BOOK A CALL WITH US NOW: https://www.controlandcompound.com/contact-us

Should you pay yourself through salary or dividends as a business owner in Canada?

On today's episode, Darren and Christina break down one of the most common questions entrepreneurs ask — and explain why the answer is about much more than just taxes.

They cover the real differences between salary and dividends, how each one impacts your corporation, personal taxes, CPP, lending ability, cash flow, investing, retirement planning, and long-term wealth, and why sometimes the smartest move is to leave more money inside the corporate structure.

They also discuss:

• how salary affects borrowing capacity

• why dividends offer more flexibility

• how tax integration works in Canada

• why pulling too much money out of your corporation can hurt long-term growth

• how holding companies and corporate-owned life insurance can play a role in tax-efficient wealth planning

If you're a Canadian business owner trying to make smarter decisions with your corporate dollars, this episode is a must-watch.

Show notes:

00:00 - Introduction

00:23 - Why this is one of the most common questions entrepreneurs ask

02:38 - What salary is and how it works inside a corporation

04:48 - The biggest advantage of salary: lending and borrowing power

06:43 - What dividends are and how they differ from salary

08:06 - The lending downside of dividend income

10:33 - Tax integration in Canada: why salary and dividends often net out similarly

13:27 - Why this decision affects retirement, cash flow, and long-term wealth

15:37 - The bigger mistake: taking too much money out of the corporation

21:00 - Sometimes the right answer is neither salary nor dividends

FIND US ON:

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/darren-mitchell-associates-inc/?viewAsMember=true

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. The information contained in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and is separate and apart from the wealth coach services provided by Darren Mitchell and Associates, Inc. To its qualified clients, Control and Compound Financial expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental or any other damages arising out of any individual's use of this podcast or the information in it.

The views expressed here are those of each participant and guests, and not necessarily those of or endorsed by Control and Compound Financial, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and their respective directors, shareholders, officers, or employees. For full disclosure, visit controland compound.com/podcast-media.

Most people think you start a second policy when you have more money. While that may be the case sometimes, there's so many other reasons why you can start a second, third, and maybe even a fourth policy!

On today's episode, Darren and Christina break down exactly when and why a second cash value life insurance policy makes sense. From max funding limits to corporate strategies, unexpected cash flow, and generational wealth planning, we walk through the real reasons people expand beyond their first policy.

If your first policy is doing what it's supposed to do, the next challenge isn't performance – it's capacity. This episode will help you understand how to recognize that moment, and how to build a system that grows with you, your business, and your family over time.

Show notes:

00:00 - Why a second policy becomes part of the conversation

01:23 - What clients realize after their first policy starts performing

02:09 - Why you can't just keep adding money to the same policy

03:00 - Reason #1: your first policy proved the concept works

04:10 - Reason #2: using a second policy for corporate retained earnings

05:37 - Reason #3: what to do when you come into extra money

07:16 - Reason #4: separating a workhorse policy from a legacy policy

09:08 - Reason #5: using spouse and family policies for estate planning

12:09 - Reason #6: insuring children for legacy and generational wealth

25:01 - 10 questions to ask before starting a second policy

FIND US ON:

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/darren-mitchell-associates-inc/?viewAsMember=true

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. The information contained in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and is separate and apart from the wealth coach services provided by Darren Mitchell and Associates, Inc. To its qualified clients, Control and Compound Financial expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental or any other damages arising out of any individual's use of this podcast or the information in it.

The views expressed here are those of each participant and guests, and not necessarily those of or endorsed by Control and Compound Financial, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and their respective directors, shareholders, officers, or employees. For full disclosure, visit controland compound.com/podcast-media.

BOOK A CALL WITH US NOW: https://www.controlandcompound.com/contact-us

What is Infinite Banking in Canada, and how do you know whether you're still at level 1.0 or ready for 2.0 and 3.0? On today's episode, Darren and Christina break down the real difference between using cash value life insurance in Canada for simple policy loans versus using it for wealth creation, retirement income, tax efficiency, and legacy planning.

They explain how Infinite Banking 1.0 is where most people start: borrowing against a properly structured policy for major purchases, liquidity, and better control over money. Then they move into Infinite Banking 2.0, where the strategy becomes a true wealth-building tool for Canadian business owners, real estate investors, and families who want to use policy liquidity to create assets, generate income, and multiply capital. Finally, they unpack Infinite Banking 3.0, where the conversation expands into tax-free retirement planning, estate planning, corporate planning, and leaving more to family instead of CRA.

If you've been researching Infinite Banking Canada, cash value life insurance, corporate-owned whole life insurance, or tax-free retirement strategies for Canadians, this episode gives a clear framework for understanding how the strategy can evolve from basic use to advanced planning.

If you're a Canadian business owner, investor, or family looking to understand how this strategy could fit into your financial plan, connect with the Control and Compound team.

Show notes:

0:00 - Intro: Infinite Banking 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0

0:48 - What most people get wrong about Infinite Banking

1:56 - Infinite Banking 1.0 explained

2:41 - Using policy loans for cars, debt, and short-term needs

4:05 - Why 1.0 builds discipline but not major wealth

4:49 - Infinite Banking 2.0: asset creation and compounding

5:14 - Using policy liquidity for real estate, business, and investing

6:15 - Building an opportunity fund and volatility buffer

8:09 - Infinite Banking 3.0: legacy, retirement, and estate planning

10:09 - Why tax-free liquidity at death matters

10:28 - Corporate-owned life insurance and the capital dividend account

12:00 - Why cash value can outperform traditional fixed-income buckets

14:06 - Retirement income, market volatility, and spending more confidently

17:09 - Why this is a major strategy for Canadian business owners

21:21 - Final recap: 1.0 vs 2.0 vs 3.0

Topics covered:

Infinite Banking Canada, cash value life insurance Canada, policy loans, uninterrupted compounding, corporate-owned life insurance, tax-free retirement, estate planning, retained earnings, retirement income planning, capital dividend account, legacy planning.

FIND US ON:

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/darren-mitchell-associates-inc/?viewAsMember=true

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. The information contained in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and is separate and apart from the wealth coach services provided by Darren Mitchell and Associates, Inc. To its qualified clients, Control and Compound Financial expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental or any other damages arising out of any individual's use of this podcast or the information in it.

The views expressed here are those of each participant and guests, and not necessarily those of or endorsed by Control and Compound Financial, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and their respective directors, shareholders, officers, or employees. For full disclosure, visit controland compound.com/podcast-media.

Yesterday was International Women's Day, and today we're continuing that celebration by spotlighting an incredible woman who is building businesses, creating impact, and empowering communities. In this special Entrepreneur Spotlight episode of Control and Compound, Christina sits down with Harleen Laroia.

Harleen, a visionary CEO, spearheads a renowned childcare and Montessori brand with twelve facilities in Ontario. Driven by her children's needs, she transitioned from the corporate world to founding her own childcare brand with a unique offering of Montessori and play-based under one roof. SimplySmart Childcares provide employment for over 235 people in Ontario, with 99.9% being women.

Inspired by her daughter's birth, Harleen ventured personally into taking care of her health and finally is the Director of the two OsteoStrong facilities in Oakville & Toronto. Here, she empowers individuals of all ages and fitness levels to enhance their bone health and overall well-being, aiming to defy age-related limitations.

Harleen's leadership embodies a deep commitment to promoting well-being and empowering individuals. Her journey reflects a passion for creating positive change personally and within communities.

Under Harleen's leadership, the Childcare & Montessori establishment sets a high standard for nurturing children and providing a robust educational foundation. Meanwhile, the Osteostrong facility serves as a symbol of prioritizing health and revolutionizing fitness ideologies. Harleen's vision transcends conventional norms, emphasizing inner strength and resilience. This facility accommodates individuals aiming to enhance bone health and physical capabilities, reflecting Harleen's holistic approach to well-being. Now she is embarking on an adventure in 2026 launching the Mura CircleTM which will enable us to become more conscious parents and aware of how we show up to raise the next generation and in our relationships.

In essence, Harleen's entrepreneurial journey, fueled by her children's needs and personal experiences, encompasses childcare, education, relationships and a dedication to holistic health, leaving a lasting impact on individuals and communities.

This episode dives into entrepreneurship, leadership, wellness, parenting, and legacy — and what real strength actually looks like in business and life. If you've ever faced self-doubt, struggled to balance career and family, or wondered what it takes to build something meaningful, this conversation will resonate.

Show notes:

00:00 - Introduction

00:22 - Meet Harleen Laroia and the story behind SimplySmart

01:16 - From corporate telecom career to entrepreneurship

02:03 - Building businesses from personal need

03:16 - The impact SimplySmart had on families and children

04:54- Leadership lessons from scaling multiple businesses

06:23 - Why empowerment and trust matter more than control

07:16 - Working on the business vs in the business

08:26 - The leadership structure that helped her scale

10:31 - Entrepreneurship, stress, and women's health

13:40 - Longevity vs healthspan and the importance of wellness

16:31 - Barriers women face in business

18:30 - Why successful leaders don't take things personally

20:02 - Overcoming self-doubt and investing in personal growth

26:56 - Mirror Circle and conscious parenting

31:43 - Lightning round + final leadership insights

FIND US ON:

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/darren-mitchell-associates-inc/?viewAsMember=true

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. The information contained in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and is separate and apart from the wealth coach services provided by Darren Mitchell and Associates, Inc. To its qualified clients, Control and Compound Financial expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental or any other damages arising out of any individual's use of this podcast or the information in it.

The views expressed here are those of each participant and guests, and not necessarily those of or endorsed by Control and Compound Financial, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and their respective directors, shareholders, officers, or employees. For full disclosure, visit controland compound.com/podcast-media.

BOOK A CALL WITH US NOW: https://www.controlandcompound.com/contact-us

Canada's economic future is becoming one of the most important conversations happening today. Rising government spending, persistent deficits, and growing debt are raising serious questions about long-term economic growth, investment, and tax policy.

On today's episode, Darren sits down with returning guest Jake Fuss, Director of Fiscal Studies at the Fraser Institute, to break down the big picture of Canada's economic trajectory. They discuss the real impact of affordability programs, government spending, deficits, and what Canada's rising debt could mean for businesses, investors, and everyday Canadians.

The conversation dives into topics like inflation pressures, business investment leaving Canada, regulatory barriers, and the potential tax implications if current fiscal trends continue.

Whether you're a business owner, investor, or simply someone trying to understand where Canada's economy may be headed, this episode provides critical context to help you make better financial decisions.

Show notes:

0:00 - Why Canada's Economic Future Should Worry You

1:28 - The New GST Credit: Will It Actually Help Canadians?

3:15 - Why Government Cash Payments Don't Fix Affordability

5:09 - Can Government Spending Cause Inflation?

6:26 - The Budget Trick: Operating vs Capital Spending

8:48 - Canada Is Running Massive Deficits… Outside a Recession

10:42 - What Happens When Deficits Become "Normal"

13:55 - Countries That Fixed Their Economies (Ireland & Estonia)

15:49 - Why Economists Measure Debt Per Person

17:12 - The Fiscal Turnaround Canada Pulled Off in the 1990s

19:22 - Why Businesses Are Investing Less in Canada

21:49 - The Biggest Economic Risks Facing Businesses Today

24:27 - Canada's Real Problem: Spending, Taxes, or Growth?

26:22 - The Biggest Economic Risk Facing Canada Right Now

27:04 - The Fiscal Myth Most Policymakers Believe

FIND US ON:

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/darren-mitchell-associates-inc/?viewAsMember=true

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. The information contained in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and is separate and apart from the wealth coach services provided by Darren Mitchell and Associates, Inc. To its qualified clients, Control and Compound Financial expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental or any other damages arising out of any individual's use of this podcast or the information in it.

The views expressed here are those of each participant and guests, and not necessarily those of or endorsed by Control and Compound Financial, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and their respective directors, shareholders, officers, or employees. For full disclosure, visit controland compound.com/podcast-media.

BOOK A CALL WITH US NOW: https://www.controlandcompound.com/contact-us

On the surface, things look stable. Inflation is near target. Rates are holding. The dollar isn't moving much. Markets aren't melting down.

But underneath? There are some real shifts happening.

On the March update, Darren and Christina talk about Canada's productivity problem, the growing imbalance between government and private sector jobs, real estate entering what we'd call a "pressure phase," and why Bitcoin's drop may not mean what people think it means.

They also dive into why Canada's market is outperforming the U.S. right now — and it has less to do with the economy than most people assume.

If you care about where the country is heading financially, this is an important one. Tune in now!

Show notes:

00:00 - Introduction

1:05 - Bank of Canada update

2:50 - Inflation news

3:45 - Canadian dollar update

5:10 - Stock market update

8:00 - Bitcoin update

11:10 - Real estate update

13:20 - Economic news

17:35 - Life insurance industry news

22:30 - Control and Compound news

24:20 - Podcast news

FIND US ON:

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound/

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/darren-mitchell-associates-inc/?viewAsMember=true

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. The information contained in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and is separate and apart from the wealth coach services provided by Darren Mitchell and Associates, Inc. To its qualified clients, Control and Compound Financial expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental or any other damages arising out of any individual's use of this podcast or the information in it.

The views expressed here are those of each participant and guests, and not necessarily those of or endorsed by Control and Compound Financial, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and their respective directors, shareholders, officers, or employees. For full disclosure, visit controland compound.com/podcast-media.

Most entrepreneurs believe working harder is the answer. More hours. More hustle. More grind. But what if the real breakthrough isn't doing more — it's doing less of the wrong things?

On today's episode, Darren and Christina break down Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell and explain how Canadian entrepreneurs can scale faster by delegating low-value tasks, focusing on $1,000–$10,000 activities, and building systems that create leverage. This one could change how you structure your entire week.

If you're an entrepreneur, this is a must watch!

Show notes:

00:00 - Introduction

00:40 - Who is Dan Martell

03:40 - Hustle vs systems

04:19 - The buyback principle explained

05:00 - CEO hourly rate formula

06:32 - 80% is good enough

07:53 - The buyback loop (Audit, Transfer, Fill)

08:10 - 15-minute time tracking

12:02 - Anything you track gets better

12:22 - Time value ladder breakdown

14:16 - The pain line and burnout

16:07 - Camcorder method

17:28 - 10-80-10 delegation model

19:01 - Building your buyback team

22:30 - Designing your perfect week

25:57 - Final action step: Track your week

FIND US ON:

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound/

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/darren-mitchell-associates-inc/?viewAsMember=true

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. The information contained in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and is separate and apart from the wealth coach services provided by Darren Mitchell and Associates, Inc. To its qualified clients, Control and Compound Financial expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental or any other damages arising out of any individual's use of this podcast or the information in it.

The views expressed here are those of each participant and guests, and not necessarily those of or endorsed by Control and Compound Financial, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and their respective directors, shareholders, officers, or employees. For full disclosure, visit controland compound.com/podcast-media.

Canada doesn't have a formal death tax — but that doesn't mean death is simple or inexpensive. When someone passes away, taxes can be triggered immediately through deemed disposition, and on top of that, probate fees may apply depending on the province. Many Canadians confuse these two costs, and that confusion can lead to serious planning gaps.

On today's episode, Darren and Christina break down what probate actually is, how probate fees vary across Canada, what assets flow through probate, and what strategies can reduce delays and unnecessary costs. More importantly, they explain why probate isn't just about fees — it's about timing, privacy, executor stress, and making life easier for your family when they're already dealing with loss.

Show notes:

00:00 - Introduction: Why probate matters

00:23 - Canada doesn't have a formal death tax

02:41 - Deemed disposition explained

04:04 - What probate actually is

04:45 - What assets trigger probate

05:30 - What bypasses probate

06:12 - Why life insurance is different

06:31 - The real impact of probate delays

09:43 - Probate fees by province

13:06 - Simple probate reduction strategies

16:05 - Joint ownership risks

18:22 - Advanced planning strategies

21:27 - Real-world example

24:47 - Probate planning checklist

FIND US ON:

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound/

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/darren-mitchell-associates-inc/?viewAsMember=true

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. The information contained in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and is separate and apart from the wealth coach services provided by Darren Mitchell and Associates, Inc. To its qualified clients, Control and Compound Financial expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental or any other damages arising out of any individual's use of this podcast or the information in it.

The views expressed here are those of each participant and guests, and not necessarily those of or endorsed by Control and Compound Financial, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and their respective directors, shareholders, officers, or employees. For full disclosure, visit controland compound.com/podcast-media.

BOOK A CALL WITH US NOW: https://www.controlandcompound.com/contact-us

Should incorporated Canadian business owners contribute to an RRSP — or is it quietly working against them?

On today's episode, Darren and Christina break down what an RRSP actually is (a tax deferral, not a wealth strategy), why the "you'll be in a lower tax bracket in retirement" assumption often fails for successful business owners, and how forced RRIF withdrawals + OAS clawbacks can create a much higher effective tax rate later.

They also dig into the control problem: how locking money into RRSPs can limit liquidity, reduce flexibility, and increase opportunity cost for entrepreneurs who typically earn their highest returns in their business. Finally, they address the estate planning reality — how large RRSP balances can make CRA a major beneficiary.

If you're a business owner, this is the episode to listen to before you follow the herd.

Show notes:

00:00 - Introduction

02:36 - RRSP basics: tax deferral today, taxed as income later

03:22 - The "lower tax bracket in retirement" assumption falls apart

05:19 - Why business owners often retire in the same or higher tax bracket

06:21 - Real Ontario examples: income drops, tax rate barely changes

07:20 - OAS clawback explained (effective extra tax)

10:05 - The shocker: deferring ~45% to later pay ~58% effective tax

15:55 - The control problem: RRSPs lock up entrepreneur liquidity

19:20 - Corporate opportunity cost: $0.88 in a corp vs $0.50 later

23:59 - Estate planning: why CRA can become your biggest beneficiary

FIND US ON:

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound/

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/darren-mitchell-associates-inc/?viewAsMember=true

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. The information contained in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and is separate and apart from the wealth coach services provided by Darren Mitchell and Associates, Inc. To its qualified clients, Control and Compound Financial expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental or any other damages arising out of any individual's use of this podcast or the information in it.

The views expressed here are those of each participant and guests, and not necessarily those of or endorsed by Control and Compound Financial, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and their respective directors, shareholders, officers, or employees. For full disclosure, visit controland compound.com/podcast-media.

BOOK A CALL WITH US NOW: https://www.controlandcompound.com/contact-us

We're flipping the script for this month's entrepreneurial spotlight series and Darren is taking his turn in the hot seat!

Entrepreneurship isn't built on highlight reels — it's built on hard decisions, uncomfortable moments, and learning how to survive uncertainty.

From walking away from a secure corporate career, to $0 months, near-business-ending moments, and learning how to pivot under pressure — Darren shares the lessons most entrepreneurs only learn the hard way.

They break down:

• Why early success is often misleading

• The reality of financial stress in entrepreneurship

• How systems and people changed everything

• Why control of cash is non-negotiable

• What truly keeps entrepreneurs going long term

This episode is for business owners, entrepreneurs, and anyone considering the leap — or already in the middle of it!

Show notes:

00:00 - Introduction

01:45 - Why Darren chose business and the financial industry

03:30 - Leaving a secure corporate career for entrepreneurship

05:40 - Starting with zero clients and the harsh reality of business

06:40 - The Disney trip that almost broke the business

08:30 - Learning to handle uncertainty and build a pivot muscle

10:30 - Why sharing struggles with the team matters

13:20 - Scaling through people and systems

16:20 - Key decisions that fueled growth and going online early

18:55 - Lessons for entrepreneurs: control your money or lose control

FIND US ON:

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound/

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/darren-mitchell-associates-inc/?viewAsMember=true

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. The information contained in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and is separate and apart from the wealth coach services provided by Darren Mitchell and Associates, Inc. To its qualified clients, Control and Compound Financial expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility for any direct, indirect, incidental or any other damages arising out of any individual's use of this podcast or the information in it.

The views expressed here are those of each participant and guests, and not necessarily those of or endorsed by Control and Compound Financial, its affiliates, subsidiaries, and their respective directors, shareholders, officers, or employees. For full disclosure, visit controland compound.com/podcast-media.