Moolala: Money Made Simple with Bruce Sellery

Pay transparency is becoming the law across Canada, and it is reshaping how people job hunt, negotiate, and get paid. Bruce Sellery talks with career coach and Mums at Work founder Allison Venditti about why salary ranges matter, how pay transparency can help close the motherhood-driven gender pay gap, and what employers need to get right as policies roll out. Then Bruce explores AI and personal finance with fintech expert Jason Pereira, from how automation is transforming bank back offices to how smarter client-facing tools could change the way Canadians manage money. Plus, author Nick Wolny joins to discuss Money Proud and what personal finance can look like through a queer lens. To find out more about the guests check out: Allison Venditti: thisismomsatwork.com | Instagram | Facebook Nick Wolny: nickwolny.com | Instagram | X Jason Pereira: Facebook | X | 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 | X | Facebook | LinkedIn

Life doesn't always go according to plan, and Marlene Chiarotto's story is a powerful reminder of why financial preparedness matters. As a CPA, Marlene thought she had her financial life under control—until she became a widow at age 42 with two children to support. In this segment, she discusses her book "Achieve Financial Freedom on Your Terms" and the profound lessons she learned about money, legacy, and values through this life-changing experience. Marlene shares practical wisdom about setting SMART goals, the 50/30/20 budgeting rule, and how to align your financial decisions with what truly matters to you. This conversation offers both tactical financial advice and the perspective that comes from navigating real hardship. Find out more about Marlene on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make, and having the right realtor can make all the difference. Anne Alkok, broker of record at Wahi, shares expert guidance on how to select a realtor who's right for you and how to maximize that relationship. She discusses the important questions to ask potential agents, the value they provide throughout the process, and what you should expect from a professional real estate relationship. With statistics showing that only about 1 in 10 licensed realtors in the Toronto area sell at least one house per month, Anne's insights help you identify experienced professionals who can truly serve your needs. Find out more at wahi.com and connect on Instagram

Medical students face unique financial challenges that most other professionals don't encounter. With average debt loads of $150,000 (and access to lines of credit up to $400,000), delayed earning years, and the complexities of running fee-for-service practices as sole proprietors, physicians need specialized financial education. Dr. Stephanie Zhou developed a groundbreaking financial literacy curriculum for medical students at the University of Toronto to address these exact issues. In this segment, she discusses the importance of understanding debt management, business fundamentals, and financial planning for those in the medical profession. If you're a medical student, physician, or simply interested in professional-specific financial education, this conversation offers valuable insights. Find out more at physiciansficonference.com and connect on Instagram,| LinkedIn and YouTube.

Amanda Schultz, founder of Scene Change, knows firsthand how challenging it can be to pivot from the entertainment industry to corporate roles. After working as a TV producer on shows like Big Brother Canada, Amanda made the leap to corporate consulting and now helps other entertainment professionals do the same. In this conversation, she shares how skills like adaptability, project management, and storytelling are incredibly valuable in corporate settings, even if they don't appear that way on a traditional resume. Whether you're considering a career change or just curious about how to better communicate your transferable skills, this segment offers practical guidance and encouragement. Find out more at scenechange.ca and connect on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook.

This episode explores money management across different career stages and industries. Amanda Schultz, founder of Scene Change, shares her journey from TV producer on shows like Big Brother Canada to corporate consulting, and how she's helping entertainment professionals translate their unique skills, like adaptability and project management, into other industries. Dr. Stephanie Zhou discusses her groundbreaking financial literacy curriculum for medical students at the University of Toronto, addressing the unique challenges physicians face with high debt loads (averaging $150,000), delayed earning years, and the complexities of running fee-for-service practices. Bruce Sellery also speaks with Anne Alkok, broker of record at Wahi, about maximizing your relationship with a realtor and what to look for when choosing one for buying or selling your home. The episode concludes with CPA Marlene Chiarotto discussing her book "Achieve Financial Freedom on Your Terms" and the powerful lessons she learned about money, legacy, and values after becoming a widow at age 42. From career transitions to professional-specific financial education to major life changes, this episode covers essential money topics for wherever you are in your journey. To find out more about the guests check out: Amanda Schultz: scenechange.ca | TikTok | Instagram | Facebook Dr. Stephanie Zhou: physiciansficonference.com | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube Anne Alkok: wahi.com | Instagram Marlene Chiarotto: Facebook | 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 | X | Facebook | LinkedIn

In our increasingly digital world, financial scams are becoming frighteningly sophisticated. Larry Zelvin, head of the Financial Crimes Unit at BMO Financial Group, exposes how criminals are weaponizing AI to commit fraud through deepfakes, phishing emails, and digital pickpocketing. Discover the warning signs of AI-enabled scams, why QR codes require extra caution, and what banks are doing behind the scenes to protect customers with voice recognition and fraud detection AI. Larry shares red flags to watch for, including urgency tactics, unusual payment methods, and deals that seem too good to be true, plus practical tips for protecting yourself when traveling, vetting suspicious websites, and defending against the latest fraud tactics. Essential listening for anyone who wants to stay one step ahead of scammers. Find out more on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

When a large sum of money arrives after a traumatic event, whether from a life insurance payout, civil settlement, or class action lawsuit, the emotional complexity can be overwhelming. Trauma therapist Shannon Maroney joins us to explore the intersection of money and trauma, addressing the shame, guilt, and fear that often accompany these windfalls. Learn why you should wait at least one year before making major financial decisions, how to view settlement money as a "pay forward" rather than payback, and strategies for making emotionally congruent decisions that align with your values. Shannon shares crucial insights on building trust with advisors, understanding your relationship with money, and using these funds to create meaning and security in your life while you're still healing. Find out more at shannonmoroney.com and connect on Instagram.

What if managing money wasn't about willpower, but about working with your existing habits? Mike Michalowicz, author of The Money Habit, reveals a revolutionary approach to personal finance using multiple bank accounts as a modern envelope system. Discover how behavioral intercepts work, why debit cards are more powerful than credit card points, and how Parkinson's Law can help you spend less automatically. Mike shares his personal story of losing everything on Valentine's Day and the hard-earned wisdom that led to his transformation. Learn practical strategies for achieving cash confidence, managing debt, and navigating the financial seasons of your life, from recovery to funding to balance. Find out more at mikemichalowicz.com and connect on Instagram and LinkedIn.

What if managing money wasn't about willpower, but about working with your existing habits? Mike Michalowicz, author of The Money Habit, reveals a revolutionary approach to personal finance using multiple bank accounts as a modern envelope system. Learn how to achieve cash confidence through behavioral intercepts, why debit cards beat credit card points, and how Parkinson's Law can help you spend less automatically. Plus, trauma therapist Shannon Maroney shares crucial insights on navigating financial windfalls that arrive after traumatic events—from life insurance payouts to civil settlements—and how to make emotionally congruent decisions about money when you're still healing. In our increasingly digital world, financial scams are becoming frighteningly sophisticated. Larry Zelvin, head of the Financial Crimes Unit at BMO Financial Group, exposes how criminals are weaponizing AI to commit fraud through deepfakes, phishing emails, and digital pickpocketing. Discover the warning signs of AI-enabled scams, why QR codes require extra caution, and what banks are doing behind the scenes to protect you. From managing debt with behavioral psychology to protecting yourself from the latest fraud tactics, this episode delivers practical strategies for every stage of your financial journey. Whether you're building better money habits, processing a financial windfall, or defending against scammers, you'll find actionable advice to help you get a better handle on your money. To find out more about the guests check out: Mike Michalowicz: mikemichalowicz.com | Instagram | LinkedIn Shannon Maroney: Instagram Larry Zelvin: LinkedIn | Facebook | X | Instagram | YouTube 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

Claudia Hepburn, CEO of Windmill Microlending, explains how her national charity helps skilled immigrants overcome financial barriers to professional accreditation in Canada. Windmill provides affordable micro-loans of up to $15,000 at just below prime rates, along with financial literacy training, career coaching, and mentorship to help newcomers challenge exams and get re-accredited in their fields. With the average client more than tripling their income after receiving support, Windmill is proving that removing financial obstacles can unlock tremendous potential for Canada's economy. Connect on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Writer, editor, and critic David Berry explores the complex relationship between art and money, revealing that less than 15% of artists throughout history have ever made a full-time living from their creative work. He discusses the importance of artists viewing themselves as their own patrons, finding sustainable day jobs that leave time for creativity, and overcoming the cultural stigma that thinking about money somehow poisons artistic expression. Berry emphasizes that passion alone won't sustain you when you go to bed hungry—managing money is essential to honoring your creative gift. Find out more at thedavidberry.com and connect on Instagram.

Financial journalist and author Renée Sylvestre-Williams reveals the hidden financial penalties that single Canadians face, from shouldering housing costs alone to missing out on tax benefits like income splitting in retirement. She explains why building a strong support team—including lawyers, financial advisors, and friends—is critical for solo earners, and emphasizes the importance of estate planning and powers of attorney when you don't have a spouse to automatically inherit your assets or make decisions on your behalf. Connect on Instagram and find out more on Substack and pick up The Singles Tax: No-Nonsense Financial Advice for Solo Earners

Financial educator and behavioral finance expert Preet Banerjee explains how artificial intelligence is transforming the financial services industry, from chatbots handling customer service to the promise of democratizing quality financial advice for everyday Canadians. He warns about the dark side of AI, including sophisticated hyper-personalized phishing scams targeting new employees, and shares practical strategies to protect yourself while using AI to fact-check financial advice and make smarter money decisions. Connect on Instagram.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping how Canadians manage their money, but is it helping or hurting? Financial educator and behavioural finance expert Preet Banerjee reveals how AI is transforming financial services, from chatbots providing 24/7 customer support to the promise of democratizing quality financial advice for everyday Canadians. But there's a dark side: scammers are using AI to create sophisticated, hyper-personalized phishing attacks that can drain your bank account before you realize what's happened. Preet shares practical strategies to protect yourself while leveraging AI's benefits, and explains why adding friction to your spending decisions might be the smartest financial move you can make. Then, financial journalist Renée Sylvestre-Williams tackles the hidden costs of being single in Canada, from higher housing costs to retirement anxiety, and why building a strong support team is more critical than ever for solo earners. The episode continues with writer David Berry discussing his book on how artists navigate the often-contradictory relationship between creative expression and financial survival, revealing why most successful artists throughout history never made a full-time living from their art alone. Finally, Claudia Hepburn, CEO of Windmill Microlending, explains how her national charity is helping skilled immigrants overcome the financial barriers to professional accreditation in Canada through affordable micro-loans of up to $15,000. With the average client more than tripling their income after receiving support, Windmill is proving that small financial interventions can create life-changing opportunities for newcomers ready to contribute their skills to the Canadian economy. To find out more about the guests check out: Preet Banerjee: Instagram Renée Sylvester-Williams: Instagram | Substack | The Singles Tax: No-Nonsense Financial Advice for Solo Earners David Berry: thedavidberry.com | Instagram Claudia Hepburn: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook 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

ADHD coach and former CFO Leanne Gawley joins Credit Canada facilitator Kelly Cowan to explore how ADHD affects financial management. She explains how ADHD brains are wired for immediate dopamine hits versus delayed gratification, leading to impulse buying driven by instant gratification, lack of impulse control, and FOMO (fear of missing out). Leanne discusses "time blindness"—where the future doesn't feel like now—and why deadline-driven completion is so common. She shares practical strategies including breaking budgets into 10-minute segments, implementing waiting periods (2-24 hours) before purchases, and asking support partners the key question: "How can I best support you?" Resources available through the Canada ADHD Society can provide additional support. Find out more at leannegawley.ca and connect on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Simon Brascoupe introduces "Braiding Mind, Body, and Spirit," a culturally relevant financial wellness resource developed with Prosper Canada and the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association of Canada. Using the braiding metaphor, the resource addresses Mind (financial tools and knowledge), Body (protection strategies), and Spirit (holistic teachings). Simon discusses how the resource helps address "sudden wealth syndrome" when receiving lump sum payments, and includes activities like "Coloring My Dreams" for visualization, "My Money is Medicine" for reframing money as a positive force, and financial wellness journaling. He also highlights the challenge of limited bank access in Indigenous communities, with only three to four First Nations in Ontario having banks. Connect with Simon on Instagram.

Lisa MacIntyre-Smith, CEO of Furble, explains why veterinary care costs are rising faster than standard inflation due to staffing shortages, medication supply issues, and advanced diagnostic equipment. With 50% of pet parents now skipping vet visits due to costs, Lisa introduces a solution: prescription medications delivered directly to homes at reduced costs compared to veterinary clinics. Many pet owners don't even realize their vet has written prescriptions for medications like flea and tick prevention, which can be filled through pharmacy partners at significant savings. Find out more at furble.com and connect on Instagram and X/Twitter.

Personal finance columnist Lesley-Anne Scorgie shares the three key indicators that it's time to break up with your financial advisor: poor communication, underperformance against benchmarks over seven years, and an inability to think holistically about your finances. She explains how to request a "total household rollup performance report" to evaluate your advisor's true performance, how fee structures like 2%+ MERs make it harder to meet benchmarks, and why many advisors are now lowering fees to compete with robo-advisors. Lesley-Anne also walks through the surprisingly simple logistics of transferring assets to a new advisor and provides scripts for having that difficult conversation. Find out more at mevest.ca and connect on Facebook, Instagram and X/Twitter.  

Sometimes breaking up is the right thing to do, even with your financial advisor. Lesley-Anne Scorgie, personal finance columnist at the Toronto Star and founder of MeVest, shares the red flags that signal it's time to move on, from poor communication and underperformance to misaligned fees. She explains how to evaluate your advisor using a "total household rollup performance report," compare results against seven-year benchmarks, and navigate the surprisingly simple logistics of switching advisors. Plus, Lisa MacIntyre-Smith, CEO of Furble, discusses why pet care costs are outpacing inflation and how Canadians can access more affordable veterinary medications through pharmacy partners instead of clinic dispensing. Simon Brascoupe introduces "Braiding Mind, Body, and Spirit," a culturally relevant financial wellness resource for Indigenous communities that addresses sudden wealth syndrome, protective planning, and holistic money management through teachings and journaling. Then, ADHD coach Leanne Gawley joins Credit Canada facilitator Kelly Cowan to explore how ADHD affects financial management, from dopamine-driven impulse buying and time blindness to budget overwhelm. Leanne shares practical strategies like breaking tasks into 10-minute segments, using accountability buddies, and implementing waiting periods before purchases to help neurodivergent individuals build healthier money habits. To find out more about the guests check out: Lesley-Anne Scorgie: mevest.ca | Facebook | Instagram | X/Twitter Lisa MacIntyre-Smith: furble.com | Instagram | X/Twitter Simon Brascoupe: Instagram Leanne Gawley: leannegawley.ca | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook 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

To close the show, Bruce speaks with Michelle Pannor Silver, professor at the University of Toronto and author of Aging with Agility: How Elite Athletes and Ordinary Folks Embrace Exercise with Age. They connect physical health, longevity and money, reframing the body as a key resource that affects retirement costs, healthcare spending and quality of life. Michelle shares insights from elite athletes and everyday older adults who are in the best shape of their lives, practical tips for staying active as we age (including small daily habits and mindset shifts), and why aging doesn't have to mean deteriorating – especially if we “invest” in our bodies with the same intention we bring to our finances. Find out more at michellepannorsilver.com  

Bruce welcomes CPA and author Maya Corbic to talk about her book From Piggy Banks to Stocks, a kid-friendly guide to investing and financial literacy. Maya explains why saving alone isn't enough to build wealth, how to teach kids about inflation and compound interest, and why simple tools like index funds and ETFs can help families invest for the long term. She shares how parents can learn alongside their children, use real brands kids already know (like tech and entertainment companies) to make investing relatable, and give kids safe “hands-on” experience with markets so they grow up confident, informed investors. Connect with Maya on Instagram, Facebook and X/Twitter.

In this segment, Bruce dives into new research from Home Equity Bank with chief financial commentator Pattie Lovett-Reid on financial literacy among women aged 55+. They explore why many older women rate their money confidence lower than men, how old taboos about talking about money still linger, and why “Plan B” thinking is essential for retirement and widowhood. Pattie shares stories from her 92-year-old mother, discusses the realities of aging in place, reverse mortgages, and single-income retirement, and offers practical steps for women to build confidence, define wealth on their own terms, and take ownership of their financial future. Connect with HomeEquity Bank on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. Also connect with Pattie on Instagram and check out the HerMoneyMatters episode on YouTube.

Bruce talks with Laurie Fox, campaign director of Willpower, about how Canadians can use their wills to leave a powerful charitable legacy without shortchanging their families. They discuss why only about 10% of Canadians currently include a charity in their will, how even 1% of an average estate can become a five-figure gift, and the significant tax benefits of gifting through your will – including donating securities and reducing or even eliminating estate taxes. Laurie also shares tips on choosing charities, doing due diligence, and keeping your legacy gift flexible so it can have the greatest impact over time. Connect with Laurie on  Instagram, Facebook  and LinkedIn.

This episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple with host Bruce Sellery spans every age and stage of your financial life. Bruce starts with wills and legacy giving, speaking with Laurie Fox, campaign director of Willpower, about how more Canadians are choosing to leave a charitable gift in their will – and why even 1% of your estate can create a meaningful, tax-efficient legacy while still putting family first. Then he dives into new research from Home Equity Bank with chief financial commentator Pattie Lovett-Reid, unpacking what older women say about their financial literacy, fears about outliving their money, and the realities of aging in place on a fixed income. Next, Bruce turns to the kids' table with Maya Corbic, CPA, author of From Piggy Banks to Stocks, on how parents can teach children the basics of investing, compound interest, and long-term wealth building in a way that's fun and non-intimidating. Finally, he explores why your body is one of your most important financial assets with Michelle Pannor Silver, professor at the University of Toronto and author of Aging with Agility: How Elite Athletes and Ordinary Folks Embrace Exercise with Age. Together, they connect physical health, longevity, and mobility to the money choices you make today – from retirement planning to healthcare costs and quality of life in your older years. To find out more about the guests check out: Laurie Fox: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn Pattie Lovett-Reid: Instagram | YouTube Episode HomeEquity Bank: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn Maya Corbic: Instagram | Facebook | X/Twitter Michelle Pannor Silver: michellepannorsilver.com 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

To wrap up the episode, Bruce interviews Didier Lavallée, CEO of Calgary-based Tetra Digital, about Stablecoin, a type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a stable value. Didier breaks down what Stablecoin is, how it's backed by traditional dollars, and why it can move money globally in seconds at very low cost. He also talks about regulation, how Stablecoin differs from volatile crypto like Bitcoin, and what everyday Canadians might see in the next decade—from cross-border payments to digital dollars built into everyday apps. Connect with Didier on LinkedIn and find out more with Tetra Digital on LinkedIn.

Bruce speaks with Lucianna Adragna, Vice President of Client Segments at RBC, about new research on how Canadian parents feel about talking to their kids about money. Lucianna shares why so many parents lack confidence, how their own financial stress holds them back, and why waiting for “big life moments” to start the conversation is a missed opportunity. She offers practical ways to weave money lessons into everyday life—at the grocery store, with allowances, and with simple save/spend/give systems—so kids can learn healthy habits long before they move out on their own. Connect on X/Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

In this segment, Bruce is joined by Julie Kuzmic, Head of Consumer Advocacy and Compliance at Equifax Canada, to unpack the light bulb moments around credit scores. Julie explains why being a secondary cardholder can leave you with no recent credit history, how buy now–pay later and payday loans might show up on your report, and why your utilization at statement time can drag your score down even if you pay in full. She also covers how long negative items like collections stay on your file, what can cause your score to rebound quickly, and why checking your credit report regularly is essential. Connect with Julie on  X/Twitter and LinkedIn.

Bruce Sellery talks with personal finance expert and author Preet Banerjee about the “light bulb moment” that changed his money life as a teenager: automatic savings and the astonishing power of compound interest. Preet walks through simple examples that show why starting early matters more than saving perfectly, how small increases in your contributions can more than double your nest egg, and why high-interest credit card debt is compounding working against you. If you've ever wondered whether those online calculators are “too good to be true,” this segment will flip the switch. Connect with Preet on Instagram.

In this episode we dive into the powerful “light-bulb moments” that can transform the way you manage your money. Bruce Sellery speaks with personal finance expert Preet Banerjee, who shares the compounding insight that changed his financial life at age 16—plus the surprising math behind why starting early matters far more than saving perfectly. Then, Bruce talks with Julie Kuzmic of Equifax Canada, who explains the often-misunderstood mechanics of credit scores, from utilization timing to how collection accounts really work. Later, RBC's Lucianna Adragna joins to unpack new research on why parents struggle to talk to their kids about money, and how to make financial lessons part of everyday life. The episode wraps with Didier Lavallée of Tetra Digital, explaining what Canadians need to know about Stablecoin, why it's gaining popularity, and how blockchain-enabled digital dollars may shape our financial future. A packed, practical episode full of insights to help Canadians make smarter, more confident money decisions. To find out more about the guests check out: Preet Banerjee: Instagram Julie Kuzmic: X/Twitter | LinkedIn Lucianna Adragna: X/Twitter | Facebook | Instagram Didier Lavallée: LinkedIn Tetra Digital: 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

In this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple, Bruce dedicates a full hour to personal finance legend David Chilton, author of The Wealthy Barber. Nearly four decades and millions of copies later, Chilton has fully updated his Canadian classic for a new generation facing soaring housing costs, ubiquitous credit and constant social-media-fueled temptation. He shares the story behind the original book, why he chose a barbershop narrative, how he self-published before it was cool, and what really happened when Canada Trust and Costco helped turn The Wealthy Barber into a phenomenon. Bruce and David also talk about family, travel, homeschooling, and what it was like for his kids to grow up with “the Wealthy Barber guy” as their dad. Then, they dig into the money lessons that still matter most: paying yourself first, crushing high-interest debt, using spending summaries to spot the leaks, and why car costs are quietly wrecking so many budgets. David explains how small daily changes can add up to fully funding a TFSA, why side hustles can be a game-changer, and how high-fee products still undermine long-term returns. He also looks ahead to the future of money, from AI and employment to open banking, and shares the one change he wishes every Canadian would see: practical, engaging financial education for teens that actually sticks. Find out more check out thewealthybarber.com and connect on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, and 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

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.