Debt Free in 30

Every week we take 30 minutes and talk to industry experts about debt, money and personal finance.

563 – Debt: The New Normal? Comparing Boomer and Millennial Mindsets 06/14/2025

563 – Debt: The New Normal? Comparing Boomer and Millennial Mindsets 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 https://hoyes.info/joe-debtor-study https://hoyes.info/student-loan-rules-ontario Free and learning resources https://hoyes.info/newsletter Check out our other YouTube Channel: @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. /episode/index/show/debtfreein30/id/37000325

562 – Canada’s Credit Score Crisis: Does France's No Score System Reveal A Better Way? 06/07/2025

562 – Canada’s Credit Score Crisis: Does France's No Score System Reveal A Better Way? 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 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. /episode/index/show/debtfreein30/id/36888420

561 – Zombie Subscriptions: How To Spot And Cancel Hidden Budget Killers 05/31/2025

560 – Legal Actions Creditors Can Take in Canada (And How to Protect Yourself) 05/24/2025

559 – Denied Credit? The Survival Guide for Emergency Situations 05/17/2025

558 – What It Means To Be House Poor And How To Avoid It 05/10/2025

557 – How To Avoid Car Financing Mistakes In 2025 05/03/2025

556 – Is Debt Fatigue Holding You Back? Strategies for Renewed Focus 04/26/2025

555 – The Future of Canadian Savings: Are We Saving Enough for What's Ahead? 04/19/2025

554 – AI Scams & Debt: Staying Safe in a New Era of Fraud 04/12/2025

533 – Debt & Neurodiversity: Understanding the Connection and Finding Solutions 04/05/2025

533 – Debt & Neurodiversity: Understanding the Connection and Finding Solutions 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 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. /episode/index/show/debtfreein30/id/36009285

552 – Gamified Spending: The Hidden Dangers of Retail Tricks 03/29/2025

551 – Value of The Canadian Dollar & Its Impact on Your Dinner Bill 03/22/2025

550 – How to Build Wealth While Managing Debt: A Practical Guide 03/15/2025

549 – Can You Walk Away from a Pre-Construction Deal? What You Need to Know 03/08/2025

549 – Can You Walk Away from a Pre-Construction Deal? What You Need to Know Alarming trend: Canadians are finding themselves unable to follow through on pre-con real estate purchases. So, what happens if you can’t close on a pre-construction real estate deal? In this episode, the co-founders of Hoyes Michalos break down the reality of pre-construction deals in Canada, including assignment sales, how rising rates and blanket appraisals impact your deal, and what happens if you can’t secure financing. They also explore the legal and financial consequences of “walking away” and whether solutions like a consumer proposal or bankruptcy might apply to your situation. (0:00) – What is a pre-construction deal in real estate? (3:30) – What is an assignment sale? (5:15) – Trends in Canadian pre-construction real estate deals (8:00) – “Blanket appraisals” and why they matter (11:45) – The financial and legal consequences of “walking away” (13:00) – Timing issues and pre-con purchases (14:00) – What happens if interest rates go up or down before your closing date? (17:00) – When builders run into problems — how it affects you (20:00) – Practical steps if you can’t close on your pre-construction home (22:00) – Can a consumer proposal help you walk away from a pre-con deal? (26:00) – Are you at risk of being sued by the builder? (28:00) – Bankruptcy: when it becomes an option for pre-construction buyers 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. /episode/index/show/debtfreein30/id/35576780

548 – Credit Card Habits Leading to Debt? Expert Advice for Canadians 03/01/2025

547 – Financial Freedom & Zero Debt: What You Need to Know 02/22/2025

546 – Canadian Debt Is Surging – Concerning Trends from Joe Debtor 2024 02/15/2025

546 – Canadian Debt Is Surging – Concerning Trends from Joe Debtor 2024 Canadians are being crushed by debt—and we have the data to prove it. In this exclusive episode, Hoyes Michalos co-founders Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos break down the findings from the 2024 Joe Debtor study, Canada’s leading consumer insolvency report. Our research reveals how rising debt levels are impacting Canadians like never before. From millennials facing record-high debt to homeowners running out of options, we analyze the trends, why they matter, and what the average insolvent Canadian looked like in 2024. You won’t hear this anywhere else—tune in for expert insights from Canada’s leading Licensed Insolvency Trustees. (0:00) – Who is Hoyes Michalos? What is the Joe Debtor study? (2:15) – Studies vs. Surveys, and understanding the term “Consumer Insolvencies” (4:00) – Debt is Surging – even we’re shocked by the numbers (8:10) – Why did Millennials have the most significant increases in debt? (12:30) – The average monthly income of an insolvent individual in Canada (14:30) – Income is rising, but Canadians are still struggling – here’s why (17:00) – Home equity used to help people - why that’s no longer an option (20:00) – Homeowners are increasingly in debt, and vehicle loans are a huge problem (24:00) – Owing CRA: How taxes and interest rates hurt (28:00) – Key questions to ask yourself and expert advice to help your finances 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. /episode/index/show/debtfreein30/id/35273950

545 – Why We Overspend and How to Break Bad Money Habits 02/08/2025

544 – The Truth About Loans Impacting Your Credit Score 02/01/2025

543 – How to Avoid Debt Traps: Expert Tips for Canadians 01/25/2025

542 – The Truth of Credit Card Rewards – They're Costing You 01/18/2025

542 – The Truth of Credit Card Rewards – They're Costing You Are credit card points and rewards as beneficial as they seem, or are they secretly costing you more than you realize? Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos discuss the truths behind credit card reward systems, revealing how spending habits, annual fees, and high-interest cards may affect your financial health. Learn how credit card companies use your data, the psychology behind reward marketing, and whether these points and rewards are worth it in the long run. (0:50) – Have you changed your spending habits to earn credit card rewards? (1:45) – The history of credit card rewards: How they started and why they’re popular. (5:45) – What personal data do credit card companies collect from you? (8:00) – How credit card companies market rewards and why we’re drawn to them. (10:45) – The biggest downside of credit card rewards (12:55) – Doug and Ted's advice: How many credit cards should you really have? (14:30) – Why using high-interest cards can lead to risky financial situations. (18:20) – How credit card usage affects your credit score: Tips to avoid negative impacts. (22:30) – The overlooked cost of annual fees (26:00) – The risk of losing your points during insolvency: Use them, or lose them. (27:00) – Expert advice on credit card rewards Learn more from Hoyes Michalos: Sign Up for Our Newsletter https://www.hoyes.com/subscribe-newsletter/ 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. /episode/index/show/debtfreein30/id/34894395

541 – A House Is Not an Investment If You Can’t Afford It 01/11/2025

540 – How the New Criminal Interest Rate Affects You 01/04/2025

539 – Canadian Insolvency and Economic Trends in 2025 01/02/2025

538 – Financial Caregiving: Taking Care of Aging Parents While Tackling Debt 12/21/2024

538 – Financial Caregiving: Taking Care of Aging Parents While Tackling Debt How do you balance financial well-being with the responsibility of supporting aging parents? This important episode tackles the complexities of financial caregiving, highlighting the challenges of the "sandwich generation"—those caring for both children and elderly parents—all while managing personal debt. Doug and Ted cover the pros and cons, from government benefits to taxes to practical steps for initiating conversations with your parents; you’ll learn essential tools and strategies for confidently navigating financial caregiving. Timestamps: (0:40) – What’s the Average Age for Insolvency? (2:00) – Understanding the “Sandwich” Generation: Caught Between Debt and Aging Parents (5:00) – Financial Caregiving Explained: What Does It Entail? (8:00) – Should You Prioritize Paying Off Debt or Helping Your Parents? (9:45) – Sidebar: Why Ted Hates Reverse Mortgages (14:00) – Government and Community Benefits for Caregivers and Their Aging Parents (16:00) – The Impacts and Downsides of Financial Caregiving (19:20) – Why Filing Taxes Is Crucial for Caregivers (22:30) – Making Tough Decisions on Behalf of Your Parents (24:00) – Practical Advice: Preparing for Financial Caregiving (28:00) – How to Start the Money Conversation with Your Parents Learn more from Hoyes Michalos: Sign Up for Our Newsletter 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. /episode/index/show/debtfreein30/id/34533970

537 – The True Cost of Borrowing 12/14/2024

537 – The True Cost of Borrowing Have you ever stopped to consider the real costs—and sacrifices—of borrowing someone else’s money? Whether it’s a mortgage, car loan, or another form of financing, the hidden fees, penalties, and long-term credit impacts can quickly add up. Beyond the numbers, debt can bring stress, limit opportunities, and force tough choices in your personal and professional life. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos provide expert insights to help you confidently navigate borrowing, avoid costly mistakes, and make decisions that protect your finances and peace of mind. Timestamps: (1:00) – Get Interested in Your Interest Rates (3:25) – Understanding Origination Fees and Insurance Costs (8:05) – Why Doug and Ted Recommend Paying on Time (10:15) – Prepayment Penalties and Other “Hidden” Fees (15:10) – Discretionary Spending or Needing to Borrow More (17:10) – How Borrowing Impacts Your Credit Score (19:30) – Debt Causes Stress and Limits Opportunities (21:15) – Why Banks Encourage You to Finance (24:00) – Practical Advice – How to Read Your Loan Contract (26:50) – The Bottom Line: Calculating the Total Cost (29:00) – Knowing When to Seek Professional Help Learn more from Hoyes Michalos: Sign Up for Our Newsletter 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. /episode/index/show/debtfreein30/id/34418200

536 – How to Handle Maxed-Out Credit Cards 12/07/2024

536 – How to Handle Maxed-Out Credit Cards Is the thought of maxed-out credit cards keeping you up at night? This guide unpacks the pitfalls of credit card debt and offers clear strategies to break free from the cycle. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos discuss why your credit utilization rate matters, how many credit cards you should really have, the pros (but mostly cons) of opening new credit accounts, and the best options when you’re in a pinch. (1:45) – What’s the problem with maxing out your credit cards? (4:00) – How a credit card should be used (cash substitute vs. borrowing tool) (5:00) – Credit limit, available credit, and utilization rate – what’s the difference? (7:00) – Strategies for a maxed-out situation: Short-term fixes that work. (8:45) – Taking out additional credit cards: A double-edged sword. (11:15) – Should you have one or two credit cards? More? (14:30) – Signs your financial situation is serious: When to seek help. (16:15) – Practical advice for maxed-out cards (19:30) – The downside of debt consolidation loans (23:40) – Can calling your bank help? Exploring referral programs and renegotiation. (27:00) – Consumer proposals explained: Why creditors accept less payment. Learn more from Hoyes Michalos: Sign Up for Our Newsletter 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. /episode/index/show/debtfreein30/id/34321220

535 – How Seasonal Workers Can Manage Income and Debt 11/30/2024

534 – How to Stay Motivated While Paying Off Debt 11/23/2024

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