<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><?xml-stylesheet href="https://feeds.captivate.fm/style.xsl" type="text/xsl"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:podcast="https://podcastindex.org/namespace/1.0"><channel><atom:link href="https://feeds.captivate.fm/the-country-club/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><title><![CDATA[The Country Club]]></title><podcast:guid>460b6db3-0898-5f7c-934b-61ce0b46c065</podcast:guid><lastBuildDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:00:59 +0000</lastBuildDate><generator>Captivate.fm</generator><language><![CDATA[en]]></language><copyright><![CDATA[Copyright 2026 Diana Cassidy-Bush]]></copyright><managingEditor>Diana Cassidy-Bush</managingEditor><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Welcome to The Country Club—but not the kind with dress codes and tee times. This is a different kind of Country Club — one where country living meets real estate, community, and adventure! I’m Diana Cassidy-Bush, your host and trusted guide to navigating life beyond the city limits. Whether you're looking to plant roots in a small town, find the perfect recreational escape, or make smart investments in rural properties, this podcast is for you. Each episode, we’ll dive into everything from buying your first home to securing the best investment deals, exploring cottage life, and embracing the beauty of rural living. You’ll hear expert insights, real-life success stories, and practical advice to help you LIVE, PLAY, and INVEST with confidence. Because in real estate—and in life—it’s about more than just buying property. It’s about making the right plan, seizing opportunities, and building a future you love. So grab a coffee, pull up a chair, and let’s talk about making your dreams a reality. Welcome to The Country Club—where home, community, and opportunity come together.

Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027
Website: https://dianacassidybush.ca/
Email: info@thedcbteam.ca

This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!]]></itunes:summary><image><url>https://artwork.captivate.fm/196c1628-42e8-45cf-aa03-553d8f2fe687/Frhrvja2e3BPQEfqUsviw8Fd.jpg</url><title>The Country Club</title><link><![CDATA[https://the-country-club.captivate.fm]]></link></image><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/196c1628-42e8-45cf-aa03-553d8f2fe687/Frhrvja2e3BPQEfqUsviw8Fd.jpg"/><itunes:owner><itunes:name>Diana Cassidy-Bush</itunes:name></itunes:owner><itunes:author>Diana Cassidy-Bush</itunes:author><description>Welcome to The Country Club—but not the kind with dress codes and tee times. This is a different kind of Country Club — one where country living meets real estate, community, and adventure! I’m Diana Cassidy-Bush, your host and trusted guide to navigating life beyond the city limits. Whether you&apos;re looking to plant roots in a small town, find the perfect recreational escape, or make smart investments in rural properties, this podcast is for you. Each episode, we’ll dive into everything from buying your first home to securing the best investment deals, exploring cottage life, and embracing the beauty of rural living. You’ll hear expert insights, real-life success stories, and practical advice to help you LIVE, PLAY, and INVEST with confidence. Because in real estate—and in life—it’s about more than just buying property. It’s about making the right plan, seizing opportunities, and building a future you love. So grab a coffee, pull up a chair, and let’s talk about making your dreams a reality. Welcome to The Country Club—where home, community, and opportunity come together.

Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027
Website: https://dianacassidybush.ca/
Email: info@thedcbteam.ca

This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</description><link>https://the-country-club.captivate.fm</link><atom:link href="https://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com" rel="hub"/><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><itunes:category text="Business"></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Business"><itunes:category text="Investing"/></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Education"></itunes:category><podcast:locked>no</podcast:locked><podcast:medium>podcast</podcast:medium><item><title>What’s Growing On? Part 1 with Kara Enright of Enright Cattle Company</title><itunes:title>What’s Growing On? Part 1 with Kara Enright of Enright Cattle Company</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this first installment of a two-part conversation, host Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with <strong>Kara Enright</strong>, the driving force behind Enright Cattle Company. </p><p> What begins as a conversation about farming quickly unfolds into a powerful story about innovation, resilience, and building a modern agricultural brand from the ground up. </p><p>Kara grew up immersed in rural life, where farming wasn’t just a career — it was a way of life shared by entire communities. But as agriculture evolved, so did the realities facing family farms. With limited land and resources, Kara and her husband had to think differently about how to build a sustainable future in farming. </p><p>Instead of scaling through land and herd size alone, Kara focused on building a brand — creating a direct connection between farm and consumer. What followed was an entrepreneurial journey that expanded far beyond selling beef. </p><p>From supplying chefs and restaurants to launching leather products made from their own cattle hides, creating a boutique farm store inside a converted grain silo, hosting immersive farm dinners in a crop circle, and even acquiring a local blueberry farm, Kara has continually reimagined what a modern farm business can be. </p><p>This episode explores how legacy farming knowledge, creative thinking, and a willingness to adapt can transform a traditional agricultural operation into a thriving rural enterprise. </p><p>And perhaps most importantly, Kara shares what it means to lead in an industry where women are still often underestimated — and why that challenge only fueled her determination to succeed. </p><p>Learn more about Enright Cattle Company: <strong><u><a href="https://enrightcattlecompany.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://enrightcattlecompany.com/</a></u></strong></p><p><strong>Episode Timestamps:</strong></p><p>00:00 - Welcome to Country Club </p><p>00:45 - Meet Kara Enright of Enright Cattle </p><p>03:12 - Growing Up Farming </p><p>05:16 - Work Ethic Lessons </p><p>05:54 - Agriculture Is Evolving </p><p>07:03 - Women in Farming </p><p>08:20 - Building a Beef Brand </p><p>09:54 - From Markets to Restaurants </p><p>13:37 - Leather Goods from Hides </p><p>17:19 - Grain Bin Farm Store </p><p>21:45 - Dinner in the Crop Circle </p><p>24:54 - Buying a Blueberry Farm </p><p>28:00 - Keeping Local Food Alive </p><p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong> </p><p>1. Agriculture isn’t disappearing — it’s transforming </p><p>2. Building a brand can sustain a smaller farm </p><p>3. Relationships can open unexpected opportunities </p><p>4. Use the whole animal — and create value from it </p><p>5. Authentic experiences build powerful connections with customers </p><p>6. Entrepreneurship often starts with curiosity </p><p>7. Women are redefining leadership in agriculture </p><p></p><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this first installment of a two-part conversation, host Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with <strong>Kara Enright</strong>, the driving force behind Enright Cattle Company. </p><p> What begins as a conversation about farming quickly unfolds into a powerful story about innovation, resilience, and building a modern agricultural brand from the ground up. </p><p>Kara grew up immersed in rural life, where farming wasn’t just a career — it was a way of life shared by entire communities. But as agriculture evolved, so did the realities facing family farms. With limited land and resources, Kara and her husband had to think differently about how to build a sustainable future in farming. </p><p>Instead of scaling through land and herd size alone, Kara focused on building a brand — creating a direct connection between farm and consumer. What followed was an entrepreneurial journey that expanded far beyond selling beef. </p><p>From supplying chefs and restaurants to launching leather products made from their own cattle hides, creating a boutique farm store inside a converted grain silo, hosting immersive farm dinners in a crop circle, and even acquiring a local blueberry farm, Kara has continually reimagined what a modern farm business can be. </p><p>This episode explores how legacy farming knowledge, creative thinking, and a willingness to adapt can transform a traditional agricultural operation into a thriving rural enterprise. </p><p>And perhaps most importantly, Kara shares what it means to lead in an industry where women are still often underestimated — and why that challenge only fueled her determination to succeed. </p><p>Learn more about Enright Cattle Company: <strong><u><a href="https://enrightcattlecompany.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://enrightcattlecompany.com/</a></u></strong></p><p><strong>Episode Timestamps:</strong></p><p>00:00 - Welcome to Country Club </p><p>00:45 - Meet Kara Enright of Enright Cattle </p><p>03:12 - Growing Up Farming </p><p>05:16 - Work Ethic Lessons </p><p>05:54 - Agriculture Is Evolving </p><p>07:03 - Women in Farming </p><p>08:20 - Building a Beef Brand </p><p>09:54 - From Markets to Restaurants </p><p>13:37 - Leather Goods from Hides </p><p>17:19 - Grain Bin Farm Store </p><p>21:45 - Dinner in the Crop Circle </p><p>24:54 - Buying a Blueberry Farm </p><p>28:00 - Keeping Local Food Alive </p><p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong> </p><p>1. Agriculture isn’t disappearing — it’s transforming </p><p>2. Building a brand can sustain a smaller farm </p><p>3. Relationships can open unexpected opportunities </p><p>4. Use the whole animal — and create value from it </p><p>5. Authentic experiences build powerful connections with customers </p><p>6. Entrepreneurship often starts with curiosity </p><p>7. Women are redefining leadership in agriculture </p><p></p><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/whats-growing-on-part-1-with-kara-enright-of-enright-cattle-company]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">e64d7cf3-6f60-4545-a774-63f2a01aff92</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/60eeb2fc-7c90-41ae-be2d-d0a87c103d5f/Kara-Enright-2.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/e64d7cf3-6f60-4545-a774-63f2a01aff92.mp3" length="44480815" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>30:53</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>16</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>16</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Why Leaving the City Was the Best Decision with Easton Lambert of Noko Spa</title><itunes:title>Why Leaving the City Was the Best Decision with Easton Lambert of Noko Spa</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>What does it really look like to choose a different pace of life and build success around your family instead of your calendar?</p><p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with Easton Lambert, owner of Noko Spa in Thomasburg, to talk about the bold decision to leave city life behind and start fresh in a rural community.</p><p>After building a successful career in aesthetics for over two decades, Easton made the leap from a commercial spa setting in Durham to launching a home-based business in the country — all while raising two young children. What began as a scary, uncertain move quickly became the best decision she and her husband ever made.</p><p>Easton shares the real fears she faced leaving behind established clients, the surprising support she received from the local community, and how her definition of success has completely shifted. From immediate business growth to deeper neighborhood connections (including neighbors offering help during a power outage), her story highlights the power of choosing alignment over ambition.</p><p>This conversation explores:</p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The emotional side of leaving the city</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Building a thriving wellness business from home</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The health and vibrancy of rural living</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Raising children immersed in community and outdoor life</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Why slowing down can actually move you forward</li></ol><br/><p>If you’ve ever wondered whether life beyond the city limits could offer more than just space, this episode will inspire you to reconsider what success really means.</p><p>Learn more about Noko Spa: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nokospa/ " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/nokospa/ </a></p><p><strong>Episode Timestamps:</strong></p><p><strong>[0:00]</strong> - Introduction to the Country Club Podcast</p><p><strong>[0:55]</strong> - Meet Easton Lambert, owner of Noko Spa</p><p><strong>[1:47]</strong> - Easton's background and decision to move (2022)</p><p><strong>[2:34]</strong> - The scary decision to leave her established career</p><p><strong>[3:56]</strong> - Finding their forever home in Thomasburg</p><p><strong>[4:36]</strong> - What surprised Easton most: the people and community</p><p><strong>[5:50]</strong> - Getting used to country life (coyotes and cows!)</p><p><strong>[6:15]</strong> - The evolution of Noko Spa</p><p><strong>[7:19]</strong> - Working from home as a mom entrepreneur</p><p><strong>[7:59]</strong> - Client demographics: teens to 80s</p><p><strong>[9:06]</strong> - Surprising difference: country clients are healthier and more active</p><p><strong>[10:30]</strong> - How the move changed family life: slowing down</p><p><strong>[12:02]</strong> - Kids' activities: hockey, soccer, lacrosse</p><p><strong>[13:32]</strong> - Getting involved: Festival of Trees and community events</p><p><strong>[14:56]</strong> - The breakfast club and becoming a PTA mom</p><p><strong>[15:36]</strong> - The awkward city visit: losing that sense of community</p><p><strong>[17:08]</strong> - Ice storm story: neighbors offering help</p><p><strong>[17:29]</strong> - What would she change? She would've moved sooner</p><p><strong>[18:33]</strong> - Redefining success: happy, healthy family life</p><p><strong>[19:15]</strong> - Final thoughts: growth comes from choosing differently</p><p><strong>[20:09]</strong> - Closing and thank you</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></p><p><strong>1. Growth Sometimes Means Choosing Differently</strong></p><p>Easton’s move wasn’t about stepping back from ambition — it was about redefining it. Success shifted from scaling a commercial space to building a life aligned with family, flexibility, and fulfillment.</p><p><strong>2. Fear Often Signals Expansion</strong></p><p>Leaving a 23-year client base and launching a business from home felt risky. But the fear was rooted in the unknown — and once she stepped into it, the outcome exceeded expectations.</p><p><strong>3. Community Is a Game-Changer</strong></p><p>From immediate support at her soft opening to neighbors offering food during a power outage, rural life provided something the city never did: genuine connection.</p><p><strong>4. Rural Living Impacts Health in Real Ways</strong></p><p>Easton noticed a surprising difference in her clientele — country residents in their 50s, 60s, and beyond are often more active, vibrant, and physically capable. Access to fresh food, outdoor movement, and a slower pace appear to make a measurable impact.</p><p><strong>5. Entrepreneurship Can Evolve with Your Season of Life</strong></p><p>Working from home eliminated commute time and allowed Easton to integrate motherhood and business seamlessly — proving that career growth doesn’t have to compete with family life.</p><p><strong>6. Kids Thrive in Open Spaces</strong></p><p>From hockey and lacrosse to summer camps and lake days, the recreational opportunities and sense of belonging have shaped her children’s experience in powerful ways.</p><p><strong>7. Success Now Means Peace</strong></p><p>For Easton, success is no longer defined by scale or status — it’s defined by a happy, healthy family and the ability to be present. When home life is aligned, business follows.</p><p>This episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes the life you’re looking for isn’t further ahead — it’s simply in a different direction.</p><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>What does it really look like to choose a different pace of life and build success around your family instead of your calendar?</p><p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with Easton Lambert, owner of Noko Spa in Thomasburg, to talk about the bold decision to leave city life behind and start fresh in a rural community.</p><p>After building a successful career in aesthetics for over two decades, Easton made the leap from a commercial spa setting in Durham to launching a home-based business in the country — all while raising two young children. What began as a scary, uncertain move quickly became the best decision she and her husband ever made.</p><p>Easton shares the real fears she faced leaving behind established clients, the surprising support she received from the local community, and how her definition of success has completely shifted. From immediate business growth to deeper neighborhood connections (including neighbors offering help during a power outage), her story highlights the power of choosing alignment over ambition.</p><p>This conversation explores:</p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The emotional side of leaving the city</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Building a thriving wellness business from home</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The health and vibrancy of rural living</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Raising children immersed in community and outdoor life</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Why slowing down can actually move you forward</li></ol><br/><p>If you’ve ever wondered whether life beyond the city limits could offer more than just space, this episode will inspire you to reconsider what success really means.</p><p>Learn more about Noko Spa: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nokospa/ " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/nokospa/ </a></p><p><strong>Episode Timestamps:</strong></p><p><strong>[0:00]</strong> - Introduction to the Country Club Podcast</p><p><strong>[0:55]</strong> - Meet Easton Lambert, owner of Noko Spa</p><p><strong>[1:47]</strong> - Easton's background and decision to move (2022)</p><p><strong>[2:34]</strong> - The scary decision to leave her established career</p><p><strong>[3:56]</strong> - Finding their forever home in Thomasburg</p><p><strong>[4:36]</strong> - What surprised Easton most: the people and community</p><p><strong>[5:50]</strong> - Getting used to country life (coyotes and cows!)</p><p><strong>[6:15]</strong> - The evolution of Noko Spa</p><p><strong>[7:19]</strong> - Working from home as a mom entrepreneur</p><p><strong>[7:59]</strong> - Client demographics: teens to 80s</p><p><strong>[9:06]</strong> - Surprising difference: country clients are healthier and more active</p><p><strong>[10:30]</strong> - How the move changed family life: slowing down</p><p><strong>[12:02]</strong> - Kids' activities: hockey, soccer, lacrosse</p><p><strong>[13:32]</strong> - Getting involved: Festival of Trees and community events</p><p><strong>[14:56]</strong> - The breakfast club and becoming a PTA mom</p><p><strong>[15:36]</strong> - The awkward city visit: losing that sense of community</p><p><strong>[17:08]</strong> - Ice storm story: neighbors offering help</p><p><strong>[17:29]</strong> - What would she change? She would've moved sooner</p><p><strong>[18:33]</strong> - Redefining success: happy, healthy family life</p><p><strong>[19:15]</strong> - Final thoughts: growth comes from choosing differently</p><p><strong>[20:09]</strong> - Closing and thank you</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></p><p><strong>1. Growth Sometimes Means Choosing Differently</strong></p><p>Easton’s move wasn’t about stepping back from ambition — it was about redefining it. Success shifted from scaling a commercial space to building a life aligned with family, flexibility, and fulfillment.</p><p><strong>2. Fear Often Signals Expansion</strong></p><p>Leaving a 23-year client base and launching a business from home felt risky. But the fear was rooted in the unknown — and once she stepped into it, the outcome exceeded expectations.</p><p><strong>3. Community Is a Game-Changer</strong></p><p>From immediate support at her soft opening to neighbors offering food during a power outage, rural life provided something the city never did: genuine connection.</p><p><strong>4. Rural Living Impacts Health in Real Ways</strong></p><p>Easton noticed a surprising difference in her clientele — country residents in their 50s, 60s, and beyond are often more active, vibrant, and physically capable. Access to fresh food, outdoor movement, and a slower pace appear to make a measurable impact.</p><p><strong>5. Entrepreneurship Can Evolve with Your Season of Life</strong></p><p>Working from home eliminated commute time and allowed Easton to integrate motherhood and business seamlessly — proving that career growth doesn’t have to compete with family life.</p><p><strong>6. Kids Thrive in Open Spaces</strong></p><p>From hockey and lacrosse to summer camps and lake days, the recreational opportunities and sense of belonging have shaped her children’s experience in powerful ways.</p><p><strong>7. Success Now Means Peace</strong></p><p>For Easton, success is no longer defined by scale or status — it’s defined by a happy, healthy family and the ability to be present. When home life is aligned, business follows.</p><p>This episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes the life you’re looking for isn’t further ahead — it’s simply in a different direction.</p><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/why-leaving-the-city-was-the-best-decision-with-easton-lambert-of-noko-spa]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c9951e55-e641-4a06-bb2b-8b1638d34c54</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/061c6df8-a9d5-4944-b254-b435c57d6096/Easton-Lambert.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/c9951e55-e641-4a06-bb2b-8b1638d34c54.mp3" length="31050533" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>21:34</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>15</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>15</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Deep Roots - Young Blood - Global Reach: A Conversation with Greg Gaylord of Gaylord Hardwood Flooring</title><itunes:title>Deep Roots - Young Blood - Global Reach: A Conversation with Greg Gaylord of Gaylord Hardwood Flooring</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with <strong>Greg Gaylord</strong>, owner of Gaylord Hardwood Flooring, to explore what it truly means to go away, come back home, and grow a global business from a small town.</p><p>After going away for school and gaining perspective beyond his hometown, Greg made the intentional decision to return—raising his family locally while continuing the legacy business his parents founded in 1985. What began as a small, family-run operation has grown into an internationally recognized hardwood flooring company, supplying custom floors to builders and homeowners across North America and beyond.</p><p>This conversation dives into leadership succession, craftsmanship, sustainability, and the power of relationships in building long-term success. Greg shares how staying rooted in core values, listening closely to clients, and making thoughtful, incremental improvements have allowed the company to evolve without losing its identity.</p><p>This episode is a reminder that success doesn’t always mean leaving—it can mean coming back, staying rooted, and building something meaningful that lasts.</p><p><strong>Episode Timestamps</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 – 02:00</strong> | Welcome to The Country Club Podcast &amp; episode introduction</p><p><strong>02:00 – 03:10</strong> | The origins of Gaylord Hardwood Flooring (founded in 1985)</p><p><strong>03:10 – 04:20</strong> | Growing up in a family business &amp; early lessons</p><p><strong>04:20 – 05:30</strong> | Choosing to carry the legacy forward</p><p><strong>05:30 – 06:40</strong> | Leadership challenges &amp; growing in a competitive market</p><p><strong>06:40 – 08:00</strong> | Balancing tradition with innovation</p><p><strong>08:00 – 10:10</strong> | Building global reach from a small town</p><p><strong>10:10 – 11:20</strong> | The power of referrals &amp; long-term relationships</p><p><strong>11:20 – 12:45</strong> | Featured projects &amp; Netflix exposure</p><p><strong>12:45 – 14:30</strong> | Hardwood flooring trends: low maintenance &amp; natural finishes</p><p><strong>14:30 – 16:10</strong> | Quality, sourcing, and what buyers should know</p><p><strong>16:10 – 17:30</strong> | Sustainability &amp; the value of buying local</p><p><strong>17:30 – 19:00</strong> | Choosing to raise a family in the community</p><p><strong>19:00 – 21:20</strong> | The showroom renovation &amp; creating an experience</p><p><strong>21:20 – 22:45</strong> | Family, business, and community connection</p><p><strong>22:45 – 25:45</strong> | Personal stories &amp; family moments</p><p><strong>25:45 – 28:15</strong> | The legendary company limo story</p><p><strong>28:15 – 30:45</strong> | Final reflections &amp; closing thoughts</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>“You don’t have to leave home to build something exceptional.”</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>“Innovation doesn’t always mean big breakthroughs—it’s about getting better every day.”</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>“People want their floors to look like wood again, not a piano.”</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>“There’s nothing more sustainable than buying local and building to last.”</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>“Referrals come from relationships, not transactions.”</li></ol><br/><p><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Legacy businesses thrive when core values stay intact—even as markets change</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Global success can grow organically through trust, referrals, and consistency</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Low-maintenance, natural finishes are defining modern flooring trends</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Local craftsmanship and sustainability are powerful differentiators</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Community-based businesses create ripple effects far beyond their walls</li></ol><br/><p><strong>Resources &amp; Mentions</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Gaylord Hardwood Flooring – Custom, Canadian-made hardwood flooring</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://www.gaylordhardwoodflooring.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.gaylordhardwoodflooring.com/</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/GaylordHardwoodFlooring/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/GaylordHardwoodFlooring/</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/gaylordhardwood/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/gaylordhardwood/</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@Gaylordhardwoodflooring/featured" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@Gaylordhardwoodflooring/featured</a></li></ol><br/><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with <strong>Greg Gaylord</strong>, owner of Gaylord Hardwood Flooring, to explore what it truly means to go away, come back home, and grow a global business from a small town.</p><p>After going away for school and gaining perspective beyond his hometown, Greg made the intentional decision to return—raising his family locally while continuing the legacy business his parents founded in 1985. What began as a small, family-run operation has grown into an internationally recognized hardwood flooring company, supplying custom floors to builders and homeowners across North America and beyond.</p><p>This conversation dives into leadership succession, craftsmanship, sustainability, and the power of relationships in building long-term success. Greg shares how staying rooted in core values, listening closely to clients, and making thoughtful, incremental improvements have allowed the company to evolve without losing its identity.</p><p>This episode is a reminder that success doesn’t always mean leaving—it can mean coming back, staying rooted, and building something meaningful that lasts.</p><p><strong>Episode Timestamps</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 – 02:00</strong> | Welcome to The Country Club Podcast &amp; episode introduction</p><p><strong>02:00 – 03:10</strong> | The origins of Gaylord Hardwood Flooring (founded in 1985)</p><p><strong>03:10 – 04:20</strong> | Growing up in a family business &amp; early lessons</p><p><strong>04:20 – 05:30</strong> | Choosing to carry the legacy forward</p><p><strong>05:30 – 06:40</strong> | Leadership challenges &amp; growing in a competitive market</p><p><strong>06:40 – 08:00</strong> | Balancing tradition with innovation</p><p><strong>08:00 – 10:10</strong> | Building global reach from a small town</p><p><strong>10:10 – 11:20</strong> | The power of referrals &amp; long-term relationships</p><p><strong>11:20 – 12:45</strong> | Featured projects &amp; Netflix exposure</p><p><strong>12:45 – 14:30</strong> | Hardwood flooring trends: low maintenance &amp; natural finishes</p><p><strong>14:30 – 16:10</strong> | Quality, sourcing, and what buyers should know</p><p><strong>16:10 – 17:30</strong> | Sustainability &amp; the value of buying local</p><p><strong>17:30 – 19:00</strong> | Choosing to raise a family in the community</p><p><strong>19:00 – 21:20</strong> | The showroom renovation &amp; creating an experience</p><p><strong>21:20 – 22:45</strong> | Family, business, and community connection</p><p><strong>22:45 – 25:45</strong> | Personal stories &amp; family moments</p><p><strong>25:45 – 28:15</strong> | The legendary company limo story</p><p><strong>28:15 – 30:45</strong> | Final reflections &amp; closing thoughts</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>“You don’t have to leave home to build something exceptional.”</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>“Innovation doesn’t always mean big breakthroughs—it’s about getting better every day.”</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>“People want their floors to look like wood again, not a piano.”</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>“There’s nothing more sustainable than buying local and building to last.”</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>“Referrals come from relationships, not transactions.”</li></ol><br/><p><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Legacy businesses thrive when core values stay intact—even as markets change</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Global success can grow organically through trust, referrals, and consistency</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Low-maintenance, natural finishes are defining modern flooring trends</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Local craftsmanship and sustainability are powerful differentiators</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Community-based businesses create ripple effects far beyond their walls</li></ol><br/><p><strong>Resources &amp; Mentions</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Gaylord Hardwood Flooring – Custom, Canadian-made hardwood flooring</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://www.gaylordhardwoodflooring.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.gaylordhardwoodflooring.com/</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/GaylordHardwoodFlooring/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/GaylordHardwoodFlooring/</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/gaylordhardwood/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/gaylordhardwood/</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@Gaylordhardwoodflooring/featured" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@Gaylordhardwoodflooring/featured</a></li></ol><br/><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/deep-roots-young-blood-global-reach-a-conversation-with-greg-gaylord-of-gaylord-hardwood-flooring]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0e4bce0c-a1f4-4679-8f64-1f5f8f3d1504</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/48ed2900-835e-4ea3-bff0-033a7ef97c62/Greg-Gaylord.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/0e4bce0c-a1f4-4679-8f64-1f5f8f3d1504.mp3" length="45289564" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>31:27</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>14</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>14</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Planning Beats Predictions Every Time</title><itunes:title>Planning Beats Predictions Every Time</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this solo episode of <strong>The Country Club Podcast</strong>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush kicks off the new year with a refreshing, grounded conversation about real estate goal-setting—one that prioritizes clarity, lifestyle, and long-term planning over market predictions and media noise.</p><p>With headlines shouting forecasts and opinions at every turn, Diana offers a calm counterpoint: <strong>planning beats predictions every single time</strong>. She walks listeners through how to slow down, reflect on where life has actually landed them, and use real estate as a tool to support—not complicate—the life they want to build.</p><p>Whether you’re considering buying, selling, downsizing, upsizing, investing in a cottage, or simply getting organized for the future, this episode provides a simple, realistic framework for thinking about real estate in one-, three-, and five-year horizons. It’s thoughtful, reassuring, and deeply practical—perfect for anyone who wants to move forward with confidence instead of pressure.</p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p><strong>00:00–00:45</strong> – Welcome to <em>The Country Club Podcast</em> &amp; show positioning</p><p><strong>00:45–01:33</strong> – Why this conversation matters right now</p><p><strong>01:33–02:24</strong> – January noise, reflection, and real life priorities</p><p><strong>02:24–03:30</strong> – Predictions vs. planning in real estate</p><p><strong>03:30–04:15</strong> – Why your home should support your lifestyle, not stress it</p><p><strong>04:15–05:15</strong> – Lifestyle questions driving real estate decisions</p><p><strong>05:15–06:15</strong> – Country living, cottages, and lifestyle shifts</p><p><strong>06:15–08:15</strong> – Starting where you actually are (without judgment)</p><p><strong>08:15–09:45</strong> – Common buyer mistakes in a noisy market</p><p><strong>09:45–10:45</strong> – Interest rates, timing myths, and financial comfort</p><p><strong>10:45–12:30</strong> – Seller mistakes: pricing, renovations, and strategy</p><p><strong>12:30–13:15</strong> – Strategy vs. seasonality</p><p><strong>13:15–14:30</strong> – The 1-, 3-, and 5-year planning framework</p><p><strong>14:30–15:15</strong> – Asking better questions about your future</p><p><strong>15:15–16:30</strong> – Planning as a way to create options, not pressure</p><p><strong>16:30–17:30</strong> – Closing thoughts, planning worksheet &amp; next steps</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><p>“Planning beats predictions every single time.”</p><p>“A good real estate plan isn’t about guessing the market—it’s about understanding what you want your life to look like.”</p><p>“Your home should support your lifestyle, not keep you up at night.”</p><p>“Good strategy will almost always outperform good timing.”</p><p>“When you focus on direction instead of decisions, you give yourself time—and time creates clarity.”</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways &amp; Value for Listeners</strong></p><p><strong>1. Tune out the noise.</strong></p><p>Predictions change weekly. Your life goals matter more.</p><p><strong>2. Start where you are—honestly.</strong></p><p>Real planning begins with acknowledging your current season without judgment.</p><p><strong>3. Avoid rushed decisions.</strong></p><p>Most real estate mistakes come from reacting, not from lack of information.</p><p><strong>4. Think in layers, not deadlines.</strong></p><p>The 1-, 3-, and 5-year framework creates flexibility and confidence.</p><p><strong>5. Let real estate serve your life.</strong></p><p>Homes, cottages, and investments should support how you want to live—not the other way around.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Resources Mentioned</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Real Estate Planning Worksheet</strong> – Linked in the show notes</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><em>(Designed to slow the process down and help clarify goals)</em></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Early conversations with trusted real estate and financial professionals</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Lifestyle-first planning vs. market-first decision making</li></ol><br/><p><br></p><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this solo episode of <strong>The Country Club Podcast</strong>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush kicks off the new year with a refreshing, grounded conversation about real estate goal-setting—one that prioritizes clarity, lifestyle, and long-term planning over market predictions and media noise.</p><p>With headlines shouting forecasts and opinions at every turn, Diana offers a calm counterpoint: <strong>planning beats predictions every single time</strong>. She walks listeners through how to slow down, reflect on where life has actually landed them, and use real estate as a tool to support—not complicate—the life they want to build.</p><p>Whether you’re considering buying, selling, downsizing, upsizing, investing in a cottage, or simply getting organized for the future, this episode provides a simple, realistic framework for thinking about real estate in one-, three-, and five-year horizons. It’s thoughtful, reassuring, and deeply practical—perfect for anyone who wants to move forward with confidence instead of pressure.</p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p><strong>00:00–00:45</strong> – Welcome to <em>The Country Club Podcast</em> &amp; show positioning</p><p><strong>00:45–01:33</strong> – Why this conversation matters right now</p><p><strong>01:33–02:24</strong> – January noise, reflection, and real life priorities</p><p><strong>02:24–03:30</strong> – Predictions vs. planning in real estate</p><p><strong>03:30–04:15</strong> – Why your home should support your lifestyle, not stress it</p><p><strong>04:15–05:15</strong> – Lifestyle questions driving real estate decisions</p><p><strong>05:15–06:15</strong> – Country living, cottages, and lifestyle shifts</p><p><strong>06:15–08:15</strong> – Starting where you actually are (without judgment)</p><p><strong>08:15–09:45</strong> – Common buyer mistakes in a noisy market</p><p><strong>09:45–10:45</strong> – Interest rates, timing myths, and financial comfort</p><p><strong>10:45–12:30</strong> – Seller mistakes: pricing, renovations, and strategy</p><p><strong>12:30–13:15</strong> – Strategy vs. seasonality</p><p><strong>13:15–14:30</strong> – The 1-, 3-, and 5-year planning framework</p><p><strong>14:30–15:15</strong> – Asking better questions about your future</p><p><strong>15:15–16:30</strong> – Planning as a way to create options, not pressure</p><p><strong>16:30–17:30</strong> – Closing thoughts, planning worksheet &amp; next steps</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><p>“Planning beats predictions every single time.”</p><p>“A good real estate plan isn’t about guessing the market—it’s about understanding what you want your life to look like.”</p><p>“Your home should support your lifestyle, not keep you up at night.”</p><p>“Good strategy will almost always outperform good timing.”</p><p>“When you focus on direction instead of decisions, you give yourself time—and time creates clarity.”</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways &amp; Value for Listeners</strong></p><p><strong>1. Tune out the noise.</strong></p><p>Predictions change weekly. Your life goals matter more.</p><p><strong>2. Start where you are—honestly.</strong></p><p>Real planning begins with acknowledging your current season without judgment.</p><p><strong>3. Avoid rushed decisions.</strong></p><p>Most real estate mistakes come from reacting, not from lack of information.</p><p><strong>4. Think in layers, not deadlines.</strong></p><p>The 1-, 3-, and 5-year framework creates flexibility and confidence.</p><p><strong>5. Let real estate serve your life.</strong></p><p>Homes, cottages, and investments should support how you want to live—not the other way around.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Resources Mentioned</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Real Estate Planning Worksheet</strong> – Linked in the show notes</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><em>(Designed to slow the process down and help clarify goals)</em></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Early conversations with trusted real estate and financial professionals</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Lifestyle-first planning vs. market-first decision making</li></ol><br/><p><br></p><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/planning-beats-predictions-every-time]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">699bd727-b938-469f-888d-797a247ccd0d</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/f20fa7f1-3073-49ad-a20b-d3c8cc870737/Why-Planning-Beats-Predictions-Everytime.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 07 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/699bd727-b938-469f-888d-797a247ccd0d.mp3" length="26073282" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>18:06</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>13</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>13</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>The Capital Gains Shake-Up: What Cottage Owners &amp; Investors Need to Know — Real Talk, Real Time and how it impacts you with CPA Ben Bryden</title><itunes:title>The Capital Gains Shake-Up: What Cottage Owners &amp; Investors Need to Know — Real Talk, Real Time and how it impacts you with CPA Ben Bryden</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this highly informative episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, Diana Cassidy-Bush welcomes Chartered Professional Accountant Ben Bryden from Wilkinson &amp; Company to break down one of the most misunderstood and most consequential topics in real estate: capital gains tax.</p><p>Ben walks listeners through the whirlwind of tax changes proposed since 2024, explaining what was supposed to happen, what <em>actually</em> happened, and what property owners should know as we approach 2026.</p><p>Whether you own a cottage, rental, farmland, or you’re thinking about selling in the next few years, this conversation gives you the clarity you need to plan confidently and avoid surprises.</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></p><p><strong>1. The Capital Gains Inclusion Rate Remains at 50% as of this recording</strong></p><p>Despite the upheaval from 2024–2025, the proposed increase to a ⅔ inclusion rate was cancelled in March 2025, leaving the long-standing 50% rate in place. This eliminates the urgency sellers once felt but future budgets may still bring change.</p><p><strong>2. Timing Matters—Your Income Year Affects Your Tax Bill</strong></p><p>Consider selling in a year where your income is lower to reduce the marginal tax rate applied to your gain. Selling early in a calendar year can defers tax payment to the following April.</p><p><strong>3. The 12-Month Rule Automatically Applies</strong></p><p>If you sell a property within 12 months of buying it, the profit is generally treated as business income (100% taxable) rather than a capital gain (50% taxable). Only specific life events may qualify for exemptions.</p><p><strong>4. The Principal Residence Exemption (PRE)</strong></p><p>For people with multiple properties (house + cottage), thoughtful planning is key. You must choose which property to designate for PRE based on accrued gain per year. If you use the PRE on a cottage sale, future gains on your primary home may become taxable.</p><p><strong>5. Mixed-Use Properties Have Special Rules</strong></p><p>If part of your home is used for rental or business purposes:</p><ul><li>You may need to apportion the sale value between personal and income-producing use.</li><li>Using more than 50% of your home for business can jeopardize the PRE entirely.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>6. Land Size Matters</strong></p><p>The principal residence exemption typically covers the home + up to ½ hectare (1.24 acres) of land. Additional land may be taxed separately unless you can prove it’s necessary to the home’s use.</p><p><strong>7. “Change of Use” Can Trigger a Taxable Event</strong></p><p>If you convert a principal residence into a rental (or vice versa), the CRA treats it as a deemed disposition—a taxable capital gain—even if you don’t sell the property. You can avoid this by filing a special election with your tax return. Missing the election can result in penalties and unexpected taxes.</p><p><strong>8. Keep Every Receipt for Capital Improvements</strong></p><p>There is no 7-year rule for cost-base documentation.</p><ul><li>Improvements that increase value (steel roof, addition, upgraded countertops) raise your adjusted cost base and lower your eventual capital gain.</li><li>Repairs that simply restore condition (new shingles, repainting) do <em>not</em> count as capital improvements.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>9. Estate Transfers Can Trigger Capital Gains</strong></p><p>When someone passes away:</p><ul><li>Property transferred to a spouse rolls over tax-free.</li><li>Property transferred to children triggers capital gains at fair market value.</li><li>Large real-estate-heavy estates may face liquidity issues without planning.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>10. Special Rules Apply to Farm Properties</strong></p><p>Farms actively used in a farming business may qualify for:</p><ul><li>The Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE)—now up to $1.25M</li><li>Or special rollover provisions for transferring farmland to children</li></ul><br/><p>Importantly: renting land to a farmer <strong>does not</strong> count as farming activity.</p><p><strong>11. Consult Your Realtor and Accountant <em>Before</em> Selling</strong></p><p>Most tax pitfalls can be avoided with proper planning—but only if you speak to professionals before the transaction. Waiting until after often limits your options.</p><p>Time Stamps:</p><p><strong>00:00 – 00:45</strong></p><p>Welcome to The Country Club Podcast and today’s focus on taxes within the “Invest” pillar. Introduction to capital gains as a major consideration for property owners.</p><p><strong>00:45 – 02:16</strong></p><p>Introducing guest expert Ben Bryden, CPA of Wilkinson &amp; Company, and today’s topic: changes to the capital gains tax.</p><p><strong>02:16 – 03:34</strong></p><p>Diana shares the confusion many homeowners experienced around earlier announcements about capital gains changes. Ben begins explaining the timeline.</p><p><strong>03:34 – 04:35</strong></p><p>Ben outlines the major proposed change: increasing the inclusion rate from 50% to two-thirds, and why it caused panic.</p><p><strong>04:35 – 05:15</strong></p><p>The government delays implementation; sellers scramble. The CRA announces it isn’t ready—leading to more confusion.</p><p><strong>05:15 – 06:12</strong></p><p>Final decision in March 2025: the inclusion-rate change is cancelled. Relief and frustration follow.</p><p><strong>06:12 – 07:05</strong></p><p>Why the government likely pursued this strategy—raising revenue without increasing tax rates.</p><p><strong>07:05 – 07:45</strong></p><p>Why updates haven’t been clearly communicated. Political motivations and an attempt to “move past” the issue.</p><p><strong>07:45 – 08:44</strong></p><p>What capital gains look like today for someone selling a second property.</p><p><strong>08:44 – 09:45</strong></p><p>Best timing strategies: how your income year impacts the tax you’ll pay on a sale.</p><p><strong>09:45 – 10:40</strong></p><p>Explaining the new 12-month rule: how profits become business income by default.</p><p><strong>10:40 – 11:30</strong></p><p>Clarifying how to avoid the 12-month rule through exceptions and intent.</p><p><strong>11:30 – 12:19</strong></p><p>How the Principal Residence Exemption works when you own multiple properties.</p><p><strong>12:19 – 13:15</strong></p><p>Choosing which property to designate for the PRE—and how that affects future capital gains.</p><p><strong>13:15 – 14:01</strong></p><p>Partial-use and rental situations: how mixed-use affects your tax obligations.</p><p><strong>14:01 – 15:02</strong></p><p>Land size considerations: why only ½ hectare qualifies for the PRE.</p><p><strong>15:02 – 16:14</strong></p><p>Using part of your home for business or rental: how “primary purpose” affects PRE eligibility.</p><p><strong>16:14 – 17:21</strong></p><p>Gray areas and common traps in the Income Tax Act.</p><p><strong>17:21 – 18:15</strong></p><p>The surprise of “change of use” rules—how converting a home to a rental or vice versa can trigger a taxable event.</p><p><strong>18:15 – 19:05</strong></p><p>The importance of filing the correct elections to avoid unintended capital gains.</p><p><strong>19:05 – 20:18</strong></p><p>HST considerations: when HST applies to land, newly built homes, or property used in business.</p><p><strong>20:18 – 21:07</strong></p><p>Why consulting an accountant before selling is essential.</p><p><strong>21:07 – 22:04</strong></p><p>Tracking capital improvements: what counts as capital vs. repairs and why receipts matter.</p><p><strong>22:04 – 23:15</strong></p><p>Examples of capital vs. non-capital improvements—roofs, countertops, renovations.</p><p><strong>23:15 – 24:15</strong></p><p>Why keeping documentation for <em>all</em> improvements is critical, even decades later.</p><p><strong>24:15 – 25:10</strong></p><p>Introducing estate planning considerations—how real estate is taxed upon death.</p><p><strong>25:10 – 26:03</strong></p><p>The rollover rule for spouses and capital gains treatment when passing property to children.</p><p><strong>26:03 – 27:10</strong></p><p>Special rules for farmland, including eligibility for the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption.</p><p><strong>27:10 – 28:15</strong></p><p>The distinction between active farming vs. renting farmland and why it matters for tax purposes.</p><p><strong>28:15 – 29:19</strong></p><p>Ben’s final advice: talk to professionals early to avoid costly surprises.</p><p><strong>29:19 – 30:26</strong></p><p>Why annual federal budgets may continue to bring changes to real estate taxation.</p><p><strong>30:26 – 31:54</strong></p><p>Closing thoughts and preview of January’s episode on setting real estate intentions for 2026.</p><p><strong>31:54 – 32:45</strong></p><p>Final sign-off and reminder to consult professionals for personalized guidance.</p><p> Learn more about Ben Bryden, CPA, CA - with Wilkinson &amp; Company LLP at <a href="https://www.wilkinson.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.wilkinson.net/</a></p><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer"...]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this highly informative episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, Diana Cassidy-Bush welcomes Chartered Professional Accountant Ben Bryden from Wilkinson &amp; Company to break down one of the most misunderstood and most consequential topics in real estate: capital gains tax.</p><p>Ben walks listeners through the whirlwind of tax changes proposed since 2024, explaining what was supposed to happen, what <em>actually</em> happened, and what property owners should know as we approach 2026.</p><p>Whether you own a cottage, rental, farmland, or you’re thinking about selling in the next few years, this conversation gives you the clarity you need to plan confidently and avoid surprises.</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></p><p><strong>1. The Capital Gains Inclusion Rate Remains at 50% as of this recording</strong></p><p>Despite the upheaval from 2024–2025, the proposed increase to a ⅔ inclusion rate was cancelled in March 2025, leaving the long-standing 50% rate in place. This eliminates the urgency sellers once felt but future budgets may still bring change.</p><p><strong>2. Timing Matters—Your Income Year Affects Your Tax Bill</strong></p><p>Consider selling in a year where your income is lower to reduce the marginal tax rate applied to your gain. Selling early in a calendar year can defers tax payment to the following April.</p><p><strong>3. The 12-Month Rule Automatically Applies</strong></p><p>If you sell a property within 12 months of buying it, the profit is generally treated as business income (100% taxable) rather than a capital gain (50% taxable). Only specific life events may qualify for exemptions.</p><p><strong>4. The Principal Residence Exemption (PRE)</strong></p><p>For people with multiple properties (house + cottage), thoughtful planning is key. You must choose which property to designate for PRE based on accrued gain per year. If you use the PRE on a cottage sale, future gains on your primary home may become taxable.</p><p><strong>5. Mixed-Use Properties Have Special Rules</strong></p><p>If part of your home is used for rental or business purposes:</p><ul><li>You may need to apportion the sale value between personal and income-producing use.</li><li>Using more than 50% of your home for business can jeopardize the PRE entirely.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>6. Land Size Matters</strong></p><p>The principal residence exemption typically covers the home + up to ½ hectare (1.24 acres) of land. Additional land may be taxed separately unless you can prove it’s necessary to the home’s use.</p><p><strong>7. “Change of Use” Can Trigger a Taxable Event</strong></p><p>If you convert a principal residence into a rental (or vice versa), the CRA treats it as a deemed disposition—a taxable capital gain—even if you don’t sell the property. You can avoid this by filing a special election with your tax return. Missing the election can result in penalties and unexpected taxes.</p><p><strong>8. Keep Every Receipt for Capital Improvements</strong></p><p>There is no 7-year rule for cost-base documentation.</p><ul><li>Improvements that increase value (steel roof, addition, upgraded countertops) raise your adjusted cost base and lower your eventual capital gain.</li><li>Repairs that simply restore condition (new shingles, repainting) do <em>not</em> count as capital improvements.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>9. Estate Transfers Can Trigger Capital Gains</strong></p><p>When someone passes away:</p><ul><li>Property transferred to a spouse rolls over tax-free.</li><li>Property transferred to children triggers capital gains at fair market value.</li><li>Large real-estate-heavy estates may face liquidity issues without planning.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>10. Special Rules Apply to Farm Properties</strong></p><p>Farms actively used in a farming business may qualify for:</p><ul><li>The Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE)—now up to $1.25M</li><li>Or special rollover provisions for transferring farmland to children</li></ul><br/><p>Importantly: renting land to a farmer <strong>does not</strong> count as farming activity.</p><p><strong>11. Consult Your Realtor and Accountant <em>Before</em> Selling</strong></p><p>Most tax pitfalls can be avoided with proper planning—but only if you speak to professionals before the transaction. Waiting until after often limits your options.</p><p>Time Stamps:</p><p><strong>00:00 – 00:45</strong></p><p>Welcome to The Country Club Podcast and today’s focus on taxes within the “Invest” pillar. Introduction to capital gains as a major consideration for property owners.</p><p><strong>00:45 – 02:16</strong></p><p>Introducing guest expert Ben Bryden, CPA of Wilkinson &amp; Company, and today’s topic: changes to the capital gains tax.</p><p><strong>02:16 – 03:34</strong></p><p>Diana shares the confusion many homeowners experienced around earlier announcements about capital gains changes. Ben begins explaining the timeline.</p><p><strong>03:34 – 04:35</strong></p><p>Ben outlines the major proposed change: increasing the inclusion rate from 50% to two-thirds, and why it caused panic.</p><p><strong>04:35 – 05:15</strong></p><p>The government delays implementation; sellers scramble. The CRA announces it isn’t ready—leading to more confusion.</p><p><strong>05:15 – 06:12</strong></p><p>Final decision in March 2025: the inclusion-rate change is cancelled. Relief and frustration follow.</p><p><strong>06:12 – 07:05</strong></p><p>Why the government likely pursued this strategy—raising revenue without increasing tax rates.</p><p><strong>07:05 – 07:45</strong></p><p>Why updates haven’t been clearly communicated. Political motivations and an attempt to “move past” the issue.</p><p><strong>07:45 – 08:44</strong></p><p>What capital gains look like today for someone selling a second property.</p><p><strong>08:44 – 09:45</strong></p><p>Best timing strategies: how your income year impacts the tax you’ll pay on a sale.</p><p><strong>09:45 – 10:40</strong></p><p>Explaining the new 12-month rule: how profits become business income by default.</p><p><strong>10:40 – 11:30</strong></p><p>Clarifying how to avoid the 12-month rule through exceptions and intent.</p><p><strong>11:30 – 12:19</strong></p><p>How the Principal Residence Exemption works when you own multiple properties.</p><p><strong>12:19 – 13:15</strong></p><p>Choosing which property to designate for the PRE—and how that affects future capital gains.</p><p><strong>13:15 – 14:01</strong></p><p>Partial-use and rental situations: how mixed-use affects your tax obligations.</p><p><strong>14:01 – 15:02</strong></p><p>Land size considerations: why only ½ hectare qualifies for the PRE.</p><p><strong>15:02 – 16:14</strong></p><p>Using part of your home for business or rental: how “primary purpose” affects PRE eligibility.</p><p><strong>16:14 – 17:21</strong></p><p>Gray areas and common traps in the Income Tax Act.</p><p><strong>17:21 – 18:15</strong></p><p>The surprise of “change of use” rules—how converting a home to a rental or vice versa can trigger a taxable event.</p><p><strong>18:15 – 19:05</strong></p><p>The importance of filing the correct elections to avoid unintended capital gains.</p><p><strong>19:05 – 20:18</strong></p><p>HST considerations: when HST applies to land, newly built homes, or property used in business.</p><p><strong>20:18 – 21:07</strong></p><p>Why consulting an accountant before selling is essential.</p><p><strong>21:07 – 22:04</strong></p><p>Tracking capital improvements: what counts as capital vs. repairs and why receipts matter.</p><p><strong>22:04 – 23:15</strong></p><p>Examples of capital vs. non-capital improvements—roofs, countertops, renovations.</p><p><strong>23:15 – 24:15</strong></p><p>Why keeping documentation for <em>all</em> improvements is critical, even decades later.</p><p><strong>24:15 – 25:10</strong></p><p>Introducing estate planning considerations—how real estate is taxed upon death.</p><p><strong>25:10 – 26:03</strong></p><p>The rollover rule for spouses and capital gains treatment when passing property to children.</p><p><strong>26:03 – 27:10</strong></p><p>Special rules for farmland, including eligibility for the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption.</p><p><strong>27:10 – 28:15</strong></p><p>The distinction between active farming vs. renting farmland and why it matters for tax purposes.</p><p><strong>28:15 – 29:19</strong></p><p>Ben’s final advice: talk to professionals early to avoid costly surprises.</p><p><strong>29:19 – 30:26</strong></p><p>Why annual federal budgets may continue to bring changes to real estate taxation.</p><p><strong>30:26 – 31:54</strong></p><p>Closing thoughts and preview of January’s episode on setting real estate intentions for 2026.</p><p><strong>31:54 – 32:45</strong></p><p>Final sign-off and reminder to consult professionals for personalized guidance.</p><p> Learn more about Ben Bryden, CPA, CA - with Wilkinson &amp; Company LLP at <a href="https://www.wilkinson.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.wilkinson.net/</a></p><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/the-capital-gains-shake-up-what-cottage-owners-investors-need-to-know-real-talk-real-time-and-how-it-impacts-you-with-cpa-ben-bryden]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">750ea3ce-a6a1-488b-acc9-e1a31f27fc1f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/cb8177ab-153a-414a-b65d-3762c78110d6/Ben-Bryden.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 05 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/750ea3ce-a6a1-488b-acc9-e1a31f27fc1f.mp3" length="48251216" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>33:30</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>12</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Meat the Milligans</title><itunes:title>Meat the Milligans</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with Brian and Joanna Milligan, owners of <strong>Milligan Meats</strong> — the beloved local butcher shop that’s become a cornerstone for both year-round residents and weekend cottagers.</p><p>What started as a dream to stay close to home and community has turned into a thriving business built on passion, trust, and old-fashioned service. The Milligans’ share how they took a leap of faith, transformed a massive building into a welcoming local hub, and created a workplace that feels like family.</p><p>Whether you’re a small-town entrepreneur, a weekend visitor, or someone dreaming of your own “someday” business, this episode is full of inspiration, laughter, and lessons in leading with heart.</p><p><strong>TIMESTAMPS</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 – 02:00</strong> | <em>Welcome to The Country Club Podcast</em> — Diana introduces the Milligans and their story of starting Milligan Meats in Cloyne, Ontario</p><p><strong>02:00 – 05:00</strong> | <em>From Alberta to Ontario</em> — How Brian and Joanna met and how his lifelong butchering experience led to the dream of owning their own shop.</p><p><strong>05:00 – 07:30</strong> | <em>Taking the Leap</em> — Buying the building, trusting instincts, and Joanna’s creative vision that shaped the shop’s welcoming aesthetic.</p><p><strong>07:30 – 10:30</strong> | <em>Creating the Milligan Experience</em> — Why “old-fashioned” customer service never goes out of style.</p><p><strong>10:30 – 13:30</strong> | <em>Building a Happy Team</em> — The Milligans’ share how they cultivate harmony, fun, and respect among staff.</p><p><strong>14:00 – 17:30</strong> | <em>Supporting Local, Building Community</em> — How the shop supports farmers, bakers, and artisans; plus a touching story about a local charcuterie board maker.</p><p><strong>17:30 – 20:30</strong> | <em>Seasonality and Growth</em> — From summer crowds to hunting season, the rhythm of small-town business life.</p><p><strong>20:30 – 24:00</strong> | <em>Adaptation and Expansion</em> — Growing the team, expanding products, and balancing busy seasons with purpose.</p><p><strong>24:00 – 28:00</strong> | <em>Secret Ingredients &amp; Customer Favorites</em> — Rib eyes, hamburger patties, barbecue sauce, and those famous chicken bobs.</p><p><strong>28:00 – 30:00</strong> | <em>Final Reflections</em> — The power of loving your work, giving back to the community, and finding joy in small-town life.</p><p><strong>NOTABLE QUOTES</strong></p><p>“I design everything by feel. When it feels right, I know it’s right — and so far, that hasn’t led us wrong.” — <strong>Joanna Milligan</strong></p><p>“How can you not love your job when it’s all built around community, laughter, and good food?” — <strong>Diana Cassidy-Bush</strong></p><p><strong>KEY TAKEAWAYS</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Big Dreams Don’t Need A Big City: </strong>You can create a thriving business in your small town.</li><li><strong>Follow your instincts:</strong> Big dreams often start small — and scary. Trusting your gut pays off.</li><li><strong>Create experiences, not transactions:</strong> The Milligans built their success on connection, conversation, and care.</li><li><strong>Community is everything:</strong> Supporting local makers and farmers strengthens everyone’s success.</li><li><strong>Growth can be joyful:</strong> Even long hours feel lighter when your work aligns with your values.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>RESOURCES &amp; LINKS</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Milligan Meats, Coyne, ON</strong> — Visit in person or follow on social media for product updates and local stories.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with Brian and Joanna Milligan, owners of <strong>Milligan Meats</strong> — the beloved local butcher shop that’s become a cornerstone for both year-round residents and weekend cottagers.</p><p>What started as a dream to stay close to home and community has turned into a thriving business built on passion, trust, and old-fashioned service. The Milligans’ share how they took a leap of faith, transformed a massive building into a welcoming local hub, and created a workplace that feels like family.</p><p>Whether you’re a small-town entrepreneur, a weekend visitor, or someone dreaming of your own “someday” business, this episode is full of inspiration, laughter, and lessons in leading with heart.</p><p><strong>TIMESTAMPS</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 – 02:00</strong> | <em>Welcome to The Country Club Podcast</em> — Diana introduces the Milligans and their story of starting Milligan Meats in Cloyne, Ontario</p><p><strong>02:00 – 05:00</strong> | <em>From Alberta to Ontario</em> — How Brian and Joanna met and how his lifelong butchering experience led to the dream of owning their own shop.</p><p><strong>05:00 – 07:30</strong> | <em>Taking the Leap</em> — Buying the building, trusting instincts, and Joanna’s creative vision that shaped the shop’s welcoming aesthetic.</p><p><strong>07:30 – 10:30</strong> | <em>Creating the Milligan Experience</em> — Why “old-fashioned” customer service never goes out of style.</p><p><strong>10:30 – 13:30</strong> | <em>Building a Happy Team</em> — The Milligans’ share how they cultivate harmony, fun, and respect among staff.</p><p><strong>14:00 – 17:30</strong> | <em>Supporting Local, Building Community</em> — How the shop supports farmers, bakers, and artisans; plus a touching story about a local charcuterie board maker.</p><p><strong>17:30 – 20:30</strong> | <em>Seasonality and Growth</em> — From summer crowds to hunting season, the rhythm of small-town business life.</p><p><strong>20:30 – 24:00</strong> | <em>Adaptation and Expansion</em> — Growing the team, expanding products, and balancing busy seasons with purpose.</p><p><strong>24:00 – 28:00</strong> | <em>Secret Ingredients &amp; Customer Favorites</em> — Rib eyes, hamburger patties, barbecue sauce, and those famous chicken bobs.</p><p><strong>28:00 – 30:00</strong> | <em>Final Reflections</em> — The power of loving your work, giving back to the community, and finding joy in small-town life.</p><p><strong>NOTABLE QUOTES</strong></p><p>“I design everything by feel. When it feels right, I know it’s right — and so far, that hasn’t led us wrong.” — <strong>Joanna Milligan</strong></p><p>“How can you not love your job when it’s all built around community, laughter, and good food?” — <strong>Diana Cassidy-Bush</strong></p><p><strong>KEY TAKEAWAYS</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Big Dreams Don’t Need A Big City: </strong>You can create a thriving business in your small town.</li><li><strong>Follow your instincts:</strong> Big dreams often start small — and scary. Trusting your gut pays off.</li><li><strong>Create experiences, not transactions:</strong> The Milligans built their success on connection, conversation, and care.</li><li><strong>Community is everything:</strong> Supporting local makers and farmers strengthens everyone’s success.</li><li><strong>Growth can be joyful:</strong> Even long hours feel lighter when your work aligns with your values.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>RESOURCES &amp; LINKS</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Milligan Meats, Coyne, ON</strong> — Visit in person or follow on social media for product updates and local stories.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/meat-the-milligans]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">6bca3ee7-46b1-4e9d-a6eb-24e5ce3428cc</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d0af041b-1ae8-45f6-8432-5a63d5d9864d/Milligan-Meats.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 29 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/6bca3ee7-46b1-4e9d-a6eb-24e5ce3428cc.mp3" length="46646256" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:24</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>11</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>11</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Small Town, Big Dreams</title><itunes:title>Small Town, Big Dreams</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Myth: Small towns can’t sustain world-class arts.</p><p>Reality: They’re thriving.</p><p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush welcomes Tim Porter and Emily Mewett of Tweed &amp; Company Theatre, a powerhouse proving that rural Ontario is alive with creativity, culture, and opportunity.</p><p>From their start in 2009 to becoming one of Ontario’s top performing arts companies, Tweed &amp; Co. has shattered expectations by bringing Broadway-level productions, concerts, comedy, and original Canadian works to intimate small-town stages.</p><p>Tim and Emily share how community support, collaboration, and bold vision turned a local dream into a cultural destination. They also bust the myth that you need a big city to build a big career in the arts—showing how small-town stages can create some of the most personal, memorable experiences anywhere.</p><p>🎭 Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or someone chasing a dream in a smaller community, this conversation will inspire you to see rural life in a brand new light.</p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 – 01:30</strong> | Welcome to <em>The Country Club Podcast</em> – celebrating rural life, community, and opportunity.</p><p><strong>01:30 – 03:30</strong> | Meet Tim Porter &amp; Emily Mewett from Tweed &amp; Company.</p><p><strong>03:30 – 05:30</strong> | Why small-town theatre offers a more personal, meaningful experience.</p><p><strong>05:30 – 07:30</strong> | Community collaboration: local businesses and audiences rally behind the arts.</p><p><strong>07:30 – 09:30</strong> | The early days—renting venues, selling tickets at the Tweed News, and hustling for donors.</p><p><strong>10:00 – 12:30</strong> | Becoming one of Ontario’s youngest professional theatres.</p><p><strong>12:30 – 14:30</strong> | The turning point: new venues, big productions like <em>Mamma Mia</em>, and thousands of new audience members.</p><p><strong>14:30 – 17:00</strong> | Recognition, awards, and proving rural theatre is not “small scale.”</p><p><strong>17:00 – 19:30</strong> | Audience and performer feedback—why people can’t wait to come back.</p><p><strong>19:30 – 22:00</strong> | Investing in the future: youth programming, skill development, and hands-on learning.</p><p><strong>22:00 – 24:30</strong> | Why rural arts matter and how to experience them yourself.</p><p><strong>24:30 – 26:00</strong> | Closing thoughts: thriving careers and vibrant communities beyond the city limits.</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><ul><li><em>“It’s not small scale—it’s world-class talent in a more intimate setting.”</em> – Tim Porter</li><li><em>“The sense of community here is stronger. Success in one business leads to success across the town.”</em> – Emily Mutt</li><li><em>“We just need to get people in the door once. Then they’re sold.”</em> – Tim Porter</li><li><em>“The arts aren’t just alive outside the city—they’re thriving.”</em> – Diana Cassidy-Bush</li><li><em>“Our audiences here are so appreciative, because for them, it’s not just another show—it’s an experience that matters.”</em> – Emily Mutt</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Resources &amp; Takeaways</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Tweed &amp; Company:</strong> <a href="https://www.tweedandcompany.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.tweedandcompany.com</a> – find tickets, merch, and program details.</li><li>Recognized as one of Ontario’s top performing arts venues and winner of multiple arts &amp; tourism awards.</li><li><strong>Young Company Program &amp; High School Projects:</strong> Offering students hands-on experience in performance, stage management, costume design, and more.</li><li><strong>Community Power:</strong> Small-town arts thrive because of partnerships with businesses, service groups, and passionate volunteers.</li><li><strong>For dreamers:</strong> You can build a creative career—and a fulfilling life—outside the city.</li></ul><br/><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Myth: Small towns can’t sustain world-class arts.</p><p>Reality: They’re thriving.</p><p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush welcomes Tim Porter and Emily Mewett of Tweed &amp; Company Theatre, a powerhouse proving that rural Ontario is alive with creativity, culture, and opportunity.</p><p>From their start in 2009 to becoming one of Ontario’s top performing arts companies, Tweed &amp; Co. has shattered expectations by bringing Broadway-level productions, concerts, comedy, and original Canadian works to intimate small-town stages.</p><p>Tim and Emily share how community support, collaboration, and bold vision turned a local dream into a cultural destination. They also bust the myth that you need a big city to build a big career in the arts—showing how small-town stages can create some of the most personal, memorable experiences anywhere.</p><p>🎭 Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or someone chasing a dream in a smaller community, this conversation will inspire you to see rural life in a brand new light.</p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 – 01:30</strong> | Welcome to <em>The Country Club Podcast</em> – celebrating rural life, community, and opportunity.</p><p><strong>01:30 – 03:30</strong> | Meet Tim Porter &amp; Emily Mewett from Tweed &amp; Company.</p><p><strong>03:30 – 05:30</strong> | Why small-town theatre offers a more personal, meaningful experience.</p><p><strong>05:30 – 07:30</strong> | Community collaboration: local businesses and audiences rally behind the arts.</p><p><strong>07:30 – 09:30</strong> | The early days—renting venues, selling tickets at the Tweed News, and hustling for donors.</p><p><strong>10:00 – 12:30</strong> | Becoming one of Ontario’s youngest professional theatres.</p><p><strong>12:30 – 14:30</strong> | The turning point: new venues, big productions like <em>Mamma Mia</em>, and thousands of new audience members.</p><p><strong>14:30 – 17:00</strong> | Recognition, awards, and proving rural theatre is not “small scale.”</p><p><strong>17:00 – 19:30</strong> | Audience and performer feedback—why people can’t wait to come back.</p><p><strong>19:30 – 22:00</strong> | Investing in the future: youth programming, skill development, and hands-on learning.</p><p><strong>22:00 – 24:30</strong> | Why rural arts matter and how to experience them yourself.</p><p><strong>24:30 – 26:00</strong> | Closing thoughts: thriving careers and vibrant communities beyond the city limits.</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><ul><li><em>“It’s not small scale—it’s world-class talent in a more intimate setting.”</em> – Tim Porter</li><li><em>“The sense of community here is stronger. Success in one business leads to success across the town.”</em> – Emily Mutt</li><li><em>“We just need to get people in the door once. Then they’re sold.”</em> – Tim Porter</li><li><em>“The arts aren’t just alive outside the city—they’re thriving.”</em> – Diana Cassidy-Bush</li><li><em>“Our audiences here are so appreciative, because for them, it’s not just another show—it’s an experience that matters.”</em> – Emily Mutt</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Resources &amp; Takeaways</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Tweed &amp; Company:</strong> <a href="https://www.tweedandcompany.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.tweedandcompany.com</a> – find tickets, merch, and program details.</li><li>Recognized as one of Ontario’s top performing arts venues and winner of multiple arts &amp; tourism awards.</li><li><strong>Young Company Program &amp; High School Projects:</strong> Offering students hands-on experience in performance, stage management, costume design, and more.</li><li><strong>Community Power:</strong> Small-town arts thrive because of partnerships with businesses, service groups, and passionate volunteers.</li><li><strong>For dreamers:</strong> You can build a creative career—and a fulfilling life—outside the city.</li></ul><br/><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/small-town-big-dreams]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">3aa0a38e-72ff-4b6b-bbbe-2c2fd54ac131</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/57450af2-76a6-4af7-b824-33ea894db7b4/Tweed-and-Co.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 01 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/3aa0a38e-72ff-4b6b-bbbe-2c2fd54ac131.mp3" length="38200150" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>26:32</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>10</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Broad Horizons, Wide Open Spaces and Education in Small Town and Rural Ontario</title><itunes:title>Broad Horizons, Wide Open Spaces and Education in Small Town and Rural Ontario</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this inspiring episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host <strong>Diana Cassidy-Bush</strong> sits down with longtime educator and leader <strong>Louise Gunning</strong>, who has dedicated her career to shaping rural schools and communities in Ontario. From building new schools and leading through delays, to designing online learning during the pandemic, Louise shares her story of resilience, innovation, and heart.</p><p>Together, Diana and Louise explore how rural schools are at the heart of their communities—providing not only academics but also wellness programs, food security, and life opportunities for students. Louise also opens up about combining elementary and secondary schools under one roof, the surprising breadth of extracurricular activities available in small communities, and the essential role of parents, businesses, and neighbors in supporting education.</p><p>Whether you’re a parent considering a move to the country, an educator facing change, or simply curious about life and learning beyond the city, this conversation will leave you with wisdom, encouragement, and a deeper appreciation for the power of community in education.</p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 – 02:00</strong> | Introduction</p><p><strong>02:30 – 04:30</strong> | Louise reflects on the challenges that shaped her as a leader.</p><p><strong>04:30 – 06:30</strong> | Saying “yes” to challenges and encouraging growth outside comfort zones.</p><p><strong>06:30 – 08:30</strong> | How rural communities and schools nurture student wellness.</p><p><strong>09:00 – 11:30</strong> | Building Ontario’s first K–12 virtual school during the pandemic.</p><p><strong>12:00 – 14:30</strong> | The benefits of combining elementary and secondary schools.</p><p><strong>15:00 – 17:30</strong> | Clubs, musicals, carnivals, and sports—surprising opportunities in small schools.</p><p><strong>18:00 – 20:30</strong> | Schools as wellness hubs: breakfast programs, grocery pantries, and mental health supports.</p><p><strong>20:30 – 22:30</strong> | Advice for parents: public health resources, asking for help, and leaning on community.</p><p><strong>22:30 – 24:30</strong> | Louise’s leadership wisdom: lead with empathy, model resilience, and don’t underestimate kids.</p><p><strong>24:30 – 25:30</strong> | Closing reflections and call for listener questions.</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><ul><li><em>“We should never underestimate one another—children or adults.”</em> – Louise Gunning</li><li><em>“You don’t need fancy classrooms to thrive. What you need is a shared vision and determination.”</em> – Louise Gunning</li><li><em>“Rural schools are the heart of the community. Everyone knows everybody, and that creates a powerful safety net for kids.”</em> – Louise Gunning</li><li><em>“Transitions are tough, but leading with empathy and modeling healthy coping strategies makes all the difference.”</em> – Louise Gunning</li><li><em>“Our kids are often stronger and more resilient than we are.”</em> – Louise Gunning</li></ul><br/><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this inspiring episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host <strong>Diana Cassidy-Bush</strong> sits down with longtime educator and leader <strong>Louise Gunning</strong>, who has dedicated her career to shaping rural schools and communities in Ontario. From building new schools and leading through delays, to designing online learning during the pandemic, Louise shares her story of resilience, innovation, and heart.</p><p>Together, Diana and Louise explore how rural schools are at the heart of their communities—providing not only academics but also wellness programs, food security, and life opportunities for students. Louise also opens up about combining elementary and secondary schools under one roof, the surprising breadth of extracurricular activities available in small communities, and the essential role of parents, businesses, and neighbors in supporting education.</p><p>Whether you’re a parent considering a move to the country, an educator facing change, or simply curious about life and learning beyond the city, this conversation will leave you with wisdom, encouragement, and a deeper appreciation for the power of community in education.</p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 – 02:00</strong> | Introduction</p><p><strong>02:30 – 04:30</strong> | Louise reflects on the challenges that shaped her as a leader.</p><p><strong>04:30 – 06:30</strong> | Saying “yes” to challenges and encouraging growth outside comfort zones.</p><p><strong>06:30 – 08:30</strong> | How rural communities and schools nurture student wellness.</p><p><strong>09:00 – 11:30</strong> | Building Ontario’s first K–12 virtual school during the pandemic.</p><p><strong>12:00 – 14:30</strong> | The benefits of combining elementary and secondary schools.</p><p><strong>15:00 – 17:30</strong> | Clubs, musicals, carnivals, and sports—surprising opportunities in small schools.</p><p><strong>18:00 – 20:30</strong> | Schools as wellness hubs: breakfast programs, grocery pantries, and mental health supports.</p><p><strong>20:30 – 22:30</strong> | Advice for parents: public health resources, asking for help, and leaning on community.</p><p><strong>22:30 – 24:30</strong> | Louise’s leadership wisdom: lead with empathy, model resilience, and don’t underestimate kids.</p><p><strong>24:30 – 25:30</strong> | Closing reflections and call for listener questions.</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><ul><li><em>“We should never underestimate one another—children or adults.”</em> – Louise Gunning</li><li><em>“You don’t need fancy classrooms to thrive. What you need is a shared vision and determination.”</em> – Louise Gunning</li><li><em>“Rural schools are the heart of the community. Everyone knows everybody, and that creates a powerful safety net for kids.”</em> – Louise Gunning</li><li><em>“Transitions are tough, but leading with empathy and modeling healthy coping strategies makes all the difference.”</em> – Louise Gunning</li><li><em>“Our kids are often stronger and more resilient than we are.”</em> – Louise Gunning</li></ul><br/><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/broad-horizons-wide-open-spaces-and-education-in-small-town-and-rural-ontario]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">30810340-5f27-46d7-8153-a2a5666b31cd</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/fba06c1e-3a8f-4367-9306-b2c6f13c0fdd/Louise-Gunning.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 03 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/30810340-5f27-46d7-8153-a2a5666b31cd.mp3" length="37791374" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>26:15</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>9</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Just What The Doctor Ordered with Dr. Charles Mustard</title><itunes:title>Just What The Doctor Ordered with Dr. Charles Mustard</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush welcomes family physician Dr. Charles Mustard—who’s spent 19 years serving Tweed, Ontario—to unpack the unique landscape of wellness and healthcare in small-town life. From Dr. Mustard’s journey swapping urban pace for rural roots, to myth-busting assumptions about diversity and medical services in rural Ontario, you’ll learn how to leverage team-based clinics, allied health professionals, and nature’s restorative power to thrive beyond the city limits. Whether you’re a newcomer or a longtime resident, discover actionable tips for accessing primary care, building meaningful community connections, and embracing a balanced, health-first lifestyle in rural Ontario.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p>00:00:00 – Intro: Welcome to <em>The Country Club</em>—beyond dress codes &amp; tee times</p><p>00:00:30 – Podcast mission: more than buying property—plan, seize opportunities, build future</p><p>00:01:00 – Listener Q&amp;A Recap: Lisa’s question on meeting people while working from home</p><p>00:02:30 – Episode focus: wellness &amp; healthcare in rural Ontario with Dr. Charles Mustard</p><p>00:03:00 – Guest Intro: Dr. Mustard’s 19-year journey from urban practice to Tweed</p><p>00:04:00 – Dr. Mustard’s background: from North &amp; cities to rural family practice</p><p>00:05:00 – Recruitment then &amp; now: persistence of colleagues, team-based care models</p><p>00:07:00 – The rise of interdisciplinary rural clinics &amp; why young docs want them</p><p>00:09:00 – Surprises: rural diversity, social connectedness &amp; true “cradle-to-grave” care</p><p>00:10:30 – Personal adjustment: physician vs. spouse’s path to community involvement</p><p>00:12:30 – Defining wellness in the country: nature, balance &amp; social ties</p><p>00:14:30 – Encouraging patients: hobbies, exercise &amp; mid-day routines to connect locally</p><p>00:16:00 – Available services: team clinics, allied health &amp; local specialists</p><p>00:19:00 – Comprehensive care: palliative support &amp; family involvement</p><p>00:21:00 – Access tips: attaching to clinics, virtual care options &amp; emergency fallback</p><p>00:23:00 – Evolution of primary care: chronic disease, EMRs &amp; an aging population</p><p>00:24:30 – Doctor-patient bonds: confidentiality, rewards &amp; community trust</p><p>00:26:00 – Dr. Mustard’s self-care: gardening, screened porch zen &amp; travel adventures</p><p>00:28:30 – Closing thoughts &amp; call for listener questions</p><p>00:30:00 – Outro: follow, consult professionals &amp; stay tuned for more rural insights</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><p>“Social connectedness is a huge determinant of health.”</p><p>“There’s almost a spiritual connection to nature that people develop.”</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></p><ol><li><strong>Embrace Team-Based Care</strong>: Seek attachment to local interdisciplinary clinics—physicians, NPs, social workers, dieticians—sooner rather than later.</li><li><strong>Leverage Nature</strong>: Encorporate outdoor activities—gardening, biking, mindful walks—to boost mental and physical wellness.</li><li><strong>Build Community</strong>: Join hobby groups, volunteer committees or local events to accelerate social connectedness.</li><li><strong>Own Your Care</strong>: Family doctors in rural areas often manage chronic conditions you’d otherwise see specialists for—empower yourself with regular check-ins and open dialogue.</li><li><strong>Plan Ahead</strong>: Understand your local healthcare network—virtual options, allied services, emergency protocols—to navigate care seamlessly.</li></ol><br/><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Diana Cassidy-Bush, Sales Representative Royal LePage ProAlliance Realty | Tweed ON</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Diana Cassidy-Bush</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Home | dianacassidybush.ca</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush welcomes family physician Dr. Charles Mustard—who’s spent 19 years serving Tweed, Ontario—to unpack the unique landscape of wellness and healthcare in small-town life. From Dr. Mustard’s journey swapping urban pace for rural roots, to myth-busting assumptions about diversity and medical services in rural Ontario, you’ll learn how to leverage team-based clinics, allied health professionals, and nature’s restorative power to thrive beyond the city limits. Whether you’re a newcomer or a longtime resident, discover actionable tips for accessing primary care, building meaningful community connections, and embracing a balanced, health-first lifestyle in rural Ontario.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p>00:00:00 – Intro: Welcome to <em>The Country Club</em>—beyond dress codes &amp; tee times</p><p>00:00:30 – Podcast mission: more than buying property—plan, seize opportunities, build future</p><p>00:01:00 – Listener Q&amp;A Recap: Lisa’s question on meeting people while working from home</p><p>00:02:30 – Episode focus: wellness &amp; healthcare in rural Ontario with Dr. Charles Mustard</p><p>00:03:00 – Guest Intro: Dr. Mustard’s 19-year journey from urban practice to Tweed</p><p>00:04:00 – Dr. Mustard’s background: from North &amp; cities to rural family practice</p><p>00:05:00 – Recruitment then &amp; now: persistence of colleagues, team-based care models</p><p>00:07:00 – The rise of interdisciplinary rural clinics &amp; why young docs want them</p><p>00:09:00 – Surprises: rural diversity, social connectedness &amp; true “cradle-to-grave” care</p><p>00:10:30 – Personal adjustment: physician vs. spouse’s path to community involvement</p><p>00:12:30 – Defining wellness in the country: nature, balance &amp; social ties</p><p>00:14:30 – Encouraging patients: hobbies, exercise &amp; mid-day routines to connect locally</p><p>00:16:00 – Available services: team clinics, allied health &amp; local specialists</p><p>00:19:00 – Comprehensive care: palliative support &amp; family involvement</p><p>00:21:00 – Access tips: attaching to clinics, virtual care options &amp; emergency fallback</p><p>00:23:00 – Evolution of primary care: chronic disease, EMRs &amp; an aging population</p><p>00:24:30 – Doctor-patient bonds: confidentiality, rewards &amp; community trust</p><p>00:26:00 – Dr. Mustard’s self-care: gardening, screened porch zen &amp; travel adventures</p><p>00:28:30 – Closing thoughts &amp; call for listener questions</p><p>00:30:00 – Outro: follow, consult professionals &amp; stay tuned for more rural insights</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><p>“Social connectedness is a huge determinant of health.”</p><p>“There’s almost a spiritual connection to nature that people develop.”</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></p><ol><li><strong>Embrace Team-Based Care</strong>: Seek attachment to local interdisciplinary clinics—physicians, NPs, social workers, dieticians—sooner rather than later.</li><li><strong>Leverage Nature</strong>: Encorporate outdoor activities—gardening, biking, mindful walks—to boost mental and physical wellness.</li><li><strong>Build Community</strong>: Join hobby groups, volunteer committees or local events to accelerate social connectedness.</li><li><strong>Own Your Care</strong>: Family doctors in rural areas often manage chronic conditions you’d otherwise see specialists for—empower yourself with regular check-ins and open dialogue.</li><li><strong>Plan Ahead</strong>: Understand your local healthcare network—virtual options, allied services, emergency protocols—to navigate care seamlessly.</li></ol><br/><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Diana Cassidy-Bush, Sales Representative Royal LePage ProAlliance Realty | Tweed ON</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Diana Cassidy-Bush</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Home | dianacassidybush.ca</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/just-what-the-doctor-ordered-with-dr-charles-mustard]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9942ff06-2ed0-4ae5-90fa-b27183a45c1e</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/0438844a-f3d6-430b-9ee5-9d3c3208e2c1/bxLjm_b04omMEUWHndFv1MKT.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 06 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/9942ff06-2ed0-4ae5-90fa-b27183a45c1e.mp3" length="45145398" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>31:21</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>8</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>8</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Trading Commutes for Community: How to Build a Life You Love</title><itunes:title>Trading Commutes for Community: How to Build a Life You Love</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush dives into one of the biggest challenges for newcomers to rural and small-town living: forging genuine connections and making your house feel like home. Drawing on listener Rebecca’s question about balancing lifestyle goals with investment strategy for recreational properties, Diana shares a <strong>hybrid approach</strong> and then shifts gears to practical, actionable tips on how to intentionally build community. From identifying your personal interests to showing up consistently at local events, this episode equips you with the blueprint to turn your new hometown into a network of friends, neighbors, and opportunities. Whether you’re volunteering at the farmer’s market or hosting your own backyard gathering, Diana guides you through the steps to become a recognized—and valued—member of your rural community.</p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 – 01:00</strong> | Welcome &amp; Podcast Introduction</p><p><strong>01:00 – 04:00</strong> | Listener Question: Balancing Lifestyle &amp; Investment for Recreational Properties (the “Hybrid Approach”)</p><p><strong>04:00 – 05:00</strong> | Topic Overview: Building Community &amp; Connection Beyond the City</p><p><strong>05:00 – 07:00</strong> | Step 1: Identify Your Interests—From gardening and wellness to sports and culture</p><p><strong>07:00 – 09:00</strong> | Step 2: Engage in Local Activities—Farmer’s markets, craft fairs, hiking groups, sports leagues</p><p><strong>09:00 – 10:00</strong> | Step 3: Leverage Local Businesses—Coffee shops, hardware stores, pubs as community hubs</p><p><strong>10:00 – 12:00</strong> | Step 4: Show Up &amp; Be Consistent—Volunteer groups, seasonal events, being a familiar face</p><p><strong>12:00 – 13:00</strong> | Step 5: Embrace Rural Culture—Adopt the slower pace, join Facebook community groups, attend fundraisers</p><p><strong>13:00 – 14:00</strong> | Call to Action &amp; How to Send in Your Questions</p><p><strong>14:00 – 15:00</strong> | Outro: Subscribe, Follow &amp; Final Thoughts</p><p><strong>Valuable Resources &amp; Key Takeaways</strong></p><p><strong>Hybrid Approach Checklist</strong></p><ul><li>Weeks per year you’ll use the property personally</li><li>Income needed to cover costs or break even</li><li>Seasonal calendar mapping (personal, family, friends, guest bookings)</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Community Engagement Roadmap</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Interest Inventory</strong>: List hobbies, passions &amp; family needs</li><li><strong>Activity Audit</strong>: Research local events, clubs, volunteer groups</li><li><strong>Business Partnerships</strong>: Introduce yourself to local shop owners &amp; baristas</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Action Steps</strong></p><ul><li>Volunteer</li><li>Attend weekly social gatherings: card nights, fitness classes, sports leagues</li><li>Host your own meet-up: coffee chat, potluck dinner, nature walk</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Digital &amp; Social Tools</strong></p><ul><li>Join community Facebook groups for event updates</li><li>Follow local business Instagram pages for pop-up markets</li><li>Use Nextdoor or local forums to announce meet-ups</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Mindset Shift</strong></p><ul><li>Commit to consistency—attend at least one event per week</li><li>Say “yes” to invitations, even if outside your comfort zone</li><li>Embrace every interaction as a seed for deeper connections</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush dives into one of the biggest challenges for newcomers to rural and small-town living: forging genuine connections and making your house feel like home. Drawing on listener Rebecca’s question about balancing lifestyle goals with investment strategy for recreational properties, Diana shares a <strong>hybrid approach</strong> and then shifts gears to practical, actionable tips on how to intentionally build community. From identifying your personal interests to showing up consistently at local events, this episode equips you with the blueprint to turn your new hometown into a network of friends, neighbors, and opportunities. Whether you’re volunteering at the farmer’s market or hosting your own backyard gathering, Diana guides you through the steps to become a recognized—and valued—member of your rural community.</p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p><strong>00:00 – 01:00</strong> | Welcome &amp; Podcast Introduction</p><p><strong>01:00 – 04:00</strong> | Listener Question: Balancing Lifestyle &amp; Investment for Recreational Properties (the “Hybrid Approach”)</p><p><strong>04:00 – 05:00</strong> | Topic Overview: Building Community &amp; Connection Beyond the City</p><p><strong>05:00 – 07:00</strong> | Step 1: Identify Your Interests—From gardening and wellness to sports and culture</p><p><strong>07:00 – 09:00</strong> | Step 2: Engage in Local Activities—Farmer’s markets, craft fairs, hiking groups, sports leagues</p><p><strong>09:00 – 10:00</strong> | Step 3: Leverage Local Businesses—Coffee shops, hardware stores, pubs as community hubs</p><p><strong>10:00 – 12:00</strong> | Step 4: Show Up &amp; Be Consistent—Volunteer groups, seasonal events, being a familiar face</p><p><strong>12:00 – 13:00</strong> | Step 5: Embrace Rural Culture—Adopt the slower pace, join Facebook community groups, attend fundraisers</p><p><strong>13:00 – 14:00</strong> | Call to Action &amp; How to Send in Your Questions</p><p><strong>14:00 – 15:00</strong> | Outro: Subscribe, Follow &amp; Final Thoughts</p><p><strong>Valuable Resources &amp; Key Takeaways</strong></p><p><strong>Hybrid Approach Checklist</strong></p><ul><li>Weeks per year you’ll use the property personally</li><li>Income needed to cover costs or break even</li><li>Seasonal calendar mapping (personal, family, friends, guest bookings)</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Community Engagement Roadmap</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Interest Inventory</strong>: List hobbies, passions &amp; family needs</li><li><strong>Activity Audit</strong>: Research local events, clubs, volunteer groups</li><li><strong>Business Partnerships</strong>: Introduce yourself to local shop owners &amp; baristas</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Action Steps</strong></p><ul><li>Volunteer</li><li>Attend weekly social gatherings: card nights, fitness classes, sports leagues</li><li>Host your own meet-up: coffee chat, potluck dinner, nature walk</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Digital &amp; Social Tools</strong></p><ul><li>Join community Facebook groups for event updates</li><li>Follow local business Instagram pages for pop-up markets</li><li>Use Nextdoor or local forums to announce meet-ups</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Mindset Shift</strong></p><ul><li>Commit to consistency—attend at least one event per week</li><li>Say “yes” to invitations, even if outside your comfort zone</li><li>Embrace every interaction as a seed for deeper connections</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/trading-commutes-for-community-how-to-build-a-life-you-love]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">803a484e-2368-489c-8a12-c5c5d418f3cc</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/974207a1-263e-4cf9-a8fd-15ad4ae9db85/Dak_HFo77J6dgnCBJGkwNEUo.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 09 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/803a484e-2368-489c-8a12-c5c5d418f3cc.mp3" length="21679041" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>15:03</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>7</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Real Estate as a Wealth Strategy: Getting Started with Income Property Investing</title><itunes:title>Real Estate as a Wealth Strategy: Getting Started with Income Property Investing</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, host Diana Cassidy-Bush opens the door to real estate as a vehicle for building long-term wealth. With honesty and clarity, Diana explores how rural and recreational property ownership can evolve into a meaningful investment strategy—without needing to be a real estate mogul.</p><p>This is the ultimate beginner’s guide to seeing real estate through an investor’s lens. Diana walks listeners through different types of property investments—from raw land to duplexes, flips to long-term rentals—and reveals how smart, strategic moves can generate passive income, fund retirement, and create generational wealth.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p><strong>00:00</strong> – Welcome to The Country Club Podcast</p><p><strong>01:00</strong> – Listener question: renovating waterfront property</p><p><strong>02:00</strong> – Why we weren’t taught wealth-building in school</p><p><strong>03:00</strong> – Traditional investing vs. real estate investing</p><p><strong>05:00</strong> – It’s not either/or—diversify your wealth strategy</p><p><strong>06:00</strong> – The importance of timing and calculated risk</p><p><strong>08:00</strong> – Viewing your home as an investment</p><p><strong>09:30</strong> – Why your REALTOR® is your most valuable advisor</p><p><strong>11:00</strong> – Building your investment team</p><p><strong>11:30</strong> – Real estate investment niches explained</p><p><strong>12:30</strong> – Land investing strategies</p><p><strong>14:00</strong> – Residential and commercial property options</p><p><strong>15:00</strong> – House hacking vs. house flipping</p><p><strong>16:00</strong> – Buy and hold: what it means and why it works</p><p><strong>17:00</strong> – The BRRRR method and refinancing for growth</p><p><strong>18:00</strong> – Passive income through rentals</p><p><strong>19:30</strong> – Short-term rentals and regulation considerations</p><p><strong>21:00</strong> – Final thoughts: start the conversation, build your future</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes:</strong></p><p>“If you’re already a property owner, you’re already a real estate investor—now it’s time to look at your property through the lens of opportunity.”</p><p>“Real estate investing isn’t a solo sport. Build your team. Start with a REALTOR® who walks the walk.”</p><p>“It’s not about get-rich-quick—it’s about being informed, strategic, and aligned with your life goals.”</p><p>“The right property in the right market, with the right team, can absolutely change your financial future.”</p><p><strong>Resources &amp; Takeaways:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Diversification is key</strong>: Real estate should complement—not replace—traditional investments.</li><li><strong>Work with professionals</strong>: Your real estate advisor is as critical as your financial planner.</li><li><strong>Know your strategy</strong>: From BRRRR to house hacking to raw land holding, each path has pros and cons.</li><li><strong>Timing matters</strong>: The best opportunities often arise when the market feels uncertain.</li><li><strong>Start with what you have</strong>: Your own home, cottage, or rental could be your first wealth-building asset.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, host Diana Cassidy-Bush opens the door to real estate as a vehicle for building long-term wealth. With honesty and clarity, Diana explores how rural and recreational property ownership can evolve into a meaningful investment strategy—without needing to be a real estate mogul.</p><p>This is the ultimate beginner’s guide to seeing real estate through an investor’s lens. Diana walks listeners through different types of property investments—from raw land to duplexes, flips to long-term rentals—and reveals how smart, strategic moves can generate passive income, fund retirement, and create generational wealth.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p><strong>00:00</strong> – Welcome to The Country Club Podcast</p><p><strong>01:00</strong> – Listener question: renovating waterfront property</p><p><strong>02:00</strong> – Why we weren’t taught wealth-building in school</p><p><strong>03:00</strong> – Traditional investing vs. real estate investing</p><p><strong>05:00</strong> – It’s not either/or—diversify your wealth strategy</p><p><strong>06:00</strong> – The importance of timing and calculated risk</p><p><strong>08:00</strong> – Viewing your home as an investment</p><p><strong>09:30</strong> – Why your REALTOR® is your most valuable advisor</p><p><strong>11:00</strong> – Building your investment team</p><p><strong>11:30</strong> – Real estate investment niches explained</p><p><strong>12:30</strong> – Land investing strategies</p><p><strong>14:00</strong> – Residential and commercial property options</p><p><strong>15:00</strong> – House hacking vs. house flipping</p><p><strong>16:00</strong> – Buy and hold: what it means and why it works</p><p><strong>17:00</strong> – The BRRRR method and refinancing for growth</p><p><strong>18:00</strong> – Passive income through rentals</p><p><strong>19:30</strong> – Short-term rentals and regulation considerations</p><p><strong>21:00</strong> – Final thoughts: start the conversation, build your future</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes:</strong></p><p>“If you’re already a property owner, you’re already a real estate investor—now it’s time to look at your property through the lens of opportunity.”</p><p>“Real estate investing isn’t a solo sport. Build your team. Start with a REALTOR® who walks the walk.”</p><p>“It’s not about get-rich-quick—it’s about being informed, strategic, and aligned with your life goals.”</p><p>“The right property in the right market, with the right team, can absolutely change your financial future.”</p><p><strong>Resources &amp; Takeaways:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Diversification is key</strong>: Real estate should complement—not replace—traditional investments.</li><li><strong>Work with professionals</strong>: Your real estate advisor is as critical as your financial planner.</li><li><strong>Know your strategy</strong>: From BRRRR to house hacking to raw land holding, each path has pros and cons.</li><li><strong>Timing matters</strong>: The best opportunities often arise when the market feels uncertain.</li><li><strong>Start with what you have</strong>: Your own home, cottage, or rental could be your first wealth-building asset.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/real-estate-as-a-wealth-strategy-getting-started-with-income-property-investing]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">62d9c433-b1c8-4e52-8bcf-a4abced9c28c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/46b58de3-f695-48d4-9547-63389b6ec990/GvwxJpH6VM1IwT_aEg5GhdCz.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/62d9c433-b1c8-4e52-8bcf-a4abced9c28c.mp3" length="32885590" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>22:50</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>6</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Getting your Docks in a Row - Planning for your Dream of Cottage Ownership</title><itunes:title>Getting your Docks in a Row - Planning for your Dream of Cottage Ownership</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this refreshingly real and inspiring episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush dives into the dream—and the details—of cottage ownership in Ontario. Joined by cottage owner and mortgage expert Nicolee Evans from Laframboise Mortgage, this episode walks you through everything you need to know to make your lakefront dreams a financial reality.</p><p>From unexpected winter repairs to financing options for island-access properties, they cover the joys and challenges of recreational real estate ownership with honesty, clarity, and laughter. Whether you're dreaming of your first dock or planning your third, this episode is your ultimate guide to getting your docks in a row.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p>00:00 – Welcome to the Country Club Podcast</p><p>01:10 – Listener Q&amp;A: Conditional offers &amp; getting your deposit back</p><p>02:45 – Setting the scene: Why cottage life is so magical in Canada</p><p>04:30 – Nicolee’s personal journey to cottage ownership</p><p>06:00 – The surprise realities of owning a recreational property</p><p>08:15 – Why a property manager might be a must</p><p>09:20 – Financing a cottage vs a primary home: What’s different?</p><p>11:10 – What lenders look for in cottage properties</p><p>13:30 – Affordability, alternative lenders &amp; B-20 regulations</p><p>16:40 – Unique properties, HELOCs, and mortgage strategy</p><p>20:00 – The truth about Airbnb and short-term rentals</p><p>24:30 – Documentation &amp; pre-approval tips to save your sanity</p><p>28:00 – Credit scores, mortgage partners &amp; being prepared</p><p>32:00 – Why communication between your real estate team matters</p><p>33:50 – Top 3 tips before making an offer on a cottage</p><p>35:30 – The emotional &amp; lifestyle value of a family retreat</p><p>38:00 – Cottage ownership as a long-term investment</p><p>40:30 – Nicolee’s advice to her past self: Take your time &amp; do your research</p><p>42:00 – Final thoughts: Cottage life isn’t “set it and forget it”—but it’s worth it</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes:</strong></p><p>"Get your docks in a row. It's not just a clever saying—it’s the smartest thing you can do before diving into cottage ownership." – Diana Cassidy-Bush</p><p>"Eyes wide open: that’s how you make smart, soulful real estate decisions." – Nicolee Evans</p><p>"The goal isn’t just to qualify. The goal is to sleep at night knowing the property enhances your life, not burdens it." – Nicolee Evans</p><p><strong>Resources &amp; Takeaways:</strong></p><p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Be Realistic About Financing</strong>: Secondary properties often require a bigger down payment and different lending rules. Speak to a mortgage pro early.</li><li><strong>Plan for Property Maintenance</strong>: Seasonal wear-and-tear, distance, and utility quirks are all part of cottage ownership.</li><li><strong>Know Your Lending Types</strong>: From A-lenders to B-lenders to private financing and HELOC strategies, the structure can make or break your deal.</li><li><strong>Don’t Rely on Rental Income</strong>: Airbnb income can’t always be counted on for financing and adds layers of complexity with insurance and zoning.</li><li><strong>Start the Conversation Early</strong>: Your mortgage and real estate team can help you build a plan—even if you're not ready yet.</li></ul><br/><p>Learn more: <a href="https://www.laframboisemortgage.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.laframboisemortgage.ca/</a></p><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this refreshingly real and inspiring episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush dives into the dream—and the details—of cottage ownership in Ontario. Joined by cottage owner and mortgage expert Nicolee Evans from Laframboise Mortgage, this episode walks you through everything you need to know to make your lakefront dreams a financial reality.</p><p>From unexpected winter repairs to financing options for island-access properties, they cover the joys and challenges of recreational real estate ownership with honesty, clarity, and laughter. Whether you're dreaming of your first dock or planning your third, this episode is your ultimate guide to getting your docks in a row.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p>00:00 – Welcome to the Country Club Podcast</p><p>01:10 – Listener Q&amp;A: Conditional offers &amp; getting your deposit back</p><p>02:45 – Setting the scene: Why cottage life is so magical in Canada</p><p>04:30 – Nicolee’s personal journey to cottage ownership</p><p>06:00 – The surprise realities of owning a recreational property</p><p>08:15 – Why a property manager might be a must</p><p>09:20 – Financing a cottage vs a primary home: What’s different?</p><p>11:10 – What lenders look for in cottage properties</p><p>13:30 – Affordability, alternative lenders &amp; B-20 regulations</p><p>16:40 – Unique properties, HELOCs, and mortgage strategy</p><p>20:00 – The truth about Airbnb and short-term rentals</p><p>24:30 – Documentation &amp; pre-approval tips to save your sanity</p><p>28:00 – Credit scores, mortgage partners &amp; being prepared</p><p>32:00 – Why communication between your real estate team matters</p><p>33:50 – Top 3 tips before making an offer on a cottage</p><p>35:30 – The emotional &amp; lifestyle value of a family retreat</p><p>38:00 – Cottage ownership as a long-term investment</p><p>40:30 – Nicolee’s advice to her past self: Take your time &amp; do your research</p><p>42:00 – Final thoughts: Cottage life isn’t “set it and forget it”—but it’s worth it</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes:</strong></p><p>"Get your docks in a row. It's not just a clever saying—it’s the smartest thing you can do before diving into cottage ownership." – Diana Cassidy-Bush</p><p>"Eyes wide open: that’s how you make smart, soulful real estate decisions." – Nicolee Evans</p><p>"The goal isn’t just to qualify. The goal is to sleep at night knowing the property enhances your life, not burdens it." – Nicolee Evans</p><p><strong>Resources &amp; Takeaways:</strong></p><p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Be Realistic About Financing</strong>: Secondary properties often require a bigger down payment and different lending rules. Speak to a mortgage pro early.</li><li><strong>Plan for Property Maintenance</strong>: Seasonal wear-and-tear, distance, and utility quirks are all part of cottage ownership.</li><li><strong>Know Your Lending Types</strong>: From A-lenders to B-lenders to private financing and HELOC strategies, the structure can make or break your deal.</li><li><strong>Don’t Rely on Rental Income</strong>: Airbnb income can’t always be counted on for financing and adds layers of complexity with insurance and zoning.</li><li><strong>Start the Conversation Early</strong>: Your mortgage and real estate team can help you build a plan—even if you're not ready yet.</li></ul><br/><p>Learn more: <a href="https://www.laframboisemortgage.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.laframboisemortgage.ca/</a></p><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/getting-your-docks-in-a-row-planning-for-your-dream-of-cottage-ownership]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">b9478346-f1d9-4cb1-b46a-50ed9df28367</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d973e871-9f76-4715-bb91-ab13edddc758/40IDXscUkFHuzi7bwJMokZyo.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 14 May 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/b9478346-f1d9-4cb1-b46a-50ed9df28367.mp3" length="63688980" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>44:14</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>5</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>9 Must-Ask Questions Before You Buy a Cottage</title><itunes:title>9 Must-Ask Questions Before You Buy a Cottage</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Thinking about buying a cottage?</strong> Before you dive headfirst into lake life, this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em> is your essential pre-purchase checklist. Host Diana Cassidy-Bush walks you through <strong>9 must-ask questions</strong> to clarify your vision, assess your needs, and align your dreams with your budget and lifestyle.</p><p>From lake types to accessibility, seasonal use to investment strategies — this candid and heartwarming episode will help you start your journey with confidence. If a peaceful dock, cozy firepit, or epic tubing sessions are on your vision board, this is the episode for you.</p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p>00:00 – Welcome to The Country Club Podcast</p><p>01:15 – Why a financing condition still matters even with pre-approval</p><p>02:30 – Cottage dreams &amp; why Canadians are craving waterfront living</p><p>04:00 – The real reason lakefront lots are in such short supply</p><p>05:15 – Question 1: What kind of water activities matter to your family?</p><p>08:00 – Question 2: How far are you willing to travel from home?</p><p>09:00 – Question 3: What’s your realistic budget?</p><p>09:45 – Question 4: Do you need a 4-season or 3-season cottage?</p><p>10:30 – Question 5: How accessible should the cottage be year-round?</p><p>11:45 – Question 6: What kind of views and terrain do you want?</p><p>12:45 – Question 7: What local amenities matter to you?</p><p>13:45 – Question 8: What does the ideal cottage interior look like?</p><p>15:00 – Question 9: Are you buying for family, retirement, or rental income?</p><p>16:15 – Wrap up: Why clarity is the first step to living your lakefront dream</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><p>“Most every waterfront property you see already has a structure on it. Finding a true building lot on the water is incredibly rare.”</p><p>“Cottages aren’t just properties—they’re part of our national identity.”</p><p>“It’s not about what’s trendy or what your neighbor has. It’s about defining your version of lake life.”</p><p>“Keep your paddles in the water and your dreams on the dock.”</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways &amp; Resources</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Supply is Limited:</strong> Most lakefront land was developed decades ago, so building lots are rare.</li><li><strong>Lifestyle First:</strong> Decide on boating, paddling, fishing, or peace and quiet — it defines your lake options.</li><li><strong>Access Matters:</strong> Think year-round roads vs. seasonal accessibility and how that impacts use.</li><li><strong>Budget Realism:</strong> Cottage dreams range wildly in price depending on region, size, and features.</li><li><strong>Multi-Use Options:</strong> Buy for family time, retirement, or as a rental investment — each path has pros and cons.</li></ul><br/><p><em>Resource Mentioned:</em></p><ul><li><strong>Royal LePage Recreational Property Survey (Spring)</strong> – Cited to note the forecasted 4% price increase in recreational properties.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Thinking about buying a cottage?</strong> Before you dive headfirst into lake life, this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em> is your essential pre-purchase checklist. Host Diana Cassidy-Bush walks you through <strong>9 must-ask questions</strong> to clarify your vision, assess your needs, and align your dreams with your budget and lifestyle.</p><p>From lake types to accessibility, seasonal use to investment strategies — this candid and heartwarming episode will help you start your journey with confidence. If a peaceful dock, cozy firepit, or epic tubing sessions are on your vision board, this is the episode for you.</p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong></p><p>00:00 – Welcome to The Country Club Podcast</p><p>01:15 – Why a financing condition still matters even with pre-approval</p><p>02:30 – Cottage dreams &amp; why Canadians are craving waterfront living</p><p>04:00 – The real reason lakefront lots are in such short supply</p><p>05:15 – Question 1: What kind of water activities matter to your family?</p><p>08:00 – Question 2: How far are you willing to travel from home?</p><p>09:00 – Question 3: What’s your realistic budget?</p><p>09:45 – Question 4: Do you need a 4-season or 3-season cottage?</p><p>10:30 – Question 5: How accessible should the cottage be year-round?</p><p>11:45 – Question 6: What kind of views and terrain do you want?</p><p>12:45 – Question 7: What local amenities matter to you?</p><p>13:45 – Question 8: What does the ideal cottage interior look like?</p><p>15:00 – Question 9: Are you buying for family, retirement, or rental income?</p><p>16:15 – Wrap up: Why clarity is the first step to living your lakefront dream</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes</strong></p><p>“Most every waterfront property you see already has a structure on it. Finding a true building lot on the water is incredibly rare.”</p><p>“Cottages aren’t just properties—they’re part of our national identity.”</p><p>“It’s not about what’s trendy or what your neighbor has. It’s about defining your version of lake life.”</p><p>“Keep your paddles in the water and your dreams on the dock.”</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways &amp; Resources</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Supply is Limited:</strong> Most lakefront land was developed decades ago, so building lots are rare.</li><li><strong>Lifestyle First:</strong> Decide on boating, paddling, fishing, or peace and quiet — it defines your lake options.</li><li><strong>Access Matters:</strong> Think year-round roads vs. seasonal accessibility and how that impacts use.</li><li><strong>Budget Realism:</strong> Cottage dreams range wildly in price depending on region, size, and features.</li><li><strong>Multi-Use Options:</strong> Buy for family time, retirement, or as a rental investment — each path has pros and cons.</li></ul><br/><p><em>Resource Mentioned:</em></p><ul><li><strong>Royal LePage Recreational Property Survey (Spring)</strong> – Cited to note the forecasted 4% price increase in recreational properties.</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/so-youve-been-dreaming-of-a-cottage-9-must-ask-questions-before-you-buy]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">be8a51dd-a77c-45dd-a85f-597d30948fac</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/deeff2b8-9e22-4346-ba06-3b314e466f3b/GpynbsGV-7Umo27z-MVUhtLQ.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 30 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/be8a51dd-a77c-45dd-a85f-597d30948fac.mp3" length="26096528" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>18:07</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>4</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Home at Last: The First-Time Buyer Journey</title><itunes:title>Home at Last: The First-Time Buyer Journey</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Buying your first home can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to be. In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush walks listeners through the entire home buying journey, from shifting the negative narrative around ownership to the final walkthrough and key hand-off. With practical tips, expert insight, and an empowering mindset, Diana ensures you’re not only prepared, but inspired to take the first step toward homeownership. Whether you're ready now or planning for the future, this episode gives you the knowledge and confidence to move forward.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p><strong>[00:00]</strong> Welcome to The Country Club Podcast &amp; Episode Intro</p><p><strong>[01:00]</strong> Changing the Narrative Around Homeownership</p><p><strong>[03:00]</strong> Why Real Estate Is Still the Best Investment</p><p><strong>[04:30]</strong> Facing Obstacles with the Right Team</p><p><strong>[05:45]</strong> The Importance of Preparation—even Years in Advance</p><p><strong>[06:30]</strong> Step 1: Choose a Real Estate Professional</p><p><strong>[07:15]</strong> Step 2: Connect with a Lender &amp; Get Pre-Approved</p><p><strong>[08:30]</strong> Step 3: Set Up Home Search with Your Realtor</p><p><strong>[09:00]</strong> Step 4: Viewing Homes &amp; Making an Offer</p><p><strong>[10:00]</strong> Understanding Conditions: Financing, Inspections &amp; Insurance</p><p><strong>[11:30]</strong> What to Expect During Offer Negotiation</p><p><strong>[13:00]</strong> Firming Up the Sale &amp; What Happens Next</p><p><strong>[14:30]</strong> Preparing for Closing: Lawyers, Insurance, Utilities</p><p><strong>[16:30]</strong> Final Walkthrough &amp; Closing Day Logistics</p><p><strong>[17:30]</strong> Recap, Encouragement, and What’s Ahead</p><p>“Real estate really is the best investment in the world. Why? Because we all need shelter.”</p><p>“Every market has obstacles—but they’re temporary. With the right team, you can face anything.”</p><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Buying your first home can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to be. In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush walks listeners through the entire home buying journey, from shifting the negative narrative around ownership to the final walkthrough and key hand-off. With practical tips, expert insight, and an empowering mindset, Diana ensures you’re not only prepared, but inspired to take the first step toward homeownership. Whether you're ready now or planning for the future, this episode gives you the knowledge and confidence to move forward.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p><strong>[00:00]</strong> Welcome to The Country Club Podcast &amp; Episode Intro</p><p><strong>[01:00]</strong> Changing the Narrative Around Homeownership</p><p><strong>[03:00]</strong> Why Real Estate Is Still the Best Investment</p><p><strong>[04:30]</strong> Facing Obstacles with the Right Team</p><p><strong>[05:45]</strong> The Importance of Preparation—even Years in Advance</p><p><strong>[06:30]</strong> Step 1: Choose a Real Estate Professional</p><p><strong>[07:15]</strong> Step 2: Connect with a Lender &amp; Get Pre-Approved</p><p><strong>[08:30]</strong> Step 3: Set Up Home Search with Your Realtor</p><p><strong>[09:00]</strong> Step 4: Viewing Homes &amp; Making an Offer</p><p><strong>[10:00]</strong> Understanding Conditions: Financing, Inspections &amp; Insurance</p><p><strong>[11:30]</strong> What to Expect During Offer Negotiation</p><p><strong>[13:00]</strong> Firming Up the Sale &amp; What Happens Next</p><p><strong>[14:30]</strong> Preparing for Closing: Lawyers, Insurance, Utilities</p><p><strong>[16:30]</strong> Final Walkthrough &amp; Closing Day Logistics</p><p><strong>[17:30]</strong> Recap, Encouragement, and What’s Ahead</p><p>“Real estate really is the best investment in the world. Why? Because we all need shelter.”</p><p>“Every market has obstacles—but they’re temporary. With the right team, you can face anything.”</p><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/home-at-last-the-first-time-buyer-journey]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0885dc0c-09e3-41fc-ad35-963d79b1ecb5</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/a1b52185-e63d-416c-8545-597fd33b3a04/vkeO2NXRsj2owLsBMdtIbiSi.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 16 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/0885dc0c-09e3-41fc-ad35-963d79b1ecb5.mp3" length="27824934" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>19:19</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>3</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Keys to Your First Home: Financing Tips &amp; New Incentives with special guest Alana Delong, with Dominion Lending</title><itunes:title>Keys to Your First Home: Financing Tips &amp; New Incentives with special guest Alana Delong, with Dominion Lending</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush welcomes mortgage expert Alana DeLong from Dominion Lending to demystify the journey of becoming a first-time home buyer. With over 30 years of experience, Alana shares invaluable insights on how to financially prepare, what programs are now available in 2025, and the crucial do's and don'ts before purchasing your first property. If you're dreaming of homeownership this year, this episode is packed with practical advice, optimism, and the motivation to take that next step.</p><p>Connect with Alana https://alanadelongmortgageteam.com/</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p><strong>[00:00:00]</strong> Introduction</p><p><strong>[00:02:40]</strong> Alana’s background and experience</p><p><strong>[00:03:45]</strong> The resurgence of first-time home buyers in 2025</p><p><strong>[00:04:30]</strong> Step one: Why pre-approval is critical</p><p><strong>[00:05:45]</strong> Financial habits to build before buying</p><p><strong>[00:06:30]</strong> What if you’re not ready yet? Alana’s guidance</p><p><strong>[00:07:45]</strong> Mistakes to avoid after pre-approval</p><p><strong>[00:08:30]</strong> Budgeting for homeownership and unexpected costs</p><p><strong>[00:09:30]</strong> New 2025 programs and benefits for first-time buyers</p><p><strong>[00:10:45]</strong> Land transfer tax exemption details</p><p><strong>[00:12:00]</strong> Insight on current and predicted interest rates</p><p><strong>[00:13:45]</strong> Fixed vs. variable rates explained</p><p><strong>[00:15:00]</strong> Impact of inflation and tariff talk on rates</p><p><strong>[00:16:00]</strong> Renewals, refinancing, and managing credit</p><p><strong>[00:17:30]</strong> The emotional side of helping first-time buyers</p><p><strong>[00:18:15]</strong> Final advice and why it’s never too early to start</p><p><strong>[00:20:00]</strong> Ways to get creative with qualifying for a mortgage</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes:</strong></p><p><strong>"Don’t go house shopping without a mortgage pre-approval—it’s like showing up at the airport without a plane ticket."</strong> – Alana DeLong</p><p><strong>"Just because you're not ready today doesn’t mean you can’t start preparing for tomorrow."</strong> – Diana Cassidy-Bush</p><p><strong>Resources &amp; Mentions:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>First Home Savings Account (FHSA)</strong>: Government of Canada FHSA Overview</li><li><strong>CMHC Mortgage Insurance Info</strong>: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca</li><li><strong>Ontario Land Transfer Tax Refund for First-Time Homebuyers</strong>: https://www.ontario.ca/page/land-transfer-tax</li><li><strong>Credit Building Tips</strong>: Contact a local financial advisor or Alana DeLong for guidance on secured credit cards and budgeting</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush welcomes mortgage expert Alana DeLong from Dominion Lending to demystify the journey of becoming a first-time home buyer. With over 30 years of experience, Alana shares invaluable insights on how to financially prepare, what programs are now available in 2025, and the crucial do's and don'ts before purchasing your first property. If you're dreaming of homeownership this year, this episode is packed with practical advice, optimism, and the motivation to take that next step.</p><p>Connect with Alana https://alanadelongmortgageteam.com/</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p><strong>[00:00:00]</strong> Introduction</p><p><strong>[00:02:40]</strong> Alana’s background and experience</p><p><strong>[00:03:45]</strong> The resurgence of first-time home buyers in 2025</p><p><strong>[00:04:30]</strong> Step one: Why pre-approval is critical</p><p><strong>[00:05:45]</strong> Financial habits to build before buying</p><p><strong>[00:06:30]</strong> What if you’re not ready yet? Alana’s guidance</p><p><strong>[00:07:45]</strong> Mistakes to avoid after pre-approval</p><p><strong>[00:08:30]</strong> Budgeting for homeownership and unexpected costs</p><p><strong>[00:09:30]</strong> New 2025 programs and benefits for first-time buyers</p><p><strong>[00:10:45]</strong> Land transfer tax exemption details</p><p><strong>[00:12:00]</strong> Insight on current and predicted interest rates</p><p><strong>[00:13:45]</strong> Fixed vs. variable rates explained</p><p><strong>[00:15:00]</strong> Impact of inflation and tariff talk on rates</p><p><strong>[00:16:00]</strong> Renewals, refinancing, and managing credit</p><p><strong>[00:17:30]</strong> The emotional side of helping first-time buyers</p><p><strong>[00:18:15]</strong> Final advice and why it’s never too early to start</p><p><strong>[00:20:00]</strong> Ways to get creative with qualifying for a mortgage</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes:</strong></p><p><strong>"Don’t go house shopping without a mortgage pre-approval—it’s like showing up at the airport without a plane ticket."</strong> – Alana DeLong</p><p><strong>"Just because you're not ready today doesn’t mean you can’t start preparing for tomorrow."</strong> – Diana Cassidy-Bush</p><p><strong>Resources &amp; Mentions:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>First Home Savings Account (FHSA)</strong>: Government of Canada FHSA Overview</li><li><strong>CMHC Mortgage Insurance Info</strong>: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca</li><li><strong>Ontario Land Transfer Tax Refund for First-Time Homebuyers</strong>: https://www.ontario.ca/page/land-transfer-tax</li><li><strong>Credit Building Tips</strong>: Contact a local financial advisor or Alana DeLong for guidance on secured credit cards and budgeting</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/keys-to-your-first-home-financing-tips-new-incentives-with-special-guest-alana-delong-with-dominion-lending]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">47bd6808-381a-46e6-9f07-57d7ddcd11fd</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/f1ce92e3-0203-49be-bd71-334bc6707aac/9-CzJa3LoxkqrMBe2V63Eu6k.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/47bd6808-381a-46e6-9f07-57d7ddcd11fd.mp3" length="31540163" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>21:54</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>2</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>From Vision to Action: Crafting Your Roadmap for Success</title><itunes:title>From Vision to Action: Crafting Your Roadmap for Success</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this debut episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush dives into the power of goal setting and how turning dreams into actionable steps can lead to success. Whether you're planning to buy a home, invest in real estate, or make a life change, setting clear goals is the key to making it happen. Diana shares proven strategies for identifying goals, creating action plans, and staying motivated. From the importance of writing down your goals to overcoming common obstacles like fear and procrastination, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice to help you achieve your aspirations.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p>[00:00:00] – Welcome to <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>: Introducing the show and its focus on rural living, real estate, and lifestyle.</p><p>[00:02:00] – The power of goal setting: Why some people achieve their dreams while others struggle.</p><p>[00:03:00] – Defining goal setting: Applying it to different aspects of life.</p><p>[00:04:00] – The importance of writing goals down: Research-backed insight on how it increases the chances of success by 42%.</p><p>[00:05:00] – Creating an action plan: Steps to move towards your goal effectively.</p><p>[00:06:00] – Practical strategies: How to stay committed and make progress.</p><p>[00:07:00] – Overcoming obstacles: How to tackle fear, procrastination, and comparison.</p><p>[00:08:00] – Inspirational quotes and motivation: Words of wisdom from successful figures.</p><p>[00:09:00] – Homework challenge: Writie down one goal and takie the first step.</p><p>[00:10:00] – Closing thoughts and encouragement: Stay consistent, keep moving forward, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations.</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes:</strong></p><p><em>“You don’t need to see the whole staircase; you just need to take the first step.” – Martin Luther King Jr.</em></p><p><em>“Winners are not people who never fail, but people who never quit.”</em></p><p><em>“To be successful at anything, the truth is you don’t have to be special. You just have to be what most people aren’t—consistent, determined, and willing to work for it.” – Tom Brady</em></p><p><em>“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” – Mary Oliver</em></p><p><strong>Connect with Diana:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this debut episode of <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>, host Diana Cassidy-Bush dives into the power of goal setting and how turning dreams into actionable steps can lead to success. Whether you're planning to buy a home, invest in real estate, or make a life change, setting clear goals is the key to making it happen. Diana shares proven strategies for identifying goals, creating action plans, and staying motivated. From the importance of writing down your goals to overcoming common obstacles like fear and procrastination, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice to help you achieve your aspirations.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p>[00:00:00] – Welcome to <em>The Country Club Podcast</em>: Introducing the show and its focus on rural living, real estate, and lifestyle.</p><p>[00:02:00] – The power of goal setting: Why some people achieve their dreams while others struggle.</p><p>[00:03:00] – Defining goal setting: Applying it to different aspects of life.</p><p>[00:04:00] – The importance of writing goals down: Research-backed insight on how it increases the chances of success by 42%.</p><p>[00:05:00] – Creating an action plan: Steps to move towards your goal effectively.</p><p>[00:06:00] – Practical strategies: How to stay committed and make progress.</p><p>[00:07:00] – Overcoming obstacles: How to tackle fear, procrastination, and comparison.</p><p>[00:08:00] – Inspirational quotes and motivation: Words of wisdom from successful figures.</p><p>[00:09:00] – Homework challenge: Writie down one goal and takie the first step.</p><p>[00:10:00] – Closing thoughts and encouragement: Stay consistent, keep moving forward, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations.</p><p><strong>Notable Quotes:</strong></p><p><em>“You don’t need to see the whole staircase; you just need to take the first step.” – Martin Luther King Jr.</em></p><p><em>“Winners are not people who never fail, but people who never quit.”</em></p><p><em>“To be successful at anything, the truth is you don’t have to be special. You just have to be what most people aren’t—consistent, determined, and willing to work for it.” – Tom Brady</em></p><p><em>“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” – Mary Oliver</em></p><p><strong>Connect with Diana:</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/from-vision-to-action-crafting-your-roadmap-for-success]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">eb1d4a69-37f8-4efb-9cc5-e71b28a1c90b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/01607ccc-bbe1-472e-b30a-9d3134a6b31a/Su_7gobZnBku35aloTPrJ9IJ.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 19 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/eb1d4a69-37f8-4efb-9cc5-e71b28a1c90b.mp3" length="15451665" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>10:44</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>1</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Welcome to The Country Club Podcast With Diana Cassidy-Bush - Trailer</title><itunes:title>Welcome to The Country Club Podcast With Diana Cassidy-Bush - Trailer</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p> Welcome to The Country Club Podcast - not the kind with dress codes and tee times - this is a different kind of country club.  </p><p>One where home, community, and opportunity come together. I'm Diana Cassidy-Bush and I'm so happy that you're here.  My purpose is to empower you to make informed decisions, whether you're buying, investing, or dreaming of life beyond the city limits. </p><p>As we know, life is busy, messy, and uncertain at times and there's so much noise out there.  I  wanted a space to be able to connect with people to share valuable information to help guide them through some of the most important financial decisions they will ever make in a safe and no pressure space. </p><p>Are you searching for the perfect home,  looking for a recreational property,  or ready to invest in country real estate? This podcast is for you. Each episode will break down everything from finding the right property. And understanding the market to making strategic investment moves that set you up for success. </p><p>You'll hear expert insights, real life success stories, and practical advice to help you live, play, and invest with confidence. In real estate and in life, it's more than about just buying property. It's about making the right moves, seizing opportunities and building a future that you love.  So grab a coffee, pull up a chair, and let's talk about turning your lifestyle dreams into reality.</p><p>Welcome to The Country Club Podcast, where we're here empowering you to win.  </p><p>Subscribe now to The Country Club Podcast with Diana Cassidy-Bush on your favourite podcast platform and let's start building your future together. </p><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p> Welcome to The Country Club Podcast - not the kind with dress codes and tee times - this is a different kind of country club.  </p><p>One where home, community, and opportunity come together. I'm Diana Cassidy-Bush and I'm so happy that you're here.  My purpose is to empower you to make informed decisions, whether you're buying, investing, or dreaming of life beyond the city limits. </p><p>As we know, life is busy, messy, and uncertain at times and there's so much noise out there.  I  wanted a space to be able to connect with people to share valuable information to help guide them through some of the most important financial decisions they will ever make in a safe and no pressure space. </p><p>Are you searching for the perfect home,  looking for a recreational property,  or ready to invest in country real estate? This podcast is for you. Each episode will break down everything from finding the right property. And understanding the market to making strategic investment moves that set you up for success. </p><p>You'll hear expert insights, real life success stories, and practical advice to help you live, play, and invest with confidence. In real estate and in life, it's more than about just buying property. It's about making the right moves, seizing opportunities and building a future that you love.  So grab a coffee, pull up a chair, and let's talk about turning your lifestyle dreams into reality.</p><p>Welcome to The Country Club Podcast, where we're here empowering you to win.  </p><p>Subscribe now to The Country Club Podcast with Diana Cassidy-Bush on your favourite podcast platform and let's start building your future together. </p><p>Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush</a></p><p>Linked In: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-cassidy-bush-aa2318b6/</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@dianacassidy-bush2027</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://dianacassidybush.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dianacassidybush.ca/</a></p><p>Email: <a href="mailto:info@thedcbteam.ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">info@thedcbteam.ca</a></p><p>This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://dianacassidybush.ca/welcome-to-the-country-club-podcast-with-diana-cassidy-bush-trailer]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">b201174a-bce5-4bc1-95b5-ce0d0dd87b6e</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/2e7ce139-823d-4815-81c4-bc30c0afde9b/xz63KFQXSKFcJJUxAo-Uobpr.jpg"/><pubDate>Sun, 16 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/b201174a-bce5-4bc1-95b5-ce0d0dd87b6e.mp3" length="2788134" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>01:56</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>trailer</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>1</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item></channel></rss>