Know Your Compliance (KYC)

This episode of the Know Your Compliance Podcast focuses on a less-discussed form of human trafficking in Canada: the exploitation of boys, often through labor trafficking, criminal coercion, and organized networks. Greg Dent is joined by Shana McCalla of Find Ontario’s Missing Boys, who shares how her advocacy began, what patterns she has uncovered, and why public awareness and cross-jurisdictional action matter.

https://survey.findontariomissingboys.ca

We discuss how missing boys cases can be tied to trap houses, grooming, debt bondage, and broader public safety risks. The conversation also breaks down what parents, community members, real estate professionals, and compliance teams can look for in their neighbourhoods and daily work.

Key topics

• Shana McCalla shares how she moved from filmmaker and multimedia producer into advocacy after being alerted to several missing boys in her community
• The first flyer shares led to global attention, more families speaking up, and the discovery that the number of missing boys had more than doubled within months
• Find Ontario’s Missing Boys was launched after parents began organizing their own searches and raising concerns about a lack of urgency from authorities
• The conversation highlights that many of the boys are being found in Northern Ontario and other distant locations Shana describes as red zones
• Shana explains that the exploitation is often labor trafficking and criminal exploitation, not only sex trafficking
• The discussion connects missing boys to organized crime activity including drug trafficking, smash and grabs, and home invasions
• Greg and Shana walk through practical warning signs for parents, neighbors, real estate professionals, and mortgage brokers
• The episode emphasizes that traffickers use houses, drivers, delivery systems, social media apps, and even bank deposits to move and control victims
• The central message is that coordinated community awareness can help disrupt these networks and improve outcomes for families

Timestamps

00:29 - Meet Shana McCalla and Find Ontario’s Missing Boys

02:23 - Flyers go viral and families begin reaching out

04:10 - Missing boys numbers more than double

05:03 - Parents launch their own searches

05:31 - Town halls reveal the scale of grief and fear

06:41 - The lack of active searching and delayed flyers

07:56 - Building a committee and identifying red zones

08:54 - Searches across Northern Ontario and Thunder Bay

09:49 - Why flyers and community pressure can trigger releases

11:04 - How boys are groomed into labor trafficking

12:29 - Organized crime and debt bondage

13:38 - The Brampton to Saskatchewan case of Jayzaya Weblong

15:26 - Crisis response, prevention, and cross-jurisdiction gaps

16:22 - The importance of education and public awareness

18:43 - What suspicious activity can look like in a neighborhood

23:34 - Warning signs for parents of boys ages 9 to 16

24:53 - Social media recruitment through apps and messaging

25:50 - A nine-year-old lured with promises of reuniting with his father

26:48 - Why the Hollywood version of trafficking misses the real threat

28:56 - Financial crime and the trafficking puzzle

30:16 - How compliance professionals can connect the pieces

31:15 - Closing thoughts on awareness and community action

Have questions, want to get involved, or need more information about our work? Please visit https://survey.findontariomissingboys.ca/

On this episode of the KYC Podcast, Greg sits down with Justin Noda, With over 20 years in the mortgage industry, Justin has served as a broker, franchise owner, underwriter, and Managing Director. He's helped develop and implement national compliance frameworks at 3 large scale brokerages, is currently the Chief Compliance & Operations Officer for the A Better Way Mortgage Group and is the host of the Broker Armour podcast.

Broker Armour Podcast Link:

https://podcast.joinabw.ca/episode/ep-59 

The discussion then delves into the adaptation of the mortgage sector to FINTRAC regulations, the challenges and compliance issues faced, the importance of effectiveness reviews, and the impact of regulatory changes on the industry's future trends. The conversation delves into the impact of regulatory changes, the importance of enhanced due diligence and AML compliance, the implications of the Mortgage Services Act, and the evolution of mortgage regulations and compliance in British Columbia.

Takeaways

• Mortgage sector's adaptation to FINTRAC
• Challenges and opportunities in compliance and consolidation Regulatory changes have a significant impact on the mortgage industry.
• Enhanced due diligence and AML compliance are crucial for mortgage brokers.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Background
• 01:42 Adaptation to FINTRAC
• 03:05 Challenges and Compliance
• 12:18 Effectiveness Reviews and Consolidation
• 17:34 Regulatory Impact and Future Trends
• 18:38 Regulatory Changes and Impact
• 20:18 Enhanced Due Diligence and AML Compliance
• 26:49 Mortgage Services Act and Industry Consolidation
• 33:01 BC Mortgage Regulations and Compliance Evolution

Most businesses underestimate just how much regulatory changes can reshape their compliance game—and Bill C-12 is a prime example. When its provisions start rolling out, your operations could be thrust into a new era of scrutiny, penalties, and mandatory reforms. Are you prepared to navigate this complex landscape before the next examination hits?In this episode, Greg Dent of Really Trusted offers a clear-eyed analysis of Bill C-12’s most impactful components. You'll discover how increased fines—potentially soaring from hundreds of thousands to millions—could affect your business’s bottom line, and why the concept of compliance effectiveness is now more critical than ever. Greg breaks down how the regulator’s move toward formalized compliance agreements and public notices signals a shift toward greater transparency and accountability, which can be turned into a strategic advantage if understood correctly.We break down practical steps for integrating new requirements like mandatory registration—an administrative overhaul most firms are not yet prepared for—and how these changes could ultimately create a stronger, more compliant industry. Greg shares insights on the importance of proactive preparation, emphasizing that the upcoming enforcement timelines aren’t just regulatory hurdles—they’re opportunities for smarter, more resilient compliance programs.Missing this shift risks hefty penalties, reputational damage, and operational setbacks as enforcement catches up. But with the right understanding, your organization can turn compliance into a competitive advantage, building trust and safeguarding your business in an increasingly regulated environment.Perfect for compliance officers, business leaders, and operators looking to stay ahead of regulatory changes—not just to survive, but to thrive in the evolving landscape of financial and real estate compliance. Don’t wait for the regulator to set the rules—get ahead now.Greg Dent, head of Really Trusted, is a seasoned compliance strategist dedicated to helping organizations understand and adapt to rapidly changing regulatory demands. His expertise in FinTrac, AML, and sector-specific compliance makes this episode essential listening for industry professionals committed to future-proofing their businesses.

This episode hooks listeners immediately with the looming impact of Bill C-12's changes, building curiosity around compliance risks and opportunities. It highlights concrete details—penalties, registration, enforcement timelines—while positioning Greg as a credible guide. The call-to-action appeals directly to business leaders eager to turn compliance complexity into strategic advantage, which maximizes engagement and listen-through.

Disclaimer - The topics discussed on this show are typically related to compliance with FINTRAC. Nothing said on this show should be considered to be specific advice that can be directly used in your compliance program as the host and its guests will not know your specific compliance situation. Any advice given should be considered to be for informational purposes only.

Greg and Daniel unpack Bill C-2, the Strong Borders Act, and its sweeping implications for Canadian businesses. What sounds like dense legislative change actually touches everyday operations—like accepting cash or registering with FINTRAC.

Together they break down the real-world impact of proposed updates to Canada’s anti-money laundering framework. From universal enrollment to mandatory compliance agreements, Greg and Daniel highlight what’s likely to become law, what’s bound to cause controversy, and why this legislation might permanently change how businesses handle risk, privacy, and operational compliance. With clear examples and an eye toward both policy and people, they explore what this means for small brokerages, national banks, and everything in between.

Key Takeaways:

1.    Learn how universal enrollment could change who can legally operate—and who gets shut down.

2.    Understand why compliance templates may no longer protect you.

3.    Discover how new penalties tied to gross global revenue could reshape business risk models.

4.    Hear why banning anonymous accounts could affect everything from gift cards to domestic safety.

5.    Find out why cash restrictions may ignite public backlash—and what it means for civil liberties.

Connect with Greg and ReallyTrusted at:

https://reallytrusted.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ReallyTrusted/

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What if digital identity wasn’t just about security, but about economic prosperity? Greg Dent sits down with Joni Brennan, President of the Digital Identity and Authentication Council of Canada (DIACC), to unpack what digital trust really means—and why it matters more than ever. They explore how tools meant to protect us are often misunderstood, and how thoughtful design—like that behind the BC Services Card—can change everything.

This episode sheds light on why digital identity isn't about government overreach, but about creating secure, people-centered systems. From the risks of emailing ID photos to the myth of privacy in the current internet model, this is a must-listen for compliance officers, real estate professionals, and anyone concerned with fraud prevention and identity security. Joni’s insights offer a practical roadmap for how digital tools can be both private and powerful—when built with empathy and integrity.

Key Highlights

1. Digital Trust Isn’t Just Tech Talk -  Learn how trust is an outcome, not a product—and why that matters for digital systems.
2. Misconceptions Fuel Resistance -  Hear how digital identity often gets wrongly tangled in political fears and conspiracy narratives.
3. Why BC Got It Right -  Discover how thoughtful implementation and opt-in design make the BC Services Card a strong model.
4. The Privacy Paradox -  Understand why traditional ID processes (like emailing driver's licenses) are far less private than they seem.
5. AML’s Digital Future -  Get a clear picture of how digital ID will shape anti-money laundering strategies and fraud prevention.

About the Guest: 

As the President of the Digital ID and Authentication Council of Canada – DIACC, Joni harnesses over 20 years of expertise in identity and access management innovation, adoption, and industry standards development. Joni spearheads initiatives that align with the organization’s vision of creating a robust digital identity ecosystem. This ecosystem propels the digital economy forward and contributes to the growth of Canada’s GDP, ensuring benefits for all Canadians. With a passion for building diplomatic and impactful relationships, Joni is at the forefront of formalizing strategic partnerships that drive positive change. Her influence extends to influential committees and organizations such as the SCC Data Governance Initiative, OECD, ITAC, ISOC, IEEE, OASIS, ISO, and ITU-T.

https://diacc.ca/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonibrennan/ 

Connect with Greg and ReallyTrusted at:

https://reallytrusted.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ReallyTrusted/

Thanks for listening

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Mortgage fraud isn’t just a risk—it’s a ripple effect that touches every part of the system, from brokers to banks to everyday Canadians. Greg welcomes Paul Therien of Haystax Mortgages for a grounded conversation on how systemized compliance helps brokers avoid costly mistakes, protect consumers, and reduce regulatory pressure. Together, they break down the real cost of fraud, why predictable processes matter, and how compliance—done right—can be a key driver of business success.

Highlights:

• Learn why compliance isn't just regulation—it's the foundation of smart, efficient operations.
• Understand the connection between fraud, housing affordability, and economic consequences.
• Discover how systemizing compliance can reduce errors and build consumer trust.
• See why lenders, not just regulators, demand fraud-free, consistent files.
• Gain insight into how transparency and education improve industry standards.

Connect with Paul Therien at Haystax Mortgages: https://haystax.ca/ 

Connect with Greg and ReallyTrusted at:

https://reallytrusted.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ReallyTrusted/

Thanks for listening

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Sometimes the biggest AML risk isn’t external—it’s the person already inside your brokerage. 

Greg breaks down the uncomfortable but critical reality that some individuals may enter the real estate or mortgage industry with the sole purpose of laundering money. He shares practical ways compliance officers and business owners can protect their organizations through smarter recruiting, effective transaction monitoring, and internal training that keeps every part of your business alert to red flags, even when they’re subtle.

Highlights:

• Discover how patterns—not individual deals—can reveal suspicious behavior.
• Learn why transaction monitoring is more powerful when viewed at scale.
• Understand how training admin staff can be your hidden AML asset.
• Get insight into how adverse media checks on staff can alert you to risk.
• Explore how recruiting processes can reduce the chance of onboarding bad actors.

Connect with Greg and ReallyTrusted at:

https://reallytrusted.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ReallyTrusted/

Thanks for listening

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Most compliance officers see effectiveness reviews as a regulatory checkbox, but they can make or break a FINTRAC exam. Greg sits down with Rodney MacInnes from Outlier Compliance Group to break down the critical role of these reviews, how they reveal compliance gaps, and why expertise matters when conducting them. They discuss who should perform these reviews, why the cheapest option isn't always best, and how a proper review can help businesses avoid costly mistakes before FINTRAC gets involved.

Highlights:

1. Learn why effectiveness reviews are more than just a regulatory requirement.
2. Discover the common mistakes businesses make in compliance audits.
3. Understand the difference between meeting regulatory requirements and having an effective program.
4. Find out why expertise matters when selecting a reviewer and what credentials to look for.
5. Gain insights into how a strong effectiveness review can prepare you for a FINTRAC exam.

About the Guest: 

Rodney MacInnes is a seasoned financial compliance expert specializing in anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorist financing (CTF), fraud, and legislative compliance management (LCM). With experience across money services businesses (MSBs), mortgage companies, corporate trusts, transfer services, and financial institutions, he now consults across these industries and beyond. A Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) since 2011 and a graduate of Seneca College’s Financial Crime Analysis course, Rodney’s passion for compliance began when an early training session led him to a conversation about an FBI case, sparking his interest in the field. Known for his problem-solving skills and expertise in procedure creation, process alignment, and business integration, Rodney embodies the belief that “good compliance can enable good business.”

https://www.outliercanada.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodmacinnes/

Connect with Greg and ReallyTrusted at:

https://reallytrusted.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ReallyTrusted/

Thanks for listening

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Compliance in the mortgage sector is evolving fast, and unexpected challenges are keeping brokers and compliance officers on their toes. Greg sits down with Mary Gronkowski, National Director of Compliance at DLC Mortgages, to discuss the sector’s first few months under FINTRAC regulations. They break down onboarding challenges, red flags in ID verification, the complexity of beneficial ownership, and recent regulatory shifts—plus, the critical importance of staying updated to avoid compliance pitfalls.

Highlights:

1. Learn how mortgage brokerages are navigating FINTRAC registration and early compliance challenges.
2. Understand the risks and solutions in verifying ID, including dual process and remote verification.
3. Explore real-world cases of fraudulent transactions and how brokers identified red flags.
4. Gain insight into beneficial ownership complexities and the knowledge gap in commercial transactions.
5. Stay ahead of recent regulatory updates, including changes to terrorist property reporting.

About the Guest: 

As the Vice President of Training & Business Development at Dominion Lending Centres, Mary Gronkowski provides comprehensive training and support to franchise owners and agents. Her training covers strategic business-building initiatives, DLC’s powerful Autopilot Media Email Marketing software, CRM, Velocity, social media, compliance, and lead generation tools available to DLC brokers. Additionally, she plays a key role in team growth through recruitment and supports new franchise development.

Beyond her professional role, Mary is dedicated to giving back and helping those in need. She believes that having a stable home is one of life’s fundamental necessities, providing individuals with safety, dignity, and stability.

https://marygronkowski.ca/  

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-gronkowski/ 

https://www.facebook.com/mary.gronkowski 

https://www.youtube.com/user/DLCcanada 

https://www.instagram.com/mary_gronk  

Connect with Greg and ReallyTrusted at: 

https://reallytrusted.com/ 

https://www.facebook.com/ReallyTrusted/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Follow the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. 

The landscape of AML compliance in Canadian real estate took significant turns in 2024, challenging the industry to adapt rapidly to regulatory updates. From FINTRAC’s revamped risk assessments to new obligations for mortgage brokers and heightened scrutiny on sanctions evasion, the year underscored the growing complexity of compliance. As the sector grapples with operational and training challenges, Greg and Daniel outline key developments and offer actionable insights to prepare for 2025—a year certain to bring further changes and demands on compliance officers and real estate professionals alike.

Key Highlights

• Discover how FINTRAC’s new risk assessment forms reshaped compliance expectations for real estate brokerages.
• Learn about the expanded obligations for mortgage brokers as new FINTRAC reporting entities.
• Understand the implications of sanctions evasion enforcement and the critical role of beneficial ownership verification.
• Gain insights into practical strategies for navigating compliance examinations successfully.
• Explore predictions for 2025, including the FATF mutual evaluation’s potential impact on the AML landscape.

Connect with Greg and ReallyTrusted at:

https://reallytrusted.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ReallyTrusted/

Thanks for listening

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.