Young Money With Tracey Bissett

Are you equipped to handle the complexities of managing debt and navigating financial emergencies? In this episode, I dive into the crucial aspects of financial health, focusing on debt management and emergency preparedness. November, being Financial Literacy Month in Canada, serves as a timely reminder to assess and enhance our financial literacy, a key component of overall financial wellness. Join me as I explore the theme of this year’s campaign, "Managing Your Money in a Changing World," and discuss practical tips and strategies for dealing with debt, creating budgets, and setting up emergency funds. I’ll cover the importance of understanding your financial rights, the benefits of having a solid plan for debt repayment, and ways to increase income and reduce expenses. Plus, I’ll offer insights on how to navigate financial emergencies, from contacting financial institutions to considering mortgage deferrals and credit card payment holidays. "Managing debt is one of the key consumer building blocks that lea

Are you ready to tackle the tempting deals of Black Friday and Cyber Monday without derailing your budget? In today’s episode, we dive into the art of smart shopping during the biggest sale season of the year and share essential considerations to ensure you're making wise purchasing decisions. Listen in as we explore three key considerations: understanding the real reason behind your purchase, assessing if the deal is genuinely beneficial, and exploring ways to maximize benefits like loyalty points or additional perks. We also offer bonus tips on avoiding overspending, such as unsubscribing from tempting store emails and involving friends in your spending plans. And don't forget about Giving Tuesday – a perfect opportunity to make your charitable contributions go further! “If you are getting a deal, make sure it really is one.” -  Tracey Bissett This Week on Young Money: Evaluating the true purpose of your purchases. Determining if a deal is genuinely advantageous. Leveraging loyalty programs and other benef

Embarking on the journey of entrepreneurship requires more than just business acumen—it necessitates a strong foundation built on passion, resilience and a commitment to positive change. Sharmila Sriram, Founder & CEO of Spectrum Medical Diagnostics, sheds light on the crucial aspects that drive the success of a business. Sharmila reflects on the challenges she faced in her financial journey, emphasizing the need for a solid financial roadmap, a robust emergency fund and the ability to find opportunities in challenges.  Listen in as she shares valuable lessons on resilience, as well as practical insights and guidance for aspiring entrepreneurs. You'll learn from Sharmila's journey as she offers wisdom on overcoming obstacles, embracing failure as part of the process and staying focused on the path to success. “When you’re passionate about something, money follows.” - Sharmila Sriram This Week on Young Money: What a day in the life looks like for Sharmila. The importance of having a good team around you.

Wondering how small business owners are navigating the current economic landscape and what the future holds for them? Tune in to this episode with Jascha Jabes, Vice President of Small Business at Scotiabank, who brings a wealth of experience from various sectors and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing businesses today. In this episode, Jascha shares some of the key findings from Scotiabank's recent Small Business Report, highlighting the resilience and optimism of business owners despite prevailing headwinds. He sheds light on how businesses are adapting to economic conditions, enhancing their digital capabilities, and leveraging artificial intelligence. We also discuss how business owners can future-proof their ventures and gain insights into building strong partnerships with financial institutions. “There is a need for small business to be nimble and flexible, and that’s a lot harder than we realize.” - Jascha Jabes This Week on Young Money: What a day in Jascha’s life looks li

Looking for insights on how to curb overspending and make smarter financial decisions? Don't miss this episode featuring Iva Poshnjari, a BNN Bloomberg digital reporter and a voice on CTV’s Things To Know T.O. TV show. With a keen focus on personal finance and a passion for guiding young women away from financial pitfalls, Iva brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion. In this episode, Iva explores the pressing challenges of overspending, shedding light on some of the trends when it comes to overspending and which generation is most affected by inflation. She also shares her personal journey with finances and debt, highlighting the pivotal role of mindfulness and meditation in reining in spending habits and the tactics she employed to clear her own debt. “When it comes to finances, getting organized is half the battle.” - Iva Poshnjari This Week on Young Money: A day in Iva’s life. The trends in overspending. Advice Iva would give to her younger self. The strategies she used to pay off he

Curious about making smart investment choices and understanding the current economic climate in Canada? Tune in to this episode with David O’Leary, chartered financial analyst, wealth management expert, and the founder and principal of Kind Wealth. With a wealth of experience behind him and a commitment to independence and transparency, he’ll take you through the intricacies of investing and financial planning. Listen in as David shares his insights on a range of topics, including the impact of inflation on investing among Canadians, changes in risk tolerance, and the links between investing and personal values. We also discuss the difference between financial planning and investment management, practical tips for successful self-directed investing, and how David overcame his own financial challenges. “There’s no bravery without fear.” - David O’Leary This Week on Young Money: What a day in David’s life looks like. The core themes and success factors in David’s career journey so far. The financial challenge

Wondering how to navigate the complex world of personal finance and wealth-building? Don't miss this episode featuring Julie Shipley-Strickland, a Senior Wealth Advisor at Wellington-Altus Private Wealth and a trailblazer for women in the financial industry. She joins the show today to share actionable insights from more than a decade of experience in the field. Listen in as Julie delves into the rituals for building wealth that you can start practicing today, as well as her own financial challenges and what she wishes she had known earlier in life. You'll learn real, actionable advice, including some hard truths about the financial challenges that many of us face but rarely discuss. “Chip away at whatever you’re doing and surround yourself with great people.” - Julie Shipley-Strickland This Week on Young Money: What a day in Julie’s life looks like. The key success factors that have helped her. The biggest financial challenge she faced. What she wishes she had known sooner.  Actionable rituals for building

Ever wondered how our emotional relationship with money shapes our financial success? In this episode, we sit down with Leisse Wilcox, a Strategic Business Coach who has dedicated her career to helping women bridge the gap between self-worth and net worth. With a story marked by resilience, Leisse has not only built a thriving business amidst personal challenges, but has also become a beacon of hope for entrepreneurial women worldwide. From navigating cancer and complex personal challenges to building a multiple six-figure business, Leisse's journey is a testament to the power of self-belief and determination. This episode delves deep into discussions that aren't always on the sunny side of money, offering listeners a chance to learn from Leisse's experiences and insights. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a fresh perspective on the emotional intricacies of wealth and self-worth. “You are enough, simply by existing.” - Leisse Wilcox This Week on Young Money: What a day in Leisse’s life looks like. How her

Curious about making the right choices in challenging times? Shannon Lee Simmons, a seasoned Certified Financial Planner (CFP), bestselling author, and founder of the New School of Finance™, joins us to explore her latest book, No-Regret Decisions. Introducing a universal decision-making framework applicable to most scenarios, Shannon emphasizes that setbacks don't define your decision-making ability—they're opportunities for growth.  Listen in to hear about her three-phase approach: first, avoiding impulsive panic decisions; second, navigating the messy middle phase of decision-making; and finally, adapting to your "next normal" post-decision. You will learn how to craft micro-timelines for clarity and embrace evolving core values. Unlock the secrets of effective decision-making and pave the way for future success! "No matter what decision someone is trying to make in their life, the actual framework to make that decision is the same.” - Shannon Lee Simmons This Week on Young Money: The three phases of big

Ever puzzled over how to make your charitable donations truly count? Don't miss this episode featuring philanthropy expert John Bromley. Raised with charity as a family cornerstone, John has worked with top experts in the field and founded Charitable Impact to simplify and enhance giving. Tune in to hear how his mission aligns with the history of Young Money and aims to transform philanthropy. Listen in as we dive into John's journey from a charitable upbringing to founding Charitable Impact, a platform designed to make giving easier and more effective. John shares invaluable insights on how to start your philanthropic journey, even if it's with a minimal amount, and offers guidance on narrowing down charitable options to align with your interests and passions. "It's not just wealthy people who can and do create change in the world. Everyone contributes towards that.” - John Bromley This Week on Young Money: About John and Charitable Impact. The importance of charitable giving. How John became interested in

With more than 15 years in the world of finance, Kalee Boisvert, MBA, champions the cause of financial empowerment. She's set to release two books in 2023: MoneyWise Mabel’s Bursting Bank, a children's book, and Make Money Your Thing! a non-fiction guide. In this episode, Kalee dives into empowering women in finance, untangling financial stress, and practical steps to take control of your financial journey. Listen in as she shares tactics to remove stress and create a positive relationship with money. You will learn the importance of taking small actions every day and the preliminary steps towards financial well-being, including cultivating a healthy money mindset and understanding your present financial standing. Kalee also explains the value of dedicating time to financial growth while avoiding the pursuit of perfection, instead embracing your own financial uniqueness.  “Women being financially empowered and feeling good in their finances benefits everyone.” - Kalee Boisvert This Week on Young Money: How

Ever wondered how to enjoy big events like a Taylor Swift concert without sinking into debt? Shannon Terrell is a renowned writer for NerdWallet Canada and holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toronto. Her work has been featured in prominent publications like Black Enterprise, Finder, and Yahoo! Finance, and she joins the show today to share insights into the financial implications of major events like concerts for fans and attendees. As the excitement builds for Taylor Swift's 2024 tour, Shannon Terrell offers an insider's perspective on NerdWallet, as well as how to navigate ticket challenges, avoid scams, and make the most of your concert experience without overspending. From budget-friendly travel tips to the real value of concert merchandise, we've got you covered! "The last thing you want after spending that kind of money is to be ripped off or scammed.” - Shannon Terrell This Week on Young Money: A day in the life of Shannon Terrell and an inside look into NerdWallet. The frenzy around Tay

Welcome to this milestone episode of Young Money! I'm overwhelmed with gratitude as we mark our 300th episode. The podcast has reached listeners in over 40 countries, with more than 335,000 downloads. This isn't just my achievement; it's ours. It's a testament to our shared commitment to financial education and your unwavering support. Together, we've championed the cause of financial fitness as a fundamental life skill and empowered countless young adults and entrepreneurs. You, the listeners, are truly the soul of Young Money. Your engagement, insightful reviews, and invaluable feedback have all shaped this podcast into what it is today. As I eagerly anticipate our next 100 episodes, I'm reminded of the sheer joy of podcasting, the hurdles we've crossed, and the recognition we've received, like the Financial Literacy Champion Award from the IFSE Institute. Here's to celebrating more milestones, diving deeper into financial insights, and nurturing a community that only grows stronger! “I’m on a mission to re

Are you unknowingly falling prey to a troubling trend of financial exploitation in your platonic or romantic relationships? This summer has been an eye-opening experience for me, as I've witnessed and heard countless stories about individuals facing financial exploitation. It's a concerning trend that we need to address and reverse, and that's precisely what we'll tackle in this episode. Throughout my years of experience in personal finance, I've helped many people navigate these tricky situations. Today, I'll share insights into identifying red flags that may indicate someone is taking advantage of your financial standing. We'll dive deep into the subtle and more obvious signs of financial exploitation and equip you with the tools to protect yourself and your financial well-being. “Sometimes other people can see situations more clearly than we can.” - Tracey Bissett This Week on Young Money: How to identify warning signs of financial manipulation in your relationships. Strategies to assert yourself confiden

The release of the Barbie movie has captured the spotlight, with its colossal marketing budget dominating current events. This 2023 American fantasy comedy film brings to life the beloved Barbie fashion dolls in their first-ever live-action adaptation, featuring Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken. Amidst the fantasy and comedy, the movie weaves profound themes of existentialism and the pursuit of self-identity, challenging societal norms and predetermined paths. In this episode, I will be sharing the financial lessons inspired by Barbie's illustrious career.  With over 200 jobs to her name, Barbie exemplifies financial self-sufficiency, becoming a symbol of empowerment as she owns her home, car, and more. Through Barbie's journey, we learn the significance of staying true to our values and goals, refusing to be swayed by external pressures or comparisons. The movie highlights the importance of seeking support when needed, understanding that we don't have to navigate our financial journeys alone.

Today Reni Odetoyinbo, content creator, marketing consultant, and finance educator, joins the show to share resources for career development and financial literacy. After achieving the remarkable feat of purchasing her first house at the young age of 23, Reni became determined to empower Black individuals with financial knowledge. In this episode, she dives deep into the importance of taking calculated risks and having the courage to embrace a leap of faith. Reni emphasizes the significance of building an emergency fund, pivoting when necessary, and the benefits of establishing multiple streams of income and investment accounts. Listen in as she encourages you not to wait, but to embark on your financial journey now and shape your own financial destiny. “Having one stream of income is too close to having none.” - Reni Odetoyinbo This Week on Young Money: The importance of taking a leap of faith. Why you should take calculated risks. The value in being willing to learn new things. Why budgeting is key. What f

Joining the show today is Scott Stirrett, the Founder and CEO of Venture for Canada (VFC), a national charity that empowers young Canadians with entrepreneurial skills and mindsets. In this episode, Scott shares the inspiring story behind the inception of VFC and discusses its mission and target audience. Whether you're a post-secondary student or a graduate seeking to develop entrepreneurial abilities, Scott provides invaluable guidance on how to pave the path to success. Listen in as he highlights common missteps made by students in their pursuit of entrepreneurial learning and offers advice to parents and family members on supporting the students and graduates in their lives. You will learn the importance of embracing new experiences and taking calculated risks, why having an open mind is crucial, and more. “One of the most important things that a young person can do is be willing to have an open mind and try out new things.” - Scott Stirrett This Week on Young Money: How Scott came up with the idea for V

In this episode, Michelle Dittmer, an educator and youth advocate, joins the show to shed light on the transformative power of a gap year. Michelle founded the Canadian Gap Year Association, recognizing the potential of a gap year to address mental health challenges, lack of clarity, and skill gaps among youth. Throughout our conversation, Michelle explores the benefits of taking a gap year, emphasizing its positive influence on the mental well-being of young individuals, as well as the valuable lessons and personal growth that can be gained. Listen in as she explains the impact of a gap year on post-secondary education and the importance of taking time to recharge to set yourself up for success. You'll learn why Michelle advocates for providing young people with adequate support and life experiences before making significant life decisions, as well as insights into how to make the most of a gap year, both before, during, and after the experience. “A gap year is a purposeful and intentional break away from yo

Today we are joined by Sudeshna Sen, an Economist and senior leader in the financial services industry. With her extensive experience working with top financial institutions and Fortune 500 clients, Sudeshna has gained a unique perspective on the challenges of financial literacy. Recognizing that the use of jargon and industry lingo can hinder understanding, she decided to tackle this issue by approaching money and careers holistically through her personal venture, The Abundance Psyche. In this episode, Sudeshna offers insights on various topics, including the importance of following your curiosity and committing to continuous learning. Listen in as she emphasizes the need to consider the return on investment of your time and money, highlighting the significance of assessing your mindset around money and avoiding spending more than you earn. Sudeshna also shares the intricacies of generational wealth, the benefits of diversifying income streams, and valuable advice on investing while young. “Don’t spend more

Today we delve into the findings of the 6th Annual Financial Stress Index released by FP Canada, which reveals that money remains the number one stressor for Canadians. In this episode, we share actionable strategies to alleviate financial stress as we go beyond the numbers and engage in a candid discussion with  The Real Bottom Line host Wendy Brookhouse and Financial Therapist Aseel El-Baba. You will learn the reasons behind the escalating stress surrounding finances, leading many to feel hopeless in their financial journey, as well as the sense of disempowerment that arises when we perceive our finances as being beyond our control. Listen in as we explain the significance of evaluating our income and shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance. “People are feeling as though their finances are outside of their control which is very dis-empowering. These are things we are in control of but because there is so much happening it is like a tornado sweeping us off of our feet and that is causing a sense