In this episode of The Country Club Podcast, 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.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Intro: Welcome to The Country Club—beyond dress codes & tee times

00:00:30 – Podcast mission: more than buying property—plan, seize opportunities, build future

00:01:00 – Listener Q&A Recap: Lisa’s question on meeting people while working from home

00:02:30 – Episode focus: wellness & healthcare in rural Ontario with Dr. Charles Mustard

00:03:00 – Guest Intro: Dr. Mustard’s 19-year journey from urban practice to Tweed

00:04:00 – Dr. Mustard’s background: from North & cities to rural family practice

00:05:00 – Recruitment then & now: persistence of colleagues, team-based care models

00:07:00 – The rise of interdisciplinary rural clinics & why young docs want them

00:09:00 – Surprises: rural diversity, social connectedness & true “cradle-to-grave” care

00:10:30 – Personal adjustment: physician vs. spouse’s path to community involvement

00:12:30 – Defining wellness in the country: nature, balance & social ties

00:14:30 – Encouraging patients: hobbies, exercise & mid-day routines to connect locally

00:16:00 – Available services: team clinics, allied health & local specialists

00:19:00 – Comprehensive care: palliative support & family involvement

00:21:00 – Access tips: attaching to clinics, virtual care options & emergency fallback

00:23:00 – Evolution of primary care: chronic disease, EMRs & an aging population

00:24:30 – Doctor-patient bonds: confidentiality, rewards & community trust

00:26:00 – Dr. Mustard’s self-care: gardening, screened porch zen & travel adventures

00:28:30 – Closing thoughts & call for listener questions

00:30:00 – Outro: follow, consult professionals & stay tuned for more rural insights

Notable Quotes

“Social connectedness is a huge determinant of health.”

“There’s almost a spiritual connection to nature that people develop.”

Key Takeaways

1. Embrace Team-Based Care: Seek attachment to local interdisciplinary clinics—physicians, NPs, social workers, dieticians—sooner rather than later.
2. Leverage Nature: Encorporate outdoor activities—gardening, biking, mindful walks—to boost mental and physical wellness.
3. Build Community: Join hobby groups, volunteer committees or local events to accelerate social connectedness.
4. Own Your Care: Family doctors in rural areas often manage chronic conditions you’d otherwise see specialists for—empower yourself with regular check-ins and open dialogue.
5. Plan Ahead: Understand your local healthcare network—virtual options, allied services, emergency protocols—to navigate care seamlessly.

Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:

Facebook: Diana Cassidy-Bush, Sales Representative Royal LePage ProAlliance Realty | Tweed ON

Instagram:

In this episode of The Country Club Podcast, 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 hybrid approach 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.

Timestamps

00:00 – 01:00 | Welcome & Podcast Introduction

01:00 – 04:00 | Listener Question: Balancing Lifestyle & Investment for Recreational Properties (the “Hybrid Approach”)

04:00 – 05:00 | Topic Overview: Building Community & Connection Beyond the City

05:00 – 07:00 | Step 1: Identify Your Interests—From gardening and wellness to sports and culture

07:00 – 09:00 | Step 2: Engage in Local Activities—Farmer’s markets, craft fairs, hiking groups, sports leagues

09:00 – 10:00 | Step 3: Leverage Local Businesses—Coffee shops, hardware stores, pubs as community hubs

10:00 – 12:00 | Step 4: Show Up & Be Consistent—Volunteer groups, seasonal events, being a familiar face

12:00 – 13:00 | Step 5: Embrace Rural Culture—Adopt the slower pace, join Facebook community groups, attend fundraisers

13:00 – 14:00 | Call to Action & How to Send in Your Questions

14:00 – 15:00 | Outro: Subscribe, Follow & Final Thoughts

Valuable Resources & Key Takeaways

Hybrid Approach Checklist

• Weeks per year you’ll use the property personally
• Income needed to cover costs or break even
• Seasonal calendar mapping (personal, family, friends, guest bookings)

Community Engagement Roadmap

• Interest Inventory: List hobbies, passions & family needs
• Activity Audit: Research local events, clubs, volunteer groups
• Business Partnerships: Introduce yourself to local shop owners & baristas

Action Steps

• Volunteer
• Attend weekly social gatherings: card nights, fitness classes, sports leagues
• Host your own meet-up: coffee chat, potluck dinner, nature walk

Digital & Social Tools

• Join community Facebook groups for event updates
• Follow local business Instagram pages for pop-up markets
• Use Nextdoor or local forums to announce meet-ups

Mindset Shift

• Commit to consistency—attend at least one event per week
• Say “yes” to invitations, even if outside your comfort zone
• Embrace every interaction as a seed for deeper connections

Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush

Linked In:

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.

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.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome to The Country Club Podcast

01:00 – Listener question: renovating waterfront property

02:00 – Why we weren’t taught wealth-building in school

03:00 – Traditional investing vs. real estate investing

05:00 – It’s not either/or—diversify your wealth strategy

06:00 – The importance of timing and calculated risk

08:00 – Viewing your home as an investment

09:30 – Why your REALTOR® is your most valuable advisor

11:00 – Building your investment team

11:30 – Real estate investment niches explained

12:30 – Land investing strategies

14:00 – Residential and commercial property options

15:00 – House hacking vs. house flipping

16:00 – Buy and hold: what it means and why it works

17:00 – The BRRRR method and refinancing for growth

18:00 – Passive income through rentals

19:30 – Short-term rentals and regulation considerations

21:00 – Final thoughts: start the conversation, build your future

Notable Quotes:

“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.”

“Real estate investing isn’t a solo sport. Build your team. Start with a REALTOR® who walks the walk.”

“It’s not about get-rich-quick—it’s about being informed, strategic, and aligned with your life goals.”

“The right property in the right market, with the right team, can absolutely change your financial future.”

Resources & Takeaways:

• Diversification is key: Real estate should complement—not replace—traditional investments.
• Work with professionals: Your real estate advisor is as critical as your financial planner.
• Know your strategy: From BRRRR to house hacking to raw land holding, each path has pros and cons.
• Timing matters: The best opportunities often arise when the market feels uncertain.
• Start with what you have: Your own home, cottage, or rental could be your first wealth-building asset.

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:

In this refreshingly real and inspiring episode of The Country Club Podcast, 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.

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.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome to the Country Club Podcast

01:10 – Listener Q&A: Conditional offers & getting your deposit back

02:45 – Setting the scene: Why cottage life is so magical in Canada

04:30 – Nicolee’s personal journey to cottage ownership

06:00 – The surprise realities of owning a recreational property

08:15 – Why a property manager might be a must

09:20 – Financing a cottage vs a primary home: What’s different?

11:10 – What lenders look for in cottage properties

13:30 – Affordability, alternative lenders & B-20 regulations

16:40 – Unique properties, HELOCs, and mortgage strategy

20:00 – The truth about Airbnb and short-term rentals

24:30 – Documentation & pre-approval tips to save your sanity

28:00 – Credit scores, mortgage partners & being prepared

32:00 – Why communication between your real estate team matters

33:50 – Top 3 tips before making an offer on a cottage

35:30 – The emotional & lifestyle value of a family retreat

38:00 – Cottage ownership as a long-term investment

40:30 – Nicolee’s advice to her past self: Take your time & do your research

42:00 – Final thoughts: Cottage life isn’t “set it and forget it”—but it’s worth it

Notable Quotes:

"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

"Eyes wide open: that’s how you make smart, soulful real estate decisions." – Nicolee Evans

"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

Resources & Takeaways:

Key Takeaways:

• Be Realistic About Financing: Secondary properties often require a bigger down payment and different lending rules. Speak to a mortgage pro early.
• Plan for Property Maintenance: Seasonal wear-and-tear, distance, and utility quirks are all part of cottage ownership.
• Know Your Lending Types: From A-lenders to B-lenders to private financing and HELOC strategies, the structure can make or break your deal.
• Don’t Rely on Rental Income: Airbnb income can’t always be counted on for financing and adds layers of complexity with insurance and zoning.
• Start the Conversation Early: Your mortgage and real estate team can help you build a plan—even if you're not ready yet.

Learn more: https://www.laframboisemortgage.ca/

Connect with Diana Cassidy-Bush:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianaCassidyBushRealEstate/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianacassidybush

Linked In:

Thinking about buying a cottage? Before you dive headfirst into lake life, this episode of The Country Club Podcast is your essential pre-purchase checklist. Host Diana Cassidy-Bush walks you through 9 must-ask questions to clarify your vision, assess your needs, and align your dreams with your budget and lifestyle.

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.

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome to The Country Club Podcast

01:15 – Why a financing condition still matters even with pre-approval

02:30 – Cottage dreams & why Canadians are craving waterfront living

04:00 – The real reason lakefront lots are in such short supply

05:15 – Question 1: What kind of water activities matter to your family?

08:00 – Question 2: How far are you willing to travel from home?

09:00 – Question 3: What’s your realistic budget?

09:45 – Question 4: Do you need a 4-season or 3-season cottage?

10:30 – Question 5: How accessible should the cottage be year-round?

11:45 – Question 6: What kind of views and terrain do you want?

12:45 – Question 7: What local amenities matter to you?

13:45 – Question 8: What does the ideal cottage interior look like?

15:00 – Question 9: Are you buying for family, retirement, or rental income?

16:15 – Wrap up: Why clarity is the first step to living your lakefront dream

Notable Quotes

“Most every waterfront property you see already has a structure on it. Finding a true building lot on the water is incredibly rare.”

“Cottages aren’t just properties—they’re part of our national identity.”

“It’s not about what’s trendy or what your neighbor has. It’s about defining your version of lake life.”

“Keep your paddles in the water and your dreams on the dock.”

Key Takeaways & Resources

• Supply is Limited: Most lakefront land was developed decades ago, so building lots are rare.
• Lifestyle First: Decide on boating, paddling, fishing, or peace and quiet — it defines your lake options.
• Access Matters: Think year-round roads vs. seasonal accessibility and how that impacts use.
• Budget Realism: Cottage dreams range wildly in price depending on region, size, and features.
• Multi-Use Options: Buy for family time, retirement, or as a rental investment — each path has pros and cons.

Resource Mentioned:

• Royal LePage Recreational Property Survey (Spring) – Cited to note the forecasted 4% price increase in recreational properties.

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:

Buying your first home can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to be. In this episode of The Country Club Podcast, 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.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Welcome to The Country Club Podcast & Episode Intro

[01:00] Changing the Narrative Around Homeownership

[03:00] Why Real Estate Is Still the Best Investment

[04:30] Facing Obstacles with the Right Team

[05:45] The Importance of Preparation—even Years in Advance

[06:30] Step 1: Choose a Real Estate Professional

[07:15] Step 2: Connect with a Lender & Get Pre-Approved

[08:30] Step 3: Set Up Home Search with Your Realtor

[09:00] Step 4: Viewing Homes & Making an Offer

[10:00] Understanding Conditions: Financing, Inspections & Insurance

[11:30] What to Expect During Offer Negotiation

[13:00] Firming Up the Sale & What Happens Next

[14:30] Preparing for Closing: Lawyers, Insurance, Utilities

[16:30] Final Walkthrough & Closing Day Logistics

[17:30] Recap, Encouragement, and What’s Ahead

“Real estate really is the best investment in the world. Why? Because we all need shelter.”

“Every market has obstacles—but they’re temporary. With the right team, you can face anything.”

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!

In this episode of The Country Club Podcast, 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.

Connect with Alana https://alanadelongmortgageteam.com/

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction

[00:02:40] Alana’s background and experience

[00:03:45] The resurgence of first-time home buyers in 2025

[00:04:30] Step one: Why pre-approval is critical

[00:05:45] Financial habits to build before buying

[00:06:30] What if you’re not ready yet? Alana’s guidance

[00:07:45] Mistakes to avoid after pre-approval

[00:08:30] Budgeting for homeownership and unexpected costs

[00:09:30] New 2025 programs and benefits for first-time buyers

[00:10:45] Land transfer tax exemption details

[00:12:00] Insight on current and predicted interest rates

[00:13:45] Fixed vs. variable rates explained

[00:15:00] Impact of inflation and tariff talk on rates

[00:16:00] Renewals, refinancing, and managing credit

[00:17:30] The emotional side of helping first-time buyers

[00:18:15] Final advice and why it’s never too early to start

[00:20:00] Ways to get creative with qualifying for a mortgage

Notable Quotes:

"Don’t go house shopping without a mortgage pre-approval—it’s like showing up at the airport without a plane ticket." – Alana DeLong

"Just because you're not ready today doesn’t mean you can’t start preparing for tomorrow." – Diana Cassidy-Bush

Resources & Mentions:

• First Home Savings Account (FHSA): Government of Canada FHSA Overview
• CMHC Mortgage Insurance Info: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca
• Ontario Land Transfer Tax Refund for First-Time Homebuyers: https://www.ontario.ca/page/land-transfer-tax
• Credit Building Tips: Contact a local financial advisor or Alana DeLong for guidance on secured credit cards and budgeting

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....

In this debut episode of The Country Club Podcast, 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.

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] – Welcome to The Country Club Podcast: Introducing the show and its focus on rural living, real estate, and lifestyle.

[00:02:00] – The power of goal setting: Why some people achieve their dreams while others struggle.

[00:03:00] – Defining goal setting: Applying it to different aspects of life.

[00:04:00] – The importance of writing goals down: Research-backed insight on how it increases the chances of success by 42%.

[00:05:00] – Creating an action plan: Steps to move towards your goal effectively.

[00:06:00] – Practical strategies: How to stay committed and make progress.

[00:07:00] – Overcoming obstacles: How to tackle fear, procrastination, and comparison.

[00:08:00] – Inspirational quotes and motivation: Words of wisdom from successful figures.

[00:09:00] – Homework challenge: Writie down one goal and takie the first step.

[00:10:00] – Closing thoughts and encouragement: Stay consistent, keep moving forward, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations.

Notable Quotes:

“You don’t need to see the whole staircase; you just need to take the first step.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

“Winners are not people who never fail, but people who never quit.”

“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

“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” – Mary Oliver

Connect with Diana:

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!