Community Game Plan

In this episode, Jim and Eric kick off the new year by doing something a little different. Rather than sitting down with a single guest, they look back on the first full year of the Community Game Plan podcast — reflecting on the conversations, community stories, and moments that shaped the show so far.
This special supercut episode highlights some of the best clips from the past year, touching on everything from grassroots sports and inclusion to community leadership, coaching, housing, transportation, and the people working quietly behind the scenes to make Nova Scotia stronger. Along the way, Jim and Eric talk candidly about growth — both personally and professionally — what they’ve learned from the community, and how feedback from listeners continues to shape the direction of the podcast.
They also tease what’s ahead: a growing team, new voices, evolving formats, and some fresh ideas (including hotter hot takes) as the podcast moves into its next chapter.
Whether you’ve been listening since Episode 1 or you’re just tuning in now, this episode is a great snapshot of where the Community Game Plan started, how it’s grown, and where it’s headed next.

In this episode, Eric is joined in studio by producer Colin for a powerful conversation that shines a light on one of Halifax’s most impactful — and often overlooked — community organizations. Together, they sit down with Jamie Matthews, Executive Director of Veith House, along with Jackie Lockie, to explore what it truly means to be a community hub in the heart of the city’s North End.
Jamie breaks down the wide-reaching work Veith House does every day — from food security and urban farming to youth programming, newcomer support, and inclusive spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. The conversation highlights how decades of grassroots effort, partnerships, and volunteer-driven programs help people meet basic needs while fostering dignity, belonging, and connection.
Eric, Colin, and Jim also reflect on how many “hidden gems” like Veith House exist across Nova Scotia — quietly doing essential work — and why sharing these stories matters now more than ever.
Whether you’re passionate about community building, curious about what a true community hub looks like, or looking for meaningful ways to get involved locally, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a reminder of the power of people helping people.
👉 Learn more about Veith House, their programs, and how to support their work:https://veithhouse.com

In this episode, Jim and Eric kick off an early morning recording (coffee in hand!) with two inspiring guests who are literally driving change across Nova Scotia — Jesse Guarino and Ronnie Murray from MusGo Rider Co-operative Limited.
Jesse and Ronnie share how this community-run transportation service is bridging the gap for residents along the Eastern Shore and Musquodoboit Valley — providing safe, affordable, and eco-friendly rides for those who need them most. From switching to electric vehicles powered by solar energy to ensuring seniors and people with mobility challenges can get to appointments, MusGo Rider is proving that compassion and sustainability can travel the same road.
Jim and Eric also reflect on the importance of community-driven solutions and how rural areas often rely on creativity and cooperation to stay connected. Whether you’re passionate about sustainable living, rural advocacy, or just love hearing stories about Nova Scotians helping Nova Scotians, this episode will hit home.
👉 Learn more or book a ride at www.musgorider.ruralrides.ca

In this episode, Jim and Eric welcome their first in-studio guest — Colin Oldrieve, insurance broker with Cluett Insurance and lifelong community builder. From his early football days at Saint Mary’s University (where he helped win two national championships!) to his years coaching youth teams and volunteering locally, Colin shares how teamwork and mentorship shape not only athletes but entire communities.
The conversation goes beyond the field, diving into Cluett Insurance’s deep local roots. Colin gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how this Dartmouth-based, family-run brokerage continues to support community initiatives — from bake sales and backpack drives to Ronald McDonald House donations — all while staying proudly independent and local.
Jim and Eric also reflect on the value of small businesses that actually know your name and the importance of giving back where you live. Whether you’re passionate about sports, local business, or community leadership, this episode has something for everyone.
👉 Learn more about Cluett Insurance and their community work: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16tCfgQCa7/?mibextid=wwXIfr

In this episode, Jim and Eric open up about their own backgrounds as military kids before diving into an important conversation with Jackie Lockie, Branch Manager at CUA’s Lady Hammond Road location. Jackie introduces the Military Family Banking Program, a tailored initiative that recognizes the unique challenges military families face—from frequent relocations to sudden deployments—and offers real financial support. From waived fees and mortgage penalty relief to no-down-payment and cash-back options, she explains how CUA is helping military families build stability in the midst of constant change.
Along the way, Jackie shares her own story as a military spouse and financial planner, giving real insight into why these programs matter so deeply. Jim and Eric also reflect on growing up in military households and how that shaped their sense of community and resilience.
Whether you’re part of a military family yourself, supporting one, or just want to better understand the sacrifices behind the service, this episode is packed with practical takeaways and heartfelt stories.
👉 Learn more about the CUA Military Family Banking Program here: CUA Military Family Banking Program on Facebook!

In this episode, Jim and Eric dive into the future of sport in Nova Scotia with two inspiring guests. First up, they chat with Marvin Okello from the Canadian Sport Institute Atlantic. Marvin shares his journey and the impact of two groundbreaking programs—the New Canadian Coaching Support Program and the Black and Indigenous Coaching Mentorship Program—both designed to strengthen diversity, inclusion, and leadership in coaching across the province.
Then, the conversation shifts to grassroots soccer with Ollie, Director of Soccer at Suburban FC. Ollie talks about the club’s deep community ties, the growth of soccer in HRM, and how Suburban is building inclusive programs while preparing players for opportunities from local fields to League One Atlantic.
Whether you’re passionate about coaching, curious about growing the game at the community level, or just love hearing how sports bring people together, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration!

In this episode, Jim and Eric dive into two local stories that blend community support with business success.
First, they sit down with representatives from CUA (Credit Union Atlantic) to talk about how this community-based financial institution is helping Nova Scotians take control of their finances. From approachable banking to personalized service, CUA shares why people are rethinking their relationship with money.
Next up is Brett from Fasco, a local distributor with a cool connection - quite literally. Brett sheds light on the HVAC industry, partnerships with Hisense, and what it takes to keep Atlantic Canadians comfortable all year round.
From money management to home climate control, this episode is full of practical advice and great stories from people making a difference.Learn more about our guests:CUA: Facebook | cua.comFasco: fascodistribution.com | hisensecomfort.com

In this episode, Jim and Eric keep the conversation going, joined by two inspiring guests. First up, they chat with Linda, a former mortgage broker, to get her perspective on breaking into the real estate world. From her early experiences to her advice for newcomers, Linda shares practical tips and some real talk about what it takes to succeed.
Then, the episode shifts gears to highlight local sports. Chris, leader of the Dartmouth Pigdogs Rugby Club, joins the show to talk about the power of grassroots sports and how local clubs like his keep the community strong. Hear about the camaraderie, challenges, and the ways you can support local teams in your own backyard.
Whether you're dreaming of getting your real estate license or just want to support local sports, this episode’s packed with valuable insights!Tune in to learn more!

One way to really get to know your community is coaching a kids sport in your neighbourhood!Eric and Jim are both coaches in their community. In this episode they chat about the United Dartmouth Football Club (UDFC) which is a thriving soccer organization in Nova Scotia, known for its community-focused initiatives and inclusive programs. The club, formed by merging four smaller clubs in 2018, boasts a diverse membership and a strong sense of loyalty across generations. UDFC offers various programs, including "quiet soccer" for neurodivergent kids and partnerships with Special Olympics and the Halifax Wanderers. The club also supports women's soccer through initiatives like the She Can Coach program and community events. UDFC emphasizes accessibility, community engagement, and continuous improvement, inviting feedback and involvement from its members and the broader community.Tune in to learn more

Thinking of getting into real estate?This episode your hosts Jim and Eric chat about the challenges and benefits of becoming a real estate agent. They discuss the high costs involved, including the $3,000 NSAR course, $615 licensing fee, and annual expenses like E&O insurance and NSAR membership. They emphasize the importance of interviewing multiple brokerages to find the right fit, as different brokerages offer varying support and commission splits. They also make an exciting announcement. Tune in to learn more