The Ride: Life, Work and Wealth: Recent Episodes
Kris Dureau
Welcome to The Ride: Life, Work and Wealth Podcast with Kris Dureau from 3 Hats Financial. In this podcast, Kris draws on his experience as not only a financial strategist and former firefighter and paramedic, but as a father who has experienced life-changing moments along the way. It’s time to live the best possible life now with what you have since this is not a practice life or dress rehearsal. We never know when there will be no more tomorrows. Listen in as Kris shares stories of how to live for today and plan for tomorrow!
Welcome to The Ride: Life Work and Wealth podcast, brought to you by Green Private Wealth, where we empower you to optimize your financial journey. Today’s episode delves into the often-overlooked aspect of retirement: regrets. While many envision retirement as a golden period, unforeseen challenges can arise, impacting financial stability and overall well-being. Join us as we explore common regrets shared by retirees, offering insights and strategies to navigate these potential pitfalls.
Key Points Covered:
- Spending Habits: Discussing the regret of not spending more in early retirement years and the importance of balancing financial prudence with enjoying life’s pleasures.
- Three Phases of Retirement: Exploring the dynamics of the “go go,” “slow go,” and “no go” phases and their implications on spending habits and lifestyle choices.
- Financial Planning: Stressing the significance of retirement income projection plans to ensure financial security while enjoying retirement.
- Impact on Family Dynamics: Addressing the dynamics of retirees assisting adult children financially and the importance of balancing generosity with financial stability.
- Timing of Retirement: Examining reasons for delaying retirement and the potential regret of not retiring earlier, backed by insightful statistics and real-life anecdotes.
- Purpose and Relationships: Emphasizing the need for retirees to discover their purpose, build new relationships, and engage in fulfilling activities to enhance overall well-being.
- Health and Longevity: Highlighting the correlation between health, longevity, and retirement satisfaction, with practical tips inspired by the Blue Zones lifestyle.
Benefits for Listeners:
- Gain insights into common retirement regrets and strategies to avoid them.
- Learn practical tips for balancing financial prudence with enjoying retirement.
- Discover the importance of purpose, relationships, and health in retirement satisfaction.
- Find inspiration to plan for a fulfilling retirement tailored to individual aspirations and values.
We invite you to share your thoughts, questions, and personal experiences regarding retirement regrets and strategies for a fulfilling retirement. Connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, or visit our website, GreenPrivateWealth.com, to continue the conversation.
Don’t miss out on optimizing your retirement journey. Subscribe to the Ride: Life Work and Wealth podcast on iTunes or Spotify for more financial insights. Until next time, remember: your retirement dreams deserve a plan that empowers your best life.
Welcome to The Ride: Life, Work and Wealth Podcast, brought to you by Green Private Wealth. In this episode, hosts Brad Winlaw and Dave Harris dive into a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of financial planning – creating a budget that truly works for you. They break down the steps to demystify budgeting, offering practical advice and strategies to help you take control of your finances.
Key Points Covered:
- Understanding Budget Basics: Brad and Dave discuss the fundamental concept of budgeting, exploring how it involves allocating income to various expenses such as mortgage, groceries, vehicles, and retirement savings.
- Three Components of a Budget: The hosts outline the three main components of a budget – income, expenses, and the resulting surplus or deficit. They emphasize the importance of accurately assessing net income from paystubs.
- Creating a Budget in Three Steps:
- Start with Income: Tips on extracting accurate figures from paystubs.
- Analyze Spending: Methods for categorizing and tracking variable expenses.
- Calculate Surplus/Deficit: Determine the financial health of your budget by subtracting total expenditures from total income.
- Savings for Retirement and Emergency Funds: The hosts address common questions about saving for retirement, providing insights into the factors influencing savings goals. They stress the importance of building and maintaining an emergency fund.
- Emergency Funds and Credit Access: Brad and Dave share practical advice on the size of emergency funds, recommending six months’ worth of living expenses. They also highlight the significance of having access to credit in times of need.
- Reviewing and Updating Your Budget: The hosts advise an annual review of your budget, particularly after significant life changes. They discuss the dynamic nature of budgeting and the need for adjustments to align with evolving financial circumstances.
- Discretionary vs. Fixed Spending: Brad emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between discretionary and fixed spending, offering insights into optimizing discretionary spending during budget challenges.
- Summing Up: The episode concludes with a summary of the key takeaways and a reminder of the significance of maintaining an effective budget for financial success.
Tune in to gain valuable insights, actionable tips, and a clearer understanding of how to make your money work smarter for you. Have questions or thoughts to share? Connect with Brad and Dave at Green Private Wealth or visit their website for additional resources. Don’t miss out on mastering your finances – listen now!
Welcome to The Ride: Life, Work, and Wealth podcast, brought to you by Green Private Wealth, a trade name of Harbourfront Wealth Management. In this episode, hosts Kris Dureau and Mike Pakreslis delve into a crucial and timely topic that affects many: protecting seniors from financial abuse in the digital age.
Key Points Discussed:
- The impact of technology on managing finances and the increased vulnerability of seniors to fraud and abuse.
- The importance of initiating conversations with seniors about various forms of financial abuse, fostering awareness, and creating a supportive environment.
- Practical tips for mitigating risks, including simplifying finances, regular monitoring of financial statements, and staying informed about the latest scams.
- The role of family members in facilitating discussions and providing a safe space for seniors to share concerns without judgment.
- The significance of securing legal documents, such as wills and trusts, and limiting access to trusted individuals.
- Utilizing technology like alerts for suspicious activities and the concept of a trusted contact person to oversee financial transactions.
- Exercising caution in sharing personal information and educating seniors about common tactics used by scammers.
- The evolving landscape of cyber threats and the increasing need for identity protection services.
This episode provides valuable insights and practical strategies to safeguard seniors from financial exploitation in the digital era. Whether you’re a caregiver, family member, or individual concerned about your financial well-being, this discussion equips you with the knowledge to navigate potential risks and protect your assets.
As the threat of financial abuse continues to grow, staying informed and proactive is key to ensuring the financial security of our seniors. Tune in to this episode of the Real Life Wealth podcast to empower yourself with the tools needed to navigate the digital landscape of financial security for your loved ones and yourself.
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Welcome to The Ride, Life Work and Wealth Podcast, proudly brought to you by Green Private Wealth, a trade name of Harborside Wealth Management. Get ready to supercharge your financial journey as we delve into the world of Certified Financial Planners (CFPs). In this episode, Brad Winlaw and Dave Harris, both Certified Financial Planners at Green Private Wealth, break down the benefits of working with a CFP and share insights from a recent FP Canada survey.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Understanding the role of a Certified Financial Planner and their gold standard designation.
- Exploring the comprehensive financial planning provided by CFPs, bridging gaps in investment, tax, and insurance advice.
- Uncovering surprising statistics about Canadians’ engagement with financial planners and the impact of financial stress on relationships.
- Real-life examples illustrating the value of CFPs in optimizing retirement savings and managing risks through insurance.
Discover why hiring a CFP is essential, learn about the significance of risk management and diversification, and understand the crucial role of insurance in financial planning. Gain valuable tips on tax planning and explore scenarios for optimizing retirement income.
Tune in to this episode and take the first step towards a financially empowered today and a prosperous tomorrow!
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Welcome to the Ride: Life, Work and Wealth podcast with your host, Kris Dureau. In this episode, Kris, a seasoned financial strategist, draws from his past as a firefighter and paramedic to shed light on the importance of planning for both a secure tomorrow and a better today.
Join Kris and co-host Mike Pakreslis as they dive into the crucial topic of preparing for a first meeting with a financial advisor. As the new year brings more people seeking financial advice, Kris and Mike explore key considerations to make this initial encounter a success.
Key Points:
- Clarity is Key: Discuss what’s important to you and articulate your motivations for seeking financial advice. Setting clear objectives for the meeting helps manage expectations.
- Background Check: Before your meeting, do your due diligence. Check testimonials, Google reviews, and the advisor’s digital footprint to ensure alignment with your needs.
- Designations Matter: Understand the significance of designations such as Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and Chartered Investment Manager (CIM). These designations reflect a higher standard of care and expertise.
- Establish Criteria: Determine the qualities you seek in a financial advisor. Prepare a checklist of questions, covering topics like meeting frequency, fees, and included services.
- Trust Your Instincts: Establishing a long-term relationship requires trust. Pay attention to your gut feeling about the advisor, envisioning a partnership that spans decades.
- Meeting Expectations: Clearly communicate your preferences regarding meeting location, frequency, and any specific requirements you may have. Ensure they align with the advisor’s practices.
This episode equips listeners with insights and practical tips for approaching their first meeting with a financial advisor. From setting expectations to conducting background checks, Kris and Mike provide valuable guidance to ensure a productive partnership.
Have questions or thoughts? Connect on our website, greenprivatewealth.com. We love hearing from our listeners.
Tune in to this episode for a comprehensive guide to making your first meeting with a financial advisor a stepping stone towards financial success. Remember, your financial journey starts here!
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Welcome to The Ride, a Work and Wealth podcast with your host, Kris Dureau. In this exciting episode, Kris introduces some major changes to the show, bringing on three new voices—David Harris, Brad Winlaw, and Mike Pakreslis—creating a dynamic team at Green Private Wealth. Together, they share diverse insights and perspectives on financial planning, making the podcast more engaging and informative.
Key Points:
- Kris Dureau, a financial strategist and former firefighter/paramedic, sets the stage for the revamped podcast, now featuring a team of experts.
- Meet the new team members: David Harris, a certified financial planner with 23 years of experience; Brad Winlaw, a certified financial planner with a focus on retirees and young professionals; and Mike Pakreslis, a financial expert with a passion for community involvement.
- Learn about Kris’s unique background and approach to financial planning, shaped by his experience in emergency services.
- Explore the 30th-anniversary celebration of Green Private Wealth, a firm committed to providing comprehensive financial services across Canada.
- Get insights into the firm’s investment strategy, including a tactical approach and access to private investments for more stable returns.
In this episode, the diverse team brings a range of expertise to address various financial planning needs. Whether you’re a retiree, business owner, or young professional, this podcast offers practical advice and strategies to secure your financial future.
Join the conversation by subscribing to the podcast and exploring previous episodes on the Green Private Wealth website. Share your thoughts, questions, or topics you’d like the team to cover.
Stay tuned for more exciting content and expert discussions on The Ride podcast.
Tune in and ride along on this new financial journey with The Ride My Life podcast!
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
The bond between humans and their furry companions is like no other.
According to the Canadian Vet Medical Association, over 35% of Canadian households have a dog and 35% own a cat. How many of those families have included their pets in their estate plan?
In this episode, Kris Dureau focuses on the furry family members and how to ensure they have a home no matter what happens. Kris provides examples of the different types of coverage and how each fits within estate planning.
Kris discusses:
- Why including pets in estate planning is so important
- The 3 main ways pets can be covered in an estate plan
- How to create an emergency plan for pets easily and quickly
- And more
Resources:
- CareCard
- The End of Life Checklist (Ep. 63)
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Behavioral finance is an intriguing field of study, with five common investing biases you might not even recognize yourself, let’s get into them!
In this episode, Kris Dureau details the 5 behavioral investing biases you should be looking out for. With the state of the market, this is a great time to start keeping these 5 pieces at the forefront of your investing decisions.
Kris discusses:
- A deeper look into confirmation bias, commitment bias and anchoring; do you know the other two?
- How your financial advisor can help in times that you are doubting your news sources
- While confidence is certainly a valuable trait, overconfidence can often lead to impulsive decision-making.
- And more
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Who hasn’t bought that lottery ticket hoping it’s the winner in the big? But what if it really happened? What would you do? The same goes for any kind of windfall, including an inheritance or a gift.
In this episode, Kris Dureau details the steps you need to take to make sure you safeguard the wealth and the process following a windfall along with a number of informed decisions you can then make that will maximize the payout.
Kris discusses:
- How you can direct your inherited wealth to four different “buckets”
- The tax deferral benefits of different investment vehicles
- The benefits of giving or donating a portion of your wealth
- How to comfortably save for retirement in today’s wealth climate
- And more
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
When you say I do on your wedding day, the world seems wonderful. There would be no reason to think you might eventually be saying, “I don’t want to be in this marriage anymore”, but how do you financially prepare for divorce?
In this episode, Kris Dureau addresses the aspect of your financial well-being if you find yourself going through this big life transition. He explains the things you need to know regarding what you’re entitled to and where you stand in the marriage from a financial perspective.
Kris discusses:
- How the emotional aspect of a divorce might blind you from the necessary steps you need to take
- When you should be separating your assets and changing your liabilities
- The importance of understanding your financial stance in a relationship
- Ways you can start standing on your own two feet following a divorce
- And more
Resources:
- Getting Divorced During the Pandemic? Here are the Tips You Need to Know (Ep. 38)
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Now that we have a basic understanding of the different sources of income in retirement, we can dive deeper into tax planning strategies. While tax strategies can be complicated at first, they eventually save you money in the long run if you plan correctly.
In this episode, Kris Dureau concludes his two part series on taxes in retirement by reviewing the three D’s of tax planning: Deduct, Divide and Defer. He offers insight into how you can create a strategic plan based on your individual situation alongside your advisor.
Kris discusses:
- How retirement income planning may be complicated when first starting
- The importance of working alongside an advisor or accountant when portfolio planning with tax saving strategies
- The ins and outs of pension splitting
- How you can use spousal loans as a strategic form of income splitting
- Tax deferral through prescribed annuities
- The withdrawal strategies that could minimize taxes
- And more
Resources:
- Preparing For Taxes in Retirement, Part 1 (Ep. 64)
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Taxes can have a much bigger impact on your retirement planning than first assumed. It is important to take a dive into your portfolio and understand how the different sources of income in retirement, government and personal can go into your planning process.
In this episode, Kris Dureau discusses a number of ways you can understand these income sources and plan for the tax implications you might have to deal with these. Through planning ahead, you can set yourself up to retire with ease and have no fear of losing a generous amount of your assets to taxes.
Kris discusses:
- Most common types of retirement income and the tax challenges they present
- How you can get further in-depth advice based on your personal circumstances
- Retirement income basics
- The three buckets of retirement income for Canadians and how they all play into your portfolio
- And more
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
In our last episode, we sat down with the Caring Hearts Support Network to discuss all things grief and the support they made available for those people going through these tough times.
In this episode, we are going to unpack what you can do to prepare for uncertain times and what exactly should be on your end-of-life checklist. Whether you are creating your own or understanding the details of this plan for a loved one, it is important to understand where all of this information is as well as how you can use it to seamlessly transition into your next stage of life.
Kris discusses:
- The importance of communicating to your family members where your will is and when was the last time you updated it
- Some important life changes that should encourage you to update your will
- How life insurance comes into play during someone’s death (not all life insurance policies are the same)
- How you should be picking your power of attorney
- The benefits of having a wealth organizer
- And more
Resources:
- How To Keep Your Cottage in the Family and Reduce Your Future Tax Bill (Ep. 40)
- How to Write Your Life Letter (Ep. 7)
- 51 Questions to Ask Parents Before It’s Too Late
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Although inevitable, death is a scary topic that is sensitive to most of us. But when that dreaded time is around the corner for a loved one, wouldn’t you like to be fully supported with all the resources you may need to deal with the next steps?
In this episode, Kris Dureau is joined by The Caring Hearts Support Network, to detail their role in supporting those navigating end-of-life and bereavement. They offer support to the caregivers, the individuals, and the families at the end-of-life and throughout their grief journey. It is comforting to know that there are resources out there to help us or family members when the end may be close and we don’t have to face it alone.
The Caring Hearts Support Network Team shares:
- Their experience in supporting people through their grief
- The individual support they are able to provide for people based on their circumstances and how it has affected their life
- Some outreach programs that can aid in your grieving process, no matter what stage you are at
- How this network has connected individuals from all walks of life
- And more
Resources:
- caringheartssupportnetwork.com
Connect With The Caring Hearts Support Network:
- Nicole Bruder
- Faye Brekelmans
- Joanne Stienstra
- Email: info@caringheartssupportnetwork.com
- Call: (519) 536-3370
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
There is no doubt that planning for retirement can seem like a complex process, and even thinking about it can be stressful.
Nowadays media, politicians, financial services, businesses – everyone has been talking about retirement. With so much information, it is easy to get overwhelmed. In this episode, Kris Dureau debunks eight popular myths about retirement that might be stressful to pre-retirees as they plan for their retirement.
Kris discusses:
- Where and how retirement myths originate, as well as how they affect retirees
- The importance of starting retirement planning at an early age.
- The reasons why many people procrastinate about saving for retirement
- Why retirement isn’t about having a specific amount, but about having an income that suits your lifestyle
- Why you should continue to contribute to your CPP pension and old-age security
- The difficulty retirees face in spending their money
- And more!
Resources:
- Retirement Shift Worksheet
- Cash Flow Spreadsheet
- How to Retire Well – Part 1 (Ep. 15)
- How to Retire Well – Part 2 (Ep. 16)
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Many Canadians pack their suitcases as it gets colder and fly off to warmer places in the USA. While that sounds like a wonderful idea, it is important to know the tax implications of your trip.
In this episode, Kris Dureau provides a brief overview of tax-related nuances you need to keep in mind as a frequent traveler to the USA.
Kris discusses:
- The importance of consulting an accountant who is experienced in cross-border taxation
- How the length of your stay affects your tax situation (Substantial Presence Test)
- Insights into taxation on US-sourced income
- And more!
Resources:
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Official Website
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Before the year comes to a close, there are a number of things you want to consider concerning your registered accounts. These include your RESP, RRSP and RRIF accounts that you might want to pay closer attention to as the year comes to an end so that you can save going into 2023.
In this episode, Kris Dureau discusses what to look out for when investing in a down market and how it can actually benefit some of your accounts depending on your current situation.
Kris explains:
- What are Registered Accounts
- The importance of having a TFSA
- Some considerations for parents whose children just turned 15
- Changes you might want to make in your portfolio prior to December 31st
- How you can save on taxes this year
- And more
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Big positive changes are underway for our firm. Over the past 18 months behind the scenes, we have been working on a merger with Green Private Wealth – an award-winning firm. This merger allows us to offer our clients a more in-depth, wide array of services that can benefit them at any stage of their life.
In this episode, Kris Dureau shares this exciting shift and how the new merger with Green Private Wealth is benefitting their business in a number of different ways. With the new expansion of their team, they are able to offer new opportunities and work with more advanced business models and strategies that will ultimately benefit you and your portfolio.
Kris discusses:
- The benefits clients will receive just from being a larger firm
- Their focus on adapting to the rapidly changing wealth management landscape
- Their new pension-style portfolio management approach and how it can help clients avoid the volatility associated with traditional portfolios
- The shared company values and practices that led to the smooth merger between Three Hats Financial and Green Private Wealth
- And more
Resources:
- The Investments Your Portfolio Might be Missing (Ep. 41)
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
Are you nearing retirement and wondering if right now is the time to step into it? During these uncertain times, having a thorough plan that incorporates market drops and recession is very crucial for your peace of mind.
However, if you have not had one of these plans done before retirement, there are still other things you can do to prepare yourself during tough times in the market. In this episode, Kris Dureau offers some tips that may ease the sting of leaving the everyday workforce.
Kris discusses:
- The three choices for transitioning from a full-time job into retirement
- Key tips on retiring during a recession
- What to consider when deciding to work part-time during retirement
- When is a good time to take the leap into retirement
- And more
Resources:
- Retirement Shift Worksheet
- Cashflow Spreadsheet
- How to Retire Well – Part 1 (Ep. 15)
- How to Retire Well – Part 2 (Ep. 16)
Connect with Kris Dureau:
- Green Private Wealth
- Facebook: Green Private Wealth
- LinkedIn: Kris Dureau
- LinkedIn: Green Private Wealth
- Book a call with Kris
- Harbourfront Wealth Management
The RRSP meltdown strategy has been saving our clients’ tax dollars for many years now, allowing for more savings and tax benefits. In this episode, Kris Dureau unpacks the benefits and risks of this strategy along with ways you can reduce taxes during your retirement income in your early golden years. Kris discusses: How to … Continue reading Offsetting Taxes From Your RRSP: Facts About The RRSP Meltdown Strategy (Ep. 56) →
Just the name Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? You can set aside money tax-free throughout your lifetime and it is a great idea… If you don’t make some simple mistakes. We need to be aware of the regulations around these accounts to avoid any painful mistakes. In this episode, Kris goes through … Continue reading 6 Things To Avoid With a Tax-Free Savings Account (Ep. 55) →
You want to invest your money and we want to help you do so, but you have a small business. So, what are your options now? Do you invest through your personal assets or your corporation? In this episode, Kris sits down with Gary Armstrong from Green Private Wealth to discuss what both of these … Continue reading Investing While Owning a Small Business with Gary Armstrong, CPA, CGA (Ep. 54) →
One of the biggest cornerstones to retirement income planning is knowing the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and what your duties are associated with it. When planning for retirement, many people want to make sure they are setting themselves up for total security in their retirement. When it comes to retirement, its common to have questions … Continue reading An In-Depth Look At Your Canadian Pension Plan (Ep. 53) →
For many parents, there are a number of stressors that come along with sending your child to college. Whether they are leaving their childhood home or commuting to school, preparing yourself for this time will help ease the tension and allow you to offer your children advice for when that time comes. In this episode, … Continue reading 3 Ways To Set Expectations Before Sending Your Kids to College (Ep. 52) →
The Ride: Life, Work and Wealth has officially been running for 50 episodes. To celebrate, Kris Dureau is going through his top 6 most downloaded episodes, giving you an idea of what each one entails. This week, Kris details why each of these releases was such a hit, followed by important takeaways each one had … Continue reading Celebrating 50 Episodes: Take A Walk Down Memory Lane With Us (Ep. 51) →
Mortgage rates are on the rise. What should you do in this scenario? Is it a good idea to get a fixed mortgage or variable mortgage? Do higher rates make it harder to qualify for a home loan? In this episode, Derek Gold from Mortgage Scout joins Kris Dureau to unpack the different options you … Continue reading Fixed vs.Variable Mortgages: Here’s What You Need to Know with Derek Gold (Ep. 50) →
When talking about protecting your assets from inflation, many of us automatically think about gold. While gold often manages to hold its value and to appreciate, it isn’t a perfect inflation hedge. In this episode, Kris Dureau fills you in on ways you can protect your portfolio from inflation. Rather than gold, Kris shows you … Continue reading Protecting Your Portfolio from Inflation (Ep. 49) →
To foster good financial habits for the future, it’s important for parents to talk to their children about money from an early age. You can start by simply opening a bank account for them or giving them a wallet/piggy bank. In this episode, Kris Dureau will help you discover easy ways to educate your children … Continue reading 10 Ways to Teach Your Kids How to Make Better Financial Decisions (Ep. 48) →
Financial planning is not just about securing your tomorrow. It’s also about living a better today. In this rapid-fire style episode, Kris Dureau walks you through 15 quick-hit tips to help you get a better handle on your finances, both now and in the future. Investments, tax planning, wealth transfer, debt management —Kris covers it … Continue reading 15 Quick Tips to Secure Your Finances Now and in the Future (Ep. 47) →
Tax season and tax filing season can be stressful if you are not well prepared. Learn how to make things easier when filing your taxes next year in this episode of The Ride: Life, Work and Wealth with Gary Armstrong, chartered professional accountant and certified general accountant at Green Private Wealth Counsel – Harbourfront Wealth … Continue reading Tax Filing Best Practices with Gary Armstrong, CPA, CGA (Ep. 46) →
What reduces wealth — do you know? Find out in this episode, as Kris Dureau explains how taxes, inflation, fees, and overreacting to the market impact our savings, income, and investments. He also unveils ways we can avoid making common mistakes and make better decisions with our money. Kris discusses: The importance of working alongside … Continue reading The Four Wealth Destroyers (Ep. 45) →
Whether you’re retiring or changing jobs, remember to always have your pension plan in mind. In this episode, Kris Dureau helps out the 37% of Canadians who still have pension plans. With an all-time high of employees moving jobs, here is how you can start planning around the options you have so you can get … Continue reading The Ins and Outs of Pension Planning (Ep. 44) →
Throughout the pandemic, the main focus has been on jobs, working from home, and the change in our day-to-day activities. However, what about our children? How have they been coping with the ebbs and flows of the pandemic? In this episode, Kris Dureau speaks with developmental psychologist and author Dr. Dona Matthews to unveil how … Continue reading Parenting & Child Development in the Era of a Pandemic with Dr. Dona Matthews (Ep. 43) →
Do you want to start saving time so you can focus more on the things that matter the most to you? In this episode, the executive managing director of tax and wealth at Harbourfront Wealth Management, Paul Marion, joins Kris Dureau to unveil everything you need to know about family offices and how they differ … Continue reading Start Getting Your Time Back with Family Offices Services with Paul Marion, CLU, CHS (Ep. 42) →
Alternative investments are becoming increasingly valuable with everything that has been going on over the last 24 months. In this episode, Kris Dureau explains what an alternative investment is and why you might want to consider incorporating them into your portfolio. He helps you understand the pros and cons to help you find out which … Continue reading The Investments Your Portfolio Might be Missing (Ep. 41) →
Are you thinking about selling or gifting your cottage to your kids? A lot of cottage owners want to keep this property in the family. But, too many of them get hit with a big tax bill because they don’t know how to make the transition. If you want to avoid tax mistakes, this one’s … Continue reading How To Keep Your Cottage in the Family and Reduce Your Future Tax Bill (Ep. 40) →
Regardless of your age or assets, there are some things that you should be aware of when it comes to estate planning. In this episode, Kris Dureau answers many of your estate planning questions. Along with some real-life experiences, Kris helps you understand how important it is to have your will in place and how … Continue reading Stop Procrastinating Your Estate Planning (Ep. 39) →
Divorce brings a lot of uncertainty. Going through a divorce during a global pandemic has only made the situation worse. In this episode, Kris Dureau explains the costs and steps of getting divorced during the pandemic. He provides the rundown that couples need to swap uncertainty for certainty and find the best financial route when … Continue reading Getting Divorced During the Pandemic? Here are the Tips You Need to Know (Ep. 38) →
Having a special needs family member carries unique, emotional, and financial concerns. That’s why it’s important to work with a professional who understands exactly what you are facing. In this episode, Kris Dureau welcomes Fred Ryall, an estate practitioner with more than 40 years of experience. For the last 15 years, Fred has worked with … Continue reading 37. Estate Planning for Families With Special Needs Children With Fred Ryall →
Over the last 18 months, the Canadian powersports arena has seen a huge increase in sales. Find out why in this week’s episode of The Ride: Life, Work and Wealth, as Jean-Luc Lemire, the owner of Energy Powersport in Oakville, Ontario, reveals the main reason for massive growth around motorsport vehicles like motorcycles, ATVs, and … Continue reading 36. The Real Reason Behind the Canadian Powersports Industry’s Growth with Jean-Luc Lemire →
We all know that time flies, especially when your kids are growing up. That’s why looking at college costs, which can be significant, is better done sooner rather than later. In this episode, Kris Dureau discusses everything around the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) and ways parents can use them to save for their child’s … Continue reading 35. Planning for Your Children’s Post-Secondary Education? Don’t Wait to Start Saving →
Are you thinking about inviting your aging parents to move in, but you’re not sure if it’s the right decision? In this episode, Kris Dureau shares five things to consider before your parents become your roommates. He points out factors that, all too often, adult children aren’t aware of before making this big decision. The … Continue reading 34. Parents As Roommates? 5 Things To Consider Before They Move In With You →
As vaccines continue to roll out and select countries open up to travellers, there’s a lot to know about travelling during the pandemic. In this episode, Kris Dureau sits down with TravelOnly’s Holly McBean to explore what today’s new norm of travelling looks like. With 40 years of experience in the travel industry, Holly is … Continue reading 33. What You Need To Know About Travelling During The Pandemic With Holly McBean →
“When should I start taking my Canadian Pension Plan (CPP) payment?” This is one of the most common questions Kris Dureau’s clients ask him as they start navigating the path of retirement income withdrawal. This week, Kris tackles this question to provide you with some clarity. He sits down with chartered professional accountant Gary Armstrong … Continue reading 32. When Should You Take Your CPP Payment? With Gary Armstrong, CPA, CGA →
As a family caregiver, knowing when and how to help your parents with their money is not an easy feat. Kris Dureau understands the transition is often awkward to navigate. That’s why he’s providing the guidance you need in this episode of The Ride: Life, Work, and Wealth. This week, Kris reveals five must-know tips … Continue reading 31. 5 Tips to Help Your Elderly Parents With Money →
Many of us have spent more time than ever at home over the last year. That’s why, for many, feeling safe and secure at home has become a top priority. This week, Ron Couper of Capital Security Group joins Kris Dureau to discuss everything you need to know about home security systems and door cameras. … Continue reading 30. Home Security Systems To Enhance Home Safety With Ron Couper →
If you have a personal finance question on your mind, chances are, you’re not alone. In this episode, discover the 10 most frequently asked finance questions financial advisors like Kris Dureau receive from clients. From questions about the financial markets to queries about retirement, investing, and insurance, Kris breaks down these questions and shares his … Continue reading 29. Top 10 Frequently Asked Financial Questions →
Kris Dureau has practiced martial arts since he was 12 years old. This hobby taught him that self-defence is all about situational awareness, so that he can identify and avoid bad situations. In this episode, Kris Dureau highlights how martial arts principles can apply to eight key areas of your financial life. By practicing these … Continue reading 28. 8 Ways You Can Earn Your Financial Self-Defence Black Belt →
Imagine being able to combine your mortgage, bank accounts, short-term savings, debt, and income all into one banking product. This is exactly what Manulife One allows you to do. In this episode, Manulife Financial’s mortgage specialist, Wade Arseneault, joins Kris Dureau to explain just how Manulife One does this, and how they set themselves apart … Continue reading 27. Manulife One: More Than Just a Conventional Mortgage With Wade Arseneault →
There are two types of alternative investments: private and public alternative investments. While private alternative investments are all about private equity, credit, and real estate, public alternative investments mainly operate in public markets and use less traditional tools such as short-selling and leveraging. In this episode, Harbourfront Wealth Management’s senior vice president and portfolio manager, … Continue reading Episode 26 – Exploring Private Alternative Investments – With Travis Forman →
One of the reasons why retirement is such a major life decision is timing. If you retire too early, you might have financial trouble. If you retire too late, you might not have the energy to enjoy it to the fullest. So, when is it the right time to retire? To help you decide, Kris … Continue reading Episode 25 – Your 10-Step Pre-Retirement Checklist →
Southwestern Ontarians, are you on the lookout for real estate deals, but don’t know how and where to start from? If so, this episode is for you! Today, Royal LePage Triland Realty’s Krystal Lee Moore joins Kris Dureau to explore the ins and outs of Ontario’s 2021 real estate market. All this to guide, support, … Continue reading Episode 24 -The Real State of Ontario’s 2021 Real Estate Market – With Krystal Lee Moore →
With spring upon us, now is the perfect time to do some financial closet-cleaning. Are you ready to get started? Join Kris Dureau in this episode as he guides you through your financial spring cleaning with six simple steps that will help you get your finances organized and ready for the coming seasons. In this … Continue reading Episode 23 – Spring Clean Your Finances With These 6 Steps →
Considering the current COVID-19 environment, working, shopping, socializing, and finding entertainment are only a couple of things we can do from the comfort of our homes. But, to what extent is our online identity and information really protected? In this episode, Kris Dureau sits down with Cystech Solutions’ Chuck Yeung. Today, Chuck discusses must-know cybersecurity … Continue reading Episode 22 – Enhance Your Online Security with These Cybersecurity Tips – With Guest Chuck Yeung →
It’s never too early to start thinking about your tax planning, especially if you’re a business owner! In this episode, Kris Dureau welcomes back Simpson and Associates’ Peter Simpson. Kris and Peter discuss important tax tips for business owners and self-employed individuals and share strategies for making positive, practical changes to your tax picture. In … Continue reading Episode 21 – Tax Tips for Small Business Owners — With Peter Simpson →
Critical illness coverage is a long-term insurance policy that covers serious illnesses such as cancer, heart attacks, coronary artery bypass surgery, and more. In this episode, Kris Dureau discusses everything you need to know about this type of coverage and explains how its financial component can help you alleviate the toll of a health condition. … Continue reading Episode 20 – Everything You Need To Know About Critical Illness Coverage →
While tax planning is often a year-round affair, the year-end season is a particularly optimal time to review your taxes with your trusted financial professional. In this episode, Kris Dureau sits down with Simpson & Associates’ Peter Simpson to discuss the value of year-end tax planning. Together, they discuss popular year-end tax planning strategies that … Continue reading Episode 19 – 2020 Year-End Tax Planning Tips – With Peter Simpson →
As a business owner, you have put creativity, sweat, worries, and energy into creating and growing your business. When the time comes to reap the rewards of your hard work and to sell your business, what should you think about before putting up that “for sale” sign? To find out, Kris Dureau welcomes Ryan Parkinson … Continue reading Episode 18 – How Baby Boomers can Prepare their Business for Sale – With Ryan Parkinson →
COVID-19 is just one of the many reasons why interest rates are at historically low rates. With rates so low, should you be considering refinancing your home or purchasing a second property? In this episode, Kris Dureau welcomes Mortgage Scout’s Derek Gold to discuss this and more. Together, they explore the current interest rate environment … Continue reading Episode 17 – Is Now the Time to Refinance or Buy a Second Property? – With Derek Gold →
It’s no secret that when it comes to preparing for retirement, one major question pre-retirees are asking is, “Will I have enough to retire?” In part two of his miniseries on retiring well, Kris Dureau reveals how you can find out the answer to this question. He highlights three financial areas to consider when assessing … Continue reading Episode 16 – How to Retire Well — Part 2 →
When you retire, what will you retire to? How do you envision your retirement? To help you create a smooth transition into life’s next chapter, join Kris Dureau for this new two-part mini-series on what it takes to retire well. In part one, Kris examines the mental side of retirement and breaks down five unique … Continue reading Episode 15 – How to Retire Well – Part 1 →
Do you want to pursue a new career but are unsure whether you should truly go for it? In this episode, Kris Dureau sits down with the Challenge Factory’s Lisa Taylor. Lisa is an in-demand speaker with expert insight into today’s changing workforce. Now, Lisa details how transitioning to a new career path can be … Continue reading Episode 14 – What to Know Before Making a Midlife Career Change — With Lisa Taylor →
Buying a new car is never a simple process, especially when there is so much to consider. To help you better navigate the process, Kris Dureau enlists the help of Greg Carrasco for today’s episode. As the host of The Greg Carrasco Show, one of the most influential and largest automotive radio shows in Canada, … Continue reading Episode 13 — What Should you Know When Buying a New or Used Car — With Greg Carrasco →
Having a chronic illness can be anything but simple. That’s where Chronically Simple can help. Today, Kris Dureau joins Kristy Dickinson, the creator of Chronically Simple, an app designed to help individuals and their families better manage their health. Kristy shares how her personal experience with a chronic illness led her to create the app, … Continue reading Episode 12 – Managing Chronic Illness With Chronically Simple — With Guest Kristy Dickinson →
Today’s investors don’t just want a portfolio that’s well-diversified. They also want a portfolio that’s going to make an impact. Today, Kris Dureau joins David Rutherford to bring you some clarity on how you can become a more informed, responsible investor and invest in a way that aligns with your values. As vice president of … Continue reading Episode 11 – What’s in Your Portfolio? How to Invest Responsibly — With David Rutherford →
As COVID-19 restrictions begin to ease up, what will your new normal look like? More importantly, how are you planning for your new normal? Today, join Kris Dureau as he discusses five key steps you should take when planning for your transition into your post-COVID-19 life. In this episode, Kris emphasizes the importance of reviewing … Continue reading Episode 10 — 5 Financial Considerations for Transitioning into Your Post-COVID-19 Life →
As we enter the third quarter of the year, now is an optimal time to reflect on the last three months of COVID-19 and its impact on our lives — both financially and socially. To do so, Kris Dureau welcomes back Rana Chauhan of the Investment Planning Counsel. Together, they review what we’ve witnessed in … Continue reading Episode 9 – Your Q2 COVID-19 Update — With Rana Chauhan →
With many workplaces moving towards a work-from-home setup, more employees are faced with the task of learning how to remain productive while maintaining a work-life balance. Today, Kris Dureau is joined by Dr. Elias Markou, a naturopathic doctor with a background in finance. Dr. Markou reveals the impact working from home can have on your … Continue reading Episode 8 – The Natural Way to Improve Your Work-Life During Quarantine — with Dr. Elias Markou →
Are you looking for a way to share your life experiences with future generations? In this episode, Kris Dureau explains why he started writing life letters to his family. He reveals the benefits of creating a life letter and why he strongly encourages you to involve your parents in the process. In this episode, you … Continue reading Episode 7 — How to Write Your Life Letter →
Have you planned for a future beyond your own? In this episode, Kris Dureau explores a key part of your estate planning process: your will. He explains the impact of not having one and the significance of ensuring these types of documents are accessible to your family after your death. In this episode, you will … Continue reading Episode 6 – Why Everybody Needs a Will →
During this coronavirus pandemic, it’s natural to feel stress and uncertainty as you buckle down in self-isolation. That’s why taking care of yourself mentally and financially is just as important as making sure you’re stocked up on toilet paper. Today, Kris Dureau addresses some common worries people have during this challenging time and how they … Continue reading Episode 5 – The Mental Side of Surviving Isolation →
You only have one life. How do you want to spend your time during yours? Today, Kris Dureau tackles the difficult idea of death and what you should focus on before that time comes. Delving into his own experiences with his family and clients, Kris shares how thinking about death could be a more positive … Continue reading Episode 4 — How Do You Want To Live Your Life? →
As the COVID-19 crisis continues, so does the fear, doubt, and uncertainty many have experienced over the past few months. In this special COVID-19 update, Kris Dureau is joined once more by Rana Chauhan as they discuss the current pandemic and its impact on the world. Rana brings his knowledge of the medical field and … Continue reading Special Update #2 — COVID-19 Financial Update — with Rana Chauhan →
As we go through life, we go through many transitions — and our money changes just as much as we do. Today, Kris Dureau shares how he helps clients map out their life and transitions through financial lifelines. Kris discusses why financial lifelines are an important part of his overall planning process and how they … Continue reading Episode 2 — Creating Your Financial Lifeline →
Welcome to The Ride Podcast! In this inaugural episode, Kris Dureau introduces himself to the world as the host of this new podcast. Listen in as Kris talks about why he made the career-jump from first responder to financial planner and how a life-changing experience with his family has forever influenced his outlook on life … Continue reading Episode 1- Meet Your Host, Kris Dureau →
In this special episode, we share updates on how we are responding to the COVID-19 situation, how we’re assisting our clients, and what actions we’re advising investors to take during this time of uncertainty. Tune in now to learn how the markets are being affected and what we’re doing to help clients during this tumultuous … Continue reading SPECIAL UPDATE: COVID-19 →