home mothers to entrepreneurs, from those with newborns to grandmothers. Through her Facebook group, coaching programs, and annual conference, Emily creates spaces where women can remember who they are beyond their caretaking roles. Join this movement of mothers raising the bar on what's possible when you believe you're worthy of nurturing your dreams alongside raising your family. Visit empoweredmoms.co to learn more about upcoming events and community opportunities.

EP#142: Wag N Wash with Mike Swader

Mike Swader introduces Wag N Wash, a comprehensive pet care destination in Rochester Hills offering much more than just self-wash stations. This locally owned business provides full-service grooming, self-wash facilities, premium pet products including raw food options, and even sports team apparel for pets while maintaining strong community connections through regular adoption events and monthly charity initiatives. • Full-service one-stop shop for dogs and cats, not just a self-wash station • Services include full grooming, nail trims, bath and brush, and state-of-the-art K9000 self-wash tubs • Carries both national brands and specialty pet products including raw food, toys, treats, and health/CBD items • Locally owned and operated as part of the Pet Supplies Plus family with staff knowledgeable about pet care needs • Strong focus on community involvement with monthly donations to different rescues and regular adoption events • Has helped over 20 dogs find homes in just three months since opening in October 2024 • Located at the corner of Adams and Silverbell next to Kroger in Rochester Hills Find Wag N Wash at https://www.wagnwash.com/store/mi/rochester/3012-rochester/3012 or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Yelp to learn about upcoming events and promotions.

EP#143: Hunter Hospitality House with Tracy Willard

Tracy Willard shares the touching story behind Hunter Hospitality House, which provides free lodging to people with hospitalized loved ones or those receiving medical treatment. Founded in memory of their premature son who lived just 16 days, Tracy and her husband have opened three homes near Port Huron hospitals, each launched on what would have been Hunter's birthday. • Three fully-stocked homes located across from both hospitals in Port Huron • Everything provided completely free regardless of length of stay • Transportation services included for guests • Founded in 2011 after Tracy experienced firsthand the exhaustion of commuting to visit her hospitalized newborn • Annual "Hope Blooms" fundraiser happening April 24th at Blue Water Convention Center • Various sponsorship levels available for businesses and families (starting at $50) • Tickets selling quickly with attendance capped at 700 For more information about Hunter Hospitality House or to purchase tickets for the Hope Blooms event, visit HunterHospitalityHouse.com, call 810-824-3679, or email hunterhospitalityhouse@gmail.com.

EP# 138 Hearts for Hope Foundation Gala with Claire Imbrunnone

Claire, a devoted volunteer and staunch ally for survivors, joins us to spotlight an event that promises both heart and hope. Shedding light on the Hearts for Hope Foundation Gala, Claire passionately speaks about the pivotal role this Valentine's Day event will play in supporting Turning Point—a key organization in Macomb County dedicated to aiding survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. From live performances by Michael Carluccio to the poignant story of a human trafficking survivor, the evening is bound to be as enriching as it is entertaining. With recent funding cuts threatening Turning Point's essential services, this gala is not just an event but a lifeline for many in need. On the podcast, Claire underscores the power of community involvement in making a difference. Whether by purchasing tickets, sponsoring a portion of the event, or donating, each action can contribute significantly to the foundation's mission. Businesses are encouraged to step up as sponsors, particularly with necessities like dessert provisions, and individuals can offer support in various ways, no matter how small. Claire’s personal dedication to this cause shines through as she shares her passion for advocacy and stresses that every gesture, big or small, can bring about profound change. Tune in to learn more about how you can contribute to a night of compassion and change this Valentine's Day.