If you’re a millennial, you probably remember sitting through school lessons that promised to prepare you for “the real world” — but somehow, managing money didn’t make the syllabus. In this episode of Tandia Talks Money, we’re diving into the financial lessons we never got, and how we can catch up now.   We’ll talk about everything from credit scores and student loans to the side hustle grind and avoiding financial burnout. It's time to take control of your finances and build a future that works for you, not against you.   In this episode, you’ll learn: Why side hustles might not be the golden ticket to financial freedom. How to deal with FOMO and avoid impulse spending that derails your financial goals. Strategies for tackling student loans and building your credit. The truth about investing and why it’s never too late to start. How to break free from lifestyle inflation and focus on wealth-building.   It’s time to take charge and stop letting money stress you out. The best part? It’s never too late to learn. Call to Action: Want to start making smarter financial decisions? Visit tandia.com to find out how we can help you get on track.

Owning a home is often seen as the ultimate milestone, but let’s face it: it comes with more costs than just the down payment. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the hidden expenses of homeownership in Canada and breaking down what you need to know to avoid surprises down the road.   We’ll talk about everything from down payments and mortgage payments to property taxes and home insurance. If you’re thinking about buying a home or are already in the process, this episode will help you understand the true cost of owning your own space — and how to budget for it.   In this episode, you’ll learn: How to budget for a down payment and the hidden costs that come with it. Why mortgage payments are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to monthly expenses. The impact of property taxes and insurance on your overall homeownership budget. What to consider when choosing home insurance and mortgage insurance.   Buying a home is a big deal, but knowing exactly what to expect can help you make informed decisions and avoid any financial surprises. Call to Action: Ready to take the next step in homeownership? Visit tandia.com to learn how we can help you navigate the process.

In this episode of Tandia Talks Money, we’re giving you the pep talk you need to take charge of your financial life. No need to wait for a “financial expert” to swoop in — you have the power to create the financial future you want, right now.   We’ll walk through the top 10 tasks that will set you on the path to financial freedom, confidence, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re in control. Whether you're just starting out or ready to level up, these small, consistent actions will help you build a brighter future.   In this episode, you’ll learn:   How to create a budget and make it work for you. The importance of building an emergency fund. Tips for paying off high-interest debt and saving for retirement. The power of investing in yourself and protecting your wealth with insurance. Simple strategies for managing your credit, taxes, and estate planning.   It's all about progress, not perfection. Every little step counts, and by taking action now, you’ll be that much closer to financial freedom.   Call to Action: Ready to start building your bright financial future? Visit tandia.com to learn how we can help

Welcome to Tandia Talks Money! In this episode, we’re talking about the real-world financial stress Canadians are facing — from rising interest rates to the uncertainty of the economy. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with simple, actionable steps to help you take control of your money and reduce stress.   We’ll break down the current economic situation and share practical tips like micro-budgeting, creating a “joy fund,” and setting up an emergency buffer to help you feel more in control.   In this episode, you’ll learn: How the economy is impacting your wallet Simple strategies to reduce financial stress Tips to get your finances on autopilot and regain peace of mind Call to Action: Want to feel more in control of your finances? Visit tandia.com to learn how we can help.

Kids pick up money habits early—and most of what they learn comes from what they see at home. In this episode, we talk about how to make everyday money moments more meaningful, how to explain needs vs. wants in a way that makes sense, and why setting simple goals can help kids feel more in control of their spending.   We’ll also walk through how Tandia can support you with tools and advice that make financial learning part of everyday life.   What You’ll Learn: How your money habits shape your child’s understanding Easy ways to talk about saving, spending, and goal setting How Tandia can support your family’s financial learning   Want to learn more?Visit tandia.com to find resources and connect with someone from our team.

Debt happens—but staying stuck in it doesn’t have to be your story. In this episode, we unpack the emotional and financial traps of the debt cycle, why it's so hard to escape, and how you can take real steps toward freedom (without giving up your daily coffee or joy). From budgeting for your real life to understanding avalanche vs. snowball methods, this is your no-shame, all-strategy guide to taking control.  Relatable. Practical. Empowering. Just how we like it.  Ready to break free? Book a free financial wellness session with one of our experts at tandia.com and take your first step toward financial peace.

Summer’s here, and with it comes the pressure to say yes to every invite. But how do you balance mental health, friendships, and financial boundaries without feeling left out? In this episode, we’re talking about the emotional side of money—why adult friendships get complicated, how spending can spiral, and why loud budgeting might be the freedom you didn’t know you needed. We break down how to protect your peace, stick to your goals, and still enjoy life without guilt. Listen in if you're ready to:• Stop the comparison trap• Set financial boundaries with confidence• Embrace summer without going broke• Prioritize your mental and financial well-being Want more tools to manage your money your way? Visit www.tandia.com

Mother’s Day just passed, and while we loved the sweet cards and breakfast in bed (burnt toast and all), there’s something we don’t talk about enough—our relationship with money. In this episode, we’re getting honest about what it’s really like to manage money as a mom. From the lessons we absorbed as kids to the juggling act we pull off every day—this one’s for the moms doing their best with what they’ve got (and making it stretch like magic). I consider myself a bit of an expert on this topic because, well… I’m a mom. And every day I’m figuring out how to raise good humans, build a stable future, and not lose my mind while doing it. Here’s what we cover: The money mindset we inherited (and how we’re unlearning it) The emotional side of finances and mom guilt Real talk about budgeting, sacrifice, and celebrating small wins Simple ways to talk to our kids about money (without the awkwardness) Why showing up and being real is more valuable than anything money can buy And stick around for an encouraging message at the end—because you deserve it. Quote to Remember:“Our kids aren’t watching how much we spend—they’re watching how we handle things. That’s the real legacy.” Connect With Us:If you’re looking for real-life financial support, resources, or just someone who gets it—we’re here for you. Visit tandia.com to connect with us, explore tools that make life a little easier, and find advice that actually makes sense for you. You’re not doing this alone—Tandia’s got your back.

In this episode of Tandia Talks Money, Carla gets real about the financial truths no one tells you — the stuff that hits harder than generic advice ever could. We’re diving into the behind-the-scenes of home ownership, lifestyle inflation, career decisions, family planning, and what building real wealth actually looks like. Forget cutting lattes or chasing crypto gains. This one’s for anyone doing all the “right” things and still wondering why it feels like it’s not enough. What You’ll Hear About: Why home ownership isn’t just “rent vs. buy” How lifestyle inflation can silently steal your paycheck The power of earning potential over penny-pinching Financial planning before and after kids Wealth-building without the hype Money mindset shifts that change everything The Real Talk?Money doesn’t come with an instruction manual — but this podcast gets pretty close. Ready to make smarter choices without the stress?Check out how Tandia can help at tandia.com. Let’s talk money — the Tandia way.  

Ever feel like the second you start dealing with money — especially mortgages or home upgrades — life throws everything at you all at once? Same. In this episode, we talk about that chaotic energy that kicks in when you're trying to make big financial moves, and suddenly your phone breaks, deadlines pile up, and you’re stuck trying to figure it all out on the fly. This conversation was inspired by a real chat with a friend who’s self-employed, just moved into her new home, and is now planning an addition — and let’s just say, things got overwhelming fast. We cover: Why financial stress hits so hard, even when you plan for it How to keep your cool when life feels like one big deadline Quick ways to learn what you need to know (without Googling into a spiral) What to focus on when everything feels urgent If you’re in the middle of something big, or even thinking about it, this one’s for you. Feeling the pressure? Let’s make it easier. Book a meeting with one of our advisors — they’ll help you break it all down, calm the chaos, and come up with a plan that actually works for you. www.tandia.com

Mortgage Season 2025 is upon us, and it’s anything but ordinary. Rates are high, the market’s unpredictable, and a lot of us are wondering what the next move is. In this episode, we’re chatting about what’s going on in the housing market and what you need to know to make confident decisions—no matter where you’re at. Tune in for some key insights, a few tips, and maybe even some clarity. For more info, visit tandia.com

We can’t control inflation, global markets, or supply chain issues. But what can we control? Where we shop, what we buy, and where we bank. Canadians are making more conscious choices to support local businesses, buy Canadian-made products, and keep their money where it matters. In this episode, we explore: How small choices—like buying local—create big economic impacts Why credit unions keep money in the community, unlike big banks How choosing where to bank is just as powerful as where you shop Your money should work for you and your community—not just corporate profits. Looking for a financial institution that prioritizes people over profits? Tandia has your back. Join the movement.  Visit Tandia.com to see how banking local can make a difference. Thanks for listening—now go buy a coffee from your neighbourhood café. It just tastes better.

Scammers are getting smarter, and package delivery scams are on the rise. With online shopping now part of everyday life, fraudsters are exploiting our routines—sending fake tracking notices, phishing for personal info, and preying on urgency. In this episode, we’ll break down: How package scams work & why they’re so effective Why fraud has skyrocketed in the last decade Simple ways to stay aware without living in fear March is Fraud Awareness Month, but staying vigilant is a year-round effort. Learn more at https://www.tandia.com/learning/fraud-prevention on how to protect yourself from evolving scams! Report scams: Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre Share this episode to spread awareness!

Scammers are getting smarter—and more manipulative. Imagine getting a call from a loved one in distress, begging for help. Your instincts tell you to act fast, but what if it’s not really them? This episode dives into the world of grandparent scams, a deceptive trick designed to prey on emotions and urgency. We’ll cover: How fraudsters make their scams sound so convincing The red flags to watch for before sending money. Why seniors are often targeted and how to protect them. Steps to take if you or someone you love receives one of these calls. Don’t let scammers take advantage of your kindness. Stay informed, stay cautious, and visit our Fraud Awareness page at www.tandia.com for more tips on protecting yourself and your loved ones from fraud.  

Scammers are getting high tech with deepfakes—those AI-generated videos and audio that look and sound like the real deal. Whether it’s a fake emergency call from a loved one or a phony business request from your boss, these scams are designed to catch you off guard. We’ll break down how deepfake scams work, share tips on how to spot the red flags, and show you how to stay one step ahead of the bad guys. Pro Tip: If your boss suddenly asks for money over a video call, it’s probably a scam or maybe you need a new job. Want More Scam-Slaying Tips? Head to our Fraud Prevention page https://www.tandia.com/learning/fraud-preventionfor all the details on how to protect yourself and your wallet.

Fraud is everywhere—like glitter after a craft project. It sticks, spreads, and is nearly impossible to clean up. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. In this episode of Tandia Talks Money, we’re exposing the sneaky tricks scammers use and how you can shut them down before they even start. From phishing emails to too-good-to-be-true investment schemes, we’ll help you stay sharp, skeptical, and scam-proof. What’s Inside: The latest fraud tactics and how to spot them Simple ways to protect your money and identity Why your gut instinct might be your best defense What to do if you think you’ve been scammed Want More Fraud-Fighting Tips? We’ve got a full month of fraud prevention resources just for you. Check out Tandia’s Fraud Prevention page for expert advice and the latest scam alerts. Like what you hear? Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode—because staying fraud-aware is a team effort. Stay safe, stay smart, and we’ll catch you next time on Tandia Talks Money.

In today’s episode, we’re talking about debt – yep, that sneaky cycle that’s all too easy to get stuck in. Whether it’s the rising costs of everything or just feeling like you're barely keeping up, you’re not alone. So many Canadians are in the same boat, but here’s the thing: debt doesn’t define you, and you can totally break free. We’ll chat about how to recognize when you're stuck in the “debt loop,” why it’s so important to stop the shame and blame game, and how to start shifting your mindset so you can take control. I’ll also share a funny (and eye-opening) story about my weekend getaway with the kids and how I was shocked at the cost of a simple sub sandwich. It’s a reminder that small things really do add up! What we’ll cover: How to spot the “debt loop” and why it’s easy to fall into How to shift your mindset and take control of your finances Identifying your financial triggers and how to avoid them A personal story about the rising costs of everyday things (hello, sub sandwiches!) Ready to break free from the debt cycle? Start by shifting your mindset and being aware of your triggers. If you found this episode helpful, hit subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review. Let’s keep this conversation going! www.tandia.com

The world may feel like it’s constantly changing, but your financial future is still in your hands. In this episode, Carla breaks down how to take control in a world of uncertainty, using the 5-Second Rule to make quick, confident decisions—even when the headlines are overwhelming. From tackling inflation to finding balance in your spending, we explore practical, no-nonsense tips for navigating the ups and downs of 2025. Ready to feel more in control of your finances? Tune in for actionable advice that’ll help you move forward with confidence—even when the world feels like it’s turning upside down.

Welcome back to Tandia Talks Money, where we make finances fun and easy to understand! In today’s episode, your trusty money guide, Carla, breaks down one of the least exciting but most impactful topics: tariffs. Sure, it sounds like something straight out of a political debate, but tariffs affect your wallet more than you might think. Whether you're in Canada or the U.S., tariffs are impacting your prices, job security, and economic growth—whether you realize it or not. So what exactly are tariffs, and why should you care? In this episode, we’ll explain what tariffs are in simple terms (with a fun party analogy!), how they increase prices, and how they ripple through economies. From Americans paying higher prices for products to Canadians facing job losses, tariffs have far-reaching consequences. But don’t worry—Carla shares tips on how to protect your finances, including staying informed, reviewing your budget, buying local, and managing your debt. We’ve also included a helpful link to a video from CBC, where Andrew Chang breaks down how Canada is responding to tariff threats and how they could affect businesses and consumers. https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.6621858 Key Takeaways: What are tariffs? A simple breakdown of how these trade taxes affect your finances. The ripple effects of tariffs: Higher prices in the U.S. and job losses in Canada. How to prepare financially: Budget adjustments, supporting local businesses, and talking to a financial expert. Stay ahead of the curve and protect your wallet—because tariffs aren’t just for economists. They affect everyone who wants to keep their finances on track! Tune in every Monday for more bite-sized financial tips that’ll make you feel like a pro. Catch the full episode and don’t forget to subscribe on your favourite podcast platform!

In this episode of Tandia Talks Money, Carla, explains how RRSPs and TFSAs can be your financial BFFs. These accounts might sound fancy, but they’re really just smart, tax-friendly places to stash your money. Whether you’re saving for retirement or a vacation, getting started now means future-you will be thanking you—probably from a beach. We cover: Why January and February are perfect for getting your contributions in check. How RRSPs lower your tax bill now while growing your savings. The flexibility of TFSAs and why they’re perfect for short-term goals. Take action and start contributing today—it’s easier than you think. Head over to tandia.com to learn more and make your future self proud!