Episodes

  • Never Open a Brown Envelope on a Friday

    Never Open a Brown Envelope on a Friday
    Mar 16 2026
    In this episode of Money Questions, Nate and Matt unpack the stress of brown envelopes from the CRA, what’s actually inside them, and how to turn tax season from anxiety‑ridden to manageable.They cover:Brown envelope anxiety: why CRA mail feels scary and what those letters usually mean.Tax brackets 101 (Canada): marginal vs. average tax rates, and why earning more doesn’t suddenly make all your income taxed at a higher rate.Your biggest expense (hint: it’s not your mortgage): how much of your income effectively goes to taxes.Notices of Assessment: what they actually show, how to find your real tax rate, and why they’re central to financial planning.Installments & interest: when CRA asks for quarterly payments, what happens if you don’t pay them, and how the interest works.Self‑employed reality check: paying both sides of CPP, why tax bills shock business owners, and how to avoid falling behind.TFSA traps: outdated CRA TFSA info, over‑contributions, and the 1%‑per‑month penalty (and how to avoid it).CRA’s online portal: 10 years of history, RRSP and TFSA room, credits, balances, and how advisors use it to help you.Refunds as “savings”: why a big tax refund is really an interest‑free loan to the government and why aiming near a $0 refund is usually better.Staying organized: checklists, digital folders, taking photos of slips, and why showing up with a Sobeys bag of receipts costs you time and money.Everyday tax planning: RRSPs, employer pensions, medical and childcare expenses, and other deductions/credits that can reduce tax and improve overall financial well‑being.Grounded in real client stories and practical planning, this conversation is about understanding your tax life so the brown envelope doesn’t control your stress levels.Chapters0:00 – The brown envelope rule & intro to tax anxiety0:56 – Canadian tax season timelines (CRA opens, April 30 & June 15)1:48 – Why people rush to file early (and chase T‑slips)2:17 – What this episode covers: brown envelopes, CRA portal, and tax stress3:02 – Tax brackets 101: federal vs. provincial and progressive rates4:32 – Average tax rate vs. marginal tax rate (jargon alert)5:40 – Taxes as your largest expense (more than mortgage or car)6:53 – Clearing up “I don’t want to earn more and hit a higher bracket”7:48 – Using your Notice of Assessment in real financial planning9:03 – Brown envelopes from CRA: what actually shows up in the mail9:46 – Installment reminders: when and why CRA asks for quarterly payments10:18 – Should you pay installments? Interest risks and “napkin math”10:53 – Other brown‑envelope items: CPP/OAS updates and reassessments13:48 – CRA online portal: why Nate strongly recommends signing up14:33 – Giving advisors access & seeing the same letters together15:04 – What’s inside the CRA portal: 10‑year history, room, credits, balances15:57 – TFSA reporting gaps and why CRA’s numbers can mislead you16:43 – TFSA over‑contribution penalties (1% per month) and delays17:35 – Why you must track TFSA contributions yourself17:58 – Filing early to get refunds vs. filing with complete information18:25 – Using tax refunds as a “savings account” with CRA19:40 – Why a big refund is an interest‑free loan to the government20:31 – Targeting a near‑zero refund and better cash‑flow planning20:56 – Taxes owed when income is earned (especially for self‑employed)22:02 – CPP shock: paying both employer and employee portions22:55 – Falling behind on taxes and how CRA collections actually works23:44 – Garnishments, frozen accounts, and why you must call CRA first24:15 – When you can’t pay in full: 12‑month plans and full financial disclosure25:05 – Side hustles, tips, crypto, rental income and tax evasion risks25:25 – “How do we pay the government less?” (legally)25:40 – Using RRSPs, pensions, and other tools to reduce taxes26:18 – Medical, childcare, and other provincial‑specific deductions27:00 – Staying organized: checklists, folders, cloud storage, and Sobeys bags28:35 – Why disorganized receipts cost you in fees and time28:52 – Tax health as part of financial well‑being29:11 – Year‑end pay stubs and mock tax returns before the RRSP deadline30:32 – Using RRSP contributions to reduce taxes payable31:17 – Why Nate secretly likes tax season (for planning data)32:03 – Why advisors need to see your tax situation32:19 – Legal and investment disclaimersTo learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund ...
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    33 mins
  • Babies

    Babies
    Feb 9 2026

    In this episode of Money Questions, Nate (no kids) and Matt (dad of two) break down the real financial impact of having a baby in Canada. They cover:

    The true cost of raising a child, including the first-year expenses
    Delivery costs: deductibles, co-pays, hospital rooms, and planning around health insurance.

    Baby gear on a budget: cribs, car seats, strollers, and the value of buying secondhand.

    Parental leave & income: EI/parental benefits, employer top-ups, and planning for reduced cash flow.

    Emergency savings & credit options during that first unpredictable year
    The rising cost of childcare and how it shapes decisions about where to live and work.

    Risk management: income protection, disability coverage, life insurance, and wills/guardianship.

    Long-term planning: prioritizing retirement vs. kids’ activities, and using RESPs and government grants to save for education.

    Grounded in Matt’s real-life experience and Nate’s planning lens, this conversation gives expecting (and surprised) parents a practical framework to think through money, risk, and long-term goals when a baby enters the picture.
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    28 mins
  • Scams, Schemes & Staying Safe

    Scams, Schemes & Staying Safe
    Jan 12 2026
    In this episode, Matt and Nate break down modern financial scams, from romance scams and “Nigerian prince” schemes to Ponzi structures and fake government calls. They share real client stories, explain how criminals exploit fear, greed, and loneliness, and offer practical, step‑by‑step ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.Key Topics CoveredWhy Financial Scams Are SurgingAI, voice cloning, and deepfakes making scams more convincingFraud losses in Canada in 2024 and why many cases go unreportedReal‑World Scam StoriesElderly investor duped via tech-support style scamFake computer-compromise warningRemote access granted, funds moved from RRIF, TFSA, and lines of creditClassic “send money to unlock a much larger payout” setupRomance / “Pig Butchering” scamElderly man forms online relationship with younger “grad student”Fake legal documents, estate settlement narrative, and pressure for ~USD 80,000How advisors and lawyers spotted the fraud in timeClassic & High‑Profile SchemesOrigin of the Ponzi scheme (Charles Ponzi, international reply coupons, “guaranteed” 50–400% returns)Bernie Madoff as a modern large‑scale Ponzi exampleUsing new investors’ money to pay old investors until the scheme collapsesModern Variants: Crypto & Social Media ScamsFake government‑backed crypto opportunities featuring public figures in adsGuaranteed, above‑market returns used as hooks (e.g., “18% guaranteed” on REITs)Psychology of ScamsExploiting fear, greed, lust, envy, shame, insecurityCreating urgency and emotional pressure so people act against their better judgmentRed Flags and Prevention Tips“If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is”Be wary of:Guaranteed returns (outside insured bank products / GICs)Unsolicited calls or emails about taxes, credit cards, deliveries, or “compromised” accountsRequests to move money “to protect it” or into cryptoRequests for remote access to your computerBest practices:Hang up and independently call back using an official numberUse multi‑factor authentication on financial and email accountsFreeze or lock accounts/credit cards if you suspect compromiseConsider credit monitoring, especially after data breachesConsult a licensed financial professional before acting on online “opportunities”What To Do If You’re ScammedContact the institution where the money is held firstThen contact the local police (non‑emergency line)Report to the Canadian Anti‑Fraud CentreTalk with family, trusted friends, or your advisor despite the embarrassmentUse incidents as education for clients and the broader publicKey TakeawaysScams are increasingly sophisticated due to technology and social engineering.Guarantees, urgency, emotional manipulation, and secrecy are major red flags.Verification, slowing down, and talking to trusted professionals are your best protection.Staying vigilant today is critical because scam tools will only get better over time.To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.
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    26 mins
  • Season 2 Is Here!

    Season 2 Is Here!
    Jan 2 2026

    Money Questions is back for Season 2, and we’re kicking things off with a brand-new trailer that sets the tone for what’s ahead.

    Are money worries keeping you up at night? You’re not alone.

    This season, Matt (a finance expert with 20+ years of experience) and Nate (a self-employed financial planner with 15 years in the industry) are back to help you take control of your financial future, with clarity, honesty, and zero judgement.

    Season 2 goes deeper into:

    • Practical financial literacy you can actually use
    • Smarter habits for reducing stress around money
    • Common pitfalls, and how to avoid them

    No hype. No guilt. Just clear answers to real money questions.


    Full season coming soon

    To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/

    DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.
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    1 min
  • The Art of Dying

    The Art of Dying
    Aug 13 2025

    In this episode, Matt and Nate are joined by Amanda Forsey Taylor, JD, TEP, a trust and estate practitioner, to discuss the often uncomfortable but essential topic of estate planning. In this discussion, we demystify the process of preparing for the inevitable, and discuss why estate planning is an act of love for those you leave behind.

    To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/

    DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.
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    44 mins
  • Screaming Into the Mist at Bedford Place Mall: handling uncertainty in personal, finance, investing, and life.

    Screaming Into the Mist at Bedford Place Mall: handling uncertainty in personal, finance, investing, and life.
    May 30 2025

    Matt and Nate discuss the impact of political uncertainty on finance and investing, using the analogy of "The Mist" to illustrate navigating uncertainty. They highlight the volatility in markets during the 2016 U.S. election and the subsequent market surge. They emphasize the importance of long-term investment strategies over short-term gyrations, regardless of political affiliations. They also address personal finance, stressing the need for emergency funds, insurance, and diversification. Nate shares a case of a client balancing business with family care. They conclude with the importance of self-reflection and planning to mitigate financial risks.

    To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/

    DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.
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    29 mins
  • Slowly Then All At Once

    Slowly Then All At Once
    Mar 31 2025

    Matt and Nate are back to discuss the concept of compounding and its importance in personal finance! They explore both sides of the compounding coin including saving early, even with small amounts, and the total cost of borrowing, including the interest paid on credit cards and car loans, and how it impacts finances. Using the example of a penny doubling daily for 30 days, which would result in $10.7 million, highlighting the power of time. They emphasize the importance of long-term thinking, noting that significant growth often occurs over extended periods. They also discuss the impact of debt compounding, where interest can significantly increase the cost of loans. Examples include a $20,000 credit card balance with a 20% interest rate, which could take nine years to pay off, costing an additional $23,000 in interest. They stress the importance of using the right financial vehicles, like TFSAs, to maximize savings and avoid tax interruptions.

    To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/

    DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.
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    26 mins
  • Financial Acronym Decoder Ring Part 1

    Financial Acronym Decoder Ring Part 1
    Feb 26 2025

    In the conversation, Matt and Nate discuss the importance of understanding financial tools like RRSPs, TFSAs, and FHSAs. They argue that financial advisors often lead with the tools rather than the purpose behind them, which can be misleading. They emphasize the need to understand your financial goals and the appropriate use of these accounts. They explain that RRSPs are tax-deferred, meaning you get a tax refund when you contribute, but you pay taxes when you withdraw. TFSAs are after-tax contributions that grow tax-free. FHSAs are for first-time homebuyers and offer tax deductions. They also stress the importance of reinvesting tax refunds and planning for future tax brackets. Tune in if you want to demystify these financial tools and make them more accessible to you.

    To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/

    DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.
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    31 mins