Moolala: Money Made Simple with Bruce Sellery

Investment coach Aman Raina shares his personal story supporting a parent with dementia and outlines signs it may be time to help: compulsive calls, unpaid bills, or social withdrawal. He offers a compassionate playbook: start with check-ins, get power of attorney in place, organize key documents and accounts, and understand bank rules so you're acting on-side. For adult children juggling careers and families, Aman's framework reduces overwhelm and helps you move from awkward conversations to concrete steps that safeguard your parents' money and their dignity. Find out more on agingparentsfinance.com and connect on Threads, BluSky and LinkedIn.

Portfolio manager Matt Ardrey demystifies the RRSP-to-RRIF conversion: when it must happen, how minimum withdrawals are calculated, and ways to avoid common pitfalls like OAS clawback and large end-of-life tax bills. He covers in-kind transfers (to fund a TFSA or non-registered account without selling), coordinating multiple RRIFs, and building a portfolio that reliably generates income so you're not forced to sell at a loss. Practical, Canadian-specific guidance to make decumulation smoother and more tax efficient for the long haul. Connect on X/Twitter and LinkedIn.

TikTok creator Claudia Gleason walks through her simple, transparent payday routine, starting with the pay amount, then allocating to emergency savings, rent, debt paydown, and goal buckets like travel. She explains using multiple high-interest savings accounts (or labeled buckets) to keep goals visible, how she leaves herself a realistic biweekly spend, and why public accountability helps habits stick. You'll learn a flexible framework you can copy in minutes (no investing degree required) plus ideas for prioritizing funds when life changes (moving, big purchases) without abandoning long-term goals. Find Claudia on TikTok and connect on Instagram.

Willful CEO Erin Bury explains the real-world costs of dying without a will - court delays, guardianship decisions for children, and extra legal fees and why powers of attorney for personal care and finances matter just as much. She debunks the “old or rich” myth, shows how modern online Will tools make it fast, affordable, and updatable, and shares the life events that should trigger action (kids, marriage/divorce, buying a home). Plus: tips for choosing an executor, organizing passwords and account lists, and why “progress over perfection” protects your family now. Connect with Willful on Instagram and X/Twitter. Connect with Erin on Instagram and X/Twitter.

This week on Moolala: Money Made Simple, Bruce Sellery explores the “light bulb moments” that change how we manage money, starting with wills and estate planning. Willful CEO Erin Bury explains why every Canadian adult should have a will and powers of attorney, how today's online tools make it fast and affordable, and what really happens to your family if you don't. Then creator Claudia Gleason breaks down her viral payday routine on TikTok: biweekly budgeting, naming savings buckets, and balancing emergency funds with fun money—so you can borrow the parts that fit your life. Next, Matt Ardrey from TriDelta Private Wealth, demystifies the RRSP-to-RRIF conversion: minimum withdrawals, tax implications, in- kind transfers, and portfolio tips for sustainable retirement income. Finally, investment coach Aman Raina shares practical signs it may be time to help your parents with their finances, plus steps to make that conversation and the paperwork easier. To find out more about the guests check out: Erin Bury: Instagram | X/Twitter Willful: Instagram | X/Twitter Claudia Gleason: TikTok | Instagram Matt Ardrey: X/Twitter | LinkedIn Aman Raina: agingparentsfinance.com | Threads | BluSky | LinkedIn Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Jonathan Hackett, Head of Sustainable Finance at BMO, explains how the bank's Indigenous Bond channels capital to Indigenous-owned businesses, community infrastructure, and on-reserve lending while meeting institutional investor demand for measurable social impact. We dig into how these bonds differ from “plain vanilla” debt, why supply and long-term holding matter, and what retail investors can realistically do (think sustainable bond funds). Plus: a candid look at risk management, data, and why doing the homework often leads to lower loan losses and better long-term outcomes.

PWL Capital Portfolio manager, Dan Bartolotti, walks through how to support parents or relatives in financial trouble without sinking your own plan. We discuss assessing whether you can help via a real financial plan (not back-of-the-envelope), setting clear boundaries to avoid enabling overspending, and deciding when “strings attached” make sense. You'll hear best practices for sibling coordination, navigating incomplete info or embarrassment, and preparing for cognitive decline with tools like trusted contacts and powers of attorney.

Fee-only planner and author Shannon Lee Simmons shares the formative experience that shaped her approach to rainy-day money and why the act of saving beats chasing a perfect number. We cover how to size an emergency fund based on your income risk (entrepreneur vs. salaried), the psychology of having cash on hand to avoid debt, and a pragmatic target: cover core bills and groceries for at least one cycle. You'll learn how to protect your sleep at 3 a.m., keep “mad money” untouchable, and build a buffer that fits your real life, not someone else's rule of thumb. Connect with New School of Finance on Instagram and connect with Shannon on Instagram.

In this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple, host Bruce Sellery explores the “lightbulb moments” that change how we handle money. Fee-only planner and author Shannon Lee Simmons shares the personal story that shaped her approach to emergency funds, why the act of saving matters more than a magic number, how to tailor the size of your fund to your risk and income, and practical ways to avoid sliding into debt when life throws a curveball. Then, portfolio manager Dan Bartolotti of PWL Capital tackles a thorny topic: helping parents or loved ones financially. He lays out clear steps to decide if and how you can help without jeopardizing your own retirement, set healthy boundaries, and navigate family dynamics with transparency. Plus, Jonathan Hackett, Head of Sustainable Finance at BMO, explains the bank's Indigenous Bond - how sustainable debt can channel capital to Indigenous businesses and communities. Finally, certified death doula Michelle Leray demystifies end-of-life support and connects it to estate planning and family conversations you should start now.  Subscribe, review, and share to help more Canadians get confident about their money. To find out more about the guests check out: Shannon Lee Simmons: Instagram New School of Finance: Instagram Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Becky Western-Macfadyen, Manager of Financial Coaching and Education of Credit Canada, introduces EASE (Economic Abuse Support and Empowerment), a program designed to help survivors of intimate-partner violence recover financially. She explains how economic abuse damages credit and confidence, and how trauma-informed financial coaching restores control, security, and long-term independence. Connect with Becky on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X/Twitter.

Financial coach Alanna Abramsky, founder of Broad Money, explains seven proven ways to manage cash flow, from zero-based and 50/30/20 budgets to pay-yourself-first and the envelope system, and how to pick the one that aligns with your habits, goals, and income. Learn simple ways to track spending, plan ahead, and stay consistent so budgeting feels realistic, not restrictive. Find out more at broadmoney.ca and connect on Instagram.

Rob Kilner from Spergel shares insights from their national Debt Load and Psychological Well-Being Study, revealing how financial pressure, social-media comparison, and stigma heighten anxiety and depression. He discusses real-world solutions, from debt management plans to professional credit counselling, that help Canadians reduce stress, rebuild stability, and regain peace of mind. Connect with Rob on X/Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Becca Mintz, Vice-President of Credit & Data at Capital One Canada, clears up the biggest misconceptions about credit scores, like whether checking your score hurts it, if income matters, and how “soft” versus “hard” inquiries work. She offers practical tips for building and repairing credit responsibly, managing utilization, and spotting reporting errors before they cost you points. Connect with Becca on Instagram and Facebook.

This episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple with host Bruce Sellery dives into the practical, the psychological, and the empowering side of money management. First, financial coach Alanna Abramsky, founder of Broad Money, outlines seven proven approaches to budgeting, from zero-based and goals-based methods to the envelope system, showing how to find a money plan that fits your lifestyle. Then, Becca Mintz, Vice President of Credit and Data at Capital One Canada, joins Bruce to bust common credit myths, including whether checking your score hurts it, how income affects credit, and what “hard hits” and “soft hits” really mean. Plus, Rob Kilner from Spergel shares insights from their annual Debt Load and Psychological Well-Being Study, revealing how debt stress, social media pressures, and stigma intersect and what truly helps people move toward financial recovery. Finally, Becky Western-Macfadyen from Credit Canada introduces EASE, a groundbreaking program that helps survivors of intimate partner violence regain financial stability and confidence. To find out more about the guests check out: Becca Mintz: Instagram | Facebook Rob Kilner: X/Twitter | Facebook | Instagram Alanna Abramsky: broadmoney.ca | Instagram Becky Western-Macfadyen: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | X/Twitter Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Author Jane Blaufus shares hard-won lessons on having courageous conversations about money and estate planning. She outlines where to start (with yourself), how to bring in family without escalating conflict, and the four pro “legs” to consult: financial advisor, lawyer, accountant, and funeral pre-planning. Jane also stresses writing everything down from wishes to contacts and key documents so loved ones aren't making 90+ decisions in crisis. Gentle, practical steps to protect the people you care about. Find out more at janeblaufus.com and connect on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Rebecca Oakes, VP of Analytics at Equifax Canada, introduces Optimal Path, an AI-driven tool that translates your credit data into realistic, step-by-step actions to raise your credit score. Think concrete guidance on utilization, payment consistency, and balances, plus estimated point gains over the next ~3 months. Rebecca explains how the model personalizes advice (not one-size-fits-all), where consumers will access it via banks/fintechs, and how AI can both improve coaching and combat fraud. Clear, actionable insights for Canadians looking to build stronger credit. Find out more at equifax.ca and connect on X/Twitter and LinkedIn.

Psychiatrist Dr. Sally Satel, medical director of a methadone clinic, explains contingency management - a harm-reduction approach where clients receive small, escalating rewards (e.g., gift cards) for clean tests. She covers why this behavioural nudge works especially for stimulant addictions (where no gold-standard meds exist), typical program structures, cost/benefit logic, and how incentives can jump-start a virtuous cycle toward work, relationships, and stability. A nuanced, evidence-informed look at an approach that's effective yet often misunderstood. Find out more on Substack and connect on X/Twitter.

Bruce talks with retired Globe and Mail personal-finance columnist Rob Carrick about 30 years of investor wisdom. Rob explains why low-cost ETFs win for most Canadians, the hidden risks of high-yield dividend stocks, and why bonds are helpful, but not perfect, shock absorbers. He also breaks down how to think about market crashes (buying when it feels worst), the danger of chasing trends like private credit/equity for retail investors, and why money you'll need within five years doesn't belong in stocks. Practical, time-tested guidance for building a calmer, smarter portfolio.  

This episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple digs into real-world tools and timeless lessons to help you manage your money with more confidence. We start with Equifax Canada's Rebecca Oakes on “Optimal Path,” an AI-driven feature that translates your own credit data into clear, realistic steps - think concrete targets for utilization, payment consistency, and score impact over the next three months. Then psychiatrist Dr. Sally Satel explains “contingency management,” a harm-reduction approach where clinics pay meth users small, escalating rewards to sustain abstinence and why the data shows it works for tough clinical cases. Veteran personal-finance columnist Rob Carrick joins Bruce to unpack 30 years of lessons, from ETF simplicity and diversification to the traps of trend-chasing, dividend myths, imperfect bond hedges, and why market crashes are buying opportunities (if your timeline is long enough). We close with author Jane Blaufus on having courageous conversations about money and estate planning - what to discuss, how to persist, and why writing it down matters when life gets hard. Practical, candid, and Canadian: this episode helps you take the next step, wherever you're starting. To find out more about the guests check out: Dr. Sally Satel: Substack | X/Twitter Rebecca Oakes: equifax.ca | X/Twitter | LinkedIn Jane Blaufus: janeblaufus.com | Facebook | LinkedIn Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Money stress often starts with silence. Certified financial therapist Erika Wasserman, author of Conversations with Your Financial Therapist, joins Bruce Sellery to discuss how to talk about money with your partner, family, or even yourself without shame or conflict. Erika's M.O.N.E.Y. framework turns hard financial conversations into moments of connection, helping you uncover your money mindset and rewrite unhelpful habits. From setting shared goals to using scripted conversations, this segment blends financial literacy with emotional intelligence to help you grow your confidence and your bank account. Find out more at yourfinancialtherapist.com and connect on Instagram.

Cybercrime isn't just a corporate problem anymore. James South from Aviva Canada joins Bruce to explain personal cyber insurance, a new layer of protection for the digital age. From online fraud recovery and ransomware response to cyberbullying coverage and dark-web monitoring, this coverage can help individuals and families stay financially and emotionally protected after an online attack. Learn how it works, what it costs (hint: about $6/month), and why every connected Canadian should consider adding it to their home or tenant policy. Find out more at aviva.ca and connect on Instagram and LinkedIn.

If you're starting late on retirement savings, this interview with CPA and author David Trahair will give you hope and a plan. Drawing from his book The Procrastinator's Guide to Retirement, David shows how Canadians can still build financial security even if they begin saving in their 40s or 50s. He unpacks the math behind RRSP vs. mortgage paydown, spending patterns after retirement, and smart ways to maximize CPP. This conversation proves it's never too late to take control of your financial future. Find out more at trahair.com and connect on LinkedIn and X/Twitter.

Bruce Sellery sits down with Chris Potvin, co-founder of Camp Mustache Toronto: Firescape, a four-day retreat for Canadians pursuing Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE). Chris shares how the camp blends community, hands-on workshops, and lifestyle design to help attendees align their spending with their values. From budgeting around what truly matters to building a supportive peer network, this conversation explores how to make financial independence a reality, without losing sight of purpose or fun along the way. Find out more at cmtofirescape.com.

In this week's episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple, Bruce Sellery kicks off with the FIRE movement at CMTO Firescape, where co-founder Chris Potvin shares what a four-day money camp looks like: hands-on workshops, case studies, and a community built around Financial Independence, Retire Early. Then, for listeners who got a late start on savings, CPA David Trahair unpacks The Procrastinator's Guide to Retirement—including the real math behind RRSP vs. mortgage paydown, how spending actually changes in retirement, and smart ways to maximize CPP when time is short. Next, we look at protecting your household in a digital world. James South from Aviva Canada explains what personal cyber insurance covers—from online fraud recovery and forensic clean-ups to cyberbullying support and dark-web monitoring—and how much it typically costs to add to a home/tenant policy. Finally, financial therapist Erika Wasserman walks through practical scripts to improve your money mindset and have calmer, more productive conversations about budgeting, debt, and goals with partners and family. Whether you're chasing early retirement or rebuilding late, this episode blends actionable retirement tactics, consumer protection insights, and behavioral tools to help Canadians feel more confident about their money. To find out more about the guests check out: Chris Potvin: cmtofirescape.com David Trahair: trahair.com | LinkedIn | X/Twitter James South: aviva.ca | Instagram | LinkedIn Erika Wasserman: yourfinancialtherapist.com | Instagram Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Bruce Sellery, host of Moolala: Money Made Simple, is joined by ecoATM's Neil Fried, as he explains the 6–7 minute kiosk process: —device checks, data wipe and pay on the spot to turn your phone into cash. Plus how to prep your phone (backup, factory reset, remove locks) and where devices go next. Connect with Neil Fried on LinkedIn.

In this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple, Gifting Sense founder Karen Holland shows parents how big events can build financial literacy: total-cost planning (tickets, travel, merch), dynamic pricing realities, and the DIMS Score + “Worth-the-Wait” tracker to practice patience and smart trade-offs. Find out more at giftingsense.org and Score Money Smarts With 2026 FIFA

In this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple, host Bruce Sellery chats with Chandler Point's John Puffer as he breaks down how 1/10 ownership and 5 weeks/year actually work, what fees cover (cleaning, taxes, reserves, Wi-Fi), how rentals and rules are handled, and why it's different from a timeshare, —including resale and passing shares to family. Find out more at chandlerpoint.com and connect on Facebook .

In this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple, Melissa Leong sits down with host Bruce Sellery and shares a practical playbook for splitting costs with friends: set expectations early (“everything optional, nothing personal”), assign a banker/accountant, use bill-splitting apps, and know when to say no if you can't pay off the trip. Find out more at melissaleong.com and connect on Instagram.

In this week's episode, planning a bachelor(ette) party, golf getaway, or friends' trip—without blowing up the budget or the friendship? Bruce talks with Melissa Leong (Happy Go Money) about stress-free ways to split bills, set expectations, and avoid money awkwardness on group travel. Then: Fractional cottage ownership in Ontario,—how it differs from a timeshare, costs, usage weeks, fees, and conflict resolution —with John Puffer of Chandler Point. Next, FIFA 2026 as a teachable moment: Karen Holland (Gifting Sense) shows parents how to use big-ticket events to build kids' money skills and patience. Finally, turn your old phone into cash, —how ecoATM kiosks evaluate devices, wipe data, and pay on the spot —with SVP Neil Fried. To find out more about the guests check out: Melissa Leong: melissaleong.com | Instagram John Puffer: chandlerpoint.com | Facebook Karen Holland: giftingsense.org | Score Money Smarts With 2026 FIFA Neil Fried: LinkedIn Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Newcomers face a steep learning curve: chequing vs. savings, why credit history matters, and how to get a first credit card. On this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple with Bruce Sellery, Head, Customer Growth & Segments, at BMO Sumit Sarkar walks through the earliest money moves to make—often before you land—plus digital tools that map personal goals and help establish credit. Learn why a primary bank relationship is so valuable, how to open accounts pre-arrival (with in-country verification later), and what to expect as you set up life in a cash-light, credit-heavy system. Clear steps to get stable fast, with confidence. Find out more at bmo.com and connect on X/Twitter and LinkedIn.

CFP Owen Winkelmolen introduces Advice (with two i's), a low-cost platform that helps do-it-yourselfers build and iterate a proper retirement plan. Input income, expenses, assets, debts, and goals—then let strategy tools explore hundreds of “what ifs” in seconds: RRSP/RRIF withdrawals, CPP/OAS timing, tax brackets, income splitting, and estate trade-offs.  On this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple with Bruce Sellery, we discuss why accumulation is simple but decumulation is where real value is created, and why you should start that plan ~5 years before retiring. Quick to set up, easy to refine—so you can spend confidently for the long run. Find out more at adviice.ca.

Author Adam Ferguson proposes an unconventional contract: before your kid gets a smartphone, they complete 50 real-world experiences—from cooking a family meal and doing laundry to building a fire and planning a road trip. On this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple with Bruce Sellery, he explains why the list is a “carrot,” not a crackdown, and how it builds resilience, connection, and competence.  We tackle the spicy items (self-defense, “break a minor law”) and talk age & stage—why Grade 8 is a useful target while recognizing maturity varies. Parents will get practical ideas to replace infinite scroll with meaningful, confidence-building moments. Find out more at beforethephone.com.

Career strategist Janel Abrahami joins Bruce on this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple to demystify the career pivot. From low-risk mini moves to big leaps like entrepreneurship or going back to school, she outlines six clear options and when to use each. Learn the simple test for timing a change (learning, earning, or loving), how to frame a so-called “bridge job” without saying it out loud, and why building a personal Board of Advisors speeds decisions.  Janel's “energy résumé” method helps you sort energizers from drainers, apply the “five whys,” and flip dislikes into must-haves—so your next role makes sense on paper and in real life. Find out more at janelabrahami.com and connect on Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

In this episode, career strategist Janel Abrahami shares a practical framework for knowing when to change lanes, the six types of pivots you can make (from mini moves to major overhauls), and how to use a personal Board of Advisors and an “energy résumé” to decide what's next. Then, author Adam Ferguson walks through his provocative checklist for kids—50 things to do before you get a phone —and why those experiences build skills, character, and connection. For newcomers to Canada, BMO's Sumit Sarkar explains first steps for banking, credit, and building a personalized plan with BMO's tools. Finally, Owen Winkelmolen (Adviice—yes, with two i's) shows how DIYers can build and iterate a retirement plan, and why decumulation strategy matters more than you think. To find out more about the guests check out: Janel Abrahami: janelabrahami.com | Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn Adam Ferguson: beforethephone.com Sumit Sarkar: bmo.com | X/Twitter | LinkedIn Owen Winkelmolen: adviice.ca Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Buying your first home can feel overwhelming — from saving a down payment to understanding mortgage rules. In this segment of Moolala: Money Made Simple with Bruce Sellery, Bruce talks with Andrew Peker, founder and CEO of Homie, a new Canadian fintech app designed to help first-time homebuyers understand, track, and grow their buying power. Andrew explains how Homie works: Pulling real financial data securely through partners like Plaid and Equifax Canada Showing users what they can afford based on how a mortgage underwriter would see them Offering habit-building nudges — from avoiding new car loans that could hurt your approval, to staying aware of interest rate impacts Helping users plan for hidden costs like cash reserves, land transfer taxes, and closing fees If you're a first-time homebuyer in Canada or helping someone become one, this segment will give you practical insight into mortgage readiness, budgeting smarter, and avoiding costly mistakes on the road to homeownership. Find out more at meethomie.ca and connect on LinkedIn.

What if you didn't have to wait until 65 to enjoy retirement? Bruce sits down with Jillian Johnsrud — coach, speaker, and author of Retire Often: How Anyone Can Take Multiple Career Breaks to Unlock Adventure, Advance Their Career, and Find Financial Freedom. Jillian shares how mini retirements — intentional breaks of a month or longer — can help you reset, pursue meaningful goals, travel, or spend time with family without sacrificing your long-term financial health. She explains: How to budget for a mini retirement: replace one month of income and cap extra costs at ~50% of take-home pay Why it's smart to front-load affordable, physically demanding adventures early in life Creative ways to offset costs, from renting out your home to home exchanges How mini retirements can actually advance your career by reducing burnout and opening new opportunities The mindset shifts needed to see career breaks as investments rather than setbacks If you've ever dreamed of backpacking across Europe, taking a sabbatical to write a book, or just having the time to breathe between career chapters, this conversation gives you the financial planning tools, creative strategies, and inspiration to make it happen — without blowing up your future retirement plans. Find out more at retireoften.com and connect on Instagram.

A lot of people think they have a financial plan — but do they really? Bruce is joined by Sandi Martin, a certified advice-only financial planner, to break down what a real financial plan looks like and why it matters. You'll also hear why a real plan is more than just an investment portfolio or a set of bank statements, how to stress-test assumptions (like inflation and market returns), and why focusing on the top three “needle-moving” actions is better than a 15-point to-do list. Sandi explains how to avoid “straight-line” planning mistakes by considering worst-case scenarios, and why an annual review keeps your plan relevant as life changes. If you've ever wondered whether the plan you got from your bank or investment advisor is actually setting you up for success, this conversation will help you tell the difference — and take steps toward a truly comprehensive, purpose-driven financial plan. Find out more at sandimartin.ca and connect on Instagram and Bluesky

Vacant office towers could be the key to solving Canada's housing affordability crisis. Bruce speaks with Robert Barnard, CEO of Toboggan Flats, about their innovative plan to convert underused downtown office buildings into co-living spaces for young professionals. You'll hear about: Target rents of $1,100–$1,300 all-in, aimed at roughly 30% of the average salary for 25–34-year-olds. How shared living can help young workers save for future home ownership. Landlord and investor incentives, including reduced building density, steady nighttime occupancy, and the environmental benefits of reusing existing buildings. The focus on curated events, roommate matching, and staff support to make co-living more than just a room — it's about fostering a real sense of community downtown. If you've wondered how Canada can create affordable housing without years-long construction timelines, this conversation is full of practical insights on office-to-residential conversions, co-living trends, and the future of urban housing. Find out more at tobogganflats.com and connect on LinkedIn.

Housing costs keep climbing, but smart ideas (and smarter planning) can help you move forward. In this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple with Bruce Sellery, we explore four timely topics: turning empty office towers into co-living spaces for young professionals, what a real financial plan actually includes, how to design mini retirements without derailing your future, and a first-time homebuyer app that helps you understand and grow buying power. First, Robert Barnard of Toboggan Flats explains how co-living office conversions in Canada can deliver private rooms with shared amenities, stronger communities, and faster timelines by reusing office infrastructure. It's an affordable housing approach that leverages existing buildings instead of starting from scratch. Then, advice-only financial planner Sandi Martin walks through the seven pillars of a real financial plan—purpose & goals, cash flow, debt, risk/insurance, investments, retirement/financial independence, and estate & lifetime tax—plus how to stress-test assumptions and focus on the three actions that move the needle most. Next, author Jillian Johnsrud shares how a mini retirement (a month or more) can fit real life. You'll get practical budgeting rules of thumb, ideas for front-loading affordable adventures, and tips to offset costs by renting out or exchanging your home. Finally, Andrew Peker introduces Homie, a first-time homebuyer app in Canada that models mortgage readiness like an underwriter. Learn how daily habits affect approval, why car leases can hurt more than you think, and how the app nudges you to build buying power over time. Whether you're chasing cheaper rent, real planning clarity, more meaningful breaks, or your first set of keys, this episode delivers practical steps you can act on today. To find out more about the guests check out: Robert Barnard: tobogganflats.com | LinkedIn Sandi Martin: sandimartin.ca | Instagram | Bluesky Jillian Johnsrud: retireoften.com | Instagram Andrew Peker: meethomie.ca | LinkedIn Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Would you buy your next home through a platform that gives you cash back — thousands of dollars after closing? Bruce Sellery speaks with Benjy Katchen, CEO of Wahi, about their innovative approach to real estate. Learn how Wahi's digital-first platform combines technology with expert guidance to create efficiencies — and passes those savings back to buyers. Plus, discover what kind of homebuyer is best suited for this model and how it fits into Canada's evolving housing market. You'll learn Cashback for Homebuyers: Wahi gives buyers 10% of the buyer-agent commission back — often thousands of dollars — just days after closing. Tech + Realtors: The platform uses a "Netflix-meets-Tinder" app experience combined with desk-based realtors to cut costs while still providing expert guidance. Who It's For: Ideal for tech-savvy homebuyers who prefer an efficient, data-driven process without sacrificing support during negotiations. This episode is packed full of ideas on how to look at real estate as a way to stretch your dollar and get some savings passed back to you, the buyer. Find out more on wahi.com and connect with Benjy on X/Twitter and Instagram.

Divorce isn't just an ending — it's a beginning. Bruce Sellery speaks with Olivia Howell, co-founder and CEO of Fresh Starts Registry, about how divorce registries are helping people rebuild their homes, routines, and lives after a separation. Discover how these registries work, why they reduce the overwhelm of starting over, and how they help friends and family show meaningful support. You'll Learn From Wedding Registry to Divorce Registry: Olivia shares how her own divorce inspired the creation of Fresh Starts Registry — a platform to help people rebuild their homes after a breakup. Practical Support, Not Just Gifts: Registries include vetted bundles for every room and budget — from $7 shower curtains to full kitchen sets — to make starting over easier. More Than Divorce: Fresh Starts Registry also supports other life transitions, like coming out, job loss, moving, and post-illness recovery. If you are feeling overwhelmed going through a divorce this conversation is packed with ways of learning that you are a the beginning of your new life. Find out more at freshstartregistry.com and connect with Olivia on Threads, Facebook and Instagram.

Feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of today's world? You're not alone — but uncertainty might actually be your secret weapon. In this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple, host Bruce Sellery sits down with Scott Stirrett, author of The Uncertainty Advantage and founder of Venture for Canada, to explore how uncertainty can be transformed from a source of anxiety into a catalyst for growth. Scott shares his personal journey — leaving Goldman Sachs at 22, navigating OCD during the pandemic, and building a national nonprofit — to illustrate how confronting the unknown can lead to resilience, purpose, and opportunity. You'll learn: What “uncertainty” really means and why today's world is four times more uncertain than in 2008 Six pillars for building your “uncertainty muscle” including adaptability, antifragility, and entrepreneurial thinking How young professionals (and anyone, at any career stage) can thrive during disruptive times Why cultivating both strong and weak professional ties is essential for opportunity and resilience If you're facing career uncertainty, worried about AI disruption, or just want to feel more confident about the future, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and inspiration. Connect with Scott on X/Twitter and LinkedIn and sign up to his Substack.

This week Bruce Sellery explores three timely money topics to help you navigate today's changing financial landscape.   First, we look at the state of the labour market during uncertain times with Scott Stirrett, author of The Uncertainty Advantage. Learn how to adapt your career strategy, build resilience, and strengthen your professional network when the job market feels unpredictable.   Next, Olivia Howell, co-founder and CEO of Fresh Starts Registry, joins us to talk about divorce registries — an innovative way for individuals to get the essential items they need as they begin a new chapter after separation.   Finally, Benjy Katchen, CEO of Wahi, explains how their cashback program from a digital real estate platform and brokerage can put thousands of dollars back in your pocket after buying a home.   If you're facing a big life transition, worried about your job security, or curious about how to save money on your next home purchase, this episode is packed with practical insights you can act on right away.   To find out more about the guests check out: Scott Stirrett: Substack | X/Twitter | LinkedIn Benjy Katchen: wahi.com | X/Twitter | Instagram Olivia Howell: freshstartregistry.com | Threads | Facebook | Instagram Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple.   Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Retiring abroad. Jen Barnett, co-founder of Expatsi, takes us through the financial considerations people have to make before spending retirement in a new country. Then, A budgeting app for newcomers by newcomers, designed to increase financial confidence. It's called Butterfly. Credit Canada's Tanvi Chitnis is here to tell us how it works. And, Darrell MacMullin, SVP Product and Solutions at Mastercard in Canada, takes us through their emerging tech trends report. Plus, we'll speak with Michelle Hilscher from BEworks about their behavioural science course for financial advisors. To find out more about the guests check out: Jen Barnett: Facebook | Instagram | TikTok Tanvi Chitnis: creditcanada.com | Facebook | X | Instagram Michelle Hilscher: LinkedIn Darrell MacMullin: LinkedIn | Instagram Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Imagine taking a year off work, by choice, and long before your retirement. Jillian Johnsrud, a coach who helps people take career breaks, tells us how to prepare financially. Then, how to effectively change jobs. Michael Horn, author of JOB MOVES: 9 Steps For Making Progress In Your Career, shares his tips. And, the financial cost of ignoring burnout. Olga Morawcynski, founder of Heal-3 and a mental wellbeing advocate, tells us about her journey. Plus, getting laid off and sharing your experience on TikTok. Giovanna Ventola, founder of Rhize, shares why she turned to social media after losing her job and how she's now helping others with their job search. To find out more about the guests check out: Jillian Johnsrud: retireoften.com | Instagram Michael Horn: jobmoves.com | LinkedIn | X Heal-3: heal-3.com | LinkedIn Olga Morawcynski: LinkedIn Giovanna Ventola: TikTok | Instagram | LinkedIn Rhize:  rhizetogether.com | LinkedIn Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Books to improve your finances. The first one is about what it means to be wealthy. Daniel Crosby, psychologist and behavioral finance expert, will be here to talk about his book The Soul of Wealth. Then, a new financial literacy book for kids. Author Cinders McLeod takes us through the latest book in the MONEYBUNNY series called How Do YOU Spend? And, twenty lessons from retirement thought leaders. Christine Benz tells us about her book How to Retire. Plus, we speak with Daryl Fairweather, Chief Economist at Redfin, about her new book called Hate the Game: Economic Cheat Codes for Life, Love, and Work.  To find out more about the guests check out: Daniel Crosby: X | LinkedIn Daryl Fairweather:Linktree Cinders McLeod:Instagram | X Moneybunny:Instagram | X | Facebook Christine Benz:morningstar.com | X | LinkedIn Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Newcomers and building credit. Founders of Mundo Together Carolina Restrepo and Juan Cala came to Canada around six years ago. They share their experience building up their credit history when they first came here. Then, an app for newcomers called “Welcome to Canada”. PeaceGeeks CEO Jennifer Freeman takes us through its features. And, managing your money in a way that works with your beliefs. Dr. Mohamad Sawwaf, founder and CEO of Manzil, tells us about their halal financial services. Plus, we speak with Juan Sebastian D'Achiardi, of TransUnion Canada, about a tool that can help improve credit access for new and young Canadians.  To find out more about the guests check out: Juan Cala & Carolina Restrepo: mundotogether.com | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok Jennifer Freeman: LinkedIn PeaceGeeks: PeaceGeeks AI Career Coach | X/Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Welcome To Canada: LinkedIn | Facebook | X/Twitter | TikTok Mohamad Sawwaf: X/Twitter | Instagram | Facebook Juan Sebastian D'Achiardi: LinkedIn | Instagram Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

So how can financial advisors better serve their female clients. Cary Carbonaro is an author and certified financial planner. She joins us to talk about her book “Women and Wealth: A Playbook to Empowering Clients and Unlocking Their Fortune”. Find out more at carycarbonaro.com and book Cary at carycarbonaro/speaking. Connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and X/Twitter.

Artificial intelligence is becoming more and more common in everyday life. Payment networks like Visa and Mastercard are turning to AI technologies, like AI agents, to shop for you and actually “buy” things for you.  Tor Constantino, a writer for Forbes, joins us to explain how it all works. Find out more at torconstantino.com and connect on LinkedIn and X/Twitter.

Dealing with dementia.  When you think of the financial cost of dementia, you might think of all the things you'd go through “after diagnosis”–like the time off work, and treatment that's not covered. This can all add up. Luke Yoquinto, researcher at the MIT AgeLab and author of Longevity Hubs: Regional Innovation for Global Aging, joins us to take us through what he and partner Josheph Coughlin discovered in their research.   Connect with Luke on BlueSky and LinkedIn.

Whether it's a prize you've won, an inheritance, or you recently sold a business, what happens with these huge financial gains. Julia Chung, certified financial planner and CEO of Spring Planning, joins us to take us through what you should do and things you should not do. Find out more at springplans.com and connect on X/Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.