Explore FI Canada: Recent Episodes

Explore FI Canada

Explore FI Canada is a round table discussion podcast that seeks to highlight the regional differences that impact our path to Financial Independence.

View Details

Much has changed since we started Explore FI Canada 2.5 years ago. Sadly, it's time for one final change: we're saying farewell.

View Details

We discuss drawdown planning with contest winner Julia as we discuss her Cashflows & Portfolios retirement projection with Mark Seed!

View Details

Photographer Jonathan Bielaski shares his inspiring story of coming from nothing… to starting lifestyle businesses… to reaching FI.

View Details

Sterling from Learning to FI shares the mental health challenges he's faced and how he's found balance in his spending, investing and life.

View Details

In Lesson 4 of FI School, we'll discuss income: how to earn more money, maximize your human capital, and reach your FI goals sooner!

View Details

Our friend Marla Taner joins us to talk about the psychology behind early retirement and what it's like being friends with Mr. Money Mustache!

View Details

Today, we're joined by Liquid from the Freedom 35 Blog to discuss alternative investments, leveraged investing, and much more!

View Details

Pastor Chris shares how he and his wife make the most of their low income, are paying off $68,000 of debt and are STILL able to aim for FI!

View Details

In Lesson 3 of our FI School series, we discuss budgeting and tracking—which we prefer, why they're both important, and how to get started.

View Details

Money Mechanic and Chrissy catch up after their summer break, discuss drawdown planning and announce an exciting new contest!

View Details

EFIC's two! To celebrate our second anniversary, we're catching up with our two first guests: T from T on FIRE and Megan from Victoria!

View Details

Sharon's mother and alcoholic father had low expectations for her future. She fought back, and is now living a happy life on her path to FI.

View Details

Today, we're focusing on the softer side of FIRE as we meet Ann Helga, author of the unqiue FIRE book, "Find Your Freedom With FIRE".

View Details

From order of accounts, to tax planning and more, Mark Seed joins us to discuss what you need to consider in your FI drawdown plan.

View Details

Listener Tara shares about life in the Yukon with a disability—and how it got her started on the path to FI.

View Details

In this episode, Mel Dorion of Modest Millionaires shares how she transitioned from a stressful work situation to a Coast FI sabbatical.

View Details

Réjean Venne and his wife retired at just 28 and 29 years old—with three kids! Their story shows, once again, that regular Canadians can reach FI!

View Details

We interview Courtney Stephen (CFL/Hamilton Tiger-Cats player) about mindset, investing, multi-generational wealth, and more.

View Details

Scott lives with his family in Northwest Territories and joins us to share the benefits and challenges of pursuing FI in the North.

View Details

Listener Kay shares how she went from high-fee mutual funds and saving a little every month to DIY investing and the journey to FI.

View Details

In today’s episode, Eric shares how he achieved FIRE by building multiple streams of residual (aka passive) income—all before the age of 30! From marketing consultant to real estate and entrepreneurship, Eric’s story is fascinating, inspiring, and motivational. Be warned: Eric’s energy and enthusiasm is contagious! After hearing his story, you’ll have an overwhelming desire … Continue reading "049: The Residual Income Path to FIRE | Eric Chang"

View Details

What happens when you pursue your dreams, then realize they won't get you to FIRE? Listen in as we discuss this existential dilemma.

View Details

We interview Diania of EconoMe to discuss FI-lexbility and how it can make your FI journey more sustainable and meaningful.

View Details

Chris Istace joins us to share his incredible story of moving from a cushy oil patch lifestyle to a mindful, lean FI life on Vancouver Island.

View Details

In our holiday mashup special, Chrissy joins the FI Garage as they enjoy a round of beer and engage in their usual "joyful banter"!

View Details

Previous panellist and co-host Shaidah returns to the show to talk beekeeping, side hustles, frugality, and real estate!

View Details

Listen in to hear how Gean and Kristine turned 60K in debt into a journey to FIRE through intentionality, dedication, and teamwork.

View Details

Tami Romanchuk from Shoreline Financial tells us everything we need to know when considering extended health plans.

View Details

Robinson Smith returns to answer your questions with Smith Manoeuvre-certified mortgage broker Keaton Kirkwood!

View Details

Norbert Kallai (aka Gnomadic Norbert) stops by to discuss how he went from scarcity to abundance; boot camp to budgets; and frugality to FIRE.

View Details

Tired of the hassles of rebalancing? Brendan and Brendan are here from Passiv to tell us how it works and why you'll love their service!

View Details

If pensions have you confused, this episode's for you! Ed Rempel returns to discuss DC and DB pensions, commuting, LIRAs, and more.

View Details

Sandy Yong is the author behind 'The Money Master'. Today on EFIC, she discusses her book, her journey into FIRE, investing, and more.

View Details

In this episode, Bob from Tawcan.com shares his dividend investing knowledge: how to get started, what to invest in, and why he takes a hybrid approach.

View Details

Cici is a lawyer and mom of three who lives near Downtown Toronto. We discuss her financial superpowers, real estate investments, and more!

View Details

On this episode, we chat with Matt McKeever—a FIRE and real estate YouTuber, CPA, and entrepreneur who achieved FIRE at age 31.

View Details

In part 2 of our deep dive into RESPs, we discuss RESP withdrawals, payments, and taxation. Get your notepads ready—there's a lot to cover!

View Details

It's Explore FI Canada's birthday! One year ago, we launched this little podcast, and we recorded this special minisode to mark the occasion.

View Details

In part 1 of our deep dive into RESPs, we discuss RESP basics, grants, contributions, and investments. Get your notepads ready—there's a lot to cover!

View Details

In this episode, we talk Canadian miles and points with Ricky Zhang from Prince of Travel! Learn about how to optimize your earning and what to focus on now.

View Details

In this episode, we interview our first international guest! Listen in as Jessica from The Fioneers joins us to discuss Coast FI, Slow FI, and more.

View Details

Ed Rempel tells us how to easily outperform investment and robo advisors. (It's simpler and easier than you think—no tricks or secrets required!)

View Details

In today's episode, Ryan and Chrissy dive into the Smith Manoeuvre with Robinson Smith. We do a case study using Ryan's numbers and answer your questions.

View Details

In this fun, lively conversation, we discuss how our guests got started and found success with real estate investing in Canada.

View Details

Wondering how you'll homeschool your kids during the COVID-19 pandemic? We've got help—with tips, tricks, and soothing advice from Megan and Phia.

View Details

Chrissy shares a short message about the COVID-19 pandemic and how we plan to proceed with the show during this turbulent time.

View Details

In FI School Lesson 2, we discuss the low-hanging fruits of FI—frugality and saving. We define frugality, what it means to us, and how you can implement it.

View Details

Chrissy and Money Mechanic talk to the Fringe Doc about his atypical life choices and how they've benefited his medical career and FIRE journey.

View Details

On today's episode, we discuss our favourite personal finance and FIRE books. These top picks are sure to grow your knowledge and speed your path to FI!

View Details

FI School's in session again! In this episode, we give an overview of FI: what it is, what it isn't, and why you might want to consider pursuing it.

View Details

Listen in as Ryan and three guests discuss how they got their spouses on board with FIRE. Learn what NOT to do and how to have a successful FIRE chat!

View Details

Maria from Handful of Thoughts joins Ryan and Chrissy to debate the merits of paying down your mortgage vs. investing. What's best? Tune in to find out!

View Details

We give an update on the show and share and respond to feedback from our community. Listen in to see if you got a shout-out!

View Details

In this interview with Dr. FIREfly (our first-ever interview with a medical professional) we discuss Canadian student loans, lifestyle creep, and much more!

View Details

Did they portray the FIRE Movement as something realistic? Why did they move in with their in-laws? Was Taylor being completely honest? Listen in as Ryan and three participants rate and review the documentary Playing With FIRE! The participants this week are: Jolie Viguers from Well Bean Coaching (Episode 007), Court from Modern FImily (Episode … Continue reading "017: Online Meetup | Playing With FIRE Review"

View Details

As a holiday surprise for our listeners, we’re dropping THREE episodes at once! That’s right—you’ll be hearing all three of our backstories this week. Ryan, Chrissy, and Money Mechanic… who’ll be your favourite? 🙂 Money Mechanic’s backstory The Money Mechanic moved to Canada in the early 1980’s. His childhood memories of money are influenced by … Continue reading "016C: Money Mechanic’s Backstory"

View Details

As a holiday surprise for our listeners, we're dropping THREE episodes at once! That's right—you'll be hearing all three of our backstories this week.

View Details

As a holiday surprise for our listeners, we're dropping THREE episodes at once! That's right—you'll be hearing all three of our backstories this week.

View Details

We're starting another new series at EFIC: online meetups! Listen in as Ryan hosts roundtable discussions about all things personal finance in Canada.

View Details

Welcome to the inaugural episode of our new series—FI School! Whether you're new to FI or a veteran, this is the series for you.

View Details

In this episode, Money Mechanic and Chrissy interview Phia and Mike who achieved financial freedom in their thirties, with kids, in a HCOL area.

View Details

In this episode, Money Mechanic tells us what he won't spend money on, while Chrissy and Ryan reveal the items they missed in the first Value Busters.

View Details

Join us as we interview Mr. Prairie FIRE from Saskatoon. We discuss: how he found the FIRE movement, real estate investing, house hacking, and more!

View Details

In this episode, we interview Court from Calgary, Alberta. We talk about why she and her wife moved from sunny Florida to snowy Alberta... and so much more!

View Details

Listen in as Ryan and Chrissy share reviews, comments, and emails from the Explore FI Canada community. (Bonus: they also make a big announcement!)

View Details

In this episode, Chrissy and Ryan discuss the advantages of living in Downtown Toronto with Archie—ChooseFI Canada Facebook group admin.

View Details

In this episode, Jolie from Calgary, AB tells us about her family's slow-go to FI, her financial coaching business, and the Choose FI school curriculum.

View Details

In this episode, Chrissy and Ryan chat about the things they don’t spend money on. There’ll be plenty of ranting and voicing of opinions! Listen in as they bash businesses and products that they simply do not value. Below is a summary of the episode. (But I promise it’s way more interesting in audio format—so … Continue reading "006: Value Busters | What We REFUSE To Spend Money On!"

View Details

Today we’re talking to Canada’s FI power couple—Kristy and Bryce from Millennial Revolution! They made FI possible in high-cost Toronto, rejected the cult of home ownership and began the Millennial Revolution. They’re also the authors of the brand-new book, Quit Like a Millionaire. In the interview, we discuss: World schooling How the community is similar … Continue reading "005: Achieving FI in Toronto | Kristy and Bryce from Millennial Revolution"

View Details

In today’s episode, we chat with Megan from Victoria, BC. She and her husband use a strategy called the Smith Manoeuvre to help them reach FI. About Megan Megan lives in Victoria, BC with her husband and four kids (aged 12, 8, 5, and 2). She homeschools her kids while managing three rental units and … Continue reading "004: Using the Smith Manoeuvre to Achieve FI | Megan"

View Details

In this episode, we discuss the 4% Rule and all its intricacies… and rename it the 4% Assumption! Listen in as we turn this core FIRE concept inside out… and leave you with thought-provoking questions, answers, and observations. References Great article laying out the 4% Rule in easy-to-read terms: https://fourpillarfreedom.com/the-trinity-study-updated-for-2018/ Chrissy mentions Mr. Money Mustache’s … Continue reading "003: The 4% Assumption"

View Details

Today we talk to blogger Tanya from T on FIRE. In this episode, we find out how her journey to FIRE is unique to Atlantic Canada. Shownotes Tanya’s blog is a personal journal to keep her accountable to her FIRE goals (you’ll find very detailed FIRE reports). Her take on Real Estate and affordability in Atlantic … Continue reading "002: Reaching FI in Atlantic Canada | T on FIRE"

View Details

In our first ever episode, we introduce ourselves and pass the mic around to get to know each other better.

View Details

Financial Independence has never been so close to home. Our panel will be having discussions with influencers, bloggers, and people just down the road from you. (Or maybe even you, if you wish to share your story.) Each episode the panel will highlight and discuss the unique circumstances and challenges we each face in different … Continue reading "Explore FI Canada is LIVE!"