Does money stress keep you up at night? You’re not alone.In this episode of Finances with Friends, Registered Psychotherapist, Hilary McCulloch, and Certified Financial Planner®, CJ Stevens unpack financial anxiety, how it affects your relationships and your life, and what you can actually do about it.This conversation blends psychology and financial planning with practical tools, behavioural strategies, a few laughs, and even a (not very seriously taken) breathing exercise you can use immediately.If you’ve ever avoided checking your bank account, argued about money, or felt shame around finances: this episode is for you.Meet Our Guest:Hilary McCullochRegistered PsychotherapistCalming Tree Counsellinghttps://www.calmingtree.caHilary is registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She works with adults (18+) experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, self-harming behaviours, and life transitions.About PhilotimoPhilotimo (fee-low-tee-mo)Meaning: Friendship & HonourWe build financial plans rooted in trust, education, and long-term relationships proudly serving 400+ families across Canada.

In this episode of Financial Rundown (shot on Dec 8, 2025), Maddy and CJ break down timely planning topics that matter right now, from year end deadlines and tax smart account decisions to portfolio concentration, currency risk, and what is happening and not happening with RRIF rules.

This is a practical, plain language conversation about how real people should be thinking about their money as we head into a new year. We cover overlooked strategies like asset location, the realities of market concentration for Canadian investors, and a client question many people are asking about the U.S. dollar and what it means for their portfolios.

If you are trying to make sense of headlines, planning decisions, and how it all actually impacts your financial plan, this episode is for you.Who are we?Philotimo: fee-low-tee-moDefinition: "Friendship and Honour"

We believe strong financial planning starts with relationships built on trust, clarity, and long term thinking. CJ Stevens is a seasoned CFP professional serving 400 plus families, working alongside them to build plans that evolve through every stage of life.

Mutual funds, exempt market products, and or exchange traded funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc.

Get in touch with us: https://www.philotimowealth.ca/contact

https://calendly.com/stevenscj

https://www.instagram.com/philotimowealth/

Music: Syn Cole - Feel Good (NCS Release)

In this episode of The Financial Rundown (filmed Nov 3, 2025), CJ and Maddie unpack one of the biggest shifts since the Great Resignation: the rise of job hugging and labour hoarding. We look at how workers went from quitting in record numbers in 2021 and 2022 to clinging tightly to stable roles in today’s cooler job market, and why companies are holding onto staff even when business slows. 

We also dive into what these labour trends mean for the broader economy, your career strategy, and your financial planning. From market drawdowns and long-term investing to Canada’s housing pressures and early Budget Day expectations, this episode covers the major signals shaping the months ahead.

And yes, we dig into the chart that explains 45 years of market dips versus long-term gains, plus why staying invested through volatility still matters.

CJ and Maddy also breaks down what’s happening inside Canada’s housing affordability crisis, why mortgage arrears are rising, and how renewals at higher rates are tightening household budgets heading into 2025. We close with our monthly recommendations, from financial podcasts to personal core memories.

❔Who are we?

Philotimo (fee.low.tee.mo)

Definition: "Friendship and Honour"

We strive to form client relationships built on a foundation of friendship and honour and value giving our clients the foundation they need to achieve their goals.  CJ Stevens is a seasoned CFP® professional. We proudly serve 400+ families, working alongside them to learn and grow.

Mutual funds, exempt market products, and/or exchange-traded funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc.

Get in touch with us ➭ https://www.philotimowealth.ca/contact

Instagram ➭  https://www.instagram.com/philotimowealth/

Music ➭ Syn Cole - Feel Good [NCS Release]

In this episode of The Financial Rundown (filmed October 7, 2025), CJ welcomes Madeline Stratton, Associate Advisor at Philotimo Wealth, to unpack a whirlwind of headlines: from viral tax horror stories to the truth behind Canada’s rising unemployment.
They start with a look at a Burlington family’s inheritance “wipeout”, a case making waves online for showing how a $700,000 RRSP turned into just $55,000 after taxes and why that headline is more clickbait than cautionary tale. CJ and Madeline break down the real tax rules behind RRSPs, cottages, and capital gains, and how smart planning can help you avoid the RRSP tax bomb.
Next, the team turns to the markets and the economy covering:
- The “political market myth” using new data from Ryan Detrick showing why stocks rise regardless of who’s in office.
- A closer look at Canada’s rising unemployment, the challenges young adults face, and how families can build resilience through budgeting, skill growth, and smart investing.
- What’s really driving the market’s strength in 2025 (with earnings and fundamentals, not speculation) behind the rally.
And as always, we close with a few personal recommendations that CJ and Maddy have been watching, reading, and listening to lately.
Who We Are
Philotimo (fee.low.tee.mo)
Definition: “Friendship and Honour”
We build long-term client relationships rooted in friendship and honour. CJ Stevens is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® proudly serving 400+ Canadian families with personalized, transparent financial advice.
Get in touch:
➭ https://www.philotimowealth.ca/contact
➭ https://www.instagram.com/philotimowealth/

In this episode of Philotimo: Finances with Friends, CJ Stevens, CFP®, sits down with Vince Kraljevic, CFA®, ETF Strategist at Fidelity Canada and one of the sharpest minds in the investing world.

With over 18 years in the industry and a no-nonsense approach, Vince breaks down the world of quant investing, the differences between ETFs and mutual funds, and how Fidelity builds its all-in-one portfolios. If you’ve ever wondered how portfolios are built, how to interpret market signals, or what keeps professionals up at night: this one’s for you.

Together, CJ and Vince explore everything from strategy to risk indicators, with plenty of takeaways for both new and seasoned investors.

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About Vince Kraljevic

Vince is an ETF Strategist at Fidelity Investments Canada, the world’s third-largest asset manager. With 18 years of experience, he brings a unique blend of product expertise and advisor perspective. Vince is a Chartered Financial Analyst® charterholder and has worked across the investment spectrum—from boutique firms to large institutions.

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About Philotimo

We build long-term client relationships rooted in friendship and honour. CJ Stevens is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® proudly serving 400+ Canadian families with personalized, transparent financial advice.

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📞 Get in touch ➭ https://www.philotimowealth.ca/contact

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📸 Follow us on Instagram ➭ https://www.instagram.com/philotimowealth/

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🎵 Music Credit: Syn Cole - Feel Good [NCS Release]

In this special episode of Philotimo: Finances with Friends, shot on Mother’s Day 2025, CJ sits down with three incredible women to talk about motherhood, identity, and what it really means to build a life that feels rich, even when things are hard.

Andrea, Maddy, and Jess share their personal experiences: from post-natal depression to financial stress, from career sacrifices to joy in the little things. It's real talk on parenting, home finances, and defining what success looks like for your family.

This one’s for everyone on the parenting journey, whether you're expecting, raising little ones, supporting grown kids, or reflecting as a grandparent.

❔Who are we?

Philotimo (fee.low.tee.mo)

Definition: "Friendship and Honour"

We strive to form client relationships built on a foundation of friendship and honour and value giving our clients the foundation they need to achieve their goals. CJ Stevens is a seasoned CFP professional proudly serving 400+ families, working alongside them to learn and grow.

Mutual funds, exempt market products, and/or exchange-traded funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc.

Get in touch with us ➭ https://www.philotimowealth.ca/contactInstagram ➭ https://www.instagram.com/philotimowealth/

Music ➭ Syn Cole - Feel Good [NCS Release]

In this episode of The Financial Rundown (filmed May 12, 2025), CJ closes the book on tax season and kicks off a new chapter with tips for financial “spring cleaning.” We unpack the latest Canadian federal election results and explore how they may impact your wallet.

From the truth about market volatility to why you shouldn’t give in to the pressure of social media: CJ dives into what actually drives success with money and why your systems > goals every time.

Watch More Financial Rundown Episodes ➭

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOyDYFyRumQ&list=PLoJ1ls9aIwMfaN3g-5J7xAghCHXtd-4Jj

Check Out Huberman Essentials ➭

https://www.hubermanlab.com/essentials

❔Who are we?

Philotimo (fee.low.tee.mo)

Definition: "Friendship and Honour"

We strive to form client relationships built on a foundation of friendship and honour and value giving our clients the foundation they need to achieve their goals. CJ Stevens is a seasoned CFP professional proudly serving 400+ families, working alongside them to learn and grow.

Mutual funds, exempt market products, and/or exchange-traded funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc.

💻 Get in touch with us ➭ https://www.philotimowealth.ca/contact

📱Follow us elsewhere:

Instagram ➭ https://www.instagram.com/philotimowealth/

Taxes don’t have to be overwhelming! Bianca Batty, Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), joins us to break down key tax strategies for homeowners, small business owners, and freelancers. We cover real estate tax rules, deductible expenses, business tax planning, CRA audits, and commonly missed credits. Plus, Bianca debunks major tax myths and shares practical tips to keep more money in your pocket.

You can learn more about Batty Accounting at ➭ https://www.battyaccounting.com/

❔Who are we?

Philotimo (fee.low.tee.mo)

Definition: "Friendship and Honour"

We strive to form client relationships built on a foundation of friendship and honour and value giving our clients the foundation they need to achieve their goals. CJ Stevens is a seasoned CFP professional proudly serving 400+ families, working alongside them to learn and grow.

Mutual funds, exempt market products, and/or exchange-traded funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc.

Get in touch with us ➭ https://www.philotimowealth.ca/contact

Instagram ➭ https://www.instagram.com/philotimowealth/

Music ➭ Syn Cole - Feel Good [NCS Release]

#WealthManagement

#FinancialPlanning

#Finance

#FinanceGoals

#Canada

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#PersonalFinanceTips

In this episode of The Financial Rundown (shot on March 12, 2025), CJ explores how historical market patterns can guide us through current market volatility. Looking back at 2018, we've seen that while markets may experience short-term fluctuations due to tariff stress, staying focused on your long-term investment strategy is key. As tax season approaches (deadline: April 30th!), it's the perfect time to have a chat and ensure you're positioned for success.

Have questions? We're here to help you navigate both tax season and market uncertainty. Let's work together to keep your financial future on track. Keep calm and carry on!

❔Who are we?

Philotimo (fee.low.tee.mo)

Definition: "Friendship and Honour"

We strive to form client relationships built on a foundation of friendship and honour and value giving our clients the foundation they need to achieve their goals. CJ Stevens is a seasoned CFP professional proudly serving 400+ families, working alongside them to learn and grow.

Mutual funds, exempt market products, and/or exchange-traded funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc.

💻 Get in touch with us ➭ https://www.philotimowealth.ca/contact

📱Follow us on Instagram ➭ https://www.instagram.com/philotimowealth/

In this episode of The Financial Rundown (shot on Feb 10, 2025), CJ breaks down the urgent RRSPs and the major impact of new US tariffs that could affect your wallet in 2024!

• RRSP Deadline Alert: Everything you need to know about contributions, limits, and who should (or shouldn't) contribute before the March 3rd deadline.
• US Tariffs Explained: Breaking down the new 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum, and what it means for consumers and investors.
• Tech Industry Impact: How the 10% Chinese import tariffs could affect prices of phones, laptops, and EVs.
• Investment Strategy: Learn which sectors might be "tariff-proof" and how to protect your portfolio during trade tensions.
• Book Review: "The Five Types of Wealth" - discover why true wealth goes beyond just money.

Have any questions? We're here to help! Let's make sure you're making the right moves for your financial future. 📈🍁

❔Who are we?

Philotimo (fee.low.tee.mo)

Definition: "Friendship and Honour"

We strive to form client relationships built on a foundation of friendship and honour and value giving our clients the foundation they need to achieve their goals. CJ Stevens is a seasoned CFP professional proudly serving 400+ families, working alongside them to learn and grow.

Mutual funds, exempt market products, and/or exchange-traded funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc.

💻 Get in touch with us ➭ https://www.philotimowealth.ca/contact

📱Follow us elsewhere:

Instagram ➭ https://www.instagram.com/philotimowealth/

WealthManagement,

FinancialPlanning,

Finance,

FinanceGoals,

Canada,

CanadianFinance,

PersonalFinance,

PersonalFinanceTips