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
234 – 4 Personal Finance Ratios That Measure Your Debt Risk [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 25:39
Many people we meet are surprised to find themselves so far behind financially they can no longer pay their bills. The problem with debt is that it creeps up on us slowly. Today we are going to take a lesson from the bus…
233 – Want to Beat the Bank? Understand the Basics [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:12
Whether you are a borrower or a beginning saver, the best way to beat the bank at its own game is to learn some basics so you can make a better decision. I talk with Larry Bates, author of Beat the Bank, as he shares tip…
231 – Think Twice Before You Get a Home Equity Line of Credit [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:29
A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a loan secured by the equity in your house. A HELOC is often presented as a great borrowing tool because unlike with credit cards or unsecured loans, you have access to a large amo…
230 – Should I Sell My Assets to Pay Off Debt? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:40
If you can sell your assets, pay the taxes (there's a tax hit when you cash in an RRSP), and have enough to pay off your debts, it may make sense to sell your assets to pay off your debt. But, if your assets won't cover…
229 – Will I Lose My Inheritance in a Bankruptcy? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:49
Whether your inheritance is included in a bankruptcy depends entirely on when you become entitled to receive the proceeds. As this is a complex issue, I talk with Ted Michalos and we take a detailed look at bankruptcy im…
228 – Buying and Maintaining an Affordable Car [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:15
The best way to control your auto expenses is to buy a car you can afford. This keeps your monthly car loan payments low (since you borrow less) and ensures that you don't over-finance. But how do you buy an affordable c…
227 – Getting Out Of Debt Requires A System, Not Just A Goal [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:11
Every financial guru says that achieving success starts with setting a goal. I disagree. While there is some benefit to setting goals, you are more likely to achieve success if, instead of focusing on goals, you have a s…
226 – Consumer Debt Crisis is Looming: Predictions for 2019 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:21
It's been a long time coming, longer than Ted Michalos and I predicted in our past year-in-review podcasts. We predicted that 2014 and 2015 consumer insolvencies would remain flat, and they did. However, last year, we pr…
225 – Should You Use Your Bonus To Pay Off Debt? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:20
If you just earned a bonus from your employer or received an unexpected sum of money, how should you use that bonus if you also have debt? On today's show we talk with Scott Terrio and we outline what to prioritize to ge…