593 – Never Thought About Financial Planning? Where to Start With Debt

593 – Never Thought About Financial Planning? Where to Start With Debt

Author: Doug Hoyes January 10, 2026 Duration: 30:15

Financial planning doesn't have to start with investing or retirement, and it doesn't require everything to be "under control" first.

This is a practical, non-judgmental conversation that explains what financial planning really means, how it differs from budgeting, and where to start when money is tight or debt is part of the picture.

You'll be able to understand cash flow, set priorities, and reduce stress by knowing what to tackle first – even during a consumer proposal or bankruptcy.

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00:00 – Why most people don't start planning until a crisis
03:30 – What financial planning really means
07:45 – Budgeting vs financial planning
12:20 – Why prioritization matters more than perfection
17:30 – Where to start when money is tight
20:10 – Planning to deal with debt
25:10 – When a consumer proposal becomes part of the plan
29:15 – Why having a plan reduces stress

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
607 – Credit Score vs Cash Flow: What Actually Matters in a Crisis? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:22
A high score does not always indicate stable finances. It is possible to keep up with most of your bills and maintain a decent credit score while still feeling like you are falling behind. When cash flow is stretched, ev…
605 – Owe CRA Tax Debt? The Biggest Loan Mistake Canadians Make [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:23
Owing money to the CRA can feel urgent, and taking out a loan might seem like the fastest way to fix it. But in many cases, it can make your situation worse. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos break down when borrowing to pay o…
604 – The Dangers of Installment Loans [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:46
Installment loans are often marketed as a safer alternative to payday loans because payments are predictable and structured. However, fixed payments do not always mean lower cost or less financial risk. Learn the warning…
603 – Prevent Tax Debt and Mistakes 2026 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:57
Tax issues are not just about deductions. They come down to timing, habits, and the small decisions that add up over the year. This episode focuses on the practical systems that help you stay organized and avoid costly s…
601 – The Most Dangerous Financial Advice on the Internet [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:39
Financial advice is everywhere online. Some of it is mathematically correct, but that does not mean it is right for your situation. Popular tips can sound smart, but if money is already tight, those strategies can someti…
600 – Debt Misunderstandings Keeping Canadians Stressed [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:12
In this milestone episode, Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos discuss the biggest myths about debt that refuse to die, the one behaviour that most reliably predicts insolvency, and explain what people who successfully recover f…
599 – What Happens When You Can't Afford to Stay in Your Home? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:46
Owning a home is supposed to bring stability, but for many Canadian households, the numbers are getting harder to manage. Mortgage renewals at higher rates, unexpected repairs, and rising day-to-day costs can quietly shi…