Retiring Canada

By Michael Isbister, CFP®

The Retiring Canada Podcast helps Canadians make smarter retirement, investing, tax, and financial planning decisions so they can retire with confidence. Hosted by Certified Financial Planner and reti... more

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FAQs about Retiring Canada:

How many episodes does Retiring Canada have?

The podcast currently has 85 episodes available.

Retiring Canada episodes:

October 31, 2023 Retirement Income Guardrails Explained (EP 14)
Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
One of the biggest risks in retirement is running out of money, but being too conservative can also mean missing out on the life you’ve worked for.
In this episode of Retiring Canada, we introduce a retirement income strategy called “guardrails” designed to help you balance spending, market uncertainty, and long-term sustainability.
You’ll learn how this approach adjusts your income over time, when it may make sense to increase or reduce withdrawals, and how to structure your portfolio to support a more flexible retirement income plan.
We also walk through a simple example of how guardrails work in practice, and why consistency and discipline are key to making this strategy successful.
This episode is for Canadian retirees and pre-retirees who want a more adaptive approach to managing their retirement income.
WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?
Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠
https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter
As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!
EPISODE RESOURCES:
📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter
👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide
✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question
🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca
📄 Guardrails Example: https://c0acd580-0282-44f8-ad7d-f9eb38084e73.filesusr.com/ugd/238e73_d9950a1e409b434ea9609f80197d280b.pdf
📘 CFP Code of Ethics: https://www.fpcanada.ca/docs/default-source/standards/standards-of-professional-responsibility.pdf
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15min
October 17, 2023 Joint Ownership: Beware of Costly Estate Mistakes (EP 13)
Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
Adding a child to your property as a joint owner might seem like a simple way to avoid probate—but it can create serious tax and legal problems.
In this episode of Retiring Canada, we break down how joint ownership works in Canada and why it’s often misunderstood as an estate planning strategy.
You’ll learn the difference between legal and beneficial ownership, how the presumption of resulting trust works, and when joint ownership can trigger unintended tax consequences.
We also walk through a real-life example showing how joint ownership can lead to family conflict, creditor exposure, and outcomes that don’t reflect your true intentions.
This episode is for Canadian retirees and families who want to avoid costly estate planning mistakes and ensure their assets are passed on properly.
WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?
Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!
EPISODE RESOURCES:
📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter
👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide
✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question
🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca
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16min
October 03, 2023 Evaluate Working With Us: How It Works (EP 12)
Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
Most people don’t realize where the gaps are in their financial plan until it’s too late.
In this episode of Retiring Canada, we walk through a simple 4-step process designed to help Canadians get organized, identify blind spots, and build a clear path toward retirement.
You’ll learn how a one-page financial plan can simplify your finances, how to uncover risks you may not be aware of, and what to expect when working with a financial planner.
We also cover the importance of taking a proactive approach, rather than waiting for a major life event to force financial decisions.
This episode is for Canadian retirees and pre-retirees who want a clearer understanding of their financial situation and how to move forward with confidence.
WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?
Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!

EPISODE RESOURCES:
📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter
👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide
✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question
🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca
...more
12min
September 19, 2023 Budgeting In Retirement: Simple Rules to Get It Right (EP 11)
Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
Budgeting is one of the most important parts of financial planning and one of the most avoided.
In this episode of Retiring Canada, we break down a simple approach to budgeting that can help you take control of your finances without overcomplicating things.
You’ll learn why budgeting becomes even more important as you approach retirement, how to separate essential and discretionary spending, and the one core principle that drives long-term financial success.
We also walk through practical ways to get started, whether you prefer pen and paper, online tools, or spreadsheets.
This episode is for Canadian pre-retirees and retirees who want a clearer understanding of their spending and how it impacts their ability to retire confidently.
WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?
Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠
As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!

EPISODE RESOURCES:
📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter
👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide
✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question
🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

LINKS:
Option 2: CRA Budget Planner
Option 3: My Money Coach Excel Budget
DISCLAIMER: “MyMoneyCoach" is a free financial planning service that allows users to develop a snapshot financial plan through a series of questions. Our advisors can use this financial snapshot as one of many tools to build your financial plan, however it is not to be considered a substitute for consultation with professional accounting, tax, legal or other professional advisors. Fundamental Wealth and Harbourfront Wealth Management inc. are in no way partnered with MyMoneyCoach. Information is provided to MyMoneyCoach with client discretion and may be used by MyMoneyCoach subject to their own terms of service and company policies.

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12min
September 05, 2023 Losing a Spouse: 6 Financial Steps to Take (EP 10)
Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
Losing a spouse is one of the most difficult experiences someone can go through. When you’re ready, there are important financial steps that need to be considered.
In this episode of Retiring Canada, we walk through six key financial steps to take after the loss of a spouse, helping you get organized and make informed decisions during a difficult time.
You’ll learn how to approach financial decisions carefully, understand changes to government benefits like CPP survivor benefits, and navigate important tax considerations that may arise.
We also cover reviewing your estate plan, updating beneficiaries, assessing insurance needs, and creating a clear plan moving forward.
This episode is for Canadian retirees and families who want guidance on what to do next after the loss of a loved one.
WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?
Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!

EPISODE RESOURCES:
📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter
👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide
✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question
🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca
🧠 Mental Health Support: https://www.wellnesstogether.ca

LINKS:
What Getting Organized Looks Like
www.wellnesstogether.ca

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17min
August 22, 2023 Top 5 Retirement Income Strategies (EP 9)
Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: ⁠ https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
Creating a reliable retirement income plan is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make.
In this episode of Retiring Canada, we walk through five key retirement income strategies every Canadian should understand before and during retirement.
You’ll learn how to choose the right CPP start date, how to structure your investment portfolio for income, and how strategies like pension income splitting can reduce your overall tax bill.
We also cover how to manage market volatility, build a stable income stream, and structure your withdrawals to balance taxes today with future estate considerations.
This episode is for Canadian retirees and pre-retirees who want to build a more efficient, tax-aware retirement income plan.
WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?
Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!
EPISODE RESOURCES:
📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter
👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide
✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question
🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca
How to Fillet a Pike (and Get 5 Boneless Fillets!)
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19min
August 08, 2023 RESP for Grandchildren: What to Know (EP 8)
Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: ⁠ https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
Opening an RESP for your grandchildren can be one of the most impactful financial gifts you give—but there are important rules to understand.
In this episode of Retiring Canada, we break down how Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs) work in Canada and what grandparents need to know before contributing.
You’ll learn how government grants like the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) and Canada Learning Bond work, the differences between family and individual plans, and how contribution limits and tax rules can impact your strategy.
We also cover practical considerations around control of the account, family dynamics, and how to ensure your contributions are used effectively for your grandchildren’s education.
This episode is for Canadian retirees and grandparents who want to support their family’s future while making smart financial decisions.

WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?
Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!
EPISODE RESOURCES:
📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter
👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide
✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question
🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca
...more
16min
July 25, 2023 5 Years & Counting - Checklist For Pre-Retirees (EP 7)
Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: ⁠ https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
The 5 years before retirement are some of the most important years in your financial plan.
In this episode of Retiring Canada, we walk through a practical checklist for Canadians who are within five years of retirement and want to make sure they’re fully prepared.
You’ll learn how to shift your mindset from growth to income, how to structure your investments for retirement, and why building a “war chest” of low-risk assets can help protect your income during market downturns.
We also cover key decisions like when to take CPP, how to refine your retirement budget, managing debt, and why working with the right advisor can make a meaningful difference in your long-term success.
This episode is for Canadian pre-retirees who want a clear, actionable plan to transition confidently into retirement.
WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?
Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!

EPISODE RESOURCES:
📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter
👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide
✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question
🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca
...more
20min
July 11, 2023 Not Enough Money to Retire: What to Do (EP 6)
Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: ⁠ https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
Worried you don’t have enough money to retire? You’re not alone—and there are still options available.
In this episode of Retiring Canada, we walk through what Canadians can do if they’re approaching retirement without sufficient savings.
You’ll learn how to maximize government benefits like CPP, Old Age Security (OAS), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), and how factors like income, residency, and tax filing impact what you may receive.
We also explore practical strategies such as continuing to work, deciding when to start CPP, and whether selling your home could help support your retirement.
This episode is for Canadian retirees and pre-retirees who are concerned about their financial future and want to better understand the options available to them.

WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?
Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!
EPISODE RESOURCES:
📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter
👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide
✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question
🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

MENTIONS:
Public Pensions in Canada
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17min
June 27, 2023 Crown Corporation Retirement: 7 Key Decisions (EP 5)
Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: ⁠ https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
Retiring from a Crown corporation in Canada comes with important financial decisions—especially if you’re part of a pension plan like PEPP.
In this episode of Retiring Canada, we walk through 7 key considerations for Saskatchewan Crown employees as they transition into retirement.
You’ll learn how your pension options work, including staying in the plan versus transferring to a LIRA or PRIF, how to structure your retirement income, and how decisions around CPP, OAS, and taxes can impact your long-term financial plan.
We also cover severance planning, life insurance decisions, healthcare benefits, and the pros and cons of managing your retirement yourself versus working with a financial advisor.
This episode is for Canadian retirees and pre-retirees—especially those with a defined contribution pension—who want to make informed, tax-efficient decisions as they enter retirement
WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?
Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠
As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!

EPISODE RESOURCES:
📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started
💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter
👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide
✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question
🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

MENTIONS:
Crown Demographics Report 2021
PEPP Annual Report 2021 - 2022
PEPP Retiree Resources
Quantifying an Advisors Value – Vanguard Report

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21min

FAQs about Retiring Canada:

How many episodes does Retiring Canada have?

The podcast currently has 85 episodes available.