276 – The Problem with Gift Cards

276 – The Problem with Gift Cards

Author: Doug Hoyes December 14, 2019 Duration: 29:54

Everyone likes gift cards.  Free money!  An easy gift for anyone on your Christmas list, but there is a downside.

On today's podcast, first time guest and Hoyes Michalos credit counsellor Patty Sweeney explains the advantages and disadvantages of gift cards, and she gives lots of practical advice if you give or receive gift cards.


Doug Hoyes sits down each week with a different specialist to untangle the complicated feelings and hard numbers around owing money. The conversations in Debt Free in 30 move beyond simple scare tactics or dry theory, focusing instead on actionable strategies for managing debt, rebuilding savings, and making informed investing choices. You’ll hear from trustees, financial planners, and counselors who explain concepts in plain language, stripping away the industry jargon that often leaves people feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s navigating a consumer proposal, understanding credit scores, or starting to invest with a tight budget, this podcast provides a clear-eyed look at the steps toward financial stability. Doug’s approach is grounded and pragmatic, reflecting his deep expertise in the field, making each episode feel like a direct consultation with a knowledgeable guide. Tuning in regularly offers a consistent source of demystified advice, turning what can be a stressful topic into a manageable process. It’s that blend of expert insight and relatable conversation that defines this particular personal finance podcast.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 500

Debt Free in 30
Podcast Episodes
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362 – REBROADCAST - Can a Collection Agency Take Me to Court? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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361 –  How Not to Get Scammed by a Debt Consultant [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Experts say you should have 10 times your income saved to retire, but for many people that's a difficult target. What can you do if your savings are nowhere near that amount or, more likely, you haven't even started savi…
359 –  The Unintended Consequences of Debt [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:54
There are a lot of scenarios where borrowing makes sense: buying a home, a car, or paying for school. But if you don't stop to think before borrowing, you can face some serious unintended consequences. Sure, that 8-year…
358 –  6 Outdated Pieces of Financial Advice You Should Rethink [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:32
Times have changed. Cost of living is higher than ever, and wages have barely kept up. Jobs are no longer as stable as they used to be, and good paying jobs don't require 4-year degrees necessarily. Knowing this, why do…
356 –  How To Invest If You Can Only Save $100 a Month [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:35
If you have a little money, is it better to invest it or just leave it in a savings account? And if you do invest, how can you do so with very small amounts of money? Enter Robert Brown, author of Wealthing Like Rabbits.…