Weekly Round-Up -- April 9, 2026

Good morning! Hope everyone had a relaxing Easter weekend. This week Dave sits down with Doug Hoyes, a leading insolvency expert, to break down how debt problems build, what your options are and what actually happens if you go down the bankruptcy or consumer proposal path.

Also, for those asking, the French version of "The Wealthy Barber" will be on shelves April 29th—L’attente est enfin terminée !

PODCAST
Doug Hoyes: Bankruptcy, Consumer Proposals and the State of the Canadian Consumer

Our guest this episode is Doug Hoyes — Co-Founder of Hoyes Michalos (@DebtFreein30) Licensed Insolvency Trustee and one of Canada’s leading experts on debt and personal insolvency. Doug has spent decades helping Canadians navigate financial hardship and is a passionate advocate for ensuring people understand their options and find the right path forward.

In this episode, Dave and Doug dive into the world of debt, bankruptcy and consumer proposals — what they are, how they work and when each option might make sense. They break down how Licensed Insolvency Trustees operate, how consumer proposals are negotiated and what actually happens if you file for bankruptcy (what you keep, what you lose and who typically ends up choosing each path). Doug also shares insights into why so many Canadians are struggling with debt today, from inflation and the “K-shaped” economy to mortgage renewals, rising vehicle costs and the financial impact of divorce.

The conversation also explores some of the lesser-discussed drivers of debt including gambling, travel spending and lifestyle creep, along with practical advice on when to seek help and why early action can make a significant difference. Doug brings decades of real-world experience to highlight common mistakes and what people can do to avoid them.

If you want a clear, practical understanding of debt and insight into the Canadian economy from someone with boots on the ground, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Tune in now on our website, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all other podcasting platforms!

RETIREMENT PLANNING
Key Financial Advice for Canadians 55+

I’m imploring you: If you’re nearing retirement you MUST do this one thing. MUST.

INVESTING
Don’t Make This Investing Mistake

Ben Felix explains why not taking enough risk can quietly cost you a huge amount of wealth over time.

THROWBACK THURSDAY
Snowball vs Avalanche: Which Debt-Payoff Strategy is Best?

⏪Throwback Thursday: A reminder that if you’re tackling debt, the strategy matters—but sticking with it matters more.

“Digging your way out of debt can feel daunting and overwhelming. But there are two main strategies—the snowball method and the avalanche method—to make it easier. Hear which strategy Dave recommends and the wonderful reward that comes from following it to get out of debt.”

INVESTING
All-in-One ETFs: A Great Choice for DIY Investors

Ben Felix explains why all-in-one ETFs make DIY investing simpler — and often more effective.

DEBT MANAGEMENT
If You Claim Bankruptcy, What Actually Happens?

What really happens when you declare bankruptcy? Doug Hoyes breaks down the key consequences.

BOOK REVIEW

Some feedback on the new book today ⬆️

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