DebtMatters Podcast

Brenda breaks down the key differences between Bankruptcy, Consumer Proposals, and credit counselling, while addressing common misconceptions—like whether you’ll lose your home or vehicle. She also shares warning signs of financial trouble and the relief Canadians often feel once they take that first step toward a fresh start. If you’ve been stressed about debt and unsure of your options, this epi...

You’ll hear how the initial consultation works, what debt solutions are available (like Consumer Proposals and Bankruptcy), and how most people are surprised to learn they won’t lose everything. Glenn also shares emotional stories of clients who found hope again, showing why compassion, not judgment, is at the heart of every conversation. If you or someone you love is struggling with debt, this ep...

Glenn reflects on how building trust, listening with empathy, and offering clear financial solutions can not only change a person’s circumstances—but heal families. You’ll also hear Glenn’s thoughts on financial education, budgeting tips, and the community outreach work he’s passionate about. Whether you’re struggling with debt or just want a deeper look at the human side of insolvency work, this...

With household debt levels among the highest in the G7, Brenda explains why car loans, rising mortgage renewals, and payday loans are trapping Canadians in a cycle of financial stress. She also shares practical steps for regaining control — from simple budgeting habits to the debt snowball method — and explains when it’s the right time to reach out to a Licensed Insolvency Trustee. Whether you’re...

They discuss the emotional toll of carrying student loans, how rising living costs make repayment harder, and why many young Canadians are turning to debt relief options. Mary Ann explains the rules around student loan forgiveness, including the seven-year and five-year hardship provisions, and highlights repayment assistance programs that may help borrowers before considering insolvency. If you’r...

From fear, stress, and embarrassment to the strain it puts on families, Mary Ann shares real stories of how financial struggles impact daily life. She also explains why silence around money keeps people stuck and how simply talking about debt can bring relief. Most importantly, listeners will learn what first steps to take if they’re feeling overwhelmed, including how to access free, confidential...

Wayne Kay sits down with Derek Chase, Licensed Insolvency Trustee at Chase and Associates, to explore the warning signs of financial hardship and what Canadians can do when they spot these red flags. Key topics discussed include: Signs of financial trouble: Learn how collection calls, overdrafts, and rising debt are red flags. The emotional toll of debt: Find out how ignoring financial issues can...

Wayne Kay sits down with Derek Chase to unpack the growing rise of Consumer Proposals in Canada. Find out how they work, who qualifies, and why more Canadians are choosing them over Bankruptcy as a debt solution.  Key topics discussed include: Why Consumer Proposals are gaining popularity: Look at the reasons more Canadians are turning to this option for structured debt relief and asset protection...

The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration. Yet for many, it can also bring financial stress. In this episode, debt expert Matt Fader discusses how to avoid the common pitfalls of holiday overspending. From budgeting for predictable holiday expenses to setting realistic expectations for gift-giving, discover how you can manage the financial pressure of the season.  Key Points Discussed:...

This week's Debt Matters podcast features host Wayne Kay with Matt Fader from Allan Marshall & Associates. Together they discuss the key steps needed to turn financial dreams into actionable goals. The focus centres on the importance of clear objectives and how to stay motivated throughout your savings journey.  Matt also shares insights on setting realistic financial goals and how to avoid common...

In this episode of the Debt Matters podcast, Wayne Kay speaks with Licensed Insolvency Trustee Derek Chase about the personal and emotional toll included with debt. Key topics discussed include: Mental health: Debt can have a lasting impact on your emotional well-being. Opportunity loss: Debt can limit or change your life trajectory and overall lifestyle. Financial stress management: Learn practic...

In this episode of the Debt Matters Podcast , host Wayne Kay speaks with Derek Chase from Chase & Associates Licensed Insolvency Trustee about the financial challenges single moms face after a divorce. Learn the steps single parents can take to rebuild their stability. Key Topics Covered: The financial impact of divorce: Divorce affects up to 40% of marriages and causes money struggles, especially...

Surveys have found that while most Canadians agree that having a budget is a good thing - less than half do. Learning how to set up a budget and stick with it lets your money know that you are taking charge.  So what is the secret to budgeting? And how do you stick to the goals you have set? Licensed Insolvency Trustee, Brenda Wood shares some tips and strategies to make a realistic budget that wi...

Whether you are applying for a new cell phone plan or a mortgage, your potential creditors want to understand your financial history and your ability to repay debt. Your credit score and report will help them decide whether they want to do business with you. But most people don’t know a lot about their credit report and credit score. Today’s podcast looks at the difference between the two and how...

Statistics show that Canadians are falling deeper into debt. With high inflation and interest rates, most of us are under a lot of financial pressure as we combat the rising cost of living. Carrying debt can put a strain on our financial health and emotional well-being but It can be hard to find the right debt relief solution. Licensed Insolvency Trustee, David Macdonald tackles this problem. Havi...

Finding yourself with unmanageable debt doesn't usually happen overnight. It is often a slow unnoticeable process that might start with being a few hundred dollars short every month. But the sooner you take action, the more options will be available. You’ll have the ability to make decisions before your creditors do.  If you think you are alone in this scenario, you would be mistaken. Licensed Ins...

Owing the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) money can be overwhelming. This government agency has greater powers to collect compared to other creditors. What do you do when you simply cannot pay your outstanding tax debt? The good news is that there are ways that you can overcome debts owing to the CRA. In this podcast, Licensed Insolvency Trustee Leigh Taylor talks about the importance of filing your t...

Everywhere you turn there is another report or survey about Canadian’s record high indebtedness. And alongside those reports we are inundated with offers to help. But be cautious and know that the only debt relief program administered by the federal government is a Consumer Proposal. And the only professional who can file a Proposal is a Licensed Insolvency Trustee.  If you are exploring your opti...

Debt cycles are easy to fall into but with a little planning and some discipline, you don’t have to keep spinning your wheels. Acknowledging that you’re trapped in a cycle of debt is a good place to start. In this timely podcast, Licensed Insolvency Trustee, Derek Chase, talks about strategies for managing debt. Other topics covered include: Payday loans and line of credit traps. Looking deeper in...

If you are already under stress as a result of your financial situation, it’s difficult to decide where to turn when looking for debt relief. Meeting with someone in person who has an office where you live can be helpful. Licensed Insolvency Trustee, Derek Chase explains the benefits of seeking out a local Trustee firm that you feel comfortable with. Meeting face to face can be reassuring, avoidin...

Anyone can fall behind on debt payments especially in these uncertain economic times. Having unpaid debt turned over to a debt collector is a worst-case scenario for the majority of Canadians. But when this happens, it’s important to know how to minimize the impact if a debt collection agency does come calling. Licensed Insolvency Trustee, Mary-Ann Marriott knows that having a debt collector call...

Thousands of Canadian businesses exit the marketplace every year whether through filing Bankruptcy or just closing their doors. Many more are on a razor’s edge with the rising cost of servicing their debt due to higher interest rates. Today’s podcast looks at the cost of putting a business through Bankruptcy and other options that may be available. Licensed Insolvency Trustee, Mary-Ann Marriott al...

While most Canadians view student loans as an investment rather than an expense, they can become a burden after graduation. As the years go by and more unsecured debt is added, it can be a struggle to keep up. If you are contemplating filing for personal Bankruptcy in the hopes of discharging your student loan debt, you need to make sure your timing is right. Licensed Insolvency Trustee, Francyne...

Under the Canadian Bankruptcy & Insolvency Act there are two options that allow consumers to eliminate debt, filing a Bankruptcy or a Consumer Proposal. The option you chose is based on your personal situation at the time of filing. But what happens if your financial circumstances change? Can you switch from a Bankruptcy to a Consumer Proposal or if you have filed a Consumer Proposal can you chang...

Living paycheque to paycheque can be stressful, to say the least. A recent poll by Leger found that almost half of Canadians are living that way. Stepping off that treadmill is possible with a few sacrifices and a bit of hard work. Licensed Insolvency Trustee, Leigh Taylor talks about the paycheque trap - how it can slowly happen if we don’t pay close attention and become a bit more proactive. He...