The Country Club

In this episode of The Country Club Podcast, host Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with Kevin Phillips for a conversation about legacy, entrepreneurship, and life on the lake.

As the second-generation owner of Fernleigh Lodge, Kevin has spent decades watching Kashwakamak Lake evolve from a collection of simple fishing lodges into one of Eastern Ontario’s most treasured recreational communities.

What began as childhood family vacations from Ohio in the late 1950s became a lifelong connection to the lake. Kevin reflects on the early days of Fernleigh Lodge — wooden boats, fishing guides, shore lunches, ice boxes in the cabins, and a slower pace rooted in nature and community.

Over the years, he’s witnessed dramatic change, from small seasonal cottages transforming into luxury waterfront homes to the evolution of tourism itself. Through it all, Fernleigh Lodge has continued to adapt while staying true to the spirit of the lake.

Kevin shares the realities of running a multi-generational lodge business, diversifying into marina services, boat storage, a plumbing business, construction, retail, and hospitality to keep both the business and the lake community thriving.

At its heart, this episode is about the connection people feel to Kashwakamak Lake — the memories made there, the slower pace of life, and the sense of belonging that keeps families returning year after year.

It’s a thoughtful conversation about resilience, small-town entrepreneurship, and why places like Kashwakamak Lake still matter in an increasingly fast-moving world.

Learn more about Kevin Phillips & Fernleigh Lodge: www.fernleighlodge.com

Episode Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome to The Country Club Podcast

00:49 - Meet Kevin Phillips of Fernleigh Lodge

01:41 - Vacationing at Kashwakamak Lake

02:30 - Early Lodge Life

03:30 - Guides and Summer Days Growing Up

05:10 - Lake Development Boom

09:07 - Renovations and Modern Comforts

10:08 - COVID Shift and Clientele

11:06 - Marina and Boat Services

12:09 - Dining at the Lodge

13:40 - Lake Pace and Rising Costs

14:19 - What Kevin Loves Most

15:49 - What Should Never Change

16:55 - Kashwakamak Memories

18:50 - Advice for New Lake Life

20:09 - Closing Thanks and Wrap Up

Key Takeaways

1. Lake communities have evolved dramatically over the decades

2. Successful businesses adapt with changing times

3. COVID permanently shifted tourism patterns

4. Simplicity and connection still matter

5. Supporting local businesses sustains lake communities

6. Legacy businesses carry generations of memories

7. The future of recreation may include wellness and intentional living

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: [email protected]

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!

In Part 2 of this conversation on The Country Club Podcast, host Diana Cassidy-Bush continues her discussion with Kara Enright, exploring the next chapter of innovation, resilience, and leadership behind Enright Cattle Company.

When the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically changed consumer buying habits, Kara and her team were forced to rethink their supply chain almost overnight. Increased demand for direct-to-consumer meat sales exposed a major bottleneck in local processing capacity, leading to a bold and unexpected decision: purchasing an established abattoir.

What followed was one of the biggest learning curves of Kara’s career. Overnight, a small farm operation expanded into a complex business, but Kara leaned into the challenge... that is, until tragedy struck in 2024.

Beyond rebuilding the processing business, Kara continues to push innovation forward. New products like locally made tallow candles, soaps, and cooking fats demonstrate her philosophy of using every part of the animal while creating new value streams for the farm.

The episode also explores the future of agriculture — from robotics and automation — to perhaps most inspiring, Kara shares how the next generation is already stepping into the world of farming with curiosity, entrepreneurship, and a deep respect for the land.

Part 2 is a powerful reminder that the future of agriculture isn’t just about tradition — it’s about adaptability, innovation, and the resilience of the people who keep feeding our communities.

Learn more about Enright Cattle Company: https://enrightcattlecompany.com/

Episode Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome to Country Club

00:45 - Why Buy an Abattoir

02:55 - Touring Quinns Meats

04:07 - Learning to Run It

05:33 - COVID Demand Shift

07:25 - Training New Butchers

09:18 - Fire and Recovery

11:32 - Tallow Product Line

13:40 - Innovation in Agriculture

15:25 - Virtual Fencing Tech

18:32 - Raising the Next Gen

22:16 - Closing Thanks and Wrap

Key Takeaways

1. Supply chain control can become essential for farm businesses

2. Scaling a farm business means learning new industries

3. Investing in people builds long-term resilience

4. Community matters during crises

5. Innovation in agriculture is accelerating

6. Value-added products create new opportunities

7. The next generation of farmers is already emerging

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: [email protected]

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!

In this first installment of a two-part conversation, host Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with Kara Enright, the driving force behind Enright Cattle Company.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Learn more about Enright Cattle Company: https://enrightcattlecompany.com/

Episode Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome to Country Club

00:45 - Meet Kara Enright of Enright Cattle

03:12 - Growing Up Farming

05:16 - Work Ethic Lessons

05:54 - Agriculture Is Evolving

07:03 - Women in Farming

08:20 - Building a Beef Brand

09:54 - From Markets to Restaurants

13:37 - Leather Goods from Hides

17:19 - Grain Bin Farm Store

21:45 - Dinner in the Crop Circle

24:54 - Buying a Blueberry Farm

28:00 - Keeping Local Food Alive

Key Takeaways:

1. Agriculture isn’t disappearing — it’s transforming

2. Building a brand can sustain a smaller farm

3. Relationships can open unexpected opportunities

4. Use the whole animal — and create value from it

5. Authentic experiences build powerful connections with customers

6. Entrepreneurship often starts with curiosity

7. Women are redefining leadership in agriculture

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: [email protected]

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!

What does it really look like to choose a different pace of life and build success around your family instead of your calendar?

In this episode of The Country Club Podcast, 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.

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.

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.

This conversation explores:

1. The emotional side of leaving the city
2. Building a thriving wellness business from home
3. The health and vibrancy of rural living
4. Raising children immersed in community and outdoor life
5. Why slowing down can actually move you forward

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.

Learn more about Noko Spa: https://www.instagram.com/nokospa/

Episode Timestamps:

[0:00] - Introduction to the Country Club Podcast

[0:55] - Meet Easton Lambert, owner of Noko Spa

[1:47] - Easton's background and decision to move (2022)

[2:34] - The scary decision to leave her established career

[3:56] - Finding their forever home in Thomasburg

[4:36] - What surprised Easton most: the people and community

[5:50] - Getting used to country life (coyotes and cows!)

[6:15] - The evolution of Noko Spa

[7:19] - Working from home as a mom entrepreneur

[7:59] - Client demographics: teens to 80s

[9:06] - Surprising difference: country clients are healthier and more active

[10:30] - How the move changed family life: slowing down

[12:02] - Kids' activities: hockey, soccer, lacrosse

[13:32] - Getting involved: Festival of Trees and community events

[14:56] - The breakfast club and becoming a PTA mom

[15:36] - The awkward city visit: losing that sense of community

[17:08] - Ice storm story: neighbors offering help

[17:29] - What would she change? She would've moved sooner

[18:33] - Redefining success: happy, healthy family life

[19:15] - Final thoughts: growth comes from choosing differently

[20:09] - Closing and thank you

Key Takeaways

1. Growth Sometimes Means Choosing Differently

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.

2. Fear Often Signals Expansion

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.

3. Community Is a Game-Changer

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.

4. Rural Living Impacts Health in Real Ways

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.

5. Entrepreneurship Can Evolve with Your Season of Life

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.

6. Kids Thrive in Open Spaces

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.

7. Success Now Means Peace

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.

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.

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: [email protected]

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!

In this episode of The Country Club Podcast, host Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with Greg Gaylord, 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.

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.

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.

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.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – 02:00 | Welcome to The Country Club Podcast & episode introduction

02:00 – 03:10 | The origins of Gaylord Hardwood Flooring (founded in 1985)

03:10 – 04:20 | Growing up in a family business & early lessons

04:20 – 05:30 | Choosing to carry the legacy forward

05:30 – 06:40 | Leadership challenges & growing in a competitive market

06:40 – 08:00 | Balancing tradition with innovation

08:00 – 10:10 | Building global reach from a small town

10:10 – 11:20 | The power of referrals & long-term relationships

11:20 – 12:45 | Featured projects & Netflix exposure

12:45 – 14:30 | Hardwood flooring trends: low maintenance & natural finishes

14:30 – 16:10 | Quality, sourcing, and what buyers should know

16:10 – 17:30 | Sustainability & the value of buying local

17:30 – 19:00 | Choosing to raise a family in the community

19:00 – 21:20 | The showroom renovation & creating an experience

21:20 – 22:45 | Family, business, and community connection

22:45 – 25:45 | Personal stories & family moments

25:45 – 28:15 | The legendary company limo story

28:15 – 30:45 | Final reflections & closing thoughts

Notable Quotes

1. “You don’t have to leave home to build something exceptional.”
2. “Innovation doesn’t always mean big breakthroughs—it’s about getting better every day.”
3. “People want their floors to look like wood again, not a piano.”
4. “There’s nothing more sustainable than buying local and building to last.”
5. “Referrals come from relationships, not transactions.”

Key Takeaways

1. Legacy businesses thrive when core values stay intact—even as markets change
2. Global success can grow organically through trust, referrals, and consistency
3. Low-maintenance, natural finishes are defining modern flooring trends
4. Local craftsmanship and sustainability are powerful differentiators
5. Community-based businesses create ripple effects far beyond their walls

Resources & Mentions

1. Gaylord Hardwood Flooring – Custom, Canadian-made hardwood flooring
2. https://www.gaylordhardwoodflooring.com/
3. https://www.facebook.com/GaylordHardwoodFlooring/
4. https://www.instagram.com/gaylordhardwood/
5. https://www.youtube.com/@Gaylordhardwoodflooring/featured

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: [email protected]

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!

In this solo episode of The Country Club Podcast, 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.

With headlines shouting forecasts and opinions at every turn, Diana offers a calm counterpoint: planning beats predictions every single time. 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.

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.

Timestamps

00:00–00:45 – Welcome to The Country Club Podcast & show positioning

00:45–01:33 – Why this conversation matters right now

01:33–02:24 – January noise, reflection, and real life priorities

02:24–03:30 – Predictions vs. planning in real estate

03:30–04:15 – Why your home should support your lifestyle, not stress it

04:15–05:15 – Lifestyle questions driving real estate decisions

05:15–06:15 – Country living, cottages, and lifestyle shifts

06:15–08:15 – Starting where you actually are (without judgment)

08:15–09:45 – Common buyer mistakes in a noisy market

09:45–10:45 – Interest rates, timing myths, and financial comfort

10:45–12:30 – Seller mistakes: pricing, renovations, and strategy

12:30–13:15 – Strategy vs. seasonality

13:15–14:30 – The 1-, 3-, and 5-year planning framework

14:30–15:15 – Asking better questions about your future

15:15–16:30 – Planning as a way to create options, not pressure

16:30–17:30 – Closing thoughts, planning worksheet & next steps

Notable Quotes

“Planning beats predictions every single time.”

“A good real estate plan isn’t about guessing the market—it’s about understanding what you want your life to look like.”

“Your home should support your lifestyle, not keep you up at night.”

“Good strategy will almost always outperform good timing.”

“When you focus on direction instead of decisions, you give yourself time—and time creates clarity.”

Key Takeaways & Value for Listeners

1. Tune out the noise.

Predictions change weekly. Your life goals matter more.

2. Start where you are—honestly.

Real planning begins with acknowledging your current season without judgment.

3. Avoid rushed decisions.

Most real estate mistakes come from reacting, not from lack of information.

4. Think in layers, not deadlines.

The 1-, 3-, and 5-year framework creates flexibility and confidence.

5. Let real estate serve your life.

Homes, cottages, and investments should support how you want to live—not the other way around.

Resources Mentioned

1. Real Estate Planning Worksheet – Linked in the show notes
2. (Designed to slow the process down and help clarify goals)
3. Early conversations with trusted real estate and financial professionals
4. Lifestyle-first planning vs. market-first decision making

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: [email protected]

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!

In this highly informative episode of The Country Club Podcast, Diana Cassidy-Bush welcomes Chartered Professional Accountant Ben Bryden from Wilkinson & Company to break down one of the most misunderstood and most consequential topics in real estate: capital gains tax.

Ben walks listeners through the whirlwind of tax changes proposed since 2024, explaining what was supposed to happen, what actually happened, and what property owners should know as we approach 2026.

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.

Key Takeaways

1. The Capital Gains Inclusion Rate Remains at 50% as of this recording

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.

2. Timing Matters—Your Income Year Affects Your Tax Bill

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.

3. The 12-Month Rule Automatically Applies

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.

4. The Principal Residence Exemption (PRE)

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.

5. Mixed-Use Properties Have Special Rules

If part of your home is used for rental or business purposes:

• You may need to apportion the sale value between personal and income-producing use.
• Using more than 50% of your home for business can jeopardize the PRE entirely.

6. Land Size Matters

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.

7. “Change of Use” Can Trigger a Taxable Event

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.

8. Keep Every Receipt for Capital Improvements

There is no 7-year rule for cost-base documentation.

• Improvements that increase value (steel roof, addition, upgraded countertops) raise your adjusted cost base and lower your eventual capital gain.
• Repairs that simply restore condition (new shingles, repainting) do not count as capital improvements.

9. Estate Transfers Can Trigger Capital Gains

When someone passes away:

• Property transferred to a spouse rolls over tax-free.
• Property transferred to children triggers capital gains at fair market value.
• Large real-estate-heavy estates may face liquidity issues without planning.

10. Special Rules Apply to Farm Properties

Farms actively used in a farming business may qualify for:

• The Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE)—now up to $1.25M
• Or special rollover provisions for transferring farmland to children

Importantly: renting land to a farmer does not count as farming activity.

11. Consult Your Realtor and Accountant Before Selling

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.

Time Stamps:

00:00 – 00:45

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.

00:45 – 02:16

Introducing guest expert Ben Bryden, CPA of Wilkinson & Company, and today’s topic: changes to the capital gains tax.

02:16 – 03:34

Diana shares the confusion many homeowners experienced around earlier announcements about capital gains changes. Ben begins explaining the timeline.

03:34 – 04:35

Ben outlines the major proposed change: increasing the inclusion rate from 50% to two-thirds, and why it caused panic.

04:35 – 05:15

The government delays implementation; sellers scramble. The CRA announces it isn’t ready—leading to more confusion.

05:15 – 06:12

Final decision in March 2025: the inclusion-rate change is cancelled. Relief and frustration follow.

06:12 – 07:05

Why the government likely pursued this strategy—raising revenue without increasing tax rates.

07:05 – 07:45

Why updates haven’t been clearly communicated. Political motivations and an attempt to “move past” the issue.

07:45 – 08:44

What capital gains look like today for someone selling a second property.

08:44 – 09:45

Best timing strategies: how your income year impacts the tax you’ll pay on a sale.

09:45 – 10:40

Explaining the new 12-month rule: how profits become business income by default.

10:40 – 11:30

Clarifying how to avoid the 12-month rule through exceptions and intent.

11:30 – 12:19

How the Principal Residence Exemption works when you own multiple properties.

12:19 – 13:15

Choosing which property to designate for the PRE—and how that affects future capital gains.

13:15 – 14:01

Partial-use and rental situations: how mixed-use affects your tax obligations.

14:01 – 15:02

Land size considerations: why only ½ hectare qualifies for the PRE.

15:02 – 16:14

Using part of your home for business or rental: how “primary purpose” affects PRE eligibility.

16:14 – 17:21

Gray areas and common traps in the Income Tax Act.

17:21 – 18:15

The surprise of “change of use” rules—how converting a home to a rental or vice versa can trigger a taxable event.

18:15 – 19:05

The importance of filing the correct elections to avoid unintended capital gains.

19:05 – 20:18

HST considerations: when HST applies to land, newly built homes, or property used in business.

20:18 – 21:07

Why consulting an accountant before selling is essential.

21:07 – 22:04

Tracking capital improvements: what counts as capital vs. repairs and why receipts matter.

22:04 – 23:15

Examples of capital vs. non-capital improvements—roofs, countertops, renovations.

23:15 – 24:15

Why keeping documentation for all improvements is critical, even decades later.

24:15 – 25:10

Introducing estate planning considerations—how real estate is taxed upon death.

25:10 – 26:03

The rollover rule for spouses and capital gains treatment when passing property to children.

26:03 – 27:10

Special rules for farmland, including eligibility for the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption.

27:10 – 28:15

The distinction between active farming vs. renting farmland and why it matters for tax purposes.

28:15 – 29:19

Ben’s final advice: talk to professionals early to avoid costly surprises.

29:19 – 30:26

Why annual federal budgets may continue to bring changes to real estate taxation.

30:26 – 31:54

Closing thoughts and preview of January’s episode on setting real estate intentions for 2026.

31:54 – 32:45

Final sign-off and reminder to consult professionals for personalized guidance.

Learn more about Ben Bryden, CPA, CA - with Wilkinson & Company LLP at https://www.wilkinson.net/

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: [email protected]

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!

In this episode, Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with Brian and Joanna Milligan, owners of Milligan Meats — the beloved local butcher shop that’s become a cornerstone for both year-round residents and weekend cottagers.

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.

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.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 – 02:00 | Welcome to The Country Club Podcast — Diana introduces the Milligans and their story of starting Milligan Meats in Cloyne, Ontario

02:00 – 05:00 | From Alberta to Ontario — How Brian and Joanna met and how his lifelong butchering experience led to the dream of owning their own shop.

05:00 – 07:30 | Taking the Leap — Buying the building, trusting instincts, and Joanna’s creative vision that shaped the shop’s welcoming aesthetic.

07:30 – 10:30 | Creating the Milligan Experience — Why “old-fashioned” customer service never goes out of style.

10:30 – 13:30 | Building a Happy Team — The Milligans’ share how they cultivate harmony, fun, and respect among staff.

14:00 – 17:30 | Supporting Local, Building Community — How the shop supports farmers, bakers, and artisans; plus a touching story about a local charcuterie board maker.

17:30 – 20:30 | Seasonality and Growth — From summer crowds to hunting season, the rhythm of small-town business life.

20:30 – 24:00 | Adaptation and Expansion — Growing the team, expanding products, and balancing busy seasons with purpose.

24:00 – 28:00 | Secret Ingredients & Customer Favorites — Rib eyes, hamburger patties, barbecue sauce, and those famous chicken bobs.

28:00 – 30:00 | Final Reflections — The power of loving your work, giving back to the community, and finding joy in small-town life.

NOTABLE QUOTES

“I design everything by feel. When it feels right, I know it’s right — and so far, that hasn’t led us wrong.” — Joanna Milligan

“How can you not love your job when it’s all built around community, laughter, and good food?” — Diana Cassidy-Bush

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Big Dreams Don’t Need A Big City: You can create a thriving business in your small town.
• Follow your instincts: Big dreams often start small — and scary. Trusting your gut pays off.
• Create experiences, not transactions: The Milligans built their success on connection, conversation, and care.
• Community is everything: Supporting local makers and farmers strengthens everyone’s success.
• Growth can be joyful: Even long hours feel lighter when your work aligns with your values.

RESOURCES & LINKS

• Milligan Meats, Coyne, ON — Visit in person or follow on social media for product updates and local stories.

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: [email protected]

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!

Myth: Small towns can’t sustain world-class arts.

Reality: They’re thriving.

In this episode of The Country Club Podcast, host Diana Cassidy-Bush welcomes Tim Porter and Emily Mewett of Tweed & Company Theatre, a powerhouse proving that rural Ontario is alive with creativity, culture, and opportunity.

From their start in 2009 to becoming one of Ontario’s top performing arts companies, Tweed & Co. has shattered expectations by bringing Broadway-level productions, concerts, comedy, and original Canadian works to intimate small-town stages.

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.

🎭 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.

Timestamps

00:00 – 01:30 | Welcome to The Country Club Podcast – celebrating rural life, community, and opportunity.

01:30 – 03:30 | Meet Tim Porter & Emily Mewett from Tweed & Company.

03:30 – 05:30 | Why small-town theatre offers a more personal, meaningful experience.

05:30 – 07:30 | Community collaboration: local businesses and audiences rally behind the arts.

07:30 – 09:30 | The early days—renting venues, selling tickets at the Tweed News, and hustling for donors.

10:00 – 12:30 | Becoming one of Ontario’s youngest professional theatres.

12:30 – 14:30 | The turning point: new venues, big productions like Mamma Mia, and thousands of new audience members.

14:30 – 17:00 | Recognition, awards, and proving rural theatre is not “small scale.”

17:00 – 19:30 | Audience and performer feedback—why people can’t wait to come back.

19:30 – 22:00 | Investing in the future: youth programming, skill development, and hands-on learning.

22:00 – 24:30 | Why rural arts matter and how to experience them yourself.

24:30 – 26:00 | Closing thoughts: thriving careers and vibrant communities beyond the city limits.

Notable Quotes

• “It’s not small scale—it’s world-class talent in a more intimate setting.” – Tim Porter
• “The sense of community here is stronger. Success in one business leads to success across the town.” – Emily Mutt
• “We just need to get people in the door once. Then they’re sold.” – Tim Porter
• “The arts aren’t just alive outside the city—they’re thriving.” – Diana Cassidy-Bush
• “Our audiences here are so appreciative, because for them, it’s not just another show—it’s an experience that matters.” – Emily Mutt

Resources & Takeaways

• Tweed & Company: www.tweedandcompany.com – find tickets, merch, and program details.
• Recognized as one of Ontario’s top performing arts venues and winner of multiple arts & tourism awards.
• Young Company Program & High School Projects: Offering students hands-on experience in performance, stage management, costume design, and more.
• Community Power: Small-town arts thrive because of partnerships with businesses, service groups, and passionate volunteers.
• For dreamers: You can build a creative career—and a fulfilling life—outside the city.

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: [email protected]

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!

In this inspiring episode of The Country Club Podcast, host Diana Cassidy-Bush sits down with longtime educator and leader Louise Gunning, 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.

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.

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.

Timestamps

00:00 – 02:00 | Introduction

02:30 – 04:30 | Louise reflects on the challenges that shaped her as a leader.

04:30 – 06:30 | Saying “yes” to challenges and encouraging growth outside comfort zones.

06:30 – 08:30 | How rural communities and schools nurture student wellness.

09:00 – 11:30 | Building Ontario’s first K–12 virtual school during the pandemic.

12:00 – 14:30 | The benefits of combining elementary and secondary schools.

15:00 – 17:30 | Clubs, musicals, carnivals, and sports—surprising opportunities in small schools.

18:00 – 20:30 | Schools as wellness hubs: breakfast programs, grocery pantries, and mental health supports.

20:30 – 22:30 | Advice for parents: public health resources, asking for help, and leaning on community.

22:30 – 24:30 | Louise’s leadership wisdom: lead with empathy, model resilience, and don’t underestimate kids.

24:30 – 25:30 | Closing reflections and call for listener questions.

Notable Quotes

• “We should never underestimate one another—children or adults.” – Louise Gunning
• “You don’t need fancy classrooms to thrive. What you need is a shared vision and determination.” – Louise Gunning
• “Rural schools are the heart of the community. Everyone knows everybody, and that creates a powerful safety net for kids.” – Louise Gunning
• “Transitions are tough, but leading with empathy and modeling healthy coping strategies makes all the difference.” – Louise Gunning
• “Our kids are often stronger and more resilient than we are.” – Louise Gunning

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: [email protected]

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!