Money Made Better

In this special episode, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Libro CEO Shawn Good to discuss the proposed merger between Kawartha Credit Union and Libro Credit Union. They explore why now is the moment to grow stronger – together. From shared values and purpose-driven decisions to scaling impact across Ontario, this conversation unpacks what the merger means, why it matters, and how it will create more opportunity for Members and Owners, and what it means to be part of a credit union that’s built for this moment – and ready for the future.

In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett talks with Peter May, co-owner of Maitland Valley Grotto, and Libro Relationship Manager Patrick Donnelly. From an idea sketched on a napkin to a thriving climbing gym, Peter shares his leap from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, and Patrick highlights how Libro helps small businesses grow. Together, they explore what it means to just jump into business ownership and highlights the research, networking, and courage it takes to turn vision into reality. Whether you’re dreaming of your first venture or looking to expand, this conversation will inspire you to take the leap.

Starting a business is never easy – add a global pandemic, and you're facing the ultimate test of resilience. In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Lisa Owens, owner of Resolute Wellness in Ayr, Ontario, and Libro Small Business Specialist Prema A. Lisa shares her journey of navigating uncertainty, transitioning to a sole proprietorship, and making the switch to Libro for values-aligned business banking. From starting strong and staying resolute, Lisa not only weathered the storm but began dreaming even bigger. Together, they explore what it takes to build a business grounded in community, resilience, and resourcefulness.

Host Lynzee Barnett is joined by Shawn Good, President & CEO of Libro Credit Union, for a timely conversation on navigating change and making confident financial decisions in uncertain times.As Canadians face economic shifts, global pressures, and outdated financial systems, Shawn explores why now is the time to rethink who we trust with our money. From supporting local businesses to advocating for open banking and “Made-in-Canada” solutions, this episode unpacks what it means to choose a financial partner that shares your values — and why that alignment matters now more than ever.

Thinking about buying your first home? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out on your own either. In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with YOUR #HomeSweetHome 519 REALTOR® Krystal Lee Moore, Real Estate Broker and Home Financing Advisor Shannon Higgins to walk through the homebuying journey, from the moment you start thinking about ownership to the day you get the keys. Together, they offer a realistic look at what you can afford, how to navigate today’s market, and why being informed gives first-time buyers a competitive edge. From getting pre-approved and building a realistic budget to understanding how post-purchase decisions can affect your credit, this episode is packed with insights to help reduce stress and increase your confidence as you make one of life’s biggest decisions.

In celebration of Earth Month 2025, join us as we explore how sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand for local businesses. Host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Kaitlin Creighton from Green Economy London, a key partner helping businesses measure and reduce their environmental impact, and Will Heeman of Heeman’s—a family-run business and proud Libro Owner—who shares the inspiring journey of implementing green initiatives that benefit both the planet and the bottom line. Whether you're just starting your sustainability journey or looking to take the next step, this episode offers practical insights, real-world examples, and encouragement to act.Background information:London Environmental Network (LEN): The London Environmental Network (LEN) is an environmental charitable organization based in London, Ontario, Canada. The LEN helps to protect our environment and build a more sustainable city by offering environmental programs and climate action opportunities for all residents. Green Economy London (A LEN program) is a chapter of the national Green Economy Canada network. Green Economy Canada engages with businesses to transform the economy. Acronyms and definitions: Greenwashing: the act or practice of making a product, policy, activity, etc. appear to be more environmentally friendly or less environmentally damaging than it really is. Greenhouse Gases (GHGs): Greenhouse gases are gases in the earth's atmosphere that trap heat.

Skip the embarrassment—it’s time to talk money! Feeling overwhelmed by debt, struggling to stick to a savings plan, or unsure how to grow your wealth? Fear not! Paul McQueen, VP Wealth Management at Libro Credit Union, joins podcast host Lynzee Barnett in studio to share actionable insights that simplify getting started with savings and investments. *The promotions discussed in this episode are limited-time offers and subject to terms and conditions. Please visit Libro.ca to view active offers and associated legal pages for full details. Mutual funds and other securities are offered through Aviso Wealth, a division of Aviso Financial Inc.

Find out why Mitchell Avis, founder of Avision Planning, made the leap to Libro. Join host Lynzee Barnett as she chats with Mitchell and Jamie Lauckner, Investment Specialist at Libro, about how banking with a credit union is more than just transactions. It’s about values, relationships, and making a difference in your business and community. Hear Mitchell’s inspiring story to build stronger Indigenous futures and find out why his wife jokes about how much time he spends at the bank!

Looking for an alternative to traditional banking? Credits unions could be the answer you've been looking for. President and CEO of Libro Credit Union Shawn Good joins the show to talk about a survey result that reveal credit union members often having better financial and overall wellness.

Finding that perfect holiday gift can be challenging, especially for those people ‘who have it all’. Host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Trip Producer from Guess Where Trips, Hannah Elias and Purpose and Integration Specialist with a focus on Climate, Bianca Rocha and discusses some sustainable gift options while supporting local this holiday season. Resources: Meaningful Market 2023 | Pillar Nonprofit NetworkPillar Nonprofit NetworkCanadian Certified B Corporation Directory - Home Page (bcorpdirectory.ca)Guess Where Trips – Guess Where Trips®

Having "the talk" with your kids – about money – can be especially tough if you're not an expert yourself! This Financial Literacy Month, Lynzee Barnett invites Karen Gallant, President and CEO of Junior Achievement South Western Ontario and Regional Manager, Scott Macleod at Libro Credit Union to share the importance of building financial literacy – developing the right mindset and attitude towards money and why it’s important to start young.

October is small business month, and we know small business are the foundation of our communities. Lynzee Barnett sits down with Small Business Specialist Hillary Desmond and Think HR business Owner Emily to talk about taking the leap into being a small business owner and building relationships within the community.

Libro has strong roots in southwestern Ontario agriculture — it’s where we started. Lynzee sits down with Ag Specialist, Matt Aarts to dive into a farmer's world and the progressive farming industry with exciting advancements in science and technology that are positively impacting the environment, maximize food production and ensuring we all have access to good nutritious food.

An open forum with Libro’s President and CEO, Shawn Good. Lynzee and Shawn dive into different topics from open banking, to why people have fear and shame attached to their finances, and how credit unions really contribute to healthy economy and healthy businesses.

Buying your first home can send you on an emotional rollercoaster! In this episode of the Money Made Better Podcast, Libro Owners Aaron and Nadine share what their experience was like buying their first home in the height of the pandemic, and what it was like working with a Libro expert through the whole process.

Wondering what it takes to boost your credit score? What impact do credit cards have and how many cards are too many? Building good credit can be a challenge if you don’t know where to start – especially if you’ve never had a credit card before. This episode of the Money Made Better Podcast takes a look at getting your first card and how to set you up for success.

Yooli - what is it? And how can it help you? Tapping a credit card, or having pre-payments set up (think Netflix or Amazon Prime) has become the norm, but how much money are you actually spending on these things monthly? Yooli can answer all those questions and provide insights on how you can save more and spend less!

Libro is a co-operative. That means our Owners not only get a share of our business, but get a seat at the table with decision making. In this episode, we’ll talk about our democracy and our unique Governance structure.

Welcome to Libro Credit Union's first podcast episode! March is Fraud Prevention Month, and on this episode we'll chat with London Police about some popular scams targeting youth. Social media has made it easy for scammers to find targets. Listen to find out some tips on how to avoid falling for a scam, or if you've been the target of a scam, the next steps you can take.