While we're known for expert debt advice, let’s say it’s a good thing we’re better at being LITs than we are at staying on script! Join us for a compilation of our funniest on-air flubs, the kind of candid moments that usually end up on the cutting room floor. It's the perfect mix of lighthearted fun and the valuable debt insights you've come to expect. Don't miss this special (and hilarious) blooper episode! 00:00 – A long-requested episode: bloopers and funny moments from Debt Free in 30! 00:30 – Leaky Boat Incident 03:30 – "Size Matters" 04:30 – To Ted's Wife – We Are Sorry 06:10 – Debt, Death, and Zombies’ Discussion 09:30 – Maureen Forgets Her Name 10:00 – Scott Terrio on Watching the Podcast Hoyes Michalos Free Canadian Credit Rebuilding and Repair Course 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.
--------
10:41
--------
10:41
569 – The Fastest Ways To Break Free From Debt
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.
--------
31:37
--------
31:37
568 – Can You Have Good Debt? Debt In Canada Today
Is debt still avoidable, or has borrowing become a fact of life in Canada? Ontario Licensed Insolvency Trustees Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos answer our questions, share a simple test to assess new debt, and provide an action plan for those struggling to make ends meet. (00:00) What’s changed in Canada’s economy recently? (02:30) The problem with “good debt” as conventional wisdom (04:00) Auto loans: smart purchase or risky commitment? (10:00) Student loans: are they worth it? (14:00) What the household debt-to-income ratio tells us (17:00) Red and green flags when borrowing money (18:45) Is it still possible to live debt-free in Canada? (20:00) Doug & Ted’s 5-point test for smart borrowing (22:00) Understanding the hidden risks of borrowing (23:50) Your debt action plan: what to do starting today (25:00) Mortgage tips: borrowing for a home in today’s market (27:30) The best kind of debt - and what to do if yours isn’t working for you DEBTASIZED – Full Length Documentary Debt Repayment / Consumer Proposal Calculator Hoyes Michalos Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator Joe Debtor – Canadian Insolvency Statistics Explained Reducing Tax Debt in Ontario 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.
--------
29:58
--------
29:58
567 – How to Financially Prepare for Canada's Recession
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.
--------
30:21
--------
30:21
566 – Can It Be Too Late to Get Out of Debt? How to Start Fresh at Any Age
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.
Each week Doug Hoyes talks to industry experts about debt, money, and personal finance. Don't be confused; listen as the guest experts cut through the jargon and share practical advice.
Canada - english