More and more high-income Canadians are finding themselves under financial pressure. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos examine the shift they are seeing firsthand and challenge some common assumptions about who struggles with debt.

They discuss how rising costs, borrowing capacity, and income complexity can quietly change financial outcomes, even for people who appear financially secure. Subscribe to the Debt Free Digest Newsletter Here – Don't Miss the Chance to Win a Copy of The Wealthy Barber Book! CPI Data Statistics Canada Debt Free in 30: What's Breaking Canadian Consumers' Budgets?

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Free Budgeting Workbook – Hoyes Michalos Debt Relief Calculator 01:10 – The myth of the "typical" insolvency filer 05:10 – Rising share of higher-income insolvency filings 07:20 – Inflation and rising living costs 09:40 – Housing costs, mortgages, and payment shock 12:00 – Lifestyle creep and fixed-cost stacking 14:30 – Variable income vs fixed monthly obligations 16:40 – Easy access to credit and leverage loops 21:30 – High income vs real cash-flow health 23:40 – When refinancing and balance transfers fail 27:20 – Practical next steps for high earners in trouble Disclaimer: The information provided in the Debt Free in 30 Podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not intended as personal financial advice. Individual financial situations vary and may require personal guidance from a financial professional. The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Hoyes, Michalos & Associates, or any other affiliated organizations. We do not endorse or guarantee the effectiveness of any specific financial institutions, strategies, or digital tools/apps discussed.