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In this season of gratitude, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. Thanksgiving encourages us to slow down, embrace the present and appreciate the people and moments that bring us joy.
This month, I’ve been especially grateful for the small, everyday moments that make life beautiful: the laughter of loved ones, quiet mornings with a cup of coffee and the chance to be part of such a vibrant community.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, giving back and celebrating the people and organizations that make Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills such a special place. We are honored and delighted to feature this month's cover models — the ladies behind the Detroit Lions, photographed at just one of the community's newest hot spots, The Franklin Oyster Bar & Eatery, by the fantastic Aly Darin. We had so much fun being a part of the energy they brought to our shoot, and to the pages of this issue. And we are endlessly thankful for our advertising partners, whose support allows us to bring inspiring stories to your doorstep each month, and for the readers who make it all worthwhile.
As we prepare to gather with loved ones, let’s take a moment to reflect on what truly brings meaning to our lives. This holiday season, may we find contentment not in possessions or accolades but in the connections we nurture and the good we do for others.
And just a quick note: Our eagle-eyed readers caught a mention of a mistakenly included restaurant in "Where to Eat & Drink Now" in our October issue. Thank you for pointing it out to us — that one was meant for our sister publication in Alabama!
Wishing you and your family a season of gratitude and grace,
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Ali Kramer | ali.kramer@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lynne Konstantin | lynne.konstantin@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Lisa Gindi | lisa.gindi@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Linda Ditch, Samantha Durbin, Jennifer Lovy, Alison Stanton, Susan Thwing
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Aly Darin, Emily Merrill, Karl Moses
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
inside the issue
Departments
Hear Them Roar
DETROIT’S NFL LIONESSES ARE MAKING THEIR MARK — AND SPILL ON THEIR THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS.
The Luxe Life
Luxe Homes exemplifies the power of alliance — in philosophy, design and collaboration.
The Pivot Point
How Darryl Clements transforms challenges into clients’ greatest opportunities.
The Detroit Lions' "better halves," photographed on location at The Franklin Oyster Bar & Eatery. See "Hear Them Roar" in this issue.
Aly Darin
At Birmingham City Lifestyle’s Fall Networking Event at Zana in Birmingham, Sept. 16. 1:
Publisher
and
Aleena Alisa
Megan Matatall. 2: Ted Edginton, Lisa Lipari, Tim Smith, Matt Bitonti, Birmingham City Lifestyle
Ali Kramer, Sarah Cavanaugh and BeautiLab team members. 3: Tim Smith, Ali Kramer, Lisa Lipari and Ted Edginton. 4: Alissa Johnson, Leigh Moss, Brooke O’Neill and Ali Ajami. 5: Kelli Robinson, Ali Kramer and Jordan Sakalian. 6-7: Attendees enjoy the event.
8: Melissa Fuller and Kelsey Hogan. 9: Attendees network at the event. 10: Matt Bitonti, Leigh Moss and Tim Smith. 11-13: Networking at the event. 14: Danielle Kovachevich and Ivana Stojkovic.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
1-3: At the 21st Annual Vine & Dine, presented by the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber, at the Kingsley, Bloomfield Hills, Sept. 16.
Pictured left-to-right: Sue Minster, Jason M Geisz, R Adam Biswanger, Robert F Alati, Elizabeth M Silver, Robyn R Crewdson, Margaret B Ford (not pictured)
DETROIT’S NFL LIONESSES ARE MAKING THEIR MARK — AND SPILL ON THEIR THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS.
Photographed on location at The Franklin Oyster Bar & Eatery
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALY DARIN
HOLLY CAMPBELL
CITY Bloomfield Hills
HUSBAND Dan Campbell, Head Coach of the Detroit Lions FAMILY We have a son, Cody, and a daughter, Piper BACKGROUND I was born in Arkansas but spent my early childhood in Portland, Ore., before moving to Texas. I ended up in Michigan through my husband’s job. This is our second stop with the Lions but we’ve also lived in New Jersey, Dallas, Miami and New Orleans.
I call myself Chief Chaos Coordinator of Campbell Inc. The NFL life comes with a lot of changes and sacrifices, but being fully present for my children has been my top priority. I wanted them to have as normal a childhood as possible. Now that they are young adults, I fill my time with our Lions Women’s Association and various charitable organizations.
IN THE SPIRIT OF THANKSGIVING: IS THERE AN ORGANIZATION THAT IS MEANINGFUL TO YOU?
I’ve been so moved by all the amazing charities in Michigan. One of the closest to my heart is the mentoring group for girls at the Detroit Lions Academy that we run with Lions’ wives and girlfriends. We love connecting with the girls and helping them with school, relationships, mental health and setting themselves up for what comes next. Detroit Boxing Gym is doing amazing things for Detroit’s youth and Gleaners Food Bank is a favorite volunteer spot. I also absolutely love highlighting small businesses. There are so many talented people making things happen!
WHAT’S IT LIKE BEING AN NFL WIFE?
I’ve been an NFL wife for 26 years, and with Dan it feels like we’ve lived three lifetimes — player, coach and now head coach. It hasn’t all been easy but we’ve grown through it all together. I feel so blessed to have experienced living in different cities and meeting so many wonderful people along the way. Football may set the schedule, but family has always been the heart of it. We’ve shared a lot of miles, wins, losses, memories — and we can’t wait for more!
DOES YOUR FAMILY HAVE ANY GAME-DAY TRADITIONS?
Game days at our house are less about traditions and more about superstitions. Don’t move this, don’t change that, repeat everything the same until it doesn’t work, or we’ll all feel like we’ve jinxed it.
HOW DO YOU SPEND THANKSGIVING DAY?
Thanksgiving looks a little different when you have a football game on the schedule. We do our big meal the day after and either go out or order in on Thanksgiving Day. We usually have Chinese, inspired by the meal pivot in A Christmas Story. When we do the actual meal later, Dan prefers ham over turkey and corn on the cob sliced off the cob. The kids need homemade mac ’n’ cheese and mounds of mashed potatoes. I love making all the usual sides and throwing in a few new things every year. We always take turns naming what we’re thankful for and what we’re looking forward to.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN MICHIGAN?
I absolutely love Michigan, mostly because of the people. It just feels like home. Birmingham is beautiful and has so many wonderful shops and restaurants. We haven’t had anything but amazing experiences so it’s hard to name favorites. We love going to movies, breakfast at Toast, dinner at Forrest, Bakehouse 46 cupcakes, New York Pizza Pie delivery, Salvatore Scallopini’s bolognese, girls’ lunches at 220 Merrill, and so many more. It’s always hard to decide!
CITY Metro Detroit
FAMILY No human children, but we have three pets — Bonnie, our dog, and our two cats, Lulu and Walter.
HUSBAND Sam LaPorta, Detroit Lions Tight End
BACKGROUND I’m originally from Naperville, Ill., a Western suburb of Chicago. Sam and I met freshman year at the University of Iowa; I graduated with a B.B.A in Entrepreneurial Management. I combined my business degree with my love for baking and food when I started working as a Sales Analyst for Cooper Street Snacks, a Birmingham-based and woman-owned cookie and granola company. I also enrolled in Schoolcraft College’s pastry arts program this fall. Once I graduate in the spring, I’ll be able to call myself a classically trained pastry chef!
IS THERE A CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION THAT IS MEANINGFUL TO YOU?
Sam and I are extremely passionate about rescuing animals; we adopted our Bonnie and our Walter from a local adoption agency called Happy Paws Haven in Ferndale, and have fostered a few animals for them, too. I decided to train our Bonnie to get certified as a therapy dog, and we volunteer at Henry Ford Hospitals, visiting patients and staff. Bonnie has been a natural and we look forward to it every week. We also support Show Your Soft Side (anti-animal abuse).
WHAT’S IT LIKE BEING AN NFL WIFE?
It means being flexible and supportive no matter what; things like trades and injuries can happen in an instant, and you have to adapt at the drop of a hat. Your relationship has to have a really strong foundation, or else all the noise from the media, fans and sometimes family/friends becomes a lot to manage.
A misunderstood aspect about being married to an NFL player that I think is hilarious is that people think I know football! I’ll get messages on social media from random fans telling me, ‘Hey, tell your husband to score me X amount of points in fantasy this week with [names some sort of football tactic],’ and I’ll have no idea what they’re talking about. Heck, my husband just taught me what a play-action pass is! I love my husband more than anything in this world, but no amount of watching football will make me love it to that extent. I love that he loves it, you know? There’s nothing better than watching people live their dream and do what they’re passionate about. That’s how I feel about baking — although I think Sam gets to reap more benefits with my job, since he’s got a major sweet tooth.
DOES YOUR FAMILY HAVE ANY GAME-DAY TRADITIONS?
My personal game-day tradition is to start off with something that brings me joy and centers me, like going to church or a workout class. That way, my entire day isn’t taken up by a football game; the stadiums are loud and stressful environments for me and can be emotionally overwhelming. Taking the time to fill up my own cup first and remember what really matters helps me to be the most supportive wife I can be.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN MICHIGAN?
The people here are ‘Midwest nice!’ Sam and I are both from Illinois, and we went to college at Iowa. So Michigan wasn’t a huge cultural shift for us, which made me feel more comfortable coming straight out of college into the NFL lifestyle.
I would compare Naperville, Ill., where I grew up, as the ‘Birmingham’ of Chicago — a walkable downtown area that serves as the epicenter of life in our community. I love being able to get brunch, shop, get my nails or hair done, all within the span of a few blocks. We go to Holy Name Catholic Church and our tradition in the summertime was mass in the morning then walk to the farmer’s market. It was divine.
We are also huge foodies — Sam’s favorite pre-game day dinner is carbs in the form of pasta at Casa Pernoi. Order the spicy rigatoni and add sausage. I’m also obsessed with Commonwealth — as a pastry chef, I deeply appreciate their baked goods! I’ve been loving The Franklin Oyster Bar. And when I want a big juicy steak, there’s no better spot than London Chop House. There and Hiroki-San (order the olive beef wagyu on special occasions) are our favorites.
I love to walk Quarton Lake with my girlfriends. I also love seasonal activities like the Franklin Cider Mill. I grew up riding horses, too, so this summer I learned how to play polo at Detroit Polo Club. It was a ton of fun.
FUN FACT
My mom was the editor of a Naperville magazine. I gained a true appreciation for local journalism. So I was very happy to participate in this article!
CONTINUED >
GAIL DISNER
CITY Birmingham
FAMILY Children Teddy and Archie HUSBAND Mike Disner, Detroit Lions COO
BACKGROUND I’m from a small rural town in Mississippi. I have a degree in Microbiology with a minor in Chemistry and Economics, and an MBA and MHA. Since moving to Michigan, I’m a full-time content creator, sharing our 1936 Colonial Home on @thesoutherngail [see Birmingham City Lifestyle’s May 2025 cover story to learn more about Gail].
IS THERE A CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION THAT IS MEANINGFUL TO YOU?
I support Make-a-Wish Foundation, Chad Tough and Detroit Lions Academy. I’m also active with the Chi Omega sorority at U of M housing board and my kids’ school PTA board.
Giving back has always been part of who I am. Community service was part of my pageant world in high school. I had a community service-based scholarship in college and continue to give back today. Helping others is crucial to my belief system that when you have more to give, you can build a bigger table, not a higher fence.
WHAT’S IT LIKE BEING AN NFL WIFE?
You can choose to focus on managing/supporting your husband (especially life on the road). It’s both stressful and rewarding. The days are long, and the normal schedule of weekends off and 9-5 work hours don’t exist. In many ways, it’s not a traditional life, but taking the kids and family members to games, loving a team with your whole heart and Thanksgiving Day at Ford Field — it’s magical. It’s really a family-wide commitment to the career and structuring your life in a way that’s supportive of the role. The front office is a small group so you really get to know each other and make life-long friends!
DOES YOUR FAMILY HAVE ANY GAME-DAY TRADITIONS?
Almost always, we ride together to games even though that means we are there super-early before the stadium opens. But it’s just nice to spend that time together.
HOW DO YOU SPEND THANKSGIVING DAY?
I always make pecan pies, no matter what! As far as when we celebrate, we try something new almost every year — before, in the suite, after, the next day. Who knows what we’ll do this year but hopefully we’ll be cooking all day on Friday in my new kitchen (hopefully it will be done) and celebrating a Thanksgiving Day win!
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN MICHIGAN?
I love the seasons, I love that communities of old homes on tree-lined streets exist. I love the people! Downtown Birmingham is so charming! I love going to the farmer’s market, eating at Social, Sals or Market, doing Lagree [fitness] at Sage House and grabbing coffee at Birmingham Roast or Lucky’s. And — Go Lions!
CONTINUED >
CITY Bloomfield Hills
FAMILY We are a blended family with six children: Maddie, married to Matt Smith in July; Noah, married to Lauren (their eight-month-old son, Shepherd Ray, is my first grandchild); Kendra, married to Jacob Hickman in August; Gina and husband John Paolo are expecting grandchild No. 2 in Jan. 2026; Macy and husband Josh Blankenship; Audrey graduated college this May. Four of our girls were married in the last 14 months — what a gift to continue growing this beautiful family.
HUSBAND Chris Spielman, former Linebacker for Ohio State Buckeyes; Executive Assistant to the Owner and CEO for the Detroit Lions — they created a position for him to be a part of the organization.
BACKGROUND I grew up in Youngstown, Ohio, and lived in Columbus most of my life before moving here; I graduated from The Ohio State University. I still hold my residential real-estate license in Ohio and am in the process of getting my license in Florida.
IS THERE A CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION THAT IS MEANINGFUL TO YOU?
Our faith is the foundation of our family, so we are strong supporters of our Catholic parish and Detroit Catholic Diocese. Giving back to Christian and Catholic organizations allows us to live out our values while helping strengthen the community that we love. My husband and his late wife created the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research and Patient Assistance after her diagnosis. It carries so much significance for my husband and his children — it’s a way to honor their journey while helping others walking through the same fight.
I have a daughter with health challenges and another who was born prematurely, so Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus holds a very special place in our hearts. Their care and expertise were critical when my girls were younger, and supporting children’s hospitals is our way of giving back for the incredible care they provided. I also work with the Detroit Lions Academy.
WHAT’S IT LIKE BEING AN NFL WIFE?
I’m still fairly new to the NFL world, so I’m figuring things out as I go. It’s definitely a different lifestyle, but being part of the community and supporting Chris in this role has been really fun. The people in the organization have been amazing and we have established some really great relationships. I may be a bit biased, but I feel we have the best owners in the league. People assume he only works during football season — not even close! It’s a year-round, high-pressure industry with a lot of ups and downs. What’s been eye-opening is how much rides on each win or loss. It’s not just about bragging rights — it’s people’s livelihoods. From the owners and front office to the coaches, players, business partners and so many others, a season’s outcome affects everyone.
DOES YOUR FAMILY HAVE ANY GAME-DAY TRADITIONS?
Chris likes to be at the stadium early — I joke that he’s the one unlocking the doors. I usually get there about two hours before kickoff so I don’t have to deal with traffic. We love going down to the field before the game — it’s a chance to see the owners and their families, and you can really feel the energy from the players and the fans. It’s one of my favorite parts of the day.
HOW DO YOU SPEND THANKSGIVING DAY?
Thanksgiving kicks off with a workout at our house. I used to be a fitness competitor and personal trainer, and with Chris being a former pro athlete, working out is part of our family culture. Now that our kids — including a strength coach and a basketball coach — are grown, they’ve taken over leading the charge. Since moving to Detroit, we’ve started doing our big Thanksgiving dinner the night before. Everyone comes into town, brings a game or activity and we just soak up the time together and focus on gratitude. Thursday morning is the workout, then we head to the Lions game. It’s one of my favorite traditions — full of energy, family, food and a whole lot of love.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN MICHIGAN?
We lived downtown for the first year and I liked it more than I expected. But I’m a suburban girl, so moving to Bloomfield Hills felt right. Being close to Downtown Birmingham is a bonus — it gives us that little city vibe without being in the middle of it. And the people here are so kind. I’ve found the same warmth here in Michigan that I left in Ohio.
And I love taking my dog Jerry on hikes — there are so many different beautiful places to go.
CARRIE SPIELMAN
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THE LUXE LIFE
ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING
True innovation begins when visionaries dare to think beyond convention. LUXE Homes Design + Build in Birmingham was founded on that very principle — challenging tradition, blending artistry with precision and reimagining what luxury living can be. What sets LUXE apart is not only the exceptional homes they craft but also the extraordinary partnership at its foundation: two Birmingham “power couples” who united their distinct talents and perspectives to create a design-build firm that is greater, bolder and more inspired than either could achieve alone.
Luxe Homes: John and Donna VanBrouck and Rachel and Bryan Leith.
Photo by Aly Darin
LUXE Homes was born when two separate, successful companies, each helmed by a husband-and-wife team, combined their superpowers: John and Donna VanBrouck, owners of VanBrouck & Associates, a celebrated residential design firm, joined forces with Bryan and Rachel Leith, owners of Leith Luxury Homes, a respected builder of custom residences. Between them, the couples bring more than 50 years of experience and hundreds of accolades to the table. The VanBroucks are known for artistry and imagination. Over their careers, they have designed more than 1,500 homes and received nearly 200 design awards. Their architectural eye is influenced by extensive travels across Europe, where they studied castles, villas, châteaux and cottages. That first-hand
Donna and John VanBrouck.
Photo by Aly Darin
Bryan and Rachel Leith.
Photo by Aly Darin
immersion in timeless design details finds its way into their work, which balances authenticity with livability.
The Leiths, meanwhile, built their reputation on precision, quality and uncompromising attention to detail. Bryan earned the Home Builders Association of Southeastern Michigan’s “Young Builder of the Year” award in 2020, while Rachel has become a trusted partner to clients navigating the building process. Together, they ensure that every project meets exacting standards and is delivered with honesty, care and transparency.
When the couples collaborated on a few projects, they quickly realized how aligned their philosophies were. Instead of handing off projects between separate architect and builder firms, they envisioned a fully integrated team that could guide clients from the earliest sketch to the final walkthrough. LUXE Homes was born.
What sets LUXE apart is its seamless, collaborative process. Unlike many traditional projects, where the architect may step away once drawings are complete, LUXE’s architects and builders remain engaged together through every stage.
From the start, the team helps clients find the right lot and design within their budget. John and Donna shape the architecture to reflect lifestyle and personality, while Bryan and Rachel manage construction, budgets and project execution. Clients also work with an interior designer and dedicated project managers, creating a unified team that listens closely and anticipates needs.
“It’s our belief that building a home should be fun, exciting and rewarding,” John says. “We’ve built a process that is fully integrated — architecture, interior design and construction all under one roof — so the experience is seamless and stress-free for clients.”
This philosophy extends to transparency. Budgets are open-book, with clients receiving the benefit of supplier discounts and knowing costs at every stage. Tradespeople are loyal collaborators who have worked with the Leiths for decades, ensuring quality and trust. Project managers are described as the “captains of the ship,” on-site daily, orchestrating schedules and guiding clients through decisions large and small.
Unlike many firms, LUXE does not have a signature “look.” Instead, diversity defines their portfolio. They design and build in a wide range of styles — Prairie, French Eclectic, Tudor, Shingle, Old World, Modern and Contemporary. The common thread is not aesthetics but craftsmanship, proportion and the deep personal connection between home and homeowner.
“We’re inspired by travel, nature and by listening,” Donna explains. “Every house is a new opportunity to create something different. We never repeat designs.”
The goal is always to craft a home that feels timeless while reflecting its owner’s individuality. “It’s about creating not just a structure, but a stage for someone’s life — where they raise children, entertain friends and make memories,” John says.
While awards and publications highlight their success, the couples say the most rewarding moments come after a home is complete.
Bryan Leith describes receiving late-night texts and videos from clients hosting their first parties, grateful for the spaces that now bring joy to their families and friends.
“There’s nothing better than a client pausing in the middle of a celebration to say, ‘This is exactly what I dreamed of,’” he says.
For John, inspiration comes from the alchemy of creation itself.
“I never tire of the magic of creating something from nothing,” he says. “At some point during construction, a house suddenly takes on a soul. You can see it in the client’s eyes. That’s when dreams become reality.”
Ultimately, LUXE is about more than designing and building homes. It’s about the partnership between two couples who share a passion for excellence, creativity and client care. It’s also about bringing a worldly perspective to Southeast Michigan, weaving in the richness of European history, modern design innovation and personal touches that make each home irreplaceable.
As their reputation continues to grow, LUXE remains grounded in its founding ethos: talented, passionate people working together to exceed expectations. For clients, that means more than a house — it means a one-of-a-kind living experience, created with artistry, integrity and heart.
Wardrobe styling for Rachel Leith by Clare Pollard; for Bryan Leith by Dolce Moda.
Elevating Homes, Enriching Lives
Founded in 2014 by Amarilda Vucaj, Amareaux Interior Design has become a trusted partner for discerning homeowners, builders, and real estate professionals.
Whether embarking on a new build, transforming a remodel, or furnishing a residence from the ground up, our studio brings vision, expertise, and seamless project management to every step of the journey.
Discover the art of living beautifully.
725 South Adams, Suite 190, Birmingham, MI 48009 Office: 248-792-2720 | sales@amareux.com | www.amareaux.com
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The Pivot
HOW DARRYL CLEMENTS TRANSFORMS CHALLENGES INTO CLIENTS’ GREATEST OPPORTUNITIES.
ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING
Darryl Clements
When Darryl Clements talks about real estate and finance, he doesn’t just see transactions, he sees transformation. As CEO and co-founder of InterCapital Funding (icfunding.org), Clements has spent decades turning challenges into opportunities for property owners and investors, particularly those who often find themselves overlooked by traditional banks.
“InterCapital Funding was the brainchild of me and my wife,” Clements explains. “I started off in finance about 30 years ago doing mortgages. After the 2008 market crash, I bounced around in different areas, but when I was working with a nonprofit, I saw the disparities first-time homebuyers faced. That’s when I knew we had a niche we could capitalize on.”
Founded in 2010, InterCapital Funding specializes in financing projects that fall outside traditional criteria: properties that need significant repair, investors without deep resources or clients unable to meet rigid bank checklists. With a mission to “deliver innovative financial solutions that empower real estate investors and property owners to thrive,” the company has become a trusted partner in revitalizing communities across Michigan and beyond.
Building a System That Serves People First
While many lenders chase high-value deals, Clements is intentional about the pace and structure of growth.
“We’re getting our system and process in place now to where we can take on more people,” he says. “I didn’t want to grow too fast and then fail. Like a restaurant where it takes a day to get your food because the system isn’t tight, I wanted to make sure we could serve people the right way.”
InterCapital’s team includes about eight internal staff members and five external partners, with plans to expand strategically. Clements believes that strong systems — not shortcuts — ensure clients are supported from start to finish.
That support often includes personalized guidance.
“We hold the client’s hand pretty much through the whole process,” Clements says. “Before you sign a purchase agreement, give us a call. We’ll put the numbers together, beta test them and make sure you’ll be successful.”
He describes himself as “more like the big brother,” offering advice without judgment: “If it goes wrong, I’m not going to beat you up. I’ll say, okay, you messed that up — let’s fix it and move forward.”
Breaking Barriers for Underserved Communities
Clements’ philosophy centers on opportunity for those often left behind by large institutions.
“The big players have thresholds they won’t go below,” he says. “If you miss one box on their checklist, they won’t do it. That’s where we step in.”
One example stands out: a Detroit mail carrier who found a house on her route but lacked the LLC, full down payment and traditional qualifications to buy it. InterCapital structured a creative deal with the seller, including a temporary second mortgage, to help her secure the property.
“She was determined not to fail,” Clements recalls. “We helped her structure it, and now she owns her first investment property.”
For Clements, these stories embody his guiding belief: “Little fish become big fish. You want to catch them at the gate.”
Vision and Growth Ahead
Looking forward, InterCapital is building partnerships that extend its reach even further.
“We’re setting up a new program to work with churches and community groups,” Clements says. “The idea is to fix up houses in the neighborhood and sell them to first-time homebuyers. It’s a complete process where everybody prospers; the investors, the contractors and the families moving in.”
He also embraces a mindset of resilience and adaptability.
“I hate when people say, ‘I can’t,’” he says. “That shuts down all your brain cells. Instead, you figure it out. Even if we can’t do the deal, we’ll work it through so we’re ready for the next client.”
For entrepreneurs, his advice is simple but powerful: “Don’t be scared to fail. You can’t be scared on the finance side or the construction side. You have to take risks — but smart ones.”
A Straightforward Leader with a Vision Clements, an avid reader and lifelong learner, draws inspiration from books and observation. He readily admits he borrows ideas, adapts them and makes them his own.
“Even if I followed you around all day, I could never be you,” he says. “So I take ideas, put my own spin on them and structure them for our clients.”
That openness, paired with a deep commitment to underserved markets, has earned InterCapital Funding recognition, including the Industry Excellence Award for innovation and service. But for Clements, the true reward is seeing clients succeed.
“It’s not all about the money,” he says. “It’s about creating opportunities where everybody wins.”
With a vision to become “one of the major players in the non-financial institutional space,” InterCapital Funding is poised for growth. Guided by Clements’ philosophy of persistence, creativity, and community impact, the company continues to prove that with the right support, even the most challenging deals can turn into bright futures.
“I hate when people say, ‘I can’t.’ That shuts down all your brain cells. Instead, you figure it out. Even if we can’t do the deal, we’ll work it through so we’re ready for the next client.”
— Darryl Clements
Walking The Line
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER LOVY
In 2001, a car accident left Erica Coulston with a spinal cord injury, and at 23, she found herself paralyzed from the mid-chest down, with limited use of her hands and arms.
“It basically took away the majority of my independence, especially initially. That was a really difficult thing to process as a young adult,” recalls the Bloomfield Hills resident.
A SPINAL-CORD INJURY HAS LED ERICA COULSTON TO A LIFE OF ADVOCACY — AND BRINGING A REVOLUTIONARY DEVICE TO MICHIGAN.
Erica Coulston.
Photo by Aly Darin
M A T T H I L D U R M A R K K E L L E R
“WITH DETERMINATION YOU CREATE OPPORTUNITY
WHERE OTHERS SEE MISFORTUNE.”
— ERICA COULSTON
Although her doctors and therapists offered little hope for significant recovery beyond the first 18 months, Coulston refused to accept those limitations. Instead of letting her injury define her, she turned it into a mission. In 2007, she, her husband, and her parents launched Walk The Line Recovery Therapy (wtlrecovery.com). This Southfield-based rehabilitation center helps those with neurological diagnoses such as spinal cord injuries (SCI), brain injuries and multiple sclerosis work toward reclaiming independence and hope.
“After my accident, I was looking for providers who were willing to see the possibilities in me, instead of the limitations, because it was really easy for me to see my own limitations,” she says. “What I really needed was somebody to see the possible and what I could potentially be able to do, or what I could work toward.”
Her search for options took her across the country and around the world, seeking the latest innovations and treatments that could help her “get even just a little bit better.” Drawing on the knowledge she collected, Coulston brought these lessons home and started Walk The Line.
“We wanted to be a place of hope, community and recovery for people with significant neurological impairments or catastrophic injuries to have a place where they feel seen and heard and their opinion and goals are important,” Coulston says.
Staying true to that vision, Coulston is always on the lookout for groundbreaking treatments. Recently, her clinic became the first in Michigan to offer the ARC-EX System, the world’s first FDAapproved device shown to improve hand strength and sensation in people with chronic SCI. Poised to revolutionize rehabilitation, the system helps
Coulston practicing hand mobility using the ARC-EX System
Coulston (seated) with her parents, son Everett, and husband, Ira.
patients regain hand strength and sensation by stimulating the spinal cord through electrodes placed on the back of the neck. With support from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, among others, and named a Time magazine Best Invention of 2024, ARC-EX is considered to be the first tangible breakthrough in decades, providing the first non-invasive spinal-cord stimulation technology for the chronic SCI.
Not only is she offering the treatment to others, but she’s also using it herself. Within the first two weeks of use, she experienced a significant breakthrough, noting improvement in her hand function and sensation, particularly the ability to almost make a full fist with her left hand, and progress with her picking up objects and writing.
“This is the first time I’ve seen something that is truly focused on actual recovery — not just adaptation, but change,” she says.
Last month marked 24 years since Coulston’s car accident. Before her injury, she did advocacy work for a political nonprofit organization while trying to figure
“I’VE ALWAYS BEEN VERY ADVOCACY-MINDED, AND I’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO HELP PEOPLE.”
out the rest of her life. She wasn’t sure whether she wanted to be a lawyer or a teacher.
Coulston remains deeply committed to advocacy work. She focuses on disability rights and accessibility and has worked to preserve and improve Michigan’s no-fault insurance, as well as to make communities more accessible. She serves on the Michigan Statewide Independent Living Council and has been involved in various initiatives in Oakland County, establishing accessibility projects for small businesses, historic buildings and Main Street communities.
“I’ve always been very advocacy-minded, and I’ve always wanted to help people,” she says. “I’m not really sure where that would have taken me before, but this seems like a great mixture of everything I ever wanted.”
Practicing using a fork and knife
Therapy using the ARC-EX System
H O P E
with YOU
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
Unlocking a New Level of Proactive Health
• Early Detection & Peace of Mind: Identify potential health issues, including tumors, cysts, stroke risk and aneurysms, before any symptoms appear.
• Comprehensive View: Captures detailed images of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and spine, providing a holistic view of your internal health.
Ali turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Birmingham City Lifestyle
Published by Ali
Loved by Birmingham
AT Home
Seniors rejoice in life and community at Cedarbrook of Bloomfield Hills.
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH
Cedarbrook's movie theater
Wine Room
Many people work hard throughout their lives and, as they age, want to relax and enjoy their daily life. However, they may find that their house feels empty after the children have left or a spouse has passed away. Perhaps health issues are causing worry. Or it may simply be that a person is tired of spending time on home maintenance, housecleaning, laundry and cooking.
Cedarbrook of Bloomfield Hills (cedarbrookofbloomfieldhills.com) can provide comfort, independence, well-being and a sense of community to seniors at any stage of life. Since 2015, the welcoming brick facility has allowed people to age-in-place by offering accommodations for those who require independent living, assisted living, memory care, nursing care and respite care.
“People have the opportunity to live in one community, in one building, and maintain all those same friendships and relationships with the people they meet,” says Artur Szuster, executive director for Cedarbrook. “It’s just a matter of changing apartments within the building.”
The Cedarbrook senior living options include:
Independent living, designed for active seniors seeking an elevated lifestyle, free from the responsibilities of home maintenance, meal planning and routine chores. The amenities include two-bedroom/ two-bath apartments, some with dens, private balconies or patios and heated garage parking.
Assisted living offers residents essential support while maintaining their independence — a comprehensive range of
HOLIDAYS AT CEDARBROOK
Cedarbrook loves celebrating the holidays with residents throughout the community — marking Independence Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving and beyond with decorating parties, crafts workshops, holiday movie nights and more. Visit cedarbrookofbloomfieldhills.com for more information.
Artur Szuster, executive director for Cedarbrook
amenities, enabling each resident to tailor their daily experience to suit their needs. These include spacious private suites, as well as one- and two-bedroom apartments. Assistance with medication management, ambulation, continence and medical care is also available.
Memory care, where individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia or other memory impairments benefit from personalized care designed with the whole resident in mind, including mind-body-spirit enrichment activities. The memory care neighborhood emphasizes both safety and comfort.
Nursing care is suitable for those needing long-term residential clinical support. Residents have access to a range of medical services, rehabilitation and various therapeutic interventions.
Respite care provides short-term support for families who need assistance caring for their loved ones when they are unable to do so.
“It’s a beautiful community,” adds Crystal Austin, director of sales and marketing. “The people really enjoy life, their social activities, making friends and keeping busy.”
All Cedarbrook residents have access to a restaurant-style dining experience, a café, a winery and a pub. For entertainment, the Rialto Theater offers a mix of movies and live presentations. Additionally, the community features a salon and spa to help residents look and feel their best. A wide range of activities — including book clubs, walking groups, exercise classes, card games, educational lectures and arts-and-crafts sessions — enables everyone to stay physically, mentally and socially active. Outings include trips to the Detroit Zoo, the Franklin Cider Mill, restaurants and more.
And Cedarbrook loves the holidays — celebrating Independence Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving and beyond with decorating parties, crafts workshops and holiday movie nights.
“Sometimes, when people transition here, they feel re-engaged,” says Szuster. “They feel like a new flame has been lit because there’s a lot of engagement through clubs and programs we schedule, or just things they do as friends and neighbors.”
