592 – The Wealthy Barber: Financial Issues Canadians are Struggling with Most

592 – The Wealthy Barber: Financial Issues Canadians are Struggling with Most

Author: Doug Hoyes January 3, 2026 Duration: 58:59

David Chilton, author of The Wealthy Barber and one of Canada's most influential voices on personal finance, joins Doug Hoyes on Debt Free in 30 for an extra special double–long episode.

Doug and David dig into the issues Canadians are struggling with most: the true cost of inflation, a "K-shaped" economy, housing affordability, rising student debt, the growing gap between financial knowledge and financial discipline, and more. 

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The Wealthy Barber – David Chilton's Web Page

00:00 – David Chilton on the updated Wealthy Barber book
02:27 – Why storytelling works for personal finance (and how he tested it)
06:52 – TFSA vs RRSP: how to decide in real life
15:21 – Financial literacy vs discipline in today's economy
18:29 – "K-shaped" Canada: who's thriving and who's squeezed
21:27 – First steps: debt payoff vs RRSP match priorities
22:54 – Spending summaries vs budgets: the method that actually changes behaviour
34:29 – Housing affordability, down payments, and parental help
38:06 – Gambling, meme stocks, crypto: a fast-growing driver of debt trouble
55:16 – Hope and next steps: learning money basics + building side income

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Disclaimer:
The information provided in the Debt Free in 30 Podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not intended as personal financial advice. Individual financial situations vary and may require personal guidance from a financial professional. The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Hoyes, Michalos & Associates, or any other affiliated organizations. We do not endorse or guarantee the effectiveness of any specific financial institutions, strategies, or digital tools/apps discussed.


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: 100

Debt Free in 30
Podcast Episodes
596 – What To Do First When You're Behind On Bills [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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594 – Why Even High-Income Earners Struggle with Debt [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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More and more high-income Canadians are finding themselves under financial pressure. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos examine the shift they are seeing firsthand and challenge some common assumptions about who struggles with…
590 – Will Your Investments Survive Serious Debt? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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588 – Are You Financially Fit Enough to Invest? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Start investing because your numbers say "go," not because the internet says "now." This episode will remove the guesswork from entering the world of investing and provide a straightforward way for you to judge your read…
587 – Should Parents Help Adult Children with Debt? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:00
With housing costs, student loans, and everyday expenses skyrocketing, more young adults are turning to their parents for financial support. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos unpack the emotional, financial, and practical real…