Danforth Community Podcast

Vicki's Journey to Granny BasketballVicki, an Anglo-Quebecker originally from Thetford Mines, shared her journey from growing up in the eastern townships to moving to Ontario, attending Ryerson University, and eventually settling in Toronto after a 20-year stint in Barbados. She discussed her return to Toronto in 2014 and her rediscovery of basketball, leading her to join the Toronto Chill Granny Basketball team, which practices at Eastminster United Church on the Danforth and supports the Out of the Cold program. Despite previous injuries, Vicki's passion for the game persisted, and she found a new community through Granny Basketball, which she learned about through social media.Granny Basketball League Rules OverviewVicky explained the rules of Granny Basketball League, a 6-on-6 basketball game for women 50 and older played in zones with no shot clock and limited dribbles to make it safer for older players. Paul shared his experience with adapting to less intense sports as he aged, and both discussed how the league provides an opportunity for older women to continue playing basketball in a modified, safer format.Granny Basketball League Charitable EffortsVicky described her experience with the Granny Basketball League, which has been operating in the United States for 25 years with 55 teams, primarily in the Midwest. She explained that the league brings women of various ages and skill levels together for friendly competition, community building, and physical activity. Vicky also highlighted the league's charitable efforts, having raised over $8,000 for the Out of the Cold program at Eastminster Church. While no specific date was set for the next charity game, Vicky mentioned that details would be shared on their Facebook and Instagram pages.Granny Basketball Program OverviewVicky and Paul discussed the concept of "Granny Basketball," a program designed to allow older adults to continue playing basketball in a modified, lower-impact format. Vicky explained that the program provides a safe and warm environment for participants, particularly on cold nights. Paul shared his experience with similar sports programs and emphasized the importance of allowing people to continue doing what they love as they age. They also discussed the logistics of the program, including practice schedules and upcoming games against other basketball leagues. Vicky provided her email address for interested participants to reach out.Granny Basketball League Expansion PlansVicky discussed the Toronto Chill, the only Canadian team in the Granny Basketball League, which promotes fitness and community through basketball for women over 50. She shared their recent activities, including a visit from a team from Wisconsin and plans for a "Learn to Play" event in Etobicoke on December 9th. Vicky expressed interest in expanding the league to other communities and encouraged listeners to visit grannybasketball.com for more information. Paul appreciated Vicky's passion and commitment, noting that her enthusiasm would likely attract a wide audience for the podcast episode.Podcasting Strategy and Media EngagementVicky and Paul discussed the recording of a podcast episode, with Vicky expressing gratitude for the opportunity. Paul advised Vicky on the importance of maintaining media presence without over-sharing, comparing it to the art of storytelling. They agreed that the podcast would allow for ongoing engagement with listeners, unlike traditional media which quickly becomes outdated. Paul shared his experience with media interviews and his decision to start podcasting in 2018, noting how the medium gained widespread popularity during COVID-19.Podcast Collaboration for Community StoriesPaul and Vicky discussed the growing popularity of podcasts, with Vicky expressing interest in highlighting local community stories, including her work at Eastminster Church and the Out of the Cold program. Paul offered to promote these stories through his podcast and social media channels, emphasizing the potential for exponential growth in exposure. They agreed to stay in touch for future collaborations, with Paul committing to share the podcast episode once it's ready.

Lest we forget....With Remembrance Day coming up this week, I thought this would be a fitting tribute to those who have sacrificed everything for our freedom.Especially since East York has such a strong connection to WW2. This is the true story of the only WW2 battle that was fought on Canadian soil.

Here is the ULTIMATE report for home owners in the Danforth, Beach and Leslieville areas. A recap of the biggest and best sold stories from July to Sept 2025. Do NOT list your home for sale until you hear this and find out what the biggest sold stories have in common. Sign up NOW for your customized report.

Marion, a long-time Danforth resident, discussed the upcoming East Toronto Handmade Market, an annual show and sale of unique handcrafted pieces by local artists from the area stretching from Eglinton to Woodbine and beyond. She highlighted the diverse range of art, including pottery, woodwork, detailed drawings of Toronto neighborhoods, paintings, and designer fashion accessories, created by both professional artists and hobbyists. Marion expressed her joy in pursuing art in retirement and emphasized the event's goal of showcasing local talent at an affordable price.This free community event is scheduled for Saturday, November 15 from 11:00am to 4:00 pm, at the Church of the Resurrection, 1100 Woodbine Avenue.  Featuring 13 East Toronto artists and makers participating.  Full details can be found on our Facebook Event page.

Need a locally made gift basket? This is the only contact you need. Reach out via IG. 

Meet Sandra. A local resident and also a Certified Sustainable Building Advisor. Enjoy the show. 

A recent survey conducted by HOOPP and Abacus Data reveals that a significant majority of unretired Canadians do not expect to reach a financial position allowing for full retirement, with many anticipating the need to work even after retiring. This sentiment is largely attributed to rising living costs, housing affordability issues, and inflation. The article also points to a disconnect between employers' perceptions of retirement support and employees' actual expectations, suggesting that while employers believe they offer sufficient assistance, employees often disagree. Homeownership emerges as a key factor in retirement preparedness, with homeowners generally more likely to have saved for retirement compared to non-homeowners, who face greater financial strain, particularly renters. Geopolitical events also contribute to financial decisions, prompting some Canadians to increase their savings due to global instability.For the best possible advantage for those 50+, the VIP Retirement Club is here to help. Think of this as having your own retirement personal trainer. Someone who has been able to help his clients retire years sooner due to a specialized approach to real estate marketing. Sign up now and join the family. 

Excited to share the history behind the Milverton Art Walk. Join me today is Gordon, a former corporate marketer and musician, about the Milverton Art Walk. Gordon explains that the event, now in its fifth year, has grown from 3-4 houses to 20 artists across 3 blocks of Milverton. The art walk showcases a variety of creative talents, including painters, photographers, and sculptors, with the goal of fostering community and artistic expression rather than sales. Paul notes the historical significance of Milverton as the former city limits of Toronto and expresses appreciation for the event's contribution to the local cultural scene. For the video version, click here.

Here is the latest update to one of the most requested programs I have created. Renovation Bootcamp was designed to give you the best possible info on what to know BEFORE hiring anyone for a renovation. For more info, here is the invite link. 

Welcome to my community business podcast series. If you are looking for a great martial arts program in or near the Danforth, look no further. Danforth Karate Academy is the place to go. 

Welcome to the Handwork Department. This is one of the most unique vintage and antique shops in all of Ontario. And its right here on the Danforth. Hope you enjoy the small business podcast promos here. Share them with others you know that may need one. 

Meeting the people in your community is essential to knowing the area. That is why I have tried to meet with every local business owner I can. Today, I meet with Peter. Owner of the Danforth Karate Academy. Enjoy the show! 

This house is now SOLD!  A big moment in local history. First time this home has sold in 24 years! Although its no longer available, its story will go on for many more years.Does YOUR home have a great story to tell? Sign up now for your updated home value report to get started.

Happy Spring season to all. As part of my regular updates, I take you behind the scenes of what is happening in the world of real estate. For the full scoop, be sure to join the 1000s that are part of the Danforth Neighbourhood News & Real Estate Club.