Debt Free in 30

Is tracking every single expense the key to taking control of your finances, or just a fast track to burnout? What are the pros and cons of meticulous money tracking? Doug Hoyes and guest Charlie Kovacs debate who benefits most from detailed spending logs, when it’s OK to simplify, and strategies to build a money system that actually sticks. 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Charlie explains why he’s a fan of tracking expenses 08:00 – Variable vs. Fixed Expenses: Focusing on variable expenses to reveal patterns 10:00 – How to Create a Simple Spending Summary 11:30 – The Motivation Problem: Why staying on track is hard 13:30 – Start Small: Charlie’s advice for tackling one category at a time 14:30 – One-Week Tracking Tip: Find Your Spending Baseline 20:00 – The Subtraction Method: Identifying savings opportunities 23:00 – Should You Have More Than One Bank Account? Pros and cons explained 26:00 – Finding What Works: Progress, not perfection Personal Budgeting Help and Free Spreadsheet DIY Credit Repair Strategies and Free Course 80/20 Money Management Rule Sign Up for the Monthly Debt Free Digest Hoyes Michalos YouTube Channel 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.

You need strategies that go beyond budgeting apps. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos are experts who’ve seen it all – and they offer practical, honest advice to build momentum and pay off debt faster. Learn what you can do before considering insolvency, how to know if you’re at that point, and what to do if you are—a clear, actionable guide for Canadians. (00:30) How Interest Works (and How to Make It Work for You) (04:00) Why You Should Pay Off High-Interest Credit Cards First (08:00) Realistic DIY Strategies to Eliminate Debt (13:10) What to Do with Windfalls or Extra Income (14:30) Micropayments: Small but Mighty (15:30) Paying Bills with Debt in Mind (17:00) Boosting and Rebuilding Your Credit Score (19:30) How and Why to Automate Your Finances (22:00) Debt Consolidation: Pros and Cons (26:00) When to Consider a Consumer Proposal or Bankruptcy (28:00) What’s Coming Next on Debt Free in 30 Financial Consumer Agency of Canada – Tools and Calculators Debt Repayment Worksheet Debt Repayment / Consumer Proposal Calculator Hoyes Michalos Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator Hoyes Michalos YouTube Channel Sign Up For The Monthly Debt Free Digest 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.

Don't just brace for a recession, prepare to come out stronger. This conversation is about turning Canada’s economic uncertainty into an opportunity for financial growth (or, at least, stability). We'll equip you with proactive strategies for managing debt, finding new income streams, and building a mindset of resilience. Learn how to take decisive control of your financial future, no matter what the economy throws at you. (00:00) – Prediction: How We Knew a Recession Was Coming  (02:30) – Rising Costs & Reduced Work Hours Impacting Households  (04:00) – Forecast: Hitting Recession Thresholds by End of Summer  (05:30) – Managing Money vs. Managing Debt: Good Times vs. Bad  (07:45) – First Steps When You Feel Financial Pressure  (11:00) – Side Hustles 101: Pros & Cons of Supplemental Income  (14:00) – Leveraging Networks & Community Support  (15:45) – How to Start (and Grow) an Emergency Fund  (18:00) – Recession-Proofing Strategies for Homeowners  (19:15) – Top Tips for Canadians in Debt as Recession Hits  (27:00) – Building Mental Resilience & Setting Realistic Goals  Reducing Tax Debt in Ontario Planning For Retirement When You Have Debt Why You Absolutely Need An Emergency Fund Sign Up For The Monthly Debt Free Digest 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.  

Is it ever “too late” to get out of debt? Whether you're mid-career, nearing retirement, or already retired, this episode will shatter the “too late” myth and walk you through clear, actionable steps to take control of your finances, no matter your age or life stage. Visit hoyes.com to get personalized support in Ontario from a Licensed Insolvency Trustee to reduce debt before retirement, and access the FREE Hoyes Michalos credit rebuilding course. (00:45) Age & Debt: Does Your Age Limit Your Options? (03:00) Why It Feels “Too Late” – Common Concerns Explained (04:45) Step 1: Identify Your Income Streams (06:40) Step 2: Track Your Expenses and Spending Habits (10:00) Step 3: Review All Your Debts and Available Credit (10:45) Step 4: Build a Realistic Repayment Plan (Budget) (14:20) Approaching Retirement? Key Actions You Need to Take (17:00) Where to Apply Extra Payments: Tackling High-Interest Loans First (20:00) Why Debt Consolidation Often Falls Short (22:00) Downsizing, Selling Assets & Tapping Savings: Pros & Cons (24:00) Can it be too late for a Bankruptcy or a Consumer Proposal? (26:00) The One Debt That Never Disappears on Its Own: CRA (28:00) It’s Never Too Late: Reducing Debt Legally Planning For Retirement When You Have Debt Debt Relief for Seniors in Canada: Your Options and Solutions RRSP and Bankruptcy in Canada: Will I Lose My Retirement Savings? Sign Up For The Monthly Debt Free Digest 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.

When parents ask their adult children to co-sign a loan, add their name to a mortgage, or take out a car loan “for the family,” it can feel impossible to say no. But what are the risks? Ontario Licensed Insolvency Trustees Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos break down the financial (and emotional) minefield of taking on debt for your parents. From credit utilization issues to legal responsibility and long-term credit damage, they explain how even well-meaning help can backfire, and offer solutions to support aging parents without risking your financial stability. (00:00) Risks of Co-Signing for Your Parents' Credit (02:30) Why Parents Ask Their Kids to Co-Sign Loans (05:50) Supplemental vs. Joint Credit: What’s the Difference? (07:30) Co-Signing Auto Loans: Why It’s Risky (09:00) Credit Utilization: How It Hurts Even If Payments Are On Time (12:30) Planning for the Worst: Protecting Yourself from Family Debt (14:45) What to Do If You Can’t (or Don’t Want to) Help Your Parents (16:30) Safe Ways to Support Parents Without Taking on Debt (19:45) Helping Your Parents Manage Money as They Age (26:30) How to Help Parents with Unmanageable Debt How Co-Signed Debt Is Dealt with in a Consumer Proposal Is a Secondary Credit Card Holder Responsible for Debt? Can a Joint Bank Account be Garnished in Canada? Best Debt Relief Options Ontario Free Credit Rebuilding Course and learning resources Sign Up For The Monthly Debt Free Digest 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.

For many newcomers to Canada, the Canadian credit system can feel like a high-stakes challenge. Although it's essential for building a financial life, aggressive lending practices, cultural mindsets around credit, and a lack of clear guidance can lead to overwhelming debt before fully understanding how the system works. In this essential episode, Ontario Licensed Insolvency Trustees Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos discuss the challenges newcomers may face, explain how banks and lenders operate, and pinpoint the critical warning signs to watch for when navigating a new financial life in Canada. 00:00 – Why do banks and lenders target new Canadians? 03:30 – How Canada’s credit culture affects immigrants 06:00 – How do credit and banks work in Canada? Can they be trusted? 09:00 – Unique financial challenges for newcomers 11:00 – What banks consider when lending to new Canadians 12:30 – Is building credit the only way to succeed? Ted’s advice 14:00 – Red flags for immigrants seeking financial help: Who can you trust? 22:00 – Credit advice everyone should know (not just newcomers) 23:30 – Real-life scenario that illustrates key credit considerations for new Canadians 26:00 – What to do if you’re an immigrant (or anyone) with unmanageable debt in Canada Bankruptcy, Sponsorship, and Citizenship in Canada Student Loan Debt Forgiveness Best Debt Relief Options Ontario Free Credit Rebuilding Course and learning resources Sign Up For The Monthly Debt Free Digest 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.

Boomer budgeting tips collide with millennial money challenges in this candid conversation about debt, savings, housing costs, and the rise of gig-work income. Whether saving for a first home or paying off old credit cards, this episode bridges the generation gap with actionable insights for any age, complete with tried-and-true tactics Boomers still swear by, tech-savvy hacks Millennials can’t live without. 0:00 - Do Boomers Have It Easier? Debunking Generational Money Myths 3:10 - Why Millennials Lead Insolvency Filings & Credit-Card Debt 6:00 - “Credential Creep”: Rising Education Costs and Student Loans 9:00 - Buying a Home: 1980s Down Payment vs. 2020s Reality 13:00 - Starting Adulthood in Debt: How Timing Shapes Finances 16:00 - Shifting Attitudes: From Debt-Free Dreams to “Normal” Borrowing 18:00 - Gig Economy 101: Income Streams Boomers Never Faced 19:30 - Interest-Rate Shocks: Then (18%) vs. Now (Variable & Rising) 22:00 - 31 Flavours of Credit: BNPL, Lines of Credit, & More 25:00 - Boomer Money Rules That Still Work Today 28:00 - Reverse Mentorship: What Millennials Can Teach Boomers Joe Debtor Study https://hoyes.info/joe-debtor-study Student Loan Debt Help Ontario https://hoyes.info/student-loan-rules-ontario Free Credit Rebuilding Course and learning resources https://hoyes.info/credit-rebuilding-course-free Sign Up For The Monthly Debt Free Digest https://hoyes.info/newsletter Check out our other YouTube Channel: @hoyesmichalos  https://www.youtube.com/@hoyesmichalos 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.

Have you ever wondered what life would look like if your credit score didn’t exist? Licensed Insolvency Trustees Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos compare Canada’s score-driven system with France’s radically different, no-score approach. You’ll learn: How France decides who can borrow—without a three-digit score. The cultural attitudes that shape lending and spending in France and Canada Why credit-report errors and identity theft are bigger issues than most Canadians realize. Whether Canada could (or should) adopt parts of France’s model—and what you can do right now to work the system in your favour. (00:00)  Intro – How Canada Tracks Credit with TransUnion & Equifax  (04:45)  France’s “No-Score” System: How Trustworthiness Is Judged  (07:10)  Lending Culture in France: Relationships Over Ratings  (09:00)  Lending Culture in Canada: Why Scores Still Rule  (13:00)  Could Canada Move Toward a French-Style Model?  (15:50)  Credit-Report Errors: The Hidden Cost of Scores  (19:00)  Building Rapport with Lenders: Help or Hindrance?  (20:30)  Identity Theft Risks: Centralized Data vs. Decentralized Files  (22:00)  Which System Carries Less Bias—France or Canada?  (26:30)  Is Canada’s Credit Reporting Actually Working?  (28:00)  Takeaways: How to Navigate Canada’s System to Your Advantage    The Big Credit Score Scam Solutions for Maxed-Out Credit Cards Hoyes Michalos FREE Credit Rebuilding Course and Learning Resources Sign Up For The Monthly Debt Free Digest The Best Canadian Personal Finance and Debt Management TikToks 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.

Zombie memberships are real – and they’re feasting on your budget every month. Forgotten fitness app? Digital subscription you thought was cancelled? Auto-renewals can quietly drain your finances if you're not paying attention. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos discuss why some subscriptions are so easy to miss, and how to track, cancel, and avoid them going forward. This episode includes real examples, expert tips, and even a personal story from the Hoyes Michalos team, proving it can happen to anyone. (00:00) Are You Paying for Subscriptions You Forgot About? (03:00) Fitness Classes, Digital Apps & Other Zombie Memberships  (07:00) Why Auto-Renewal Is a Red Flag  (12:00) How to Identify What’s Draining Your Cash  (16:00) Our Own Zombie Membership Story  (17:30) Why Cancelling Is So Hard  (19:30) Track It and Cancel It Fast  (21:00) Use the “One In, One Out” Rule  (24:00) Try Before You Buy: Avoid Entering Credit Card Info  (27:00) You Don’t Have to Give Up What Works for You  Hoyes Michalos FREE Credit Rebuilding Course and Learning Resources Balancing Needs Vs Wants When Budgeting What To Do About Credit Card Debt In Collections Sign Up For The Monthly Debt Free Digest Get A Personalized Debt Plan 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.

What legal actions can creditors take if you stop paying your debts? From collection calls to lawsuits and wage garnishments, Licensed Insolvency Trustees explain the real timeline of creditor actions—including how the CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) collects without going to court, and how to avoid scams when seeking help. ✅ Know your rights✅ Understand the legal process✅ Learn when (and how) to take action with confidence 00:00 – Can You Go to Jail for Not Paying Debt in Canada? 03:00 – When Do Creditors Start Calling After Missed Payments? 06:45 – When Can Creditors Start Legal Action Against You? 09:40 – Understanding the Statute of Limitations on Debt in Canada 12:20 – Debt Collections vs. Debt Buyers: Why Debts Are Sold 16:00 – How to Know If You're Actually Being Sued 17:00 – Superior Court vs. Small Claims Court: What If You Ignore It? 20:00 – CRA Collection Powers: Wage Garnishment Without Court 24:00 – Court-Ordered Support Payments (e.g., Child or Spousal Support) 26:00 – Practical Tips for Dealing with Debt Collectors 27:30 – What to Do If You're Facing a Wage Garnishment 29:00 – Avoiding Debt Relief Scams: Why You Need a Licensed Insolvency Trustee How To Find Legitimate Debt Help in Canada Legal Actions Creditors Can Take When You Don’t Pay Hoyes Michalos YouTube: Will a Debt Collector Sue Me? Sign Up For The Debt Free Digest (A monthly financial-motivation newsletter to your inbox!) 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.

Denied credit when you need it most? Learn why creditors reject credit and loan applications and what steps you can take next. This guide covers real solutions to dealing with emergency credit denial, from avoiding payday loan traps to protecting yourself financially in tough times. Doug and Ted also recommend using the links below to access your free credit reports, a right for all Canadians! You do not need to pay for your credit score, and finding the free report option on these websites can sometimes be tricky: Link to access your FREE Equifax Credit Report Link to access your FREE TransUnion Report Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest (A monthly financial-motivation newsletter to your inbox!) (00:00) - Why You May Be Denied Credit  (02:35) – What Is and Is Not on Your Credit Report  (05:30) – Why Banks Prefer Lending Large Amounts  (07:00) – How Lending Criteria Differs Between Lenders  (08:00) – Why People Are Relying on Credit in Emergencies (10:00) – What to Do Before Considering a Payday Loan  (13:00) – The Payday Loan Cycle: Why It’s Hard to Escape  (15:00) – Credit-Building Tips to Improve Your Chances  (19:00) – Should You Cash Out an RRSP or TFSA? Pros and Cons  (22:30) – Talking to Creditors: Can You Defer a Payment?  (25:00) – Emergency Solutions When All Else Fails  (27:00) – How to Protect Yourself Financially in a Survival Situation  Break the Payday Loan Cycle 13 Myths About Credit Card Debt in Canada What Debt Relief Options Are Available in Ontario? 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.

What does it mean to be house poor in today’s Canadian economy? With home prices rising much faster than wages, more people are stretching their finances to buy property, only to find themselves stressed, overleveraged, and without a financial safety net. We explore how the definition of "house poor" has evolved, the role gig work and income instability play, and whether it's ever worth it to stretch your finances for a home. Most importantly, we share practical tools to help you avoid becoming house poor—or to recover if you’re already there. (0:00) Defining "House Poor": Understanding the Basics (2:00) The Changing Definition of House Poor Over Time (3:45) House Prices vs. Wages & Inflation (6:00) Gig Work & the Modern Workforce (8:30) When Is Being House Poor Acceptable? (13:00) Rethinking Homeownership as Investment (14:30) Practical Advice: How to Avoid Becoming House Poor (19:30) Financial Planning Tools: Calculating Your Homeownership Affordability (22:00) The Link Between Homeownership & Unsecured Debt (26:00) Getting Out of the House Poor Situation: Actionable Strategies What To Do If You Can’t Pay Your Mortgage Second Mortgage Home Equity Loan or Interest Free Consumer Proposal? Can You Get A Mortgage With Bad Credit? DEBTASIZED - How Our Reliance on Credit Leads to Price Inflation FREE YouTube Doc Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest E-Newsletter Debt Free in 30 Podcast YouTube Channel Hoyes Michalos YouTube Channel  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.

Loans are getting longer, interest rates are getting higher, and that shiny new car? It could lead to serious debt. We dive into Canadian data to help you make informed choices when it comes to buying, leasing, or walking away from a car loan that no longer makes sense.  Can I Buy a Car With Bad Credit? Car Buying Options Keep You In a Debt Cycle How GMC Revolutionized the Car Loan Industry DocumentaryWhat Not To Do When Getting a Car Loan DEBTASIZED - How Our Reliance on Credit Leads to Price Inflation FREE YouTube Doc Sign Up for the Debt Free Digest (00:00) – How to Get a Car Loan in Canada (02:00) – Exchange Rates & the Canadian Dollar Impact (03:30) – Used Car Prices Explained (04:30) – What Influences Interest Rates? (12:00) – Is Your Car Loan Secured? Risks of Repossession (13:30) – What Happens If You Miss Car Loan Payments? (15:00) – When and Why Do Lenders Repossess Cars? (19:00) – Smart Car Buying Tips: Save Money with Strategic Choices (22:00) – Car Leasing in Canada: Pros and Cons Compared (25:00) – How to Get Out of a Car Loan Legally and Strategically Visit us on social media for the best clips from the show and more!  Instagram Tik TokX Facebook LinkedIn 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.

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 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 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.