The Up Side with Eli the Money Guy

Tens of thousands of federal employees are facing job uncertainty — and many have a defined benefit (DB) pension with an option most people don't realize exists: taking the commuted value (a lump sum) instead of lifetime monthly payments. In this episode of The Upside, Eli sits down with Dylan Reber (Portfolio Manager + CFP®) to break down what a commuted value actually is, how it's calculated, and the biggest decision factors to consider — including interest-rate timing, tax implications (maximum transfer value), locked-in accounts (LIRA), longevity, estate planning, inflation indexing, and investing discipline. If you're approaching age 55, considering early retirement, or navigating a job transition, this conversation will help you ask the right questions before making an irreversible pension decision.

Tax season is coming fast — and we're answering your most common Canadian tax questions with CPA Brandon Murphy. In this Q&A, we break down the 2026 tax season deadlines, the RRSP contribution deadline, when to expect T-slips, what deductions people miss (like childcare, home office, and vehicle expenses), why self-employed filers still need to pay by April 30, and how OAS clawback really works (including dividend gross-ups). Have a question you want us to cover next? Send it to us!

In this episode of The Up Side, Eli sits down with Brandon Murphy, CPA, to break down the real-world tax and accounting questions business owners struggle with most — and the mistakes that quietly cost them thousands. Brandon shares his path to becoming a CPA, why so many entrepreneurs rush into incorporation too early, and how to think strategically about your business structure from day one. Together, they unpack when it actually makes sense to incorporate, how early-stage losses should be handled, and why "looking professional" is rarely a good tax strategy. They also dive into one of the most common questions new business owners ask after incorporating: how do I pay myself? Brandon explains the practical differences between salary and dividends, when simplicity matters more than optimization, and why the "it depends" answer is often the most honest one. If you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or side-hustler trying to make smarter decisions around tax, cash flow, and long-term planning — this episode will help you avoid common pitfalls and take the next right step with confidence.

You've worked hard—now it's time to make every dollar count. Eli the Money Guy and CPA Amal Assad reveal the power moves that can turn your 50s into your most financially rewarding decade yet. From tax-saving hacks to investment tweaks and retirement timing, discover how to retire richer, sooner, and with zero guesswork.

Income splitting is one of the most powerful and legal tax strategies families and business owners can use to save thousands, but it's often misunderstood or underutilized. In this episode, we dive deep into how income splitting works, who qualifies, and the smartest ways to pay family members, use spousal loans, and leverage financial planners to make it all work. We also cover the difference between a financial planner and a tax accountant, and why having the right team can multiply your savings. If you want to stop leaving money on the table and get serious about keeping more of what you earn, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode of The Up Side, we're unpacking some of the lesser-known but highly powerful tools in the Canadian tax strategy playbook. From maximizing your Principal Residence Exemption to understanding the commuted value of your pension, and getting familiar with flow-through shares, we cover the tax advantages that could be worth thousands (or more). Whether you're planning for retirement, selling property, or investing smarter, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

In this episode, we're cutting through the noise to talk about the difference between helpful financial guidance and advice that just doesn't serve you. From commission-driven insurance sellers to viral TikTok "money hacks," not all advice is created equal. We break down the red flags, help you spot biased or oversimplified tips, and share how to vet financial recommendations—whether they come from a friend, a feed, or a "finance guru." Tune in to make smarter money moves with confidence.

In this kickoff episode, we break down the basics of smart budgeting without the fluff. From the 50/30/20 rule to the hard truth about making "dumb" money moves, we're talking real strategies to help you stop guessing and start planning.  You'll learn: Why the 50/30/20 rule actually works How to take emotion out of financial decisions The mindset shift high earners make with money What most people get wrong about budgeting for the future Whether you're just getting started or looking to level up your financial game, this episode will help you see money differently and manage it better.    👉 Hit play and start building your financial future with confidence.