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: