282 – Identifying and Avoiding Loan Scams

282 – Identifying and Avoiding Loan Scams

Author: Doug Hoyes January 25, 2020 Duration: 28:46

Ted Michalos returns to discuss loan scams, including advance fee loans, savings loans, and "pay off your consumer proposal" loans.  Listeners may quibble with our characterization of these loans as "scams", but we explain why we believe they should be avoided, and we give our suggestions on better alternatives for people who want to improve their credit and are tempted to get these types of loans.


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
554 – AI Scams & Debt: Staying Safe in a New Era of Fraud [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:28
Artificial intelligence is no longer just a futuristic concept – it's actively reshaping the landscape of scams and posing a significant threat to your financial well-being. Are you prepared for this new era of fraud? In…
552 – Gamified Spending: The Hidden Dangers of Retail Tricks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:21
Is shopping becoming a dangerous game? From live streams to influencer deals to 'Buy Now, Pay Later' offers—your brain's reward system is constantly being triggered to encourage constant spending. Join us for a discussio…
551 – Value of The Canadian Dollar & Its Impact on Your Dinner Bill [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:52
Did you know the price of your dinner tonight might be tied to decisions made in the US? Doug and Ted explain the surprising impact of the Canadian dollar on your everyday spending. They'll break down how this affects yo…
550 – How to Build Wealth While Managing Debt: A Practical Guide [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:59
Debt often gets a bad rap, but what if you could use it to your advantage? This episode unlocks the power of strategic debt! Learn to leverage other people's money, distinguish between good and bad debt, and manage borro…
547 – Financial Freedom & Zero Debt: What You Need to Know [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:31
Is having zero debt the key to financial freedom, or could it hold you back? Expert Licensed Insolvency Trustees Doug and Ted explore the pros and cons of being completely debt-free, from psychological and financial bene…
545 – Why We Overspend and How to Break Bad Money Habits [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:46
Why is it so hard to break bad money habits? Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos dig into the psychology of impulse buying, the powerful influence of marketing on buying decisions, and the easy-purchase pathway spending cycle th…