Saving money: the basic idea is easy, but the reality for Canadians often presents unexpected challenges. Join trusted Ontario experts Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos as they discuss “saving” in today’s challenging economy. Learn how to calculate your personal savings rate, understand the obstacles many face (and strategies to overcome them!), and discover the true priorities, aspirations, and concerns driving those hard-earned Canadian dollars.

(0:00) Defining Savings: More Than Just Money in the Bank (2:20) Calculating Your Personal Savings Rate (4:00) The History of Canadian Savings Rates: Trends and Insights (8:45) Canadian Savings Today: Analyzing Current Rates (11:00) Understanding Financial Vulnerability: Populations Struggling to Save in Canada (16:00) What Canadians Are Saving For: Current Financial Priorities (19:00) Setting Savings Goals: How Much Should You Aim to Save? (24:00) Practical Tips for Easier Saving (28:00) Debt vs. Savings: Prioritizing Your Financial Health

4 Personal Finance Ratios That Measure Debt Risk Debt Repayment Calculator How To Deal With Debt in Retirement Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest FREE Credit Rebuilding Course 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.

Artificial intelligence is no longer just a futuristic concept – it's actively reshaping the landscape of scams and posing a significant threat to your financial well-being. Are you prepared for this new era of fraud?

In this episode, we delve into the alarming ways AI is being used to create more sophisticated and personalized scams that could directly impact your debt. We'll explore how even familiar cons are evolving and, crucially, equip you with the knowledge you need to recognize the red flags and protect yourself online. (0:00) The Rise of AI Scams (2:00) The Growing Sophistication of Granny Scams (5:45) How Scammers Obtain Your Personal Information: Protecting Your Data (6:45) The Pig Butchering Scam: Understanding This Long-Term Financial Con (10:20) AI-Powered: How Technology Targets You (11:40) Recognizing Scam Red Flags: What to Do If You Suspect Fraud (16:30) Avoiding False Government Notices: Spotting Official-Looking Scams (21:00) Identifying False Advertisements: Protecting Yourself from Misleading Offers (23:30) Online Safety Tips: Protecting Your Finances (29:10) The Double-Edged Sword of AI: Benefits and Risks in the Digital Age Fraud Can Cause Debt Problems: Here’s How To Stay Protected How To Find Legitimate Debt Consultants in Canada Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest

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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.

Ever feel like managing money comes with its own set of challenges? If you're neurodivergent, those challenges can sometimes feel amplified. In this episode, we welcome Licensed Insolvency Trustee Maureen Parent and dive into the crucial intersection of neurodivergence and debt, exploring how executive dysfunction, time blindness, and impulse spending can impact your financial life. Discover the power of habit stacking, mind mapping, "body-doubling" (hello, budget buddy!), and how tech can be a tool for embracing simplicity. Plus, we'll discuss guilt-free spending and why it's okay to invest in what truly supports you.  Tune in for actionable advice and a fresh perspective on navigating your finances! (0:00) - Understanding Neurodivergence: Impact & Why It Matters (4:45) - The Impact of Executive Dysfunction on Debt Management(7:00) - Strategies for Reducing Decision Fatigue in Finances(9:00) - Building Low-Effort Financial Habits with Habit Stacking(10:45) - How Time Blindness Can Affect Your Financial Planning (12:50) - Using Mind Mapping for a Visual Approach to Finances (14:00) - The Power of Body Doubling: Finding Your Budget Buddy (15:30) - Reframing Your Perspective on Financial Management (17:00) - Leveraging AI and Tech (or Simplicity) for Financial Success (20:00) - Coping Strategies for Impulse Spending (23:00) - Practical Financial Advice for Neurodivergent Individuals (and Everyone!) (27:10) - The Importance of Guilt-Free Spending and Investing in Your Needs Hoyes Michalos Effective Money Management Strategies Explore Credit Card Debt Relief Why We Overspend and How To Break Bad Money Habits Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest

FREE Credit Rebuilding Course

Debt Repayment Calculator 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 personalized guidance from a qualified 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 or strategies discussed.

Is shopping becoming a dangerous game? From live streams to influencer deals to 'Buy Now, Pay Later' offers—your brain's reward system is constantly being triggered to encourage constant spending.

Join us for a discussion with Credit Counsellor Charlie Kovacs, who exposes the risks tied to retailer financing, debunks the myth of discount savings, and explores the real impact these marketing 'tricks' have on your financial health. (1:30) – The Modern-Day Shopping Channel: How Retailers Keep You Hooked (4:00) – Live Shopping & Influencers: The New Age of Consumer Marketing (7:45) – Dopamine & Shopping: How Social Media Fuels Impulse Buys (14:00) – How Algorithms Are Designed to Make You Spend More (15:10) – Buy Now, Pay Later: The Rise of Consumer Credit Debt (17:00) – The Hidden Risks of Financing Through Retailers (21:00) – The Gamification of Consumerism: How Retailers Turn Shopping into a Game (23:30) – The Gamification of Credit: Why Your Debt Feels Manageable (But Isn't) (25:00) – Credit Counsellor Charlie Kovacs Explains Why Discounts Don’t Save You Money (29:00) – Everyone Is Selling Something: Recognizing the Marketing Tricks Hoyes Michalos Effective Money Management Strategies Explore Credit Card Debt Relief Why We Overspend and How To Break Bad Money Habits Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest FREE Credit Rebuilding Course

Debt Repayment Calculator 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 personalized guidance from a qualified 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 or strategies discussed.

Did you know the price of your dinner tonight might be tied to decisions made in the US? Doug and Ted explain the surprising impact of the Canadian dollar on your everyday spending. They'll break down how this affects your wallet, from filling up your gas tank to putting food on the table. Discover the surprising upsides and downsides of our tightly linked economy, and as always, arm yourself with practical tips to manage your debt and build lasting financial security. Tune in to understand the forces shaping your everyday spending!

(0:00) – What’s happening with the Canadian dollar right now? (3:30) – What makes the Canadian dollar rise and fall? (5:00) – How interest rates affect the Canadian dollar (7:45) – The “reserve” currency and maintaining buying power (8:50) – How currency changes impact the average Canadian (12:00) – How US food and gas prices affect Canadians (14:00) – The pros and cons of connected economies (20:00) – Why are so many things priced in US dollars? (25:00) – The benefits of shopping Canadian (27:30) – Strengthen your finances by managing debt (29:00) – Practical tips to protect your money Trump's 25% Tariffs: Financial Survival Guide for Canadians Myths About Credit Card Debt in Canada How to Eliminate Debt in Ontario Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest

FREE Credit Rebuilding Course

Debt Repayment Calculator 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 personalized guidance from a qualified 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 or strategies discussed.

Debt often gets a bad rap, but what if you could use it to your advantage?

This episode unlocks the power of strategic debt! Learn to leverage other people's money, distinguish between good and bad debt, and manage borrowing effectively. Doug and Ted, co-founders of Hoyes Michalos, provide practical strategies for building wealth with debt, including a look at crypto's role.

Learn how to make debt work for you, not against you.

(0:00) - Using Debt as a Wealth-Building Tool (4:00) - Understanding Leverage and Margin: Risks and Rewards of Investing with Borrowed Money (7:00) - Good Debt vs. Bad Debt: Identify the Difference (15:45) - Building Wealth While in Debt, Is It Possible? (17:30) - Opportunity Cost and Interest Rates (20:00) - The Challenge of Paying Interest While Building Assets (22:40) - Cryptocurrency and Debt: A Viable Investment Strategy? (24:00) - Practical Debt Management Strategies for Wealth Growth (26:30) - Strategic Borrowing: Using Debt for Investments?

Myths About Credit Card Debt in Canada How to Eliminate Debt in Ontario Is Another Loan a Good Idea? Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest

FREE Credit Rebuilding Course

Debt Repayment Calculator

 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 personalized advice from a qualified financial advisor. Always consult with 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 or strategies discussed.

Alarming trend: Canadians are finding themselves unable to follow through on pre-con real estate purchases. So, what happens if you can’t close on a pre-construction real estate deal?

In this episode, the co-founders of Hoyes Michalos break down the reality of pre-construction deals in Canada, including assignment sales, how rising rates and blanket appraisals impact your deal, and what happens if you can’t secure financing. They also explore the legal and financial consequences of “walking away” and whether solutions like a consumer proposal or bankruptcy might apply to your situation. Walking Away From a Pre-Con Deal with Consumer Proposal What To Do When You Can’t Close The Real Problem with Pre-Con Deals by Doug Hoyes LinkedIn

(0:00) – What is a pre-construction deal in real estate? (3:30) – What is an assignment sale? (5:15) – Trends in Canadian pre-construction real estate deals (8:00) – “Blanket appraisals” and why they matter (11:45) – The financial and legal consequences of “walking away” (13:00) – Timing issues and pre-con purchases (14:00) – What happens if interest rates go up or down before your closing date? (17:00) – When builders run into problems — how it affects you (20:00) – Practical steps if you can’t close on your pre-construction home (22:00) – Can a consumer proposal help you walk away from a pre-con deal? (26:00) – Are you at risk of being sued by the builder? (28:00) – Bankruptcy: when it becomes an option for pre-construction buyers Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest

FREE Credit Rebuilding Course Debt Repayment Calculator Debt To Income Ratio Calculator Read the FULL JOE DEBTOR CONSUMER INSOLVENCY STUDY 2024 ‘Debtasized’ Full Length Documentary – Free on YouTube HERE Hoyes Michalos YouTube Channel Hoyes Michalos Instagram Hoyes Michalos Facebook Hoyes Michalos TikTok Hoyes Michalos Twitter (X) Hoyes Michalos LinkedIn Straight Talk on Your Money by Doug Hoyes Find a Hoyes Michalos Office in Your Area Here 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 personalized advice from a qualified financial advisor. Always consult with 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 or strategies discussed.

Canadian credit card debt is surging! Many people are feeling the squeeze of rising costs, stagnant wages, and mounting unsecured debt.

This crucial episode offers timely financial guidance on improving credit card habits (which you may not realize are hurting your finances!) and effectively managing debt.

FREE Credit Rebuilding Course (0:00) – Credit Cards Are Now the Norm, Should They Be? (4:00) – What minimum purchase amount should you charge to credit? (5:45) – The biggest problem with credit cards (7:20) – Everyone knows about interest- why do people use credit regardless?   (9:00) – The positives of using credit cards (11:00) – Paying off one credit card with another – pros and cons (13:00) – Being “mindful” aka having a plan (14:00) – Gaming the points system – travel points, buy now pay later, (17:00) – Canadians are in hot water – the numbers of unsecured debt are up – prices are up and wages are not, credit cards are a survival tool (19:00) – Is debit a better idea for better financial decisions?   (22:00) – Practical advice for better credit card management (27:00) – Practical advice for when credit card debt is completely unmanageable How to Pay Credit Cards

5 Ways to Survive Without Credit Cards Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest Debt Repayment Calculator Debt To Income Ratio Calculator Read the FULL JOE DEBTOR CONSUMER INSOLVENCY STUDY 2024 ‘Debtasized’ Full Length Documentary – Free on YouTube HERE Hoyes Michalos YouTube Channel Hoyes Michalos Instagram Hoyes Michalos Facebook Hoyes Michalos TikTok Hoyes Michalos Twitter (X) Hoyes Michalos LinkedIn Straight Talk on Your Money by Doug Hoyes Find a Hoyes Michalos Office in Your Area Here 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 personalized advice from a qualified financial advisor. Always consult with 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 or strategies discussed.

Is having zero debt the key to financial freedom, or could it hold you back? Expert Licensed Insolvency Trustees Doug and Ted explore the pros and cons of being completely debt-free, from psychological and financial benefits to the impact on your credit score and long-term opportunities.  (0:00) – Introduction: What does financial independence really mean? (5:00) – Is Zero Debt a good goal for everyone? (6:15) – The benefits of being debt-free: Psychological and financial impacts (10:25) – The downside of Zero Debt: Credit score considerations (13:30) – The hidden cost of Zero Debt: Opportunity costs explained (17:00) – The role of credit: Why access to credit matters (19:00) – Debt as a financial tool: When and how to use it wisely (23:00) – Forget budgeting—why you need a financial plan instead (28:00) – Setting realistic financial goals for long-term success

Read the FULL JOE DEBTOR CONSUMER INSOLVENCY STUDY 2024 How Much Debt Does It Take To File Bankruptcy? Debt Repayment Calculator https://www.hoyes.com/debt-repayment-calculator/ Debt To Income Ratio Calculator https://www.hoyes.com/debt-to-income-ratio-calculator/ FREE Credit Rebuilding Course https://www.hoyes.com/blog/category/credit-repair/ ‘Debtasized’ Full Length Documentary – Free on YouTube HERE Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest Hoyes Michalos YouTube Channel Hoyes Michalos Instagram Hoyes Michalos Facebook Hoyes Michalos TikTok Hoyes Michalos Twitter (X) Hoyes Michalos LinkedIn Straight Talk on Your Money by Doug Hoyes Find a Hoyes Michalos Office in Your Area Here 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 personalized advice from a qualified financial advisor. Always consult with 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 or strategies discussed.