Women in Business 2023-24

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As a licensed Realtor® and licensed builder, Susie is the unequivocal go to for all your real estate needs. Having over 30 years in the residential housing industry, her skillset provides clients an expansive portfolio of contacts, acute eye for detail, impeccable communication skills and knowledge of industry processes.

A  Not enough time in the day.

A  My clients motivate me. I’m a problem solver and when my clients present me with a request to buy or sell, I do whatever it takes to achieve that goal. It’s like putting a puzzle together.

A  I devote time daily/weekly to keep up with the current market via online articles, reputable websites, reputable news sources and take classes to earn accreditation.

A  I’ve run the Boston Marathon three times.

A   My competition is the person in the mirror.

A   I’d love to run a Half Marathon in all of our National Parks (I’ve run four Half Marathons in our National Parks already (Zion, Yellowstone, Teton and The Great Smoky Mountains). Professionally, the sky’s the limit!

(MBA Realty is located at 9101 Macomb St., Grosse Ile. Contact Susie at 734-775-2983 or by email at [email protected])

LINDA FRANCETICH

For nearly 20 years, Linda Francetich has been providing website design and develop-ment, e-commerce and hosting solutions for both mom-and-pop shops, small businesses and Fortune 500 companies.

A  What has impacted my success has been my education, clients, and community. As an alum of Henry Ford College and an advisory board member for the past 20 years, I’ve had the best of the best for mentors and educators. I continue to take  courses ranging from management to technical to keep pace with today’s needs.

(Visit Dot Com Web Productions at dotcomwp.com or Discover Downriver at discoverdownriver.com)

A  When I was young I wanted to be a teacher. I quickly realized that teaching wasn’t for me but in real estate I feel that there is a close relation to teaching as I have had to advise and educate my clients through the home buying/selling process.

A  I wonder if anyone really has ever figured everything out

A  I proudly keep myself involved in education and attending seminars and classes that keep me up to date on the Real Estate industry.

A  I worked on a golf course sweeping the driving range after each night but sadly never took up the game of golf.

A  Having a happy family.

A  Of course!

(Century 21 Riverpointe is located at 8173 Macomb St., Grosse Ile. To reach Jennifer please contact her directly at 734-652-7018 or by email at [email protected])

A  I always wanted to be a doctor or a volleyball player.

A  I love to know the why, the how things work – I am fascinated by science.

A  Many ways from collaborating with colleagues, to hands on trainings, conferences and reading the latest research.

A  I strive to be the best at everything I do, I have great problem-solving skills and I can master multitasking. I could definitely use improvement in my work life balance.

A  Consumers have become far more educated and brand aware, they want their aesthetic procedures done by professionals, they will choose results over discounts. Natural looks are most desired.

A  My personal bucket list includes continuing to grow literally in my physical weight training gains which helps my mental growth as well. Professionally I strive to provide the best results which means aligning with the like-minded professionals to continue mastering new skills.

(Great Lakes Health and Wellness is located at 3247 Biddle Ave., Wyan-dotte. Call 734-287-3000 or email [email protected] for info about the treatments and services they offer.)

MAKAYLA GREEN

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Makayla Green began providing cleaning services to both residential and commercial sites more than a decade ago. The company’s clientele has included Ford Motor Co., the Fox Theatre and Detroit Metro Airport.

A  When I set out to start my cleaning business I had no idea where to begin. I taught myself everything about being a professional, efficient cleaner.

A  My personal bucket list simply consists of traveling to all 50 states and making memories with my family of five. My professional bucket list consists of cleaning for big hitters like the Ford Motor Company, Beaumont Health, all of the Wayne County municipalities and Ford Field just to name a few.

A  My mom was a HUGE cheerleader of mine. I would always feel like I was winning when I was around her. Since she passed it has felt like my duty to cheer on small business owners for even the littlest of accomplishments because of how great that felt when she made a big deal for all of my small accomplishments.

A  I think keeping an open mind to change is huge. If you get set in your ways, you may fail to achieve the goals you set for yourself. I’ve had to pivot a lot in the past six years, but learned so much and grown, not only as a company, but as an individual so I am grateful for those experiences.

(For more information or if you need cleaning for your home or office call 734-341-6175 or visit greensfamilycleaningservices.com)

BETH GRANT

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Beth Grant joined The Information Center as president and CEO after 25 years of experience working in paid and volunteer positions for non-profit organizations, including The American Cancer Society and the March of Dimes.

A  Our mission centers on connecting individuals with essential human services to address their needs and enhance their quality of life. Throughout our 47-year history, we’ve adapted our services to align with the changing community needs while maintaining our core focus. Today, a primary emphasis is on assisting seniors and individuals aged 18+ with disabilities by linking them to programs that address dressing, bathing, cleaning, laundry, meals, transportation, and in-home care. Our goal is to enable seniors to continue living in their homes comfortably. Additionally, we offer a wide array of resources, including food, rent assistance, healthcare, mental health support, substance abuse treatment, job training, and more.

A  One of my strengths lies in my genuine concern for both my colleagues and the community we serve. This role isn’t merely a job; it’s my purpose – making a positive impact on people’s lives. While I’ve been here for just three months, I’m dedicated to fully grasping our operations and learning from the exceptional team at TIC.

A  A common misconception is that women are too emotional to lead effectively. I disagree. My emotional connection drives me to care about our team and our work, making me a better leader. I focus on metrics, budgets, and staffing because I’m driven to help more people. Being an efficient leader is the key to achieving that.

(The Information Center is located 20400 Superior Rd., Taylor. For more information call 734-282-7105 or visit theinfocenter.org)

E. ANN REDFIELD

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During years spent in the banking industry, Redfield learned that she enjoyed listening to people explain their needs and desires and helping them achieve their goals. She brought those same talents to the real estate industry in 1976, and has continued helping clients make their dreams a reality since becoming a Broker/Owner of Century 21 Riverpointe in 1995.

A  I was a single mom and didn’t have a lot of money to support us between commission checks, but I had the motivation to succeed. Managing work-life balance, finding time for networking and professional development, handling childcare responsibilities, and navigating the nature of the industry. It can be demanding to juggle the responsibilities of being a parent while also meeting the demands of a career in real estate. With proper planning, perseverance, and a great support system, I somehow managed to succeed.

A  Some of them that I can think of are the inability to lead and lack of commitment due to family responsibilities. I was always told by my parents that I can do anything I choose as long as I am willing to work hard enough. I think we have proven that we are more than capable of doing whatever we choose.

A  The support of my family, hard work, determination, a positive mindset, continuous learning, setting goals, time management and building strong relationships.

A  I was born in West Virginia, a coal miner’s daughter. We moved to Michigan so that my dad could go to work in the auto industry.

A  My family has always been the most important part of my life. I will always be there when they need me and love spending time with all of them!

Q  What is on your personal bucket list? How about your professional bucket list?

A  I am blessed that most of my bucket list has been achieved as far as travel and things I want to accomplish. The same is true of my professional bucket list. I have turned the reins of the company over to my two daughters, Trista and Tashia, and can’t wait to see where they take the company. I’ll definitely stay on as a consultant and help them with the training, mentoring and coaching as well as continuing to sell real estate.

(Century 21 Riverpointe is located at 8173 Macomb St., Grosse Ile. To reach Ann, call 734-671-3020 or visit c21riverpointe.com)

TRACIE SEELEY

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Tracie Seeley started her photography business in 2007 after working at the Ford Motor Company for 15 years. She’s determined to continuously improve her services, offering the best talent and experience, knowledge of trends, and a superior level of comfort to clients.

A  We are a husband-and-wife media team based out of Wyandotte. Photography has always been a love of mine. Even as a kid I was the one with a camera in hand running around snapping photos. I worked at Ford for 15 years before leaving to be a stay-at-home mom. I knew at some point I would turn my passion into a career. I started out in the wedding industry within a year of quitting and then over the years pretty much shot every type of photography there is. Wedding, maternity and newborn, boudoir and am currently still shooting high school seniors, professional headshots, branding photos and real estate listings.

A  Technology is always getting better and cheaper. Therefore, giving everyone access to fancy cameras but the camera doesn’t make you a photographer. The person behind the lens and the training they have is what makes a GOOD photographer. I am constantly keeping up with the trends and educating myself as well as staying up to date with the best technology.

A  My husband Ron and I have been married for 27 years. We have two sons, Jacob 26, and Joshua 22. We recently became empty nesters which has brought about new adventures.

(Metro Shores Media is located at 966 Ford Ave., Wyandotte. Please visit metroshoresmedia.com or call 734-308-1388 for more info.)

EILEEN LUCIA

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Eileen Lucia received a degree in Business from Eastern Michigan University. Armed with her degree and career experience, she joined the family business as office manager in 2015.

A  The landscape business is seasonal, so my winter months are spent at trade shows, training and doing research on upcoming design trends.

A  I am not only a small business owner but a mother of two and an active volunteer for various community organizations. I love working out and have done a few half marathons and recently took up CrossFit.

A  Just about anyone can call themselves a landscaper. It’s an overly saturated industry but I’ve worked hard to brand the GLC business, craftsmanship and difference to overcome this challenge.

A  I took one teaching course in college and it was at that time I started working for a private homebuilder. Turns out I was made for this; I was constantly working with the team to improve ways to do things. I shifted directions and stared taking business courses and I got my degree from Eastern Michigan University.

A  I believe you can’t be a good leader until you learn to be a good follower. My faith has provided me with a sense of purpose and direction that goes far beyond the bottom line.

(GLC Lawn, Landscaping, Snow Removal is located at 28309 Arsenal Road in Flat Rock. Please contact Eileen Lucia and GLC at 734-921-1609 or visit them on the web at glclandscapinginc.com)

SHIRLEY MOHNEY

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Shirley Mohney opened her first child development center on Grosse Ile in 1979. After 19 years she expand-ed into two Grosse Ile locations and another in Riverview. Locations in Southgate and Taylor followed.

A  Island Kiddie Kampus is a high-quality childcare program designed for the well being of children. We feel a child needs an opportunity to grow, and develop a positive self-concept. With the provided respect, positive guidance and freedom, learning will come quickly.

A  Watching and enjoying life through a child’s eyes. Everything is so new and captures their curiosity. So being able to provide high-quality programs that give a child a positive outlook and a great beginning to education is very rewarding.

A  The many new tech devices at such a young age stifles their social ability along with their posture. I prefer the child to receive positive guidance to enhance their development.

A  My husband of 54 years, David, has always supported me and is there to help when needed. My son Scott, who operates big road equipment and his beautiful 12-year-old daughter Livia Rae Mohney live in Denver. My son Bill is the manager of the Riverview Island Kiddie Kampus and his son Kilian Leo Mohney is seven.

(Island Kiddie Kampus has two schools: 14525 Sibley Rd., Riverview, 734-479-4191, and 12250 Fort St., Southgate, 734-281-8555, islandkiddiekampus.com)

SARAH D’ZIURMAN

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Sarah D’ziurman is a 3rd generation member of the Jabro family. She began working part-time at the store during high school, and after receiving a bachelor’s degree in general business management and merchandizing management from Michigan State, began working full-time for the family business in 2005.

A  Jabro Carpet One Floor & Home is a floor covering retailer assisting residential and commercial customers along with builders in choosing the perfect flooring for their homes and workspaces. We serve Downriver and the surrounding areas and specialize in personalized customer service and exceptional installation. Our business was founded by my grandfather, John, and my sister and I are proud to be the third generation of Jabros to carry on the legacy as we celebrate our 70th Anniversary this year.

A  I am a boy Mom through and through. I have 13-year-old identical twin boys, a 7-year-old boy and my puppy is a boy too. My mud room often smells like a gym locker room, and I shop alone most of the time, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

A  The most valuable lesson I learned from my parents is how to work hard and be dedicated to my career. My parents are both extremely hard workers, and both worked at their respective companies for their entire adult careers. I hope to set the same example for my children and show them that moms can work and have great careers too, just as my mom taught me.

(Jabro Carpet One is located at 13460 Northline Rd., Southgate. Please call 734-285-0110 or visit jabrocarpetone.com for more info.)

DANA RODRIGUEZ

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Dana Rodriguez is a mem-ber of the 3rd generation of the family to work for Jabro. After working part-time from the age of 14, she obtained a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Michigan State before joining the family business full-time in 2012.

A  I am so proud to work at Jabro Carpet One. We take pride in helping customers make their space comfortable, beautiful, and inspiring through floorings, carpeting, and rugs.

A  I think I am most curious about the stories of those around me. I love to hear about someone’s life, even the mundane things, whether it be through conversations, podcasts, or reading about them in books. It is nice to have a profession that allows me to learn so much about others as we find the flooring or carpeting that best fits their life and space.

A  I have a decent size garden in my backyard. This year I was able to plant 25 different varieties of fruits and vegetables and some herbs as well. I am definitely an amateur, but it is very relaxing to experiment with different fertilizing and care techniques throughout the spring, summer, and fall.

A  The best lessons were the ones that they didn’t really spell out for me, but that I could learn from watching. Things like compassion for others, hard work, honesty, and integrity. But I think the most valuable lesson I have learned over the years is to prioritize my family above all and the rest will fall into place.

(Jabro Carpet One is located at 13460 Northline Rd., Southgate. Please call 734-285-0110 or visit jabrocarpetone.com for more info.)

BROOKE BROCK

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Brooke Brock, the broker/owner of BBR Realty, believes in working closely with her community. Every Monday, the office posts a request for nominations of community members deserving of recognition in some way. The winning nominee’s story is shared, and they receive a gift card from a local business.

A  Not enough time in the day.

A  The market itself has changed. A lot of people received their licenses while interest rates were down, now we’re seeing a flood of agents leaving the industry as they realize it’s not so easy.

A  Babysitter at 12 years old. Then, at 17, LoneStar Steakhouse and Saloon. Being a server sure taught me a lot about service!

A  We’re all different, and I value myself and my passion for helping others. I am 100% referral-based because of how I treat others and how well I do my job. As far as competing in multiple offer situations, the best terms and conditions will always come out on top!

A  My husband and I finally went on our honeymoon to Antigua, and it was amazing! We are now passionate about travel. Professionally, I just want to continue to bring the best agents into the BBR family and give them a fulfilling work experience. Growing a real estate portfolio is definitely on the list!

A  My family! My husband and three boys. Helping others. Learning is so important for personal and professional growth, and I take part in masterminds and peer groups to keep my motivation strong!

(BBR Realty is located in Trenton at 2615 W. Jefferson Ave. Contact Brooke at 734-341-2414 or by email at [email protected])

TRISTA CORTIS-REDFIELD

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At the age of 15, Trista Cortis-Redfield started her career in real estate by working as a file clerk and administrative assistant at what is now Century 21 Riverpointe. After receiving a bachelor’s degree, she obtained her Realtor license at the age of 21, and soon after, obtained a Broker’s license. She now serves as the general manager and administrator at the firm.

A  We have learned as managers throughout the years that the only way to get to that next level is to take some risks, and though it is so scary, it is oftentimes the best way to grow. We learned watching our mother lead the company for years that if you aren’t growing as a real estate brokerage, you become stagnant, so it is important to put growth in the forefront of your business plan. I think one of the best ways to do this is communicate with your team. You need everyone to be on-board and support the company goals, which ultimately helps them achieve their personal goals.

A  We teach our agents to discover their “why” and to constantly go back to that for motivation. My “why” is ultimately to help my team succeed. They have become my family, and thinking about them and their lives helps motivate me to keep finding ways to inspire them. There is nothing as powerful to us as seeing our agents learn, feel empowered and achieve goals that they’ve set for themselves.

(Century 21 Riverpointe is located at 8173 Macomb St., Grosse Ile. To reach Trista, call 734-671-3020.)

TASHIA REDFIELD-MCEADY

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Tashia Redfield-McReady, and associate broker, was raised in the Realty business owned by her mother since 1985. As the director of growth and learning and office administrator, she handles the daily office operations along with her sister Trista Cortis-Redfield.

A  In business, there are always risks that are encountered. Every decision we make has our agents and our clients at the heart of it. If there is a calculated risk we can take that has the potential to better position our agents to be a force in the marketplace or to provide more exceptional service to our clients, that is always worth our time and energy to investigate. At the end of the day, our mission is to help people whether it’s our agents in their businesses or our clients in their real estate goals and homeownership dreams. People and our positive impact are the basis for every decision, and I feel that helps us balance the risk versus reward in most scenarios.

A  Motivation gets you started, consistency and commitment are what keeps you going. Knowing your “why” is critical. What is the driving force for why you do what you do? That is the grit that will help keep you moving forward even when things are hard. When your why is powerful enough, it champions any obstacle you may encounter.

(Century 21 Riverpointe is located at 8173 Macomb St., Grosse Ile. To reach Tashia, call 734-671-3020.)

ELIZABETH OTTENBREIT

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Elizabeth Ottenbreit has been passionate about beauty, skincare and makeup since she was a child. Her first “clients” were her childhood friends whom she offered nail services in her playhouse. After working in the field for more than 20 years, she still finds joy in helping clients achieve clear skin, improved aesthetics and pure relaxation.

A  I’ve been a licensed Esthetician for nearly 24 years and opened Elevate 15 years ago. My passion for skin care and wellness inspired me to open a space where pampering and self-care were essential, not limited luxuries. Our motto has always been “beautification in a chill environment” and though we have evolved with the latest trends in the salon and spa world, we maintain this basic principle.

A  In my early twenties I played music in a few rock bands all throughout Michigan, recorded in San Francisco and Toronto, all while working full-time in the salon business. I have a ten your old daughter and a son with Down syndrome who bring me so much joy.

A  I am motivated by helping creative individuals grow their strengths and talents making a career of something they love. I stay motivated by meeting and training new professionals as well as networking with other small business owners. Recently I started doing apprenticeships again. I love recognizing talent and motivating others to do what they are good at. I want to see people become the best version of themselves and having a beauty salon and spa gives me the outlet to be creative, meet so many incredible people and get to know locals in the community where I was born and raised.

(Elevate Beaute is located in Trenton at 2242 W. Jefferson Ave. To reach Elizabeth or ElevateBeaute, visit experienceelevate.com or call 734-676-3456.)

ALISA MAUL

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Together with her husband, Mark, Alisa Maul opened the doors of Blue Heron Trading Company in 2016 to provide high-quality, locally-sourced products. She works tirelessly with local artists to offer unique and hand-crafted items as well as freshly brewed coffee drinks and gourmet oils and balsamic vinegars.

A  Blue Heron Trading Co. has something for everyone! Coffee, teas and gourmet specialty foods and gifts. We opened our shop in 2016 to serve Flat Rock and the surrounding communities.

A  Both myself and my husband, Mark, have served in the community for many years, from the Planning Commission to the Downtown Development and City Council to help make Flat Rock a cute, quaint little town filled with mom and pop stores and restaurants.

A  We have owned other businesses in the past and saw a need for a retail shop and place for people to gather and shop local. We don’t look at owning a business as a risk, more as an adventure! We really enjoy meeting new people and being a part of their daily lives.

A  Blue Heron Trading Company is actually listed on the National Registry for the Free Little Library. Our little library is located right outside of the shop and holds children’s and adult books. We encourage everyone to stop by and leave/take a book!

do you maintain motivation?

A  By offering unique products and the very best service. Our customers have become our family and friends!

(Blue Heron Trading Company is located at 26217 E. Huron River Dr., Flat Rock. Call 734-789-7986 or visit blueherontradingco.com for more information.)

MARIE PUCAK

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Marie Pucak, who grew up in Ohio, received a bachelor’s degree in business from Youngstown State University. She served as the president and CEO of the Mentor Area Chamber of Commerce for many years before moving to Grosse Ile in 2011. She purchased what is now Grosse Ile Pet and Garden in 2016 after working for the previous owner.

A  Our business is a Pet & Garden Center with an additional focus on a gift center. I started working for the store in 2014 and purchased it in 2016.

A  I guess one answer would be that I am curious as to why everyone can’t see the good in each other. There’s an old Peanuts cartoon, where the gang is gathered, and the caption reads something like, “we all bring something to the table”. A great team celebrates each other’s individual strengths while acknowledging weaknesses.

A  I’m a true believer in “best practices” and that we’re all in this together. I think it is great to learn from each other, diversify ourselves from the competition, and always focus on customer service.

A  I graduated from the US Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organizational Management. Their mission is to champion the business community and help them succeed. A mission I truly believe in.

A  I am a born people pleaser. I like to be involved, connected. If a customer has a need we can’t fill , I believe it’s our job to help them find a solution. What motivates me? Seeing what our business brings to our community. How are we a part of making our island a better place to live.

(Grosse Ile Pet & Garden Center is located at 8943 Macomb Street, Grosse Ile. For more information visit grosseilepetandgardencenter.com or call 734-675-1671.)