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
173 – How To Avoid Being House Poor [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:01
On today's podcast we explain how, even though your house may have increased in value, if you don't have enough cash to meet your monthly expenses, you are house rich but cash poor. We give four tips to avoid being house…
172 – The Perfect Christmas With Heather Cudmore [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:26
Every year, the focus of the holiday season is on consumerism and the need to spend money on the perfect gifts, the perfect decorations and creating the perfect dinner. And every year, Canadians end up spending too much…
171 – Never Loan Money to Family and Friends [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:28
Should you ever loan money to family and friends? It's a tough question. Some of you might say, "sure, why not?" And others might think, "Maybe just to family." Well, if you do decide to loan money, I'd recommend asking…
170 – 10 Personal Finance Books That Make Great Gifts [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:46
On today's show, I review 10 personal finance books that would make great gifts and/or would be a great start to your own personal finance library. All 10 books are listed below, with the time stamp from the podcast, if…
169 – Let's Call a Spade a Spade: Credit is Debt [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:27
Have you ever wondered why a credit card isn't called a debt card like it should be? Think about it. That's what a credit card really does – it gives you debt. Well, I'll tell you why. Because it's not good marketing. An…
168 – Wage Garnishments: What Income Can be Garnisheed? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:45
On today's show we discuss the different forms of income that can be garnisheed (or not). Here are the types of income, with the time stamp if you want to fast forward to that section: Wages – 3:21 Ontario Works – 8:31 D…
167 – Expert Disagrees With My Opinion on Credit Scores [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:25
How important is your credit score? In my book, Straight Talk on Your Money, on page 48 I discuss the "Credit Score Scam", and on page 52 I say that you should not focus on your credit score. (Apparently I'm not a fan of…
165 – Do I Lose My RDSP If I Go Bankrupt? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:21
Registered Disabilities Savings Plans are geared towards helping families and individuals who are living with a disability. RDSPs can only be setup for someone who is eligible to receive the Disability Tax Credit. If thi…